out of character...

Gentlemen
I am considering a new imagination - an opponent for the Duchy of Tradgardland. I am at the very earliest stage of ideas with regard to this. As the Europa map is very busy these days, I am at a loss to locations. Any ideas would really be helpful...
Also do you think I should go ahead with another imagination? Your opinions are indeed valued!

In the Library

The Duchess has time to check through the contents of the library. She stumbles upon an old manuscript untouched for centuries. She ponders on its contents and her thoughts turn the events she has witnessed, those she has known and loved. A knock comes to the door - the Duc de Padirac enters and asks if he may have a word with her. He says the matter is of a delicate nature and pertains to matters military.......

A day in the Duchy

In the Palace today Duchess Liv is having a quiet day. Rumours of her being with child have swept the Duchy. A proclamation today let all in on that which was once a secret. The Duchess, whilst enjoying excellent health, is enjoying catching up with her correspondence in the privy of her apartments.

Meanwhile the paperwork generated by the recent military reforms is being worked upon. Couriers deliver daily updates from the Herrengard regarding the Militia. The changes dig deep into the rhythms of Tradgardlandian society at all levels. In theses early days of Spring things are moving forward for all concerned....

6th April A.D 2008 & 1758

2008-Snow fell over night here in Dunfermline and my youngest two daughters took full advantage of the situation. The large , fluffy flakes fell in profusion and snowmen were made. I return to work tomorrow and trust the weather will be better for the family's holidays this coming week. We have had brilliant sun and spring weather earlier in the week...Whatever next....

1758 - a sudden and unexpected snowstorm hit the Duchy last night causing the woods to look enchanted under the vice-like grip of Winter once more. The Duchy is filled with discussion regarding the changes in the way the the army will function. The issues are hotly debated in inns and homes across the land.The unexpected weather has given a period of inactivity during which debate can flourish. For some it will mean the start of full time soldiering, for others they will be full time upon the land or in their crafts and trades. Wives,families and sweethearts will be affected greatly too. The great and the good debate amidst the hollowing gales and snow...

A proclamation across the Duchy

The Herald opened the door and went out on to external stairs- his eyes filled with brilliant Sunshine upon this glorious Spring day. He sounded the trumpet and then clearing his throat began thus..

My Lords, Ladies Tradgardlanders all! Greetings in the name of the Duke and Duchess co-rulers of the Duchy of Tradgardland!

After a recent meeting of the Inner Council - graced by a full compliment of Herren and other Representatives decisions pertaining to the historic Ducal Army have been taken.

All recent events near and far have been taken into account and given due weight. The past and present have been given their place in deliberations too.

The changes are thus.

Firstly a Ducal regiment with full time position within the Duchy will be established and given due recompense.

Secondly all other foot soldiers will form a Militia in their Herrengard establishments. They will work at their trade and only be called upon in times of emergency apart from the annual Weapons Moot.

Thirdly all cavalry and troops pyrotechnic will have their establishment confirmed ,considered and appointed in due course.

Fourthly no man shall be out of pocket as a result of these aforementioned changes and all will be paid for uniforms and equipment by the Duke- you have his word.

Finally ,people of the Golden Herring , may we work under God and the Duke this year 1758 together under Heaven!

Long live their Ducal Highnesses!

The herald finished with a flourish and went in to the tower for a well deserved mug of ale.

Herren

The Herren ( Lords of the 6 Manors which comprise the Duchy of Tradgardland ) met together today to dine together and discuss their concerns for the coming Seasons. Gossip surrounds the banqueting table like flies around a corpse. The talk soars above the laughter and sounds of eating and many toasts. They speak of a rumour that the Duchess is with child and debate wherein the succession will lie.

The meal finished and the cellars emptied of wine, the Herren take a stroll amongst the topiary of Drottigen Manor. Alliances are made , trysts arranged and plans made - all in the brilliant Spring sun amongst the yew.

A visitor

The Duchess and Alisona have welcomed the Austrian Kappellmeister Joseph Haydn to join them to celebrate his birthday and to play a series of concerts for the court. Coupled with the appearance of the Hoopoe this has indeed been an exciting week for the Duchy.

Haydn was entranced with the knowledge of the Master of the Aivary regarding the musical quality of birdsong. The Duc de Padirac invited the composer to stay a few days with him in order that a march for the Legion may be composed.