[Romani AAR] It began on seven hills...

[QuintusSertorius]

This is the AAR thread for my EB 1.1 Romani game (H/M with rtw.exe). I had promised myself I'd wait a week or two for the bugs to show and fixes to come out, but when I got home the other day it had finished downloading. Thing is some of the fun went out of my 1.0 game (https://forums.totalwar.org/vb/showthread.php?t=101439) when the Parthians died, meaning I could never have them a major power in the 1st century BC. And while I would like to get my mini-mod starting in 250BC going, that's not going to be a quick project.

Besides which, if I'm honest I have a soft spot for Camillian troops who are kind of cool in their own way. I've discovered my new favourite allied troop as well in the Bruttian infantry.

I'm playing to historical expansion and composition, as per my WIP guide (https://forums.totalwar.org/vb/showthread.php?t=101787)

We open in 270BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II270BC.jpg

The garrison of Taras sallied out to defeat, despite outnumbering the Roman forces at the tail end of 272BC, meaning it was taken in an appropriate year. That task done, 271 was spent making good two armies for the southern and northern pushes. Most important of all was to retake Rhegion and restore Roman honour by punishing the traitor.

In the above I'd just taken Rhegion and the following turn, at the end of the winter of 270 Bononia's garrison sallied out and was handed a decisive pasting.

Of note with the AI factions was Epeiros' brushing the Makedones aside to their capital and Demetrius. I wasn't too happy about that, especially as they seemed set to destroy Koinon Hellenon as well. Something I don't like are superpowers growing in my backyard.

Fortunately Force Diplomacy and some creativity with the console arrested their behaviour. I lumped them with a 50k penalty to stop them recruiting, then took settlements off them. By 266BC they'd gone very quiet indeed:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II266BC.jpg

Then I turned my attentions to Pontos who rushed to an early lead in Asia Minor. Ideally I'd like their new settlements to go rebel again rather than go to any one faction. I've got my usual plan in store for Galatia - I'll gift it to the Arverni this time, though.

I've been gifting money via the console to the Hai and Baktria. I did initially to Pahlava, but they seem to be doing just fine. The Getai are similarly sweeping their region while the three Hellenic factions beat seven shades out of each other.

264BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II264BC.jpg

The First Punic War has begun, although the opening was a bit of a damp squib. A show of force by the Karthadastim, then they high-tailed it back to Lilibeo. I may have to resort to scripting some reinforcements for them, so we have an actual battle or three (how would I do that?).

I'm also struggling financially a little, but that's because I have two full consular legions when I can only really support one. I only make a profit of around 1.5k a turn right now. Warring with my best trading partner hasn't helped matters, either.

[Chirurgeon]

I think it would be better if you played alternate history instead of recreating it. So many Roman AARs go the strict route of trying to replicate history. I think its a shame that you abandoned your old AAR just because 1.1 is out. You put so much work into that one. I wish people wouldnt give up on their AARs so easily. Seems they really get going and suddenly Poof! they are dead. Sigh oh well I guess I am just venting. Carry on then!

[QuintusSertorius]

As I've already said, I'm not interested in alternate history. That doesn't give me any kind of guide as to what I should be doing and I'd either spend a lot of time turtling and building myself up without acting, or rashly going out there and grabbing stuff. I only play EB because I want a historical simulation, and a chance to test out my house rules.

The other AAR was always struggling to maintain my interest after Pahlava died, it was only then that I realised how important it is to keep an eye on the other factions from the very beginning, not just later on.

[Banzai!]

Dude! Give Pyrrhus his due and give him back his territories.

If you want to stop him pwning the Macedonians fight him! Don't use Force Diplomacy.

[QuintusSertorius]

Dude! Give Pyrrhus his due and give him back his territories.

If you want to stop him pwning the Macedonians fight him! Don't use Force Diplomacy.

I'm not fighting the Epirotes now I've taken Taras, nor engaging in an ahistorical early war in Greece. I've got war with Qarthadast, that's more than enough to content with, without losing even more trade income.

Besides which, all Makedonia were left with was Mytilene, and I didn't want them abandoning Greece and expanding out into Asia Minor.

[QuintusSertorius]

261BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II261BC.jpg

Pontos is still expanding at an alarming rate, last turn they took Ankyra, which I gave to the Arverni via Force Dipliomacy. Nothing I have in the region can slow them down, my only spy just died trying to get into Nikaia. I've got two more on their way to try to foment some unrest and hopefully spark rebellions back to the Eleutheroi. If they take Tylis and I can't get it to revolt, I'll give it to Makedonia. What's most annoying is they're not even trying to take Sinope after failing the first time.

I took Messana a couple of turns ago, now things in Sicily have gone a bit cold. Apparently in 257BC or so there's a coming of age in Lilibeo which makes them more aggressive, so I'll wait for that to get the hot war moving. Then once we've had a battle or two, I'll send that stack to Africa.

I've been long-sieging Segesta, about to start again for the final time. Has had the side benefit of culling the Gaesatae who will make taking it hard.

The taking of Messana has helped my economy a lot, now clearing around 4k in profit a year, which I've been putting to good effect building some farms and markets.

[STuNTz2023]

nice job so far, trying to control AI expansion looks to be a real pain the ass tho. lol

[Titus Marcellus Scato]

nice job so far, trying to control AI expansion looks to be a real pain the ass tho. lol

Yep, he'd have had an easier time on Medium campaign difficulty instead of Hard for a purely historical game.

[QuintusSertorius]

259BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II259BC.jpg

My conquest of Italy is now done for a generation having taken Segesta and now holding all Italy south of the Padus.

In the rest of the world, I had a brief scare thinking the Arverni would take Massilia, but it was an army led by a captain and they got mauled. Makedonia seem to have awoken, taking Serdike and now besieging a weakened Tylis. I can only hope they'll kick Pontos off the continent.

Pahlava and Baktria are both growing at the expense of the Seleukids. The Hai are doing alright, I think they're just about to start trouble with the Sauromatae.

Funny people mention the campaign difficulty, I haven't really found the AI lvel of aggressions towards itself any different in Medium, compared to Hard.

[thelord]

its impossible to border anyone and not have them attack you on anything higher than medium - unless you make them a protectorate.

[QuintusSertorius]

its impossible to border anyone and not have them attack you on anything higher than medium - unless you make them a protectorate.

I've had fairly lengthy peace with the Aedui in my other game. There was a brief bit of war, but after I destroyed a couple of stacks sent my way, they accepted a forced peace. I also destroyed their barracks in Mediolanium at the time, and later took it.

Similarly the Arverni gave up after a while, although they were always sending spies and assassins to my settlements in Spain. Epeiros gave up on me after a few decades of having their armies trashed. I never went to war with the Getai, although they regularly pestered me for an alliance.

All this said, I did start out using my diplomats to boost the finances of various factions, later switching to using the console. So perhaps this switched my relations into the heavily positive.

In my current game I do have regular token tributes with some factions (Getai, Arverni and Lusotanii presently).

[Chirurgeon]

As I've already said, I'm not interested in alternate history. That doesn't give me any kind of guide as to what I should be doing and I'd either spend a lot of time turtling and building myself up without acting, or rashly going out there and grabbing stuff. I only play EB because I want a historical simulation, and a chance to test out my house rules.

The other AAR was always struggling to maintain my interest after Pahlava died, it was only then that I realised how important it is to keep an eye on the other factions from the very beginning, not just later on.

The beauty of alternate history is that you are not chained to what actually happened. The AI does not follow history. You said you quit your last campaign because the Pahlava were killed off. That can happen in EB. Its what makes the game fascinating. The AI does not play by your rules which is why it is easier to adapt to the situations that you are presented with. One of the most enjoyable aspects of AARs is not knowing what is going to happen next. One of the most intense and long fought wars I ever did was when I was Rome and had to face the Macedonian Juggernaut that had taken over everything south of the Danube. It was amazing because I had to come up with tactics to beat them without Legionnaires. I think the AI will frustrate your efforts. Not only will you micromanage your own faction but you will have to do that for the other dozen factions as well. Just trying to save you a lot of trouble later on thats all.

[QuintusSertorius]

The beauty of alternate history is that you are not chained to what actually happened. The AI does not follow history. You said you quit your last campaign because the Pahlava were killed off. That can happen in EB. Its what makes the game fascinating. The AI does not play by your rules which is why it is easier to adapt to the situations that you are presented with. One of the most enjoyable aspects of AARs is not knowing what is going to happen next. One of the most intense and long fought wars I ever did was when I was Rome and had to face the Macedonian Juggernaut that had taken over everything south of the Danube. It was amazing because I had to come up with tactics to beat them without Legionnaires. I think the AI will frustrate your efforts. Not only will you micromanage your own faction but you will have to do that for the other dozen factions as well. Just trying to save you a lot of trouble later on thats all.

It makes the game a lot more interesting for me having to keep an eye on them. Just focusing on your own faction without a view to the balance of power elsewhere quickly turns into a rather boring game of queuing stuff with the occasional battle here and there.

Furthermore, it gives your agents something meaningful to do. Diplomats, spies and assassins are all active parts of keeping the AI factions balanced, rather than just people you occasionally use for yourself.

Plus it stops you rushing out there, which inevitably seems to be involved in people playing "alternate history". It wasn't actually that much trouble in the other game, and I've started earlier this time around.

[QuintusSertorius]

257BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II257BC.jpg

Just as someone said, in 259BC a Karthadastim family member came of age, and suddenly they became a lot more aggressive. I've been giving them money in the hopes they'll hire a fair few of the huge numbers of mercs washing around Sicily. I've been avoiding hiring any of them myself.

There's a genuine stalemate in Libya between Seleukids and Ptolemies. Baktria are starting to get into their swing. Pahlava are giving the Seleukids a lot of trouble. Epeiros have fully gone to sleep, they're now a Makedonian protectorate and doing nothing. Koinon Hellenon keep attacking the Seleukids in Asia Minor after Halikarnassos rebelled to them.

[General Appo]

Well, I would certainly never be able to play a campaign like this, always interfering with the AI´s war, but it´s sure fun to read an AAR about it, so keep it up. I hope we get to see a big Imperium Romanum vs Parthian Empire war in a few hundred years. It´s good to see that the Pahlavans are doing something of their own in 1.1, and not just attacking the Saka´s.

[QuintusSertorius]

254BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II254BC.jpg

Waiting and gifting of money (via console) seem to have stirred Qarthadast into action! They've now besieged Messana three times, I've got another attack to fend off here. You can't see them because they've just boarded ship, but I've got the Army of Sicily ready to sail to north Africa, which means the client ruler of Messana is on his own. That said he's proven quite capable and though he only has local levies to call upon, they are well-drilled enough.

If anyone is wondering about how Saba ended up with a province in the north African desert, that's some capricious Force Diplomacy from me right there. Since the various kingdoms of Numidia, Mauretania and others don't exist, I figured something needed to prevent Karthadastim hegemony in Africa.

I think Pahlava have over-extended themselves taking Susa, they've run out of steam.

[General Appo]

Good work. Though be careful the Pahlavans there, a huge Parthian Empire around 50BC might be nice, but you still want some Seleukids to fight in the Roman-Syrian war.

[QuintusSertorius]

Good work. Though be careful the Pahlavans there, a huge Parthian Empire around 50BC might be nice, but you still want some Seleukids to fight in the Roman-Syrian war.

Indeed, that's why I've not given them any assistance since the first turn pretty much. It looks like they've over-extended themselves and the Seleukids are returning with a vengeance too.

[QuintusSertorius]

Later in 254BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II245BC2.jpg

I landed an army in Africa and took Adrumento, which was defended only by a single family member. Next port of call, Atiqa, assuming they can't scrap an army together for a battle.

In Sicily they actually landed another family member and some proper reinforcements. Give them long enough and my army might have gotten back from it's raid (I don't plan to hold either settlement). Pirate sunk the transports, I'll have to raise some more; all the money from destroying their buildings helped lots.

[QuintusSertorius]

252BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II252BC.jpg

The proconsul Lucius Cornelius Scipio and his army, safely returned from the punitive expedition in Africa. You can see the very tip is red where Atiqa was raided, I expect it to be retaken given I left nothing there.

Once more, the Karthadastim have besieged Messana, the client ruler there is turning into quite an adept general handling these sieges. He always sallies out immediately, and occasionally they stick around to fight. There's loads of mercenaries on the island, but even though I've been giving them 5k a turn they don't seem to be hiring many (do I need to be giving them more?). Hopefully now they can't recruit troops in Adrumento or Atiqa they might do something about that. Either way I have no intention of taking Lilibeo for ages yet. An unintended side-effect of my raid is that it seems to have stalled their westward expansion on the African coast, which is cool.

As for the rest of the world, some cheeky Force Diplomacy relieved Pontos of Byzantion and Ipsos, they're expanding too fast for my liking and just failed to take Sinope again.

There's a stalemate in Greece between Makedonia and Koinon Hellenon. Epeiros are still doing nothing at all, they now have two full stacks sitting doing nothing.

I may have to do something about the Getai eventually, they're not really hassling Makedonia enough and are haring off north.

The Sweboz are doing some serious expanding, fortunately the guard stack has appeared in Noricum in case they get any ideas about attacking my northern border.

[QuintusSertorius]

251BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II251BC.jpg

I'm quite pleased with myself, because my plan has paid off. I've been gifting the Karthadastim 5-10k a turn in the hopes they'd buy up some of those mercenaries in Sicily, and they did! So we might finally have a proper decisive battle on the island, rather than all these pointless sieges where I sally out and drive them off in the first turn.

I may try to do a more detailed AAR on this battle since it's pretty significant.

[Chirurgeon]

Dang how did you lose the hold on north Africa? You had two of their cities occupied! Did I miss a battle?

[General Appo]

Ehhh.... he just raided them in an attempt to imitate Regulus invasion of North Africa? Read the AAR, and you´ll see it.

[Chirurgeon]

Ehhh.... he just raided them in an attempt to imitate Regulus invasion of North Africa? Read the AAR, and you´ll see it.
wow so he is trying to replicate each battle too? Dang thats gonna be tough

[QuintusSertorius]

wow so he is trying to replicate each battle too? Dang thats gonna be tough

No, just the general idea of the various campaigns. I couldn't get a battle in Africa, so had to settle for just raiding two of their cities. Fortunately they did then hire scads of mercenaries in Sicily, so when the army returned from Africa, it was to prepare for a big battle.

[QuintusSertorius]

The Battle of Elymia 250BC:

The proconsul Lucius Cornelius Scipio had returned to Sicily after a successful campaign in Africa in 251BC. He had sent ahead for reinforcements and resupplies to join him on the island, for he intended to continue the war against Qarthadast on these shores. He spent the campaiging season of 251 marching for Messana and the desparately needed supplies. He heard through scouts and locals that there was a large Karthadastim force in the region, but he had to prepare rather than lead his weary troops into combat again.

On reaching Messana late in autumnus, the proconsul was struck with an ague, and ordered his troops to build camp and set his subordinates to preparing the men for next season's campaign, while he convalesced in the city of Messana. The client ruler of Messana hosted the ailing general, regaling him with accounts of the numerous attempts the Karthadastim had made on the city, and giving him the true story of the rumours that he had personally turned the tide of one of these battles.

By the spring of 250, Scipio and his army were ready to march, new maniples and a detachment of cavalry arriving from the mainland to bring his consular army back to full strength. Unfortunately he was still stuck with the drunkard Kaeso Claudius Nero, foremost among the tribunes and a thoroughly bad influence on all those young men. His uncle had ensured he was placed with Scipio's army for two reasons; in the vain hope military service might reform his wayward nephew, but failing that he might at least cause trouble for Scipio and slow the ascendancy of that man's star. For if this campaign went well, all might recognise that Scipio was becoming the First Man in Rome.

Yet in spite of his trepidations about vipers in his midst, the army left promptly with the melting of the snows on Etna's lower slopes. It was not until summer that contact was made with the Qarthadast army, on the southern coast several miles from the Karthadastim city of Lilibeo. Scipio halted and made his camp close to the shore.

The Qarthadast, led by the young Hamalcar were content to wait in their camp opposite the Romans, but his hand was forced by a rash captain Abdosir who was eager for some glory and frustrated by the progress of the campaign in Sicily. Hamalcar had only recently hired a large contingent of mercenaries, a mixture of Iberians, Ligurians, Gauls from several tribes and some Hellenic spearmen, and hadn't yet had time to properly integrate them into his army. But he was faced with losing Abdosir's men, which included elites recently transported from Kart-Hadast, and possibly risked another main stealing the glory. For Abdosir had a grandfather on the Council of Thirty, and an ancestor who had been a suffete. So reluctantly he joined battle in support of the hot-headed captain.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Sicily%20Battle/SicilyBattle1.jpg

Hearing from his scouts that there were in fact two Karthadastim forces approaching his camp, Scipio had his army march out into battle order barely a mile from the tents. He anchored his left flank on the shoreline and deployed in the traditional triplex acies.

In the consilium the night before, he had stressed to his legates, tribunes and centurions the importance of strict discipline, for restraint, not battle-lust would win the day. They had to be wary of the superior enemy numbers and keep the men in hand. He said this not out of cowardice, for he had won the corona civica for gallantry outside the walls of Taras twenty years before, but because he knew what an over-enthusiastic soldier might do. As a general, he must look to the preservation of the whole and beyond the chance to win personal accolades. Nero had insisted that he be allowed the position of honour on the right wing, and given he was a pompous Claudii, none would dare gainsay him. So Scipio granted his request, hoping the man would at least be sober on the morrow. Thus Scipio personally commanded the centre, Nero the right wing and a praefectus sociorum with some allied cavalry the left. Scipio retained a body of Campanian cavalry in reserve where he could direct them to where they were most needed.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Sicily%20Battle/SicilyBattle2.jpg

The smaller Karthadastim force marched in from the north, with the larger coming in from the east. Scipio ordered his officers to give the command to ground arms while they waited to see what the enemy would do. He was concerned in particular to see if this smaller force would wait for reinforcements, or simply attack.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Sicily%20Battle/SicilyBattle3.jpg

The reckless Abdosir sent his scant force forwards, leading the light horse personally.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Sicily%20Battle/SicilyBattle4.jpg

His Iberian light troops were harassed at range by the Roman archers, losing a number of men as they approached. They charged the ala on the right wing, clashing with the Bruttians who stood firm. Matching the Qarthadast captain in impetuousity, Nero charged his horse forwards, his friends following as they slammed into the Iberian's flank. It was too much for the tribesmen, who broke and ran. Heedless of discipline, Nero and his companions gave chase, ignoring a rider from Scipio ordering them back into line.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Sicily%20Battle/SicilyBattle5.jpg

While this was going on, Abdosir and his cavalry made for the Roman lines and his infantry struggled to keep up and maintain their formation. Abdosir came under a prolonged shower of missiles from the Roman skirmishers, losing half his force. At the critical moment, Scipio sent his Campanian reserve forward, and they broke the will of the Karthadastim cavalry.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Sicily%20Battle/SicilyBattle6.jpg

Abdosir made good his escape, leaving the rest of his detachment to their fate, and the well-drilled Campanians broke off pursuit. By now the elite African pikemen had engaged, but looked warily over their shoulder at the fleeing captain. The Campanians charged into their rear, and that was it. They ran in all directions, tossing away weapon and shield in their haste. And thus it was that the first Qarthadast force was disposed of. Scipio allowed the allied skirmishers to give chase, cutting down many of the pikemen in their headlong flight.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Sicily%20Battle/SicilyBattle7.jpg

He gave the order for the rest of the army to wheel and face the threat of the larger army.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Sicily%20Battle/SicilyBattle8.jpg

Hamalcar had drawn up his men in a single line, but dared not march towards the Romans. He was having language problems communicating with some of the new contingents, and decided to stay put. Feeling buoyed by their easy victory, the Romans advanced to meet their new foe.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Sicily%20Battle/SicilyBattle9.jpg

Yet still they could not provoke the enemy to attack, so they marched still further, taking care to dress their lines and hold formation. Eventually Nero halted his pursuit and turned back for the Roman lines.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Sicily%20Battle/SicilyBattle10.jpg

Some Ligurians and Iberians were provoked by Roman taunts, and charged without orders.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Sicily%20Battle/SicilyBattle11.jpg

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Sicily%20Battle/SicilyBattle12.jpg

But the Iberians particularly suffered from several volleys of javelins, and the survivors turned and ran. Scipio sent his trusty Campanians forward once more to mop up the survivors.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Sicily%20Battle/SicilyBattle13.jpg

Unlike Nero, the decurion in charge of the Campanians knew his business. When some formed up Greeks and pikemen charged, he turned his cavalry around and made for the safety of the infantry lines.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Sicily%20Battle/SicilyBattle14.jpg

The pikemen attacked the left flank of Roman line unsupported, and thus some allied skirmishers were able to slip in behind them. For now the praefectus held the rest of his force in reserve, trusting the fighting skill of the Bruttians to keep them safe.

The skirmishers charged.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Sicily%20Battle/SicilyBattle15.jpg

Then the centurion commanding the nearby principes decided to finish the matter.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Sicily%20Battle/SicilyBattle16.jpg

Under this onslaught, not even the tough pikemen could prevail, and although some chose to fight to the bitter end, their gesture was futile. Once again the Campanians were ordered forward to finish them.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Sicily%20Battle/SicilyBattle17.jpg

The principes were ordered back to their place in the line, and for a few minutes there was a lull in the fighting.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Sicily%20Battle/SicilyBattle18.jpg

Then Hamalcar, despairing of controlling his armies, gave the command to attack. He engaged the Roman left and centre, but his own left wing refused to join the battle, and he haraunged the chieftains to little avail.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Sicily%20Battle/SicilyBattle19.jpg

More troops were fed into the combat in the centre, and for a time it was a desparate fight.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Sicily%20Battle/SicilyBattle20.jpg

Meanwhile on the Roman left Gallic warriors tried to turn the Roman flank, stopped only by the allied skirmishers who had already done so much this day. Their stand allowed the Greek and Campanian cavalry to slip around the fighting line.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Sicily%20Battle/SicilyBattle21.jpg

In the centre the Ligurians broke and again the Campanians capitalised on their despair. The Bruttians wheeled around and hit the Iberians engaged with the prinicpes on their flank. They also gave up the fight.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Sicily%20Battle/SicilyBattle22.jpg

The Greek cavalry charged the read of the phalanx to little avail, and so withdraw and re-addressed, trying the Gauls instead. At the same time the principes in the left legion, without any opponents marched to the rescue of the left wing.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Sicily%20Battle/SicilyBattle23.jpg

It was their arrival that turned the tide, the Gauls losing heart.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Sicily%20Battle/SicilyBattle24.jpg

Daylight was beginning to fail, and on the right wing Nero was growing bored. Plus his hangover was starting to set in, and he wanted to take that out on someone. He brought up the right ala to attack the Gauls who had refused to move when ordered.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Sicily%20Battle/SicilyBattle25.jpg

His ill-advised maneuver turned the right wing into chaos as the Qarthadast cavalry attacked, and a body of Ligurians joined in support of the Gauls.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Sicily%20Battle/SicilyBattle26.jpg

On the left flank, the Greek phalanx had had enough, they could see which way this battle was going with the piecemeal command and lack of support.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Sicily%20Battle/SicilyBattle27.jpg

Seeing the exodus on the left and centre, the Gauls opposing Nero fled, the tribune giving chase eagerly.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Sicily%20Battle/SicilyBattle28.jpg

Which was to be the last action of the battle as dusk prevented a concerted pursuit.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Sicily%20Battle/SicilyBattleEnd.jpg

Scipio was hailed as imperator by his men, for they had soundly defeated a much larger for and their own casualties were relatively light. Even so, in the interests of preserving his force, Scipio withdraw and marched back to Messana to restock. It was approaching the end of the campaigning season, and there would be more to this war yet.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II250BC.jpg

[Chirurgeon]

Great battle man. Too bad they didnt have it together. I notice alot that AI reinforcements will sometimes deploy randomly throughout the field. They will not engage.

[QuintusSertorius]

Yeah, I was a bit annoyed when the smaller force attacked me, rather than the bigger one having seen how reinforcements sometimes do really stupid things.

I did note that the conditions for Imperator have been made easier, used to need a heroic victory against big odds.

[hrrypttrbst]

Very good battle!!I like the way you try to recreate the history on such a way

[alatar]

Quintvs, could you upload your save files?

[QuintusSertorius]

Quintvs, could you upload your save files?

I've only got the one file; where/what would I upload it to?

[alatar]

Filefront or somewhere.

[QuintusSertorius]

Filefront or somewhere.

Alright, it's done. You can get my saved game (packaged in rar format) here (http://files.filefront.com/hardromanrar/;9999887;/fileinfo.html).

[alatar]

Thank you very much (It saves me going through the rather boring first 20 years, in fact (as I play like you and generally just press end turn most of the time)).

[Reality=Chaos]

An interesting AAR, I follow it abit reluctantly though. The historical thing is cool on the one hand, but the amount of force diplomacy you use, kinda feels like cheating to me (even after you explained why you did it, it's not rational it's a feeling) which kinda puts me off sometimes. Well to each his own I always say. Still an interesting read though.

[QuintusSertorius]

Thank you very much (It saves me going through the rather boring first 20 years, in fact (as I play like you and generally just press end turn most of the time)).

No problem, hope you have fun with it. Only things I did that are non-standard was halve the size of the triarii maniples (halved cost as well) and install the Force Diplomacy script.


An interesting AAR, I follow it abit reluctantly though. The historical thing is cool on the one hand, but the amount of force diplomacy you use, kinda feels like cheating to me (even after you explained why you did it, it's not rational it's a feeling) which kinda puts me off sometimes. Well to each his own I always say. Still an interesting read though.

I'm not bothered about "cheating" in the slightest, doesn't detract from my own fun, especially since I don't use it for my own advantage. I don't play games because I want the "challenge" of "beating" the game, that does nothing for me. Getting a rough historical simulation is more important a goal.

Indeed my present run of genuine cheating (using the console to give factions money) expressly makes my life more difficult, rather than easier. I get my difficulty from sticking to history, rather than random stuff happening through the engine.

[Chirurgeon]

Ive been wondering how you will recreate Hannibal in Italy. Are you going to script it somehow?

[Reality=Chaos]

No problem, hope you have fun with it. Only things I did that are non-standard was halve the size of the triarii maniples (halved cost as well) and install the Force Diplomacy script.



I'm not bothered about "cheating" in the slightest, doesn't detract from my own fun, especially since I don't use it for my own advantage. I don't play games because I want the "challenge" of "beating" the game, that does nothing for me. Getting a rough historical simulation is more important a goal.

Indeed my present run of genuine cheating (using the console to give factions money) expressly makes my life more difficult, rather than easier. I get my difficulty from sticking to history, rather than random stuff happening through the engine.
Yes I know why you do it, since you had explained already. I was just trying to comment on my somewhat torn feeling about the AAR. As I said earlier it's a feeling I have about it, not a rational argument or anything.

[QuintusSertorius]

Ive been wondering how you will recreate Hannibal in Italy. Are you going to script it somehow?

I've been thinking about that. I don't know how to script stuff, so I'd need help, but perhaps put him in Italy and FD Tarentum and maybe Capua to Qarthadast. Plus give Mediolanium and Patavium to the Arverni or something.

[alatar]

I've been thinking about that. I don't know how to script stuff, so I'd need help, but perhaps put him in Italy and FD Tarentum and maybe Capua to Qarthadast. Plus give Mediolanium and Patavium to the Arverni or something.

Scripting an army is easy.

As for the save file, it loaded, but the traits are all messed up so I'm starting my own campign.

[QuintusSertorius]

Scripting an army is easy.

I literally have no clue whatsoever in terms of scripting. What file would I be editing?


As for the save file, it loaded, but the traits are all messed up so I'm starting my own campign.

What happened to them? I've never used someone else's saved game, is that a common problem? Could it be because I zipped it up?

[alatar]

The EB script file.

writing the spawn army bit is very easy.

Then just add a monitor for a number of turns. Look at the EB script file and find some examples of spawing armies.

[QuintusSertorius]

249BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II249BC.jpg

Only a minor update, I've captured the most significant thing that's happened the past few turns. I've switched to BI.exe, and there's already a result. Makedonia has sent a fleet carrying six units to take Crete. First time I've seen any faction take it with purpose, rather than stumbling some units there, who wander around but never actually take it. The other ship you can see also contains a unit, possibly some naval reinforcement.

No naval invasions from Qarthadast, possibly because they don't appear to have any ships.

Had to rescue the Arverni, they were down to one settlement in Gaul. Wondering whether I need to do something more active to preserve the Seleukids who are losing territory to Pahlava, Baktria, Koinon Hellenon and Pontos. Seem to be containing the Ptolemies, but that's it.

[chairman]

This is an awesome campaign, somehow even better than your one on 1.0; must be the stronger steppe factions. I have to warn you though, since I heard someone on the forums say that gifting provinces to the AI messes with their ability to recruit units in those provinces, so that may be why in your last game the nomads were unable to retain control of territory that you had given them. I haven't heard any hard proof on this, but there does seem, at the very least, to be apparent truth to this, as in my Qarthadast campaign where I gifted Bononia and Arretium to the Aedui. They so far haven't done much so far and it has been quite some time since they got them. Part of it might be that they are still neutral to the Romani, but who knows. Just thought I'd warn you. Someone said that if you let the province rebel, it avoids this problem, and from experience, this seems to work.

Chairman

[QuintusSertorius]

This is an awesome campaign, somehow even better than your one on 1.0; must be the stronger steppe factions. I have to warn you though, since I heard someone on the forums say that gifting provinces to the AI messes with their ability to recruit units in those provinces, so that may be why in your last game the nomads were unable to retain control of territory that you had given them. I haven't heard any hard proof on this, but there does seem, at the very least, to be apparent truth to this, as in my Qarthadast campaign where I gifted Bononia and Arretium to the Aedui. They so far haven't done much so far and it has been quite some time since they got them. Part of it might be that they are still neutral to the Romani, but who knows. Just thought I'd warn you. Someone said that if you let the province rebel, it avoids this problem, and from experience, this seems to work.

Chairman

Could it have been a problem in 1.5 that was fixed in 1.6/BI? I've just changed executable so I'm hoping that's no longer the case. Having said that, Epeiros' AI seems to have gone catatonic, they've done nothing but occasionally recruit troops for the last 20 years, but they haven't marched them anywhere. Now they are in the strange position of being at peace with everyone (and Makedonia's protectorate) but even so it's bizarre.

[chairman]

I have no idea about anything at all beyond 1.5 as that is most that I have, mainly because you don't need anything else to play EB, and I still don't trust Kingdoms. Ehh, what can you do.

Though your point about Epirus does seem strange given their normally super-aggressive behavior in all of the other 1.1 games I have seen posted. It must be a result of having been cowed by the bigger "Alpha Dog" of your Forced Diplomacy. It seems Epirus has met their match :laugh4: .

Hopefully 1.6/BI solved the gifting-province-recruitment problem, but that's something we'll have to wait and see about, which I will be doing most attentively as I follow your fascinating AAR.

Cheers

Chairman

[QuintusSertorius]

The Battle of Trinakrie, 249BC

The imperator and proconsul Lucius Cornelius Scipio knew his time in Sicily was nearing an end. Already there were whisperings among his officers that someone was preparing a case against him at Rome, and that his enemies were looking to replace him as commander of the war in this theatre. However he had more pressing matters at hand, a Karthadastim army under Hamalcar was raiding the communities in Trinakrie. Given Hiero was a Friend of the People of Rome, it was Scipio's duty to protect these people.

The summer and autumn seasons were spent marching and counter-marching, both armies trying to get a better position. Supply issues forced Scipio to accept battle on ground of Hamalcar's choosing.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Trinakrie%20Battle/SyracuseBattleStart.jpg

Hamalcar had fewer men, but a better position on the crest of a hill. Scipio deployed his men in the regular triplex acies, using an outcropping of rock to anchor his right flank. Nero was on the left wing with his adherents, no longer able to justify the place of honour after his behaviour outside Lilibeo. Once more Scipio's Campanians were held in reserve at his personal command.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Trinakrie%20Battle/SyracuseBattle1.jpg

Hamalcar was confident, and sent his skirmishers forward immediately, trusting to elevation to give their missiles extra stopping power and range.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Trinakrie%20Battle/SyracuseBattle2.jpg

Scipio ordered his troops forward. He knew this would be a slogging match of a battle with little subtlety. His men would simply have to brave the storm, march uphill and take the fight to the foe. They were confident in their general and he trusted them to get the job done.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Trinakrie%20Battle/SyracuseBattle3.jpg

The missiles began to have an immediate effect, taking a serious toll on Scipio's own light troops.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Trinakrie%20Battle/SyracuseBattle4.jpg

Still they marched on closing their files and leaving the dead and wounded in their wake.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Trinakrie%20Battle/SyracuseBattle5.jpg

On the right flank, Hamalcar's Greek cavalry charged the skirmishers who fell back towards the hastati.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Trinakrie%20Battle/SyracuseBattle6.jpg

In the centre and left, Hamalcar maneuvered, but did not engage.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Trinakrie%20Battle/SyracuseBattle7.jpg

Then he ordered his Garamantines forward, overseeing them personally to inspire them to greater bravery. Scipio sent his reserve cavalry forward to shower the lightly-armoured Garamantines with javelins, but held them from a charge.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Trinakrie%20Battle/SyracuseBattle8.jpg

On the right, the intervention of Scipio's own allied cavalry drove off Hamalcar's Greeks, even as his heavy skirmishers rushed to their aid.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Trinakrie%20Battle/SyracuseBattle9.jpg

In the centre, more peltasts joined the fray, but the retreat of the cavalry created a gap in the line. The Samnites took advantage of this to outflank the heavy skirmishers. Meanwhile on the right the Bruttians charged the other group of peltasts.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Trinakrie%20Battle/SyracuseBattle10.jpg

On the left, a subdued Nero ordered his files of troops forward, attempting to engage the slingers and javelineers on the hilltop.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Trinakrie%20Battle/SyracuseBattle11.jpg

Fighting in the centre was fierce, Scipio could see Hamalcar across the dusty field, but schooled himself to stillness. He wasn't a young man any more, his duty was to inspire and observe, not charge sword-in-hand.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Trinakrie%20Battle/SyracuseBattle12.jpg

The Samnites arrived behind the peltasts and on the right the allied cavalry withdrew behind the fighting line then marched around the flank.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Trinakrie%20Battle/SyracuseBattle13.jpg

In direct contrast to the older man's command style, Hamalcar charged into the maelstrom in the centre, hoping to add the weight of his bodyguard to the press. Scipio held his ground, but sent the Campanians forward.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Trinakrie%20Battle/SyracuseBattle14.jpg

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Trinakrie%20Battle/SyracuseBattle15.jpg

Meanwhile on the right, the allied cavalry charged into the rear of the peltasts.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Trinakrie%20Battle/SyracuseBattle16.jpg

Just to the left of the centre, the Maurians broke, unable to maintain contact with the more heavily armed and armoured principes.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Trinakrie%20Battle/SyracuseBattle17.jpg

Nero looped around the scrum on the left, charging the rear of another group of Maurians.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Trinakrie%20Battle/SyracuseBattle18.jpg

Pressed between the Bruttians, skirmishers and allied cavalry, the enemy peltasts were crushed. They were shown little mercy.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Trinakrie%20Battle/SyracuseBattle19.jpg

Some of the more eager members of Scipio's praetoria leapt into the melee with Hamalcar's bodyguard, but the imperator calmly sat his horse.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Trinakrie%20Battle/SyracuseBattle20.jpg

Nero, who had been pursuing fleeing skirmishers behind the Qarthdastim line, turned his friends into the rear of the Garamantines in the centre. They collapsed under the pressure.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Trinakrie%20Battle/SyracuseBattle21.jpg

That began the rout, in which Hamalcar was pulled to safety by one of his bodyguard, and the general fled the battle.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Trinakrie%20Battle/SyracuseBattle22.jpg

Thus a hard-fought victory was won. But Scipio was already thinking about reinforcements for his depleted force.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Trinakrie%20Battle/SyracuseBattleEnd.jpg

[QuintusSertorius]

246BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II246BC.jpg

The war continues in Sicily, Scipio has been replaced by Marcus Aurelius Cotta, a senior praetor, and he just celebrated his triumph in Rome. With the death of Gnaeus Cornelius Blasio, the princeps senatus, Scipio is now the First Man in Rome.

The Getai are running away with the northern part of the map, not sure if I should start boosting Sauromatae funds to compensate.

There's a small Makedonian stack in Epeiros, maybe they'll start something there and kick them out of their malaise.

Just below the shot there's a Ptolemaic army who've arrived on Crete to contest the Makedonian attempt to take it.

[hrrypttrbst]

good story:2thumbsup: !! but one question the battle formations you use are that the historical ones?

[QuintusSertorius]

good story:2thumbsup: !! but one question the battle formations you use are that the historical ones?

As near as is possible within the confines of the engine. Although I don't place the pedites extraordinarii (don't actually have any) in the right ala as was traditional. You can see my pretty standard arrangement in the second pic (which I originally forgot to attach).

[SaberHRE]

this is quite a good read.

Quintus, in 1.0 I did exactly the same as you for my Romani game. It paid off too well I'd say :wall:

The Carthaginians did manage to put up a good fight for Lilibeo after being given 100,000 mnai and 10 years of 'truce'.

When I defeated them, I landed in Africa and fought many great battles until... I met up an army of a Puno-Iberian(Can't remember his name), who was a veteran of Puno-Ptolemaic wars.

His army was composed of two silver chevron veterans of Elite african pikemen, 2 sacred band infantry, and rest elite african infantry and two libo-phoenicians.

Needless to say, not even my best army could defeat such a monster, and it was quite embarassing and fun, to fight this pseudo-Hannibal.

[QuintusSertorius]

This AAR is on hold for the moment, with the revelation about the UnitSize bug for several factions. It's non-savegame-compatible, which means a restart in the near future.

Meanwhile I'd appreciate some feedback on the style of this one. Was the campaign description plus major battles a good format to go with? Or was there too much detail on battles?

[hrrypttrbst]

Better much detail,then no details.

[snude]

This AAR is on hold for the moment, with the revelation about the UnitSize bug for several factions. It's non-savegame-compatible, which means a restart in the near future.

Meanwhile I'd appreciate some feedback on the style of this one. Was the campaign description plus major battles a good format to go with? Or was there too much detail on battles?


It was a good read, too bad it is on hold...

[QuintusSertorius]

It was a good read, too bad it is on hold...

Soon as the complete fix is out, I'll start afresh, with just as much entertaining narrative. :yes:

EDIT: It seems that I may have been hasty in assuming I needed a restart. Apparently the bug is only relevant to some faction leaders at the start of the game. If that's the case it's irrelevant to me since they're all dead by now anyway. So this will resume!

[MarcusAureliusAntoninus]

I think Makedonia was the only faction with that broken trigger. And the default, when the trigger is broken, is the huge setting. So if you are playing on huge already the fix doesn't actually change anything.

[QuintusSertorius]

The Second Battle of Elymia, 245BC

The praetor Marcus Aurelius Cotta had been sent to Sicily to replace Lucius Cornelius Scipio. The troops weren't happy to see their beloved commander leave them, and Cotta was a harder man to warm to. He was given to bouts of depression and kept people at a distance. He was a rhetorician and poet of some renown, and that only detracted still further from his common touch. Of plebian nobility, command didn't sit quite so well with him, lacking a patrician's natural air of authority.

Matters were not helped by that palpable aura of authority carried by his quaestor and legate, Sextus Claudius Pulcher. Pulcher was an ambitious and capable young man, clearly on the ascendant.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Pulcher.jpg

Nevertheless, he was scrupulous and proper in his conduct and made no attempt to undermine his commander's authority. The men were relieved by the unity of command lacking with the imperator's tenure.

After failing to draw the garrison of Lilibeo out to fight, Cotta had marched away towards the slopes of Etna. It was high summer, but he wanted to be close to the Straits of Messana for any communication from Rome. He was hoping to run for the consulship and needed to know the latest.

Unbeknownst to him, Hamalcar was recruiting mercenaries in their droves once more, and received reinforcements and funds from Kart-Hadast. He immediately marched in Cotta's wake, catching up with him on the northern coast of Elymia.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Elymia%20Battle%20II/ElymiaBattleStart.jpg

Although outnumbered, Cotta decided to give battle. He was well-supplied and confident that in the right place they could achieve something. They set up on the lower slopes of a hill, trusting to the steep territory to tire out the Karthadastim. Cotta was in the centre, Pulcher on the lower slopes with a body of cavalry on the right, and some Greek cavalry covering the left at the crest of the hill.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Elymia%20Battle%20II/ElymiaBattle1.jpg

Battle was joined, the confident Hamalcar advancing to meet the Romans, who simply rested. As the enemy closed, the skirmishers exhausted their supplies of missles, taking advantage of the elevation their position gave them.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Elymia%20Battle%20II/ElymiaBattle2.jpg

Hamalcar himself lurked on the right of the Roman line, hoping perhaps to turn that flank. With him was a detachment of mercenary cavalry.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Elymia%20Battle%20II/ElymiaBattle3.jpg

In the centre, the main battle line crept up the hill, pike phalanxes holding the middle of the Qarthdastim front.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Elymia%20Battle%20II/ElymiaBattle4.jpg

High on the left, the decurion in charge of the allied cavalry walked the horses to the top of the hill so he could survey the whole battlefield. Iberians, Gauls and mercenary hoplites approached the Roman left.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Elymia%20Battle%20II/ElymiaBattle5.jpg

Hamalcar and his cavalry slipped around the Bruttians covering the right flank. Cognizant of the danger, Pulcher calmly wheeled the horsemen with him to face the threat.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Elymia%20Battle%20II/ElymiaBattle6.jpg

The enemy advance continued in the centre, Cotta called out some words of encouragement to the men.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Elymia%20Battle%20II/ElymiaBattle7.jpg

On the right, Pulcher charged, and further up the line the Samnites pressed the Garamantines hard. Cotta ordered the triarii to assist Pulcher and provide refuge for his horses when the inevitable separation came.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Elymia%20Battle%20II/ElymiaBattle8.jpg

The Garamantines cracked, and the Samnites, showing great discipline halted and dressed their lines.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Elymia%20Battle%20II/ElymiaBattle9.jpg

Heedless of the allied cavalry slipping around them, the Iberians and hoplites made for the Roman line.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Elymia%20Battle%20II/ElymiaBattle10.jpg

The allied cavalry charged home, hitting the Iberians in the rear.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Elymia%20Battle%20II/ElymiaBattle11.jpg

Meanwhile on the right Hamalcar charged into the fray.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Elymia%20Battle%20II/ElymiaBattle12.jpg

In the centre, the phalanxes engaged and fierce fighting erupted. Cotta ordered the allied heavy skirmishers to flank one of the blocks of pikes.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Elymia%20Battle%20II/ElymiaBattle13.jpg

Up the left the Iberians folded.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Elymia%20Battle%20II/ElymiaBattle14.jpg

While in the cavalry battle on the right, the arrival of the triarii turned the tide, Hamalcar's mercenary horsemen turning tail and running.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Elymia%20Battle%20II/ElymiaBattle15.jpg

With the Iberians gone, the left ala was now unengaged. The praefectus of the Bruttians ordered the advance to flank the phalanx line.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Elymia%20Battle%20II/ElymiaBattle16.jpg

While the Samnites on the left charged the mercenary hoplites, who suffering under a hail of slingshot moments before decided discretion was the better part of valour.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Elymia%20Battle%20II/ElymiaBattle17.jpg

The allied cavalry turned and charged a group of enemy skirmishers, who put up some resistance.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Elymia%20Battle%20II/ElymiaBattle18.jpg

But it didn't last long, and close by the Samnites and Bruttians approached the rear of the elite phalanxes.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Elymia%20Battle%20II/ElymiaBattle19.jpg

A terrible melee, involving Maurians, Gauls, Liby-Phonecians and Hamalcar himself, was brewing on the right.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Elymia%20Battle%20II/ElymiaBattle20.jpg

While the left ala continued to infiltrate the enemy line.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Elymia%20Battle%20II/ElymiaBattle21.jpg

The Iberians supporting the phalangites wavered.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Elymia%20Battle%20II/ElymiaBattle22.jpg

On the right Pulcher led his comrades into the fray once more, spotting Hamalcar and calling out to him in challenge.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Elymia%20Battle%20II/ElymiaBattle23.jpg

The pike blocks had resolved into two groups and Cotta watched on intently. His allied archers were out of ammunition, and he denied their commander's request to aid the Roman legions in the centre. Against elite pikemen such as these tough Africans, unarmoured skirmishers would be of little use.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Elymia%20Battle%20II/ElymiaBattle24.jpg

Pulcher was wounded in the arm, and fearing for their friend's safety, his entourage steered his horse clear of the melee and fled to safety.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Elymia%20Battle%20II/ElymiaBattle25.jpg

Hamalcar charged wildly at the Samnites behind his own line, and his bodyguard was cut down as a result. The man himself took flight, abandoning his men to their fate.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Elymia%20Battle%20II/ElymiaBattle26.jpg

Worrying about the situation on the right now Pulcher had left the field, Cotta decided to intervene personally, his praetoria following the commander's reckless charge.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Elymia%20Battle%20II/ElymiaBattle27.jpg

Their commander's act of conspicuous bravery checked the men, who fought on with renewed vigour.

In the centre it was chaos.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Elymia%20Battle%20II/ElymiaBattle28.jpg

On the right, the polyglot forces there finally caved in once they realised their leader had fled.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Elymia%20Battle%20II/ElymiaBattle29.jpg

The scrum in the centre continued unabated.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Elymia%20Battle%20II/ElymiaBattle30.jpg

But word had spread even to the centre of the general's capitulation, and even these veterans lost heart.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Elymia%20Battle%20II/ElymiaBattle31.jpg

Seeing some of their comrades flee, the other Africans lost hope.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Elymia%20Battle%20II/ElymiaBattle32.jpg

They ran, leaving the Greek mercenaries to fight alone.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Elymia%20Battle%20II/ElymiaBattle33.jpg

They didn't fight on for long, and the panic spread.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Elymia%20Battle%20II/ElymiaBattle34.jpg

Until it became a rout.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Elymia%20Battle%20II/ElymiaBattle35.jpg

And finally, the day was Roman.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Elymia%20Battle%20II/ElymiaBattleEnd.jpg

[QuintusSertorius]

245BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II245BC.jpg

Cotta's army continued it's retreat to the Straits of Messana, awaiting both news from Rome and reinforcements. Not a moment too soon, an army of Sardinian and Iberian tribesmen landed near Lilibeo to reinforce Hamalcar's position.

At Rome, the quaestor Kaeso Claudius Nero was cornered by a delegation from some mutinous mercenaries in Corsica. They persuaded him to charter some ships and hire some men to sneak into Alalia and capture the settlement. Ever eager for glory, Nero signed onto the scheme.

Elsewhere in the world, Pontos and the Getai are still expanding and Pahlava show no signs of losing their new holdings. Baktria are also out to get more territory, currently besieging Alexandreopolis.

[Chaotix]

Nice update. What happened to your world map? It looks like it's flat- like the mountains on it are gone...

[QuintusSertorius]

243BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II243BC.jpg

I got on with grabbing Alalia, since I should have taken it over 20 years ago. Karali on the other hand is on schedule - in about six years time. Massilia is currently under siege. In Spain the Karthadastim have besieged Arse.

As you can see, there's another army in Sicily, this one is composed entirely of Balaeric and Sardinian troops. Could be painful to fight with all those slingers and archers.

Epeiros is visible on the right, that's the armies they build and do nothing with.

As to the map, no idea what's happened to it.

[QuintusSertorius]

The Third Battle of Elymia, 243BC

Almost following the footsteps of the imperator Scipio, Marcus Aurelius Cotta marched his forces to Lilibeo and camped not far from the fortressed city's walls. Hamalcar offered battle immediately, and although outnumbered Cotta saw a chance to bring the war towards a close with a decisive victory.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Elymia%20Battle%20III/LilibeoBattleStart.jpg

He drew up his forces in the traditional manner, on the same spot Scipio had fought Hamalcar several years before.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Elymia%20Battle%20III/LilibeoBattle1.jpg

Like Abdosir had been before, captain Thero was eager for glory, leading his veteran pikemen to the Romans.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Elymia%20Battle%20III/LilibeoBattle2.jpg

Cotta sent Pulcher to deal with Thero and wheeled to address Hamalcar's arriving forces.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Elymia%20Battle%20III/LilibeoBattle3.jpg

The numerous Sardinians were content to sit at range and snipe at the Roman lines with their bows. Keen to deny them that advantage, Cotta ordered the advance.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Elymia%20Battle%20III/LilibeoBattle4.jpg

Losses were mounting on both sides, when Hamalcar recklessly charged the Roman line.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Elymia%20Battle%20III/LilibeoBattle5.jpg

Chaos reigned for a time, with battle lines becoming confused and men losing track of their comrades. Hamalcar fell, run through by a legionary's spear. With his death the tribesmen who had been sworn to him crumbled. Balaeric and Sardinian alike fled.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Elymia%20Battle%20III/LilibeoBattle6.jpg

Cotta had his victory, but it was a costly one. He would need to strengthen his army before attempting a siege of Lilibeo.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Elymia%20Battle%20III/LilibeoBattleEnd.jpg

242BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II242BC.jpg

I took Massalia, and once the road is built I'll install a client king and leave. I'm keeping Segesta until I get my Polybian reform, then I'll give it to the Arverni probably. Not much left in the war in Sicily, haven't seen any reinforcements arrive, most of those have gone to Korsim where they've tried unsuccessful to oust Nero and his gang of mercenary cronies. He destroyed a full stack of akontistai over the course of three seasons while being besieged.

I used some Force Diplomacy to restore some Seleukid holdings, both Pergamon and those taken too far by Pahlava and Pontos. Baktria are next, they've come too far west for my liking. Greece is still a mess but a stalemated mess. The Getai took Singidunum, they're getting worryingly powerful.

[QuintusSertorius]

241BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II241BC.jpg

Offscreen, Lilibeo is now on a slow-burn siege, I've got a diplomat in Spain to seal the ceasefire deal some time in 240BC. As in as soon as I've taken Lilibeo. Then it won't be long for the Polybian reforms to hit, but I won't do anything about it immediately. Rebuild my armies, sort my economy out, possibly try to secure Emporion. Then later hit that upgrade.

In Asia Minor things have turned interesting. Earlier I used Force Diplomacy to reduce Pontos to a more manageable size. They finally took Sinope, which is good. Meanwhile Koinon Hellenon have re-created the kingdom of Pergamon, as captured.

My minimap is fixed, you can see that Pahlava and Baktria have been pushed back some. I want the Seleukids a viable threat in 40 years time, I don't want to be fighting a Pontic superpower instead like in the last game.

Hayasdan have just started their annoying march northwards again, instead of south against the Seleukids. I've got my diplomatic taskforce on the way to halt them and the Getai's progress into central the Caucasus.

I think gifting the Rebels lots of money every turn is having the desired effect, there are some massive garrisons in some settlements - Thermon has a full stack, for example. We'll see how that goes.

[QuintusSertorius]

240BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II240BC.jpg

Not long before the ceasefire with Qarthadast, I've just got to collar an army or settlement in Spain. Of two minds whether to let the garrison of Lilibeo "surrender" by FD-ing a ceasefire before taking it, or taking it and then getting the ceasefire.

Some more FD on Baktria who've now been pushed into their more or less historical position. Did some on the Getai and Hayasdan to try to push them out of the Bosphorous and Caucasus. How long it will last remains to be seen. I'm only hoping the improvements that have been made to nomad armies will make the Sauromatae better able to hold on to them.

[Chirurgeon]

Sounds like a real headache all this FD...The line between cheating and just playing is blurry. Why not let the AI do what its supposed to do? Ultimately we all know the outcome because we have read the history. Why not let the game spice it up?

[General Appo]

Well, there´s enough ahistorical AAR´s out right now, so I say let him do his thing. It is quite entertaining if you ask me. Besides, he claims he doesn´t play for the gameplays sake, but to get a historical simulation.

[QuintusSertorius]

Sounds like a real headache all this FD...The line between cheating and just playing is blurry. Why not let the AI do what its supposed to do? Ultimately we all know the outcome because we have read the history. Why not let the game spice it up?

Because it's my headache and I don't care about "letting the AI do what it's supposed to do" or "spicing the game up" or "what if".

Historical simulation is a vital part of my motivation for this mod, I'm not about to change that. And as I've already said, I couldn't care less about whether or not it's considered "cheating". If I "just played" with my existing house rules, I'd stretched of boring turns between wars with nothing to do but queue buildings. Plus spies and diplomats would be largely pointless, since I'd have nothing for them to do.

[QuintusSertorius]

239BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II239BC.jpg

Having gotten my Polybian reform marker, I've given Segesta to the Arverni. Hopefully that will stabilise their conflict with the Aedui a little. I'm not going to re-take it again for 20 years, and then probably gift it back to them, along with Cisalpine Gaul at about the same time.

Qarthadast have started war again, I'll have to destroy the army they're sending to Corsica along with the one that's already there, then perhaps kick them out of Sardinia through force to end it properly. One drawback of the BI naval invasion AI is that Qarthadast may be less likely to honour a ceasefire if they can just load troops onto their ships. I'm thinking a naval campaign is in order to stop that happening.

Hayasdan have been checked in the Caucasus, hopefully they'll stop trying to go north for a bit. Getai seem to have given up on the Chersonnesus, which is good. And Baktria on Pura. Pahlava took Zadrakata, but that's not really a problem. Pushed Pontus back to the coast of Asia Minor again. I might gift Saba Qarthadast's other desert province, especially now they're at war with the Ptolemies.

[QuintusSertorius]

235BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II235BC.jpg

Warring on and off with Qarthadast, which is starting to get annoying. Especially since their invasions consist of pathetic stacks of one and two troops. That's a definite problem with BI.exe, you don't just get stupid land invasions, you get stupid naval ones as well. If this continues, I'm half-tempted to go back to rtw.exe.

My First Punic War is supposed to be over, but I'm yo-yo-ing between war and peace. I also can't beat them at sea, not even quadriremes are a match for their quinquiremes.

Hayasdan seem to have been muzzled. Same Baktria and Pahlava aren't advancing so quickly now. Pontos is on the rise once more.

[QuintusSertorius]

233BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II233BC.jpg

There are times when I hate being right and now is one of them. Naval invasions were great when we were fighting it out over Sicily. Now we're supposed to be at peace, but as usual the military AI is ignoring the diplomatic AI, and thus Qarthadast have landed a massive army from Spain in Sardinia. The only upside of this is that I get to destroy it before it threatens Arse or Emporion.

Elsewhere in the world, I did a bit more stirring in Asia Minor, giving Karia to the Ptolemies and Sardis back to the Seleukids. Koinon Hellenon were getting a little too settled there, especially since the Chersonesus has rebelled to them. I like the stalemate between them and Makedonia that has resulted in no provinces changing hands there for decades.

[Sdragon]

I experimented with the BI AI and found it to be better for the most part. But it just wasn't worth it since it always did those retarded naval invasions. Best to use it only for land locked factions. If you got some water next to you then you're going to be at war with any faction that has ships and a reasonably short journey time. You'll have the Ptolemy(sp) kingdom invading none stop too if they take that rebel province on their West. Plus the Greeks will come knocking once they run out of things to do.

[QuintusSertorius]

231BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II231BC.jpg

Back to rtw.exe, and no more annoying invasions of the puny-armies from Qarthadast. I'm preparing a new Polybian consular army for the Illyrian Wars, I was planning to send two, but I doubt I can afford it. Which means it may be a lightning campaign of fast-grab and suffer lots of casualties.

Asia Minor is all change as usual, the Seleukids seem to have taken an interest in Halikarnassos now the Ptolemies have it. Makedonia took Byzantion off Koinon Hellenon.

Oh, and I did something cheeky in the north African desert - I gave Garama to the Saba.

[QuintusSertorius]

230BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II230BC.jpg

Just a snapshot of the chaos that is Greece. Makedonia seem to be slowly gaining the upper hand - having just taken heavily-defened Thermon - which is perfect. Means when I start my First Macedonian War in 15 years time, there will be an actual power to weaken. I'll probably use a Greek general from Taras and some assorted Hellenic troops and mercs to fight it, as was the case in the real war. Then maybe kick them out of Korinthos for good. Just hope Koinon Hellenon can survive that long, the settlements in Asia Minor and the Chersonesus should allow them that much.

Pahlava seem unstoppable, the Seleukids certainly seem incapable of stopping them. Perhaps too many wars on too many fronts. I'd like to get Hayasdan to attack them to pull their efforts south, but no idea how I do that. Baktria are now at war with the Saka, who are besieging Baktra. Which should hopefully ease the pressure on the Seleukids a little.

Just offscreen, my Illyrian campaign has begin, I'm besieging Dalmanion and Segestica. I'll take them in 229.

That random mauve blob I think is where the Sweboz gained a Sauromatae settlement through rebellion. Qarthadast look set to get rid of the Sabaen altogether, got a full stack headed for Tuat.

Still I'm quite happy with the game thus far. Baktria are contained, Pahlava don't look like they're going to keel over. The Sauromatae and Saka are tougher (although now Baktria have their eye on the latter, whether that will remain so remains to be seen), even the Arverni seem to be holding their own now they have Galatia and Liguria.

[QuintusSertorius]

228BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II228BC.jpg

My Illyrian War is in progress (just took Dalmanion, Segestica to follow shortly), but what was more worthy of note was the rebellion in Atiqa. It's only a decade too late, but it'll do. My spy has been there for about 15 years! Rather annoyingly, the Eleutheroi AI then immediately sent the stack out of the city where it can be picked off at will. There's also a spy in Adrumento, although there's just enough troops there to prevent a revolt.

I just had to take Sparta and Chalkis off Makedonia who are growing problematic. A little too soon for me to deal with them directly, as well. Epeiros are still the do-nothing faction. The Seleukids actually took Apameia back all by themselves. They seem to be losing against the Ptolemies of late, though. The Lusotanii have nearly completed their uniting of all Spain, but for the Qarthdastim holdings. I wonder how long before they go to war.

Sauromatae are holding their own and I've just noticed on the map that the Saka have taken Baktra. That's a new one. How long before the Baktrian juggernaught gets in motion and wipes them out is anyone's guess. I'll be keeping an eye on the situation, don't want Baktria gone.

I'm quite proud that it's 35 years (and 140 turns) or so into the game, and no factions have died, and there are still lots of rebel provinces.

[QuintusSertorius]

226BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II226BC.jpg

Pictured are most of the dominions of Rome, I'm in the process of pulling my two consular armies out of Illyria since it isn't a province yet, just an allied kingdom. Next year Patavium is going to be the target of one of those returned consular armies, with a new commander. Then around 223 I'll be declaring war on the Aedui to take Mediolanium off them.

Elsewhere in the world, all those gifts of provinces and money seem to have stabilised the Seleukids for now. They took Apameia back off Pahlava, although it's now under siege again. They also drove the Baktrians out of Karamana. I gifted them Syria, which they're not doing a good job of defending from the Ptolemies.

Axum becoming Sabaen wasn't me for a change, but a rebellion. Qarthdast didn't seem able to take Tuat back even with a full stack. I think I'm going to gift Saba Mauretania.

Epeiros have stood a full stack just offscreen on the border with Dalmatia. Don't seem to want to do more than that.

[General Appo]

Nice progress. In 226 Rome made that important alliance with Saguntum (Arsé) that Hannibal chosed to ignore, I take it you decided not to make a Massilia and take Arsé to keep it as an allied state.
Oh well, just a few years left to Hannibal, did you manage to script him and his army into the game?

[QuintusSertorius]

Nice progress. In 226 Rome made that important alliance with Saguntum (Arsé) that Hannibal chosed to ignore, I take it you decided not to make a Massilia and take Arsé to keep it as an allied state.
Oh well, just a few years left to Hannibal, did you manage to script him and his army into the game?

Massilia I took, because otherwise it would end up Gallic, but Arse I've left alone. The Lusotanii have taken it, so in 219BC I'm going to FD it to Qarthadast and declare war on them. I'll also take or FD Emporion as my base of operations the following year.

Working on scripting Hannibal - he'll appear in 216BC when I can gift Qarthadast Capua and maybe Arpi. That'll stop him running back to Spain.

[QuintusSertorius]

225BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II225BC.jpg

I'm currently besieging Patavium off-screen with one of the consular armies returned from the Illyrian campaign. The other one will be dispatched to Mediolanium in a few turns. Cisalpine Gaul will soon be mine! Then I might think about retaking Segesta.

Gaul is a bit of a mess. I just took Burgidala off the Aedui and gave it to the Arverni to try to maintain some kind of a balance. Particularly given them just lost Vesontio to the Sweboz, who have crossed the Rhine for a second time now. The Aedui seem able to hold them back, but not the Arverni. What I don't want is the Arverni and Aedui declaring a ceasefire to focus their efforts on the Germans.

I'm tempted to ship an army to take Emporion before the Lusotanii grab it, but I think I'll save that for 218BC.

Used some Force Diplomacy to push the Getai back into Europe proper, they're building up quite a little empire there, what with the Hellenic factions distracted by squabbling with each other. I think they allied with the Sweboz too, we'll see how long that lasts.

I just gave Sala and Garama to the Saba. Now there's Mauretania and other independent nations. If they manage to keep hold of them, I might ally with them when the Second Punic War starts.

[General Appo]

Continued good work, I like the idea about Sab´yn in Mauretania. I just checked the RV and they´re only able to recruit Numidians, Garamanatines plus Maures, so you should get a really nice little north-western faction to fight the Carthies there.

[thelord]

will the saba not have a large amount of uprisings and revolts with the culture difference and the distance to their capital?

[QuintusSertorius]

Culture, no, they're Semitic too. Distance to capital, sure, but I've not seen them lose any provinces over it. They revolt for a bit, then calm down.

[QuintusSertorius]

Campaign against the Insubres, 223BC

One of the consuls of the day, Numerius Cornelius Scipio had concluded a successful campaign against the Boii, taking their capital Patavium after a brief siege. Wishing to earn glory of his own, the praetor Appius Cornelius Scipio had secured a proconsular imperium to take two legions and two alae to punish the Insubres. Ravaging their outlying communities, he set to work building lines of circumvallation around their capital, Mediolanium.

Spirits within the walls of Mediolanium were high, the magistrate Andecombogios inspiring the people and his warriors with his magnetic personality. When spring came, they were relieved by a band of kin, led by the warrior Casticos.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Insubre%20Battle/InsubreBattleStart.jpg

Their combined force was equal to Cotta's consular army, so he marched away from the investment of Mediolanium and offered battle a short distance away. Better that than trapped between the town and the relieving army. This Scipio wasn't an imaginative general like some of his august ancestors, and indeed relatives, but he knew how to look after the basics, and was skilled with logistics. As long as his supply lines were safe, he was content to fight. His chief tribune was the young Decimus Claudius Pulcher, not the brightest lad but but brave enough and respected by the men.

Favouring a gentle rise in the battlefield with cornfields to their back, Scipio's men drew up in the triplex acies. Scipio sat in the centre with his extraordinarii in reserve behind the third line where he could direct them personally to where they'd be needed most. Pulcher was on the right with some allied horse and the decurion of the Campanian cavalry, Gnaeus Rufinus commanded on the left.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Insubre%20Battle/InsubreBattle1.jpg

Eager to win glory, Casticos marched to meet the invader. Scipio wheeled his force to receive them head-on, all the while keeping an eye on the progress of Andecombogios' force from Mediolanium.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Insubre%20Battle/InsubreBattle2.jpg

For a time the skirmishers engaged in that fluid and ever-shifting battle of light troops.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Insubre%20Battle/InsubreBattle3.jpg

But Casticos' warriors rapidly grew impatient and charged the Roman lines.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Insubre%20Battle/InsubreBattle4.jpg

Some of his levies charged too far and arrived before the seasoned principes tired and confused. They withered under a hail of pila and ran.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Insubre%20Battle/InsubreBattle5.jpg

Spotting the Roman general, a band of Gaesatae charged, heedless of the principes standing in their path. They were but a minor obstacle in the way of glory. Standing firm and reassuring the men, Scipio ordered his picked men to charge their flank.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Insubre%20Battle/InsubreBattle6.jpg

The front ranks were all engaged now, on the right Pulcher led his troop around the line.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Insubre%20Battle/InsubreBattle7.jpg

A fierce melee developed in the centre, where the extraordinarii engaged the naked warriors under the eyes of the general. Pride was at stake, they would show themselves worthy of his faith.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Insubre%20Battle/InsubreBattle8.jpg

Pulcher's band swept into the rear of the Gallic foresters supporting another mob of fanatics.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Insubre%20Battle/InsubreBattle9.jpg

The archers gave way.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Insubre%20Battle/InsubreBattle10.jpg

But then some of the fanatics charged Pulcher and his comrades, seeing a chance to win a famous combat.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Insubre%20Battle/InsubreBattle11.jpg

Rufinus commanding the Campanians had spurred ahead of the line to drive off some enemy skirmishers. Then he turned his horse around and charged into the back of the fanatics testing the resolve of the men in the centre.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Insubre%20Battle/InsubreBattle12.jpg

As he pulled his troop away to charge home again, he was caught unawares by Andecombogios and his newly-arrived forces. The Campanians suffered many casualties extricating themselves from the uneven fight.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Insubre%20Battle/InsubreBattle13.jpg

Meanwhile having finally broken the resolve of the fanatics on the right, Pulcher was forced to turn and run from another band arriving with Andecombogios' men.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Insubre%20Battle/InsubreBattle14.jpg

Andecombogios and his bodyguard charged in support of his levies, exhorting them with promises of rich rewards and putting himself in harm's way. Scipio stood firm, providing an example in calm confidence.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Insubre%20Battle/InsubreBattle15.jpg

On their own initiative centurions in the second rank, and those commanding the skirmishers began to take advantage of gaps in the fighting, leading maniples through them, or around the front.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Insubre%20Battle/InsubreBattle16.jpg

Andecombogios' bodyguard caught sight of the Roman general and swore to bring his head back to the magistrate of the Insubres.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Insubre%20Battle/InsubreBattle17.jpg

On the right, deftly avoiding the new fanatics, Pulcher routed the fresh levies.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Insubre%20Battle/InsubreBattle18.jpg

His bodyguard's rash challenge left the Insubre magistrate hopelessly unprotected. One of Scipio's extraordinarii cut the brave Gaul down.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Insubre%20Battle/InsubreBattle19.jpg

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Insubre%20Battle/InsubreBattle20.jpg

The shock of Andecombogios' death started a panic in the centre which quickly turned into a rout.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Insubre%20Battle/InsubreBattle21.jpg

The fanatics in the centre lost hope, even through their narcotic haze they knew this day was lost.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Insubre%20Battle/InsubreBattle22.jpg

But the fanatics on the right were too drug-addled to care, vowing to fight to the last if they must in honour of the dead magistrate.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Insubre%20Battle/InsubreBattle23.jpg

In the flight that dominated the rest of the field, Casticos was cut down.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Insubre%20Battle/InsubreBattle24.jpg

And in the slaughter that followed, few survived.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Insubre%20Battle/InsubreBattle25.jpg

With the garrison slain, Mediolanium lay open to Scipio's army, who quickly installed themselves in the town.

[QuintusSertorius]

223BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II223BC.jpg

The recent campaigns against the tribes in Cisalpine Gaul have brought Patavium and now Mediolanium into the Republic. I'm quickly diverting troops from Bononia's garrison into Patavium so I can remove the consular army from there to deal with the inevitable reprisal the Aedui will be sending my way. Unfortunately for them, they have to cross Arverni lands (who they're at war with) to do it. Hopefully after beating off a couple of stacks they'll stick to a FD'd ceasefire.

Had to push the Germans back across the Rhine again, Arverni did a poor job of holding their settlements. Hopefully they should stem the tide for a bit. The Sweboz are having a good old go at the central European defense force. Pannonia declared for the Aedui after the Getai took it, and now they're at war.

Baktria are being hard-pressed by the Saka, so much so that they've given up on the Seleukids for now. Parthia are still grinding away. Pontos too.

The Lusotanii have almost completed their conquest of all Iberia. I'm thinking I might FD Emporion off them in a few years, and give Arse to the Qarthadastim in 219BC.

Makedonia are slowly edging Koinon Hellenon out, Epeiros are still doing nothing, although their big stacks are moving around a little.

The Sab'yn are keeping Qarthadast busy in the desert. Although that might be why they're not doing much in Spain.

[Chirurgeon]

five more years till hannibal right? Then you have lose some battles. Be interesting to see if the AI can beat you.

[QuintusSertorius]

five more years till hannibal right? Then you have lose some battles. Be interesting to see if the AI can beat you.

Seven; I'm going to spawn him outside Capua post-"Cannae" rather than in the Alps and watch him march back to Spain.

[hrrypttrbst]

i can't wait to see the second punic war!!

[Chirurgeon]

your not doing his march into Italy?

[QuintusSertorius]

your not doing his march into Italy?

No, it's pointless, he'll just march back to Spain if I put him in the Alps. Since I can't get the move_character command to work either, there'd be little I could do about it.

Instead I'll be giving Cisalpine Gaul and Liguria to the Arverni in 218BC, and in 216BC giving Capua to Qarthadast just before he appears in Campania.

[QuintusSertorius]

221BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II221BC.jpg

The situation in Spain, not long before it will spark things off. I didn't actually give Emporion to Koinon Hellenon - it rebelled not long after the Lusotanii took it. I did however give Arse to Qarthadast, in the hopes it might start them and the Lusotanii warring. No luck so far. The Lusotanii also took Tolosa, so I gave that to the Arverni in the hopes it might stabilise their conflict with the Aedui. For now the Sweboz seem quiet on the other side of the Rhine.

Makedon have basically won in Greece, I'm now having to restore provinces to Koinon Hellenon there every few turns to keep them around. Not too long before I can send an actual army there to redress the balance, and kick them out of Korinthos too.

Haven't put the Hannibal script in yet, but soon.

[QuintusSertorius]

219BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II219BC.jpg

It seems I've created a monster in helping those ungreatful Arverni. Two full stacks attacking Mediolanum, although both are about 50% Apeleutheroi, so likely useless. I'm going to sally out this turn and hopefully then get a pitched battle to wipe them out. I'm also taking the opportunity to recover Liguria, even if it won't be for long.

I'm hoping I've not tipped the balance in Gaul too far in their favour in my repeated rescues from the Aedui. You'll notice they have a lot of troops, though again they may mostly be freed slaves.

The create_unit cheat has been helpful in bolstering some of my FD activities, especially in stopping Koinon Hellenon losing provinces to Makedonia quite so fast. Annoyingly one of the armies I created in Spain for Qarthadast was immediately shipped to Africa to attack the Saba. The other two, however are still there. They won't attack the Lusotanii, though. Any way to make them go to war, or affect their relationship stats?

I just FD'd Emporion from Koinon Hellenon so I've got my base in Spain for the coming war. I need to finish with the Arverni quickly if I'm going to ship one of those armies over there.

Looks like another round of fixing the Seleukids is in order. This time I might give them some troops in the gifted settlements as well, so they don't lose them straight back again.

The Hannibal script is in, he appears in summer 216BC in Campania.

[Chirurgeon]

looking good man. Seems like a lot of work keeping everyone in line but it seems to be working. I am excited about the second Punic War!
Since you have established yourself on the forums don't forget to visit the other active AARS and give your thoughts. Us AAR writers appreciate the input of other writers. It helps make the community stronger :book:
Keep up the good work!

[QuintusSertorius]

Campaigns in Cisalpine Gaul, 219BC

Decimus Claudius Pulcher was a tribune and the proconsul Scipio's deputy. He'd been left to manage things in Mediolanum while the general joined the other consular army to take Segesta and attempt to pacify Liguria. However the Cenomani, allies of the Insubre along with some other kinfolk gathered a force and besieged Pulcher in the Insubre capital.

Hearing of the defeat of several Ligurian tribes in the south, that band raised the siege and began to drift away. Wasting no time, Pulcher marched out in pursuit, bringing them to battle in the forests west of Mediolanum.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Cisalpine%20Gaul%20219BC/CAGaulBattleStart.jpg

He had no authority to command alone, but the tribunes and centurions were all agreed that the threat needed to be dealt with immediately. He drew up the men on the edge of the forest, and waited for the Gauls.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Cisalpine%20Gaul%20219BC/CAGaulBattle1.jpg

After a wait of an hour, he knew he had to seize the day or the Gauls would slip away. He ordered the men forward.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Cisalpine%20Gaul%20219BC/CAGaulBattle2.jpg

The first contact was made by the skirmishers, but it was unclear who gained the upper hand.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Cisalpine%20Gaul%20219BC/CAGaulBattle3.jpg

In the chaos that followed, the leader of the warband fell.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Cisalpine%20Gaul%20219BC/CAGaulBattle4.jpg

The warband collapsed, each warrior looking only to his own survival. They streamed out of the north side of the forest, into a clearing. Roman cavalry and skirmishers followed in hot pursuit.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Cisalpine%20Gaul%20219BC/CAGaulBattle5.jpg

With that, Pulcher had won the day.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Cisalpine%20Gaul%20219BC/CAGaulBattleEnd.jpg

He pulled his victorious troops back to their billets in Mediolanum and resumed his duties monitoring the local tribes.

Meanwhile further south, the propraetor Decimus Aemilius Mamercus advanced with the army of Scipio to face two Arverni armies. With him was Kaeso Sergius Orata. Two chieftains, cousins by birth led each of the Gallic armies.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Cisalpine%20Gaul%20219BC/CAGaul2BattleStart.jpg

Battle was offered in the thick forest, and even deployment proved problematic. Mamercus had trouble communicating with the wings of his army, runners got lost on their way to and from Orata on the right and the decurion Titus Annaeus on the left.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Cisalpine%20Gaul%20219BC/CAGaul2Battle1.jpg

The Gauls came on in a disordered mass, ripe targets for the Roman skirmishers.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Cisalpine%20Gaul%20219BC/CAGaul2Battle2.jpg

On the right, some parts of the Roman line met the enemy, but the situation was confused.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Cisalpine%20Gaul%20219BC/CAGaul2Battle3.jpg

Frustrated at being unable to see anything, Orata took some allied cavalry and scouted ahead of the Roman line, hoping to find a route in which he could flank the fighting. He ran into Moggortos and his bodyguard, who put up a stiff fight, driving Orata off.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Cisalpine%20Gaul%20219BC/CAGaul2Battle4.jpg

Mamercus dispatched his extraordinarii to assist in the brawl on the right. In the frenzied fighting there, one of the picked men slayed Moggortos.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Cisalpine%20Gaul%20219BC/CAGaul2Battle5.jpg

A panic spread through the Gallic ranks, and in the ensuing flight Cogidubnos was killed by Annaeus' troops. The cousins had died bravely, but to little avail.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Cisalpine%20Gaul%20219BC/CAGaul2Battle6.jpg

With little loss to his own force, the disordered pursuit devastated the Gallic army.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Cisalpine%20Gaul%20219BC/CAGaul2Battle7.jpg

The twin defeats overawed many of the local tribes, who sought to come to their own accomdation with the Roman conquerers. There would be another time, but for now they needed to gather their strength.

[QuintusSertorius]

219BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II219BC2.jpg

Only a couple of seasons on from the last one, but some changes. Pictured is Spain, where I've been having fun with the move_character command to bolster Qarthadast forces. They've now got three near-full stacks there, and I'm hoping they might provoke the Lusotanii while they're at it. I'm at war with them now, courtesy of using the troops I got when I FD'd Garama to the Saba to attack them. I later disbanded them, but the point is the Second Punic War is now on. Now it's a race to get the proconsul Scipio and his army to Emporion to protect the allied communities there.

Elsewhere in the world, I've been using the move_character command to alter the dynamics of some conflicts. In Syria the Ptolemies have lost three armies which are now in Egypt and unable to attack the Seleukids. The Hai have almost nothing in Scythia now. I also had to pull a big Aedui force out of Germany. Things are calmer now.

[QuintusSertorius]

Winter campaign in Liguria, 219BC

Determined to bring the conflict with the Arverni to a close before the year's elections, Decimus Aemilius Mamercus pursued the last Gallic remnants still harrassing allied communities. They offered battle in one of the mountain passes still clear enough to travel through, and eager to finish this business Mamercus assented. He had superior numbers, even if they had chosen the ground.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Cisalpine%20Gaul%20219BC/CAGaul3BattleStart.jpg

Kaeso Sergius Orata had an idea on seeing the lie of the land. He broached this idea to the general in the consilum the night before battle. He and some picked troops - the pedites extraordinarii, some slingers and a few horse - would deploy on the hill overlooking the pass, and make their way around the other side of the broken ground topping the hill. It would be their job to distract and hold the enemy until the main force arrived. A risky plan, but one that could bring a great victory.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Cisalpine%20Gaul%20219BC/CAGaul3Battle1.jpg

Orata and his men made their way across the ridge to meet the enemy.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Cisalpine%20Gaul%20219BC/CAGaul3Battle2.jpg

Meanwhile Mamercus and the main body made their way through the pass, and on to the long climb up the hillside. They would be vulnerable during this climb, and would likely need to rest and reform before engaging. This was why it was imperative that Orata kept the enemy distracted so that Mamercus could get into position.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Cisalpine%20Gaul%20219BC/CAGaul3Battle3.jpg

From the top of the hill, Brennos could see the Romans moving in two groups, but he couldn't fathom the meaning of it. Even so, his men held a strong position so he was confident. Let those foolish weaklings tire themselves out marching up and down hills.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Cisalpine%20Gaul%20219BC/CAGaul3Battle4.jpg

Orata's men engage the enemy, the extraordinarii forming a literal barrier with their heavily-armoured bodies and a wall of locked shields to protect the slingers.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Cisalpine%20Gaul%20219BC/CAGaul3Battle5.jpg

The main force begin the climb, unmolested by missile fire from the distracted Gauls.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Cisalpine%20Gaul%20219BC/CAGaul3Battle6.jpg

Most of the Gauls charge Orata's small band, and it's only the valour and resolve of the extraordinarii that prevents disaster. They stand firm.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Cisalpine%20Gaul%20219BC/CAGaul3Battle7.jpg

Meanwhile only some skirmishers and a band of fanatics realise the danger from the main force. The fanatics charge and inflict grievous losses as they fight with inhuman endurance.

Brennos feeds more troops into the fray and leads his own chosen men to join the fight. The tribune accepts Brennos' challenge and charges to meet him. Orata's bodyguard suffer many losses before one of his troopers pulls the tribune out of the fray to rest and gather themselves behind the steadfast extraordinarii.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Cisalpine%20Gaul%20219BC/CAGaul3Battle8.jpg

Brennos breaks through the Roman line and pursues the slingers. Orata follows, catching the Gallic chieftain off-guard. Men falling down left and right, Brennos takes flight.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Cisalpine%20Gaul%20219BC/CAGaul3Battle9.jpg

But not to be denied, Orata pursues the chieftain, swearing vengeance for his lost comrades. He rides the Gallic warlord down, killing him with his spear.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Cisalpine%20Gaul%20219BC/CAGaul3Battle10.jpg

Unaware that their leader has fallen, the scrap continues. Mamercus begins to send fresh troops to aid Orata.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Cisalpine%20Gaul%20219BC/CAGaul3Battle11.jpg

Their arrival breaks the resolve of the Gauls, who break and flee.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Cisalpine%20Gaul%20219BC/CAGaul3Battle12.jpg

In the ensuing rout, no quarter is asked, and none given.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Cisalpine%20Gaul%20219BC/CAGaul3BattleEnd.jpg

[QuintusSertorius]

218BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II218BC1.jpg

Initially the war in Spain was rather cold, but now the Qarthadastim have mobilised troops to fight (helped in large part by me using move_character to teleport armies from Africa to Spain). Emporion is threatened, and the nearest Roman army is the proconsul Appius Cornelius Scipio, his transports only just past Massalia.

They don't arrive in time to prevent the Qarthadastim besieging Emporion, but as soon as their boots kiss terra firma they march to the town's relief.

[QuintusSertorius]

First Battle of Lacetania, 218BC

Having barely dried their feet, General Scipio's army went to the relief of Emporion, besieged by the army of Captain Bodinelqart.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Emporion%20Battle/EmporionBattleStart.jpg

Scipio was surprised when the Qarthadastim leader didn't retreat in the face of superior numbers. Evidently he was confident in the position he held, and responded to the offer of battle.

Scipio deployed his men in the traditional fashion, his chief tribune Kaeso Sergius Orata commanding on the right wing in the position of honour.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Emporion%20Battle/EmporionBattle1.jpg

The Qarthadastim advanced, then halted to dress their lines. Not to have his men feel their general lacked confidence, Scipio responded in kind.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Emporion%20Battle/EmporionBattle2.jpg

Some of the enemy broke from their formation to charge the Roman lines before they settled themselves down. The main battle line, however remained unengaged. Scipio watched for the activity of the elephants Bodinelqart had at his command, for he could already see they were unnerving his men, even at a distance.

On the right a mass of cavalry charged the Roman skirmishers, and for a few moments it seemed they might be driven off entirely. But the timely arrival of Orata and his Gallic cavalry turned the tables.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Emporion%20Battle/EmporionBattle3.jpg

The enemy light horse were routed, while some other selected troops were fed into the fight by Bodinelqart. Orata and his Gallic horse pursued the Qarthadastim light horse for a while, effectively leaving the conflict.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Emporion%20Battle/EmporionBattle4.jpg

On the left, the Qarthadastim heavy horse charged home, pushing the allied slingers back. The Campanian cavalry responded, but they were outmatched by the heavily armoured Liby-Phoenicians on big steeds.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Emporion%20Battle/EmporionBattle5.jpg

Libyan Spearmen came in support of the heavy cavalry, and Scipio sent in the Samnites to aid his Campanians.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Emporion%20Battle/EmporionBattle6.jpg

The Bruttians joined in the engagement on the left, which was rapidly drawing all attention. Spotting the approach of elephants, Scipio ordered his velites to attack.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Emporion%20Battle/EmporionBattle7.jpg

Bodinelqart sent more men to the fight on the left of the Roman line, more Liby-Phoenicians eager to aid their countrymen. Both generals kept the bulk of their forces in reserve, waiting for the other to react. Scipio could tell how nervous his men were of the elephants, he couldn't afford to risk sending them forward until they were dealt with.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Emporion%20Battle/EmporionBattle8.jpg

Some freed slaves were thrown into the mix, and the elephants withdrew. Not wanting to waste this opportunity, the velites pursued them.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Emporion%20Battle/EmporionBattle9.jpg

The elephants returned, charging into the melee and sowing massive chaos and confusion. Spotting the danger, Orata spurred his troop in an attempt to stop the panic.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Emporion%20Battle/EmporionBattle10.jpg

Unnerved by the smell and sound of the large beasts, Orata's horse threw him. He was trampled by one of the elephants.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Emporion%20Battle/EmporionBattle11.jpg

But the confusion sown by the elephants affected the enemy as much as it did the Romans. Some men began to look over their shoulder, and in no time unease turned to flight.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Emporion%20Battle/EmporionBattle12.jpg

Resistance on the left collapsed entirely.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Emporion%20Battle/EmporionBattle13.jpg

In the centre and right, the Qarthadastim elite infantry fought on regardless.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Emporion%20Battle/EmporionBattle14.jpg

The Romans moved to encircle them.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Emporion%20Battle/EmporionBattle15.jpg

Meanwhile Bodinelqart ordered the general retreat.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Emporion%20Battle/EmporionBattle16.jpg

The Qarthadastim elite fought on bravely, but it was in vain.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Emporion%20Battle/EmporionBattle17.jpg

The day was Scipio's. He had killed or captured half the enemy force with relatively light casualties. But the loss of Orata soured the men's mood and took any joy there might have been from the victory.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Emporion%20Battle/EmporionBattleEnd.jpg

[QuintusSertorius]

217BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II217BC.jpg

Disaster! A Qarthdastim army did the unthinkable and marched across the Alps in the dead of winter. The army sent to respond as the passes began to thaw was defeated, and the one after that. Taking advantage of the vaccuum, the previously loyal tribes in Cisalpine Gaul have risen in revolt. Those in Liguria joined them. And now a foreign army is on Italian soil.

Well, not quite, I gifted those settlements to the Gauls, Hannibal won't appear for another few turns. Just before that happens, I'll be gifting Capua to Qarthadast. That way he won't try to wander off to Spain. Hopefully he won't just sit in the city either. I might add to it's garrison to stop him doing that.

Elsewhere in the world, I've reset Pontos to the coast and moved their armies away. I need the Seleukids strong before I attack them in a couple of decades time.

In Spain I gifted Celtiberia to the Aedui a few turns ago. I also gave Turdulia to Qarthadast in the hopes it would provoke the Lusotanii to attack them, but no such luck. Their alliance is as strong as ever. Which is annoying.

[QuintusSertorius]

Campaigns in Lacetania, 217BC, part 1

Late in the spring of 217BC, General Scipio halted his men and constructed a marching camp. He didn't want to over-stretch his supply lines, nor advance too deep into the countryside without being sure of the loyalty of the local tribes.

While in his camp, his scouts and spies reported the approach of a Qarthadastim army, Bodinelqart and the survivors of the last encounter returned for more. Scipio was puzzled as to why the Punic commander would seek battle again so soon, without even drawing reinforcements. Perhaps he was confident that his elephants would do better this time. Perhaps he feared being replaced if he didn't quickly earn a victory to expunge his defeat. Perhaps there was some other, inscrutable reason. Despite being outnumbered two-to-one, Bodinelqart sought battle. Scipio's men were eager for vengeance for Orata, and cheered when they were ordered to march out of the camp to offer battle.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Emporion%20Battles%20II/LacetaniaBattleStart.jpg

Scipio's army drew up on the top of a hill, looking down the wooded slopes to where Bodinelqart advanced.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Emporion%20Battles%20II/LacetaniaBattle1.jpg

Bodinelqart led with his elephants, hoping to sow disoder and rout the Romans with the first charge. He rode one of the elephants himself, perhaps adding to the confidence he felt.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Emporion%20Battles%20II/LacetaniaBattle2.jpg

Elephants and cavalry charged clear of the trees, entering a hailstorm of missiles from both the Roman light and line troops. Wary of the elephants, centurions ordered the men to throw everything they had, regardless that it might leave them with nothing for the enemy infantry when they arrived.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Emporion%20Battles%20II/LacetaniaBattle3.jpg

His overconfidence led to his end, Bodinelqart was killed by a sling bullet which took him in the throat. He died choking on his own blood as he tried in vain to dig the pellet out.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Emporion%20Battles%20II/LacetaniaBattle4.jpg

Soon all the elephants were driven off.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Emporion%20Battles%20II/LacetaniaBattle5.jpg

Elite infantry emerged from the woods and, heedless of the loss of their commander engaged the Romans.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Emporion%20Battles%20II/LacetaniaBattle6.jpg

Supporting them came Numidian skirmishers.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Emporion%20Battles%20II/LacetaniaBattle7.jpg

The extraordinarii and Campanian cavalry looped around the line to threaten the elite's rear.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Emporion%20Battles%20II/LacetaniaBattle8.jpg

And in a short while, the pressure broke the resolve of even these very brave men.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Emporion%20Battles%20II/LacetaniaBattle9.jpg

The Gallic cavalry drove off the skirmishers.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Emporion%20Battles%20II/LacetaniaBattle10.jpg

Surrounded, the elites in the centre broke.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Emporion%20Battles%20II/LacetaniaBattle11.jpg

But those on the left fought on.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Emporion%20Battles%20II/LacetaniaBattle12.jpg

In the end, though, they could not survive alone and were forced to flee. Bodinelqart had foolishly thrown away his life and his army.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Emporion%20Battles%20II/LacetaniaBattleEnd.jpg

[QuintusSertorius]

Campaign in Lacetania, 217BC part 2

Having crushed Bodinelqart, Scipio was surprised when a few days later his camp was threatened once more. This time by the local tribes, who either out of loyalty to their Punic masters, or else fear of another oppressor gathered a force and attacked. They were led by a fearsome warrior called Elazuno, who scorned the Romans and their effete ways.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Emporion%20Battles%20II/LacetaniaBattle2Start.jpg

Much as he had done before, Scipio deployed atop the same hill overlooking the forest. His men were confident taking up the same positions that had brought victory so recently.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Emporion%20Battles%20II/LacetaniaBattle2-1.jpg

Using the cover of the forest, Elazuno, a canny raider attempted to sneak around to flank the bigger Roman force. Scipio had outriders keeping tabs on the enemy, and readdressed his line to meet the ruse.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Emporion%20Battles%20II/LacetaniaBattle2-2.jpg

In a brave, if somewhat foolish move, Elazuno shouted his men forward, straight up the hill at the Romans.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Emporion%20Battles%20II/LacetaniaBattle2-3.jpg

They charged into a hail of javelins, then halted to deliver their own missiles. Meanwhile the Gallic horse spurred off to challenge Elazuno and his bodyguard.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Emporion%20Battles%20II/LacetaniaBattle2-4.jpg

Just as against Bodinelqart, the extraordinarii and Campanians moved to outflank their enemy.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Emporion%20Battles%20II/LacetaniaBattle2-5.jpg

Expending their missiles, the tribesmen charged.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Emporion%20Battles%20II/LacetaniaBattle2-6.jpg

As the enveloping maneuver took place on the right, the velites looked to repeat the maneuver on the left.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Emporion%20Battles%20II/LacetaniaBattle2-7.jpg

Elazuno ran from the Gallic horse, and unable to see their leader the Iberians lost heart. Their confidence evaporated and they tried to escape.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Emporion%20Battles%20II/LacetaniaBattle2-8.jpg

Elazuno didn't even look back as he and his horsemen fled the field like cowards.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Emporion%20Battles%20II/LacetaniaBattle2-9.jpg

The day was Scipio's and once again with very few casualties.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Emporion%20Battles%20II/LacetaniaBattle2End.jpg

As spring turned towards sweltering hot summer, embassages were received from the local tribes who promised not to attack the Romans any more. Scipio didn't press for a more punitive accomodation, he needed the locals supportive, or at least outside of the bigger conflict with Qarthadast.

[QuintusSertorius]

Battle in Lacetania, summer 217BC

Early in the summer of 217BC, Scipio received some reinforcements from Rome, along with a new legate and quaestor, Decimus Claudius Pulcher. The men were heartened both by the replacements and the arrival of Pulcher, who some had fought under in Cisalpine Gaul when he drove off the Cenomani.

Scipio had made some minor changes to his army in the months since the battle with the local tribes. He'd consolidated the surviving Bruttians into one command and brought in some local fighters to serve in the Left ala.

With his force back up to full strength, he pressed on towards Arse, stopping in some wooded country on the Roman road to pitch camp. Spies among the local tribes whispered of a large Qarthadastim force marching towards the Romans, ready to kick them out of Spain. They were led by a half-Iberian noble called Mytonnes Saunites. They outnumbered the Romans by a small margin, but a significant part of their force were recently freed slaves.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Lacetania%20Battle%20III/LacetaniaBattle3Start.jpg

Scipio marched out of his camp and arrayed his forces on the road, keeping the legions visible in the centre, but hiding the two alae in the woods. The right wing was commanded by Pulcher, the left by the cenburion in charge of the extraordinarii. They had a strong position halfway up a hill.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Lacetania%20Battle%20III/LacetaniaBattle3-1.jpg

Saunites ordered his men to advance. He feared little from these Romans, beating Bodinelqart had handily removed a rival for supreme command in Spain. His heavy calvary rushed for the Roman left.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Lacetania%20Battle%20III/LacetaniaBattle3-2.jpg

The rest of his army charged up the hill, tiring themselves out. His heavy cavalry caught the allied slingers unawares, cutting many of them down. The extraordinarii marched to their rescue, knowing that if they cavalry gained a foothold they could roll up the entire line. The Gallic horse drew another group of Liby-Phoenician cavalry away from the rest of the army.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Lacetania%20Battle%20III/LacetaniaBattle3-3.jpg

In the centre the Iberians and slaves charged.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Lacetania%20Battle%20III/LacetaniaBattle3-4.jpg

Gallic mercenaries and Numidian skirmishers joined in support of the heavy horse, and a desparate scrap broke out on the left.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Lacetania%20Battle%20III/LacetaniaBattle3-5.jpg

Rather than engaging, the slaves in the centre began to drift away from the fight as the Iberians and African infantry moved to engage.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Lacetania%20Battle%20III/LacetaniaBattle3-6.jpg

On the right, more Gallic mercenaries and Maure skirmishers pushed the Roman slingers back. Pulcher looked for his moment.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Lacetania%20Battle%20III/LacetaniaBattle3-7.jpg

Using the cover of the fighting on the left, Saunites and his bodyguard slipped behind the Roman line.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Lacetania%20Battle%20III/LacetaniaBattle3-8.jpg

Still the fighting continued on the left, with no sign of a resolution in sight. The Gauls were well-armoured and skilled, and despite their fatigue fought fiercely.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Lacetania%20Battle%20III/LacetaniaBattle3-9.jpg

Sautines attacked the allied slingers once more, many of whom were already injured or dead. The triarii from the First Legion were ordered to support them.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Lacetania%20Battle%20III/LacetaniaBattle3-10.jpg

For a time Sautines and his band threatned the Roman centre.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Lacetania%20Battle%20III/LacetaniaBattle3-11.jpg

But he was wounded in the scalp, and a worried ward pulled him clear of danger.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Lacetania%20Battle%20III/LacetaniaBattle3-12.jpg

The Gauls on the right were caught between the triarii, Bruttians and Pulcher's cavalry, and mauled badly. They decided discretion was the better part of valour.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Lacetania%20Battle%20III/LacetaniaBattle3-13.jpg

Seeing the Gauls flee, and suffering many dead and wounded themselves, the Iberians fled. Pulcher led the Bruttians and his cavalry to outflank those remaining.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Lacetania%20Battle%20III/LacetaniaBattle3-14.jpg

The return of the Gallic horse routed the mercenaries on the left. Soon resistance there crumbled.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Lacetania%20Battle%20III/LacetaniaBattle3-15.jpg

His wound staunched with a makeshift dressing, Sautines attempted to salvage something of this battle.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Lacetania%20Battle%20III/LacetaniaBattle3-16.jpg

But it was too late, most of his army were already in flight.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Lacetania%20Battle%20III/LacetaniaBattle3-17.jpg

He tried to slow the Romans down anyway.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Lacetania%20Battle%20III/LacetaniaBattle3-18.jpg

However the day was already lost.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Lacetania%20Battle%20III/LacetaniaBattle3-19.jpg

He fled the field, narrowly escaping being slain himself as Pulcher spotted him while riding down fleeing Iberians.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Lacetania%20Battle%20III/LacetaniaBattle3End.jpg

A great victory had been won, further hampering the Qarthadastim war effort in Spain.

[QuintusSertorius]

Autumn 217BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II217BC2.jpg

Scipio's victorious army is threatened immediately by a slave army led by Burrhus Gades, along with the remnants of Sautines force. There's another Qarthadastim army nearby led by another FM.

Elsewhere in the world, Baktria have lost their capital to the Saka again, although they have troops around so should retake it.

The Iberians look to be trying to start things up with the Arverni again (even though they're allies). The Aedui in Celtiberia don't seem to want to move, they're recruiting more troops to add to the formiddable amount they already have.

Seleukids are holding now that I teleport any serious opponents away from them. There's a lot of Ptolemaic troops languishing in the Egyptian desert years away from causing any harm.

Still a stalemate in Greece.

I'm now three turns away from the appearance of Hannibal, assuming it all works. Two from giving Qarthadast Capua.

[Tristuskhan]

Favouring a gentle rise in the battlefield with cornfields to their back, Scipio's men drew up in the triplex acies.

Cornfields? that's even more ahistorical than Lorica Segmentas and so...

[Ibrahim]

corn actually vever origionally referred to maize (what we now also call corn). it used to mean any cereal in general..wheat, barley, rye, etc.

[Tristuskhan]

corn actually vever origionally referred to maize (what we now also call corn). it used to mean any cereal in general..wheat, barley, rye, etc.
Uh, really? I thought english was a much more accurate tongue. Nevermind, I apologise for my remark then.

[QuintusSertorius]

The War in Spain: Battles in Edetania, 216BC

Confident after the victories of the previous campaigning season, the proconsul Appius Cornelius Scipio and his legate Decimus Claudius Pulcher crossed the Ebro into Edetania. This was significant, for they were now taking the fight to the Qarthadastim and communities allied to them. The destination was Arse, to rescue the survivors of those still loyal to Rome.

Scipio was also keen to get this matter done, he couldn't get a decent Falernian in this benighted land, and the local wine was atrocious. His personal stocks were running dangerously low. Pulcher monitored his general with some concern, the old warhorse had always liked his drink, but this war was pushing him even deeper into drunkenness. In some respects it didn't matter, Scipio was as capable half-cut as he was sober and hungover, but he was getting careless about his personal security. His praetoria were getting sloppy and complacent, and that could be fatal in battle.

In the early spring, Burrhus Gades and his slave army tried to stop the Romans as they emerged into Edetania. Scipio eagerly offered battle.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles/LacetaniaBattle4Start.jpg

He deployed his force in the traditional manner, the Right ala composed of Latins and Italians, the Left ala of Iberian tribesmen. He placed Pulcher on the left to keep an eye on these new additions, who hadn't quite been fully-integrated into the army. His extraordinarii he sent to the right.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles/LacetaniaBattle4-1.jpg

At first it seems Gades might try to win the battle single-handedly. His bodyguard charged out, encouraging the slaves forward.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles/LacetaniaBattle4-2.jpg

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles/LacetaniaBattle4-3.jpg

But then he and his army halted, and Gades couldn't get them to attack the Roman lines, despite their superiority in numbers.

Scipio ordered the advance, while his skirmishers deployed forward to harrass the enemy.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles/LacetaniaBattle4-4.jpg

As the Romans advanced, Gades slave army simply fell back, refusing to fight.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles/LacetaniaBattle4-5.jpg

Though Gades raged and ranted at his men, they wouldn't fight and marched away.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles/LacetaniaBattle4-6.jpg

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles/LacetaniaBattle4-7.jpg

And so he surrendered the field to Scipio. The general pitched camp to raid the surrounding communities.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles/LacetaniaBattle4-8.jpg

Scipio's raiding provoked a reponse from the Qarthadastim who had to demonstrate to their allies that they could defend them. An army of mercenaries, levies and others under Celeas Sabratha attacked Scipio's forces later in spring. Their two armies were evenly matched in numbers, although Scipio had a much greater proportion of heavy infantry to Sabratha's higher number of skirmishers and lights.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles/EdetaniaBattle1Start.jpg

Scipio deployed as before, with the Italians and Latins in the Right ala, Iberians in the Left.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles/EdetaniaBattle1-1.jpg

He noted with some alarm that Sabratha had elephants which threatened the Roman left. The Qarthadastim general also sent all his cavalry to his right, hoping to roll up the Roman left. A subordinate officer, Germelqart Gisgo commanded the Qarthadastim right.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles/EdetaniaBattle1-2.jpg

The cavalry scattered the velites as the two armies met on the Roman left. Pulcher levelled his spear and rushed into the fray. Sabratha himself led the charge in the centre, perhaps hoping to draw Scipio into personal combat. With him came the Sacred Band, veterans and brave warriors all.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles/EdetaniaBattle1-3.jpg

On the right, fierce Balearic tribesmen drove off the accensi, prompting the extraordinarii to enter the contest. Clouds of skirmishers hurled volleys of missiles at the Roman infantry, who grimly stood their ground and braced their shields.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles/EdetaniaBattle1-4.jpg

On the left, the elephants advanced, sending a quail of panic through the Iberians.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles/EdetaniaBattle1-5.jpg

Their mahouts turned them to come crashing into the flank of the Iberians and cavalry.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles/EdetaniaBattle1-6.jpg

As the extraordinarii lent their strength to that of the Right ala, the Balearic tribesmen were punished severely.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles/EdetaniaBattle1-7.jpg

The Campanian cavalry drove off the skirmishers, trying to give the line some breathing room.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles/EdetaniaBattle1-8.jpg

On the left, Gisgo strayed into a maniple of principes, and one of the veteran legionaries killed his horse from under him. As the Qarthadastim officer jumped clear and tried to fight his way to safety, another legionary ran him through.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles/EdetaniaBattle1-9.jpg

Diverting all his skirmishers to counter the elephant thread, Scipio managed to drive the beasts off, and they attacked their own troops indiscriminately in their flight.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles/EdetaniaBattle1-10.jpg

On the right, hardened Liby-Phoenican spearmen and Numidian archers tried desparately to push the Italians back. The Campanians charged into their rear, but to little effect.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles/EdetaniaBattle1-11.jpg

Sabratha brought his bodyguard across, forcing the Campanians to flee.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles/EdetaniaBattle1-12.jpg

But rather than pressing home, he turn to take charge of the situation in the centre once more. The Campanians took advantage of the reprieve, finishing off the Balearic tribesmen.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles/EdetaniaBattle1-13.jpg

The fight on the left dissolved into several localised skirmishes.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles/EdetaniaBattle1-14.jpg

On the right, the Numidian archers broke.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles/EdetaniaBattle1-15.jpg

Underneath the gaze of the general and their own commander, the Sacred Band fought on.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles/EdetaniaBattle1-16.jpg

The pressure began to be felt, the lighter-armoured Qarthadastim being pushed back and taking more wounds than the Romans. Little by little, they gave ground. On the right, the Liby-Phonenicans turned and disengaged in good order, the extraordinarii giving chase.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles/EdetaniaBattle1-17.jpg

It proved to be the last act of the battle, the Sacred Band fought to the last, and Sabratha fled the field. His men followed and the rout was bloody.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles/EdetaniaBattle1End.jpg

The following day, having barely had a chance to recover the wounded and bury the dead, Burrhus Gades returned with his slaves. This time however, he stiffened their resolve with mercenaries.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles/EdetaniaBattle2Start.jpg

Scipio marched out in the same battle order as he had prevailed against Sabratha.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles/EdetaniaBattle2-1.jpg

There was nothing subtle about Gades' tactics, he intended to use his superior numbers to sweep the Romans away. He placed his mercenaries behind the slaves to drive them on, and offer them no route of escape.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles/EdetaniaBattle2-2.jpg

Hoping to inspire his men, Gades charged the Roman centre.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles/EdetaniaBattle2-3.jpg

For a time the fighting was hard, the sheer weight of numbers against them pushed the Roman lines backwards.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles/EdetaniaBattle2-4.jpg

Things were fiercest on the left.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles/EdetaniaBattle2-5.jpg

Gades threw his mercenary reserves into the fight, hoping the Romans would be tired.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles/EdetaniaBattle2-6.jpg

As the enemy fell back on the right, Pulcher marched the Right ala forwards.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles/EdetaniaBattle2-7.jpg

Gades stumbled into the Samnites who swarmed over his horsemen. The Qarthadastim commander screamed for mercy before a spear ended his life.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles/EdetaniaBattle2-8.jpg

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles/EdetaniaBattle2-9.jpg

His piecemeal army broke, tossing away arms and shields in their haste to escape the disaster.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles/EdetaniaBattle2-10.jpg

And Scipio's victory was complete.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles/EdetaniaBattle2End.jpg

[QuintusSertorius]

Summer 216BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II216BC.jpg

A disaster took place at Cannae, and the army of Hannibal crushed a consular army. A conspiracy at Capua betrayed the city to the enemy, and the Qarthadastim still foul Italian soil.

In Spain, Scipio marches to the siege of Arse, while he sends his legate Pulcher to bring drafts of replacements from Emporion.

Next turn Hannibal's army should be spawned in Campania, and thus the war in Italy proper will start.

[QuintusSertorius]

We're on temporary hold here, because my Hannibal script isn't working. Possibly because there's another character called Hannibal, and the kill_character command in the script doesn't seem to be working either. Soon as I get that fixed, I'll be back on track.

If anyone can help, the thread is here (https://forums.totalwar.org/vb/showthread.php?t=102665).

[QuintusSertorius]

Couldn't get the Hannibal script to work, so I gave up on it. Transported a random Qarthadastim FM and gave him an appropriate army.

Spain, Autumn 216BC

The quaestor Pulcher was attacked when bringing the reinforcements for Scipio's army across the Ebro. Celeas Sabratha and the survivors of his force thought they might catch the column by surprise.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Random%20Battles%20216-214/EdetaniaBattle3Start.jpg

Pulcher deployed defensively on the west bank of the river.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Random%20Battles%20216-214/EdetaniaBattle3-1.jpg

Sabratha wasted no time in crossing and charging, a simple, direct maneuver.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Random%20Battles%20216-214/EdetaniaBattle3-2.jpg

But Pulcher used his superior numbers to envelope the Qarthadastim force.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Random%20Battles%20216-214/EdetaniaBattle3-3.jpg

In the chaos, Sabratha fell. With his death, the fight went out of his army.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Random%20Battles%20216-214/EdetaniaBattle3-4.jpg

And so Pulcher was able to bring the reinforcements safely through hostile country to Arse.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Random%20Battles%20216-214/EdetaniaBattle3End.jpg

Italy, Winter 216BC

The Senate, displeased with how the war was going so far, gave command to the proconsul Sextus Cornelius Sulla. An old campaigner, he promised to bring this invader to heel.

Though slightly outnumbered, they were defending Italian soil and Sulla felt that was no impediment.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Random%20Battles%20216-214/ItalyBattle1Start.jpg

But the battle was a debacle, orders getting confused in the forest and the enemy appearing as though out of nowhere from the fog. The general was caught and killed, and with him gone his men couldn't hold it together.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Random%20Battles%20216-214/ItalyBattle1-3.jpg

Rome suffered another defeat at the hands of this young Qarthadastim general.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Random%20Battles%20216-214/ItalyBattleEnd.jpg

For a time there was a great fear that he would now march on Rome itself, but he turned south-east for Tarentum instead.

Meanwhile in Spain, in 215BC Scipio was forced to withdraw from Edetania under pressure from the Qarthadastim. The communities claiming loyalty to Rome in the region weren't able to provide for his army, and hungry, he was forced to retreat to Lacetania once more.

Illyria, Spring 214BC

Taking advantage of Rome's apparent weakness after the string of defeats in Italy, the king of Makedonia sought to expand into Illyria at Rome's expense. The propraetor Sextus Cornelius Rufinus was dispatched with one legion and one ala to deal with the invasion of Rome's Illyrian allies.

He encountered an army under one Captain Euphamios. They were about equal in size, although the Makedonian army had more line troops to Rufinus' preponderance of skirmishers.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Random%20Battles%20216-214/IllyriaBattle1Start.jpg

He arrayed in two lines, with his allied cavalry on the left.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Random%20Battles%20216-214/IllyriaBattle1-1.jpg

Then marched eastwards over a wooded hill to meet the foe. The Romans would come at the Makedonians downhill, adding momentum to their charge.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Random%20Battles%20216-214/IllyriaBattle1-2.jpg

The skirmisher went forward, harassing the Makedonian line who had no light troops of their own to respond.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Random%20Battles%20216-214/IllyriaBattle1-3.jpg

Then the Makedonians closed, risking the climb to reach the enemy over enduring any more missiles.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Random%20Battles%20216-214/IllyriaBattle1-4.jpg

The Roman right broke through the Makedonian left, moving to outflank their centre.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Random%20Battles%20216-214/IllyriaBattle1-5.jpg

Then the left also routed their opposite line, the cavalry and skirmishers going around to threaten the Makedonian reserves.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Random%20Battles%20216-214/IllyriaBattle1-6.jpg

Both wings routed, the fight continued in the centre as the cavalry hunted down fleeing troops.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Random%20Battles%20216-214/IllyriaBattle1-7.jpg

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Random%20Battles%20216-214/IllyriaBattle1-8.jpg

Eventually even those in the centre gave way.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Random%20Battles%20216-214/IllyriaBattle1-9.jpg

Rufinus had ended the immediate threat to Illyria.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Random%20Battles%20216-214/IllyriaBattle1End.jpg

Greece, Summer 214BC

Meanwhile in Greece allies attacked the Makedonian-held settlement of Thermon. They besieged the city, but when relieving forces arrived decided to offer battle.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Random%20Battles%20216-214/ThermonBattleStart.jpg

They defeated both forces, killing the garrison of Thermon and taking the city.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Random%20Battles%20216-214/ThermonBattleEnd.jpg

Spain, Summer 214BC

Venturing out beyond the Ebro once more, trying to regain the situation, Scipio was attacked by a Qarthadastim force under Captain Milkyaton. He had both numbers and morale on his side, for his men had never lost to this foe.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Random%20Battles%20216-214/EdetaniaBattle4Start.jpg

They came on in the same old manner, and were beaten in the same manner.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Random%20Battles%20216-214/EdetaniaBattle4End.jpg

[QuintusSertorius]

214BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II214BC.jpg

Pictured is my Hannibal-replacement with his Hannibal-like army. Just recently gave him some Italian reinforcements.

You might notice I lost Arse in Spain - that was deliberate. There weren't actually any Qarthadastim armies bar the one that attacked after I retreated from the city. Not sure if I can manage to lose both my generals, or even if the game will be terribly forgiving if my Spanish army gets mauled. I've lost a fair bit of financial power and recruiting facilities.

Plus I'll be losing Tarentum in the next year as well as moving some reinforcements across to Lucania. Already picked out a likely general to do the leading. Got to transport someone across to Sicily, too.

Elsewhere in the world, I gave Thermon to Koinon Hellenon, though I doubt they'll keep hold of it long. That army jumped aboard ship, I plan on taking Korinthos and giving that to Koinon Hellenon, hopefully then driving the Makedonians out of Greece proper for good. Annoyingly the Makedonians assassinated the Greek mercenary general I recruited specifically to lead my little "Greek" force on the first turn he arrived. So they've also got no cavalry now.

Pahlava are now at war with Baktria, had to do some FDing to prevent something happening like in my last game where they died out. Baktria seem to have the measure of the Saka who took Baktra again a few turns ago.

Very few rebel provinces left now, which is a shame. I think I screwed up the business of gifting them money, not taking into account that 40k is the most you can do at once.

[QuintusSertorius]

Sicily 213BC

Having heard that a Qarthadastim army had landed on Sicily, the proconsul Lucius Atilius Balbus was dispatched to the island to take command of the army in the province. With him was Quintus Claudius Nero acting as his senior tribune.

Ashtartyaton Cercina, a Qarthadastim noble, had seized Agrigento by treachery, then freed hundreds of slaves to fill his ranks. His forces thus bolstered, he set to raiding and pillaging the area, threatening communities loyal to Rome.

Balbus met the invader in the fertile plains south of Etna.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Sicily%20Battle%20II/SicilyBattleStart.jpg

Balbus marched out in the traditional manner. He stationed Nero on the right and kept his extraordinarii close to hand.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Sicily%20Battle%20II/SicilyBattle2-1.jpg

Cercina had the advantage of numbers, fuelling a bold opening to the battle.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Sicily%20Battle%20II/SicilyBattle2-2.jpg

Then he halted and sent out screens of skirmishers while he prepared his main line to attack. Balbus responded with his own skirmishers.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Sicily%20Battle%20II/SicilyBattle2-3.jpg

The Romans had the measure of the Qarthadastim skirmishers, and spirits lifted Balbus sounded the advance.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Sicily%20Battle%20II/SicilyBattle2-4.jpg

The Liby-Phoenicans tried to turn the Roman right, Nero and his cavalry charged to avert the threat.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Sicily%20Battle%20II/SicilyBattle2-5.jpg

On the left, a band of cavalry and skirmishers were dispatched to drive off the Numidian light troops. They would take little further part in the main conflict.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Sicily%20Battle%20II/SicilyBattle2-6.jpg

Freed slaves moved in support of the Liby-Phoenicians on the right, Nero and his horse were forced into the retreat.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Sicily%20Battle%20II/SicilyBattle2-7.jpg

The pursuit of the elusive Numidians continued.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Sicily%20Battle%20II/SicilyBattle2-8.jpg

On the right Cercina personally joined the fray trying to exploit the gap created by the Liby-Phoenicians.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Sicily%20Battle%20II/SicilyBattle2-9.jpg

On the left, the African skirmishers continued their retreat, only stopping every so often to halt the Romans.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Sicily%20Battle%20II/SicilyBattle2-10.jpg

Liby-Phoenician infantry rushed to the aid of their countrymen, throwing the outcome of the fight on the right into doubt as they lent their weight to the conflict.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Sicily%20Battle%20II/SicilyBattle2-11.jpg

Eventually the heavier armour of the Romans began to count, allowing them to survive prolonged contact without serious wounds. The Qarthadastim begam to melt away. Seeing how this battle was going, Cercina left the field.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Sicily%20Battle%20II/SicilyBattle2-12.jpg

With relatively light losses, Balbus had halted the invasion of Sicily.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Sicily%20Battle%20II/SicilyBattle2End.jpg

Unbeknownst to him however, Qarthadastim agents had slipped into Syrakousai and aided in the murder of old Hiero. He had long been an ally of Rome, and now the new rulers sought alliance with Qarthadast. Moving to avenge this insult to Roman honour, Balbus marched to invest Syrakousai and restore order.

Italy 213BC

The Senate of Qarthadastim had decided that it was time Nepheris received some reinforcements in his war in Italy. They despatched Hasdrubal Rusucuru and a strong force including elephants by sea. They landed in Lucania and immediately marched for Capua.

The proconsul Kaeso Cornelius Blasio, with a new army composed of those Italians and Latins still loyal to Rome and organised in the Roman fashion, took transports the short distance down the coast to intercept them. They were about even in numbers.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Lucania%20Battle/LucaniaBattleStart.jpg

Blasio deployed in the quincunx, placing his extraordinarii in the second rank of the Right ala. The Samnites, of who's loyalty he was dubious, he placed in the second rank of the Left ala. His senior tribune, Pulcher commanded the Left ala to keep an eye on them.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Lucania%20Battle/LucaniaBattle1.jpg

Rusucuru took up position on a small hill on the Roman left to observe the battle, keeping his elephants in reserve. He put his elite African pikemen in the centre, with Libyans and Garamantines on their flanks. His wings were guarded by fierce Iberian tribesmen, and Numidian light cavalry roamed around.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Lucania%20Battle/LucaniaBattle2.jpg

Blasio marched out to meet the Qarthadastim line, pulling back some of his skirmishers to act as elephant defense. He kept a wary eye on the big beasts, still resting near the enemy general. Meanwhile the opposing skirmishers traded missiles. It was an indecisive trade, both sides taking losses, but neither feeling beaten.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Lucania%20Battle/LucaniaBattle3.jpg

The Romans advanced to meet the main battle line, hurling missiles first. Blasio's plan was simple enough; rout those flanking the pikemen in the centre and envelope them on both sides.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Lucania%20Battle/LucaniaBattle4.jpg

The right engaged under the shade of some trees, and everywhere the Roman line was in contact with the enemy.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Lucania%20Battle/LucaniaBattle5.jpg

On the left, the long-awaited arrival of the elephants put fear into the Left ala, but the skirmishers got to work, felling several elephants.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Lucania%20Battle/LucaniaBattle6.jpg

The elephants caused some damage, but slowly the javelins began to take their toll.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Lucania%20Battle/LucaniaBattle7.jpg

On the right, some cavalry and velites set off to outflank the Qarthadastim left.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Lucania%20Battle/LucaniaBattle8.jpg

On the left Rusucuru charged into the fight, lifting the spirits of his men. Things were beginning to look desparate for Pulcher and the Left ala. The threat of the elephants may have been defeated, but the Garamantines, Libyans and Iberians fought hard.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Lucania%20Battle/LucaniaBattle9.jpg

On the right, the arrival of Romans in their flanks and rear routed the Iberians and Libyans. Maniples were marched round to outflank the African pikemen.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Lucania%20Battle/LucaniaBattle10.jpg

Meanwhile on the left, the Samnites gave up the fight.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Lucania%20Battle/LucaniaBattle11.jpg

Rusucuru's horse was wounded, and he was caught by the triarii. His death caused his army to dissolve.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Lucania%20Battle/LucaniaBattle12.jpg

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Lucania%20Battle/LucaniaBattle13.jpg

After a hard-fought battle, Blasio had given the Romans their first victory on home soil. It might not have been against the scourge Nepheris, but he would not be strengthened.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Lucania%20Battle/LucaniaBattleEnd.jpg

Dardanoia 213-212BC

The propraetor Sextus Cornelius Rufinus had marched out of Illyria in the winter of 213BC to ensure the Makedonians didn't try to return to his area of operation. His winter camp was attacked by Captain Philokalos. While Rufinus had greater numbers, he was on their home territory.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Dardanoia%20Battles/DardoniaBattle1Start.jpg

He deployed on a hilltop, with his legion on the right, ala on the left.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Dardanoia%20Battles/DardoniaBattle1-1.jpg

As the Makedonian phalangites marched up the hill, Rufinus' skirmishers punished them with missile fire.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Dardanoia%20Battles/DardoniaBattle1-2.jpg

They closed and the propraetor's line infantry threw their missiles. The heavier javelins inflicted a horrible toll.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Dardanoia%20Battles/DardoniaBattle1-3.jpg

Still the Makedonian phalanxes advanced.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Dardanoia%20Battles/DardoniaBattle1-4.jpg

He sent some skirmishers to outflank the pike block.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Dardanoia%20Battles/DardoniaBattle1-5.jpg

Exhausted, cold and wounded, the maneuver set the enemy to flight.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Dardanoia%20Battles/DardoniaBattle1-6.jpg

With relatively few casualties, he'd damaged the Makedonian war effort.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Dardanoia%20Battles/DardoniaBattle1End.jpg

In the spring, rather than turning around, Rufinus continued into Makedonian territory, seeking towns to pillage. He stumbled across a Thracian band outside Serdike. The garrison of the town, commanded by Demetrios Argeades marched out to rescue the Thracians, and Rufinus eagerly offered battle.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Dardanoia%20Battles/DardoniaBattle2Start.jpg

He marched out as before.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Dardanoia%20Battles/DardoniaBattle2-1.jpg

Wasting no time, he advanced to meet the foe.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Dardanoia%20Battles/DardoniaBattle2-2.jpg

Trying to link up with the Thracians, the Makedonian commander sent another band to slow the Romans down.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Dardanoia%20Battles/DardoniaBattle2-3.jpg

Then he charged the Romans himself, heavy horsemen in his bodyguard thundering along.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Dardanoia%20Battles/DardoniaBattle2-4.jpg

Rufinus sent his Illyrian cavalry out to charge Argeades from behind. They charged repeatedly.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Dardanoia%20Battles/DardoniaBattle2-5.jpg

They whittled Argeades' bodyguard down, isolating the big horses and their well-armoured riders.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Dardanoia%20Battles/DardoniaBattle2-6.jpg

Argeades panicked, and tried to escape.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Dardanoia%20Battles/DardoniaBattle2-7.jpg

He was the only survivor to make it clear of the whooping Illyrians, hunting down the Makedonian horsemen with lance and axe.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Dardanoia%20Battles/DardoniaBattle2-8.jpg

Argeades was slain by a javelin as he fled.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Dardanoia%20Battles/DardoniaBattle2-9.jpg

Effective resistance ended after that, and the Illyrians killed many fleeing enemy.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Dardanoia%20Battles/DardoniaBattle2End.jpg

Rufinus entered the defenseless town of Serdike and took everything of value.

[QuintusSertorius]

212BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II212BC.jpg

I'm not planning to keep hold of Serdike, I'll wander off next turn when Rufinus can move again. I hope it revolts to the rebels. Makedonia have been fielding some strange armies with few phalangites and lots of spearmen in them. Lots of Celtic levies in particular, which is bizarre.

I re-took Capua by siege, not sure if I want to give it back again. Tarentum is going over to the enemy shortly. Nepheris is also besieging Arpi, not decided if I'm going to try to drive him off or not.

Qarthadast re-took Garama in the desert. Not sure if they're actually fighting the Lusotanii or not, their armies are moving around a lot in Spain. My mercenary/Greek stack in Greece took a pasting protecting Thermon last turn. Not many of them left now, I think it's had some effect easing the pressure on Koinon Hellenon. I can only hope the Makedonians will send some serious forces north to try and uproot Rufinus in Serdike.

[ServiliusAhala]

Your AAR is great... or a better word would be epic. Now, what i would like to know, is how you have gotten so many Consuls and so on. I never get any consuls myself. By the way, your battles are also epic

[QuintusSertorius]

Your AAR is great... or a better word would be epic. Now, what i would like to know, is how you have gotten so many Consuls and so on. I never get any consuls myself. By the way, your battles are also epic

I think it's Roma having an Academy which makes all the difference - FMs who spend their early years there get a load of education-related Traits (sometimes bad) and fill up their ancillaries quite quickly.

Virtually every family member who came of age (ie whom I've had since they were 16) is a consul by the age of 50 in my game. A few of those I got later did as well. Shuffling my commanders around makes a difference too, I don't have one great general who I use again and again. Since command starts don't actually matter as much when you play your battles out, your no-star general can still beat the AI's ten-star man.

[ServiliusAhala]

Thank you very much with the Consul thing, bothers me if i have to use an Aedile or Quaestor

[Cameron]

how do u get so many triarii, principes etc. per unit

[MarcusAureliusAntoninus]

how do u get so many triarii, principes etc. per unit
Change the unit size option from the main menu graphics options menu. It requires you to start a new campaign to take effect, however.

[QuintusSertorius]

Change the unit size option from the main menu graphics options menu. It requires you to start a new campaign to take effect, however.

Indeed, I'm playing on Huge unit size, rather than the default Large.

[Cameron]

how do u use force diplomacy

[QuintusSertorius]

how do u use force diplomacy

It's a minimod, download it here (https://forums.totalwar.org/vb/showthread.php?t=80763).

[Africanvs]

Nice AAR, must be be hard to keep everything flowing historically. :)

[QuintusSertorius]

Nice AAR, must be be hard to keep everything flowing historically. :)

Most of the difficulty is in policing the AI factions' activities, rather than regulating my own. That's through a three-fold process; boosting or reducing their territories, moving stacks away from where they can cause harm, or to where they can rescue a situation; and spawning troops in settlements or stacks of factions that need help.

[Cameron]

how did u manage to make the map fully visible

[QuintusSertorius]

how did u manage to make the map fully visible

1. Press ` or ' to open RomeShell
2. Type toggle_fow

[||Lz3||]

Quintus why dont you switch the map textures with the ones from roma surrectum, as the lord did , they really look amazing , and its not that hard to do

[General Appo]

Personally, I prefer the EB ones. Though that´s just me.
I hope this can come alive soon again.

[thelord]

Nice AAR! I'm curious how long it takes for you to finish one turn with all this diplomacy needed constantly?

[QuintusSertorius]

Quintus why dont you switch the map textures with the ones from roma surrectum, as the lord did , they really look amazing , and its not that hard to do


Personally, I prefer the EB ones. Though that´s just me.
I hope this can come alive soon again.

I'm too lazy to mess around with them, to be honest, and I don't mind the original EB ones.

I've not had much time to play recently, which is why there have been no updates. Just got back from a long weekend (wedding anniversary!) and going to be away from home for a couple of days as well. I might be able to squeeze some brief play in before that.


Nice AAR! I'm curious how long it takes for you to finish one turn with all this diplomacy needed constantly?

Varies a lot. Assuming nothing else going on, it adds about a minute or two to a turn. I've usually got my diplomats stationed at factional capitals ready to go straight into action.

[QuintusSertorius]

At long last, an update, I had some free time tonight. Most of it was spent fighting battles in Makedonia.

Makedonia 212BC

The propraetor Sextus Cornelius Rufinus continued his campaign of harrassment, taking the fight right into the heart of Makedonia itself. First he encountered Captain Aschines on the road to Pella. Numbers were about even.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedoniaBattleStart.jpg

He deployed on the reverse slope of a hill, and waited for the Makedonians to come.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedoniaBattle1.jpg

Both armies marched towards each other, confident that their bravery would count the telling factor.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedoniaBattle2.jpg

The Makedonians charged.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedoniaBattle3.jpg

The Thracians on the right routed.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedoniaBattle4.jpg

They were pursued by some of Rufinus' skirmishers and all his cavalry.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedoniaBattle5.jpg

More skirmishers slipped around the fighting line to threaten the Makedonian rear.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedoniaBattle6.jpg

Some of those in the centre started to drift away from the fight.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedoniaBattle7.jpg

Even the Hypaspistai thought it was hopeless.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedoniaBattle8.jpg

In the flight afterwards, Aschines was ridden down.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedoniaBattle9.jpg

And Rufinus' first step on the journey was complete.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedoniaBattleEnd.jpg

The Makedonians desparately threw another army into Rufinus' path.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedoniaBattle2Start.jpg

But they fared no better than Aschines.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedoniaBattle2End.jpg

Rufinus reached Pella and invested the city. It was then that a smaller Makedonian force attempted to relieve the settlement. Rufinus marched out and offered battle.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedoniaBattle3Start.jpg

Once again he was victorious.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedoniaBattle3End.jpg

He destroyed the Makedonian warmaking abilities in Pella, then marched away with sacks of plunder. On the way back from Pella he was attacked by Priamos Argeades and a large Makedonian force.

During the battle Priamos was killed by one of the principes.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedoniaBattle4-2.jpg

The Makedonians never recovered from the loss of their general, and couldn't make their superior numbers count.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedoniaBattle4End.jpg

Sicily 212BC

Meanwhile in Sicily, Lucius Atilius Balbus took Syrakousai after a brief battle outside the walls of the city. It was restored to a client ruler friendly to Rome, and the war in Sicily was done.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/SyrakousaiBattleStart.jpg

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/SyrakousaiBattleEnd.jpg

[QuintusSertorius]

211BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II211BC.jpg

Had some annoying reinforcement-bug issues with the battles in 212BC, which is why they didn't get the full battle report treatment. Some dumb AI behaviour meant they were easier than they should have been.

I gave Taras to Qarthadast, but it rebelled right back to me. I might try it again soon, possibly using that army to kill off the slave army that was the garrison.

Pella's been recovered by Makedonia (minus it's barracks, naval yard and smithy), I expect they'll take Serdike if it doesn't rebel to one of the barbarian factions. Rufinus is on his way home, he finally won the right to triumph after all those battles and sieges. His army is pretty much done anyway, not in any condition to fight any more battles. I might ship another "Greek" army over to Greece to try to kick Makedonia out of Korinthos. Hopefully this time the general won't get assassinated.

Pahlava and Baktria are at war, lots of to and fro in ownership of settlements on their shared border. Still having to use FD to slow their advance into Seleukid territory. Keeping a close eye on the two of them lest one suddenly vanish.

Epeiros are still idle.

Kappadocia was rebel for a bit, the Seleukids failed to take it then Pontos did. I may have to turn my attention to them once more. I may have to start giving the Seleukids some serious cash so they'll be a viable threat in 200BC-ish.

I notice the Casse have nearly finished their conquest of Britain.

Otherwise it's all looking good.

[QuintusSertorius]

The War in Spain - 210BC to 208BC

The proconsul Appius Cornelius Scipio had been recalled to Rome by a number of events. The Pontifex Maximus had died, and he wanted to be in the city for the election of a new leader of that college of pontifices. He was also due to celebrate a triumph, and wanted to stand in the consular elections of the year. Thus he left Decimus Claudius Pulcher in command of the army in Spain, with a propraetorian imperium. The young man had served ably as his legate in the campaigns since his arrival, thus Scipio wasn't worried.

In the winter of 210BC, a Qarthadastim army gathered on the west bank of the Ebro, threatening an invasion of Lacetania. At this time Pulcher was extremely ill with a fever, but against the advice of his doctor, he marched out of winter quarters to face down the threat.

Captain Himilcar outnumbered the Roman force by a small margin, but the commander was a better subordinate than general.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles%20II/EdetaniaBattle5Start.jpg

Pulcher drew up in the usual manner.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles%20II/EdetaniaBattle5-1.jpg

As his slingers began to harrass the Qarthadastim, Himilcar advanced his cavalry.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles%20II/EdetaniaBattle5-2.jpg

Halting his army, he sent forward some heavy infantry to test the Roman resolve on the left.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles%20II/EdetaniaBattle5-3.jpg

Meanwhile on the Roman right, heavy and light infantry crashed against the Right ala.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles%20II/EdetaniaBattle5-4.jpg

On the left, a cavalry skirmish erupted in front of the line.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles%20II/EdetaniaBattle5-5.jpg

The heavier Liby-Phoenician horse was driven off by the arrival of Iberian spearmen. The Gallic auxiliaries gave chase.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles%20II/EdetaniaBattle5-6.jpg

On the right, the reserves from the ala were thrown into the fight.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles%20II/EdetaniaBattle5-7.jpg

Skirmishers moved to outflank the mob of Qarthadastim.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles%20II/EdetaniaBattle5-8.jpg

As Himilcar tried to feed more men into the melee on the right, Pulcher sent his skirmishers to hit the reinforcements in their flank.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles%20II/EdetaniaBattle5-9.jpg

The Italians endured the pressure, and the Qarthadastim began to waver.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles%20II/EdetaniaBattle5-10.jpg

Seeing which way this contest was going, soon even the heavies were routed.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles%20II/EdetaniaBattle5-11.jpg

The Left ala and First Legion pushed up to keep the momentum going.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles%20II/EdetaniaBattle5-12.jpg

That prompted the rout of the entire Qarthadastim force.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles%20II/EdetaniaBattle5-13.jpg

Himilcar soon joined his fleeing army.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles%20II/EdetaniaBattle5-14.jpg

Although he had to be carried back to his tent by his praetoria, Pulcher had achieved his objective.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles%20II/EdetaniaBattle5End.jpg

In 209BC both the returning general from Spain, Appius Cornelius Scipio and Sextus Cornelius Rufinus celebrated triumphs, over the Qarthadastim and Makedonians respectively. As a result of the lavish spectacle each man put on, they won their election campaigns. Scipio to the consulship, and Rufinus to the praetorship.

Meanwhile in Spain, Pulcher's illness continued, and eventually he was forced to leave his army while he convalesced in Emporion. Fortunately the propraetor Decimus Aemilius Mamercus had been dispatched from Italy, and took command of the army, bringing reinforcements with him.

Wasting no time, Mamercus crossed the Ebro and began raiding communities allied to the Qarthdastim. That provoked the desired effect, bringing Mytonnes Saunites and Captain Himilcar out to battle. Collectively the two armies were about equal in size to the Roman force.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles%20II/EdetaniaBattle6Start.jpg

The two armies approached from different directions. Unconcerned, Mamercus arrayed his forces to meet Saunites and ignored Himilcar.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles%20II/EdetaniaBattle6-1.jpg

He detached his slingers, some cavalry and his extraordinarii to deal with Himilcar, then turned his attention to Saunites.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles%20II/EdetaniaBattle6-2.jpg

Saunites and another Qarthadastim noble, Akbar led charges of cavalry.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles%20II/EdetaniaBattle6-3.jpg

Their men followed eagerly, and for a time the Romans were under threat in the centre.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles%20II/EdetaniaBattle6-4.jpg

Meanwhile in the battle behind the Roman lines, Himilcar fell. The survivors of the battle with Pulcher fled.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles%20II/EdetaniaBattle6-5.jpg

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles%20II/EdetaniaBattle6-6.jpg

Mamercus waited calmly while more Qarthadastim troops joined the battle.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles%20II/EdetaniaBattle6-7.jpg

Mamercus sent his skirmisher out to the wings to outflank the enemy lines.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles%20II/EdetaniaBattle6-8.jpg

Saunites lingered in the front too long, and was slain.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles%20II/EdetaniaBattle6-9.jpg

His men began to lose heart.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles%20II/EdetaniaBattle6-10.jpg

The Qarthadastim army collapsed, and the Romans struggled to keep pace in the pursuit that followed.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles%20II/EdetaniaBattle6-11.jpg

With few casualties, Mamercus had gained the confidence and loyalty of Pulcher's army.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles%20II/EdetaniaBattle6End.jpg

Pressing on towards Arse, Mamercus caught Akbar's troops foraging outside the settlement. The commander of Arse's garrison immediately marched out to relieve Akbar.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles%20II/EdetaniaBattle7Start.jpg

Wasting no time, Mamercus marched to deal with Akbar. Abdmelqart was delayed, and the general wanted the foraging party dealt with.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles%20II/EdetaniaBattle7-1.jpg

Akbar's party was mostly defeated when Abdmelqart appeared with the garrison of Arse. Mamercus wheeled his army to address the new threat.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles%20II/EdetaniaBattle7-2.jpg

In full sight of the arriving Qarthadastim, Akbar was killed.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles%20II/EdetaniaBattle7-3.jpg

Some of the allied skirmishers got carried away chasing down the remnants of Akbar's force, some cavalry were sent to rescue them before Abdmelqart's men overwhelmed them.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles%20II/EdetaniaBattle7-4.jpg

There was nothing of subtlety or tactical nous about Abdmelqart's attack. He counted on superior numbers to sweep the Romans away.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles%20II/EdetaniaBattle7-5.jpg

Leading a bodyguard of Iberian horse, Abdmelqart charged.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles%20II/EdetaniaBattle7-6.jpg

In time the superior discipline and morale of the Romans tipped the balance, and the Qarthadastim turned in flight.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles%20II/EdetaniaBattle7-7.jpg

One Abydos tried to gather what troops he could, but the defeated army melted away into the Spanish countryside, leaving Arse undefended.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Edetania%20Battles%20II/EdetaniaBattle7End.jpg

[QuintusSertorius]

208BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II208BC.jpg

The recovery in Spain has begun. I've got some troops to garrison Arse from Emporion so Mamercus can continue down the coast to Mastia. I might try to bring Pulcher by ship once he's well.

Nepheris and his super-stack are idle outside Taras, which I re-took.

The war in Makedonia has ended for me, though I might start giving Koinon Hellenon some money to help them.

Things are pretty stable elsewhere in the world, Baktria and Pahlava finally declared a ceasefire, although Baktria is being harrassed by Saka again.

Seleukids are losing the war in Syria, in spite of me moving Ptolemaic armies away. Had to push the Germans back across the Rhine again. They'd taken Bagacos when I wasn't looking.

Atiqa rebelled again, my spy doing his work there.

[hrrypttrbst]

Good story,great battle!:2thumbsup:

[General Appo]

Man, Mamercus is really raking up the kills now. He must have earned a Triumph by now, right?
Hope to see the Casse Naval Invasion script in action soon.

[QuintusSertorius]

I would have thought he'd earned it, but not so far. I've no idea what triggers it, to be honest, I don't think I've had a single Heroic Victory to date.

Yet I've had two triumphators.

[General Appo]

Hmmm... with the new easier Triumphs I think all you need is a Vanquisher trait and possibly a Imperator one. He should have Vanquisher by now, so maybe try and win a Heroic Victory with him, however small.

[QuintusSertorius]

Hmmm... with the new easier Triumphs I think all you need is a Vanquisher trait and possibly a Imperator one. He should have Vanquisher by now, so maybe try and win a Heroic Victory with him, however small.

Well he's got two more settlements and possibly a battle or two to win before Spain is done, so it's still possible. The other general got a triumph even though he never won a Heroic Victory. Same goes for the one in Makedonia; most of his battles he outnumbered the enemy and never won a Heroic one. But possibly through the sheer volume of battles he got his triumph.

[||Lz3||]

so If i were to start an historical campaing... do you recommend using medium difficulty? cause it seems that you're having a bad time micro managing all factions...

there is a way to change difficulty on midgame...(and also unit size) I've used it successfully already


it's a program...
http://www.twcenter.net/forums/downl...do=file&id=448

but ... I havent tried it on EB...

[QuintusSertorius]

so If i were to start an historical campaing... do you recommend using medium difficulty? cause it seems that you're having a bad time micro managing all factions...

there is a way to change difficulty on midgame...(and also unit size) I've used it successfully already


it's a program...
http://www.twcenter.net/forums/downl...do=file&id=448

but ... I havent tried it on EB...

I'd recommend Medium campaign difficulty, the AI is less aggressive - towards other AI factions as much as to you. Also means auto-calcing isn't screwy.

Not sure I want to mess around with my save like that.

[QuintusSertorius]

The War in Spain 208BC-205BC

General Mamercus was wintering his men in enemy territory in preparation for the next season's campaigning when the garrison of Mastia ranged out to demonstrate their strength. They were led by one Carpophorus and offered battle in spite of being at a disadvantage in numbers.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Last%20Spanish%20Battles/CarpetaniaBattle1Start.jpg

Mamercus deployed in the forest, keeping the line as tight as he could, knowing communication could be difficult.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Last%20Spanish%20Battles/CarpetaniaBattle1-1.jpg

Carpophorus sent his heavy cavalry into the Roman right.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Last%20Spanish%20Battles/CarpetaniaBattle1-2.jpg

While he brought up the rest of his forces.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Last%20Spanish%20Battles/CarpetaniaBattle1-3.jpg

His army was composed mostly of fierce Iberian tribesmen, who drew up within missile range of the Roman centre.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Last%20Spanish%20Battles/CarpetaniaBattle1-4.jpg

Things got confusing, at some point the Qarthadastim on the Roman right broke.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Last%20Spanish%20Battles/CarpetaniaBattle1-5.jpg

Those arrayed against the left and centre continued the struggle.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Last%20Spanish%20Battles/CarpetaniaBattle1-6.jpg

In the centre, Carpophorus entered the fight in person.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Last%20Spanish%20Battles/CarpetaniaBattle1-7.jpg

The centre began to dissolve, unable to endure contact.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Last%20Spanish%20Battles/CarpetaniaBattle1-8.jpg

And in the fighting Carpophorus was killed.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Last%20Spanish%20Battles/CarpetaniaBattle1-9.jpg

Resistance didn't last long after that.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Last%20Spanish%20Battles/CarpetaniaBattle1End.jpg

Mamercus took Mastia, left undefended by it's fleeing garrison.

At around the same time, the Romans received envoys from the communities on the Balearic islands, who wished to be free of Qarthadastim rule. Promising to support their bid for indepedence and providing them with funds to recruit on the mainland and a Roman advisor, they made their move.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Last%20Spanish%20Battles/BalearicBattleStart.jpg

They drew up in one long line, spearmen on the flanks, skirmishers out front.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Last%20Spanish%20Battles/BalearicBattle1.jpg

The Qarthadastim wasted no time advancing to get to grips with the rebels.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Last%20Spanish%20Battles/BalearicBattle2.jpg

Disdainful of them, Ashtartyaton Aleria charged at the head of his bodyguard.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Last%20Spanish%20Battles/BalearicBattle3.jpg

But the superior numbers counted, even as the battle devolved into several smaller fights.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Last%20Spanish%20Battles/BalearicBattle4.jpg

And the rebels had their victory, throwing off the Qarthadastim yoke.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Last%20Spanish%20Battles/BalearicBattleEnd.jpg

In 205BC Mamercus had been rejoined by Decimus Claudius Pulcher, now recovered from his illness. They knew there wasn't much left in this war in Spain, Gader was the centre of the remaining Qarthadastim presence, and it's capture would signal Roman victory. Ashtartyaton Cercina sallied out of the fortified town, making good what strength the defenders had before starvation weakened them.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Last%20Spanish%20Battles/TurdetaniaBattleStart.jpg

A smaller force approached from the rear, but Mamercus was concerned only with Cercina.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Last%20Spanish%20Battles/TurdetaniaBattle1.jpg

Cercina challenged Pulcher to personal combat, Pulcher accepted.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Last%20Spanish%20Battles/TurdetaniaBattle2.jpg

Pulcher was the victor of the combat, the loss of their general prompted flight and surrender.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Last%20Spanish%20Battles/TurdetaniaBattle3.jpg

And the final battle in Spain was done.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Last%20Spanish%20Battles/TurdetaniaBattleEnd.jpg

His men declared him imperator in the field, which meant Mamercus would celebrate a triumph for his actions. Provided of course that his enemies in the Senate didn't try to deny him the honour he had won.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/MamercusTriumph.jpg

[QuintusSertorius]

205BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II205BC.jpg

Spain is done, next comes the war in Africa. I'm taking Pulcher back to Italy, and from there on to Sicily where he will take the army there to Africa, which will then result in me transporting Nepheris and his army back there to defend the motherland.

Elsewhere in the world, Pahlava are on the move again (now allied to Baktria!), Hayasdan took Uspe and had to be evicted once more. I teleported one of their full stacks to Crete, where it's just sitting inactive sapping funds. They don't seem capable of taking the hint to move south, rather than north into the steppe. Saba are advancing from Axum into Egypt, and might kick the Seleukids out of Arabia too. Seem to be holding on to their north African provinces now, possibly because Qarthadast are struggling for funds now they've lost the Spanish mines.

The Getai keep pestering me for an alliance, they're starting to look scary. I have peace with Makedonia now (had to FD it...), I'm soon going to start a war with Gaul and Makedonia again, once the business with Qarthadast is done.

[||Lz3||]

how did you translated your "hannibal" to italy?


cause I want to translate a Qarthadastim FM but looks like his name doesnt exists when I enter the command...

oh and how do you know in which coordinates you are ?:huh2:

[QuintusSertorius]

how did you translated your "hannibal" to italy?


cause I want to translate a Qarthadastim FM but looks like his name doesnt exists when I enter the command...

oh and how do you know in which coordinates you are ?:huh2:

To find the FM's name, go into Data\text\names.txt - some names are weird.

Use the move_character command, putting their name in "quotation marks" and no spaces for the co-ordinates.

Find the co-ordinates with the show_cursorstat command.

[Chirurgeon]

You should play battles on hard difficulty. Your victories are almost guaranteed as the Romans. When I play the Romans on Hard the battles are closer. the enemy seems to rout at the drop of a hat in your campaign. Wait till you get legions...nothing will stop you. I don't think you can change the difficulty without starting a new game however.

[QuintusSertorius]

You should play battles on hard difficulty. Your victories are almost guaranteed as the Romans. When I play the Romans on Hard the battles are closer. the enemy seems to rout at the drop of a hat in your campaign. Wait till you get legions...nothing will stop you. I don't think you can change the difficulty without starting a new game however.

No thanks, I use historical houseruling for difficulty, not arbitrary stat bonuses for the AI. In any case, most of the time the issue is that the AI refuses to collect proper sized stacks together before attacking me, since most of my decisive battles are when I'm defending. That and using freed slaves all the time.

Besides the images might give a potentially misleading portrait of the battles, since I don't take that many most of the time given how much it interrupts the battles. Some of the more fraught ones (and any involving forest) I'm too busy to be making an effort to get a good account of what's going on.

When I do eventually get Marian legionaries, it won't be for a goodly long time, I won't be recruiting any til at least 110BC, assuming I get them before then. Built my first latifunda in Roma recently.

[QuintusSertorius]

Campaigns in Illyria and Africa, 203-202BC

Illyria

Rome's client kingdoms on the Illyrian coast were attacked by migrations of Getic barbarians. Segestica was taken by the invaders before the Romans could mount an expedition to rescue their allies.

Two legions and two alae, under the propraetor Tiberius Claudius Pulcher, with his tribune Numerius Sergius Orata reached Segestica in the summer of 203BC. Their arrival provoked an immediate response. The enemy had a slight advantage in numbers and morale.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Africa%20and%20Illyria/IllyriaBattleStart.jpg

Pulcher drew up on top of a hill at the end of the forest.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Africa%20and%20Illyria/IllyriaBattle1.jpg

The barbarians simply charged.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Africa%20and%20Illyria/IllyriaBattle2.jpg

The Romans endured.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Africa%20and%20Illyria/IllyriaBattle3.jpg

The first breakthrough came on the right, a charge of cavalry into the enemy flank led by Orata.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Africa%20and%20Illyria/IllyriaBattle4.jpg

Buzzing with bloodlust, the warchief Drilgisa charged for the general.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Africa%20and%20Illyria/IllyriaBattle5.jpg

One of the triarii speared his horse, and another ran the chief through.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Africa%20and%20Illyria/IllyriaBattle6.jpg

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Africa%20and%20Illyria/IllyriaBattle7.jpg

That caused a rout.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Africa%20and%20Illyria/IllyriaBattle8.jpg

One group of invaders had been driven off, but the task was far from complete.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Africa%20and%20Illyria/IllyriaBattleEnd.jpg

A few days later, more Getai attacked Pulcher's army.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Africa%20and%20Illyria/IllyriaBattle2Start.jpg

He led his weary troops out to battle once more.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Africa%20and%20Illyria/IllyriaBattle2-1.jpg

It was a confused battle, the forest interfering with communication and Pulcher's view of the whole battle, but the greater Roman numbers told.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Africa%20and%20Illyria/IllyriaBattle2-2.jpg

Another Getic chief fell in the fierce fighting.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Africa%20and%20Illyria/IllyriaBattle2-3.jpg

And Pulcher was victorious once more.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Africa%20and%20Illyria/IllyriaBattle2End.jpg

Africa

Publius Fabius Maximus had invaded Africa in an effort to force the recall of Theopropides Nepheris from Italy. Having seized Atiqa by treachery, he left his tribune Sextus Cornelius Scipio in charge of the garrison and marched out to meet his nemesis in battle.

Fabius had numbers in his favour, but Nepheris and his army were veterans from over a decade of fighting in Italy.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Africa%20and%20Illyria/ZeugitanaBattleStart.jpg

Fabius arrived too late to contest the river crossing.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Africa%20and%20Illyria/ZeugitanaBattle1.jpg

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Africa%20and%20Illyria/ZeugitanaBattle2.jpg

There appeared to be some kind of communication problem in Nepheris' army. His cavalry and skirmishers engaged, but his line troops refused to cross the bridge.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Africa%20and%20Illyria/ZeugitanaBattle3.jpg

Despite being isolated, those troops on the Roman side of the river fought bravely.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Africa%20and%20Illyria/ZeugitanaBattle4.jpg

Enraged by the stubbornness of his army, Nepheris charged the Roman lines himself.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Africa%20and%20Illyria/ZeugitanaBattle5.jpg

His bodyguard were slain around him, and he was forced to flee.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Africa%20and%20Illyria/ZeugitanaBattle6.jpg

The battle continued for a long time, his veterans fighting almost to the last man, but in the end Fabius was the victor. The Scourge of Italy had finally been beaten.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Africa%20and%20Illyria/ZeugitanaBattleEnd.jpg

Illyria

Segestica was liberated late in 203. Pulcher left his tribune Orata in the settlement to take care of things and marched out to punish the Getai. In 202 more Getic raiders crossed into Illyria, this time besieging Dalmanion. Marching to their relief, Pulcher caught them encamped outside the walls.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Africa%20and%20Illyria/DalmatiaBattleStart.jpg

The fight was chaotic.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Africa%20and%20Illyria/DalmatiaBattle1.jpg

But the raiders were driven off.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Africa%20and%20Illyria/DalmatiaBattleEnd.jpg

Africa

In 202 the Qarthadastim raised another force to drive out the Romans. Fabius Maximus met them not far from Atiqa.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Africa%20and%20Illyria/AtiqaBattleStart.jpg

Led inexpertly now Nepheris was out of favour, Fabius beat the larger force.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Africa%20and%20Illyria/AtiqaBattleEnd.jpg

[QuintusSertorius]

202BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II202BC.jpg

Some annoying battles the last few turns with dodgy AI and forests ruining them. Both of the ones in Africa were spoiled by the AI not having a clue how to cross a bridge then form up on the other side; even though I let them get across in the battle with Nepheris.

Had an annoying post-battle CTD in the Illyrian campaign, just after winning a nightmarish forest battle where I couldn't see anything.

In Africa the Qarthadastim have one, mayve two stacks of troops to oppose me. I'm half-tempted to 'port the full stack that's idling around Kirtan over to me so I can have one more battle before imposing a peace on them. I'll give them Atiqa back when that happens, for now it's my base of operations.

I've just noticed the Ptolemies have wiped out the Saba in Egypt. Partly my fault, I moved a few stacks from Syria back to Egypt to help the Seleukids.

Those gits the Getai attacked me, having pestered me for an alliance for several years. The invasion is done now, I'm heading into their territory to burn some things. I might take their capital and destroy everything in it. At the very lead I want to put a dent in their military capability before withdrawing.

Plus I've got Makedonia to humble some, and then the Seleukids. And my campaigns to retake Cisalpine Gaul. Got a full stack up there ready to roll, the general was recently elected consul, too.

[QuintusSertorius]

Campaigns Illyria, Dacia and Cisalpine Gaul, 202-199BC

Illyria and Dacia

Tiberius Claudius Pulcher marched out in the winter of 202BC on a punitive expedition into Dacian lands. He encountered two raiding parties at a river crossing.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Illyria%20and%20Cisapline%20Gaul/DalmatiaBattle2Start.jpg

His extraordinarii led the way, forcing the crossing.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Illyria%20and%20Cisapline%20Gaul/DalmatiaBattle2-1.jpg

The crossing taken, the raiders were summarily dealt with.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Illyria%20and%20Cisapline%20Gaul/DalmatiaBattle2End.jpg

Meanwhile his quaestor, left behind with the garrison of Segestica, took upon an opportunity to thwart another Getic band.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Illyria%20and%20Cisapline%20Gaul/IllyriaBattle3Start.jpg

It was a confused fight in the forested hills, but the leader of the warband was slain.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Illyria%20and%20Cisapline%20Gaul/IllyriaBattle3-1.jpg

Part of the battle took place in a clearing at the edge of the forest.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Illyria%20and%20Cisapline%20Gaul/CAGBattle2-1.jpg


With his death the band dissolved, Orata taking no chances and riding them all down.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Illyria%20and%20Cisapline%20Gaul/IllyriaBattle3End.jpg

Encamped in Getic lands waiting to cross another river, Pulcher was attacked by more of the Getai.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Illyria%20and%20Cisapline%20Gaul/ScourcouwBattle1Start.jpg

His superior numbers and holding the bridge crushed the barbarians.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Illyria%20and%20Cisapline%20Gaul/ScourcouwBattle1End.jpg

A larger force tried the same later in the day.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Illyria%20and%20Cisapline%20Gaul/ScourcouwBattle2Start.jpg

Their leader was slain in the fighting.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Illyria%20and%20Cisapline%20Gaul/ScourcouwBattle2-1.jpg

And once again the Getai were beaten.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Illyria%20and%20Cisapline%20Gaul/ScourcouwBattle2End.jpg

Cisalpine Gaul

In 201, the proconsul Decimus Claudius was one of three magistrates taking part in the campaign to re-conquer and pacify Cisalpine Gaul. He encountered a Gallic band just west of Bononia.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Illyria%20and%20Cisapline%20Gaul/CAGBattle1Start.jpg

Despite the difficulties created by the thick forest cover, the Gauls were driven off.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Illyria%20and%20Cisapline%20Gaul/CAGBattle1End.jpg

Dacia

In a rapid campaign, Tiberius Pulcher had invested and sacked the Getai capital, Singidunum. He moved swiftly on to attack nearby Naissos, provoking a battle.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Illyria%20and%20Cisapline%20Gaul/ScourcouwBattle3Start.jpg

Both Getic chiefs fell in the battle.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Illyria%20and%20Cisapline%20Gaul/ScourcouwBattle3-1.jpg

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Illyria%20and%20Cisapline%20Gaul/ScourcouwBattle3-2.jpg

Naissos was sacked and the Getai were made to sign treaties of friendship and pay tribute. Pulcher began the long march back to Illyria.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Illyria%20and%20Cisapline%20Gaul/ScourcouwBattle3End.jpg

Cisalpine Gaul

In 199BC, having re-taken Mediolanium, Decimus Pulcher left both his legate and the army to join another consular army returning from Illyria. His cousin Tiberius Pulcher left the same army to return to Rome to celebrate a triumph, and Decimus took that force to invest Patavium. The Gauls had the advantage in numbers, but they were evenly matched in morale.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Illyria%20and%20Cisapline%20Gaul/CAGBattle2Start.jpg

The battle took place on the edge of a forest clearing.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Illyria%20and%20Cisapline%20Gaul/CAGBattle2-1.jpg

Fighting was fierce.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Illyria%20and%20Cisapline%20Gaul/CAGBattle2-2.jpg

But the Roman's superior discipline and greater frequency of armour decided the day.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Illyria%20and%20Cisapline%20Gaul/CAGBattle2End.jpg

The survivors of the battle fled to Patavium where Pulcher followed.

[QuintusSertorius]

198BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II198BC.jpg

I have peace with Qarthadast, although not even Force Diplomacy could make them pay me a tribute. I didn't actually take Lixus off them to give to the Saba - though again I tried but failed even with FD. The Saba actually took it off them, beginning the creation of an independent Mauretania.

I've had a lot of triumphs all of a sudden. Tiberius Pulcher got one for his part in punishing the Getai, the other Pulcher didn't get one for the battles in Africa, but has won one over the Gauls. Decimus Aemilius Mamercus finally arrived in Rome to celebrate his. He's now gone into retirement on Sardinia as the provincial governor there.

The Getai are getting on my nerves now. Having trashed their armies and even given two of their settlements away, they've come back to attack me again. I had to divert the second army of Spain to Illyria to drive them off, Tiberius Pulcher in command again, possibly another punitive expedition is in order.

I've regained Cisalpine Gaul in a lightning campaign over four years. I've FD'd peace with Aedui and Arverni, but I fully expect the military AI to send stacks at me regardless. I've got three consular armies in Cisalpine Gaul, I should hopefully be able to reduce that to two or maybe one soon. Then return Sicily's army to the island, and the central Italian stack back to Italy.

I'm supposed to be launching an brief war on Makedonia, I'm thinking of taking Korinthos and giving it to the Koinon Hellenon, but not sure if I'll get it done in time.

Not sure the Seleukids can hold out much longer. Their Syrian War is stable, only because I moved all the Ptolemaic armies away. But both Pahlava and Baktria are growing ever-stronger, at the expense of Saka and Rebels respectively. Might have to start nerfing their treasuries again.

Ironically having been concerned about keeping the Germans on their side of the Rhine, now the Aedui are roving into Sweboz land.

Still, it's nearly a century into the game, and no faction has died. Even the Rebels are still going.

[General Appo]

Good work. Hopefully the Arverni and Aedui in Thrakian lands won´t just beat on each other, but on the Getai.
You don´t really have to do much in Makedonia, I´d say that just winning a small skirmish or two and maybe blockading a port should be enough.

[QuintusSertorius]

Good work. Hopefully the Arverni and Aedui in Thrakian lands won´t just beat on each other, but on the Getai.
You don´t really have to do much in Makedonia, I´d say that just winning a small skirmish or two and maybe blockading a port should be enough.

Unfortunately for me, the Aedui and Arverni declared a ceasefire. I've only ever seen that happen once before, when the Sweboz were kicking them both around the place. That said, it may not last long given they share a lot of land borders with each other.

I've got spies in Singidunum trying to cause a revolt so the Aedui and Getai are at war, but no luck so far. I might take Vindobona off them and give that to the Sweboz, and try to get that to rebel.

Talking of Makedonia, they've got a big stack in Greece, maybe if I attack that it will be enough.

[QuintusSertorius]

Campaign against the Dacians, 198-197BC

Pulcher marched to the relief of Segestica.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Pannonia-Illyria/PannoniaIllyricaBattle1Start.jpg

The raiders were driven off, and Pulcher followed.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Pannonia-Illyria/PannoniaIllyricaBattle1End.jpg

He caught up with them not long afterwards.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Pannonia-Illyria/PannoniaIllyricaBattle2Start.jpg

He waited on a hill, the Dacians simply charged.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Pannonia-Illyria/PannoniaIllyricaBattle2-3.jpg

The decisive factor was Pulcher's superiority in cavalry, and few Dacians escaped in the rout.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Pannonia-Illyria/PannoniaIllyricaBattle2End.jpg

[QuintusSertorius]

197BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II197BC.jpg

My campaign against the annoying Dacians continues; I think I'll take Ak-Ink and give it to the Sweboz or something.

The two settlements I gave away seem impervious to rebellion. Even though both have 3-4 spies in them, and keep turning up the pitchfork, it miraculously disappears again the following season. The Getai also don't seem interested in trying to take them back off their new owners. Maybe I need a buffer zone of other factions to keep them away.

The Seleukids are suddenly in motion, which is good timing for when I start my Syrian War and humble them. They've taken Pergamon and Hallikarnassos, which surprised me, and have stopped Pontos retaking Mazaka. They also seem to be getting the upper hand in Syria.

The Saka are giving Baktria a kicking again, the've lost Baktria again. Mysteriously all my diplomats seem to have died over the last few turns, so there isn't a lot I can do about it other than moving armies around. Annoyingly a lot of the Baktria armies don't seem to be called what they're called...

The Saba have taken Petra off the Ptolemies. They seem to be on the move.

In Spain, the Lusotanii are determined to take Numantia, which I can't allow. Been adding extra units there every time they besiege it.

Koinon Hellenon might finally take Korinthos without any help from me, which is good. Makedonia have definitely suffered from the war with me, I think taking Serdike off them made a difference.

Oh, and people might have noticed I haven't changed my armies to reflect the punishment of the Italian communities. Largely because I don't want to stop recruiting Italians, and besides which the Bruttians make such a good Italic hastati analogue. I might start phasing them out in the 160sBC or something, start recruiting more Roman-looking legions. Then in the 130s phase out hastati.

[Icekiller]

I'm confused on how you can win relativly large battles and cause massive casualties on your enemy, whilst losing a minimum number yourself.

[General Appo]

Ehhh... being kinda good? I´d say his results are pretty ordinary, especially for playing on Medium difficulty.

[QuintusSertorius]

I'm confused on how you can win relativly large battles and cause massive casualties on your enemy, whilst losing a minimum number yourself.


Ehhh... being kinda good? I´d say his results are pretty ordinary, especially for playing on Medium difficulty.

A lot of practice using the formation I do, and the inherent flexibility of it. You can see in detail how I fight in a lot of the earlier battles. Joy of the Camillian and Polybian armies is that you pretty much don't have to be imaginative about formations, just use the same one over and again. Plus a lot of Roman troops have decent armour and morale (especially when you get to the Polybian ones) which helps in survivability. Plus every general always has a doctor ancillary to try to encourage casualties to survive.

As in reality, most of the enemy casualties actually come when they rout. My troops have better morale than most of theirs, and I use my skirmishers to outflank when they're exhausted their missiles.

Plus recently I've gotten good with my cavalry (even Curepos and other lights can do the charge to the rear thing if you know what you're doing), so that again adds to the likelihood of the enemy breaking.

The other thing is that some of the enemies I've been fighting (Dacian especially) have little or no cavalry of their own.

[Aaldaemon]

I'm confused on how you can win relativly large battles and cause massive casualties on your enemy, whilst losing a minimum number yourself.

It's definitely doable. Provided you have the right army and know what to do with it that's how RTW battles will go... It's even worse if you use horse archers... if you micromanage horse archers perfectly and don't get lazy... it's massacre after massacre.

[QuintusSertorius]

It's definitely doable. Provided you have the right army and know what to do with it that's how RTW battles will go... It's even worse if you use horse archers... if you micromanage horse archers perfectly and don't get lazy... it's massacre after massacre.

It's a combined arms thing mostly, for me. Before the lines engage, my skirmishers whittle down their skirmishers, and in the case of slingers some of their elites. Then just before the lines close, my line troops hurl lots of missiles. This matters because legionaries use AP javelins, so even thrown at the front they cause carnage. Often by the time hand to hand starts, the enemy has already lost 10-15% of their force.

Then when they're up close and personal, all my skirmishers and cavalry slip around the line and get in behind them. One wing or the other usually routs, allowing me to then march my line troops around to outflank the centre.

As before, most casualties occur during the rout, not the actual fighting, if you get your cavalry onto them as fast as you can, that guarantees they don't rally and get back into the fight.

[Aaldaemon]

It's a combined arms thing mostly, for me. Before the lines engage, my skirmishers whittle down their skirmishers, and in the case of slingers some of their elites. Then just before the lines close, my line troops hurl lots of missiles. This matters because legionaries use AP javelins, so even thrown at the front they cause carnage. Often by the time hand to hand starts, the enemy has already lost 10-15% of their force.

Then when they're up close and personal, all my skirmishers and cavalry slip around the line and get in behind them. One wing or the other usually routs, allowing me to then march my line troops around to outflank the centre.

As before, most casualties occur during the rout, not the actual fighting, if you get your cavalry onto them as fast as you can, that guarantees they don't rally and get back into the fight.

Aye textbook stuff, and once your troops gain experience after a few battles like this it gets easier and easier.

[QuintusSertorius]

Aye textbook stuff, and once your troops gain experience after a few battles like this it gets easier and easier.

True, although I don't retrain, so they don't tend to leap ahead too fast or too far in terms of experience. I rarely get into the sliver chevrons territory when merging green units into experienced once. But then with Roman troops that doesn't really matter since they're already pretty good to start with.

Anyway I did get one battle done before I hit a potential technical problem, which meant another battle I'd won had to be abandoned.

T. Claudius Pulcher continued on the punitive expedition into Getic lands. He encountered one of their armies.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Pannonia-Illyria/PannoniaIllyricaBattle3Start.jpg

The battle took place in an open plain, favouring the Romans ability to maneuver.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Pannonia-Illyria/PannoniaIllyricaBattle3-1.jpg

The centre of the Getai line was formed entirely with naked warriors. The wings with levy Celtic spearmen.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Pannonia-Illyria/PannoniaIllyricaBattle3-2.jpg

The Getic chieftain charged.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Pannonia-Illyria/PannoniaIllyricaBattle3-3.jpg

But after contact he and the entire centre retreated, leaving the Celtic levies to their own devices.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Pannonia-Illyria/PannoniaIllyricaBattle3-4.jpg

They didn't fight on for long.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Pannonia-Illyria/PannoniaIllyricaBattle3End.jpg

[QuintusSertorius]

Temporary bug-halt, I'm afraid. I got out of the unbreakable battle-CTD loop, but there's some dodgy business going on (https://forums.totalwar.org/vb/showthread.php?t=104114) with Ak-Ink and a cloned Getic Family Member.

[QuintusSertorius]

I got a sneaky way around the bug, by transporting the clone to an inaccesible area.

192BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II192BC.jpg

My Syrian War has begun, and not a minute too late. The Seleukids are starting to steamroller Pontos, Pahlava and even the Ptolemies of late, intervention needed. That third face isn't another Family Member, he's a Greek Mercenary General. I decided I needed some allied cavalry with actual punch in this war. Plus Pergamon can provide me with some light or medium cavalry quite easily. A minor confession, I used process_cq to build up their regional barracks, after all Pergamon was an actual military power in it's own right. Not that I've built anything but levy hoplites for the garrison yet. In other news, those mercenary Thessalian cavalry are looking pretty tasty, if expensive.

Strangely I shipped my army over to Pergamon to turn it into my base of operations and client kingdom, and on starting the war, the Seleukids immediately begged me for a ceasefire. Without even using FD, they gave me Pergamon in exchange for it. Given I'm not going home without humbling them, I of course took the gift, then immediately attacked them. I'm going to keep Pergamon as a client kingdom, since it actually was one from around 200BC.

I'm going to start moving Seleukid stacks from Parthia to me so I can have some proper fights, and of course divert their resources away from their borders.

For some bizarre reason Makedonia attacked me in Asia Minor, I think my general sitting in some trees surprised them when they tried to move through.

It's proving difficult to maintain the Aedui in Spain, perhaps because the Lusotanii have nothing else to do now. Besides the longer they're kept busy there, the longer they'll take to turn their attention to me. Course I now have two proper armies in Spain, so I'm ready whenever they are. I might have a few pre-emptive goes at some of their settlements to wear them down a bit.

Now they've got nothing outside of Africa, Qarthadast are starting to win the war against the Saba. That said the Saba haven't been idle, they're besieging Ippone right now.

Sweboz won't give up on crossing the Rhine. I've transported some of their stacks to the Black Sea and that island in Scandinavia.

I also staged my own Casse invasion, transporting a stack to Bratosporios. They even besieged it, but then got driven off.

Koinon Hellenon have got the upper hand against Makedonia of late, doing a lot of FD'ing Thermon and Demetrias to Makedonia.

[QuintusSertorius]

The Syrian War, 192BC

Pergamon had been a Roman ally since the Second Makedonian War, and aided in driving the Seleukid invasion off. Now that Qarthadast and Makedonia had been dealt with, the Romans turned their attention to the Seleukid menace. There were rumours that Theopropides Nepheris was serving as a mercenary advisor to the Seleukids, and that could not be allowed.

In the time since the campaigns against the Dacians, T. Claudius Pulcher had been elected consul, and as a proconsul was given command of the war against the Seleukids. With him he brought Numerius Aurelius Cotta, a somewhat dissolute youth as his tribune, in the hopes a war would make a decent man of him.

Pulcher marched out to meet a Seleukid force, unaware that another one had slipped into Pergamon to threaten the city state.

He had a slight advantage in numbers, but more importantly one in cavalry and light troops.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/SyrianWarBattle1Start.jpg

He deployed in the regular triplex acies, and the Seleukids drew up in a long line of pike phalanxes.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/SyrianWarBattle1-1.jpg

Seeing that his skirmishers had no effect on the well-armoured phalangites, Pulcher ordered them back and out to the flanks.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/SyrianWarBattle1-2.jpg

They were joined by his cavalry.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/SyrianWarBattle1-3.jpg

On the right a Karian warband was routed, and the envelopment began.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/SyrianWarBattle1-4.jpg

On the left the movement to outflank the Seleukid right continued.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/SyrianWarBattle1-5.jpg

A cavalry charge to the rear broke one of the phalanx blocks in the centre.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/SyrianWarBattle1-6.jpg

Elsewhere in the centre, some supporting spearmen gave up the fight.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/SyrianWarBattle1-7.jpg

The phalanxes on the Roman left routed.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/SyrianWarBattle1-8.jpg

More from the centre began to falter.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/SyrianWarBattle1-9.jpg

And the Seleukid army collapsed into flight.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/SyrianWarBattle1-10.jpg

The first major battle of the war had gone to the Romans.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/SyrianWarBattle1End.jpg

[Aaldaemon]

So much death! The Dragon can do naught but salute such carnage! :yes:

[QuintusSertorius]

The carnage continues!

Syrian War 191-190BC

The proconsul Claudius Pulcher displayed all of his renowned vigour in prosecuting the Syrian War. Having defeated one Seleukid army, he marched to invest Sardis, rumoured to be the supply dump for the Seleukid effort in the region. The defenders hastily pulled together what troops they did in an effort to stop Pulcher. He had the advantage of numbers and cavalry superiority.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/SyrianWarBattle2Start.jpg

The Seleukids deployed in a single line, with a screen of skirmishers out ahead of their heavy troops.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/SyrianWarBattle2-1.jpg

The Roman skirmishers ran out to engage their counterparts.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/SyrianWarBattle2-2.jpg

They took a heavy toll before retreating to the safety of the line.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/SyrianWarBattle2-3.jpg

As the lines engaged, the allied cavalry looped around the fighting front.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/SyrianWarBattle2-4.jpg

The elements on the wings were routed, and the Roman maniples marched around to outflank the elites in the centre.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/SyrianWarBattle2-5.jpg

The centre caved, and a general rout started.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/SyrianWarBattle2-6.jpg

The elites had fought hard, causing some casualties, but the day was Roman.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/SyrianWarBattle2End.jpg

Sardis was seized and a garrison allied to Pergamon was installed.

Marching to guard Pergamon against invasions from other directions, Pulcher ran into a Seleukid noble.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/SyrianWarAssassination.jpg

He wasted no time in eliminating the threat of a competent general joining up with the enemy armies.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/SyrianWarAssassinationDone.jpg

Guarding the river crossings against rumours of a large body of Seleukids, Pulcher halted a Seleukid detachment.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/SyrianWarBattle3Start.jpg

The crossing was hard fought, and Roman losses were high despite the victory. A runner had come ahead from the fleet saying reinforcements were on their way, but it could be close.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/SyrianWarBattle3End.jpg

Hearing that Pergamon was under threat, Pulcher turned around and marched to it's relief.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/SyrianWarBattle4Start.jpg

Initially the Seleukids looked willing to fight.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/SyrianWarBattle4-1.jpg

But on seeing the clouds of dust from the reinforcements marching from Pergamon, decided to break off contact.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/SyrianWarBattle4-2.jpg

The Romans had to content themselves with destroying the Seleukid cavalry, and wiping out their rearguard.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/SyrianWarBattle4End.jpg

Another Seleukid army marched to invest Pergamon, and Pulcher was on hand to stop them.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/SyrianWarBattle5Start.jpg

They meant to fight.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/SyrianWarBattle5-1.jpg

First the skirmishers traded fire.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/SyrianWarBattle5-2.jpg

Then the lines clashed.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/SyrianWarBattle5-3.jpg

The Asian allied cavalry roamed at will behind the Seleukid line.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/SyrianWarBattle5-4.jpg

The commander of the Seleukid force was careless and caught out in the open.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/SyrianWarBattle5-5.jpg

At his death, the Jewish spearmen on the Roman right lost the will to fight on.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/SyrianWarBattle5-6.jpg

Those in the centre carried on fighting for some time.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/SyrianWarBattle5-7.jpg

But even they were not immune to the spread of panic.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/SyrianWarBattle5-8.jpg

At little cost to the Romans, another Seleukid army had been laid low.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/SyrianWarBattle5End.jpg

[Aaldaemon]

You know, I pity the Seleucids... they used to be my favorite vanilla faction... It's a good thing you got house rules or you'd make them melt real fast. :sweatdrop:

[QuintusSertorius]

190BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II190BC.jpg

I auto-calc'ed the battle for Hallikarnassos, didn't fancy playing out a siege. Won it with light losses (less than 200 men) so that was worth it. Gave it straight to the Ptolemies.

The AI has been a little frustrating with it's use of troops I've transported to the region to fight me. They've got the numbers, and even have some decent generals but don't seem to want to send any competent commanders to lead them.

Pontos seem to be struggling to get moving, I accidentally gave them some units they can't use which might be causing some trouble. Been gifting them money via the console, but they've not really done much. I intend to give them Mazaka and Amesia both, once I've kicked the Seleukids out of there.

My next target is Ipsos, once my second draft of reinforcements by sea arrives. I might detach the youngster with some Greek troops and mercenaries to go and take Side. Both it and Tarsos are destined for the Ptolemies. Although I'm considering perhaps giving one to Makedonia so that they're not too disadvantaged by the growth Koinon Hellenon are getting. Maybe I should give Ipsos to them instead.

Parthians haven't rebounded yet, not even with me draining all the Seleukid reinforcements to fight me.

My money is suddenly alright, Pergamon is a major money-pit it would seem. I have slashed and burned two major settlements recently, too. I didn't expel or enslave, mind, just destroyed all the buildings of military value.

I'm hoping that I can build up Pergamon's own military capability to the point where it can look after itself. After all my legions can't stay forever.

[QuintusSertorius]

You know, I pity the Seleucids... they used to be my favorite vanilla faction... It's a good thing you got house rules or you'd make them melt real fast. :sweatdrop:

I think with only one serious army in the region, I'd run out of steam pretty quickly if I was serious about conquering, rather than displacing them. I've taken three settlements in two years, and the only reason they haven't rebelled back to the Seleukids is because I've given them away.

But yes, I'm stopping when I get to the Amesia-Mazaka-Tarsos line. When that's done, my work will be done, and hopefully the Seleukids will be reduced enough not to pose much of a threat to various others. I wonder if the Hai will finally sense which way the wind is blowing and attack them to get their spoils before it's all gone.

[QuintusSertorius]

Syrian War 189BC

General Pulcher's campaign against the Seleukids continued, this time demonstrating against Ipsos to drive them out of central Anatolia.

They had greater numbers, but his men were confident in his leadership.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/SyrianWarBattle6Start.jpg

His position was not ideal, waiting at the foot of a hill for the Seleukids to come.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/SyrianWarBattle6-1.jpg

On they came, skirmishers out front.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/SyrianWarBattle6-2.jpg

Then the lines met.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/SyrianWarBattle6-3.jpg

Missiles expended, the Roman skirmishers went to the flanks. Pulcher had the slingers save their remaining ammunition for the arrival of the reinforcements.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/SyrianWarBattle6-4.jpg

The Roman cavalry hit the skirmishers lurking behind the Seleukid line. The absence of any Seleukid cavalry gave them free reign.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/SyrianWarBattle6-5.jpg

The first of the reinforcements, light cavalry, arrived, only to be met by a mass of Roman cavalry.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/SyrianWarBattle6-6.jpg

The allied heavy cavalry meanwhile hit one of the phalanxes in the rear, and it disintegrated.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/SyrianWarBattle6-7.jpg

The trick was repeated along the line, routing one block after another.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/SyrianWarBattle6-8.jpg

Eventually the entire main line of the first Seleukid force collapsed.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/SyrianWarBattle6-9.jpg

As they fled, the reinforcements arrived, and Pulcher reined in his eager men. There was more fighting to be done this day.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/SyrianWarBattle6-10.jpg

The reinforcements concentrated on the Roman centre.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/SyrianWarBattle6-11.jpg

As they bunched together, not even repeated cavalry charges could make a dent in them.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/SyrianWarBattle6-12.jpg

The unengaged maniples moved to surround the pikemen, but they doughtily fought on.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/SyrianWarBattle6-13.jpg

After more than an hour of grind, the encirclement and repeated charges had the desired effect.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/SyrianWarBattle6-14.jpg

A great victory was won!

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/SyrianWarBattle6End.jpg

Ipsos was passed into the hands of allies and now the campaign moved to the Cilician coast.

[QuintusSertorius]

I've hit another CTD roadblock (https://forums.totalwar.org/vb/showthread.php?t=104160), I'm afraid, this time more serious than before. I can get past it without the script, but I'm loathe to do that if there's an alternative.

[QuintusSertorius]

187BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II187BC.jpg

The punishment of the Seleukids is nearly done, just have to carve something out for Pontos now. Fortunately for me, those erroneous cavalry have almost all died now as well.

I split my generalship, the proconsul stayed with the Roman troops, his tribune and the Greek mercenary general have set off with an army of "local levies" to free Mazaka and Amaseia. It's probably about time for old Pulcher to come home. He's Seen the Elephant now. Plus time is running on and I don't actually want to complete cripple the Seleukids - they need to at least retain Syria and right now the Ptolemies are kicking their butts. I'm hoping they can stabilise where they are minus Anatolia. What I don't want is a resurgence of the Yellow Death.

Asia Minor is going to be a bit nasty when it comes to conquering it, but I can worry about that in 40-odd years time.

Baktria are expanding at the Seleukids expense, they're prosecuting the Parthians a lot more actively.

Sab'yn are suffering all of a sudden at the hands of the Ptolemies and Qarthadast both. I might try to get my diplomat in Syria to start bribing Ptolemaic armies away.

[QuintusSertorius]

Syrian War 187BC

The final battle of the war was not fought by the proconsul Pulcher or even a Roman army, but a force of allies advised by Pulcher's tribune Aulus Cornelius Rufinus. Acting in support of Pontic allies, he encoutered the garrison of Mazaka and some supporting troops.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/SyrianWarBattle7Start.jpg

He stretched his troops out in a long line, skirmishers out front.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/SyrianWarBattle7-1.jpg

After a clash of lines, superior numbers carried the day.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/SyrianWarBattle7End.jpg

A peace treaty was signed, whereby the Seleukids agreed to give up all territorial claims in Anatolia, as well as pay Rome and Pergamon an indemnity for the next 10 years.

Small Wars, 185BC

Not everyone welcomed the pre-eminence of Pergamon, assisted and supported by Rome. Some of the local Greeks saw the emergence of one power, worse one aided by foreigners as intolerable. Pergamon was besieged, before the ruler sallied out to drive off the invaders, and having returned to the kingdom, Rufinus met another of their armies coming from the Hellespont.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/GreekWarBattle1Start.jpg

He advised the Pergamene general to array the troops in a single line.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/GreekWarBattle1-1.jpg

The two armies advanced to meet each other.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/GreekWarBattle1-2.jpg

Greek cavalry attempted to outflank the Pergamene line, and was trapped by our cavarly.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/GreekWarBattle1-3.jpg

Some Galatian mercenaries on the right were routed.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/GreekWarBattle1-4.jpg

The main line advanced to meet the Pergamenes.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/GreekWarBattle1-5.jpg

The Greek strategos himself led the charge.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/GreekWarBattle1-6.jpg

A second cavalry battle erupted out from the Pergamene right.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/GreekWarBattle1-7.jpg

While the strategos fought on, many of his troops had fled, and the Pergamene cavalry roamed freely around the battlefield, their counterparts driven off.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/GreekWarBattle1-8.jpg

After a long while, even his hardened bodyguard gave in.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/GreekWarBattle1-9.jpg

In the rout he was cut down.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/GreekWarBattle1-10.jpg

It was costly, but a victory was won.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/GreekWarBattle1End.jpg

In Hispania the quaestor Caius Fabius Maximus was despatched with the provincial army to deal with a rising amongst a sept of the Lusotanii. He was accompanied by one of the local kings, along with a contingent of Iberian and Celtic troops. He encountered an Iberian army outside Oxtraca. The Romans and their allies outnumbered the Iberians by a significant margin, but the Iberians were fierce and brave.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Iberian%20Wars/IberianBattle1Start.jpg

The Iberians used their knowledge of the local area to their advantage. The Romans and allies advanced nervously into the forest.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Iberian%20Wars/IberianBattle1-1.jpg

The first the Romans knew of the enemy was a charge to the left, scattering the skirmishers.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Iberian%20Wars/IberianBattle1-2.jpg

The fighting became confused in the forest, runners getting lost or even ambushed and killed. The warchief charged the Roman front and died for his boldness.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Iberian%20Wars/IberianBattle1-3.jpg

Eventually the Iberians were driven off, but it was a costly victory.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Iberian%20Wars/IberianBattle1End.jpg

[QuintusSertorius]

185BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II185BC.jpg

Syrian War finally done, the Seleukids are properly gone from Anatolia. I doubt they'll be back any time soon either. The last battle didn't get much capture because I was interrupted and on the phone, but didn't want to just pause the battle and wait.

Been having some fun using a non-Roman army, basically cheap Greek levy troops available to just about anyone. They do the job, though. I didn't even start it, KH attacked Pergamon with a full stack composed half of freed slaves. Had no trouble kicking their tails when I sallied out with Pergamon's garrison. Now I figure I'll mop up their armies before getting some peace again. Might give Makedonia some breathing room, they're doing better now they've got some rich territory in Asia Minor.

In spite of what the counter says, I'm having to find places to sink money of late. Some of my settlements can't actually build anything, Roma, Massalia and Lilibeo for example have nothing left in their roster, or nothing I want to build.

I'm about to start some battles in Spain to reduce the Lusotanii threat to Celtiberia. They keep attacking it, so about time I destroyed their armies. I won't take any territory, though. I moved one of their half-stacks to Ireland to see what they do.

The Ptolemies have been hamstrung by losing a lot of their desert provinces, and Sinai and Nabataia. I didn't actually take Pselkis off them, the Saba did that on their own. Doubt they'll hold it long, though, they pretty much stripped their garrisons to build up that army.

Pahlava have bounced back, moreso than Baktria who took Karmana and aren't doing much now.

I'm in a dead spot time-wise now. While there were wars in Spain, I've got no major ones planned until the 170s when things should kick off with Makedonia again. So I might have to recruit another consular army to soak up cash and focus on building stuff. Possibly time to station one in Illyria more permanently. Plus easy access to Makedonia then. Assuming I don't just ship one across, that is.

[General Appo]

Good work, as always. There aren´t many years left until the Pahlava should really start conquering, maybe you should let them loose a bit. Don´t want them stuck in Iran when you want to be fighting Carrhae with them.

[QuintusSertorius]

Not a bad idea, they've got quite a way to come to reach the Euphrates. Given the rate they were expanding before, shouldn't be too difficult for them.

Historically didn't the Seleukids shrink to basically Syria and the nearby area?

[QuintusSertorius]

Small Wars 185BC

In his ongoing role as advisor to Pergamon, Rufinus was with the Pergamene army when it was attacked again by another Greek army. Two detachments from two different communities converged on the allied force.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/GreekWarBattle2Start.jpg

Taking no chances, Rufinus advised guarding the river crossing.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/GreekWarBattle2-1.jpg

It was a propitious move, bringing victory once again.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Syrian%20War/GreekWarBattle2End.jpg

Pergamon was preserved.

184BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II184BC.jpg

Here's what Spain looks like. I had actually played the next turn, and the army indicated attacked across that river. But then I got a CTD during the battle, possibly something to do with them fording it. I hope it was just one of those random things, because it's of equal size and as I learned from the last one, Iberian armies are hard-fighting. I'll need them tired from swimming to beat them decisively and end this little war.

[General Appo]

Not a bad idea, they've got quite a way to come to reach the Euphrates. Given the rate they were expanding before, shouldn't be too difficult for them.

Historically didn't the Seleukids shrink to basically Syria and the nearby area?

Indeed. However, in 168 BC Antiochus IV actually invaded Egypt and Kypros, and came close to capturing Alexandreia, until a Roman envoy threatend him with war and forced him to withdraw his forces from Egypt and Kypros.
Just one year later the Parthians (Pahlava) captured the city of Herat in modern Afghanistan and effectively splitted the Greek world in two.
After 164 BC Civil War ravaged the empire, and for quite some time large areas of the empire were ruled independently by various usurpers.
Around 140 the Jews in Judea were fully independent, and the Parthians had captured the entire Iranian Plateau.
By 100 BC the Seleukids controlled little more then Antioch and parts of Syria, and in 83 BC this to was lost when the Armenian king invaded Syria.
For a few years during the 60s BC a Seleukid rump state served as a Roman client kingdom, but I think a L4 Gov. could represent this just as good.
I do wonder how you´re going to get Hayasdan to conquer Syria though, they´ve never really been famous for doing such in EB. Oh well, it´s almost a hundred years to go.

[QuintusSertorius]

Indeed. However, in 168 BC Antiochus IV actually invaded Egypt and Kypros, and came close to capturing Alexandreia, until a Roman envoy threatend him with war and forced him to withdraw his forces from Egypt and Kypros.
Just one year later the Parthians (Pahlava) captured the city of Herat in modern Afghanistan and effectively splitted the Greek world in two.
After 164 BC Civil War ravaged the empire, and for quite some time large areas of the empire were ruled independently by various usurpers.
Around 140 the Jews in Judea were fully independent, and the Parthians had captured the entire Iranian Plateau.
By 100 BC the Seleukids controlled little more then Antioch and parts of Syria, and in 83 BC this to was lost when the Armenian king invaded Syria.
For a few years during the 60s BC a Seleukid rump state served as a Roman client kingdom, but I think a L4 Gov. could represent this just as good.
I do wonder how you´re going to get Hayasdan to conquer Syria though, they´ve never really been famous for doing such in EB. Oh well, it´s almost a hundred years to go.

Indeed, the AI Hayasdan isn't interested in moving south, only forever trying to expand north into the steppe. It's a result of that which caused me to put two of their full stacks on Krete where they can't do any ahistorical damage. It's annoying, I can FD them the right territories, but they won't actually move in that direction.

[General Appo]

Perhaps giving them a Seleukid city or two will get them moving? Worth a shot I´d say, even if you probably shouldn´t do it for quite a few years.

[QuintusSertorius]

They've recently taken Ekbatana, so perhaps they don't even need a nudge!

[General Appo]

They´ve taken Media? Wow, never thought I´d see the day. Well, that´s one more faction you´ve gott to watch carefully less they destroy the Seleukids. Just hope they don´t end up in a war with the Pahlava, now that they share quite a big border. If I were you I´d try to make the Pahlava go south for now and take Iran.

[QuintusSertorius]

They just tried (and failed) for Gabai too. Problem I have with arresting their westward progress is that I can't move any of their units with move_character, since they don't appear to have internal names like their external ones.

[QuintusSertorius]

Small Wars 184-182BC

Spain

Governor Pulcher played his part in the pacification of certain elements of the Lusotanii trying to unite the tribes against Rome.

He encoutered a band equal in size to his army at a river crossing.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/IberianBattle2Start.jpg

The army were deployed in regular battle order on the south bank of the river, and waited nervously to see what the Iberians would do.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/IberianBattle2-1.jpg

To the Romans astonishment, they crossed, with the intention of fighting their way through on the other side.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/IberianBattle2-2.jpg

It was a bold display of courage and vigour, and the Romans braced themselves for some hard fighting.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/IberianBattle2-3.jpg

The Roman legions in the centre took the brunt of the pressure.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/IberianBattle2-4.jpg

The fighting was savage and lengthy.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/IberianBattle2-5.jpg

At the tipping point, when it seemed the Romans couldn't take any more, one of Pulcher's extraordinarii killed the Iberian warchief.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/IberianBattle2-6.jpg

The panic was infectious.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/IberianBattle2-7.jpg

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/IberianBattle2-8.jpg

In the flight another Iberian worthy was slain.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/IberianBattle2-9.jpg

And none were spared in the massacre that followed.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/IberianBattle2End.jpg

On the way back to his province, Pulcher was thrown from his horse and struck his head. He lingered for several days, before dying in his sleep. Thus ended a great Roman who had given nothing but his all for the Republic.

Anatolia

Rufinus was beginning to think the Roman navy wasn't going to return for him, it had been over a year. Still he wasn't idle, continuing to act as an advisor for the Pergamene army, which was growing in proficiency with every battle.

He fought a succession of battles, winning each one. In each case, only some elements of the enemy force engaged, often withdrawing before swords were drawn.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle3Start.jpg

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle3End.jpg

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle4Start.jpg

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle4End.jpg

In 182BC he pressed into Lydia, luring one of their generals out of hiding.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle5Start.jpg

He immediately went on the offensive, marching to meet the enemy.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle5-1.jpg

His cavalry drove off the Greek cavalry.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle5-2.jpg

Later in the battle, the enemy general's bodyguard fought hard, to the death.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle5-3.jpg

But even that wasn't enough, and their general died spear in hand.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle5-4.jpg

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle5End.jpg

Rufinus was attached while re-provisioning the Pergamene army.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle6Start.jpg

The attack was driven off with minimal loss.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle6End.jpg

[QuintusSertorius]

180BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II180BC.jpg

All change in the world. Parthia are putting themselves on the map, recently they'd besieged both Susa and Gabai, though were driven off. The Seleukids are definitely on the ropes, though I think giving them Salamis has helped their finances a lot, since they haven't collapsed.

Baktria are over-extending themselves, lost their capital and Kophen to the Saka, although they're about to get Baktra back courtesy of a massive stack I moved up there for them.

The Saba actually retook Ptolemais-Theron and Petra all by theirselves, which I was impressed by. Though they lost Sala, so I used some FD to create a proper Mauretania.

Lusotanii are calmed for a while at least, although they keep throwing little stacks at Numantia.

Qarthadast took Kyrene, so I gifted it to Epeiros and moved their two FMs who were inactive over there. I hope when I destroy their homeland in 13 years they will be able to operate out of there instead. They've only got one FM left in Greece. I also gave them some money, which seems to have kicked them out of their lethargy. They've only got some crappy levy spears and freed slaves in Greece though, so shouldn't do much damage.

Germans are back across the Rhine again. I've had to move a Pontic stack to Krete because they were looking dangerously like they wanted to start something with Makedonia.

I also got this:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/OldLady.jpg

Which I took as a warning to stop turning down all the rubbish suitors who turn up. Have some pretty old birds with equally ancient husbands floating around now.

[General Appo]

Wow, I´ve never even got that. I´ve wondered what happens when an unmarried chick gets old, but I´ve never tested it.
Nice work with the Epeirotes, hopefully they´ll resist both Ptolemaic and Carthie attacks.

[QuintusSertorius]

Small Wars, 180BC

While wintering with the Pergamene army, Rufinus was attacked ones more, by a Greek raiding force. He had the advantage in numbers, but perhaps they hoped surprise was on their side.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle7Start.jpg

He came out to meet them, but waited in a defensive line.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle7-1.jpg

The enemy general and his elite bodyguard got around the Pergamene line.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle7-2.jpg

But they were repeatedly charged by the Thracian and Illyrian cavalry...

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle7-3.jpg

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle7-4.jpg

...until only the brave strategos was left alive.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle7-5.jpg

He fought alone trusting to his skill at arms to keep him safe, but eventually he succumbed to many wounds.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle7-6.jpg

With that his army collapsed.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle7-7.jpg

And once more Pergamon was preserved.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle7End.jpg

179BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II179BC.jpg

I've been doing a bit of naughty tinkering with provinces via Force Diplomacy. Now we have the "Belgae" (ie Casse") and an Iberian migration too. They're Homeland and Expansion regions respectively for the Casse and Lusotanii, so they shouldn't be completely helpless. Plus there are already buildings that let them create troops there.

The Casse came through for me right away, driving off the Germans. Hopefully they'll do a better job of keeping them on the other side of the Rhine than the Aedui did.


Wow, I´ve never even got that. I´ve wondered what happens when an unmarried chick gets old, but I´ve never tested it.
Nice work with the Epeirotes, hopefully they´ll resist both Ptolemaic and Carthie attacks.

Thus far, they've both ignored them, which is weird. Maybe after a bit they'll take notice and try to do something.

[QuintusSertorius]

Small Wars, 177-175BC

Anatolia

Aulus Cornelius Rufinus had finally been able to return to Italy when the navy made it through the Greek blockade, as well as delivering mercenaries to aid in the Pergamene war effort.

Left behind as leading advisors to the Pergamon king were an Italian and Greek, both Roman citizens in spite of their original extraction.

There were several battles. Fought in defense of neutral communities. Publius Sempronius Gracchus Eugertes led one of the Pergamene armies.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle8Start.jpg

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle8End.jpg

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle9Start.jpg

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle9End.jpg

Eugertes struggled a little acting as commander, rather than in the subordinate role he had served in under Rufinus, and in the second battle an attempt to send flanking troops by a ford downstream of the bridge had nearly ended in disaster.

Illyria

Meanwhile the provincial governor of Illyricum acted on rumours that an agitator had risen encouraging the local tribes to rebel against Roman influence on their monarchy. Caius Aurelius Cotta gathered some local levies and marched out to deal with them, confronting them in a forest south of Dalminion.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/IllyrianBattle6Start.jpg

After a brief contact, the disorganised rebels fled.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/IllyrianBattle6End.jpg


Anatolia

The Italian general Sextus Claudius Pulcher led the other Pergamene army coming to the rescue of Ipsos.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle10Start.jpg

Demonstrating his confidence, he allowed the enemy reinforcements to join up with the rearguard that had been left in their wake.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle10-1.jpg

He advanced to meet them, and they obliged, ignoring the space they'd been given to combine.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle10-2.jpg

Contact was made all along the line.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle10-3.jpg

The hardest fighting came when the Greek phalanx joined the fight.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle10-4.jpg

Then the captain of the rearguard was killed.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle10-5.jpg

Some time later, through the tireless efforts of the Thessalian cavalry, the strategos was slain.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle10-6.jpg

His men fought grimly on, but the tide had turned, and Pulcher won the day.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle10End.jpg

[QuintusSertorius]

175BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II175BC.jpg

Some hard times for Pahlava, even after I gifted them Persepolis and Gabai with some FD. They nearly lost the former to a revolt, then the Seleukids came back and recovered the latter. They also re-took Ekbatana, although just lost Susa. They've managed to kick the Ptolemies out of Syria and Cilicia, though now I'll have to watch carefully for any attempt to re-take Anatolia.

Makedonia seem to have given up the fight, which has surprised me. They lost Demetrias and Pella a couple of turns ago, I've had to slap the Greeks with some treasury penalties to slow them down. Not sure what's happened, maybe I gave them the best provinces in Asia Minor?

Saba are starting to kick ass again, they've now got all three Mauretanian provinces, and re-took Gaetulia after losing it. They also took Judea on their own, which was cool.

Baktria have been hard-pressed by the Saka, losing and retaking Baktra several times. They did finally take Opiana, having had a full stack sitting outside it for years doing nothing. I can see them getting squeezed into the top of India by the Saka. I think the fact that when I FD'd Baktra back to them it had four units of Indian Elephants in it might be a sign. As in their money situation is screwed.

No one is paying Cyrenaia any attention at all. Nor are the Epirotes there doing much, but that's cool. My bit of tinkering in Gaul and Hibernia seems to be stable.

You've actually got the original battle report for that last one - that one CTD'd immediately after winning it. I didn't do so well the second time - still a heroic victory but I had higher losses. I wasn't best pleased having to play that one out again.

[General Appo]

I´d say let the Baktrians stay in India, and don´t give give Baktria to them. I know it´s a bit premature, but it´s not that long left until they were driven out south to India. Besdies, they look unlikely to be able to keep Baktria.
Just curious here, how are the Sauromatae doing? Just been a long time since you mentioned them, and they look like they might get into a conflict with the a lot of factions.

[QuintusSertorius]

I´d say let the Baktrians stay in India, and don´t give give Baktria to them. I know it´s a bit premature, but it´s not that long left until they were driven out south to India. Besdies, they look unlikely to be able to keep Baktria.
Just curious here, how are the Sauromatae doing? Just been a long time since you mentioned them, and they look like they might get into a conflict with the a lot of factions.

I've been giving them occasional money boosts every time the Hai look like they're going to take Uspe. I can't seem to get the Hai to stop trying to go north into the steppe, so two of their full stacks are inactive on Krete. But the Sauromatae otherwise aren't doing much of anything. Not sure if they're fighting the Saka, and they ceased hostilities with the Getai and Greeks a while ago.

[QuintusSertorius]

Small Wars, 174BC

Publius Sempronius Euergetes once again led the armies of Pergamon against Asiatic Greek invaders. In 174BC he fought two major battles south-west of the city.

In the first he prevented a crossing.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle11Start.jpg

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle11End.jpg

But when his supply lines were threatened, he had to withdraw, and a second force crossed the river and attacked.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle12Start.jpg

He offered battle, and ordered his forces in the usual manner.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle12-1.jpg

The Greeks came to meet the Pergamenes.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle12-2.jpg

The Pergamene light cavalry ranged out on the left.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle12-3.jpg

They moved with impunity behind the Greek line, attacking light troops and always staying ahead of a response.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle12-4.jpg

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle12-5.jpg

Meanwhile the Greeks on the left were routed.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle12-6.jpg

The roving light cavalry took advantage of the situation.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle12-7.jpg

They caught up with the enemy commander.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle12-8.jpg

And then joined in the rout.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle12-9.jpg

Euergetes had done his work well.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle12End.jpg

[QuintusSertorius]

172BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II172BC.jpg

I've started my "3rd Makedonian War" only it's against Koinon Hellenon who I've been fighting fairly constantly in Asia Minor. They need humbling so they don't wipe out Makedonia. Going to take Thermon and Demetrias, give them back to Makedonia, and then perhaps make KH a protectorate. Then maybe do the same to Makedonia. That will surely stop them fighting? Then plunder Epirus proper, and leave them with only Kyrene.

Pahlava are still struggling to push out the Seleukids, and now Baktria are trying to get in on the action. The Syrian War is now between Saba and the Ptolemies, which shields the Seleukids a bit. Trying unsucessfully to make the Hai and Seleukids fight.

[QuintusSertorius]

Hellenic War, 172BC

Relations with the Koinon Hellenon had broken down after they refused the request of a delegation from the Senate to cease their attacks on Makedonia. The core of the issue between the Hellenes was a border dispute, along with an attempt by both sides to alter the settlement from their last conflict in their favour. Makedonia, allied to the Romans after losing the war in 200BC, called on the Senate to uphold the terms of the previous treaty. The Greeks decided war was a more favourable course.

The censor and proconsul Sextus Cornelius Scipio was despatched with a consular army to settle the matter by force. He had swept through Aitolia, rapidly taking Thermon and continued into Thessalia. There he shadowed the Greek's largest army, commanded by the strategos Zoilos Rhodios.

Rhodios had a slight advantage in numbers, and his men were confident from the raids and sieges they had taken part in during the previous campaiging seasons.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle13Start.jpg

Battle started quickly, the eager Greeks marching into skirmish range.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle13-1.jpg

The Romans got the better of the skirmishing phase of the battle, their slingers decimating the Greek archers, even the famed Kretan toxotai.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle13-2.jpg

When the skirmishers had exhausted their missiles, Scipio pulled the lights back and ordered the main line forward to engage with the Greek infantry.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle13-3.jpg

The Greeks charged headlong into the marching Romans, keen to get to grips with their invading enemy.The strategos led the charge in person.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle13-4.jpg

The hardest fighting developed in the centre, under the gaze of the Roman general.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle13-5.jpg

The Roman cavalry rushed the Greek medium cavalry.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle13-6.jpg

Meanwhile the allied cavalry had made it's way behind the Greek lines.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle13-7.jpg

Having broken through on the right, the extraordinarii charged the enemy general from the rear.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle13-8.jpg

They fought savagely, like men possessed, and cut their way through to the strategos.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle13-9.jpg

And one of their number struck the great man down.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle13-10.jpg

At his death panic rapidly spread throughout his army.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle13-11.jpg

The Romans were not merciful in the flight.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle13End.jpg

[QuintusSertorius]

171BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II171BC.jpg

Not much change in the wider world, but Thermon is back in Makedonian hands. Demetrias will also be shortly, then I think I'd reduce each Greek city in turn, destroying it's warmaking capacity then giving it back to Koinon Hellenon. That should slow them down for a while. Hopefully I can FD a protectorate status out of them.

Then I turn my attention to Makedonia and possibly do the same. When that's done, then I can conquer and keep Epirus.

I'm sure some readers are glad to see an old fashion battle with legions, rather than Greek troops for a change.

[||Lz3||]

what do you think about night battles (featured in alx.exe)? would it be historically accurate somehow? (using barbarians // romans)

and btw do you think using alx.exe is a good idea to start my historical campaing? (again since the interloper thing ruined my last one)



veeery nice AAR I'm trying to do my historical campaing also but I dont think I'll have the patience to micromanage every faction... perhaps I'll let them die.. or play m/m...:thinking2:


well anyways cheers :2thumbsup:

[Chirurgeon]

Man this sucks the Lusotannan are getting hammered in all these AARs. Makes me proud of my accomplishments in my AAR. Rome's days are limited...Iberia is more powerful than ever!

[QuintusSertorius]

what do you think about night battles (featured in alx.exe)? would it be historically accurate somehow? (using barbarians // romans)

and btw do you think using alx.exe is a good idea to start my historical campaing? (again since the interloper thing ruined my last one)

veeery nice AAR I'm trying to do my historical campaing also but I dont think I'll have the patience to micromanage every faction... perhaps I'll let them die.. or play m/m...:thinking2:

well anyways cheers :2thumbsup:

Night battles were extremely rare in this period, and more generally throughout history. Many of the worst blunders came from trying to fight at night.

Alex's executable is better as far as combining stacks into proper armies, but it retrains, which I think is highly unrealistic.

I'm quite proud that 100 years into the game, no faction has died.


Man this sucks the Lusotannan are getting hammered in all these AARs. Makes me proud of my accomplishments in my AAR. Rome's days are limited...Iberia is more powerful than ever!

In fairness to them, they've given me harder battles than anyone else. Many of them tend to turn on killing the general, with the average morale of Iberian troops so high, they depend on killing the general or I suffer heavy losses.

[General Appo]

Once you´ve taken Epeiros homelands will you rename them? It´s really easy and only takes at most 5 minutes if you know what you´re doing.

[QuintusSertorius]

Once you´ve taken Epeiros homelands will you rename them? It´s really easy and only takes at most 5 minutes if you know what you´re doing.

Won't that mess with the province requirement for the Marian reform if I change it's name? As in the script won't be able to "see" it?

[General Appo]

Oh no, I didn´t mean it like that. I meant will you rename the Epeiros faction, to something like Kyrene?

[QuintusSertorius]

Oh no, I didn´t mean it like that. I meant will you rename the Epeiros faction, to something like Kyrene?

Oh, I could do that, couldn't I? How is it done?

Same with KH and Makedonia when I turn them into single-island factions.

[General Appo]

Just go to your main EB folder, then EB/Data/text then expanded_bi and you can get to work.
For changing Epeiros name to say Kyrene, just look after Epeiros/Epirote or anything like that, and replace it with Kyrene/Kyrenaia/whatever. Remember to look through the entire file so you don´t miss anything, like forts, físhing villages and the various "we are attacking somebody". Should probably take you about 5 minutes.
Remember to make a backup of the file, in case you ever start another campaign and want them to be named Epeiros. Also remember to set the file to "un-protected" or whatever it´s called, and to save the file.

[QuintusSertorius]

Wars in Greece and Asia Minor, 171BC

It was the hope of the Roman Senate in the campaign in Greece to sever the co-operative links between the various Greek communities in Greece and Anatolia - at least at the level of military co-operation and providing supplies.

Greece

Scipio and his tribune Cotta had surrounded and invested Demtrias when they were attacked by a Greek relieving force.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle14Start.jpg

Scipio deployed in the usual manner, his skirmishers trading missiles with their opposites.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle14-1.jpg

Growing bored of waiting for the skirmishing to finish, Cotta charged the Greek skirmishers, who fell back before the Roman horse.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle14-2.jpg

The roving Allied light cavalry fell upon those who'd given up the fight.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle14-3.jpg

Some elements of the main line broke.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle14-4.jpg

In the confusion, coherent lines fell apart and the battle dissolved into several smaller conflicts.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle14-5.jpg

Cotta was instrumental in bringing the battle to a conclusion, charging against the enemy general's bodyguard time and again.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle14-6.jpg

He personally killed the strategos.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle14-7.jpg

Demetrias was taken and their military capability reduced, and Scipio then turned south to the Peloponnese.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle14End.jpg

Anatolia

Meanwhile the proconsul had written to the king of Pergamon, requesting that in concert with his own campaign, he put the allies of the mainland Greeks under pressure.

Both generals and armies were sent to ravage the country around Sardis and provoke the Greeks into a battle.

Euergetes had the first opportunity.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle15Start.jpg

He advanced straight for the first enemy force, intending to simply smash them aside before the second arrived.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle15-1.jpg

They were swiftly routed when the second advanced to avenge their comrades.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle15-2.jpg

The light cavalry played an important role, harassing the enemy light troops.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle15-3.jpg

Their officers kept them on a tight rein, stopping them charging off and tiring their horses or getting ambushed.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle15-4.jpg

The general in charge of the relief force decided discretion was the better part of valour, and withdrew.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle15-5.jpg

The cavalry fell on any stragglers and showed little mercy.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle15-6.jpg

A victory, if not a complete out, with the enemy punished for their temerity.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle15End.jpg

The Italian general Sextus Claudius played his part in the fighting.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle16Start.jpg

Getting one better than Euergetes, he inflicted a serious defeat on the Asiatic Greeks, and took Sardis.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle16End.jpg

Greece

Later in the season, Scipio besieged Athens itself, and fought off an attempt to oust him.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle17Start.jpg

During the brief conflict, an important Greek noble was killed.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle17-1.jpg

Victory was never in doubt.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GreekWarBattle17End.jpg

Following Athens, Korinthos was taken, and in the peace imposed on the Greek communities, they agreed to hand over weapons and not to go to war without the express permission of Rome. They also supplied Scipio with money to boost his pay-chest and grain to feed his soldiers.

Third Makedonian War, 169BC

Following the defeat of their enemies, the Makedonians tried to immediately gain their own concessions and change borders. Once again the Senate was forced to respond, dispatching the proconsul Numerius Cornelius Rufinus and his tribune Numerius Cornelius Scipio with an army to bring the Makedonians back to the negotiating table.

Marching through Epirus, they arrived at a lightly-defended Pella and laid siege while ravaging the surrounding communities.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/MakedonianWarBattle1Start.jpg

The fighting took place in a thick forest, and much of the battle was hard to follow.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/MakedonianWarBattle1-1.jpg

Charging downhill, the Romans contemptuously swatted the Makedonians aside and took Pella.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/MakedonianWarBattle1End.jpg

Rufinus made preparations to continue to the coast, expecting to encounter a more serious response from Makedonia.

[QuintusSertorius]

169BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II169BC.jpg

I concluded a peace with KH after doing some serious damage to their military capabilities. I destroyed barracks, blacksmiths and naval yards wherever I found them, and some elements of their economy before returning them.

Then Makedonia attacked me in Asia Minor, so it's time to give them the same treatment. Their heartland was pitifully defended, so their major recruiting centre now can't recruit anything. They've got one army nearby which I hope to fight before getting some peace. Ispos and maybe Byzantion are the other targets before this war is out. Then I plunder Epirus.

That should calm things down there, what with having no armies and no recruiting capability.

I finally managed to get Karkathiokerta to rebel, putting the Hai and Seleukids at war. Maybe now they'll stop wasting their energies going north and try south instead.

Next target for war is the Hai and Pontos, Ani-Kamah is already surrounded by my mayhem squad of spies and assassins. A bit of FD to give it to Pontos, then in go the subversives.

Qarthadast are starting to renew their strength in Africa, and recently went to war with the Ptolemies. How they're going to do that with Kyrenaia in between them I don't yet know.

Pahlava have finally reached the Persian Gulf and Baktria have rebounded. I might have to start giving some money to the Saka to keep Baktria contained.

[General Appo]

Like the looks of Baktria, Pahlava and Saka-Rauka, three solid half-superpowers completely dominating the east.
As for Ptolies vs Carthies, I´m guessing they´re fighting over Augila. They do share a small border there.

[jhhowell]

I'm quite proud that 100 years into the game, no faction has died.

That's not particularly remarkable, is it? I honestly cannot recall if I've ever seen one AI faction eliminate another - if so, it must have been way back when I played vanilla RTW.

Re: Hayasdan fighting AS - any plans to teleport their armies back from Crete?

[QuintusSertorius]

All the games I've played, by 200BC you start seeing factions vanish if they're not protected. Invariably Pontos is one of the first among them, along with either Aedui or Arverni. Sometimes either Saka or Baktria destroys the other. In my last game Pahlava died in 215BC. In this very game, Epeiros nearly killed Makedonia right at the start.

I've already brought one of their armies back, which immediately besieged Karkathiokerta, which I was pleased about. Hopefully they won't take that then seek a ceasefire. If I can get them warring with Pontos, then I'll bring back their other army, and the Pontic stacks over there too.

As to Qarthadast and the Ptolemies - there's nothing going on in Augila. There was an ex-Sabaen FM bribed by Qarthadast floating around Judea, I wonder if he stumbled into someone.

[QuintusSertorius]

Third Makedonian War, 169BC

Later in the campaigning season, general Rufinus was halted by a Makedonian army moving to address his predations. They were evenly matched in numbers, although the Makedonians had a preponderance of skirmisher cavalry. The open countryside along the road would offer little advantage to either side. The Makedonian general was one Lysias Beroiaios, who had been successful in wars against the Greeks.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle2Start.jpg

The battle began with skirmishing, the Romans keen to drive off the Makedonian llight horse.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle2-1.jpg

On both sides of the battle line, allied Roman horse duelled with the swarms of Makedonian cavalry.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle2-2.jpg

With the support of the slingers, they slowly got the better of their enemy, and otherwise kept them engaged where they couldn't harrass the line. Meanwhile the Makedonian line advanced.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle2-3.jpg

The centre and right were attacked.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle2-4.jpg

Rufinus sent his extraordinarii infantry to the right. Young Scipio charged to the rear of the Thracians pressing the allied infantry.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle2-5.jpg

Beroiaios charged into the fray on the right, then withdrew.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle2-6.jpg

The unengaged Left ala began an outflanking movement.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle2-7.jpg

The extraordinarii cavalry followed them.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle2-8.jpg

Beroiaios charged home once more. Scipio and the allied cavalry followed.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle2-9.jpg

The Makedonian general was making some headway against the Right ala. His men on the right were heartened by his inspirational example and fought harder.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle2-10.jpg

The extraordinarii cavalry, having made a circuit all the way around the Makedonian line, now joined in the fight on the right.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle2-11.jpg

They drove the Makedonian general and his bodyguard away from the infantry and fought at a standstill.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle2-12.jpg

Beroiaios and his bodyguard were tired and outnumbered, soon only the man himself was still alive.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle2-13.jpg

He never wavered, never looked to escape, and died spear in hand.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle2-14.jpg

At his death, his army collapsed.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle2-15.jpg

Few escaped to tell of the Roman victory.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle2-16.jpg

[QuintusSertorius]

Third Makedonian War, 169-168BC

While the war in Makedonia proper was largely done, the war in Anatolia to reduce the power of Makedonia's allies still raged on.

Sextus Claudius Pulcher ravaged the lands around Ipsos, a Makedonian army came to stop him.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle3Start.jpg

They came on directly, no subtlety or deception.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle3-1.jpg

Aloius Gonatas led the charge.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle3-2.jpg

The Pergamene left began to envelop the Makedonian line, and some of their men fled.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle3-3.jpg

Gonatas was killed in the fighting.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle3-4.jpg

In the ensuing rout, many of his men were killed.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle3End.jpg

Publius Sempronius Euergetes attacked a marching column on it's way to Ipsos. The garrison of that settlement marched out to rescue them.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle4Start.jpg

The Pergamene army had to fight uphill, and it was fortunate that the rescuing force had been delayed.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle4-1.jpg

Much of the marching column were quickly put into flight.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle4-2.jpg

Just in time for the arrival of the main force.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle4-3.jpg

Philoxenos Azorios charged straight for the Pergamene lines.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle4-4.jpg

The arrival of the Thessalian cavalry slaughtered his tired bodyguard.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle4-5.jpg

Azorios tried to escape, but they followed, even through his own troops.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle4-6.jpg

He was cut down as he ran.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle4-7.jpg

His army lost heart.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle4-8.jpg

But the steep hill prevented a complete victory, many slipping away.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle4End.jpg

[General Appo]

The carnage never ends. Should be sacking Epirus soon I hope. Or are you going for Ipsos and that final Makedonian army next to it first?

[Aaldaemon]

Soooo much deaatttth, over and over and over again...:dizzy2: To think I thought my Sauromatae to be butchers... they ain't got a patch on the Romans... should have played with larger unit sizes myself. :beam: Quintus' aar is the one that truly reads like continuous genocide lol. :yes:

[QuintusSertorius]

The carnage never ends. Should be sacking Epirus soon I hope. Or are you going for Ipsos and that final Makedonian army next to it first?

Yep, that's what I did. A spy told me Byzantion really didn't have much by way of military production capability, so I gave up on Macedonia proper. Makedonia is now my protectorate - they even chose me over their alliance with Epeiros. Epirus' demise coming up.


Soooo much deaatttth, over and over and over again...:dizzy2: To think I thought my Sauromatae to be butchers... they ain't got a patch on the Romans... should have played with larger unit sizes myself. :beam: Quintus' aar is the one that truly reads like continuous genocide lol. :yes:

There is a lot of enemy death, yet I'm quite merciful. I never expel or enslave settlements I take (although the Epirote ones will be expelled), I only kill in battle.

[Chirurgeon]

Soooo much deaatttth, over and over and over again...:dizzy2: To think I thought my Sauromatae to be butchers... they ain't got a patch on the Romans... should have played with larger unit sizes myself. :beam: Quintus' aar is the one that truly reads like continuous genocide lol. :yes:

Since the Romans were particularly apt at Genocide and winning this AAR is keeping theme with what Rome actually did. Its not old man in togas hanging out eating olives and drinking wine...its stabbing a falcata into another mans belly and then selling his family into slavery. Brutality at its finest. You must ask yourself who is more barbaric?

[Aaldaemon]

Since the Romans were particularly apt at Genocide and winning this AAR is keeping theme with what Rome actually did. Its not old man in togas hanging out eating olives and drinking wine...its stabbing a falcata into another mans belly and then selling his family into slavery. Brutality at its finest. You must ask yourself who is more barbaric?

Quite so Chirurgeon... and while Quintus says he's being merciful, he must remember he _has_ to destroy Carthage and Corinth - I expect nothing less than massacring the population and the destruction of every building in those two cities. :yes:

[QuintusSertorius]

Well, I am also fomenting rebellions with the intent of making AI factions go to war. That's not terribly merciful, I guess. Already put the Hai and Seleukids at war, my next project is the Hai and Pontos.

[QuintusSertorius]

167BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II167BC.jpg

The war with Epeiros is done - they are no more. But they do still exist in one form as Kyrene. They've got three full stacks over there and I'll periodically give them money if they're looking under threat. I've got a long period of peace now until I destroy Qarthadast, Makedonia and Koinon Hellenon, perhaps time to start some trouble in Spain. As it stands, I've not actually taken any Lusitanii provinces off them.

Still working on getting Pontos and Hayasdan to war with each other. Seleukids are needing some serious finance aid to stay alive, Pahlava are moving a little too quickly for my tastes now. Baktria have rebounded and now I'm struggling to keep them wiping out the Saka. Balance is a difficult thing indeed. I'm wondering if I should give the Saka some of the Parthian provinces.

Much as it pains me, I think it's about time I started standardising my armies. After all the Italian allies by this time were fighting in pretty much an identical fashion to the Roman part, by all accounts. Much as I love my variety, there isn't really justification for it. While the Bruttians make good hastati analogues, I don't really have anyone else who works for the rest. Plus it's been a couple of generations since the end of my Second Punic War.

Bland armies here we come, but I suppose it's preparation for the Marian reforms.

[Medical Toaster]

Quintus,

I am following your list for province take over dates for my own campaign and have noticed here that you have not taken Baikor by 179 B.C. as stated by your list. Have you got new information or have the struggles in the east put Iberian actions on a slight delay.

Thanks for the great AAR!

[QuintusSertorius]

Truth is I haven't got the greatest information on the conquest of Spain; it was a back and forth kind of thing so I've slowed it down some. It is my next target, I might have a go in a few years.

163BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II163BC.jpg

I'm not entirely happy with my settlement of Anatolia; mostly because it still leaves Koinon Hellenon and Makedonia making too much money. I'm tempted to take their settlements off them and give them to Epeiros, but I'm not sure if that would be even worse in it's own way.

Pahlava roll on, Hayasdan have actually taken some Seleukid provinces, although they're off north again.

I've revised two of my armies now, they're mostly Roman because the allied part is "Italian". The ones in Spain I haven't touched, and I need to recruit a new army for Sicily.

[General Appo]

Continued good work. Just be very careful with the Seleukids, don´t want them wiped out yet for quite some time (an 80 or something like that, 100 if you count the Roman rump state).

[QuintusSertorius]

They've been getting financial support almost every turn, along with aiding in the placement of their armies and some additional units in places. I might give them back the provinces Hayasdan took, maybe that will pull their attention back south again. And give the Seleukids some funds.

Been taking it away from Pahlava, but I think now they have Seleukeia and Babylon they're rolling in it.

[QuintusSertorius]

Small wars in Spain, 162BC

The quaestor Appius Fabius Maximus had gone out to Hispania Ulterior with his father, the proconsular governor. His pater was fully-occupied with matters of administration in the provincial capital, Gader, and gave his son authority to prosecute an action against the local tribes. Finding no one to fight, Maximus besieged a nearby settlement and set his men to ravaging the landscape.

The response wasn't long coming, a warband gathered under a local chieftain.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Iberian%20Wars/IberianBattle3Start.jpg

The Romans outnumbered the Iberians by a large margin, but Fabius took no chances.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Iberian%20Wars/IberianBattle3-1.jpg

The first group arrived, their skirmishers harrassing the Romans from behind the fighting line.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Iberian%20Wars/IberianBattle3-2.jpg

The actions of the Gallic allied cavalry routed one band. Others soon followed.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Iberian%20Wars/IberianBattle3-3.jpg

The second warband attacked from the other side.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Iberian%20Wars/IberianBattle3-4.jpg

Meanwhile the remnants of the first group were ridden down.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Iberian%20Wars/IberianBattle3-5.jpg

On the right things were touch and go. Shock infantry and the warchief's personal guard fought hard.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Iberian%20Wars/IberianBattle3-6.jpg

Fabius ordered the Left ala and First legion to begin an enveloping maneuver.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Iberian%20Wars/IberianBattle3-7.jpg

The warchief tried to flee from the fight, leaving his men to their fate.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Iberian%20Wars/IberianBattle3-8.jpg

But the allied cavalry hunted him down.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Iberian%20Wars/IberianBattle3-9.jpg

Dismayed by his cowardice, his men gave up.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Iberian%20Wars/IberianBattle3-10.jpg

Fabius had his first real victory as commander of an army.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Iberian%20Wars/IberianBattle3End.jpg

[QuintusSertorius]

161BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II161BC.jpg

My slow conquest of Spain, I doubt I'll be able to keep Sucum-Murgi, but hopefully Baikor will stick. I made the mistake of not enslaving (ie Expelling) the population and there's a lot of them that don't like Rome. Plus the young quaestor is a bit rubbish as a governor. No levels in anything.

The Seleukids haven't won back their heartland, I just FD'd them a couple of provinces to slow the Parthians down a little bit. Between them and the Hai things aren't so good for what's left of the once-mighty empire. I gave them Cilicia as well, don't want Pontos too powerful too soon.

Ptolemies are fighting back in Judea/Nabataia, might have to transport some Sabaen stacks to give them a hand there. Now that the Qarthadastim are fighting Kyrenaia (Epeiros), they're not faring so well against the Mauretanians. War on two fronts, I guess.

Makedonia and Koinon Hellenon are stalemated, which is good.

[||Lz3||]

are you using MAA city mod?:sweatdrop:

just guessing

[QuintusSertorius]

are you using MAA city mod?:sweatdrop:

just guessing

No; so I do have some huge metropolii (is that a word?) amongst my settlements.

[QuintusSertorius]

I'm going a bit slower than my "30-year rule" for advancing up my government types in Spain and Illyria. It's 159BC and it feels a bit soon to be moving to Romanised provinces already in those locations.

[QuintusSertorius]

Small Wars, Pannonia, 158BC

Decimus Sergius Esquilinus was quaestor to the governor of Illyricum, a man who had come to a public career a little later in life than many others. Thus he was keen to make his name through action and thus accelerate his progress up the cursus honorum. The governor was comfortable enough running things from Segestica, so Sergius took the army to stir up trouble amongst the local tribes.

He quickly found what he was looking for, approached by a delegation from an ousted king looking to reclaim his throne. He had once ruled in Vindobona, and if the Romans restored him he would curtail the activities of the Getic tribes in the region.

Vindobona wasn't heavily defended.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GetaiBattle1Start.jpg

After a brief investment, Sergius ordered the assault. After savage fighting, the settlement was taken.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GetaiBattle1End.jpg

157BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II157BC.jpg

Been some changes. I gave Vindobona to the Aedui, who are remarkably still my allies, and haven't attacked me yet. More buffer zoning between me and the Getai, as well as weakening them and balkanising the map some more. Sergius has picked up Warmonger, even though he's only fought about three battles. Seem to be getting that annoying trait far too often. You can see Samnites and Bruttians in the army, but I stopped recruiting them a while back. Using up the stocks of them that are still hanging about. Not going to keep Ak-Ink, just raid it.

Sucum-Murgi and Baikor remained loyal after all that, and are now being developed. Not too long before both armies there are extricated and replaced by levies. The Lusotanii are going to take Numantia again, not a problem I can fight my Celtiberian War against them, and give it back to the Aedui again.

The Seleukids continue to shrink, but slower than they might otherwise thanks to lots of cash given via the console and some hindering of Pahlava, Hayasdan and Pontos. I gave Saka some Parthian lands to the far north to reduce their treasury potential a bit. Plus they're supposed to be settling down, not continuing to roam the steppe. Saka finally took Baktra.

Useless Saba lost Meroe. Still it's only to the Rebels, so that's not too bad.

Makedonia are playing silly buggers and not trying to retake Demetrias.

[QuintusSertorius]

Small Wars, 157BC:

Serguis pursued his war against the Dacians to it's conclusion - a siege of their capital.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GetaiBattle2Start.jpg

In the hilly, wooded terrain it was difficult to get a complete picture of the battle.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GetaiBattle2-1.jpg

One band of archers attempted to surprise the Roman force, they were driven off by the allied cavalry.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GetaiBattle2-2.jpg

A Getic chief was killed in the fighting.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GetaiBattle2-3.jpg

With his death all organised resistance ended.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Small%20Wars/GetaiBattle2End.jpg

Sergius pillaged their capital and forced them to sign peace agreements and promises to pay tribute and honour Rome.

154BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II154BC.jpg

I've just realised, having had a decade or more of little to do, really, the next decade is going to be manic with wars all over the place. Just about to start things in Spain again, plan is to take Numantia and give it to the Aedui once more, and take Oxtraca. Only the latter is going to be a very slow thing, it's a 20-year long war so it'll mostly be low-level fighting. Pictured is an "provincialised" army, thus the Left ala is composed of Iberian troops. Once the Italians there are dead, I'll use some more Iberians, assuming I can recruit some more lorica caetratii, who are rare.

But I've soon got the Fourth Makedonian War and the Third Punic War to fight. I've already started mobilising for both - I recruited another army to replace the one in Illyria, and sent it to Sicily. I'm also going to get an Italian general (a la Sittius) and start recruiting African mercs to land in Numidia when the other army lands in north-east Africa.

I'll add one other army to the one in Illyria for the big push against everyone in Greek. Initially it'll be about the Makedonians, and giving a few of their settlements away. Then Koinon Hellenon, who I may use as the generic "Asiatic Greek" faction for a bit before I create Asia Province in the 130s. Tylis, Byzantion and Nikaia are all going to barbarian factions for a bit, saves me the effort of integrating them. I'm forseeing having the dual problems of not enough governors (might use Greek generals a fair bit) and more cash than I can spend at once, when Greece is mine.

May also need some more ships, Makedonia and KH both have some serious navies. Armies in Pergamon are going to be busy as well, with the Makedonian and KH provinces in Anatolia, who will start getting antsy when my Roman armies are stomping around their homelands.

The Seleukids are proving surprisingly resistant, holding on to what they have (with financial support) against the Parthians, Ptolemies, Hai, Sabaen and Pontos. Epeiros-Kyrenaia keep trying to take Lepki, which is a bit annoying.

[QuintusSertorius]

Iberian Wars, 153BC

Appius Aurelius Cotta, quaestor of nearer Spain, marched out to punish the Celtiberian tribes, who were raiding communities allied to Rome. He fell upon the raiders as they returned to their stronghold.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Iberian%20Wars/IberianBattle4Start.jpg

Neither side got the measure of the other, and in the end Roman numbers carried the day.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Iberian%20Wars/IberianBattle4End.jpg

Campaigning against the Lusitanian tribes, Appius Fabius Maximus was attacked by a large army.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Iberian%20Wars/IberianBattle5Start.jpg

He deployed on a hilltop.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Iberian%20Wars/IberianBattle5-1.jpg

Heedless of the steep climb, the Iberians advanced up the hill to the attack.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Iberian%20Wars/IberianBattle5-2.jpg

On the right, the allied cavalry moved to outflank a group of Iberian elites.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Iberian%20Wars/IberianBattle5-3.jpg

In the centre tired Iberians began to flee.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Iberian%20Wars/IberianBattle5-4.jpg

Panic spread like wildfire, turning flight to rout.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Iberian%20Wars/IberianBattle5-5.jpg

The Iberian chief was killed as he ran.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Iberian%20Wars/IberianBattle5-6.jpg

And Fabius had won the day.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Iberian%20Wars/IberianBattle5End.jpg

Later in the season, Fabius was attacked by a second Lusitanian army.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Iberian%20Wars/IberianBattle6Start.jpg

Again he took up a commanding position on the heights.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Iberian%20Wars/IberianBattle6-1.jpg

While it was a closer-run thing, his rested men fought downhill to victory.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Iberian%20Wars/IberianBattle6End.jpg

[QuintusSertorius]

152BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II152BC.jpg

Pictured is the rump of the once-mighty Seleukid empire. The whole thing fits in one screenshot. Still they're doing a good job of holding onto what they've got, so credit to them.

Had a couple of CTDs in the AI turn, fortunately non-replicable, but just gave up on re-fighting a reinforcement battle for Numantia which CTD'd on victory. I'll worry about it tomorrow, it's late.

Still gearing up for wars in Africa and Greece, put an Italian general on a ship to land in Mauretania and hopefully pick himself up a mercenary army. Going all-Numidian, or as close as I can manage for him.

Saka and Baktria are no longer at war. Instead Baktria and Pahlava are having a go. Possibly because I gave Aria to the Parthians in the hope it would either rebel, or the Baktrians would want it back. Hopefully that should slow Pahlava's steamroller-ing of the Seleukids by diverting attention in the opposite direction.

The Sweboz seem paralysed by the appearance of the Casse in their midst. Don't seem to want to attack them, so they're now fighting the Arverni on that narrow shared border.

I pushed the Lusotanii back to southern Ireland, they'd taken the north and Scotland off the Casse. I'm going to give them Tylis in a bit, the Aedui Byzantion and the Getai Nikaia. Given the effort it's taking to micro-manage so many factions, I'm tempted to destroy Makedonia and Koinon Hellenon, and leave their old provinces that I won't take immediately as rebel. Only concern is a big swathe of rebel territory in Asia Minor might encourage Pontos and the Seleukids to start expanding there.

I'm not going to preserve Qarthadast, they've had their time in the sun. Plus nowhere I could really put them, besides making them Numidia, perhaps. Seems a bit much, though.

[||Lz3||]

are you going to enslave (A.K.A exterminate) Qarthadast and then destroy everything inside it ??

that would be cool...

vengance!!:furious2:

[General Appo]

How do you intend to take out the Carthies? Use move_character to take all their cities (and of course abandon them) or another way?

[QuintusSertorius]

are you going to enslave (A.K.A exterminate) Qarthadast and then destroy everything inside it ??

that would be cool...

vengance!!:furious2:

Enslave, yes, not sure about destroying everything. I might do, it would make assimilation easier.


How do you intend to take out the Carthies? Use move_character to take all their cities (and of course abandon them) or another way?

I've got an army in Sicily waiting to be transported to take Atiqa first, then roll on to Adrumento and finally besiege Qart-Hadast itself (possibly landing another force at Lepki if need be). Meanwhile I'm already shipping an Italian general to Mauretania, where he'll raise a mercenary Numidian army to start rolling in from the west.

Mauretania I'll give to the Saba, Mashiliem and Numidia I'll probably let go rebel. I'm actually quite tempted to then FD the Saba out and have most of Africa rebel.

[General Appo]

That´s all good, but what of Phasania? Letting it rebel and say the Garamantines are controlling it would work for me.
It´s actually pretty strange that Garama is part of the raiding targets, considering the Romans didn´t raid it until 19 AD. Or so my meager sources say.

[QuintusSertorius]

That´s all good, but what of Phasania? Letting it rebel and say the Garamantines are controlling it would work for me.
It´s actually pretty strange that Garama is part of the raiding targets, considering the Romans didn´t raid it until 19 AD. Or so my meager sources say.

Not a bad idea, to be honest the more of the map that's rebel, the better IMO.

[Aaldaemon]

I'm a bit saddened to see the state of the once mighty Seleucids... Strangely enough I'd kind of like to play this map as them... rebuild the Empire! - seeing that your map looks delicious when it comes to who controls what. :yes:

[QuintusSertorius]

I'm a bit saddened to see the state of the once mighty Seleucids... Strangely enough I'd kind of like to play this map as them... rebuild the Empire! - seeing that your map looks delicious when it comes to who controls what. :yes:

It's going to get quite a bit more mixed up, too!

[QuintusSertorius]

Fourth Makedonian War, 150BC

Thessaly

Roman demands for Makedonia to cease all warfare without the consent of the Senate had fallen on deaf ears. Rome's revenge took some time to gather, but was total. Two consular armies were dispatched to Greece to punish the temerity of their once-allies.

The first, under Decimus Sergius Esquilinus, was a new formation of fresh drafts. There hadn't been time to properly weld them together into a legion, but years of warfare against Qarthadast and others had made Roman military thinkers complacent. They'd forgotten that it was through constant fighting and marching that the previous generation had beaten Nepheris and taken Spain. While the men were confident in their general's record, he was not so sure about their experience.

He attacked the main Makedonian army in the mountains. He had numbers, but the mercenary general Kalisthenis had hardnened veterans amongst his ranks.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle5Start.jpg

After some marching and counter-marching, the lines finally met on a wooded slope. Sergius' tribune Numerius Cornelius Rufinus, son of the consul, commanded the position of honour on the right. Gaius Thurinus commanded the left.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle5-1.jpg

Orestes Pellaios, a Makedonian noble commanded the enemy right wing. Wasting no time, he charged the allied slingers, provoking a response from Thurinus and the equites extraordinarii, along with some allied cavalry.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle5-2.jpg

Unaware of the fighting on the left, Sergius ordered the army forward to meet the Makedonian line.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle5-3.jpg

With fighting all along the line, there was little Sergius could do but encourage the men in his immediate vicinity.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle5-4.jpg

Spotting an opportunity, he ordered unengaged maniples around the Makedonian line.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle5-5.jpg

On the left, Pellaios was overcome.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle5-6.jpg

The fight ground on for an hour with little sign of a victor. Rufinus caught sight of Kalisthenis, and charged after him bringing allied cavalry and some of the triarii with him. Fighting his way through the Greek's bodyguard, he ran the enemy general through with his sword.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle5-7.jpg

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle5-8.jpg

Both Makedonian wings routed.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle5-9.jpg

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle5-10.jpg

But the elite heavy phalanxes in the centre stood their ground.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle5-11.jpg

The fight dragged on and on, both sides reaching their limits of endurance.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle5-12.jpg

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle5-13.jpg

Then little by little, the surrounded phalanxes began to tire.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle5-15.jpg

Eventually even they gave way.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle5-16.jpg

A Pyrrhic victory had been won, but Sergius' army was in no condition to carry the campaign to the Makedonian capital. He immediately sent to Italy for reinforcements.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle5End.jpg

Anatolia

Meanwhile in Asia Minor, Pergamon was acting in concert with Rome to defeat Makedonia's Asiatic Greek allies. Taking up the mantle from Euergetes, Publius Fabius Sopatros commanded one of Pergamon's armies, and marched to invest Ipsos.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle6Start.jpg

The relieving army were delayed, so Sopatros got to work.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle6-1.jpg

His skirmishers whittled down the first army's light troops.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle6-2.jpg

Then the line engaged with a clash of shields and weapons.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle6-3.jpg

His light troops and cavalry moved to envelop the enemy left.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle6-4.jpg

The light cavalry charged the enemy general.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle6-5.jpg

Caught off guard, he was overwhelmed.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle6-6.jpg

As though on cue, his death heralded the arrival of Makedonian reinforcements.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle6-7.jpg

But the panic had already begun to set into his army, who were unaware that their salvation was at hand.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle6-8.jpg

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle6-9.jpg

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle6-10.jpg

The arriving army came on as a disordered mob, with little sign of direction.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle6-11.jpg

Some elements were routed immediately.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle6-12.jpg

The remainder didn't stand.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle6-13.jpg

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle6-14.jpg

Their leader was killed fleeing.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle6-15.jpg

And in contrast to the Roman effort in Makedonia proper, Pergamon had won a great victory.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle6-16.jpg

[QuintusSertorius]

150BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II150BC.jpg

The theatres against Makedonia. My main aim is to blitz them out of Asia Minor and those outside of Makedonia. They're going to be gifts to other factions. Ipsos has a skeleton garrison left now after Sopatros' victory, that's going to Koinon Hellenon, same with Side. I think I'll leave them as the "Asiatic Greek" faction for a while - least til it's time to create Asia province. The alternative would be to make the Kingdom of Pergamon proper, but that would mean a load of client rulers and fiddling with scripts. Wouldn't take that long to knock off Mytilene, Ipsos, Sardis and Side.

Nikaia I've given to the Getai, Byzantion is going to the Aedui. Tylis when I get there is for the Casse or Arverni. It's a quick solution that doesn't benefit any one faction overly, and prevents the creation of a power base in the region too. Pella and Thermon I'm keeping. Once I turn on the Greeks, Demetrias is first, then a blitz of Greece.

I realised why the first battle was so hard; almost all of the troops were super-veterans. Here's the reformed phalangites:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Makedonian%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle5-14.jpg

I'd originally spawned them in Thermon and Demetrias to stop the Makedonians being steam-rollered by the Greeks, since they seemed incapable of recruiting them, even though they could. Now here they were being used against me. Same goes with 7-experience peltastai, who were better than my principes. They had three of the former, and four or five of the latter. Against my newly-recruited army. Until the enemy general died, it was touch and go, I thought I was going to lose. Everyone got badly mauled.

In not too many turns I've also got to think about my war in Africa, plan is to roll up Qarthadast from two directions. Got an Italian general recruiting African mercs, I might resort to using create_unit if I can't roist up enough of them. Or bribing some Sabaen stacks.

I gave the Aedui Numantia back after it surrendered without a fight. Busy, busy.

[QuintusSertorius]

149BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II149BC.jpg

Brief update, just started the new year and have now declared war on Qarthadast with an invasion of north Africa and investment of Atiqa (offscreen). Also about to land a mercenary army near Siga.

Byzantion was taken by siege and is now in the hands of the Aedui, who can hopefully keep hold of it since it's bordering on rebellion. Nikaia seems safe with the Getai. Tylis I think I'll give to the Arverni to keep things fragmented, not sure if I want the Casse around these parts.

My Pergamene armies are on the move, one to be resupplied then take Mytilene, the other to take Side and give it away.

Had to raise the siege of Pella, but as you can see that allowed a complete resupply with fresh troops from southern Italy. The leftovers now become reinforcements. Hopefully that full stack of Makedonians won't just garrison themselves in Pella, but will actually come out and fight.

[||Lz3||]

the screenshot after you said "Some elements were routed immediately." (post number 235, fifth picture from the end to the beggining) is awesome! :surprised: :shocked2:

makes me want to play whit huge settings so badly ... but crap!! my laptop has it's graphic card attached to it so I cant change it! and its a crappy useless intel of 128 mb :wall: :furious2: so I can only play whit large settings ....otherwise I wouldn't be able to siege huge cities whit big armies... :furious2:

[QuintusSertorius]

A world at war, 149BC

In the year 149BC, the Roman Republic was at war on several fronts. A low-level conflict continued to burn in Spain. The war with Makedonia rolled on, and a treacherous action by the Greek city-states brought them into the conflict, seeking advantage now their main rival was occupied with Rome. Rome had also grown concerned about the ability of Qarthadast to wage war without the Senate's consent, and the manpower they were putting into their military effort. The spectre of Nepheris was raised and ordinary Romans knew the fear of those dark days.

Africa

The invasion of Africa began with the investment of Atiqa, a city that had once harboured Roman sympathies. The propraetor Caius Claudius Pulcher, along with his quaestor and legate Cnaeus Aemilius Scaurus brought an army across from Sicily. They were immediately attacked by a small relief column.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/3rdPunicWarBattle1Start.jpg

They had absolute numerical superiority, yet defending their homeland, the Qarthadastim made a fight of it. They brought several elite formations to the battle.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/3rdPunicWarBattle1-1.jpg

In the fighting, the commander of Atiqa's garrison was killed.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/3rdPunicWarBattle1-2.jpg

The rest were quickly mopped up.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/3rdPunicWarBattle1End.jpg

Anatolia

Meanwhile in Asia Minor, several Asiatic Greek communities banded their armies together to attack Rome's ally, Pergamon. Her armies were away doing Rome's bidding, leaving the city weakened.

They surprised the retired Italian mercenary General Pulcher while he patrolled the city's environs.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/GreekWarBattle18Start.jpg

His men fought hard, but they were outnumbered. The man himself managed to escape when he could see the situation was lost.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/GreekWarBattle18End.jpg

He had barely escaped one battle when, falling back on Pergamon Pulcher was attacked again. This time the garrison of the city spotted the approaching army and marched out to rescue him.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/GreekWarBattle19Start.jpg

This time the battle was a very different affair, and the eastern Greeks were routed decisively.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/GreekWarBattle19End.jpg

Epirus

Acting in concert with the east Greeks, those on the mainland attacked Roman Epirus.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/GreekWarBattle20Start.jpg

However after laying siege, they retreated on the arrival of one of the proconsuls and his army.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/GreekWarBattle20End.jpg

Anatolia

In revenge for the men lost in the surprise attack, Pulcher led some of the garrison of Pergamon out to attack the Asiatic army.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/GreekWarBattle21Start.jpg

The memories of his brave soldiers were avenged and their shades placated in a crushing victory.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/GreekWarBattle21End.jpg

Marching to depose the Makedonian allies from Side, Sopatros happened upon a band of freed slaves.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/GreekWarBattle22Start.jpg

They were quickly eliminated.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/GreekWarBattle22End.jpg

Africa

West of the Roman forces, their Numidian allies, led by an Italian mercenary attacked one of Qarthadast's allies in Mauretania. Curius had numbers on his side, but his troops were mainly skirmishers and other light infantry, not the sort to stand in the line of battle.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/3rdPunicWarBattle2Start.jpg

He built three rams, and had a simple plan - take the gate and the walls either side so his men could pour in and use their numerical advantage. First his skirmishers moved in to soften up the enemy, and crucially drive off their elephants.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/3rdPunicWarBattle2-1.jpg

Then they streamed into the city and the fighting for the streets began.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/3rdPunicWarBattle2-2.jpg

The garrison commander was killed in the streets by some Garamantine mercenaries.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/3rdPunicWarBattle2-3.jpg

The final fight took place in the town square, where an elite phalanx waited to sell their lives dearly.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/3rdPunicWarBattle2-4.jpg

The struggle was hard and long.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/3rdPunicWarBattle2-5.jpg

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/3rdPunicWarBattle2-6.jpg

But they weren't immortals, just men, and eventually succumbed. Curius now had a base of operations to store his supplies.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/3rdPunicWarBattle2End.jpg

Makedonia

Having resupplied his army, Sergius heard reports of another Makedonian army marching from Pella. He came out to meet them and offered battle.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle7Start.jpg

He deployed in the usual manner, and allowed the enemy to approach.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle7-1.jpg

His slingers whittled down their light cavalry and skirmishers.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle7-2.jpg

Then he ordered the advance.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle7-3.jpg

For a moment some artillery scared the men, Sergius ordered his velites to kill their crews.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle7-4.jpg

Then they turned their attention to some naked Galatians.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle7-5.jpg

As the cavalry duelled on the wings, the main line advanced to meet the enemy.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle7-6.jpg

The velites took their places on the wings to support the cavalry.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle7-7.jpg

Initially there was stalemate.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle7-8.jpg

Then slowly Roman maniples began to slip around the enemy flanks.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle7-9.jpg

On the left, the allied cavaly routed their opposite numbers.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle7-10.jpg

The loss of cavalry cover shattered the confidence of some on the Makedonian flanks.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle7-11.jpg

Marching back to the battle having routed their opponents, the pedites extraordinarii happened upon the enemy general and charged.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle7-12.jpg

His bodyguard fought well, but were eventually driven off.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle7-13.jpg

Sergius stayed put behind the fighting line, encouraging his men and scorning the enemy.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle7-14.jpg

Rufinus had been chasing routers, now he charged the rear of the Makedonian line, sowing panic.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle7-15.jpg

Hovering but undecided over whether to stay or go, the enemy general was caught by the allied cavalry.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle7-16.jpg

He fought valiantly, but was badly outnumbered. Meanwhile, outflanked and surrounded, his battle line collapsed.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle7-17.jpg

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle7-18.jpg

He himself was killed trying to flee.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle7-19.jpg

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle7-20.jpg

And a decisive victory had been won.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle7End.jpg

Pella was invested once more, and this war might soon be brought to a close.

[QuintusSertorius]

149BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II149BC2.jpg

Only a couple of turns on and more change. Byzantion and Sinope revolted to Koinon Hellenon, now they're at war with Pontos (EDIT: I just spotted on the map that Charax revolted back to the Seleukids too). I'll leave it for now, but it's not going to stand. Sergius was resupplied with the survivors of the previous battle - I'll have to send more reinforcements over there should be lose much more. Didn't get as badly chewed up this time, what with their lack of elite phalanxes.

The army besieging Thermon has a half-stack of garrison troops from Epidamnos and Ambrakia waiting to move in once it's taken. Then he can swing round and take Demetrias before turning south for Greece. The stack at Pella is headed to Tylis to give that away before Makedonia is all but done.

Cheeky KH attacked me for no reason, I was planning to do them in soon anyway, so I guess it doesn't matter really. All I lost were some merc leftovers I used for replacements, the general managed to survive. He's actually been retired now, I don't even need him. Gives me a pretext to kick them out of Greece, though.

My conquest of Africa has begun. I realised Atiqa still has the barracks I built there in the Second War all those years ago, so I can recruit Numidians. I included a siege battle for the sake of change, I usually don't bother because I find them boring, but I figured why not.

A lot of battles for one turn, I don't know how people playing without FD and such manage with battles all the time. I'd get bored if every turn was like that, especially some of the stupid things the AI attacked me with. Why that stack of slaves was wandering around I don't know - they only killed one of my men and were wiped out.

These all-Roman armies, while bland, are very effective and easy to resupply too.

Had some funny buggy stuff going on with who was in command in the first African battle - it said the legate was, yet the other guy was, only the legate was the one credited with the battle. Really annoys me how the engine chooses who's in command.

Also got a bit annoyed with the suicidal generals ruining some otherwise good battles.

[QuintusSertorius]

Damned double-post. Won't let me delete it, either...

...still takes it onto a new page away from the image-heavy previous one.

[||Lz3||]

I have found that alex.exe generals are less likely to commit suicide...:shifty:

but still I'm not sure of the advantages of playing an historical campaign whit alex... since the enemy usually uses weird tactics which wont let me use standard formations and I think the fact that the AI can retrain makes it harder to the AI itself to expand...

[QuintusSertorius]

Winter campaigning season, 149BC

Africa

With the propraetor Curius Dentatus taking care of administering Atiqa and settling local disputes, his quaestor Aemilius Scaurus continued to enjoy command of the army of Africa. Ravaging the lands around the Qarthadastim captial, he came upon a column heading to bolster the forces in the capital. Surprisingly, despite Roman numbers they chose to fight.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/3rdPunicWarBattle3Start.jpg

The battle opened with a race for the high ground, one Scaurus wasn't prepared for. The Qarthadastim commander won the opening move, dominating the heights.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/3rdPunicWarBattle3-1.jpg

But the Qarthadastim artillery was too slow to match the pace of the foot and cavalry, and was mercilessly raked by slingshot.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/3rdPunicWarBattle3-2.jpg

The Romans were forced to march uphill to meet the enemy, through a hail of missile fire.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/3rdPunicWarBattle3-3.jpg

Battle was joined.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/3rdPunicWarBattle3-4.jpg

Appolonia pitched into the fray.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/3rdPunicWarBattle3-5.jpg

He disengaged, and was then pursued by the equites extraordinarii. Perhaps panicking, he continued to run.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/3rdPunicWarBattle3-6.jpg

When he turned to stand his ground, the fighting was brutal. Two sets of heavily armoured men on big horses hacking at each other with sword and spear.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/3rdPunicWarBattle3-7.jpg

Thinking their general had fled the field, his centre broke.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/3rdPunicWarBattle3-8.jpg

Even as Appolonia fought on, his army was now in full flight.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/3rdPunicWarBattle3-9.jpg

Seeing which way the battle had gone, he tried to get away, and was killed.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/3rdPunicWarBattle3-10.jpg

Scaurus had prevented the reinforcements arriving in Qart-Hadast, and bolstered his own reputation as a foe of the Qarthadastim.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/3rdPunicWarBattle3-11.jpg

Makedonia

In Makedonia Sergius' investment of Pella was threatened by the arrival of a Makedonian force from Tylis. He broke off the siege and offered battle; the combined Makedonian force was about even in size to his own.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle8Start.jpg

Sergius waited for the Makedonians to make the first move.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle8-1.jpg

As the relief force came on, the garrison from Pella could be seen in the distance.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle8-2.jpg

Allied cavalry routed some elements.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle8-3.jpg

Soon they'd driven most of the relief force away.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle8-4.jpg

The commander of the garrison foolish hared after the allied cavalry, Rufinus took the opportunity to attack. He drove the garrison commander away, but couldn't catch him.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle8-5.jpg

Sergius ordered the advance to meet Pella's garrison, which was composed primarily of pike phalanxes.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle8-6.jpg

Having seen their commander flee, some of the levy phalangites caved in under little pressure.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle8-7.jpg

An envelopment began from the right while the elite phalanxes engaged.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle8-8.jpg

Charges to the rear of another group of levies had an impact.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle8-9.jpg

The brittle confidence of the Makedonians shattered.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle8-10.jpg

Only a few elites contined to fight.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle8-11.jpg

But it was ultimately a futile gesture.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/MakedonianWarBattle8End.jpg

Pella was taken.

Africa

Scaurus' camp was attacked by two Qarthadastim raiding parties.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/3rdPunicWarBattle4Start.jpg

He hid a part of his force in the woods, and allowed them to come to him.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/3rdPunicWarBattle4-1.jpg

While there were a number of elite formations, they were simply insufficient to the task.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/149BC%20Battles/3rdPunicWarBattle4End.jpg

[QuintusSertorius]

A World at War, 148-147BC

Greece

Titus Sergius Silus, no relation to Decimus Sergius Esquilinus, left his tribune to manage things in Thermon while he advanced the campaign against the Greeks. He had numbers on his side.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/World%20at%20War%20149-147/GreekWarBattle23Start.jpg

The Greeks put themselves in a strong position on a hilltop, and it took some fancy maneuvering to get into position to fight.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/World%20at%20War%20149-147/GreekWarBattle23-1.jpg

Once his skirmishers had had enough, the line advanced.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/World%20at%20War%20149-147/GreekWarBattle23-2.jpg

Their captain was killed by a slinger as he loitered in front of his line.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/World%20at%20War%20149-147/GreekWarBattle23-3.jpg

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/World%20at%20War%20149-147/GreekWarBattle23-4.jpg

Panic spread like wildfire.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/World%20at%20War%20149-147/GreekWarBattle23-5.jpg

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/World%20at%20War%20149-147/GreekWarBattle23-6.jpg

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/World%20at%20War%20149-147/GreekWarBattle23-7.jpg

It was all the Romans could do to keep up with the fleeing Greeks.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/World%20at%20War%20149-147/GreekWarBattle23End.jpg

Africa

Pillaging the lands around Adrumeto, Scarus was attacked by two Qarthadastim armies.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/World%20at%20War%20149-147/3rdPunicWarBattle5Start.jpg

He met them on an arid plain, and let them come to him. Though they had numbers, his men were confident.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/World%20at%20War%20149-147/3rdPunicWarBattle5-1.jpg

They began to combine their forces before meeting the Romans.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/World%20at%20War%20149-147/3rdPunicWarBattle5-2.jpg

However little order was evident in their battle plan.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/World%20at%20War%20149-147/3rdPunicWarBattle5-3.jpg

Fighting spread across the whole Roman line.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/World%20at%20War%20149-147/3rdPunicWarBattle5-4.jpg

Some of the first units routed.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/World%20at%20War%20149-147/3rdPunicWarBattle5-5.jpg

Yutpan Emerita made the mistake of trying to ride down some principes.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/World%20at%20War%20149-147/3rdPunicWarBattle5-6.jpg

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/World%20at%20War%20149-147/3rdPunicWarBattle5-7.jpg

Men began to waver at the death of their leader.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/World%20at%20War%20149-147/3rdPunicWarBattle5-8.jpg

Then suddenly all resistance disappeared.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/World%20at%20War%20149-147/3rdPunicWarBattle5-9.jpg

Scaurus had won, but at a hideous cost to his cavalry, who were all but decimated.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/World%20at%20War%20149-147/3rdPunicWarBattle5End.jpg

Later in the season his weary troops were attacked in their camp.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/World%20at%20War%20149-147/3rdPunicWarBattle6Start.jpg

The attack was easily driven off.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/World%20at%20War%20149-147/3rdPunicWarBattle6End.jpg

Greece

Advancing to Demetrias, Silus was attacked by a smaller Greek force.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/World%20at%20War%20149-147/GreekWarBattle24Start.jpg

After a desultory exchange, most of the Greeks were routed.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/World%20at%20War%20149-147/GreekWarBattle24End.jpg

Anatolia

Moving against the Antigonid allies on Lesbos, Manius Sempronius Chronos launched a surprise attack on the island.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/World%20at%20War%20149-147/MakedonianWarBattle9Start.jpg

The landing was difficult, but a foothold was gained and the Makedonian force reduced.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/World%20at%20War%20149-147/MakedonianWarBattle9End.jpg

(I had to auto-calc because this one froze every time I tried to play it - land bridge reinforcement issues. And yes, I used auto_win because I'd gotten really annoyed at trying to play it three times with it freezing every time the battle started.)

Greece

Silus' road to Demetrias was beginning to seem like it was paved with skulls. Several Greek forces fell upon his route of march.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/World%20at%20War%20149-147/GreekWarBattle25Start.jpg

But he drove off all three armies and kept his own force intact.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/World%20at%20War%20149-147/GreekWarBattle25End.jpg

(More reinforcement-related technical issues, even better here it CTD'd after I'd won, so once again auto-calc and auto_win)

Anatolia

Chronos concluded the siege of Mytilene.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/World%20at%20War%20149-147/MakedonianWarBattle10Start.jpg

He waited for the Antigonids to make their move.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/World%20at%20War%20149-147/MakedonianWarBattle10-1.jpg

The first group joined battle, hoping their reinforcements would arrive in time.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/World%20at%20War%20149-147/MakedonianWarBattle10-2.jpg

Some of the levies were the first to crack.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/World%20at%20War%20149-147/MakedonianWarBattle10-3.jpg

The arrival of the cavalry turned that into a general rout.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/World%20at%20War%20149-147/MakedonianWarBattle10-4.jpg

Chronos advanced to meet the second group.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/World%20at%20War%20149-147/MakedonianWarBattle10-5.jpg

They fought harder than the first had.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/World%20at%20War%20149-147/MakedonianWarBattle10-6.jpg

Their commander narrowly escaped death, then fled the field.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/World%20at%20War%20149-147/MakedonianWarBattle10-7.jpg

The cavalry returned from pursuit of the first army's routers.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/World%20at%20War%20149-147/MakedonianWarBattle10-8.jpg

In some confused fighting, a noble with the second army was killed by Chronos.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/World%20at%20War%20149-147/MakedonianWarBattle10-12.jpg

Fighting continued for a time, then the last of the enemy fell.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/World%20at%20War%20149-147/MakedonianWarBattle10-13.jpg

And the last of the Antigonid allies had been driven from Asia Minor.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/World%20at%20War%20149-147/MakedonianWarBattle10End.jpg

Africa

Continuing to threaten Adrumeto, Scaurus was attacked again.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/World%20at%20War%20149-147/3rdPunicWarBattle7Start.jpg

The feeble effort was foiled. (The AI was getting annoying at this point for wasting my time with these useless little armies, instead of combining it's forces properly)

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/World%20at%20War%20149-147/3rdPunicWarBattle7End.jpg

Greece

The Greeks attempted to relieve Silus' investment of Demetrias.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/World%20at%20War%20149-147/GreekWarBattle26Start.jpg

The failed. (More post-battle CTDs...)

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/World%20at%20War%20149-147/GreekWarBattle26End.jpg

Africa

Scaurus was besieging Adrumeto when a band of Qarthadastim attempted to break through the blockade. That brought Adrumeto's garrison out to battle.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/World%20at%20War%20149-147/3rdPunicWarBattle8Start.jpg

Scaurus waited for them beyond a grove of trees, anchoring his right on a rocky formation. He was still desparately short of cavalry.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/World%20at%20War%20149-147/3rdPunicWarBattle8-1.jpg

The Qarthadastim came on.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/World%20at%20War%20149-147/3rdPunicWarBattle8-2.jpg

And vainly hurled themselves against the Roman line.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/World%20at%20War%20149-147/3rdPunicWarBattle8-3.jpg

Giscon fell.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/World%20at%20War%20149-147/3rdPunicWarBattle8-4.jpg

And that decided the battle, Adrumeto was taken, and it's population sold into slavery.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/World%20at%20War%20149-147/3rdPunicWarBattle8End.jpg

[QuintusSertorius]

Spain

The war against the Lusitanian tribes and their allies continued to burn slowly. The Lusitanian Segobricoi had slipped past the army of Further Spain to attack Baikor. Bringing the army of Nearer Spain to it's relief, Appius Aurelius Cotta attacked.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/World%20at%20War%20149-147/IberianBattle7Start.jpg

The garrison of Baikor didn't arrive at the scheduled time, leaving Cotta to face the Iberians alone.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/World%20at%20War%20149-147/IberianBattle7-1.jpg

They came on quickly and soon everyone was fighting for their very lives.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/World%20at%20War%20149-147/IberianBattle7-2.jpg

Then inexplicably, the pressure eased. Some of the Lusotanii had spotted the arrival of a second army, but Cotta was unaware of this.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/World%20at%20War%20149-147/IberianBattle7-3.jpg

Some of those left in the fight began to waver.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/World%20at%20War%20149-147/IberianBattle7-4.jpg

They were caught between the two Roman forces.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/World%20at%20War%20149-147/IberianBattle7-5.jpg

And those who didn't escape were shown little mercy.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/World%20at%20War%20149-147/IberianBattle7End.jpg

Greece

Having turned Tylis over to the Thracian tribes, Sergius Esquilinus, conqueror of Makedonia, turned his attention to Greece. He brought his army down to besiege Athens itself. The response from the Greek communities nearby was immediate, raising men to resist the invaders.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/World%20at%20War%20149-147/GreekWarBattle27Start.jpg

The battle itself took place on a wooded hill, and was difficult to follow.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/World%20at%20War%20149-147/GreekWarBattle27-1.jpg

But the result was never in doubt.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/World%20at%20War%20149-147/GreekWarBattle27End.jpg

146BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II146BC.jpg

I've been rather busy trying to close out the two major wars I'm now fighting, with Koinon Hellenon and Qarthadast. Makedonia are finished, they're now Krete as you can see at the bottom of the screen.

Korinthos and Chalkis will be taken next turn, leaving just thinly-defended Sparte before Greece is mine. Then I think I'll rest for a bit, making KH my protectorate. I'll leave mopping up until the 130sBC when I create Asia Province.

Offscreen I've besieged Qart-Hadast itself. The mercenary army that's been busy in the west is aboard ship and I'll use it to take Lepki and Garama. The latter I'll probably leave to rebel. I note the Saba couldn't keep hold of Sala. Useless. Numidia is a client kingdom which I'll pretty much leave alone. Might try to make it rebel when the client ruler there dies. Tempted to turn the whole of north Africa that I don't hold rebel. But then I wouldn't have a proper Numidian War, so may give it to Saba later then get to warring.

Pahlava are kicking seven shades out of Baktria. Pontos seem incapable of retaking Sinope, even though they have the men to do it.

Ptolemies recently took Judea off the Seleukids. Still a hot war over there, everything to play for.

I'm hoping the money from Africa, Greece and Makedonia will allow me to recruit some more permanent stacks. Need at least one for Makedonia and one for Africa. Maybe replace the one in Sicily and Illyria.

The placeholder is for about 100 screenshots and the better part of fifteen or so battles. Don't have the willpower to put them up before I sleep, too late. Some frustrating ones in there with the AI failing to combine stacks to make an actual fight of it, and some reinforcement and land-bridge related CTDs. As well as an annoying CTD after Heroic Victory with my mercenary army of African light troops.

[General Appo]

He, Krete looks a bot overpopulated.
Good going, hope to maybe see some screens from the fall of Carthage.

[QuintusSertorius]

He, Krete looks a bot overpopulated.
Good going, hope to maybe see some screens from the fall of Carthage.

Yeah, every time Pontos and the Hai get annoying, I have to put their armies in "time out" on Krete. I've moved most of Baktria's armies back home from that island off the Arabian peninsular now; they need everything they can get against a rampant Pahlava.

Fall of Carthage is coming!

[QuintusSertorius]

145BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II145BC.jpg

Not happy at all right now, because I just had three big battles with screenshots, and I deleted them. Why? Because I seem to have picked up a persistent bug that causes a CTD on the beginning of my turn, but I thought it was on an AI turn so after the CTD I deleted the screenshots. Start the game up again, and the autosave is at the start of my turn, so the battles did happen. Only now I can't make a report on what happened.

There were two in Spain and the final defence of Kart-Hadast. Musing over whether I should destroy every building there now that I've taken it. Already exterminated the population, all 30-odd thousand of them. Just have to take Lepki and Garama, and the Qarthadastim are no more. KH are now my protectorate with their weird collection of provinces, but they're massing troops near Pergamon so I'm expecting an imminent attack.

Pontos have finally besieged Sinope, hopefully they'll take it back soon.

[QuintusSertorius]

144BC:

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/II144BC.jpg

Things are much quieter now, just mopping up the last Qarthadastim settlement. Then I'll make Mauretania rebel so the Saba have only Gaetulia. I'll leave the rest of Africa rebel. All my military attentions will turn then to Spain.

I'm a little worried about the Getai's military build-up. They can't attack me directly any more, but they've got lots of big stacks parked on their borders with me. For some reason they won't attack either Aedui or Arverni, nor vice versa. Barbarian honour?

I've got my first agnomen, Caius Aemilius Scaurus is now Africanus courtesy of taking Carthago.

https://img.photobucket.com/albums/v66/Kiero/EB%20screenshots/Africanus.jpg

Got several candidates who could trigger the Marian reforms, so I haven't built the sixth latifunda in Italy. I want to wait until at least the 130s or 120s before allowing the possibility and losing my source of troops.

[||Lz3||]

The senate demands you to destroy everything in karth-hadast!

vengance!! :furious2:


:2thumbsup: