After last month, I re-worked my schedule for the rest of the OWAC. Aaaaand it went off the rails right away in February. I did paint the five seekers I was originally going to paint in January, but then rescheduled for this month. These were a last minute acquisition, old Marauder sea elves to replace the wood elf miniatures I was originally going to use. Now that I've painted them I really wish that (a) I had more, and (b) there were more models in the range. (I would like to pick up some more if I get the chance! One is actually a Marauder wood elf, but I'm pretty sure both ranges were sculpted by Trish Carden & the styles look good together.)
I had also planned on painting the attack chariot this month, but only got part way through assembly of the chariot itself. The crew are primed, and the horses have a base coat of grey paint on them. So a last minute change of plans, and I've swapped out the chariot for the contingent commander. Probably not the most "oldhammer" miniatures to some, but I've always liked it quite a bit. I painted one for someone else, long ago, but now I've got my own. I think he's got a nice, haughty look to him that fits my concept for a leader of a mixed sea elf military force from Marienburg. (Later Ral Partha high elf, sculpted by Chris Fitzpatrick I believe.) I want to paint some more freehand detail on his cloak, but I'm still working on a design. I'm going to call him done for now, but he may receive and update at some point.
Seekers
The forces of the sea elves in Marienburg can vary greatly, and many light troops are used. Scouting, spying, small escort, delivery, and diplomatic missions mean light and flexible troops are in demand. Being in high demand, these sorts of troops can be drawn from the ranks of the various trade houses, from the native wood elves, or from the ships' crews.
These are among the latter. Every sailor plays a number of roles, and many have experience in scouting missions as a landing party. During extended stays in port, some sailors hire themselves out as scouts, whether it be for the gold, the excitement, the chance to see more of the Old World, or just a way to pass the time before setting sail again.
Galion
The current leader of the Elven Continental Exarchate Defence and Expedition Forces (DEF) is a young second son of a fading noble line, Galion of House Äënäräë. Despite the impressive sound of the titles and powers bestowed upon Galion, his position involves a shared responsibility for keeping order in the elven quarter of Marienburg, and leading the security detail for trade and diplomatic missions centered out of the “Star-Gem-by-the-Sea,” as the Marienburg colony is known. The office is better than an elf of his age and social standing could hope for, and one with only minimal risks. Young Galion also has plenty of time to indulge in his love of salons and wine, and although he is loathe to admit to his fondness for “slumming,” he spends a good deal of time in some of the best human social clubs in Marienburg with a small crowd of other young elves of even lesser standing and even more limited futures. But he is also an elf with dreams of making a name for himself, returning to Ulthan, and joining greater social circles. All he lacks is an opportunity to seize. And better judgement.
Although the DEF seldom see large scale action or anything important enough to further Galion’s “fame & bigger parties” agenda, the elves-who-are-not-riding-chariots are an effective force for the duties to which they are typically assigned.
This month’s addition to Galion’s DEF jam are...
Galion of House Äënäräë (lv. 15 hero) : 128 points + equipment
5 Seekers (scouts w/ longbow & hand weapons) : 80 points
Total to date: 408 pts.
