Bregir

Good luck - and keep us updated on the progress - I will try to give feedback as fast as possible as you go along. Also, I have a few ships in progress as you probably already know. This one is only missing some measure of sails: Polacre xebec WIP by Christian West, on Flickr Can anyone give some advice on easy to work with and good looking materials or techniques? I dread going back to the sewing machine like I did for the Ironsides.

Can an account be set up for "RSND"? It will be the third ship owning entity for COR and will need an account. Thank you in advance. FYI, current chairman of the RSND: @Drunknok

@Mesabi Ok, if you are serious about making this your best ever,and about giving her custom rigging, I also think you should make sure she is worth it (it is quite a lot of work, but worth it!) so allow me to speak frankly. It is all meant in a good tone, even if it feels less than pleasant to have one's work criticised. (But hey, better an unpleasant truth than a comfortable lie, right? ;) ) Box on a hull You did the same with your other large ships - they all have a tendency to look like a "box on a hull". I think this is due to your construction technique. You tend to work very conservatively with one brick on top of the other. If you really want to develop as a builder, you have to start using slightly more explorative techniques. Look for instance at @Bodi's recent (and very pretty) frigate as example. Tumblehome See how he uses a simple technique to build tumblehomed sides. (Inward angle of the sides). There are many ways to do this, either by hinges, some internal technic hinges, sloped bricks, or bent sides. (and probably others I am missing.) Lateral curve I do not really think your lateral curve shows - well, I can see you have tried, but I do not think you have succeeded. It still looks very boxy. This is very much connected to the next two points on my list. The lateral curve should be comparable to the part of an elipsis shown below the red line in the picture below. (Maybe slightly less pronounced for more modern ships. The curve should start from the lowest deck and carry through up all the decks. Deck height All your decks are as high as tall as the floor of a house. First of all, decks were not that high back then, second, at the scale we are building, tall decks throw the proportions up completely! And you will not escape the "box-on-hull" look without sacrificing this tall deck height. Colour use I appreciate your use of an alternative colour choice, but I think you should use the colours to accent the shape of the hull. Look at the black line or the blue detailing on Bodi's frigate and how the help accentuate the hull shaping. "Clean" sides I wonder where you have the idea for those castle-like sides from. I have never seen a ship that had anything but "clean" sides, apart from a ladder or gun ports. I personally do not think it adds to the moc, but with tumblehome and a better lateral curve, who knows? It might be really cool. Right now, though, it looks more like a misguided effort to put in details in the wrong places. Real life examples You would really help yourself if you took a look at some real life examples. I know you may not have the same wish for realism as others, but it will help you get an idea of what makes sense. Right now, I do not think you have a clear picture of what a sailing ship should really look like. (And why would you? ;) ) But it is easy to up-qualify yourself here. And yes, this will mean a major redesign/restart of what you have done so far. Take from it what you will, but quality takes time and trial and error. Believe me, it pays off in the end! :) EDIT: PS, you can maintain most of the height of the captains cabin. Due to the curve of the decks, there are more room for height there.

Can't wait to build for and see what others build for this! Where intriguing story, Genaro and OL, and great build by Ayrlego. I like how it is both very different and still comparable to the COR challenge. Well done!

1) Correct, no options apart from how you want to show the hideout within the given requirements. 2) Yes. As long as you build the hideout as above, you can do additional story events. If you decide to attack or otherwise interfmact with the pirates or the hideout, you have to leave the outcome open, though, as that is for the gamemasters to decide. 3) Yes, I do not see why not, but it has to be indicated in the building effort somehow. And ships and troops will have to reasonably could have made it there. (Say you have a battalion of troops at Arlinsport, and only a short range dinghy to transport them - then we will not accept their arrival for many turns, if ever, but if a platoon is coming from Mesabi Landing and you have a class 3 to transport them, or can dispatch a suitable vessel from the expedition, that is likely fine) Hope that clarifies things :)

@Mesabi Count Mesabi wanted in. Inside the city gates were surely where the good trade opportunities were, and the WTC (rarely) settles for scraps. Three clear opportunities had presented themselves: Blow a hole in the wall some discreet corner With a bit of a distraction and some expert use of explosives, we can make ourselves a discrete passage into the city. Hopefully... Show the distraction made to avoid being caught blowing holes in the city walls. Bribe the guards (-100 dbs deducted from treasury) If we want to trade, we will need to gain "official" access to the city, and it seems this guard can get us a pass at a very... "reasonable" price. Show the first major sight the expedition sees upon entering the city wall. A palace? A temple? ...? Microbuild possible. Use the tunnel Captain Sun-Jiin can offer us to share his passage unseen into the city. But where will the tunnel end? Show the group emerging from the tunnel, including the location of where they emerge. One build required to continue. The story must include what the expedition aims to do once inside the walls.

@Drunknok @Mesabi It was slaughter. The natives were running for their lives, abondoning their beachside village and disappearing into the forest, although most where cut down by grapeshot from the Green Wiper. The fire spread fast, and it was only just that the WTC troops managed to free their captured comrades before being engulfed in flames. In the distance, war drums were heard, and flocks of birds rose from the jungle disturbed by something rushing through the jungles. The question is, was it fleeing animals, or something marching closer? The WTC expedition, confident that the Red Rascals did not camp here, returned to island 20 and met up with Columbo, who had news. He had seen the racing craft of the red rascals round the next point and disappear from sight. He was sure it was still in the bay, as he would have seen it had it left again. Certainly, the Red Rascals must have their hideout here... Build the Red Rascal hideout, including look-out spots, some way to hide smaller vessels, and accommodations for the crews. Everything must be camouflaged from sea. Minimum total footprint 32x32 (can be in several smaller builds, one large, or any combination. Make it clear how you are planning to take care of the pirates.

@Capt Wolf As the Valiant Phoenix was about to slip its moorings a man jumped onboard, immediately putting his hands up and asking to speak to the captain. He was dressed in a rough grey hoded cloak, but underneath finer cloth was evident. Upon entering the cabin, he addressed the captain. "My name is Tristano Bucci, and I hope you will forgive me rushing on board!" He panted for a moment, listening to the captain presenting himself, before continuing with a bow: "My... contacts tell me you are heading for Terraversa, and it is imperative that I should go there too. I have urgent... matters, and you will be rewarded most handsomely for your assistance..." "What is your business on Terraversa?" Captain MacMathain asked. "I cannot just embark anyone?" "I am afraid it is highly confidential. Matters of the utmost importance to the future of Terraversa..." he said. "I am afraid I cannot tell you more." MacMathain was confused. What should he do? There was no time to ask for advice, as the Phoenix was already on its way out of the lagoon, passing under the guns of the batteries. A revered guest? A man of noble manners, in fine clothes, and in a big hurry? And a handsome reward? Certainly a servant of Terraversa. He shall be treated as a guest. Show Bucci dining with the captain and his officers in the great cabin of the Phoenix. Suspicious... We will bring this man to Terraversa, but only to turn him over to the authorities. Surely, with such a story, he must be a spy! Show the cabin in which he is being held, and how it is watched. Begone, stow-away! We are on an official mission for Eslandola - and can tolerate no stow aways! Call in the nearest fishing boat and disembark the stranger - he will take the next ship to Terraversa. Show the man being taken off in a local small craft. Back in King's Harbour, Fontonajo pondered over the gifts. This was a decision that could be either of great importance, or very little significance, depending on the Terraversan emphasis on the value of gifts. Show the gifts Fontonajo decides upon and describe from whence he sources them. (Depending on the gift, a value will be charged to the adventure treasury). Two builds are required to continue. The Phoenix will arrive in King's Port next round.

Thank you, all - I actually really enjoyed this build and I could imagine using vessels at this scale to depict battles in the future. (I have on specific battle in mind...) I did try some (paper) sails, but I could not, unfortunately, make them look good. It may have been the material or my work, but it did not work out. I agree wholeheartedly. But that was another thing I could not make work - couldn't find the pieces to get the right dimensions... Might warrant another try next I try my hand at microships. It is licensed now - do I still need to PM you?

A new ship launched for the Montoya Estate:

After a promising start, quickly becoming one of the richest estates in Terra Nova, the Montoya Estate has recently fallen behind other business ventures. This is to some degree a result of Montoya's increasing focus and interest in science and diplomacy, made possible by the early profits. However, the manager, Ibn al'Sayeed has been doing his part to keep the estate relevant, amongst which, the purchase of a new class 6 armed trader. The Hotspur is a shiprigged merchant ship of 12 guns (12 pounders) well capable of protecting itself against privateers and pirates. Her keel was originally laid down as a frigate, but the order was cancelled and taken over by the Montoya Estate as a merchant ship. Just after launch, the new crew is exercising the great guns, preparing to set sail for Terra Nova. OOC: Back in challenge IV of era 1, I won a class 6 to be activated by microship - now I have finally gotten around to building it. C&C welcome - this was a fun scale to work at.

*throws beer to face*

@Maxim I Upon leaving the port of Drolic they have good wind and make good way. Then, shortly after rounding the south east cape of Peri, they encountered two class 4 war junks accompanying a class 6 flagship junk, and flying the flag of the Lotus Empire, signalling the fleet to heave to for inspection. Head back to Peri We have heard rumours that the Lotus Empire is at war with Carno, and they may well not be too fond of Halosian empires these days. Let us avoid incident and double back to the Sultanate of Peri. Show the fleet being resupplied by local smallcraft Push through by force Our fleet is superior. Give them a warning shot and trust they will retreat - otherwise, they will feel the wrath of our steel! With any luck, there will be no repercussions, as they will not know who we represent. Show the manoeuvres in microscale or map leading up to the encounter with the Lotii, just before they decide whether to let you pass, or take up the fight. This may have consequences, but will end your fleet between Byron To and Banersbi at the beginning of next turn. Submit to inspection We cannot risk diplomatic incident - we must follow their instructions, being in their waters. Follow the fleet into Fuji and show the holds being inspected by the Lotii officials.

Definitely your best one yet, LM - nice work on the overall shaping and the quarter galleries are looking real nice. Looking forward to seeing her finished. As to feedback, I think your masts are getting too tall. Generally, the mainmast should be about the length of the ship, but yours are a bit longer. I think I would try shorting each part of the mast by 1/4 to 1/3. The HMS prefix suggests a Royal Navy ship - are you looking to the faction to license her once done?

@Kwatchi Pardon me. I did not mean to peddle the BoC, but only tried to help Frances get started with some useful links and answers to his questions. :)

Dear Sirs Following the appointment of Wilbur Epper II as Chairman of the Royal Society of Navigation and Discovery, her Majesty hereby appoints Ralph Clutchington VP of Operations ( @LM71Blackbird) and Sterling Blackwood VP of Security ( @Ayrlego). Further, the official charter for the Royal Society is hereby issued as attached. Spencer Robinson Secretary of Discovery

The Royal Society of Navigation and Discovery (RSND) Current leadership Chairman Wilbur Epper II ( @Drunknok) VP of operations Ralph Clutchington ( @LM71Blackbird) VP of Security Sterling Blackwood ( @Ayrlego) Charter: §1 Purpose The Royal Society of Navigation and Discovery (henceforth "RSND") operates under the direct control of the Secretary of Discovery and is tasked with driving exploration and expansion of her Majesty's territories throughout the known and unknown world, including ensuring safe navigation and charting of all sea and land territories. To support this, the Society will operate its own mercantile and military capabilities, including, but not limited to, merchant and armed vessels, troops, forts, and properties. The RSND is a non-profit organisation and owes no dividend to its owner, the Crown of Corrington. In return, RSND is obliged to come to the aid of Corrington when requested, and to act in full loyalty to, and in complete compliance with, Corrington, its policies, and its laws. Failure to adhere to these obligations will lead to immediate replacement of leadership as necessary. §2 Organisation Acting under the Parliament of Science, reporting to the Secretary of Discovery, the RSND will be led by a loyal Corlander appointed chairman by the ministry. To assist him in his duties, up to two vice presidents can be appointed, who, in the chairmans absence, have full discretion over the Society's assets. One will be the VP of Security, in charge of all military capabilities and dispositions, the other the VP of Operations, in charge of all civilian assets. §3 Funding §3.1 Royal Guarantee The Crown guarantees the finances of RSNP and presents an initial investment of 1.000 dbs. Further investments may be made in the future. §3.2 Bonds For additional funding, the Society can issue bonds as necessary. Bonds are issued with a face value of 100 dbs and accrues value monthly at a rate set by the chairman (currently 1 db, minimum 1db). The number of bonds and the date and frequency of issue is decided by the RSND. All loyal Corlanders are eligible to invest in RSND bonds on a first come/first serve basis. However, RSND bonds must be distributed fairly amongst all interested Corlanders, meaning that when two or more Corlanders are interested in a bond, the owner of the fewest bonds will be awarded ownership. When the funds are available, RSND may decide to cash in bonds, starting with the bond holders with the most bonds, unless some bond holders are willing to cash out voluntarily. Bonds are cashed in at face value plus accrued value. Bond holders may request cash out, but cannot demand it. §4 Territorial claims and settlements §4.1 Territorial claims The Royal Society of Navigation and Discovery may, as representative of Her Royal Majesty's government, and in coordination with the same, make territorial claims in unoccupied territories on Corrington's behalf. All territories are added to the Crown as if claimed directly by the same, and the Society holds no jurisdiction over said territory. Strict adherence to Corlander laws and politics are required. §4.2 Settlements TSND maintains control over new settlements established by its representatives until such a time that other ministries, be it military or civilian, take over. While under control of the Society, RSND is required to offer adequate protection and security, as well as proper civilian administration, for all inhabitants and assets. All loyal Corlanders may invest in RSND settlements, while foreigners must apply for specific permission on a case to case basis. By the authority of the Parliament of Science The Secretary of Discovery Spencer Robinson

The ageing under-secretary had reviewed the candidates of which there were several qualified applicants. The RSND would need the right people for the job if the ministry's plans were ever to come to fruition. It was an ambitious plan, but it could shape the future of Corrington in Terra Nova. And now was the time to make the first offer. "A mr. Epper II here to see you, sir." his butler called. "Send him in" Before him stood the Royal Conductor of Corrington, of wagonway fame. Sir Lachlan Campbell watched the man carefully. He gave the impression of confidence and competence, and while Sir Lachlan was an inborn sceptic, he thought to himself that this man might actually be able to do it. "Mr. Epper II, I have appointed you here to call upon your duty to her Majesty." A offer for the Chairmanship by Ayrlego, on Flickr Epper II bowed politely, but said nothing, pondering what duty that might be. "After reviewing your application, you have been found the most eligible candidate. And while you applied for a subordinate position of VP, the ministry hopes you will heed the call of duty and take the position of chairman of the Royal society of Navigation and Discovery." Eyeing him a moment, Sir Lachlan continued. "You know of the responsibilities connected with such a position? If not, now is the time to ask. So what do you say, young man? Can her Majesty and her people count on you?" @Drunknok

Will we see pictures? (Particularly of the BoBS collab) ?

There is a build requirement to license troops. If it is not explicitly mentioned in the rules, that is an error that we better correct :) As to general rules for land combat, this is something we are working on in court so you may see something soon(tm). :)

The number of men are just for game mechanics purposes. You can moc the composition as you like.(And if I remember correctly, you only have to moc a representation of the troops, not the whole unit.) Lastly, a company commander would be a captain, not a major... ;)

Both of your 136/140 gun examples are from the very end of the age of sail (The Santisima was only upgraded to 140 guns in 1802, and the Pennsylvania wasn't launched until 1836!) so we are really pushing the outer edges of the BoBS timeframe, at least for the American. ;) Looking at the American, she is actually almost without vertical curve (!) but I maintain that real ships have curves... :P I like what you have done with the curve, LM, but you still haven't nailed it completely - it seems to have a kink in the middle. You should imagine the curve being the very bottom of a circle, so the steepest angles should be at the ends, while it should be almost flat near the middle. Does that make any sense? :)

The horizontal curve is looking nice, LM, but I'd like to see some vertical curve too. Your forward and aft guns are on the same level as the middle ones, it seems. It makes her look rather boxy, I think. Further, I agree, those lower gunports are too low. In anything of a sea, or sailing under any wind, the lower decks will be flooded the moment she opens her gunports! Vasa, anyone? 140 guns seems like a lot - Basicly, only the largest Spanish sotls hit numbers in that range during the napoleonic wars, and I seem to remember they clocked in at around 124. Victory was rated at just around a 100 if I remember correctly. Looking forward to following your progress.

Nice looking galleon, LM! I like the innovative way of achieving tumblehome and shaping of the hull with those slope pieces in the middle, and I think you have done well hitting the characteristics of a galleon within the confines of classic lego ship building. The most fantastic thing, though, is your work on the rigging. You have really improved, and the sails are placed correctly and of the correct type. I also like your crows nests and the spritmast and spritsail. My only comment is that I think she will be really hard to steer with all those sails up front! (I think your mainmast is a bit too far forward, and perhaps your foremast a bit too far aft, but I am less sure about that) :) That is nitpicking, though - overall a very nice build. Good luck with your new vessel - may she avoid the kraken and serve her crew well!

An interesting story to follow - I am happy to see the captain himself getting some more screen time (as we have discussed elsewhere, I am hoping Cooke can experience the same...). One can only wonder where this story will lead. It seems Genaro has picked up some bicorne-fashion in King's Harbour, now wearing it back-to-front rather than left-to-right. I really like your colour choices and detailing of the building, and there are several interesting activities going on in the build. Well done.