The Copper Crown's private garden features an outdoor fireplace and this fireplace's defining element is the Crown* family crest. Now, according to local legend, the Copper Crown is the ancestral home of this ancient line of aristocrats who, in addition to being peers of the realm, were renowned orchardists, dragon hunters** and even (according to one telling) dragon riders.***

*Some scholars claim the 'Crown' surname is a counterfeit cognomen and that they are more properly called the 'Copper' family.

**Other (perhaps more reputable) sources suggest that rather than hunting mythical creatures the 'Coppers' farmed the perennial herb: Artemisia dracunculus.

***Eminent dragonologists have yet to come to a consensus on the veracity of this claim.

The Copper Crown section of the model is nearly finished. We just have to add a few more details and some shrubbery and it will be ready for paint!

The Under Hill's courtyard has an organic feel. Although it is enclosed by a high wall very little of the wall is visible from inside the courtyard. Instead, it appears to have been cut into the side of a hill. It is also filled with quaint details like a sluice box water feature and an outdoor 'oven' for a fire pit. It is going to be a fun place to stay!

---

The Copper Crown's courtyard garden is starting to take shape. This will be a formal garden in the French style. It features a large outdoor fireplace and (because it would't be a castle without one) a small moat. :)

We have started blocking out the bailey gates and curtain walls. This is clearly an ancient château as the walls look to be in need of some repair. :)

---

Our model has some paint on it!

After a few last minute alterations to the garden and the stone caryatid in front of the upper window we are *finally* ready to paint. The colour has only just started but it is already making a significant difference.

I can't wait to see it finished!