Hodgepodge Lodge

Miniatures: Flames of War Game

2011-11-28T20:18:00.000-08:00

Trent and Brandon playing the British in a family Holiday game of Flames of War.

The Italian Bersaglieri deployed to protect multiple objectives.

The Italian Artillery ready to pound the British into the sand.

British Grants defending an objective and readying to destroy the enemy.

British Crusaders, Artillery and Anti Tank guns holding an objective.

First Blood! The British Grants destroy the Italian tank destroyers!

The British Infantry playing Whist while being bombarded by Italian Guns.

Italians sketching the ruins as the British armor advances.

The British Armor advances.

Due to the influx of family activities we only played a partial game. The British were mauling the Italians soundly and would have easily carried the game had it been played out. This was a sort of learning game for the Allies and they did a great job!

Miniatures: Italians in Flames of War

2011-08-13T16:12:00.000-07:00

Here's a few shots of my Flames of War Italian North African force in progress.

Miniatures: Dwarven Colonials evict Martians from the Village

2011-07-24T10:38:00.001-07:00

Martians set up to defend their village from the invading British Colonial Dwarves.

Prince Thadd supervises his City Dweller forces from atop his mount, waving his sword as he gives orders.

The Dwarves advance under fire from the Martian's antique cannon, eager to claim this parcel of Mars for their ever expanding Empire.

They march within rifle range of the village and use the superior range and firepower of their weaopns to take toll of the Marian forces.

The Fanatic Sverdfolk, withered by Dwarven fire, make a daring charge into the midst of the invading army. At first they hold their own, hacking their swords and spear against Dwarven bayonette, but their nerve fails when the Cavalry charges to the rescue.

The Dwarven fire drives Prince Thadd and the remains of one unit into the shelter of the village where they reform for a last stand.

The Dwarven advance stops for nothing as the Ostrich Cavalry hop over the defensive wall and the Infantry wade through the Martian dead.

Meanwhile the remaining City Dweller Infantry slowly succums to a combined attack of Dwarven Rifle and Artillery. Soon, their position threatened from the rear, they exit the village to and set up defenses for the pursuing Ostrich Cavalry.

At the foot of a hill just outside the village, the Marians stand against the Dwarven charge and fight to the last man. The victorious Dwarves raise their flag and claim yet another land for Queen and Country.

The game was played using the Valor & Steel & Flesh rules. Bill ran the victorious Dwarves and I the unfortunate Martians. It was the first time playing this ruleset and we were not as impressed with them as we had hoped. Several factors were either very unclear or somewhat counter-intuitive, making the rules hard to interpret at times.

Miniatures: Flames of War- Terrain and Game picures.

2011-07-10T13:27:00.000-07:00

British Armor moving out. Part of a large game with American and Brithish Armor VS German Armor and Infantry.

Germans after British Armor and Artillery attacks.

General destruction.

British took some casualties before rushing the German positions.

Devistating German Air Assault that destroys a Platoon of Grants.

Terrain pictures.....

An oasis and building.

Pictures of scratch built Wadi sections.

More scratch built buildings with manufactured ones.

British 6 pdrs in scratch built defensive positions.

Miniatures: More Martians

2011-05-20T20:44:00.001-07:00

Martian Sky Pirates in a scratch built War Skiff. One light-medium gun fires forward while the crew brandish a mixture of bows, fire arms and hand weapons. More views below...

The Pirate crew also act as Irregular Infantry or Militia when on the surface of Mars.

More Irregulars, these Kraag Warior fanatics act as specialist infantry units lead by a charismatic War Chief.

More views of the War Skiff......

Miniatures: Space 1889 Martians

2011-04-17T20:44:00.000-07:00

A Martian City Dweller "Battle" consisting of 2 Infantry units and 1 unit of Artillery.

The Officer in Charge riding his bird-like mount.

An Infantry unit with the Battle Leader at Right.

Artillery unit manning a medium antique gun.

The second Infantry Unit with 3 Grenadiers in armor in the front rank.

Miniatures: Operation Crusader...or All my Tanks are nearly Painted!

2011-03-06T21:02:00.000-08:00

The main part of my Light Armor Squadron...
4 Platoons of Crusaders with Command. Now all painted but for some work on the tracks and some decals. The models are Crusader I's, II's and III's made by Gaming Models.

Miniatures: More Desert Rats

2011-02-17T12:24:00.000-08:00

Close up of Infantry from my Motor Company.

A sampling: Infantry, Grants, Crusaders.
Infantry are from Battlefront Miniatures, vehicles from Gaming Models.

Grants, fresh off the painting table.

Miniatures: Desert Rats

2011-02-01T08:56:00.001-08:00

I was able to put some more work into my Flames of War Desert Rats force. Here is my Motor Platoon posing in front of some Crusaders.....

and waiting for their trucks from the every slow painting factory.....

and hoping for some reinforcements, maybe a mortar or AT guns........

Miniatures: Warzone Dark Legion Semai proxies.

2011-02-01T08:39:00.000-08:00

I bought a bunch of old part painted, cut up Necromunda figures to use as proxies as Warzone Semai Dissidents. Here they are after surgery (adding arms, weapons, even a head from clix figures) and a repainting.

Smile! Now go infiltrate the MegaCorps!

The girl 2nd from left has a new head thanks to an old Heroclix fig.

The two on the left both needed arms and bits etc.

Miniatures: Fantasy Warriors Dwarves

2010-12-16T19:33:00.001-08:00

The first parts of my Fantasy Warriors Dwarf army. The rank and file were bought painted, so I personally have only painted the various leaders. This array only shows half of the available crossbowmen and spear armed troops. I am also working up a small unit of Boar Riders, a Wizard and various other battle leaders and sub commanders.

King Snorri Axegrinder and his standard bearer issue orders from the midst of battle.

The King's army fields many heavily armed warriors wielding great axes.

Powerful Battle Leaders take charge of each unit, keeping them in formation while awaiting the orders of their King.

Spear armed warriors in stand in reserve, waiting to challenge enemy cavalry or rush to reinforce wherever they are needed.

Crossbowmen whittle away enemy units from afar, then draw their hand axes and join the fray.

Specialist, like this Scout, help the King to ply his army with every advantage he can muster. The Scout assures that the terrain on the field of battle is favorable to the King's army.

The King's Standard helps relay his orders during the confusion of battle. The Standard also symbolizes the power and might of the King.

Miniatures: Fantasy Warriors Orcs

2010-12-13T22:04:00.000-08:00

I am now getting close to fielding Orc and Dwarf armies for the game Fantasy Warriors (owing to the purchase of several painted units). Here are several of the Orc units I now have ready for battle.

The Orc War-chief Goldfang, his standard bearer and herald.

The army's Shaman prepares his magics.

Veteran Orc archers and Spear contrast the motley band of average troops on the opposite flank.

Goldaxe (front center), the War-chief's eldest surviving offspring, acts as a sub-commander in charge of the average quality Spear and Sword units.

A motley assortment of Orcs.

Goldfang's Bodyguard, made up of Great Orcs, is held in reserve.

The Veteran Bow and Spear, in uniform and in good order, await Goldfang's orders. (spear and bow leaders in these units painted by me, the rest were purchased already painted).

Miniatures: Vipers of Mesa Venus

2010-11-11T11:36:00.000-08:00

Miniatures: Warzone-Dark Legion Semai

2010-11-04T21:52:00.001-07:00

The Nepharite of Semai (left), deceitfully looking like an attractive young girl, and a Curator (right) ready to lead a band of Necromutants.

Miniatures: Space Bounty Hunters

2010-11-04T21:43:00.000-07:00

"Hi, Ho Silver! Blast Away!!!!"

The Lone Space Ranger (center), his trusty steed Silver Centauri (left) and his sidekick Tonto Titanium.

Miniatures: Warzone- Dark Legion Semai forces

2010-10-30T23:01:00.000-07:00

Here are some of the powerful Individuals that are fielded in Semai forces of the Dark Legions....

A Heretic Corrupter leads a band of Heretics.

The deadly sniper Callistonian Sundancer.

The Eaonian Justifier is infamous for gathering information from the unwilling.

Miniatures: Goth Horror game report preview....

2010-10-30T22:35:00.000-07:00

Here are some images from a game of Gothic Horror: Vampire Wars. A full game report will follow at a later date...

In a rugged, yet picturesque hill country somewhere in the Balkans...

A battle takes place between the Defenders of Mankind and the Children of the Night.....

A desperate rage, filled grapple......

with unrelenting violence....

that leaves fanatical enemies dead, lying side by side in the plush, cold grass.

Miniatures: Gothic Horror Vampire Wars

2010-10-23T12:01:00.000-07:00

The Nosferatu Clan of Hegel Zech.

Left to Right: Hegel Zech the Master, his 5 Nosferatu, Henchmen (foreground) and Slaves (background).

Sir Jamie Ryder-Harker and his English Vampire Hunters.

From Left to Right: Sir Jamie Ryder-Harker, Gentlemen Adventurers, Riflemen, Sergent Major Whiteside, and 2 Batmen.

Miniatures: Warzone Capitol Light Infantry

2010-10-17T10:41:00.000-07:00

Capitol Light Infantry Unit with 8 troopers, Light MG, Grenade Launcher, Sgt. and Captain.

Fanning out to face a threat, the officers and specialists positioned near the center of the unit.

The Captain and Sgt. near the well.

Troopers covering the flank.

Captain and Grenadier.

Miniatures: Billy Bones Workshop ECW paper minis part 2

2010-10-01T23:38:00.000-07:00

A sampling of the types of pieces available in the Billy Bones ECW paper miniatures set. From Left: Pike, Shot, Guns, Horse. with a paper road in front.

Miniatures: Billy Bones Workshop ECW paper minis

2010-09-28T19:50:00.000-07:00

An English Civil War Light Cavalry unit made with paper minis from Billy Bones Workshop.

I experimented coloring the paper minis with colored pencil. A quick "painted" unit for an ECW game.

Miniatures: Capitol Great Grey

2010-09-06T21:03:00.000-07:00

Miniatures: Warzone Grunt Troopers

2010-05-08T11:05:00.000-07:00

Capital Heavy Infantry Squad

Heavy Infantry Sargent and Captain

Troopers (an odd, older sculpt)

Heavy Infantry Specialists: Hmg, Sniper (Void figure as proxy), Medic.

Capital Freedom Brigadier Proxy (figures for this unit were never produced)

Repainted clix figure and the original.

Miniatures: Warzone Capitol Elite Forces

2010-05-01T21:23:00.000-07:00

Capitol Free Marines

Capitol Desert Scorpions

A Necromunda Goliath proxies as a Free Marine.

Have a nice day.........

Miniatures: Wargames Foundry Great Wars Miniatures for Sale.

2010-04-19T07:37:00.000-07:00

32 Wargames Foundry Australian Infantry

15 Wargames Foundry British in Service Dress

19 Wargames Foundry British in Helmet.

Miniatures: Flames of War Italian Armor

2010-04-17T08:59:00.000-07:00

Italian M14/41 light tanks and a Semovente 75/18, painted but for touch up and decals. Three more Semovente 75/18's and a Carro Comando await some track detail and touch up.

Close up on the M14/41's. I'm missing one tank to make a full Platoon.

A British Crusader and Carrier run into a bit of a sticky situation.

Miniatures: The Fantasy Trip, The Lost Orb

2010-04-10T22:00:00.001-07:00

A powerful wizard works to unite the land under his despotic rule. To that end he seeks magical orbs of great power, created in past ages and forgotten til now. A shaky alliance of Man, Orc, Dwarf and Elf seek these orbs to use against the armies of the despot. One such orb has been located and the alliance sends it's troops to vie against the undead minions that guard it. The shaky alliance threatens to dissolve with the potential of possessing the orb. The Orc spread out and move in slowly towards their goal, yet keeping wary of their "allies".

The Elven forces move swiftly towards the orb, with no thought of treachery or malice towards their new "friends".

The slow moving Dwarves break into a sprint to close the distance to the ultimate goal.

Awaiting all are the minions of the despot, his undead host guarding the orb from all who venture too near.

The Elves rush headlong in striking the first blow for the cause. Unfortunately for them the brittle skeletons are made of sterner stuff than meets the eye, and the Elves in the forefront take serious wounds in retaliation.

Soon the sturdy Dwarves join the fray, while the Orcs draw out stragglers to gang up upon.

Elf and Dwarf fight side by side.

The Dwarves are supported by their wizard and crossbowman from the relative safety of the clearings edge.

The Orcs, true to their reputation for foul-play, are the first to turn against their allies. As one their archers rain arrows upon the Dwarf wizard, while the Orc Shaman casts a powerful bolt of lightning that brings a mighty dwarf to his knees. The Dwarves loose no time before they retaliate. Their wizard summons a giant and sends it lumbering after the terrified Orcs.

Meanwhile, Elf and Dwarf continue to battle the undead minions, and are joined by a warrior summoned earlier by the Orc Shaman. This warrior later proves to have been an illusion all along, yet the damage it inflicted is real indeed.

The Elves stand fast, despite the ferocity of their opponent. Before long, however, temptation is too strong, and Dwarf and Elf are also exchanging blows. The Elven mage, silent til now, throws a tremendous bolt of lightning that completely incinerates the Dwarven mage. The latter's summoned giant kills the Orc illusion, dissipating it, then disappears itself. The last of the undead guardians are eliminated and yet the "allies" continue fighting, each wanting sole possession of the orb.

Now the Elven mage summons a giant of his own and sends it after the stalwart Dwarves.

The Orcs continue to harry their heavily armored foe, as each side attempts to maneuver for any advantage that can be had.

The giant moves to the Dwarven flank as the former allies position themselves for the endgame of this battle. Elven and Orc archers exchange fire, while a general melee ensues. A Dwarf axeman, the orb tucked neatly in his satchel, boldly faces the giant despite the nasty Orc that attacks him while his back is turned. The Dwarf in no time brings the giant to death's doorstep, but is denied the death stroke as the Elven mage, drained of all magic, can no longer expend the magical energy to keep the summoned monster in this realm. With the giant dispatched the Dwarves press their advantage killing Elf, Orc and even another illusion sent to battle them. The Elves, meanwhile loose their missile exchange with the better armored Orc archer, and see the last of their warriors fall to Dwarven steel. With the Elves no longer a threat, Orc and Dwarf turn full lethal focus upon each other. The Orc outnumber the Dwarves by one, however their Shaman is nearly out of magical essence, and the Dwarves, though injured have the advantage in arms and armor. Quickly the Dwarf giant slayer lands a devastating blow against the one remaining melee fighter in the Orc force, he leaves his foe prone and jumps at the chance to ensnare the Shaman in close combat. At the same time the Orc archer is rushed by the other remaining Dwarf, and snarls as he draws his dagger to fend off the looming battle axe. The Shaman casts a desperate spell, expending the last of his magical energies, and turns his fist into a weapon of hardened iron. With a critically placed blow he fells the mighty giant slayer and rushes to the aid of his archer companion before the effects of his spell dissipates. His Iron punch overcomes the Dwarf's armor and lands a killing blow. Quickly before any other "allies" arrive, the wounded Orcs slither away with their magical treasure.

Miniatures: Victorian Science Fiction Martians

2010-04-06T15:23:00.001-07:00

A unit of Martian Royal Infantry supported by artillery and ready to face the invaders from Earth.

Martian Royals in firing line.

A partial unit of Martian Sverdvolk, fanatics that reject technology and fight only in hand to hand combat.

Martian artillery unit and their bizarre gun.

Miniatures: Skraelings of Vinland

2010-03-03T19:15:00.000-08:00

This is the first batch of miniatures being prepared for an upcoming convention game. I plan to run a story based skirmish scenario set in Vinland using Rattrap's Broadsword Adventures rules.

Skraelings emerge from the forest to trade furs with the Vikings for red cloth and milk. Everything goes well until hostilities break out, a native is killed trying to steal a metal weapon. The Vikings lower their white shield of peace and raise their red shields of war. The Skraelings hail missiles on their foe and create a frightening din with their strange catapults. Everyone is unnerved by the strange ways of their adversary. Thorstein's bull bellows in the forest and frightens away many Skraelings. The Vikings flee to a rally point near the cliffs, deluded that they are being attacked on all sides. Freydis, daughter of Eric the Red, pregnant and too slow to flee cries out for a sword so that she can show the men of her camp how to slay the wretched natives.........

Figures by Gladiator miniatures.

Happy Saint Valentine's Day

2010-02-14T08:51:00.001-08:00

Miniatures: El Gato Borracho .....preview picture.

2010-01-25T09:33:00.000-08:00

As part of my never ending project to finish up old projects I pulled out a nearly finished Adobe building and put the final touches on it. Hence a little Old West watering hole....El Gato Borracho. More pictures to follow once my camera has new batteries.

Miniatures: Orc Brew Bash

2010-01-20T05:48:00.001-08:00

"AHHHH! Me Grog Spilt! You'll pay you son of a Grot."

"SMASH!" "BASH!" "SLAM!" "Why you..." "My Eye!!!" "snivel...." "Pow!"

Thud laughs grog through his nose as Bogmire the Petulant splats Grishnak with a dive off the balcony.

"Whaaaaaa!" "Splat"

We played our first 4 player games of Orc bar brawling. They were quick and dirty with lots of chair throwing, eye poking and the dreaded Orc tossing. One of the highlights was Bogmire diving off the balcony and knocking out Grishnak on the first turn of the game. Don't cry for Grishnak though, he later got up, asked for more and nearly won the game!

Miniatures: Beasts of Bastogne work in Progress.

2010-01-10T15:45:00.000-08:00

I'm preparing a Pulp/Weird War II game called The Beasts of Bastogne using the Where Heroes Dare rules. The troops are done, I just have to make some terrain and finish the Beasts. Shown in this preview is a newly made fox hole with unsuspecting members of the 101st Airborne stalked by the Beasts.

A lower angle of the foxhole.

A shell crater.

"Hey Sarge, you hear sometin'?"

"Shadup, it's the wind."

Miniatures: Boers

2010-01-09T13:32:00.000-08:00

I've had these miniatures for a very long time but did not really have a purpose for them until now. They will be used as Nefarious mercenaries in a Colonial skirmish game and as the Boers they are using a rule set that allows for skirmishing with a very small number of figures.

It's a good thing the tall grass hides the bases because I don't have em fully painted yet.

Miniatures: Greedy Water...a mutants and death ray guns story.

2010-01-02T15:56:00.000-08:00

Miniatures: Mutants and Death Ray Guns...the last group.

2009-12-27T11:03:00.000-08:00

Here's the final group of miniatures prepared for my Nephew's set of Mutants and Death Ray Guns. Above we see a Human Leader and a web slinging Mutant.

A Mutant Plant complete with a wicked thorn.

A Pink-haired Android. Her Needler pistol is made from a tooth pick end glued to her hand.

Here they are, playing nice in the ruins.

Miniatures: More Mutants and Death Ray Guns

2009-12-26T12:28:00.000-08:00

Here's the second batch of figures I'm preparing for the game, shown here busy playing with their new weapons and mutations.

I went heavy on the flame in this cold winter season. Here is a mutant that can throw flame and a human with a flame thrower.

This robot accessorizes at the local Gas station.

It's a Blue Meanie.

Sign of the times. I might convert it to a "Stop" or better yet "Yield" sign if I have time.

Posed for battle.

Yet another pose.

Miniatures: Terrain for Mutants and Death Ray Guns

2009-12-22T19:17:00.000-08:00

A handy second story shooters nest.

Ruined buildings and a shell crater.

Rubble and walls.

It's Deer season! Wobot Season! Deer Season!....

Miniatures: Hey Troy, I found my Crusader tanks and a few Universal Carriers.

2009-12-21T00:09:00.000-08:00

Now to paint em.

Miniatures: Grishnak Wins Brawl!

2009-12-20T20:03:00.000-08:00

Grishnak (shown here wit 'is cleaver at Thud's throat) wins da bar brawl while Bogmire the Petulant slumbers near by.

Da action started wit Bogmire knocking Grishnak over, then Thud throws Bog into Grishnak making a pile of Orcs on da table. Thud and Grish both smashed bottles over Orc head, and Bog thought about throwing a chair, but was hit by a flying Grishnak instead. Grish took a short nap, but woke up, grabbed his brew and came back for more. Bogmire also took a nap, got up and got jumped on by Grishnak and stayed down. Thud, who looked ta be the favorite early on when he kept throwing Orcs into each other, finally took a hard goose egg ta da head and slumped next to a snoring Bogmire. Free drinks fer Grishnak!

We played a three player game which gave us a taste of the rules and anticipation for a brawl with more players.

Miniatures: John the Deer.

2009-12-15T22:22:00.001-08:00

John, complete with the logo on the front of his shirt.

The only thing I might add would be a holster for a pair of side-cutters.

Miniatures: Mutants and Death Ray Guns

2009-12-15T00:37:00.000-08:00

As a quick side project I am doing up a group of miniatures for Ganesha Games' Mutants and Death Ray Guns, which is basically Gamma World in miniatures. The figures are meant to be x-mas presents for my Nephews, with the side benefit that I'll finally get to play the game and have loads of fun preparing these miniatures. This group is the first half essentially completed. Note, the Deer-man (far left) is not finished. I need to print off the logo of a certain Iowa farm implement manufacturer to paste on his shirt. Nothing runs like a Deere!

A clix figure painted up as a mutant, or mutant animal.

This Void miniature is a human with an Assault Rifle.

Another group shot. The garbage can in the back was my first attempt at sculpting terrain stuff with sculpy done a long, long time ago. The device on the right was one of my first scratch built pieces altogether. The side facing the camera was made from pill packaging.

A clix miniature repainted to represent a human in a hazmat suit.

Another Void miniature as a human hand to hand combat specialist, or perhaps a leader.

John. This dear fellow is hunting for his long lost cousin Buck. Buck is an astronaught that never returned from a mission in outer space. Perhaps Buck will show up in another game. John is a clix figure with a head replacement found at the local craft store.

Robot. Not much of anything was done to this clix figure, just some changes to the paint scheme.

Once the second half of this group is finished I'll post some more pictures, and hopefully of some games as well.

Miniatures: Orc Bar near finish.

2009-12-10T08:49:00.001-08:00

A hopping night at the local Grot Pub.

Oi, youse on da stairs, no bow-fire allowed!

So she dumped you for a Ogre, buck it up, life goes on until ya die.

Ehyy Grishnak, I eard you got dumped fer an Ogre!

Ewe sure yer not a Goblin, let's see some I.D.

Oi, at least he wasn't dumped fer a Dwarf, ya Elf lover.

&^#(@%!!!!!

Come 'ear and say dat!

Miniatures: More Orc Bar.

2009-12-06T21:50:00.000-08:00

Details of the painted floor and balcony, sans touch up. A mock up for the door and woodwork pattern on the walls are being added here too.

An overview shot of the main bar room.

Even Orcs have to answer nature's call, however, like all things Orc their answer is belligerent (as evidenced by their aim).

Dancing on the bar and jumping off the balcony, it's good to be an Orc.

More woodwork work, primed bar and a completed table can be seen in this shot.

Whales

2009-12-06T00:03:00.000-08:00

Miniatures: Orc Bar for Orc Bar Brawls. Oi!

2009-12-05T23:45:00.000-08:00

I'm building a bar for a game of Orc bar brawls. For the construction I am following the 2-d layout that came with in the rules. At one end is a balcony for diving off of.

Balcony stairs, plus a look at the square tiles primed and waiting for paint.

Oi! Dat you Romeo?

Tables, all the better fer slammin' yer 'ead into.

Grog. Make it a double.

Overhead with the outer walls pinned in place. The bottom left corner will have 4 privy stalls, while the upper left will house the still.

Miniatures: Uncharted Seas Undead Fleet.

2009-12-04T15:25:00.000-08:00

Random pictures of my Undead Fleet.

Miniatures: Vikings under the Raven Banner

2009-11-29T21:23:00.000-08:00

The Raven Banner, often sewn by a warrior's mother or sister, possessed magical properties. Some banners assured victory as long as they flew, but doomed those who carried it into battle. One such standard was abandoned after several bearers were killed. The owner was disgusted by such cowardice so he tucked the banner under his mail and fled. The battle was lost and the owner and all those who refused the standard were killed.

A unit of Hersir follow the banner.

Another view.

Two units of Hersir and a unit of light infantry armed with javelin. The light unit uses spear heads imported or taken as spoils from Normandy, as indicated by the cross-barb under the point.

Several shields contain designs that emulate the cross, a sign of the gradual conversion of the Northmen.

Miniatures: Hoards of the Things game

2009-11-12T22:37:00.000-08:00

I was able to get in a game of Hoards of the Things (HOTT) with my friend Bill. Our armies were pretty evenly matched, but Bill established and maintained the upper hand very early on.

Bill's army is based on The Black Company in the South with their Taglian allies. Lady and Croaker are his Hero/General, looking splended in their Black Armor. One eye and Goblin comprise his Wizards, accompanied by stands of spear, shooters, riders and an Elephant Behemoth.

My army represent the Guardians of a Magical Forrest, lead by a Hero/General Princess riding a Unicorn. Another Princess casts her magic from atop a wishing well, while Centaur riders prance near by.

Elsewhere the army contains farm animal beasts, Elven shooters and spear (not shown) and a Treeant Behemoth.

Lady and Croaker are defending one of the Taglian cities, and manage to get the defenders in a good formation. Beasts and a Treeant attempt to skirt past one of his flanks, using their superior speed in good ground. They were met by shooters, the Elephant and a sturdy stand of spearmen.

The Treeant looms over the shooters, but they are too highly trained to waiver.

The Elephant smashes through a stand of the farm animals, squashing a rooster, but the other beasts manage to stampede the shooters. The Treeant is forced back by the sturdy spearmen, while elsewhere Taglian spearmen face off with the Elves.

The Treeant, left alone by the demise of his farmland brethren, fights on against the spearman. The two units give and take ground while the Elephant recovers from it's latest charge (and pries the chicken and donkey bits off the sole of his foot). The tree finally becomes kindling when it is backed against a rock face by the spearmen and is unable to escape.

Meanwhile, One Eye and Goblin throw spell after spell at the Unicorn riding Princess, while the Wizard of the Well slings her magic at the Taglian spearmen. Elven shooters fire on the sturdy spear, and a brief clash of arms takes place but neither force chooses to commit. With the fall of her right flank (and the shocking death of her chickens) the Princess Hero leads the Centaur riders in a desperate charge. They smash into the Black Company command facing the dreaded Black Armor and horrific Banner. The Princess squares up against One Eye and Goblin hoping for an easy kill, but the wiry, wily wizards got the best of her. With her demise the remainder of her army looses it's will to fight, the battle is lost.

Miniatures: Crusaders from Paper Minis.

2009-11-10T17:17:00.000-08:00

Units of Crusader Knights and Infantry made from Arion Paper Miniatures scaled down to 15mm and arranged in groups for each stand.

Crusader Infantry, based for Neil Thomas Ancient and Medieval Wargame rules.

The Camels are a Light "Horse" Cavalry unit.

Miniatures: Unknown figures??????

2009-11-01T04:04:00.000-08:00

I found these miniatures I had forgotten about, and now am trying to identify them. My original notion is that they are Early Germans or Celts, but the hair and shields seem wrong or not diverse enough. I am now leaning towards Gauls or perhaps unarmored Thracians. Note the figure 4th from the left is missing his sword. If you can't tell they are wearing pants sans shirt, hair in a top knot and are primarily armed with spear and extra javelins.

Miniatures: Dark Ages Norman and Viking

2009-10-10T23:39:00.000-07:00

Viking up close.

Viking Warband.

Norman Infantry with Spear and Shield.

Normans up close.

Miniatures: Fear and Faith Haunted Mansion More Pictures

2009-06-20T01:14:00.000-07:00

Ghosts and Poltergeists- Mostly from Dungeons and Dragons Miniatures

The Father finally gets to try out his Ban ability, and the Hunter has finally caught up to his friends.

Overview of the Mansion prior to the game.

A Ghost first appears and pursues the party.

The Professor encounters a Ghost and a Major Poltergeist.

Miniatures: Fear and Faith Haunted Mansion Game

2009-06-20T00:50:00.000-07:00

The Professor stalked by a Ghost.

A Ghost and Poltergeist assault Griselda.

The Baron dispatches the Poltergeist and has a go at the Ghost with his Magic Swagger Stick.

Banning the Ghost with the power of Faith.

Trying to corner a Ghost.

I played a game of Fear and Faith with my friend Gary. We tried out the Haunted Mansion scenario from the book, which gave me a chance to break out some old, underused terrain. The Ghosts and Poltergeists had a very hard time doing much of anything at all, as did the good Father once he was able to use his Ban skill. Still it was a fun game that captured the flavor of the genre. The poor Hunter spent most of his time crawling in fear, trying to rejoin his compatriots, the Ghosts would conveniently pass through the walls at will, and the Major Poltergeist managed to fling enough debris to kill an Insane Minion!

Miniatures: Alien Squad Leader Game

2009-05-31T15:41:00.001-07:00

I played the first game I have been able to squeeze in for the last few months. I finally got to try out Alien Squad Leader. We played Mechanoids vs. Human Imperial Strike Force, a raid scenario where the Humans were trying to destroy the buildings in the center and enough Mechanoids to break the army. The Mechanoids prevailed in the end, although the humans did destroy the Installation. These shots are random shots from the game. Billy D. and I played the Mechaniods, Bill B. played the Humans.

The buildings are destroyed, but the Mechanoids close on the surviving humans.

Close up of a Heavy Droid stand. The miniatures were bought painted, and I have not had the time to touch them up any.

Heavy Droids Vs. Powered Infantry and an APC. One of the epic struggles of the game.

The Battle Droid entered on turn 4 and sat back using it's long range and slavo of Scatter Missles.

Still an epic struggle.

An inconclusive close combat that should have been easily won by the Humans. An example of the poor dice rolls of the game.

Human Heavy Weapons Infantry in a build up area. The humans were played and painted by my friend Bill.

Close Combat between APC and Heavy Droid, poor APC.

The main Mechanoid defenders.

Early in the game, the Human APC approaches.

A stalemate in the woods. The Humans eventually killed one Mechanoid stand and used their Jump Packs to by-pass the other and reach their objective.

The initial deployment of the Mechanoids, with reinforcements arriving after turn 3.

Miniatures: Stargate Game

2009-02-28T12:19:00.000-08:00

Game played using the Doctor Who Miniature Game rules. Figures, terrain and scenario by Bill Bennet.

Non-Fiction: The Gates of Africa: Death Discovery and the Search for Timbuktu

2009-02-02T07:43:00.000-08:00

I am about half way through this excellent book that reads in parts like an adventure novel. Sattin sets the tone for the quest for knowledge about Africa in the late 1700's by examining a portrait of Sir Joseph Banks holding a detailed drawing of the surface of the moon. This is then contrasted with a map of what was known of Africa at the time, a map nearly blank in the entire middle of the contenent.

Besides the actual expeditions the author examines the beginnings of the African Association that set out to "fill-in" the blank spaces on the map of Africa. Sattin examines the scientific, political moral and economic motivations of this group and how they changed with circumstance and discovery. One of the interesting ironies pointed out is how most of the Associations members were against the slave trade, but time and time again their explorers relied upon slavers for information, guidance and protection. The Association set out for Geographical information but were forced to consider trade and economic ventures even though they usually meant increased slave trade or outright colonization. A very fun and interesting read!

Miniatures: Planet of the Dead: A Stargate SGZ Adventure

2009-02-02T07:24:00.000-08:00

Minatures: Space Bastards from Outer Space

2009-01-28T16:20:00.000-08:00

Space Bastards, former war heroes that find themselves homicidally bored during peacetime, congregate on a hazardous planet to fight to the death (as televised on all the popular cable networks). See the puddles of sludge, the pool of mutation goo and the pit of lava....see the volcano, carnivorous plant and the cave to nowhere...all hazards the Space Bastards must face if they survive their fellow bastards.

Bubba Blastem rounds the rubble on a mad dash for packages while Verde, Martian Warrior takes aim the the background. The "presents" contain weapons of all shapes and sizes or...something more dire like a primed explosive, a Big Pointy Alien, or.....the dreaded Black Hole.

Cowboy Slim and Sigma 12 in one of their epic battles to kick each other off the edge of the battlefield and into the void of space. Ya gotta love their sense of humor.

It's a holiday for Iguana Bob Marley!

This package nearly hit him on the head on the way down...."What's that ticking....?"

Crainiac commands a grand view of the battlefield. We command a grand view of the back of his rather large head.

"Look, someone was blown up. Awww. Let's grab their stuff!" Rollie Joe cuts off Romeo and they fight for the gut splattered loot.

Sigma 12 and Cowboy Slim yet again near the edge of nowhere.

Earlier, Romeo fought Hans near the mutation goo, drink some!

Smoking boots! Alas, poor Romeo, we knew him well.

This was a game ran at a local Boy Scout Iditerod. Our game club runs games every January for the event, and has a great time watching the Scouts turn bloody on each other.

News: Persians may have used Chemical Warfare

2009-01-25T08:32:00.000-08:00

New evidence suggests that the Persians used a bellows to pump a poisonous gas into Roman tunnels during a siege.

Read more here:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/science/nature/7837826.stm

Miniatures: The Tale of the Monkey Temple

2009-01-10T11:24:00.000-08:00

The Tale of the Monkey Temple
as told for the price of a drink by the broken man who always sits at the back table of the bar, all alone.

My name is Rene Larou. A long time ago I used to run a steamship along the rivers of Africa. I had the great fortune to encounter a benefactor who funded many of these expeditions, he was a missionary called Father Labou, perhaps you have heard of him, no? On this particular trip the Father had been asked to help find a missing explorer named Edward Fritzlange. We were to take his family down river to the village where his boat was found, then trek into the interior to pick up his trail. I hated going inland, preferring the relative safety of the rivers where my stokers and crew knew all the dangers that lurk in the dark. On this occasion I should have taken greater note of my foreboding and left the expedition at the village, but Father Labou's financial backing was too lucrative to dismiss. Besides The Fritzlange family we were lucky to count Lord and Lady Challenger among our company, and many of us returned safely because of their presence.

The trouble began before be even departed on our journey. We were at the docks loading supplies and preparing the boat when I noted suspicious movement at the tree line. I ordered my crew to hurry their preparations, but did not have time to sound a general alarm.

Slavers came rushing out from the trees and were upon us in no time. In those days in Africa a captured white woman could bring good price as a slave, so the devils went straight after Mrs. and Miss Fritzlange. The Lady Challenger, no doubt, would have brought them a healthy profit, but the fire in her eye and the fire from her revolver made her a less appealing target.

I managed to bring one of the brutes down as they charged in, and I think the Lady winged one of them, but on they came. Lord Challenger dove into the midst of them swing a hefty sword and sent many to hell before they could even bring weapons to bear. One of the slavers grabbed the Fritzlange girl and started off towards the trees. I managed to cut him off and creased his skull with the butt of my pistol. I yelled to Father Labou to get the girl to safety, then took cover from the Arab's fire.

Lord Challenger held the brutes at bay while the Father and my crew started loading everyone onto the boat. None of our adversaries could withstand the terrible fury of the scientist and his sabre.

Eventually we dispatched the fiends, though Lord Challenger and the Fritzlange woman's elderly father both suffered some wounds from the fray. We hastened to get the boat underway least more slavers turn up, and thus began our doomed adventure.

We passed through the village with no hardships. I hired some of the locals to watch my boat and we took off into the interior on the trek that Fritzlange had taken. The trail lead through some rough rock out crops and eventually took us to a narrow ravine. Lord Challenger led the way, though none of us at the time knew how fortunate his doing so would prove.

Lurking among the rocks were a pride of wild lions. No sooner had Challenger entered the ravine, then we were assailed on many sides by the ferocious beasts.

The Dahomey retainers of the Challengers spread out amongst the rocks and began firing at the beasts. The Lord himself drove several of the beasts off by giving them a taste of the sharp side of his sabre. Father Labou gathered the civilians into a protective huddle that would likely have done no good should the beasts have broke through our cordon.

My crewmen managed to bring one of the males down and Challenger drove the rest off. We escaped a terrible fate, though one of the Dahomey was injured and Lord Challenger was a bit scratched up. Because of later circumstance though, I was never able to sell the hide from the male we brought down, pity really.

Once through the ravine the land opened up to a lush valley. In the distance we spied the ruins of an ancient structure, a city or temple perhaps. None in our expedition had seen the likes of this place before, but a lingering feeling of dread held us back all the same.

Dark shapes emerged from every crevice and from behind every stone as we stood dumbfounded and took in the spectacle.

We soon discerned that the temple was simply crawling with apes of all size and shape. They hovered and howled, but a few approached quite close. Father Labou whispered something about a legendary city of intelligent apes, but I was too mesmerized to pay him any mind.

Father Labou carefully approached one of the beasts and attempted to communicate with the creature. While he managed to get some response from the brutes, it was Lady Challenger that was able to discern their manner of speech. With gestures and a guttural exchange the two of them managed to convey that we came for the lost Fritzlange.

With some concern on our part, the Father and the Lady allowed themselves to be drawn away by the leading apes. They were taken to the mouth of a cave or tunnel that emerged from the main structure. The tension was near unbearable as Lady Challenger and Father Labou disappeared into the ruins with the apes. I do not believe that Lord Challenger took a single breath while they were out of our view.

To our relief, however, they soon emerged with an injured Fritzlange in tow. He'd found the city of the apes, but had a nasty fall that broke one of his legs in the process. Because of his injury he had been stranded there with the apes ever since. We all smiled and rejoiced as the tension left us, that is until we noted the agitation building in the monkeys all around us. I was told later that some amongst us could hear a distinct clicking sound over the din of the brutes, a sound that I now still hear in my sleep each night.

The ground all about us seemed to explode upwards as if hit by an artillery shell, and as the dust settled we were horrified to see ants the size of ponies speedily crawling towards us.

The carnage that followed cannot be described. The ants were everywhere, unstoppable, able to crawl along any surface with ease. The apes were in a panic now and rushed for their underground shelter, climbing over one another to get out of harms way. Many were snatched up by the ants and torn in two by giant mandibles.

The utter chaos and the shear horror sent many in our ranks into a mad panic. My lead stoker ran for the ape cave right into the jaws of an ant where he was bore down and crushed. His screams brought others to their senses as they realized it was time to fight or die.

The Dahomey women took a stand together in an attempt to cover our frenzied retreat. One by one they were bit by the ants and then they would writhe in agony as the poison coursed through their veins. Challenger rushed ahead trying to clear a path and to reach his beloved wife, who had already reached safety. I stood by the last of my crew as we braced ourselves for a horrid death.

Father Labou fought his way through the rush of fleeing apes and left the safety of the caves. He ran back our way and helped the civilians get out of harm's way. As Lord Challenger reached the mouth of the tunnel he was attacked by an ant and the struggle blocked our way to safety. The brave Father lead his flock up a narrow stair and along the top of a wall into a tight doorway that he hoped was too small for the ants.

With rifle and pistol blazing the last of my crew and I brought down two of the creatures that were determined to be our undoing.

Lord Challenger was bitten and fell, succumbing to the vile poison of the giant ants. His loyal and brave wife rushed from the safety of the cave and stood by his side, blazing away at the ant that threatened to devour him. Her determination paid off and she dispatched the last of the ants. Fortunately, her medical training allowed her to save the life of her husband, though I am told that he carried menacing scars left by that deadly bite.

Yes, I can see the doubt in your eyes. Afterall, I am nothing but a ghost of a man, drinking and sitting alone with my thoughts in this miserable place. But if you should ever venture to the interior of the dark continent remember what old Rene Larou has told you. Beware the ants, my friend, beware the ants that grow as big as a pony, ants that can cut a man in two like a knife passes through butter. There is more to that dark land than man should ever know.

Miniatures: Fantasy Skirmish for the Holidays

2008-12-30T08:05:00.000-08:00

My Great Nephews Dalton and Trent got their first miniatures game so..... of course we had to play! Above- Dalton's forces line up for battle.

Trent's forces huddle in a defensive posture.

My Orcs spread out to face both foes.

Dalton advances as a group, with his wizard holding back. He takes some losses to Orc magic as he approaches battle.

The Orc Hero leads his troops in an assault on Trent.

Meanwhile, Trent's archer and Wizard march to face Dalton's forces.

Dalton approaches with caution, taking cover from the Orc archers and Shaman.

Trent's Wizard falls to an Orc arrow while his Hero and several troops go down killing the Orcs

Dalton's troops rush in to finish off the last of Trent's forces. He, in turn is picked off one by one by the Orc archers and Shaman.

The game was played using a free set of rules called OnePage Fantasy Skirmish rules. The rules formed a nice base for introductory games and can be easily expanded with more detail as needed.

Miniatures: Spearhead from Space

2008-12-14T18:29:00.000-08:00

A bizarre meteor shower draws the attention of UNIT and their scientific adviser, The Doctor. He and his assistant, Liz Shaw search the grounds of a local farm.

Meanwhile, the Brigadier orders his troops about.

Autons, animated shop dummies, search the woods near-by for the globe containing their Swarm Leader.

Eventually they near the farm where UNIT searches.

The Brigadier leads his men into the woods to face the diabolical constructs. Meanwhile the Doctor and Liz work to build a jamming device that will disrupt the Autons.

UNIT soldiers fight bravely, but are surprised by the Autons.

They are out gunned, their weapons hardly having an effect on their plastic foe.

The Autons fight fiercely to protect their Swarm Leader.

Soon they breach the farm defenses, killing UNIT soldiers with ease.

Even the Brigadier falls victim to the crushing blow of the Autons. He fights with pistol, then in hand to hand, until he is rendered unconscious and left for dead.

The Doctor, sensing the urgency of the situation, leaves Liz to run the Jammer while he rushes out into the woods. Liz stalls the Auton advance, but is under threat when a circuit blows.

Trapped in the machine shed, Liz looks despirately for a means of escape.

She dives out the open window, but is pursued by Autons. Climbing over the fence she is graised by a blast and falls uncounsious at the foot of the wall.

But the Doctor uses his sonic screwdriver to disrupt the Auton in posession of the Swarm Leader. As the Auton falls to the ground the Doctor grabs the pulsating, plastic globe and flees the area. He will of course return for his fallen friends when the time is right.

Miniatures: And again, Doctor.

2008-12-07T10:29:00.000-08:00

Unit Machine Gun Team proxy (WWII Commando with Bren gun and a converted clix figure)

Leela in outfit from "Horror of Fang Rock" (Reveresco miniature)

"Miss Shaw, do I have to remind you that you are still a member of UNIT?"

Miniatures: The Brigadier tells the Autons what for...

2008-11-30T20:01:00.000-08:00

Carry on.

Brigadier and truck (wooden hobby store vehicle).

See here! You lot go back to your home planet. On the Double now!

Miniatures: A few for Doctor Who

2008-11-24T22:59:00.000-08:00

Unit Mortar Team Proxy.
(Black Tree Designs WWII British Air-born Officers and a Void Mortar)

View 2

View 3

The Doctor.

Miniatures: Random stots from a Fear and Faith game.

2008-11-22T12:49:00.001-08:00

Marching into the unknown (with chin up).

Running past the winged cat statue.

Are Alright in there?

Village Defenders before the slaughter.

Werewolf stealth.

Eating the Hunter.

Red, the wolf slayer.

Red the wolf slayer just prior to her demise.

Poor blighter.

Stroll en-force.

Still snacking.

Marching into the unknown (with jowl up).

Holy Hunting ground.

Here, here!

Have you seen Granny?

Not here either?

Please heed all warning signs.

Miniatures: Wildfire 15mm Sci-Fi basing experiment.

2008-11-08T18:16:00.000-08:00

Wildfire is a Sci-Fi miniature game that uses a fire team of 2 figures on a 1" base as it's main element. I am attempting to use a magnetic basing system in order to diversify the use of my limited 15mm collection. To do so I am using heroclix bases for the fire teams (larger than the 1" recommended but ok if consistant throughout). Here are my 2 base mock ups with some different miniature combinations. Note the miniatures were bought on ebay pre-painted, all are made by Alternative Armies.

Small washers are used on the miniatures and magnets on whatever base they are to be used on.

Miniatures: Generic Sci Fi Security from Star Wars repaint

2008-11-08T18:06:00.000-08:00

A repainted Star Wars Rebel Trooper figure (far Right) next to the original version and an Ice Warrior for scale. My goal was to de-starwarsify it and create a generic sci-fi security team.

Hard to see in the picture, but both the vest and helmet are silver in keeping with the sometimes gaudy costumes seen in 1970's era shows.

Once the entire force it complete it may be initially seen facing the Ice Warriors in a Doctor Who miniature game.

Miniatures: Doctor Who Ice Warriors plus random others.

2008-11-02T20:39:00.000-08:00

Ice Lord and loyal Warriors (Fasa miniatures).

More Ice Warriors show up for the party.

Ice Warrior Disco Firing Squad.

Preparing to play pin the tail on the Dalek.

The inevitable group shot (Junior can you move a little closer to Slaar? Wait, did my flash go off?)

Marcus Scarman looking for his Mummy.

A lone Auton (kinda hard to be a collective consciousness by yourself).

Miniatures: Flames of War Italian Bersaglieri

2008-10-24T13:10:00.000-07:00

Italian Bersaglieri Machine-gun section

Command stand and one section.

Machine-gun platoon.

Miniatures: Broadsword Adventures-Hunt for the Blue Lotus

2008-10-13T18:04:00.000-07:00

Some say the Blue Lotus flower only takes nourishment from the blood of heroes, and this is what gives it healing properties. No mater the cause, King Vorten needs an elixir made from this rare flower or he will surely die. This is a tale of heroes who went to a desolate land to find the blossom, some to aid the dying King, others to curse him.

Fulk the Mighty and his sturdy band of Barbarians enter the rugged plain in search of the Blue Lotus. Many at the counsel of war disapproved of Fulk's decision to aid the King, but the old warrior knows that not all battles are won with steel.

Lady Eleanor is determined to prove good on the faith placed upon her by Chancellor Roy. As she leads her followers through the mist she ponders upon her oath to return to the city with the Lotus or not return at all.

As her followers begin the search she spies someone in the distance. As the fog thins she recognizes the garb of a temple guard. What treachery brings the cult of Ara to the grove of the Blue Lotus?

Meanwhile, Fulk discovers treachery. In the distance he spies his Warlord, Galen Mac Corbin, leading warriors loyal to him. Galen was the most outspoken against Fulk at the council of war. It seems the Warlord has made plans of his own.

Fulk sends his greatest hero, Rodin Hornblower, to find the flower. "I will smite Galen here and now, let his blood nourish a new crop of flowers!" proclaims the Chieftain.

Elsewhere, Fulk's warrior Pietor charges after a group that let fly arrows at him. "I'm just a servant!" cries Kellen, Eleanor's retainer. Gerard the bodyguard, however, calmly nocks another arrow.

Eleanor and her cousin Timira discover a High Priestess and engage in battle with the temple guard. The Priestess lets fly flames that sear and burn them, but Eleanor presses on and engages the Priestess in hand to hand.

Meanwhile, Galen charges his Chieftain and cuts deeply into his arms. Fulk snarls and swings sword and flail as the two titan let loose their fury. Jeordi, loyal to Galen, enters a berserk rage and charges to his Warlord's aid.

As Rodin Hornblower approaches the tomb he senses death. A faint echo from within the entry way alerts him to the coming evil, yet he stands firm as the skeletons emerge from the crypt and from the very ground itself.

The High Priestess lets out a gruelling laugh as she engulfs Lady Eleanor and her cousin Timira in flames and watches them succumb to the heat and smoke. What's left of her temple guard then disperse to find the flower, knowing that the cult's plan to gain political favor hinge on them using the flower for leverage.

The Captain of the Temple Guard climbs the back of the tomb searching for the flower. She surveys the land and spies a barbarian battling skeletons near a stagnant pool.

Galen overcomes Fulk, his youthful vigor outlasting the cunning of the old Chieftain. Breathing heavily from the fight and bleeding from many wounds he spies Rodin Hornblower. The two eye each other for sometime, remaining perfectly still. When Rodin turns to leave it is understood that they will have to fight one day.

Meanwhile, the hero Cassiamyrrin, who currently favors Galen, fights two skeletons that emerged from the water.

The lithe warrior lets them approach then she cuts them down one by one. As she finishes off the last of them she spies a small patch of blue upon the hill. Quickly clambering up the slope she finds the lone blossom, the one and only thing that can cure King Vorten. She calls out the Galen and scampers down the far slope as the Temple Guard approach the hill. As she descends the trail she crushes the fragile blossom in her calloused hands. Galen and his followers join her. "There will be a new King, a weaker one, and we will crush him like that flower. We go to war!"

Miniatures: Charcters for an upcoming game of Space B@#^*!ds From Outer Space

2008-10-09T16:28:00.000-07:00

Crainiac- "Consume high spectrum electromagnetic radiation, earthen sphere!"

The Big Pointy Alien-avoid at all costs.

Skids- rolling to the fight in style.

Romeo-or so he thinks.

Slim- part cowboy, part cyborg, all dead.

Signus 12- She didn't like her 11 siblings so now she is an only child.

Verde, Martian Warrior-he bears gifts of hot plasma.

Ava Ironlung- her helmet works underwater too.

Brother Ignatius- he is on a mission to rid the world of everyone not him.

Chief Legolas Breezybottom- "You will fight no more, forever!"

Hans-"take that, and that, and that"

SBFOS is a great, hilarious, kill your neighbor kind of skirmish game that is, unfortunately out of print. Here are some of the characters that might be fighting away at a local Convention. Game pics to follow if I actually get to play.

Miniatures: Again more for Broadsword Adventures

2008-10-09T15:18:00.000-07:00

A creature of the marsh emerges from an ancient tomb.
(Resin Halloween creature from Michaels)

Defender of the City

Minor Noble

City Guard Archer

Retainer

Squire

Barbarian Chieftain-Rival of the Warlord

Barbarian Hero

Barbarian Warrior

Barbarian Archer (the dark-haired step child of this tribe)
All from Mega Miniatures.

Miniatures: More minis for Broadsword Adventures

2008-09-28T20:57:00.000-07:00

Here's the cult leader from a hero clix re-paint.

Miniatures: Romance gone sour.

2008-09-27T10:03:00.000-07:00

Barbarian spat.

Remember, don't insult Amazons.

Miniatures: Figs for Broadsword Adventures

2008-09-27T09:50:00.000-07:00

Barbarian Warlord-unknown manufacturer.

Barbarian Hero- Reaper Miniatures.

Barbarian Berserker- Alternative Armies.

Barbarian Archer- Mega Miniatures.

A group of Heroscape repaints to be used as a religious cult.

Miniatures: Some Recent Work

2008-09-21T10:44:00.001-07:00

Hour of Glory Agents in Stealth mode.

Hour of Glory Agents in Assault mode.

Boxer Rebellion Germans

Boxer Rebellion German.

Misc: Pooch gets Cerebral.

2008-09-07T20:27:00.000-07:00

Asal, aka Pooch, thoughtfully contemplates nap-time.

Gaming: Fearsome Adventures of Fists Fenlon

2008-09-07T16:13:00.000-07:00

"Fists" Fenlon, boxing sensation and all around tough guy, didn't want to be trapped in a distant galaxy with little hope of returning to earth, but that doesn't mean he'll let some despotic Prince push him around. His fate, however, seems intricately intertwined with that of Prince Thad, his diabolical enemy. Fate would have Fists save the life of his antagonist the Prince yet again. (The images are from a 3 game Fantastic Worlds mini-campaign using scenarios found in the rule book)

A Royal Banquet Celebrating Friendship with the Earthlings ends in tragedy when the King falls dead. Prince Thad blames that upstart Fenlon and sends the Palace Guard to arrest the humans. Meanwhile, Fists, Doc and Lita Prime search for clues to the King's murder.

Prince Thad rushes to apprehend Lita, but Fists interjects his...fists. "Leave my gal alone!" he cries. Fists and Thad enter an epic struggle, bare hands against the Prince's finely honed blade. Fists deals out some punishment, but succumbs to the many nicks and cuts he takes in the process. He ignores the pain and forces himself to stay in the fight until Lita manages to over power the guardsmen and escape with Doc. Satisfied that his friends are safe, Fists crumples to the floor, a captive of Prince Thad!

Prince Thad calls all the Senators together to proclaim himself King, and to charge Fenlon with the murder of his father. Suddenly, an assassin strikes! The poison dart intended for the Prince was intercepted by a Palace Guardsman, who dies a horrible death at the Prince's feet. The Captain of the Guard orders his guardsmen to surround the Prince to keep him safe. Meanwhile, Fenlon struggles with his bonds to free himself. A search of the garden turns out the assassin, a dreaded Reptillian bent upon bringing the Kingdom to it's knees. Unfortunately the assassin manages to escape before the full dread of the menace is discovered.

Nearby, the feared Reptillians have erected a portal gate and begin bringing their soldiers through. In the first wave comes the dreaded Reptoid beast, image of nightmare all throughout the Galaxy.

Prince Thad reluctantly accepts Fists' offer of help and the two forces forge an uneasy alliance.

Soon their differences are forgotten as they fight, shoulder to shoulder to the gate. "We must destroy the Portal," yells Doc as he directs Lita and the Captain of the Guard to target the gate with their powerful energy weapons.

Meanwhile, Prince Thad and his Guard attack the dreaded Reptoid. The beast snatches up Prince Thad's arm in it's powerful jaws. The Prince screams in agony but bravely fights on. Fists runs over to the rescue, landing a powerful blow to the beast's snout. "Don't worry, I'll save you Thad," he yells through gritted teeth. The Reptoid stubbornly holds on to Prince Thad while Fists lands punch after powerful punch. Meanwhile, the blast of energy fire stops abruptly as the gate blows apart in a brilliant flash. The Kingdom, and Prince Thad, have been saved in no small part by the human interlopers, but Thad's ire is hard to die. So, while Prince Thad recovers and awaits his coronation, Fists and his friends borrow the Royal rocket ship and make their escape.

Fiction: Percy Jackson and the Olympians series.

2008-07-26T07:44:00.000-07:00

I am reading the Percy Jackson and the Olympians series, I've just started the second book The Sea of Monsters. So far I am enjoying the series very much, the books are clever and humorous in the way that they give a modern, quirky interpretation to Greek myth. A book series like this, however, cannot help but be compared to the Harry Potter series, though it be an unfair comparison. Many of the story elements, particularly showing magic/myth in the real world, are similar but each series sets out to do different things. I am glad that the comparison does not seem to be diminishing the popularity of this series.

http://www.amazon.com/Lightning-Thief-Percy-Jackson-Olympians/dp/0786838655/ref=pd_bbs_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1217083517&sr=8-1

News: Thar She Blows.

2008-07-26T07:37:00.000-07:00

A new white whale has been spotted off the coast of Australia, please keep Capt. Ahab away.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/science/nature/7519263.stm

Fiction: The Extraordinary Adventures of Alfred Kropp

2008-07-17T18:27:00.000-07:00

Just finished reading The Extraordinary Adventures of Alfred Kropp by Rick Yancey. This was a good story with a very compelling "loser" as a main character. In fact, it is seeing how this seemingly ordinary, down on himself teen responds to the most desperate situations that drove me on as a reader. Very well done.

http://www.amazon.com/Extraordinary-Adventures-Alfred-Kropp/dp/B000Z41MS0/ref=pd_bbs_sr_2?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1216344417&sr=8-2

Fiction: Standard Hero Behavior

2008-07-14T05:30:00.000-07:00

I recently read the book Standard Hero Behavior by John David Anderson. I enjoyed this book immensely! Two bumbling teens are off on a quest to find heroes to save their village and run into all manner of tongue-in-cheek trouble. Highlights include a narcoleptic swordsman, a hero with ads from merchant sponsors all over his armor and a witch that can't cackle. The book is an interesting blend of fantasy with elements of today's society and it actually delivers a nice message too. Highly recommended.

http://www.amazon.com/Standard-Hero-Behavior-David-Anderson/dp/0618759204/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1216038591&sr=8-1

Miniatures: Star Gate SG-Z

2008-06-20T18:32:00.000-07:00

The members of SG-Z are on a standard recon mission to the planet ZX153, a civilization brought to ruin by the Ghoul. All is well as the Colonel and his team search the ruins for any remnants of Ghoul technology, however, on their way back to the gate SG-Z encounter the Ghoul blocking their way home. The team defeat the initial onslaught of Ghoul and regroup in the center of the ruins. Ghoul come out in strength to block the Stargate and prevent the humans from escaping their trap. Undaunted, SG-Z fight their way to the gate and escape to Earth. (This game was played at a local comic book convention using the Zombie Apocalypse rules.)

The Colonel surveys the way to the gate.

The Ghoul emerge from the ruins to ambush SG-Z.

The team is threatened from all sides.

Soon the battle gets up close and personal.

Miniatures: SG-Z continuted

2008-06-20T18:19:00.000-07:00

More Ghoul block the way to the gate.

While Ghoul reinforcements pour out of the ruins.

The Colonel opens the gate and holds it amidst the Ghoul Hoard.

Miniatures: Some Random Pictures

2008-04-22T20:40:00.000-07:00

Erin miniatures from Alternative Armies.

Combat Zone plastic gangers.

Nazi Operatives: L- Rattrap, R- Bolt Action (?)

Archaeologists: L-RAFM, R- Wessex Games

Non-Fiction: The French Foreign Legion

2008-04-03T07:34:00.000-07:00

I am skimming more than reading The French Foreign Legion: A Complete History of the Legendary Fighting Force By Douglas Porch. I am most interested about the Legion in Algiers and Morocco and Porch has other books that specifically examine those conflicts; The Conquest of the Sahara and The Conquest of Morocco. Unfortunately the local library does not have the specific books I am looking for, so I checked out this one instead. After pawing through it a bit, however, I have found some areas that really fascinate me, specifically the origins of the Legion and, as always, Camerone.

http://www.amazon.com/French-Foreign-Legion-Complete-Legendary/dp/0060923083/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1207233437&sr=8-1

News: Various Stories of Intererst

2008-04-02T09:33:00.000-07:00

New excavations are planned within the inner ring at Stonehenge.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/science/nature/7322753.stm

100 million year old microscopic insects found in amber.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/science/nature/7324564.stm

Oldest necklace in Americas found.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/science/nature/7323351.stm

Embryonic planet discovered, may be less than 2,000 years old.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/science/nature/7326318.stm

News: Particle Smashing Laboratory set to Explore Mysteries of Physics

2008-03-24T18:45:00.000-07:00

A massive particle physics laboratory under the Swiss/French boarder is nearly set to begin experiments into the "God Particle", Dark Matter and other mysteries of the universe. The experiment involves a machine called the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) which initiates and measures the collision of hydrogen protons at near light speed.

http://rawstory.com/news/afp/Greatest_experiment_ever_in_particl_03232008.html

Miniatures: Look at the Bones!

2008-03-19T14:43:00.000-07:00

Killer Rabbit for Song of Blades and Heroes

News: Swiss connection to Stonehenge?

2008-03-16T16:03:00.000-07:00

The remains of a wealthy archer found just 3 miles from Stonehenge and dating from the same period were determined to be of Swiss origin.

http://www.swissinfo.org/eng/front/King_of_Stonehenge_may_have_been_Swiss..html?siteSect=107&sid=1626144&cKey=1044990480000&ty=st

News: Pre-Inca temple found in Peru.

2008-03-14T09:31:00.000-07:00

Archaeologist have discovered a temple with roadways and irrigation systems that they belive pre-dates the Inca Empire. Excavations will take place over the next 5 years.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/americas/7295754.stm

Fiction: Captain Alatriste

2008-03-11T07:38:00.000-07:00

I'm finally getting back to reading Captain Alatriste. I started it a while back, but life got in the way and I had to put it down. My copy got hidden in our last, frantic move (we are still not fully unpacked) and was recently found. I'm looking forward to jumping back in, particularly since I now know the identity of the 2 Englishmen.

http://www.amazon.com/Captain-Alatriste-Arturo-Perez-Reverte/dp/B000GFR9O4/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1205246301&sr=8-1

Minatures: The Doctor and the Sea Devils- Part 3

2008-03-03T20:58:00.000-08:00

The Doctor struggles to build a device that can stop the Sea Devils in their tracks, but he just can't seem to find that somantic imbellisher.

A Sea Devil leader can feel victory in his slimy grasp.

Sgt. Benton attempts to escort The Master back to the Doctor's Laboratory, but discovers he is cut off by the Sea Devil advance.

Forgotten in the greater struggle, the two adversaries on the docks finally manage to destroy each other.

Jo panics when the Sea Devils kill the last of the Unit defenders. She runs through the battle towards the Doctor. The Master takes this as his cue to leave. With the part to his Tardis in his pocket he breaks free from Sgt Benton and evades Sea Devil fire as he flees through the gate. Benton makes a feeble attempt to stop The Master, but pulls his fire for fear of hitting Miss Grant. The Sea Devils have won this day, but the Doctor is still free to resist them tomorrow.

Miniatures: Doctor Who and the Sea Devils- Part 2

2008-03-03T20:45:00.000-08:00

A Sea Devil emerges on the dock and enters a bitter hand to hand struggle with a Unit soldier.

Jo hears a noise and wanders off alone to investigate.

The Sea Devils methodically advance, sweeping away all resistance.

But Unit valiantly struggles to slow the advance, as symbolized by the stalemate on the docks.

"Not so fast" yells Sgt. Benton as he catches The Master cutting his way through the fence. A steadily aimed firearm convinces The Master to cooperate for the time being.

Miniatures: Doctor Who and the Sea Devils- Part 1

2008-03-03T20:08:00.000-08:00

The Master has awoken the Sea Devils and encouraged them to storm a Unit base. While the Doctor and Jo try to find a way to defeat the Sea Devils, The Master surreptitiously searches for the missing component of his tardis.

The Sea Devils March out of the Sea.

The Doctor uses the lab equipment in his Tardis to find a way to defeat the aliens.

Meanwhile, Sgt. Benton and Jo Grant search for The Master.

The Unit troops are quickly overrun by the Sea Devils and are forced to fall back.

Miniatures: Doctor Who Battle Teaser

2008-03-02T23:46:00.000-08:00

Sgt. Benton gets the drop on the Master, but the villain escapes as the Sea Devils advance ever onward. Details, and more pictures to follow at a later date.

News: Mummified Nuns found in Brazilian Monastery

2008-02-27T14:33:00.000-08:00

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/americas/7266609.stm

Here's an article about how a hunt for termites lead to the discovery of mummified nuns in the wall of a mission built in 1774.

News: Remains of Sea Monster

2008-02-26T23:32:00.000-08:00

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/science/nature/7264856.stm

Remains of The Monster, a jurasic age sea creature, have been found on an arctic island. The creature measured around 15m from nose to tail with 3m flippers.