Friday, December 7, 2012

Let the bells ring and the banners fly!

The Duke smiled wryly as he came in from the balcony, leaving the cheering crowds to carry on. He could see from the eager demeanor of the dusty courier that the news was good but he could also see by the slightly apprehensive look in his eyes that there was some shadow over the victory.

Three out of 5 infantry regiments chased off the field? Good grief! and that dull old, head strong Izzo the hero of the day? Well his long service was reward enough.  Thank goodness for the artillery, consummate professionals, too keen on plying their trade to even notice any favours. If we've taken any towns perhaps they can have a bronze bell from the church for their next cannon. Cannon  from canon. The Duke's lips twitched at his own humour.

And the citizen regiments, all dispersed! So much for the plan to get rid of all the mercenaries. Was that  Nicollo was really as smart as he thought?  Well, best praise any stragglers that came home anyway, make them feel that they fought nobly and their Duke appreciates it and that he trusts them to do better next time. Maybe that will put steel in them?

Oh and perhaps some form of civic award for the riders of the Cianti regiment, mostly sons of the richest merchants. Yes their support will be important going forward,  and besides, they seem to be able to fight.  Still the enemy seems to be following that Frenchman Henri of Navarre with his cold steel charges that that Lombardi fellow was scoffing at. Lombardi's cavalry did beat them in the end but the matter bears looking in to. As Duke, knowing things never goes astray and after all Lombardi may not be around forever.

Well, if the mercenaries and professionals are so important, perhaps an award for the Utti Regiment? Must keep them happy in my service.

and that Rossi fellow? Will have to keep an eye on him!

Saturday, December 1, 2012

Update from the Front. The Duke is pleased but worried.

Another Courier has arrived fresh from the battlefield, the smell of blood, sweat and gunpowder still clinging to him.

It seems that the battle is going well but is not yet decided. The vile Stagonians have had some setbacks but sneakily rallied in safe havens and have unlimbered their monstrous guns and having been plying them to effect. So far the Dukes men have fought bravely despite the odds and the casualties but with battles as with all games of chance, you can win a castle in the morning but be homeless by supper.

At least his spies report no signs of suspicion activity by General Franscioni or Colonel Izzo. Indeed the latter appears to be a hard drinking soldier of the old school who does his duty on the field as he sees fit but not always up on the details of administration and logistics. His Major then, perhaps? hmm.  

Must have the Chamberlain investigate all suppliers of match and powder and double check the stores in the city's arsenals.