Francesian History - Return of the Katzplatters

It's been a while since I posted about Francesia so I thought I'd present some more history.

In my last historical installment, the Redgrave War ended with Duke Johann Drakendorf usurping the Imperial throne while the young Emperor Lester fled to Cragcoast. 

Shortly afterward, Lester was assassinated by unknown hands, presumably by someone in the pay of Johann the Usurper. The Katzplatter claim then fell to Lester's infant son, Leander. Johann would continue to reign, but his dictatorial nature and excessive taxation fueled discontent over the years. When he turned 18, Leander decided to make a bid for the throne. He gathered some loyalist forces and set sail for Egerford.

Leander's gambit appeared to be doomed as he approached the coast. An Imperial galley spotted Leader's ship Revenge and moved to intercept. There was an exchange of gunfire and the Revenge suffered some heavy damage. Yet its superior speed paid off and Leander was able to slip past the enemy.

Upon landing on the Egerford coast, Leander moved inland with his small force. He approached the nearest villages, intent on recruiting more supporters from among the militia organized to stop him. Meanwhile, Baron Rutger, Lord Constable of Egerford, assembled a small force of cavalry to intercept Leander. At first, the Egershire militia flocked to Leander’s banner. He was able to press his advance, securing two villages. But Rutger rallied Johann’s supporters and led a stubborn resistance. Leander’s main regiment broke and he withdrew to safety in the woods. But Leander’s remaining troops counterattacked. In the process, Rutger was killed and Johann’s supporters routed. The road to Silverfern was open.

The Battle of Egershire

Leander – 1,600 troops; 200 casualties

Egershire – 3,600 militia; 600 casualties (both sides)

Baron Rutger – 400 cavalry; 300 casualties + Rutger killed