Border Incursion

The past couple of years have been a load of Billhooks, in terms of gaming, with medieval action being at the forefront.

Today was originally identified in the calendar as an Old Berks game day, which would have meant more Billhookery. However, over time, it hasn't been possible for others to attend, and so my mind turns to a little Horse and Musket gaming treat - solo. As she headed away for a weekend with her grandchildren, Lisa described me as "Philly no mates", but undeterred, I set up the table...

The game is designed around one of the new teaser scenarios, "Border Incursion", in Charles S Grant's recent publication. I have kept the original concept, but added my own narrative, backstory and map.

The affair at Bierwitz

Background

It’s 1704.
In the disputed border lands between the north-eastern tip of Vaubaria and the south-western tip of Pils Holstein, there’s a small town, Bierwitz. 

It sits on the southern side of the River Kleine-Laber which the Vaubarians claim is the border (and that hence Bierwitz is in Vaubaria). Pils-Holstein claim the border runs along a range of low hills to the south and that therefore Bierwitz is in their territory.

In the past, there’s been an almost mutually tacit agreement to leave the area well alone, lest hostilities be ignited.

Above: an outline sketch map.
Below: the town of Bierwitz. Buildings by Brian Rigelsford, painted by myself.

Recently, a group of rogue Cossacks (some say in the pay of Pils Holstein) moved into the area and have now taken up position in a small farmstead near Bierwitz.

The Cossacks have taken up 'residence' around this wonderful building made by John Boadle.

Pils Holstein saw this as an opportunity to grab land and have now crossed the Kleine-Laber at Bierwitz and garrisoned the town with 2 battalions of infantry.

The Vaubarian response is to send The Markgraf Karl von Orff northwards to regain the town and environs.

Pils Holstein forces:

Commander: Brigadier von Grok

Infantry regiment Wolfsheim
Infantry regiment Braunschweig

Cossack infantry regiment

Bands of Cossack cavalry (Irregular lancers) roaming around the vicinity (may appear on table at random times and in random places!)

 

Vaubarian forces:

Commander: The Markgraf Karl von Orff

Infantry regiment: Leibgarde
Infantry regiment: Dremel
Electoral Grenadier regiment von Rumenigge
Infantry regiment: Ratzinga

Dismounted Dragoon regiment Muller

Cuirassier regiment: Vogts cuirassiers

Podolski Hussars (will appear on table at random time and place later in the action).

The Markgraf Karl von Orff has taken a calculated gamble by speed marching, leaving his artillery behind in order to strike early and catch the enemy unprepared. He fears that any successful attempt by the Pils Holsteiners to fortify the town and bring in fresh reinforcements will give them a powerful launchpad for a spring offensive in the new year so he is determined to end the affair as swiftly as possible.

The Vaubarian force arrives therefore, with no artillery, and with its Hussar regiment patrolling at distance to prevent any attacks on the advancing column.

And so the scene is set.

Let battle be joined...