View Full Version : Anabasis Pyrrhou - An Epeirote AAR
On the Anabasis Pyrrhou
An Epeiros AAR
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Landscapes/Epirus2.jpg
Book I - Pyrrhos
Chapter I - On Pella and Demetrias (https://forums.totalwar.org/vb/showpost.php?p=2080517&postcount=1)
Chapter II - A Thracian Thermopylae? (https://forums.totalwar.org/vb/showpost.php?p=2081020&postcount=8)
Chapter III - A Gateway to the East (https://forums.totalwar.org/vb/showpost.php?p=2081305&postcount=13)
Chapter IV - Of the Athenians (https://forums.totalwar.org/vb/showpost.php?p=2084545&postcount=21)
Chapter V - Over the Sea? (https://forums.totalwar.org/vb/showpost.php?p=2086160&postcount=28)
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Book II - Ptolemaios
Chapter I - Kimmerika (https://forums.totalwar.org/vb/showpost.php?p=2086980&postcount=35)
Chapter II - Sikilia (https://forums.totalwar.org/vb/showpost.php?p=2087189&postcount=44)
Chapter III - On the Karkhedoi (https://forums.totalwar.org/vb/showpost.php?p=2089783&postcount=53)
Chapter IV - Megale Hellas (https://forums.totalwar.org/vb/showpost.php?p=2090945&postcount=58)
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Book I - ΠΥΡΡΟΣ
"What does it feel like?"
"What do you mean?"
"War. How is it like?"
"War is nothing of what you read of in books. There is no glory in ending another man's life. What counts is the idea for what you fight for."
Chapter I - Of Pella and Demetrias
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In the 504th year after the first Olympiad, Pyrrhos, the King of Epiros, had laid siege to the city of Pella. With Pyrrhos came over 5,000 Galatikoi mercenaries, feared since the sacking of the Delphinion. Also came 5000 phalangites from Illyria and 2500 foot-companions from Epiros proper. A special contigement was made out of 360 elephants from India, a gift from the King of Syria.
The battle started on a clear spring morning, as the soft leaves were flattened by the huge grey feet of the enormous elephants. As the sun rose to the sky, the elephants had crushed the pallisade that was erected in Alkyoneus' haste to defend the capital of the Makedones. Directly afterwards, the blonde Galatikoi rushed in, their swords glistening in the morning sun. Encountering very little resistance in the outer quarters of the city, they quickly secured what was left of the gates and the Elephantes were sent in.
The grey beasts towered over what little men remained, and those who did threw off their arms and ran. Those who could not hide fast enough were thrown against buildings or crushed by the grey feet of the elephants.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Pella%20-%20272%20BC/RomeTW2008-12-1017-55-26-29bmp.jpg
Alkyoneus too met his doom there. He was caught by one of the ivory tusks which pierced straight through his linothorax.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Pella%20-%20272%20BC/RomeTW2008-12-1017-56-26-42bmp.jpg
With the death of the King's son, the garrison quickly surrendered, and although Pyrrhos had now annexed the former capital of the Makedones, Pella was never truly a battle. It was a mere show of defense, which cost the life of Alkyoneus, son of Antigonos, and many of his men.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Pella%20-%20272%20BC/RomeTW2008-12-1017-59-07-18bmp.jpg
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Pella%20-%20272%20BC/RomeTW2008-12-1017-59-44-13bmp.jpg.
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Pyrrhos spent little time enjoying his victory, as the Makedones could still launch a counterattack from Thessalia. Some have argued that Pyrrhos' haste was due to the fact that his mother was a Thessalian, and that he still felt some passion for the region and their fine horses, but it has been most widely accepted that he wished to remove any possible threat.
Quickly pacifying the region, he set south before summer arrived, taking with him all of his soldiers, save a small contingent of javelineers, armed with knives to keep the peace.
Even before autumn arrived, they had met Pyrrhos' son Helenos less than 30 miles from Demetrias, who had taken with him a number of no smaller than 6820 Illyrians, of which counted 2,000 horsemen and 4820 spear-armed infantry, which counted to a total of 22,290 men, not counting the bodyguard of Pyrrhos and Helenos.
As they had halted for that day, they laid siege to Demetrias on the next, blocking all trade to and from the city. They were forced to wait for another two weeks, however, for the 1,600 hoplites from Ambrakia, clad in the traditional Hellenic fashion.
Two days after the hoplites and their consorts arrived, they began the attack.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Demetrias%20-%20272%20BC/RomeTW2008-12-1018-01-52-98bmp.jpg
Pyrrhos aligned his elephants in front, followed by the Illyrian spearmen, after which came the Galatikoi. The line was ended by the phalangitai and the Illyrian cavalry and the personal bodyguard of Pyrrhos himself.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Demetrias%20-%20272%20BC/RomeTW2008-12-1018-03-31-21bmp.jpg
As soon as the walls were battered down, the Illyrians rushed in, securing the outer part of the city. They were quickly followed by the blond-haired Galatians and their shortswords. It was at that moment that the first Makedonian retaliation came, as the Agrianian axe-bearers and the phalangites clashed with the Illyrians. Knowing that the Agrianians were fearsome warriors, Pyrrhos sent in the hoplites to hold the situation until the Elephantes could arrive. As the elephants took down the walls behind the phalangites, they were able to turn the tide of the battle.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Demetrias%20-%20272%20BC/RomeTW2008-12-1018-07-07-31bmp.jpg
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Demetrias%20-%20272%20BC/RomeTW2008-12-1018-07-23-43bmp.jpg
Within mere seconds, they had cut a bloody swathe through the Agrianians and Makedonians, throwing them into walls and crushing them, causing a chain rout which proved disastrous for the garrison of the city.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Demetrias%20-%20272%20BC/RomeTW2008-12-1018-07-38-15bmp.jpg
As the battle in the outer quarters turned in the Epirote favour, the Galatians had been pinned down in the streets by Kalos, second son of Antigonos Argeades.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Demetrias%20-%20272%20BC/RomeTW2008-12-1018-08-19-50bmp.jpg
As Kalos himself died in the streets, panic began to grow in the Makedonian hearts. Most of them threw down their weapons and were either cut down by the Galatians or crushed by the Elephantes.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Demetrias%20-%20272%20BC/RomeTW2008-12-1018-09-43-64bmp.jpg
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Demetrias%20-%20272%20BC/RomeTW2008-12-1018-10-39-16bmp.jpg
The Galatians and Illyrians had now proceeded into the heart of the city, causing chaos and bloodshed where they went, until the streets overflowed with blood. It were the Elephantes, though, who came to the center of the city first, encountering the elite Thessalian cavalry. Nimble yet strong, they cut down more than 30 Elephantes before they were eventually defeated.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Demetrias%20-%20272%20BC/RomeTW2008-12-1018-11-33-51bmp.jpg
Demetrias is what Pella should have been, as it was at Demetrias that the Argeades were thrown down, not at Pella. In the hearts of the Thessalians, Demetrias would never be forgotten, as in total more than 20,000 men died.
''Run, friend, run, tis Pyrrhos on the Thessalian plain
With bloodshed awide ended Antigonos' reign"
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Demetrias%20-%20272%20BC/RomeTW2008-12-1018-12-43-83bmp.jpg
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Demetrias%20-%20272%20BC/RomeTW2008-12-1018-13-12-38bmp.jpg
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Demetrias%20-%20272%20BC/RomeTW2008-12-1018-13-32-79bmp.jpg
Even though the poem speaks bad of Pyrrhos, he treated the Demetrian citizens with respect, paying for the damage done by the Galatians personally.
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Next: Chapter II - A Thracian Thermopylae?
Olaf Blackeyes
12-10-2008, 23:57
Not bad Hax, not bad at all.
johnhughthom
12-11-2008, 01:09
Not bad Hax, not bad at all.
Understatement alert.
Excellent start Hax, I had toyed with the idea of an Epirote AAR before going with my Roman one so it's nice to see this. I'm expecting great things.
Aemilius Paulus
12-11-2008, 01:30
Understatement alert.
Amen! :laugh4:
Nice to see an Epeiros AAR. I don't remember ever finding an Epeirote AAR that lasted for more than one page, and I have looked at just about all of the AARs ever posted in this section of the EB forum. Hope this one lasts.
gamegeek2
12-11-2008, 02:16
I chose to do Of Mail and Men (version 1.1) over an Epeirote AAR. Glad to see my role was filled by someone as capable as you, Hax. (I just hope you can manage this AND AtB work)
PriestLizard
12-11-2008, 08:30
Yeah :2thumbsup:
Great to see an epirote AAR! Even though its sad that now both of my ideas for upcoming AARs of mine (AS,Epeirus) are assigned ( ~;) ) I wish you the best for this. I will follow this one closely :book:
hrrypttrbst
12-11-2008, 11:27
Good AAR!!:2thumbsup:
Keep it up.:beam:
Thanks for all your replies! Way more than I had expected. :bow:
@Olaf Blackeyes: Thanks!
@johnhughtom: Thanks for reading. I'll be on the lookout for your Romani AAR as well
@Aemilius Paulus: If you go way back into the old pages, you can find my "Age of Aiakides" AAR. It's not really that long, but I had a nice empire back then. Thanks for reading!
@gamegeek: Sure thing. AtB goes first, eh!
@PriestLizard: You could try and start an Epeirote AAR of your own, and take the Alexandrian route. I plan on going west a bit first, taking revenge for Beneventum and Asculum ;)
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Chapter II - A Thracian Thermopylae?
As soon as Demetrias had been pacified, Pyrrhos turned his eyes north. As the King-in-Exile Antigonos was fighting over the Peloponnese with the Alliance of Sparte and Athenai, there was no immediate threat to Thessalia. It was also during this time that a distress call came from the city of Taras, which had long been allied to Pyrrhos.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW2008-12-1018-20-41-25bmp.jpg
The Romaioi, regrouping after their defeats at Beneventon and Askulon had laid siege to the main city of Kalabria. As Pyrrhos was unable to raise a fleet in time, he denied the plea for help and regrouped his army at Demetrias. From Ambrakia came 2,500 more Helleno-Illyrian phalangitai, and Demetrias delivered 1,600 classic hoplites. Also came with him an elite regiment of Kretan mercenaries.
Before the year was out, all was prepared, and spies had been sent to the town of Tylis.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW2008-12-1018-21-48-27bmp.jpg
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW2008-12-1018-21-33-18bmp.jpg
Finally, as the 505th year after the first Olympiad came to end, Pyrrhos had already crossed into Southern Thracia, past the villages of the Agrianians and Bisaltans.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-BI2008-12-1018-32-01-35bmp.jpg
They camped there for the remainder of the winter and marched on when the snows melted and the mountain passes opened. Before the apple-trees blossomed, however, they had reached Tylis.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-BI2008-12-1018-33-00-98bmp.jpg
During that time, news finally came from Taras once again. The Romans had attacked the city in the third month of their siege and taken the city for their own, renaming it "Tarentum".
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW2008-12-1018-24-01-14bmp.jpg
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW2008-12-1018-24-26-93bmp.jpg
Meanwhile, in Epeiros proper, the cult of Askleipios had grown, which lead to the investment in Askleipieia, where the diseased could be treated for their illnesses.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW2008-12-1018-24-30-82bmp.jpg
After less than a year of siege, the Thracians attacked Pyrrhos on the plains before the city.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Serdike%20-%20270%20BC/RomeTW-BI2008-12-1018-41-44-66bmp.jpg
The Thracian army consisted mostly out of the many tribes that inhabited the area of Dardanoia, though there were some Hellenic hoplites with them as well.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Serdike%20-%20270%20BC/RomeTW-BI2008-12-1018-41-43-44bmp.jpg
As the Thracians came nearer, Pyrrhos aligned his youngest Galatians soldiers on the left of his Phalangitai, with the more experienced ones to the back.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Serdike%20-%20270%20BC/RomeTW-BI2008-12-1018-43-43-12bmp.jpg
Before long, the Thracians clashed with the Galatian mercenaries, their warcries filling the air.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Serdike%20-%20270%20BC/RomeTW-BI2008-12-1018-44-19-26bmp.jpg
Battle progressed slowly, as none of either side managed to get a clear advantage over the other.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Serdike%20-%20270%20BC/RomeTW-BI2008-12-1018-44-37-99bmp.jpg
The first true change came when the Thracian falx-bearers entered battle, their curved blades cutting through the undefended flesh of the Galatians. Seeing this imminent danger, Pyrrhos threw in the Galatian reserves. These were more reliable men, more in number and more experienced.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Serdike%20-%20270%20BC/RomeTW-BI2008-12-1018-45-11-12bmp.jpg
Battle progressed further. The Thracians, though surrounded, were relentless and slew many of the younger Galatians, causing growing panic between the ranks of the mercenaries. And the worst had yet even to come.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Serdike%20-%20270%20BC/RomeTW-BI2008-12-1018-46-59-34bmp.jpg
At that time, the older Galatians had been attacked in the rear by a band of Thracian spear-armed footmen, not at all that different from the classic Hellenic phalanx. Fortunately, Pyrrhos did anticipate this move by Drigiza, the Thracian warleader. The Illyrian cavalry circled around the now open flanks, and crushed the Thracians. At the same time, Pyrrhos charged the Thracian peltasts headon, crushing most in his way;
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Serdike%20-%20270%20BC/RomeTW-BI2008-12-1018-49-05-79bmp.jpg
The barbarians were followed into the streets of Tylis, cut down mercilessly by the light and agile Illyrian cavalry.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Serdike%20-%20270%20BC/RomeTW-BI2008-12-1018-48-03-36bmp.jpg
Among those who were cut down while fleeing was Drigiza himself. His horse was cut down beneath him and his skull was shattered by the fall.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Serdike%20-%20270%20BC/RomeTW-BI2008-12-1018-53-24-10bmp.jpg
The last that remained standing were the Hellenic hoplites. Eventually they too, fled, and in their haste to get back to the city, they were crushed on the pikes of the Illyrian phalangites;
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Serdike%20-%20270%20BC/RomeTW-BI2008-12-1018-53-44-05bmp.jpg
In the end, Serdike was conquered, but the loss of more than 5,000 men, together with the loss of some of Pyrrhos' most trusted Galatians made the victory somewhat less sweet than it could have been. The remaining 300 Thracians were enslaved and sent to Pella, Ambrakia and Epidamnos.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Serdike%20-%20270%20BC/RomeTW-BI2008-12-1018-54-11-48bmp.jpg
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Serdike%20-%20270%20BC/RomeTW-BI2008-12-1018-54-13-59bmp.jpg
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Serdike%20-%20270%20BC/RomeTW-BI2008-12-1018-54-48-15bmp.jpg
And thus came an end to the siege of Serdike, which Pyrrhos would later name in his annals "The Thracian Thermopylae". Whether it was truly comparable to the slaughter the Spartans created in Thessalia is doubtful, but to Pyrrhos, it counted as such.
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Next: Chapter III - A Gateway to the East
PriestLizard
12-11-2008, 13:16
Nice update - some sweet screenshots you have there!! ~:)
I'm curious how your AAR will develop once Pyrrhos is dead... thats when epeirote AARs get interesting... I guess. Untill then, I hope you will lead Pyrrhos to the glory and fame he deserves and did not receive in reality. ~;)
Yeah, I plan on at least conquering all of Hellas with him and Syrakousai perhaps.
I just saw I copied one picture twice. Editing!
NickTheGreek
12-11-2008, 16:56
Hax is back with the Epirotes then eh? Cool, i look forward to reading more of your exploits
hrrypttrbst
12-11-2008, 19:09
Good chapter:2thumbsup:
I wonder what you will do with the Romans now they have slaughterd your allies in Italia.
NickTheGreek: Thanks for reading. I hope you'll also enjoy the next chapters.
hrrypttrbst: Hehe, well; Pyrrhos is already growing pretty old, and he might not even live long enough to make the Romans suffer for the conquest of Taras. However, his son Ptolemaios is also quite promising...
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Chapter III - The Gateway to the East
As Serdike had been conquered, Pyrrhos set his eyes east. The rest of Thrace still had to be subjugated, and he had been quite impressed by the fierceness that the Thracians had shown. He once again assembled his armies and marched away from the city, leaving only a small garrison to deal with any dissendent citizens;
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-BI2008-12-1018-56-29-40bmp.jpg
The air grew colder as the army marched on, with summer turning into autumn, colouring the leaves a golden-brown. It was during this time that the army was in no short supply, as the area was rich with appletrees, which were just getting ripe.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-BI2008-12-1018-56-34-49bmp.jpg
Before the winter snows came, however, they had reached Tylis, starting their siege.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-BI2008-12-1018-57-42-64bmp.jpg
The city of Tylis had been raided by Galatians from far-away lands not too long ago, and they had left their mark. Their leader, Virssuccios, alledgedly was among those who pillaged the Deliphinion, and he led an army of Thraco-Galatians. It was from here that Pyrrhos sent several embassies towards the north, calling out for mercenaries, to which several replied. There came 1,000 Hippotoxotai, or horse-archers, from the far northern steppes, old Skythians who had been driven from their homeland when the Sakae came.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Tylis%20-%20268%20BC/RomeTW-BI2008-12-1020-18-00-36bmp.jpg
Without any warning, the Galatians came out after a year, their warchants ringing through the air and the sound of swords being brandished sending chills down Pyrrhos' men. Their fear was unnecessary, however, as they were undermanned and malnourished. They threw themselves against Pyrrhos' phalangitai without managing to make any true progress.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Tylis%20-%20268%20BC/RomeTW-BI2008-12-1020-20-43-73bmp.jpg
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Tylis%20-%20268%20BC/RomeTW-BI2008-12-1020-21-25-44bmp.jpg
From the flanks came Virssuccios himself, riding with his blond-haired Gauls into battle. Pyrrhos rode around the flanks with his Molossian spear-bearers and crashed into Virssuccios men.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Tylis%20-%20268%20BC/RomeTW-BI2008-12-1020-22-30-70bmp.jpg
They were quickly joined by the Thessalian hoplites, who cut down the large Gallic steeds with their ferocious spears.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Tylis%20-%20268%20BC/RomeTW-BI2008-12-1020-23-25-75bmp.jpg
It was at this moment that the battle turned into Pyrrhos' favour, as the Gauls steadily tired, losing their resolve to fight. The final turning point came when Virssuccios himself was pulled off his horse and stabbed multiple times, causing any Gaul in sight to turn tail and flee. It was at this moment that the horse-archers of Skythia proved their second worth. As they had spent all of their arrows, their nimble and light steeds caught the fleeing Galatian horsemen, making sure they did not escape. They pursued them all the way into the city, where the remaining 300 surrendered.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Tylis%20-%20268%20BC/RomeTW-BI2008-12-1020-26-30-13bmp.jpg
And thus, Tylis, too, had been captured.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Tylis%20-%20268%20BC/RomeTW-BI2008-12-1020-26-30-13bmp.jpg
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The fall of Tylis was a double victory for Pyrrhos. Not only did he gain a rich town, but also was his reputation among the Hellenes of the world improved, seeing that he destroyed a ferocious Galatian warleader, who had disgraced the Delphinion.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-BI2008-12-1021-09-44-46bmp.jpg
Pyrrhos did not stay to enjoy his victory, as is his way. Immediately after pacifying the region, he assembled the armies again and marched on, this time to the rich port-city of Byzantion. Byzantion was critical for trade in the Pontos Euxeinos, as he who controlled the Golden Horn controlled the grain-trade from Krimea to the city of Athenai.
As he laid siege to Byzantion, news came from his son, Ptolemaios in Demetrias. Several armies of the Hellenic Alliance had been spotted near the borders of Thessalia. Even though they did not cross the border, Ptolemaios thought it wise to raise his defenses.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-BI2008-12-1018-37-10-58bmp.jpg
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-BI2008-12-1018-38-24-52bmp.jpg
At around the same time, a Epirote diplomat spoke with an embassie from the Seleukid Kings in the Asia. Seeing that further fighting was no longer needed, they both agreed to a ceasefire.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-BI2008-12-1018-38-31-67bmp.jpg
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-BI2008-12-1018-38-33-98bmp.jpg
Even further, they agreed that trade would be in the interest of both of the Kingdoms, and thus a trade agreement was signed.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-BI2008-12-1018-38-37-27bmp.jpg
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-BI2008-12-1018-38-40-09bmp.jpg
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As all proceeded good and well, the siege of Byzantion was drawing to a close. Aidesios, the local tyrant of Byzantion, aligned his soldiers on one cold spring morning, and thus the battle for Byzantion began.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Byzantion%20-%20266%20BC/RomeTW-BI2008-12-1021-01-15-50bmp.jpg
Aidesios army consisted mostly out of Hellenic soldiers, mingled with some local Thracians.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Byzantion%20-%20266%20BC/RomeTW-BI2008-12-1021-01-22-85bmp.jpg
Pyrrhos himself had not been quiet either. Forced to leave some of his troops to keep the peace in Tylis, he had sought out the aid of several thousand Thracian and Galatian mercenaries.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Byzantion%20-%20266%20BC/RomeTW-BI2008-12-1021-01-15-50-kopi.jpg
Having fairly little time to organize the lines, Pyrrhos ordered his phalangites to stand in the center, with their flanks backed by the Thracians and Galatians. Before he could overlook any more of the battle, the Byzantian
hoplites were upon his lines.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Byzantion%20-%20266%20BC/RomeTW-BI2008-12-1021-04-26-13bmp.jpg
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Byzantion%20-%20266%20BC/RomeTW-BI2008-12-1021-04-55-33bmp.jpg
As the hoplites clashed with the blond-haired Galatians, Pyrrhos had already sent his Illyrian cavalry round the flanks. Brandishing their long spears, they sent the Taurantian steeds forwards, crashing into the hoplites' flanks, crushing most of them under the hooves of the light horses.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Byzantion%20-%20266%20BC/RomeTW-BI2008-12-1021-06-36-60bmp.jpg
Pyrrhos' own cavalry had in the meantime annihilated the remainder of Aidesios' bodyguard, causing a massive rout amongst Aidesios' army.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Byzantion%20-%20266%20BC/RomeTW-BI2008-12-1021-07-44-12bmp.jpg
As in Tylis, the remaining forces were chased into the city, and the gateway to the East was secured.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Byzantion%20-%20266%20BC/RomeTW-BI2008-12-1021-08-16-50bmp.jpg
=================================================================================================
Next: Chapter IV - Of the Athenians
hrrypttrbst
12-11-2008, 22:00
Good battles:2thumbsup:
And the name of the next chapter makes me thinking. A new war?
Olaf Blackeyes
12-12-2008, 01:40
:gives high appluase to Hax:
KEEP this up, its a great read.
johnhughthom
12-12-2008, 15:32
You have some really good accounts of your battles Hax, something I always struggle with. Enjoying it so far.
Centurio Nixalsverdrus
12-12-2008, 18:55
Very nice read Hax. Except that you chose the wrong side obviously.:whip: :laugh4: :smiley:
Wrong side, pssh.
Pyrrhos is the only true heir to Megás Alexandros! It is in the Epeirote blood!
PriestLizard
12-12-2008, 19:08
Pyrrhos FTW! I hope he can start a great legancy in your AAR! :2thumbsup:
that capitan Vissuccius name is so...:laugh4:
btw what happened to Pirro? he decided to consolidate his dominion in the mainland than go adventuring for l'outre-mer?
@Priestlizard: Thanks for reading! Pyrrhos will have quite some trouble in securing all of Hellas, though.
@Obelics: At the moment, he's still in Greece, dealing with this troublesome little state Sparta and the Aitolian league in Thermon.
=============================================================================
Chapter IV - On the Athenians
With the capture of Byzantion, Pyrrhos dreams of a united Hellas came closer to vision. He installed one of the local tyrants as the ruler and left, this time for home.
However, peace had not yet come. With the death of Chremonides, who had always been on good terms with the Epeirotes (especially concerning their Macedonian politics), the Athenian council of Nobles came together and elected Doros, son of Chremonides, as their leader. Doros was not as pro-Epirote as his father had been, and one of his first actions was to send an army into Thessalia.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-BI2008-12-1109-47-03-54bmp.jpg
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-BI2008-12-1109-45-07-87bmp.jpg
Due to a quick scheme made up by Ptolemaios and some of his trusted diplomats, the Athenian commander was placated by a "gift" of gold.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-BI2008-12-1109-47-25-76bmp.jpg
When Pyrrhos heard of the Athenian betrayel, he marched his armies past Pella and south into Thessalia, where he spoke briefly with his son concerning the Athenian movements. Since Antigonos came to power in Makedonia, the Athenians had been in an alliance with the Spartans and Rhodians. Knowing how the Spartans might send an army past the Isthmus, Pyrrhos ordered a small contingement, made up primarily of phalangites and archers to defend the passes. And thus, the siege of Athenai began.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-BI2008-12-1113-14-52-97bm-1.jpg
Due to the blockade of the Isthmos, the Spartan allies were unable to send reinforcements of any kind to Athenai, neither by land nor by sea, as the Argead fleet was still in Hellene waters. As the siege progressed, the Athenian garrison ran out of supplies soon enough and Doros was forced to leave the city and meet Pyrrhos in the field. The elites of Doros marched out first, meeting Pyrrhos' pikemen on the steep hills of Attike
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Athenai%20-%20262%20BC/RomeTW-BI2008-12-1113-25-36-12bmp.jpg
Almost all of the remaining garrison was either worn out by disease and hunger, and those that did still live were soon picked off by Pyrrhos' archers, leaving only Doros and his bodyguard to confront Pyrrhos. He himself did not last long and was crushed on a pike by an Illyrian known only as "Xenophon". His name would later be recorded in one of the books kept in the library of Athenai.
With the death of Doros, and the last true connection to the Spartans lost, the city surrendered.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Athenai%20-%20262%20BC/RomeTW-BI2008-12-1113-31-05-80bmp.jpg
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Athenai%20-%20262%20BC/RomeTW-BI2008-12-1113-31-29-60bmp.jpg
As Athenai fell, Antigonos and his sons had been poisoned, effectively ending the Argead dynasty, and to avoid any further danger to the city, Korinthos and the Achaian League joined Pyrrhos.
At this time, Hellas had been nearly united, save for the Aitolians situated in Thermon and the Spartans in Lakedaimon, and as Pyrrhos victories' grew, so did his army; as it now measured over 27,500 men. Amongst them were over 5,000 Hellenic-Illyrian pikemen from Epidamnos and Ambrakia, and 750 Pezhetairoi from Chaonia, who had been with Pyrrhos since the beginning of the union at Pella. Also came 1,800 Thessalian horsemen with strong steeds, and 2,000 prodromoi or fore-runners from Makedonia. Then there were the 2,000 Cretan mercenaries with their well-crafted bows and sharp arrows, and 750 hippo-toxotai from Scythia, present since Tylis. And at the last were the feared Thracians with their falxes and javelins, marching silently at the end of the row.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1222-38-18-37bmp.jpg
Pyrrhos halted at Delphi, making sacrifices to Apollo before marching on. They camped there for over two weeks and left on one of the many winter-mornings as the snow was glistening in the rising sun.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1222-38-23-77bmp.jpg
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1516-23-11-29bmp.jpg
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Next: Chapter V - Over the Sea?
Aemilius Paulus
12-16-2008, 02:29
Yea! An update!!!
Keep up the good work - you're almost past the one page, which happens to be the moment of crisis for most AARs! :2thumbsup:
NickTheGreek
12-16-2008, 17:03
Good update Hax and I'm liking the army you built Pyrrhus, it looks tasty
johnhughthom
12-16-2008, 17:08
Next: Chapter V - Over the Sea?
East or west? The Epirotes get new units with the vanilla Marians don't they? May be an idea to leave Italy alone for a while. Great AAR so far.
machinor
12-16-2008, 17:57
No the Epirotes do not get any reforms. That's the reason why Italy is never safe from me when I'm playing Epeiros.
Olaf Blackeyes
12-16-2008, 22:21
Id say go go Carthage or Egypt.:beam::beam::2thumbsup::beam::whip:
Maion Maroneios
12-17-2008, 14:08
Excellent, truly excellent Hax! I just read everything through, after my week-long absense from the fora to enjoy my vacations:sweatdrop: Good to see an Epeiros AAR and hope it will continue for us to see the "Arche Apeirou" or "Megale Apeiros" in the future:thumbsup:
Maion
@johnhughthom: Actually, the Ptolemaioi have been targeted so much by other players, I've decided something else! Thanks for reading!
@Olaf: Yesss, Karkhedon is indeed evil. You'll see what happens! Thanks for reading ^_^
@Maion: Glad you liked it! I'm hoping to create an empire that would make Alexandros proud, if you know what I mean. Whether it's east or west, I'll just see where the wind takes me!
=============================================================================
Chapter V - Over the Sea?
Years passed as the Aitolian garrison withered. After almost three years, the Aitolian council decided (against the will of the military leaders) to surrender the city to Pyrrhos, hoping that he would not raise an arm against the inhabitants. Even though Pyrrhos did not touch any of the city's inhabitants, the Aitolian council had been formally disbanded, effectively ending the Aitolian League.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1516-40-46-68bmp.jpg
At this time, Hellas prospered as it had not done since the death of Kassandros Antipatros. The entire Kingdom was now in a period of wealth and prosperity, which would later be known as the start of "the First Epirote Golden Age". From the Makedonian plains of Pella to the hills of Dodona and Epiros, money was flowing like the waters of the Neilos in autumn, allowing the many cities to increase their standard of living;
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1222-38-29-06bmp.jpg
It was also this that allowed larger ports and markets, suited for trade;
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1516-25-42-84bmp.jpg
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1516-28-54-73bmp.jpg
Remarkebly, the wealth of the many mines of Thraikia and Makedonia was not only used for cultural and economical growth, but also for the maintaining of larger military forces and armouries.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1516-42-15-59bmp.jpg
It was at this same time that several Syracusan ships came from Sikilia, telling how the Phoenician traders had built an empire which exceeded even the Epirotes and the Ptolemaic and Seleukide dynasty.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1516-38-28-64bmp.jpg
As Pyrrhos was growing old now, he no longer had the strength to go to Sikilia himself. Knowing that his former general, Hieron was still in power, he sent another young man who had risen to a promising position amongst the Epirotes. His name was Pergamos Poitneonios, of whom we shall speak of more later.
Studying under Pyrrhos' son, Alexandros, Pergamos had learned the ways of trading and speaking excellently, which made him well-loved amongst the Hellenes of Ambrakia. He had quickly raised an army, which consisted out of some 5,000 Illyrian phalangites from Ambrakia, 3,200 thorakitai, a relatively new invention. Armed with a thureos and armed with shorter spears than the phalangitai, they were disciplined and well-armed. Then there were the 4,000 psiloi, made up evenly from slingers and Cretan mercenaries. Pergamos' personal bodyguard consisted out of his 750 man-strong somatophylakai and 2,000 noblemen from Makedonia, known as the Loncophoroi in the Greek tongue. The fore-runners, or Prodromoi, made up another 2,000 men. And finally, the pride of Epiros, there were 360 Elephantes from India, a personal gift by Antiochos I, for his proven loyalties.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1716-11-15-28-kop.jpg
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1616-49-56-27bmp.jpg
As the ships were loaded, Pyrrhos bid his last farewell to Pergamos, and sending a note to his son Ptolemaios, who was still in Thermon to pacify the region, he laid down on his bed in Ambrakia. And as the sun started to drop behind the horizon and the ships sailed into the evening red, Pyrrhos, King of the Epirotes, Hegemon of the Aitolian League, and Lord of the Korinthians breathed his last breath.
So ended the reign of Pyrrhos.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1516-33-03-30bmp.jpg
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Next: Chapter VI - On Karkhedon
Olaf Blackeyes
12-17-2008, 21:42
NUUUUUUUUUUUU!!!!!!!!!!!! Pyrrhos CANNOT DIE!!!!!!!!! At least not like a weak woman! He must die a heros death!
(is sad)
BTW great chapter.
Centurio Nixalsverdrus
12-17-2008, 22:14
I like the style of your AAR very much.
Though I must say that "360 Elephants" seems like the typical exxageration of our contemporary historians. :grin:
Yeah, I usually multiply by ten on that kind of stuff, but for Elephants I haven't really found a suitable number. Do you have any idea what a lot would be?
Centurio Nixalsverdrus
12-17-2008, 22:51
I have the impression that elephants and bodyguards shoud be treated 1:1. From what I remember, Hannibal had only a handful of elephants with him on his famous trail. So, 12 Elephants with 3 men each I think would fit. Remember that they are really expensive, and I can't imagine the Epeirotes (or any other faction in any other place) to have stables for breeding more than 360 elephants. I think 30 or something (animals, not riders) would already be really imperial.
Thanks a lot! I was a bit concerned with that myself, but I chose to ignore my gut feeling, or whatever you call that. I like The Internal Historian better.
Maion Maroneios
12-17-2008, 23:36
Yeah, I frowned a bit about that part as well. If you do a quick search on elephant usage in Hellenistic times, you'll see that (according to Nick Secunda) there where special units of elephants. An elephantarchia was composed of 16 beasts, IIRC. I'll look back at that though, because I'm not 100% certain of the exact number.
Maion
@Maion: Thanks for clearing that up ^^
I have also edited the first post, might be interesting.
=============================================================================
Book II - ΠΤΟΛΕΜΑΙΟΣ
Chapter I - Kimmerika
According to Pyrrhos' will, it would be his first-born son Ptolemaios to reign as the new King. Whereas Pyrrhos was mostly concerned with glory and conquest, Ptolemaios was known to be both a practical and intelligent governor, as well as a good tactician and logistician. He had been present at the siege of Demetrias and oversaw the rebuilding of Thessalia and Makedonia, before he joined his father at the siege of Thermon. Aside from that, he had also travelled to Antiocheia and Alexandreia tes Neilou multiple times and had held a good relation with both the Ptolemaic and the Seleukide dynasties.
When Ptolemaios came to the throne, Hellas was fairly at peace. The Spartans had never left the borders of Lakedaimon and had respected the peace. They had allied themselves with the cities of Rhodos and Halikarnassos and were now mostly concerned with Mikra Asia, and when news grew that Ptolemaios was setting sail with an army towards an unknown target in the east, there was little response from Sparta.
The way Ptolemaios levied his troops is as following: he firstly gave large tracts of land to the mercenaries who had served his father in the Aitolian and Achaian campaigns and then left for Pella, to raise a new army. Some of the mercenaries (most of them being Galatikoi) were given full rights in the new Kingdom (what was met with anger by some Makedonian nobles) and were recruited as phalangitai. From northern Makedonia 2,000 well-armed and disciplined Agrianians came too, with their axes and javelins, and from Thessalia came another 2,000 hoplites, clad in the old style. Finally there were some 4,000 psiloi, consisting from both archers and slingers, most of them from the countryside.
Ptolemaios was nearly set to go, when the journey was postponed. News from Ambrakia had told that the armourers there had been raising Elephantes of their own, of which a special contingement could be expected within the year, which inticed Ptolemaios to stay in Makedonia for another year, in which the transports to Kimmeria were being created.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1616-54-30-36bmp.jpg
Finally, after 7 months, the Elephantes came from Ambrakia, and now Ptolemaios was finally able to board the ships.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1616-56-48-70b-1.jpg
As winter came and the winds above the Aigaian became wild and turbulent, they anchored not far from Lysimacheia.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1616-57-12-05bmp.jpg
The skies lighted up in spring, and as the fleet moved into the Bospohoros, the army resupplied at Byzantion. There it was found that news travels fast indeed, as the word had spread that Pergamos Poitneonios had
liberated the city of Syrakousai from anti-Hellenic opponents.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1617-00-27-81bmp.jpg
In Byzantion, Ptolemaios sent a letter to Pergamos concerning his recent victories. An excerpt from the letter is as follows:
=================================================================================================
"To Pergamos Poitneonios, liberator of Syrakousai and Hero of Trinakria.
Hail,
It is with my greatest respect that I salute you, Pergamos. Word has spread quickly concerning your recent victory at the city of Syrakousai, and I am certain that my father, son of Aiakides, would have been most proud of your success. However, I must urge you to remain vigilant; Hieron, the old governor of Syrakousai before he was murdered was not fond of the Karkhedoi to their west, who had commited several atrocities towards the inhabitants of Ακραγασ* and had laid siege to Syrakousai itself multiple times (yet not succeeded).
It could be that even as I write this letter, the Karkhedoi are trying to strengthen their grip on the island. I urge you to go north and persuade the inhabitants of Messena to join your cause, whether it be by words or sword. I bid you the best of luck in Trinakrie.
- Ptolemaios, King of the Epirotes, son of Pyrrhos who united Hellas. Time of writing is 524th year after the first Olympiad, Byzantion."
*Ακραγασ = Also known as Akragas or Agrigentum in the Latin tongue.
=================================================================================================
The fleet set sail once again, leaving the ports of Byzantion. They followed the shore of Mikra Asia for some time, before going to full sea on the height of Herakleia.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1618-04-15-78bmp.jpg
Finally, the fleet reached Kimmerika in the autumn of the 524th year after the first Olympiad. There Ptolemaios and his army disembarked and started the siege of Chersonesos.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1618-06-34-78bmp.jpg
From his tent in Kimmerika, Ptolemaios received word from Hellas as long as the ships from Pella set sail. Firstly came the news that both Athenai and Chalkis had built several sewers under the city, improving city-wide hygiene and setting examples for the rest of the Kingdom. At around the same time, the armouries and barracks in Demetrias had been expanded and improved, allowing more troops to be levied.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1618-06-43-28bmp.jpg
As winter came, news arrived from Pella once again, as the military dockyards in Thessalonika had been expanded, with large warehouses built for the storage of iron and wood. Also had the city of Thermon grown in size, a result from gradual hygienical improvements.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1618-07-46-42bmp.jpg
At around this time, Ptolemaios received a letter from Syrakousai.
=================================================================================================
"To Ptolemaios, King of Epirotes, Lord of Makedonia, Thessalia and Thraikia.
Hail, my King.
To my greatest regrets, I have to write in the little time I have. I received your letter not even three weeks after Syrakousai was pacified, and I withdrew all of the forces from the city as soon as I had read your words.
The man I have left in charge of Συρακουσαι* is Neikodamos Prochteios, an older citizen of the city, as myself. He is a skilled and loyal governor, well-suited to lead the city at this time, and several wise men have been aiding him in running the day-to-day affairs of the city. At this moment, we are marching towards the north, as you have said. So far, the Karkhedoi have done nothing to threaten our position on Trinakria just yet, though we have had several men patrolling the borders of Elimeia. I have heard however, that they came to Συραkoυσαι with an embassy of diplomats, offering free trade to and from Karchedon. What Neikodamos' answer was I do not know, though I suspect he will have accepted.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1618-16-58-79bmp.jpg
Μεσσανα** stands less than 10 stadia from where we stand now, and we have already begun to cut the Messanian supply lines.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1617-02-14-03bmp.jpg
I wish you the best of luck, my King, and may Zeus smile upon your efforts.
I have also included a gift from Archimedes, who has been aiding Neikodamos in his affairs concerning Syrakousai. He has been studying your father's conquests and made this, may it aid you in the future.
- Pergamos Poitneonios. Time of writing is 524th year after the first Olympiad, Trinakrie."
*Syrakousai
**Messana
=================================================================================================
With Pergamos' letter also came a map, drawn by Archimedes, a renowned scholar. As he unrolled the parchment, he smiled at the gift.
The extent of the Epirote Kingdom, after the fall of Syrakousai (524th year after the first Olympiad):
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1617-02-01-64bmp.jpg
Centurio Nixalsverdrus
12-18-2008, 22:48
This AAR reads like the stories of old. :smiley: I'd suggest to include regularly a map of your possessions and also the date in modern format for a better overview. Also I'd like to ask what font you are using?
Maion Maroneios
12-18-2008, 23:33
Great update, Hax! Just a minor correction: It's Alexandreia tou Neilou, as Neilos (Nile) is masculine in Greek so the genitive form is tou Neilou.
I'm becoming geeky again with my corrections:tongue:
Maion
Thanks Maion! Geeky corrections are great, thanks a lot.
@Centurio Nixalverdrus: The font is Trebuchet MS. Thanks for reading, and I'll try to include a map as often as possible.
Olaf Blackeyes
12-18-2008, 23:41
@ Maion: Actually its a good thing that you correct us so much cuz EB is ALL about historical accuracy ( and how to @#!#$ with it in my case :laugh4::laugh4::laugh4:). I mean very few of the people on the EB parts of the .org take the time to do this. :High Applause:
@ Hax: WOOT for invasions. Nice chapter and an interesting turn in your game. I LIKE where i think this is going. Keep it up.:2thumbsup::2thumbsup::2thumbsup:
Maion Maroneios
12-18-2008, 23:46
Good to see it's appreciated, I try to be as less offensive as I can:tongue: No seriously, it's what Olaf said. I've come to be real peeky with historical accuracy, hence my (sometimes, or all the time depending on how you see it) geeky attitude. Of course, don't be hesitant to shoot me form half a yard with a shotgun when I start correcting everyone for every minor mistake here:sweatdrop::laugh4:
Maion
Finally, I've been wanting to do that for some time now
Hax takes aim from half a yard with a shotgun.
No seriously, I really appreciate the fact that you're willing to help me out with some of my mistakes here.
Maion Maroneios
12-18-2008, 23:50
Finally, I've been wanting to do that for some time now
Hax takes aim from half a yard with a shotgun.
:laugh4:
Good, always happy to help. Hence the 'crossing the line' statement. Sometimes too much help can have a negative effect. Anyway:focus:
So, what are your plans really? East or West? Italia turning green would be a nice sight:yes:
Maion
I'll not just say what will happen. All I will say is that you are not going to see any Phalanx vs Phalanx combat soon.
Chapter II - Sikilia
As Ptolemaios had set sail for Kimmeria, so had Pergamos left for the city of Syrakousai. Born and raised in a wealthy Syrakusan family, his family was exiled from the city when Hieron II died. He himself had then left for Epiros, which was still at war with the Argead dynasty and the Aichaian League.
Fully aware that the city would not just surrender when he would come to Trinakria, he took with him an army large enough to hold the entire island, as ordered by Pyrrhos before he died. His armies were conscripted as such; for the last twenty years, the population of Ambrakia had steadily grown, well over a million inhabitants. From these men were levied over 12,000 phalangites, mostly consisting out of Hellenized Illyrians. From Pella came 2,000 Makedonian noblemen on horseback, known as "loncophoroi". Also were 2,000 prodromoi from Thermon, which have been extensively discussed. From the poorer classes came the sphendonetai, or slingers, and the remaining Kretan mercenaries that had served under Pyrrhos were re-enlisted and joined the army as well.
Remarkably, Pergamos had assembled his army in a very short time, as it took him less than half a year to recruit his men. This is remarkable, for Pergamos had not been well-known in Hellas, and even less-so because he was from Sikilia.
The fleet left the port of Ambrakia during the mild spring times, when the ocean was still calm.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1520-23-14-21b-1.jpg
At that time the fleet reached the friendly city of Kroton, where they resupplied and prepared for the last part of the journey.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1520-27-52-33bmp.jpg
Even before summer was out and the ocean became wilder and unreliable, the fleet had reached Syrakousai. Pergamos and his army disembarked and prepared themselves for the coming siege. As we discussed in the previous chapter, Pergamos had managed to take the city without any further conflict. Not a single citizen in the city was harmed, save the traitors that had murdered Hieron.
As Ptolemaios' letter arrived, Pergamos had already pacified the province and had installed another man, Neikodamos Prochtheios (a friend which had come with Pergamos when their family was banished), as the tyrant of Syrakousai. It is said that Pergamos contemplated not more than ten seconds before ordering the army to be assembled once again. Whether this is true or not, Pergamos left his home city with his troops and marched through the gladed valleys of Sikilia to the north.
Reaching Messana before the year was out, Pergamos immediately started the siege of the city. Messana was an interesting city; it had been colonized by Hellenic settlers from Mykene, even before the first Olympiad was counted, and had been renamed to Messene by the King of Rhegion in honour of the city Messene in Hellas. It's population had been recently murdered by marauding Mamertinoi, who had taken refuge in the city ever since.
Ennychos, leader of the Mamertines had been refusing to acknowledge Pyrrhos during his wars against the Romaioi and Pergamos was well-aware of this, perhaps explaining the fact that he did not send an embassy to the city before commencing with the siege.
After one year had passed, the Mamertines came out. To Pergamos' surprise, the mainstay of their army was still Hellenic, as he had expected them to be barbaroi.
Hardly having time to align his troops, Pergamos hastily assembled his men in a straight line, Thorakitai on the flanks and the Kretan archers behind the main phalangite line.
The lonchophoroi were assembled straight behind Pergamos' own bodyguard, whilst the prodromoi were held as reserves in the forest.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Messana%20-%20251%20BC/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1618-29-35-54bmp.jpg
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Messana%20-%20251%20BC/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1618-29-30-08bmp.jpg
The first ones to clash with Pergamos' lines were the Tarentine riders, whose horses got trapped by the Thorakitai. Unable to retreat, they were quickly cut down.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Messana%20-%20251%20BC/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1618-30-14-60bmp.jpg
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Messana%20-%20251%20BC/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1618-30-18-53bmp.jpg
At the same time, most of the infantry that came out of the city were dispatched by the sphendonetai and Kretan mercenaries, leaving only Ennychos himself to lead his cavalry in a foolish charge against the phalangite line.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Messana%20-%20251%20BC/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1618-31-55-75bmp.jpg
He himself died there as well, impaled by one of the thorakitai. His corpse was never found, even though Pergamos tried to find his body personally.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Messana%20-%20251%20BC/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1618-33-04-72bmp.jpg
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Messana%20-%20251%20BC/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1618-33-08-76bmp.jpg
With Ennychos' death, the few men that remained standing tried to flee back, though they were quickly dispatched by the swift Makedonian riders.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Messana%20-%20251%20BC/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1618-34-00-91bmp.jpg
The ones that surrendered were spared though, and thus Messene was won.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Messana%20-%20251%20BC/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1618-34-09-43bmp.jpg
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Messana%20-%20251%20BC/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1618-34-40-95bmp.jpg
================================================================================================
Next: Chapter III - On the Karkhedoi
Centurio Nixalsverdrus
12-19-2008, 04:06
You have some very nice pictures Hax. Somehow I thought you had already captured Syrakusai, why is it still Eleutheroi? Or perhaps I need some sleep. :zzz:
Well, Ptolemaios leaving for Kimmerika takes place around the same time that Pergamos went to Sikilia. So Chapter I and Chapter II are taking place at the same time.
hrrypttrbst
12-21-2008, 18:24
Yeah I'm not crazy:dizzy2:!
Are there gonna be more at the same time chapters because i like it?
There will indeed be more chapters! I just got back from a very tiring weekend, and I've been sorting screenshots till about 225 BC, and with this tempo, there'll be a lot more chapters.
hrrypttrbst
12-21-2008, 23:56
You make me wanna play an epirote campaing:idea2:!Even tough I did not long ago killed them in my Makedonia campaing:yes:
great AAR, really like the style in which it is written, keep up te good work :2thumbsup:
Really really love this AAR. Very nice, :D
Consider yourself having just gained a new reader! :)
julius_caesar_the_first
12-22-2008, 12:25
I've been following since it started and I have to say it is GREAT:2thumbsup:. I really liked the simultaneous chapters. Very good idea.
I will continue to follow this AAR (I've been subscribed since it started:beam:) so keep up the good work:2thumbsup:.
@hrrypttrbst: Bad Makedonia! >: | Thanks for reading, though! Epeiros has some really great units available, though.
@Roka: Thanks! As I've said, I'm trying to write in the same style as the "Anabasis" by Xenophon.
@Tweety: Thanks a lot! I'm happy that you like it.
So I've had some problems with photobucket (I think it's the suckiness of my internet provider. They fail hard) and I couldn't upload pictures for a while. Anyway; here's the new chapter.
=============================================================================
Chapter III - On the Karkhedoi
As Messana was conquered, so had Ptolemaios pacified Kimmerika, and was now sailing back home.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1619-26-02-71bmp.jpg
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1715-32-34-46bmp.jpg
Around that time Pergamos secured his hold on the eatern part of Sikilia and Neikodamos fortified his garrison at Syrakousai, due to recent Karkhedonian activity on the island. Pergamos then returned to Ambrakia to resupply his army with fresh troops. The journey home took no more than 5 months in total, yet in that time the Karkhedonians had already amassed their forces near Akragas.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1715-46-25-88bmp.jpg
The Karkhedonian host consisted mostly out of Phoenician spearmen from their main cities of Karkhedon and Atiqa, though there were some elephants of the African breed and 3,000 Libyan horsemen.
Even though Neikodamos received word of the Karkhedonian armies on time, he had fairly little time to strengthen his defences at Syrakousai. Fearing an attack on Messana first, he had sent most of the remaining soldiers there and left only his bodyguard in the city. Knowing that the Karkhedonians would now not march for Messana, he levied only lightly-armoured javelineers.
It took no longer than 3 weeks before the Karkhedonian host had crossed the borders and were marching straight for Syrakousai. Severely overpowered, Neikodamos hastily sent riders to Messena, though they were intercepted by Karkhedonian horsemen and killed. And so Syrakousai was besieged by the Karkhedonians.
===========================================================================
Having heard of the Karkhedonian betrayal, Pergamos, who had reached Ambrakia by then, wasted no more time in resupplying his armies and left once again, taking a contingent of elephants from India with him as well.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/PergamosPoitneonios-245BC.jpg
Most of his army stayed the same, save for the 2,000 Samnite mercenaries he picked up at Kroton (who was still autonomous at that time). Due to the fierce winter winds, he had arrived at Sikilia sooner than expected, and received word that the Karkhedonoi had failed to conquer Syrakousai.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Syracuse%20-%20249%20BC/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1716-01-19-20bmp.jpg[IMG]
The remaining Karkhedonians had retreated west, and so Pergamos followed them there. His spies reported the host not forty miles from his current position and stuck inbetween two mountainsides, Pergamos effectively cut off the route to Syrakousai.
[IMG]https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1715-46-22-19bmp.jpg
At that time Hamalcar (as the Karkhedonian commander was called) faced a choice between retreating further into his own lands or make a move towards Messana. He chose the latter, and as soon as Pergamos heard of the Karkhedonian move, he marched his troops into Karkhedonian area and onto Lilibeo herself.
Pergamos' armies reached Lilibeo before the winter set in and had effectively besieged the city. Even though multiple storytellers have mistaken Pergamos' move as abandoning his countrymen at Messana, he had in fact forced Hamalcar to abandon his siege at Messana.
As he heard that Hamalcar was now marching back for Lilibeo, Pergamos set his camp to the north, trying to avoid an attack in the rear, and then, after two years of strategical movement, it finally came to an open battle as Hamalcar had reached the city.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Elimya%20-%20245%20BC/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1716-08-31-57bmp.jpg
Having Hamalcar (of the Karchedonian army) to his east, and Hamalcar (of Lilibeo) to his west, Pergamos aligned his troops in two fronts. The thorakitai of Ambrakia and the Samnite mercenaries were ordered to meet the host of Lilibeo, and the main army (consisting out of the pikemen of Illyria and most of the cavalry) had to meet Hamalcar and his campaigning forces.
Here Pergamos made two tactical mistakes, which would cost him many men. Having expected that Hamalcar's force would be aligned in a column, he set up his pikemen deeper rather than wider.
Also having both the thorakitai as well as the Samnites aligned at the west side caused his phalangites to be exposed on the flanks.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Elimya%20-%20245%20BC/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1716-11-15-28bmp.jpg
By now, the host of Lilibeo had clashed with Pergamos' heavy infantry on the western side and the light Iberian cavalry was quickly routed by the prodromoi from Chaonia.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Elimya%20-%20245%20BC/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1716-14-39-42bmp.jpg
Now the Phoenician infantry had been engaged into hand-to-hand combat with the Samnites from Kalabria and Hamalcar's personal bodyguard had been engaged by the thorakitai with their long spears.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Elimya%20-%20245%20BC/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1716-14-43-69bmp.jpg
As Hamalcar's bodyguard was cut down by the thorakitai, so had the remaining Karkhedoi reached Pergamos' pikemen and with no flanking guard, were able to cross over the flanks and engage the thorakitai in their rear. Being surrounded by two fronts, Pergamos quickly sent in the Macedonian cavalry, and here came Pergamos' third mistake. Hamalcar's (of the campaigning army) personal bodyguard was now able to charge in and break the will of both the thorakitai as well as the loncophoroi.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Elimya%20-%20245%20BC/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1716-17-13-00bmp.jpg
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Elimya%20-%20245%20BC/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1716-21-12-78bmp.jpg
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Elimya%20-%20245%20BC/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1716-21-12-78bmp.jpg
The only thing that prevented a total loss was the presence of the samnites (who would later be awarded with a lot of autonomy), who were able to hold off an attack from both flanks. At this point Pergamos saw that the fate of all of Sikilia was on a sword's edge. He ordered his phalangitai to break up and engage Hamalcar's infantry, as he himself charged into his bodyguard.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Elimya%20-%20245%20BC/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1716-22-27-85bmp.jpg
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Elimya%20-%20245%20BC/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1716-25-07-76bmp.jpg
As Hamalcar was now surrounded by Pergamos' bodyguard, he turned to flee but was dragged off his horse and stabbed numerous times.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Elimya%20-%20245%20BC/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1716-23-16-18bmp.jpg
This would change the later course of battle. As the Samnites became wearier, they were reinvigorated as they heard the news of Hamalcar's death and fiercely fought on. As the Karkhedonians were struck by fear knowing their leader dead and their enemies fighting on with determination, they threw off their armour and abandoned their weapons and ran for the safety of the woods.
By now, Pergamos had been engaged by the bodyguard of Hamalcar (of Lilibeo). As he saw his friend dead, the governor of Lilibeo had charged into Pergamos' bodyguard. Having less experience than Pergamos, his bodyguard was quickly cut down until only he himself remained, and he was felled as his horse was cut down beneath him.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Elimya%20-%20245%20BC/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1716-28-13-12bmp.jpg
With the defeat and death of two of their foremost generals, those that remained standing fled the field leaving Pergamos and what remained of his forces on the field.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Elimya%20-%20245%20BC/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1716-29-29-01bmp.jpg
The little remaining forces in Lilibeo surrendered the city as their armies had been destroyed, and this marked the end of all Karkhedonian presence on the island.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/Elimya%20-%20245%20BC/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1716-30-20-08bmp.jpg
Pergamos had not been kind to the city. To avenge the stab in the back and the massacres at Akragas commited by the Karkhedonoi, he put 3/4th of the entire population to death, and then razed the entire city and rebuilt it in the Hellenic fashion.
At that time Ptolemaios himself had reached Syrakousai and made Pergamos and his family the lords of Sikilia, save for Syrakousai alone, who would be for Neikodamos and his family, to honour the fact that he did not abandon the city when he was surrounded.
So was the history of Sikilia.
===========================================================================
Next: Chapter IV - On Megale Hellas
Very good read! Interesting AAr all the way up to this point! Congrats!:yes:
hrrypttrbst
12-22-2008, 14:29
Cannot wait for the next chapter!Keep up the good work:2thumbsup:!Also good work that you did avenge you on the Karkhedonians:2thumbsup:!
Centurio Nixalsverdrus
12-22-2008, 20:11
That was a bloody battle Haxos. :inquisitive: But a good read as well.
Maion Maroneios
12-23-2008, 14:39
Very nice chapter, Strategos Haxos:bow:
Maion
@Subedei: Thanks for reading!
@hrrypttrbst: Yeah, they really started to piss me off after some 5+ attacks on Syrakousai. Thanks for reading.
@Centurio Nixalsverdrus: This was one of the closest battles I've fought in my EB career. If Pergamos had died there, I'd probably also lost all of Sikilia.
@Maion Maroneios: Thank you, Maion.
================================================================================================
Chapter IV - Megale Hellas
As the sacking of Lilibeo commenced, Ptolemaios (who had then arrived at Sikilia himself) sent an embassy to the city of Karchedon with a peace treaty. In return, he demanded that the island of Sardinia was handed over to Epirote rule.
Within two months, the embassy had returned, bringing the news that the Karchedonians had refused the peace treaty, and so Ptolemaios (and his new army that he had conscripted in Makedonia) set sail for Sardinia.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1722-31-34-75bmp.jpg
Arriving at the island during the winter, Ptolemaios set up camp immediately near the sea and organized the supply lines to Sikilia. With the supplies there came news of the homeland as well. As Ptolemaios had gone, the Spartans had finally crossed the borders of Lakedaimon and had conquered Korinthos. During the defense of Korinthos, Zenon (son of Alexandros, Ptolemaios' brother), had also been killed.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1722-47-33-41b-1.jpg
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1722-47-39-06bmp.jpg
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1722-48-54-52bmp.jpg
However, with that news also came word that Seambys Aiakides, also one of Ptolemaios' nephews, was busy raising an army of his own.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1722-48-48-06b-1.jpg
As Ptolemaios came to Karalis, the city that served as the provincial captial of Sardinia, the inhabitants surrendered without any further fighting, and for this Ptolemaios chose not to expel the population.
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As he was in Karalis, Ptolemaios continued to run the affairs of Makedonia and Hellas. As the supply ships came and went, he heard more news about how the situation in the Peleponessos continued.
The Spartans had now crossed the Isthmus, defeating an Epirote leader there and had then laid siege to Athenai.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1722-38-46-64b-1.jpg
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1722-43-37-05bmp.jpg
At that time he also heard that Seambys was almost done with his army and was now preparing to march south.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1722-51-54-31b-1.jpg
As Seambys arrived though, he found only that the Spartan force had already annexed Athenai. Without any further waiting, he sent a small force to guard the Isthmus (thus preventing any Spartan aid towards Athenai), and laid siege to the city herself.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1722-54-46-48bmp.jpg
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At around the same time that Seambys surrounded Athenai, there came a distress call from Sardinia. The Romani had betrayed the peace treaty that Ptolemaios had strived hard to achieve and laid siege to Messana.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1813-27-14-37bmp.jpg
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1723-36-56-12bmp.jpg
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1723-36-52-03bmp.jpg
Ptolemaios immediately left Sardinia and sailed for the town of Rhegion, who had recently come under Roman command, hoping to draw the Romans from Sikilia. He was proven right; as Italia herself (as the Romans called Megale Hellas) was threatened, they abandoned the siege of Messana and marched north. They met Ptolemaios on the fields north of Rhegion.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/240%20-%20Rhegion/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1813-29-22-68bmp.jpg
The way Ptolemaios aligned his battle ranks are as following: the Makedonian pezhetairoi formed the mainstay, whilst the elite Chaonion Agema were set at the furthest right flank, as is common in the Makedonian phalanx order. At their flanks were the thorakitai from Ambrakia. The invention of the thorakitai is a story apart; Pyrrhos, knowing that war would eventually break out again with the Romani developed a heavy infantry unit, to defend the phalanx at their weakest points; the flank and rear.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/240%20-%20Rhegion/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1813-32-39-38bmp.jpg
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/240%20-%20Rhegion/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1813-32-41-93bmp.jpg
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/240%20-%20Rhegion/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1813-32-48-00bmp.jpg
Behind the phalanx line were the Agrianian shock infantry. Armed with axes and javelins, these men were hardy and disciplined and performed excellently against both cavalry and infantry.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-2319-28-47-14bmp.jpg
Then there were the Scythian archers, who had travelled all the way from Kimmerika with Ptolemaios. They were armed with composite bows which outranged all the bows in the west, save for the Kretans', perhaps.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/240%20-%20Rhegion/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1813-32-54-67bmp.jpg
Behind the left flank were the prodromoi, or forerunners. They were lighter than most of the heavy cavalry, and well-suited for chasing down psiloi and routers.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/240%20-%20Rhegion/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1813-33-06-80bmp.jpg
Opposed to the prodromoi, on the right flank was Ptolemaios himself and his 110 men-strong bodyguard, with 2,000 men of the heavy Molossian cavalry. They were the among the best cavalry in Epiros, composed out of able and young noblemen, comparable to the Hetairoi of the Makedonian kingdoms.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/240%20-%20Rhegion/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1813-33-13-73bmp.jpg
Before long, the first Romani soldiers came into range of the Scythian archers, and they released their deadly arrows into the Romani fray.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/240%20-%20Rhegion/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1813-37-23-17bmp.jpg
Upon taking casualties, the commanding Roman officer [who went by the name of ΓΝΑΙΟΣ ΚΟΡΝΕΛΙΟΣ ΣΚΙΠΙΟ ΑΣΙΝΑ in Greek] ordered his troops to double their speed and they were soon engaged with the line of Ptolemaios.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/240%20-%20Rhegion/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1813-41-23-96bmp.jpg
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/240%20-%20Rhegion/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1813-41-27-83bmp.jpg
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/240%20-%20Rhegion/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1813-41-41-69bmp.jpg
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/240%20-%20Rhegion/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1813-41-46-11bmp.jpg
Battle slowly progressed with neither side gaining a true advantage over the other, and Ptolemaios was uneager to throw in any more soldiers, as the phalangite line did not falter. At that time, though, some of the Roman cavalry had managed to cross past the lines and were on the verge of opening up an entry for the infantry.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/240%20-%20Rhegion/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1813-41-50-22bmp.jpg
Here however, it showed the superiority of the Chaonion phalangites. Two of the men of the front row split from the main ranks and swiftly cut down the horsemen, whilst at the same time, their place was taken by two others. Further on the right side of the Chaonions, were the thorakitai, engaged with Greek hoplites conscripted by Skipio to fight under the Roman banner. At that point, Ptolemaios ordered the Agrianian reserves to surround the hoplite line.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/240%20-%20Rhegion/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1813-42-39-10bmp.jpg
By that time had the reinforcements arrived, led by a cousin of Skipio [known as ΣΕΡΥΟΣ ΚΟΡΝΕΛΙΟΣ ΣΚΙΠΙΟ ΑΣΙΝΑ in later Greek writings]. Now Ptolemaios ordered the Prodromoi onward, who soon clashed with Servios' bodyguard.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/240%20-%20Rhegion/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1813-43-22-28bmp.jpg
Soon though, the more experienced Roman soldiers had found a way to break through the phalanx line of the pezhetairoi and were now engaged in close-combat with the Makedonian phalangites.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/240%20-%20Rhegion/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1813-43-41-46bmp.jpg
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/240%20-%20Rhegion/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1813-43-49-47bmp.jpg
On the far right side, the rest of the Romans had followed their example, and the front line of the Chaonions were forced to drop their pikes and draw their swords.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/240%20-%20Rhegion/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1813-43-45-51bmp.jpg
To Ptolemaios' surprise, the Kalabrian hoplites had not yet surrendered and were fighting with fierce determination, even though they were surrounded and attacked in the rear by the Agrianian shock troops.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/240%20-%20Rhegion/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1813-44-24-83bmp.jpg
At that point, however, came a crucial turning point in the battle. Skipio the Younger's horse had been cut down from under him and he was crushed underneath his steed. His head was then punctured by several blows from Agrianian soldiers.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/240%20-%20Rhegion/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1813-45-31-40bmp.jpg
Due to Skipio's death, most of the Roman line was faltering, and as the Roman cavalry was routed, the Agrianians pushed on, now engaging with the Roman Allied heavy infantry.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/240%20-%20Rhegion/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1813-45-34-66bmp.jpg
It was then that Ptolemaios decided to finally employ his deadliest units, the 36 Elephantes from the Indus river. The greatest difference between the use of the Seleukids and the Epirotes was the fact that Pyrrhos had developed a technique which employed the elephantes as a cavalry screen, and not so much a force to be thrown in at the front. The results for the Roman lines were catastrophic:
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/240%20-%20Rhegion/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1813-45-42-40bmp.jpg
Causing a massive rout on the left side, the right side was faltering, but did yet stand. As the hoplites were finally broken, the flanks were open for Ptolemaios and his Molossian cavalry. He circled around the battle line and crashed upon the Roman lines.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/240%20-%20Rhegion/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1813-46-52-63bmp.jpg
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/240%20-%20Rhegion/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1813-47-23-02bmp.jpg
Rhegion proved catastrophal for the Romani, and proved the excellence of the phalanx combined with heavy infantry and cavalry in the west.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/240%20-%20Rhegion/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1813-52-23-07bmp.jpg
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/240%20-%20Rhegion/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1813-52-58-49bmp.jpg
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/240%20-%20Rhegion/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1813-53-11-50bmp.jpg
The Roman population of Rhegion was expelled and sold as slaves in Ambrakia, Epidamnos and Pella, though the remaining Greek population was left in peace.
And thus began the conquest of Megale Hellas.
================================================================================================
Next: Chapter V - On the Spartans
Lot's, LOT'S of battles coming up in the next chapters.
Maion Maroneios
12-23-2008, 20:47
Yay! Kill the filthy Romaioi barbaroi! Liberation to Megale Hellas! Excellent chapter and nice shots mate:wink:
Maion
Centurio Nixalsverdrus
12-23-2008, 21:22
Well, three things I have to say:
That was the battlefield north of Rhegion, right? With a steep rock and a lake to the southwest, lots of forest. Your troops were positioned on the northern edge. I know it too well. :no:
I get confused very often. First you say, "Zenon died in Demetrias", then showing to other FMs have died. Then in the next lines you mention the fall of Athenai, but forget that you magically reconquered Demetrias. I think you could take more care for the continuity.
Your screenshots are marvellous. :yes:
I get confused very often. First you say, "Zenon died in Demetrias", then showing to other FMs have died. Then in the next lines you mention the fall of Athenai, but forget that you magically reconquered Demetrias. I think you could take more care for the continuity.
Oh, crap. I meant Korinthos. My apologies.
hrrypttrbst
12-23-2008, 22:31
Good chapter:2thumbsup:!And what is the problem with the romans, they attack for no reason:thumbsdown:. In my campaing they attacked Segestica and after they being defeated with huge losses they came with a diplomat asking if I please would not attack or they will attack:inquisitive:.Why begging me not to attack if they otherwise just could attack me?Oh and give tose damn spartans a kick under their but!!!!:whip:
Maion Maroneios
12-23-2008, 22:44
I'm afraid that's a RTW thing, nothing to do with EB whatsoever. Same goes with diplomacy, plus the fact that it's not tied to the actual campaign as many might think:yes:
Maion
johnhughthom
12-24-2008, 02:01
I really think this is the best AAR I have come across for telling, and showing, the story of a battle. Great stuff Hax.
SwissBarbar
12-24-2008, 10:50
Your Battle-Screenshots are just AWESOME :2thumbsup: :2thumbsup:
great update, i like how you describe battles, the screenshot were the romani crash into your lines is great because it looks as thought the romani general is spurring his men on
How big is the Arche at the moment?
All of Sicily + Sardinia + Greece + Rhegion
Thanks for all of your replies. I'll write another chapter tomorrow!
@johnhughthom: Thank you very much!
@SwissBarbar: Thanks to you too!
@Roka: Well yeah, the AI usually tends to throw his general directly at my phalanxes, so I had a limited time in which I could make those screenshots.
@Subotan: There'll be a map in this chapter.
=============================================================================
Chapter V - Taras Regained
Now, as Brettia had been secured, Ptolemaios first sent word to the tyrant of Syrakousai and requested that he sent a small force to serve as a garrison in the city. Not only he [Archinnys Prochtheios, son of Neikodamos] but also Neikodamos responded from Messana; together the new garrison consisted out of 5,000 phalangites and 1,200 peltasts.
Ptolemaios then decided to take his own army and march north again. He followed the route to Kroton, before moving north past the shoreline. They reached the city in the 537th year after the first Olympiad, and surrounded the city immediately.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1814-19-27-29bmp.jpg
At around the same time came the news that Seambys, son of Helenos, had been most successful in his campaign against the Spartans, and had regained both Athenai and Korinthos and had now laid siege to Sparta herself.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1814-21-00-61bmp.jpg
Also [via Kroton] came word from Archinnys in Syrakousai. They had built several bathing houses throughout the city, greatly increasing its popularity and hygiene. In Karali had the cult of Sarapis and Isis grown, as Antipatros [son of Pergamos] had built a shrine dedicated to the Gods. And finally, in Epidamnos had the outer walls been extended and fortified, to handle any attacks from Illyria and beyond, if the Romans chose to go that way.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1814-07-48-21bmp.jpg
================================================================================================
The relief force sent by Roma came no later than three months after Ptolemaios had commenced the siege of Taras. This army was led by a Roman of the Kornelian family, known in the Greek style as ΣΕΡΥΙΟΣ ΚΟΡΝΕΛΙΟΣ ΣΚΙΠΙΟ ΑΣΙΝΑ
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/239%20-%20Taras/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1814-28-07-52bmp.jpg
Here however, Ptolemaios knew fairly little concerning the garrison of Taras, and thus he positioned his phalangites in a single line, which bended to the south, so they could see in all directions.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/239%20-%20Taras/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1814-32-55-49bmp.jpg
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/239%20-%20Taras/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1814-32-59-72bmp.jpg
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/239%20-%20Taras/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1814-33-04-20bmp.jpg
Frustrated by his cousin's death, Servios threw himself in the lines of the thorakitai without heeding any warning or opinion.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/239%20-%20Taras/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1814-36-57-34bmp.jpg
Then however, came the reinforcements. Ptolemaios ordered his Agrianian shock troops to engage the oncoming Roman principes [as they were called in Latin].
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/239%20-%20Taras/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1814-37-49-30bmp.jpg
At that time, Ptolemaios ordered his prodromoi to circle around the flanks, while at the same time breaking his pezhetairoi up. Now the excellency of his plan became known. The prodromoi crashed into Servius' flanks, while the Elephants from the far Indus valley rushed through the now-open lines.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/239%20-%20Taras/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1814-38-43-11bmp.jpg
The elephants crashed into the line of the Roman heavy infantry, who were engaged with the Agrianians of the left flank, causing panic to spread like a wildfire.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/239%20-%20Taras/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1814-39-48-27bmp.jpg
By then, the prodromoi had already killed Servius himself, resulting in a rout on the left side. The Tarantine guard still stood on the right flank though, and were engaged with the elite Epirote phalangites.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/239%20-%20Taras/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1814-40-35-99bmp.jpg
The Agrianians, though wearied, fought bravely on against the Romans and managed to hold their ground.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/239%20-%20Taras/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1814-41-05-90bmp.jpg
Now Ptolemaios sent his personal guard to relieve the Agrianians. The heavy Molossion cavalry circled around the principes and then crashed into their rear, killing many and routing what remained.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/239%20-%20Taras/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1814-41-34-43bmp.jpg
Knowing that the leader of the northern relief force still had not been killed, Ptolemaios decided to lead his cavalry around the flanks to engage this man [known later to be ΓΝΑΙΟΣ ΑΥΡΕΛΙΟΣ ΚΟΤΤΑ] and crashed into his rear.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/239%20-%20Taras/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1814-42-09-66bmp.jpg
Gnaios himself was thrown from his horse and was then impaled on a Chaonian sarissa.
By that time the Elephants had pushed on and were now running through the guard of Gaios, leader of the Tarentine garrison.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/239%20-%20Taras/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1814-42-33-99bmp.jpg
By now, Ptolemaios' bodyguard had killed an unkown Roman general, who had served as a "Legatus" under Servios.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/239%20-%20Taras/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1814-43-10-19bmp.jpg
Knowing that most of the Roman soldiers would now have lost their resolve to fight, he ordered his Molossian heavy cavalry to ride on and chase down the routers.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/239%20-%20Taras/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1814-44-05-20bmp.jpg
However, at that time came another army from the north, mostly consisting out of Gallioi and semi-barbarian Ligurians. They were led by Gnaios' brother, Gaios.
================================================================================================
At that moment did the Agrianians prove their worth. Even though they had lost more than a quarter of their original force, they engaged the Gallike infantry, who numbered more than thrice the Agrianian force.
After they routed the poorly-disciplined Gallike force, they were once again attacked, now in the rear by a group of Samnites and Roman hastati.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/239%20-%20Taras/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1814-46-17-55bmp.jpg
Once again did the elephants turned around and stormed through the Roman lines, crushing soldiers and throwing them in the air like a child playing with toys.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/239%20-%20Taras/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1814-46-37-84bmp.jpg
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/239%20-%20Taras/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1814-48-11-55bmp.jpg
Soon afterwards, the Elephants now crashed into the Ligurian infantry, who were among the last that still stood.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/239%20-%20Taras/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1814-48-29-99bmp.jpg
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/239%20-%20Taras/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1814-48-31-26bmp.jpg
The thorakitai, placed some two stadia from the elephants had pushed on and were now dealing with the last of the Keltoi infantry standing on the field. They were soon joined by the Elephants, whose very sight caused the Keltoi to break and rout.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/239%20-%20Taras/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1814-48-53-04bmp.jpg
Shortly therafter, Gaios, commander of the Tarentine garrison was killed, too.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/239%20-%20Taras/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1814-49-09-92bmp.jpg
Taras was one of the worst days for the Roman Republic. They had lost four of their finest generals and lost their important naval city of Taras [Tarentum in Latin]. In total, over 20,000 Romans were killed that day.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/239%20-%20Taras/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1814-52-17-05bmp.jpg
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/239%20-%20Taras/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1814-53-46-25bmp.jpg
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/239%20-%20Taras/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1814-53-53-29bmp.jpg
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/239%20-%20Taras/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1814-54-09-70bmp.jpg
And the road to Taras was paved with corpses.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/239%20-%20Taras/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1814-55-40-84bmp.jpg
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/239%20-%20Taras/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1814-56-18-71bmp.jpg
As in Rhegion, the Roman population was expelled from the city, though those with Hellenic blood were left in peace and were allowed to continue their own lives as they pleased.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/239%20-%20Taras/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1814-56-31-66bmp.jpg
So was the battle of Taras. With the news that Taras had been conquered, Archimedes put together another map in Syrakousai.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1814-57-32-30bmp.jpg
================================================================================================
Next: Chapter VI - On the Spartans
Maion Maroneios
12-26-2008, 15:33
Another excellent chapter, Strategos Haxos:bow:
Maion
Great job! Been following this for a while, Hax. The pics are particularly awesome.
Centurio Nixalsverdrus
12-26-2008, 20:23
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/239%20-%20Taras/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1814-39-48-27bmp.jpg
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/239%20-%20Taras/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1814-42-33-99bmp.jpg
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/239%20-%20Taras/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1814-44-05-20bmp.jpg
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/239%20-%20Taras/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1814-54-09-70bmp.jpg
Just awesome. :bow:
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/239%20-%20Taras/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1814-33-04-20bmp.jpg
Best screen. I presume you're using general cam?
[CENTER]https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1814-57-32-30bmp.jpg
Nice. I'm liking that KH expansion, but who's that south of Qarthadast?
MerlinusCDXX
12-28-2008, 02:02
originally posted by Subotan Nice. I'm liking that KH expansion, but who's that south of Qarthadast?
That's the Saba, the other Semitic culture faction, though they most likely got that territory through rebellion, because they are located in S. Arabia. That's just too far away for their army to get to, and they will most likely lose it to rebellion themselves (where it will revert to eleutheroi).
I thought so, but I've never seen that before. Still, they look like they're doing pretty decent, considering they hav two territories.
Actually, when I saw that Karthage was losing Kirtan to rebellion (perfect spy), I decided to give it to the Saba, together with those other desert provinces.
HunGeneral
12-28-2008, 18:48
Great update Hax!~:thumb:
Your going quite well - I even get a feeling to start an epeirote campaign:dizzy2: (although I just put Phyrros to rest while playing as the makedones:charge: - thoughest battle ever:skull:)
Epeiros is a sweet campaign, but the start can easily go wrong. You have to act fast and decisively, making sure that neither Hellas, nor the Romani grow too powerful, or there is no chance of taking either of them down.
MarcusAureliusAntoninus
12-31-2008, 00:09
Just read the latest update. Great job.
Thanks to everyone for your great replies. It really helps me going on!
@Subotan: Actually, I'm not using General cam. I find it way too unhandy ;-;
=============================================================================
Chapter VI - On the Spartans
As Ptolemaios seated in the palace at Taras, multiple messengers from Hellas and Makedonia came to his court. First were those sent by the various rulers of the great cities, bringing news of the increased welfare throughout the Epirote kingdom.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1822-04-42-02bmp.jpg
In Korinthos, all of the Epirote order was restored and all of the Peleponessos was now a part of the Kingdom. Karalis was now honoured with a shrine dedicated to Sarapis and Isis, spreading their religion throughout the Hellenic world.
===================================================================================================
Three months passed, and as the summer sun scorched the fertile earth of Kalabria, news arrived from the windy Kimmerikon, as well as from Sikilia.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1820-58-13-11bmp.jpg
In both Chersonesos and Messana were now fully enclosed sewers running underneath the city, which made a deep impact on overall health. Large tracts of land had been given out throughout the island as well to soldiers, especially near the recently razed city of Akragas (which was slowly being rebuilt).
Also came the news that the Epirote fleet under command of a certain Horaikides had cut off trade to and from the Karkhedonian mainland.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1820-53-41-92bmp.jpg
=================================================================================================
Finally, in the 540th year after the first Olympiad, the son of Pyrrhos received news from Seambys. He had taken both Athenai and Korinthos with fairly little resistance, as the Spartan force had taken many casualties when taking those cities. It was during the march on Sparta herself that the King's nephew was met in the field.
He was attacked by Nikanor of the Aithalidai, a grandson of Chremonides, and a small contingent that had been sent to the Aitolians to discuss an alliance.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/239%20-%20Peleponessos/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1814-08-36-05bmp.jpg
As his father and grandfather had been killed during the siege of Athenai, Nikanor's mother and sisters fled to Rhodos where they were met by Eugenios Rhodios, a friend of the Athenian Archon. He spent most of his youth in Rhodos, studying under several teachers, amongst them Apollonios of Pergaios.
As he completed his tutelage at the Akademia at Rhodos, he set sail for Megalopolis (who was then still under Achaian control) and drew his personal bodyguard from there. From there he rode to Sparte, where he urged the Spartan King (Areios II) to attack the Epirote holdings in the Peleponessos and to reconquer Athenai himself. After a long and heated discussion, the Areios complied and struck while Ptolemaios was pre-occupied fighting the Karkhedonians and Romans in Sikilia and Megale Hellas.
During that time, Nikanor was forced to return to Rhodos, due to his mother's death, and it took several months before he could return to Sparte. In that time, Seambys had already reconquered both Athenai and Korinthos. Enraged, Nikanor demanded that the Spartan King lended him his forces, to which the old Areios complied again.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/239%20-%20Peleponessos/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1814-08-37-79bmp.jpg
With several thousand men under his command, Nikanor marched north to confront Seambys somewhat south of Korinthos.
================================================================================================
The battle commenced on a cold autumn morning. Before Seambys himself was fit enough to command his forces, the Spartan heavy infantry had already crashed upon the lines of the pezhetairoi.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/239%20-%20Peleponessos/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1814-12-33-46bmp.jpg
From the north-east came the small contingent that was sent to Thermon, and they were steadily marching towards the battle. It was then that Seambys ordered the Agrianian shock troops that had benefited Ptolemaios in his campaigns, to confront the hoplites.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/239%20-%20Peleponessos/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1814-15-13-17bmp.jpg
At that time Nikanor grew more and more frustrated due to the lack of progress in the battle. He then marched forwards with his 100-men strong Megalopolian bodyguard and crashed unto the phalanx line. It was this moment that Seambys had been waiting for. In his youth in Pella, he had closely studied the way that Megás Alexandros fought with his hetairoi and had crushed the Hellene resistance at Chaeronea, as well as the Persian defeat at Gau Gamela.
In resemblance to the immortal conqueror, Seambys rode around the flanks with his lonchophoroi, and crashed into Nikanor's rear.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/239%20-%20Peleponessos/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1814-16-00-84bmp.jpg
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/239%20-%20Peleponessos/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1814-16-03-24bmp.jpg
Nikanor, realizing he had left no rear guard to deal with attacks from behind, was crushed into the ground by the hooves of the broad Chaonion horses, breaking his legs. His skull was then crushed multiple times with the butt-spikes of the Agrianian axes, and the sound of his voice was never to be heard through the Akademia in Rhodos again.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/239%20-%20Peleponessos/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1814-16-16-82bmp.jpg
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/239%20-%20Peleponessos/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1814-16-19-67bmp.jpg
At around the same time, the Agrianians had broken through the hoplite lines of Molon, the leader of the Thermonian assembly, and he too, was cut down.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/239%20-%20Peleponessos/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1814-17-15-61bmp.jpg
The loss of the two generals, as well as the multiple charges by the prodromoi and lonchophoroi caused the entire army to rout and break off.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/239%20-%20Peleponessos/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1814-17-38-31bmp.jpg
In total, no more than three men returned to Sparta, carrying with them the broken body of Nikanor. When the remaining city-states heard of Nikanor's death, Megalopolis and Elis immediately surrendered, and the surrender of Messene [on the Peleponessos] came soon afterwards.
The only city that remained was Sparta.
================================================================================================
Next: Chapter VII - On the Roman Campaign
A bit of a short chapter, but I though the Koinon Hellenon deserved this much attention.
Olaf Blackeyes
12-31-2008, 00:32
Wow u sure tore the KH a new !#!!@##. GJ Hax
Personally, if I was Messene, I would have sided with the Epeirotes to get back at those Spartans. But EB isn't detailed enough for that, is it? :no:
Great update though, but do blockades actually do anything to the AI?
It decreases their trade capabilities.
hrrypttrbst
12-31-2008, 15:01
And for roleplaying purpose.Also good AAR:2thumbsup:!Good you gave the spartans a kick under their but :whip: and that you did let them see that they are not the best warriors in Greece:laugh4:
wow, some pictures are really beautiful, wide-screen type, great clean aar so far!
Phalanx300
01-02-2009, 00:52
And for roleplaying purpose.Also good AAR:2thumbsup:!Good you gave the spartans a kick under their but :whip: and that you did let them see that they are not the best warriors in Greece:laugh4:
Blasfemy!:whip:
And a nice AAR:2thumbsup:.
Though conquering Sparta would be a tactical mistake, think of how you army would suffer and meet defeat! :whip:
gamegeek2
01-02-2009, 01:11
Set up some Thermopylai thing!
This AAR is a great read. :2thumbsup:
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/239%20-%20Taras/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1814-28-07-52bmp.jpg
That's a very interesting composition for a Roman army.
Kuningaz
01-04-2009, 18:41
A relly great AAR:2thumbsup: Now go for Roma!
hrrypttrbst
01-04-2009, 20:25
Could it also be possible to let show a screenshot of the map so we can see the AI progression Hax???? Still good AAR :2thumbsup:
There will be a another screenshot of the map coming up in one of the next chapters. Don't know when I'll have time and inspiration to write it, though!
hrrypttrbst
01-05-2009, 17:18
Take your time and play when you feel to it.There is no rush behind it.
Titus Marcellus Scato
01-15-2009, 14:46
Great AAR, just used it for inspiration. Boy, those elephants rock against phalangites! And they're good at knocking down wooden palisades too. Great fun! And I loved reading the story.
Only adverse comment I'd make with the AAR is that pic with Epirote phalangites standing on a very steep slope. That's an 'exploit' as far as I'm concerned.
Historically, phalanxes had to operate on flat ground to be effective. Ordinary hoplites could defend the slopes of a hill, but not phalangites with their heavy 18 or 21 foot sarissas - those things could only be balanced if they were level.
I always deploy phalangites on level ground only. Even if that means giving up a terrain or deployment advantage to the AI. Even if that means that they occasionally don't get into the fighting at all, and I have to try and win (or lose!) without them.
Phalanx300
01-15-2009, 17:40
It isn't really that big a exploit. Only in the way that the AI doesn't move to a more favorable position.
And it did happen in History, when the Makedonians and the Romans clashed the Makedonians pushed back the Romans in Cynoscefalai I believe. They were fighting from the high ground.
Olaf Blackeyes
01-15-2009, 18:47
It isn't really that big a exploit. Only in the way that the AI doesn't move to a more favorable position.
And it did happen in History, when the Makedonians and the Romans clashed the Makedonians pushed back the Romans in Cynoscefalai I believe. They were fighting from the high ground.
And what was the outcome of the Dog's Head??? Romani victrix
HunGeneral
01-15-2009, 19:38
Well if we think about it: putting Phalangites on level ground on top of a hill so that the sarissas tip reaches to the point where the enemy gets to the more "level" ground on top of the hill isn't unreallistic - they can balance the weapon and the enemy surely tires before they reach the top.
I know this isn't really the case here but if this becomes the situation then using you Phalagites in a way described above is (in my opinion) accepteable.
Chapter V - On the Roman Campaign
In that year, the 537th after the first Olympiad, as Ptolemaios prepared his army to move northwards towards Taras, did his great-nephew Seambys moved south through the Peleponessos and laid siege to the polis of Sparte herself. Many of the Spartan homioi at that point moved from their hometown and fled towards the poleis of Mikras Asias or far-off Emporion.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1814-21-00-61bmp.jpg
The only ones that remained in Sparte were some of the older citizens as well as the poorer citizens. Altogether, they hardly had enough soldiers to properly defend the polis.
Ptolemaios had at that time received messages from the polis of Neapolis, which had long been an ally of the Epirote throne, even before Pyrrhos became Basileos. The Romaioi were once again amassing their forces in Kampania. Ptolemaios perceived this as a threat and wasted no further time in Taras. He quickly amassed his forces once again. Before he left, he sent final word to Ambrakia to start levying forces once again in the city of Epidamnos; this due to the news that the Illyrioi tribes were raiding the north of Epiros.
Around the same time had Archimedes of Syrakousai composed his second map, detailing the extent of the Epirote kingdom.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1814-57-32-30bmp.jpg
Ptolemaios finally left Kalabria in spring, as the trees in Megale Hellas started blossoming and the air became fresh with the scent of lavander. Ptolemaios' force marched for three months without encountering any form of resistance, and before the summer sun scorched the Kalabrian shore they had reached the Romani stronghold at Arpoi. There Ptolemaios set up his camp and prepared for a siege of the city.
Messengers from Taras came and went to Ptolemaios during autumn and continuing into the mild winter of Megale Hellas. Most came with the news of new constructions in Hellas, seeing how the mainland of Hellas was now flourishing due to the immense increase of trade due to the alliance between the kings of Seleukeia and the Epirote kingdom and the undisturbed mining in Thraikia since the unification of Hellas and Thraikia.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1822-04-42-02bmp.jpg
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1822-04-44-29bmp.jpg
In the islands of the west the followers of Sarapis and Isis were spreading their faith, and the city of Korinthos was once again merged with the Epirote kingdom as before the Spartan invasion. Taras was preparing for possible attacks and was thus preparing barracks and military complexes for the levies and the town of Rhegion was preparing for the new sewage system by completing the process of sanitanization. Finally, the city of Μαρσαλα or Lilibeo in the speech of the Phoenicians was once again engaging in trade with the Karchedonoi since the peace treaty of Syrakousai signed several years earlier. The re-engagement of trade resulted in the expansion of the natural harbours of Marsala.
Before long however, the Romaioi sent a force to relieve the siege of Arpoi. Battle was coming.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/237%20-%20%20Arpi/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1822-17-31-18bmp.jpg
===========================================================================
Woohoo! It's back, I finally managed to get some time free. Thanks for your comments everybody.
Titus Marcellus Scato: I do not regard myself as an expert on phalangite combat, so I had no idea. I might mind it in the future.
Centurio Nixalsverdrus
04-08-2009, 20:06
Hey, I read your Anabasis, you read mine... :wink:
:smiley: I thought your AAR dead to be honest - great to see that I was mistaken! I like you writing style. Didn't know that the Greeks called Lilibeo Μαρσαλα - I just "graecisized" it in my campaign to Λιλυβαιον.
I don't know whether they called it that, though the Wikipedia entry for Lilybaeum redirects to Marsala.
johnhughthom
04-08-2009, 23:06
Woah, back from the dead! Strangely I mentioned this in another AAR a few days ago and now it's back. :beam:
Centurio Nixalsverdrus
04-09-2009, 00:18
I don't know whether they called it that, though the Wikipedia entry for Lilybaeum redirects to Marsala.
German Wikipedia says Marsala means "Port of Allah" and was introduced by Arabs in the 9th century. But then it's only Wikipedia... :shrug:
Vasiliyi
04-09-2009, 05:03
Woah, back from the dead! Strangely I mentioned this in another AAR a few days ago and now it's back. :beam:
Yes you mentioned it on my aar, and I found it just to compare the screen shots. I think hes got the elephant ones going for him.. Still excellent aar. Keep it up Hax
Maion Maroneios
04-09-2009, 10:58
Marsala is deffinately not what the Hellenes called Lilibaeum. They called it Lilibaion, like Centurio correctly stated. Hoping to see more of this, btw :wink:
Maion
Oh that might be right, Maion. I just like the ring of it XD
MarcusAureliusAntoninus
04-09-2009, 21:08
Whoa. I thought this was dead, too. Good to see it back.
julius_caesar_the_first
04-09-2009, 23:06
Good to see this isn't dead. I thought about unsubscribing some time ago but decided to give it some more time. Glad to see you're back:beam:
Chapter VI - On the battle of Arpoi
Ptolemaios first received news of increasing Romaioi activity in the 539th year after the first Olympiad, as the winter passed into spring and the area surrounding Ptolemaios' campsite became full of life again. The Roman relief force was led by a man known as Caius Cornelius Blasio, or ΚΑΙΟΣ ΚΟΡΝΕΛΙΟΣ ΒΛΑΣΙΟ in Greek. Although Blasio was one of the most influential men in the lands held by the Romaioi, he was of a treacherous kind and sought to defeat Ptolemaios for his personal glory. This also caused him to welcome strangers to his people to his side, as he sought a way to defy the will of the Romaioi senate.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/237%20-%20%20Arpi/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1822-17-18-40bmp.jpg
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/237%20-%20%20Arpi/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1822-17-08-92bmp.jpg
Ptolemaios faced the Romaioi on a grassy hill, with his pezhetairoi aligned at the top, giving them a clear advantage.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/237%20-%20%20Arpi/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1822-33-34-76bmp.jpg
Behind the Pezhetairoi were the Skuthioi archers, which had come all the way from Kimmerika to aid Ptolemaios in his campaign against the Romaioi.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/237%20-%20%20Arpi/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1822-33-38-21bmp.jpg
Guarding the flanks were the fierce and noble warriors from the Greek apoikiai in Megalé Hellas. In the language of the Romaioi they were known as the Samnitici Milites; in Greek the name Aichmetai Maleontou, named after the polis of Maleonton.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/237%20-%20%20Arpi/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1822-33-27-25bmp.jpg
Soon after, the first of the Romaioi soldiers clashed with Ptolemaios' elite phalangitai, the Chaonion Agema from Epiros proper.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/237%20-%20%20Arpi/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1822-35-21-67bmp.jpg
At the same time did the Agrianian infantry clash with the Roman infantry from Bruttion. The Bruttioi were of a strong Italic stock and had served the Romaioi for some time.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/237%20-%20%20Arpi/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1822-35-58-38bmp.jpg
At that moment did Ptolemaios see that the Bruttian infantry severely outnumbered the Agrianians, who were quickly losing heart in the prospect of such a might. Ptolemaios then ordered the elephant corps from the far-away Indos valley to aid the Agrianians.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/237%20-%20%20Arpi/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1822-36-05-36bmp.jpg
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/237%20-%20%20Arpi/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1822-36-06-24bmp.jpg
At that moment did the Romaioi elite infantry corps recruited from the hardy peoples of Samnion charge forward. The elephantes wasted no further time and charged into the Samnite lines.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/237%20-%20%20Arpi/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1822-36-08-59bmp.jpg
As the Elephantes charged the Samnite warriors there first came news from the Chaonion Agema. One of the Romaioi captains had been killed, leaving his soldiers with no leader. He had been crushed onto a sarissa, wielded by a man named Leon Boulothrios. That same Leon would later be killed in battle, but there would forever be a mound erected in his honour in the hills of Apoulias.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/237%20-%20%20Arpi/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1822-36-39-28bmp.jpg
Battle slowly progressed. Revitalized by their success at crushing the Bruttian soldiers, the Agrianikoi moved on and engaged the elite Romaioi infantry.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/237%20-%20%20Arpi/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1822-36-50-68bmp.jpg
The elephantes had already circled around and were now too engaging the Samnitioi soldiers. Many would never return to their home and the battlefield would be rank with the smell of blood for a very long time. Later children would avoid coming near the place, calling it the Home of Ghosts. It was said that if in the middle of the night, in late spring you would sound a horn in the hills of Apoulios, you could see the ghost of Ptolemaios leading his soldiers onward.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/237%20-%20%20Arpi/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1822-36-57-43bmp.jpg
As the battle continued the last of the Romani elite soldiers clashed with the foot-companions of Ptolemaios. Knowing that the Romaioi would not engage their Trarii (as they were known in the tongue of the Romaioi) until the last moment, Ptolemaios predicted that the battle would soon be over.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/237%20-%20%20Arpi/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1822-38-53-14bmp.jpg
Knowing that the Romaioi army would most likely rout if their leader would be killed, Ptolemaios ordered the elite Molossian cavalry onwards. He quickly passed the lines of the Agrianian infantry and rode around the hill. Aligning his cavalry directly opposite of the Romaioi cavalry of Blasio, he clutched a horn from his second-in-command and delivered such a mighty blow that the horn cracked. The earth soon shocked under the weight of more than 2,000 horsemen crashing into the Romaioi cavalry.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/237%20-%20%20Arpi/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1822-40-11-69bmp.jpg
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/237%20-%20%20Arpi/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1822-40-12-63bmp.jpg
The prodromoi joined in as well, sending a second shockwave through the Romaioi lines as they came crashing down on Blasio's bodyguard.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/237%20-%20%20Arpi/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1822-40-43-17bmp.jpg
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/237%20-%20%20Arpi/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1822-41-34-24bmp.jpg
Finally, Blasio's horse was cut down from underneath him and his skull was crushed on the rocks of the Apoulian hills.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/237%20-%20%20Arpi/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1822-41-40-81.jpg
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/237%20-%20%20Arpi/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1822-41-48-72bmp.jpg
In total, the death-count on the Epirote side counted no more than four dozen in total, though barely 200 Romaioi found the way back to their home in Lation. Apoulias was under Epirote control.
https://i187.photobucket.com/albums/x152/Elphir/EB/Epeiros%20AAR/Battles/237%20-%20%20Arpi/RomeTW-ALX2008-12-1822-44-18-94bmp.jpg
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Next: Chapter VIII - On the city of Rome.
Thanks for everybody's comments, I really appreciate it.
Centurio Nixalverdrus: Yes! I will completely read your AAR, I'm very interested. Expect comments there!
Vasiliy: Thank you very much.
MarcusAureliusAntoninus: Like the Molosson Agema coming from the woods, so has this AAR! I finally found time for it again; I'm in my final exams year and I had to do a lot for school. Seeing that I have four days off from school now, I hope to be able to write some more in the future.
julius_ceasar_the_first: Thank you very much! =D
Maion Maroneios
04-10-2009, 15:13
Exceptional update, Hax! I'm getting happier with each Roman death I witness in your AAR :beam:
Maion
Then you will be very happy with a lot of the upcoming chapters =D
HunGeneral
04-10-2009, 15:48
Great battle-story Hax!
I also believed this AAR to be dead - but thank God I was wrong. Good to see it back. The Title of the next chapter really caught my interrest...
Centurio Nixalsverdrus
04-10-2009, 19:38
Really awesome pics, as usual! I especially like the story of the ghost haunted plain when one could hear the horn of Ptolemaios...
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