The Albigensian Crusade

[Bjorn Firewalker]

Are the Black Templars deploying via drop pods (what I assume those barrels are)?

[Honda]

Are the Black Templars deploying via drop pods (what I assume those barrels are)?

 

 

Before there were drop pod kits, there were people who scratch built their drop pods (raises hand) because that's how we roll. So mine are made from PVC and tops of boxed drinks like Chai and chicken soup, sitting on CDs, like all those free copies of AOL you used to get in the mail..

 

When I built them they cost around $4.00. Now it would probably cost you around $6.00. Still a good deal and I like mine because they are distinctive and I can add to them any time I want. I have three sizes, one for foot troops, one for dreads, and one to represent the Lucius drop pod.

 

Which is a long way around to say, "Yeah, everything either came in a drop pod, teleported, or in the case of the Ghost Talons, flew in."

 

It's how I wanted to go out with 7th Edition, with a BIG bang. :)

[Honda]

"From our analysis of the data and supplementary intelligence, it is clear that they have accomplished some measure of success."

"And your recommendation?"

"I must admit that I am puzzled as to the practical application of the device. That being said, the Gue'ronsha have invested quite heavily into this effort. It is clear from their actions that something of significance has transpired."

"May I then infer from your response that you support a direct intervention?"

Pausing as if to find the correct words, the Data Shas'ui stated, "A risk that we did not anticipate has materialized. Our tactical simulations did not identify the possibility of third party agents arriving. These action vectors have disrupted the stability and continuity of the follow on processing runs and the final analysis is un-"

The Por'O disconnected the channel to the Simulations and Analysis section and brought up another viz channel displaying the Fleet Commander.

"How quickly can you mobilize an interdiction cadre?"

The Shas'O responded, "I have already inserted multiple reaction forces near the target. I have only to send the activation credentials and they will sweep in and secure the site."

"Very well, send the signal now. You have one Rotaa to acquire the device and place it on a ship leavin this system."

The Shas'O looked off screen, then commented "The Gue'Ronsha have begun interdiction protocols. In less than two decs, ground forces will begin their descent. They are now deployed directly above the facility."

The Por'O replied, "I do not have to remind you who initiated this effort. How you accomplish your mission goals is irrelevant. That device will be acquired. Do you clearly understand what I am communicating?"

A sudden tightness around the eyes of the Shas'O was clearly visible to the Por'O.

Finally responding, the Shas'O hissed, "Your communication is clearly received. I only have one question."

Annoyed, the Por'O replied, "And what might that be?"

"Our...brothers who were cooperating with the Gue'Ronsha, they-"

"...will be very surprised to see you, I'm sure", said the Por'O.

+++

A Farewell to Seventh.

Our little group wanted to have one last big bang to send 7th edition off. We really enjoyed our time with 7th, playing multiple narrative tracks with it and getting the chance to tell some fun and interesting stories.

The narrative track that we are playing out at the moment is named "Helios Septa" and our story revolves around a Tau incursion (Gar) into Imperial space. Some of the twists in the story are around the mysterious interactions of Ordo Chronos and their Chamber Militant, the November Warriors (Mo). If you read some of the earlier story points, you know that the Tau have stumbled upon a level of technology involving time and have enlisted the Ordo Chronos to assist them with developing a device.

The effects of this device are unknown at this time, but as a result of multiple test runs, a Mechanicus Explorator fleet discerned data anomalies that were then follow up by Imperial forces, represented by the Grey Knights (Jefe) and the Black Templars (Honda).

The Imperial task force has acquired information indicating that the November Warriors have been subverted in some manner and now represent a dire threat. This set of circumstances was derived from data and documentation acquired during the cleansing of the November Warrior forward operation center, Murska Airbase.

The Black Templars and Grey Knights continue to pursue the November Warriors with unbridled fury and rage.

They are clearly traitors and must be dealt with.

+++

Mo is our Terrain Master and once again set up an interesting looking table with an excellent level of terrain for us to play on.

As the Imperial forces were assaulting an entrenched enemy, we rolled to see who got to set up first (NW/Tau) and then who got to go first (NW/Tau). There were six objectives laid out on the table, with VPs counted at the end of each full turn.

Like my last report, all the special effect you experience in the next few minutes were brought to you by MS PowerPoint.

Turn 0 Set up:

Turn 1

It all started with a bang, like a really big one.

The Black Templars deployed a majority of their forces via drop pod near the SATCOM antennae, the Tech Center, and the Landing Pad. Unfortunately, there were a lot of November Warriors already there and so, right from the get go we had a huge fur ball going on for the control of three out of the six objectives.

I used the Skyhammer formation for the first time and really regret not getting to use it more. The alpha strike capabilities allowed me to take out Mo's super mortar squad as well as his Sicaran.

We also had something significant to deliver, that being a Warhound titan (i.e. the Armorcast Reaver) which would enter towards the bottom of the table and move its way up crushing anything that got in its way.

Initially, that turned out to be Mo's Fellblade and a number of Gar's Hammerheads. We knew that Gar's Hammerhead cadre had to get reduced quickly as those railguns would make mincemeat of the Warhound. We also had to get rid of the Fellblade. It has too much firepower to leave operable.

Turn One Victory Points: Tau/NW 3, Imperial 3

To be continued...

[Honda]

Turn 2

+++

When engaging with a good fighter, it is important to realize that after the "punch", there will be a counter-punch.

Mo and Gar are good fighters.

Unsurprisingly, our Warhound "Ferrus Maxiumus", came under an unholy amount of firepower as the Ordo Chronos/Tau alliance responded with great violence against our engine of war.

But first, there was a surprise in store. You have to be very careful around Jefe, he always seems to have a trick or two up his sleeve. He's been playing GK/Inquisition since their inception, through multiple editions and one should be wary when engaging his forces that not all is what it seems.

In this case, Mo brought on several units behind "Ferrus Maximus" to strike down our beast from the weaker armor. What he did not take into account was the heavily armed squad assisting Mr. Coteaz. That slight misjudgment cost him a couple Sternguard squads and a stunned Storm Eagle.

Although painful, the real consequences of that missed opportunity would materialize later as despite Gar throwing more crisis suits than there are stars in the sky at the warhound, at the end of their shooting, "Ferrus Maximus", remained standing with one hull point remaining.

There are other tales of retribution, many in the Black Templars area of operations. As it turned out, two can play the Skyhammer game. Mo deployed his Skyhammer forces along with a Storm Talon and a Fire Raptor. The multi-barreled weapons of those two platforms took a heavy toll upon the Templars securing the West side of the Technology center, as well as taking down one of the Templar Ironclad dreadnoughts and a Grey Knight Dreadknight.

Mo also expressed his extreme displeasure at being "Skyhammered", by eliminating nearly half of a Devastator squad bearing Grav-cannons, though the heavy weapons remained. The assault squads escorting the Devastators took a significant amount of casualties, one squad being completely wiped out, the other forced to jump out of line of sight of the heavy firepower.

The Tau in their turn, brought on additional forces in the form of a pair of Riptides as well as another Crisis suit unit, thus moving closer to the central objective and controlling the middle reinforcement routes between the two battle areas.

Also of consequence, the Ordo Chronos air assets began asserting their dominance over the battlefield as a pair of Xiphon fighters teamed up to drop one of the Grey Knight Storm Ravens and one of the Black Templar Ghost Talons was shaken.

All in all, it was quite a brutal response to the initial Imperial punch.

That being said, power armor equipped forces are very resilient. One of the strategies the Imperial forces adopted was putting as many boots on the ground as possible. The key there is that once deployed, it is imperative that the "boots" be located where they are most needed.

One of the things that really challenged Mo is that he got the lion's share of the Black Templars deployment and thus was continually facing new "boots" in his operational area just when he thought it was safe to take a breath.

To the end, multiple terminator squads walked on to the table, crushing his Sternguard squads. The Black Templar Leviathan "AXIOS", pushed through the walls of the technology center and destroyed the siege dreadnought inside, that happened to be holding a key objective. With that pressure relieved, Black Templar forces could begin securing and sterilizing their drop sites, though there was still a dangerous amount of Tau assets in the area.

In the Southern area of operations, "Ferrus Maximus" continued to degrade the armored resources of the Tau, but the drop in firepower was barely noticeable due to the significant number of crisis suits that Gar seemed to be pulling out of thin air. It seemed that no matter how many shots or close combats the GK forces throughout, the Southern battlefield only seemed to get redder and redder.

Those of you familiar with Fire Ants, will understand the concept.

At the end of Turn 2, the situation was still very much in doubt. The Grey Knights and Black Templars were strengthening their position in the Northern battle area, but the Ordo Chronos and Tau forces were just as equally taking control of the Southern area.

Of great importance to the Imperial forces was the fact that the "Ferrus Maximus" barely stood, with only one hull point remaining. The red and yellow hyenas nipping at its heels, could see the great beast was ready to slaughter.

Turn Two Victory Points: Tau/NW 4, Imperial 7

To be continued...

[Honda]

TURN 3

"We're going to need more missiles"

+++

It all started with a bang, like a really big one...wait, did I say that already?

Oh, I did.

Well, it was true, sort of. The moment, I am sure, that the Tau and Ordo Chronos were waiting for all game had finally arrived.

Eh, no it wasn't the pizza delivery. It was their turn to take the great beast "Ferrus Maxiumus" out of the game. To be honest, I'm not entirely sure of the details as Mo and I were having a bit of back and forth on the Northern table, but I did see the flash of light and heard the thunder of its passing.

Confident that it would not have gone meekly into the night, I continued to do as much damage as I could where I was.

When I finally had a chance to take a breath, I asked Jefe "How did it go?"

With typical Bond aplomb, "Not well."

A naive Honda responded with, "Well did the warhound take a lot with him when he went?"

<there was a pause while Jefe marshaled his resolve> "No. He didn't cause any casualties when he died."

Honda immediately looked over at the Southern end and blurted out, "How could he not kill anything he was surrounded?"

"They made their saves."

Now that was a problem. I was expecting "some" casualties to Gar's suits and Mo's dreads and with that not happening, that meant that there were several crisis suit units that could then influence the mid-board and more importantly, the objectives sitting in those sectors.

That was a big problem.

As if to add insult to injury, Jefe's GK terminators wiffed in their attacks on Gar's Riptides, losing one squad and the other greatly reduced in strength. Yeah, the GK combat monsters struck out against the Girl Scout Tough Tau in hand-to-hand combat.

Things were not looking good.

As if to rub even more salt in our wounds, Gar was able to deep strike a Crisis suit unit ("WHEN is he going to run out of those freakin' suits?") into the objective sitting nice and safe on top of a bastion.

Not a good deal.

Looking at our remaining reserves, Jefe and I formulated a plan. Not a brilliant plan mind you, but something that wouldn't risk what we already had and was still able to challenge the bad guys. Something else that was weighing in on us is the fact that we had been playing for close to nine hours (seven hours of game time), although we weren't aware of that fact just yet.

So, bottom of Turn 3 and the good guys are up to bat.

The Black Templars Leviathan "AXIOS" dreadnought charged the November Warriors Warlord, a souped up Techmarine.

Actually, I'd like to say something about that real quick. The above is one of the things that I love about our crew. Mo has a fairly developed story line for why his chapter does what it does. Among other things, they are pretty obsessive about technology. To reflect that, Mo always takes IH Chapter tactics, but more importantly, his Warlord is always a Techmarine, because that fits his story. His warlord isn't a beat stick, he's a component of a bigger picture and being the narrative bunny that I am, I really appreciate that.

Back to our story...so AXIOS charged the NW Warlord named...I don't know, something in binary, I think. AXIOS waded through a couple of servitors before getting to 001001001110, but eventually he wiped out the unit contesting an objective in the Black Templars area of operations.

To help alleviate some of the pressure on the ground troops, who were taking casualties from the November Warriors Air Wing, the Black Templars Ghost Talons swooped up behind two of the NW aircraft, downing a Storm Talon and damaging the Fire Raptor.

The Grey Knights ferried a Black Templar terminator squad around the Northern edge of the Tech Center, which assisted with wiping out a unit of Marker light drones. Continuing the push, a two man Assault squad charged into an entrenched Fire Warrior squad and wiped them out.

The Grey Knight Storm Raven transporting the Templars terminators, fired on a Tau Skyray and destroyed it and damaged another.

In the middle of the table, a Black Templars Sword Brethren squad equipped with Lightning Claws and Storm Shield/Thunder hammers engaged a Riptide and turned it into tiny bits of broken ceramic armor and Tau juice. Eliminating this Riptide allowed the GK Grandmaster to move into the Bastion and contest an objective.

+++ INTERCEPTED ENEMY VOX TRAFFIC. SOURCE UNKNOWN +++

SOURCE 1: WE HAVE A PROBLEM COMMANDER!

SOURCE 2: WHAT DO YOU MEAN?

SOURCE 1: APPARENTLY THE GUE'RONSHA HAVE ENTERED THE FORTIFICATION WE JUST SEIZED.

SOURCE 2: HOW IS THAT POSSIBLE? TELL ME YOU LOCKED THE DOOR ON THE BOTTOM FLOOR!

+++ INTERCEPT END +++

So our counter attack was going according to plan. In the middle area, the Tau Crisis and Broadside suits were beginning to coalesce around the key objective on the Southern table, eradicating any resistance they encountered.

In particular, one of Gar's Broadside suits was wreaking havoc on a lot of Jefe's foot knights.

To counter that, the good guys flew a pair of Vulture gunships armed with Punisher cannons to take out the Broadsides.

I broke away from that action to take care of some assaults. When I came back, I saw that the Broadside unit was still intact, minus a couple of drones.

Asking Jefe what happened, he merely replied, "They made their saves."

Looking at Jefe with incredulity, and then at a smiling Gar, "I asked, did you remember that they are heavy 20 twin linked?"

Jefe replied, "Oh, no, I didn't."

Gar being the gentleman that he is allowed us to re-roll our dice.

To my great disbelief, the second round produced the exact same results as the first round. Unbelievable.

Turn Three Victory Points: Tau/NW 6, Imperial 11

Seeing how late it was getting, we evaluated what was possible over the next couple of turns and all agreed that, it was going to be difficult for the Tau/NW to overcome the GK/BT position on the Northern board. The Imperials were firmly entrenched in a lot of urban cover and there were still plenty of infantry and dreadnought units capable of turning any assault into a bloody siege.

Think Stalingrad.

On the other hand, the Imperials had very limited mobility and would not be able to challenge the Tau/Ordo Chronos units on the other table either. The landscape was more open and ideal for the sort of "move-shoot-move" tactics of the Tau Crisis suits...and that's "if" we could get there. As it stood, Gar had plenty of long range Broadside units to control the approach, backed up with lots of Crisis suits.

At best, it would be long murderous slog against an extremely mobile enemy.

So we looked at the time ("Whattaya mean it's freaking 9.30?") and decided to call the game done.

Besides we were pretty exhausted. This game had so many shifts in momentum and ups and downs, it's what makes this game such a blast to play, but man, do you feel like you've been through a wringer when you're done.

Imperial Victory!

After Action Report:

I'm not sure we could have arranged a better send off for 7th edition. Our group really liked 7th and played multiple narrative campaigns with it to the enjoyment of all...well, except for that time when too many Wraithknights showed up, but that's another story for another time.

That being said, we are really jazzed about 8th edition and look forward to continuing our stories.

I also wanted to give a shout out to Brother Chaplain Kage, Brian Blaire, and Eddie Orlock, brother mods from Bolter and Chainsword who stopped by to say "Hey" (it's a Texas thing), and even stayed to play a game of Blood Bowl next to our Apoc game. It was great meeting you guys and we look forward to the next time.

To be continued...

[NovemberIX]

I'd also like to thank Gar, Jefe and the esteemed Honda for coming over for this game, as well as messrs Kage, Orlock, and Blair for dropping by, getting to see a bit of that blood bowl game was awesome, I hope we not only get to meet again, but perchance play!

 

While Honda was documenting the battle for the report with his usual accuracy, I was faffing about and taking artsy pictures. With Honda's permission I'll be showing them off

 

In no particular order:

 

http://i.imgur.com/fuzs6ZB.jpg

Axios vs the Siege Dread

 

http://i.imgur.com/jPIaJmQ.jpg

"Insert witty caption here"

 

http://i.imgur.com/WV2u49p.jpg

Templars on parade

 

 

http://i.imgur.com/6uTB2L7.jpg

Guess how the tank blew up

 

http://i.imgur.com/9LvSD6i.jpg

Some call them Templars, some call them Apocalypse lords, I call them trouble

 

http://i.imgur.com/1AVSYiF.jpg

"Oh, that's a big robot"

 

http://i.imgur.com/AWSckyc.jpg

Coteaz on overwatch

 

http://i.imgur.com/ee38CwT.jpg

"That's a really metallic daemon!"

 

http://i.imgur.com/TrggCkH.jpg

"Biiiiiiiiiiird-maaaaaaaaan"

 

http://i.imgur.com/OTgRVy2.jpg

"all you need is railguns"

 

http://i.imgur.com/q6zrTj9.jpg

"say hello to my little friend"

 

http://i.imgur.com/32OUoJ8.jpg

"that'll buff right out"

 

http://i.imgur.com/tcDnLm2.jpg"Fish heads, fish heads, roly-poly fish heads"

 

I too look forward to 8th edition, and to all the crazy shenanigans we're sure to have happen!

[Honda]

LOL, who knew there was such a thing, 40K Stand-up.

 

"all you need is railguns"

 

 

Wasn't that a song on The Beatles Yellow Submarine album?

[NovemberIX]

Hahah, you got the reference in one go! And that folks is part of why we are friends :)  (now the question is, will anyone pick up the other "references" that we had going on in the game :P)

[Honda]

EPILOGUE

An off-network viz channel popped open on the Por'O's retinal display, "Your device is aboard one of our ships and in the process of exiting the system. I am sending an embedded image from the secured storage area as confirmation."

The Por'O noted the gross discourtesy displayed by the Commander, no introduction protocols triggered, no platitudes offered, just a simple direct statement.

Refusing to take the bait, the Por'O replied with a casual tone, "Everything went according to plan?"

"Yes, everything except the casualties."

"Some casualties are to be expected in pursuit of the Greater Good."

"'Some' casualties were among the technician cadre responsible for the device", replied the Commander.

Startled, the Por'O stumbled for words.

"In fact, 'some' casualties were a result of Gue'Ronsha direct action. The Gue'Ronsha apparently thought they were collaborating with the technicians, only to feel betrayed when our forces interceded unannounced. The Gue'Ronsha reacted in a rather predictable fashion.

"'As a result, 'some' casualties then, were the entire technical cadre, legs broken at the knee and ankle so they could crouch like the Gue'la. Then it appears they were lined up in a bowing position, arms tied behind their backs, and executed. I don't suppose I have to describe to you how much agony the technicians experienced just to conform to the Gue'Ronsha ritual. I also presume that you are familiar with the effects of their ballistic projectiles once they come in contact with T'au craniums.

"We do not have any of the personnel responsible for the development of this device? How are we supposed to operate it?

"Your concern for those valuable resources who lost their lives in service of the Greater Good is noted. In the future, perhaps you will consider the consequences of your actions on 'some" of those involved in your initiatives before you begin them."

"This is not my fault. Your forces were tasked with recovering the device-"

"Which we did."

Struggling with his thoughts, the Por'O replied, "How are we to continue this line of research without the associated technical resources?"

"I am sure O'Shovah will be very interested in your answer. As you pointed out earlier, this action was initiated at his request."

"I should leave you with one other item for you to take into contemplation. It appears that the Gue'Ronsha resources who collaborated on the project are now in swift pursuit of our forces as they attempt to break off from this action and exit the system. It would be extremely inconvenient if the Enclave were to suddenly be drawn into a costly and untimely engagement with the Gue'Ronsha empire. Should these events come to pass, it would very likely trigger a disruption in O'Shovah's expansion timeline."

"You will have to answer for that possibility as well."

[Firepower]

It's a grimdark TARDIS! :teehee:

[Honda]

It's a grimdark TARDIS!

 

 

You sir, get a big cookie.

[NovemberIX]

Y'all say TARDIS, I say Telephone booth outside of Circle K. :)

[Marshal Mattias]

Ha, I missed the reference until I saw that final picture and lol'ed on the train :P

Surely it will mysteriously disappear mid-journey anyway? Perhaps after a techmarine called Brother Smith turns up unannounced. He had all the paperwork, although now come to think of it, I don't think I've ever seen him around before...

 

Looked to be a cracking game, well played all. Pleased to see so much attention given to the narrative, can't wait to see what you all get up to in 8th!

[Honda]

Well, Gar and I got together for a learner game, our first 8th edition fracas.

We did plenty of things wrong, but got help from some innocent bystanders and generally had a hilarious and great time.

The game was yer basic, line 'em up, kill things and figure out how stuff works.

I took:

1 x Grimaldus

1 x EC (Priamus)

2 x 15 man Crusader squads, bolters, 1 x SB with Power <weapon>, 1 x heavy weapon, 1 x special weapon

1 x 15 man Crusader squad, bolt pistol and chainswords, 1 x SB with Power <weapon>, 1 x heavy weapon, 1 x special weapon

2 x 5 man Intercessor squads

1 x 5 man Devastator squads (3 x lascannons, 1 x MM)

1 x Predator (all lascannons)

2 x Whirlwinds

1 x Ghost Talon

The Silver Skulls took:

1 x Captain (equipped like Pedro Cantor-ish)

1 x 5 man Assault Termie squad (3 x TH/SS, 2 x TLC)

1 x 10 man Assault squad, 2 x flamers, Sgt with twin lightning claws

4 x 10 man Tactical squads, 1 x Sgt, 1 x heavy weapon, 1 x special weapon

2 x Razorbacks (1 x AC, 1 x HB)

2 x Dreadnoughts (TLLC + Missile)

1 x Vindicator

To summarize:

<left camera at home, so crappy phone pics are all you're getting and you'll like it>

Since we had a lot of equivalent kinds of units, this was almost a mirror match kind of engagement, though I was concerned about how much more shooty his stuff was.

Basically we kept maneuvering towards the center, which turned into a pretty big mosh pit. I picked off two of the TH/SS termies with my Devastators, thinking that would give me some sort of advantage. Instead, it just hacked off the survivors who managed to tie up a crusader squad, then another that jumped in to knock them off, the two Intercessor squads and the EC and Grimaldus.

Gar decided that tying up more of my units in the mosh pit was better than letting them run rampant over his units so he kept feeding tactical squads into the pit, but the real heroes were those terminators.

We got through four turns before the store was getting ready to close and finished with the Silver Skulls on top, 5-3. What was funny is that it took us three turns before Gar got First Blood and although I was hunting down his Captain, Priaums got surrounded by the swirling melee and I couldn't break him out for two turns. Very annoying.

However, it ended well with Priamus charging a full tactical squad firing a Multi-Melta, a Melta gun, seven bolters and a bolt pistol, though they were so unsettled by this action, that everything missed except for two bolters, only one of which wounded., Grimaldus, then joined him and together they were ready to put some pain on.

Alas, the game had to end.

Observations:

1. Chainswords people. They made a huge difference to the Crusader squads. I'm not saying that bolters don't have their place, but boy oh boy, do adding chainsword give you a bigger bang.

2. I was impressed with the Primaris. They weren't super soldiers by any means, but the 30 inch bolters and -1 AP along with two wounds each made them really resilient. I will field them again, ideally with some Hellblasters.

3. Assault Termies? Oh, yes ma'am, can I have another helping please. At one point Gar in all seriousness said, "Ya know, I'm not very impressed with the terminators." I just looked at him. "Are you kidding me? Are you talking about those THREE guys who have locked into combat, four times their number for two and a half turns, killed 8 Intercessors and dodged everything the Emperor's Champion through at them, ALL while Grimaldus stands over there cheering everyone on? Those termies are the one's you're not impressed with?"

4. Whirlwinds - These guys did a good job. I was able to put them out of the way and with a 72 inch range and the S7 missiles, have a lot of fun. I will be using these guys in the future.

5. Grimaldus and the Emperor's Champion.. Just yes. Re-rolls and LD and I didn't even get a chance to get Priamus into contact with the Captain.

6. The Predator "nickel and dime'd" things until he came through big time and blew away the AC Razorback, also causing 2 mortal wounds on the other Razorback in the ensuing explosion. So, still not sure about him yet, but he wasn't disappointing.

7. Ghost Talon: Barely hit the broadside of a barn. I may shift him to taking lascannons, but I'll wait on that decision. It does seem clear that you have decide whether to make him AA or Ground attack. In 7th, you could be more multi-purpose.

Anyway, we had a hoot and we eagerly look forward to the next time.

Cheers,

[Marshal_Roujakis]

Honda to your opinion, which one would be better for points, Power Weapon/Fist for the Initiate in Crusader Squads or Heavy Weapon?

Which one is better for points and efficiency?

[Honda]

Honda to your opinion, which one would be better for points, Power Weapon/Fist for the Initiate in Crusader Squads or Heavy Weapon?

Which one is better for points and efficiency?

Actually, that's a kind of tough question. The short answer is "both", because you want that flexibility.

If I had to pick one for a squad, I'd have to ask myself "Is this Crusader squad in a support role or are they one of my closers?"

I would also want to know, is it safe to assume that the special weapon is a given, that you're always going to take one?

If the squad is in a support role, then you go with the heavy. It should focus on degrading the abilities of your target for one of the closers.

If the squad is a closer, then you go with the power weapon and despite what the Internet is telling us, I'm still going to be picking Powerfists because there really isn't an answer for them short of a really good invulnerable save. Since we were playing with Power Levels, I had lots of powerfists floating around, because that's how I modeled them, but as it turned out, with all the dreads that Gar was fielding, I felt a lot more protected knowing that if he hit me with a dread, I was going to hit him back.

[Honda]

Well, Mo and I got together for a game, his first and my second.

For the most part, I'm still playing around with units,thinking how my style will adjust in 8th. I've been painting IF Primaris units and I wanted to see how they did again.

My list Power Level 100:

BTs

Grimaldus

Priamus (Emperor's Champion)

1 x 10 man Crusader squad (Pfist, BP/Chainswords)

1 x 5 man Crusader squad (Las/Plas)

1 x 5 man Crusader squad (HBolter/Plas)

3 x Whirlwinds

1 x Ghost Talon

IFs

Primaris Lieutenant

Apothecary

1 x 5 man Tactical squad (with something)

2 x 5 man Intercessors

2 x 5 man Hellblasters

Mo went with Carcharadons....which ended up being a pretty mean list.

1 x Cataphractii Captain

1 x Tyberos

3 x 5 man Tartaros terminators with twin lightning claws

1 x Legion of the Damned (flamer/heavy flamer)

1 x Contemptor Mortis with Kheres and missiles

1 x Ironclad with Chainfist and Hurricane bolters

1 x Relic Javalin

1 x Relic mortar something or other

After looking at Mo's list, I realized this was going to be a pretty tough game.

The table

Scenario:

To keep things simple, we decided to not use chapter tactics, mostly because we couldn't figure out what the Raven Guard CTs were, so we just jumped in.

Also, since the victory conditions were based on KP, we decided to add something to make it even more interesting, an objective that would allow the owner an extra 1D3 VPs at the end of the game. I supposed that I should also point out that Mo was mostly wearing 2+ armor and I...was not. Yay me!

I did have more softer units than he did, oh wait, that's not a good thing in a KP game.

It was about this time that I realized that I was in a pickle. Mo's deep strike heavy list had quite a mobility advantage over me as all my stuff was going to hoof it across the table the hard way.

And that's what happened...except that one of his terminator squads never showed up, which allowed me to stay in the game.

So I spent most of my time fighting off the majority of his army with two Primaris squads, while the rest of my army ran across the table, but also shot at things. So sometimes I was getting a -1 to hit, other times I wasn't getting closer to the enemy surrounding the key objective.

Summary of action:

With not a lot of options, I just decided to try and blow things away, as much as I could. I knew that the Contemptor was going to be a problem so it got a lot of attention early on until it died. It still beat up on me pretty good. The Ironclad wasn't as big a problem if I could stay away from the chainfist, so I started shooting at it after the Contemptor died.

Unfortunately, a lot of the targets I really needed to kill were out of sight securing the objective. Not very sharky if you ask me, but I think that Mo realized I was going to have to come to him to resolve our differences, so he could afford to wait.

Two of my Primaris squads were slowly getting beaten down, but being in cover was extremely helpful and the 2Ws per fig also helped to soak up a lot of fire.

However, there wasn't a lot I could do about getting the "sharks" off the objective until I got more bodies into proximity to the objective.

Oddly enough, one guy didn't agree with me. That guy was my Emperor's Champion. He just ran across the table until he could get close enough, and then he charged a squad of Tartaros.

So the climatic point of the game came down to the last few rolls of the game. An Intercessor squad made it into assault with Mo's captain, barely survived some serious overwatch fire by the combi-melta, only to die in hand to hand.

When we totaled up the kill points, we were tied 6-6, but Mo was in possession of the objective. He rolled the D3 and got one more VP to pull off the win.

Well done Mo!

Observations:

1. Oddly enough, I wasn't as impressed with the Hellblasters as I thought I would be. I do have to balance that observation with Mo exclaiming, "You mean those guys that were blowing chunks out of everything I had?"

2. I was at a severe mobility disadvantage this entire game. My HtH closer Crusader squad actually never made it into hand to hand.

3. For that matter, neither did Grimaldus. Last game, I ran Grimaldus and the EC together so that they could leverage each other's strengths. I separated them this game and I really regretted that decision. I won't be doing that again.

4. I'm still seeing good things out of the Whirlwind, so they stay in my lists for now.

5. The Ghost Talon under performed this game again, though it did take care of the Javelin. We also had a humorous moment when Mo's Javelin assaulted the Ghost Talon, took a lot of lead for it's efforts and then whiffed. I was quite nervous about that though.

6. Primaris still seem very resilient to me and I like the extended range of their weaponry. So I'll keep fiddling with them.

7. I gotta get my guys some "wheels". This walking stuff is for the birds. We are not IG.

So another great game and I look forward to the next.

Cheers,

[Bjorn Firewalker]

I love the comic strips featuring your Emperor's Champion. "I told you, I got this!" indeed.

[NovemberIX]

As always many thanks to Honda for coming out and being a great opponent. The battle for me was part of the Iron Gauntlet Challenge, and thus, for a more propaganda inspired report, please check out http://www.bolterandchainsword.com/topic/338278-iron-gauntlet-2017-november-warriors-vs-templarsif/ for more pictures and slightly snarky commentary. (I'm telling you, that whirlwind had to be placed by a psyker of some kind...)

[Honda]

[Bjorn Firewalker]

I wish Marvel Comics was publishing stories of THIS Black Templars-y version of Captain America, instead of the outright TRAITOR who bears Hydra (Alpha Legion infiltrator) colors, or the one "Social Justice Warriors" (Tzeentch's pawns) reduced to a spineless pansy who thinks killing an enemy soldier is an act of murder.

[Honda]

Previously...

 

http://www.bolterandchainsword.com/topic/338008-the-unwinding-coil-batrep-the-scouring-of-zircon-112517/?p=4941109

 

The Battle of Pyraxis, Pt. I

 

+++

 

+++ INCOMING MESSAGE START +++

+++ PROJECTOR: DEEPSLEEPSAT 341.98A.934.U +++

+++ SECURITY LEVEL: FAEO - ROMULUS +++

 

COUNTER STRIKE CADRE SKYTHIAN DEPLOYED. CHRONOGRAVITIC PULSE BEACON OPERATIONAL. OCTAVIAN IS STELLAR LOCAL.

 

+++ INCOMING MESSAGE END +++

+++ PROJECTOR: DEEPSLEEPSAT 341.98A.934.U +++

+++ SECURITY LEVEL: FAEO - ROMULUS +++

 

 

SOURCE 1: THE BAIT IS SET

 

SOURCE 2: AND WHAT IS THE STATUS OF ANTONY?

 

SOURCE 1: DESPITE THEIR BEST EFFORTS, IT APPEARS THE LOCATION OF THE BEACON HAS YET TO BE  DETERMINED, THUS ENSURING CONTINUED BROADCASTS. I WOULD IMAGINE THAT THERE IS A SIGNIFICANT AMOUNT OF CONSTERNATION REGARDING THE UNEXPLAINED AND UNMASKED TRANSMISSION. THE BEACON HAS MADE A SHAMBLES OF THEIR OPERATIONAL SECURITY.

 

SOURCE 2: WILL ANTONY DECIDE TO ABANDON THEIR CURRENT LOCATION?

 

SOURCE 1: IT IS MORE LIKELY THAT THEY WILL BE FORCED INTO A CONFLICT WITH OCTAVIAN, IDEALLY TO THE DETRIMENT OF BOTH SIDES.

 

SOURCE 2: HOW CAN WE BE SURE THAT OCTAVIAN WILL TAKE THE BAIT?

 

SOURCE 1: THEY ARE COMPELLED TO ACT. THEIR ZEAL COMES WITH A HIGH DEGREE OF OPERATIONAL PREDICTABILITY WHICH WILL ALLOW US TO MANIPULATE THEIR ACTIONS TO OUR BENEFIT.

 

SOURCE 2: WHAT OF OUR RISKS?

 

SOURCE 1: THERE IS A SIGNIFICANT AMOUNT OF INTELLIGENCE TO BE GATHERED. THIS  REQUIRES OUR PRESENCE. OUR RISKS WILL BE MITIGATED BY LIMITING OUR TACTICAL FOOT PRINT DURING THE OPERATION. IT IS FELT THAT STRATEGICALLY, THE FOLLOW ON BENEFITS OUTWEIGH THE RISKS.

 

ADDITIONALLY, WE HAVE INSERTED SEVERAL COUNTER STRIKE TEAMS TO EXFILTRATE WITH REMNANTS FROM EITHER SIDE WHEN THE OPPORTUNITY APPEARS. THESE ACTIONS ALONE WILL PROVIDE UNPARALLELED RECONNAISANCE AND  EXCELLENT INTERDICTION OPPORTUNITIES LATER IN THE OPERATION.

 

SOURCE 2: PROCEED

 

+++

[Honda]

+++

The Arch-Dominus hung from the ceiling like bloated spider.

The distance between himself and his audience, though still respectful, was noticeably greater. Due to continuing series of exchanges, he had become more hesitant when presenting data to his current host.

Spreading his leg projectors an image coalesced in front of his audience.

"We have found another installation belonging to the blasphemers!"

One of the tall giants, his usual adversary during these debates, stepped forward into the image.

"And how was this installation discovered Arch-Dominus?"

"Pulsed data packets bearing previously used ident-tags attracted a cloud of data harvesters. After sifting through the significant amounts of stellar noise, a solution was determined that allowed us to triangulate the location of the data emitter. Upon expanding the harvest parameters, this installation was discovered."

"Interesting. Are you able to tell how long this...signal has been broadcasting?"

The spider paused briefly before responding, "The signal began propagating 1.0094 hours after our arrival."

"Arch-Dominus, does it not strike you as slightly...anomalous that so soon after we initiated our hunt within this system, 'something' appears to direct us to exactly what we are looking for? In a system believed to be devoid of inhabitants for over three millenia. I wonder what the odds are of that occurring might be?"

Once again the spider paused.

"Taking into account all known factors at this time, I calculate that the likelihood of two randomly generated phenomena taking place within this system at this time to be 0.000000000000000000038."

The giant replied with a smile in his voice, "That high, eh?"

Turning to his left, the Adversary commanded, "Fleet Master, let us not be surprised, it is clear that someone has prepared for our arrival. I want to know exactly where the threats are. You have two hours."

Turning to his right, "Brother, prepare your sword. Someone is waiting for us. Let us not disappoint them."

Looking up, " As always Arch-Dominus, it has been a pleasure."

[SydonianDragoon404]

I like the bullet casing holders as the terrain. Those storm talons are super cool as well. 

[Bjorn Firewalker]

You're skilled when writing from an AdMech Magos and a Black Templar's POV.