Welcome to Cove

Have an idea or concept you'd like to see implemented within the Grenadiers? This is the thread to do it in! All ideas will be considered, regardless of whether a member is a Grenadier or not. New ideas regarding the squad shall also be posted here.

Well we are the Baron's guard and elite of cove maybe we should become slightly more hard of Disiplin factor's Kind of suck's but as elite we have to set example give the other squads a run for there money ay.

Discipline and Brotherhood are the core values I based the Grenadiers on during my Sergeantship (Loyalty requires the Baron to be around or give missions)


Brotherhood:
Never strike at a fellow Grenadier if it can be avoided. That includes 'Free-for-all fights'. Some claim it is 'dishonorable' but that's not the goal. The goal is to display a Squad with so closely knit ties they wouldn't even think about striking at a Brother. Furthermore it serves as an example to the others that staying together as one makes a lot of difference.

When in battle and two Guardsmen are wounded, you heal the Grenadier.


Discipline:

Grenadiers are envisionned to be the uber disciplined warriors. If you want to persue your own glory or display your own battle prowess I suggest a career in the Dragoons.

* More so then any other guard they make a special effort to pay attention to orders. Even in the thickest of battle with monsters, guards and text spewing rapidly on the screen a Grenadier only needs to hear an order once and he'll act on it. That's because he watches for them like a hawk!

* A Grenadier is a lifeline for the other guardsmen. How he does it, is unknown, but whenever you're in trouble you can always count on the Grenadier to heal you like a madman. He's also one of those who can jump in with a 'close wounds' that saves your life. This gathers lots of respect from his fellow guardsmen

* Having a full guardsman kit is a matter of honor for a Grenadier. He always has one or more torches, a parade arm and a bedroll on him

* A Grenadier is always prepared. As such other, less prepared guardsmen can always go to him for spare bandages, arrows or nightsight potions. My standard kit is 1000 bandages, 500 arrows and bolts and 10-20 nightsight potions. And it's not uncommun to hand out nearly all of that during a hunt.

* A Grenadier assists leaders of hunts by minimising guildchat, actively roleplaying through speech/emotes and making sure the other guardsmen obey the event-leader.

* A Grenadier can perfect his arsenal of abilities by advancing himself in the Virtues of Honor and Sacrifice. Sacrifice will allow you to ressurect yourself in a remote location and Honor will stop new monsters from targetting you for 20 seconds. Both Virtues will allow you to 'save the day' in a hunt that has gone wrong.

I think Erik has covered a lot of what I envisage in a Grenadier very eloquently.

Raiden has always been a little standoffish to other guardsmen but he comes alive in the company of other Grenadiers and would do anything for his brothers. That said he will always have a word of advice for recruits as well as spare bandies and bedroll.

I like the idea of not downing a fellow Grenadier in training situations and following the paths of honour and sacrifice are something i will look into asap and perhaps the Grenadiers could follow these paths as a unit in game.

I havent had chance to think a great deal about ideas but i will ;)

In addition to this, I'd like to add:

If someone strikes a fellow brother or one of the Richter family, they strike you too. If you pick a fight with one Grenadier, you pick a fight with all of them.


I heartily agree on all counts.

I totally agree with everything in this thread - the whole close knit brotherhood and discipline etc. is just what us Grenadiers is all about. *grins*

I  just cant bring myself to call my fellow Grenadiers "brother"... it sounds like we're a bunch of churchies! I have tried shortening it to bro' once or twice but then i dont know if i sound like a medieval surf dood!

Dunno what my brother Grenadiers think???

Maybe it's just me feeling uncomfortable with it???

Maybe we can come up with something else???

What do you think???

p.s. I think the unit has a real feel good factor about it at the mo... the future looks bright for the Baron's Own i think *winks*.

I have to agree with this!

Using brother does sound rather like we're some sort of religious cult. I'm sure we could find something more fitting.

I kind of like the whole brother thing, but can see your point about it sounding a little religious. 'Bro' definitly wouldn't be any better, so something new is the way to go i think. I'll have a little brainstorm, see if i can come up with anything.
Also, I agree with Raiden about there being a good vibe in the grenadiers at the moment. Let's keep it up folks!

         

I agree even though i kinda started the brother thing though i find it alrite.... ;D Or as we are all Grenadier's address them by their names or something like that maybe ...
Aye tis a master peice fellow Grenadier or you most likely get the drift of things.

Though the brother thing gives it a medieval asset as back in them day's there were many royalty squad's that were cult like mainly the Japanese but there were other's as well.

I got the brother aspect from something called warhammer 40'000 the brother aspect came from the space marine which are the elite of the emperor they are all part of a brotherhood with different chapter's.

I think by this it made a strong concept on the Grenadier squad to stick together as a family and not just friend's.
But it's up to you i am only a mear voice your choice you don't like the Brother thing you don't have to use it as such many other term's and words that can replace brother :)

Just to add another thing i was thinking of a moto for the Grenadier's and my one for Vlad fit's the disciption perfectly i find...

Sword's first heart's second....Duty before feeling's which is what the Grenadier's is about, are loyalty is surpeme to the baron and the Ritcher Family and other matter's of love and loyalty is disregarded in the aspet of involing the Baron.

As a player who spent a long time playing a Besieger i would have no problem with brother and sister for my fellow division members (should i eventually get in :) ) however this is the Grenadiers not the Besiegers - would  be nice to be a little different i think :)

I agree with Erik's idea about being fully stocked for the sake of other Guildmembers.

While I do like the Brotherhood idea, I feel this said brotherly love should be more unspoken and made more evident in actions than words, though calling each other "brother" or "sister" can still be done occasionally. I would venture that constantly calling each other "brother" might make the idea become tiresome and superficial. I think it would be better in most cases to use each other's names, and use "brother" or "sister" when the context feels right.

(I'm totally nitpicky.)

Something which I admire about the Dragoons (did i just say that :P) is that they fight in pairs, i don't know for sure but i guess they will train in those pairs too and when it comes to combat and they go galivanting off, each partner knows what is expected of them.

I don't want to steal this concept in anyway Dragoons have their fighting style and as Grenadiers i believe we should have ours. But as our unit grows i think that it is important especially in vital battles that each Grenadier knows his task in any situation.

So to me having a "shield brother" or "sword brother" is a great concept. (Gah! that brother thing again... but shield & sword brothers sounds kinda cool ;))

Of course we are a mixed unit but archers have their fighting style and melee fighters theirs so for instance Vince and Darek (your an archer right?) could work closely with eachother, adapt to eachothers styles and learn to compliment eachother in combat situations and the same goes for Vlad and me (although i think that it is only fair that when Kendall passes her trials Raiden and her work more closely while Vlad could be paired with his apprentice Max when he joins our ranks :D)

Or maybe we are paired one archer one melee fighter?

Anyways just an idea - whatta ya think?

I think Raidens idea would work, perhaps if we limited it to when the situation called for it. Obviously this is the Dragoons way, we've all seen Vinny and th' Joe storm into a horde of enemies, competing to see who can take down the most.Ii think this should be seen as a Dragoon trait, as I see it as something of a trademark of theirs, and i wouldn't want to take away from that.
Perhaps if we had an order whereby say we were fighting something that was near impossible to stand toe to toe with, an ancient wyrm for instance. This order would be yelled, and we'd each have a designated partner to break off with to skirmish it.
Another upside, this could be another aspect of Grenadier training sessions.

         

I'd focus the Grenadiers about obeying orders, staying in formation, healing, in short: being examples to the other guardsmen! It may not be the most 'effective' in RPvP but when done well it's valuable in being the cement that holds the army together. You can't all be skirmishers to have an effective army. And the men need an example that obeying orders and fighting in close formation does bring advantages!

Hate to bring up the comparison again but this is a very similar unit to the Besiegers and should be looking that way on the sly for ideas on how its done, don't get me wrong there are differences for example they have no archers which to my mind gives us a big advantage but i will never forget the day 4 besiegers held the bridge against the entire yellow skin army they could muster.

Now to my mind the discipline should be focused on holding the ground staying in a unit and letting the other daft buggers do all the running, where Grenadiers have the advantage on besiegers in this is we can hold and when they break and run they get a nice feathered ornament in the back.  personally i think we should be looking at the 4 man box formation and thinking along the lines of one pace healing instead of the current 2 paces as it was training to this that gave the besiegers the discipline(and incidentaly let it slip when the current 2 pace healing came into effect).

We should focus on the formation of four that way whoever is taking damage can have up to 3 people healing them. Also this is tighter discipline and will get the "brotherhood" feeling in there, i would recommend whereever possible 2 and 2, 2 dexers and 2 archers.

Sorry for the rambaling nature of this but I'm at work ATM and keep getting interupted by pesky work type stuff

I like what max is saying.

I didn't necessarily mean copy the Dragoon style as skirmishers i just thought we needed our own formation and fighting style - i maybe didnt explain myself well ;) It's their discipline as skirmishers to work as a team that i admire ;)

I like the idea of a 4 (or however many) man formation working in unison. Whether holding fast or joining the fray to deliver the deciding blow.

After all use the cannon fodder to wear our enemies down then send in the old guard eh? ;)

In my ever-developing character of Will Little, I do one day plan on being a member of this esteemed division, and reading this topic has shown me that everyone seems to have a lot of idea's about what the lore and tradition of the Grenadiers is to be... and so far I can see a strongly formed idea.

A tight-knit, family-esque unit of soldiers who have upmost loyalty to the Baron, more so than any other soldier.

Sounds great to me, but there are certain idea's you (hopefully 'we' soon) could utilise: Events purely for the Grenadier to show they are the most loyal, the most respectful, the most oredered. Before I read this topic I did not know the traits of the Grenadiers.

1. Give the Baron a two-man/woman Guard at all times. These Guards must be Grenadiers.

2. Convene a weekly Grenadier parade in honour of the Baron Octiovus, which people could attend, and each week we could offer him a special token or prize i.e. a chest with fifty thousand gold coins for his coffers, the eye of a balron etc.

3. Not be seen drinking or messing around, we are elite soldiers and so our bodies are temples - don't ruin them by drinking or foolish acts. Solidity and reliability are key.

4. Somehow link the Grenadiers with the Church? Maybe retired Grenadiers join the church... or sermons can be held by Grenadiers etc. The Church brings a lot of pre-determined views about those in it. Ordered, pious etc. Maybe good for the unit?

5. Adapt our own unique style of fighting that is very much a metaphorical symbol of our traits. We are solid, steadfast, reliable, honourable and a brotherhood of sorts - a square or rectangle which moves all together, like one large body, no one person. If you have an opponent down to 1 health and he runs, you stay.

What do you guys think?

Ahhh Will another aspiring Grenadier eh?

Well if ye need a mentor give old Raiden a shout ;)

Some good points - we already try to escort the Baron as often as possible (cove festival & mela & eriks wedding)

Grenadier only parades and training sounds good and i like the giving the Baron trophies idea - we are supposed to run errands for his Liege so maybe - "get me a Yewmans coif or a marksmans bow... and be quick about it!" or such.

*eyes points 3 & 4*

Nay drinking! *blinks* Churchies! *blinks twice* :) I think this should be more of a personal preference. I like the idea of us Grenadiers being tough disciplinarians who work, train, fight and above all play hard! I don't see the unit as a whole being piuos teatotallers ;) that's what templi's are for eh? A Grenadier like nothing better than ter relax with his fellows over a quiet ale ;)

Again i like the idea of us having our own fighting style where each member knows exactly what there role is - shieldmen to the front, archers to the rear and 2 handed wep guys at the flanks???

Some good stuff coming out in this thread everyone keep it up! :)

Okay, so i like the ideas about how the unit is to be, Solid, dependable and such, but the stuff about no drinking and linking to the church i'm not so keen on.
I know sometimes my character can seem a little 'ale obsessed' but i like to think that after a hard days guarding the Baron they'd relieve the stress by way of an ale or two. I agree they should be an example to the other guardsmen, but i'd hate to see us turn into robots who just stand around looking handsome and ticking people off.
*Winks* Your closing note, about staying put even if the enemy is on his last legs, totally agree! That's how we should be, the model of discipline.
 

Well whenever i'm in the barracks and i see the Baron roaming around i usually arm a halberd and start following him around, if he's in his office i stand outside his door barring entry.


A two man guard for the Baron every single time might be a little hard to accomplish unless the squad increases its numbers a bit. Though i like the idea of the baron being well guarded, just remember Grenadiers treasure the barons safety more then their own so when your following him around be a little overprotective, knock recruits around the head if they get to close to the baron, ask what everyones motive is when they want to see the baron.

Well i watched the thread now for a while and mhh not sure what to think about.
Our first designes of the Grenadiers were pretty simple like

.) Barons ´favorits
   (Strong bonds to the Barons house)
   The fact of beeing one of Octiovus favorite made the Grenadiers confraternity
.) acting as a Guard of the Richter family
.) well trained
.) disciplined
.) Junior or higher
later then the alchey + archer thingens with all its pro and contras came in

I never liked the posibillity to simply join the Grenadiers by applying here here and here ..tatata take the bronze arms and act like a Grenadier. In my point of few the Baron should offer thos worthy to be a Grenadier to apply the squad (if declined simply behead him >_< ) not the other way round. Keep in mind that only high Command and the Grenadiers have access to the Barons office and private chambers.
According sex drugs and cowl ..the first Grenadiers werent anything else but
church-lubbers or antialcoholics thats what the churchies are for not the Grenadiers as Raiden allready mentioned

About fighting style:..Personally i prefer the flexible like a rock fightin style. ( which doesnt mean i decline tactical manouvers ) Solid block formation with good crosshealing but no limitaion to the weapons used

Nuff said fer now..
cheers

I agree with Gimbly that over time it feels like Grenadiers have become just another squad.

When i was a recruit the Grenadiers were THE squad. There was of course the LC for stealthers and plain old guardsmen but if you wanted to be the best you applied for the Grenadiers.

Then came the dragoons and dear departed highlanders and it just kind of happened, not anyones fault but the Grenadiers just became one of the Covian armies squads instead of it's premier squad.

I don't think we should limit our options by refusing entry to those who apply but back in the day the trials did seem to be tougher and the bronze arms were a prize indeed. You (or at least i did) felt that you had truly earned the buggers!

I would like to see some form of initiation ceremony for newly appointed Grenadiers and also the squad's profile raising. A little more secrecy and intrigue with the squad and it's duties for the Baron would be fun.

A few squad events and reports on the boards is a good place to start and something we can hopefully do at a time when the majority of active Grenadiers can get together.

It's time to make a name for ourselves again?

I agree, but then i always thought the grenadiers was THE squad, finest of the fine, manly men kind of thing.
The idea about each grenadier giving potential grenadiers a task is interesting, but don't think it would be so practical. They'd have their trial, plus with each active grenadier at the moment four seperate tasks. That's alot of tasking!
Certainly, more grenadier missions and activities is definitly a good idea, and something which i've been neglecting lately (Sorry guys :( )
I have a few ideas which i'll be putting into effect soon, so keep your potatoes peeled
 ;)

     Vince

What about making some kind of ''hell's week'' for all potential grenadiers. I've just come through one, so I know fairly well how hard that is.

The week should involve the following:

Five sessions, one for each of the points on the list.

• A very strict combat and formation orders drill. Used to test the potential grenadier's discipline.
• A trip to Fire, to make the potential grenadier feel extreme heat. Proper RP of the environment should be encouraged.
• A trip to Ice, same as for Fire above basically.
• A camping and long marching excercise. Making of a properly defended camp.
• A real combat scenario, where the grenadiers would use all the knowledge and skill they possess to attack a fortified camp and also to defend and important person inside a fort, from an enemy attack (Maybe making several different forms of attack, like one direct attack and one sneaky attempt at the important persons life.

I'm just shooting out my ideas, Feedback would be much appreciated.

Nice idea Delc' but how about we do them as squad events rather than just for new or potential grenadiers.

    * A very strict combat and formation orders drill. Used to test the potential grenadier's discipline.

    * A trip to Fire, to make the potential grenadier feel extreme heat. Proper RP of the environment should be encouraged.
    * A trip to Ice, same as for Fire above basically.
    * A camping and long marching excercise. Making of a properly defended camp.
    * A real combat scenario, where the grenadiers would use all the knowledge and skill they possess to attack a fortified camp and also to defend and important person inside a fort, from an enemy attack (Maybe making several different forms of attack, like one direct attack and one sneaky attempt at the important persons life.

------------------------------------------------------


Mhh true but shouldn´t be only a part for new ones but for all Grenadiers / Guards
Maybe more focusing on crossheal / protecting scenarios as we act as the barons
bodyguards and have to protect him at any cost

Agreed. The whole squad should attend. As well as the baron maybe?

First and foremost: I've pretty much decided that the Grenadiers is the squad I'll be aspiring to, so, I've something to propose!

Roit. Joey and I were talking the other day, and I asked if upon joining a squad from say, "Regular Guardsman", would you be reverted to "Junior Grenadier/Dragoon/Scout" reflecting your new membership. As he said, this doesn't happen, and you'd become a squad member holding your previous Guardsman rank. While I very much agree with this, I am also of the opinion that there should be something to reflect your lack of experience within the squad. Of course, the answer is, an internal ranking system. Now, I won't claim this to be my idea, as it isn't - it's more or less from the Dragoon 'class' system (and as such, I hope you don't mind me suggesting this here, Joey! :P ). What is my idea is that this is implemented into all the squads (but I'm posting it here, as I think I'm aiming for Grenadiers). It's the most effective way to show who's an experienced member of the squad, and who isn't - regardless of actual rank. This element doesn't have to be shown as =I=, =II=, =III=, etc. as it is in the Dragoons; instead, perhaps a completely different method unique to the Grenadiers (I could suggest uniform, but I doubt we'd want that). But, imagining it was passed by Command to be implemented into all the squads, each squad would adopt a common way of conveying squad internal ranks anyway, without needing their own 'unique method'.

Thoughts?

The Class system rocks.

Word

It's based on Combat skill, Leadership, Creativity, Discipline, and time served in the squad. Basically the Dragoon code of conduct, the more you stick to it, the higher you'll get.

Feel free to use my idea, it only proves that i'm a genius.

I've always wondered myself, does your internal ranking not clash with the official army rank structure Joe?

An example:

A regular dragoon and a junior dragoon are outside the barracks, the junior happens to be higher in the Internal Dragoon structure but does the Regular still hold the right to boss the Junior around?

Yeah, that could potentially be an issue.

But I think class is more used to reflect experience and respect due, within the squad, rather than authority?

That's exactly what I'm proposing Tom. :) For all the Squads, really!

What Tom said, and it also gives authority in a battle situation.

For example if there was a battle and Joey wasnt there, Vinc or Nic would take command and call targets/give orders etc, as they are next in the chain and know the tactics better.

I don't like an internal class system personally, but I do agree that some sort of distinction within the unit is in order. I'd rather call it "honors", than "class" though.

I must admit I have had a little change of heart on this subject.

We work hard as a unit and the chain of command is simple - baron, sergeant, senior, regular...

The class system works fine for the Dragoons as skirmishers so the ranking combat specialist can call targets etc. But Grenadier's orders are simple - protect the Baron... period!

I doubt there'd be a situation where the baron, sergeant and senior weren't present and if that did arise it would hardly be a unit of Grenadiers, it would just be two or three Grenadiers attached with the army and as such they would be under the command of whichever ranking officer is present.

I do however like the idea of more well attended Grenadier events where we can learn from eacother and keep a competitive edge... as well as have some fun.

It's grand to see the squad looking so healthy again!

What with the return of Salidin and Darek and the emergence of Watchman Eve along with old timers Vince, Raiden, Demarian and Gimbly.

This being the case we cant rest on our laurels, we have to push on further to keep the Baron's Own Grenadiers the Covian army's number one squad!

Regular Grenadier Trainings

Vince and I will host these trainings once a week - Monday 8pm GMT onwards seems to be the prime time to get most Grenadiers online but this is of course flexible.

These trainings will cover the roles and behaviour expected of a Grenadier as well as practical training in the arts of explosives and combat with the odd brotherhood hunt or Grenadier task thrown in!

We want to make these trainings as fun and informative as possible and any ideas are welcome.

Also during these trainings any of the attending Grenadiers may be called upon to lead a section - whether it be the hunt part or combat training etc... Just so Vince and I can keep you on your toes.


Mentorship

We need to keep aspiring Grenadiers in the pipeline!

Looking at the squad at the moment we have a Sergeant, Corporal, Dem's closing in on Senior Guardsman, Gimbly and Salidin are regulars and Darek is closing on on Regular so there's a wealth of experience there that can be passed on to apprentices.

Now if like me you've had apprentices disappear on tasks or killed in action (it happens to us all), just cross them off your list and look for a new one! *grins*


Grenadier Behaviour

A Grenadier is the example of discipline to the other squads/ranks and would never be seen to disobey superiors, act in a disorderly fashion or indeed criticise the church. I don't think this happens now but we don't want things to slip.

Also Vince and I want to give the squad a sterner feel overall, to make it a little less jokey (although we are the worst sinners here) without taking the fun away. Of course on Grenadier only events we can share a joke with our brother/sister Grenadiers.


Grenadier Kit

As mentioned before in this thread by Erik a Grenadier should have plenty of kit to hand out to recruits etc. who have had their stuff nicked by mongbats.

Don't consider this extra kit, to a Grenadier it is his regular kit!

So at all times make sure you have at least 1 extra parade arm, torch and bedroll.

Added to this, as half the squad are archers i want to see the shieldfighters carry at least 100 bolts & arrows as a backup for their comrades. These maybe carried inside a quiver (that is dyed shadow to suit our armour) and the quiver may only be equiped on hunts etc. No dawdling about on parade with a bloodeh quiver strapped to yer back!

Of course copious amounts of bandies (at least 400) and nightsight potions etc. are to be carried along with plenty of conflag and explosive potions.

Keep to it - you will be tested. (If you need any supplies stick a post on the citizen boards - in fact i may place a bulk Grenadier order *ponders*)


I think that's it for now, although i've probably forgot something.

So please discuss and stick down any ideas/opinions you may have.

FOR THE BARON!

Quite right. As far as the discipline side goes, this is more trying to get a more ridgid feel to the Grenadiers, and doesn't mean we'll stop having a shedload of Grenadier fun ;)

I agree a weekly Grenadier training at the said time would be good for the squad, so like them man says, lets us know if you're totally unavailble on Mondays at 8pm and we'll work something out so that each and every Grenadier gets the full experience.

All in all, keep at it guys, and I'm sure we'll see the grenadiers reach even higher ground

Training is always fun yet i think we should have like three types.

1.practical a hunt pratice of bombs and conflag potions as well as formations as Grenadiers should have there own.  As we the best! and you other squads know it!

2.Drill,orders and Kit inspection to keep us in top shape ETC Grenadier kit is unifrom,2 halberd,400-500 bandages + Grenadier shield and conflag and explosive potions.

3.Protection of the baron set a scenario up where other squads can help in this manner Grenadiers nominate a person as the baron and have to escort him to an area or keep him standing for the battle,other squads or army members act as attackers unless Grenadier hopefulls if no other than grenadiers and hopefuls spilt the teams and try the exercise.

We've tried some of these ideas before, and they worked quite well I feel, so we can definitly implement them into trainings.

I also like the idea of Gimblys house becoming the Grenadier HQ. We had a donation from Xander a while back, to be used for grenadier matters, and I'm sure that'll help towards decorating/building the place

HAR!!! HEAR HEAR!

Huzzah for Xander and for Gimbly ;)

Good ideas Dem' keep 'em coming!

State of now
(http://member.ycn.com/~tarabec/uo/ghq/hq1.jpg)
(http://member.ycn.com/~tarabec/uo/ghq/hq2.jpg)
(http://member.ycn.com/~tarabec/uo/ghq/hq3.jpg)

design (removed the toilet and made a small area to rally or whatever

(http://member.ycn.com/~tarabec/uo/ghq/hqn1.jpg)
(http://member.ycn.com/~tarabec/uo/ghq/hqn2.jpg)

So i guess i have the final design now.. So if nayone else has anything we  need ill finalize it tomorrow.
As this will be the Grenadier halls , ill let Eve doin the deco things, whatever if shes doin an event is up to her.
(http://member.ycn.com/~tarabec/uo/ghq/hqn3.jpg)

Yeah I like the idea of swearing the Baron's oath just before the promotion parade for anyone being accepted into the Grenadiers - A quick screenie and post it at the end of their completed trials?

I have the tidied the Grenadier Boards up a little today.

The Grenadier's formation date and Grenadier Tome have been added to the Grenadier Information thread and the contacts list has been updated etc.

This thread has been quiet for too long also!

So if you have an idea or concept you'd like to see implemented within the Grenadiers,  this is the thread to do it in!

All ideas will be considered, regardless of whether a member is a Grenadier or not. New ideas regarding the squad shall also be posted here.

A statue of Vince Valentine in your grenadier building! Goowaaannn.. you know you wanna..

Agreed we need one of Ryan Greystone to!!! Yes yes!

And Ahmed.

And Hrothgar

And Conan.... He died too

Didn't die a Grenadier though.

There'd be nowhere to train with all the damn statues foo's!

Less statues more Grenadier recruits i say!

Huzzah!

How about paintings then..? Takes up virtually no room!

There is a small bronze coloured box with the inscription:

In memorial to our fallen brethren: Ryan, Ahmed & Vince.

Along with Vinces personal effects on display at the Grenadier HQ.

An idea of Demarian's to perhaps introduce internal Grenadier squad merits for excelling in Grenadier duties, such as leading explosive courses etc. etc.

Your thoughts/ideas?

I think that would be a good idea..  Makes you more inspired to do thing in the Grenadier fashion I say!

If anyone excels themselves in a given area they should be rewarded for it!...It's a good idea Demarian, perhaps we should look at what the medals/awards names might be and what they might look like!

I must admit I do quite like this idea.

It does give that little added incentive to participate in Grenadier events, not that you should need it! *slaps* But it is a nice touch.

For example a Grenadier who has successfully hosted an explosives course could be "Master Bombardier" or something and upon completing an interrogation you may be awarded with "The Baron's Hammer" merit or organise patrol rotas to receive the "Protector of the Shire" medal?

Obviously we'll have to come up with some swish titles and requirements too so that anyone from Junior Grenadier upwards may have the opportunity to receive a merit (i.e. lead one explosives course or attend 3?).

I like it and i sent you a few ideas on requirements and merit names,going to be more attending things in Grenadier training sessions as ive been saying if we do two or even three a week if we have time we can fit everyone in that may miss something.

Easier for people who can log in certain days like Eve,Myself,Tyrael etc.


Anyhow lets keep this thread going some inpsiring ideas resently! Come babble your ideas!


P.S. Raiden make us a Grenadier babble board ;D

Grenadier babblers will be cleansed by fire!!!!


Thanks Dem, we'll see if we can get some proposals up soon and see what people think.

With regard to Grenadier trainings we do seem to be scattered all over the place time wise but Eve and I will try and host them at suitable times.

But as a Senior Grenadier feel free to run Security Checks or Wilderness Trainings etc. for Grenadiers & aspiring Grenadiers plus other ranks can attend these too.

However I'd like to keep Interrogations and Explosive Courses just for Grenadiers & aspiring Grenadiers for the moment at least.

Okay here's my thinking on some internal Grenadier squad medals/merits.

I don't think we need a medal for each and every Grenadier duty as it waters down the honour's importance. So what I'm proposing is this:

---

Bodyguard Training, Baronial Sentries, Security Checks, Escorts & Patrol Rotas would all come under the same umbrella.

Possible name for the medal: High Protector Of Cove or whatever we think is swish etc.

If we can get someone to make us some nice images this one could possibly incorporate a Port Cullis, which is also the Baron's Coat Of Arms.

---

Our Explosives experts should receive some form of medal/merit too.

Possible name: Master Bombardier... Or somesuch.

This medal could incorporate the flaming grenade emblem of the Grenadiers?

---

Next I think some sort of "drill instructor" medal for leading trainings in general but mainly Wilderness/Hardening Trainings.

Possible name: Survival Master etc. Or maybe something more generic to cover training in general?

Not really thought of an emblem for this medal? Ideas?

---

Interrogation medal. I'd like to do more interrogations so the Grenadiers can really make their mark as the "Baron's Own". Anyone speaks out of line against the Baron and we whisk them off to the cells for a liberal dose of torture etc.

Possible name: The Baron's Hammer etc. etc.

Emblem: A smiths hammer etc. obviously dependant on the name etc.

---

So there are my suggestions, a medal/merit for Upholding Security, Training Mastery, Explosives Expertise & Interrogations.

Please discuss.

They sound good.. but maybe when I'm a little more awake I'll have to think about it a little more, and try to possible get a few more ideas out there..

Any ideas for Grenadier Merit/Medal names and or designs chaps?

Baron's Hammer = Interrogation Specialist = Hammer design badge?

High Protector of Cove = Security Check, Patrol Rota, Escort & Bodyguard Specialist = Portcullis design badge?

Hardened Instructor = Cadre, Parade Drill, Wilderness/Hardening/Misc. Training Specialist = ?? ?? design badge.

?? ?? ?? = Explosives Specialist = Flaming Grenade design badge?

What do you think?

Struggling at the moment to come up with a suitable name for the Explosives Specialist merit and also a possible design for the Hardened Instructor merit.

Any ideas?

Sounds like fun bud - try and arrange it for when we have a good turn out :P

Sounds good to me, will help build are teamwork skills and combat also, always a good laugh .

A return to the Covian army of course means a return of The Baron's Own Grenadiers, so if you have any ideas for the squad fire away.

Please keep this thread on topic. Babble will be cleansed with Grenadier efficiency.

Raiden, Commander.

A small list of ideas, and possible implementation (If I ca ever nthink of them)

• Grenadier Tasks: In work as  per Baronial Wine mission discussion.
• Rekindle the Grenadier internal merits and awards Idea: A great idea i feel still, just need some final designs for emblems I thinks? Discuss.
• Making Certain Grenny Uniforms are the same hue. After last nights mention, though I hate bowing to tyranny and oppression especially from the uneducated. He was right. I know that in the long run this will be uneconomical. I also know that Dem was taking care of the one issue but for future reference we may wish to stay atop it for uniform issue. Speaking of which I have an extra shield if anyone needs it!
• Squad Rolemodeling: We should be the rolemodels to the Main block, hence the general bashing of the Covian army as a general entity should STOP. Bashing the arcanists and the scouts is one thing, its squad rivalry but this irreverent and rude behaviour towards regular army members will hurt general opinion. Interrogations, and regulations should indeed be carried out with due diligence and curtness but day to day activities with members of good standing in the army should be conducted with courtesy. These are our "little Brothers" and the stock from which future legends shall rise. On a separate note, guardsmen should be reminded of courtesy towards civilians, I am seeing alt of "Go to hell your only a civ"
• The Grenadier song, I heard there was a rewrite in the works? Shall we discuss this possibility as well or does Keres have this in hand?
• Bombs, Do we have a stock standing by available to grenadiers to stock up on (within reason and good judgment)? If not I've an alchemist and can start producing in limited quantaties.
• Tavern nights; Grenadier style. I feel we grenadiers should host a tavern night/crawl of some time at least two times a month. The art of swagger should be expressed! The idea is that we have invited everyone to drinks at a tavern where they can see how Grenadiers do things. I also hope this will give some IC inventiveness to other members and make us more visible.
• Medical classes. Marcus (as soon as I do the research) will start holding classes for Grenadiers/potentials concerning burn and shrapnel wound care, seeing as bombs and such are our job, all of us should have IC knowledge of how to treat for these injuries. Any information you have will help especially if the information is more medieval in nature rather than 22ND century stuff.

I think that's everything I have right now, some ideas, some reminders, a personal rant, and not much  else.

Cheers mates.

Some good points raised Marcus.

~ Grenadier Tasks WILL be returning. We'll try to make these as entertaining as possible and tie them in with current world events and themes of the day.

~ I quite liked some of the internal Grenadier merit ideas. It's be nice to have some swish images for people's signatures but not essential. Feel free to discuss the merits that have been brought up in previous discussions. They can be added to personal/character profiles if nothing else.

~ Uniformity is key. Those people lucky enough to own dyed valorite gear please make certain you have the correct hued dyes. I know these are increasingly hard to come by, especially bronze but if it means wearing bronze arms with a shadow dyed suit, at the expense of your resists so be it. I've had to do it for long enough and we are roleplayers first and foremost afterall.

~ Grenadiers not only should lead by example. They are EXPECTED to. Both IC & OOC. Try and mentor people as best you can and offer help and advice where needed. Bollocking and punishments should be handed out to lower ranks if called for. Instilling discipline is very much what Grenadiers are about. However any 'wisdom' imparted should be done so as it will save people's lives in the long run and not for the sake of wielding power.

~ A rewrite of the Grenadier Song!? Blasphemy! The Grenadier Song harks back to the very origins of the guild. However if we can add a verse regailing the deeds of Greystone, Ahmed, Arkay and Vince and it doesn't make it sound too rubbish then I'm all for it. ;)

~ More squad events are a must and also on the agenda. Whether they be brotherhood hunts, wilderness exercises, wine trips with the baron or even our own internal armsmaster tournament. Again keep an eye out as these events will be coming soon.

~ The Grenadiers of old were more of a defensive unit and therefore skilled medics. However today's squad is more of a hybrid as we hope to also take on some of the offensive roles formerly carried out by the Dragoons. But I love the idea of Grenadiers undertaking and having to be fairly well qualified battlefield medics so IC medical training sounds good to go along with explosives courses, wilderness training and practicing interrogation techniques.

That's my thoughts on the points you've raised matey.

I'm currently trying to put together a Grenadier's Handbook for display on the Squad's private board as a guide to the Grenadier way of life. I'm battling against the time constraints that my duties put on me both IC and OOC but I may post up what I have already and add to it as and when I get chance.

Hopefully it will be of some value.

As Vince used to say, there's two ways to do things. The wrong way and the Grenadier way. ;)

I've got armour and weapons covered what my smith is there for Im trying to get hold of a bulk of Bronze dyes but no luck...so far Contact me Grenadier's for a custom built armour suit.

Grenadier Song

It doesnt rhyme, it doesnt come anywhere near following its own tune, and it disses the Avatar, Lithos, and two Commanders. Its hardly in keeping with what the Grenadiers stand for. The song itself is based on "The British Grenadiers", more specifically the first verse. I'll provide a link to a video where part of the song is sung...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7x0aE14YoAc

The lyrics of the original version of the borrowed verse are;
Some talk of Alexander,
And some of Hercules
Of Hector and Lysander,
And such great names as these.
But of all the world's great heroes,
There's none that can compare
With a tow, row, row, row, row, row,
To the British Grenadier.

The current Covian Grenadier song is;
“Some talk of Avatar,
And some of Lithos,
Of Eason and Mavis,
And such great names as these,
But of all Sosaria’s great heroes there is none that can compare,
To the tow, row, row, row, row
Of the Covian grenadier!”

Personally, I'd prefer a rewritten version that actually makes sense and actually gives a bit of lyrical reinforcement to the qualities we're trying to express with the Grenadiers and as Covians. It's not exactly good form to name two major religious figures and two famous Covian leaders as people you're better than, if you're trying to be good examples.

Just toying around a bit, here's what I've got;
Some talk of the Besiegers,
And some the Nihonese,
Of Drakan and the Guardsmen,
And such great names as these,
But of all the world's great heroes,
Theres none that can compare
To the tow, row, row, row, row, row
Of the Covian Grenadiers!

It says we're better than our rival heavy infantry squad, the 'Siegers...
It says we're better than the Nihonese, who're renowned for discipline and honor.
It says we're better than a famous Yewish leader as well as all of his men.
Whats there not to like?

Good point

Heh... I didn't know OUR Grenadier song was take from THE Grenadier song.

The again, I should have probably guessed. ;)

I'n at work at the minute so unfortunately I can't listen to the clip. :(

S'good. And that version of the song could certainly be sung with gusto in a negative sense, defaming foriegn squads, leadership and sackers of Cove. However I still think I'd prefer the song to be about Cove and her heroes or perhaps mention legendary figures from UO lore as the RL song features heroes from legend.

I don't think the original song is necessarily meant to detract from the great heroes of the Trojan War, in fact my interpretation is that it hails them as the heroes they are but simply adds that a Grenadier, through his deeds can aspire to be even greater than these heroes of antiquity.

Some talk of Hrothgar
Of Arkay and Eason
And such great names as these
But of all Sosaria's great heroes, there are none that can compare
To the tow, row, row, row
Of a Baron's Own Grenadier

How's that for a slight reworking?

We could perhaps keep both versions in usage? The politically correct version for use in more sensitive situations and the more defamatory version for use on rowdy tavern nights and peace talks? ;p

I do think our existing version needs bringing up to date as publicly hailing an archangel (that later became revered by the Highlanders) might not go down particularly well with the Church and not many people will have heard of Mavis, who I believe was Cove's first Captain?

Even those who HAVE heard of Mavis but did not know her know LITTLE about her. There are only two posts still in existence and available to the public even mentioning Mavis by name. Also from what I gathered she was not in Cove for long. Soo IC nobody whose been with Cove less than two years probably hasnt even heard the name except in Song. I once heard of Mavis from Arkay and still wonder exactly who she was. Heh, her and Hendrakes Irregular's. . . . I have a Senior Task up regarding the Irregulars.

Anyway yes a long winded explaination to say that Nobody knows who Mavis was anymore save some very old, long standing members. I thought Lithos was infact the name of someones character in the regards to the song. *Researches* I know its also the name of an Archangel but I think an actual character may have been named that.

*UPDATE* Lithos was a recruit back in 2006 :P

Anyways, an update is indeed due.

Yours in hot aired over extended conversations,

-MK

Mavis was Captain of the irregulars but she deserted and joined -V- in early 05


Hercules and Alexander don't exist in UO lore so doesn't make much sense to have them in the song in my opinion.

Lithos was near enough a daemon than an archangel

I know British is a loyalist but many respected him and he was a renown hero

Some talk of Avatar and some of British
Of Eason and Arkay and such great names as these
but of all
Sosoria's greatest heroes none can compare to the
Tow, roe, roe, roe
Of the Barons Grenadiers

Anyways, as was brought up in the "secret Service" party chat last night. Code words and signs/counter signs. I agree something. . simple, should be thought up just to add flair and spice to what we as Grenadiers do.

"Sarge! Sarge! We've a 319!
- A 319!?! Daemons!!?!?
No no, look in the manual!
*Eyes the others*
- Oh!! That!
Aye most urgent!!
*Both run off for ales at the King's Deer*
*Two recruits look at each other none the wiser to the boozing of Grenadiers*

OK that's a joke but same concept applies. It sounds official and superfluous at the same time! I wouldn't mind coming up with a few codes. I'll right something up in three digit hundred series format:

100 Series: Admin
101: Got a report to do.
102: Have to update my Service Record
103: Getting promoted
104: Getting demoted

200 Series: Enemies
201: Vesperians in town
202: Yewish In town

300: discipline
301: Administer a warning
302: Beat to a pulp
303: Lashes
304: Grenadier Him!

Etc.

It would go "something" like that. A series denoting what type of event was going on and the next 2 digits declaring specifically what it was, the second digit could be used to rank importance 1-9 with a 9 meaning it wasn't important at all. So a 392 would mean beating them to a pulp when the chance arose and a 312 would mean Do it NOW.

Simple really.

Cheers!

Thank you Marcus for posting this, I forgot for a minute that I even brought it up. Yes being Grenadiers we are kinda like the "Secret-Service" except not soo secret. That's why we must make ourselves secretive!! We need codes. Start off with simple codes that we can also put into Grenadier trials for people to learn. But a few simple ones such as certain main locations and of things that happen alot. Such as insubordination, attacks, that kind of stuff. Even give ranks their own codes for us Grenadiers.

Sounds like an okay idea to make us Grenadiers sound more "pro". We really could use some perks like that.

Only issue I see with it is that its going to be fraught with errors unless we all carry around reference books or open the relevant thread every few minutes, and even then it'll be prone to falling into disuse. That said, I'd do everything in my power to make sure it was used as often as possible - just write it up and I'm in.

yea a book can be helpful, if somebody forgets a code or something. I'd be happy to write it up. If it's agreed upon everybody that we can use it.

We Grenadiers are supposed to be Cove's heavy infantry, we're supposed to be the best!
But we're not a 1337 pvp squad of warriors as we rp as. We're just normal players who are great at rp! That's great, really, but to survive we have to be sufficient at pvp to hold our own against all sorts of foes, alone, and as a group.

But focusing on pvp is bad, that'll attract a lot of attention to our squad we don't want. But it needs to be improved. So I recommend that we start training! Not the standard parade physical training, UO, Pvp, skills and stats training. It's as much a part of the game as anything else. When I became a grenadier I started dueling Keres and a lot of other  people, and it made me better. This is basically what we have to start doing, dueling each other.  We could also hold pvp trainings for the Grenadiers introducing a lot of battling, and going over tactics and drilling them in, such as healing while running and other extremely hard stuff!

What'cho' think?

That's a known fact...

This is something Keres and I are very keen to do Buttons.

Once he's finished eating his birthday pie expect to see these trainings being scheduled. ;)

I talked to him about it fo'sho

God damnit Mavis was not the first Captain of Cove!  >:(

I [Mitsuko] was! For about... two weeks! Fact!  >:(

I ordered Mavis around... (once. She complained about having to wear a uniform!) God damnit, Octi best remember! I should probably point out at this stage that I think I was only Captain by default because I was just about the only guard. I must have gone to Cove about twice, we were still playing on the -V- stone at that point. Just me following Octiovus around looking mean while he talked fancy to the Vesperians.  :D

I state that as Grenadiers we need to be more Formal than what I've seen from the army. As Grenadiers we must  show we are true soldiers. By using every day military things. We do salute when we meet higher ranks. But no hats inside a building, or resuming position until told "As you were." or something. Just give us the more Soldier feel. Also discipline really needs to be hammered into some insubordinate guards. We need to become strict and always a soldier. We are the Baron's Own after all, we should be prepared for anything at anytime. Not saying we should lack on humor and be strict all the time but we need to keep the guard sane. As for Buttons, we shall straighten him out. His crazy antics should be helped. What do you all think?

You'll pardon me for the rather short response, as I'm what is generally known as being "Really, really tired", but;

I'm inclined to agree with Darek.

Ok me and some others were talking about the Grenadiers and this idea came across as important to me. We are supposed to be the elite body guard squad of destruction and power. Yet it's soo easy to join. We have to up our standards above all the other squads. We have to make it increasingly hard to get into the Grenadiers I think. As we are supposed to be the best. I'm talking hard. Background checks for security clearance, brute strength and most superior skills must be proven, advanced leadership and correct mannerism, everything makes the perfect soldier. We ourselves being current Grenadiers need to step up in our Soldierism.....new word I made. We need to start acting like a real squad. We are to be of a good example to all the other squads and under ranked men and civilians. Now for the part that really is bothering me with the Covian army. Discipline. It must've happened while I was away at one point but we used to be a pretty IC disciplined guild. Now the recruits and watchman run around like doing as they please and when disciplined they just laugh and become insubordinate. Everybody must know their place. But back to the joining of the Grenadiers I think if we become a hard squad to get into and even turn down some people that will also make us look better. Because the untouchable fruit always looks the best. Will also show how important we are in Cove. This is just an idea but let me know what you think...

I totally agree Darek.

I always tried to set challenging trials, not just in terms of content but in terms of workload too. If you want to be the best then prove it was the way I looked at it when I had a more hands on role running the squad. I always asked potential Grenadiers to do more than other squads expected of their potentials simply because we're the best.

It should not only be challenging to make Grenadier it should also be challenging to maintain that status. If people aren't cut out for it then they should be invited to resign or be expelled after receiving a good kicking. ;D

I agree with the general discipline theme too. This is one of the main traits of a Grenadier. Grenadiers should set an example on all times to the other ranks.

sorry to butt in, remove this if you like.  In agreement with Darek and how I have felt about the squads for a while.  Grens and Scouts should not be just an option to join if people feel like it.  A place in them should be earnt and then kept on being earnt by members constantly proving themselves for it.

I think too often people are thinking if I make this kind of char with these skills I can join them.  It needs to take a certain attitude of character and such first. 

Thats all, carry on..

There used to be requirements such as You'd have to be Regular to Join the Grenadier's as such and been mentored for at least few weeks before you could even just join.
I think a few member's of the Grenadier's currently make it look someone shabby with there IC attitude good soldier's or not the Grenadier's are suppoused to represent the Baron in his stead and should be roleplayed as Gentlemen.
Im not saying everyone should because I know I never did constantly but at times you need to be with certain character's you come across as they can effect Coves status with you being the Baron's men.
I believe there used to be a restriction on numbers on the Grenadier there basically just Heavy Infantry Squad instead of being the elite.
I'd either Vote for the Highlanders or Dragoon's to come back to fill that spot as Heavy Infantry.
Not to steal attention from the Grenadier's, to much about how we can do more and not focusing on the current issues.
Darek's making a strong point, same with the Scout's more training should be done harder requirements for each.
grenadier's should run an Explosives Course that all Applicant's must attend, several Grenadier hunt's with Apprentices, Meetings(Never seen one since I've been back) Perhaps weekly, and write up a memo as Ihiniar did once.. doesn't need to be all IC can be OOC just to let everyone know and be up to date, your main problem is most likely communication and Advanced tactic's training regarding modern day battle tactics in UO and enemies and also a few Body Guard training sessions!

As Raiden's also said Dicipline factor is important also the Baron Guard are the best of the best think of them as Special forces a leading example and morale factor for other Guardsmen.

But honestly!He's got a point!

Ah yes Torrak will hate me for this but... make grenadier promo requirements harder like before!

House hold checks and all that!

I think the meetings do need to be reinstated as well as increasing the trainings, especially mandatory trainings that potentials MUST attend to even be considered in joining should be made as well. At least once a week we should hold a Grenadier training. Like rotate each week with a different training, like body guard training, explosive, field tactics, general order, how to act as a Grenadier, discipline training, all that.

Just to say for this "More meetings". Milako, post a time and lead it. If The sarge shows, give it to him, or who ever ranks you. But if they nay arrive hold it with whom ever -does- show up. Else I fear the issue of "we need to do more" will persist. Even Junior and aspiring Grennies should get incouragement to call these meetings.

Yea I know, I'm working on things to make the trainings about, but i'll hold a meeting to talk about it....so I think I'll hold the meeting Tuesday or Monday. Grenaders let me know when you can make it. I wont be on Wed. or Thurs. Maybe next Friday?

monday if it is in the evening i cant attend ill be at work :( but tuesday i can

I have Monday off, so thats the best day for me. Any time. Any day from Tuesday to Friday it'd have to be after 5:00pm EST (10:00pm GMT), and thats if I get lucky and I get home on time and the computer is available immediately.

What about a Sunday 7-8pm usually the majority of us are free or not working or got school

sunday is fine if i get out on time.... ill be home about 7:20-7:30 depending on traffic  but you have to remember the parade is at 8

I wont be on Sunday, Wed, or not til later on at night EST Thurs.   gah...next Sunday?

So this meeting this SUnday the 4th 7-8 pm That alright for you lot? Need a plan of action

Works for me.

i'll be there just a little late

Alright hope we all make it sunday or else i'll have to put a hit out on all of you :P

We'll write a little memo of whats been discussed and stick it in a threat Ihiniar started year ago or so, those that couldn't attend stick your idea's on what was discussed in this thread so we can where were at!