-My- Idea: The Zuese Expedition

[simon sez]

@ Jaren-

Other way around, sir. 1 die, 537 dice.

. . . I could really use a facepalm smiley about now (The real worry is; just how long have I been getting that wrong?!)

Annals is now an AOE 5 Special Action and the UA costs 3pts. I gave it a high AOE because he isan unarmed model and 3" AOE radius IMO is just putting it at too much risk even with Take Up.

On the subject of Boma/Overtake, I've spotted a problem: Boma allows Cleave while in B2B, but Overtake means advancing out of B2B by up to 1", now does that movement disallow the second attack from Cleave because model A broke B2B with model B, or did the fact he resolved the attack in B2B then advance mean that Boma is still in effect? And what about model B, he has to wait for model A to perfrom its attacks (and potentially move up 2") before he can perform his initial attack and, if successful, move 1", at which point his action will end because he was not in B2B for his initial attack.

One possible solution to this I have come up with is to increase Boma from B2B to melee range, but that lessens vulnerability to Blasts and Tramples, which are preferable to engaging them in melee due to their rule combos. Any suggestions on how to fix this?

[Beowulf99]

I'd rule that since he completed the attack while b2b, he'd be allowed the second attack. Overtake states, "Immediately after resolving..." which means that the entire attack, including damage is applied before the move. Your in the clear. But only barely.

I don't think it needs to be changed.

[simon sez]

So model B will only benefit from Boma if model A does not break B2B with Overtake? I guess it makes for a more challenging combo when you have to make a choice between attack output or gaining ground.

By the way, here is my third and final Heavy warjack, the Colossus:

There has been much debate in academic circles as to where the exact point of divergence between Wallah and Colossus lies; in a purely technical sense the only true distinction is size, as a Colossus will tower over even the heavy Balor Wallahs, but to an observer marveling at the care for detail exhibited on these proud stone warriors, the differences as as clear as night and day.
Each Colossus is a work of art, standing some fifteen feet high every inch of them is intricately carved, including the three expressive faces that stare in every direction, respectively showing emotions of happiness, sadness and rage. When in a state of rest a Colossus will hold two of its arms, each clutching a massive stone scimitar, above its head with the two blades joining in a cresent, while the other open hands reach out to the sides in a gesture of greeting, or perhaps protection. The Colossi hold a place of reverence in Zuese culture equaled only by those who have witnessed the sheer destructive potential of an unleashed Biscione, and it is said that behind the throne of each Great City's ruler there stands a Colossus, it's Life Tablet specially etched to awaken only at the utterance of a secret phrase known only to it's owner.
Colossus, Zuese Expeditionary Heavy Warjack
SPD-4 STR-11 MAT-6 RAT-4 DEF-12 ARM-18 CMD—
FA- C
Point Cost- 9
Base Size- Large
_ _OO_ _
_OOOO_
OOOOOO
OOMMOO
ROMCOL
RRCCLL
Colossus
Circular Vision- This model’s front arc extends to 360o
Weapons [Colossus]
Open Fist [2x] (Left & Right) - POW: 3 P+S: 14

Stone Blades [2x] (Left & Right) – POW: 6 P+: 17

[Bringer Of The Void]

@simon sez
Awesome Conceptual Idea for the Colossus, very exotic and also very fearsome rolled in "One Package"...

I believe that You have drawn some Inspiration from the First Movie of "Tomb Raider" when Lara Croft faces the Main Giant Guardian of the Nepalese Temple, but with enough Original Touches from Your Part (after all the Iconography of East Asia is full of Demonic Visages on Large Totemic Statues)...

I don't remember if the Wallah Idea of Yours are "Classical Golems" with few moving parts, like the Circle Orboros Wolds, or more "Clockwork Mechanical" like Classical Warjacks; if this last is the Idea behind the Colossus, I have some Rough Sketches inspired from the Official Art of the Second CGI Anime-Movie of "Ghost in The Shell" (that feature Enormous "Carnival Robots" with Balinese Masks and Ceremonial Garb) that could be useful as a Graphical Conceptualization.....

[Jaren]

RE: Colossus

Looks great, but I'm not sure it's worth 9 pts. It would be with either more boxes or 1 (maybe 2) more ARM.

[iknowinternet]

18 ARM and you're looking at a 9 point jack. A damn good one too.

Nice.

[simon sez]

@ Jaren & IKI- I've nudged the ARM up a point to 18.

@ BotV- The Wallahs and Warjacks are more classical Golems, the basic Wallah and Biscione are reminiscent to the Sentry Stone Mannikins in that they are assembled from what materials are available when the Life Tablet is placed, the Balors and other 'jacks have a shell designed around the tablet which is animated by it, which makes them more Wold-like, though it's more of a defined form with little wood involved.

[iknowinternet]

@ Jaren & IKI- I've nudged the ARM up a point to 18.

@ BotV- The Wallahs and Warjacks are more classical Golems, the basic Wallah and Biscione are reminiscent to the Sentry Stone Mannikins in that they are assembled from what materials are available when the Life Tablet is placed, the Balors and other 'jacks have a shell designed around the tablet which is animated by it, which makes them more Wold-like, though it's more of a defined form with little wood involved.

Ahhh. That helps the visual picture quite a bit then. Makes them sound all the cooler, too! For some reason I am envisioning this paint scheme that is muddy green and dark pink, like it was ripped from the clay.

[simon sez]

Pinkish, orangey clay is exactly what I had pictured for the Zuese soil, dark greens are always good for portraying nature, try neutral stone grays for spot colours as pieces of stone are gathered in the process.

Here are a couple more units, sans fluff at the moment as I'm a bit rushed. I thought that giving the Expedition both a light and heavy cavalry option would be a fun change from the regular factions, and they sort of encapsulate the divide in Zu between the technologically advanced city-folk and the rustic people on the plains. as always I eagerly await any and all C&C

The dedicated strike force of Zu's new model armies, the Ley Surfers are a novel approach to introducing a new dimension of conflict to warfare.
Stationed in barracks at strategic points along the thoroughfares and carriage lines that crisscross Zu in uncompromisingly straight lines, each squadron of surfers is charged with a duty of vigilance; scanning the horizons for signs of trouble such as rising smoke or dust. When their suspicions are raised each man or woman will take to their individually balanced hoverdiscs, round stone slabs carved with the same markings hat lift the ley carriages, using ley lines to ride the air on thermals of magical energy uninhibited by terrain.
Against an oncoming force of Ley Surfers there can be little defence; their Guild-crafted discs simply sail over defensive lines, and the mass of stone beneath they ride makes them immune to all but the strongest missiles, while they can observe the movements of their enemies with clarity through the porthole between their feet. When the time to answer the attack comes many surfers will trust the crushing power of gravity to end any conflict, though each member is also equipped with a fearsomely barbed thrusting spear known as an assegai.
Zuese Ley Surfers, Zuese Expeditionary Cavalry Unit
SPD-7 STR-6 MAT-6 RAT-4 DEF-13 ARM-17 CMD-8
FA- 1
Point Cost- Leader & 2 Grunts: 6 Leader & 4 Grunts: 9
Base Size- Large
Damage- 8 each
Leader & Grunts
Flight- This model can advance through terrain and obstacles without penalty and can advance through obstructions and other models if it has enough movement to move completely past them. This model ignores intervening models when declaring its charge target.
Weapons [Leader & Grunts]
Assegai- POW: 5 P+S: 11

Mount- POW: 12

The roving bands of drop-outs and malcontents known in Zu as the Badmashes, the native word for Ruffians, have been causing mischief for decades. Homeless wanderers with no city or municipality to hold loyalty to, they fill their days strongarming whatever they want from hardworking locals and thieving from caravans destined for the cities through cunning, speed and the use of their xistera's; primitive weapons composed of a woven basket capable of pitching a hastily picked stone at deadly speed. Though they disdain their inherited duties as farmhands and fear the strength of the Guptas, Badmashes will sometime risk passing through the city walls to offer themselves as itinerant labour for those too poor or crooked to purchase Wallahs. It is likely by this method that so many unsightly characters wormed their way aboard the ships bound from Kamora to the New World.
Of all those seeking a fresh start in Immoren, it is without doubt the Badmashes who have settled the most easily; procuring horses by whatever shifty means, they have settled into the same old patterns; undaunted by local guards and dazzled by the Norths material wealth. Some of the more unscrupulous merchants have bartered their services to sabotage their competitors or scout for new treasures, but on the whole they remain as lawless and unrestrained as they were before
Badmash Harriers, Zuese Expeditionary Light Cavalry
SPD-8 STR-5 MAT-5 RAT-6 DEF-14 ARM-15 CMD-7
FA- 2
Point Cost- Leader & 2 Grunts: 7 Leader & 4 Grunts: 11
Base Size- Large
Damage- 5 each
Leader & Grunts

Virtuoso- This model can make melee and ranged attacks during the same combat action. When this model makes its initial attacks, it can make both its initial ranged and melee attacks.
Weapons [Leader & Grunts]
Xistera- RNG: 8 ROF: 1 AOE: - POW: 6
Thrown- Add this model?s STR to the POW of this ranged attack.
Critical Beat Back- On a critical hit, immediately after a normal attack with this weapon is resolved during this models combat action, the enemy model hit can be pushed 1? directly away from the attacking model. After the enemy model is pushed, the attacking model can advance up to 1?.
Mount- POW: 10

[Jaren]

Flight on the Heavy Cav. makes for an interesting visual when imagining Impact Attacks. Do they land ON TOP of the impact target?
Speaking of Impact Attacks, flight makes them wierd - fail to kill the model? Just fly over it. In fact, unless the charge target is close enough to the impacted model, they HAVE to fly over it since you can't stop a Charge Move "just because".

The Lights have Virtuoso but only the Mount as a melee weapon?

[Beowulf99]

At least they're Light Cave so they can make Mount attacks anyway. You should add Assault to them so they can "Charge" and make ranged attacks a bit easier.

[simon sez]

Removed Powerful Charge from the Surfers after rereading the cavalry charge rules.

@ Jaren-
Ley Surfers
That's right, they slam down on the enemy: SPLAT!
To give you more of a picture, this is what the surfers mount is based on:


Imagine the surfer tipping his mount up slightly and driving his Assegai through the hole.

Harriers
Yep, they are more of a flanking/harrasment unit than head-on fighters. I have plans for a UA that will give them a knack for disrupting enemy lines. Virtuoso is a way, combined with crit: Beat Back, of keeping them effective when they're caught.

@ Beowulf99-
I'm not sure Assault would fit them for the reasons given above, also since the Assault ranged attack is not outside ROF you would only be left with the mount attack.

[Beowulf99]

What I'm saying is, they do not have Gunfighter. If they are eligible to make their Mount attack, they would not be able to make their ranged attack. Using Assault, they could do both, and I think it fits the image better, throwing the Xistera while simultaneously koopa stomping an enemy.

Or you could just add Gunfighter.

Unless I'm mistaken, and Virtuoso also grants "gunfighter"...

[simon sez]

Table of Contents
Warcasters
. 2nd Degree Architect Mbn Af-Wahl
... The Drunkard Mbn Af-Wahl (Epic)
. Kaa-fn-Toh
... Kaa-fn-Toh, Demon of Strings (Epic)
. Abhraim, the Cerberus
. Supreme Paramour Alelsuesse
... Alelsuesse, Goddess of the New World (Epic)
. Okkokeboke, Silver Bolt
. Ihnohaim
Warjacks
. Alphyn (Light)
. Basilisk (Light)
. Martlet (Light)
. Biscione (Heavy)
. Catoblepas (Heavy)
. Colossus (Heavy)
. Dralion (Character Heavy)
Battle Engines
. Effigy of Conquest
Units
. Arbalesters
... Brazier (WA)
. Badmash Harriers
... Headman (UA)
. Balor Wallahs
. Bound
... Heavy Bound (WA)
. The Brothers Zhin (Character)
. Guptas
... Marshal (UA)
. Ley Surfers
. Ley Configuration Crew
. Phalanx
... Phalanx Officer & Historian (UA)
. Wallahs
Solos
. Architect
. Bursar
. Collaborator
. Concubine
. Habeebah (Character)
. No-Man
. Pit Fighter
. Three Towers (Character)
. Trailblazer

[Jaren]

Still loving this army and still amazed that you can keep up this level of output! I'm almost 2 weeks behind in posting my promised Epic 'caster; and that's ONE model!

[Bringer Of The Void]

@Simon Sez
The Idea of "Koku Coins Surfers" is excellent and I believe that could be represented with a very Action-Oriented Image...

I just don't get the "Visual Concept" of Okkeboke "The Silver Bolt" as Ethnically Defined; I continue to imagine him as a venerable Zulu Warrior, with shiny bald head and a large grey beard, with "simple" Weapons and Gears made of Hide, Leather and Horn, but I fear that You wanted for him a more "Sophisticated Culture" Appearance...

I'm concocting something for the Zuese "Golem Jacks" that is both "Idea Linked" to Orboros Wolds, but still retain Originality of Concept Art.....

[iknowinternet]

I love this army more and more with each post. Keep the dream alive.

[simon sez]

@ Jaren- Well the simple fact is I have time on my hands, I work flexible hours and my next studies course doesn't not begin until late January. Also I carry a little notebook that I can jot ideas in (Just so I don't sound OTT about this, I didn't get the notebook for this, I just have an awful memory )

@ BotV- almost, not quite. The ethnicity of Zuese peoples are South Asian, but you were dead on with the venerabilty and the strong beard. Here's a good idea of what I'm getting at

As for Mercury I pictured it being very similar to Donnie Yen's spear in the movie Hero.

@IKI- Thanks, I'll try!

[Bringer Of The Void]

O.K. so now I have the "Mental Image" of a Hindi-Sikh Weaponmaster with a Chinese Kung-Fu Spear...

Interesting concepts that could easily generate a very cool illustration.....

[simon sez]

Among the high-flying, risk-taking fraternity that is the Ley Surfers, it takes a truly exceptional individual to make themself a figure of renown. Habeebah is just such an individual.
Never happier than when performing some rediculously dangerous stunt for nothing more than her own exhilaration or hurtling down on a fleeing bandit from up in the heavens, indeed such is her fondnance for pushing the envelope that many sandstone hoverdiscs have been smashed beneath her, pushing exacberated guildsmen to chisel for her a one-of-a-kind marble one, which she has fondly nicknamed Cats Eye for its greenish tint.
Habeebah is something of a pop culture icon among the young women of Zu's cities; with engravings and scrolls depicting an exaggerated account of her adventures being a hot commodity in the more discerning bazaars. What brings her to the New World is unknown to all but her closest friends, but it is assumed that she is here simply looking for a good time.
Habeebah, Zuese Expeditionary Cavalry Character Solo
SPD-7 STR-5 MAT-7 RAT-4 DEF-13 ARM-17 CMD-9
FA- C
Point Cost- 4
Base Size- Large
Damage- 10
Habeebah
Flight- This model can advance through terrain and obstacles without penalty and can advance through obstructions and other models if it has enough movement to move completely past them. This model ignores intervening models when declaring its charge target.
Elite Cadre [Ley Surfers] - Friendly Ley Surfer models gain Line Breaker.
Daredevil- This model gains Fearless during an activation in which it ran or charged during its normal movement. Fleeing models do not benefit from Daredevil.
Line Breaker- This model gains an additional die on impact attack rolls.
Weapons [Habeebah]
Assegai- POW: 5 P+S: 11

Cat's Eye (Mount) - POW: 12

[Beowulf99]

My only problem with Habeebah, is the Elite Cadre. I'm not sure that there are any non Warlock/Warcaster model's with Elite Cadres.

You could instead add:
Cohort[Ley Surfers]- Friendly Ley Surfer models gain Line Breaker.

[iknowinternet]

I think he is probably undercosted at 3. Merely being a cav model should probably bump him up a bracket.
Take a look at Stannis Brocker (4pts), a non-Dragoon cav solo. Decent stats at range and melee... Commander advantage... grants a VERY useful ability, but only if you are playing Steelhead heavy.
This guy is pretty similar. I'd raise him to 4 pts, but then sneak in a POW bump or something!

[simon sez]

Ah, it's good to be back!

Habeebah
@ Jaren- Actually there are some solo's with Elite Cadre; Horthol, Vilmon, and Yuri to name a few.

@ iknowinternet- Have bumped the cost up to 4.

This homebrew has been sit[PHP][/PHP]ting here over Christmas, hope you like it. (Damn, I was so close to beating the all time wordiest title designation!)

The power of the glyphs and etchings employed by the Crocus Guild in order to harness Gaia's energies is unquestioned, with a thoroughly inscribed tablet no larger than a mans outspread palm being capable of animating as hulking a structure as a war construct. For some tasks though, size truly does matter, and for those occasions a Ley Configuration is used.

Starting with a decagonal wooden frame crossed with a lattice work of hinged planks, the configuration is carried into place and set on a piece of cleared ground. Then the ground beneath it is soaked, to increase the conductivity of Gaia's Blood through the device. Finally, the lattice work is shifted into any one of a plethora of arcane patterns, enhanced by the delicate positioning of perfectly round stones of various sizes to increase or impede the flow of energy. Once the arrangements are done, it falls to the overseeing Guildsman to activate and direct this energy through a test of mental will.

While the number of possible signs, and therefore the powers they can summon, is almost limitless due to the inspired nature of the Configurations design, many are too hazardous to attempt with the amount of potential force contained; so operators often confine themselves to a handful of simple but nonetheless effective glyphs, lensing the air to grant their countrymen greater range of vision, or manipulating the earth either to part ways for marching allies, or collapsing the ground beneath an unsuspecting enemy's feet.
Ley Configuration Crew, Zuese Expeditionary Guildsman Weapon Crew Unit
Leader & Grunts
SPD-5 STR-5 MAT-4 RAT-5 DEF-12 ARM-12 CMD-8
FA- 2
Point Cost- Leader & 2 Grunts: 4
Base Size- Leader: Large, Grunts: Small
Leader
Confluence- This model gains a cumulative +1 on magic attack rolls for each other model in this unit that is within 1? of it.
Magic Ability [6]
. Divination (* Action) - RNG 5. Target friendly Faction model/unit gains for one round
. Crevasse (* Attack) - Crevasse is a RNG 8, POW 12 magic attack. If Crevasse boxes its original target, you can make a SP 6 magic attack using the boxed model as the attacks point of origin. Models hit suffer a POW 12 magic damage roll. Models boxed by crevasse are removed from play
. Levitation (* Action) - RNG: CMD. Target friendly Faction Warrior model/unit gains while within this models command area.
Weapons [Leader & Grunts]
Knives- POW: 3 P+S: 8

[iknowinternet]

I like the crew a LOT. One question that probably just reflects unfamiliarity with Spray rules... Does the secondary spray trigger get the Confluence boost?

[simon sez]

My initial estimate is that since the wording of the spray is "attack" rather than "magic attack" the answer is no.

[simon sez]

The long-awaited, even longer procrastinated final Warjack is here at last! More of a troop killer than the Basilisk, it shares its chassis. Can't wait to hear your thoughts, enjoy!

Martlet
Recognised as one of the earliest Zuese constructs of war, the Martlet was crafted during a period of ceaseless conflict between two rival factions of city-states by a Crocus Guild still in it's infancy. Nothing more than a weapons platform keeping pace with marching armies on six short, stubby legs, the Martlet (So named for the seemingly infinite space of time their deadly payload remains airborne) nevertheless created new fronts with its mobile siege artillery, creating a paradigm shift some claim the nation has yet to fully recover from.
Now approaching its 150th year of production, the latest model of Martlet has changed little since its early days; a hastily constructed shell of rock and dirt protect both its animating life tablet and the mechanisms for the mangonel it carries aboard its back, while it's legs, made much sturdier for added performance and agility move it resolutely forward, often accompanied by shuffling groups of Wallahs tasked with keeping the flinging arm loaded and ready.
Martlet, Zuese Expeditionary Light Warjack
SPD-4 STR-7 MAT-4 RAT-6 DEF-12 ARM-17 CMD- -
FA- U
Points Cost- 5
Base Size- Medium
_O___O
OOOOOO
OOMCCO
OMMOCO
Martlet
Steady- This model cannot be knocked down.
Weapons [Martlet]
Onager- RNG: 15 ROF: 1 AOE: 3 POW: 14
Arcing Fire- When attacking with this weapon, this model can ignore intervening models except those within 1" of the target.
Inaccurate- This model suffers -4 to attack rolls with this weapon.
Minimum Range [6] - Attacks made with this weapon cannot target any model within 6" of it.
Manual Reload- This model can make one additional Onager ranged attack for each Wallah model B2B with it, up to a maximum of two additional attacks. These additional attacks do not count against the Catapults ROF.
Bash- POW: 0 P+S: 7

[iknowinternet]

The manual reload ability should probably be limited to two additional shots, just like the Grenadier. Otherwise it gets to potentially stupid levels of shot output. While I do realize it is balanced in other ways, you could perhaps make up for this slight deficiency with a higher POW on the Bash attack.

Good to see more Zu stuff from you!

[simon sez]

Fixed Manual Reload, thanks for that.

I'd had a period of writing nothing but Zu, and decided to have a break when I started going cross-eyed and foaming at the mouth, but yeah I'm back for the home stretch, maybe one or two units then start thinking about U/WA's and Solos. And with the Martlet I've hit the big 1.0! The light at the end of the tunnel is growing brighter!!

[Beowulf99]

Ley Configuration Crew: So far as the secondary spray being a Magical spray or not, it depends on your wording. Since the models hit by the Spray attack are taking magical damage, it only stands to reason that the spray itself would be Magical, and Confluence would kick in. At least that's the way I read it.

[simon sez]

Okay, I've specified the secondary spray as a magic attack to being Confluence into effect, and have lowered the Magic Ability by one to compensate.

[simon sez]

The voyage of the Zuese Expeditionary fleet was one frought with perils; the laden hulks were battered and pitched across the Meridius by the incredible tidal forces of Caens moons, horrific creatures of the deep threatened to smash through the compartmentalized hulls of the 5 treasure-ships to feast on the quaking passengers inside, and as they reached the final leg of their journey pirates, privateers and the Black Fleet all nipped at the ponderous vessels as they resolutely powered toward safe harbour. While the sailors and helmsmen of the fleet are to be rightly lauded, it was the keen eyes of the Arbalesters who more often than not staved off disaster for their people.
Another product of that peculiar Zuese obsession for duality of purpose, the Arbalesters offer impressive long ranged offensive from behind their own personal fastness, wheeling before them a three-sided wooden wall three inches thick that makes them nigh unassailable to attack while they frantically wind back the creaking prod of their man-sized crossbows. When faced against one another, as is often the case in the homogenised warfare between Zu's cities, common practise is to carry braziers of burning charcoal to ignite their arrowheads, turning their opponents protection into an inferno, and dealing serious burns to any other target that stumbles into their sights.
Zuese Arbalesters, Zuese Expeditionary Unit
SPD-5 STR-5 MAT-4 RAT-6 DEF-13 ARM-13 CMD-7
FA- 2
Points Cost- Leader & 2 Grunts- 5pts. Leader & 4 Grunts- 8pts
Base Size- Medium
Leader & Grunts

Pavise- This model always has concealment.
Set Defense- A model in this model's front arc suffers -2 on charge, slam power attack, and impact attack rolls against this model.
Weapons [Leader & Grunts]
Arbalest- RNG: 14 ROF: 1 AOE: - POW: 11
Bolt- POW: 3 P+S: 8

Brazier, Zuese Expeditionary Arbalester Weapon Attachment
Brazier
SPD-0 STR-0 MAT-0 RAT-0 DEF-5 ARM-15 CMD-0
FA- 2
Points Cost- 1 Brazier: 1.
Base Size- Small
Damage- 5
Attachment [Arbalester] - This attachment can be added to a Arbalester unit.
Brazier

Carried- This model is not a warrior model. It can advance only during its unit's normal movement. When it advances, it can move up to 1" for each Grunt in this unit within 2" of it at the beginning of this unit's activation. This model is automatically hit by melee attacks. It cannot be knocked down or made stationary
Tinder- While this model is in formation, models in its unit gain on their ranged weapons.
Scald- When this model is disabled centre a 3" AOE on it, then remove this model from play. Models in the AOE suffer a POW10 fire damage roll

Real Life has been steadily encroaching on me as of late, so I've resolved to quicken the pace of completing this project, lest it languish unfinished. That's 10 (Well, 8 now) profiles, which is likely going to result in even more faults and glitches than normal. Your help and advice is appreciated now more than ever. I'm really enjoying this project, I'd love to see her complete and at her best

[simon sez]

The chief element powering the Zuese fight for survival and expansion in the New World against its belligerents is not fear, nor surprise, but greed. The riches in gold, spices, fabrics, and other, more exotic exports, is a sore temptation to any man worth buying. And as the war in the Iron Kingdoms wears on and every citizen begins to suffers under privations, the extravagences the Zuese paymasters offer are all the more alluring.
Collaborators with the Expedition live a double life, supplying precious information and guidesmanship from under their commanding officers noses, all the while pledging loyalty to a cause no longer their own.
Zuese Collaborator, Zuese Expeditionary Solo
SPD-6 STR-6 MAT-6 RAT-5 DEF-14 ARM-13 CMD-7
FA- 1
Point Cost- 2
Base Size- Small
Damage- 5
Collaborator

Espionage (* Action) – Select an enemy warcaster/warlock. If it is not within 5” of this model, nothing happens. If it is within 5”, friendly models/units in this models command range can immediately make a full advance and a normal attack.
Reconnaissance (* Action) – RNG: 5. Target friendly Faction warrior model/unit. If the model/unit is in range, it gains Pathfinder for one turn.
Turncoat- This model cannot be targeted by enemy attacks if it sacrificed its combat action during its last activation.
Weapons [Collaborator]
Pistol- RNG: 8 ROF: 1 AOE: - POW: 10
Sword- POW: 3 P+S: 9

Even in a country were the pervasion of mystic technology is so complete as to replace human hands in most menial tasks, the concept of owning a fellow human being is not quite dead. On their stately journeys on business to neighbouring cities or outposts, the elite of Zu's municipalities will often keep a lusty eye out for any young female alluring enough to make the grade. Being a release for the hardships of country living, parents will often line the streets with their daughters, pleading for them to be taken to what they see as a better place.
After a while of degrading chores and strict tutorship from their paramour mistresses, newly baptised concubines enter their new master's household to see to their every need. Often treated as a pet or valuable heirloom, it is not uncommon for skantily-clad young women to be led shaking into battle alongside their owner, where they attempt to administer their duties while under fire.
Concubine, Zuese Expeditionary Warcaster Attachment
SPD-6 STR-4 MAT-2 RAT-2 DEF-13 ARM-10 CMD-7
FA- 1
Point Cost- 1
Base Size- Small
Damage- 5
Concubine
Attached- Before the start of the game, attach this model to a friendly Warcaster for the rest of the game. Each Warcaster can have only one model assigned to it.
Annoyance- Living enemy models within 1” of this model suffer -1 to attack rolls.
Heal (* Action) – Select a friendly living model B2B with this model. That model heals D3 damage points.
Tether [Attached Warcaster] – If this model ends its activation outside its attached Warcaster’s command range, it is destroyed.
Weapons [Concubine]

The chance of adventuring to the New World has a different appeal to all that answer its call; for some it is the opportunity for a new life, for others power, for a strange minority the novelty of standing in a wholly different place is enough. For the brutal and sleazy underworld of Pit Fighting; it is the profit to be made in fighting the most fierce opposition the Iron Kingdoms can muster!
Even the most novice Pit Fighter is a threatening brute to anyone outside their fraternity; driven by the possible wealth from sponsors and the bloodthirsty howl of the crowd, a Pit fighter trains himself to become a fast, lean, muscular athlete with a killing blow and no fear of death.
Pit Fighter, Zuese Expeditionary Solo
SPD-5 STR-7 MAT-7 RAT-4 DEF-13 ARM-15 CMD-9
FA- 2
Point Cost- 3
Base Size- Small
Damage- 8
Pit Fighter

Overtake- When this model destroys one or more enemy warrior models with a normal melee attack, after the attack is resolved this model can immediately advance up to 1”
Reversal- When a model misses this model with a charge or power attack, the attacking model is knocked down.
Take Down- Models disabled by a melee attack made by this model cannot make a Tough roll. Models boxed by a melee attack made by this model are removed from play.
Weapons [Pit Fighter]
Studded Gloves [2x] - POW: 4 P+S: 11


Accompanying their constructs ostensibly as an assistant to their buyers, the Crocus Guild almost certainly has its own motives in lending such powerful designs to the five treasure-ships of the Expedition, and an uneasy truce exists between Expedition leaders and their seemingly servile Guildmen associates.
Trained to manage and maintain the Guardian constructs under their command, Guildsmen who have achieved the level of Architect, whether to the first, second, or third degree, are also proficient users of the arcane arts of the Guild, levitating boulders to shield their charges or shifting the earth beneath their feet to entrap potential foes.
Crocus Guild Architect, Zuese Expeditionary Guildsman Solo
SPD-6 STR-5 MAT-6 RAT-4 DEF-13 ARM-13 CMD-8
FA- 2
Point Cost- 2
Base Size- Small
Damage- 5
Architect

Magic Ability [8]
. Mudslide (* Attack) – Center a 5” AOE on this model. Make a magic attack roll for each enemy model under the AOE in this models LOS. On a hit, a target enemy model cannot advance or change facing for one round.
. Force Barrier (* Action) – RNG: 5. Target friendly Faction Warjack gains +2DEF against ranged attack rolls and does not suffer blast damage for one round.
Repair (* Action) [7] – This model can attempt repairs on any damaged friendly Faction Warjack. To attempt repairs, this model must be B2B with the damaged Warjack and make a skill check. If successful, remove D6 damage points from the Warjack’s damage grid.
Weapons [Architect]
Club- POW: 4 P+S: 10

[simon sez]

Within the labyrinthine hierarchy of the Gupta society, with their disparate cell structure and clashing ideologies that make their inner workings so challenging for an outsider to unravel, their are handfuls of individuals whose motives are uncompromisingly clear; the capture and punishment of those who do wrong. These people pursue justice beyond the simple demands of the master of the city, dissatisfied with simply chasing away Badmashes or quelling unrest with their lurking presence, Marshals are the few and the brave who delve into the darkest corners of the city and beyond, often haranguing their comrades to push themselves above and beyond to meet out capital punishment in the name of justice.
It is no secret that the treasure ships of the Expedition carried a pest species more damaging than any rodent or biting insect, many of Zhu's most wanted and feared have made the voyage to spread their malign influence or escape their deserved fate; for those villains it is the Marshals, not the horror of war or Immorens array of monsters, that haunt their dreams.
Zuese Gupta Marshal, Zuese Expeditionary Unit Attachment
SPD-6 STR-6 MAT-7 RAT-5 DEF-14 ARM-14 CMD-10
FA- 1
Point Cost- 2
Base Size- Small
Damage- 5
Attachment [Gupta] ? This attachment can be added to a Gupta unit.
Marshal


Chain Strike- This model's melee range extends to 4" during its activation.
Lash- This model and friendly warrior models in B2B with it cannot be knocked down.
Tactics: Anatomical Precision- Models in this unit gain Anatomical Precision (When a model with Anatomical Precision makes a melee damage roll that fails to exceed the ARM of the living model hit, that model suffers 1 damage point).
Granted: Shadow Play- While this model is in play when a model in its unit damages one or more enemy models with a melee attack during its combat action, at the end of its combat action you can place one model in the unit in formation anywhere within 1? of another model in this unit.
Weapons [Marshal]
Flying Claw- POW-4 P+S- 10
Chain Weapon- this attack ignores the Buckler and Shield weapon qualities and Shield Wall.
Binding- A model that is hit suffers a cumulative -2 DEF for one turn. When a model is hit by three or more Binding attacks in the same turn, it becomes Stationary for one round.

[simon sez]

Being leader of so anarchic a group as the Badmashes is to constantly walk on a knife-edge: While the loot flows and the law kept at bay all is well with the world, but if misfortune should befall the group a beating and relegation to shunned lackey is the kindest fate a man can hope for atop his unsteady throne.
In a world where might often makes right the most successful leaders tend to be those who combine viciousness with intellect, playing would-be challengers against each other while paying the strongest men well to crush any thought of mutiny. After on horseback many pick up tricks useful to their exploits; like how rubbing a spicy paste native to Zu's southern municipalities into a horses gums before a sortie will drive them into a snorting frenzy, or how to turn in the saddle to rain pellets down on the enemy even on the retreat.
Badmash Headman, Zuese Expeditionary Light Cavalry Unit Attachment
SPD-8 STR-5 MAT-6 RAT-6 DEF-14 ARM-15 CMD-8
FA- 1
Point Cost- 4
Base Size- Large
Damage- 8
Headman


Virtuoso- This model can make melee and ranged attacks during the same combat action. When this model makes its initial attacks, it can make both its initial ranged and melee attacks.
Tactics: Bronco- Models in this unit gain Bronco (Models with Bronco are immune to free strikes if they destroyed one or more models with a mount attack this activation).
Harass- Once per game during its unit?s activation, this model can use Harass. Immediately after a model in this unit in formation makes a light cavalry move, that model can make one normal ranged attack. Models in this unit have their front arc extended to 360* when declaring and resolving this attack.
Weapons [Headman]
Xistera- RNG: 8 ROF: 1 AOE: - POW: 6
. Thrown- Add this model?s STR to the POW of this ranged attack.
. Critical Beat Back- On a critical hit, immediately after a normal attack with this weapon is resolved during this models combat action, the enemy model hit can be pushed 1? directly away from the attacking model. After the enemy model is pushed, the attacking model can advance up to 1?.
Mount- POW: 10

Comprised mainly of the young and wealthy, some of these gentlemen have gone to great expense to conjure the image of the noble leaders of yesteryear; purchasing ancient suits of armour of commisioning new ones to be built to their specifications, paying the high fees to transport their prized Zuese Coursers across the sea with the assurance they would not appear on the dinner table, and, most importantly, bringing with them banners and pennants whose intricate embroidering show images of prized moments in Zuese history: the birth of the first cities, the black giants being driven into the sea, even the fall of Afanmaeah (A fact that causes the silver bolt no end of embarrassment)
Festooned in their finery and looking like a hero out of time, Trailblazers ride forth beyond friendly lines, taunting their enemies and exhorting their fellows to fight for their new homes. While some may call them Hawks or Warmongerers, none can deny the effects the Trailblazers have on the morale of the fighting men of the Expedition.
Trailblazer, Zuese Expeditionary Cavalry Dragoon Solo
SPD-8/6 STR-7 MAT-7 RAT-4 DEF-14 ARM-/1715 CMD-9
FA- 1
Points Cost- 3
Damage- Mounted Damage: 10. Dismounted Damage: 5
Base Size- Mounted: Large. Dismounted: Small
Trailblazer

Dragoon- While mounted, this model has base SPD8 and base ARM17. While dismounted, it has base SPD6 and base ARM15.
Pennantry- If this model is not knocked down or stationary friendly Faction living models activating with this model in their command range and in their LOS gain +2" movement and can reroll failed command checks.
Plant the Flag (* Action) - Once per game this model can perform a Plant the Flag special action. Place a small-based marker anywhere B2B with this model. While within 5" of this marker, friendly Faction living models gain and Hard (A model with Hard does not suffer damage or effects from impact attacks or collateral damage) An enemy model B2B with the marker may forfeit its action to remove the marker from play.
Weapons [Trailblazer]
Heirloom blade- POW: 3 P+S: 10
Mount- POW: 10

[simon sez]

Three Towers is the reward offered by the Kingdom of Cygnar for any information leading to the current whereabouts or identity of the foreign terrorist known currently as "Three Towers"
Three Towers, Zuese Expeditionary Character Solo
SPD-7 STR-7 MAT-7 RAT-4 DEF-15 ARM-12 CMD-8
FA- C
Points Cost- 3
Base Size- Small
Damage- 5
Three Towers



Prey- After deployment but before the first players turn, choose an enemy model/unit to be this model/unit's prey. This model gains +2 to attack and damage rolls against its prey. When this model begins its activation within 10" of its prey, it gains +2" movement that activation. When the prey is destroyed or removed from play, choose another model/unit to be the prey.
Prowl- This model gains Stealth while within terrain that provides concealment, the AOE of a spell that provides concealment, or the AOE of a cloud effect.
Sprint- At the end of this model's activation, if it destroyed one or more enemy models with melee attacks this activation it can make a full advance.
Weapons [Three Towers]
Scimitar- POW: 6 +S: 13

. Critical Decapitation- On a critical hit, damage exceeding the ARM of the model hit is doubled. A model disabled by this attack cannot make a Tough roll.
. Back Swing (* Attack) - Make two attacks with this weapon.

That's it then, I have achieved my aim of writing an entirely new faction to match the Retribution of Scyrah for size. It's been a ball having so many nice fellas on board to help me with this, I'd like to thank Jaren, Redscores, iknowinternet, Bringer of the Void, and Beowulf99 for taking the time to hammer out the mistakes and flaws I put in (Sorry there wasn't MOAR ANIMATED CLAY iki!)

[iknowinternet]

YAAAAAAAAAAAYYYY!
Bring out the champagne! The clay can wait for the (dare I say it?) EXPANSION!

Expert work, man. Awesome.

Seriously, I HOPE PP TAKES A LOOK AT THESE WHEN THEY MAKE THE ZU FACTION!

-------------------------------
Some C&C&C(ongratulations)

1) It seems like Three Towers overlaps a WHOLE lot with his No-Man counterparts. I can't tell what makes him worth another point other than Stealth and Backswing (which admittedly might from a gameplay perspective, but does little to differentiate his character).

2) Pennantry and Plant the Flag are SUCH awesome ideas. Leave it to you to come up with something this game has never seen before.

[Jaren]

Kudos on the amazing work you've done with this. When I get more time to actually PLAY WM/H again I'm going to proxy and all Zu army for sure.

[simon sez]

Cheers both of you

@ iknowinternet-

The clay can wait for the (dare I say it?) EXPANSION!

GAH! That's my nightmares for the next week sorted, thanks for that! Lol. Never say never I suppose...

I doubt they pay much notice to this forum truth be told. Besides; I've ignored basically everything we do know about Zu for this, anything they do make will be totally different (And better I bet!)

1) I've made some changes to him, make him more of a hit & run assassin and Solo hunter.

2) Nothing that special, bit similar to Borka's Keg Carrier.

@Jaren-
Too true, if I could translate the time I spend writing about Warma/Hordes into time at the gaming table I'd be a veteran by now.

If you, or anyone really, get a chance to playtest these in the real world I'd love to hear the results; compared to what PP's designs go through these rules are barely first draft.

[iknowinternet]

@Jaren-
Too true, if I could translate the time I spend writing about Warma/Hordes into time at the gaming table I'd be a veteran by now

Man that hit close to home!

[simon sez]

In the Effigy of Conquest the spirit of the Colossals casts a shadow over the bloodsoaked earth of the Iron Kingdoms.
Ignorant of the eerily similar attempts of the natives and their eventual, inevitable downfall, the Crocus Guild has delivered on a promise made to the leaders of the Expeditionary Fleet to strip the lands inhabitants of their numerical advantage in one fell swoop. Fired by the cannibalised planking of the Phinneus Shae, an act itself symbolic of the souring of relations between the Zuese and the pale-face who promised them a New World, only to strand them in a theatre of war, 88 massive kilns poured forth the parts for the most ambitious Wallah ever attempted: As tall as a treasure ship's mainsail, every inch intricately carved and painted with complex motion-granting glyphs and bas-reliefs of moments of conquest and heroism in Zu's history, one of the Effigy's anatomically perfect arms is lashed with the Shae's anchor, its massive stone end swung over its head as easily as a childs kite, while its fearsome cyclopean head houses a crew of several members of the Guild, including Novitae who are expected to rappel down and urgently repair the binding glyphs that bind the constructs parts together.
So heavy are this monstrous creations footsteps that the Earth sinks beneath it, disturbing Gaia's blood so that it continuously flows through the Effigy, fuelling its motion and granting strength to its limbs; it is said that deep within the Effigy's reinforced core the heat of the fires that birthed it has never abated, giving the Effigy of Conquest an inner fire as fierce as the resolve of its creators to survive and thrive in this new world, even if they must plant their flag of conquest on a mountain of corpses.
Effigy of Conquest, Zuese Expeditionary Guildsman Battle Engine
SPD-5 STR-12 MAT-6 RAT-5 DEF-10 ARM-18 CMD-10
FA- 2
Points Cost- 10
Base Size- Huge
Damage- 20
Effigy of Conquest


Hyper Regeneration- This model automatically heals D3 damage points at the start of each of its activations.

Resonance [Guildsman] ? When it begins its activation in the command range of a friendly Guildsman model this model gains +2˝ movement this activation.

Crew Dependant- If this model suffers 5 or more damage points as a result of an enemy attack or collateral damage from an enemy attack, unless it was suffered while this model was advancing, this model loses Hyper Regeneration and Resonance [Guildsman]

Weapons [Effigy of Conquest]
Swinging Anchor [L] ? POW: 6 P+S: 18

. Chain Weapon- This weapon ignores the Buckler and Shield weapon qualities and Shield Wall.
. Thresher (* Attack) ? This model makes one melee attack with this weapon against each model in its LOS and this weapon?s melee range.

Clay Fist [R] - POW: 3 P+S: 15
. Pitch- On a hit, instead of rolling damage normally, you can choose to have this model throw the model hit. Treat the throw as if this model had hit with and passed the STR check of a throw power attack. The thrown model suffers a damage roll with POW equal to this model?s STR plus the POW of this weapon. The POW of collateral damage is equal to this model?s STR.