See also:
Mass Combat in Ghastly Affair Part I – Infantry Units
Mass Combat in Ghastly Affair Part II – Cavalry Units

Some Notes About 18^th Century and Napoleonic Artillery Units

Eighteenth century people were obsessed with hierarchies and social status, and this obsession extended to the battlefield. Of the three types of army units (Artillery Infantry, and Cavalry) Artillery was definitely the least respected. Before Napoleon (who began his own career as an Artillery officer) demonstrated the full capacity of properly utilized Artillery to determine the outcome of battles, Infantry and Cavalry officers tended to regard Artillery as just a tool for breaking down fortifications and degrading enemy forces before the “real” and honorable fighting occurred. Because Artillery Officers needed to have actual mathematical ability to accurately calculate distances and trajectories, they tended to hail from the education-minded middle class – unlike than the Infantry and Cavalry officers of most 18^th century armies, who usually had aristocratic origins, and simply purchased their commissions.

There were three types of Field Artillery pieces used in the 18^th century and Napoleonic era – Cannons, Mortars, and Howitzers.

• • Cannons were guns intended primarily for firing more or less directly at the target, at angles less than 45 degrees.

• • Mortars were guns intended for firing at angles steeper than 45 degrees.

• • Howitzers were guns capable of being fired at both shallow and steep angles.

Cannons and Howitzers were mounted on wheels, and hauled into place by a team of draft horses (typically about six, but as many as twelve) with the aid of two-wheeled carts called “limbars”. Mortars did not have wheels, but were loaded onto separate carts to be transported. A typical crew for each piece was six soldiers, with several additional engineers and support troops. In addition to its artillery pieces, an Artillery Unit would have additional horses, carts, and wagons transporting ordinance, bags of gunpowder, tools, and supplies for the crew.

There were four main types of projectiles fired by Field Artillery – Cannonballs (also called “round shot”), Grapeshot (many small iron balls enclosed in a bag), Canister (many large bullets packed in a metal can, like a giant shotgun shell), and Explosive Shells (hollow, gunpowder-filled iron balls with fuses).

• • A typical battlefield Cannonball was made of cast iron. It had a range of up to 4,500 feet when fired in an arc, and 1,500 feet when fired directly. Cannonballs could be fired over the heads of friendly Units to hit distant targets. They can also be put in a furnace to produced Heated Shot.

• • Grapeshot was effective up to 2,000 feet, but must be fired directly at the target. It cannot be fired over the heads of friendly units without hitting them.

• • Canister was effective up to 1,000 feet, and is usually loaded when Artillery Units are about to be directly engaged by Infantry or Cavalry. Like Grapeshot, it could only be fired straight ahead, and could not be arced over the heads of friendly units. A Canister-like shot could be improvised by loading the cannon with things like nails, forks, knives, and broken metal plates – this was called “Scrapshot”.

• • Explosive Shells (or “Bombs”) could be fired in arcs at targets between 500 and 4,500 feet distant. In many ways, they combined the best features of Cannonballs and Grapeshot. Unfortunately, they were also dangerously unreliable. Explosive Shells are usually shot from Howitzers and Mortars.

By the late 18^th century it was typical for the bag of powder that propelled a projectile to be affixed to it in a pre-made “cartridge”, making cannons much easier to operate than they had been in previous centuries.

Cannons were historically rated according to the weight of the Cannonballs they fired. The typical field Cannons of the 18^th Century and Napoleonic Age were therefore referred to to as “8 Pound” or “9 Pound” guns, but both lighter and heavier ones were used. Mortars and Howitzers, on the other hand, were usually classified by their caliber – an 8 pound cannon corresponded to a 4 inch howitzer or mortar. Because it needed to be transportable, Field Artillery tended to be much smaller than the Naval Artillery mounted aboard ships.

As with Infantry units, there was always be a Drummer attached to an Artillery unit – to communicate orders, and maintain morale.

ARTILLERY BATTERY

8 to 12 guns, manned by 80 to 120 soldiers, and firing as a unit.

Creature Class: Antagonist
Number Appearing: 1 – 6
Initial Impression: Approximately eight large artillery pieces, manned by about a hundred soldiers. Sixty or more horses are nearby, along with various carts. The sound of drums can be heard.
Size: Large (100’ x 100’ square)

Perversity: 13
Disposition: Aggressive
Charisma: 11 (or same as commanding Captain) Intelligence: 11 Wisdom: 9
Strength: 5,400 Dexterity: 9 Constitution: 9
Speed: 9 hauled, 3 maneuvering on the battlefield

Armor Class: None
Hit Dice: 50
Attacks: 1 (cannon barrage for 4d6+50 damage)
Special Abilities: Attack with Intelligence, Break Unit Formations, Dissolve Into Squads, Ignore Personal Armor, Multiple Targets, Point-blank Canister Shot, Target Structures
Weaknesses: Cannon Smoke, Explosive Shell Misfire, Ten Round Reload
Possible Assets (+3 Bonus): Brilliant Commander, Seasoned Troops.
Possible Afflictions (-3 Penalty): Poorly Equipped, Incompetent Commander, Sick, Malnourished.
Preternatural Powers: None (Unless a Magician or Mad Scientist is part of unit)

Level: 10

The Battery is the basic tactical unit of Field Artillery, and is commanded by a Captain. It will usually fire all of its guns in a simultaneous “barrage”.

An Artillery Battery reduced to 0 Hit Points breaks up into 2 Artillery Squads of 2 guns each. If the Battery was broken by an enemy Artillery Unit (or such things as Fireballs, Lightning Bolts, or a Dragon’s breath) the remaining guns are destroyed. If the Artillery Battery had been broken by an Infantry or Cavalry unit, then the abandoned guns (numbering from four to eight) can be captured.

Artillery Battery Special Abilities

Attack with Intelligence: Because accurately aiming Field Artillery is a matter of applied mathematics, an Artillery Units makes Attack Checks using Intelligence rather than Dexterity.

Break Unit Formations: A successful attack with Grapeshot, Canister, or Explosive Shell by an Artillery Battery forces a targeted Military Unit to immediately Check Morale. Failure means the unit immediately stops any forward movement, and devolves into a Skirmish Line (if not in that formation already).

Dissolve Into Squads: An Artillery Battery can be broken up into 4 to 6 Artillery Squads with two guns apiece. This could be done to more effectively place the guns, or for the pieces to fire in a staggered manner (rather than as a simultaneous barrage).

Heated Shot: Heated Shot consists of Cannonballs heated in a portable furnace until red hot. A successful attack does normal damage, but any inflammable structure (such as a palisade wall or sailing ship) struck is also set on fire. It takes 2 Turns (20 minutes) to prepare a barrage of Heated Shot.

Ignore Armor: An Artillery Battery can ignore any Armor Class a target enjoys due to wearing personal armor such as a breastplate or helmet – or from having tough skin or scales.

• • For example, a unit of heavy Cuirasseur cavalry in the open are AC 0 (None) when targeted by an Artillery Battery.

• • Similarly, a Dragon targeted by an Artillery Battery is AC 0 (none), rather than 10. Hence the extreme rarity of Dragons after the Middle Ages!

• • Note that an Artillery Battery can target just the defenders within (or behind) a structure using Grapeshot, Canister, or arced Cannonballs, without attempting to destroy the structure itself.

Multiple Targets: The Battery can attack multiple targets or units instead of firing one massive barrage at single enemy. The Battery makes a normal Check for each attack, but its total Damage Bonus is divided among its targets. For example:

Targets	Damage per attack
1	4d6 + 50
2	4d6 + 25
3	4d6 + 17
4	4d6 + 13
5	4d6 + 10
6	4d6 +8

Point-blank Canister Shot: If an Artillery Battery fires Canister at a target within 300 feet directly in front of it and not obscured by Cover (such trees or walls), then the Battery will automatically inflict full damage (4d6+50) without needing to make an Attack Check. Additionally, any surviving target that fails a Morale Check will flee in disorder.

Target Structures: When firing Cannonballs, Heated Shot, or Explosive Shells an Artillery Battery can inflict full hit point damage against structures of stone, wood and brick not usually affected by lead bullets or normal hand-to-hand weapons (such as sabers). If Heated Shot or Explosive Shells are used, inflammable structures are also set on fire.

If an attack against a structure succeeds, the Artillery Battery then rolls another Attack Check for each target inside (or behind) the structure. The Check is made with Penalty equal to the Cover granted by the structure. If the Check(s) succeed(s), each target suffers the same hit point damage as the structure.

Note that an Artillery Battery can use Grapeshot or Canister to target just the defenders within (or behind) a structure, without attempting to destroy the structure itself with Cannonballs, Heated Shot or Explosive Shells.

Artillery Battery Weaknesses

Cannon Smoke: After firing its first barrage, an Artillery Battery suffers a -2 Penalty on further attacks, but also enjoys a +2 on its Armor Class. This is due to a large cloud of smoke enveloping the Unit and obscuring sight. This Cannon Smoke will last until the Battery spends a full Turn not firing its guns, or moves 50’ from its current position.

Explosive Shell Misfire: For every barrage with Explosive Shells there is 1 in 20 chance of an explosive misfire, inflicting 6d6 damage on the Unit and destroying the gun.

Ten Round Reload: Field Artillery takes 10 Rounds to reload and sight, during which time the Artillery Battery has no effective attack.

ARTILLERY SQUAD

2 guns, manned by 16 to 20 soldiers.

Creature Class: Antagonist
Number Appearing: 1 – 4
Initial Impression: A pair of large artillery pieces, manned by well over a dozen soldiers. A dozen or more horses are nearby, along with various carts. The sound of drums can be heard.
Size: Large (20’ x 20’ square)

Perversity: 13
Disposition: Aggressive
Charisma: 11 Intelligence: 11 Wisdom: 9
Strength: 1,080 Dexterity: 11 Constitution: 9
Speed: 9 hauled, 3 maneuvering on the battlefield

Armor Class: None
Hit Dice: 12
Attacks: 1 (cannon barrage for 4d6+12 damage)
Special Abilities: Attack with Intelligence, Break Unit Formations, Ignore Personal Armor, Point-blank Canister Shot, Target Structures
Weaknesses: Cannon Smoke, Explosive Shell Misfire, Ten Round Reload
Possible Assets (+3 Bonus): Brilliant Commander, Seasoned Troops.
Possible Afflictions (-3 Penalty): Poorly Equipped, Incompetent Commander, Sick, Malnourished.

Level: 10

The Squad is the smallest unit of Field Artillery, and is commanded by a Lieutenant. Both guns will usually fire in a simultaneous “barrage”.

An Artillery Squad reduced to 0 Hit Points becomes a single cannon, a crew of 6 to 8 soldiers, and a team of 4 to 6 draft horses.

Artillery Squad Special Abilities

Attack with Intelligence: Because accurately aiming Field Artillery is a matter of applied mathematics, an Artillery Units makes Attack Checks using Intelligence rather than Dexterity.

Break Unit Formations: A successful attack with Grapeshot, Canister, or Explosive Shell by an Artillery Squad forces a targeted Military Unit to immediately Check Morale. Failure means the unit immediately stops any forward movement, and devolves into a Skirmish Line (if not in that formation already).

Heated Shot: Heated Shot consists of Cannonballs heated in a portable furnace until red hot. A successful attack does normal damage, but any inflammable structure (such as a palisade wall or sailing ship) struck is also set on fire. It takes 2 Turns (20 minutes) to prepare a barrage of Heated Shot.

Ignore Armor: An Artillery Squad can ignore any Armor Class a target enjoys due to wearing personal armor such as a breastplate or helmet – or from having tough skin or scales.

• • Note that an Artillery Squad can target just the defenders within (or behind) a structure using Grapeshot, Canister, or arced Cannonballs, without attempting to destroy the structure itself.

Point-blank Canister Shot: If an Artillery Squad fires Canister at a target within 300 feet directly in front of it and not obscured by Cover (such trees or walls), then the Squad will automatically inflict full damage (4d6+50) without needing to make an Attack Check. Additionally, any surviving target that fails a Morale Check will flee in disorder.

Target Structures: When firing Cannonballs, Heated Shot, or Explosive Shells an Artillery Squad can inflict full hit point damage against structures of stone, wood and brick not usually affected by lead bullets or normal hand-to-hand weapons (such as sabers). If Heated Shot or Explosive Shells are used, inflammable structures are also set on fire.

If an attack against a structure succeeds, the Artillery Squad then rolls another Attack Check for each target inside (or behind) the structure. The Check is made with Penalty equal to the Cover granted by the structure. If the Check(s) succeed(s), each target suffers the same hit point damage as the structure.

Note that an Artillery Squad can use Grapeshot or Canister to target just the defenders within (or behind) a structure, without attempting to destroy the structure itself with Cannonballs, Heated Shot or Explosive Shells.

Artillery Squad Weaknesses

Cannon Smoke: After firing its first barrage, an Artillery Squad suffers a -2 Penalty on further attacks, but also enjoys a +2 on its Armor Class. This is due to a large cloud of smoke enveloping the Unit and obscuring sight. This Cannon Smoke will last until the Squad spends a full Turn not firing its guns, or moves 50’ from its current position.

Explosive Shell Misfire: For every barrage with Explosive Shells there is 1 in 20 chance of an explosive misfire, inflicting 6d6 damage on the Unit and destroying the gun.

Ten Round Reload: Field Artillery takes 10 Rounds to reload and sight, during which time the Artillery Squad has no effective attack.

SPECIALIZED ARTILLERY

Light Artillery: These units use 4 and 6 Pound guns that do less damage (3d6+Damage Bonus), but can be maneuvered into position more quickly (Speed 5 rather than 3 on the battlefield).

Heavy Artillery: These units use 12 pound guns that do more damage (5d6 + Damage Bonus), but are are even slower to maneuver on the battlefield (Speed 2 rather than 3 on the battlefield).

Horse Artillery: These units use more horses (twelve or more per piece) and lighter guns that are specially destined for rapid deployment. Horse Artillery inflicts 2d6+Damage Bonus on a successful Attack. It moves at Speed 9 (both while being hauled and on the battlefield). Horse Artillery is naturally much more expensive to operate than ordinary Field Artillery.

Siege Artillery: These units use massive 24 to 36 pound guns that inflict 10d6+Damage Bonus. Siege Artillery is extremely slow and unwieldy, however, moving at Speed 6 when being hauled, and Speed 1 when maneuvering on the battlefield. Such large guns are seldom encountered on 18^th century and Napoleonic battlefields, by that time being used mostly on ships and for coastal defense.

Rockets: These cutting-edge weapons were adapted by the British from examples used by the forces of Tipu Sultan in India. A barrage of Rockets is similar to one of Exploding Shells – inflicting 4d6+Damage Bonus to a target, and setting fire to inflammable structures. They can also be used to Break Unit Formations. Rockets have a long range of 10,000 feet, and a barrage can be fired once every other Round. Unfortunately, they are inaccurate (-2 on Attack Checks), and there is also a 1 in 20 chance per barrage that one of the rockets will explode before liftoff, inflicting 6d6 damage to its Unit.

TARGETING BONUSES AND PENALTIES FOR ARTILLERY UNITS

Target is moving: -2

Target is Military Unit in Line or Wedge formation: +2

Target is in Military Unit in Skirmish Line: -2

OPTIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL MODIFIERS

Environment	Speed Modifier	Artillery Attacks into area	Cavalry Attacks into area	Infantry Attacks into area	Prevented Formations and Movements
Dead Cavalry	½ Speed	No Modifier	No Modifier	No Modifier	Line, Column, Wedge. Area cannot be Charged through.
Dead Infantry	-2	No Modifier	No Modifier	No Modifier	None
Fog, Heavy	-2	-4	-4	-4	All formations except Skirmish Line.
Fog, Light	None	-2	-2	-2	None
Forest, Heavy	-4	-4	-4	-2	All formations except Skirmish line. Area cannot be Charged through.
Forest, Light	-3	-2	-2	None	Line, Wedge.
Gun Smoke	None	-2	-2	-2	None
High Ground (Attacking)	-2	No Modifier	-2	-2	None
High Ground (Defending)	+2	No Modifier	None	+2	None
High Heat	No Modifier	No Modifier	-2	-2	None
High Wind	-2	-2	-2	-2	None
Muddy Ground	-2	-2	-2	-2	None
Rain	None	-2	-2	-2	None
Rocky Ground	-2	No Modifier	-2	No Modifier	Area cannot be Charged through.
Snow, Deep	-2	No Modifier	-2	-2	Area cannot be Charged through.
Snow, Trace	No Modifier	No Modifier	No Modifier	No Modifier	None
Swamp	-4	No Modifier	-4	-4	All except Skirmish Line. Artillery cannot be placed in a Swamp, but can attack other units in Swamps.
Wreckage and Rubble	-2	-2	-2	-2	Line, Wedge. Area cannot be Charged through.

Remember, all modifiers in Ghastly Affair “stack”, so it is very possible to get into a situation where it’s nearly impossible for a military unit to fight effectively at all. For example, a company of ordinary infantry trying to attack hand-to-hand uphill, on muddy ground, in the rain, with high winds, suffers a total Penalty to their Attack Check of -8. The have to roll under a 3 to inflict any significant damage on the defending unit occupying the high ground.

---

HIT POINTS AND COVER OF TYPICAL STRUCTURES AND FORMATIONS

Structure Type	Cover (AC Bonus to people within or behind while still intact)	Hit Points (0 = collapse into Wreckage and Rubble)	Notes:
Brick Wall, Single Wythe	9 if taller than a person, 5 if half height.	75 per 10’ section	Only damaged by Pickaxes, Grenades, and Field Artillery.
Brick Wall, Double Wythe	9 if taller than a person, 5 if half height.	150 per 10’ section	Only damaged by Pickaxes, Grenades, and Field Artillery.
Brick Wall, Triple Wythe	9 if taller than a person, 5 if half height.	300 per 10’ section	Only damaged by Pickaxes, Grenades, and Field Artillery.
Brick Cottage	9	150	Only damaged by Pickaxes, Grenades, and Field Artillery.
Carriage, Enclosed	6	30	Inflammable.
Carriage, Open	2	20	Inflammable.
Castle Tower (Stone)	19	800	Only damaged by Pickaxes, Grenades, and Field Artillery.
Column, Stone	19	50	Only damaged by Pickaxes, Grenades, and Field Artillery.
Door, Fortified	9	30	Inflammable. Can be damaged by Axes and Bullets.
Earthen Embankment, Sloped, 5’ thick	19	5,00 per 10’ section	Only damaged by Pickaxes, Shovels, Grenades, and Field Artillery.
Earthen Embankment, Sloped, 10’ thick	19	1,000 per 10’ section	Only damaged by Pickaxes, Shovels, Grenades, and Field Artillery.
Half-Timber Cottage	9	100	Inflammable. Can be damaged by Axes and Bullets.
Ship, Frigate	7	500	Inflammable. Can be damaged by Axes.
Ship, Merchant	7	300	Inflammable. Can be damaged by Axes.
Ship of the Line	7	1,500	Inflammable. Can be damaged by Axes.
Small Hillock (20’ x 10’)	19	3,000	Only damaged by Pickaxes, Shovels, Grenades, and Field Artillery.
Statue, Marble	5	15	Damaged by all metal weapons.
Stone Boulder, 3’ x 3’ x 3’	9	500	Only damaged by Pickaxes, Grenades, and Field Artillery.
Stone Boulder, 10’ x 10’ x 10’	9	2,000	Only damaged by Pickaxes, Grenades, and Field Artillery.
Stone Wall, 2’ Thick:	19 if taller than a person, 9 if half height.	500 per 10’ section	Only damaged by Pickaxes, Grenades, and Field Artillery.
Stone Wall, 5’ Thick:	19 if taller than a person, 9 if half height.	1,000 per 10’ section	Only damaged by Pickaxes, Grenades, and Field Artillery.
Stone Wall, 10’ Thick:	19 if taller than a person, 9 if half height.	2,000 per 10’ section	Only damaged by Pickaxes, Grenades, and Field Artillery.
Stone Cottage	19	400	Only damaged by Pickaxes, Grenades, and Field Artillery.
Tree, Large	5	20	Inflammable.
Wagon	3	20	Can be damaged by Axes and Bullets.
Wall of Ice (Preternatural)	9	40 per square foot	Damaged by all metal weapons.
Wall of Iron (Preternatural)	19	50 per square foot	Only damaged by steel Pickaxes, Grenades, and Field Artillery.
Wall of Stone (Preternatural)	19	50 per square foot	Only damaged by Pickaxes, Grenades, and Field Artillery.
Wall of Thorns (Preternatural)	7	5 hp per square foot	Inflammable. Damaged by all metal weapons.
Wooden Palisade	9	100 per 10’ section	Inflammable. Can be damaged by Axes.
Wooden Fort Tower, 20’ tall x 10’ wide	9	200	Inflammable. Can be damaged by Axes.

Structures grant full cover as long as they have half or more of their hit points. After that they grant only ½ their usual cover. Completely destroyed structures count as “Wreckage and Rubble”, and grant only a +2 to AC.

See also: Mass Combat in Ghastly Affair Part I – Infantry Units

Some Notes on 18^th Century and Napoleonic Cavalry

The typical Cavalry of the 18^th Century and Napoleonic era were called either “Dragoons” or “Carabiniers”. In earlier centuries the term “Dragoon” had referred to Infantry units that rode into battle but dismounted to fight, but had come to designate general-purpose or (“Line”) Cavalry capable of fighting both in open and close formations. The term “Carabinier” on the other hand, made reference to the short-barreled musket (carbine) that was the main artillery weapon of most Cavalry units. Other, more specialized types of Cavalry included “Hussars” (light raiding units that wore Hungarian-inspired uniforms and mustaches), “Lancers” (which carried long lances that made their charges especially formidable) and Cuirassiers (heavy units who wore steel breastplates and helmets). Whatever his designation and primary weapon, every cavalryman also carried a pistol, and some kind of sword or saber for hand-to-hand combat

Serving in (or officering) a cavalry unit was considered much more prestigious (and romantic) than service in an infantry (or artillery) unit. Because they frequently had to provide their own horses and pay for their own training, cavalry tended to be drawn from higher up the social scale than the infantry. Cavalry officers had an especial reputation for arrogance and imperiousness, which was particularly notable among “Hussar” units. Besides the overall unit commander, every Cavalry unit had a Bugler or Trumpeter, who communicated orders and help maintain morale by playing their horn. A minor officer called a “Cornet” (comparable to the Ensign of an Infantry unit) carried the flag or banner of the unit. Often, the Cornet also assumed the duties of the Trumpeter.

Not only would the soldiers in a unit wear a distinctive uniform, but it was also common for all the horses in a Cavalry unit to be the same breed – and often, the same color.

CAVALRY COMPANY

60 to 120 soldiers mounted on horses and acting as a unit.

Creature Class: Antagonist
Number Appearing: 1 – 3
Initial Impression: About a hundred mounted soldiers in uniform, accompanied by occasional blasts from a bugle.

Size: Large (150’ x 20’ in Line, 60’ x 60’ in Wedge, 150’ x 100’ in Skirmish Line)
Perversity: 13
Disposition: Aggressive
Charisma: 11 (or same as commanding Captain) Intelligence: 9 Wisdom: 9
Strength: 7,200 Dexterity: 11 Constitution: 9
Speed: 12

Armor Class: None
Hit Dice: 30
Attacks: 1 (carbines and pistols; or sabers, lances, pistols, and trampling) [½ Damage when in Wedge or Skirmish Line]
Special Abilities: Dissolve into Troops, Charge, Form Line, Form Wedge, Form Skirmish Line, Immune to Single Target Magic, Multiple Attacks, Trample Infantry.
Weaknesses: Gun Smoke, Pistol and Carbine Inaccuracy.
Possible Assets (+3 Bonus): Brilliant Commander, Marksmen, Seasoned Troops, Fanatical.
Possible Afflictions (-3 Penalty): Poorly Equipped, Incompetent Commander, Sick, Malnourished.
Preternatural Powers: None (Unless a Magician or Mad Scientist is part of unit)

Level: 10

An 18^th Century Cavalry Company is approximately 100 mounted men commanded by a Captain. Two Companies joined together form a Cavalry Squadron.

A Cavalry Company reduced to 0 Hit Points becomes two Cavalry Troops in Skirmish Line formation. A 300’ diameter area around the center point where the Company broke will be filled with dead horses, slain men, and scattered equipment. All movement through that area is at half Speed, it cannot be Charged through, and any other Military Units within that area (other than Infantry in Square) are forced into Skirmish Line formation.

Cavalry Company Special Abilities.

Charge: If a Cavalry Company in Line or Wedge formation gallops at full speed towards a target or unit for at least one full Round, the Company does double damage (1d6 +Damage Bonus, times 2) on its first Round of hand-to-hand combat (except against an Infantry unit in Square formation). The Company can make no attacks during the Round(s) spent galloping towards its target, however.

Dissolve into Troops. A Company can be broken up into 4 or 5 independent Cavalry Troops.

Form Line: A Line is a wide formation of horses in two rows, nearly shoulder to shoulder. A Company in a Line inflicts full 1d6+30 damage on each attack. It takes 10 Rounds to Form a Line.

Form Wedge: A Wedge is a triangular formation of horses attacking with its apex pointed at its opponent. A Cavalry unit in Wedge formation does only half damage on a successful attack, but any defending Infantry Units in Line or Column must immediately check Morale or involuntarily devolve into a Skirmish Line (and allow the Cavalry to ride through them it if wants). It takes 10 Rounds to form a Wedge.

Form Skirmish Line: A Skirmish Line is an irregular and open formation that allows horses maximum freedom of movement, and makes the unit harder to target with cannons. A unit in Skirmish Line can also occupy the same area as an opponent. However, a Company in a Skirmish Line only inflicts half damage on a successful attack. It takes 3 Rounds to deliberately Form a Skirmish Line from any other formation.

Immune to Single Target Magic: Because a Cavalry Company is an aggregate of individuals, it is effectively immune to Preternatural Effects that affect just a single Recipient. Unfortunately, this also means that Curing and Healing effects that only benefit individuals are wasted as well. Effects that target as area (such as Fireball), work normally.

Multiple Attacks: The Company can attack multiple targets or units instead of concentrating on a single one. The Company makes a normal Check for each attack, but its Damage Bonus is reduced as shown below:

 

Targets	Damage Bonus per attack
1	+30
2	+15
3	+10
4	+8
5	+6

Trample Infantry: A Cavalry Company does double damage (1d6 + Damage Bonus, times 2) when engaged in hand-to-hand combat against Infantry units (except those in Square formation).

Cavalry Company Weaknesses

Gun Smoke: After its first volley of pistol or carbine fire, a Company in any formation other than a Skirmish Line suffers a -2 Penalty on all further attacks. This is due to a large cloud of smoke enveloping the unit and obscuring sight. This Gun Smoke will last until the Company spends a full Turn not firing its guns, or moves 50’ from its current position.

Pistol and Carbine Inaccuracy: Almost all Cavalry units are –2 on Attack Checks against targets further than 50’ distant, due to the inaccuracy of their smooth-bore pistols and carbines. Furthermore, smooth-bore pistols are completely inaccurate past 225 feet, and carbines past 350 feet.

CAVALRY PATROL

10 to 20 soldiers mounted on horses and acting as a unit.

Creature Class: Antagonist
Number Appearing: 1
Initial Impression: About a dozen mounted soldiers in uniform, accompanied by occasional blasts from a bugle.
Size: Large (20’ x 20’ in Line, 20’ x 20’ in Wedge, 50’ x 30’ in Skirmish Line)

Perversity: 13
Disposition: Aggressive
Charisma: 11 (or same as commanding Sergeant) Intelligence: 9 Wisdom: 9
Strength: 1,200 Dexterity: 11 Constitution: 9
Speed: 12

Armor Class: None
Hit Dice: 6
Attacks: 1 (carbines and pistols; or sabers, lances, pistols, and trampling) [½ Damage when in Wedge or Skirmish Line]
Special Abilities: Dissolve into Troops, Charge, Form Line, Form Skirmish Line, Multiple Attacks, Trample Infantry.
Weaknesses: Gun Smoke, Pistol and Carbine Inaccuracy.
Possible Assets (+3 Bonus): Brilliant Commander, Marksmen, Seasoned Troops, Fanatical.
Possible Afflictions (-3 Penalty): Poorly Equipped, Incompetent Commander, Sick, Malnourished.
Preternatural Powers: None (Unless a Magician or Mad Scientist is part of unit).

Level: 6

A Cavalry Patrol is the smallest unit of Cavalry, typically encountered while performing reconnaissance for a larger unit. Typically it consists of about a dozen cavalrymen commanded by either a junior Lieutenant, or a Sergeant.

A Cavalry Patrol reduced to 0 Hit Points breaks up into 5 or 6 mounted individuals. A 40’ diameter area around the center point where the Patrol broke will be filled with dead horses, slain men, and scattered equipment. All movement through that area is at half Speed, it cannot be Charged through, and any other Military Units within that area (other than Infantry in Square) are forced into Skirmish Line formation.

Cavalry Patrol Special Abilities.

Charge: If a Cavalry Patrol in Line or Wedge formation gallops at full speed towards a target or unit for at least one full Round, the Patrol does double damage (1d6 +Damage Bonus, times 2) on its first Round of hand-to-hand combat (except against an Infantry unit in Square formation). The Patrol can make no attacks during the Round(s) spent galloping towards its target, however.

Dissolve Unit: A Patrol can be broken up into individual cavalrymen and horses.

Form Line: A Line is a wide formation of horses in two rows, nearly shoulder to shoulder. A Patrol in a Line inflicts full 1d6+6 damage on each attack. It takes 10 Rounds to Form a Line.

Form Skirmish Line: A Skirmish Line is an irregular and open formation that allows horses maximum freedom of movement, and makes the unit harder to target with cannons. A unit in Skirmish Line can also occupy the same area as an opponent. However, a Patrol in a Skirmish Line only inflicts half damage on a successful attack. It takes 3 Rounds to deliberately Form a Skirmish Line from any other formation.

Immune to Single Target Magic: Because a Cavalry Patrol is an aggregate of individuals, it is effectively immune to Preternatural Effects that affect just a single Recipient. Unfortunately, this also means that Curing and Healing effects that only benefit individuals are wasted as well. Effects that target as area (such as Fireball), work normally.

Multiple Attacks: The Patrol can attack up to 4 targets or units instead of concentrating on a single one. The Patrol makes a normal Check for each attack, but its Damage Bonus is reduced as shown below:

Targets	Damage Bonus per attack
1	+6
2	+3
3 – 4	+2

Trample Infantry: A Cavalry Patrol does double damage (1d6 + Damage Bonus, times 2) when engaged in hand-to-hand combat against Infantry units (except those in Square formation).

Cavalry Patrol Weaknesses

Gun Smoke: After its first volley of pistol or carbine fire, a Patrol in any formation other than a Skirmish Line suffers a -2 Penalty on all further attacks. This is due to a large cloud of smoke enveloping the unit and obscuring sight. This Gun Smoke will last until the Patrol spends a full Turn not firing its guns, or moves 50’ from its current position.

Pistol and Carbine Inaccuracy: Almost all Cavalry units are -2 on Attack Checks against targets further than 50’ distant, due to the inaccuracy of their smooth-bore pistols and carbines. Furthermore, smooth-bore pistols are completely inaccurate past 225 feet, and carbines past 350 feet.

CAVALRY SQUADRON

120 to 240 soldiers mounted on horses and acting as a unit.

Creature Class: Antagonist
Number Appearing: 1 – 3
Initial Impression: About two hundred mounted soldiers in uniform, accompanied by occasional blasts from a bugle.
Size: Large (300’ x 20’ in Line, 80’ x 80’ in Wedge, 300’ x 100’ in Skirmish Line)

Perversity: 13
Disposition: Aggressive
Charisma: 11 (or same as commanding Lieutenant Colonel) Intelligence: 9 Wisdom: 9
Strength: 14,400 Dexterity: 11 Constitution: 9
Speed: 12

Armor Class: None
Hit Dice: 60
Attacks: 1 (carbines and pistols; or sabers, lances, pistols, and trampling) [½ Damage when in Wedge or Skirmish Line]
Special Abilities: Dissolve into Companies, Charge, Form Line, Form Wedge, Form Skirmish Line, Multiple Attacks, Trample Infantry.
Weaknesses: Gun Smoke, Pistol and Carbine Inaccuracy.
Possible Assets (+3 Bonus): Brilliant Commander, Marksmen, Seasoned Troops, Fanatical.
Possible Afflictions (-3 Penalty): Poorly Equipped, Incompetent Commander, Sick, Malnourished.
Preternatural Powers: None (Unless a Magician or Mad Scientist is part of unit)

Level: 10

A Squadron of Cavalry is commanded by a Lieutenant Colonel, Major, or Chef d’Escadron. Two Squadrons make a full Cavalry Regiment, commanded by a Colonel.

A Cavalry Squadron reduced to 0 Hit Points becomes a Cavalry Company in Skirmish Line formation. A 500’ diameter area around the center point where the Squadron broke will be filled with dead horses, slain men, and scattered equipment. All movement through that area is at half Speed, it cannot be Charged through, and any other Military Units within that area (other than Infantry in Square) are forced into Skirmish Line formation.

Cavalry Squadron Special Abilities

Charge: If a Cavalry Squadron in Line or Wedge formation gallops at full speed towards a target or unit for at least one full Round, the Squadron does double damage (1d6 +Damage Bonus, times 2) on its first Round of hand-to-hand combat (except against an Infantry unit in Square formation). The Squadron can make no attacks during the Round(s) spent galloping towards its target, however.

Dissolve into Companies. A Squadron can be broken up into 2 independent Cavalry Companies.

Form Line: A Line is a wide formation of horses in two rows, nearly shoulder to shoulder. A Squadron in a Line inflicts full 1d6+60 damage on each attack. It takes 10 Rounds to Form a Line.

Form Wedge: A Wedge is a triangular formation of horses attacking with its apex pointed at its opponent. A Cavalry unit in Wedge formation does only half damage on a successful attack, but any defending Infantry Units in Line or Column must immediately check Morale or involuntarily devolve into a Skirmish Line (and allow the Cavalry to ride through them it if wants). It takes 10 Rounds to form a Wedge.

Form Skirmish Line: A Skirmish Line is an irregular and open formation that allows horses maximum freedom of movement, and makes the unit harder to target with cannons. A unit in Skirmish Line can also occupy the same area as an opponent. However, a Squadron in a Skirmish Line only inflicts half damage on a successful attack. It takes 3 Rounds to deliberately Form a Skirmish Line from any other formation.

Immune to Single Target Magic: Because a Cavalry Squadron is an aggregate of individuals, it is effectively immune to Preternatural Effects that affect just a single Recipient. Unfortunately, this also means that Curing and Healing effects that only benefit individuals are wasted as well. Effects that target as area (such as Fireball), work normally.

Multiple Attacks: The Squadron can attack multiple targets or units instead of concentrating on a single one. The Squadron makes a normal Check for each attack, but its Damage Bonus is reduced as shown below:

Targets	Damage Bonus per attack
1	+60
2	+30
3	+20
4	+15
5	+12
6	+10

Trample Infantry: A Cavalry Squadron does double damage (1d6 + Damage Bonus, times 2) when engaged in hand-to-hand combat against Infantry units (except those in Square formation).

Cavalry Squadron Weaknesses

Gun Smoke: After its first volley of pistol or carbine fire, a Squadron in any formation other than a Skirmish Line suffers a -2 Penalty on all further attacks. This is due to a large cloud of smoke enveloping the unit and obscuring sight. This Gun Smoke will last until the Squadron spends a full Turn not firing its guns, or moves 50’ from its current position.

Pistol and Carbine Inaccuracy: Almost all Cavalry units are -2 on Attack Checks against targets further than 50’ distant, due to the inaccuracy of their smooth-bore pistols and carbines. Furthermore, smooth-bore pistols are completely inaccurate past 225 feet, and carbines past 350 feet.

CAVALRY TROOP

20 to 40 soldiers mounted on horses and acting as a unit.

Creature Class: Antagonist
Number Appearing: 1 or 2
Initial Impression: Approximately thirty mounted soldiers in uniform, accompanied by occasional blasts from a bugle.
Size: Large (45’ x 20’ in Line, 30’ x 30’ in Wedge, 80’ x 40’ in Skirmish Line)

Perversity: 13
Disposition: Aggressive
Charisma: 11 (or same as commanding Lieutenant or Sergeant) Intelligence: 9 Wisdom: 9
Strength: 2,400 Dexterity: 11 Constitution: 9
Speed: 12

Armor Class: None
Hit Dice: 10
Attacks: 1 (carbines and pistols; or sabers, lances, pistols, and trampling) [½ Damage when in Wedge or Skirmish Line]
Special Abilities: Dissolve into Troops, Charge, Form Line, Form Wedge, Form Skirmish Line, Multiple Attacks, Trample Infantry.
Weaknesses: Gun Smoke, Pistol and Carbine Inaccuracy.
Possible Assets (+3 Bonus): Brilliant Commander, Marksmen, Seasoned Troops, Fanatical.
Possible Afflictions (-3 Penalty): Poorly Equipped, Incompetent Commander, Sick, Malnourished.
Preternatural Powers: None (Unless a Magician or Mad Scientist is part of unit).

Level: 10

A Cavalry Troop is approximately 30 mounted men generally commanded by either a Lieutenant or a Sergeant.

A Cavalry Troop reduced to 0 Hit Points becomes a Cavalry Patrol in Skirmish Line formation. A 60’ diameter area around the center point where the Troop broke will be filled with dead horses, slain men, and scattered equipment. All movement through that area is at half Speed, it cannot be Charged through, and any other Military Units within that area (other than Infantry in Square) are forced into Skirmish Line formation.

Cavalry Troop Special Abilities

Charge: If a Cavalry Troop in Line or Wedge formation gallops at full speed towards a target or unit for at least one full Round, the Troop does double damage (1d6 +Damage Bonus, times 2) on its first Round of hand-to-hand combat (except against an Infantry unit in Square formation). The Troop can make no attacks during the Round(s) spent galloping towards its target, however.

Dissolve into Patrols. A Troop can be broken up into 3 independent Cavalry Patrols.

Form Line: A Line is a wide formation of horses in two rows, nearly shoulder to shoulder. A Troop in a Line inflicts full 1d6+10 damage on each attack. It takes 10 Rounds to Form a Line.

Form Wedge: A Wedge is a triangular formation of horses attacking with its apex pointed at its opponent. A Cavalry unit in Wedge formation does only half damage on a successful attack, but any defending Infantry Units in Line or Column must immediately check Morale or involuntarily devolve into a Skirmish Line (and allow the Cavalry to ride through them it if wants). It takes 10 Rounds to form a Wedge.

Form Skirmish Line: A Skirmish Line is an irregular and open formation that allows horses maximum freedom of movement, and makes the unit harder to target with cannons. A unit in Skirmish Line can also occupy the same area as an opponent. However, a Troop in a Skirmish Line only inflicts half damage on a successful attack. It takes 3 Rounds to deliberately Form a Skirmish Line from any other formation.

Immune to Single Target Magic: Because a Cavalry Troop is an aggregate of individuals, it is effectively immune to Preternatural Effects that affect just a single Recipient. Unfortunately, this also means that Curing and Healing effects that only benefit individuals are wasted as well. Effects that target as area (such as Fireball), work normally.

Multiple Attacks: The Troop can attack up to 4 targets or units instead of concentrating on a single one. The Troop makes a normal Check for each attack, but its Damage Bonus is reduced as shown below:

 

Targets	Damage Bonus per attack
1	+10
2	+5
3	+3
4	+2

Trample Infantry: A Cavalry Troop does double damage (1d6 + Damage Bonus, times 2) when engaged in hand-to-hand combat against Infantry units (except those in Square formation).

Cavalry Troop Weaknesses

Gun Smoke: After its first volley of pistol or carbine fire, a Troop in any formation other than a Skirmish Line suffers a -2 Penalty on all further attacks. This is due to a large cloud of smoke enveloping the unit and obscuring sight. This Gun Smoke will last until the Troop spends a full Turn not firing its guns, or moves 50’ from its current position.

Pistol and Carbine Inaccuracy: Almost all Cavalry units are -2 on Attack Checks against targets further than 50’ distant, due to the inaccuracy of their smooth-bore pistols and carbines. Furthermore, smooth-bore pistols are completely inaccurate past 225 feet, and carbines past 350 feet.

Specialized Cavalry Units

Cuirassiers: These heavy unit wear steel breastplates and helmets that give them Armor Class 5. However, they are slower than other units, moving at Speed 11, rather than 12.

Chasseurs: These light units are faster than others, moving at Speed 13. They are often used for reconnaissance, or to harry supply lines.

Cossacks: These Russian units are especially brave and hardy, having Constitution scores of 11 (rather than 9), and the Asset “High Morale”. However, they have the Weakness “Hard to Control”, so all attempts to issue battlefield orders to Cossacks incur a -3 Penalty on the Charisma Check.

Hussars: These elite units ride especially fast horses, wear faux Hungarian costumes, and sport long mustaches. They move at Speed 13, and have the Asset “High Morale”, conferring a +3 Bonus on all Morale Checks. The culture of Hussar units actually encourages them to plunder and commit atrocities against civilians, however, so they have Perversity 14 rather than 13.

Lancers / Ulans/ Uhlans: These units carry long lances, which are typically embellished with colorful pennants. For the first Round of Hand-to-hand fighting after a Charge, Lancers automatically win Initiative, and receive a +1 Bonus on their Attack Check. German Lancers are called “Ulans”, while the famous Polish lancers are “Uhlans” (with an “h”).

Mameluks: These Egyptian mercenaries are especially skilled with their sabers, enjoying a +1 Bonus when engaged in Hand-to-Hand fights.

The lack of Mass Combat rules in Ghastly Affair might seem glaring in light of its default setting, the era of the French Revolution and Napoleon. What follows is an attempt to rectify that omission. It makes possible scenarios such as a Company of British infantry cut off from its Regiment and facing down revenants in the Tabernas Desert during the Peninsular War, or a Troop of French cavalry from the Grande Armée attempting to flee Russia while threatened by werewolves and General Winter alike.

The tentative method of mass combat here presented is to treat whole military units (Battalions, Companies, etc.) as single beings (much as Ghastly Affair does with Angry Mobs). Fights involving military units therefore use exactly the same rules as those involving individual adversaries – including determining Initiative , and checking Morale at appropriate times. In general, units with more members should have higher Hit Points than those with fewer, but a relatively underpopulated unit might have high HP on account of its good health, or exceptionally thorough training.

There is, of course, a great deal of abstraction assumed in the presentation. The composition of military units could, of course, vary greatly from nation to nation – and even in the same nation across the assumed time period of 1765 to 1820. This is particularly true in the case of France, where the semi-private pre-Revolutionary army was very different from the fully nationalized military commanded by Napoleon. Therefore, the treatment of units that follows is fairly generic – good enough to figure out what happens when an Infantry Platoon faces off against a family of crazed cannibals, or a Battalion battles a dragon that has been slumbering for centuries, but admittedly inadequate for realistically recreating Waterloo. Doubtless, any experienced war-gamer could probably find innumerable faults with my presentation of 18^th century military units and tactics as it relates to any specific historical military unit.

An Overview of 18^th Century and Napoleonic Infantry

The ordinary rank and file infantry of the 18^th Century were often called “Fusiliers”, especially in the French army of the late 18^th century and Napoleonic era. They are typically armed with a smooth-bore musket, a bayonet, and possibly a straight-bladed sword (although in many units only officers carry swords). Each Infantryman carries his own bedroll; a canteen; and a supply of black powder, wadding, and bullets. Spare clothing and personal items (such as a shaving kit and playing cards) are carried in a backpack. The uniforms of ordinary Infantrymen are colorful because 18^th century battlefields are blanketed with obscuring gun smoke, and drab clothing will inevitably result in friendly units firing on each other frequently. Before the French Revolution, most Infantry units wore tricorn hats. In the Napoleonic-era, this changed to the cylindrical “shako” hat, usually embellished with a plume.

Specialized infantry units include “Grenadiers” (prestigious heavy infantry armed with grenades), “Chasseurs” (light infantry who march ahead of other units), and “Sappers” (demolitions experts).

On the battlefield, it is usual for only half the members of an infantry unit to fire their muskets at a time. This allows the other half time to reload their single-shot guns.

Infantry officers are distinguished by their more elaborate uniforms (which they often have made for themselves at their own expense), and different headgear (often a bicorn hat rather than a tricorn or shako). Sergeants carry spontoons (wide-bladed spears), which they use for signaling, to correct the aim of line soldiers, and as a weapon in hand-to-hand combat. A minor officer called an “Ensign” is in charge of protecting the unit’s flag or standard. Besides the ordinary men and officers, units larger than a squad will also have a drummer and fifer (flute-player), who help to keep time in marches, convey orders on the battlefield, and keep up morale. The drummer may be a boy, but is usually just a young enlisted soldier.

It was common in the 18^th century for Infantry (and Cavalry) units to be raised, trained, and equipped not by the national government, but by individual noblemen. The nobleman who raised the unit would then either command it himself, or give command to his son. It is very common for units to be comprised of foreigners and other people who first loyalty is to their commander and fellow soldiers, rather than the sovereign of the nation they nominally serve. Other units may be composed of forcibly conscripted or “impressed” men who would, if any real opportunity presented itself, either desert, or mutiny and become brigands. Such conscripted men are likely take out their frustration at their predicament by committing atrocities against civilian populations.

Military units more than a day’s march from a fort are almost always accompanied by numerous “camp followers” – private food merchants, cooks, entertainers, seamstresses, washerwomen, nurses, and prostitutes who provide much of the actual logistical support for the army. Among the camp followers will also be the wives and children of soldiers, who are (unless they are the commanding officer’s family) expected to help with cooking, washing, cleaning, and repairs. There can be as many camp followers as there as soldiers in the unit.

---

INFANTRY BATTALION

360 to 720 soldiers on foot, acting as a unit.

Creature Class: Antagonist
Number Appearing: 1 – 4
Initial Impression: Several hundred armed and uniformed men, marching to the sounds of drums and flute.
Size: Large (500’ x 10’ in Line, 10’ x 500’ in Column, 60’ x 60’ in Square, 500’ x 50’ in Skirmish Line)
Perversity: 13
Disposition: Aggressive
Charisma: 11 (or same as commanding Lieutenant Colonel) Intelligence: 9 Wisdom: 9
Strength: 5,400 Dexterity: 11 Constitution: 9
Speed: 6 in Line, 9 in Column, 3 in Square, 9 in Skirmish Line
Armor Class: None (+2 if wreathed in Gun Smoke, +2 if in Skirmish Line)
Hit Dice: 150
Attacks: 1 (musket volley; or muskets, bayonets, and swords) [½ Damage when in Column, Square or Skirmish Line]
Special Abilities: Dissolve into Companies, Form Column, Form Line, Form Square, Form Skirmish Line, Immune to Single Target Magic, Multiple Attacks, Set Bayonets Against Charge.
Weaknesses: Gun Smoke, Musket Inaccuracy.
Possible Assets (+3 Bonus): Brilliant Commander, Marksmen, Seasoned Troops, Fanatical
Possible Afflictions (-3 Penalty): Poorly Equipped, Incompetent Commander, Sick, Malnourished
Preternatural Powers: None (Unless a Magician or Mad Scientist is part of unit)
Level: 10

An 18^th Century Infantry Battalion consists of 5 or 6 Companies of Soldiers, generally commanded by an officer with the title of Lieutenant Colonel, Chef de Batallion, or Major.

Two Infantry Battalions together form an Infantry Regiment commanded by a Colonel.

An Infantry Battalion reduced to 0 Hit Points devolves into three surviving Infantry Companies. The Presenter should assume that half the casualties suffered by the formerly intact Battalion are dead, and half are wounded to the point of incapacity.

Infantry Battalion Special Abilities

Dissolve into Companies: An Infantry Battalion can be dissolved into 5 or 6 Infantry Companies of 60 to 120 soldiers, each commanded by a Captain. This might be done in order to encircle an enemy, for example. It takes 10 Rounds to Dissolve into Companies.

Form Column: A Column is a narrow formation of soldiers in several files (usually about 5). A Battalion in a Column moves quickly at Speed 9, but it inflicts only half damage on a successful attack. Column form is therefore usually employed for marching, but seldom offensively. It takes 6 Rounds to Form a Column.

Form Line: A Line is a wide formation of soldiers in two rows, standing and firing shoulder to shoulder. This is the default formation for battle in the 18^th century. A Battalion in a Line moves slowly at Speed 6, but inflicts full 1d6+150 damage on each attack. It takes 6 Rounds to Form a Line.

Form Square: A Square is a tight and compact formation just 60’ to a side. A Cavalry unit charging a Square loses all advantages (enjoying no bonus to the attack, and doing normal damage). A Battalion in a Square can only move at Speed 3, and inflicts half damage on a successful attack. It takes 10 Rounds to Form a Square.

Form Skirmish Line: A Skirmish Line is an open formation that allows soldiers to hide behind trees and walls, shoot from prone positions, and otherwise take advantage of available cover. A Battalion in a Skirmish Line enjoys a +2 AC, but only inflicts half damage on a successful attack. It takes 6 Rounds to Form a Skirmish Line.

Immune to Single Target Magic: Because an Infantry Battalion is an aggregate of individuals, it is effectively immune to Preternatural Effects that affect just a single Recipient. Unfortunately, this also means that Curing and Healing effects that only benefit individuals are wasted as well. Effects that target as area (such as Fireball), work normally.

Multiple Attacks: The Battalion can attack multiple targets or units instead of concentrating on a single one. The Battalion makes a normal Check for each attack, but its Damage Bonus is reduced as shown below:

Targets	Damage Bonus per attack
1	+150
2	+75
3	+50
4	+38
5	+30
6	+25

Set Bayonets Against Charge: An Infantry Battalion that spends a full Round preparing to meet a charging Calvary unit will inflict double damage (1d6 + 150, times 2) on the first Round of Hand-to-Hand fighting against it. The Battalion cannot attack, move, or take any other action while preparing to meet the charging unit, however.

Infantry Battalion Weaknesses

Gun Smoke: After firing its first volley of musket fire, a Battalion in any formation other than a Skirmish Line suffers a -2 Penalty on all further attacks, but also enjoys a +2 on its Armor Class. This is due to a large cloud of smoke enveloping the unit and obscuring sight. This Gun Smoke will last until the Battalion spends a full Turn not firing its muskets, or moves 50’ from its current position.

Musket Inaccuracy: Almost all Infantry Battalions are -2 on Attack Checks against targets further than 50’ distant, due to the inaccuracy of their smooth-bore muskets. Furthermore, their muskets are completely inaccurate past 450 feet.

---

INFANTRY COMPANY

60 to 120 soldiers on foot, acting as a unit.
Creature Class: Antagonist
Number Appearing: 1 – 4
Initial Impression: About a hundred armed and uniformed men, marching to the sounds of drums and flute.
Size: Large (100’ x 10’ in Line, 10’ x 100’ in Column, 15’ x 15’ in Square, 100 x 50’ in Skirmish Line)
Perversity: 13
Disposition: Aggressive
Charisma: 11 (or same as commanding Captain) Intelligence: 9 Wisdom: 9
Strength: 900 Dexterity: 11 Constitution: 9
Speed: 6 in Line, 9 in Column, 3 in Square, 9 in Skirmish Line
Armor Class: None (+2 if wreathed in Gun Smoke, +2 if in Skirmish Line)
Hit Dice: 30
Attacks: 1 (musket volley; or muskets, bayonets, and swords) [½ Damage when in Column, Square or Skirmish Line]
Special Abilities: Dissolve into Plattons, Form Column, Form Line, Form Square, Form Skirmish Line, Immune to Single Target Magic, Multiple Attacks, Set Bayonets Against Charge.
Weaknesses: Gun Smoke, Musket Inaccuracy.
Possible Assets (+3 Bonus): Brilliant Commander, Marksmen, Seasoned Troops, Fanatical
Possible Afflictions (-3 Penalty): Poorly Equipped, Incompetent Commander, Sick, Malnourished
Preternatural Powers: None (Unless a Magician or Mad Scientist is part of unit)
Level: 10

An 18^th Century Infantry Company consists of three Platoons of soldiers, and is typically commanded by an officer with the title of “Captain”. Five or six Companies typically form a Battalion.

An Infantry Company reduced to 0 Hit Points becomes two Infantry Platoons.

Infantry Company Special Abilities

Dissolve into Platoons: An Infantry Company can be dissolved into 3 Infantry Platoons of 20 to 40 soldiers, each commanded by a Lieutenant. This might be done in order to encircle an enemy, for example.

Form Column: A Column is a narrow formation of soldiers in three files. A Company in a Column moves quickly at Speed 9, but it inflicts only half damage on a successful attack. Column form is therefore usually employed for marching, but seldom offensively. It takes 4 Rounds to Form a Column.

Form Line: A Line is a wide formation of soldiers in two rows, standing and firing shoulder to shoulder. This is the default formation for battle in the 18^th century. A Company in a Line moves slowly at Speed 6, but inflicts full 1d6+30 damage on each attack. It takes 4 Rounds to Form a Line.

Form Square: A Square is a tight and compact formation just 60’ to a side. A Cavalry unit charging a Square loses all advantages (enjoying no bonus to the attack, and doing normal damage). A Company in a Square can only move at Speed 3, and inflicts half damage on a successful attack. It takes 6 Rounds to Form a Square.

Form Skirmish Line: A Skirmish Line is an open formation that allows soldiers to hide behind trees and walls, shoot from prone positions, and otherwise take advantage of available cover. A Company in a Skirmish Line enjoys a +2 AC, but only inflicts half damage on a successful attack. It takes 4 Rounds to Form a Skirmish Line.

Immune to Single Target Magic: Because an Infantry Company is an aggregate of individuals, it is effectively immune to Preternatural Effects that affect just a single Recipient. Unfortunately, this also means that Curing and Healing effects that only benefit individuals are wasted as well. Effects that target as area (such as Fireball), work normally.

Multiple Attacks: The Company can attack multiple targets or units instead of concentrating on a single one. The Company makes a normal Check for each attack, but its Damage Bonus is reduced as shown below:

Targets	Damage Bonus per attack
1	+30
2	+15
3	+10
4	+8
5	+6
6	+5

Set Bayonets Against Charge: An Infantry Company that spends a full Round preparing to meet a charging Calvary unit will inflict double damage (1d6 + Damage Bonus, times 2) on the first round of Hand-to-Hand fighting against it. The Company cannot attack, move, or take any other action while preparing to meet the charging unit, however.

Infantry Company Weaknesses

Gun Smoke: After firing its first volley of musket fire, a Company in any formation other than a Skirmish Line suffers a -2 Penalty on all further attacks, but also enjoys a +2 on its Armor Class. This is due to a large cloud of smoke enveloping the unit and obscuring sight. This Gun Smoke will last until the Company spends a full Turn not firing its muskets, or moves 50’ from its current position.

Musket Inaccuracy: Almost all Infantry Companies are -2 on Attack Checks against targets further than 50’ distant, due to the inaccuracy of their smooth-bore muskets. Furthermore, their muskets are completely inaccurate past 450 feet.

---

INFANTRY PLATOON

20 to 40 soldiers on foot, acting as a unit.
Creature Class: Antagonist
Number Appearing: 1 or 2
Initial Impression: Approximately thirty armed and uniformed men, marching to the sounds of drums and flute.
Size: Large (35’ x 10’ in Line, 5’ x 30’ in Column, 10’ x 10’ in Square.)
Perversity: 13
Disposition: Aggressive
Charisma: 11 (or same as commanding Lieutenant) Intelligence: 9 Wisdom: 9
Strength: 300 Dexterity: 11 Constitution: 9
Speed: 6 in Line, 9 in Column, 3 in Square, 9 in Skirmish Line
Armor Class: None (+2 if wreathed in Gun Smoke, +2 if in Skirmish Line)
Hit Dice: 10
Attacks: 1 (musket volley; or muskets, bayonets, and swords) [½ Damage when in Column, Square or Skirmish Line]
Special Abilities: Dissolve into Squads, Form Column, Form Line, Form Square, Form Skirmish Line, Immune to Single Target Magic, Multiple Attacks, Set Bayonets Against Charge.
Weaknesses: Gun Smoke, Musket Inaccuracy.
Possible Assets (+3 Bonus): Brilliant Commander, Marksmen, Seasoned Troops, Fanatical
Possible Afflictions (-3 Penalty): Poorly Equipped, Incompetent Commander, Sick, Malnourished
Preternatural Powers: None (Unless a Magician or Mad Scientist is part of unit)
Level: 10

An 18^th Century Infantry Platoon consists of twenty to forty soldiers trained to fire their muskets together in a single mass. A Platoon is typically commanded by a Lieutenant. Three Platoons form a Company.

An Infantry Platoon reduced to 0 Hit Points becomes an Infantry Squad.

Infantry Platoon Special Abilities

Dissolve into Squads: An Infantry Company can be dissolved into 2 Infantry Squads of 10 to 20 soldiers, each commanded by a Lieutenant. This might be done in order to encircle an enemy, for example.

Form Column: A Column is a narrow formation of soldiers in two files. A Platoon in a Column moves quickly at Speed 9, but it inflicts only half damage on a successful attack. Column form is therefore usually employed for marching, but seldom offensively. It takes 2 Rounds to Form a Column.

Form Line: A Line is a wide formation of soldiers in two rows, standing and firing shoulder to shoulder. This is the default formation for battle in the 18^th century. A Platoon in a Line moves slowly at Speed 6, but inflicts full 1d6+10 damage on each attack. It takes 2 Rounds to Form a Line.

Form Square: A Square is a tight and compact formation just 60’ to a side. A Cavalry unit charging a Square loses all advantages (enjoying no bonus to the attack, and doing normal damage). A Platoon in a Square can only move at Speed 3, and inflicts half damage on a successful attack. It takes 3 Rounds to Form a Square.

Form Skirmish Line: A Skirmish Line is an open formation that allows soldiers to hide behind trees and walls, shoot from prone positions, and otherwise take advantage of available cover. A Platoon in a Skirmish Line enjoys a +2 AC, but only inflicts half damage on a successful attack. It takes 2 Rounds to Form a Skirmish Line.

Immune to Single Target Magic: Because an Infantry Platoon is an aggregate of individuals, it is effectively immune to Preternatural Effects that affect just a single Recipient. Unfortunately, this also means that Curing and Healing effects that only benefit individuals are wasted as well. Effects that target as area (such as Fireball), work normally.

Multiple Attacks: The Platoon can attack up to four targets or units instead of concentrating on a single one. The Platoon makes a normal Check for each attack, but its Damage Bonus is reduced as shown below:

Targets	Damage Bonus per attack
1	+10
2	+5
3 – 4	+3

Set Bayonets Against Charge: An Infantry Platoon that spends a full Round preparing to meet a charging Calvary unit will inflict double damage (1d6 + Damage Bonus, times 2) on the first round of Hand-to-Hand fighting against it. The Platoon cannot attack, move, or take any other action while preparing to meet the charging unit, however.

Infantry Platoon Weaknesses

Gun Smoke: After firing its first volley of musket fire, a Platoon in any formation other than a Skirmish Line suffers a -2 Penalty on all further attacks, but also enjoys a +2 on its Armor Class. This is due to a large cloud of smoke enveloping the unit and obscuring sight. This Gun Smoke will last until the Company spends a full Turn not firing its muskets, or moves 50’ from its current position.

Musket Inaccuracy: Almost all Infantry Platoon are -2 on Attack Checks against targets further than 50’ distant, due to the inaccuracy of their smooth-bore muskets. Furthermore, their muskets are completely inaccurate past 450 feet.

---

INFANTRY SQUAD

10 to 20 soldiers on foot, acting as a unit.
Creature Class: Antagonist
Number Appearing: 1
Initial Impression: Approximately a dozen armed and uniformed men.
Size: Large (15’ x 10’ in Line, 10’ x 20’ in Column, 8’ x 8’ in Square,)
Perversity: 13
Disposition: Aggressive
Charisma: 11 (or same as commanding Sergeant) Intelligence: 9 Wisdom: 9
Strength: 150 Dexterity: 11 Constitution: 9
Speed: 6 in Line, 9 in Column, 3 in Square, 9 in Skirmish Line
Armor Class: None (+2 if wreathed in Gun Smoke, +2 if in Skirmish Line)
Hit Dice: 6
Attacks: 1 (musket volley; or muskets, bayonets, and swords) [½ Damage when in Column, Square or Skirmish Line]
Special Abilities: Dissolve, Form Column, Form Line, Form Square, Form Skirmish Line, Immune to Single Target Magic, Multiple Attacks, Set Bayonets Against Charge.
Weaknesses: Gun Smoke, Musket Inaccuracy.
Possible Assets (+3 Bonus): Brilliant Commander, Marksmen, Seasoned Troops, Fanatical
Possible Afflictions (-3 Penalty): Poorly Equipped, Incompetent Commander, Sick, Malnourished
Preternatural Powers: None (Unless a Magician or Mad Scientist is part of unit)
Level: 6

A Squad is half a platoon. On the battlefield, one Squad of a Platoon will typically fire a volley of musket fire while the other one reloads. A Squad will rarely be separated from its platoon, but in such a case it will typically be commanded by a Sub-lieutenant or Sergeant.

An Infantry Squad reduced to 0 Hit Points breaks up into 5 or 6 individual survivors.

Infantry Squad Special Abilities

Dissolve Unit: An Infantry Squad can be broken up into its individual soldiers. This might be done in order to encircle an enemy, for example.

Form Column: A Column is a narrow formation of soldiers in two files. A Squad in a Column moves quickly at Speed 9, but it inflicts only half damage on a successful attack. Column form is therefore usually employed for marching, but seldom offensively. It takes 1 Round to Form a Column.

Form Line: A Line is a wide formation of soldiers in two rows, standing and firing shoulder to shoulder. This is the default formation for battle in the 18^th century. A Squad in a Line moves slowly at Speed 6, but inflicts full 1d6+6 damage on each attack. It takes 1 Round to Form a Line.

Form Square: A Square is a tight and compact formation just 60’ to a side. A Cavalry unit charging a Square loses all advantages (enjoying no bonus to the attack, and doing normal damage). A Squad in a Square can only move at Speed 3, and inflicts half damage on a successful attack. It takes 2 Rounds to Form a Square.

Form Skirmish Line: A Skirmish Line is an open formation that allows soldiers to hide behind trees and walls, shoot from prone positions, and otherwise take advantage of available cover. A Squad in a Skirmish Line enjoys a +2 to AC, but only inflicts half damage on a successful attack. It takes 1 Round to Form a Skirmish Line.

Immune to Single Target Magic: Because an Infantry Squad is an aggregate of individuals, it is effectively immune to Preternatural Effects that affect just a single Recipient. Unfortunately, this also means that Curing and Healing effects that only benefit individuals are wasted as well. Effects that target as area (such as Fireball), work normally.

Multiple Attacks: The Squad can attack up to four targets or units instead of concentrating on a single one. The Platoon makes a normal Check for each attack, but its Damage Bonus is reduced as shown below:

Targets	Damage Bonus per attack
1	+6
2	+3
3 – 4	+2

Set Bayonets Against Charge: An Infantry Squad that spends a full Round preparing to meet a charging Calvary unit will inflict double damage (1d6 + Damage Bonus, times 2) on the first round of Hand-to-Hand fighting against it. The Squad cannot attack, move, or take any other action while preparing to meet the charging unit, however.

Infantry Squad Weaknesses

Gun Smoke: After firing its first volley of musket fire, a Squad in any formation other than a Skirmish Line suffers a -2 Penalty on all further attacks, but also enjoys a +2 on its Armor Class. This is due to a large cloud of smoke enveloping the unit and obscuring sight. This Gun Smoke will last until the Squad spends a full Turn not firing its muskets, or moves 50’ from its current position.

Musket Inaccuracy: Almost all Infantry Squads are -2 on Attack Checks against targets further than 50’ distant, due to the inaccuracy of their smooth-bore muskets. Furthermore, their muskets are completely inaccurate past 450 feet.

---

SPECIAL INFANTRY UNITS

Chasseurs : Light infantry that move at Speed 10 in Column and Skirmish Line. They can also Form Line (Speed 7), but cannot Form Square.

Grenadiers: Elite units comprised of the tallest and strongest soldiers, well-trained, and armed with grenades. Grenadier units have Dexterity 13 (rather than 11), and have the Asset “Intimidating”. Once per battle they can lob grenades for double damage at a target or unit 50’ – 60’ distant.

Mamluks: Egyptian mercenaries serving under Napoleon. They are skilled with their scimitars, and attack with a +1 Bonus in Hand-to-Hand fights.

Rangers / Jagers / Riflemen: Light infantry armed with rifles. They move at Speed 10, and do not suffer from the Weakness “Musket Inaccuracy”. They attack only in a Skirmish Line, however. Their guns are accurate to 750’.

Sappers: Units armed with axes, picks, and bombs to destroy obstructions and sabotage enemy fortifications. They have the Special Ability “Damage Structure”, which allows them to inflict full damage against things as reinforced doors, stone walls, buildings, and terrain features.

Skimishers / Voltigeurs: These units fight only in a Skirmish Line (like Rangers). They are specialized for rough terrain, and trained to use cover effectively. They have Dexterity 12 (rather than 11), and are AC 2.

Windbüchse Units: Elite Austrian units armed with cutting-edge Girondoni Air Rifles that use reservoirs of pressurized air rather than gunpowder, and can be reloaded in a second from a built-in 20 shot magazine. Their guns have the same range as muskets, but Windbüchse Units do not suffer the Weaknesses of “Musket Inaccuracy” or “Gun Smoke” (but don’t get the benefit of cover from the smoke either).

---

About Player Characters in Military Units

Player Characters serving as soldiers in military units are never killed or wounded in combat while part of the unit. If a unit is reduced to 0 Hit Point (and thus broken), any Player Characters are generally assumed to be part of a surviving sub-unit. For example, if a Infantry Battalion is reduced to 0 Hit Points, and thus reduced to three surviving Companies of soldiers, the PCs belong to one of those Companies (unless they indicate otherwise).

Player Characters offering a military unit in combat must make a successful Charisma Check for each command they issue. Failure means the command is either not heard, or ignored that Round. The choking gun smoke, incredible noise, and general panic of the troops makes it extremely difficult to control forces on an 18^th century battlefield, and carefully laid strategies tend to break down quickly unless officers are exceptionally skilled. (One of the reasons Napoleon’s army was so effective was that his officers needed to actually demonstrate ability to get promoted – rather than just purchasing their commissions, as was the rule elsewhere in Europe.)