Slitherine

In normal shooting, a second rank of archers shoots at half effect, presumably because they can't see their target and hence are lobbing their arrows upwards hoping to hit.
But in support shooting in the impact a second rank shoots one dice per base (albeit with a - modifier). So what's happening here - is the front rank lying down?

In general impact seems to be double dice across the board - most front rank troops at impact fight on two dice. Therefore it makes some sense that bow fire is essentially doubled as well. Maybe it helps simulate the shock of several well-times last minute releases rather than a more steady stream of sapping bowfire.

Such matters are in truth more about getting the game balance and feel correct than about trying to create too much of a bottom up argument.....if you want the latter then bruces point is one.

Another is that you are more vulnerable when pelting forward at close range.

Indeed they reflect overhead fire and possibly front ranks kneeling - IIRC the chinese did this. Or even missile troops shooting fromt he front and falling back behind other troops atr the last minute.

It can be any or all of these as long as the feel and balance is good overall in terms of the odds of affecting an IMPACT phase due to a decent mass of supporting bowfire. So I guess I am saying its been modelled from the odds if you see what I mean.

Si