A. You need Acrobat Reader on your computer because those files are in PDF format. You can download Acrobat Reader from the Adobe site. (See the links section of the Home Page Links)
Multiple copies of Acrobat Reader include obsolete ones on the computer can have the same effect. De-install all of them, get rid of any which are not removed by the operating system then re-boot the computer. Then, download an up to date version from the Adobe site.
A. No. Try buying a 100 piece 25 mm Anglo-Norman army from Warrior Miniatures (currently £25 plus post and packing). Paint about 2 thirds of the figures and sell the rest on a bring and buy stall. You will have more than enough for 2 good war bands. Alternatively you could try plastic 20mm figures.
A. Try Warrior Miniatures 100 piece 25 mm armies. I have their Republican Romans. I armed the triarii figures with pila to get 60 heavy legionaries. There are probably more velites than you need, and also some cavalry. Also, if you are not committed to 25mm, consider 20mm plastic figures.
A. Which ever size you prefer. I could give you good reasons in favour of all the possible scales. Fundamentally you need to like what you paint and play with. I started with 6mm. At present I am painting more 15mm armies and intend to do a select few armies in 25mm.
A. The Fanaticus site has a lot of useful information on it's resource pages. The site is targeted at people interested in DBA, but much of it, for example, the painting tips, is applicable to other wargamers. (I happen to think that DBA is an excellent choice of rules for a beginner.) There is also a forum where you can ask questions. Also, for those interested in the 6 mm scale, the Baccus 6mm site is very good.
A. Yes. It was designed for my Warrior Miniatures 1:650 scale ships but it works with the smaller models. Version 2 includes the unit adaption and additional ship types.
A. Yes, over the weeks and months. I have a lot to learn about digital photography.
A. It could be that you are not in "Outlook Express" or similar program. Another possibility is that your browser may be set not to interpret JavaScript. I did the email link in JavaScript to avoid my email address being used by spammers.
A. Yes, whenever I have something to add or alter. Scenarios take time to design and play. Changes to rules usually occur after I play or umpire the rules and decide that something needs changing.