The Legacy of Megas Alexandros - a seleucid AAR [Archive]

Lysimachos

06-03-2008, 21:18

Don't let yourself be fooled by my name, I'm not going to take revenge from inside Seleukos' Palace for what he has done to me ;)

Some notes about my concept and background, which you may read before or after the chapter:
- I'm running EB on a notebook which is some years old and which has a graphics chip that is not designed for 3d, so it has some problems displaying some things. Thus there will be only few screenshots from battles (in some distances there simply are black blots instead of men) and from the stratmap itself (which is shown mostly in shades of grey and black), because it would just be ugly. As battle descriptions are mostly text, I'll try to make them a bit more colourful than they really were ~:) (in fact I autoresolve most of my battles). Scrolls are no problem, but i'm prone to forget taking screenies...
- Due to the specs of my computer i play with “normal” unit sizes (phalanx unit 60 + 2 officers). When referring to numbers of soldiers, i multiply the number from the game by 20, so that a nearly full or full stack has about 16 to 22 thousand soldiers, which is not to much for a successor's army, in my opinion. Really small skirmishes will not be represented at this scale, but could have an appearance in text. EDIT: I might change this to a factor of 40, as I have seen most people multiplying the huge unit scale by ten (and since huge equals normal x 4...)
- I think a story about a huge empire is of more interest if it is not too powerful. This has some consequences for my game:
- You may notice that I'm playing quite passive. It is possible to make some serious progress against the ptolemies in rather short time, but this is not what I want, as I have to preserve them as a strong rival, able to get me in serious trouble later on.
- The Seleucids have seen the legitimation of their rule 1. in Alexander's instruction to appoint the one as his heir who proves strongest and 2. in the makedon tradition of a military kingdom, meaning a king gets his legitimation by his assembled host (don't know if there is a technical term in english language). Thus, in contradiction to the ptolemaic practice, the seleucid Kings lead their armies by themselves. This means for me that a major campaign will only be lead by the King or his heir, who often served as a co-ruler because of the vast territory of the empire. This, in turn, has some practical consequences, as the fate of the kingdom will depend greatly on the wits and health of its king...
- I'm sure there will be some weak kings in the future, but i hope, i'll get someone who qualifies as a “Megas”, too :)
- I'm twisting history, but I also try to use it as inspiration or guideline (for example that military kingdom thing).
- I know I'm inconsistent in my use of british or american english, so please just don't bother ~;)

Chapter 1: Baptism by Fire

Dust is dispersed when two feet hit the ground. The feet are clad in light boots of soft, red leather, which have become gray from a long travel, as has the dark red cloak which the tall young man has wound around his shoulders. The man's beard has grown wild, as he had not allowed himself to have it shaved for several weeks, but the piercing glance of his clear and proud brown eyes reveal that this had to be a man of most noble birth.
With long, resolute steps he covers the last few meters to the height of the hill, while one of his inferiors takes hold of his horse's reins, a black arabian steed of beautiful and noble physique.
With folded arms the young man watches the plain in the south, squinting because of the burning sun of the early afternoon. In the distance a small cloud of dust reveals the approach of several horsemen.
“Oh, Strategos, our scouts are returning!” exclaimes an aide nearby. “I'm not blind!” answers the annoyed young general in a harsh voice. He turns to the speaker. “Nor am I deaf!”

The young Strategos' name is Theodoros, son to Antiochos Soter and Kleronomos Basileois of the Arche Seleukeia, since Antiochos had his first born executed for treason. The realm of Seleukos Nikator sees difficult times, now in the 42nd year of the Seleucid Era, the eleventh year of Antiochos' rule.
In the west, the conflict with Ptolemaios II Philadelphos has not yet been settled and the seleucid influence in Asia Mikra is fading, while in the east Satraps and Vassals of the Arche gain confidence in their own strength and the absence of central power and the first of them even dare to challenge Antiochos' hegemony.
Two years ago Antiochos lead his men to Syria to fight the Ptolemaioi. He send his second born, Theodoros, to the east to restore order and authority in the empire's eastern satrapies, while Sarpedon, the third born, was declared Emporiarches and head of the bureaucracy and set up residence in Seleukeia on the west bank of the Tigris to secure the functionality of trade and administration while the crisis lasts.

https://img380.imageshack.us/img380/4866/pic1summer270zf3.jpg

Theodoros set out with only a few soldiers and lead his men in a forced march through Media, gathering forces, poorly trained and rather a bunch of armed peasants and shepherds than an army, consisting of mostly Persians and Medians, but also Sogdianes, Armenians and even some Arachosians and Dahae.
While Theodoros traveled eastwards he ordered the garrisons in Sogdiana and Dayuan to be abandoned, because he considered them as undefendable for now, even if the Satrap of Baktria would send some of his troops for assistance.
When the army approached Hekatompylos, news were delivered that a force of Parnoi, a tribe of the Dahae, nomads and pillagers who were living in the steppes east of the Caspian Sea, had been marauding in Astauene and setting siege to Asaak for some month before marching west through Hyrkania. Although Theodoros knew his army was lacking troops for a line of battle, he ordered the march through the mountains down to the hyrkanian coast to confront the incursors, without some rest for the exhausted soldiers.

“Strategos! We have come to late, Zadrakata has fallen!” The scouts belonged to Theodoros' arachosian cavalry, one half of his light cavalry. The other half were Dahaen, on whom he rather kept an eye, mistrusting them in a fight against their brothers from the Parnoi, as they owed loyalty to Theodoros' coins at best.
“No,” Theodoros answers, while mounting his horse, “we are just in time. We will descend upon them, while they are still celebrating their victory, drunken and tired of fighting. And with the guidance of the gods we will teach them how a descendant of Seleukos deals with betrayal!”

The red sun has just risen above the hills of Hyrkania, to greet the new day. Its light is reflected by the points of two thousand and four hundred pikes, carried by Theodoros' levy phalangitai, the light troops, nearly one and a half time that much, advance before them, on the flanks the light cavalry from Arachosia and the Dahaens, behind them the Strategos himself, accompanied by his own Ile, somatophylakes of makedonian descend.
Reluctantly had Theodoros refrained from attacking the day before: too tired his men, too late the day. But now he was ready to teach the Parnoi their last lesson.
Theodoros wears his fine armor which marks him as the general, but not yet his helmet, because it obscures his view. The Parnoi have assembled behind the palisade, which still shows the breaches that were cut in the assault. These breaches now shall be used against them. Theodoros' troops outnumber the enemy, but he suspects the Parnoi to be better fighters individually. Luckily, they are not able to use their horse archers to best efficiency, as they are trapped behind the walls.
Shouts sound from the first ranks. The enemy has begun to shot at the approaching Parsoi. The army comes to a halt and the battle of archers begins, while the pikemen, levied and poorly trained, nervously await the things to come.
Volley after volley is fired over the palisade and the Thanvare Pahyadag and Shuban-i Fradakhshana seem to gain the advantage over the less numerous Shivatir-i Pahlavanig and Daha Baexdhzyntae who can not exploit their mobility. The air is filled with the sound of arrows beeing loosened, for a time which seems endless. But finally, silence falls on the battlefield.
A break, a tension which almost hurts, nature itself seems to hush, no bird's song is to be heard. Only the heated air seems to whirr, entangling the soldiers' minds, making armor and weapons a heavy burden – then, another signal. The phalangitai are ordered to advance.
The Auletai play the flutes, governing the tact of the pikemens' lockstep. The Taxeis move forward in tight formation, they slide over the grass like wooden rectangles on a table. The distance shortens, the Phalangitai approach the gaps left in the palisade.
But then, it happens: The untrained men lose their step when entering through the breach, the formation gets confused. The Verkhana Kofyaren, lightly armored infantry armed with axes, pour into the gaps in the formation, ruthlessly hacking their way through the terrified pikemen.
At another breach in the wall, the phalanx has managed to enter the city, but the parnoi general, Harasp e Dahaen, throws his heavily armored cavalry into them.
The battle now is on a knife's edge. The young prince sends his skirmishers into the fray: all or nothing. The general's Ile closes up fast, there: an opportunity for a charge – Xyston lowered, tension – and clash. The light hillmen burst asunder as the wedge of iron cuts through them, like a trieres with full drive cuts through the waves. Hillmen go to the ground, to the right and left, trampled by horses, impaled by lances. The charge slows down – Xyston dropped and Kopis released – slashing left and right – blood, blood, shouts, crying, iron, blood – everywhere, nothing else. Suddenly a commotion: the horse, the fine, the beautiful Arabian, bucks – the reins are loose – grasping – slipping – falling. Noise, blood, shouts, iron – everywhere, nothing else.
Theodoros is on his knees. Noise, heat. Sensation fades away – the noise quiets down, the vision is blurred, only the whirring heat beyond the helmet remains. The delirious mind wanders. Theodoros watches himself, this morning, on his horse, in front of the troops. They looked up to him, waiting for his encouragement, waiting for a straw to grip to avoid decline, in their first battle. Looking up to him, the Kleronomos Basileois, in shining armor, worth more than they can imagine. He watches himself talking, not hearing a word. He tries to remember what he told them. He spoke about the gods, about faith and the confidence in the aid from the gods. He spoke about Seleukos, who is Apollo's mortal son and whose grandson he is. Then, he told them to say their prayer and they kneeled down. If we have faith, we will prevail. Then he hears something. Quiet, far away, but slowly growing louder. A scream, maybe. Then, the sound of metal, hammering on metal. Shouting, fighting. Blood. With a strong impulse Theodoros darts upwards – a man tumbles in front of him, the chest breaking open with a stream of blood, giving way for the tip of a Kontos, thrusted with might from horseback. It is the man Theodoros blustered yesterday. No time to think about. Act fast. A leap, a grip, a strong pull. The armored rider is irritated, strongly leans to the side, tries to find his balance. The prince drops the Kontos, now he gets a grip at the rider's arm, another pull and a hard slash into the face. Merely a glimpse of time is gone when Theodoros draws himself onto the horse.
Finally he has some overview. The streets are still in chaos, but only few are still fighting and the battle is won, at a high price.

Wellllll, please tell me if you'd like something like this, will you?

Tristrem

06-03-2008, 21:39

Ibrahim

06-04-2008, 03:15

i wish you luck in the campaign. I played the AS in 1.0. It was fun, but i never had enough money. I would try to build troops to defend the cities, and then start losing money, and then i would try to build infranstructure to pay for the troops, and i wouldn't be able to build more troops to replace the ones i lost. It was a vicious cycle that ended with me quitting the campaign.

actually, you can make money. you need to do this (if in 1.0)
1-move capital further east
2-raise taxes in the heartland, lower in the hinterland
3-disband as many troops as possible from heartland provinces (no gov? leave 1 unit. if w/gov, then all but the gov are scrapped.
4-if you want, abandon the frontier areas. you can get them back later
doing these, I made 10000 mnai a turn. save and then do this:
1-cut your empire into several sectors (I do it like so: Asia minor, Syria, iraq/west persia, and the east)
2-work your way from east to west in administration.

that's it! I won the campaign in 205BC

Lysimachos

06-04-2008, 06:16

I moved my capital to Seleukeia, which fits with the story, as Sarpedon does the management from there while Antiochos and Theodoros are on warfare. I have normal taxes whereever i have a unselfish governor and as high as possible elsewhere. The money i earn is enough to maintain a decent army for the Basileus and a smaller, worse one for the heir and to build some buildings, so it's okay right now.
I'm not going to be as systematical as you've been, as it all depends on the preferences of the ruling persons and i'm not going to win the campaign so early :) Perhaps i won't be able to hold together the empire, ah, so be it. The Seleucids haven't done it, neither.

By the way, thanks for contribution, both of you!

I of the Storm

06-04-2008, 09:51

Aaldaemon

06-04-2008, 10:16

Great start! I love story aars... and I love the Seleucids - undoubtedly my favorite vanilla faction,(and multiplayer faction) and arguably EB faction as well... only thing I dislike about the EB implementation is the cataphract reforms... painful to get.

Let's see who gets the Megas title, although sometimes it's much more interesting to see the not so Megas characters. :yes:

Lysimachos

06-04-2008, 15:41

Great, finally a Seleukid AAR! That was a good read for an introduction. Good luck with your laptop and - of course - perseverance with this campaign!

I liked the last part. I think you caught the heat-of-battle-moment quite good. Looking forward for more.

Thank you! The battle had my special attention, because i had fear that a text only battle would be boring if it is written in long, complicated sentences, so i tried something different.

Great start! I love story aars... and I love the Seleucids - undoubtedly my favorite vanilla faction,(and multiplayer faction) and arguably EB faction as well... only thing I dislike about the EB implementation is the cataphract reforms... painful to get.

Let's see who gets the Megas title, although sometimes it's much more interesting to see the not so Megas characters. :yes:

Hehe, i think there is plenty opportunity for ... ambivalent ... characters and disputable decisions :skull:

By the way, my next chapter will feature negotiations about surrender of a city, too, but in a less epic way :laugh4: It has still to be written, though.

I of the Storm

06-04-2008, 19:11

It has still to be written, though.

:whip:

Lysimachos

06-05-2008, 12:27

Chapter 2: Prize of the day

The man quickly ascends the bank where the greatest tent marks the center of the encampment. He is clad in expensive armor and in his hand he holds a helmet decorated with two plumes. The guards at the tent salute him and lead him through the entrance.
The tent is huge and parted in several sections, each of them big enough to shelter a Pentekostys. The man, having been in the bright sunlight, blinks, until he can see more clearly in the semi-darkness of the tent. It is highly decorated with fine weapons and armor, furs of a white bengal tiger, a leopard and an asiatic black bear and excellent artistry in painted clay, gold and silver, from India and all over the seleucid realm.
In the center sits his king, Antiochos, son of Seleukos and descendant of Apollo himself, called Soter – Saviour – because he defeated the seemingly invincible galatian hordes, ruler of an empire that stretches from the Aegean to the borders of India. He sits there, concentrated, fingers at his temples, surrounded by clerks and secretaries. One of them is slowly reading some figures to his king. Antiochos beckons him to stop, as he has sighted his Somatophylax entering the tent.
“Philippos, my companion in many battles. What is your desire?”-”The city has send a delegation. They wish to negotiate.” Antiochos slightly nodded. “I will meet them outside. But let them wait. I won't be summoned by slaves.”-”As you order, my king.” Antiochos waves away the clerks and calls for the Pais basilikos, the royal page, to put on his best armor.

Antiochos steps out of the tent, into the sunlight that is reflected by the polished metal and makes him shine himself, a true warrior king, helmet on his head, Kopis by his side and the scars on his skin bear witness of countless battles.
“Ah, Philippos!” he calls the Somatophylax who is waiting there, holding the reins of the Basileus' horse. The leap onto the horse reveals the strength which the king's body still possesses, but his eyes seem tired. Antiochos leans down to the side where his bodyguard stands. “Philippos, tell me, how can a man bear the wish to be a king? It is no gift, it is a burden, which the gods put on my shoulders to test my strength.” Philippos silently looks up to his king. Then, after a moment, he, who knows that Antiochos had to have his own first born son executed for treason, speaks in a light voice. “I have fought in many fights, side by side with you, my king, and maybe there will be the day that I will give my life to protect yours. I can not, and no other man can, help you bear this burden, but I will do anything to prevent you from perishing under it, as I have sworn and will do again if you deem it appropriate.”
The two men look at each other in silence, until Antiochos straightens up. “So let us finish this.”

Antiochos slowly rides through the camp. In the south the Polis of Tarsos on the Cydnos, most important settlement in Kilikia, is to be seen. Antiochos had several reasons to lead his host here, away from Syria. Who controls Tarsos, controls Kilikia and Kilikia has some passes, broad enough to march an army through them, into the center of Asia Mikra. Antiochos still has the wish to dominate the rich region, but without a direct route from Syria the only connection would be through Armenia. The kilikian coast offers several harbors and an intact port under control of Ptolemaios situated in the back of Syria would always pose a considerable threat. At last, Antiochos had hoped that Ptolemaios would recognize the importance of Tarsos for his enemy and send an army, so a decisive battle could be fought, because the war in Syria has become sort of a stalemate.

A trumpet's flourish announced his coming. The delegation is waiting on the camp's drillground, surrounded by guards, who form a cordon for their king. Antiochos slowly approaches and examines the emissaries, a dozen men, civilians, no one in military attire. He stops his horse some meters away. “So, what is this about?”
The party's leader makes a step forward and takes a bow. “My name is Cratippos Pisidikos, Basileus. The folk of our city has send us to speak with you. We are here to negotiate the terms of surrender.”
“Negotiate?” Antiochos leads his horse so its head is only an arm's length away from the emissary's emaciated face, then he leans forward and calmly begins to speak: “You want to discuss terms, so I'll tell you my terms: You surrender or you will die. These terms are not open to negotiations.” He pronounces every syllable of the last word with emphasis. Then Antiochos looks over the scared faces of the delegates. He raises his voice.
“You are forgotten, none will come to save you. I will stay here, slaughter your lambs and harvest your grain and it will nourish my soldiers. I will stay here until the hunger makes you eat your dead. I will stay here until mothers will relish the flesh of their own children and I will sit here and watch, drink persian wine and eat rhodian olives and the breast of a syrian dove. I will hold court in front of the gates to your city until therein no single man will have the strength to take another breath!”
After these words he turns his horse towards the cordon and leaves the delegation behind. Silence falls on the square, only the clapping of the horse's hooves and the wind, blowing from the sea, remain.
“Wait, Basileus! We accept your terms! Please, show mercy!”
Antiochos again turns back and with a cold smile on his face his gaze rests on Tarsos, prize of this day.

Aaldaemon

06-05-2008, 12:44

Lysimachos

06-05-2008, 14:40

Mooooooore! Mooooooore! Mooooore!

You have Antiochos, by the Gods, you have him! Loved this to bits! :yes: I want to pull out my hair for not trying to do a Seleucid aar :embarassed:, because now I'll never try to do one - yours is already showing to be just way too good.

Moooreeee! Mooore! Mooore!
<=======is officialy addicted.

Urm, thank you. I have not dreamed to have a junkie from just two small chapters :laugh4:

I realized i have to correct some spelling errors...

Aaldaemon

06-05-2008, 14:49

Urm, thank you. I have not dreamed to have a junkie from just two small chapters :laugh4:

I realized i have to correct some spelling errors...

What can I say, I just can't resist quality storytelling and Seleucids mixed together. :laugh4:

And spelling, smelling, don't worry about it... the only suggestion I would make - and this is JUST a minor personal preference - don't take it as criticism - is to add a few more spaces to delimitate paragraphs some more - like for example the second part of the first entry is one big wall of text - a good one though. :2thumbsup:

Lysimachos

06-05-2008, 14:54

the only suggestion I would make - and this is JUST a minor personal preference - don't take it as criticism - is to add a few more spaces to delimitate paragraphs some more - like for example the second part of the first entry is one big wall of text - a good one though. :2thumbsup:

You mean the part with the battle? I had put it in one block to make it less easy to read :dizzy2: to enhance the effect of those sentence fragments, but i'll think about what can be done about it.

Aaldaemon

06-05-2008, 14:58

You mean the part with the battle? I had put it in one block to make it less easy to read :dizzy2: to enhance the effect of those sentence fragments, but i'll think about what can be done about it.

Ah, I see, it makes sense now. :yes: Ignore my suggestion then in that case - I guess it's well thought out that way and works well. :yes:

Maion Maroneios

06-06-2008, 14:36

Great AAR, finally Arche Seleukeia! Though I prefer the original Makedones, I sincerely hope you manage to reconquer Alexandros' Empire and even beyond that! Would do with some battle pics, though;)

Lysimachos

06-06-2008, 18:53

Great AAR, finally Arche Seleukeia! Though I prefer the original Makedones, I sincerely hope you manage to reconquer Alexandros' Empire and even beyond that! Would do with some battle pics, though;)

I'll see what i can do, but it will take some chapters until i can show battlepics, as i have played a while ahead of the story.

Reverend Joe

06-08-2008, 18:24

“You are forgotten, none will come to save you. I will stay here, slaughter your lambs and harvest your grain and it will nourish my soldiers. I will stay here until the hunger makes you eat your dead. I will stay here until mothers will relish the flesh of their own children and i will sit here and watch, drink persian wine and eat rhodian olives and the breast of a syrian dove. I will hold court in front of the gates to your city until therein no single man will have the strength to take another breath!”

Now that's a quote worthy of an EB loading screen.

Good job so far.

Lysimachos

06-09-2008, 03:12

Now that's a quote worthy of an EB loading screen.

Good job so far.

Thank you very much, that is some compliment :)

At max 24 hours till next update, though i'm not fully satisfied with it yet...

Ibrahim

06-09-2008, 06:50

you put Genkis khan to shame wth the threat..:2thumbsup:

I of the Storm

06-09-2008, 09:50

Take your time...:2thumbsup:

Lysimachos

06-09-2008, 11:21

Chapter 3: A family reunion

The Margos is calmly streaming southward. Beyond the river lies Antiocheia Margiana. There seems to be a huge conglomerate of tents situated between city and shore, tents of many different sizes and workings. Small columns of smoke rise among the tents.
Theodoros is unsure. He has ordered his horsemen to stop a few miles south of the river, when he spotted the camp. He is waiting, thinking about whose encampment it could be.
Theodoros turns around to the Ilearches of the Arachosians. “Send some of your men to have a look. We have to know who is sitting there.”-”As you order, Strategos.” Theodoros watches the officer picking a hand full of men from his Ile.

In the bloody battle at Zadrakarta Theodoros had lost half of his infantry. The other half he left behind to secure Hyrkania and only took the cavalry with him to reach Margiana as soon as possible. He had not found much rest since his father had appointed him responsible for the eastern provinces, so the prospect of a night in a bed was tempting and further delay a serious threat to his well being.

The Arachosians quickly return. “Strategos! They are no soldiers, but refugees. They say the Sakai have overrun Sogdiana and crossed the Oxos.”-”Oh, well, refugees.” Theodoros feels a bit silly, because a bunch of fugitives worried him so much, but does not allow himself a thought about the Sakai.

The horsemen march through the streets, lined with watchers. At the front rides the Kleronomos Basileois, surrounded by his Somatophylakes, attired in expensive armor under their dusty cloaks.
The nomad riders make the people uneasy, too many have lost loved ones to warriors like this, men of the steppes.
Theodoros and his men approach the main square, where the seat of the satrap is situated, who certainly is informed of their arrival. The governor's house is a piece of greek architecture, as are most of the public buildings in the town. Antiochos had issued the rebuilding and renamed the settlement which had been known as Alexandreia for some years.
Theodoros dismounts and commands his Ilearchoi to follow him. The three men ascend the steps to the residence. The guards salute and an officer bids Theodoros to follow him.

“Ah, Theodoros. It seems the young man i knew has become a proud warrior.” It is Achaios, brother of Basileus Antiochos, uncle to Theodoros and father of Laodike, Theodoros' young wife. Theodoros does not know him well, but he remembers that the brothers are quite different in character, Achaios being less ambitious, determined and serious than his father.
Achaios has become old, but in his eyes still twinkles the wit of an uncorrectable libertine. Theodoros takes a slight bow, suitably showing respect. “I greet you, my uncle. You seem to be well. I bid you to accord my soldiers a warm meal and a bedding.”-”This shall of course be granted.” Achaios beckons one of his officers to fulfill, who leaves with Theodoros' Ilearchoi.
The king's brother rests his hand on Theodoros' shoulder. “Now you come with me.”

The two men rest on divans while one slave fills goblets with wine and another one massages Theodoros' tense neck. Achaios begins to speak. “You may not have heard news from the Basileus. He has taken Kilikia. Bustling as always, he is.” A faint smile flits around his lips.
“That is excellent news, but maybe you want to tell me about less good ones.”-”Ah, yes. We have some trouble to retain order in the province. We have called back the garrisons from Sogdiana and Dayuan, as you have ordered and now the Sakai have taken control. They obviously have a pact with the Parnoi, as they have been spotted to move together through the province. My scouts tell me, the Parnoi and Sakai are not far from the city, but i did not have the forces to confront them.”
All this bloody excitement is not to Achaios' liking, being a man of women, wealth and wine, not of weapons.
Theodoros waves the slave away, takes a big gulp of his wine and lays back. He closes his eyes and sighs. “I have brought a strong troop of cavalry. Maybe this will give us an edge. We will have to draw up a battle plan. But first, I'll have a shave.”

Once again, Theodoros rides ahead of his horsemen. He has designed a daring plan.
Achaios leads the infantry, a strong phalanx, assisted by light infantry, a dependable force, but not flexible enough to precipitate a decisive battle with the riders of the steppe. This is now Theodoros' task.
He sends out his own horse archers. They are harassing the Parnoi, provoking them to follow, to leave their infantry behind. The parnoi cavalry is drawn far away from their footmen. Then, the trap begins to close. Theodoros' Arachosians engage the enemy light cavalry, his Somatophylakes the armored Dahae nobles. They are not meant to win this fight, being outnumbered by the Parnoi, but they hold their ground, pin them down until Achaios' men arrive, quickly coming up and the fight turns in favor of the Greek. It is an intense battle, the steppe riders fight fiercely, but finally they are crushed and only few survive.
No time for rest, yet: Theodoros gathers his men, leads the cavalry in between the Parnoi infantry and their Sakai allies, who approach from the north, to force the Parnoi into another direction.
Now it is Achaios' turn again: The Phalanx quickly defeats the segregated men, while the Sakai are hesitating. They have come to late to save their allies and now they are isolated, too.
The two generals direct the army along a slope toward the riders from the east. A short exchange of arrows, a resolute push forward and the Sakai retreat, seeing no perspective in a fight.

While Achaios took care of the battlefield and the recovery of the fallen, has Theodoros kept the retreating Sakai under surveillance for some time, to make sure that they won't come back to soon.
The cavalry again joins the victorious army, as it is marching through the gates. Achaios awaits his nephew, his eyes show respect.
“You have fought well and proven bravery. My brother has to be glad to have such a son. My own sons all are useless gamblers and philanderers, just like me.” He brakes out in resounding laughter and turns his horse towards the gate.

I'm sorry for this short and unloving battle description, but the battle has been autoresolved and i just didn't get into the right mood to make up something more thrilling.

Aaldaemon

06-09-2008, 11:38

I'm sorry for this short and unloving battle description, but the battle has been autoresolved and i just didn't get into the right mood to make up something more thrilling.

That could very well be the best description ever of an auto-resolved battle. :laugh4: Good update, I see you are winning on all fronts. :2thumbsup:

Lysimachos

06-09-2008, 11:46

I see you are winning on all fronts. :2thumbsup:

That's just momentarily. My borders are fragile and i'm sure some day this will be to the benefit of my enemies. Which is not absolutely unwanted, as i explained before.

Aaldaemon

06-09-2008, 11:53

That's just momentarily. My borders are fragile and i'm sure some day this will be to the benefit of my enemies. Which is not absolutely unwanted, as i explained before.

Aye, tragedy and defeat sometimes make for much better writing material. :yes:

Lysimachos

06-09-2008, 18:19

Chapter 4: A syrian night (R-rated...)

The sun is still high on the sky, heating the plain and reflecting in the gentle waves of the Orontes.
A hand full of cloaked riders is cantering across the bridge, down the road. They hurry, they don't pause, ride on imperturbably, as if the change of day and night depend on it.

It has become late, the sun is bent for her deserved rest, only the upper heights of Silpios are still bathed in red light. The travelers have luck, the Alep-gate is not closed, yet. They move through the gate, don't dismount, still hurrying on. The riders gallop through the colonnaded alley, the axis of Antiocheia on the Orontes. They don't spend a glaze on the city's artistic architecture, they don't let themselves be drawn into the humming, heated summer night life of the metropolis, but push on, along the main road, then to the west, onto the island where the outline of the royal palace rises into the night sky.
The guards address the approaching party, but quickly back away. The riders dismount, one is quickly ascending the steps to the mostly unlighted palace, while the other three take the horses' reins.

A young woman in a young night. She is standing at her patio, looking down into the garden, where a fountain is quietly bubbling. Nature is lethargic of the day's heat, which is fading slowly.
The gracile fingers of her left hand run through her long, unbound hair, which is dark as ebony. Her immaculate body, white as alabaster, is covered by a cape of silk, which has traveled a long way from the east until it became her gown.
The young woman is closing her eyes. The sound of the bubbling fountain, chirping crickets. Rustling of drapery. This is wrong. She opens her eyes, shuddering. She does not dare to move.
The sound of calm breath. Quiet steps. She feels the sweat running along her spine.
She knows, someone is standing right behind her, his breath touching her neck, she feels the presence, almost a touch. With a fragile voice she speaks: “You should not be here, you don't know who i am. My king will be relentless.” A soft, calm laugh, only the width of a hand from her ear.
The tip of a tongue touches her earlap, running along it. Her heart almost stops beating.
The man is whispering: “I am your king.”
The tension falls, unspeakable relief. Antiochos kisses her neck, gently turning her around.
“My king, you are back. An emissary has come to...” He stops her speaking by kissing her lips, then pulls off her cape, revealing the impeccable beauty of her young body. He kisses her chest. “I know that.” Antiochos goes down on his knees, his hands fondling her back, kissing her belly. She shudders, as his lips and tongue feel their way down and a deep-drawn sigh escapes her lips.

The palace is awakening. The morning has not come, but noise is growing, torches are ignited, the king has ordered to wake the emissary. The king? He is here? How is this possible?
Antiochos has not been expected before the next week and now he is here, in his capital, in the middle of the night, surrounded by three of his most loyal bodyguards.

Antiochos awaits the emissary. His mood is great, he feels as young as ever, relaxed in mind and body, despite the long travel, while the delegate from Alexandreia is bleary-eyed and depleted. He has effort to stay upright and seems as if he would sell his king in exchange for a bed.
Antiochos grins. Perfect conditions for fruitful negotiations.

Several hours later, the sky is already brightening in the east, the ptolemaic emissary is on his way back to bed, walking on his last legs. Peace is signed between the two most powerful of the Epigonoi, Ptolemaios II Philadelphos and Antiochos Soter. Kilikia and Koile Syria, apple of discord in this war stay under seleucid rule and Ptolemaios guarantees independence for the Kyrenaika, where Magas rules, son-in-law of Antiochos.

A truly wondrous night, in the great city on the Orontes.

I really could not resist to find a use for his "Hetaira Hyperkalles" :laugh4:
Until now it works quite good without tragedy and defeat, but all success has to come to an end, i fear.

Aaldaemon

06-09-2008, 18:36

It's GOOD to be the King. :yes: What can I say, your aar is ever entertaining. :2thumbsup:

We have "peace in our time" now. :laugh4:

Lysimachos

06-09-2008, 18:55

Thank you :)

I see you are always here to comment when i'm posting ;)

Aaldaemon

06-09-2008, 19:23

Aye. :beam: Reading aar updates on this forum has become my religion. :egypt: It's made easy by the fact I spend a lot of time writing on my computer, (no, not for my aar) and soloing in AoC (and alt tabing out everytime I zone to surf a bit, due to soloing boredom overkill).

General Appo

06-09-2008, 19:31

Great AAR. Keep it up.

Lysimachos

06-10-2008, 07:25

Thank you :)

Lysimachos

06-10-2008, 19:12

Chapter 5: Defeat in Victory

The sky is dull. A moderate breeze is blowing from the east. Theodoros is squinting. The daylight hurts his eyes, not because the sun would be gleaming, which it doesn't, but because he still has a serious hangover and the new day still isn't welcome.
This farewell banquet has been a little too much for sitting upright on a horse.

Almost a year has passed since he arrived in Antiocheia-Margiana and met his uncle. The following months he spend by training new warriors, by improving his own skills and by accompanying Achaios on excursions through the province, occasions on which he learned of the sweet margianian wine and made friends with it.
Sometimes he thought about his wife Laodike and children, who still were in Seleukeia, but Achaios, who had experience with living at the edge of the world, taught him how to feel comfortable with how the things were and at large Theodoros was well.
However, there were some duties waiting for him. Parnoi still were raiding seleucid land and Theodoros felt that his father would expect him to do something about it. So he decided to force them into submission, again.

The army has left Antiocheia-Margiana in western direction, marching deep into the land of the Dahae. People leave their homes, soldiers avoid a fight, while the seleucid host is slowly crawling forward like a centipede, through the meager country.
Theodoros has been informed, that a powerful leader has his headquarters in a town called Nisa. This is where he heads to, in order to deliver a decisive battle, against the barely tangible dahaen horse armies.

Finally, after a long journey full of privations, Nisa is in sight. It is a small settlement, even without any defensive structures. Still, no sign of an enemy army.
Theodoros has ordered his Arachosians, who have proven themselves as reliable scouts, to explore the vicinity, before taking offensive actions, but they have found no sign of a trap.
The phalanx slowly marches forward. This should be no long fight, only a small garrison has been reported. But it smells so wrong! How can the Parnoi let them strike so deep into their land without even giving a fight? Theodoros is calm in appearance, but in turmoil inside, deafening himself against the uncertainty with a hearty draft from his wineskin.
He watches his men overcoming the few enemies. Only a young warlord and his guard put up a harder fight – an opportunity to through himself into the heat of battle, where he will have no time for worries. Theodoros spurs his horse, leads his Somatophylakes into the mids of the fight, without any sense of danger. He hacks his bloody path through the enemy, inwardly unmoved, emotionless, until not one enemy is standing anymore.

Theodoros is still suspicious, he still fears a trap, so he takes drastic measures. All food found in the city is confiscated, all men estimated fit for military service sold into slavery. Theodoros is awaiting the enemy and a battle, his battle, but the Parnoi deny it.

A shame. They don't follow how it should be, they don't abide by the rules of warfare, how civilized people would do. How can someone stand this mess being sober? Have the gods deserted me?
“Strategos!” A shout disrupts his foggy thoughts. “Strategos, the town is burning, we have to leave. Do you understand? It is burning everywhere. I'll get you out of here.”

No general, no army had the courage to meet Theodoros in battle, but women and old men fought on. They have put their own town on fire, on several places. A conflagration started and thousands decease in the flames.
An army, defeated, but not in battle leaves behind smoking debris. The morale is low and the supply is short and now they fear battle, fear the host that has to be there, in the steppes, waiting for their weakness.

Hunger and austerity mark the men's faces. They have suffered on the long march that began when their supplies burned down, in the mids of the Dahaen's lands. Every day, they suffered thirst and hunger, every day they had to fear the enemy might descend upon them, until they saw the walls of Antiocheia-Margiana and they realize: he did not come. Theodoros, a shadow of his former vigour, leads the army into the town, defeated victors.
Courtiers welcome him and he dismounts his horse. “I have to speak with my uncle, as soon as possible.” Unease is increasing around him. “Strategos, the satrap Achaios is dead.”
A twitch appears in the corners of his mouth. Then, he slowly ascends the steps to the residence.

Aaldaemon

06-11-2008, 07:13

Good update as usual. I was expecting a Seleukid Carrhae... guess it's still to come - hopefully. :yes: More dramatic to receive a beating before victory, no?

I of the Storm

06-11-2008, 09:10

Great update! I guess Theodoros started drinking, eh? I hope you have something in store with the Pahlava...

Lysimachos

06-11-2008, 15:28

We will see :)

Victor1234

06-14-2008, 19:53

This AAR is great! More screenshots would be appreciated though. :2thumbsup:

Lysimachos

06-15-2008, 15:24

Chapter 6: When lightning strikes

It is time. Time to return to a place, where a name has been made for oneself.

Sixty-six years ago Megas Alexandros passed the Kilikia Pylai, the kilikian gates, before descending into Kilikia Pedias, where he fought the battle of Issos. Now, another host came through the Pylai, in opposite direction, coming from the fruitful plains and heading into the mountainous Anatolia.
It took a whole week until the army has completely traversed through, because the Pylai are just wide enough to let a packed horse pass. The chariots and heavy equipment had to be disassembled, transported by mules through the constriction and then put together again.
It was a cumbersome transgression, but soon the plateau opened and the Taurus lay behind them.

https://img291.imageshack.us/img291/1253/pic2spring267rp4.jpg

The Basileus ton Basileon has assembled a strong army which he now leads into Asia Mikra and a contingent of armenian light infantry and cavalry who traveled along the persian royal road from Sophene add to its strength.

https://img247.imageshack.us/img247/9733/pic3spring267jw6.jpg

Antiochos is on his way into the heart of Asia Mikra. Once he has defeated the galatian hordes in a memorable battle where the battle plan of Theodotos Rhodios and sixteen elephants saved the day against the overwhelming numbers of the Barbaroi. The galatian advance had been stopped in this battle, the Greeks from Asia Mikra saved, a victory that gave him the name of Soter, the saviour.
Now is Antiochos again on his way onto the peninsula, one of his greatest days in his mind. He always knew about the importance of this region for the prosperity of the kingdom, but he has not been able to impede the loss of influence, until only a narrow strip of land from Kappadokia through Phrygia to Lydia remained. Antiochos plans to get a firmer grip on the peninsula again.
To achieve this, he has mobilized a grand army and his first strike will be directed at the Galatians, who rule central Anatolia and who have to be dealt with by anyone who tries to dominate Asia Mikra.

https://img291.imageshack.us/img291/6008/pic4spring267xi2.jpg

Early morning's mist still hangs in the slender dell. The men silently move forward. They are Armenians and used to mountainous terrain. Still without a sound they leave the cover between the hills and pour into the opening fields forming a crescent around the settlement that lies dozily in front of them. The circle closes, as the speed increases. In ghastly silence the men overcome the guards, break into the town, ingress the huts and houses, do their bloody work, screened by the horsemen who hunt down anyone who tries to escape.
Like a lightning's strike have they come over Tavium, main settlement of the Trokmoi, on of the three galatian tribes, cutting of the tribe's head.

With the aid of local guides did Antiochos lead his men through concealed valleys, hiding his approaching army despite of its size, until it was to late for the Gauls to unite in resistance. The Trokmoi don't pose a thread anymore and the seleucid King heads for Ankyra, where the Tectosages dwell.

Ankyra is the largest settlement of the galatian invaders, the seat of their three tribes' council. Although the Tectosages have received word of the intrusion it has been to late to call for help from the Tolistobogioi who live in the west and to muster a large army.

https://img369.imageshack.us/img369/5489/pic5autumn267pq0.jpg

Erasistratos, royal physician, is standing beside Antiochos' resting place. He is urgently addressing his king. “You have to stay in bed. If you go into the rain it may be your death and it won't even need a weapon. Look, you can't even stand on your own!”
Antiochos laughs, a laughter that turns into a dry cough. “I am here to lead my men and i will do that. I won't give in for a slight cold like this.”
Erasistratos is silently watching, while Philippos, the king's most esteemed retainer, helps Antiochos to stand up, the latter with a mien of defiance.
Supported by Philippos he slowly walks towards the tent's exit, step by step. Antiochos addresses his Taxiarchoi and Ilearchoi: “Come! Come, my warriors! Let us show the men that their king will not be defeated by a fever!”
A cough shakes his body, makes him halt for a moment and Erasistratos hopelessly shakes his head.

The Basileus has mounted his horse. He is tightly packed into a thick cloak, hardly sitting upright, while the pouring rain is running down from his helmet. His confidants worry, but the soldiers' spirits lift, as they see their Strategos seems well and is leading them into battle himself.

The army moves forward, approaching the gates. It doesn't not take long until the rams break through and the Pezhetairoi enter the town's rain-sodden streets, overwhelming the outnumbered and outclassed Galatians in a quick fight.

Another victory against the Gauls has been won and the threat seems finally averted and Antiochos Soter, shaken by fever and on the brink of death, receives the obeisance of the remaining galatian warchiefs.

Lysimachos

06-15-2008, 15:29

This AAR is great! More screenshots would be appreciated though. :2thumbsup:

Thank you! Regarding the screenshots: maybe there will be more in the future, but the specs of my notebook don't allow for impressive battles (and i'm autoresolving a number of battles), so screenshots will remain rare.

Edit: I have no profound knowledge of the greek language, so if i'm using wrong forms or spelling something wrong, i ask the experts to correct me :)
I know you are there, somewhere ;)

Aaldaemon

06-15-2008, 16:06

Lysimachos

06-15-2008, 16:53

As far as I'm concerned story>screenshots, so don't worry about them, although I guess some people are screenshotaholics. :yes: I think you could very well weave some gauls into your story, I happen to be a great lover of Galatians, and would love to see them serve the Arche Seleukeia. :yes: I think you can recruit Galatikoi Kuarothoroi (Galatian Heavy Spearmen) as the Seleukids, and those are awesome. :yes:

In fact i conquered galatia to put there a client kingdom in order to recruit smelling barbarians for my armies :yes:

Edit: I just realized i made a mistake: the heavy spearman need a factional, not a regional MIC... Well, maybe i'll wait till the client ruler is dead and then set up a level 2 government. As i'm saving money for mines, a level 4 MIC would be out of reach for a long time anyway...

Lysimachos

06-25-2008, 16:14

Hi folks! This update is a rather short one and without any creative writing, but i thought, i should give some sign that this is still alive. I don't know yet when i will have the time and mood to write something similar in quality to the earlier chapters, but i promise it will come some day :yes:
So, here we go, just a little report in time-lapse (chapter doesn't even have a title, maybe i'll redo it later).

Chapter 7: Pamphylia

Antiochos has stayed in Ankyra about half a year. His illness forced him to refrain from traveling, but he had other reasons, too. Antiochos has learned of the ferociousness of the gallic barbarians and he knew well the quality their warriors possess and he knew that they could pose a dangerous threat if independent and united, but also a great asset to any commander.
In the past months he had called the warchiefs to Ankyra, where he observed them thoroughly to learn their strengths and weaknesses. He cautiously engineered a hierarchy among the chiefs, playing them and their kin off against each other. A balance was installed that would ensure the loyalty to him once the army would be lead away, because in the end the strong would benefit from obeisance to Antiochos and would do what they can to preserve the set status.

The time of departure came sooner than expected. A message has traveled fast from over the seas. Ptolemaios II has violated the peace treaty by sending troops against Magas Kyrenaios, Antiochos' son-in-law and ally. Luckily, he had no success, yet, but the king was in need to take action.

Antiochos led his army southward, after arranging the last necessary matters, along the Taurus into Pamphylia. This region was subject to Ptolemaios, but little resistance was offered and the army soon reaches Side, the last ptolemaic stronghold in Asia Mikra. The town is unfortified and, although the ptolemaic Strategos has gathered all troops from the province there, defended by poorly armed and trained soldiers.

https://img294.imageshack.us/img294/6289/pic6spring265vo1.jpg

Despite this, they fought brave and many attackers lost their lives.

https://img50.imageshack.us/img50/8500/pic7265springjh4.jpg

Ptolemaios II Philadelphos has to be unsatisfied with his generals, having lost all of his minor asian holdings in the course of few years.

Aaldaemon

06-25-2008, 17:30

I'm glad to see an update. :2thumbsup:

I see you're sticking with chariot usage... amazingly enough I've played at least 5 AS games of more than moderate length and I've never used any... Guess I'm going to try them tonight to see what I've been missing.

Lysimachos

06-25-2008, 17:37

Socy

06-27-2008, 22:10

Just caught up with this AAR, amazing stuff, seriously :smash:. Love the writing-style of the first chapters (MORE OF IT! :sweatdrop:). I myself have for a long time considered writing a Seleukid AAR myself, but due to shortage of time never have got to it. However, with yours around I can simply read and enjoy while forgetting the would-be project of my own AAR :sweatdrop:. Nah, one day I'll come around and write my own, but for now I'll just lay low and enjoy this truly epic AAR and perhaps draw some inspiration (Wich I sincerely hope you dont mind :smash:).

Lysimachos

06-28-2008, 09:39

Lysimachos

06-28-2008, 09:41

Chapter 8: Call of an ally

“Keraias. Tell me what business has lead you here.”
Keraias Pergamou Mysiakes is a rather young man, considering his position. Being intelligent and charismatic he has drawn the king's attention in early years and was sent to Pella, to the court of Antigonos Gonatas, the ruler of Makedonia, in these days Antiochos' most important ally.
“I bring word from Basileus Antigonos of the house Argeades who had summoned me to his chambers to deliver your divine greatness, Basileus ton Basileon, his bidding.”

https://img183.imageshack.us/img183/133/pic8265summersk9.jpg

Antiochos is waving aside. “Come to the point. You do not have to flatter me, as I am the one for whom you are speaking. Do never forget this.”
Keraias slightly tilts his head in acknowledgment. “Basileus Antigonos asks his ally for help in a time of need. The Greeks don't accept his hegemony any longer and have formed a coalition under leadership of Athinai and Sparte, which has inflicted several defeats to Antigonos' army. The soldiers of the so-called Koinon Hellenon are standing in Thessalia this very day and at the same time is king Pyrrhos of Epeiros pestering him. Antigonos fears for his kingdom and bids you to send help. In return he promises assistance against Ptolemaios, once he has room to breath, again.”
Antiochos stood up from his seat and slowly walked past Keraias. He is looking down on Sardis, where he had lead his army to resupply. He planned to march into Karia, where the important city of Halikarnassos was an ally of Ptolemaios.
Antigonos Gonatas was the son of Demetrios Poliorketes and thus the brother of Stratonike, Antiochos' wife, but relations had little value these days. More importantly was Antigonos a significant ally, increasing the safety of Antiochos' minor asian holdings considerably.
The Koinon Hellenon would also be able to provide the Ptolemaioi with naval bases all over the Aegean, thus posing a dangerous threat that would outweigh any victories that could be achieved in Kilikia, Pamphylia and Karia. A victory over the athenian and spartan armies could well be a decisive blow, causing the coalition to fall apart.
“Keraias, go to Pella once more and tell my brother Antigonos the following: He shall not worry, for the Arche Seleukeia will grant him as much support as it can. He shall soon expect an army, if he sends a fleet to meet my forces at Ephesos to secure the crossing.”

Aaldaemon

06-28-2008, 11:50

The Macedonians are the most useless allies ever. I look forward to seeing them obliterated in the future... I'd say 9 out of 10 games I played they dissapear under a tide of Epeirote green... alternatively their southern possesions turn orange. Also that Keraias fellow has a traitorous assasin look about him. :yes:

Swordmaster

06-28-2008, 12:39

Nice AAR going here, and excellent use of additional pictures as well. Could you post a screen of the mini-map, though? I'd like to see how your borders are going.

Lysimachos

06-28-2008, 17:35

The Macedonians are the most useless allies ever.

Practically, of course, but as there happens much in this AAR which is not practical in game terms, I have a somewhat different measure :beam:

Nice AAR going here, and excellent use of additional pictures as well. Could you post a screen of the mini-map, though? I'd like to see how your borders are going.

Thank you; I will include one soon.
Btw, i'm happy we are using different approaches to the AAR, so hopefully the audience will lose interest in neither one. :yes:

Lysimachos

06-29-2008, 13:31

Chapter 9: In Thessalia

The army marched along the old Persian Royal Road to Ephesos, where it boarded a small fleet of Kerkuroi. Guided and protected by makedonian ships they sailed across the Aegean, along the northern shore of Euboia and into the Pagasitikos Kolpos, the gulf that is enclosed by a tongue of land which stretches from the east of Demetrias in southern direction.

https://img103.imageshack.us/img103/8493/pic9ou5.jpg

Instead of sailing to Demetrias, in the vicinity of which athenian forces were said to be active, the army disembarked in the port of Halos in the region of Phthiotis, in southern Thessalia.
Local commoners told them that an athenian army has taken position near Demetrias and was trying to force the garrison to surrender, so Antiochos ordered to march north along the coast to meet the enemy and relief the city.
Antiochos' scouts ascertained the enemy's troop strength and he secretly send a messenger through the greek position into the city of Demetrias to arrange for a joint attack on the besieging army.

https://img165.imageshack.us/img165/6996/pic10ij5.jpg

The athenian and spartan soldiers, by far outnumbered, are commanded by Doros Aithalidos Attikos, son of the famous athenian statesman Chremonides. The makedonian garrison is under command of Krateros Argeades, the king's brother.

Antiochos, confident in the number and quality of his troops, choses a conventional lineup. The center of the formation is formed by the Pezhetairoi, an almost impenetrable core. The immediate flanks are protected by the Iudaioi on the left and the Thureophoroi on the right. The wings itself are formed by light infantry and the cavalry, on the left the armenian light horsemen and on the right, at the position of honor, rides the Basileus himself with his Somatophylakes and the Prodromoi.

https://img103.imageshack.us/img103/3645/pic11ro0.jpg

(Yes, this is how a battle looks on this machine...)

Soon it becomes apparent that the plan does not work out exactly as supposed: The Makedonians yet engage the enemy, while Antiochos' Phalanx is still far away from the fighting. Luckily, the athenian commander choses to leave the field, seeing an unavoidable defeat coming.

https://img103.imageshack.us/img103/1363/pic12nm9.jpg

Antiochos leaves the infantry behind and at the head of his cavalry he pursues the last athenians who had the misfortune to be unable to keep up with the main forces. Not much time goes by and the engagement is over, the Athenians and Spartans retreating up-country, while seleucid and antigonid Makedonians meet and shake their hands.

https://img296.imageshack.us/img296/7031/pic13pj2.jpg

And here a map of the Arche Seleukeia, while Antiochos is on his expedition in Hellas, 264 BC:

https://img204.imageshack.us/img204/6071/as264fj9.jpg

Swordmaster

06-29-2008, 13:55

Ha, two Seleukid AARs atop the forum, we're the masters of the world!

I like your last update. Actually, I'm also about to intervene in the politics of Hellas. Nice map, you've got more luck containing the Parthians (or your just better at it).

Lysimachos

06-29-2008, 14:18

Nice map, you've got more luck containing the Parthians (or your just better at it).

I think they oriented themselves to the north after Theodoros fought back the first attacks and occupied (enslaved) Nisa for some time. Iirc, they sieged Asaak immediately at the beginning of the campaign but lifted the siege, when i brought some units from the east near. Then i reached Zadrakata just one turn after it fell, so it has been quite a close thing with them.
I might do something to help them back into spotlight, later.
The Sakai are more troublesome at the moment, i had some tough fights to keep Antiocheia-Margiane, but i'm not to eager to write repetitive battles...

Aaldaemon

06-30-2008, 13:45

Swordmaster

06-30-2008, 14:36

I was looking at your formation, and I'm starting to think that I am in the minority when it comes to the way I line up my forces... 99% of the time I mass all my cavalry on one flank (when playing a balanced or infantry faction, not horse archer faction obviously) to provide the decisive flanking blow and rout signal for the enemy. :yes: I almost never cut my potential flanking power in half by splitting my cavalry into two lesser forces. I guess it's an ancient multiplayer habit where the mass cavalry battle on the flank often decided the outcome.

In reality, that would mean that even if you won the fight on one of the flanks, the enemy would have had all the time to make use of the other open flank, which could make your own troops rout even before you could use your victory on the other flank. Unless you have a natural barrier on the other flank, of course.

Lysimachos

07-05-2008, 17:11

Chapter 10: The house of Apollon

Antiochos meets Krateros on the field, where they just have defeated the troops of Doros Aithalidos. “The King expresses his gratefulness for your immediate reaction. You also have my gratitude, as maybe i would be dead or prisoner by nightfall, if it wasn't for your intervention.”
Krateros looks old and exhausted, leaning forward on his horse and dark circles show around his eyes. “My brother is in the north right now, fighting Pyrrhos' men.”
“I have heard of that. You may send him the message that my soldiers will aid in this war, as long as it is necessary. I will march to the south to provoke a decisive battle against Athinai and Sparte, so Antigonos can direct his full attention to Pyrrhos, while the Koinon Hellenon for now shall be my concern.”
Krateros is nodding. “I will tell him. May the gods be your shield, Basileus.”

Antiochos leads his army south along the coastal road. The towns and cities on his way open the gates and welcome him as a guest. They have heard of the army he brought and they fear his might.
The soldiers are well fed and meet no resistance on their march through their forebearers' lands, but in Phokis Antiochos turns southwest, instead of entering Boiotia. The king seeks guidance from Apollon's oracle in Delphi, the ancient city below mount Parnassos.

https://img503.imageshack.us/img503/7884/pic10tl2.jpg

https://img399.imageshack.us/img399/1180/pic10atk1.jpg

Antiochos is standing in front of the temple, in the pediment of which Apollon is depicted, in company of Leto, his mother, and Artemis, his twin sister.
The mighty king is clad in simple garment, nothing distinguishing him from an impecunious pilgrim. Just like any other Theopropos – one who asks the oracle - he has washed his hair in the sacred Kastalian Spring that emanates from the ravine between the Phaedriades, two cliffs at the southern slope of the Parnassos.

https://img355.imageshack.us/img355/8508/pic11hd9.jpg

Then he has walked up the Sacred Way through the sanctuary, carrying laurel leaves, and brought a black goat that has been examined by the priests and sacrificed at the altar which once has been build in black marble as a gift from the Chians.

A priest beckons him to follow and Antiochos slowly walks up to the temple that is build with six by fifteen columns by the architects Spintharos, Xenodoros and Agathon.
Antiochos, lead by the priest, passes the Pronaos - the anteroom of the building - and through the central hall. In the walls are sayings of wise men carved, guiding the lives of those who take heed.
The Cella – the hall – houses an altar of Poseidon and one of Hestia, with unquenchable fire.
Behind the hall is the Adyton, the backmost part of the temple. A golden statue of Apollon, the host of this santuary, is located there and steps, leading down to the chamber of the Pythia, where Antiochos follows the priest.

The ceiling is low and Antiochos has to bend down. He blinks to see in the dim room.
The Pythia is wearing a hooded cloak, her face hidden in the twilight of the Adyton, a laurel branch in her hand. She is sitting on a tripod seat that is located over the chasma, a crevice from which the pneuma - the breath - of Apollon is emerging and filling the Pythia with the god's spirit and the room with steam.
Beside her stands an eggshaped stone that is covered by a carving of a net: the Omphalos, which marks the navel of the world.

An unfamiliar odour is filling Antiochos' nostrils and he has difficulties to concentrate and see clearly. The priest who lead him, whispers in his ear: “You may now ask your question, wanderer.”
Then he steps back into the shadows and leaves the king, now a humble supplicant, with the Pythia.
Antiochos tries to gather himself, arranges his words and after some time, the amount of which he has no awareness, he speaks.

I of the Storm

07-08-2008, 09:33

Aargh! Oh the suspense...

What!? What's he asking!?

Great updates, Lysimachos. Good idea about the pictures.

Lysimachos

07-08-2008, 10:24

Aargh! Oh the suspense...

What!? What's he asking!?

Great updates, Lysimachos. Good idea about the pictures.

Thank you ~:) One day you will learn what he is asking :yes:
It takes some time to find pictures that fit, but i think it helps with imagination. These pictures even show what i'm talking about :laugh4: (Mt. Parnassos - reconstruction of the sanctuary in Delphi - Kastalian Spring). Maybe i should add where i have those pictures from, copyright and the like... Never know who comes by...

I of the Storm

07-08-2008, 10:52

Don't know if that's necessary. I've never seen anyone giving copyright info to photographs in AARs. As long as you know where you've got them from, in case anyone asks, it should be ok.

Lysimachos

08-02-2008, 09:31

Chapter 11: The Fate of Nobles

When Antiochos returned from the oracle, he seemed aggrieved with thoughts. He gathered his Taxiarchoi and Ilearchoi, still in his pilgrim's garment. He gave the order to prepare for march.
“We have no time to waste. Athinai is waiting for us and we shall not disappoint her!”

Two routes lead from Phokis to the east: The southern one along the Korinthiakos Kolpos and the northern one through Chaironea and Aliartos, at the southern banks of Lake Kopais.
Antiochos chose the northern route and soon the army reached Thebai, the once great city of Boiotia, which has been destroyed by Alexandros and rebuild by Kassandros, the son of Antipatros.
The seleucid army still didn't meet any resistance, had to much fear and had seen to much bloodshed in the last years and even decades.
The soldiers were confident in the strength of their army and in the wits of their General, but their leaders were worried. Among the high officers it was obvious that Antiochos' mood has darkened after his attendance of the Pythia's augury, but he kept undisclosed what she had revealed to him.
While the host turned to the south, crossed the Kithairon mountain range east of Plataia and the certainty of a coming battle grew, the officers were conversing in secrecy.

The sun sets over Attike, bathing the sea of tents in red light, turning it into a sea of blood.
The camp is situated some way from Eleutherai, the fortress that is the northernmost outpost in Attike. A handful of men has gathered outside, talking.
One of them, a tall but rather lean Hellene, speaks in a low, yet authoritative voice.
“It is foolishness to disregard the words of the gods! We all see his behavior! He must be knowing that he is leading us to certain death. There is no other explanation. We are one day away from Athinai. We have to stop this now or it will be to late!”
Another man, clad in the armor of the Basileus' Hetairoi, steps forward from the shadows.
“Enough! As long as Antiochos is King his word is law. Dare you challenge his judgment!” The tall man spits on the ground. ”Ah, Philippos speaks, the King's favorite lap dog. Where is your leash?”
Philippos comes closer, laying the hand on the haft of his Kopis. He calmly answers. “Go ahead, Menedemos, speak forth and i will slay you where you stand.”
The two men stare at each other silently, the others have backed off, enlarging the distance.
“Oh well, Menedemos, you have bereft me of the pleasure to shed your blood. It would have made some things easier for you, you know, as in Hades you won't have to worry about an omen. But i can promise you one thing, you fool, tomorrow you won't march into battle.”

A new day has come. Messengers have brought word of an enemy army, outnumbering the seleucid host four to three, that is lead by Areus Agiados, King of Sparte and appointed Hegemon of the Koinon Hellenon, as well as Chremonides Aithalidos, Archon of Athenai and mastermind behind the alliance.
The Basileus stands among his officers. “Today we will face what is left of the Hellas of old times. The days of the old poleis is over, once and for all. The future lies in an universal kingship formed by the best of west and east, just as Alexandros has realized.
Across this plain stands the whole might of the Koinon, lead by their most important leaders. With a decisive victory today we will crush their coalition in one blow.
They have more soldiers than we have, but i am confident. They fight in an obsolete fashion, while the core of our army is formed by professional and experienced Pezhetairoi, and our wings by skilled light horse from the east and the unequaled riders of Makedonia.”
Antiochos pauses. He looks around and straightens himself.
“I know, some of you are concerned about the prophecy of Apollon's oracle. I can reassure you, the word of the oracle is in no way bound to this day, but a message of personal loss.
I did not ask the Pythia about the outcome of this war, because in battle, I prefer take my destiny in my own hands, rather than relying on the graciousness of the gods.
So, now I request one thing of you: Share my confidence in this day and let us forge a glorious fate!”
Cheer raises and at once they stand by their King as one man, again, except for Menedemos who early this day has already met the destiny of a traitor.

https://img98.imageshack.us/img98/8633/pic12wv7.jpg

The greek army is deployed in two contingents: Areus, the King of Sparte, and Doros Aithalidos, Chremonides' son and one of the most promising young Athenaioi, block the route to Athenai, while Chremonides himself leads a contingent to the left of Antiochos' forces.
This move from the numerical superior side forces Antiochos to adapt. He choses to divide his troops, too. The smaller part serves to hold back Areus' forces, while the greater part shall fight Chremonides' wing.
However, the alliance's timing is not good: Too eager are Chremonides' men for fight and won't wait for the Spartan contingent. They rush forward to meet Antiochos' line.
The Basileus sents his Prodromoi to engage the enemy cavalry, that is no match and soon thrown back. Yet they can't outrun the Prodromoi on their swift horses and are eventually overcome in close combat.
In the meantime the light troops exchange some volleys and then the battle lines close. Antiochos sends his Armenian horsemen to engage the enemy's skirmishers, while he himself at the head of his Hetairoi as well as the Chariots turn around Chremonides' flanks and attack the hoplitai from the rear.
The course of the battle seems promising as of yet, but the athenian hoplites fight with fierce resolution and Areus' men are advancing in quickstep, reducing the distance minute by minute.
Antiochos turns his Ile Basilike around to take on Areus' cavalry. He also realizes that he has to reinforce the seleucid right wing, because it is facing a determined assault from Areus' Hoplitai, lead by the fearsome Spartiatai.
The Idaioi are send from left to the right to assist in holding the line, while on the other side Doros Aithalidos is bringing his detachment around to strengthen his father's wing.
The lines are locked now, fighting for every foot of ground. Yet, the enemy's cavalry is crushed and Antiochos gathers his horses for a charge, trying to tip the scales in his favor.

It is nothing left for a general, but to fight.
The ranks are close, the xystons couched. Mere fractions of a second to the impact, but they stretch to eternities. Concentration is at its peak. Horse, man and lance are one entity, designed to kill.
Some hoplites have turned around, but too little to make a difference.
Impact, a blow, as horse and xyston meet steel and flesh, but the drive is hardly lessened. The hetairoi cut through the hoplitai like ploughshares through soft soil. Forth and forth.
Then, almost through the lines, the charge is exhausted. Let go of the xyston and out with the kopis.
Where is the Basileus? Still among the greatest of his soldiers, shouting and fighting, the impersonated warrior king.
Philippos pushes his horse forward, trying to get by the side of his lord. He turns right, blocks a thrust, slashes his kopis in the enemy's chest. Turn around, where is the king?
The hetairos fears the worst, abandons his horse, brutally hacking his way through the mass of iron and flesh.
There – Antiochos is on his back, wounded, from the ground fighting off attackers. Philippos makes his way through to him, with a strong blow felling the Spartiates who is attacking the king.
The Somatophylax shouts, calls his comrades to guard the Basileus, and they come, two handful of men, forming a circle around their master in the midst of battle.

The sun sets over a bloody plain. Philippos cowers beside his king, supporting him in an upright position. Antiochos coughs, a gush of blood pours out of his mouth.
“My friend, how often have we fought together? This time will be the last.”-”No, my king, Erasistratos will be here soon, he surely can help you!”
Antiochos shows a faint smile. A fit of coughing shakes him. His voice is feeble. “Philippos, there is one thing you have to tell my son.”
The bodyguard leans forward, his ear close to Antiochos' mouth.
The king's voice fades with his last words and the men's eyes meet a last time, before he takes his last breath.
Philippos leans forward, the king in his arms and his face is covered with dust and dirt, beside two slender stripes, where the brave man's tears take their path.

https://img143.imageshack.us/img143/7185/pic13hc2.jpg

The battle is over, the Koinon Hellenon has taken a defeat, but at what costs? Only a third of the men who came to fight this day, live to tell the tale. Among the dead are Chremonides Aithalidos and his son Doros, who took their last stand and died side by side as well as Areus, agiad king of Sparte, and Antiochos Soter, Basileus of the Arche Seleukeia, and uncounted numbers of promising men of highest social rank.
Only the Barbaroi may rejoice, as the noble bloom of Greece has been lead to slaughter.

Maion Maroneios

08-02-2008, 12:55

Great progress so far, Lysimachos! Also, thanks for your comments about the vid I made and keep up the good work!

Maion

Lysimachos

08-02-2008, 13:28

Thank you! For the time of the next king I have some interesting storylines in mind and some more characters will play a role than have until now.

Btw, what i wrote about Doros Aithalidos, he really did leave his side of the battlefield to die beside his father in the battle, so i didn't need to make it up :) Sadly the screenshots all turned out black (it has worked before and i don't remember changing any options), so i had to write the battle without help for my memory (have played it some weeks ago) and without pictures.

Socy

08-02-2008, 16:03

Epic, as always! You really captivate the reader and even without fancy screenshots and the like your writing makes up for it by far. Easily one of my favourite AAR's on the forums. Partly beacuse its about my favourite faction, Arche Seleukeia, but also beacuse your writing is fantastic!

Lysimachos

08-02-2008, 19:51

Socy

08-02-2008, 20:28

Dont mention it! I should be the one thanking you! Just you keep up the writing :sweatdrop:

Lysimachos

08-02-2008, 20:32

Dont mention it! I should be the one thanking you! Just you keep up the writing :sweatdrop:

I'll try.

Lysimachos

08-06-2008, 15:56

Chapter 12: Like Thieves in the Night

Night falls quickly over the plain. Many officers are dead or wounded and the army, although victorious, is dissolving, leaderless as it is.
Those who are bold and reckless enough wander the field of battle, looting the dead for a cheap fortune, while the crows start their feast.
Philippos and the other remaining Somatophylakes - not a handful anymore - left their adorned armor and have disguised themselves with simple cloaks, not to draw interest. They are carrying the royal body, protecting it from ghouls and scavengers and from the grasp of an unsuspected enemy.
Avoiding the living they sneak over the field of dead. Among the wretches the honorable seem like thieves in the night, eager to secure their haul.

Off from the battlefield the small party captures riderless horses and heads north, to Boiotia.
Near Eleutherai a larger contingent has erected a camp, hoping to gather the scattered remains of the army, but the Hetairoi don't stop, don't even reveal themselves to the soldiers.
There is no time to be lost, to great the risk that the Athenians will be able to use their reservoir of men for a new force, once they learn how great the toll on the side of their enemies has been. Certainly, Chremonides has been an important figure among the Athinaioi of these days, but the loss of a single man does not mean much to them.
Philippos is sure of one thing: Without the Basileus, the motivator and as confident as experienced commander, this campaign is doomed, so he and his comrades chose to save as much as they can: The King mustn't fall in the enemy's hands.

The small group is galloping through the dark, north through Boiotia and from Thebai to the east.
The night has passed, the horses are shaking from exhaustion, but the men have reached the Euripos, the strait that separates the island Euboia from the mainland. At its narrowest point is a wooden bridge and across lies the fortress of Chalkis, a heavily fortified antigonid garrison.
Safety, at least for now.

A fishing boat, a small vessel not prone to provoke attention, is meant to bring Antiochos over the aegean, his body conserved with vinegar. The king shall have a worthy valediction on his own soil, before beginning his very last crossing on board of Charon's ferry.

Socy

08-07-2008, 14:49

Lysimachos

08-07-2008, 15:38

Nice chapter there. Perhaps not action-filled, but that doesn't matter. You're really building up the character and events on Antiochos, pretty sweetly aswell. Will you focus on the heir, Theodoros, now? If so, that would be awesome.

It is part of my roleplaying that major military operations are carried out only by the King and Heir, because the leadership in battle was one of the sources of legitimation of the seleucid kings (in tradition of the makedones).
This has the consequence that the action is mostly focused on those two persons.
In the beginning the chapters were alternating about Antiochos and Theodoros, which changed when the latter was involved only in boring, repeated battles against the Saka, so the king himself and his campaign in the west were the only interesting story line.
Now, of course, will Theodoros be the deciding man in the empire and thus come into spotlight again.
As i have mentioned before, i will introduce more characters and more politics in future, but i'm planning to concentrate on the respective king and heir, their achievements and shortcomings, their virtues and vices, all along the AAR.

Lysimachos

08-08-2008, 15:11

Chapter 13: A new Agenda

The man gently slides the curtain away, only a small way, just enough to peek down into the hall. Down there the celebrations continue, celebrations in his honor. Music is playing and the people are drinking and feasting from his larder.
The old king has been honored and now it is the new king's turn. He received the blessings of Apollon and Seleukos and the obeisance of the nobles. From now he shall be known as Antiochos II, granted the sobriquet Theos from the Margianians for his victory over the Parnoi and Sakai, a feat certainly only possible to someone of divine personality.
Although he himself is often and with pleasure sacrificing at the shrine of Dionysos, Antiochos II is not in the mood to relish his daily serving of wine, at least not yet.
Instead he called together the most significant men from the seleucid realm to discuss, or rather announce, some matters of importance; a decision that certainly strikes some of them, who are familiar with Antiochos' habits, with surprise.
With a sigh he let go of the curtain and turns around to his audience. His gaze went from one face to the other, discovering eager anticipation in some of them, unconcerned annoyance in others, and also skepticism and scarcely concealed expectancy of decay.
Antiochos' eyes meet those of Sarpedon, the youngest of his father's legitimate sons. Sarpedon's expression gives nothing away from his intentions and thoughts, the secretive mask of a schemer.
Their eyes stay locked, like a strife to determine whose perseverance prevails. Antiochos takes the time to renew his memory of the younger brother, whom he has not seen for a long time, since he was send to defend the east, while Sarpedon remained in Seleukeia.
Two years younger than Antiochos he still has a very gentle face, almost feminine, but he grows a full beard, perhaps to conceal this caprice of nature. Still, the tenderness of his guise seems to fit in his personality. Antiochos remembers, Sarpedon has always been the weak, the soft, yet cunning of both. And it has always been these two, as Seleukos, their oldest brother, who had been executed for treason, was way older than them.
In their separation their differences have increased, due to the different paths fate - in disguise of their father - had in mind for them.
Theodoros, as he was commonly called in the days before their father's dead, was baptized by fire, thrown into an ambience of violence and violence became his self.
The ceiling of his palace was the sky and the dust of the steppe was carpet on which he walked.
The vast regions in the east made it necessary to develop a sense for an enemy's movements, so he became a skilled scout. The constant danger forges a mutual obligation between commander and subordinates and a habit evolved to use the strong language common among his soldiers.
The many battles made him a fighter who bears his scars as a proud veteran and a seasoned commander, who has become famous victor and is feared by his enemies for his bravery and respected among those with military insight, as he is a gifted leader and a great tactician.
His brother on the other hand, spend the past years in Seleukeia, the new metropolis of the east, as a regent in all but name, while father and brother went to the most remote regions of the Arche.
Sarpedon's daily work in these years involved negotiations and meaningless but sophisticated conversations with important citizens and delegates from foreign and exotic countries, so he developed to be a smooth talker and skilled debater. As an interlocutor of high format he also possesses some proficiency as philosopher and poet.
Ruling of a great city as Seleukeia involves a lot of planning, so the practice made Sarpedon a skilled bureaucrat and supervising a number of ambitious construction projects made him a superior builder and great architect.
In order to increase the greatness and importance of the city he knows few limits and he has already imported a number of exotic plants to add to the exclusiveness of the metropolis.
On the other hand is he increasingly enjoying the life in luxury and among the leading families of Seleukeia he is known as a mildly extravagant gourmet of life.
Antiochos shows a smile which Sarpedon answers, the uncomfortable tension of the moment is broken.
The king steps forward in the middle of the gathered nobles and begins to speak, in the determined voice of a Strategos who is used to decide the fate of thousands in mere blink of an eye, not tolerating any dissent.
"I have summoned all of you, because i am willing to clarify how some matters are being addressed, now that we have brought my beloved father to his well deserved rest."
The king starts walking in circle his eyes jumping from one to the other.
"First of all, has our former Basileus neglected to take effective measures concerning the insolence of Ptolemaios. Once again he has proven himself a liar and a cheat, once again he reaches out for Koile Syria. This has to be changed. I take it as my first responsibility to teach Ptolemaios a lesson, push his underlings out of Asia and thus secure the borders of Syria once and for all."
Antiochos takes a deep breath.
"Second. My father's expedition to Hellas was honorable and, in the hindsight, might even have rescued Antigonos' throne, but it was inviting attack on the empire's heartlands and jeopardizing its integrity, with nothing to gain.
The Koinon Hellenon poses no threat and we have honored our alliance with Antigonos by sacrificing an army and a king. I want you - " His finger points on Keraias Pergamou Mysiakes, the Ambassador in Pella - "to confer with the Koinon's new leaders and negotiate a ceasefire."
Antiochos stops in front of another nobleman in his late twenties, Apollonides Damaskenos, currently entrusted with the Satrapy of Phrygia. "You, Apollonides, will be responsible for the military safety of the Satrapies of Lydia, Phrygia, Pisidia and Kappadokia as well as the Ethne of Galatia. This is a strictly defensive mandate. The cities of Halikarnassos, Pergamon and Herakleia as well as the kingdom of Pontos all can muster respectable armies and will not hesitate to use any game of hazard to their advantage. I do not want this region at a risk!"
The Basileus continues his circling.
"One of our greatest assets is the position from which we can control every transition from the east to the west and the other way round. We have to take full advantage of this position. To do so, our trade routes from Babylonia to India, which are disrupted by arabian pirates have to be protected. As soon as our issues with the Lagids are settled, i will see to send an expedition which is to secure the southern coast of the Persikos Kolpos."
Antiochos pauses again, thinking.
"Ah, one other thing. In our struggle with Ptolemaios it is of utmost importance to present a counterbalance to Alexandreia as a cultural center at the Mediterranean. Thus it is of special concern to expand Antiocheia as a center of learning, that is able to lure the wise men from all over the world."
His gaze falls onto the person momentarily in charge of the mentioned city and doubts arise, if this may be the ideal man for this task. Oh, Sosiphanes Beroias Syriakes is an outstanding personality, beyond question, a man with spartan discipline and above suspicion of any falsehood in his words and ways, a man with untainted loyalty, who bears the title of Olympionikes, but Antiochos believes that someone more... sophisticated... should possibly be preferred in his position.
The king clears his throat and straightens himself.
"So, if there is no question now, i will go and attend my festivities." A glance around over his silent auditory convinces him of the necessity for a thinking pause.
"As i thought."

Roka

08-08-2008, 15:13

i have no doubt in my mind that this is my favourite aar, i have just started a campaign as AS and i actually find myself on occasion thinking, what would Lysimachos do....

i find myself reading this thread at least once per day in the hope that you have updated

keep up the good work :2thumbsup:

EDIT: you actually posted an update as i was writing this

Lysimachos

08-08-2008, 15:18

i have no doubt in my mind that this is my favourite aar, i have just started a campaign as AS and i actually find myself on occasion thinking, what would Lysimachos do....

i find myself reading this thread at least once per day in the hope that you have updated

Thank you, i feel honored :bow:

keep up the good work :2thumbsup:

I'll try to.

EDIT: you actually posted an update as i was writing this

Now, that is luck, isn't it :laugh4:
I first thought: "Wow, that is a quick reply!"

Socy

08-09-2008, 17:03

Lysimachos

08-12-2008, 19:04

So, this isn't really a chapter, but some things i wanted to include, so i made it an intermission. I hope i haven't confused anything with the family-things, not uncomplicated :dizzy2:

Intermission: State and Empire

When Antiochos I. Soter died in the seventeenth year of his reign, the realm was left behind in a difficult, yet not unstable situation.
His rule has seen unlucky and wise decisions. Although the struggle with Ptolemaios II Philadelphos has not been decided yet, Antiochos has managed to weaken his main Antagonist by wringing the southern coast of Mikra Asia from his hands and defending Koile Syria from any hostile attempts. Also has Magas Kyrenaios with his father in law's help managed to prevail against the ptolemaic power, still being a valuable ally and a threat to the western flank of Egypt.
In the northwest the situation is indecisive. Antiochos I. had to abandon the claim on Thrace and others of Lysimachos' former possessions and he didn't manage to retain or restore authority over the rising hellenic cities in Asia Mikra, as Pergamon, Herakleia and Halikarnassos. On the other hand has he twice defeated the Galatians and the Seleukidai remain to be a major power on the peninsula.
The eastern part of the Arche had little attention from the king and the transoxanian provinces of Sogdiane and the valley of Fergana had to be abandoned, but under leadership of his brother Achaios and later his heir a measure of stability has been retained.
After all, it seems if the late Basileus failed to pursue a certain goal in his decisions. A sign for this poses Antiochos' I. intervention in Hellas, which lead to his death. Some say that the failure of this campaign is caused by a lack of preparation and a goal that was to be achieved.

The Arche Seleukeia is set on two pillars, which are the seleukid state and the seleukid empire. The state is private property of the king and subject to a strict centralist bureaucracy, while the parts of the empire are formally autonomous and owe loyalty only to the Basileus ton Basileon himself. These can be Poleis which have been installed all over the seleukid realm, a Dynasteia with an own king such as Sophene or an Ethne that is formed by a certain people, as the Galatians.
Because of the loose bond the loyalty of these entities largely depends on the personal authority of the Basileus. While several nominal subjects of the Arche have been alienated during the reign of Antiochos I., because he has not been able to let them feel the presence of their overlord in a sufficient way, and are now independent in all but name, none of them has yet dared to make this official - for now - as the new King, Antiochos II Theos, has made himself a reputation as a more than capable Strategos and a determined and ruthless leader.

Antiochos II is related - by blood or by marriage - to the most important Diadochoi dynasties:
From his fathers side he is the grandson of Seleukos Nikator, who himself was the son of divine Apollon. From his mother Stratonike's side he descends from the Argeades dynasty, the kin of Megas Alexandros himself; the king of Makedonia Antigonos Gonatas being his uncle, Demetrios Poliorketes his grandfather and Antigonos Monophtalmos his great grandfather. Demetrios' wife Phila, Antiochos' II grandmother, was the daughter of Antipatros and sister to Kassandros and Eurydike, the third wife of Ptolemaios I. Soter, who in turn was the father to the aging but still reigning Ptolemaios II Philadelphos and Arsinoe, the widow of Lysimachos, who later married her own brother.
At last, his sister Apame is married to Magas, the king of the Kyrenaika, who is a halfbrother of Ptolemaios II.

The expectations among the nobles and educated towards Antiochos' II reign are only clear in one point: The one thing the new king is best at undoubtedly is leading his men into battle. No single enemy may hope to stand against the seleukid armies, but will the Basileus prove the critics wrong and show himself to be a politician, adept enough to avoid a fight against to many enemies, that would inevitably result in violent downfall?
And what is behind the prophecy that Antiochos I. received from the delphian Pythia and that he shared with his most appreciated Hetairos, in his last breath? Has Apollon's mouth only revealed the hour of his death or is there more than that?

Lysimachos

08-12-2008, 19:09

Truly epic AAR, I dare say that I favour this one more than my own! It's a dark time to be writing AS AAR's in. Yours is truly a source of great inspiration, but also a great source of "competition" (Dont get that wrong :)), almost to the point were you feel it needless to write your own when one such epic already exists!

Thank you! It is said, that competition is something beneficial :beam: I think, as long as everyone has kind of his own style there is no need to get worried about other AARs about the same faction.
On the other hand it can of course be more motivating if one has the only active one. In fact that has been part of the decision to start this, but i'm not considering to stop, just because a whole wave of AS-AARs has started :laugh4:
Sorry for not answering earlier, i must have accidentaly marked this read without actually having seen it.

Lysimachos

08-29-2008, 18:55

Chapter 14: Phoinike

The last guest of the day was about to leave. Antiochos II has been asked to dismiss the guards and he complied, because he knew he didn't have to fear, as the loyalty of this man was not in question.
Theos stands up and makes some steps towards his guest.
"You have my gratitude for everything you have done for my father and through him, for me. I will take care personally that you will be guerdoned adequately for this. The..." He pauses shortly.
"... other matter we discussed, will be on my mind. Your part in this now is done and you will forget this conversation and that you ever heard about it, in the first place. This is, as you certainly understand, an order."
The two men's looks meet in silent agreement. "You are now free to go." - "Sire."

To set about his plans Antiochos Theos mustered a new army, which was due to the lack of time not as large or qualified as the one that had dissolved after the battle of the Kephisos, in northern Attike. A core of mostly inexperienced Phalangitai was accompanied by iudaian speerbearers and galatian swordsmen. The light infantry was made up of Sphendonetai and Toxotai, mercenaries from Kreta as well as native Syrians.
The light cavalry consisted of the swift Hippakontistai and the reliable Prodromoi. The Basileus himself lead the Hetairoi, heavy cavalry unmatched in the hellenistic armies, most of them having fought in several battles under his command.
Theos' first encounter with other hellenic troops took place at the plains just south of Antiocheia on the Orontes. The ptolemaic Strategos had become overconfident after his march north along the syrian coast had been unchecked and unthreatened, so he decided to plant his camp in sight of the city's walls.
However, his mislead confidence was quickly set right, when the armies met and he faced defeat along the whole line of battle, leading to a rapid breakdown and an unchallenged victory for the young seleukid king.

The total defeat of this army threw the gates into Phoinike wide open and Antiochos' host quickly advanced along the well paved coastal road, occupying one harbor town after the other and gaining vast supplies, enough to support a long campaign.
In front of the gates of Sidon, along with Tyros the most important settlement in Phoinike, however the advance came to a hold, as Epaphrodeitos Alexandreianos, the province's governor, has gathered every armed man and sought refuge behind its walls.
But not for long, as Epaphrodeitos was not the man to cower behind fortifications and passively await his fate. So it came that under the summer's sun the governor's army sallied sallied forth to meet Antiochos on the field.

https://img390.imageshack.us/img390/345/57509340nc5.jpg

Epaphrodeitos had the clear disadvantage of a lack of a strong phalanx and a cavalry force, but he managed to put his Iudaioi to best use and the battle was decided only after Antiochos' Hetairoi bereft the ptolemaic army of its leader.

https://img390.imageshack.us/img390/5369/18987658aa0.jpg

With Epaphrodeitos dead and his army dispersed nothing could stand in Antiochos' way into the city and with the city fallen, Phoinike was almost completely under control, along with its wealthy ports and the phoinikian population, that had not much love for the king in Alexandreia.

https://img213.imageshack.us/img213/5374/67636587dq7.jpg

Almost - as another one of Ptolemaios' young generals, Aristippos Berenikeios, had his quarters in the hills of Galilaia, just beyond the border, endangering southern Phoinike as well as Syria Koile.
After garrisoning Sidon and Tyre, the Basileus took the rest of his host and met Aristippos in two battles, that were fought with determination and took a bloody toll, but ended with Aristippos dead and the immediate threat removed.

https://img54.imageshack.us/img54/1173/66932670vi2.jpg

rider

08-31-2008, 00:12

Lysimachos

08-31-2008, 07:12

Hey,

This is a very nice AAR and I must say that I enjoyed reading it.

Still, I have a few comments - in English (or actually, in any language), after a Roman numeral, there is no points (might be wrong in the name of the marking, but I'm sure that you understand what I'm trying to say), eg Antiochos II. Theos would actually by Antiochos II Theos. Not a hugo mistake but it bothered my eyes. :P This doesn't lessen the literary value though... :D

Well, you are not right with 'any language', but as it is correct about english, i will change that in the future. Thank you for pointing this out, i wouldn't have realized it otherwise.

Now, what's the stats of your notebook? I also have a... well, very terrible notebook. I remember I once tried playing the Vanilla RTW which meant that I ended up with a black-grey-dark green campaign map and almost no battles. I haven't even thought of trying EB though (but if your notebook is worse than mine, a dream which most likely isn't true) then I should give it a go (even though I'd need to clear up some... 5 or 6 GB's of memory to make room for the game and RTW).

I have the grey campaign map, too, that's the reason for the lack of campaign map screenshots... Have to check for the other stats. Turns take some time, but i can read or do some other useful things in between :laugh4: I also recommend the thread about optimizing speed, that is somewhere around here, it made EB playable for me in the first place.
I can highly recommend frequent defragmentation, turning off of unneeded processes/programs and using a memory optimizing tool like EZmem (or what it's called).
Edit: 1.66 GHz, 224 MB RAM and the maximum of virtual memory. I think the chance is not too bad that your notebook is better than mine :beam:
Oh, playing with smaller unit numbers has the positive sideeffect of not depleting your cities as fast ;)

[...](I've already been rather impolite towards you)[...]

Oh, you are not impolite, just straightforward. I don't mind saying things how they are, that's the only way to find out :beam:

Also, could I dare suggest [...] that you have the faction heir fight the Sakai as part of him proving himself? Sort of, 'if you can kill a barbar, you are fit to rule'? I know, not my place to suggest such things, but that occurred to me when you were speaking of concentrating on the leader and heir.

Thanks,

At the moment Antiochos' sons are not grown up yet, so for now Sarpedon is the heir, who rather is an administrator (and is supposed to be). Once Antiochos' first born is old enough, he will get some education first and then an opportunity to prove himself.
You may have noticed that the current king had to do that himself, what he did quite successfully :beam: I hope the designated heir will inherit some of his father's positive dispositions...

rider

09-01-2008, 07:47

Thanks.

My notebook is quite a few years old - I don't even remember when it was bought (2002 or 2003); anyways, it used to be my father's old notebook but then he got himself a better one and I have this. Quite sufficient for going to the internet and writing a few files (ever though of... making an AAR up from no campaign? I did, yesterday... :D). The stats are

Total Physical Memory 256,00 MB
Total Virtual Memory 2,00 GB

Those two I got from 'System Information' and the rest is from the 'My Computer -> Properties', so forgive me if I repeat myself. I dare think I know something about computers but it's more about the various programs and how to use them and which for what than the actual base setting categories:

mobile AMD Athlon(tm) XP2400+ the processor unit, right?
1.79 GHz
196 MB of RAM

I can't really tell which one is better. Both seem like... mammoths of an ancient age to me... :P But tell me when you are going to buy a new one - then I'll know mine is the last one alive. :)

Oh... and do you want to know the most interesting thing? I'm running Office 2007. Takes an age to load up MS Word.

Lysimachos

09-01-2008, 13:55

But tell me when you are going to buy a new one - then I'll know mine is the last one alive. :)

That depends... Next year i'll start earning money myself and as notebooks have become damn cheap maybe i'll buy a new one then. On the other hand i could perhaps get a used desktop PC from my brother, so i would continue using this notebook for the things that depend on mobility.

Oh... and do you want to know the most interesting thing? I'm running Office 2007. Takes an age to load up MS Word.

I use OpenOffice.org. It is free, has all functions i need, is easy to use and i have no problem with loading times.

Anyway, i'll stop offtopic now :beam:
My next post in this thread will be Chapter 15, promised :yes:

rider

09-01-2008, 17:17

What do you think of the probabilities of me running EB though? Can it be done? :P

Lysimachos

09-01-2008, 19:15

Chapter 15: Iudaia

"They take the bait." Two handful of men are standing above the cliff, unmounted, the horses by the reins. In the distance an extended cloud of dust can be seen where an army is making its way through the rough mountains.
"Courier! Tell Phanias to move into position! We don't want them to get away." - "Yes, Sire!"
The messenger turns around and departs in a hurry, leaving behind the Basileus and his confidants.
One of the older Hetairoi rises to speak. "These men are no Satrap's army. They are lead by the Klerouchikon Agema. Probably they just come all the way from Aigyptos, send by the Pharao to reinforce Aristippos Berenikeios."
Antiochos grunts. "The better for us! It would certainly leave them exhausted and now they are running into our trap. What could we pray for more?"
The Hetairos nods. "Perhaps their leaders don't know of Aristippos' death, yet. That could explain how confident they proceed, without any real reconnaissance. They may think we are a mere raiding party or even in retreat before Aristippos, who has cut off the way north."
The Hetairos shrugs. "A lot of coulds and woulds in this, though. Let's hope we really are the ones that build the trap."
The king laughs out loud and with a smirk faces the senior. "Trust me, I'm quite sure of that. That is why I bring my light horse with me."
Antiochos' fingers move through the mane of his steed, an exaggerated contemplating look on his face. He mumbles: "I remember someone saying I had a reputation for this."
His eyes move on to Perdikkas, the Hetairos, a serious look again. "Overestimating an enemy can be as dangerous as underestimating him. You know that, my friend."

https://img364.imageshack.us/img364/6964/61631756ks5.jpg

The Taxiarchai have lined up the Phalanx according to their orders, as Antiochos II Theos again joins his army. He has chosen a solid position between two steep slopes.
The ptolemaic Strategos is confident, as he obviously commands the larger army and can rely on his soldiers, especially the Klerouchikon Agema whose mounted detachment can almost be a match for the seleukid Hetairoi, while the pikemen represent the most professional Pezoi on the field.
Mnaseas positions his men in a deep Phalanx.
Two walls of spears face to face with each other. The tips of the pikes that are erected into the sky glare from the bright sunlight, below them the air is filled with dust that inevitably forms a layer on everything, intrudes into the men's mouths, constraining their ability to breath.
Mnaseas is in a good mood, he senses a victory in the first battle he commands himself. He is riding at the head of the Agema Klerouchikon Hippeon at the left wing, opposing his enemy's heavy cavalry.
Mnaseas does not know, who is in command of the host across the battlefield, nor of the high class of the Hetairoi he is facing, the most experienced and skilled heavy cavalrymen the Arche Seleukeia can field. And he does not know that is enemy is most comfortable with the situation, waiting, but not for certain defeat, playing for time.

Strategos Mnaseas gives the command to advance. The Auletai play their flutes, giving the tact, the Phalangitai march in lockstep towards their enemy.
Now, there is no turning back. The young lagid commander drives his horse forward, towards the seleukid Somatophylakes. His opponent, however, grants himself a smile and a short moment of thought, as he sees the Agema speeding their horses. One moment, before Antiochos' seasoned companions rush forward with one mind, a fist of steel, striking to crush whoever dares to stand against them.

Seconds later, Mnaseas is dead, his trusted Agema is fighting an uphill battle.
The Phalangitai are locked, the advantage on the side of the more numerous and thus broader ptolemaic Phalanx, which faces only lightly armored men. But at a moment's notice Nike seems to switch sides, as the trap strikes.
Behind the immobile ptolemaic Phalanx another army shows up: A line of seleukid Pezhetairoi and among them the Argyraspides - Silver shields. On their flanks Galatoi, armed with shield and shortsword, rush forward, lusting to shed blood.
The fighting becomes intense, the professional ptolemaic soldiers won't give up lightly, yet none can anymore doubt the outcome of battle. When the sun gets ready to dive into her wet resting place the last ptolemaic units disperse, flee into the rough hills, where a chase is futile and Basileus Antiochos has added yet another victory and proven himself a man of action rather than word.

https://img230.imageshack.us/img230/6001/15742128qu6.jpg

https://img386.imageshack.us/img386/7840/43015087xh1.jpg

Some weeks later Antiochos II Theos took position near Hierosolyma, the residence of Komon Kitiou Kypriakou, the governor of Iudaia.
After the battle against Strategos Mnaseas Antiochos believed his army to be too weakened to face Kypriakou, so he turned to the coast again. There the king hired mercenaries, hoplites of greek and kelto-hellenic descent. With these men he felt to have the numbers not to be overwhelmed and still the quality to make the difference in his favor.
The gathering of armed men heralds a decisive battle.

https://img166.imageshack.us/img166/5885/38383100bh8.jpg

The seleukid army is outnumbered four to three, but Antiochos is at ease. The sound of battle has become his music, the slaughter of men his daily work. The soldiers know tales of his bravery and defiance of death and it is true: He does not fear, as he believes. He believes in his own strength, in the watch of the gods, of Seleukos and Apollon, his ancestors.
And he believes in the strength of the horse, of sword and spear, when moved in the right place and the right time. To know this place and time has become his trade.
His soldiers know this and they trust his judgment. When the king orders them to hold their ground, they will, because they believe in him: The common men call their king Theos - the God - and they strongly believe in it.
Regardless of the enemy's numbers, of the losses and the despaired onslaughts that Komon Kitiou commands, none of Antiochos' soldiers leaves his place and his army never is in danger of defeat.
Instead, they perpetrate a bloodbath among the ptolemaic garrison. Komon Kitiou follows the example of those who have dared to fight Antiochos before and ends his live on the slope where the seleukid phalanx holds its ground among his noble companions, slaughtered like cattle, leaving the gates of Hierosolyma unprotected and the city to grab as a ripe fruit, seductively bowing down from its tree.

https://img386.imageshack.us/img386/2406/17985778yy9.jpg

So Hierosolyma falls and with it the holy temple of the Jews. Ptolemaios has lost almost all his troops in Iudaia and he has to agree to a truce, giving up all left possessions in Asia.

https://img166.imageshack.us/img166/7682/93802096qm2.jpg

Lysimachos

09-01-2008, 19:21

What do you think of the probabilities of me running EB though? Can it be done? :P

It can be done, but you have to be aware of some things. Despite all efforts to make it faster you still have lag. Everywhere. Lots of it. Turns take ages. Better look for something to do in between. Units over normal size are not feasible. In fact, better autoresolve battles anyway (play at medium campaign difficulty or the autoresolved battles make you cry).
If you can't live with this, don't try. I can, because this mod is too terribly great not to play :yes:

Roka

09-01-2008, 23:24

another great update

i actually missed chapter 14 being posted somehow :inquisitive:

Lysimachos

09-02-2008, 06:43

another great update

i actually missed chapter 14 being posted somehow :inquisitive:

Thank you :beam:

Chapter 14 came about two days before this, which is a great deal faster than my usual update frequency. Maybe you haven't been here in the meantime?
Hope, you have read it now :book:

Lysimachos

09-08-2008, 18:31

Chapter 16: Philosophizing

The Tigris is sluggishly streaming south. As sluggishly lies the city, waiting for the lulling midday heat to pass. Most prevalent is greek architecture in the far stretching settlement, but its inhabitants are a mix of many peoples from the vicinity and from far away: Beside the makedonian upper class you find Babylonians, Iranians, Syrians, Armenians and Jews.
It is among the greatest cities in the world, housing more residents than Athinai, Roma or Karchedon, more even than Alexandreia. It is second to none, Metropolis of the empire.
Seleukeia, the city where Sarpedon, the king's brother, resides in a palace, large as a city of its own.

https://img48.imageshack.us/img48/3017/85723201mk5.jpg

A man strides through the long and wide corridors. His long dark hair falls in smooth waves, only a hint of silver at his temples and in his well trimmed beard. His appealing face is dominated by dark brown eyes. Subtle wrinkles around them betray a certain waggishness.
His prime is near an end, but he has tasted from the fruit of life and certainly knows the art of otiosity.
Soon he reaches the spacious accommodation of the co-regent, where Sarpedon awaits him.
"Ah, i am pleased to see you had time for a visit, today." - "Oh, yes. Rest assured, i am equally pleased."
Sarpedon lays an arm around his guest's shoulder and leads him to his marmoreal desk. "You see, Ikadion, after we signed that favorable treaty with the Hellenes - which has been one of the rare occasions that saw my brother blessed with a good idea, this is for sure - anyway, after we signed this treaty I saw the chance to take up correspondence with Hermarchos of Mytilene, who - as you most certainly know - now is the highly praised patron of the garden of Epikouros."
While his host proceeded with his sermon, Ikadion Anthemusias Babyloniakes, the appointed regent of the city of Babylon, freed himself of the embracement and walked over to the patio.
The voice is getting quieter, as Ikadion leaves the room and steps between the palm trees beyond the archway. He is fumbling with some papers, that he stored in his garments, while Sarpedon catches up.
"... so I decided to write him a letter to articulate my deepest admiration for his achievements and that of the late Epikouros and to express my interest in a discussion about his approach especially to Aristoteles and to the Stoa - as you are certainly aware I have made some considerations based on Epikouros' work - and luckily i received his answer from Athinai recently, in which he..."
Antiochos Soter's youngest son stops his speech.
"What are you doing? Are you even listening to me?"
A smirk plays about Ikadions mouth. "Of course I'm listening, dear. You didn't know, I'm working on an epic to praise your brother's deeds, did you?"
Sarpedon knits his brows. "Do you. I ... You know, I didn't really like your last work."
"Hmhm? Could have done it better, hurr?" Ikadion makes a heavily concentrated face, while theatrically skimming through his papers.
"Oh, oh, yes, I could have. Ask around the court. They all like what I'm writing."
"Well, that may be because they fear to get hung. Not that it would happen often, as they all are prolific yeasayers, but the imagination is in a way ... intriguing. Maybe I'd rather write about the secret tyrant than the glorious vanquisher. Hm."
Ikadion puts a finger on his chin and observes Sarpedon with a searching gaze. "You are quite a special breed of brothers, you know - but of course, not to forget your sisters. They have some extraordinary qualities, too. Perhaps a heritage from your also most extraordinary mother."
The Basileus' brother sighs deeply. "Sometimes you are just so disgusting beyond all bearing, Ikadion, I really don't know why I'm still inviting you into my chambers."
The accosted laughs out loud and steps closer. He lays his hands on Sarpedon's shoulders and mumbles in his ear, a broad grin on his face.
"From what I know of you, my dear, we are certainly playing in one league of disgust, but - admittedly - in a very cultured way, and you wouldn't want a lesser man to reveal the truths of life to you, would you?"

Theodotos I

09-08-2008, 19:59

Nice, Lysimachos. Very nice. Keep it up.

Lysimachos

09-09-2008, 06:35

Nice, Lysimachos. Very nice. Keep it up.

Thank you :beam:. Your latest chapter is nice, too.

Maion Maroneios

09-10-2008, 15:35

Excellent update, as always:wink:

Maion

Lysimachos

09-20-2008, 21:39

Hi folks! Another short update from me. I'll be away for some weeks soon and i don't know if I can update another time before that, but I'll certainly be back, so don't worry :beam:

Chapter 17: A Newborn Child

A newborn child in all its innocence and fragile vulnerability can remind a man of many things. It is at the very beginning of its life that is threatened to be ended, from the first day on.
Antiochos has spend most of his years with ending the lives of other men, yet the eyes of a little girl in his arms still reveal the desire that is buried deep in his heart to renew, to create. Her name is Artemesia, she is Antiochos' granddaughter, the child of Kleopatra.

It is the seventh year of Antiochos Theos' reign, the seventh year after his father's death and much has happened in the past years. Three years ago the Second Syrian War ended in a sea of blood in front of the gates of Hierosolyma and the following seasons Antiochos spend in campaigns along the borders of the desert, fighting against people who didn't recognize the Basileus' rule, taking their strongholds of Palmyra and Bostra.

https://img212.imageshack.us/img212/9393/43731389uy1.jpg

https://img181.imageshack.us/img181/7108/25952606ql4.jpg

https://img181.imageshack.us/img181/6158/15267101mr5.jpg

https://img187.imageshack.us/img187/398/98371511qy1.jpg

A king has not much time for his family and Antiochos was camping outside of Bostra when Kleopatra, his eldest daughter, was betrothed to Timarchos, a young promising officer from a hellenic Polis in Karia, while in those very days far to the west his brother-in-law, Magas Kyrenaios, died a humiliating death from overeating.

https://img88.imageshack.us/img88/6852/94417226jd3.jpg

The king returned to his capital just in time to see his grandchild born, a reminder of how time is passing and a reminder to start taking up things for which to be remembered, as long as there is time.

Lysimachos

09-26-2008, 17:35

Chapter 18: Kleronomos Basileois

Today is his day. Every single one of them has come to see him, a mere boy - no! - a young man, now that he reached the sixteenth year of his life.
He bears the name of Seleukos, his great grandfather, but they call him Kallinikos - the beautiful victor - although his beauty may be hidden under his early beard and a victory has yet to be seen.
But that does not matter today. Who of them that have come to Antiocheia to witness his proclamation as Kleronomos Basileois could dare to doubt great deeds to be expected of him?

https://img339.imageshack.us/img339/3438/74141466tv3.jpg

"I'm not impressed, to say the least." Sarpedon attests uncomfortably, brows knitted. Ikadion turns his head to the left. "Pardon? Not impressed by what exactly? The Academy as a whole?"
The two of them had traveled to Antiocheia to attend the festivities on the occasion of Kallinikos' appointment, but they took the opportunity to visit the lately completed educational facilities of the city. Due to generous funding were only few years needed to establish a new center of learning and knowledge by compiling enormous libraries and luring renowned capacities into the city on the Orontes. A center that - to Sarpedon's dissatisfaction - may well prove itself equal to those at Alexandreia or Seleukeia.

https://img176.imageshack.us/img176/4508/30021312rc4.jpg

"Nah, not the Academy." He exclaims. "That b-" The king's brother holds his breath, the hand in front of his mouth, as to keep the words inside. After a suspicious glance around, he mutters: "That boy! He won't get his mouth open if you put an iron between his teeth. He is just so... unimposing. Although..." In an unconscious movement raises Sarpedon's hand to his chin, feeling the hair in his face.
"Although he has quite an impressive beard for that age." The two continue walking across the academy's main yard.
"I tell you, Ikadion, no good will originate from that seed. Have you seen the younger one? I think he is kind of weird. On the other hand" - Sarpedon points behind to the two juveniles following in respectful distance - "look at my sons. What splendiferous young men. Well mannered and educated and adept at..."
Ikadion interrupts his speech abruptly, watching the two boys attentively. "My dear, there is a thing you have to tell me."
The addressee grunts to announce his disapproval about the unwelcome - yet not unfamiliar - disturbance of his speech. "What?"
"You are sure they are your sons? I just mean, their eyes kind of remind me of... mine..."

Socy

09-26-2008, 21:19

That was a funny chapter, really, made me laugh (Last part). It did however bring up some (possible) future plots, which was nice. As always you manage to give a coloured image of what is going on with very few words, atleast for me. I like it! Keep it up!

Though, regretfully, I've forgotten most of the characters since it was a long time ago I read your AAR. Would be nice with some post in wich the family-tree is explained (Can be edited when new ones are born/adopted, old one dies, and when they change traits, gain victories etc!, just a thought :idea2:)

Vasiliyi

09-26-2008, 22:40

I would just like to say that this is an awesome aar. Just splendid! Keep it up!

Lysimachos

09-27-2008, 08:56

I would just like to say that this is an awesome aar. Just splendid! Keep it up!

That was a funny chapter, really, made me laugh (Last part). It did however bring up some (possible) future plots, which was nice. As always you manage to give a coloured image of what is going on with very few words, atleast for me. I like it! Keep it up!

Though, regretfully, I've forgotten most of the characters since it was a long time ago I read your AAR. Would be nice with some post in wich the family-tree is explained (Can be edited when new ones are born/adopted, old one dies, and when they change traits, gain victories etc!, just a thought :idea2:)

Thanks to both of you! Maybe I'll finish another chapter this weekend, but after that I'm really on vacation.

I'll think about that family-tree-thing. I'm not sure how exactly to do this.

Edit: Hope this helps for now (should be the more important that have been mentioned, yet):

For 257 BC = 55 of Seleucid Era = 8th reigning year of Antiochos II Theos:

1. Seleukos I Nikator
Founder of the seleucid Empire, died before the beginning of the game.
Sons: Antiochos I Soter (ingame: Antiochos Syriakos); Achaios Syriakos

2. Antiochos I Soter (ingame Antiochos Syriakos)
2nd seleucid king, died in Summer 264 BC at the battle of the Kephisos in Attike
Sons: Seleukos (not ingame); Antiochos II Theos (ingame Theodoros Syriakos); Sarpedon Syriakos
Son-in-law: Magas Kyrenaios (rebel); ...

3. Achaios Syriakos
Died in early 260ies
Sons: Alexandros Syriakos; Andromachos Syriakos
Daughter: Laodike (ingame she is not his daughter)

4. Antiochos II Theos (ingame Theodoros Syriakos)
Ruling king of the Arche Seleukeia
Wife: Laodike
Sons: Seleukos Kallinikos (ingame Kallinikos Syriakos, 16 y/o); Euphorion (9 y/o)
Daughters: Kleopatra, Pamphile
Son-in-law: Timarchos Mylason Karikon

5. Sarpedon Syriakos
Gouverns the eastern part of the empire from Seleukeia on the Tigris
Sons: Omanes Syriakos; Athenaios Syriakos (both minors)
Daughters: two (don't have their names in my notes)

6. Seleukos Kallinikos (ingame Kallinikos Syriakos)
Kleronomos Basileois; attending the Akademia in Antiocheia on the Orontes; 16 years old

7. Andromachos Syriakos
Satrap of Persis; son of Achaios

8. Alexandros Syriakos
Satrap of Susiane; son of Achaios

9. Magas Kyrenaios
Son-in-law of Antiochos I Soter; Ruler of Kyrene; died probably in Fall 259 BC

Out of bloodline:

1. Ikadion Anthemusias Babyloniakes
Client ruler of Babylon; Epic Poet; close friend to Sarpedon Syriakos

2. Apollonides Damaskenos
Satrap of Phrygia; Commander-in-chief for Asia Mikra

3. Sosiphanes Beroias Syriakes
Olympionikes; former governor of Antiocheia; now Satrap of Phoinike

4. Keraias Pergamou Mysiakes
Highly skilled diplomate; Ambassador in Pella

5. Philippos
Most esteemed hetairos of Antiochos I Soter

Other factions:

1. Antigonos Gonatas (ingame Antigonos Argeades)
King in Makedonia; spends his life with battling greeks and epeirotes; Ally of Antiochos I Soter

2. Ptolemaios II Philadelphos (ingame Philadelphos Ptolemaios, I think)
King in Egypt and head of the ptolemaic/lagid dynasty; Archenemy of Antiochos I Soter

Lysimachos

09-27-2008, 16:25

Chapter 19: To New Shores

The wings of the Alep-gate open with loud noise. They give way for an iron snake, meandering through the city's streets. Thousands upon thousands stream out the gate. At the snake's head the Basileus rides, amongst his Hetairoi. At his side a young boy, at a tender age of eleven years, proudly riding his own horse.
Antiochos leaves most of his family behind and he doesn't know how many years may pass until he meets them again: his wife Laodike, his firstborn Seleukos Kallinikos and his daughters Pamphile and Kleopatra with her husband Timarchos, who brought this summer's victor's laurel from Olympia.
Only the young Euphorion accompanies his father on a voyage with uncertain end. Antiochos Theos is going to take his rightful place amongst the heroes of the Hellenes, while the previous generation of the Epigonoi is slowly fading away: Almost a decade ago his father died in the battle of the Kephisos, this autumn Antiochos Soter's old ally Antigonos Gonatas joined him in the realms of the dead and Ptolemaios Philadelphos is suffering from grave illness, but with an iron will clinging to life.

Makedonia, her allies and enemies at the death of Antigonos:

https://img294.imageshack.us/img294/4140/13bb5.jpg

Chionis puts his hands on the ship's guardrail. His view wanders across foredeck and port basin, towards the open sea. The setting sun's beams reflect from the easefully floating waves. The last night before their voyage is coming.
Chionis had never before met the Basileus, but as Nauarchos of the fleet he had the honor to dine with Antiochos. At first, Chionis was impressed by the pure authority that was emanated by the king's presence, but the later the evening grew, the more Antiochos fell victim to the abundant quantum of wine that ran down his throat, until he was hardly articulate.
The admiral felt pity for the young prince, who often must have seen his father losing control of himself, but Chionis knew, it was not his place to question his Basileus. His task was a secure crossing and all beyond lies in the king's hands.

The air is dry and hot. In the north the Persikos Kolpos shines blue, sun rays and foam dancing on the waves' tips. The fleet has again left the shore not to permit an enemy to catch it defenselessly cowered to the beach.
The royal army is widespread, closing around the settlement that is situated over the beach. Humble sheds with a crude palisade, but nonetheless an important place in the region, due to sources of fresh water and a natural harbour.
The town's name is Gerrha. A local tribe's leader has gathered the folk of the surrounding area, shepherds, sailors, pirates and traders. It remains a mystery what makes him think he could resist the seleucids' iron fist.

https://img87.imageshack.us/img87/6688/14md8.jpg

MarcusAureliusAntoninus

09-27-2008, 21:54

Another nice chapter.
Just like to add that I've been lurking this AAR. :2thumbsup:

schlappi

09-27-2008, 22:04

A very emotional narrative, i like it. Thanks for sharing.

Lysimachos

09-28-2008, 09:26

Another nice chapter.
Just like to add that I've been lurking this AAR. :2thumbsup:

Thanks! I'm lurking yours, too :2thumbsup:

A very emotional narrative, i like it. Thanks for sharing.

Always a pleasure :beam:

And i have a surprise for you, guys! Guess what? The third update in three days! Coming soon to a forum near you!

Lysimachos

09-28-2008, 09:30

Chapter 20: Naumachia

The ships are cutting through the waves, following the coastline eastwards but with enough distance to allow maneuvering in all directions.

After the short fight for Gerrha, the inhabitants of the town soon came to terms with their new lord. Among them the leading merchants saw the opportunities that open harbors along the iranian coast could offer and agreed with Antiochos to work for mutual benefit.
With the merchants on the conqueror's side the tribal elders had to repress their zeal of independence, and they were soon appeased when it became clear that the seleucid king was not willing to install a rigorously bound regime.
This enabled the Basileus to continue his campaign after a short sojourn and the army again boarded the fleet.

A loud call disrupts the dozy silence and reproduces itself through many mouths. "Sails ahead! Sails ahead!"
Nauarchos Chionis rushes to his flagship's lookout to get an idea of the approaching ships. In the distance the oncoming sails stand out against the clear sky. A forest of masts is spread over the waves, dozens of dozens of slender and swift vessels.
As Chionis hurries back to the bridge of his Trieres Antiochos Theos awaits him, showing a composed smile, his left hand on young Euphorion's shoulder.
"Nauarchos! A new experience for me, watching a battle that is not mine to command. This is your profession, my life is in your hands, so do your very best."
"Sire, you can entrust me with your life. Me too have a reputation and more to lose."
With a nod Chionis turns to commence his orders which are communicated by shouts and colored flags that are panned in direction of the other ships.

https://img262.imageshack.us/img262/7097/10kk5.jpg

The Arabians' fleet numbers more than one hundred ships against Chionis' forty. None of them can compare with the Triereis' strength, but they are very maneuverable.
To counter the enemy's numbers the fleet forms a close formation. The Pentekonteroi secure the gaps between the Triereis, which provide the fire power, while the small Kerkuroi form a screen in the back of the larger ships.
With constant speed the ships approach. An uncomfortable tension rules the minutes before the clash. The men wait silent for the intimidating mass of vessels to draw nearer.

The Triereis are entitled to make the opening move. Their torsion guns start to shoot as soon as the first adversaries get into their range. At long distance the fast pirate ships are not hit often, but strikes prove devastating against the light hulls and the dry wood quickly catches fire from burning projectiles.
Various ships are hit critically, but their numbers are to great to impede the arabian fleet as a whole.

Only short time after the archers start shooting at oncoming boats, the first pirates reach the line of Chionis' ships and in groups they attack the Pentekonteroi like a pack of predators a larger prey.
The outer wings swing around the seleucid fleet where a deadly dance with the Kerkuroi begins.

After little time the vessels have lost their dynamics and the battle becomes static. The hulls of the ships are wedged together, a huge field of wood floating on the sea - the battle has turned into a clutter of melee fights.
Fires are scattered over the scene, clouds of smoke obscuring the view.

Hours pass before the disorder starts to resolve and a result of the encounter seems to emerge.
After the smoke fades away and the clew of ships breaks apart it becomes obvious that the Arabians had no means to deal with the Triereis, which are rowed around the area of the battle and take out one enemy after the other.
Soon the clutter finally dissolves and Chionis and his king are left behind with the aftermath.

https://img157.imageshack.us/img157/1189/11bq7.jpg

The Naumachia has been won and the enemy thrown back, but many ships are lost and not a single Pentekontoros is left.

"Basileus. We have won this day, but will not be able to withstand another attack. I don't know if the pirates have another fleet out there but I'd rather not risk it. We haven't lost a Trieres, but some are in bad shape and without protection of a sufficient amount of smaller ships another encounter might be devastating," explains Chionis.
"I see." Antiochos nods. "Luckily the army is mostly aboard the Triereis. We are not very far from Homna now. This is what we will do: Continue following the coast until we reach the territory of the Maka. There the army will leave the fleet. Sail back to Charax, repair the ships and return with resupplies. I will await the fleet next autumn at the port of Homna."
"This sounds like a wise decision. We will proceed exactly as you said, Basileus."

Tartaros

09-29-2008, 20:47

Very nice update! :book:
Like your AAR!!!
best wishes

Theodotos I

10-02-2008, 17:25

I've commented before, but I've been so busy with college and work that I hadn't taken the time to really read this AAR thoroughly. Now I'm caught up, and I've got to say, Lysimachos, you've done some excellent work. Good luck in the TWC competion, rival! :sweatdrop:

gamegeek2

10-10-2008, 03:46

Even though im fighting them in 2 of my 3 current campaigns (see my AAR, below), the Seleukids are one of my fave factions. You can actually make an army with everything in it (HAs, HC, phalanx, hvy infantry, good archers, skirms, etc). Plus its challenging to fight lotsa peeps...

So, I present you with the customary

:smash::smash::smash::smash::smash:

Lysimachos

10-22-2008, 14:03

Hi there! Thanks for the comments!
Theodotos I: I'm sorry to see you have closely missed the podium again, though I'm the one who came in third *cough*

I'm back from vacation with chapter 21, the 100th reply in this thread :birthday2:

Chapter 21: Prospects

Kallinikos steps out into the palace's inner yard and leaves behind Agathe, his wife, and Nikomachos, his firstborn son and presumably future heir.
The past years that he spend at the flourishing Akademia in Antiocheia had done much to shape the man he has become. He still is rather withdrawn and seldom brings himself to approach other men, especially those of higher age and gained their status with deeds, but he has learned to use his intellect and his voice if the necessity arises.
Nonetheless, he makes the court doubt if the alikeness to his father exceeds the facial appearance.

Late afternoon's sun warms Kallinikos' face, who stopped in the quiet yard to relish a welcomed moment of repose, as his brother-in-law's voice disrupts the silence.
"Your highness, we have to talk."
Timarchos watches Kallinikos, face raised to the sky, the eyes closed and seemingly with effort ignoring his presence, and decides to test his patience for once.
Timarchos descends from old hellenic nobility of the city of Mylasa in Karia, a heritage that comes with pride and a secure awareness of superiority over all sorts of upstarts and people who only recently discovered the greatness of greek language and culture.
However, a marriage into royalty was not below his standards, despite the share of persian blood in his bride's veins.

With a disappointed sigh Kallinikos finally gives up and turns his attention to Timarchos. "What ails you, my brother?"
"I have been told you are ready to leave the academy now. Your father left instructions for this day. He wishes his son to be acquainted with the provinces of his future realm with his own senses. I took the liberty to commence preparations for your journey to Ipsos. Satrapes Appolonides Damaskenos awaits your arrival and will see to everything you need."
Another deep sigh escapes the prince's breast. "He has written down my destiny and left its execution to you, hm?"
"Maybe you'll even have time to pay my parents a visits, they'd surely be honored."

Of course there is no benefit to blame the messenger, Kallinikos knows. Timarchos himself has been left with a great burden by the king: A young man, not much older than himself, in charge of one of the greatest cities in the empire, including the ambitious project to establish an important center of sciences and learning.
It has to be admitted that Timarchos has shown a prosperous talent for organising and under his hands the Akademia has arrived at a stage where it is without equal in size of its premises, amount of funds and number of renowned teachers.
Timarchos certainly grew with his challenge, but would he himself be able to do the same with his burden, the burden of the Kleronomos Basileois, the future king?
The footsteps that he was to follow are large and the fear of not being able to fill them, just as well.

https://img367.imageshack.us/img367/3818/12da4.jpg

Maion Maroneios

10-22-2008, 18:41

Great update Lysimachos! It's good to read an AS AAR once in a while, it renews my mood of playing my Makedonian campaign:2thmubsup:

Maion

Lysimachos

10-22-2008, 19:44

Great update Lysimachos! It's good to read an AS AAR once in a while, it renews my mood of playing my Makedonian campaign:2thmubsup:

Maion

It's always a pleasure to see my writing motivating someone :beam: Successors rule :smash:

Just had to correct a little detail :quiet:

MarcusAureliusAntoninus

10-23-2008, 01:37

Nice to see this AAR is back.
I'll be awaiting the next chapter.

Lysimachos

10-23-2008, 13:28

Nice to see this AAR is back.
I'll be awaiting the next chapter.

Its nice to see fellow writers commenting (this, of course, applies to all others, too). I think I'll have to leave you a comment some time, too :beam: (I'm still following silently)

Some time ago Socy mentioned the difficulty in following and remembering the characters, so I have thought about what is best to do. I thought about one "library" of characters that would be updated, but this could only show the most recent state, which would be to the disadvantage of someone who is behind some chapters and doesn't want to spoil himself the story.
My latest idea is to add a spoiler at the end of every chapter where all mentioned characters are explained in some notes, in reference to the point in time of the chapter.
For chapter 21 it could look like this:

Year: 254 BC = 58th year of Seleucid Era = 11th reigning year of Antiochos II Theos

1. Seleukos Kallinikos (ingame: Kallinikos Syriakos):
Function: Kleronomos Basileois of the Arche Seleukeia
Parents: Basileus Antiochos II Theos and Laodike
Siblings: Younger brother Euphorion, younger sisters Kleopatra and Pamphile
Wife: Agathe
Children: Nikomachos
Personality: Rather introverted and uncharismatic; Pessimistic and unsecure about his abilities, especially concerning the rule over the empire; had an exceptional education at the great Academy in Antiocheia on the Orontes, which helps him with his problems at interacting with others; earlier it was thought he would "take after his father", but it seems he developes in a different direction

2. Agathe
Husband: Seleukos Kallinikos
Children: Nikomachos

3. Nikomachos
Function: Second in line of succession; Doing what a baby does
Parents: Seleukos Kallinikos and Agathe

4. Timarchos Mylason Karikon
Function: Governor of Antiocheia on the Orontes
Parents: descendants of old hellenic nobility of Mylasa in Karia
Wife: Kleopatra, eldest daughter of Antiochos II Theos
Children: Artemesia (maybe more by now, but I don't have it in my notes, am to lazy to look it up and it doesn't really matter)
Personality: Proud Hellen; Extroverted politician and bureaucrat; Athlete (Olympionikes of the olympic games in 256 BC)

5. Apollonides Damaskenos
Function: Satrapes of Phrygia and Commander-in-chief for Asia Mikra
Seat: Ipsos, which economically is of less importance than Sardis in Lydia, but the center of the military facilities in the peninsula
Personality: To be revealed in later chapters :beam:

Please tell me what you think about that.

General Appo

10-23-2008, 23:51

Loving it man. Love the character note thing. But then again, as I´ve said elsewhere, I love everythign tonight, so don´t trust anything I say.

Lysimachos

10-24-2008, 11:08

Loving it man. Love the character note thing. But then again, as I´ve said elsewhere, I love everythign tonight, so don´t trust anything I say.

Uh, yeah, unlimited love is fine, anyway thank you :yes:

Lysimachos

10-24-2008, 20:28

Chapter 22: Revelations

https://img384.imageshack.us/img384/3160/68923364kl5.jpg

The white sand stretches as far as the eye can see, the waves softly roll over the beach again and again. In the shallow water a boy is wading. He is wearing only a short-sleeved Chiton which is reaching nearly to his knees and girded at the waist. The boy's keen eyes are focused on the open sea, whilst he holds his step.
"Have you found something?" the tall man standing some dozen meters up the beach shouts.
Euphorion turns his head to his bodyguard. "Aischylos, a ship's coming!"

https://img248.imageshack.us/img248/1820/62267143zf9.jpg

Antiochos slowly follows the path down to the port, where a single Trieres has anchored. A familiar face awaits him.
"Nauarchos Chionis, I welcome you. Tell me, where is my fleet?" Sailors and soldiers alike watch the king in uncomfortable idleness, while the planks of the wooden runway creak under his boots.
Chionis, feeling the relentless inquiring gaze resting on him, answers with a perceptibly nervous and unsecure voice.
"My Basileus, you... I mean, I fully regret to disappoint your... your rightful expectancy..." He pauses, desperately searching for the right words - if there even are such. "I regret to disappoint your expectancy of a fleet coming with me, but I have to admit there is none."
The last words seem to remain floating in the air, oppressing the men around the king with their weight, making them almost observably shrink in the futile attempt to become invisible, in the anticipation of most unwelcome consequences of any drawn attention.
The king is breathing heavily and closes his eyes. The officers around him and Chionis carefully step back, awaiting the certain outbreak of fury and the prevalent thought regarding the range of the expected outburst is the question whether or not - or rather to which degree - the king yet is drunk.
Antiochos exhales deeply and opens his eyes, which are still directed at Chionis, who feels the unpleasant dankness of his sweat-soaked clothes and the tension of the moment laying heavily on his breast and shoulders.
The Basileus speaks with a restrained and gentle voice. "Will you accompany me on a short walk, Admiral?"

The two men are striding slowly and silently along the beach, where short time before Euphorion spotted the ship.
"So, will you tell me why you brought only one ship?"
Chionis, who has recovered his countenance in the long silence that has past in the time since he followed his king from the runway, responds, carefully arranging his words.
"After we left the army I commandeered the fleet directly to Charax, to complete necessary maintenance in due time, corresponding to your orders." Chionis takes another break, as he well knows the hardest part is to follow now. He breathes deeply and the next sentence springs from his mouth in a fast pace.
"However, your brother prohibited the fleet to set sail, so I had to leave the harbor secretly in the night and was in no way able to bring more ships."
Antiochos turns to the sea, walking down the beach until the water washes around his feet. His eyes look into the far distance, not watching anything particular, because the mind is too occupied to notice the beauty of the calmly dancing waves.
Chionis respectfully follows some steps behind, waiting.

After some uneventful time Antiochos awakes from his apathy.
"So it is true." The Nauarchos suddenly becomes very alert and after a moment he dares to speak himself. "Sire, you did know this was going to happen?"
The king sighs. "I will tell you something. The day when I was proclaimed Basileus, a man came to talk to me. He was a Somatophylax of my father and he claimed to have been with him in the moment of his death. He said, my father's last wish was to let me know of the Pythia's prophecy.
He told me that when my father attended the Oracle in Delphi, he asked if his line would succeed in fulfilling the legacy of Megas Alexandros. The Oracle's answer - as was to be expected - was not clear in itself."
Antiochos pauses, while his Admiral is watching attentively.
"My father was told, in order to prevail, his blood would have to overcome itself."

The king's officers are still waiting at the port, when their master returns with fast steps and a mask of his known adamantine determination on his face.
"We've got work to do!" he shouts. "Get me every ship and every boat in this godforsaken land! I want every raft and every piece of wood large enough to support a man! Is this clear, you lazy lot?"

For some notes on the characters in this chapter see following spoiler.

Year: 253 BC = 59th year of the Seleucid Era = 12th reigning year of Antiochos II Theos

1. Antiochos II Theos (ingame: Theodoros Syriakos)
Function: Basileus ton Basileon; Ruler of the Arche Seleukeia
Parents: Basileus Antiochos I Soter and Stratonike
Siblings: younger brother Sarpedon; Two sisters, one of whom was married to Magas Kyrenaios (and is not existant in game)
Wife: Laodike
Children: Seleukos Kallinikos; Euphorion; Kleopatra; Pamphile
Son-in-law: Timarchos Mylason Karikon
Personality: Charismatic, uncompromising leader; Known for his prowess as General, for his defiance of death and for being a notorious drunkard

2. Euphorion
Function: Third in line of succession after his brother Kallinikos and his nephew Nikomachos
Age: 13
Parents: Basileus Antiochos II Theos and Laodike
Siblings: older brother Seleukos Kallinikos; younger sisters Kleopatra and Pamphile
Personality: unflagging and intelligent juvenile, despises his father's drinking habits

3. Sarpedon Syriakos
Function: Co-Regent
Seat: Seleukeia
Sons: Omanes; Athenaios
Personality: Poet, Philosopher, Gourmet of Life; Skilled Politician and Schemer; The riches of the empire run through his city and his hands which has left him very wealthy; Egocentric

4. Chionis
Function: Nauarchos (Admiral)
Personality: Loyal, but not uncritical

5. Aischylos
Function: Bodyguard of Euphorion

Lysimachos

10-26-2008, 12:13

Chapter 23: Uninvited Guests

Late afternoon's sun follows the path of the mountain's slope, bathing the small valley with soft light. A few clouds travel across the blue dome spanning above.
A small column of smoke ascends from a fire over which a Bezoar Ibex, a wild goat, is roasting on a spit. The hunters, a hand full of young men, have erected some tents and have gathered around the fireplace, their horses grazing nearby.
The men are relaxing from the travails of the day, joking together and laughing, while they are waiting for their meal, the smell of which is in the air.
In the distance the sound of horses' hooves comes up the valley and one of the men with knitted brows attests: "We're getting company."
He stands up, grasping his sword belt and fastening it around his waist. The others fall silent, while watching two dozens of horsemen coming along the trail. One half of them is wearing heavy armor in fashion of the Hetairoi, while the other half are light troopers of the Galatoi, fierce warriors who by now live in central Asia Mikra for a generation and serve in the seleucid armies in significant numbers. The newcomers slow down and spread out over the glade.
Another of the young men struggles to his feet. "Stand aside, Gorgias, I guess they are here for me."
Kallinikos leaves the circle of his companions and addresses the one mounted stranger who has separated from the others, leading his horse in slow pace ahead.
"What is this about?" - "The Satrapes requests your immediate presence at Ipsos." declares the horseman.
"Well, then tell Apollonides I will come to see him as soon as I deem it fit." Kallinikos replies sharply and starts to turn back to the fire, as his interlocutor speaks up. "Obviously I didn't make myself clear adequately. You are to accompany me now."
The prince is struck with awe, as he hears the cold, unapologetic voice. "You... you do know who I am, don't you?" he demands incredulously.
"I well do," retorts the stranger confidently. "I come by order of the Satrap Apollonides Damaskenos who answers exclusively to the Basileus himself. You do not possess any authority over me and as long as you sojourn in the Satrapy of Phrygia - which you do now - you are bound to the orders of the Satrap. So, will you be so kind to mount your horse and follow me or do I need to make you do?"
Kallinikos helplessly and stunned with disbelief shakes his head, but then straightens himself.
"I decided to meet your master, but he... he'll better have a good explanation for this... this insolence!"

Lysimachos

11-02-2008, 16:27

Chapter 24: Hostage

Kallinikos enters the fortress of Ipsos, where Apollonides Damaskenos resides. His escort didn't exactly treat him as a prisoner, but their attitude still made clear that a deviation would not be tolerated.
He is led along a ramp up to the main structure situated in the center of strong fortifications. There the remaining soldiers follow a staircase into a dim hallway, lightened through some small openings in the massive wall.
Some meters ahead a man is standing near a window, beside him a small one-legged table has been positioned on which a carafe and a bowl with fruits stand. He turns around, revealing his face in daylight.
"Leave us alone," the Satrapes of Phrygia commands and his soldiers back off. "I welcome you, Seleukos. You are certainly aching to ask why I send my guards for you and rightly you do."
Hesitatingly Kallinikos takes some steps forward until he is only two arms length from the older man. "You are behind this," he states. "What were you thinking to make the king's son your prisoner?"
A slight smile shows on Apollonides' lips and vanishes again. "You are not my prisoner." The Satrap turns his attention to the fruit bowl beside him and with a gentle grip in two fingers he carefully raises a grape to the height of his eyes.
"I just had no option to leave any alternatives. All this - " his eyes meet Kallinikos' and his left hand describes a not too distinct circle - "serves your security."
He focuses again on the grape between his fingers and slowly pushes it into his opened mouth before he thoughtfully chews.
The last minutes Kallinikos somewhat fascinated and at the same time alienated watches the Satrap, being disrupted in his thoughts when Apollonides piercing glance again hits his eyes.
"And me. You see, tomorrow another guest will arrive at my modest halls." The Satrap steps closer to the window, pointing into the outside. "He will sojourn over there to the right, while your chambers will be there, in the wing to the left," now pointing in the other direction.
"This guest is here for you. His name is Lysimachos Sardikos. This may ring a bell to you. He is Satrapes of Lydia and a son-in-law of your uncle, Sarpedon."
The look on Apollonides' face now seems nearly expectant, but Kallinikos has found no way out of his confusion.
"What are you even talking about? Where is this going to lead to?"
Damaskenos sighs. "You see, I like being well-informed, so I have some of my own sources here and there. One of my sources in Seleukeia told me about something you too should be interested in. Your lovely uncle has forbidden the king's fleet to leave harbor. He is cutting his brother off from support. He has promised arabian chieftains to pay for the king's death."
Kallinikos is stunned with shock. "My wife, my son, are they safe? Is he going to kill me, too?"
Apollonides is raising his hands, trying to soothe the king's son. "Calm down, young one. They are safe and as long as they are, you are too."
Seleukos leans on the massive stone walls, searching for a hold. "Explain this."
"Sarpedon knows that he has too little support to make himself king, at least for now. Sarpedon needs a weak but rightful king to use as a puppet, something which he never could with your father but is confident to achieve with you or your son.
Your son is at Antiocheia and under the protection of Timarchos. Timarchos has nothing to gain from siding with Sarpedon, in fact as your brother-in-law he would be losing status, once Sarpedon or one of his sons would be king. So, Timarchos and Antiocheia will remain loyal and for now the city is untouchable for your uncle and as long as he can't get your son, he needs you alive.
And to achieve his goals he needs the support of people for whom choosing his side could be a real opportunity. People like Lysimachos Sardikos or..." Apollonides shrugs his shoulders and performs a waving movement with his hands.
Kallinikos glances up to him. "Or you." The Satrap nods. "Or me."

Lysimachos

11-03-2008, 16:26

Chapter 25: Encounter at the Baths

https://img385.imageshack.us/img385/7072/21ep1.jpg

The eyes closed Andromachos is slowly floating in the water, enjoying the sun warming his body. It is a sound late morning and he firmly intends forming it into another sound day, a day of the small, the quiet pleasures of life.
His thoughts are not directed anywhere, but unstressedly revolve around things of beauty and leisure. After the bath he would do a bit of light reading and then perhaps a ride, not too far, though, as he would want to have returned to the palace shortly after noon for a refreshment, not too much, though, as an extensive meal would be a burden in the midday heat of these quite early warm days.
In the afternoon it would be time to pretend to do some governing until he is tired and would proceed with doing nothing till evening when he would sup with the boys, listen to some music and watch the dancers.
Ah, this day is going to be great, worthy to be named in the same breath with most of its predecessors, and there was nothing imaginable to disturb this vision.
Andromachos is approaching the edge of the pool. Staying in the comfortably temperated water for some more time could do no harm, could it?

"Excellency." Andromachos, who is floating near the edge and is not used to get attention unless he asked for it, hesitantly blinks up to a servant of moderate rank, standing almost right above him, illuminated by the beaming sunlight. "Hm?"
The servant leans downwards to whisper a short sentence to his lord, who suddenly whirls upward and with oaring arm movements holds himself upright. Andromachos is fumbling for words.
"Urr... eww... wha... What does that mean: he is here? Tha... That cannot possibly be possible..."
Another person moves into his sight, the beaming sun forming a glowing halo around his face and the polished cuirass at the edges gleaming from reflected light.
Andromachos is unable to make out the face against the glaring light, but he doesn't need to wait for the voice to rise to recognize his Basileus.
"Receive my greeting, cousin. I see you keep the Satrapy in good shape."
"Oh, urm, I'm very gracious you have noticed that, my king, but let me tell you, you have not seen Persepolis in her best season."
Abruptly Andromachos' comfortable bath has begun to become very uncomfortable and his great day is going to become awful. He is silently cursing the moment he left his bed.
"Tell me, Andromachos, whose side is the one of the Satrapes Persikos?" - "Oh, my lord, all the loyalties of Persis belong her rightful king. I... You know that I have not a single reason to seek treachery. My life is as fulfilling as it could be... well, actually it was until now... However, I have no ambition than to hold onto what I have here. Urm, uh, yes, exactly."
"This is good to hear, cousin. I have fought beside your father and I well know his qualities and his flaws and I have the impression you are a worthy heir to him," responds the king. "I trust your word, but now I have to demand your service. I need every man you can muster, I need grain and I need cattle and I would appreciate if I get them rather today than tomorrow."
The Satrap of Persis is helplessly oaring with his arms under water. "My king, I can call upon my Klerouchoi and I can levy Psiloi, but you know as good as I do, that all I have will be no match against what your brother's arsenals may provide."
"Pah!" Antiochos almost spits out. "He may have access to the finest smithies of the Empire and - oh! - he may be a Strategos in his office, a genius of desk-tactics, but he has yet to see a single battle, while I have lost count of mine!"
That could very well be true, Andromachos has to admit silently.
"Besides. I have not come completely alone from Arabia, although I had some choices to make and I've been told that some of my fellow passengers have not traveled as conveniently as on the travel there."
"Ah, oh, Basileus, I would be honored if you take my oldest son, Antiochis, with you, as a sign of my devotion to you and that, urm, there is no reason to doubt my loyalty."
The addressee nods approvingly. "Very well. Then my son Euphorion may stay here in Persepolis and learn the ways of the east."

For information on new character see following spoiler:
Andromachos Syriakos
Function: Satrap of Persis
Seat: Persepolis
Father: Achaios Syriakos, brother of Antiochos I Soter
Brother: Alexandros Syriakos, Satrap of Susiane
Sons: Antiochis; Xenoitas
Personality: Similar to his father and his brother, a man with little ambition; His passion is the beauty of life; Has proven a lucky hand with governing the province, although his enthusiasm starts to lack.

Olaf Blackeyes

11-04-2008, 19:53

All i can say is AWESOME AAR man! Keep it up.

Lysimachos

11-05-2008, 08:40

All i can say is AWESOME AAR man! Keep it up.

Thanks! And I can reveal we are approaching a highlight in my campaign, if you haven't guessed yet :yes:

Lysimachos

11-06-2008, 17:40

Chapter 26: Amongst Colleagues

Lysimachos Sardikos is led to his host's private chambers. As he arrives, Apollonides arises from his seat to take his guest by the shoulders. "Welcome, dear colleague! You are looking good. I hope your journey went well. Come, have a seat with me."
"I thank you, Apollonides, for your hospitality. I'm fine and the journey to Ipsos not too far to enjoy it," answers the Satrap of Lydia and follows.
After sitting down Apollonides closely examines his counterpart. "Would you like to have a snack to refresh from the ride or perhaps something to drink?"
Lysimachos is a handful of years younger, a pair of lively, watchful eyes betraying an agile mind. A warm smile shows on his lips. "I have to thank you again, but I don't need anything at the moment. I would be honored to sup with you later, though."
Be careful, Apollonides reminds himself. He is a dangerous man, as dangerous as a beast of prey that is concealing its fierce brutality under its elegance and a beautiful fur.
The Satrap of Phrygia smiles back. "It will be my honor and a pleasure to do so." The games may begin, he thinks. "Perhaps the prince will join us, then."
A look of surprise on Lysimachos' face and Apollonides is not sure if it is true or well-acted. "He is here? Today?"
"Oh, yes, he is. But he won't stay for long." He pauses a moment, waiting for a reaction, which is not coming. "The regent, your father-in-law, has requested him to come to Seleukeia for an assignment of importance. We are right now preparing for his departure. The Royal Road will be secure for most of the way, but I send a strong body of cavalry with him, to make sure he will arrive his destination."
Another pause. "You certainly understand." A small statement, as such meaningless, but maybe implying the unspoken, maybe not. You can't trust anyone these days, can you?
Lysimachos slowly nods. His mind is working. Definitely he knows he's none the wiser than before.
The guest calmly answers: "It is good I'll have the opportunity to meet him again. I'm lucky I haven't come tomorrow."
"Yes, that is true. Very well," adds Apollonides, now considering to lead over to a nice, innocuous conversation about the latest development in mining business.

Maion Maroneios

11-07-2008, 02:04

Good update, Lysimachos! It's really nice to read you AAR from time to time, for the reasons I've forementioned, but also because the Arche Seleukeia are my second favorite faction!:2thumbsup:

Maion

Lysimachos

11-07-2008, 08:51

Good update, Lysimachos! It's really nice to read you AAR from time to time, for the reasons I've forementioned, but also because the Arche Seleukeia are my second favorite faction!:2thumbsup:

Maion

Your comments are always welcome! As a matter of fact I'm right now considering to join the ranks of the Synedrioi in your interactive campaign, because the introduction of rivalling parties has stirred my interest again.

Maion Maroneios

11-07-2008, 11:58

Socy

11-07-2008, 14:58

Your comments are always welcome! As a matter of fact I'm right now considering to join the ranks of the Synedrioi in your interactive campaign, because the introduction of rivalling parties has stirred my interest again.

Not only do I love reading your AAR (Though I do not post as often, yet still!), which in my opinion is like a well-written book, but having you onboard in Maion's AAR would be totally awesome, especially since your knowledge, language and interaction seems to be just like the stuff that would really contribute in that AAR! I hope we'll see each other there, either as comrades, or as rivals! :yes:

Lysimachos

11-07-2008, 15:11

Well, just the fact that someone like you reads my AAR is very honoring to me!

Maion

Now that is more than I deserve, you are flattering me!

Not only do I love reading your AAR (Though I do not post as often, yet still!), which in my opinion is like a well-written book, but having you onboard in Maion's AAR would be totally awesome, especially since your knowledge, language and interaction seems to be just like the stuff that would really contribute in that AAR! I hope we'll see each other there, either as comrades, or as rivals! :yes:

Thanks to you, too. I'll need to think about an interesting background story before I can promise anything.

Socy

11-07-2008, 15:40

Now that is more than I deserve, you are flattering me!

Thanks to you, too. I'll need to think about an interesting background story before I can promise anything.

Well, it would be nice if you did, but really, just have a place of birth, small background (Family, etc.) and your position. My own backstory kind of started like that and I'm evolving it as the AAR grows. Just an idea, join in on the fun and you will eventually get a background! :yes:

Lysimachos

11-08-2008, 12:28

Chapter 27: A Son's Duty

Kallinikos and his escort are riding at fast pace. His destination indeed is Seleukeia, yet he soon leaves the Royal Road, because first the Kleronomos Basileois has to head somewhere else, as he is not going to enter the Metropolis as a prisoner.
If the king is still alive, it is his son's duty to save his kingship.

Mighty walls rise into the sky. Antiocheia on the Orontes - western pearl of the Arche Seleukeia. The city is heavily guarded, squadrons of cavalrymen patrol the surrounding land. Alarming rumors have reached the governor's ear. Some say, the Basileus has died in Arabia and others that he has been arrested by his own brother, who tries to claim the throne. No news from the king's son have arrived for some time, who should be in Asia Mikra and the future is uncertain.
Only one thing is certain to Timarchos: Nikomachos, the Basileus' grandchild, lives in his house, the rightful heir, if father and grandfather fall to misfortune. So the governor knows, he who seeks the power has to follow the path to Nikomachos, and Timarchos made the decision to protect the child from whatever harm may come to him.

"Excellency! Excellency!" - "Yes, what is it?" Timarchos looks up from his work, stacks over stacks of papers, that are piling on his massive marmoreal desk.
"The prince has just arrive at the palace, sir," the messenger replies. A load is taken off Timarchos' mind. "Thank the gods he is alive! I reckon he will be seeing his family first. You can leave now, soldier."

"I'm glad to see your highness alive and well," Timarchos states. Kallinikos, his arm around the shoulders of his three year old son, looks up and rises. "So am I. And now I need your help, my brother."
The two of them retire to Timarchos' office and there the prince tells him about the past events. "And so," Kallinikos closes, "I owe my father to take an army to the Tigris. That is what I have come for."
His brother-in-law nods. "I have no confirmed report about his whereabouts, but word has he sailed to Persis. Though it is nothing more than hope, as today you can't trust any rumor."
He starts walking up and down the room. "You have to be aware that you can not be certain that the Basileus is still out there. So if it is your decision to confront your uncle I suggest you proceed carefully and try to gather supporters. It is of great importance that Sarpedon doesn't learn of your plans until you have reached northern Mesopotamia with its huge reserves."
"I am grateful for your help, Timarchos. It seems fate finally has decided to impose a great task upon me." Kallinikos is gazing off into the distance. "I hope it won't break me."

I of the Storm

11-20-2008, 11:29

Very good! Will you continue this?

Maion Maroneios

11-20-2008, 13:24

Good to see you're back. Got some time off, I persume? It's a good thing, your mind freshens up and you continue with renewed enthousiasm. I did it some time ago too:wink:

Maion

Lysimachos

11-22-2008, 08:49

Very good! Will you continue this?

Oh, yes, there are some interesting things to come and I wouldn't want to quit before I get them in, despite 1.2 being out :yes:

Good to see you're back. Got some time off, I persume? It's a good thing, your mind freshens up and you continue with renewed enthousiasm. I did it some time ago too:wink:

Maion

Uhm, actually I'm not back yet, as it is almost two weeks since I posted the latest chapter, but I'm going to update this weekend or perhaps at the beginning of next week.

Maion Maroneios

11-22-2008, 13:41

Excellent! I'll be waiting for your next chapter then!

Maion

Lysimachos

11-23-2008, 13:38

Chapter 28: Gaugamela

Two riders are slowly moving through the busyness of the camp. They ride in silent, with disregard for the soldiers who are inspecting and repairing the equipment and preparing their meals.
When they have left the last tents behind Gorgias Dahaikos stops on a small slope, viewing to the south. "You know what this is, Kallinikos? Over there Alexandros fought the battle of Gaugamela." He is searching the surroundings. "I've heard here is an altar somewhere."
Seleukos Kallinikos catches up with his companion. "I dare to say it won't help us much, if you don't mind," he demurs.
"You're a croaker," Gorgias asserts, shaking his head. "If that was Alexandros' attitude, he wouldn't have won a battle on that very plain in front of us."
Kallinikos spurs his horse and exclaims: "I'm not Alexandros and am not going to change that! Now stop this!"

The two of them now are riding faster, in a curve across the ancient battlefield and then back in direction of the Royal Road.
The prince's forces have grown since he left Antiocheia behind, yet it is still a small army, but able to move quickly. Kallinikos doesn't plan an open confrontation, but through his armed presence putting pressure on those who haven't fully abandoned loyalty to their king.

He interrupts his thoughts and points southeast. "Look there, who's that?"
A single rider comes fast along the road and Kallinikos and Gorgias rush their horses to intercept him. "Stop your horse, stranger! Where are you going?" Gorgias calls out.
The newcomer firmly pulls the reins and brings his mount to a sudden halt. After a moment of hesitation he recognizes the king's son. "I'm coming for you, Strategos! I bring message from Seleukeia. The regent has ordered the army to prepare for march."
Kallinikos glances up, to the sky. "This can mean only one thing."
Gorgias sceptically looks at him. "No. It can't, actually."

https://img167.imageshack.us/img167/4382/15zl7.jpg

The audience is attentively watching the actors performing on the stage the premiere of a new komoidia written by the famous babylonian politician and playwright Ikadion Anthemusias.
Yet not all who have come to see the play, here in the Thaumaton Theatron of Seleukeia, are lucky enough to be able to commit their full concentration to it, among them the poet himself.
A pressing matter has forced him to leave soon after the begin and now he is standing in the dim and chilly corridors below the terraces.
"I don't like the way you are gambling," Ikadion emphasizes with rarely known gravity in his voice. "I will keep my hands out of this, you understand?" - "So you are deserting me, too? I swear to you, you will see where this will get you once I've come back," retorts his guest with fury and hurries away with a quick turn.

MarcusAureliusAntoninus

11-23-2008, 19:22

Now you're back. :2thumbsup:
Good to see this continue.

Maion Maroneios

11-23-2008, 20:05

Good update:wink: By the way, I wonder how much treasury you got.

Maion

Lysimachos

11-24-2008, 10:40

Now you're back. :2thumbsup:
Good to see this continue.

Good update:wink: By the way, I wonder how much treasury you got.

Maion

Yes, I'm back :yes: I'm planning to update at least once a week, hope this will work out.

I can't give a certain figure regarding my treasury, but once all the mines are constructed and upgraded the financial cituation becomes comfortable, especially because I don't maintain a lot of expensive units (I don't need many armies, because I don't plan any fast and huge-scaled invasions all over the place).

Maion Maroneios

11-24-2008, 11:48

A number would be fine:wink: Anyway, if you don't want to say, I understand :-P

Maion

Lysimachos

11-24-2008, 13:31

A number would be fine:wink: Anyway, if you don't want to say, I understand :-P

Maion

It's not like I didn't want to, I just can't. What is recently happening in the AAR is about ten years back in the game and I don't have a clue how much money I had back then.
Short time after this I recruited my first elite units and elephants and later I've had something more than 100k at one time, but I usually try to spend my money on buildings. The theater is not the only top-level building I have in Seleukeia, for example, I just don't see a roleplay opportunity for every one of them.

I of the Storm

11-24-2008, 14:38

Ah, an update! Good to see.

The theater is not the only top-level building I have in Seleukeia, for example, I just don't see a roleplay opportunity for every one of them.

All those glamourous, sinfully expensive, high-end public order buildings and parks etc. are always good for conspirative meetings. Or showdowns.

Maion Maroneios

11-24-2008, 21:38

It's not like I didn't want to, I just can't. What is recently happening in the AAR is about ten years back in the game and I don't have a clue how much money I had back then.
Short time after this I recruited my first elite units and elephants and later I've had something more than 100k at one time, but I usually try to spend my money on buildings. The theater is not the only top-level building I have in Seleukeia, for example, I just don't see a roleplay opportunity for every one of them.
Aha, I see. That makes sense:juggle2:

Maion

Lysimachos

11-25-2008, 14:53

Ah, an update! Good to see.

All those glamourous, sinfully expensive, high-end public order buildings and parks etc. are always good for conspirative meetings. Or showdowns.

This is true. I think there will be some more opportunities then...

Aha, I see. That makes sense:juggle2:

Maion

Maybe I'll write down what I have now in the game and when I'm as far in the AAR I might tell you :laugh4:

Btw, when beginning to write the next chapter I realized I have one unit of Argyraspides, so technically I already have an elite unit. :2thumbsup:
Anyway, I'm full of anticipation for completing this chapter, because it will be an important and large one and I hope it might also become one of my best so far :smash:
Back to work now :skull:

Lysimachos

11-29-2008, 14:27

Here I am again and I think this is my longest chapter yet, although I made the last parts shorter than I originally intended to. Well, I guess I might have to answer some questions soon :beam:

Chapter 29: The Hour of Steel and Blood

So this is the day, Sarpedon thinks. He watches the Taxiarchai commanding their regiments in formation, arranging the Phalanx, Syntagma for Syntagma. He is not used to wearing armor but his smiths and tailors have done greatly in composing a military outfit for him.
The silver-coated cuirass is finely crafted and highly ornamented. On the right it shows Apollon Argurotoxos - with the silver bow - in his personification as god of archery, armed with Hephaistos' bow slaying Python, the chtonic dragon. The left shows Apollon as Musagetes playing the Kithara, surrounded by his choir of Muses. Between them, upon the solar plexus, the sun disc is set in gold.
From his shoulders falls a bright red cloak and for his head he has chosen the two-plumed helmet of the Hetairoi.
Sarpedon is riding ahead of his sons and highest officers, inspecting the buildup of his battle line. He turns around, seemingly satisfied and looks over the plain in front of the host. To the south the Tigris is slowly flowing in eastern direction, before turning south where the land rises to the Zagros mountains. The terrain is flat except some small elevations and it becomes more marshy closer to the river itself.
"Omanes!" he calls for his oldest son. "Yes, my father?" The addressee responds, lashing his mount to catch up.
"You take the cavalry and proceed ahead of the main line. I don't want any surprises." Omanes straightens himself with the confidence of an adolescent who never had to experience failure. "Of course, my father, I won't disappoint you!"
Sarpedon nods and looks to his younger son. "Athenaios, you stay with your brother. Heed his command." He is turning away, but stops and faces his son again. "And sit upright!" he snaps in a low, yet sharp voice.
So this is the day. He was going to face his brother in battle. Ah! He should have known from the start that this narrow-minded Admiral wouldn't obey his orders. But did it really matter? What aces could remain in Antiochos' sleeve? A victory today and an easy victory against the rabble that his nephew gathered in the north and the kingdom would be his. Then, at last, it would have a prospect of being well-governed.

A strong, black Arabian steed carries a tall man, wrapped in a blueish-gray cloak, unshaven and with disorderly hair. His carelessness however doesn't conceal the grandeur of his nobility, his uncompromising assertiveness and the muscular physique. The warrior-king is riding again.
He is riding again and he has an army. He brought from Arabia as many troops as he could, who now form the core of the host, that has been bolstered with the Klerouchoi from Persis and Susiane and with local Psiloi. Not the best he could wish for, but the experience of his veterans and his own proficiency in leading them should be enough for any foe.
"My Basileus?" With him is Antiochis, his cousin Andromachos' son. The king looks back, raising his eyebrows to signal his attention. The young relative is insecurely gnawing on his lip, as if considering the words to chose.
"Basileus, if you don't mind me asking, how does it feel, riding to fight your own brother?"
Theos silently gazes into Antiochis' eyes until the younger uncomfortably turns his eyes away. Then the king speaks, slowly and considerate. "When the day of battle comes, there is not time for feelings. When the horns of war call for slaughter it is the hour of steel and blood and not emotion. Victorious is he who doesn't fear, doesn't doubt, doesn't hesitate. The soldier may hate and lust, but never the commander, even when the dance of swords carries his body. Remember that."
A voice raises nearby. "Sire! Cavalrymen ahead!" Antiochos' head wheels around and follows the pointing finger of the Hetairos. "There, below the trees."
"I see. Prepare for engagement. We will offer a skirmish." - "Yes, Basileus!"
Antiochos again faces the young man. "You take the lead of the Infantry. No hurry, no experiment. Just hold formation and proceed according to the plan." In Antiochis' eyes the surprise shows, suddenly being in command over thousands of men, but he soon finds back his countenance. "As you order, my king!"
Antiochos Theos has deployed his cavalry on the right wing, because on the left, to the south, the ground near the Tigris is too soft to support horses at a steady speed, posing a reasonable defence against any mounted flanking. Now the king takes his riders forward and battle is imminent.

https://img262.imageshack.us/img262/6355/22jw1.jpg

Omanes watches the king's right wing separate and leave the infantry behind, approaching in trot: the Hetairoi, the chosen companions, Lonchophoroi, protected by the Aspis and Prodromoi, not heavily armored, but mounted on exceptionally fast and agile horses.
Athenaios carefully voices his thoughts. "We should return now, brother. We are to far from the army, father would not want this."
Omanes laughs out loud and pulls his horse around, jerking his heels in its flanks. "No! This will be my victory! My glory!" The fire of passion is burning in his eyes and he turns towards the approaching enemies, unsheathes the Kopis and pushes it into the sky.

His brother's horsemen are swinging in and a smile of cold, superior confidence shows up on Antiochos' lips. "Those bloody fools," he mumbles before raising the voice: "Ready for charge!"
The wind carries the shout far and a many-voiced exclamation answers his call, the heavy cavalrymen speeding their horses, closing the lines shoulder by shoulder and couching the lances, while the Prodromoi, slight statured men on fast horses, prepare to hunt down Omanes' Hippakontistai.
Now the opponents' horses also accelerate to a tantivy. The horses are flying across the plain, hurling dust into the sky, the hard sound of their hooves hitting the ground unifying with the men's furious shouting and the mounts' nervous neighing in a thunderous cascade of noise.
The lines collide in an explosive cracking of steel against steel, which makes place for the cries of pain and the frightened sounds of the men's mounts.
Many have been unmounted in the powerful impact, riding without a saddle, and the cavalrymen's clash becomes a vicious melee - nothing left of the grandeur of mounted nobles - no! One thing already has been decided: This fight won't end as a skirmish, but when one side has ceased to stand.
The king is still on his horse, blazing his trail with the Kopis like the mower cuts the grain with his scythe. His vengeance comes upon his foes - cold and motionless, but unforgiving - and he is barely noticing who is falling under his blade.

https://img89.imageshack.us/img89/876/23zd1.jpg

The world turns silent around Omanes as he helplessly watches his brother collapse under a forceful blow. The Kopis slides from the young man's hand and he is grasping a Xyston, the fingers closing strongly around the trusty wooden shaft. The lance uplifted Omanes is stumbling across the fighting ground, towards the tall rider who just killed Athenaios with a slash off the cuff without even conceding him attention. Omanes is slowly, but irresistibly moving forward, the blood pounding in his temples, his eyes fixed on his aim. He is dropping his shield to grip the Xyston with both hands, preparing a powerful thrust. He is close, very close. An acute pain is hitting his left thigh. He has no time for pain and it is fading away, but the leg is giving in and the thrust misses. The Xyston's point is deflected by the king's muscled cuirass, its edge leaving a small cut on the inside of Antiochos' upper arm.
Omanes is on his knee, breathing heavily. He is preparing the next thrust, when his eyes meet Antiochos' gaze. The king's cold, piercing glance is perturbing, the calmness in the face of death even more so. Omanes is hesitating, before he raises the weapon.
But he has waited to long. A hand is grasping his hair, pulling his head backwards. He feels the shock of cold steel at his throat. He is gasping for air and he doesn't know why he can't breath. Then the pain is over, sensation has gone and his body is caving in, gushes of blood running from the deep cut in his throat in the rhythm of his heart's last beats.

https://img227.imageshack.us/img227/8672/24sh8.jpg

Not many of Omanes' soldiers live to escape, chased away by Antiochos' Prodromoi, not enough to make a difference at another time. Already the scales have almost been tipped in the king's favor, when the wounded retire to the camp or after receiving basic treatment return to the right wing, for there is still a battle to be won.
Antiochos, now clearly superior in terms of cavalry, has chosen a conventional lineup. About two thirds of his infantry form the phalanx: to the left the Klerouchoi from Persis and Susiane and to the right the veteran Pezhetairoi, who fought under his command in the campaign to Hierosolyma and later in Arabia. Among them, the guard troops, the Argyraspides, hold the position of honor at the right edge of the Phalanx.
The last third of the king's infantry are Psiloi, light infantry. They are mostly Persians, armed with bows and varying quality of armor. Their numbers are complemented by slingers and a compartment of experienced Toxotai Kretikoi.
The main disadvantage of Antiochos' army is the lack of any heavy infantry or other mobile, but capable of melee, footsoldiers.
Across the field the king's brother has to rely heavily on his spearmen, now that he lost most of his cavalry, as he commands considerable numbers of well-armored Thorakitai and Thureophoroi as well as jewish and babylonian spearmen.

The battle lines stand ready, huge blocks of pikemen slowly closing in to the marching music of the Auletai. The Phalanx is the heart of a successor army, its most important part. The decision, however, will be made on the flanks and both generals know this and both have to take a risk in order to succeed.
The opening move in the struggle for the flanks comes from Antiochos. He has to move first, because he has to be quick, as his left flank is protected by not much more than the soft and not easily passable bankside terrain of the Tigris. His Hetairoi and Lonchophoroi encounter Sarpedon's Thureophoroi, who have been put here to hold the left, assisted by the remaining cavalry and the Peltasts, while the king's brother sends his heaviest troops, the Thorakitai, together with the Babylonians to attack on the river side.
The king, having suffered only a small cut in the preceding fight, is again leading his men at the front, while his brother is trying to retain the overview.

Antiochos knows the steadfastness and proficiency of the Thureophoroi, so he decides to fully exploit the enemies' lack of cavalry, by dividing his own heavy horsemen in three compartments, that repeatedly charge from different directions into the spearmen's defensive position, thus weakening them more and more without getting drawn into a lasting melee.
At the southern flank Sarpedon's Thorakitai and Iudaioi viciously attack the Klerouchoi, inflicting serious casualties to them, while the Babylonians are making their way even farther out to reach the back of Antiochos' formation, but they are not able to proceed fast and suffer greatly under concerted pounding by the Persian bowmen and slingers, while the king's Cretans get the upper hand in their ranged duel against Sarpedon's Syrians.
Finally, the Babylonians have come around the southern flank, but they see themselves unable to attack the back of the Phalanx, being threatened by the numerous Psiloi and the Prodromoi, who have been held in reserve, so they decide to rather flee into the dense sea of reed, abandoning what had been planned for them to avoid demise.
At this moment, Sarpedon's battle plans seem to be doomed: his own flanking maneuver severely weakened by the flight of the Babylonians, while the Thureophoroi and Peltastai no longer can resist the charges of Antiochos' heavy cavalry and the Argyraspides at the very right of the Phalanx get the better of their opponents, the gain of the Thorakitai in the south becoming in vain.
After the line starts crumbling, a determined strike of all reserves is enough to turn a close fight into total destruction.

https://img152.imageshack.us/img152/5403/28hf4.jpg

Once again the king was victorious and his brother's army has suffered obliteration, but the traitor's body has not been found...

Maion Maroneios

11-29-2008, 16:47

Wow, that was a very intense chapter! My sincere congratulations:thumbsup:

Maion

Lysimachos

11-29-2008, 17:04

Wow, that was a very intense chapter! My sincere congratulations:thumbsup:

Maion

Thank you very much! I have a slight bad conscience though, because originally I wanted to describe the main part of the battle from Sarpedon's view, between hope and realization of defeat, but I got something like a "lazy-flash" and I just wanted to post it without separating one battle into two chapters.

MarcusAureliusAntoninus

11-29-2008, 20:30

Wow, that was a very intense chapter! My sincere congratulations:thumbsup:
Indeed. A very good chapter.

I of the Storm

12-01-2008, 10:49

Maion Maroneios

12-01-2008, 12:31

Excellent update.
Out of curiosity: how did you get pre- and post-battle screens of two opposing seleucid armies with the proper character names? I mean, you can't really make them fight eachother on the campaign map, can you?
No, you can't. But you can take two separate pictures of the two armies and merge them in one using a picture-editing program.

Maion

Lysimachos

12-01-2008, 13:19

Hehehe, finally someone brings up this point, I've been waiting for it all the time :laugh4:

Actually, it is not all picture editing and I really fought a battle with Theodoros Syriakos against Sarpedon Syriakos and I would even have posted screenshots, if the graphics quality of my computer wouldn't suck that badly :yes:

What I did is probably a bit too much effort for this, but I really wanted them in the battle instead of some replayed custom battle or not having one at all. :idea2:
Somewhere in this forum I found directions on how to take control over a different faction. After bringing Sarpedon, Omanes and Athenaios in position I used that information to take control over the Ptolemaioi, so I could bribe them.
Then, I took control of the Seleucids again, used the console to spawn them some units and attacked to start the battle.
Some picture editing is involved of course. I copy-pasted the seleucid symbol over the ptolemaic and on the messages for the dead generals I deleted the reference to the Ptolemies, too. Regarding the unit cards in the pre-battle-screen I copied seleucid cards over the ptolemaic cards of respective units (but not all, some of them are still ptolemaic cards and the artistic skill is lacking on some parts, too, which you can see if you watch closely). In the battle, they were of course a completely ptolemaic army.
So now I don't even have to kill them off by some other way (hunting pirates in a jollyboat...) and still they are not around anymore and marked in the family tree as whatever-the-game-calls-it (defected or something) :skull:

And of course: Thank you all for your nice comments :2thumbsup:

I of the Storm

12-01-2008, 14:29

Ingenious!

You deserve a balloon: :balloon2:

Hehehe, finally someone brings up this point, I've been waiting for it all the time

tbh, I was surprised that noone did yet...:inquisitive:

Lysimachos

12-02-2008, 15:49

W00t! Thank you!

PriestLizard

12-04-2008, 14:20

Smart move! ~:) Thats something other AAR writers should keep in mind... ;)

Oh and is it possible to post a picture of your campaign map too? It would be a nice addition to your great writing ~:)

Olaf Blackeyes

12-04-2008, 17:44

Forced Diplomacy FTW!!!!!!!!!!!!!:beam::beam:

I of the Storm

12-31-2008, 11:33

Bump! I'm still hoping for an update here... ?

Kuningaz

01-04-2009, 18:33

C'mon please don't tell me this is dead:no:

Lysimachos

01-06-2009, 14:02

This is not dead, I repeat: This is NOT dead! I've just been hibernating :beam:

Chapter 30: Gem of the Empire

"Strategos! Our scouts have returned." A young Dekarchos, a junior officer, is quickly riding up the hill, where Kallinikos is waiting, overlooking his small army marching south along the Dialas river that meets the Tigris not far north of Seleukeia.
The prince faces him and commands: "Report!" The horseman with force restrains his mount, which is uneasily obeying the pulling reins, neighing loudly while lifting its forelegs into the sky. "Strategos, the army has left Seleukeia and is marching in southeastern direction. Their baggage is not provided for a long time and the city is left behind with almost no garrison."
"Dismissed, Dekarchos." Kallinikos nods and turns to his staff. He shows a rare moment of resolution - perhaps because this decision has been made long before - and without hesitation he announces: "Gentlemen, we'll take our chance. Forced march to Seleukeia!"

Apollodoros is a quite small man and the years of comfortable service have done their part in forming his body in a rather grave fashion. His graying hair is slowly retreating from an uphill battle and gives room for a deserving presentation of Apollodoros' huge, almost cubical head, inside which most of his work, if any, is done.
Concerning his work, Apollodoros has just begun a break from the demanding task of acknowledging the next month's plans of watch, in order to savor some of his wife's famous cakes, when excited knocking arises at the door of his office, the office belonging to the commander of the city guard of Seleukeia.
Apollodoros is tempted to ignore the assumed supplicant, who dares to disturb his sacred break, but as he is not a dumb man and well knows that he seldom has to handle matters that tend to cause excited knocking, he allows the messenger into the office, but of course not without indicating his disapproval with the whole affair of disturbing him.
"Enter if it's important..." he shouts. A young and slender Babylonian enters the room shyly and Apollodoros recognizes him as one of the guard's runners and adds: "... or else you'll receive a fair share of whipping."
The commander leans back in his chair, that is groaning under the heavy weight's movement. "So, what is the matter?"
"An army is approaching the syrian gate. The officer of the watch requests order if the gate is to be closed, sir." Apollodoros heaves himself in an upright position, which induces the chair to emit another groan that is full of pain. "I reckon it is Seleukos Kallinikos?"
"We think so, sir."
He slowly nods. "Well, then, I guess, the choice has been made for us. He is here and the regent is not, so open the gates and give the prince a warm welcome. I will have to take care to inform our dear dignitaries."
The runner backs away, but before he turns to leave the office, he carefully asks: "So, there is no whipping?"
Apollodoros generously lifts his hands to show his renouncement. "No whipping!" Though, before the door closes behind the Babylonian, he shouts: "This time!", eager not to dilute his reputation among his subordinates.

The great iron gates open for the young prince's host. The sunlight is reflected by the tips of the soldiers lances and from the proud city's roofs, making it gleam brightly as the gem of the empire that it is. The people, who are living beneath this shimmer, bode farewell to the regent Sarpedon days ago, just as they now welcome the prince Seleukos Kallinikos and decorate his soldiers and horses with flowers, celebrating them as victors without a battle. The feud of the royal siblings has done little to touch them, until now, when thousands of husbands, brothers and sons have died at the shore of the Tigris, died not to defend their land and loved ones but for the will of their betters. The commoners don't know what the great ones argue about, what the nobles grind their blades for. They never do.

MarcusAureliusAntoninus

01-06-2009, 20:26

Good to see this is back!

Olaf Blackeyes

01-06-2009, 20:30

WOOT!!!! IT LIVES!!!!!!

Ok excellent chapter, this is gonna get real interesting real fast. I sense an execution scene coming up.

Kuningaz

01-07-2009, 18:24

Yeeeehaa!:laugh4:

I of the Storm

01-08-2009, 10:45

Great as ever! :2thumbsup:

Lysimachos

01-08-2009, 14:51

Good to see this is back!

WOOT!!!! IT LIVES!!!!!!

Ok excellent chapter, this is gonna get real interesting real fast. I sense an execution scene coming up.

Yeeeehaa!:laugh4:

Great as ever! :2thumbsup:

Thank you very much, guys! Your comments are a nice welcome back and as always a motivation to continue!

I sense an execution scene coming up.

I will stay silent about the details of coming events, but I think I can tell you there is something like a twist awaiting you :yes: If it involves anything like an execution I can't reveal now :fortune:

Lysimachos

01-11-2009, 18:19

Chapter 31: Crossroads

Kallinikos walks up the wide stairs to the Royal Palace, a city of its own inside the Metropolis. At the top steps he looks back down, before turning to Gorgias Dahaikos, who has become his right hand in the last few months.
"Replace all guards inside the palace. The gates are to be closed and a transitory curfew enacted. Then we will have to find out whom to trust."
Again he spins around and with a deep sigh heaving from his breast he looks up the marmoreal facade, in abundance decorated with frescoes and statues, overwhelming the viewer with the sheer multiplicity of its elaborate illustrations, a convincing symbol of power, of wealth and of prodigality.
The gilded gates show no less than six representations of Apollon, the mythical progenitor of the seleucid house: Phoibos, the god of light, Akesios, the healer, Smintheus, the mouse-catcher as defender against plagues, Argurotoxos, the one with the silver bow, as god of archery, Musagetes, as the leader of the nine Muses who bring inspiration to the mortals and Agyieus, the protector of homes. Around those are depictions of scenes from the god's life, so closely arranged that on the whole gates there is no flat spot left, big enough to lay an open hand upon it.
Now the gates open for the king's first born son.

The Metropolis' dignitaries are gathered around the prince, magistrates, priests, judges and officers, all of those responsible for the city's government and the royal bureaucracy. An uneasy atmosphere persists below the high ceiling, as the crowd of honorables suspects not to receive much honor this day.
Apollodoros, the commander of the city guard, as the highest ranking military position in Seleukeia, is a prominent guest, not to his enjoyment, though. The cold sweat makes his bald head gleam in the light and soaks his Chiton, leaving an unpleasant wetness on his back. He is just raising his voice, as Kallinikos impatiently cuts his word with an impatient movement of his hand.
"Would you mind telling me, Apollodoros, if you are now so glad and delighted to see me, why did you not use your position and the gravity of your word to do something about this current... unruliness, before it could do any harm?"
"You see, my lord, I... I rather continued to serve the Arche as such, than get myself killed and leave my important responsibilities orphaned, because as you know, our neighbors in their greediness and vassals in their mislead contumacy are waiting for every weakness, and so... so the tiny cogwheel that I am decided to continue its work to protect the empire as a whole, oh, yes, because if only one..."
His voice was going faster and higher with the progress of his speech until Seleukos Kallinikos disrupted it, because the sound of the hasty step of an approaching pair of boots grows nearer.
"Just leave it, you blatherer." The prince faces the newcomer, a royal companion, identifiable by the typical two-plumed helmet that he is carrying under his left arm and the Kopis by his side, as only the Hetairoi and the new palace guard are still allowed to carry arms inside the building.
"I welcome you, Hetairos. You bring a message for me?" The addressee quickly examines the people present in the hall and answers the welcome with a loud voice.
"I greet you, Strategos. I bring word from the divine Basileus, who has defeated the viperish Usurper Sarpedon and demands the city to prepare for the arrival of his victorious army."
With a smile on his face Kallinikos turns back to Apollodoros. "Now that you have communicated your opinion you surely are eager the learn my father's. And..." - his glance wanders over the faces around him - "... you certainly know, the Basileus is not as forgiving as I am."
An embarrassed silence lies upon the hall, until Kallinikos raises his voice again: "Hail to the Basileus!"

Antiochos enters the city in Triumph, the warrior-king who again has enlarged the empire at his arabian campaign and defeated the greater numbers of his brother's army with ease.
He is Theos - the god - before whom his rivals tremble, victor against Parnoi and Sakai and the mercenary generals of the Ptolemaioi. A glance of his eye is cold as ice and deadly as steel. And he who crushes his foes is returning in glory, eager to seek revenge.

Kallinikos is standing at the top of the steps to palace, waiting and watching the army marching through the city's streets, bordered with people who are welcoming their king and his army.
A man, who has arrived early this day, approaches Kallinikos. The name is Eustathios, he remembers and he is a Heterogenes - a descendant of both hellenic and persian heritage - like the Kleronomos Basileois himself.
"Strategos, as you know, I've been send by the Basileus to take care of the formalities of the ceremony. You, too, should be informed that a new protocol of court has been enacted, which includes the Proskynesis to honor the king."
Kallinikos frowns in bewilderment. "What are you talking about? Those are honors not fit towards another man!"
Eustathios answers motionlessly: "What you say is true, but we had to realize that he is not man, but divine and thus should receive the honors fitting a true god. According to your standing you will be required to give the king a respectful kiss on the cheek, my lord."
The young man confusedly shakes his head and again looks down, where his father approaches at the head of his army. The world is changing fast around him in these days, he thinks, but how fast it really is, he doesn't know yet...

Finally, Antiochos II arrives at the palace. He doesn't wear his almost humble armor anymore, because now he has to look like a god to be received as one. A new armor has been made, just for this day, a glaring dream of gold. The motives that have been chosen to ornament it are intertwining patterns, as it doesn't fit a god to adorn himself with someone else's deeds.
Slowly he takes step after step. He is a tall man, seeming even larger due to the high helmet's crest, and constant exercise has given him a muscular athlete's body. It really doesn't take much to believe in his divinity, Kallinikos notices, struck with awe.
Mesmerized he walks forward to meet his father, who takes down the helmet and without a noticeable motion on his face looks down to his son, to receive a shy kiss on his well-shaved cheek.
The bearded son takes two steps back, clearing the way. His father's eyes rest on him and at this moment Kallinikos is more certain than ever that it takes a greater man than him to fill his father's shoes and sorrow fills his heart.
"My son." The king's deep masculine voice leaks to his dazed senses. "How long has it been? Five years? You are a grown man now." A faint smile shows on Antiochos' face for a moment before it vanishes again and the king proceeds on his path.
"Thank you, my king," mumbles the prince without really listening and follows few steps behind, through the gilded gates.

Antiochos went to the throne room to hold court and receive homage from the nobles and the leading men of the city. Kallinikos is standing at his right hand side, silently watching the courtiers, the bootlickers bowing or kneeling in front of the king, kissing his garments or blowing a kiss, each according to his status. It was an unaccustomed sight and certainly one that was hard to accustom to.
After the last of the sheepish supplicants has given his obeisance, Antiochos ordered to bring wine and waved his son to come closer.
"I have learned my part. It is much more demanding for a man to betray a god than another man and even more to do so with the soldier's consent. Never admit someone as your equal and never let the people think there could be a way different to yours. But now," he knits his brows, "I feel like I miss a certain face in this room. I guess someone has to be fetched from Babylon..."

Ikadion Anthemusias is worried and this unfamiliar state of mind is decidedly derogatory to his famous wits. A large group of armed men has - in a manner of speaking - invited him to the royal palace in Seleukeia and the precipitous departure which had been necessary - or at least is this what the more or less friendly visitors made him convinced of - hindered him from taking his usual precautions before visiting the Metropolis.
Now he is waiting - standing, due to the lack of seating-accommodations - in a rather gloomy and small room inside the palace, far away from the parts where visitors usually were brought. If this was not enough in itself, a hunk of a man was standing next to the door and watching every step that he, like a tiger in a cage, was taking.
Right at the moment when the door opens again, Ikadion has to realize the fun part of his abidance is over.
At once he recognizes the two newcomers and he falls on his knees to adequately honor his host, the king, who is accompanied only by his eldest son. "Oh, godlike Basileus, my eyes are delighted and my heart is overjoyed about the honor of your presence!" His hand reaches out to touch the hem of Antiochos' plain though finely woven Chiton, but the king pushes Ikadion's hand away.
"Just stop it!" he barks. "I have no sense to listen to the play of your snake-tongue, Babylonios. We have some earnest talk to do."
From the corner of his eye Ikadion notices Kallinikos positioning himself near the window, folding his arms, but his attention is ultimately caught by the Kopis that is girded at the king's waist. Filled with fear he decides to remain on his knees, but before he regains control over himself something escapes his mouth. "You certainly are nothing like your brother."
Pain strikes him as suddenly the king's hand grips into his curly hair and his head is jerked backwards. "You can bet on that," Antiochos hisses close to the Babylonian's ear. "But better don't gamble with me. I've slain hundreds of greater men than you are and I won't hesitate to waste you now and here. Where - is - he?" With the last word Ikadion feels the cold steel of the king's sword touching his throat and he trembles with fear, having never been tested with danger.
"He is fleeing to Aigytos! Your brother has taken up correspondence with Ptolemaios after the war ended and invested a lot of his wealth there." He can't hold himself back and starts to sob. "Please, don't kill me, I have no part in this, I swear!"
Antiochos watches him with disdain. He releases the hair and Ikadion collapses on the ground, shivering. "Guard, put this wimp under arrest. I'll later see what to do with him."
The king turns to his son, a dark shadow in his expression. "So it is decided. My son, I will make you a King by my side. You will rule with full authority and responsibility during my absence."
An grip cold as ice closes around Kallinikos' heart as he comes to the awareness of the weight that has been put on his shoulders in this very moment.

Lysimachos

01-12-2009, 11:35

General Appo

01-12-2009, 18:18

Amazing work Lysimachos.

Hax

01-12-2009, 18:19

Very nice, Lysimachos. Most impressing.

I of the Storm

01-12-2009, 19:24

Very nice, Lysimachos. Most impressing.

QFT. Great narrative again. You're really talented!

Olaf Blackeyes

01-12-2009, 23:03

Here is a screenshot of the map in 251 BC. It has been taken before the battle on the Tigris, but it's still the same year.

https://img160.imageshack.us/img160/3044/251bcrn8.jpg (https://imageshack.us)

If thats 251BC Then i gots 3 things for you.
1. The Luso have gone berserk again.
2. The Sauros are doing VERY well against Hai
3. Kart-Hasdastim has gone braindeaded

Lysimachos

01-13-2009, 14:13

Amazing work Lysimachos.

Very nice, Lysimachos. Most impressing.

QFT. Great narrative again. You're really talented!

Thank you very much! I really appreciate that. I hope I'm not overdoing it with Antiochos :laugh4:

If thats 251BC Then i gots 3 things for you.
1. The Luso have gone berserk again.
2. The Sauros are doing VERY well against Hai
3. Kart-Hasdastim has gone braindeaded

Perhaps I'll have to do something about 2. because I don't want the Hay to die there. I might need them in the later game for an invasion of Syria :smash: :beam:

Lysimachos

01-17-2009, 13:41

Chapter 32: The Leap

A moderate breeze has arisen and refreshes the wearied men. It is the cold season, but in these latitudes this doesn't change much. Antiochos has reverted to his accustomed attire as a soldier, chosen for practical reasons. The men he is leading don't need a glamorous appearance to believe in their king's divinity, they have seen him striking upon his foes, like an Avatar of the dreadful Ares, hardly ever wounded, despite him always seeking the midst of the fighting.
With no obvious reason the Basileus stops his steed and dismounts. He stoops down to take a handful of sand and watches it run through his fingers, just like the two years that have passed since he defeated his brother at the shore of the Tigris.

These years have been quiet years, but the king has been busy. His son was proclaimed as Basileus too, because Antiochos knew in the near future it would be almost impossible for him to rule the empire alone and his son needed the authority to silence opposition, an authority that now was fed from the divinity of their blood.
Antiochos himself used the years to form an army, smaller than those he commanded before, but professional to the last man. As always it would rest on a phalanx of Pezhetairoi, among them the Argyraspides, the silver shields, the senior part of the Pezhetairoi. Those soldiers who have distinguished themselves most in the past campaigns were assigned to an elite corps, consisting of three elements: the Thorakitai Agematos Basilikou, heavily armored assault infantry, the Hypaspistai, royal guards fighting in the fashion of hoplites and the Peltastai Makedonikoi, light troops in the prime of their physical strength.
From Galatia hails a band of Tindanotae, fierce warriors, who fear no enemy and are now loyal to the seleucid kings. Antiochos' ranged troops are composed of cretan archers, who are famed for their skill all over the hellenic world.
The cavalry consists of Prodromoi, fast and skilled light cavalry, Lonchophoroi, cavalrymen well protected by their Aspis shields and of course the Hetairoi who are riding as bodyguards of their king.
Adding to this do asian elephants which are descendant from those that Seleukos acquired from Sandrakottos of Maurya and trained by indian Mahouts.
Now it is Antiochos' sixteenth reigning year, the sixty third year of the Seleucid Era and the beast, thirsting to take revenge, takes its leap.

Antiochos straightens up, with closed eyes deeply inhaling the air, and it comes with an almost physical realization: The soil beneath his feet belongs to the land of the Pharaohs, the ancient land of Aigyptos.

Lysimachos

01-18-2009, 14:26

Chapter 33: The Boar

Beneath a baldachin, that is protecting from the sun, sits a huge man. The nakedness of his upper body reveals bulging muscles under the tanned skin. He is wearing trousers and a massive golden torque lies around his neck.
Demophon is comfortably resting on his chair, the light blue eyes closed, while a nubian slave woman shaves the dark blonde hair off his skull.
Unlike the seleucid kings who lead their armies themselves to prove their worthiness, Ptolemaios Philadelphos prefers to trust professional generals, experienced soldiers.
Demophon is one of them. It is, of course, not the name he was born with, but it has proven useful in his business to bear a name in the language of those whose silver coins he was paid.
He is a Galates, a descendant of one of the celtic tribes that invaded Greece and Asia Mikra not long ago. He came to Aigyptos with his father, who has been allured by the prospect of the fair sums that the Ptolemaioi pay their mercenaries.
However, his father did not find his happiness in Egypt and soon died of a fever, so it was up to the only son to support his mother and sisters. So he, barely a man, took up a greek name and his father's sword. Demophon fought with the ptolemaic army and excelled in several battles against the Kyrenaioi and was rewarded with a Kleros near Paraitonion. From then he was known to his hellenic masters as Demophon Paraitonios, while his name amongst his galatian brethren simply is "The Boar".
In the following years he served in several campaigns against Kyrenaioi and Nubaioi and was trusted with increasing responsibilities. Now Demophon is assigned a challenging and very reputable task: The defense of Aigyptos.

Another man enters the cooling shade under the baldachin. He is a Galates like Demophon and uses their celtic language to address him. "Commander." The Boar squints, trying to recognize the man. "What is it?" - "They are approaching on the route you anticipated."
The dark skinned slave finishes the shave and rubs a scented oil on her master's scalp.
"How many?" - "About twice as many as our soldiers, well equipped, with elephants. They are much closer than our reinforcements, commander."
Demophon reaches out for the slave girl and pulls her on his lap. "We don't wait for the reinforcements. We'll give them a short welcome fight, show them we have no fear and test their resolve. In the long run we have the greater reserves and with constant attacks we will weaken their will to fight, until there is the opportunity to break the army in a capital battle. Tomorrow morning we will leave the camp."

I of the Storm

01-20-2009, 11:04

:charge:

Ahaaa! Finally going to Egypt then! Will he triumph in Alexandria or will the desert swallow him and the great Neilos wash him away like so many before him...?

:drama3:

Lysimachos

01-20-2009, 11:23

:charge:

Ahaaa! Finally going to Egypt then! Will he triumph in Alexandria or will the desert swallow him and the great Neilos wash him away like so many before him...?

:drama3:

That is a good question, indeed :beam:

Or should I say: :egypt: ?

Edit: Oh, by the way, I of the Storm, you are now beside me the poster with most contributions in this thread, so thank you for your loyalty :bow:

I of the Storm

02-02-2009, 17:32

Cool. Hehe, that's why I'm posting this now:

It's almost half a month since the last update and this thread was dangerously close to page 2. So...

:whip::whip::whip:

Lysimachos

02-02-2009, 19:09

Hey, thank you :2thumbsup:
I'm in the last stages of preparation for an important exam, so it will have to wait a little bit longer.

Lysimachos

02-14-2009, 20:02

Hi there, a little something to announce my return for now ~;)

Chapter 34: Tusks

The air still bears the pleasing chill of the night, the sun doesn't yet show above the horizon to the east, but the sky already lightens up. Down in the basin, protected from the sharp desert winds, the camp of the syrian army is about to awaken.
Neolaos dozily rubs his eyes. The coming morning marks the end of another uneventful watch and soon would be time for the changing of the guard. Neolaos looks up to the top of the ridge in the west, where the morning's sunlight will first hit the ground, before slowly descending into the basin.
There, a bright spot appears on the slope and starts growing. Reflections flash up along the ridge. The startled guard blinks and it takes a moment for his perceptions to go through his dozy mind.
"Alarm!" Neolaos, suddenly fully awake, shouts at the top of his voice. "Alarm!"

The Boar has come to show the might of his tusks. Demophon's soldiers are positioned along the ridge, utilizing the high ground to which only a narrow natural ramp leads up between steep acclivities. The basin, which has been useful against the sandstorm, now serves as a trap.

https://img16.imageshack.us/img16/653/35nb6.jpg

The galatian commander's men fiercely fight at the bottleneck, where their enemy's greater numbers count for nothing, while the seleucid Taxiarchoi try to bring order to the ranks of their regiments.
The king's adjutant is galloping back to the center of the camp, where his master awaits him. "Basileus! It is futile, we can't advance a single foot. They will be able to hold the ramp for ever this way!"
Antiochos Theos grimly nods. "So let's see what brute force we have left."

Among the noise of the fighting, of clashing iron and bronze, of crying and shouting, a new sound is mixing, the powerful trumpeting of the majestic indian beasts, Antiochos' elephant corps. They are fearsome animals, larger than the ones that dwell in Aithiopia and at the eritrean coast and mounted with archers who rain death from above. The mere sight of their charge brings disorder into the enemy's ranks and the pure brutal force of their weight ploughs deep gaps through the ptolemaic formation. Into these gaps Antiochos sends his Peltastai Makedonike and his own Galatai, the Tindanotae, who show the foe their disdain by fighting naked. With furious anger they charge into the chaos left by the elephants, irresistibly carving their way through Demophon's terrified men, for whom the day had began so promising. Soon the line finally breaks and Antiochos' heavy infantry sweeps away the remaining resistance.

https://img22.imageshack.us/img22/5229/36xf8.jpg

The galatian Boar has proven to be a dangerous adversary, able to spot opportunities and willing to take risks in order to utilize them, but for today the longer tusks of the seleucid king's indian elephants remained victorious.

I of the Storm

02-16-2009, 11:07

It lives! Cool.:2thumbsup:

Vasiliyi

03-03-2009, 06:48

Lysimachos! I have finally caught up with your story, no book. It is quite the read. It is because of you I play the AS and enjoy them so much. i must say the detail you put into this is very good. i hope you can get back to writing more often. but i know what you mean when it comes to exams at school. Good luck with them!

Lysimachos

03-03-2009, 21:40

Thank you! In fact the exam was the very final one in my time at university and school exams were a cakewalk compared to it ~;)
I was in need of some recreation but I hope I'll be able to update regularly in the near future.
I'm currently thinking about how to make the following chapters a bit more unique instead of just lining up events, which happens sometimes when I'm not fully motivated while I'm writing.

Vasiliyi

03-03-2009, 23:56

Yep i know what you mean. But all of your chapters seem very unique to me. Actually im kinda copying your idea of 'internal struggles within the faction itself' in my aar. keep it going man.

Seleukos I Nikator

03-04-2009, 00:43

Seleukid AAR ! Just what I need. :bow: And I find it very interesting. Keep up, I'll be one of your top readers. ~:cheers:

I of the Storm

03-04-2009, 11:41

I'm looking forward to your next update!

Lysimachos

03-05-2009, 13:09

Chapter 35: A Chain of Gold

https://img13.imageshack.us/img13/1879/35a.jpg

The Golden Jackal's howl sounds in the night. A chilly breeze blows from the Hyrkanian - or Caspian - Sea. The carnivore strides the sleeping land, restless and alone. This little creature, despite struggling for its bare existence day by day and night by night, must seem most enviable for another restless and solitary mind, awake under the hyrkanian sky. Its only ambition is to live and to stay alive in the blood of his offspring, the only sorrows it has to bear are its own, the only rules and codes it has to obey are the capacity of its legs and fangs.
The restless and envious mind belongs to a young man, sitting atop a large rock. The man is looking down to the shy and playful dance of the waves, adorned by a magical sparkle of reflected moonlight, and the glimmer of thousands of thousands stars on the clear and indefinite sky, a spectacle so simple and unsophisticated, yet so unfathomably beautiful that its mere sight might make the unguarded man's heart forget to beat, a spell that has to be conceived and cast by an entity of higher virtue and imagination.
But still, this invaluable gift of nature fails to attract the young man's attention, fails to lift his spirits, fails to spark the inspiration, the exaltation which leads people to think the unimaginable and achieve the impossible. Perhaps, in this very moment on the face of earth there is no being with a greater opportunity to experience the divine touch in the simplest things in nature, to feel the freedom to do anything, but still he feels imprisoned, chained to a certain destiny, an inevitable fate, chained with an artful and golden, but firm and heavy chain.
While his mind is traveling through the deepest depths of his emotions, his fingers subconsciously wander along the hem of his Chiton, where they find a small rip in the cloth, an unsteadiness in the garment's flow, the sensation of which allures the finger tips to run along the edge, again and again, unintentionally unraveling threads of the expensive fabric.
The young man's conscience does not perceive this, does not waste effort on what his fingers do, but bathes in the painful solitude of his fortune, enduring the cold grasp which firmly, relentlessly closes around his chest, squeezing his lungs, allowing only a dolorously straining breathing.
A deep sigh heaves from his breast. Is this really what he is supposed to be? Is it not his place to be with his family, with his wife and son? But no longer is this his decision to make, a stronger mind that doesn't tolerate contradiction has made this to be his place, made him, who suffers under his own destiny's weight, a wielder of destiny himself, a king beside the king, a general, a leader, leading men, who can resist his word just as little as he can resist his father's, leading them - to what?
The stars' glow and the night's innocent beauty slowly fade away, as the canopy goes pale and grey, bearing the signs of yet another day. A day, when the soldiers again will look up to him and await his decisions, trusting in his judgment, more than he himself ever could.
Seleukos Kallinikos, joined king of the Arche Seleukeia, slides down from the silent and lonesome rock, which in its intimacy with solitude has been like a sympathetic companion in this late spring night. He feels the cold gravel under his bare feet, sharp edges carving tiny cuts in the skin that is used to be protected by soles of the softest and finest leather in the east. The slight pain which is itching in his feet while slowly walking upwards the rocky beach is an anchor, fixed somewhere in reality, a rope which he gratefully takes to pull himself at least a small way out of the gloom - not of the dying night, but inside his mind. Slowly follows step after step, each one accompanied by a bite from the solidly real gravel, each one carrying him closer to the camp and closer to awareness, each one a small victory for the sense of responsibility, acceptance of the inevitable, hardly won against the desperate cravings of every fiber in his body.
"Who is there?" A barking voice ruptures the barrier build up around his conscience, only a small breach, just enough to make him notice and decide to ignore.
In the moment of cognition the guard gasps and goes down on his knee. "Basileus!" Kallinikos cringes, when the cold grip around his heart closes again, inflicting a sting of pain. A free Hellen on his knee - for him! It was hard enough to accustom to the men abasing themselves in front of his father, paying Proskynesis to the king after his victory over Sarpedon Prodotis - Sarpedon the Traitor - but for himself? Oh, now he was called a king too, still - how could he possibly find himself worthy of this salute?

I of the Storm

03-06-2009, 10:11

More please!

Vasiliyi

03-06-2009, 17:36

You really know how to use discriptive words there. Awesome stuff once again. I'm guess kallinikos is not going to be like his father?

Lysimachos

03-06-2009, 18:50

Thanks to both of you for the continued support!

I'm guess kallinikos is not going to be like his father?

Probably not very much although there might be more parallels than obvious.
When Kallinikos came of age I had a look which of his traits I could work with and I noticed he was pessimistic (later he gets the trait "gloomy", my use of the word "gloom" in the chapter is a hint in that direction) and uncharismatic + some traits regarding his inability to handle people (this was getting better while he was at the academy).
The most obvious difference between them is the fact that Kallinikos is sceptic regarding his own abilities and if he is doing the right thing, while his father has - or at least seems to have - not the slightest doubt about his actions and never falters, which is one thing that makes him so inspiring for the men he leads. The son is also more prone to let his decisions be influenced by ethical motivations unlike the more practical Theos (see the introduction of the Proskynesis for rational reasons, which is against Kallinikos' feelings).

However, not all dice have been cast yet. Theos certainly had a reason to become the heavy drinker that he is (his most obvious weakness) and who knows? Maybe will Kallinikos overcome his inconclusiveness and self-pity and become a strong leader himself...

Maybe not.

:laugh4:

Well, I'm planning to retain a strong focus on the characters in the future and there are some things I really look forward to write about. Sadly it spans over a long ingame timeframe and might take many months until I got all of it in the story.

Lysimachos

03-13-2009, 14:04

Chapter 36: The Moment of Truth

The junior king yawns loudly. Recently he neither sleeps much nor restorative. Deep, dark circles around the bloodshot and only with effort half-opened eyes mark his face, the pale and greyish colour of which makes an unhealthy impression. The metal of his armour and the colour of his clothing are matted from a thin cover of dust. He looks weak and worn out, crookedly sitting on his mount.
He is accompanied by his staff, the leading officers of the army Seleukos Kallinikos has taken under command. The fewest of them seem to be in a much better condition than their Basileus, but at least they mostly strive to maintain a degree of dignity.

When Antiochos went to the west, to Aigyptos, his son travelled in the opposite direction, to the iranian possessions of the Arche. In recent times the incursions into the northern border regions of Hyrkania, Astauene and Margiana had increased to a dimension that could no longer be ignored. Raiding parties of the Dahae and related people were more and more roaming freely in the empire's lands, acting as lords by their own right. It was the father's wish for Seleukos to restore seleucid authority and give a sign that the Arche was capable to defend her subjects.
The largest of those parties, which was headed by Surenmehr, a powerful warlord of the house of Suren, had intruded far into Parthyaia. After some skirmishes Surenmehr decided to retreat, the seleucid army slowly following down to the Caspian Sea and further north. The steppe people, who were always outnumbered, evaded major confrontation time and time again and instead resorted to harass rear- or advance guard and supply troops, steadily drawing Kallinikos behind them.

"Those are too many to be Surenmehr's troops. Anyway, they are sitting on that hill like they want to give us a fight. We should take positions and show them the stock we're made of," barks Lasthenes Akkadikos. He dons his most baneful expression, although a meagre tuft of grass, which has somehow found a way to entangle itself in his beard, does its part in undoing the effect.
Seleukos examines the thin line of light infantry, screened by a larger number of riders, then looks along the columns of his own contingent. He nods. "Yes, form the phalanx. The cavalry stays back, close with the light troops."

https://img514.imageshack.us/img514/8195/36a.jpg

Kallinikos' force, more than sixteen thousand souls, line up across from the hill, where the foe has positioned himself. A vibration flows through the ranks and with effort they start to move slowly. Most of the soldiers have little experience at marching in lockstep and need all the help the Auletai, the flautists, can give to follow the tact, the long and heavy Sarissas reaching into the sky. Officers with sticks run up and down the formation, forcing those back into line and rank, who fall behind. Close after the Phalanx, in the centre, where the overview is the best, follows their Strategos.

The enemy sits atop his hill and watches. Patiently he is waiting. Artabarzan, the warlord, has a good eye-sight and he is proficient with the bow. He knows how to use the wind to carry the arrow in its goal, he knows the strength of his men and their bows. He doesn't haste, for he is in no need to waste an arrow. When Artabarzan lifts his arm, he knows his men will hit the mark.

More than three thousand short dark lines rise from the hill, where the parthian footsoldiers stand, firm ground under their feet and strong bows in their hands. The arrows climb into the sky, higher and higher, before they start to fall, lowering down to the approaching army. Many arrows bounce against the lifted shafts of the Sarissas, lose their momentum and drop without effect, but many hit the barely armoured men, with unreduced velocity easily penetrating leather and lives.
The first cries of pain and death are heard, but the line of men only shivers shortly before continuing to crawl towards Artabarzan's humble hill.

With composed mind and calm heart, with deliberateness and steady hand the archers loosen another volley, and another, before Artabazan's mounted warriors join in the concert of snapping bowstrings. Now every single man under the warlord's command is contributing to devastating volleys, each composed of more than eight thousand deadly arrows, while their leader is waiting for his plan to unfold.

It is a terrifying sight, the dark clouds of thousands of simultaneously loosened arrows rapidly approaching, a sight that is able to inspire awe even in the most confident hearts, a sight that mutes all other senses and paralyses the mind, yet still is the phalanx rolling forward, so despondently slow. Quickstep could be in need, but with these untrained men, chaos would ensue, the line would rip apart, rendering the phalanx's strengths non-effective.
"Sire!" Kallinikos turns his head to the right, where Gorgias Dahaikos has stopped his mount and points to the east. There unobserved another band has come up and is now quickly riding over a slight slope, which runs some way to the right of the seleucid host, in full speed already shooting the first arrows into the back of the right flank.
The junior king is petrified, staring at the riders in the east, his horse nervously prancing, while the line is still advancing, unperturbed by the new threat.
His eyes meet Gorgias, who closes up to his king. The adjutant is on the verge to grab Seleukos by the shoulders and yells into his face: "Do something! Now!"

Lysimachos

03-15-2009, 14:52

Chapter 37: Shattered Shield

When Seleukos Kallinikos awakes from the apathy, which the shock imposed on him, already twelve thousand bowmen guide their missiles against his army.
"Hold the advance!" the king shouts. "We have to fold in the right to form a crescent and then retreat!" - "Yes, Sire," replies Gorgias with a grim face, relieved that the king has found his balance again, and drives his heels into the flanks of his horse. He dashes along the line to the right, where Lasthenes Akkadikos waits at his wing.

The advancing Phalanx comes to a halt. Its right wing is split into the taxeis, which march backwards, describing a curve, to get to their new position. Very slowly the infantry swings around, still under the constant shower of arrows.
The enemy's horsemen now have reduced the distance to a few dozen feet, shooting from close range and more and more weak points in the phalangites' position result. Then, a horn loudly calls and Artabarzan descends from his hill, at the head of his bodyguard and another squadron of equally heavy armoured riders joins this force. They are clad in iron from tip to toe and their mounts wear strong barding. The horses can't move fast under all that weight, but it seems like once they are going nothing may stop their ride. Artabarzan's light horsemen quickly make way for the cataphracts, while the Dahae Nobles take position right behind.
The fearsome iron-clad men couch their lances and as one wall made of metal charge into the weakened Phalanx, simply shoving the pikes aside, cutting through the formation, which immediately breaks into pieces. The shield is shattered and now the Dahae pour into the gaps.

"Charge!" the general cries and his companions follow him into the fray, a last attempt, not to win the battle, but to gain time for the infantry to retreat. Chaos has already ensued, the soldiers desperately try to escape, the steppe riders chasing them down, only the Hetairoi remain on the field, unavailingly trying to prevent the inevitable, fighting the Kataphraktoi, who seem to be moulded in steel, until the horns call "Retreat!" and the finest soldiers of the empire are also hurrying to flee the battle, flee the plain that bears witness of the humiliating defeat of the junior seleucid Basileus by the hands of robbers and shepherds.

https://img26.imageshack.us/img26/5215/37am.jpg

------------------------

The photo that I'm using here is actually from a different region, but still has a (slight) connection to the chapter. Who can guess what the picture shows (or is supposed to show, I couldn't check it) gets a balloon ~:)

I of the Storm

03-16-2009, 11:08

No idea. But this was a great update!:2thumbsup:

Lysimachos

03-17-2009, 14:40

No idea. But this was a great update!:2thumbsup:

Thanks ~:)
The picture is supposed to show the landscape at Carrhae, where Crassus, as representative of a great military power, was soundly beaten by a combination of horse archers and cataphracts, which was my connection to this battle (although I have to admit that Kallinikos' army is (was) mostly composed of rubbish :laugh4:
You'll get the balloon anyway. Here we go, red, just like blood that has been spilled: :balloon:

I of the Storm

03-17-2009, 15:00

The picture is supposed to show the landscape at Carrhae :stupido2: That was hard...

(although I have to admit that Kallinikos' army is (was) mostly composed of rubbish :laugh4: Is there someone trying to get some Cataphracts of his own? I think I smell a plot ... :inquisitive:

You'll get the balloon anyway. Here we go, red, just like blood that has been spilled: :balloon: Cool, thank you!

Lysimachos

03-17-2009, 15:06

:stupido2: That was hard...

I would have given a hint if you had asked ~;)

Is there someone trying to get some Cataphracts of his own? I think I smell a plot ... :inquisitive:

Haha, no need for a plot. I have already (long before fighting this battle) decided to cheat the cataphract reforms in the time that I think it would fit in the story. But that point has not yet come and it will still take some time, so much I can reveal :yes:

Cool, thank you!

No problem, you've earned it with lasting loyalty. Btw, I'm considering to raffle some more balloons for special occasions in the future, so stay tuned ~;)

Lysimachos

04-24-2009, 16:37

Hi folks!
I'm not completely satisfied with the following chapter, but I was in need to get something posted and waiting would have delayed the update for yet more days, so here we go ~:)

Chapter 38: At the Neilos

The army has travelled over a wide and flat plateau, but at its edge an astonishing view opens itself. Below Antiochos' men the ancient land of Kemet lies, the valley of majestic Neilos, the awe-inspiring king among the rivers, who has come the long way from unknown lands even beyond Nubia, where the dark-skinned people dwell. Uncounted numbers of small sails see-saw on the slowly flowing waters which are bordered by fruitful soil, lush green palm groves and outspread acres, from which the bread-basket of the east is filled.
Some scattered cheers sound from the leading parts of the army and spread, when the soldiers learn from the news that the scarce and dusty plain has been left behind and the rich land of Aigyptos lies right below them.
But there is one man who is in no cheerful mood, for he knows that although the enemy's wealth seem to be in reach of his hands, he knows that in reality the challenge is still to come, for the heart of Ptolemaios Philadelphos' kingdom lies beyond the protection by the Neilos' wide and deep waters and is secured by the king's best soldiers and the vast manpower that he is able to command.

The Basileus gathers his officers before the owl-light falls. "Companions," he calls out, "We shall not be fooled by our easy advance." Antiochos stands among them, the setting sun enclosing him in a fiery red halo. His eyes seek contact with the ones watching him and his voice is insistent.
The men, some if them seasoned commanders themselves and notably older than their king, hang on every word, as if he has bound his spell again. The euphoria which was dulling their minds has given way for the necessary concentration.
"Our scouts have reported enemy spotters regularly over the last days. Our adversary is aware of every move we make, while we still don't know what he has in store. It is imperative that whatever action we take, it has to be planned and executed with care. We are far from any reinforcements, while those of the foe see no end."
The king pauses, giving the obvious time to become realized.
"We might be able to supply ourselves for a while on this bank, but I am sure that Ptolemaios has taken care not to leave too many reserves back where we can access them easily. To feed the host and to win the war we have to defeat the river first."

The next day the army proceeds to descend into the Neilos' down. The men soak in the rich air and marvel at the soft and fertile black soil, but safety remains an illusion. On the river float warships observing every step they take and beyond the waters lies the camp of Demophon, the Galatian Boar, with his now reinforced army. More disquieting news are soon to follow: a second army in the north, hiding behind fortifications.
Again, the king calls upon his council of officers.

"No arrow has been shot, no spear thrusted and no shield shattered, yet has Ptolemaios taken position to deal his first blow," proclaims Antiochos with hoarse voice. "If we try to cross the river we will be driven into the water from two sides, but if we turn against the northern detachment, the fleet will be used to quickly strike in our back, before we can overcome the defenders."
Conciliatory he raises his hands. "But we are far from lost! Too convinced of my eagerness to fight is he, too confident in the temptation of offering me battle, to close all gates of his country."
His speech has become very low, but everyone around listens with care not to miss a word.
"A day, when destiny is written, has come, but this time, this time I do not choose the call of thunder, but the cloak of the thief, to accompany my move."

MarcusAureliusAntoninus

04-25-2009, 05:38

Good to see you continuing. I'd forgotten what's happening and am going to have to go back and review old updates. :sweatdrop:

Maion Maroneios

04-25-2009, 10:27

That's a very nice update, Lysimachos! I've been catching up with several AARs lately, yours included :yes:

Maion

Vasiliyi

04-25-2009, 17:12

Very nice, Im glad you updated.. (this is my favorite aar, I like it even more than mine.) Keep it up!

Lysimachos

04-26-2009, 06:23

Thank you, guys ~:)

I of the Storm

04-27-2009, 09:37

An update!! Great! :smash:

Lysimachos

05-17-2009, 16:48

Time to feel guilty again :shame:

Chapter 39: The Early Bird Catches The Worm

Wood is creaking rhythmically while the stream is gently dandling the vessel on its waves. The sun already has risen above the eastern plateau and the light of her rays carefully feels its way through the curtains hanging from the shelter on the ship's deck. A thin finger of light touches Demophon's nose and its tickling provokes a loud sneeze, pulling the Galates out of his doze.
In an eye's blink he is fully awake. In a smooth motion he rolls over the slave girl by his side and with the feet first on the wooden ground. The Boar slips through the curtains and at the sight of the sun immediately frowns. "Why haven't I been waken?" he calls out and one of his officers approaches. "Commander, there hasn't been a reason. We haven't received any news."
Demophon grunts. "That doesn't feel right. He is not the man to just sit and wait there!" With wide steps he takes the distance to the back side of the ship, where the captain shares the idleness of his crew. "Bring us closer to the shore, quick!"
Unrest and anger rise in Demophon's heart, while he waits for the oarsmen to move the vessel against the Neilos' powerful flow.
The captain raises his arm, pointing on white awnings visible among the palm groves at the eastern shore. "You see, sir, nothing changed!"
An angry, piercing look hits him from above and the large general grunts scornfully at the Machimos. "Send a boat to Ankhwennefer's camp. He shall investigate this."

Some time goes by, way too much for Demophon's liking, until another ship comes up the stream, the oarsmen rowing with brutal speed. Quickly it catches up to the Boar's provisional command ship, carrying the anticipated message. "Commander! They are gone! All gone in the night!"
A furious roar sounds over the rhythmically moving waves, discharged from the huge Galatian's lungs.
"Return to Ankhwennefer and tell him to advance and secure what ever they left behind!" he shouts over to the other ship, which immediately falls back, when the oars are lifted from the water and the stream takes the vessel with it.
"And you," Demophon turns to the egyptian captain, "call two ships to go upstream at once to warn every garrison along the river." His light blue eyes follow the course of the king of rivers.
"Then we will cross. We have to buy time, time for the upper kingdom to mobilize."

Vasiliyi

05-18-2009, 07:04

Awesome. I was just about to PM you to ask you if it was time for another update.

Lysimachos

05-19-2009, 14:39

Awesome. I was just about to PM you to ask you if it was time for another update.

Thanks ~:) It's good to have a personal reminder ~;)

Lysimachos

08-11-2009, 11:30

Chapter 40: Lessons

A young man strides along the lanes between the encampment's tents, the light of fires and torches reflecting in his keen eyes. The heat of the day has been driven away by the chill of the night and he has wrapped a dark green Chlamys, a short coat, around his shoulders.
The Hypaspistai guarding the king's tent salute him and he enters through the curtain that is functioning as the door. "Basileus," he respectfully addresses his sovereign, who thoughtfully reclines on a divan.
Antiochos Theos wears a simple Chiton and the tent also is sparsely decorated, shadows dance on naked tarpaulin, thrown by the large fire in the middle of the compartment.
"Sit down, cousin," the king speaks and watches his visitor.
"Sire." Antiochis, eldest son of Andromachos, the Satrapes Persikos, gathers his coat and takes a seat on a chair cushion face to face with the Basileus.
"I have completed my walkabout. The watch has taken positions as instructed and is alert."
Theos silently nods. His eyes are moonily directed in the distance, as he sips at his goblet. In the past days Antiochis has noticed that the king waters his wine, due to the increasing shortage in the army's provisions. It might not be for the worst, after all.
The befalling silence is disturbed only by the crackling of the fire eating away wood.

"Basileus, allow me a question." Some minutes have past in silence, before the young man finally speaks out again. The king's eyes focus on his young visitor and his mouth produces a muted, approving sound.
"The enemy is closely following all our steps, always almost upon us. Shouldn't we attack, before they can reinforce themselves? You don't seem to be bothered by their presence in our back, instead rushing the army further up country. Why is this?"
With a sigh Antiochos sits up, stretching his arms. "Why is General Demophon following us so closely?" - "He is trying to impose pressure on us."
Antiochos nods and slowly raises himself from the divan, forcing his young cousin to stand up as well. "So, what's he going to achieve with that?" He is staring into the fire, watching the flames.
"Perhaps he is trying to push us into a trap," speculates Andromachos' son.
"No." The king decisively shakes his head. "There is no trap. Our turn south has not been anticipated or else we would have met an army already, but there is none, not in the range of weeks. Demophon doesn't try to push, but to hold us." The fire's dry heat hurts Antiochos' eyes and he turns toward his cousin. "He is following in close distance to pose a constant threat, in order to force us to adapt and to delay our progress. Once he realizes that it isn't doing much good, Demophon will attack, I have no doubt."
Theos slowly lowers himself on the divan. "And then, we will teach him a lesson."

Spit fizzles in the fire. The huge Galates brings himself onto his feet. "So let's just do this. At dawn we'll be upon them." Taking a deep breath, the general's hands close in front of his face and slowly slide over his shaven skull, before resting behind his neck.
"We will prey on them," the older Galatian answers, a man who has been a brother to Demophon for years, not by parents' blood, but by the blood they shed together in battle. Gaisio's broad and leathery face is adorned with a long, diagonal scar, still marking where once a blade split his nose. His hair is ash-grey, falling untamed down his shoulders.
Demophon looks up, his grinning teeth reflecting the fire. "Make sure the men are ready." - "They will be, commander, they will be."
Gaisio already is, the warrior's heart that is beating in his chest longs for the fray, but he also knows, the day of the deciding battle still is uncertain and he may need to wait for the time to come, when he himself will fight in battle with his brothers in arms.

A new day is born and under the warm, red light of the morning's sun the battle lines are closing in on each other. Despite the Boar's ruthless resolve, the men on the field have little doubt about the outcome of the day. Too few are rallied among his banner, too hardened the seleukid king's veterans. The men don't know they were not led here to win, but only to inflict as much damage as possible. They march into battle, in hope their commander's plan will soon unfold and turn the tide. They march and they die, die to buy someone else the time to sharpen his blade, die under the merciless shower of kretan arrows, die on the pikes' tips of seleukid Pezhetairoi, die by the lances of the Hetairoi, die beneath the indian beasts in their rage, while their commander silently watches and rearranges his hand.

https://img34.imageshack.us/img34/7923/009xxz.jpg (https://img34.imageshack.us/i/009xxz.jpg/)

https://img34.imageshack.us/img34/3004/010ssz.jpg (https://img34.imageshack.us/i/010ssz.jpg/)

Companion Cavalry

08-12-2009, 07:34

:smash::smash::smash:

Vasiliyi

08-12-2009, 07:45

And he's back! Thats awesome! Great update Lysimachos! I actually reread the chapter previus to this one this weekend and was hoping that this wasnt dead.

A baloon is deserved for resurrecting it. :balloon2:

Lysimachos

08-12-2009, 08:34

Thanks ~:)

Lysimachos

08-13-2009, 18:47

Chapter 41: Days of Despair

Led by a rugged, dusty track half a dozen men ride toward their destiny. As rugged is the surrounding landscape, rough hills covered by meagre grass and poorly grown bushes.
The horses are lean and weak and so are the men on their backs, wrapped in dirty coats, bearing the history of their travel in matted hair and written in dark rings around their eyes.
"Off the road! Quick!" barks the man at the front, turning his horse to the side, off the pitiful path and into the barren land, where the other horsemen unhesitatingly follow.
In the west, whereto the track leads, a cloud of dust slowly grows at the horizon, signalling the approach of a larger group.
While crossing a slope the second rider catches up. "Won't they see our trails?" - "They will," the first one grimly answers. "But only if they look for them."
The man turns around and then leaps from his horse. "Dismount here and make the horses lie down!" With some quick steps he runs up to the ridge where he hits the ground to watch the road.
A moment later the second rider crawls up beside him, releasing a suppressed groan.
"It is good to have you here, Gorgias," mumbles the man and Gorgias Dahaikos answers in a low voice: "My ancestors come from these lands. It seems there is still something left from it in my blood, my king."
Silently the junior Basileus and his right-hand man lie upon the hill, watching a host of several hundred horsemen passing by. Their spare horses are laden with goods and a considerable number of the men bears signs of a battle, not long ago.
Seleukos Kallinikos buries his face in his hands. His body is shaking, the travails and privations of the last weeks finally breaking his resistance, taking their toll. His voice is feeble, barely audible. "It is over. There's nothing we can do. So futile."

https://img198.imageshack.us/img198/5625/004lxj.jpg (https://img198.imageshack.us/i/004lxj.jpg/)

Grey clouds obscure the sky, chilly wind comes down through the gorge. A forgotten place, left alone by all but who seek reclusion. Two wanderers slowly ascend the gravel covered inclination. They are disguised with hooded cloaks, assisting the cumbersome ascension with wooden staffs.
A lonesome homestead, almost leaning against the rocks for protection from the wind, is what they are heading for.
An elderly man steps out of the enclosure, a steadfast grip around a sword. "What is your business here, strangers? If you come for robbery, you'll have to buy it with your blood," he calls out.
The two strangers hold their advance till one steps forward, recognizing the shield in the man's hand as the one of a Pezhetairos. "We are no robbers. I'm a makedonian myself, like you. All we seek is a place to rest for the night. And we have silver." Some coins sparkle in his hand, which emerges from the shadow under his cloak.
The older man closely examines them. They don't look trustworthy with their wildly grown beards and their dirty cloaks, but their eyes look tired and matt, too matt to hide falseness from him.
Slowly he lowers the sword. "Your silver is worth nothing out here. But a roof over your heads you shall have tonight and a hearty soup, if you wish."
The stranger slides the coins back in the pouch at his belt. "We are grateful for your kindness, good man, a kindness that life has not often bestowed on us in these days."
He points his hand towards his companion. "This man's name is Gorgias and I am..." He slightly hesitates, just enough to be noticeable, before he finishes: "... Demetrios."
"Very well, Demetrios. My name is Akakios and I welcome you to my home."

Vasiliyi

08-14-2009, 00:09

We get 2 updates in a week? your spoiling us. Nice work. I like how different the father and son are.

Roka

08-16-2009, 00:02

reread this whole thread tonight because I had pretty much forgotten what had happened, really enjoying your AAR, keep it up!

Lysimachos

08-20-2009, 12:16

Chapter 42: A Fateful Farewell

"Come, sit down." Akakios points toward his fireplace. "I'll put the cauldron over the fire."
Gratefully Kallinikos and Gorgias alight onto the tamped floor, trying to shake the exhaustion out of their limbs. They have been bereft of the comfort of a warm place and a roof for a long time indeed. An odyssey led them to Akakios' home and it is far from over yet.
Only few survived the massacre which Artabarzan's troops inflicted upon the army and the following flight. Then, the king and the last of his men tried to reached the supposed safety of the Hyrkanian Wall, but soon they had to realize that Hyrkania, the province which nestles up against the south of the Caspian, with its capital Zadrakata has already been overrun. Filled with despair, the small group turned east, up into the hills of Astauene, but they had not seen the worst of it: In an ambush they lost the last of their companions and their horses to a gang of ordinary robbers.
Trying to avoid attention they finally found themselves in front of Akakios' humble home, a harbourage in an unimagined site.

Akakios without haste takes a seat on a small and simple stool. A groan escapes his mouth and a hand involuntarily moves to his lower back, but obviously he overcomes the pain and begins to observe his rugged guests.
"I have chosen this place for its quietness and solitude, but it is a necessity sometimes to have a talk, just to preserve a sound state of mind. Rarely I travel down to the next village to trade and even more unusual are visitors. So, would you mind telling me about yourselves?"
The two guests trade quick glances and Seleukos reluctantly starts to speak. "We are merchants and were on our way to Asaak, when we were robbed."
Their host slowly lifts his brows. "I see." Encouraged by this reaction, the young king continues his tale. "Sadly we lost our way thereafter, because our guide has been killed."
"In all your misfortune, you must have been very lucky, as those robbers have left those magnificent swords in your possession," Akakios retorts in a calm voice. Kallinikos and Gorgias again glance at each other, obviously concerned this time. Telling tales wasn't among their greatest talents, after all.
"You know, young man," Akakios continues, now watching the water in the cauldron, "you bear a striking resemblance to someone I once served with, or rather served under."
Kallinikos intuitively covers his forehead with a hand, turning his face into the shadow. "I, uh, I get that a lot."
The older man slowly nods. "I'm sure you do. But enough of these pleasantries. Not long ago, when I went to the village to barter wool, I met some... merchants not much unlike you. They had uncomforting news from across the ridge and I'm quite sure, you'd like to know. The gate to the north has fallen and the Satrapes of Margiana is slain. And Theodotos, his colleague in Baktra, claims that the dynasty of Seleukos has failed to protect the Hellenes of the east. He now calls himself a king and accepts no master any more."

https://img193.imageshack.us/img193/4941/008dwp.jpg (https://img193.imageshack.us/i/008dwp.jpg/)

The news that Akakios delivered came as a shock and the two travellers decided there was no time to allow themselves a longer rest, a rest they longed for so desperately. And another decision has been made to rescue the empire.

"This is where we have to part, my king. I wish you farewell," Gorgias mumbles. A sigh comes from Kallinikos' throat. Abruptly he grips his companions shoulders and embraces him. "You will always be my friend, my brother. Your strength has always been my avail and I will need it again. I will not allow you not to meet me again. You hear me?" He pads his friend's back and then releases him. "See you then, Gorgias."
The addressed silently nods and turns away, heading for Hekatompylos, capital of the Satrapy of Parthyaia, where he shall organize the defence against the Parnoi and their Dahae brothers.
The sadness fills Kallinikos as if it was poured into him. Here I send him away, the only friend that I have left, perhaps send him into his death, a worthless, futile death. But I do not dare to face the devils again! Cold fear grips his heart at the thought of his most memorable day, that day when he had to watch his soldiers being slaughtered by Artabarzan's skilled butchers, the day when he repaid the trust, which his father and the men who were to serve had put in him, with failure.
Silently he watches Gorgias walk away towards his destiny, before finally the young king breaks away from his idle contemplation and turns towards his own, to the east, towards the pass that will lead him over the ridge and down to the valley of the Ochos river.

Lysimachos

08-20-2009, 12:18

We get 2 updates in a week? your spoiling us. Nice work. I like how different the father and son are.

I hope there's no damage done ~;)

Edit: It might surprise you, but I can do even better than twice in a week ~:)

reread this whole thread tonight because I had pretty much forgotten what had happened, really enjoying your AAR, keep it up!

Thanks ~:)

By the way, for those who grow tired of all the talking, some honest, straightforward violence is sure to come soon :smash:

Lysimachos

08-20-2009, 16:03

Chapter 43: A Good Day To Die

"I'm tired of this," Gaisio bawls. His speech is slurred and his motions not as firm as usual. The fires paint flickering shadows on his face and naked upper body. "I've had enough!" he growls. The grey-haired warrior reaches up with his right hand and grabs his commander's neck, pulling Demophon's head down a little. Their faces are a few centimetres apart and the men smell each other's breath. Gaisio rolls his head and distorts his scarred visage in a drunk man's grimace.
"I've had enough of watching others fight!" He raises his left hand and watches it while he slowly closes the fist and spins the forearm in a pulling motion. "I want to spill someone's blood, rip his damn guts out of his jerking body!"
A hearty laugh arises from around the two of them, they are among their brethren, Galatai, all decorated warriors, wearing their golden torques and their scars with pride.
"You will," Demophon barks into Gaisio's face, leaving drops of spit on his cheek. With a primal scream the galatian general closes his muscular arms around Gaisio, with a sudden pull unbalancing the old warrior and then hurling him away in a spinning motion, accompanied by a loud hoot from the watchers.
Gaisio absorbs the momentum with some staggering steps, then turns around and in playful rage sounding his battle cry. Demophon braces for the attack, but Gaisio's shoulder hits him hard in the upper belly and this time the taller man is caught off balance. Gaisio bounces back, unable to balance himself, succumbing to his insobriety and together they go down.
Another hoot sounds from their comrades and they both fall into a gasping laughter. Demophon turns himself around with a jerk and lifts himself up.
"Soon, Gaisio, soon you will!"

https://img194.imageshack.us/img194/813/012aqn.jpg (https://img194.imageshack.us/i/012aqn.jpg/)

"This will be the first time that we will actually be tested," Antiochos Theos addresses his young cousin. "For the first time, Demophon outnumbers us. Today he will not fight to distract us or to pose his resolve. He will hold back nothing, because he fights to defeat me and I will not allow that, because it would be our undoing."
Again the king observes the enemy's battle formation, then turns back to Antiochis. "Now go, take your position on the left wing. This will be a day to remember!"
"Yes, Sire!" The young man's face gleams, he is proud of the command assigned to him, eager to prove his worthiness and to write history. With a yell he drives his horse forward and hurries to the left wing, his wing, in front of the assembled army.

It is the third time that Demophon Paraitonios faces the seleukid king. But today things are different. Today he is needed at the front and around him he has gathered his fellow Galatai, the most deadly fighters that Ptolemaios Philadelphos commands.
Antiochos has brought the elite of his empire, but Demophon has the numbers in his favour and his men are used to the unique climate of the Neilos valley.
Although a Galates, he leads an army trained in the fashion of the Makedonians and so he employs one of their simple tactics: holding the left flank while crushing the right one in order to break the enemy's phalanx from the side. And a general who wants to win, chooses his place there, among those men who he expects to deal the decisive blow.

Both armies have completed arranging themselves, like huge beasts lurking above the Nile, and almost simultaneously start to move again, like answering to an unwritten agreement between their leaders. So many battles start alike, the Phalanxes moving forward till they meet, but for those who march in the lines it is always new and threatening. But it is not the ones inside the tightly packed Phalanxes who are the least fortunate.
While those centrepieces remain in almost beautiful order, at the flanks the ferocious chaos of battle quickly sweeps aside the deceitful safety of a companion fighting close at either side.
Here fight those, who can be trusted most, and among them are both leaders, each at the right side of his host, trying to break the other one's left.

Antiochis tries to get a general idea. His responsibility is to hold his wing together. He hurries back and forth, pushing the men forward, plugging holes that open, stepping in wherever necessary.
An imposing figure catches his eye: A huge man, towering above all around him and Antiochis recognizes how they look up to him, how he poses a linchpin in the enemy's movement.
Only a blink of an eye separate the moment of this sight sinking in and the following decision. "Hetairoi, with me!" calls Antiochis and his Ile closely follows, with their strong mounts pushing aside whoever gets in their way.
Battle cry on their lips the Hetairoi forcefully break into their foe's ranks. Antiochis has his aim fixed, nothing is able to distract him, violently he pushes the horse forward.
There, the huge man, oh, how powerful his movements, how much joy he seems to find when his heavy sword comes down on his victims. He raises his arm again, someone has to await another blow - but! - he hesitates and astonishment shows on his face. He looks down and the shaft of a Xyston protrudes from his side, blood running down the wood. Demophon's sword descends on the lance, cutting a deep cleavage without breaking the wood. He tries to lift his arm another time, but his strength volatilizes and with a triumphant yell on his lips Antiochis thrusts the Xyston deeper into the Galatian's body.

Demophon feels anger and disappointment. Had it to be this way? A moment of negligence and some milksop finishing him off? He is angry, but his body refuses to react, refuses to allow the rage to burst out. The pain becomes numb and his vision blurs. At least, it somehow is a good day to die.

"Forward!" shouts Antiochis. Skewered on the top of his Xyston is Demophon's severed head and the enemy's right wing crumbles at the sight of their Strategos' untimely end. The right wing, which had been supposed to win the battle!
"Forward!" Antiochis pushes, exhilarated, euphoric in triumph. A snap sounds below him, as his mount breaks down in pain, the hamstrings in its hind legs severed with one cut of a sharp blade. Antiochis tumbles, falls. Too sudden the shock, too unaware of the things around him. The hard impact benumbs him for a moment, but a piercing pain in his belly jolts him from the drowsiness. He just realizes that a sword has been plunged into his lower body, just below the edge of his cuirass, when a hand grips his hair and jerks his head around. Two cold eyes stare into his, embedded in a broad, leathery face with an ugly diagonal scar.
"When you meet my lord in the afterlife, tell him, Gaisio has taken revenge for his death," the grey-haired warrior snarls and bares his teeth. An unbearable pain surges through Antiochis when Gaisio violently sways the blade in the young man's body and relieving unconsciousness closes its arms around him.

https://img17.imageshack.us/img17/9356/013lfr.jpg (https://img17.imageshack.us/i/013lfr.jpg/)

The warrior king looks down on the cold body at his feet and anguish suddenly rises in his chest. He kneels and carefully closes his hands around Antiochis' head. He knows, what he feels is regret, a feeling which for a long time had not been at home in his heart. But now, seeing his cousin's innocent face, now mutilated by a cramped grimace, framed by the dark hair clotted with blood and dust, something moves inside the tough man fate has meant him to be.
"I'm so sorry. I failed you, I failed you," the Basileus ton Basileon mumbles with a hardly audible voice.

Vasiliyi

08-20-2009, 16:58

My my my! That was quite a surprise! Theodorus, Baselius ton Baselous is dead.

We need another update!

Lysimachos

08-21-2009, 07:43

My my my! That was quite a surprise! Theodorus, Baselius ton Baselous is dead.

We need another update!

Urm, no, please read again. :book:
Their names are just very similar (Antiochos - Antiochis). The one who's dead is the king's cousin, not he himself. I actually didn't describe how the battle went on Theos' side of the formation at all.
I thought it was clear :stupid:

Vasiliyi

08-24-2009, 20:09

Urm, no, please read again. :book:
Their names are just very similar (Antiochos - Antiochis). The one who's dead is the king's cousin, not he himself. I actually didn't describe how the battle went on Theos' side of the formation at all.
I thought it was clear :stupid:

bah! Thats what I get for reading it at work. Read it too quickly. Makes more sense now. I was wondering how yo were going to write your aar without your main character. Anyways, looking forward to more.

Lysimachos

08-25-2009, 07:16

bah! Thats what I get for reading it at work. Read it too quickly. Makes more sense now. I was wondering how yo were going to write your aar without your main character. Anyways, looking forward to more.

Hm, maybe I just could have killed Kallinikos in chapter 44 and announced completion ~;)

Oh, and never again read this AAR quickly, are we clear? :whip: Who knows what else you've got wrong ... :no:

:laugh4:

Lysimachos

09-04-2009, 15:22

Chapter 44: Turning a Trap

The air bears a certain smell. It is a smell only few can sense. To do so requires a sort of premonition, a premonition which is given only to old warriors, veterans who have dodged death's blade more than once, but have been his willing deliverer, too. It is a sense of thick, light red blood which has not been shed yet.
Antiochos slowly fills his lungs with the heavy air, deeply inhales its gruesome presage. His motionless face is directed to the sky, his chin lifted up and he is carefully listening.

Despite his death and defeat had Demophon done a good job: Upper Egypt was not left unprepared for Antiochos' advance. A son of Philadelphos has taken command in Upper Egypt and raised an army. On his order the grain storages along Antiochos' route were emptied, reserves taken away or destroyed, to deprive the seleukid king's army of the occasion of plunder. And it worked: The invading host's shortage on supplies became noticeable and lesser men might already have turned away from their king.
The days were grim indeed. Many good men have already been lost and little has been gained. But Antiochos knows, he can rely on his men to follow him to the last step. And there is another thing which he knows: The enemy needed supplies too and he would never strip himself completely. So, there had to be a place, which the ptolemaic general would consider safe enough. This place was where Antiochos decided to go. He also had a certain hunch on its location and did not intent to let someone stop him from reaching it.

Theos takes another deep breath. Euergetes, the Pharao's son, has amassed twice as many soldiers as the seleucid army numbers. His goal is to force his enemy into a decisive battle against the odds and he is gathering his troops around the location, were he assumes Antiochos' whereabouts.
But the Strategos made a mistake.

The Basileus' blank Kopis cuts through the air without a sound. It is a matter of some blinks of an eye and the signal is relayed. Idyllic palm groves suddenly spit out a roaring horde, descending on a long, but unprepared column. Forgotten are hunger and deprivation when it is time to slay the foe.

https://img136.imageshack.us/img136/2066/014yz.jpg (https://img136.imageshack.us/i/014yz.jpg/)

https://img524.imageshack.us/img524/5889/015sr.jpg (https://img524.imageshack.us/i/015sr.jpg/)

"Don't pursue. Reassemble, form the phalanx," Antiochos commands. "There were horsemen who got away early. They certainly take the message to Euergetes and he will not hesitate to attack. We shattered one link in his chain, but he still outnumbers us and he won't leave the initiative to me."

The wounded leave their place and retire behind the line, damaged weapons and shields are exchanged, the Mahouts calm down their beasts, the Toxotai replace their used arrows. The opening has been performed, but now the main part is about to commence.
The march columns of Euergetes' host mount up like threatening, dark clouds heralding a storm to come.
Not long ago, when his cousin fell at the hands of Demophon's intimate, a small crack appeared in the Basileus' iron mantle, but none of his sworn men had a glimpse through the fissure into the great man's heart. He remains their unbroken and unbreakable paragon, whom they follow without hesitation. As long as he is among them, numbers cannot scare. And why should they? Every single one of them is a master in his trade. Is there any foe that can be more than a nuisance for the seleukid king's veterans?

https://img252.imageshack.us/img252/7641/016yd.jpg (https://img252.imageshack.us/i/016yd.jpg/)

The storm clouds form into a wide surge and sweep against the rock of Antiochos' Phalanx. Wave after wave they break on the shields, until the sky darkens and the surge powerlessly subsides, again leaving the seleukid army to be the last to stand.

https://img252.imageshack.us/img252/6237/017xy.jpg (https://img252.imageshack.us/i/017xy.jpg/)

"Sire, we have secured provisions, which the enemy left behind at his camp. It will help us for some days, but not long," Athenaios, an elder Hetairos who has been given responsibility for the army's supplies, explains with worry sounding in his voice.
Antiochos lifts his arms, while the Pais Basilikos removes the king's cuirass. "Soon there will be relief," he responds hoarsely. Spotting Athenaios' uncertain look the Basileus adds reassuringly: "We will manage until then." He sighs. "If there is nothing more, you are dismissed." - "Thank you, Sire. May you sleep well." - "The same to you, Athenaios, you need rest."
Theos watches the Hetairos leave the tent and takes seat on his divan. The Pais Basilikos approaches with quick, eager steps and hands his lord a goblet of wine. The king inhales its smell and looks down into the goblet, into his own eyes, reflected on the dark red surface. A moment passes and another one and suppressed thoughts and emotions arise, send a shiver through his body and anger spreads through his veins. It erupts in a burst and with powerful motion accompanied by an irate yell Antiochos hurls the goblet away. The vessel recoils from the tent wall and clankingly lands on the ground, where it comes to a rest. Red wine slowly sinks into a carpet, while the frightened boy hides in the shadow, his face covered by his hands.

Lysimachos

07-08-2010, 23:29

Well, hello! I'm terribly sorry it took so long and to be honest, I wasn't really aware how long exactly it was. :oops:

In all that time I just haven't found the inspiration to continue writing, although the first lines of the next chapter were written shortly after chapter 44. I tried to continue several times, but I didn't know what to write, so I put it off again and again, until now, when I decided not to go to bed until I had a chapter to post. So, here is chapter 45.

Most of you have probably forgotten what happened until now, but you know where to find page one, don't you. :grin2:

For those who rather not read everything again, I have prepared a little help, namely a list of important or recurring characters and members of the royal family as well as some characters from the latest chapters, as things are before the events of chapter 45 take place.

It is to be found in the following spoiler.

Year: 247 BC = 65th year of the Seleukid Era = 18th year in the kingship of Antiochos Theos = 4th year in the kingship of Seleukos Kallinikos

1. Antiochos Theos (ingame: Theodoros Syriakos) *291 BC
Function: Basileus ton Basileon; Ruler of the Arche Seleukeia
Parents: Basileus Antiochos Soter and Stratonike
Siblings: younger brother Sarpedon; Two sisters, one of whom was married to Magas Kyrenaios (and is not existent in game)
Wife: Laodike
Children: Basileus Seleukos Kallinikos; Euphorion; Kleopatra; Pamphile
Son-in-law: Timarchos Mylason Karikon
Personality: Charismatic, uncompromising leader; Known for his prowess as General, for his defiance of death and for being a notorious drunkard

2. Laodike
Husband: Basileus Antiochos Theos
Father: Achaios, brother to Basileus Antiochos Soter

3. Seleukos Kallinikos (ingame: Kallinikos Syriakos) *273 BC
Function: Junior ruler of the Arche Seleukeia
Parents: Basileus Antiochos Theos and Laodike
Siblings: Younger brother Euphorion, younger sisters Kleopatra and Pamphile
Wife: Agathe
Children: Nikomachos
Personality: Rather introverted and uncharismatic; Pessimistic and insecure about his abilities, especially concerning the rule over the empire; had an exceptional education at the great Academy in Antiocheia on the Orontes, which helps him with his problems at interacting with others; earlier it was thought he would "take after his father", but it seems he develops in a different direction; suffers from the still fresh impression of a devastating defeat by the Dahae warlord Artabarzan

4. Agathe
Husband: Seleukos Kallinikos
Children: Nikomachos

5. Nikomachos *255 BC
Function: Second in line of succession after his father Seleukos Kallinikos
Parents: Seleukos Kallinikos and Agathe

6. Euphorion *267 BC
Function: Third in line of succession after his brother Seleukos Kallinikos and his nephew Nikomachos; attends the Akademia of Persepolis
Parents: Basileus Antiochos Theos and Laodike
Siblings: older brother Seleukos Kallinikos; younger sisters Kleopatra and Pamphile
Personality: unflagging and intelligent, despises his father's drinking habits

7. Sarpedon Prodotis ("the Traitor")
Function: Former Co-Regent; Currently wanted for high treason and suspected to be in exile in Aigyptos
Sons: Omanes; Athenaios (both fallen in 251 BC)
Personality: Poet, Philosopher, Gourmet of Life; Skilled Politician and Schemer; Egocentric

8. Andromachos Syriakos
Function: Satrapes of Persis
Seat: Persepolis
Father: Achaios Syriakos, brother of Basileus Antiochos Soter
Brother: Alexandros Syriakos, Satrapes of Susiane
Sons: Antiochis; Xenoitas
Personality: Similar to his father and his brother, a man with little ambition; His passion is the beauty of life; Has proven a lucky hand with governing the province, although his enthusiasm starts to lack.

9. Antiochis Syriakos (killed in 248 BC)
Function: Aide to Basileus Antiochos Theos
Father: Andromachos
Significant achievement: played a great role in the defeat of Demophon Paraitonios, by leading his flank of the battle order to victory over the ptolemaic elite and killing their Strategos with his own hands, prior to being killed himself.

10. Timarchos Mylason Karikon
Function: Governor of Antiocheia on the Orontes; Elephantarches of the empire
Parents: descendants of old hellenic nobility of Mylasa in Karia
Wife: Kleopatra, eldest daughter of Antiochos Theos
Children: Artemesia (maybe more by now, but I don't have it in my notes, am too lazy to look it up and it doesn't really matter)
Personality: Proud Hellen; Extroverted politician and bureaucrat; Athlete (Olympionikes of the olympic games in 256 BC)

11. Apollonides Damaskenos
Function: Satrapes of Phrygia and Commander-in-chief for Asia Mikra
Seat: Ipsos, which economically is of less importance than Sardis in Lydia, but the centre of the military facilities in the peninsula
Personality: Power-hungry politician

12. Lysimachos Sardikos
Function: Satrapes of Lydia
Seat: Sardis
Father-in-law: Sarpedon Prodotis

13. Gorgias Dahaikos
Right-hand man of Seleukos Kallinikos

14. Ptolemaios Philadelphos
Pharao of Egypt and head of the ptolemaic house; Nemesis of the seleucid kings

15. Demophon Paraitonios (killed in 248 BC)
Galatian mercenary general; was given the task to defend Egypt from Antiochos' attack and fought several battles against the seleucid king; killed by Antiochis, the young cousin and aid of Antiochos Theos.

16. Artabarzan
Powerful Dahae warlord; Inflicted a devastating defeat on Seleukos Kallinikos' army.

17. Gaisio
Galates; Despite growing old one of the most skilled fighters among Demophon's Galatians; it was by Gaisio's hands that Demophon was avenged only short after his death.

Chapter 45: What has to be done

What a ragtag bunch I have here, Seleukos Kallinikos thinks. Descending from Astauene like a lonesome pilgrim, he gathered what able man would follow him: Scattered units of the dead Satrap's army, mercenaries and local tribes, who fear for their possessions in the face of a Sakai invasion. The presence of their king, who was thought dead, lifts their spirits and a faint hope fills their hearts, fed by the trust in the divinity of Seleukos' blood which also runs in the Basileus' veins. It is a trust Kallinikos has to use, has to rely on, if ever he wants to be successful, although deep inside he feels he already misused it.
From the border to Areia he departed north on a careful advance into the fallen province Margiane, in order to find out how strong the Sakai forces were and to disturb them in establishing control.
Ahead lie the river valley and uncertain destiny, perhaps by the hand of the fearsome riders who hold no respect for Alexander's heirs.
Still, what gain is there in contemplating the things that inevitably have to be done?

“Enemy ahead, Basileus!” sounds the call. “Speak, Medios,” demands the king of his scout. “How far, how many?” The median for a moment pets his horse's neck, trying to calm the beast, which is trembling of exhaustion after a flying tantivy. Looking up, he speaks: “We number three for one of them, but they have many horses and close in quickly. We have a few hours at best, my lord.”
Seleukos suppresses a sigh and puts on a face of grim resolve. He jerks his mount around and with a yell drives it up a height which is idly watching the army slowly passing by.
The junior Basileus draws the Kopis from his side and thrusts the gleaming blade into the sky, at once commanding all attention.
“Listen to my call, soldiers, men of the iranian hills and valleys! Robbers and vagabonds have come to take the land you have worked all your lives for. They've come to steal your wives and cattle. We have not asked them to come, but today, we will show them home!”

https://img688.imageshack.us/img688/3945/018si.jpg

From the outside the king has maintained an air of strength, but inside is turmoil. He watches from afar how the Sakai form their line of battle. Thousands of hooves stir up dust and shining reflections on the riders' armour stirs up memories, images of armoured Dahae in vain defiance looking down from their great and proud horses. Dark impressions of what those Dahae did to him and his men try to crawl up into his consciousness, obscure the view on reality, sedate his will, but he almost violently shakes away the threatening thoughts, puts his mind on the sound of the flutes, while the last of his men take their positions.
Today will be different, there already is so much different. Today the height is Seleukos', as it was his turn to chose the site of engagement and today he will allow no surprises.
It will be different. It has to be.

Three to one is the count, but the Sakai don't seem to mind. Slowly they advance, some arrows fly from both sides, to far to cause much harm. But suddenly, the men of the steppe surge forward, pushing their mounts quickly towards Kallinikos' fragile line. The archers and slingers frantically launch their salvoes, as they are most clearly aware there is only a thin line of spearmen between them and the approaching horses.
The lancers close in quick as lightning. With a resounding noise they clash into the awaiting shields and like a predator's sharp fangs they cut into the flesh of Seleukos' light troops. But the mass of their numbers brings the attacking riders to a halt and bereft of their momentum they become prey themselves. Axe-armed hunters descend upon them, hunters who do not know a code of honour, who do not seek a fair competition to prove their huntsman-ship.

Seleukos' light infantrymen cleverly isolate the well armoured horsemen, swarm them, attack their horses, where their masters cannot defend. It is a grim but quick fight, until the Sakai loosen themselves from the fray and the seleucid king's own horsemen dash forward to break the steppe lords' resolve for good.

A bloody toll is what had to be paid, but Kallinikos allows himself a faint smile, as he watches the enemy disperse over the wide valley, for this day is his.

https://img42.imageshack.us/img42/2190/019sne.jpg

Lysimachos

08-25-2010, 21:07

Hey, thanks for the nice welcome back :disappointed:

Anyway, taking a long pause (or several ones) has benefits, too. I had and took the time to think about how I could make this AAR more interesting, not only for my readers, but especially for me, since being interested in your own writing in my opinion is the most important prerequisite to write something good.
So, I will try and hopefully succeed in adding new dimensions to the story. To achieve that I start with introducing and re-introducing additional characters, leading to additional story arcs. The last chapters included exactly two threads (one linear following Antiochos Theos and one linear following Seleukos Kallinikos) and perhaps this one-dimensionality had its part in boring me away (it's more complicated than that, but still).

I hope you enjoy. Or rather, I hope someone enjoys.

Edit: oh, and that other thing... don't hit me... it made me do it... /Edit

Chapter 46: A special guest to the house

Heavy steps sound over the atrium's marmoreal walks, which are shaded from the brutal midday sun by date palms, neatly strung like pearls on a necklace.
The steps are those of a dozen men, who purposefully stride through the garden courtyard. They walk upright with a presence of pride. Most of them are clad in heavy armour and bear the two-plumed helmet of the Hetairoi.
Only two of the leading trio dress in civil attire. To the left walks a slim man who has been blessed with a rodent's face, while the obvious leader is stoutly build and slightly taller than average and his grim face shows broader features, though these are not crude, but rather of some peculiar grandeur.
Although these two do not wear the ornate armour of the Hetairoi, the making of their Chitons betrays an elevated social standing to the knowing eye.

“Oh, my fellows, look who's there! Who lets the eunuchs linger about here,” the group's leader loudly announces, as two men enter the crossing which lies before him.
Those two frown upon the new comers with visible discomfort. While one of them indeed bears the signs of a eunuch at the royal court, the other one's upbringing certainly did not prepare him to be looked down upon.

The stout men beckons his posse to wait and slowly advances towards the duo. “I am blessed, have I not dared to hope my eyes would have the exalting pleasure to rest their gaze on a royal traitor and dog-lover.”
He positions himself in front of his bearded opponent and looks down on him. “Tell me, forked tongue, what kind of poison are you about to divulge this time?”

“I am a guest to this house and last time I checked, you were not its master,” Sarpedon retorts. The two men now are only a few fingers apart, with bared teeth fixating each other's eyes, like two beasts about to maul one another.
The taller man suddenly thrusts his head forward and smiles satisfied, when Sarpedon instictively jerks back.
“Then I suggest, you enjoy your stay,...” he adds, slowly backing off, “... as long as that lasts.”
He snarls on more time before turning around and calling his entourage in order to speedily leave the seleucid king's brother behind.

“Nomarchos, now you scared him and he will run to our sacred Pharaoh and wet the old man's beard with his tears. Was it worth the trouble?” muses the scrawny, weasel-ly man at the left.
“Ha!” laughs the nomarch. “We better hurry, so we don't need to smell his piss running on the floor.” He heartily grunts with disdain.
“Shall he run, shall he. Perhaps then, finally our guest will make evident to anyone what a puny creature he is. I pity the fool. How can he even endure being what he has become?”
Few steps further he adds: “Oh, yes, I will need to see that Babylonian, who's rotting in my cellar.”

“My master, do you think it wise to arise his enmity? He is a mighty and popular man and has the ear of the Pharaoh.” - “So do I!” barks Sarpedon.
“But – my master – you are not his blood!” the eunuch shyly whispers. Sarpedon wheels around and grips his servants collar, his eyes fiery with anger. “I will deal with the brute! My way!”

divulse123

08-26-2010, 16:46

Brave Brave Sir Robin

08-26-2010, 17:39

I'm following. Don't feel discouraged and keep it up.

Lysimachos

09-03-2010, 13:47

Hey man. I loved this AAR back before I left the forums, and I just re-read about the first half. I have not made it to your new chapters yet, but if they keep up the quality, then bravo! I love the Seleucids (historically) so it's nice to get some good alternate history fiction. :) Welcome back!

I'm following. Don't feel discouraged and keep it up.

Thank you guys. It will remain a slow process, but I promise it will continue.

Lysimachos

02-03-2011, 23:39

For weak memories:

Important or recurring characters and members of the royal family as well as some characters from the latest chapters

Year: 247 BC = 65th year of the Seleukid Era = 18th year in the kingship of Antiochos Theos = 4th year in the kingship of Seleukos Kallinikos

1. Antiochos Theos (ingame: Theodoros Syriakos) *291 BC
Function: Basileus ton Basileon; Ruler of the Arche Seleukeia
Parents: Basileus Antiochos Soter and Stratonike
Siblings: younger brother Sarpedon; Two sisters, one of whom was married to Magas Kyrenaios (and does not exist in game)
Wife: Laodike
Children: Basileus Seleukos Kallinikos; Euphorion; Kleopatra; Pamphile
Son-in-law: Timarchos Mylason Karikon
Personality: Charismatic, uncompromising leader; Known for his prowess as General, for his defiance of death and for being a notorious drunkard

2. Laodike
Husband: Basileus Antiochos Theos
Father: Achaios, brother to Basileus Antiochos Soter

3. Seleukos Kallinikos (ingame: Kallinikos Syriakos) *273 BC
Function: Junior ruler of the Arche Seleukeia
Parents: Basileus Antiochos Theos and Laodike
Siblings: Younger brother Euphorion, younger sisters Kleopatra and Pamphile
Wife: Agathe
Children: Nikomachos
Personality: Rather introverted and uncharismatic; Pessimistic and insecure about his abilities, especially concerning the rule over the empire; had an exceptional education at the great Academy in Antiocheia on the Orontes, which helps him with his problems at interacting with others; earlier it was thought he would "take after his father", but it seems he develops in a different direction; suffers from the still fresh impression of a devastating defeat by the Dahae warlord Artabarzan

4. Agathe
Husband: Seleukos Kallinikos
Children: Nikomachos

5. Nikomachos *255 BC
Function: Second in line of succession after his father Seleukos Kallinikos
Parents: Seleukos Kallinikos and Agathe

6. Euphorion *267 BC
Function: Third in line of succession after his brother Seleukos Kallinikos and his nephew Nikomachos; attends the Akademia of Persepolis
Parents: Basileus Antiochos Theos and Laodike
Siblings: older brother Seleukos Kallinikos; younger sisters Kleopatra and Pamphile
Personality: unflagging and intelligent, despises his father's drinking habits

7. Sarpedon Prodotis ("the Traitor")
Function: Former Co-Regent; Currently wanted for high treason and suspected to be in exile in Aigyptos
Sons: Omanes; Athenaios (both fallen in 251 BC)
Personality: Poet, Philosopher, Gourmet of Life; Skilled Politician and Schemer; Egocentric

8. Andromachos Syriakos
Function: Satrapes of Persis
Seat: Persepolis
Father: Achaios Syriakos, brother of Basileus Antiochos Soter
Brother: Alexandros Syriakos, Satrapes of Susiane
Sons: Antiochis; Xenoitas
Personality: Similar to his father and his brother, a man with little ambition; His passion is the beauty of life; Has proven a lucky hand with governing the province, although his enthusiasm starts to lack.

9. Antiochis Syriakos (killed in 248 BC)
Function: Aide to Basileus Antiochos Theos
Father: Andromachos
Significant achievement: played a great role in the defeat of Demophon Paraitonios, by leading his flank of the battle order to victory over the ptolemaic elite and killing their Strategos with his own hands, prior to being killed himself.

10. Timarchos Mylason Karikon
Function: Governor of Antiocheia on the Orontes; Elephantarches of the empire
Parents: descendants of old hellenic nobility of Mylasa in Karia
Wife: Kleopatra, eldest daughter of Antiochos Theos
Children: Artemesia (maybe more by now, but I don't have it in my notes, am too lazy to look it up and it doesn't really matter)
Personality: Proud Hellen; Extroverted politician and bureaucrat; Athlete (Olympionikes of the olympic games in 256 BC)

11. Alexandros Syriakos
Function: Satrapes of Susiane
Seat: Susa
Father: Achaios Syriakos, brother of Basileus Antiochos Soter
Brother: Andromachos Syriakos, Satrapes of Persis
Son: Miltidades

12. Apollonides Damaskenos
Function: Satrapes of Phrygia and Commander-in-chief for Asia Mikra
Seat: Ipsos, which economically is of less importance than Sardis in Lydia, but the centre of the military facilities in the peninsula
Personality: Power-hungry politician

13. Lysimachos Sardikos
Function: Satrapes of Lydia
Seat: Sardis
Father-in-law: Sarpedon Prodotis

14. Gorgias Dahaikos
Right-hand man of Seleukos Kallinikos

15. Ptolemaios Philadelphos
Pharao of Egypt and head of the ptolemaic house; Nemesis of the seleucid kings

16. Demophon Paraitonios (killed in 248 BC)
Galatian mercenary general; was given the task to defend Egypt from Antiochos' attack and fought several battles against the seleucid king; killed by Antiochis, the young cousin and aide of Antiochos Theos.

17. Artabarzan
Powerful Dahae warlord; Inflicted a devastating defeat on Seleukos Kallinikos' army.

18. Gaisio
Galates; Despite growing old one of the most skilled fighters among Demophon's Galatians; it was by Gaisio's hands that Demophon was avenged only short after his death.

And the new chapter, enjoy :yes:

Chapter 47: Three Noble Persians

Fravarti closes his eyes and raises both hands to his face to softly rub his lids in a circling motion, but the travails of a laborious day won't go away. He sighs deep and drops his arms. His work is not done yet and lamenting won't help it. Fravarti looks up, searching for Tiz, the shepherd's best friend. Just as Fravarti himself, Tiz is no longer as quick as he once was, but the trusty dog remains the most reliable helper the ageing shepherd has known.
Fravarti frowns, as he can't spot the dog. He sounds a sharp whistle and perks up his ears in search for a reply. There, in the distance sounds barking. Shivers run down his spine, as Fravarti notices, it is not Tiz calling. He spins around, whistles once again for his dog and starts running toward the sound, his fingers nervously reaching for the pouch of sling-stones.
Then the shepherd spots Tiz, running towards him, and further away another dog, unknown to him. It is a huge mastiff, Fravarti realizes and the thoughts run through his mind. For generations the Persians have bred and trained wardogs, fearless animals that, following Alexandros and the advent of hellenism, have been exported all over the known world, where they are drilled to fight man and beast alike. A predator like this could easily rip him and Tiz both into pieces. A lucky shot with the sling, perhaps, but then?
An animal like this, carefully bred and trained, is an extraordinary luxury, only a wealthy man could afford such a specimen and which nobleman would hold an old shepherd's life higher than his hound's?
A voice calls out: “Karda!” and from one moment to the next the huge dog flips around and runs to where its master approaches. Tiz arrives at Fravarti's feet and the shepherd goes on his knees, both so he can comfort his scared quadruped and so he will not offend whoever commands Karda, the warlike spirit. When he lifts his gaze, Fravarti spots a rider, only a young man, but everything in his affectation seems... excessive, out of place. He wears his hair and attire in the way of the Persians of the old days of glory, clad in the finest of silks, riding a horse worth a few towns. His face shows pride, but also a certain softness, a merciful touch of divinity. Beside his leg a quiver with bow and arrows reveal his intent to be the hunter's occupation. The hound frolics around his master's horse's legs, but the playful sparkle in his eyes cannot conceal the deadly threat.
Not far behind two more riders follow the one. Just as he, they wear the attire of old nobility and over their horses they have attached, with surprising craftsmanship, a holding from which a hind of red deer is dangling.
“Rise, good man,” their leader speaks in a soft voice and, with hesitation, Fravarti follows his command. “Say, what is your name?” The eyes still directed to the ground, he answers. “I am the shepherd Fravarti, my lord. You are too kind to inquire, my lord.” - “A shepherd you are. Tell me, Fravarti, where do you live?” - “It is not far from here, my lord. My village lies that way, my lord.”
Fravarti covertly watches as the rider looks towards the horizon, slightly nodding.
“My lord, if you suffer me asking, what leads three noble Persians such as you to these humble hills?” Bright laughter sounds from the young man's mouth, confusing the old shepherd, for he does not know what funny thing he may have said.
“You see, Fravarti, the days grows old and we have strayed too far from the city to reach it in time. So, if you choose to invite us to your home for this night, we will invite you and your people to our hind. What do you think of that, Shepherd Fravarti?”
Knowing, he indeed has no choice in the matter, and cursing the day, he accepts. “My lord, I know of no honour greater than that. But, my lord, whom shall I announce to my people?” - “Rightly you ask, Fravarti. I know your name, so you shall know mine. I am called Euphorion and I ride with the princes Miltidades and Xenoitas.”

Roka

02-04-2011, 18:33

re-read this entire story recently, glad to see your still updating it from time to time

Lysimachos

02-04-2011, 22:03

re-read this entire story recently, glad to see your still updating it from time to time

Glad you are glad :smiley2: Thanks for the comment!

Chapter 48: The Fruit of Trust

Antiochos is leaning forward heavily on his steed, his eyes are dry and his front is wet of sweat. He is just standing there, breathing heavily, while trying to suppress the vicious headache and watching.
“Sire,” a voice raises behind him. The king recognizes the speaker, but he doesn't lift his gaze from the city across the plain. “Athenaios, what ails you?”
“Basileus, we cannot go on like this. The situation is becoming severe, the men are weak and soon there will be nothing left to eat. Perhaps we should put down the elephants.”Antiochos' voice seems absent, when he answers: “Trust me, Atheniaos, trust me. It's what you do, isn't it?” - “My life is yours, Sire,” is the Hetairos' stoic reply.
“So I have all the more reason to keep it safe. You are dismissed, Athenaios.

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A smile plays around Antiochos' embrittled lips. His instinct has never let him down and it won't this time. The day has come that the Pharaoh's son has been lured out behind his walls.

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An air of relieve surrounds the men. They are tired of idleness and welcome the coming action as a refuge from the relentlessness of hunger, a foe that can't be hit or hurt, and for them this battle is a giver of hope, something to cling to.
Antiochos rides along the line and he watches the soldiers' faces. They are emaciated and weakened, but still faithful and today their face shall be rewarded.

Terpnos, the ptolemaic Strategos, is an experienced commander, but, just as many of Antiochos' enemies have done to their own peril, he values numbers to much. A small reinforcement from downstream, turning the numbers in his favour, is enough to prompt him to test the seleucids' strength in battle.

Antiochos positions his Taxeis in a thin line. Thin, but strong enough to hold for some time. Just as many of his enemies before, Terpnos has no means to counter the king's horseman and he marches with a plan, damned from the beginning. His army is swept away and scattered into the four winds, leaving behind the Diospolis, like a fruit ripe for the taking.

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From the moment that Antiochos had turned his army south, toward upper Egypt, the ptolemaic bureaucracy and military started working on one goal: hindering his campaign by denying him the supplies to feed his army. It almost worked, bringing the army to the brink of dissolution, but ironically the bursting storages of Thebes, where all the riches of upper Aigytos have been brought to, now feed the invaders' host.

Athenaios and Kratippos, another Hetairos, have started to register the supplies, suddenly made available behind the city's gates. It is a huge task and so the two Hetairoi inspect the laden magazines. “So,” Kratippos comments at the sight of a long row of Amphoras filled with egyptian wine, “first things first. The king's temper is taken care of.”
Athenaios glances at his companion. “You didn't know? Ah, yes, you were with the rearguard. The king hasn't drunken a drop of it in weeks.”

Lysimachos

02-27-2011, 22:32

The next update will show you how badly I suck with pictures. It's the lack of practice, I'm sure.

Have fun.

Chapter 49: The Watch on the Margos

Over the last centuries the pressure from the nomadic barbarians against the north-eastern border of the Arche continually increased. Two pillars still hold them back: In the east, between the hordes of the Sakai nomads and the central iranian uplands stands the junior king of the seleukid house with his tribal and mercenary army. The victory against Hagana costed a bitter price, but Seleukos Kallinikos clings to the southern parts of Margiane, his right flank leaning firmly against the Margos river, that runs from south to north through the province.
In the west stands Gorgias Dahaikos, Seleukos' closest friend, guarding Parthyaia against the Dahae.

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The king knows, it is only a matter of time. He knows, he will not hold the enemy for ever, but does he have another choice?

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When again the barbarians come, Kallinikos lines his troops up with their back protected by the river's bank.

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Again, he commands the larger force, but is aware that another victory like the last may be his army's end. A cloud of worries hangs over his head, when the Sakai position themselves in the west.

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While the nomads have masterful archers among their ranks, the sheer number of missiles favour the Basileus' Iranians.

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Lijugula, the barbarian commander, throws his army forward against the seleukid line.

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The attack is vicious, but soon repelled by the greater numbers and the battle finally is decided, when Lijugula's heavy horsemen turn around and flee.

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It is a second victory against the Sakai for the young king, but he turns back south with half the army with which he came, leaving southern Margiane behind to the Sakai.

Lysimachos

03-07-2011, 13:34

Chapter 50: Rock Bottom

Heavy, angry steps approach from the corridor. “Deja vu,” mumbles Ikadion, cowering in the corner of the cold and dark cellar-room. The door is violently thrown open and a torch's flickering shine illuminates the chamber and the lord of the house. The stout Nomarch enters and puts the torch into a fixture next to the door. Behind him the weasel-faced man comes in and closes the door.
“So, Babylonios.” The Nomarch looks down on the picture of misery that is left of the former poet of class and epicurean.
“I hope your accommodations are to your satisfaction.” - “Indeed they are. Too much light is not good to my eyes. Thank you for asking, anyway,” is Ikadion's dry reply.
“Stand up!,” commands the Nomarch. “I've been told you were close with Sarpedon.” - “I suppose, you could come to that conclusion.” - “Then you must know him well, know how his methods and weaknesses. I can be very grateful for adequate advice,” he looks around, pointing to the naked, cold walls, “and I understand there have been times when you were used to a very different standard of living. I can make that true again.”
Ikadion smirks. “You want me to help you understand what kind of a man Sarpedon is, but you should let it go. You do not have the mind to comprehend him.”
“You dare mocking me under my roof!” the stout man shouts enraged. The sudden impact of his fist on Ikadion's jaw is so hard that a pain travels along his arm and the Babylonian is struck to the ground. Ikadion groans and rolls on his side, blood dripping from his mouth. “It is my nature, I can't help it,” he mumbles with effort.
The Nomarch stands above Ikadion, grips the long curly hair and pulls him up. “If there is anything useful at all, you better talk now, Babylonios.” - “What do you expect me to tell you?” Ikadion grunts. “He made me lose everything and by now I haven't seen him for years.” Again he spits blood and sighs deeply. “Although it doesn't much look like it right now, you are man with a code of moral convictions, Nomarchos. There are things you would not consider doing and there are other things which are even unthinkable to you. To Sarpedon, such a thing does not exist. It takes a deeply immoral man to understand Sarpedon's mind in its full beauty.”
Ikadion sinks to the ground as his hair is released. “You scum are a waste of my time.” - “You take him for weak, but his teeth are poisonous. I tell you, watch your back and beware the trickery.” The Nomarchos snorts and turns to go.
“What shall I do with him?” asks the Weasel. “I don't care, I have no use for him any more.”

(In case you don't remember who Ikadion is, check chapters 16, 18, 28 and 31)

Pyrrhus The Great

03-30-2011, 05:53

Great work one of the best AAR's Ive read so far.

Lysimachos

04-02-2011, 13:24

Great work one of the best AAR's Ive read so far.

Thank you.

I'm sorry for not checking the thread lately, but at the moment I'm a bit distracted with a Shogun 2 AAR I recently started. I haven't posted it here on the .org (yet), but if you click here (http://www.twcenter.net/forums/showthread.php?t=436842), you can find it on TWC.

I'm still working on this too, but the next chapter is in a way a rather tough one, that resists getting into any useable form :laugh4:

Imperator Invictus

04-16-2011, 14:26

Definitely in the top 3 EB AARs
I liked it, thanks Lysimachos

Lysimachos

07-13-2011, 13:52

Chapter 51: A Rural Beauty

Euphorion and his cousins are in no hurry. They slowly ride into the sunset, while the shepherd Fravarti runs ahead to tell his village the news about their royal visitors. When they finally arrive, the villagers have gathered in the central place.
Fravarti, the shepherd, hurries to meet them and goes on his knees. One moment he shies away from Karda's drivelling snout, but he collects himself and addresses the royal guests.
“My noble princes, I welcome you in our midst. Please, let us take care of your horses and join us for the feast.”
The cousins dismount from their exquisite arabian horses and Euphorion magnanimously accepts Fravarti's welcome. “Rise and show us where we are seated.” - “As you wish, my prince.”

The common men stay on their knees, as the royal princes stride among them, led to their seats of honour, which are elevated above those of the villagers. The three cousins, ignorant of the lesser men's perspective, do not know it, but their visit – as much as it may be an honour – is also a curse for the lowly villagers. They dread the anger of the powerful and so they have clad themselves into their finest garments and they have prepared the finest of their foods, not to disappoint their betters.

The cousins take their seats and Fravarti carefully places himself at their feet, close – nay, too close – to the king's son's huge hound's muscular body. A number of men proceed to prepare the hind over the fireplace and an ensemble of villagers with lyre, flute and drum strikes up.
Fravarti's wife presents the guests with cups of wine and the cousins, unaware of the uncomfortable mood around them, start an unwound conversation.

Not much later the sun has retreated into her resting place and Fravarti announces: “My noble princes, now the maidens of our village will perform a traditional dance in your honour, if you please.”

Euphorion is just about to end a sentence, when he looks over to where three young of the village start to move to the rhythm, performing a centuries old persian dance for their community's royal guests. He loses his thought and himself, when his gaze meets the deep, dark eyes of one of the girls. The world fades away and only she remains and the rhythm guiding the movement of her tender body. Euphorion breathes heavily and only slowly comes back the awareness of his surroundings, after the young women finished the dance and went off. At first his voice failed him, but then he touches Fravarti at the shoulder and asks: “Who is that girl, the third one?”

The pupils in the shepherd's eyes widen in terror. Hesitantly he responds: “She is Esmet, my only daughter.” - “Esmet.” Fravarti's heart beats wildly in his chest while he watches the prince's gaze wander off into the distance. Then it breaks out: “I will not have you make her your whore,” he gasps, but as their eyes meet his heart almost stops. What madness has befallen me?

Euphorion bends down towards the shepherd and whispers: “It takes courage to talk to me that way and I appreciate courage. Fravarti the shepherd, I promise you, I will court her and I will make her my princess and there is not a force in the world that can stop me from doing so.”

(for context see chapter 47)

Populus Romanus

07-14-2011, 15:27

Good to see work started on this again.

Lysimachos

07-14-2011, 21:10

Good to see work started on this again.

Indeed. I had a blast starting to write again yesterday, I couldn't really stop myself. I just don't want to post too much at once. :-)

Lysimachos

07-15-2011, 06:34

Chapter 52: Swords and Spears

As always, a grim stone face hides the Basileus' thoughts and feelings from the world around him. He never was prone to talk more than necessary, but in the last months the soldiers witnessed their king becoming close-lipped. Giving up the wine mitigated his mood swings, but it didn't seem to better his mood in general.

Antiochos spends much of his time walking the streets of the city, which for now provides the base for his army: Diospolis Megale – the great city of Zeus, Thebai, formerly the proud capital of upper Aigyptos. It is a city beyond its former glory, a shadow, a reminder of transience. Is this what aggrieves the king? No longer is he a young man. What ambitions are still locked in his taciturn heart? So close to everlasting greatness – two weeks by boat to Alexandreia, where the Seleukid's Nemesis, Ptolemaios Philadelphos, reigns, two weeks to the grave of Alexandros.

Alexandreia is the mirror image of Diospolis: A rising star, a blooming flower and for Theos the scene of revenge and the gateway to eternal glory. With Philadelphos defeated, who could dare and resist the Seleukids' iron fist? The prize of a lifetime, so close, but still so far away.

“What is it that bothers you, Kratippos? Speak your mind,” commands the king. “Basileus,” begins the Hetairos, “the men have greatly enjoyed the opportunity to rest, but there is talk. They wonder, why we remain here and don't take action.”

Antiochos nods understandingly and turns to Athenaios. “My friend Athenaios, tell me about the situation of our supplies.” - “Sire, we have great amounts of food at our disposal. We could easily afford a campaign of considerable length.”

Again, the king nods. “You see, Kratippos, my friend, an army is nothing without food and water, but food and water are nothing without an army. Coming here, we have lost many of our men, too many. Still each of them is worth three of our enemies, but Philadelphos' reserves are more than thrice our numbers. To win the war, we don't need more bread, we need more swords and spears and men to wield them.”

Antiochos pauses, as a patrol passes and salutes their king, their living god of war, who walks among them.

“The Nubians are no friends of Ptolemaios and neither are the Aithiopioi. And also many Machimoi have only to gain by supporting me. Unlike my forefathers have the Ptolemaioi never bothered to make their people one with the people they rule. They mimic egyptian customs, but they will never be egyptian. I am heterogenes, a bearer of both greek and persian blood. I am the living testament to the unity of the great peoples, to the dream of Alexandros. The Machimoi know that. Under Ptolemaios they can never be more than lowly servants, but under my rule they can become Satraps, Generals or Princes. We raise them into our army and then, then we will march down the Nhile.”

Lysimachos

07-18-2011, 19:16

Chapter 53: Ill-Fated

South, further into Iran, into the province Aria is Seleukos Kallinikos headed with his army. Behind him, the Sakai warbands. Thank the gods, they don't seem to be in a hurry: The Sakai could move quicker, if they wanted and they hit hard when they want to. A depressing sight indeed: the marching host, by a hair eluded destruction – for now.

Kallinikos, who rides at the front of his host, notices a rider, who quickly catches up and passes the marching army. Bad news, without a doubt, sighs the junior king. He turns his mount and awaits the messenger, who dismounts from his exhausted horse. Seleukos watches the man catching his breath, before he commands: “What evil tidings to you bear, messenger? What ghastly shadow do you carry to darken this hour?” - “Sire, I ride by the command of the Satrapes of Parthyaia. The Dahae have marched on Hekatompylos and met us in battle.”

“So spit it out, man!” grunts the king impatiently.

“Sire, the battle was badly lost and Strategos Gorgias has fallen.”

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“Is all lost then?” whispers the king with a feeble voice.

“The enemy warlord has been wounded and the army has turned back north. The city is safe for now, Basileus,” explains the messenger, but his king doesn't listen any more. The one person in the world whom he called his friend was gone. He feels a great emptiness inside. But this is not the time to mourn! “I see you in the afterlife, my friend,” mumbles Seleukos.

With a sudden outcry of anger he pulls his horse around. “Aspianas!” he shouts and the courtier, who has served the Seleukids as an emissary many times breaks away from the entourage and awaits his king's command.

“Aspianas, I need you to ride to Baktra. If we want to survive this, we can't allow us to keep on sulking, but we must work together. Bring Theodotos my offer: I pledge to recognize him as Basileus and sovereign over Baktria and in return I ask for active military support against the Sakai. Eat and drink now, but then ride day and night. We are but a breeze away from toppling over.”

(To avoid confusion: The Aspianas mentioned - a diplomate - is not the same as the one in the battle screenshot. They just incidentally share names.)

Vasiliyi

08-07-2011, 01:13

Finally caught up! Its been a good read, and I had to go back and go back and refresh myself. Im looking forward to more.

Lysimachos

08-16-2011, 08:01

Finally caught up! Its been a good read, and I had to go back and go back and refresh myself. Im looking forward to more.

I'm glad to see you are still following. I hope the inconsistency of my posting here is not too much of a bother.

Lysimachos

08-18-2011, 15:09

Chapter 54: For the Realm

“My Master,” the eunuch carefully whispers in Sarpedon's ear, who indignantly shakes his head and looks up from his desk. “What is it now?” - “The Pharaoh has requested your presence. A little bird told me, this request was issued on behalf of your... friend...” - “I see,” mumbles Sarpedon through his finely trimmed beard.

The two hurry down the far reaching corridors of the palace. Philadelphos has been a benevolent host to Sarpedon, but it is never a good idea to let a king wait. As they reach the Pharaoh's audience chamber the eunuch dutifully stays back and the seleukid king's brother proceeds alone. Ptolemaios, marked by the signs of his age, awaits him seated behind a massive marmoreal desk. To the table's right hand side sits the Nomarch, who acknowledges the newcomer with his most scornful look.

“My dear guest,” the Pharaoh begins to speak slowly, ”I hope you are well. A proposal regarding the nature of your sojourn in these halls has been brought to my attention and I choose to hear your own thoughts on the matter.” He turns to his right and signals the Nomarch to take the floor. “Would you mind to reiterate what you told me?”

“It is my pleasure,” states the stout man, while rising from his seat. “We are at war, my king, and the enemy stands deep inside the realm. While we, the members of the court, ... appreciate the presence of your guest, we cannot forget, that the empire is in a time of need. One thing, which it needs especially, are educated noble men to lead its taxeis into battle. I could, in fact,” – he rests his gaze on Sarpedon – “use a gifted man like our guest here in my own staff. I believe, his service for the mutual cause would provide him with an excellent opportunity to show his gratitude for savoured hospitality, which already lasts several years.”

This is all you can do, amusing, but pitiful. Sarpedon imperceptibly shakes his head. “What say you,” addresses him the old king.

“My lord, as you know, I am not a military man. My value in your court lies elsewhere. I have eyes and ears in every harbour, in every city and on every trading route. My services here can be invaluable, but in the field I have no access to my contacts, while in battle I can't contribute anything more than the next man. I do not like to brag and far be it from me to presume myself more than a puny tool, but sending me away means cutting out one's own eye.”

Philadelphos looks back and forth from one rival to the other. “You are, of course, both right,” he reflects, inciting expectations in both men. “I would greatly appreciate your service as an officer,” he addresses Sarpedon and the Nomarch's corners of the mouth start pointing up. “But I do value your contributions from here.” The smile fades from the Nomarch's broad face. “I would also miss our delighting conversations.” A suppressed grunt sounds from his right. “Therefore I shall grant both your wishes to the same extent.”

The two men watch the Basileus with confusion, while he leans back graciously. “Scribe,” he calls and from the back of the chamber a dutiful servant hurries to his king's side. “Let it be known that, by order of Pharaoh Ptolemaios Philadelphos, Beloved of Amun, Chosen of Re, and so on and so on, henceforth Sarpedon of the house of Seleukos is appointed commander of the royal household guard. Royal seal, yadda, yadda,” he waves the servant away.

For a moment the Pharaoh squinches up his face. “From now on you will serve me both as an officer and a master of spies. Do I have your fealty, Sarpedon of the house of Seleukos?”

Sarpedon notices with satisfaction the deep sigh coming from the Nomarch and he takes the liberty to construe the Pharaoh's expression as an impish grin. “As always, oh gracious lord, my loyalty is all yours.” - “You are then dismissed, both of you,” the king rises from his seat, looks his two subjects in their eyes and with sudden energy and sharpness in his voice he ends the meeting: “I shan't have any more of this matter!”

Arthur, king of the Britons

08-23-2011, 17:16

Just finished reading the whole thing. Simply wonderful, keep it up. :2thumbsup:

Lysimachos

08-25-2011, 18:03

Just finished reading the whole thing. Simply wonderful, keep it up. :2thumbsup:

Thank you! New chapter coming up!

Lysimachos

08-25-2011, 18:04

Chapter 55: Passion and Pride

Euphorion diligently inspects his image in the polished silver mirror. He pauses shortly, only to proceed by carefully aligning his hair. He is a vain young man and a special occasion demands special care. Time has past since he first met Esmet, the shepherd's girl. It became habit to secretly ride out to her village. Now he would finally elope and make her his wife.

He breathes deeply before he forced himself to turn away from the mirror and rush to the door. He peeks into the corridor to the right, then to the left – and jerks back as a grim, fat face stares into his. It is the grey, old Satrapes Andromachos, a nephew of Antiochos Soter and appointed as Euphorion's guardian by Antiochos Theos.

“Excellency, what brings me the honour?” the young man stammers.

“Where do you think you are going, young man?” Andromachos hisses and lays his heavy hands on Euphorion's shoulders and pushes his young cousin forcefully against the wall. - “Wha..., what are you talking about? I wasn't going anywhere.”
“Don't what me, son, do you take me for a senile fool? You damn well know what I'm talking about!” Euphorion turns his face away, when he feels drops of the old man's spit on his skin.

“Tell me, are you out of your mind?” Andromachos, who is known for the soft hand, with which he rules the Satrapy, raises his voice in anger.
“If your father learned I'd let you do that, he'd spill my guts and do worse to you. You have the blood of the king, you are a commodity for him to give and only for him. How dare you presume to steal from your father and run off to marry yourself to a damn shepherd?”

“I love her,” Euphorion barely gets through his lips, earning only an angry grunt from the Satrap of Persis. Andromachos pulls him to the door and pushes him into the chamber. Euphorion struggles to maintain his balance, but before he can turn around, he is pushed again and narrowly avoiding a table he succeeds to support himself against the wall.

“Love,” Andromachos spits in his ear. “By the hound of hell, what do you think you know about love? You are still a boy who just found out how to use his cock. She may be your favourite plaything, but that is all she is and you will find another one. No one denies you that, but get that foolish idea of marriage out of your stupid, empty head.”

The Satrap turns his cousin around and stares in his eyes. Euphorion looks away and whispers: “I understand. I will not marry her. Just let me arrange for the wedding to be cancelled.” - “Oh, don't you worry, I already sent someone to take care of that. I must, however, make sure that you learn your lesson. You will never see her again, are we clear on that?”

After a long pause, Euphorion gives in, at least on the surface. “Yes, we are.”

“Just so we understand each other: There will be two guards at your door and they will not let you leave this chamber without my permission.”

As soon as the door closes behind the Satrap, Euphorion rushes to his chamber's window. Silently he opens the shutters and leans out. Below runs a narrow ledge along the wall. Euphorion climbs out and stands on the ledge, leaning against the wall. He takes a deep breath and starts to slowly move. Carefully avoiding to be seen, he finally arrives at his destination few rooms further. The young man quietly knocks on the shutters and after a pause again, louder this time.

Finally they open and the inhabitant discovers his visitor on the ledge. “What are you doing out there? Have you caught a fever?”

“Xenoitas, quiet! I need your help. Your father has learned about Esmet and forbids me to leave. I need to see her! Where is Miltidades?” - “He is away, running an errand for father. I am not sure, how I could help you,” Xenoitas hesitantly answers, while Euphorion climbs into the room.

“He is running an... It was him, wasn't it? Miltidades told him!” Euphorion cries out.
Xenoitas takes his cousin by the shoulders. “No, he did not. I did.” The two young men stare at each other motionlessly, until Xenoitas breaks the silence. “He is my father. I can't let him be punished for your caprices, as much as I love you.”

Euphorion breaks free. “It doesn't matter now. I have to see her,” he insists.

“Don't go,” Xenoitas implores. “There is nothing for you any more.”

Euphorion stares at his cousin, with effort processing what happens around him. He shakes his head with contempt. “What have you done?” - “What I had to do.”- “Then brothers we are no more.”

The prince climbs out again and stands on the narrow ledge. Xenoitas watches him in silence, until Euphorion sounds an outcry of anger and frustration, before painfully slowly returning into his comfortable prison cell.

Titus Marcellus Scato

08-30-2011, 16:57

Wow! What an AAR. Never seen one before in which a Crushing Defeat is suffered by the human-controlled faction. Brilliant stuff! I really wish that battle had been described in more detail.

Lysimachos

09-01-2011, 08:21

Wow! What an AAR. Never seen one before in which a Crushing Defeat is suffered by the human-controlled faction. Brilliant stuff! I really wish that battle had been described in more detail.

Thank you. The battle was auto-resolved, so I don't really deserve the credit for the defeat (although I believe I used the auto_win cheat to make sure I lose the battle). Since it didn't have any of my (blood-related) main characters in it, I thought it wasn't fitting to describe it in detail, though it had to be mentioned to show how the Palahva grow ever more bold and dangerous.

Titus Marcellus Scato

09-01-2011, 11:46

Ah, I see. I never auto-resolve land battles where an FM on either side is involved, so rarely have crushing defeats.

Lysimachos

06-08-2014, 19:13

A small reminder:

Important or recurring characters and members of the royal family as well as some characters from the latest chapters

Year: 245 BC = 67th year of the Seleukid Era = 20th year in the kingship of Antiochos Theos = 6th year in the kingship of Seleukos Kallinikos

Seleucid royal family

1. Antiochos Theos (ingame: Theodoros Syriakos) *291 BC
Function: Basileus ton Basileon; Ruler of the Arche Seleukeia
Parents: Basileus Antiochos Soter and Stratonike
Siblings: younger brother Sarpedon; Two sisters, one of whom was married to Magas Kyrenaios (and does not exist in game)
Wife: Laodike
Children: Basileus Seleukos Kallinikos; Euphorion; Kleopatra; Pamphile
Son-in-law: Timarchos Mylason Karikon
Personality: Charismatic, uncompromising leader; Known for his prowess as General, for his defiance of death and for being a notorious, but currently sober, drunkard

2. Laodike
Husband: Basileus Antiochos Theos
Father: Achaios, brother to Basileus Antiochos Soter

3. Seleukos Kallinikos (ingame: Kallinikos Syriakos) *273 BC
Function: Junior ruler of the Arche Seleukeia
Parents: Basileus Antiochos Theos and Laodike
Siblings: Younger brother Euphorion, younger sisters Kleopatra and Pamphile
Wife: Agathe
Children: Nikomachos
Personality: In younger years rather introverted, uncharismatic and insecure about his abilities, but despite regular setbacks has started to accept his responsibilities.

4. Agathe
Husband: Seleukos Kallinikos
Children: Nikomachos

5. Nikomachos *255 BC
Function: Second in line of succession after his father Seleukos Kallinikos
Parents: Seleukos Kallinikos and Agathe

6. Euphorion *267 BC
Function: Third in line of succession after his brother Seleukos Kallinikos and his nephew Nikomachos
Parents: Basileus Antiochos Theos and Laodike
Siblings: older brother Seleukos Kallinikos; younger sisters Kleopatra and Pamphile
Personality: unflagging and intelligent, passionate and spontaneous

7. Sarpedon Prodotis ("the Traitor")
Function: Former Co-Regent; Currently wanted for high treason; in exile at the court of Ptolemaios Philadelphos in Alexandreia, Aigyptos
Sons: Omanes; Athenaios (both fallen in 251 BC)
Personality: Poet, Philosopher, Gourmet of Life; Skilled Politician and Schemer; Egocentric

8. Andromachos Syriakos
Function: Satrapes of Persis
Seat: Persepolis
Father: Achaios Syriakos, brother of Basileus Antiochos Soter
Brother: Alexandros Syriakos, Satrapes of Susiane
Sons: Antiochis; Xenoitas

9. Timarchos Mylason Karikon
Function: Governor of Antiocheia on the Orontes; Elephantarches of the empire
Parents: descendants of old hellenic nobility of Mylasa in Karia
Wife: Kleopatra, eldest daughter of Antiochos Theos
Personality: Proud Hellen; Extroverted politician and bureaucrat; Athlete (Olympionikes of the olympic games in 256 BC)

10. Alexandros Syriakos
Function: Satrapes of Susiane
Seat: Susa
Father: Achaios Syriakos, brother of Basileus Antiochos Soter
Brother: Andromachos Syriakos, Satrapes of Persis
Son: Miltidades

Seleucid officers, politicians, noblemen

11. Gorgias Dahaikos (killed in 246 BC)
Right-hand man of Seleukos Kallinikos.

12.-13. Athenaios & Kratippos
Hetairoi.

Foreigners

14. Ptolemaios Philadelphos
Pharaoh of Egypt and head of the ptolemaic house; Nemesis of the seleucid kings and host to Sarpedon Prodotis.

15. Artabarzan
Dahae warlord.

16. Zeionises
Saka warlord.

Chapter 56: Down Neilos

Sharp steel cuts the air with a hiss. “Maaaaarch!” A shudder goes through the ranks before they set themselves in motion, the sound of thousands of nailed soles echoing like thunder, accompanied by the nervous trumpeting of Antiochos' fearsome grey asians.

“What do you say now, Kratippos, that we march again?” - “Basileus, I'm looking forward to do what I do best, killing the foes of my king,” answers the trusted Hetairos.
A hoarse laugh sounds from the king's mouth. “I see my Kratippos has found his spirits again!” With a shout he drives his steed forward, galloping ahead, but then he turns around, with a broad smile on his face awaiting his Hetairoi catching up. “To the north,” he shouts, “to the sea, to Alexandreia!”

The host of Antiochos Theos has grown again: Machimoi, Nubaioi and Aithiopioi have joined ranks with the seleukid king. Some of them are mere mercenaries, but others fight for the prospect of advancement. The old nobility of Kemet knows that they never will be more than lowly servants to Ptolemaios, but they sense the smell of opportunity surrounding the charismatic warrior-king and those of them who dare now ride with him.

Laden with all supplies it can carry, the army quickly advances along the Neilos. At Hermoupolis, just past half way between Thebes and Memphis, the army crosses over to the western bank. The king marches past Memphis, he does not deign to give it a second look. His designs lie elsewhere - in Alexandreia – and he is not a fool in whom the ease of the march north could induce any illusion about the power that Philadelphos still wields and whether he himself has any strength to waste.

The enemy does not give battle, but as certain as day follows night and night follows day is he gathering, just out of sight. Not far from the great Metropolis lies a small Polis, chosen by the king for its walls. Here he puts up his banner and sets himself up in the largest manor. Here the ptolemaic armies make their first tentative approaches since the Diospolis was left behind. Swept away like vermin by the Neilos' great flood are the fools who challenge the man, determined to reforge the image of the world in war's hot blazing flames.

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Antiochos gathers the Hetairoi in his humble hall. “You can almost smell the sea, can you not?” he muses with a smirk. “But now, retire and rest well, for in the morrow we will ride and have a look at Alexandreia.”

Lysimachos

06-10-2014, 16:03

Chapter 57: Zeionises

“Sound the retreat,” Seleukos Kallinikos grunts through his teeth. “Sound the retreat,” his order is relayed and the horns sound over the battlefield. Another defeat – and what a kind. Granted, it may have been doomed from the start. The derisive words of the Saka emissary still are burned into Seleukos' memory. “My lord Zeionises has no regard for your begging,” he had said. “My lord Zeionises does not care whether you now fall on your swords or be killed by his warriors. My lord Zeionises will have his herds graze on your land, whether you fight him or not. You are weak and there just is nothing you can do about that.” How aggrieving to know he might be right.

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Dayuan, Sogdiane, Margiane, Astauene, Hyrkania and sooner or later Aria, Parthyaia: The list of provinces fallen to one kind of nomads or the other steadily grows. For now the Basileus takes refuge in Aria. He is brooding over maps that give no answers, only headaches.

The drapes at his tent's entrance rustle as they give way to a guard entering. “Basileus, your wife is here.”

Seleukos is caught unprepared. “My wife – here?” He takes a moment to gather himself. “Send her in and leave us.”

Agathe, his wife of no longer few years, enters, looking older than when last they met, but who could be surprised? It has been years. “My lord husband,” she greets him and goes down on one knee.

“Rise, rise, my love” her king and husband implores. “What brings you here, to this forsaken piece of land?” - “I have come to comfort you in these dire times. On my journey hereto I visited nobles and cities, reminding them of their duty and my journey back I will do so again.”

Agathe gently pets the king's beard. “I also thought you might want to know about your son. He is a truly dauntless adventurer, that little one. Seleukos Nikomachos will make a great warrior one day.” - “So he will,” Kallinikos muses.

“You worry too much, my lord husband. Take this one day to think about what is good in life and you can start worrying all over again tomorrow.”

Lysimachos

06-12-2014, 18:40

Chapter 58: Terrors of the Night

“It is unwise to remain out here,” insists the Weasel and his master concedes: “Perhaps you are right. Their hubris made the fools Pasikrates and Lampon into dead fools. I would not want pride make me join them.”

The Nomarch reaches out to his right hand man. “You ride to the city and organize carriages and an escort to fetch my possessions. In the morning I will take the remaining guards and meet up with Hermon, discuss strategy.”

He sighs. “It saddens me to leave the estate empty, but you have the right of it, it would be folly to remain with the enemy so close by.”

“As you command, my lord. I will need to leave soon, if I want to reach Alexandreia before nightfall.” - “Do so. I leave the details to you, you have my trust, use your best discretion.”

The master of the house retires, but sleep does not come easily and in the middle of the night he wakes with a start, finding himself exhausted from a disturbing dream in his thoroughly sweat-soaked bed. He rolls from his sleeping place, groaning.

Semi-somnolently he stumbles through the dark, to the water bowl to alleviate the distress. He moistens his heated face and sighs, when he catches an unfamiliar sound. Water still dropping from his beard, he exits into the corridor.

Wandering through the dark halls, he spots a shadow passing by. “You there, slave, what's the disturbance?” A torch's light falls on a strange face.

“Who are you?” demands the Nomarch. A fighter's instinct prompts him to turn around, just in time to see a blade flash in the dark. His left catches the attackers forearm and his right rushes forward to punch the smaller man's face – the massive golden rings crushing bone on impact. With an angry roar he pushes forward and drives the blade in the stunned attacker's own belly.

Pain surges through him when a second blade enters his back. He throws himself backwards and the assassin lets out a moan when he is squashed between the heavy man and the stone wall.

The Nomarch stumbles, turns around. The assassin has regained his balance and thrusts his dagger forward. The blow is deflected, but the blade bites deep into the Nomarch's thigh. The big man grunts of pain while his hands close like a vice around the assassins neck. His injured leg gives in under his weight and both men sink to the ground conjoined in mortal struggle. Blood splatters the wall as the stranger's skull crashes against it. Blind rage strengthens the nobleman's arms and again and again he hurls the other's head into the stone, again and again until his strength fades and he sinks to the floor, his opponent's life long gone from this world.

Lysimachos

06-16-2014, 16:27

Chapter 59: To cast a Noose

“I must admit, I am guilty of a crass underestimation. I have never seen the likes of this.” The city of Alexandreia stretches along the coast of the mediterranean sea, across the island of Pharos. Its southern side is protected by another body of water, the lake Mareotis. The western and eastern sides of the city are open to the land, but massive fortifications surround it.

“If this city can be taken without a fleet, it must be done with a wide grasp. I need to control the river and the hinterland, then perhaps I will be able to control the city. So, let us ride south again and cast a noose around Ptolemaios' neck,” Antiochos shouts angrily.

He returns to his base and breaks camp, setting out for Memphis with his army. Memphis lies not far south of the Delta, where the Neilos still runs in one stream. It was the capital of Kemet for many native dynasties and still remains to be the second largest city in Aigyptos.

The Basileus' enemies take his turn for weakness and fiercely pursue him. Their numbers are overwhelming, but they cannot succeed.

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On the way along the densely populated Delta Antiochos sends out his men to makedonian Kleroi, enlisting every willing man into his Phalanx. With newly enlarged numbers he meets the defenders of Memphis in the field.

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Before the end of the year, the city is taken and the king can start to knot his noose.

Lysimachos

07-02-2014, 17:27

Chapter 60: Blessings of Family

The soldier winces, as lightning bathes the metropolis in white light and a roaring clap of thunder erupts in the sky right above him. It is deep into the night, but Seleukeia does not sleep. Her people wake in anguish for the tempest to move on, praying to mighty Zeus to spare their lives and homes.
So does the lonely soldier. As of now he still is protected from the pouring rain by the overreaching ceiling, but he knows, soon he will receive the message he has to carry to his lord and king, with haste and without rest. Shivers run down his spine and he wraps himself even tighter into his coat.
He feels a gentle touch on his shoulder and when he turns he looks into his steed's dark, anxious eyes.
“Here, here,” he mumbles and gently strokes the horse's forehead. Filled with worries he glances into the turmoil in the night sky, when suddenly the ground starts shaking under his feet. He instinctively braces himself and wraps his arms around the mount's neck, but the tremor subsides as suddenly as it came and – like it was swept away by Zeus' own hands – the storm is cast into the four winds. The thick layer of clouds rips apart and opens up the view unto the night sky, where the moon benignly offers his light, so unlike the brutal terror of the previous lightning storm.
The soldier respires in relief and he relishes the silence after the storm. Somewhere in the distance he believes to hear a baby cry.

The doors open abruptly and an older man in priest's attire steps out. The torch in his hand illuminates a face, red of excitement. The soldier straightens himself and turns around towards the priest.

“You are the messenger, I presume?” asks the man in a hoarse voice. - “Yes, I am,” replies the soldier and tightens his grip around the reins.

“Good. Go and tell the king he has a second son. Both child and mother are alive and healthy. And tell him this: The gods watch the boy with favour and his steps will make the earth tremble.”

* * *

“It must be the fever,” murmurs Seleukos Kallinikos. Rest can not be allowed and neither can weakness. He is struggling to remain straight in his saddle, for he cannot allow his lack of strength be seen, not now, not here.

Is it really a feverish dream, the armed host crawling down into the valley from the south? The sick junior king convinces himself that the armed men are no creation of his impaired mind and he calls out: “Who rides there? What is your allegiance?”

A small group of noblemen rides ahead of the newcomers and their leader, who must have recognized his insignia, addresses the king: “My divine Basileus, I am here to serve you,” before approaching further.

“Basileus,” he continues, “I present to you an army, raised by the nobles of Persis and Media following the call of the Queen, your wife. I do not begrudge that you do not recognize my person, for we were mere children when last we met. My king, it is me, Euphorion, your little brother.”

Cadwalader

08-13-2014, 13:36

Rarely do you see someone pick up an AAR years after the last update. I enjoyed this and I hope to see more from you in EB or EBII!

Lysimachos

09-29-2014, 18:54

Rarely do you see someone pick up an AAR years after the last update. I enjoyed this and I hope to see more from you in EB or EBII!

Thanks :)

Chapter 61: Changing of the Gods

The Nomarch is about to doze off, when clamour pulls him back into consciousness. The Weasel storms into his chamber and goes down on his knees.

“What is the meaning of this? Why are you...?” The stout man pauses, as he understands.

“Forgive me... ,” the Weasel starts, but his master cuts him off, already setting himself in motion in limping, long-reaching steps to get dressed again. The wound still hurts as if with every step the blade was thrust anew, but there are higher stakes than the triviality of pain.

“You go and take the snake, but don't let someone think I broke my hospitality. And I... I go and take my throne.” The light of flickering torches reflects from his eyes and the shadows on his stern face seem like a demon's grimace on the new Pharaoh's face.

* * *

Sarpedon stands at a window towards the barely lit atrium. He is not looking at anything in particular and his thoughts are elsewhere, far away. Behind him, someone enters the room and the rustling of clothes reaches his ears, but not further.

“The Pharaoh is dead,” the Eunuch informs him. “Delivering this message is my last service to you. I was yours only as long as he was still alive.”

Sarpedon turns around silently, leaning back against the wall.

“Did you think he would never die,” asks the Eunuch and Sarpedon notices a hint of annoyed insolence in the voice. An obedient creature as long as his master lived and now he can show his true face.

“No. But I thought I had more time,” Sarpedon admits. “He was getting better. As healthy as I have ever known him.” Fear raises inside him, as from one moment to the other, he has lost the shield he hid behind for these last years. But he also notices honest grief about Philadelphos' death, the loss of a friend and an intellectual equal. Who will grieve for me, the traitor, the snake? Bitter is the taste on his tongue.

“Leave me,” he croaks hoarsely. “Leave me and swear fealty to your new master or they will have your head too, for your service to me.”

The Eunuch only nods and leaves with quick steps. Sarpedon feels how the palace around him comes to life again. When a king dies, there is no hour too late, no night too dark.

I brought it on myself, he thinks, I will not try to run and shame myself, but take it as a man. He is calmer now and he does not fear, when the Weasel comes through the door.

Lysimachos

09-30-2014, 22:20

Chapter 62: Revelations

The king has carefully woven his noose. He has taken control of the traffic on the Neilos and extended his grasp over the Delta. Yet the enemy is still strong in arms. News of the death of Ptolemaios Philadelphos reached Memphis and it seems that his successor, Ptolemaios Leon – the Lion – has taken upon himself to establish a martial reputation befitting his chosen epithet and shows a new resolve to turn the conflict.

Antiochos finds the course of time not to be in his favour, so he leads his army into the field again. Again he follows the west bank where he displaces another ptolemaic force.

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He pushes forward, until he faces the threat of encirclement: Two armies oppose the seleucid force, both stronger in numbers. One is positioned in the north, further down river, the other somewhere in the west, waiting in the fringes of the great desert.

“Fortify the camp, I have to learn more about their strength and movements before we can proceed. I would not blindly run into a trap,” the king announces and instructs his Hetairoi: “I will ride myself. Athenaios, you are my most experienced commander, I leave you in charge of the camp, Kratippos, assemble an escort and let horses and provisions be prepared. And inquire among the Machimoi, if there is one with knowledge of these parts.”

With only a dozen men at his side the king ventures out into the vast barren land. They are making good progress, when suddenly a wall of dust and sand sweeps over the land from the west.

Antiochos grabs the guide's tunic. “What good are you to me, if you don't even know a sandstorm coming?” he angrily shouts over the howling wind. He curses loudly and the men and their horses take cover behind an elevation, to weather this storm.

It is impossible to tell how much time has passed when the sky finally clears up again. The king and his men dig themselves out of the accrued sand. Theos looks around, but his tally comes short. “Where is that fool of a guide?”

“In any case, we have to get moving.” The Basileus ton Basileion gazes at the sun. If only he knew how much time had past, he would have an easier time to mark the directions and if only he was used to this latitude, so he might read the hight of the sun. An educated guess it is then, he decides and the small group, the horses by the reins, follows.

The desert does not seem to take an end. “In honesty, I could not tell if we were walking in circles, my friend Kratippos. I have not felt like such a fool in a very long time.”

“And you do rightly so,” sounds an unfamiliar voice. The king and his escort whirl around, unsheathing their swords in unison. There sits an old man in the sand, his wrinkled head hairless as an overturned bowl, his scrawny body covered only by simple linen.

“How dare you speak in this manner, you geezer,” scolds him one of the Hetairoi, presenting his Kopis' naked blade. “You address the divine Basileus Antiochos Theos of the house of Seleukos.” He seems about to cut the man in half, but his master interrupts.

“Sheath it.” The king examines the old man with curiosity, yet in silence. It is the common man who possesses the insolence to speak unquestioned.

“So, you are a great king, are you? You command the largest empire under the sun and a thousand of princes are sworn to you. And here you are with all your power. Lost, yet I can show you to safety. Don't you find it ironic, that now you depend on a doter, who possesses nothing more than the cloth and skin slung around his rackety bones. And despite all your armies and soldiers and treasures and slaves, there is nothing you can do about it, because, if now I die, so will you. Doesn't that, in fact, make me the most powerful man in the world?”

In a grand gesture the Machimos spreads his arms to the sky. Antiochos blinks to dispel the weird impression that the old man has grown considerably during his speech.

“Pray tell me, what exactly makes you so great? What have you ever done other than bringing misery? For seven years now you are dragging your soldiers – or what is left of them – through this land, away from their homes and families. And what for? To take revenge, because your little brother didn't play nice with you? Does it make you happy to wade through seas of blood? Will you finally be content, when there is no one left to kill or let be killed?”

Antiochos ignores the questions. “You claim you can show us to safety. Will you do that then?”

“Of course I will. I am not like you, I don't need death around me to exist.”

“Then, for now, I shall suffer your insolence. Lead the way, old man.”

It is a surprisingly short while before the Machimos stops. “Behind this ridge the green river valley will open itself before you.”

“I thank you for your service. Are you not afraid, now that I do not depend on you, I might punish your insolence?”

“You could, but you won't.” A repulsive toothless smile accompanies the answer. “Now. You did not answer the most important of my questions. What is it that you want to achieve? You are not here to conquer. How could you hope to hold Alexandreia for long, with what is left of your army? Are you really willing to sacrifice those loyal men to nothing but your own revenge?”

Antiochos mounts his horse. “Mayhap there is some sense in that. I will consider your words.”

“Syrian!” the bald man calls after him and Antiochos turns around one more time, a grim smile playing around his dry lips. “You talk to me?”

The Machimos slowly walks up to him and whispers: “It is a good thing you are willing to consider disclaiming your revenge and rest your weapons, but I believe you deserve to know: He is already dead. Not long ago your brother has gone on his last journey.”

Antiochos shakes his head in disbelief. “You are living deep in the desert. How would you be aware of such a thing?”

The corners of the Egyptian's mouth raise to form a toothless grin. “You feel it is true, don't you?”
Then he turns away, leaving behind a startled king. “Who are you?” sounds Antiochos' unanswered call over the desert's sands.

The king returns to the camp and takes his place at the head of the army. For the second time it marches toward Alexandreia. When in the distance a dark spot becomes perceptible, Antiochos pauses. He carefully examines the vague shape, then turns his horse away, to the west.

Lysimachos

06-26-2015, 14:48

Chapter 63: Brothers

The royal brothers Seleukos Kallinikos, recovered from his illness, and Euphorion have joined their forces. Aside from his army the prince has brought more dire news: Hekatompylos has fallen to the Parnoi and large parts of Parthyaia are now under their control. The junior king and his host are in danger of being cut off from the centre of the kingdom and so with a heavy heart he has decided to march west, leaving the outer territories behind.

For now the journey is uneventful, so the brothers use the time riding together to make up for the years separated.

Not too long ago he himself had felt as broken as a man could be. And now here he is, giving advice about how life works. Kallinikos sighs.

“Look, brother. When you grew up, did you lack for anything? Was there anything not available at your command? Didn't you wear the finest silks and the purest gold? Didn't you have the seat of honour when you went to watched the most enlightening plays at the theatre? Didn't you ride the fastest horses and spend your days hunting for pleasure? And have you ever spend so much as a thought about it,” the king inquires, looking back to his younger brother, who watches him in silence.

“Those things come at a price. Your ancestry is not only a privilege, but also a duty. Oh, I struggled, I struggled hard, before I could accept that. I broke, but now I am whole again. Not even our lord father can just do as he pleases. Neither he nor I chose the path of our lives and what comes with it. I had not even met Agathe before we were married. We respect each other and sure, with time a certain affection grew and now she is the mother of my sons. I did not pick her, I was not... bewitched by the way she looked or moved, but I would not be willing to exchange what we have now for all the fabulous tales of love.”

He turns around again and shakes his head. “Love is a fleeting and deceiving thing. You can't build anything on it,” the Basileus philosophizes. “Everyone's life is duty, though different for any of them. Don't fight it and you'll save yourself a lot of pain. Believe me, I know what I'm talking about. No point resisting destiny, not for a fairy tale of love, anyhow. Do as you are told, marry whoever our lord father tells you, or, if he'll still be abroad or – may the gods forbid – with our ancestors, whoever I tell you to. I'm your brother, Euphorion, but also your king and if I can learn to act like a king, you can learn to act like one's son.”

His younger brother clears his throat. “Perhaps they should call you Seleukos the wise.” That elicits a dry laugh from the king. “Rather not. But let me tell you one more thing, in all honesty. You are the lucky one that you never have been told that you will have to be king yourself one day. Oh, don't look at me that way! I have two sons and Nikomachos soon will be old enough to get married and have sons himself. What are the odds of all of us dying before you? Really, what can be the odds of that?”

Lysimachos

06-29-2016, 18:24

Chapter 64: Pentapolis

Antiochos too marches west to save the rest of his army. Yonder lies the Kyrenaika, controlled by a federation of five cities, chief among them Kyrene. The Kyrenaika had belonged to the ptolemaic kingdom, until it seceded under Magas, elder half-brother of Ptolemaios Philadelphos and brother-in-law of Antiochos Theos. It became an ally to the seleucid kings and remained so after the return to its former republican ways, even naming Antiochos its Hegemon. Among his allies he is confident to find refuge and the opportunity to ship back to Syria.

But it could already be too late. The new Pharaoh Ptolemaios Leon has a furious temper and he seems determined to destroy his enemy at whatever the cost. The progress is slow and again and again the enemy clashes against the seleucid lines or their makeshift fortifications.

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Despite all efforts the king's army has molten away. Yet there is hope left. Marmarike lies behind the pitiful shadow of an army, the fruitful coast of the Kyrenaika ahead. It is not long before kyrenaian envoys welcome the king.

Lysimachos

06-29-2016, 19:20

Chapter 65: Hegemon

The Kyrenaika is a refuge, but not a safe haven. The lion from Alexandreia has halted the hunt to lick his wounds in the east, but a different predator lurks in the west.

Long since the Karchedoi have had an eye on the Pentapolis across the bay. It is an affront to them that fledgling ports so close to their home don't pay homage to Karchedon. The Hellenes have prevailed until now, but they are hard pressed.

They have chosen Antiochos Theos as their Hegemon and protector and although he brought no army, the mere force of his name and reputation in war commands fear in his enemies. Hermogenes, appointed as Polemarch of the Pentapolis, is still young and inexperienced as a battle commander. Gladly he pleads the Basileus ton Basileon to ride by his side and gladly he is given help.

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The kyrenaian hinterlands are rough terrain, forested with thick brushwood. It is easy to be taken unawares, even with a sense for danger.

The midday heat of Africa dulls the senses and the mind takes a moment to catch up with was happens. A few heart beats pass after the horns bellow and javelins cutting through the air whistle. Warcries sound and the carthaginian elite descends upon the marching host, heavy lancers crash into the vanguard. It is clear, the prior fights were nothing but the prelude, the real trial comes now.

The Hoplitai had no time to form the phalanx, many have dropped their lance and fight with the Xiphos instead and struggle to hold out. Antiochos gathers his Hetairoi who force their horses through to the front. His silver helmet gleaming in the sun is a beacon that gives strength to those around him. First he repels the lancers and then, as always, it draws him to wherever the fighting is fiercest. The Hetairoi's example leads the Kyrenaioi to rally themselves and drive back the ambushers. In a fierce, but short battle, they secure victory over the flower of Karchedon.

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It is hot under the heavy helmet, Antiochos Theos breathes with difficulty under it and removes the confining gear. “Kratippos, it seems after all I'm not a young man any more. Give me a hand to get off my horse, will you. I … I feel a bit dizzy.” - “Of course, Basileus!”

A leather-faced veteran himself, the Hetairos quickly dismounts and rushes to his master's side. Kratippos grabs the king's left arm to support him.

Theos is leaning over and is about to lift his right leg over the horse's body, when he notices a pain in his side. Looking down himself, his gaze wanders over his blood soaked leg-wear. He carefully lifts his right hand toward his face, with astonishment examining the red liquid, which is spread all over him. Slowly Antiochos slides down to the left, into Kratippos' waiting arms.

The two men's eyes meet and they both know. The Basileus stretches himself with effort towards his Hetairos. He bares his teeth in defiance, then he laughs, coughs. No more regrets, no anger written in his face, just a peaceful smile. Then he lets go; he closes his eyes and the tension leaves the body in Kratippos' firm hold.

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Lysimachos

06-29-2016, 20:18

Here's the deal:

I've always said I wanted to finish the story and I still kinda do, but realistically speaking, I'll probably die of old age before that happens.

So, in case anyone actually still wants to know how it ends - and for myself to know it has been told - at some point in the next weeks, months or years I'll sit down with my notes, turn them into something somewhat readable and post them here in a spoiler, so anyone who wants can chose to find out.

Also: The pdf I was talking about a year or so ago.

18631

Lysimachos

07-02-2016, 10:20

As advertised, part 1 of the untold tales. I repeat, this doesn't mean I won't write proper chapters anymore, so if you want to wait for that, feel free not to click the spoiler button. But be advised that the probability of me actually finishing the whole thing is microscopic.

The year 240 BC, 72nd year of the Seleucid Era (SE), 25th year of Antiochos Theos' rule (AII), 11th year of Seleukos Kallinikos' rule (SII)

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As told in chapter 63, Antiochos Theos reaches allied Kyrene, participates in several successful engagements with the Karchedoi, before he succumbs to a mortal wound suffered in the battle of Semeros, undefeated in the field.

Seleukos Kallinikos reaches Seleukeia, where he learns of his father's death. He is now the sole ruler of the Arche Seleukeia.

239 BC = 73 SE = 12 SII

Seleukos' firstborn son Nikomachos comes of age.

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Antiochos Theos' body and possessions have been brought back from Kyrene. Among them are his war journals with detailed descriptions of egyptian geography and people, ptolemaic war tactics as well as sketches of fortifications he encountered on his long campaign.

Seleukos Kallinikos studies his father's journals on the way to Rhodos. Neutral Rhodos is where he and Ptolemaios Leon (PIII) have agreed to meet for negotiations, because both their kingdoms have suffered badly.

Arriving on Rhodos, Seleukos is awed by the rhodian fleet, laying at anchor there. Not only does the small island's fleet greatly outnumber that of the mighty Arche, but also are his ships dwarved by the rhodian poliremes.

Seleukos intends to focus his reign on combatting the invaders from the east, but he realizes that the Arche will need a strong fleet of its own to control its western possessions.

As a result of the negotiations, the Nheilos War ends after ten years with the status quo. Seleukos' son Nikomachos and Ptolemaios' niece Adeia are betrothed to seal the peace.

With a large retinue, including her younger brother, Adeia comes to Antiocheia, where she is married to the Kleronomos Basileois.

Later in the year, the Pahlavans occupy the province Aria. Parthyaia becomes the core of their kingdom and they start calling themselves Parthians.

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238 BC = 74 SE = 13 SII

Euphorion, the king's brother, suffers a defeat at the hand of the Parthians.

Seleukos Kallinikos announces his decision to start a campaign against the Parthians in the following spring.

In the west, the Kingdom of Pergamon violates the borders of Phrygia. Nikomachos, the Kleronomos Basileois, sails west, leaving his young wife behind in Antiocheia.

Nikomachos represents the Arche in negotiations with several greek states in the region and contributes to a general improvement of relations.

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237 BC = 75 SE = 14 SII

Seleukos Kallinikos leaves Mesopotamia in direction of Media.

Nikomachos arrives in Lydia, where he defeats a pergamene army. He proves his mettle leading from the front and inspires his troops by fearlessness in the face of danger.

Attacking Pergamon directly would anger Makedonia, who maintain close relations with the city, so instead Nikomachos lays siege to Halikarnassos, an ally of Pergamon.

236 BC = 76 SE = 15 SII

Halikarnassos falls. Nikomachos hurries north, because an army of Pergamenoi threatens Ipsos. He defeats the army later in the year.

Seleukos Kallinikos besieges Apameia in the province of Khoarene, without success.

Andromachos, Satrapes Persikos and nephew of Antiochos Soter, dies of old age in Persepolis.

235 BC = 77 SE = 16 SII

Nikomachos leads several battles against the Pergamenoi.

234 BC = 78 SE = 17 SII

Nikomachos continues the war against Pergamon.

Seleukos Kallinikos sets up a hibernation camp in Khoarene.

233 BC = 79 SE = 18 SII

Seleukos Kallinikos returns to Media.

The Parthians take Prophtasia in the province Drangiane and lay siege to Susa.

Adeia gives birth to a son and names him Ptolemaios.

232 BC = 80 SE = 19 SII

Seleukos Kallinikos repells the Parthians from Elymais.

Adeia gives birth to a daughter named Epiktesis.

The Parthians take Karmana in the province Karmania.

231 BC = 81 SE = 20 SII

Seleukos Kallinikos defeats a parthian army in Mesopotamia.

230 BC = 82 SE = 21 SII

Euphorion defeats a parthian army at Gabai in the province Gabiene.

Seleukos Kallinikos renews his campaign.

Nikomachos continues his defensive war against Pergamon.

229 BC = 83 SE = 22 SII

Nikomachos invades Mysia, but has to retreat after falling seriously ill.

Seleukos Kallinikos again lays siege to Apameia.

228 BC = 84 SE = 23 SII

Seleukos' second son, Kleombrotos, comes of age. He is married to Harmonia, a daughter of the Arkah of Hayasdan. In the summer he participates in the olymic games and later travels east to join his father's army.

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Nikomachos sends a new ambassador to Pella. He urges King Perseus to use his influence on Pergamon. An armistice is agreed upon.

At the end of the year, pontic troops are moving into Galatia. Nikomachos drives off the intruders.

Ptolemaios Leon (PIII) dies. He is succeeded by his brother, who takes the name Ptolemaios Eusebes (the pious, PIV).

227 BC = 85 SE = 24 SII

Seleukos Kallinikos seeks battle with the Parthians. His cavalry is crushed by the enemy's cataphracts and he dies fighting, under the eyes of his younger son.

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When the remaining commanders are at odds with each other, Kleombrotos takes command of the army and in a cat-and-mouse game with the Parthians brings it to safety in friendly territory.

Nikomachos is proclaimed Basileus ton Basileon and takes the name Seleukos Aphobos (the fearless, SIII).

johnalexadiw

07-02-2016, 11:19

Hi Lysimachos, a little bit sentimental new member over here, thank you for your effort and dedication to continue wrote this aar since 2008, such a long time. Do what you must to do men in RL, i hope one day see you posting aar again, on behalf of many your readers since your first posted, i wanna say thank you for your fantastic work!

Sent from my Smartfren Andromax AD688G using Tapatalk

johnalexadiw

07-02-2016, 11:25