Hi Ray, I'm Brian Martin, long time fan and admirer, and a long time lurker here. I have a few queries into what sources you researched and used for the warfare in your Midkemian series. I'm a student of history (literally, my degree will be BA in History, MSU Denver) and also a disabled Veteran, and I couldn't help but notice a lot of the military engagments, i.e. Arutha commanding at Crydee's siege, Erik and the Crimson Eagles' training and subsequent deployments, and Nicolas' sea battles, all have a ring of historical familiarity. Did you use any references to the Roman Legions and/or Spartan training? French Foreign Legion? Athenian Hoplite formation fighting techniques? Henry V's victory at the Battle of Agincourt? Nelson's victories at Trafalgar? I'm *very* curious about the "diamond" formations of the CE's at the Battle of Nightmare ridge.
I do understand that answering these questions could be a *huge* consession and burden on your part because you are a very busy man. I just wanted you to know that there's someone who's paying very close attention to how you bring setting and characterization together. Also, I'm grateful that you gave of your imagination and shared some insight into your Thursday and Friday Nighter's sessions. Hope to hear from you. Brian M. -- Stupidity is it's own reward.
