Characters! Part 1

Above: General Zillmann (l) and King Phillip I (r)

Hi All
It's been a couple of months since I've been able to add to the blog.
Rest assured, I intend to keep it going.
In the meantime, here are some pictures of three of the characters from the HMKoNW
Below: King Phillip I in his regal robes


Below:General Zillmann

Below: Drummer Kane in the uniform of the Van Demon's Land Legion.

You can read more of Drummer Kane here.

Kane started his military service in the Clairmont Militia, until he transfered to "The Legion" in 1736. Was it better pay, the uniform, or a certain camp follower by the name of "Saucy Sally" that attracted him to "The Legion"?

The miniatures of The King and General Zillmann are from the OLD GLORY "Duelist" set that I received with my OG ARMY CARD membership.

Drummer Kane is from EUREKA MINIATURES.

I called Nic at Eureka and asked if he had in his extensive range of miniatures a negro drummer.

He didn't, but un-daunted he actually made "Kane" for me by using the body from his Provincial Regulars range and a head from one of his "Natives", (not sure on what specific range).

How's that for customer service!

Cheers!

Something's In The Air

King Phillip I, his uncle Grand Duke Colin and General Von Zillmann were bent over the desk, studying a diagram.
"So this thing will, erm; fly"? asked the young king.
The Grand Duke folded his arms and straightened up:
"Apparently so. All to do with "hot air rising" and such, so Dr Tross assures me".
King Phillip looked up:
"And Dr Tross will be able to construct this, what did he call it,..."
"A Balloon Phillip". The Grand Duke was quite informal with the King, his nephew.
"Ah yes; Balloon".
The King directed the next question to the General:
"So Colonel Ann will escort Dr Tross, and the engineers to Wodongatown, build a stockade, and then from within develop all the where-with-all to have this balloon launched so as to provide a "birds eye view" into Alburburg".
General Von Zillmann snapped his heels together:
"That is the plan Sire. We believe that is where the Raiders from the RNS concentrate and launch their raids from. We believe the Raiders are actualy the 4th Dragoons"
The King moved away from the desk and diagram and plans of the strange flying machine. The others followed.
They listened as he began again:
"These cross border raids must stop. I trust this contraption will give us the early warning we need to enable us to intercept any future raids before too much harm can be done. I'm confident the Yarra Militia and a troop from Bree's Battery should be a sufficient force to defend the works"
General Von Zillmann added:
"Ja Sire, and the 4th Foot and the Royal Dragoons can intercept any raids nearby".
The King stopped and turned to face his Uncle and the General.
"Well done Gentlemen! When did Colonel Ann's column depart"?
The Grand Duke answered:
"Last week. They should almost be at Wodongatown now".
King Phillip I smiled:
"And Lady Hugankiss should soon be arriving in the RNS Capital..."

TO BE CONTINUED!

Who's Who in New Wales

To assist the reader, here is a list of "Who is Who" (or Who is Was), in the Holy Mormoan Kingdom of New Wales.
The main "Characters" are as follows:

John Smyth-Clements: Founder of the Mormoan Religion, and "Founding Father" of the colony of New Wales.

Uehorn and Iracow natives (Nth American Indians): American Natives that have been "Mormoanized". Mormoans believed the native Americans to be a long lost Israelite Tribe. Approximately 1000 of these Native Americans landed in New Wales with the First Fleet!

Michael Clements (King): Seized sole power in a coup during a sitting of the Mormoan Parliament, and proclaimed "First Consul". In 1728, after defeating a large Franco-Spanish Army at the Battle of Port Phillip, he was proclaimed the 1st King of New Wales. Abdicated in favour of Prince Phillip, (due to poor health). Still popular, (though behaves rather odd at times). Favorite pastime is Boxing!

Queen Janet of Dudley: 1st, (and most popular wife) of King Michael. Mother of Princess Kim, Prince Peter (Later Grand Duke), and Prince Phillip (Later King). Later became Queen Mother. Loved by the People. Most Popular Royal by far!

Duchess Judith of Campbell, (known as the "Bloody Duchess"): Second wife of King Michael. Became known as "The Bloody Duchess" after she lead a purge of the Royal Court during a 2 month Regency when King Michael was very ill. Unpopular with the people. Cunning as a fox that went to "Cunning College". Mother of Prince Matthew, Prince Simon, Princess Emma. Not at all happy to see King Phillip I on the thrown!

Grand Duke Colin: Elder Brother of King Michael. Grand Duke Colin established a colony on a large Island south of the mainland called Van Demon's Land. This became known as The Grand Duchy of Van Demon's Land. Involved with the Parliament as Minister for The Navy and Science.

KING PHILLIP I of the HOLY MORMOAN KINGDOM of NEW WALES

Born: 29 July 1695. A descendant of John Smyth-Clements, (The House Of Clements).

Proclaimed KING: 13 Nov 1745.

1st Wife: Lady Juliet of Lakelands.

2nd Wife: Duchess Rachel of Raaf.

3rd Wife: Lady, (now Queen and elevated to Prima Wife), Queen Raechel of Harre-Edwards

Children: Princess Amanda, Princess Ashlie (wife1)/ Princess Hayley (wife2) // Princess Mathilda (Prima Wife).

After a very active childhood spent playing much sport he entered the Army. After his 4 years of study at Adfaburg Duntroon Military Academy he entered the Royal Foot Guards Grenadiers as a Company commander at the tender age of 26. He was appointed Commander of the Household Brigade 18 months later. At the Battle of Fort Clairmont he personally led the "Light" Battalion of the Royal Foot Guards as they attacked the French line by charging from the woods on the enemy's left flank. He seized the fallen colour of the "Guard Francis", (decorated with Fleur-de-lys), as the 4th Regiment of Foot put them to flight. Later he led his Brigade with distinction at Launceston in 1734; personally taking the surrender of the Spanish Regiment "Fleur De Lys". Given command of the Army Reserve Brigade at the Battle of Vinegar Hill in1738, his well timed attack secured victory for his father, King Michael. These three actions became known as "Phillip's plucking of the Lilly's of the Field" (or "Fleur De Lys"). A popular King, devoted to his people.

Lady Juliet of Lakelands: 1st wife of King Phillip I. Suffers from bouts of "The Madness". Live in Exile at the Southern tip of Van Demon's Land. Mother of the very popular Princess Amanda. Addicted to the "China drug".

Duchess Rachel of Raaf: 2nd wife of King Phillip I. Mother of the young Princess Hayley. Stays out of the "lime light". Keeps herself busy with shopping for the latest fashions and sitting in Beauty Parlors. Devoted mother to the young Princess.

Queen Raechel of Harre-Edwards (now elevated to Prima Wife) :Renowned for her Beauty. Extremely popular with the people. Her influence allowed "non-converted" (ie: Christians of the Catholic or Protestant denominations), to hold seat within Parliament. Born of Noble birth, from a Saxon family that came to New Wales with the First Fleet. Devoted wife of King Phillip I, and mother of the Infant Princess Mathilda.

Princess Amanda: Eldest daughter of King Phillip. The Royal Dragoon Regiment's Honorary Colonel. Has also been involved in diplomatic missions "Off Shore". A bit of a "Wild Child", she like the excitement of the hunt, accompanying the Royal Dragoons and Constabulary Force on pursuits of renegade natives, criminal elements and "raiders".

Princess Ashlie: Second daughter of the King. Married a Lord Jeremy, Marquise Of Hervey, the Minister for Construction. She is a devoted mother to two young daughters.

Princess Hayley: The third daughter of King Phillip I, (from his 2nd wife). Often seen at the King's side during military parades and inspections, dressed as an Officer of the Maiden Guard, (even though she's not yet in her teens). Quite a character, she often teases General Von Zillmann. A favorite of the Maiden and Royal Guards.

Princess Mathilda: Infant daughter of the King by the Prima Wife, Queen Raechel.

General Von Zillmann: The General is one of only a handful of high ranking officers that had risen from the ranks. Started as a soldier in the 7th Regiment of Foot. Eventually was the RSM of the 7th. Contributed greatly to the Kingdom's victory at the battle of Port Phillip. Currently Minister for War. One of the closest adviser to the King. Very popular with the army.

Grand Duke Peter: King Phillip's older Brother. Compelled to relinquished the thrown to his younger brother due to marriage to a Catholic, The Duchess Margaretta. Consequently he holds the title of Grand Duke of Van Demon's Land. He is very popular with the "demonlanders".

Duchess Margaretta: A Dutch Catholic from a wealthy family, and Wife of Grand Duke Peter. She believes Peter should be King. Openly dislikes Queen Raechel.

Lady Sarah O'Connars: Disgraced former Officer of the King's Maiden Guard. Now Lady In Waiting to Duchess Margaretta. Dismissed from the Maiden Guard for "An Inappropriate Relationship" with one Colonel Eboneza Ann.

Colonel Eboneza Ann: Son of a Sheep Grazier, he started is military career as an officer in the Yarra Militia. Though he is a competent officer, he is currently on "the wrong side" of the King due to an "indiscretion" with an officer of the Maiden Guard, (see notes on Lady Sarah O'Connars above).

Princess Royal, Kim Margret: First born child of old King Michael. Contributes little except for organizing the most outrageous parties in the Kingdom. Very popular at court and with the natives. Unmarried and uninterested in men, (apparently).

I hope this helps the reader.
Cheers!

"Off To See The Elephant; (with Drums)"?

Drum Major Bond Scott (late of Princess Amanda's Dragoons), leads the Changing of The Maiden Guard at Broadford Gardens. Mounted on his Drum Horse Ned, they trot pass the Regimental Colour of the Maiden Guard, and the reviewing Officer, King Phillip I and General Von Zillmann.
At the Conclusion of the March Pass, Drum Major Scott is permitted to address the Guard:
"I now depart for Tradgardland. I will now beat my Kettle Drums to another tune, but know my heart beats for God, King Phillip and New Wales! God Save The King"!
"HUZZAH"!!! bellows from the Guard.















King Phillip now gives some final words of instruction and advice to the Drum Major before sending him on his way.
"Do your King and country proud Drum Major! In your baggage you will find the Holy Order Of Mormoani for Duke Karl Frederick. Hand it to our Ambassador, the Earl of Bradbury, Sir Olaf Myfriendsagay. Tell him from me he is to present it to the Duke".
With that, the Drum Major departs, like some young lad of to the circus; "to see the elephant".

The Plot Thickens!

PICTURED: Lady Sarah O'Connars
Location: The Duchess' Retreat "Orange House", Van Demons Land
Date: February 20, 1746, 8pm.
Duchess Margaretta is pacing back and forward in the "Dutch Room" of her private cottage, "The Orange House". The "not so small" residence was a wedding present given to her by Grand Duke Peter. Somewhere for her to relax away from their official residence. It even had a small Catholic Chapel at rear for the Duchess to maintain her "Catholic rituals".
Standing rather nervously within the 'Dutch Room" was one of her new Ladies In Waiting, Sarah O'Connars.

The Duchess spoke:
"So prior to your arrival yesterday, you were once an officer in the Maiden Guard I understand"?

"Yes Highness, for 8 years".

"And now you're not. I've heard stories, but I'd like to hear from you; why is it so"?

Sarah blushed deep red:
"Well, I umm; err, how can I put this. Let's just say I was caught in a compromising position with Colonel Ann of the Militia. As you might be aware Ma'am, only virgins can serve in the Maiden Guard"

The Duchess smiled.
"Oh dear, a young officer of the King's Maiden Guard, deflowered by a Militia Colonel. I bet that didn't go down to well with the King".

"Not at all your Highness. I think the Young King is not really all that taken with the Guard ; and even less with any Maidens or Officers that he thinks might behave in anyway that could be looked upon as unprofessional"

"Young King"?

"Yes Ma'am. King Phillip is called "The Young King" by the Guard. We, I mean the Maiden Guard refer to his father as "The Old" King".

The Duchess turned her smile into a frown:
"Oh deary me. And I suppose the "Young" King is not all that near and dear to your heart anymore. A promising military career destroyed all because you, a young and impressionable junior officer was taken advantage of by some smelly, dirty old Militia officer"

"That is why I chose to come to Your court Ma'am".

"I assume you're good with a pistol?" asked the Duchess.

"Yes Ma'am. May I ask why you wish to know"?

"Oh, just interested in what training you've had". The Duchess drapped herself over a large couch:
"The Maiden Guard fascinates me. No fatties allowed in the Guard I understand"?

"No Ma'am, the heavy girls are placed in the Training Squadron. There was talk of raising a squadron of female Dragoons to become part of the Guard eventually, but I'm not sure the Young King is altogether keen on the idea. I know the Old King was".

The Duchess sat up:

"You know, I've discussed your situation with my husband the Grand Duke. He tells my he thinks you're the victim. He told me if he was king, as his Queen he'd hand the responsibility of the management of the Maiden Guard over to me"

"Wise move Ma'am" Sarah looked seriously at the Duchess.

Margaretta continued:
"Oh yes, The Grand Duke is very wise. He thinks it's only appropriate that the Queen should deal with all matter pertaining to the Guard. He'd make sure Colonel Ann was cashiered and I would make sure you were reinstated in the Guard as a Major, maybe even Lt Colonel; maybe even command of an expanded Maiden Legion"!

She reclined once more, and let out a deep sigh:
"Alas, Peter is not King however, and more importantly; I am not Queen. If only some accident would befall Phillip. Oh dear, I sound awful don't I? Oh Lord forgive me"!

Sarah chimed in:
"Not at all Ma'am, you only want what's best for your husband, and country; of course"

"Why of course" agreed the Duchess.

"You know, maybe there is a way that we could all benefit from having someone of your redoubtably talents here"

Sarah took it upon herself to take a seat:
"I'm at your service my Queen; oh, I mean Duchess".

Margaretta smiled:
"Queen does sounds better, does it not"?.

TO BE CONTINUED!

"Dear Duchess,..."

Location: The Residence of Grand Duke Peter, Van Demons Land.

Date: 17 February 1746.

The messenger dismounted from his horse before it had even stopped. “A letter for the Duchess, stand aside; a letter for the Duchess”. He bounded up the stairs and passes the guards; his uniform marked him as a Royal Courier. Into the Grand Dukes residence, and into the Ante Room, he was finally stopped by the Sergeant of The Guard. Being a Royal Courier will only get you so far.

“A message for the Duchess Sergeant”!

“I’ll take that, thank you”.

The Sergeant now passes the letter to the Officer of the watch. Normally all mail goes to the Grand Duke, but as usual in the morning he’s out hunting Tiger-dogs. The Officer hands the letter to Duchess Margaretta’s hand Maiden who promptly delivers the letter.

“Your Highness, a letter from Duchess Judith”. (See picture)

Margaretta plucks the letter from the silver tray.

“What does that hag think she’s doing writing to me”?

Dated 20 November 1745

Bradbury Manor.

“Dearest Margaretta I write to you to express my concerns pertaining to the recent coronation of Phillip. As you are aware I’ve never been overly fond of Phillip, and for good reason. He has never shown me the respect that I deserve as one of the wives of his Father, King Michael. The truth of the matter is he’s been down right disrespectful of me. But that is of little concern.

Of much greater concern is his mental instability. I’m sure I’m not the only person who is aware his erratic behavior. Your Peter on the other hand is a much better choice as rightful King. He is the eldest after all.

As for your religious views; what concerns are they really? Is not our God the One uniting God? Besides, I’m sure such a powerful man such as Peter could not be unduly influence by such a dainty lady as yourself anyway.

God willing, the situation will rectify it’s self, and before too long Peter will take his rightful place as King, with you as his radiant Queen.

Wouldn’t that put that upstart Raechel in her place?

Peter’s assent to the thrown would however leave a vacancy in the Royal line. Who could we get to take on the responsibility of Grand Duke of Van Demons Land? May I suggest my son Prince Matthew?

Peter would have a staunch ally in Matthew.

I shall sign off now. I assume it goes without saying that this correspondence should be destroyed, should it fall into the wrong hands the consequences for us could be dire.

Your Humble and loving servant Duchess Judith”

Margaretta crushes the letter and puts in back on the silver tray. Picking up a lit candle, the letter is soon reduced to ash.

“She’s as cunning as I” she thinks to herself. "Phillip has shown no signs of Madness. Still, who am I to argue with Judith's diagnosis"?

“Oh I’m bored! Next time, I think I’ll go on the Hunt”

“Oh, but it can be dangerous your Highness”! exclaimed a lady in waiting.

“I know” replied the Duchess, “I know,…”.

TO BE CONTINUED

The King's Personal Standard

The Earl of Kilmore arrived early in the morning and was the first of the appointed visitors to see the King. The Captain of The Guard announced his arrival.
"Sire, the Director of Royal Vexillations has arrived with the first of the proposed Standards for your personal use".
Earl Kilmore entered the study with four soldiers of the Maiden Guard, one Sergeant, a Corporal and two Guardmaids. All had white gloves on. The Sergeant carried a large cased flag over her shoulder. The Corporal removed the leather case that covered the flag and the two Guardsmaids unfurled the flag.
"Hmm, quite impressive Kilmore. Explain"!
"Sire, but of course"
The Earl checked his gloves for a firm fit, and began to gesture towards the flag.
"The Obverse of the Standard has the top Hoist and lower Fly displaying the Angle Mormoani, representing your link to the Almighty. In the lower Hoist and upper Fly we see the Red Dragon of Wales, the Royal family's original homeland. The Cross is decorated with Fleur-de-lys, representing your three initial; and we are sure, continued victories over the French."
The king interrupted the Earl:
"Continued victories? Maybe you assume to much Kilmore. The French do fight well; on occasion".
"I have supreme confidence in his majesties abilities on the battlefield".
The King raised an eyebrow.
"Do continue Kilmore".
"Sire. In the center we see the Ancient Order of the Tankard, as presented recently to your majesty by your kinsman The Noble Wilhelm Von Beerstein".
(All "Royalty" were regarded as the King's "kinsman").
King Phillip I seemed pleased thus far:
"Excellent, and the Reverse".
Kilmore asked the soldiers to turn The Standard around.
"Sire, here he have replacing the Angle Mormoani with The Royal Family coat of arms. In the center we have the Bursting Grenade, symbolic of the Household Brigade; Your personal Brigade. Finally, on both sides we have the Motto, The Honour and Glory is His, and your personal Battle Honour, UBIQUE, meaning Everywhere".
Earl Kilmore bowed and concluded his presentation.
"Excellent Kilmore. Have the Standard raised above the palace. It shall accompany me where ever I go, and will be an easily recognized symbol of my presence on any future battlefield. We need to arrange it's Trooping before the army"
The King rang a small bell on his desk, and an Officer entered.
"Captain of the Guard, please have General Zillmann join me for lunch, and the Army RSM. We have a few parades to arrange,...."
The Captain saluted, and departed the scene.

TO BE CONTINUED

An Honour Bestowed!

General Zillmann knocked twice and entered the King's study.
"Sire, a messenger from the Embassy of The Reich Duchy of Beerstein has arrived with a dispatch".
"Please be so kind as to open and read it my good General".
"Please Sire, a little less of the good if you don't mind"
The General tore open the leather pouch and began to read:

"Reich Duke Wilhelm von Beerstein is proud to approve the recommendations of the College of Honors to invest the following worthy individuals into our sacred orders:

Ancient and Honorable Order of the Tankard:

Duke Augustus von Lettow, Saxe-Huack
Wilhelm von Starkherz, Elector of Bleiherzen

King Phillip I, The Holy Mormoan Kingdom of New Wales

Augustus II Rex, The Duchy of Alzeim

King Basil I of the Romans
Prinz Kelson von Tisch, Principality of Fleisch-Spatzlestadt"!
The General placed the letter down.

"Well isn't that nice of the fellow"!
"Indeed Sire" agreed the General.
"Puts me in some fine company also I see,.."
"Ja Sire".

The King looked out of the large bay windows towards the distant hills. Smoke from bushfires was billowing up from behind them.
"Fires are a concern"
"Indeed mien King. It is believed some of the fires are the work of arsonists"
The King clenched his fists.
"I've always said there is too much arse-ing around. (heheheh). Warn out the Lord High Executioner. Once we have those responsible our ax man will have his work, let's say; cut out for him"
"Ja mien King".
The General paused, before informing the king:
"Princess Amanda's Dragoons are assisting the constabulary force in tracking down those responsible. The Princess herself rides with them".
"That's my girl".

TO BE CONTINUED

A Bitter Dutch Duchess!

(Pictured Left: Duchess Margaretta)

Location: The Residence of Grand Duke Peter, Van Demons Land. Date: 7 February 1746.

“The crown should be yours”!

“Now my dear, we’ve discussed this. The law is very clear on the matter,…”

Grand Duke Peter was desperate to calm his Duchess.

“An un-just law! Flawed in the sight of God! If you were a real man you would challenge your usurper brother and take what is yours, in the eyes of God”!

His efforts were failing, yet again.

Duchess Margaretta's rage was not to be dampened.

The argument was an old one. The law was very clear on the matter at hand. Only Mormoan’s could sit on the twin thrones of the Holy Mormoan Kingdom of New Wales. Since Grand Duke Peter was married to a Catholic, (and a Dutch Catholic at that), the Crowns had passed to his younger brother Phillip, and even younger Queen, Raechel.

At the time of their marriage Margaretta, appeared content to accept the situation, she appeared to accept she would never be Queen.

“Oh well, Grand Duchess. Hmm, I guess I can live with that” she purred in his ear only four years earlier.

“Duchess my dear, only a Duchess,…” Peter corrected her.

But that was four years ago. She was but the daughter of a petty “well to do” family. She was not even of the original Mormoan families. Her family had arrived direct from Holland several years after the first fleet arrived. All the same, her family had done well for themselves, despite not converting. There was plenty on money to be made for an enterprising family in the new colony.

How her perspective had changed.

Was her rage born out of jealousy of the younger, more beautiful Queen? Maybe.

She barely managed to hide her contempt for Queen Raechel.

She was almost thirty years older than Queen Raechel, (and more than a few years older than Grand Duke Peter).

Her harsh, stern features compared badly against the soft, youthful face of Rachel’s.

Whatever the reason, she was now adamant that she (and Peter of course), should be on the thrown.

“You are loved by the people of Van Demons Land. At least brake away and declare this islands independence from New Wales. A crown of any type is preferable to this affront”!

Peter’s patient was starting to wear thin.

“SILENCE WITCH”! he snapped.

(Pictured : Grand Duke Peter)

“I will not hear of any more of this treasonous talk against my brother”!

The Duchess recoiled. Not often did Peter raise his voice.

“I, I was only thinking that, maybe….”

“ENOUGH I SAY”!

She took another step back, both hands now clasped over her mouth.

Peter could see she was shocked.

“Forgive me my dear, but I must be firm on this issue. I love my little brother. He is my King. I will not discuss the matter any more. The subject is closed”

He stepped towards her. “Now let us go for a walk in the gardens; it is such a beautiful evening, is it not”?

“Of course my lord. It is I that must beg your forgiveness. I will not raise the issue again”

She was lying,…

TO BE CONTINUED!

A New King, and New Challanges!

It is the 1st day of February, 1746, and the new King of the Holy Mormoan Kingdom of New Wales has only been on the Throne for only two and a half months. Economically and politically the situation appears stable. The only threats to the Kingdom appear to come from France, (and maybe from the Republic Of Neue Sudland).
"Note to self" thinks the new King, as he strolls through the Palace Gardens; "I must send an emissary to The Republic; and maybe a gift or two. I must find out what their intentions are."
King Phillip turns to General Zillmann, the Minister for War: "I say General, it's rather hot today, don't you think"?
"Ja Mien King, but not as hot as the lead at Port Phillip"!
"Ah yes, Port Phillip! You were the RSM of the 7th Foot at the time I believe".
The General grew another 6 inches, (adding to his already considerable height).
"Ja mien King, I was 37, and in the midst of the best years of my life".
The General was one of only a handfull of high ranking officers that had risen from the ranks.
"I hope your best years are still ahead of you. I feel they will be required,...".
Both men headed back to the palace.

TO BE CONTINUED!