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This is a collab build by Captain Genaro, Phred and myself, to create a royal plantation for Breshaun. It's been in the making for quite some time, and it was fun seeing this project evolve and result in something even bigger than a mere license. But more on that at another time. For now... Welcome, fellow BoBSians, to: Château Richemont - Royal Vineyard and Hot-Spot of Le Bellan's High Society Embedded in the gently rolling hills that surround the city of Breshaun lies Château Richemont, towering over the valley of the Zeusrun River as a beacon of Oleander noblesse. The estate was founded about half a century ago by Pierre de Bourdeille, youngest son to the Comte de Richemont. With no chance of inheriting his father's titles and lands in the old world, he was one of the first noblemen to make Le Bellan his home. Profiting from his family's proud tradition as prime winemakers of the realm he immediately recognized the potential the nearly ideal climate in the region offered to cultivate rich and heavy grapes, enabling him to create excellent wines, such as the Bleaunote Royal and the Terrechéri Noir, that even regularly make their way to the Courts of Granoleon. Today, the chateau is not only a leading wine producer, but also a bustling center of noble Oleander lifestyle on Le Bellan, famous for its exuberant banquets and glittering balls regularly held throughout the year. In fact, the next festival is about to commence. And some notables have announced their arrival - rumored to be sent by the Intendant Général des Finances himself - and interested in big business... About: Footprint is ca. 175x200, piece-count 25000+ (this almost killed my PC ) All the vines are placed by hand, so there's no copy-paste, no repetitions involved - at all. Most trivial thing I've ever done in LDD Same goes for the pathway texture and the gravel... So it might look easy, but I can assure you I lost track of the hours I spent on this. Oh, and of course as always all bricks exist in the colors presented. I would have loved to go on building, but in the end every additional brick was a fight, I had so many LDD crashes making me rebuild things over and over again... so the figs were left to for my co-builders. Thanks for watching this first part C&C welcome Vive le Roi! -
Oleon has begun the construction on the Island Stéphanique. Stephanique has one very large bay, which is actually kind of a river delta. iIn the middle of the bay lies a small patch of land. That piece of land was the latest destination of the Beatrix on what might be her last expedition under the command of Captain Sebeus. Making land... After some exploring in the waters around the Island (looking for suitable docking area's) the construction began. A temporary harbor was set up to allow ships to deliver manpower, supplies and construction material. It is certain that this project will consume a lot of time and resources but let's hope it will be worth it.
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They came. And they plundered. It was a massacre. How could they have known...? They came from the shadows at night and preyed on us like vultures. They knew we were carrying the grandest amount of treasure the world had ever seen. And that we were heavily armed too. But that didn't stop those vultures from attacking us. We were taken by surprise. But how could that be? Each vessel in our fleet had specially appointed guards. And their orders were specific. Shoot first, ask questions later. But even these elite squads weren't able to protect us. Splinters everywhere. Blood. Screams and roaring cannons. It was too much for me. I was so young. This was merely my second trip as an appointed captain of a relatively insignificant cargo ship in our fleet. It was too much for me... I hope my family forgives me. I hope the world forgives me... (sound of a pistol shooting inside the captain's cabin) Bonus pic. Good vs Evil
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"Fleet ahoy" Suddenly, pirate captain Baboo stormed out of his cabin. Would it be the Eslandolan Treasure Fleet??? Would he become the richest pirate of them all?? Such an excitement.... "How many ships?!" "6... But..." "What?" "They seem to be blue..." "Megablocks, an Oleon fleet... Change our course!!!!" Well, that was disappointing for captain Naboo Baboo... This is one of the ships he saw, the blueish ship "La Mystique" One of my favourite parts below: Captain Giancarlo Fishandsth ^ Wait a minute, is that green and white??? Oh yes, I forgot to tell you that Lord Maximilian Damaximus bought some old Oleon ships and uses them to transport his part of the Treasure Fleet The ship is filled with Eslandolan soldiers, just like all other ships of this small fleet... And due this little trick, this part of the Eslandolan Treasure Fleet arrived safely at its destination. ----------------------------------------------------------- C&C Welcome! As I would not have my hull pieces in time, I decided to revise the (ugly) Carribean Clipper set of Lego. It was fun modifying it and the result is (IMO) satisfying.
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Here we have a fine trading vessel (Class 2 Cutter) which swears fealty to Oleon and is a member of the Oleon nationalized trading company. Captained and crewed by a trading outfit from New Oleon, the Singsong specializes in speedy transport of everything from fine Oleander wine (Best on the Brick Seas) and pepper, to purple and blue murex dye from the coast of New Oleon. The crew recently had a falling out with the Carno trading company "Rosencrantz and Gildenstern Dye" and have been working exclusively for Oleon. However, they do have their own symbol, comprised of a lavender circle with white wings, which they've embellished certain barrels with. The Singsong by Danny-Longlegs, on Flickr The Singsong by Danny-Longlegs, on Flickr The Singsong by Danny-Longlegs, on Flickr The Singsong by Danny-Longlegs, on Flickr Here we see the captain at the helm and his first mate on the quarterdeck The Singsong by Danny-Longlegs, on Flickr The Singsong by Danny-Longlegs, on Flickr The Singsong by Danny-Longlegs, on Flickr From left to right. Kel-Kun: The ship's craftman. Can do anything from carpentry to rope-making. A jack of all trades, but master of none. Also a fantastic swimmer. Raised on the coast between Pan and New Oleon diving for pearls for the Order of the Faith. Monsieur Personne: A Member of the Oleon-wide nationalized trading company. Mostly land based, he helps the crew load and unload their stock in the busy port of Breshaun. Un-Ome: The Ship's cook an midshipman. Well-learned and faithful to the gods. He's also a skilled navigator, when needed. First mate Gars: A clever trader and honourable gentleman. Well-networked, and always knows the right thing to say. Not to mention, he is a true wine-connoisseur. Captain Mec: The captain is a fun-loving adventurous soul. He's well-meaning but can occasionally be too relaxed with orders... and the law... He was (probably) a member of the Oleon Navy at some point, but serving the law didn't suit him well. Nonetheless he is a savvy soul, and we'll liked by all for his natural charisma. He's also a talented musician. Monsieur Gen: A Member of the Oleon-wide nationalized trading company. Mostly land based he helps the crew load and unload their stock in the busy port of Breshaun. ____________________________________________________ I'd love to hear your critiques and criticisms. I'm really no expert on sails and rigging, and found that to be a lot harder than everything else. I know for a fact I messed up the front sails. Also I wish I knew how best to photograph this thing. Hull is inspired by the Organic ship hull technique. I originally thought I was basing it off of something specific, but couldn't find it when I tried to. Not entirely satisfied withthe hull shaping. It's something I'll work on in future builds. Any comments and critiques are more than welcome! this is my first age of sail boat. It was a learning experience, but I want to learn more. Any wisdom from the more salty of seadogs would be super appreciated ~Insectoid Aristocrat
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Ahoy, mateys! Time for a ship - first one in a while, therefore something a little larger. The 'Triton' With Oleon's colonial possessions growing in numbers and importance to Crown and nation, His Majesty has decided to reinforce La Royale's 'Flotte de l'Est' with a number of heavy hitters over the next couple of months. The first one that has recently arrived in the waters of New Terra is HRS Triton, a 60 gun Man-of-War, now moored in Breshaun harbor, using Oleon's largest city on LeBellan as her base of operations. Triton is a veteran of the Forty-Nine Years War, one of the few surviving vessels of the Oleander fleet back then, and for some months even served as the Grand Admiral's flagship. She may be old by now, but in the hands of a capable commander she can still deliver a devastating punch to her adversaries. About: As always, all parts exist, so Triton could be built. To be honest, Triton's hull is more than four years old by now. I started her when I wanted to try out a galleon design, but quickly lost interest, as my mind wandered to other projects... well, a clear sign of a very short attention span Anyways, recently I dug her up again and decided to finish her, so she could take her righteous place within BoBS. As Triton is prefab based/limited, she's quite narrow, and the hull technique is rather outdated in my eyes, too, but all in all she doesn't look too ill proportioned. Some numbers: Triton's piece count is a little under 7000, length at waterline is 97 studs, total length 126, beam 20. One day I might try my hands on a more sophisticated galleon design... maybe Until then, I hope Triton serves Oleon well. C&C welcome! Vive le Roi!
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Imagine you eat everyday with your wife. You inevitably talk to each other about everyday issues and stuff. Now imagine a mariner's house somewhere in an Eslandolan colony at this vast Archipelago we all dwell within... (Eslandolan mariner): Honey, i will be away for a couple of months. Lovely fruits by the way! (Jealous wife): Is that so (insert a very typical Eslandolan name)? Are you going to visit Breshaun again and that little sl... of yours?? If you ever go there i will seriously poison your bananas! (Eslandolan mariner): Relax honey.. that was only an one time thing. And i am not visiting Breshaun any time soon. (Jealous wife): Then DO tell me where are you going this time!! (Eslandolan mariner): Okkk...This time we are going to carry a huge load of gold back to our capital in the new world. I wish i had a few coins of these to buy you a present... (He seriously wants her off his back...!) (Jealous wife): Ok honey, now eat those bananas you so love...! A couple of days later... (and do notice all those animals around...) (Random gossip-loving neighbour): Hello there neighbour! Where is your husband by the way? Is he on a trip to Breshaun again? (Jealous wife): Hello to you too! No, this time i made him swear to tell me the truth. He is on a serious state business carrying piles of gold back home. He might even buy me a present this time! (Random gossip-loving neighbour): Oh, how nice of him after all he has done to you! At a tree around the corner (Random gossip-loving neighbour's cat): Meow, mewewew (Random birds): Chirp, chirpchirp? (Random gossip-loving neighbour's cat): Meowwwwww! Some chirp-chatting later in a rock off the coast of the Bastion (Gossiping Seagull): Chirp, chirp, kraaaaa! (Talking parrot): Chirp, kraaa, kraaa, is that so? (Gossiping Seagull): Chiiiiiirp!!! (Talking parrot): Then i NEED to share this piece of information with my owner... Need i describe more????? This build was inspired by a saying that goes something like "A little birdy told me" and is used to anonymously share info while gossiping! I hope you enjoyed the story!
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Deep within the jungle lives a shaman that goes by the name of Green Leaf. Travellers from afar come to him, because it is said Green Leaf can make dreams. He can make you see things that are not. He can take you on a trip while you stay still. Many people want to go on this trip. Not many people know Green Leaf is also known, among certain circles, as the Secret Taker. And among those circles it is rumored the Secret Taker is a man of great wealth. -
Ahoy, fellow fleet protectors and plunderers! After the prequel, here's the continuation - Cat. B entry incoming! Bon Voyage! A week after the events in the green navy's HQ back in Terr... let's not do this again – green capital city – the esland... seriously?! – THAT nation's treasure fleet was on its way. The Kings Port Advertiser featured that awareness poster in its latest edition, the fleet had left Nell... that green island in the East – smooth, Mr. Narrator, smooth... without any incidents, and what was best of all – there were no rumors out on the streets about a large convoy filled with gold whatsoever. The green chief's plan had worked out. Kudos on that, Mr. green chief! Time to relax and have a look at one of the treasure ships en route, shall we? What have we got... this one right here, yes, the Santa Clara. Once famed expedition ship of whatwashisname Ivo Fortesque, now commanded by his son Pedro, and assigned a task not less important than the discovery of new shores – the collection of the riches of said shores. Yes, the Santa Clara, here she is. ...wait, is she being boarded by Oleanders? Ah, no, this is just a patrol, obviously helping the fleet to steer clear of the reefs and shallows in the tricky northern waters of LeBellan. Yes, Oleanders, what friendly folks, by the way much nicer than those uptight and arrogant Corries... but let's not go there. Back to the Santa Clara. Well, it seems she and the rest of the fleet will soon be on the final stage of their journey, on the finish-line so to speak, only save waters ahead – what could possibly go wrong now?! Bon voyage! … wait... I just thought I had seen something in the water... … WHAT THE...!!! What is this? What is going on?? Is this a... are those those... MINIONS??? *looses it* It seems... they've come up with a... device – wait, is that their toy from the sewers, but in big?! – and have drilled right through the hull of the Santa Clara... now vacuuming and shoveling the gold right into their dive boat! And nobody is taking notice!! They... they are sneaky geniuses!!! Oh my gods, actually, I'm not even mad, that's amazing!!!! *grabs popcorn* Well, it seems the narrator is gone for a while, so let me continue from here. Nice to meet you, let me show you my overhanging bowsprit... Ahem, let's better have some more pics of the MOC, after all we've barely just met... And lastly, the ships - together with their 'toy' versions: About: Well, where to start... as usual all parts exist, both vessels can be built. I finally managed to finish the Santa Clara, complete with a full hull - which in general is maybe the most annoying thing I've ever 'had' to build. Credits for the technique go to cb4 and Frank Brick Wright. As you can see the upper part of the ship merely rests on the lower hull, which might not seem that stable per se, but something tells me this works... Next, the 'device' - it's sort of a diving vessel, propelled mechanically, and - as the narrator has already pointed out - equipped with a circular saw and a drill for sneak attacks from down below. In case you're wondering where I got the idea from... well, I kind of grew up with it, as the 'Tauchboot' is prominently featured in an old GDR comic, that I've always loved. And the best thing: once the minions dive off, the cut out part of the hull neatly falls back in place... hopefully - otherwise the Santa Clara is doomed So, in the end it seems those Minions are to be reckoned with after all. Still not sure whether this qualifies as protecting or plundering the fleet Hope you enjoy C&C welcome! Vive le Roi!
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Prior build - In the Dark of the Night At the gates of the Pontis Wing of the Palais Royal in Granoleon the continued buzzing of diplomatic channels created yet another chapter. Lighting up the Diplomatic Furnace 'This is going to cost them' the Lord Chancellor thought to himself. It was an exceptionally mild day in Granoleon given the time of the year. Yet, there was a feeling of dooming winter in the air. Something was coming. He had experienced everything in his diplomatic life, still the recent developments were unusual – even to him. But strangely, as most of the Royal Court of Granoleon was afraid – some terrified princes had even left the city – Calida looked forward to their unveiling. It was the general opinion at the Royal Court and within the High Council that this time King Fernando had gone too far. First, there was the fact that he still hadn't withdrawn his ridiculous and illegitimate claim to the Oleander Throne. A fact, that didn't bother Calida much, and even His Majesty tended to look the other way due to Fernando's dynastic ties to the Royal Court. Then his forces occupied a small and utterly unimportant tiny little island somewhere in the Eastern Seas. A fact much more troublesome already, one that only with a lot of diplomatic goodwill could be seen as a move against Mardier alone. But now having Eslandolian troops attack and seize Oleander military installations. And rumors had it that he was assembling an army for a full-fledged attack against Oleon. This could no longer be ignored. The Eslandolian tendency to aggressively create faits accomplis had become too dangerous to bear. There were rules in this world. He had lived through too much to allow such rogue and dangerous actions to pass without opposition. He knew what appeasement could lead to. A line needed to be drawn. To this point, but no further! 'You have your orders.' Calida snarled at the diplomat. 'Make it happen!' 'Yes, your Excellence, I will see it through.' The diplomat replied eagerly, as expected from a devoted servant in His Majesty's service. Yet, something seemed to trouble him, something had him hesitate. 'Your Excellence, if this meeting with the representatives of Her Highness Queen Annetta goes as planned... does that mean...' The Lord Chancellor slowly turned his head and with a hissing tone he snapped at him 'Don't ask questions you won't like the answers to!' To be continued...
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Prior Build: Concerns in the Ministries The situation in New Terra is developing by the hour, and the diplomatic services of Corrington are busily trying to keep ahead of things, continually preparing and adjusting the proper response. Recent developments has even prompted Corrington to put old differences aside and reach out to old enemies to ensure that order and law rule in the Brick Seas. Hence, representatives of different government branches have met with an Olean diplomat to send off a small delegation towards Granoleon with all possible haste in the dark of night. Only time will show what will come of this...
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Admiral L'Atour looked around discomposedly. Together with his daughter Cariste he had sailed to Nova Terreli on the island of Nellisa to meet some business partners. He was already at high seas when rumors reached them about the Eslandolan king attacking Oleon. Arriving at the city he was most worried. His loyal guard Pierre was with them, at least, as they hasted through the streets of the town (which had grown even more since his last visit), always in unrest. Suddenly three men stood before them, two obviously guards and the third, a young man with wild hair but a tended face, seemed to be their leader. L'Atour laid hand on his saber. "Bonjour, monsieurs, mylady.", the young Eslandolan said with a friendly voice. "Good day.", replied L'Atour. "You seem worried? May I help you?" "Worried? I am quite certain you have heard the rumors as well! Of your king attacking Oleander troops?", L'Atour said, slightly losening his saber. "Oh no, this man is not my king anymore. And for you, there is nothing to worry. I don't think aynone on our island will share any ill thoughts against Oleon. Au contraire, in Pontelli they've even had a demonstration pro-Oleon! If you still worry, though, I invite you to be my guests, and under teh full protection of me and my family.", the Eslandolan said. "Thank you for your gracious offer, Don. And we do not even know your name." "Oh, pardon my manners", the young Eslandolan said. "Joaquin Seramon Fontonajo, second son of Román Esteban Fontonajo, governor of Nellisa." And while his guards bowed to their knees to honour their Oleander guests, Joaquin Fontonajo stepped slightly forward, breezing a slight kiss on the lady's hand. -
Ahoy, mateys! Here's my Challenge IV Cat. A entry - witness the return of the dreadful Colonial MinionsTM *evil laughter in the background* What Could Possibly Go Wrong?! Somewhere in Terelli... no, it is Tereli... no no no, it must be Terrelli... oh well, never mind... Somewhere in the capital of Esland... andia. Hmm... no, that's also not quite it, not really simply somewhere in the capital of Eslan... d'oh... ria... Alright, now: In the office of the Secretary of the Eslandian...doliander...ser... ahh, screw this... In the office of the secretary of the Green Nation's Navy. 'Have I made myself clear?' The Green Chief skeptically looked at the guy standing in front of him. 'Why again did I hire him?!' He thought. 'Okay, one more time. Here are two letters. The one in my left hand is meant to be brought directly to the admiral of the Esland... of our fleet. The letter in my right hand is for the chief editor of the Kings Port Advertiser for immediate printing. In short: The letter in my left hand goes to the fleet, the letter in my right hand to the newspaper. Do you understand?' The guy looked at him with a smile that strangely hadn't changed during the whole conversation – what a weirdo. Oh, sorry for that comment, I'm only the narrator here. Anyways, the guy went '…!' 'Right' the Green Chief now remembered the reason for hiring that fellow. 'You guys don't talk much. Yes, yes, yes. Splendid.' He couldn't have sent an official courier to the harbor, it was simply too dangerous these days, as there were spies and corrupt officials everywhere. It's Esland... olia after all. Sorry, another narrator comment. Where were we? Right... Dangerous. And the treasure fleet needed to be absolutely safe! So hiring a bunch of weird guys unable to talk as messengers – nobody would suspect a thing. Brilliant! 'Now, get going!' Confident with his plan, the Green Chief put on a smile, too. 'What could possibly go wrong?!' he thought. Oh, narrator here – again In case you're wondering what's inside these letters... Well, the one intended for the admiral contains a map with the route the fleet is meant to take from Nelissa/Nellisa/Nelisa/Nellissa. And the letter going to the Kings Port Advertiser contains sort of a poster add, reminding every green citizen to keep their mouths shut about state secrets – you know, matters of national security and such, pretty standard these days. Oh, narrator here once more, just FYI, that strange yellow fellow dude wasn't alone: It seems there's a whole bunch of – what shall I call them – minions living underneath the city in the sewers. Effing weird, if you ask me. But no one ever does, so, well, just have a look at them, and I'll leave you to it. Narrator out. And an overview of the map side: Last but not least, a detail of the poster side: about: Well, this was quite some fun bringing back the Colonial MinionsTM. Do they look like guys with a plan to you? Wait and see. You might wanna remember their strange toy for Cat. B What else... The poster is based on a WWII awareness poster, a simple google search will surely show it. As always, all parts exist, and the entire structure can be built, I think - it all fits diagonally on a 32x32 plate. With the right amount of clutch power the sewer water and the sea part with the ship should hold in place, as they are attached to the wall and additionally supported by bars. I hope you enjoy C&C welcome! Vive le Roi!
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Previous Builds: Concerns in the Ministries In the Dark of Night Lighting up the Diplomatic Furnace The Corrington and Oleon Diplomats were weary from several days travel. They decided to stop in at this inn in the Juniper Province for a nights rest before continuing on to Granoleon. The innkeeper looked out the window of the Blue Rooster Inn, and saw that a carriage had pulled up in front. Two gentleman got out and headed toward the door. Oleon Diplomat: "We will take a room for the night, a meal, and some wine for the evening. Our coach driver is putting up the horses in your lean-to as your boy suggested." Corrington Diplomat: "Some rum for myself." Innkeeper: "Certainly sirs. I have some very good rum and some mugs right here. I am sorry I don't have any good wine in stock. Darlene, dear, run and tell your mother to get some supper for three gentlemen. Then go make sure their beds are freshened up." As she hurried away, he said, "My daughter will have your room made up in no time. There are two beds per room so your driver can either sleep on the floor or down here by the fireplace. You are lucky that it is so quiet around here. A few weeks ago you would not have found an empty room. The soldiers coming or going on leave or official business took up most of my rooms. It is so quiet here now that they are gone." Corrington Diplomat: "So the soldiers have left this area?" Innkeeper: Yes, and my business is way down since then. Though we still have the traveler stopping by on trips. Men like yourself of course. We are after all the best inn of Juniper province. I have heard rumors that if the King traveled through Juniper province he would wish to stay right here at the Blue Rooster Inn." Oleon Diplomat: " Is that a fact?" Innkeeper: "Well it's what I heard AND we are the best inn around. Why else would fine gentlemen like yourself be staying here?" Oleon Diplomat: "You do have a point." Innkeeper: "If you fellows need to exit quickly tonight, I recommend going through the windows near the stairs. They lead out on to the roof above the horses, and... Corrington Diplomat: "Do we look like the kind of men who need to exit through windows!!?" Innkeeper: "Well you never know these days. Just last week I had a guy jump out the bedroom window while trying to escape a furious husband. It took me a week to get that cobblestone clean! Annndd he didn't leave behind any money to pay for the broken window. You just never can tell the kind of people around these days. Oh here comes your driver. Would you like some more rum?" Other views:
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One may remember that Oleon has sent a squad of legionnaires to attend the P.A.Cup, they've proven their sailing skills in the race and our green ninja, green legionnaire, blue legionnaire! got a well deserved rest, now it's time to train one's combat skill again. The Legionnaires usually wear the same uniform as other soldiers but they have certain liberty in the choice of weapons. This is to license a company of legionnaires (light infantry) in Eltina. Vive le Roi!
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28 September 619, Infero Pordejon, Fort San Millar The black flag of the rebels was still waving in the wind, but it was not going to last: the tides had turned. The tides had turned. After a long shelling with the few cannons available, the strong walls of Fort San Millar were finally breached, and the final assault began. The fort, once the pride of the Ashen Guard, had been occupied since the first days of disorders by a cruel group of smugglers: they made huge profits closing the port and profiting on the provisions, even if this caused a terrible famine and made violence explode in the streets. But finally the tides had turned, and the fort represented the last stronghold of the rebel pirates. By sure, the fort was intimidating, with 32 pounders towards the bay, sturdy walls and two of the sides right above vertical cliffs. However, as Tristan had realised studying the maps, the fort had not been projected to withstand a strong assault by land: some of the walls were too low and too exposed to artillery. He doubted that it was an error in the project: since a land attack could start only from Charlatan Bay itself, more probably, the Dark Bishop didn't want to transform the fort in an impregnable fortress for a rebel garrison… whatever the cause, Tristan was more than grateful for that. In that moment, Tristan heard the first musket salvos and the screams of the wounded men. It was time to move. He incited his men, an heterogeneous group of Oleander volunteers and local militiamen, and jumped on his boat. The battle plan was simple but, hopefully, effective: a frontal assault against the lowest wall, followed by a flanking attack from the cliffs, with boats and grappling hooks, to neutralize the cannons before they could be turned towards the parade ground. The hooks were thrown towards the parapet. There was no more time to think now: thirty minutes of fire and blood and everything would have been over, in a way or in the other. Tristan unsheathed the sword and shouted a war cry, followed by his men. That day, if Ares was with them, they would have seen the end of battle for Charlatan Bay. The battle for the external walls: To the breach! A barrel of gunpowder thrown by the defenders: In the parade ground: Counterattack of the defenders: A cannon and ammunitions: A bird's eye view: --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Fort San Millar was finally assaulted. This is probably my last build for this storyline, but the future of Charlatan Bay is still uncertain, and peace will be frail for a long time, so... who knows? Probably Tristan will leave for the North, the Great Alliance States, the ice and the steppes, for the desert of New Oleon, the woods of Varcoast or the Southern Seas. I hope you enjoyed my builds in this storyline, and the story itself. I did. Again, I have to thank @Kwatchi and @Gulagurag, even if probably they won't read this, for the great storyline of the Dark Bishop and Charlatan Bay. In many cases, my builds retrace theirs (Fort San Millar itself, for example), or things they wrote about the settlement.
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August 619, Infero Pordejon, a plantation house in Charlatan Bay outskirts "I think we have reached an agreement. Now my soldiers are at your orders, Sir. Let's write down the conditions." Said Ezekiel Keegan, dipping the pen in the ink. "I'm glad that you find our conditions reasonable. With your collaboration, I'm sure that this useless civil war will see its end." Replied Tristan Rimbaud. Despite his mildly satisfied expression and his measured words (diplomacy has is code, even when the negotiation is over), he felt incredibly relieved: these words, probably, represented the end of the battle for Lowtown. Just in time, considering that the involvement of Oleander forces had finally become public, and the risk to get unwanted attention from other empires or, even worse, to be considered a traitor from Oleander police secrète, was becoming higher and higher every day. Ezekiel Keegan… a rich plantation owner, who, at the beginning of the civil war, had raised a small but well trained militia, armed with the muskets of the defeated Ashen Guard. An astute man, according to many a former Corrish officer: his soldiers occupied several key areas of Charlatan Bay during the first weeks of disorders, outgunning even the Marderian garrisons. In those days, he was almost controlling Charlatan Bay, but his assault against Fort Saint Millar was a disaster: he lost twenty men and, even worse, he lost the control over the gangs he had subdued. The Oleander volunteers and Gustav's militiamen had to fight only a couple of times against Keegan's soldiers, and remembered very well those fierce battles. Now, with the Sugar plantation treaty, Keegan had just moved on their side, bringing along forty expert riflemen. "So, let's recapitulate the terms: 100 doubloons in silver ingots, private trade agreements with the Rimbaud family, and special consideration for a rank in Charlatan Bay forces after the war. I also keep the plantations I control in this moment. In exchange, I recognize Gustav von Bricktin as rightful ruler of Charlatan Bay, now and in the future, and I put my men at your orders." "Correct , monsieur Keegàn" replied Tristan, intentionally stressing his Oleander accent. "But don't forget that all the trade agreements are subordinated to your relations with my mother country. And, obviously, to the capture of Fort Saint Millar and the re-opening of the harbour, whenever it will be!" "It seems reasonable, obviously I have to wait until you capture the fort..." Keegan seemed a little confused… good sign: he had just smelled gold, but now the profit was stepping away, delayed to whenever it will be. It was time for the final jab. "You will do something better, monsieur Keegan. You will come with us against that damned fort!" Tristan left the plantations, followed by his guards. The agreement he had obtained with that greedy and ambitious man, with a bit of luck, would have represented the end of the Battle for Lowtown. That, notably, was nothing like a battle: no real uniforms, no ranks of soldiers, no artillery or cavalry charges, no trumpets or drums; on the contrary, an endless row of ambushes, skirmishes and raids, alternating with alliances, treasons, bribing and intimidation, distribution of food and propaganda among the common people. From the muddy alleys of the city to the most malfamate taverns, from the nearby jungle to the lairs of the gangs, Tristan and Gustav had lead their men again and again, fight after fight. Now, at last, this bloody war was going to end: a final assault against the intimidating bastions of Fort Saint Millar, then Charlatan Bay would be back in control… Soon Gustav would re-establish peace and order, as much as possible in a pirate settlement, and the Oleander contingent could finally make his way home; they had lost seven soldiers, and many others, including Tristan, had been wounded, but the campaign was almost over. The reconstruction would have been long and difficult, no doubt about that, and violence could rise again, but keeping foreign troops in a Sea Rat settlement for too much time would have done more harm than good… what was going to happen next was in his friend's hands, their roads had to part again. Another part of the Charlatan Bay storyline, nearing to its end. I apologize with all the Sea Rats for the permanence of Tristan and his men, by far too long, but real life issues complicated a little the original plan of a blitz campaign. Anyways, my soldiers will leave soon; as usual, I want to underline that I'm not trying to occupy Charlatan Bay, and the presence of my volunteers is only a part of a joined storyline. I hope nobody feels offended by the presence of my soldiers or by the storyline itself, but PM me if you want me to change something.
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Ice, probably the weirdest good ever traded after the discovery of the New World: worthless for the ones who own it, but impossible to buy, no matter how rich they are, for the ones who don't have it. Nevertheless, frozen water is a quite useful commodity: ice and snow, stored in dedicated cellars during winter, have been used for centuries by the Halosians for the most different purposes, from preserving perishable foods to preparing slush and ice creams, from providing relief to the feverish people to cooling the drinks of the wealthiest nobles. Storing clean snow in a ice house. This is a common winter activity in the Old World, especially in Northern regions. All the ones who moved in the New World, however, had to reconcile themselves with a simple fact: the temperate weather of their motherlands is one thousand miles away, and here in the archipelago you can't collect snow and keep it for the summer, since there is no snow to collect. And, in the scorching summer of Breshaun, under the sun of Mesabi Landing or in the sultriness of Pontelli, you have no way to keep fish or meat eatable for more than a couple of days, unless you cover them with salt, or to drink something cold, unless you have the stomach to add some saltpetre to your grog. Starting from this problem, Charles Lautrec, an Oleander merchant, decided to start a new business, something never seen before: collect ice in Altonia, during winter, store it in insulated warehouses and then ship it to the archipelago. Charles Lautrec, the Ice King The first voyage was a complete failure, the cargo melted and monsieur Lautrec almost bankrupted. His enterprise, considered by most a complete insanity, was noticed by the René Duchamp, the financial administrator of Rimbaud family, who decided to finance the ambitious project: delivering ice to tropical islands. Huge profits are ahead for Charles Lautrec (the Ice King as people nickname him), for his supporters, and for anyone crazy enough to follow their business. (placeholder => ice cutting in Altonia) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Category A: Icehouses and warehouses Before ice can be delivered to a settlement, a dedicated infrastructure must be built: otherwise, ice would melt in less than a day. If you want to see ice in your settlement and keep it for more than a few hours, a storing place, owned by Rimbaud Family, must be present. Aim: build an icehouse, an insulated warehouse or something similar in your settlement. Requirements: it must be licensable as a small or medium build. Rimbaud Family (me) will buy it for twice its licensing cost and license the property. Gain for the participants: Twice the licensing cost of the build you submit. Opening a settlement for Cat B builds. Deadline: TBD, according to the participation. Prize for the winners: 1st 50Db+ 25% of the revenues for Cat A properties (for 4 MRCA turns); 2nd 25Db+ 15% of revenues (4 MRCA turns); 3rd 20Db+ 10% of revenues (4 MRCA turns). Winners decided with public voting; I will build something in Cat A but I will not enter the challenge (my builds will open settlements to Cat B, but will not enter the competition). Category B: Fresh fish and cold wine Now your settlement receives its monthly supply of ice. What to do with it, is completely up to you: build a super expensive ice statue to impress your guests, drink something cold, sell ice cream or slush (in Italy it was done since the Middle Age, using snow from Alps and Mount Etna), preserve fish or even try to send tropical fruit back to the motherland. Aim: use your fantasy and build something (more or less historically accurate/possible). It can be a commercial activity, a private use of ice or something different. Requirements: you don't have necessarily to build something in category A, but you can build only in settlements hosting a category A build or in Eltina (see later). The property can be licensed or not; if you don't want to license it, Rimbaud family will gladly buy it at 1.5 the licensing cost. EDIT: You can also build something not licensable in EGS terms. EDIT: You can also participate building in Altonia, provided that you build appropriate steps of the trade (ice cutting, the loading in ships, the transport to the port… or something similar) Gain for the participants: in this case, nothing but the possibility to build something unusual. Your faction or individual players, however, may decide to offer incentives for builds in specific settlements. Deadline: TBD, according to the participation. Prize for the winners: 1st 100Db; 2nd 50Db; 3rd 40Db. Winners decided with public voting; I will build something in Cat A but I will not enter the challenge (my builds will open settlements to Cat B, but will not enter the competition). Category C: Eltina Royal Project While ice trade is moving its first steps in the archipelago, the aristocrats and merchants of Eltina decided to finance something bigger, both for prestige and for economical reason. Eltina Ice House will provide all the ice needed by the elites, but will also allow the storage and preservation of valuable goods, in particular tropical fruit, imported cheese and fresh meat. Ice will also allow a more efficient brewing process for beverages usually requiring cold winter months for their production. Aim: building a Royal Commercial Property in Eltina, starting from the unloading and the transport of the ice, continuing with its storage, and ending with its uses, in particular to preserve goods. Requirements: The quality needed for Royal Builds, and some coordination with the others to reduce overlapping (for example, two ice houses would be useful, but showing storage of fruit in all the builds would be a little boring) Gain for the participants: Honor and glory: you are contributing to the glory of Oleon, our homeland won't forget your dedication. Each participant, moreover, will receive a flat of 50Db for each entry exceeding 1000 square studs (consider about 32x32 as reference, but also 950 studs will be fine; the cut-off is only to have an easier calculation of the overall size). Deadline: The completion of the project Prize for the winners: No winners for this category. If the build is completed and approved, each participant will receive an extra prize of 25Db. EDIT: Post your entries directly in this thread. Please specify the settlement and the EGS class. This mini-challenge is funded and organized by the Rimbaud family (that means with my personal funds), so I can't offer super high prizes, but I hope you will enjoy it anyways. If you have any question, feel free to PM me. Multiple entries are allowed (and encouraged), but you can win only 1 prize in Cat A and 1 in Cat B (your builds take the first and third places => you get the first prize, the third prize goes to the fourth classified). If you need inspiration you can look at wikipedia pages about ice trade and Frederic Tudor, the real Ice King. Voting will be opened at the end of the challenge.
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Hi all, I have a new creation! Baron Nicolas visiting his close friend, madame Josephine at her orange plantation. P.S. Idea for this creation comes to me after watching "Stealing Beauty" with Liv Tyler, and beautiful Tuscany. Orange Plantation by Nikola Đurić, on Flickr Orange Plantation by Nikola Đurić, on Flickr Orange Plantation by Nikola Đurić, on Flickr Orange Plantation by Nikola Đurić, on Flickr Orange Plantation by Nikola Đurić, on Flickr
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The increase of maritime commerce in the area and the development of minerary activities on île de Zeus are transforming the once marginal city of Astrapi in a higly populated and lively colony. One of the most evident sign of this change is the growth of the market, held twice a week by arisans, farmers and merchants: where a year ago you would have found only a couple of rough stalls, fresh fruit and some fish, now you can see, all around the main square, a number of well refined stalls, covered with colorful cloths and selling almost any good cultivated, crafted or woven in the archipelago. Here you can see a man selling wines and liquors produced in Breshaun... ...a greengrocer showing a pineapple, a quite expensive delicacy since there is only one large-scale plantation of this tropical fruit in the area... ...a local fisherman... ...a cart with fresh bread and sacks of hardtacks from a near bakery... ...a foreign food seller, with his embers-heated rotating meat (inspired to @Legostone's one), typical of Southern Oleon... ...and a strange man selling strange maps, showing (as he says) "the routes towards the golden kingdoms of the South". An overall view:
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A small Oleander tradeship had left port and started sailing to deliver some exquisite rum crafted by the Perreault family. Unfortunately, when they were out at sea, they noticed there was a stowaway breaking into the goods. Luckily though, this ne'er-do-well was a wanted pirate and they found a small island out in the sea. What better way to deal with pirates than stranding them during low tide? It's been awhile since I've been able to do a physical MOC, just due to being away from my full collection. Luckily the PAB wall at my local store had some great pieces recently and the figures from the UCS Slave I could work for Oleon.
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I've decided it's about time I continue developing my naval character's story, and I'm very pleased with how the build turned out. As always, comments and criticism are welcome. The Inn by Capt. Genaro, on Flickr Captain Anthony Genaro walked down the road distressed. Once again, the only letter waiting for him at the port admiral's office was from his brother. Nothing from the admiralty, no news of a command, and to make matters worse there was still no word on when the payroll would arrive. At this point, he just wanted to return to his room without any further disappointment, but as he turned one last corner before reaching his inn, he saw that wouldn't be the case. The Inn by Capt. Genaro, on Flickr “Captain Genaro!” Abigale Fisher shrieked, her bulky frame filling most of the door, when the young officer was a few steps away. “Do you have any idea what day it is?” “And a most good and holy day it is, no doubt,” the Captain replied, knowing full well what Abigale was after, but doing his best to avoid it. “Today marks six months, Captain, six months,” she continued, hands firmly planted on her hips, her stone-cold gaze unyielding. “Six months since I’ve seen a penny of rent out of you.” The Inn by Capt. Genaro, on Flickr “Good lord, has it really been that long? Well, I for one will be sure to write to the port admiral and complain about his inability to maintain a steady schedule for the payroll ship.” “Don’t you dare give me any of that today, Captain, I don’t want your jokes.” Anthony gulped as he began racking his brain for the right response. He could stare down a Ship of the Line in not more than a brig or be the first to board a galley of bloodthirsty corsairs, but none of that mattered now. “Well?” Abigale asked. “It’s just… well, you see times are tough for a poor officer on half pay,” Anthony meekly replied. “I’m barely scrapping by as is. But on my honor, as soon as the payroll arrives,” but Abigale interrupted him before he could finish. “Oh, good. I’m sure my creditors will be happy to take your good will and honor in lieu of gold. Oh, sure, I’m certain that’ll keep me out of debtors’ prison.” “But what would you have me do?” Anthony cried out, desperate for some way to pacify his landlady and get back to his room. “Surely your sword or medals would be worth a few month’s rent,” replied Abigale, her cold stare unchanged. “Why, an excellent idea, Mrs. Fisher. Let me just take a look in my trunk...” “Oh, no you don’t, Captain! I know you haven’t got anything in there!” Abigale exclaimed. “You’ve got a perfectly good medal on your hat and a perfectly good sword in your belt.” “Well, surely this can wait until tomorrow,” Anthony pleaded. “No!” “But it’s late! Surely you don’t intend to let me spend the night in the streets!” Abigale just stood in the doorway and stared at the captain. Then, without another word, she turned, entered the inn, and slammed the door shut, leaving Anthony alone, cursing his current situation. “Gen?” a familiar voice asked. “Anthony Genaro? By Zeus it is!” The Inn by Capt. Genaro, on Flickr Anthony turned to the voice and immediately cheered up. “Paul Laforge, you old devil!” he exclaimed upon seeing his old shipmate. They served together as midshipmen in the peace and both were commissioned as lieutenants on the Mars during the Juniper War, but Anthony hadn't seen Paul for years. He immediately ran over and kissed each cheek in the proper Olean greeting. “How have you been? How’s Marie?” “Fine, both of us just fine, thank you,” Paul replied. “But it appears that you’ve seen better.” "Ah, it's nothing, just waiting for my next assignment," Anthony said. "But what's this? Don't tell me you've sold out?" "Alas, I'm afraid I have" Paul chuckled. "Half pay simply didn't suit Marie, but I was able to get one of the company's ships. Nothing like serving the Crown, but by Zeus do they pay well." "And it appears you ate most of it" Anthony said with a playful jab at his friend's increasing gut. "Well, Marie is quite a cook. Speaking of which, perhaps you could join us for dinner?" "I'd hate to impose..." "Come, come! I won't take no for an answer!" "Well, if you insist," Anthony replied, not requiring much encouragement to enjoy a free meal with his old friend. The Inn by Capt. Genaro, on Flickr
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The "Unfolded Tablecloth Productions" presents you their next big hit: Hugo D'Offren embarks once again on a great adventure! This time though it is not an adventure involving vanquishing enemies of the Crown, rather than a mission of scientific (and prestigious) nature. We are to explore the jungles of Celestia and locate the fabled Superb Orchid of Celestia! Hugo has just arrived at Jameston, accompanied by his trusted crew and marines. With him, there is also a young and ambitious dragoon officer, the protege of Hugo (sporting the Dragoon's shako used when on foot and the dreaded scarlet demi-cape of the Oleon Dragoons regiments). He is his sister's son after all. All together, they are to meet a Crown agent (the man in black attires - let's call him Mr B for now) that was stationed in Jameston some months ago in order to facilitate the expedition's first steps among other things. The meeting is to take place in front of "The Captain's Daughter" Inn, at a secondary quay of the settlement. At the following pics, you will watch this meeting taking place (and all those sailors "happily" carrying the expedition's luggage and stuff - mostly blank canvas and empty diaries ready to be filled with the wonders of this island's Jungles). Sadly no time for interior (even a rudimentary one). The "bucket floating around was drifted here from a nearby wreck - worry not, as none was injured. Both buildings (The Captain's Daughter Inn and a nearby merchant house) are a gift from Oleon to the good people of Jameston. They can license them in their name as they see fit. Thanks for watching and good luck to all the contestants! -
Long have the lands of Guelph been a domain of the Oleander Crown and the culture of the motherland seeps deep into its sands. Sometimes however, trouble still stirs amongst the natives of Guelph. Stimulated either by nefarious foreign meddling and instigation or by internal disagreement with the current state of affairs several branches of a new cult began popping up in different New Oleander cities and villages. These acolytes follow the teachings of the Scorpion King, Ankor, and call themselves the Cult of the Scorpion. As enlightened as Oleonese society is, acts of religious dissent, demagogy and inciting the populace against the state are severely looked down upon and swiftly dealt with. Spurred on by both the Faith and the Governor, soldiers of the New Oleonese Army crack down upon the known locations of sympathizers of the Cult. Here, a mixed force of Tirailleurs and Dragoons - a typical combination in Guelph military operations - are ready to breach the house of several conspirators and confiscate everything pertaining to the mysterious Scorpion King and his followres and take hold of the illegal weapons rumored to be stockpiled in the house. Of course, any lead to the fabled treasures of this Scorpion King are welcome finds as well... For the Faith, for the Crown! --- I wanted to make a small MOC to showcase some of my men in action and get back into building some more. I wanted to take some more photos, but the weather and lighting's been really bad here, so these were the only decent ones I got . The third one's kind of bad, but you get the general idea. Even though it's a small MOC, C&C is always welome !
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The small coastal village of Bertelshafn was still half asleep when young Magnus softly closed the door behind him. The early morning fog rising from the water coupled with small flecks of snow falling from the sky gave the village a serene feeling, fit for the time of the year. The closed door was symbolic in a way, as Magnus had chosen to give his life a new direction. The typical Garvian village life was not enough for him. He wanted more. More adventure. See more of the world. Sure, he could become a rum runner, rogue or sail the seas as a smuggler, but at what risk? Where were the heroics in that? The steady pay to support his family? No, young Magnus Erikssen had made a decision: he had gathered his belongings and would now travel to Oleon and volunteer in its legendary Légion étrangère, a military formation open to men of all backgrounds, professions and nationalities. Famed for its courage, battle prowess and iron discipline. His adventure was just beginning, the time had come to leave rugged Garveig behind and serve a new King. For Oléon! --- A rather simple build of mine to introduce Magnus. I never really knew where to take the previous character I had made for Era I of BoBS or how to tie him in to other ideas or storylines I wanted to portray. Therefore I made a new character, way lower on the social ladder which makes it (in my eyes) easier for me to include him in builds. Will I completely ditch Henri? Definitely not. I will try to reference him or cameo him from time to time, but my focus will be on Magnus from now on. Concerning the MOC: at first I only built the house on the left as a backdrop to introduce Magnus, but I quickly expanded upon it and made it a larger scene. There's really nothing much to it, since it's just a simple backdrop, but I do like the white-dark red-darkgreen color combo. I was inspired by a picture from a link in the Garvey description in Jameis Farstrider's Guide. I tried to recreate the peat roof, but perhaps I should've used some more grass stalks to give it more of that grassy feeling. I'd really like to build more in this style, but I already depleted practically all of my dark red for this simple backdrop, so I doubt I'll build anything more complex anytime soon . Again, sorry for the quality of the photo. The lighting was really dark and I had to Photoshop it quite a bit to get it somewhat decent, but I lost a lot of detail. Any tips on decent photography? Like, what lamps I should use to light the scene?
