Journey Of The Hellenes [Archive] - Page 2

Chirurgeon

03-05-2009, 04:24

XXIX - Return to Vellika
245 BC
Titus Anthony revealed that he had seen this man we captured talking to a certain Makedonian merchant. Turns out the man wasn't a merchant at all. He disguised himself so that he would not draw suspicion. Although he is nameless it would seem that he was working for the Makedonians. Although that explains how the Lusitann made their gains, but it does not explain why the Kart-Hadastim had gained their formal territories. The only plausible explanation is that Kart-Hadast knew of the plot and was in on the planning. However proving that would be most difficult indeed.
***
Appolonia had become ill with a fever and although she is now fine I had to spend a month at home. Dorus caught up on some much needed schooling. With the main army in Cantabria laying siege to the capital there, it was a time to return to a more normal life. Each day Dorus and I would walk to the large school and he would learn from the great minds of our age. The ancient philosophies had made a resurgence. The cities were again returning to normal. A large number of levied Hellenes occupied Numantia and the trade with that city was flourishing. Thousands of people were flocking there and searching the hills for the lucrative deposits of iron held in the rock. As soon as it was feasable it was hoped that mines could be constructed. However that might take a while as the threat from the Lusitann was omnipresent.
I celebrated my 45th birthday and it was a wonderful feeling. I have outlived many others and would hopefully live even longer. Dorus was 20 and had met a girl at the academy. As I watched him they spent much time together. Hermina was her name and she came from an Athenian Nobleman who had resettled here many years ago. Although she is only 15 their love for each other is apparant. By the fall of the year the issue of marriage had come up. My son was going to be a father. The gods have blessed the couple with a baby. For now Hermina's body is the temple for the child but some time next year it would leave her temple. In the cool of the winter they were married.
I asked Dorus if he wanted to accompany me to Vellika and he did not. He wanted to spend this campaign season with his wife and their soon to be baby. Overall the year has been a good one. The vineyards and orchards at the estate produced wonderful grapes and olives. Apparently in Roma the love of Iberian wine was quite the rage. I fetched top prices for my varietals and the olives did well also. Massalia had salt flats near the Rhodanus river that could be stripped and kegs of salt sent various places. The salt was very valuable and made the Massalians a rich lot. Used to preserve food it was a vital component in all aspects of food production and storage.
***
I travelled with some four thousand levied men that were heading to Numantia. I too would travel to this new city and like every other city I visited, I would look for lucrative trade deals with the merchants in Emporion.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/245-1.jpg

SwissBarbar

03-05-2009, 08:25

Epeiros losing its sovereignity to Roma? :dizzy2: What of good old Pyrrhos. Congratulations for becoming grandpa' :2thumbsup:

the man with no name

03-06-2009, 02:27

XXIX - Return to Vellika
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/245-1.jpg

Holy shit epeiors and roma clients!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!Amazing!

Chirurgeon

03-06-2009, 21:24

sorry about the lack of updates the last few days. I have been playing E:TW and its pretty fun. It has a bit of a learning curve and the economic model is vastly different from other games in the series. anyway I will have some updates this weekend. I was surprised by the protectorate status of Epirus as well. It has held for some time. The Epirotes still hold Taras and a few place north of the Aegean, south of the Danube. They even hold Patavium. Very weird arrangement.

the man with no name

03-07-2009, 01:30

Chirurgeon

03-07-2009, 05:02

XXX - Two Front War
244 BC
Lugos and Armin had traveled north with the Army under Agis. The king was still ruling here in Numantia and he had enough faith in his son to capture the city of Vellika. In the late of winter before the spring grass came through the snow, the Lusitann challanged him for the city. A substantial garrison had formed but were mostly poorly equipped men of lower class. Although they gave a good fight they were beaten. Vellika once again fell into our control and as a result our cash starved treasury received a necessary infusion. I was busy lining up purchases for all the Iron that was being housed in Numantia.
***
I received word in the summer that Hermina, my son's wife, had given birth to a baby girl. This was good news and alas I was a grandfather. Dorus was working in the palace under Doros Attikos. His responsibility seemed to be with the monies of the palace. As a treasury clerk he helped monitor the transactions between the government and the military. Dorus had written me several times saying how the armies were once again costing too much money. In a meeting with the king, with all the evidence of a dwindling treasury, Akratatos agreed to spend less money on training his men. With a hardened group of veterans it would still do fine in battle. The lower class of citizens were tapped for this duty because the middle class was mostly consisting of craftsmen and other important roles. For the first time non property owners were allowed to join the army. However the pay was much less than a well trained hoplite. Many of these men were already employed as a garrison in Velika and Numantia.
***
Grim news from Massalia. The Romans had formed an alliance with our enemy the Aedui. The Massalians were under siege by a significant Roman force under command by a man named Servilius. In addition the king of the Aedui had left Mediolanum in the Po valley and was marching towards Massalia. The Massalians were in deep trouble should that army also siege the city. King Akrotatos had made it clear that he must press on here in Iberia. With the fall of Velika the door was opened for further operations west. His plan was to hug the northern coast and steal away lightly defended regions. Arse would act as a buffer between the Kart-Hadastim and ourselves. However the Lusitann were not playing along with that. As Agis moved to cross back into Cantabria with replenished forces he was faced with two armies of Lusitann. He would have to engage them and clear the way so that he could resume marching west. Lugos wrote me the details of the battle:
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/244Letter.jpg

https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/244-5.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/244-6.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/244-7.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/244-8.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/244-9.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/244-10.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/244-11.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/244-12.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/244-13.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/244-14.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/244-15.jpg

The Lusitann are a resilient foe that's for sure. I hope the King's plan works. Perhaps fighting deep in their territory will draw attention away from our holdings, or they might use the absence of the army and assault us while we are relatively defenseless.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/244-3.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/244-16.jpg

A Very Super Market

03-07-2009, 06:50

O__O

Oh my...

I hope playing ETW won't cause you to forget all your tactics in Rome. :P

Chirurgeon

03-07-2009, 07:38

im actually looking to upgrade my pc tomorrow. ETW is just too choppy and looks worse than RTW
I have my saved games on my flash drive though

Tyrfingr

03-07-2009, 10:03

Man, Tolosa is up for the taking...take it!

the man with no name

03-07-2009, 17:14

Man, Tolosa is up for the taking...take it!

He can't do that cuz he has to defend himself.

Chirurgeon

03-08-2009, 02:41

XXXI - Return of the Aedui
243 BC
It took some time but I left Numantia and joined up with the army marching west. We followed the Ebro river far into Cantabria. Alas we crossed it near Vellika and continued our trek West. We passed many villages and the people stared at us with awe. They were vastly different from us. From the houses they lived in to the clothes on their backs. We would camp for the night in a sheltered area if possible. Only the Hellenic troops were allowed to keep watch at night. We all still feared the betrayal of anyone outside of our own culture. Our journey continued west and the land was absolutely stunning and so vastly different than the rest of Iberia I had been too. Mountains on either side of a valley filled with enormous trees. Fog was ever present in these places. Only the afternoon and early evening brought respite from it. The thick forests would be a perfect spot for and ambuscade and yet our luck held as we continued to press into the interior.
Alas by the winter we came upon the center of the region known as Asturia. Here we laid siege to the capital called Palantia. It was not much of a town...more like a sprawling village. The winter was miserable but due to ample wood from the region we could warm ourselves with wonderful fires. Some of the men created a primitive bath in a tent by heating stones and then pouring water on them. It enabled us to keep a certain degree of hygeine in a beautiful but simultaneously dirty environment.
***
As we lay siege and await the spring to start moving again our friends in Massalia were attacked by a large and brutish force of Gallic men from Northern Italy. The Romans had abandoned their siege only to be replaced by a huge force, in comparison to the garrison, of the Aedui. They soon stormed the walls of the city but thanks to some cunning they were able to keep the Aedui from capturing the town. Fighting raged in the streets for a day as the hoplite formed a barrier to the passage of the enemy. The narrow streets of the city were advantageous to its defense. Exhausted and likely hungry they Gauls abandoned their attempt and half their men lay dead in that attempt. It would give the Massalians time to equip more men to defend the city and to stand their ground. I worried that a determine foe would break the city and open the way to an invasion of our lands here in Iberia.
Our good king knew this as well. As I traveled with his son the pressure of reducing the Lusitann threat loomed great on everyone's mind. With the Romans and the Aedui, who had become allies, this would be a very contentious time. The question on everyone's mind was if Massalia could hold off the enemy long enough till we could come to defend them or there was enough gold to raise their own army. The catastrophic loss of the last Massalian army surely weighed heavy on Nicator's mind as he contemplated the defense of his beloved city.
***
With the Makedonian ruse discovered their credibility with the other world powers diminished. To improve their standing they offered an olive branch and swore that they would not attempt such sabotage again. It gave us pause that they would do this but at the same time I questioned their motivation. Nonetheless unless we do something to provoke them then it is likely that the peace will endure. With peace and trade resuming with the Kart-Hadastim then the real focus can be on the Lusitann. Despite the two being allies it seems that the Kart-Hadastim are reluctant to get involved with another war with us.

Chirurgeon

03-08-2009, 02:45

sorry about no pictures in the update. I got a new Dell computer today(http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?skuId=9180423&type=product&id=1218046802234), so I lost one year of pictures. The good news is that I may add videos again because I have the room on my Hard drive :) I will try and update tomorrow.

Olaf Blackeyes

03-08-2009, 05:23

GO CHRURIEGON!:laugh4::laugh4::laugh4::laugh4::laugh4::laugh4::laugh4:
Only you could conflict my interest so that i gotta root for the Lusos rather than my SECOND FAVORITE FACTION the KH:dizzy2::dizzy2::dizzy2::dizzy2::dizzy2:
Keep this up.

Lucius Verenus

03-08-2009, 06:27

Great AAR - will follow with keen interest.

Early on in my Vanilla RTW days I did something similar by Transplanting the Julii to the Caucasus and abandoning Italy altogether, just to make it harder.

That was before EB though, now I just need my new PC to finally be ready and I can Get EB into top-gear and maybe try something similar again

MAA, SwissBarBar and Yourself are not only great 'History' writers , but show what can be done with EB to get around the Terminal stupidity of the AI and make for nail-biting scenarios

Have my first ever :balloon2:

PS: Teeeny nitpick - You are using the word ALAS where the context would appear to be that you mean 'At Last' - one means something very different from the other :)

heldelance

03-08-2009, 16:18

Wow. Amazing.
You know how sometimes you read that one book that inspires you to write something?
This is one of those. I've been having problems writing anything for my book mostly due to a lack of drive to do anything with it. This AAR was good enough to actually give me some fuel to write with. :D
Awesome AAR.

Chirurgeon

03-09-2009, 14:09

Thank you all for the great comments. I finally got EB to work on my new comp. Vista has some annoying features that prevent you from using exe files. I was so excited because i can use EB on max settings and it is BEAUTIFUL for sure. Unfortunately when I took screenshots I have no idea where they went even though I made a folder for them. So my next chapter will not have any action photos. Ashame because it looks really crisp and detailed. I played total war for like 12 hours yesterday. EB and ETW. I will have an update tonight.

Reverend Joe

03-09-2009, 19:18

I finally got EB to work on my new comp. Vista has some annoying features that prevent you from using exe files.

Wait, does that mean that EB needs a special kind of install on Vista? Or do you just need to remove the security restrictions on the game folder?

Chirurgeon

03-09-2009, 21:31

it was a problem with the EB installer initializing. You would double click and nothing would happen. I disabled the security option that asks your permission every time you open something. Real overkill if you ask me. Also I was editing my preferences and when I went to save it wouldnt let me alter the original document. So I turned it off. But now I get the annoying bubble when I start that says User Protection is off. Now i just have to find a way to turn that off!

Reverend Joe

03-09-2009, 21:35

Chirurgeon

03-09-2009, 21:51

I didn't know you could turn that damn thing off... thanks a lot.
no problem. Its under control panel and I think its at the top under users.

Chirurgeon

03-10-2009, 00:23

Ok last update without pics! Damn vista wasn't putting my pics in the folder for my screenshots because it was blocking it. Another victim of increased security. Well I disabled it and it is working now...enjoy the update...you will have to use your imagination on the battle though :(

Chirurgeon

03-10-2009, 00:32

XXXII - Holding our own
242 BC

The brave Massalians have held their own against the might of the Romans and the brutality of the Aedui. Twice this year they were attacked and twice they thwarted the invaders. It was a momentous time for our dear brothers. As I celebrate my 48th birthday my son Dorus has joined me in the journey west. His wife had another child this time a girl. The Lusitann were once again reeling from their recent defeats. However we have learned, the hard way I'm afraid, that the Lusitann are quick to rebound from setbacks. As we drive further into their territory it is bound to offer more resistance.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Iberia%20Rising/Celtiberia6.jpg
***
As we waited for the city to fall, several groups of men tried to dislodge us or mainly annoy us. Rumors are that a substantial force was moving up the
Ebro river valley. Instead of waiting for the town to capitualate our dear leader decided to attack the enemy. Having fashioned rams from the surrounding countryside some of our most veteran hoplites led an attack onto the walls. As the walls splintered our slingers provided cover fire and from the howls on the other side of the wall inflicted damage on the enemy. Soon the men broke through and a short battle ensued in the street. However our men kept pouring through the cracks relentlessly. The tribesmen were surrounded and slaughtered wholesale and sent to their gods.
Our men climbed the knoll that was the center of the city and surrounded the last of the fighters. As the sun set in this distant and different land the dead were being burned and the survivors sold into slavery. As the winter set in, Agis did his best to pacify the remainder of the villagers. He would have to leave behind a garrison and then move to meet the force coming up the Ebro valley.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/242BC.jpg

SwissBarbar

03-10-2009, 08:53

Cool Arverni-Empire you got there in the north :2thumbsup:

Tyrfingr

03-10-2009, 11:52

Did Karia rebel to you?

Chirurgeon

03-10-2009, 14:52

If you mean Helikarnasas it did. I didnt realize it for a long time cause Rhodes is just sitting there on autopilot.

Chirurgeon

03-10-2009, 15:46

Chapter XXXIII - Desperate Delay
241 BC
The Lusitann were making a valient effort to thwart our progress. On several occasions they skirmished with us in a desperate attempt to wittle down our confidence. One particular encounter was noteable. As we neared a series of mountains the Lusitanns had hid themselves in some trees off to the side of a pass into the next valley. As we approached they occupied the high ground and our men had to march up the long hill to meet the enemy. The Lusitann were reluctant to engage us directly. Instead they choose to hurl javelins and stones. Eventually our hoplites moved close enough to bait them into an attack. Soon their men would quickly close with our men engage in melee for a short time and then retreat. Only then they would regain thier confidence and charge in again. Our own slingers were ineffective because they were trying to throw their stones up hill. However the slingers of the Lusitann had the advantage of height and could rain stones much further. Seeing that it was a losing proposition, Agis dismissed the Belaric slingers to fight another day. After a while of charging, retreating, and charging again the Lusitann had enough and retreated to a nearby forest. Agis knew better than to follow them into those woods. The Lusitann would nothing more than to fight in the cover of the trees.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/241-1.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/241-2.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/241-3.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/241-4.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/241-5.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/241-6.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/241-7.jpg
There were several more skirmishes each time slowing us down and buying the enemy more time. Finally by winter we had reached the last and most distant outpost of the Lusitann. The city of Tyde stood in front of us. Its meager walls paled in comparison to the seasoned and numerous garrison.
As the winter snows began to fall, work was begun on equipment to assault the walls of the city. With a large garrison and ourselves being so far from home Agis made the decision to attack the city. With many of the veterans having been injured or killed in the current campaign we would need to return to Emporion to resupply. Another large battle could seriously deplete our forces even greater. Rumors of another army marching from the south could complicate matters as well.
***
Agis had learned that the king, his uncle, had finally given his wife a boy. However by the time the boy was old enough to rule it is likely the king will have passed. Agis had also turned into a phenomonal leader. I have observed his progress as an outsider and he conducts himself magnificently. A veteran of fighting the seemingly endless armies of the Lusitann has transformed him into a tremendous leader. However it was unclear if the king would name his son as heir. The men of the army supported Agis to the grave if necessary. How would they serve a king that was not tested in combat. I too hoped that the king would recognize Agis as the true heir to the throne but with his infant son now on the scene it is unlikely. However with his son not able to rule till 16, there is a good chance that Akratatos would be dead before his son takes the throne. Agis could easily reverse the king's decision or name his own son as king. However Agis has not had a son yet so that scenario cannot play out.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/241-8.jpg

satalexton

03-10-2009, 18:06

i can tell u've turned smoke and anti-alising on full =DD

MarcusAureliusAntoninus

03-10-2009, 19:42

Interesting couple of chapters, there. Seems like you're in a very tough situation with everyone around you out for your blood. You have the possibility of an internal power struggle coming up, too.

Chirurgeon

03-10-2009, 21:43

i can tell u've turned smoke and anti-alising on full =DD
Yes you should see it when they are moving. Its seamless.

Interesting couple of chapters, there. Seems like you're in a very tough situation with everyone around you out for your blood. You have the possibility of an internal power struggle coming up, too.
Yea fortunately the Arverni are focusing their attention on Tolosa which has resisted them for a long time. I have a full levied army in Massalia defending that town. The Romans have been assaulting with half stacks and by clogging the streets with Hoplites I can grind them down. The only time I could see losing is if they had a full stack and waited the city out. But the AI is not known for doing that.
So if I can hold Massalia that keeps the Aedui and the Romans out of Iberia. The Lusitann are behaving most interestingly. In the last several engagements they have fled when their losses exceed 1/3. In both times I have attacked them. They also pick the high ground and avoid melee at all costs. Their withdrawl is not because they are broken but its rather organized. Because of that I cannot send my cavalry in because their units are intact. Its an interesting tactic for sure.
I am not sure how this possible internal conflict is going to be resolved. If Agis has a son then that makes it even more so. I wish you could name children as heirs and that would make it all the more interesting.
Thanks guys for following

Antinous

03-11-2009, 00:41

An internal power struggle would be intresting with the empire in its infancy.

Chirurgeon

03-11-2009, 07:13

An internal power struggle would be intresting with the empire in its infancy.

hardly an empire but yea i know what you mean

Chirurgeon

03-11-2009, 23:54

XXXIV - The Return of Chaos
240 BC
We spent the winter encamped near a river that separated this region from the region to our south. South of us lay the Lusitann heartland. Agis was preparing his men for the final battle against the territories of the Lusitann. I say final with hesitation since we all know that final is a relative thing when dealing with these tribes. Our supply lines were stretched to the max and our resources scant. Our dear brothers in Massalia were competing with us for troop payments. Nicator had raised quite the army in Massalia. Made up of normal men that simply wanted their city to be free, they fought hard and worked for much less pay than others. They had gained valuable experience in dealing with the marauding armies of the Romans. Although no army had come close to breaching the defenses of Massalia, the threat of constant attack wreaked havoc on trade routes. The major cities of Italy were now closed to our vessels.
The minerals and metals that lay in wait in Iberia made the success of our efforts even more important. If Agis could establish peace we would be able to tap the vast riches of this land. However the battle for this land was far from over.
The city of Tyde had a plague sweep through it during the winter months so many of the defenders has perished or been incapicated. As the winter winds began to lessen and the snows retreated, Agis ordered the rams forward. Dorus and I watched as the Hoplites marched into the city. The withstood a series of barrages of javelins that hurt our recently levied men from Emporion. Once the walls were secure our Thureophoroi moved in and began to march towards the city center. Here these men performed admirably. Taking the offensive and hurling their own javelins toward the enemy they wreaked havoc on the small group of defenders huddled in the middle of the town. Here they stood to the last.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/240-1.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/240-2.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/240-3.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/240-4.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/240-5.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/240-6.jpg
Agis was highly impressed with how the Thureophoroi had handled the defenders of the city. I had a chance to converse with him as we set to the task of preparing to travel home. He explained a few things to me that made a lot of sense. The hoplite is an ingenious defensive weapon on the battlefield. Having an impenetrable wall of spears meant that the enemy had few options when facing such a foe. The only real way to beat a hoplite infantry formation was to slug it out with another hoplite unit, pepper it with missiles till it was depleted, or flank it with some infantry or cavalry. The Iberians had success with missiles being used against the strong but relatively inflexible formation. The effective use of the javelin had left a lasting impression on Agis. He has already proven himself a wonderful commander and although he could not fathom getting rid of the hoplites for some other infantry the thought of reorganizing his army to make it more flexible was a reality.
As an infantry commander, his heart was with his men. It pained him greatly to see the men suffer and be helpless to do anything in return. His best option was to put slingers against the enemy’s missile unit. He noted that every Iberian spearmen had incredibly flexibility. They could form a battle line and pin down our phalanx. The could almost act as skirmishers by discharging their soliferrums into our own men. The could also effectively flank our own lines because they were not dependent on such a rigid formation. Agis wanted to incorporate elements of this into his own forces. He felt the Thureophoroi were the first step.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/kh_thureophoroi.gif
Agis envisioned a flexible army that could deal with the myriad of attackers that we faced. So different were the armies here in the west of the world. The phalanx had its uses but its flexibility is its greatest weakness. Keeping the units eight men deep sacrificed a great deal of space that could be used to spread the enemy out. Half the number of men spread out half as deep would achieve the same result. Especially against armies that do not employ a strict phalanx formation. His plan was to re-equip half of his hoplites and re-educate them in the tactics he held in his head.
Agis also wanted to employ more cavalry to give his army more flexibility. Overall it was a totally new approach to fighting that the people of Hellenic culture had trouble grasping. However, our young commander had a grand vision and had the success on the battlefield to give him enough capital to convince the powers to be that this was necessary.
However big his vision and the excitement and debate it generated, there always seemed to be a pressing issue. This time it was very serious. The Lusitann had managed to muster a sizeable army and marched to Emporion and lay siege to our capital. Being so far away in terrible terrain would prevent us from reaching the city before the enemy attacked. I prayed to the gods that the city could hold out.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/240-7.jpg

MarcusAureliusAntoninus

03-12-2009, 00:27

Military reforms, huh? Now all you need to to completely exploit those iron mines and be able to equip those guys in chainmail. :beam:

the man with no name

03-12-2009, 00:52

Military reforms, huh? Now all you need to to completely exploit those iron mines and be able to equip those guys in chainmail. :beam:

Yeah what he said.

SwissBarbar

03-12-2009, 10:40

Ah, there it is, the next chapter ^^ Looking forward to seeing his new flexible army.

the man with no name

03-13-2009, 00:01

Ah, there it is, the next chapter ^^ Looking forward to seeing his new flexible army.

Yup.:laugh4::laugh4::laugh4:

Chirurgeon

03-14-2009, 04:18

XXXV - A Return Home
239 BC
We moved as quickly as possible to intercept and help defend Emporion. However they attacked the city before we could get there. It turns out our garrison used the same defensive tactic that the Massalians used in their defense against attack. By the time we got close to the city, we were informed that our garrison had repelled the invaders. My wife wrote of the attack:
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/239Letter.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/239-1.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/239-2.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/239-3.jpg

Although it pained me greatly that we had lost our estate to the attack it would be rebuilt. Much of our heirlooms were still intact and they were ok. Dorus worried about his wife but I assured him that she was ok. As we arrived at the west gate the damage to the city wasn't noticeable. With a clear victory against them, Agis set up an encampment outside the city about a weeks march west. With solid walls and sentries placed on the hills around the fort, I for one felt much better.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/239-4.jpg
***
Appolonia and I spent the rest of the year putting together what the Lusitann had destroyed. It would be several more years till I saw a Harvest. Some of the grapes had to be replaced and I bought some seedlings from some nearby estates. They too had been affected. Several had left all together. But where would they go? Massalia was seemingly under constants siege and the threats here had just now ended. I had a sense that Agis was going to renew the attacks south along the coast. Eventually however this would bring us into direct confrontation with the Kart-Hadastim. However if we were to truly prosper, we would need to bring the rest of Iberia under control. If we were to offer true aide to our brothers we would need an army to travel to Massalia and press the Romans and the Aedui. Personally i was growing a bit weary of all this but it gave me hope in our recent success that our new young prince would deliver what we all wanted: Freedom from fear.
I spent the warm summer months with Lugos. He talked of how the tribes across Iberia were fragmented and their great alliance fracturing. With the estate being reconstructed I had many a goblet of wine with my old friend. We spent much time talking with Armin and Doros about what it was like before the Aegean Greeks came to our lands. I kept pondering the question of where we would be had the refugees never landed upon our shores.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/239-5.jpg
^^239 BC

penguinking

03-14-2009, 05:35

I love this AAR.

the man with no name

03-14-2009, 07:45

I love this AAR.

Me too.:2thumbsup::2thumbsup:

Husker98

03-14-2009, 08:30

this is a great AAR thats funny how the Seleucids and the Ptollies allied lol dont see that often

Chirurgeon

03-14-2009, 15:35

Thank you all for the continued support. Yea I thought that was interesting as well. I haven't seen them ally with each other.

A Very Super Market

03-14-2009, 16:41

Great to see the progress! Is that a greek province in Asia Minor?

Chirurgeon

03-14-2009, 18:09

Great to see the progress! Is that a greek province in Asia Minor?
yes it is. Apparently it rebelled to me. I didnt know it for several years though.

Chirurgeon

03-14-2009, 18:26

XXXVI - The Mandate of Peace
238 BC
Our people have suffered so much at the hands of various enemies. Even the Arvernii confederation are attacking our brothers in Massalia. Agis had had enough of this and marched his army south. I naturally traveled with him and my son was excited about the prospects. At the old age of 51 I still felt young. My son was 24 and was just as enthusiastic about the world when I was his age. I was also a grandfather for the second time. He had a young boy and named him after his wifes father, Leandros. It was a good time for my family and a good time for our new army.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/238-1.jpg
The first test of Agis's new army came shortly after crossing the Ebro. As if sensing our desire to be rid of threats to our capital the Lusitann sent a screening force north and on a warm spring afternoon challenged us to combat.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/238-2.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/238-3.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/238-4.jpg
The Lusitann no doubt thought this would be a normal skirmish where they sat back and pummeled our hoplite line from a distanced and did some flanking maneuvers. They must have been surprised when our Theurophoroi raced forward hurling their javelins at their own lines and charged in. With another line right behind them they stood in wait for either counter flanking duty or to back up the first line should casualties mount. The enemy was shocked and overwhelmed. They ran away faster than they came to meet us. Their confidence shattered and no doubt wondering how they will deal with our fast and effective light spearmen.
Shortly after this engagement another, larger force was sent to deal with us. Our Theurophoroi again moved forward. This time the first line braced for the attack and when it came the second line moved to the flanks and began to envelope them. Meanwhile the Hoplites moved forward to reinforce any possible breakthrough in the original line. The cavalry swept out to the extreme of the right and left flank and charged in to units that appeared distressed. Soon the enemy was routing and the cavalry trampled as many as possible before darkness settled over the battlefield.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/238-5.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/238-6.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/238-7.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/238-8.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/238-9.jpg
This was a convincing application of the new army and moreso they had proven themselves against a traditional enemy of this region. Having fought two battles back to back we returned briefly to the capital to replenish some of the men that we lost. For the first time the hoplite was placed to the rear as the Theurophoroi spent their time in the sunshine.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/238-10.jpg

SwissBarbar

03-14-2009, 20:00

:2thumbsup: Yeah, Thureophoroi, show them their place :2thumbsup:

Reverend Joe

03-14-2009, 20:20

By any chance, do you think you will be using Thorakitai later?

Also, what about Peltastai? They seem oddly absent.

Chirurgeon

03-14-2009, 21:50

:2thumbsup: Yeah, Thureophoroi, show them their place :2thumbsup:
They perform quite well. I was just in a large battle with them and they performed well. I love their flexibility.

By any chance, do you think you will be using Thorakitai later?

Also, what about Peltastai? They seem oddly absent.
Well I might but they are very expensive and metal armor is at a premium till I can secure Iberia and her mines. The peltasts are the preferred unit of the Massalian army. However my character has not been with that army so this is the only perspective for the moment.

MarcusAureliusAntoninus

03-14-2009, 22:01

Chirurgeon

03-14-2009, 23:25

Nice couple of chapters.
I like the line about wondering what things would have been like without the refugees. Seems like the Spartans have caused more problems and wars in the region than they've helped.
I agree. But then again Emporion would just be some city in someone's empire...I have been following your side-story and its very good. Keep it up!

Olaf Blackeyes

03-15-2009, 03:09

When r u gonna reclaim Greece?
You have Rhodes and Halikarnassos i KNOW ur thinking about it.

Chirurgeon

03-15-2009, 17:10

When r u gonna reclaim Greece?
You have Rhodes and Halikarnassos i KNOW ur thinking about it.
I don't have enough money to fight the Makedonian beast. I'm too busy trying to keep Massalia from being over run and putting Iberia under my control

Chirurgeon

03-15-2009, 17:54

XXXVII - The Battle of Edetania
237 BC
Agis moved his forces further south and laid siege to the city of Arse. Once we controlled this city and then the Lusitann snapped it away. We moved fairly quickly constructing ladders. However before we could finish preparations our scouts warned of a substantial relief force streaming across the mountains. Agis gave the order to pullback and find a suitable defensive position. Our first real test of the new army was about to begin.
***
Finding an open area that would allow good visibility and the ability of our men to move effectively our spot was chosen. The garrison and the relief force were moving simultaneously in our direction. They would be here roughly at the same time. They moved through the grass in front of our main battle line effortlessly until they heard the order to charge. Then they moved like lightning crashing into our front line of men. All the while our Theurophoroi hurled javelins into their faces. The speed of their charge was so fast that when the men were struck with the javelin their body would continue forward for some distance doing some sort of grotesque acrobatics. The collision was incredible. The sound of all that men and metal smashing together made me cringe. Soon our left and right flanks began to be affected and the second line moved in to prevent further envelopment. Agis ordered more to the left because the commander of the Lusitann garrison was on that side. He could be seen whirling his sword around, commanding his men to press home. The first line was beginning to thin and in an orchestrated move the line moved back several yards and reformed. Some of the front line had lost over half their men. The Hoplites were ordered forward. Should things deteriorate he could have the Theurophoroi retreat through the hoplites. This was something that was practiced and fine tuned. However before the order was given the enemy general was fallen. His horse gutted and his body covered in dust and blood. It was at this point the Lusitann lost their resolve. The retreated in earnest and our cavalry did their best to dispatch as many as possible.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/237-1.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/237-2.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/237-3.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/237-4.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/237-5.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/237-6.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/237-7.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/237-8.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/237-9.jpg
***
The battle won we returned to Arse only to find the gates open to us and the populace begging us for mercy. Agis did nothing to the population, of whom some were Hellenic, and even more spoke our language. I remember this city now and except for the addition of some tribal structures the city was mostly like I remember it. The roads were in disrepair as was the drainage but that could be fixed easily enough. The wall that the Lusitann had constructed was impressive and would do for a defensive fortification. The port was in terrific shape although it was empty due to the siege. It would not take long for Merchants to work their way here and do their best to clean up the city. A Rhodian was to become governor of Arse. With its great trade potential the Rhodians were always useful in the ways of merchants. Agis requested a levied garrison from Emporion and by next year it was hoped we would continue our march into Iberia.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/237-10.jpg

Olaf Blackeyes

03-15-2009, 19:17

Well i dont mean right now. But are you gonna at some point?

MarcusAureliusAntoninus

03-15-2009, 20:59

Looks like you're recovering. I bet Karchedon is going to betray you again. :embarassed:

Chirurgeon

03-16-2009, 00:25

XXXVIII - A Much Needed Break
236 BC
While Agis awaited more troops from the capital I let Dorus travel with them and I stayed here on the estate overseeing the replanting effort. The continual wars and rampaging drove a nearby estate owner out and I purchased the land. I was busy putting in all sorts of crops as the terrain was a bit flatter. A small stream ran through the property which enabled some basic irrigation. Much had to be done however. The first order of business was finding new slaves to do the hard work of preparing the fields. Giant stones had to be moved and trees had to be felled. Barriers had to be constructed to keep out grazing animals. I had five families of slaves totalling nearly forty so the demand for food was high. As they say your slave is only as strong as his last meal. With the intense labor I was purchasing much more flour than I wished and at a very high price. The chaos in Sicily and the abandonment of trade relations with the Egyptians, has driven the price of grain quite high. To offset this, I am attempting to grow my own grain. I have several good work beasts that my slaves can employ to till the land and make it more friendly for harvesting. I hired a grain merchant from the city to inspect the process since I had no knowledge. Although they yield would be nothing like the Nile grain fields it would be substantial. Hopefully substantial enough to offset the cost of feeding my small army of forced labor. I planted a new vineyard on one of the slopes that was too steep for growing grain and a new grove of olives went in as well.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Iberia%20Rising/2565524270045146464S200x200Q85.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Iberia%20Rising/olive_grove_al_koura_tn.jpg
***
As the summer came upon us the Lusitann attempted to cross a river south of Arse that Agis controlled. Again the Theurophoroi proved themselves more than capable of holding off their foe. Dorus wrote me to tell me of the battle and described it quite well.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/236-1.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/236-2.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/236-3.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/236-4.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/236-5.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/236-6.jpg
He really had taken to this narration of our soon to be king. Agis was practically worshipped by all that followed him. I just hoped that my son would maintain an objective view as he wrote about the campaigning of our army. I tought him as much as possible but it was up to him to take up what I had taught and incorporate it into his own interpretation of history

MarcusAureliusAntoninus

03-16-2009, 00:40

Good chapter.
I'm interested to know where you'll go from here...

Reverend Joe

03-16-2009, 03:10

Minor point:

However before the order was given the enemy general was fallen felled.
I don't mean to nitpick, just trying to help. Also, I am finding this AAR to be even more exciting than the Lusotannan one; I hate to say it, but that one kinda lost its drive after all of Iberia was secured pretty much for good. This one, though, is still looking exciting, and I feel like you can take it a lot farther than the Lusotann without seeming kinda contrived.

Chaotix

03-16-2009, 06:15

Just caught up from page 8 or so, and things have certainly changed in the story since then! Great AAR, keep up the good work, Chirurgeon!

ezekiel2517

03-16-2009, 23:07

don't you just love when 3 nations bully you over once city? :furious3:

Chirurgeon

03-17-2009, 23:49

XXXIX - History Repeats Itself
235 BC
The spring brought about new growth on our estate. I finally had the time to spend with my wife and grandchildren. Last years harvest was underwhelming due to its late planting, but this years wheat harvest should be more substantial. Overall this year has been good which always makes me worry.
***
My earlier feelings were justified when I recieved a letter from Dorus indicating the situation to our south. An Army from Kart-Hadast invaded Edetania and is now laying siege to Arse. They have allied with our new enemies the Ptolemai and the Lusotann are also allied with them. This is a terrible turn of events as the battle for Iberia just got more complicated.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/235-2.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/235-3.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/235-4.jpg

https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/235letter.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/235-1.jpg
The size of the army laying siege to Arse is quite large and capable. Worse yet, Agis is in the interior through some rough territory laying siege to Baikor. He may not make it back to the city in time to save the garrison! This is a catastrophe! Just when the inroads to the Lusitann could have created a lasting peace we get the Kart-Hadastim once again stabbing us in the back. If our nation could wear armor I would say to make the armor extra thick on the back.

Chirurgeon

03-17-2009, 23:51

Thank you all for following. Things are very interesting right now. Unfortunately real life has slowed down my update frequency. I will do my best to keep up

SwissBarbar

03-17-2009, 23:54

"If our nation could wear armor I would say to make the armor extra thick on the back."

awesome :laugh4: :laugh4:

Chirurgeon

03-18-2009, 01:02

"If our nation could wear armor I would say to make the armor extra thick on the back."

awesome :laugh4: :laugh4:
lol thanks. I am just so exasperated by all the enemies I have right now. Everytime I make peace they just attack me again.

Tyrfingr

03-18-2009, 01:16

I think it's time to go down the coast again and throw those lousy white merchants into the sea...

Chirurgeon

03-19-2009, 00:22

XL - Diplomatic Shifts
234 BC
We arrived too late to save the city of Arse. Much of it was ransacked and much of the Hellenic population sold into slavery.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/234-2.jpg
This angered Agis greatly and he wanted to take that anger out on the Kart-Hadastim. By the time we arrived the enemy was fully entrenched. So many had perished in this disaster. The son-in-law of the king had perished and now must deal with a grieving daughter. The governor of Massalia, Nikanor, lost his only son. The young man was to be the next governor of Arse. Such a tragedy for so many people. Merchants had been sold to the slave trade as well as aristicrats. It was a harrowing ordeal for sure. It was also a massacre of Greek pride.
Agis felt the continual threat from all these enemies would culminate in our downfall. Massalia was powerless to help as she had to maintain a full army just to keep the enemies from breaching the gates. Relief was sought with our survival in mind. It was not a light gesture when the Romans offered to protect us from the Arvernii and the Aedui. They too were also enemies with the Kart-Hadastim. Who had reclaimed much of Sicily in a brutal conflict there. Only the city of Messana remained in Roman control. Accepting the shield of the Romans to defend us against attack was a controversial decision. However it also meant we could focus on consolidating things here in Iberia.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/234-3.jpg
***
That consolidation began in earnest when the Kart Hadastim aided by a small relief force emerged from the city to fight for their right to have it. Anger and determination motivated our men while greed and wealth motivated them. Anger and determination would rule the day as the enemy fell to our forces. The battle was not organized and many of our men became separated and fought in pockets all over the battlefield. It was not a glorious victory and the sadness of realizing what had happened to the city and its inhabitants overshadowed any victory we had on the field of battle. However with their forces broken and the city in our possession an offensive to regain the colonies of Mastia and Gader would be under way as soon as possible.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/234-4.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/234-5.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/234-6.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/234-7.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/234-8.jpg
I suppose I have the energy for yet another campaign. However at the age of 56 I was not young anymore. I did get to spend some valuable time with Dorus as he continued to grow in his role as a sort of historian for the young prince. He was only five years younger than Agis and had not reached his 30th birthday.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/234-10.jpg

MarcusAureliusAntoninus

03-19-2009, 07:23

Great chapters.
Interesting turn of events.

SwissBarbar

03-19-2009, 08:20

Awesome chapter! Curse those carthaginians!

Hotseat_User

03-19-2009, 08:34

nice one :thumbsup:

but btw. what is going on in k kilikia (I mean that region north of Rhodos) ?!? :clown: maybe we will hear something from the other side of the med. :2thumbsup:

Chirurgeon

03-19-2009, 23:41

Great chapters.
Interesting turn of events.

Awesome chapter! Curse those carthaginians!

nice one :thumbsup:

but btw. what is going on in k kilikia (I mean that region north of Rhodos) ?!? :clown: maybe we will hear something from the other side of the med. :2thumbsup:
Thanks a lot guys. Karia is in my control but all I have there is a garrison. I have no intention of doing anything with them or Rhodes. Later that might change.

Chirurgeon

03-19-2009, 23:52

XLI - The End of An Age
233 BC
Late in the night we were all awoken outside of Mastia and informed that King Aratakos had passed in his sleep. It was a sad bit of news and it represented the end of an era that had begun forty years ago.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/233-2.jpg
When the king took power, the refugees had just come upon our shores. I was still a youth but I remember the events of that time vividly. I remember the fear of losing everything. I remember how my father brought me along to see the mighty Spartans. I wonder what he would think of all this now? King Agis went through the formal ceremony of becoming king in the general chambers of the governor's mansion in Mastia. I remember feeling sad because I feel as if we had just passed into a new lifetime. Not the same as our capital but it would have to do. It occured in Mastia because the garrison that held this city had been beaten by our honorable men. Dorus would begin to work as the King's personal scribe. He was an enthusiastic writer and I reminded him to keep his own journal as well. Writing about your life is the best way to reconcile your problems. It gives you great perspective on the past so that you may better deal with the future. I told him I would enjoy regular correspondance with him. He ensured me that he would update me regulary on the progress of the campaign. I had thought about staying with the army but things have changed. King Agis was young and ambitious. I did not have the same vigor as my son or our new king. Besides more pressing matters would force me to return home.
***
The Massalians with their battle hardened force would soon be departing for Emporion.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/233-3.jpg
The main reason is that the Lusitann were pushing hard into our territory again. They had captured the capital of Celtiberia, Numantia. Just recently this town on the edge of the border with the Lusitann had been producing high quality metals that were turning quite the profit. Now it was sacked and its citizens sold into slavery or put to the sword.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/233-5.jpg
Again many merchants and others had been caught up in this disgrace. The king was furious as the capture of this city meant that the supply of metal for the army had been comprimised. It was a situation that could not be tolerated. With Nikanor Attikos having lost his son to the Lusitann it took no convincing for him to mobilize his force and return to Iberia. Here he would march on Numantia and possibly further to finally bring about lasting peace.
***
I spoke to my old friend Lugos and discovered the rift between our people and the native Iberians that had been opened by treachery so long ago had almost completely closed. It was refreshing to know this. Although the Massalians swore they would never use Iberians again in their army, Agis felt that it was a possibility at some point in the future.

MarcusAureliusAntoninus

03-20-2009, 05:09

An age for the new generation is beginning... :2thumbsup:

A Very Super Market

03-20-2009, 05:15

You narrator is already 50+, are you going to keep him around until he hits the triple digits?

ezekiel2517

03-20-2009, 07:36

Akrotatos' death... something I don't want to see in my campaign :no:

Chirurgeon

03-20-2009, 14:18

You narrator is already 50+, are you going to keep him around until he hits the triple digits?
No that was his last time. His son Dorus is now taking over. The next chapter is entitled "Passing the Torch"

SwissBarbar

03-20-2009, 15:00

Looking forward to reading more of it :2thumbsup:

Chirurgeon

03-20-2009, 23:52

XLII - Passing the Torch
232 BC - Outside of Gader, Iberia
I have been busy as of late recording the actions of our army on campaign. King Agis had decreed my position as official scholar in his attendance. I was to record all meetings throughout the day. It was labor intensive, however the opportunity to perform such a duty was truly great.
Spending so much time here did make you miss your family. We were not expecting to stay long in Gader once it fell because there were pressing issues to our north. Our king had been in his title for yet a year and already he felt very comfortable in his role. To be honest for the last five years or so, Agis had been doing very kingly things. The only difference is that now he has the title to carry along with his responsibilities.
I correspond with my wife, Hermina on a regular basis. I had visited her and my two daughters and my son Leodes. However now we were preparing another campaign north and our King had commissioned a small fleet to move troops if necessary. The army of Massalia had encamped on one of the few crossings of the Ebro river far to the west of Emporion. Nikanor was less than a seasons march from the city and hoped to recapture the city again before the snows fell.
My father is 58 and I am 28. He is living the quiet life on our family estate outside of Emporion. For the last dozen years or so I have been by his side learning everything he could teach me. We have been blessed. With the exception of the estate being sacked a few times, we have persevered these crises quite well. And now with the Massalians joining the cause there is going to be increased pressure on the Lusitann. With Gader on the verge of falling and the Massalians closing in on Numantia, for the first time the Lusotann will be forced on the defensive. Now it is our turn to strike a their heartland. They had raided our lands and sacked our cities since I was a child. We have suffered much.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/232-1.jpg

Antinous

03-21-2009, 02:51

You should have the Greeks take all of the coasts in iberia and surround the lusotann, also what are you going to do with Karia and Rhodos?

the man with no name

03-21-2009, 10:15

I'm back now. nice chapters.:2thumbsup: I can still remember when i eagerly awaited ur updates. I truly love this AAR.

Chirurgeon

03-21-2009, 18:01

You should have the Greeks take all of the coasts in iberia and surround the lusotann, also what are you going to do with Karia and Rhodos?
thats essentially what I have done. The Lusitann are really fighting it though.

I'm back now. nice chapters.:2thumbsup: I can still remember when i eagerly awaited ur updates. I truly love this AAR.
Thank you. I really do appreciate the support. I should have a chapter up later today

the man with no name

03-22-2009, 01:09

I thinik i just got an idea:idea2: U get a small army to go take balaeric place. That will be a blow to Carthage's economy. Also this is ur pridicement.:damnmate: Let me rephrase wat i said earlier: i still do eagerly await ur updates, too.

Chirurgeon

03-22-2009, 01:29

XLIII - The Eviction of Kart-Hadast
231 BC
The battle for the city of Gader proved to be a potentially difficult affair but in reality was much easier than thought. Three of the largest structures I have ever seen were constructed over the course of the winter and into the spring. These massive towers were to be pushed up the walls and the gates dropped down and our men pour out to fight the enemy. However the enemy did not go along with the plan and chose to stay in the street below. One of the towers was engulfed in flames after flaming arrows took their toll. Nearly twenty men died in the collapse of the monstrosity. Still two of our towers reached the walls where our Theurophoroi poured out and secured the gateway for more of their brothers to attack. As our men entered the gate they were challenged by the heavy infantry of Kart-Hadastim. Armored in fine chainmail and given the best in shield and sword they did a fine job of slowing down our advance. However we outnumbered them and eventually they were overwhelmed. They fled back to the center of town.
Agis had divided his Theurophoroi into four groups. Each one advanced as the one before it grew tired. It was a good strategy that took a while but simply exhausted the enemy. By the time the last group arrived the enemy could no longer find the resolve to fight. Many commited suicide or died in a flurry of spears.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/231-1.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/231-2.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/231-3.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/231-4.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/231-5.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/231-6.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/231-7.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/231-8.jpg

***
With so many Phoenician citizens in the city, Agis made the decision to enslave the general population so that there would be a reduced risk for rebellion. He used his own hoplites as a garrison under command of one of his Spartan commanders. This proved effective and the city showed no signs of trouble for the rest of the year.
Agis moved his men north toward the Baitis river that separated the coastal region from the interior. Tourdetania was once again under our control.
***
We spent the remainder of the year encamped along the river and awaited the onset of winter to establish a supply base in Gader. Our newly formed fleet was busy shuttling men and supplies that had come down the coast to Mastia. Agis was preparing for a spring offensive that would strike into the lands of the Lusitann. The first of these cities was on the other side of the river and would be visible with just a few weeks of marching. The men were mostly quiet as they found themselves contemplating the psychological barrier that lay before them. Long ago my father wrote of our army coming into these lands and finding a massive force in the forests before the city of Sucum Murgi. The very forests we were prepared to march into. In that battle our men seemed to fight blind as the men of the Lusitann surrounded us and nearly destroyed the right flank. Although our men had experience the enemy, when in a forest, seemed unnaturally emboldened and willing to sacrifice more.
***
Father wrote me to tell me that the Massalians had laid siege to Numantia but was going to try and wait the city out. With a large garrison it was hoped that a relief army would move to deal with that army which could clear the way for our own. It could take more than a year for the city to fall just by simply waiting.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/231-9.jpg

Chirurgeon

03-22-2009, 19:14

XLIV - A Year Of Conflict
230 BC
Again we experienced the fury of the Lusitann warriors. Three times they attacked us. Two of these attacks were glorified skirmishes but once again the Lusitann have demonstrated excellent prowess considering that they are outnumbered each time we seem to fight them. Agis has learned much from these warriors. I hope that he employs some of their skills into our own army.
Our forces have undergone an evolution of sorts. Gone are the endless rows of hoplites. The new warrior is fast and brutally effective. A few trusted Iberians have been employed to train the men on how to become faster, deadly, and accurate with skills involving the javelin. One of the major changes is the adoption of the Soliferrum. This solid metal spear can be hurled at enemies and it punches through shield and men alike. The traditional javelin is not made of solid metal. However with the wealth of iron in Iberia, there is plenty of metal around. The horrific casualties we have endured over the years is due primarily to this weapon. It will be a welcome addition to our army.
One of the Iberians helping to train our men on the use of such a weapon is Armin. Armin is the son of Lugos and is two years older than I. His father and my father are very good friends. Friends from even before the fall of Emporion to Spartan forces. The way in which we attack our enemies has changed as well. Half of our Theurophoroi are used up front and these men are used in the initial charge. The youngest of these warriors are placed up front so that they can gain experience and prove themselves. As soon as a unit of men has proven themselves they are moved to the second rank of men which is slightly smaller than the front line. The best of the Theurophoroi are placed as reserve units behind the hoplites should a retreat be needed and the defense of the hoplites employed. These veteran Theurophoroi can be used to counter flanking attempts on the Hoplites.
***
Finally after three battles/skirmishes we have captured the city of Sucum-Murgi. This defiant city almost fell many years ago, but our men had to retreat after the fires of revolt spread across the land. Now it has finally fallen into our hands. Agis again deployed his men in groups and sought to tire the enemy with fresh troops. It has been a tactic that has worked quite well.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/230-1.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/230-2.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/230-3.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/230-4.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/230-6.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/230-8.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/230-9.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/230-10.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/230-11.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/230-12.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/230-13.jpg
***
The army is encamped to the east of Sucum Murgi as we await fresh men coming by ship along the southern coast. We have occupied the main road and sit atop a large hill that has a great vision in all directions. I suspect that Agis will be moving as soon as springtime comes. The Lusitann are determined but they are simply running out of capable soldiers. It will not be long before we march upon their capital itself.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/230-5.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/230-13.jpg

MarcusAureliusAntoninus

03-22-2009, 20:25

Interesting chapter. Looks like you're about to take complete control of Iberia. An Helleno-Iberian Kingdom? That should make for an interesting people.

Olaf Blackeyes

03-22-2009, 22:38

Look we all know that once the Lusos are finished of he gonna turn to deal with Carthage.
I only hope that he gets around top retaking the Homeland at some point.

Chirurgeon

03-22-2009, 22:46

Interesting chapter. Looks like you're about to take complete control of Iberia. An Helleno-Iberian Kingdom? That should make for an interesting people.
Well the first major change was dumping the javelin for the Soliferrum. I edited the files so that my Theurophoroi can use these. Some people may criticize me for this. However many cultures absorbed ideas from their enemies. I think it is a good step for making a flexible and strong fighting machine.
The Massalian Army still uses a traditional Hellenic army. It makes for interesting gameplay because the tactics are different that's for sure. Thanks for following!

Chirurgeon

03-22-2009, 22:47

Look we all know that once the Lusos are finished of he gonna turn to deal with Carthage.
I only hope that he gets around top retaking the Homeland at some point.

I am going to drag this out so that you go crazy Olaf :laugh4::laugh4:

Olaf Blackeyes

03-22-2009, 23:38

Well i already am insane so that wont take very long at all.
Then you shall invade Greece because you have done so and i win!!!
MUUUHHAAAAAAA!!!!!!!!:laugh4::laugh4::laugh4::laugh4::laugh4::laugh4:

the man with no name

03-23-2009, 01:27

Good job man -- as always.

Chirurgeon

03-24-2009, 01:43

XLV - A Clash of Kings
229 BC
The Lusitann had retreated to their next major stronghold. The significant fortress of Baikor lie to our east. As we marched we heard rumors that would later be confirmed that the leader of the Lusitann confederation was present in person. Here his people would make a valiant stand. If they persevered they would have time to regroup. Should they lose the hope of the confederacy would be forsaken and the alliance of the tribes would unravel. We arrived at the city in the late spring. Agis had fresh men and supplies and we began to set up siege operations. The city was cut off and now we waited.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/229-1.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/229-2.jpg
***
However that wait would not be long. Agis ordered siege equipment built and he intended to attack the city on the longest day of the year. When that day came it was hot and dusty. The early cool dawn gave way to a scorching day. Agis wanted to send a message and wanted to show an aggression that would overwhelm the Lusitann. Agis wanted a chance to show how swift and deadly his men could be. However the men knew that behind those walls a king stood with his best men at his side.
A few days before the assault the Lusotann King came out to meet with Agis. I was invited to accompany Agis to the meeting spot in front of the gates of the city. Their king was proud and wore fine bronze armor and a helm with three plumes coming out of the top. He looked like a very capable warrior. He was younger than Agis. Agis was closing in on his 45th birthday as i was closing in on my 30th. A proud man he took a single look at our army which had lined up for the occasion. The king challenged Agis to single combat. However Agis refused, saying that no matter the outcome the Lusotann would not stop harrasing what we claim as ours. Agis offered to let them return to Oxtraca without losing their lives. The king refused. Their last exchange involved their king insulting Agis calling him a coward for not fighting and then the men on the walls urinated in the direction of our army. It would be the last time I saw their king.
After that really nasty exchange Agis was more determined than ever to break this city. He ordered the attack to occur at dawn. With the Ladders prepared his men marched toward the walls and endured a hail of arrows from the towers and the javelins from the men on the walls. Soon the lead group of Theurophoroi were on the walls fighting for control but it was a very tough fight. From my vantage point I could see nothing but heads and speartips. I could see several of our standards but as the morning wore on these two disapeared from site.
At last the gateway was captured and soon the second wave of men poured into the city. Again they were challenged by a mob of spearmen just inside the gates. This fight lasted for quite some time and the enemy endured overwhelming odds. Finally they broke and with the main part of the city vulnerable the men on the walls broke also. Some of the enemy even jumped off the walls rather than face a speartip. The fighting on some parts of the wall had grown so desperate that Agis ordered his Spartans in to the fighting and soon the balance swung back our way.
The Lusitann were not finished. On the hill leading to the top of the city they made another stand and this time the king himself led the charge along with some of his elite infantry. They succeeded in killing many of our men and the ones that had survived were exhausted. Finally with just a few of his personel guard alive, the king fled towards the center of town. As our men began to turn the tide once again Agis was throwing all that he had at the resistance. The day was growing late and it would not be long before the day would turn to dusk. Still the enemy resisted. The king killed a dozen of our men including a standard bearer. This infuriated our men and they renewed their fighting with great vigor. Finally their king fell and under a setting sun the last of the nobles charged forth on their steeds. The bronze armor glinting in the fading sun. This would be the last day of the Lusitann.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/229-3.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/229-4.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/229-5.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/229-6.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/229-7.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/229-8.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/229-9.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/229-10.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/229-11.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/229-12.jpg

It almost saddened me to see all this transpire. The Lusitann had been a formidable enemy. They nearly destroyed all that we had created in this home away from home.
Soon after the defeat of the Lusitann at Baikor the unraveling began in earnest. News of this defeat spreat like wildfire and soon even the capital of the Lusitann had distanced themselves.
Agis was satisfied with what he had accomplished. He was particulary impressed with the Cavalry of the Lusitann. The nobles that had led that final charge had some of the most impressive cavalry Agis had ever seen. He hoped he could lure them to fight for him.
With the war finally over after decades of brutal fighting a great sigh of relief flowed from our people. Every city along the coast celebrated the end of the war. However the people of Iberia still had a great contribution to make. Agis planned to use these people in the future. Despite being enemies for a lifetime, the fact remained that these were now our neighbors. Like it or not we had to make the best of it.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/229-13.jpg

Olaf Blackeyes

03-24-2009, 03:47

FINALLY!!!! Now were getting somewhere.:laugh4::laugh4::laugh4::laugh4:

A Very Super Market

03-24-2009, 04:12

Croikey.

Alright, try and keep them from resurging. Make a few coach inns, demolish the uni...

Damn, I've been playing too much ETW.

Where do you go now? North to your Massalian friends, South to North Africa, or back to defeat the Maks?

ezekiel2517

03-24-2009, 07:52

40 years old? he was barely 28 the last chapter :dizzy2:

julius_caesar_the_first

03-24-2009, 12:06

1. did the lusitannan die off after you killed their faction leader? if so how did you manage to do that without a CTD when returning to the campaign map?

2. as ezekiel2517 said: how did the storyteller get so old so fast?

and of course great set of updates:2thumbsup: keep it up:smiley:

MarcusAureliusAntoninus

03-24-2009, 19:58

You only get a CTD when killing off an enemy family when that faction controls a province that cannot rebel properly.

Hotseat_User

03-24-2009, 22:12

You only get a CTD when killing off an enemy family when that faction controls a province that cannot rebel properly.

ehhh ... just for the case, how ist "rebelling properly" defined?

and as usual very good chapters Chirurgeon! :smash: :applause:

Chirurgeon

03-24-2009, 22:54

thanks guys for following. It seemed I was way off. The king is nearly 45 but there is no way that Dorus is 40. He is just now turning 30. Guess I messed that up. I fixed it.

Chirurgeon

03-25-2009, 22:55

XLVI - Home Life
228 BC
For the first time in my life I had the chance to return home and know that we were not under imminent attack. Agis was on his way home to Emporion having vanquished the Lusitann. His army fresh on the heels of a victorious campaign looked forward to coming home. I have spent the most part of the year attending to the estate and to my ailing father. The man that first documented so much of our history was dying. His legacy was tremendous and I was greatly saddened by his loss. When he finally did pass I remember feeling more pride than sadness for all that he had done. Nikea was a wonderful father and I, Dorus on my 30th year would do my best to uphold our name. My grandfather had been an elder on the council of Emporion. Now I was working in the capacity of the King.
***
Although we were not at war there was a simmering debate about who would succeed Agis should he pass. Because he never had children (he blames this on his wife), it is assumed that Akrotatos's oldest son, Sostias, would become the next king. Sostias also had a younger brother should anything happen to him. Agis has yet to declare his heir but it is well thought that Sostias would inherit this.
The Massalians still lay siege to Oxtraca far to the west of here. The last bastion of resistance across the peninsula fights on. The garrison is large and capable and Nikanor feels justified in waiting for the city to surrender.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/228-1.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/228-2.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/228-4.jpg
***
I have spent much time working in the city preparing for the arrival of the king. I have also had a chance to bond with my five year old son Leodes. He seems to prefer fighting to reading. His interest in books and other things that myself and my father enjoyed is tepid at best. Perhaps with a good tutor he will do better. I have enlisted some of the best at the great school of learning in Emporion. Financially our family is well off. My father had a great deal in trust when he passed and the King rewards me generously for my accounts of our history. I watch my son play and even if he doesnt wish to be a scholar, with our status he would make a fine officer in the military. Perhapse even a commander one day. I had always dreamed of fighting but the reality of war always tends to leave a bitter taste in my mouth.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/228-3.jpg

Tyrfingr

03-25-2009, 23:45

So, the arverni finally took Tolosa...So, what will be next?

Chirurgeon

03-26-2009, 00:42

A big development that will shape the course of things to come

ezekiel2517

03-26-2009, 06:06

a Makedon amphibious operation? :idea2:

Reverend Joe

03-26-2009, 18:41

I'm betting you lost Massalia (Massilia? Massila? Damn, how do you spell it?)

Chirurgeon

03-26-2009, 23:24

XLVII – The Eagle’s Talon
227 BC
King Agis moved swiftly to capture the undefended city of Boccharis from the Belaric Isles. The city fell easily as only a handful of men resisted any attempts to capture the city. By the end of the day another port city had fallen into our hands and with it came great prestige for our people. The Massalians continued their entrenchment around the city of Oxtraca in the far west of the peninsula. Oxtraca was the last hold out.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/227-1.jpg
I have been quite surprised by the relative peace that has ensued since our forty year war with the Lusitann has finally come to an end. I think that both sides have been exhausted with the effort of trying to destroy each other. The pendulum swung in each others favor on many occasions. King Agis has done many things to make the people of Iberia not resent the fact that they have been conquered. Although they pay taxes and contribute mining income to the capital the people themselves are highly independent. They are allowed to carry on their lives as normal as long as they do not make war with us. It has taken a lifetime to achieve the conquest of Iberia but it was necessary if we ever had hope of returning to the Aegean. With Iberia secure and her ports flowing with goods from the interior their has been a renewed level of commerace not seen since before the Spartans and Athenians arrived on these shores. The riches of the peninsula in resources lay to the interior. Vast mountains contain veins of all sorts of metal. Silver is especially abundant and the increased vigor in mining has caused much of this metal to flow in a near torrent from the interior. Great supplies of iron come from Celtiberia and wonderful timber and other resources flows from the north. The coastal regions are greatly populated and contain a massive shipping industry. The hills around the cities contain fertile soil ideal for growing a variety of plants including olives and grapes for wine. With the ports brimming with goods and the precious metals flowing out of the mountains like streams, we have become quite wealthy.
Agis has ordered that half of his Theorophoroi, nearly 10 000 men be made into heavy infantry. The elaborate chain mail found on the soldiers defending Gader and Mastia was to be replicated and fitted for our own men. It was a massive endeavor. However in Celtiberia there were throngs of blacksmiths willing to do the job. So much iron was flowing from that land that it was not a problem to fit an army with better armor. The hoplites would also receive an upgrade in their armor and training. They would be given better spears and shields. They would also receive better torso armor should the enemy penetrate the shield. The Spartans were in charge of their training and it was this training that would serve them the best. The honor of being trained by true Spartans was an opportunity many of the men of Massalia and Emporion could not resist. With improved training and equipment our last line of defense in the Emporion Army would be much better at dealing with assaults than the simple levied men of the previous army.
The Massalians were still some time away from capturing Oxtraca however an urgent situation has developed. The Romani have forsaken the alliance that we have maintained for several years now. Sources close to the senate of Rome indicate the reason is the complete subjucation of Iberia. The Romans had been utterly surprised that we subdued the tribes of Iberia so quickly. They are also recognizing the increased value of the resources of the peninsula. So as the summer waned they sent several armies to the gates of Massalia. Here they have asked for the cities surrender and are prepared to attack it if necessary. Of course our brave brothers have refused to hand the city over. The substantial garrison of the city will have to hold off the attackers. With our army in the process of being disbanded and recreated anew, there is no time to launch a quick strike. Perhaps the Romani knew this as well. The Massalians are very far away from their city. Nikanor and Agis met and agreed that the Massalians entrust the protection of their city to us. And when they capture Oxtraca that they will join the fight to save their city. This is a pivotal moment. Once again all eyes are on Massalia.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/227-2.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/227-3.jpg

SwissBarbar

03-26-2009, 23:32

boooo, filthy Romans, make them suffer :smash: great story though

Cyrus

03-27-2009, 00:04

Very good update!:2thumbsup:

Chirurgeon

03-28-2009, 15:26

XLVIII - Hellenic Shield
226 BC
Our men arrived in Massalia before the Romans could attack. Agis and his men crested the hill to the south of the city and struck the Roman Army. Our fleet having transported us with better than favorable winds, we made excellent time. The Romans were surprised and although offered battle they refused to fight. The retreated along the coastal road and made for Liguria. It was a bit dissapointing but it gave us a bit more time to prepare.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/226-2.jpg
***
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/226-1.jpg
Agis was hoping that the Massalians could arrive back in their city because he had a bold plan. North of the Po River the Aedui had control of the region but they were cut off by the Arvernii confederation. Agis thought that an attack on the city of Mediolanum may draw the attention of Rome to the north. Simultaneously the city of Segesta would be attacked, forcing the Romans to split their forces. The Aedui and the Romani were no longer allies which would make it a bit easier to target each of them. It was doubtful that the Arvernii would allow a relief army to march through their lands. The Massalians were charged with dealing with the Aedui city of Mediolanum and our forces were charged with pinning down the Romans at Segesta. It was a bold plan and depended on superb leadership. Fresh troops would be routed through Massalia and they would keep a supply line open into Italy. However should the Arvernii sieze the opportunity to attack either our cities in Iberia or Massalia itself it could completely destroy the offensive.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/226-3.jpg

A Very Super Market

03-28-2009, 16:02

Quite a plan....

Looks like they got Galatia as well. I predict more glorious fights against those smelly babarians.

Go get them!

Chirurgeon

03-29-2009, 04:23

XLIX - First Contact
225 BC
Agis waited impatiently for the Massalian Army that was currently resupplying in Emporion. Without them present it would be impossible to make any headway against the Romans. However we would have one battle with them. A small Roman force moved along the coast and set up a camp less than a day's march away from our own camp. Agis wanted to drive them out of Gressolaria so we marched down the plain to the other end where the Romans were encamped. They drew up their lines and the front line of Theurophoroi began their march towards them. Our men came under skirmisher fire and as the skirmishers ran towards their main line our troops let loose their soliferra into the enemy. Many were felled and with a great shout our men ran headlong into their lines. It was a great crash of men and shield. The Romans were outnumbered but their young commander stood patiently behind his lines. Agis ordered our cavalry to engage their cavalry. Our noble cavalry charged headlong into their own creating a huge melee. Their commander sensing the danger to his cavalry, himself charges into the fray. Soon there is a stalemate along the entire line. Agis calmly begins to move the second line into any gaps or weak areas. Our cavalry on the right are slowly winning but they have taken many casualties. Soon the entire second line is engaged and our cavalry win the fight driving the young commander away from battle. With their commander fleeing many of the Romans decide to call it quits but there are almost as many that stay on and fight. Despite being outnumbered their staying power was remarkable.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/225-1.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/225-2.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/225-3.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/225-4.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/225-5.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/225-6.jpg
After the fight, Agis remarked about this and it concerned him greatly. We were not used to an enemy staying so long despite the odds being against them. It was clear to all that watched that this war would be a long drawn out affair. The Romans had prepared for an invasion. They had ample numbers of men stationed south of the Po River. It was even rumored that the Princeps Senatus himself was present with the army. It was clear that the city of Massalia was not safe from the Romans. The coveted its capture with great vigor and enthusiasm. However, as our good king thought, if we take the war to the Roman territory it will prevent them from gaining their prize.

ezekiel2517

03-29-2009, 07:20

I don't know how you manage to hold a line with Theurophoroi, specially against Romans.

I swear when I use them, they break as easily as levy hoplites... if not more :furious3:

Cyrus

03-29-2009, 12:28

Awesome update, but yeah, how do you hold a line with thureophoroi?

heldelance

03-29-2009, 15:19

Still captivated by this AAR. I love the way it's put together.

SwissBarbar

03-29-2009, 17:03

Very much like it :2thumbsup:

Chirurgeon

03-29-2009, 17:35

I don't know how you manage to hold a line with Theurophoroi, specially against Romans.

I swear when I use them, they break as easily as levy hoplites... if not more :furious3:

Awesome update, but yeah, how do you hold a line with thureophoroi?

Still captivated by this AAR. I love the way it's put together.

Very much like it :2thumbsup:

They actually do quite well. They would not hold forever but they do their job until the Thorakitai can enter into the Fray. I rarely have units that rout. I think it has to do with my general. some of my units can get down to half strength and still not even be shaken. Agis has so many general stars and such a high morale bonus, I have to assume thats the reason. Many of my Theurophoroi have silver chevrons from their battles during the Lusitann war. Having a second line behind them is valuable. The second line is made of Thorakitai that actually hold a line quite well. They basically move in and engage the enemy as the lighter spearmen start to take heavy casualties. Mixing the two together has proven to be quite successful. In the next update I mixed it up a little bit and put the Thorakitai at the front with the Thureophoroi as reserve/flankers. This also worked well because the Thureophoroi are so darned fast. I can move them all over the battle field as needed.

Chirurgeon

03-29-2009, 17:41

L - The Best Laid Plans...
224 BC
At the beginning of the Eiar campaign season we began in earnest to challenge the Romans on their own territory. The Massalians had finally made the march to Mediolanum and now besieged that city. It was absolutely chock full of angry Aedui ready to storm out of the city. With so many defenders, Nikanor, made the wise decision of waiting them out. As the sun raised highest in the sky during a very hot time we engaged the Romans along the coast to Segesta.
The geography was very favorable to ourselves as we had encamped in front of a flat hill. This hill provided a valuable view of what was going on. The Romans marched straight up the hill through the cover of trees. Soon our front line troops began to pelt the Romans with their soliferrum. A huge cadre of horse moved behind their lines and swept to their left flank. Agis dispatched our own cavalry and with a great charge they engaged the Roman cavalry. Here I could hear and see one of the greatest cavalry battles I had ever witnessed. The cavalry that the Princeps Senatus had was greater in number to our own.
As the cavalry battle raged to the right of our right flank our infantry was trying to prevent their own spearmen from punching through the front lines. Agis sent in some of the second line troops to contain any breaches. Meanwhile the cavalry on the right began to draw the attention of some of the Roman infantry and they began to engage our cavalry with spears. This could be a catastrophe and Agis began to feed, one unit at a time, reserve troops into the cavalry fight. As the Thorakitai began to battle the Princeps Senatus's cavalry he with drew and so did our cavalry. The enemy had faired worse and he actually left the battle along with some elite infantry as a rear guard. The head of the Roman senate had fled the battle!
The Roman infantry were having an abysmal time of trying to fight uphill against our spearmen. They had taken heavy losses and their right flank was now exposed. A fresh unit of Theurophoroi charged into the flank causing mayhem. Meanwhile on our right flank the fighting was fierce, although we had prevented the enemy from enveloping our flank there. The other commander of the Roman army had stationed himself in a stand of trees off the right flank. Agis saw this opportunity and sent our cavalry which was fresh at this point to counter the enemy commander. The collision was great and the commander and his personal guard were severely outnumbered. He tried to flee but was cut down. This was enough for the Romans and they began to break and flee in rapid succession. We pursued many of them until nightfall.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/224-1.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/224-2.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/224-3.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/224-4.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/224-5.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/224-6.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/224-7.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/224-8.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/224-9.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/BattleofWesternLiguria.jpg
The battle of Western Liguria proved that our armies could go toe to toe with the war machine of the Romans. It was an important victory and Agis was quite pleased with the result. The large field army of the Romans had been wiped out and as a result the city of Segesta was now vulnerable to attack. However for now the enemy had taken refuge inside the city itself.
***
With Mediolanum under siege and having forced a decisive battle with the Romans our position was right for the next campaign season. Our spirits were high which always makes me nervous. As winter fell, word came that the Arvernii Confederacy had crossed into Iberia and now lay siege to our capital. This was a devestating blow to our plans. However all was not lost. The Massalians, tired of the Arvernii constantly threatening their city, offered to take the war to southern Gaul. This land would have to be taken for the Hellenic cause to protect our interests in Iberia. Nikanor immediately broke his siege of Mediolanum and marched west to prepare for a campaign against the Arvernii.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/224-10.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/224-11.jpg

Cyrus

03-29-2009, 19:25

Wow:yes:
The arverni attacked you right in the middle of a pretty difficult war(not impossible, it just usually takes me some years to take italy, for some reason the roman AI is always very smart when defending it's homeland.....

MarcusAureliusAntoninus

03-30-2009, 20:59

An interesting turn of events. Enemies surround you. I hope the young kingdom is able to weather the storm.

the man with no name

03-31-2009, 01:07

Again, i've been gone but i just caught up. KICK THOSE ARVERNI'S ARSES! They are pretty screwed. Not yet but in the long run (probaly another 40 yr. war) the sre dead.Dead DEAD!

SwissBarbar

03-31-2009, 08:02

Go Arverni, go ^^ Arverni 4ever ^^

satalexton

03-31-2009, 16:09

go kill those romaioi, I know you want to.

Chirurgeon

04-01-2009, 00:47

LI - Guards of Massalia
223 BC
In the late winter the Romans again attempted to destroy our army. This time while we lay siege to Segesta they attacked us from three separate directions. King Agis deployed his men in two different directions that would face the two largest armies. It was hoped that the smallest army would not be that great of a threat. The enemy poured down our ranks in rapid succession. There was an aire of confusion as Agis was busy sending units all over the battlefield. I myself stood behind Agis and realized there was total pandemonium. However fortunately there was total chaos for the enemy. With three armies separated from each other they could not coordinate their attack and our men began to gain the upper hand. Finally after what seemed like an eternity the enemy began to rout. Some stayed for a while simply because they did not know what had happened to their friends. In the end we prevailed.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/223-1.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/223-2.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/223-3.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/223-4.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/223-5.jpg
***
Shortly after the battle was over a diplomat for the Romans arrived at the siege camp we had made outside the walls of Segesta, Liguria. His request was simple. He wanted an end to the fighting. Agis was skeptical of course. However with the massive Arvernii confederation now invading Iberia it meant a new focus had come into view. The giant to the north of Iberia has awoken and as the Romans are reeling from several defeats the circumstances of this campaign have changed. Without the Massalians to take on the Aedui to the north the ability of a successful campaign becomes cloudy. Agis agrees to peace and withdraws his army to Gressolaria. However he well knows that the Romans will use this time to recover and they could attack again. Agis also planned to use this time to guage how effective Nikanor will be against the Arvernii. If he secures a solid buffer between Iberia and the rest of Gaul then a third standing army could be use to protect our interests in Gaul. The tribes and people of southern Gaul have generally been very friendly towards the Massalians and have only joined the Arvernii because they were conquered. Many of the men of southern Gaul fight in a modified hellenic style.
However the prospects of peace were in doubt from the start. The consuls of Rome were already moving fresh troops into Liguria. A massive force that rivaled our own was assembling west of Segesta. It was clear to Agis that the Romans wished to have another go at Massalia while they Massalians were busy with fending off the Arvernii Confederation. It has been a very stressful year for all of us involved.
***
I did have some time to travel back to Emporion to spend with my family. My son, Leodes, was now nine and was quite big for his age. He struggled greatly in school, but excelled in horsemanship. It turned out that he was a natural on the horse and he performed all the basic maneuvers with ease. He was consistently beating boys four years his older. Because he is my son and my family is considered nobility he would certainly have the ability to serve. He could serve as an infantry officer, perhaps, but with his early promise as a horsemen it was apparent that his role would be on the back of a horse. I was almost jealous of his abilities but as a father my pride was barely containable.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/223-6.jpg

Hotseat_User

04-01-2009, 08:13

ahhh no - push them back in to their city ... but anyway, nice chapter. keep it up. :smash:

the man with no name

04-02-2009, 22:58

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

Chirurgeon

04-03-2009, 03:04

LII - A Good Omen
222 BC
The cacophony of battle would echo for an entire year as our brave soldiers fought head to head with swarms of Romans and their allies. And in the west Nikanor would also see his fair share of fighting. The Aedui to our north in Mediolanum choose to stay on the north side of the Po River. We fought several battles this year. Desperate to keep us away from the city of Segesta they threw everything they had at us. Clearly their allies in central and southern Italy must be tired of losing troops for the Roman cause.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/222-1.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/222-2.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/222-3.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/222-4.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/222-5.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/222-6.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/222-7.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/222-8.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/222-9.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/222-10.jpg

One of the remarkable things I have noticed is the style of fighting our men display has evolved greatly. Although the Massalians still choose to fight with a thick wall of spears and skirmish with archers and peltasti, Agis's approach to warfare has developed into stages of fighting. Our first troops and lightest of the spearmen carry a good supply of soliferrum and make up nearly a third of our army. These men tend to be of less experience and because they have not proven themselves in battle they are given minimal equipment. As they fight the officers notice which men are fighting well and allow them an opportunity to serve in the ranks of the Thorakitai. A true honor as they wear a coveted armor that can deflect many blows and have a fine shield to use. As these men fight they have a choice of staying with the thorakitai or taking the traditional role of fighting with the hoplites. With the fighting so far away from Emporion the men that are serving their king have been given salary and others have inquired about serving the king until he dies.
So begins a new trend of paying the men directly from the coffers of the city. How long this would last would be a question of need I suppose. Many of the men have been fighting with the king for more than a dozen years. However many have also had to leave. As land owners they could not stay too far away from home. Now there are men in the ranks that own no land but are simple citizens that may be laborers or others that have difficulty finding consistent work. Agis had instructe the blacksmiths of the cities to make different shields and armor for each class of men.
The heaviest cavalry were some of the great nobility of Emporion and Massalia. Coming from many well to do families they could afford the best in horse, weapons, and armor. They served the king directly and would stay in that capacity as long as possible. They trained relentlessly and took great pride on the battlefield.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/kh_hippeis_xystophoroi.gif
***
By the winter we received word from Nikanor that not only he had captured Tolosa and the surrounding region, but the city of Burgidala had also fallen to his forces. The easy victories he achieved gave him great confidence and he asked Agis if he could pursue the routed enemy to the north from whence they came. Agis was wary of such a move as it would put the Massalians to far away from their home city. The nightmare of an ambush or other calamity convinced Agis to keep Nikanor in Southern Gaul to hold that region immediately north of the Pyrenees in case the Arvernii again tried to make an incursion into Iberia. Nikanor put his trust in a young commander from the city and departed to once again become the Governor of Massalia.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/222-11.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/222-12.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/222-13.jpg
Before the years shortest day we would come into possession of Segesta. The exhausted Romans would fight one more time but they were completely beaten. One army was completely destroyed leaving no one to tell the Romans what happened.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/222-14.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/222-15.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/222-16.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/222-17.jpg
Our Good king had still not decided which way he was going to go but it was anticipated that he would his way down the peninsula and possibly to Rome itself. Segesta became a supply point for more men coming from Massalia. With a port in Roman lands the logistical difficulties of moving men and materials became vastly faster and simpler.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/222-18.jpg

ezekiel2517

04-03-2009, 04:02

ohh! please please kill the savages in green :beam:

satalexton

04-03-2009, 07:54

no, kill the greater savages in red first

Olaf Blackeyes

04-03-2009, 08:04

KILL BOTH!!!!!!!!!!!!
:laugh4::laugh4::laugh4::laugh4::laugh4::laugh4::laugh4::laugh4::laugh4:

Hotseat_User

04-03-2009, 08:54

:book: --->>> :dizzy2: --->>> :smash: --->>> :applause: awesome, one must say!

oh and I'd vote for raiding carthago and rome and kill the maks. :whip:

Chirurgeon

04-03-2009, 14:20

ohh! please please kill the savages in green :beam:
The Arvernii? I am attacking them

no, kill the greater savages in red first
The Aeduii?

KILL BOTH!!!!!!!!!!!!
:laugh4::laugh4::laugh4::laugh4::laugh4::laugh4::laugh4::laugh4::laugh4:
Im confused. Being colorblind sucks. In my eyes the Romans and the Aeduii appear to be the same color. Epirus and KH also seem to have the same color!

:book: --->>> :dizzy2: --->>> :smash: --->>> :applause: awesome, one must say!

oh and I'd vote for raiding carthago and rome and kill the maks. :whip:
I had thought about doing that, But I am going to put an army in Southern Gaul to keep an eye on the Arvernii. I plan on recalling the Army of Massalia to assist with the war in Italy. So I will stretched pretty thin. Thank you all for following

Tyrfingr

04-03-2009, 15:16

Yay, finally Tolosa fell to your armies. Now, how about conquering the shores of North Africa to make the western Mediteranean the King's personal pond?

Chirurgeon

04-03-2009, 16:11

Yay, finally Tolosa fell to your armies. Now, how about conquering the shores of North Africa to make the western Mediteranean the King's personal pond?
I dont have the funds for a third army unfortunately

satalexton

04-03-2009, 16:35

i mean kill those pesky romans, they are silly little savages that needs to be stamped out. Samite milites will also serve your army well as an assault arm, while the Bruttians provide for reliable fodder. Perhaps in the far future, when a few Italiote polies can be trusted, they can provide ample fodder too, to die in the place of the honourable and precious hellenes.

vartan

04-04-2009, 03:09

the man with no name

04-04-2009, 03:33

KILL BOTH!!!!!!!!!!!!
:laugh4::laugh4::laugh4::laugh4::laugh4::laugh4::laugh4::laugh4::laugh4:

Exactly.:laugh4::laugh4::laugh4::laugh4::laugh4:

Chirurgeon

04-04-2009, 16:18

I'm trying to understand something here. You can actually make factional troops and type I's in iberia with a non iberian faction? how does this work? sorry that I am not too knowledgeable about this, but I'd love to quench my curiosity as I'm dumbfounded by the whole concept.
In Emporion you can build a type II govt which gives you the basic Hellenic troops. You can also do that in Massalia. I have modded the recruitment to show the exodus of the Athenians and Spartans from the Aegean. Those are the only two cities I have that can recruit Hellenic troops however.

vartan

04-04-2009, 17:51

Thanks :beam:

Chaotix

04-05-2009, 23:59

Awesome job, keep going!

The Makedonians will certainly be surprised when you show up at their doorstep with a larger empire than theirs...

Chirurgeon

04-06-2009, 16:45

LIII - Clipped Wings
221 BC
Agis spent part of the year in Segesta retraining his men. Although the Romans lost entire armies we did have our share of losses. It took a while to bring up fresh troops from Massalia. This took several months and Agis had to make sure the city was well to do before leaving. Sostias, the son of Akrotatos was put in charge of this duty. Sostias also helped train the men to be prepared to move into the main army which had left and taken the river Po to the east. South of the river lay an important allied city of the Romans, Bonnonia.
The Romans know that proving to their allies that beating us is key to their loyalty. So far the Romans have not beaten us but they will no doubt continue to try.
Agis has placed control of the city of Segesta into his son-in-laws hands. The husband of his only child, a girl, he should be a fine governor.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/221-1.jpg
The Romans however would continue to challenge our forces. This time two small armies challenged us before we could get to Bonnonia. On the outskirts of the city, next to some estates, Agis ordered his men to take on the Romans. The Romans carried with them some skirmishers, cavalry, allied infantry, and their own citizens. The Theurophoroi engaged the Romans and so began another fight. Our own cavalry charged into some of their citizen cavalry and routed them from the field. Their commander had taken refuge in a stand of trees so that he might see our flanks better. The cavalry commander noted this and Agis gave his blessing. Our cavalry charged full force into their commander's bodyguard, killing the man. As this was going on the second army emerged from the trees and began to make their way to the battlefield. Our Theurophoroi had yet to rout many units and Agis saw a disaster if he left them out there alone. He began to give orders and the entire army re-aligned itself to face the new threat off to our left flank. Agis had the Theurophoroi withdraw to the back of our lines and the second line of Thorakitai covered their withdraw with projectiles. Agis advanced again and this time engaged the Romans the same way but with his battle hardened Thorakitai. The fight was brutal but eventually the Thorakitai grew weary and were withdrawn through the ranks of the Hoplites. Our last line of defense plowed into the enemy. Agis deployed his tactical reserve of elite Thorakitai to deal with flanking maneuvers of the hoplites. Our cavaly tried desperately to attack the second general of the Romans but he escaped after their light infantry began to pin down our cavalry. Finally the second Roman army began to withdraw, leaving behind some troops to cover their exit.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/221-2.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/221-3.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/221-4.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/221-5.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/221-6.jpg
Although they did not win the day they managed to slow down our progress. We finally reached the city of Bonnonia in the winter and with more men coming up from the south it promised to be a brutal year next year.

ezekiel2517

04-06-2009, 19:56

what campaign difficulty are you playing with?

Zett

04-06-2009, 20:19

Great AAR:2thumbsup:. Will we see Massaliotai Hoplitai sometime too?

Certerum censeo Romam esse delendam

Chirurgeon

04-08-2009, 00:56

what campaign difficulty are you playing with?
Medium

Great AAR:2thumbsup:. Will we see Massaliotai Hoplitai sometime too?

Certerum censeo Romam esse delendam
I hope so. They are only being used with the Massalian Army at the moment. And right now my Narrator is with Agis and his army.
Thanks for following. I have been in the process of redoing my office so I havent been online in a few days. It looks great though!

the man with no name

04-08-2009, 15:25

Im confused. Being colorblind sucks. In my eyes the Romans and the Aeduii appear to be the same color. Epirus and KH also seem to have the same color!

Who would of thought, one of our favorite writers is colorblind.:sorry2: dude about that.

Edit: Also until the marian reforms, only roman citizens could fight in the army as hastati, pricipes, or triari.

gamegeek2

04-13-2009, 16:52

Colorblindness is almost unique to males - it's a disorder carried by the X chromosome. I won't go into the details because I'm not a biology teacher. A bit less than 3% of men have it, and far less than 1% of women.

Mediolanicus

04-13-2009, 19:15

Count me in with 3%.

*is eagerly awaiting the next update*

Chirurgeon

04-14-2009, 03:40

LIV - Arretium
220 BC
The small provincial capital of Aemilia fell without much resistance. Agis turned his forces south and marched over the mountains of central Italy. Fresh on his victories the men were confident that they could sweep into the heart of the Roman Republic. Agis had Arretium in his sights and what a city it was. In the old Etruscan lands it was a formidable presence. Its garrison strong and its walls a monument in and of themselves, Agis had no desire to capture this city. He simply wished to draw the Romans into battle on his terms.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/220-9.jpg
The Romans did come. Led by a young senator they led a massive force of allied men and citizens they descended on our position. Simultaneously the garrison of Arretium came up from behind. Fortunately they were a much smaller force. Agis divided his men sending the Hoplites to deal with the garrison.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/220-1.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/220-2.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/220-3.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/220-4.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/220-5.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/220-6.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/220-7.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/220-8.jpg
The main battle was chaotic as both groups of men jockeyed for the best position. After what seemed like an eternity the Theurophoroi engaged the Roman spearmen and in incredibly melee began. It was not organized as pockets of intense fighting began to erupt all over the battlefield. The Theurophoroi had done their job of pinning the enemy infantry and the cavarly of the Romans were judiciously dispatched from the field. Our cavalry had to chase their own for quite some distance so they were effectively out of the fight. It came down to our infantry. the battle lasted some time and then both generals from the garrison and the young commander were felled at nearly the same time. The shockwave of disbelief was visible from my vantage point. You could almost hear the moans of the enemy as they lost hope. Alas they threw down their weapons and made for the safety of the city. Our cavalry however had run in that direction and intercepted the fleeing enemy causing quite the massacre. More than 20 000 Romans had perished to our own 4000 men.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/220-10.jpg
A representative from the city of Syracuse came to our camp in the winter and wished to inform Agis that the seeds of rebellion had been planted in their citizens. Another major Roman defeat could cause the fires of rebellion to spread throughout the island of Sicily. Agis pressed the man to find out if they would elicit the support of Kart-Hadast and he assured me that the Kart-Hadastim would not be welcomed in Sicily.
I studied the history of our brothers in Syracuse and suffice it to say their is much animosity between Syracuse and Kart-Hadast. I along with many others supported this man and encouraged Agis to continue his campaign.
The Arvernii had essentially stopped their incursions into southern Gaul. Apparently they were content to continue their unending war with the Aeduii tribe. As long as this continued, the king knew that it would not be possible for them to have any lasting success. King Agis had great confidence in the Army of Massalia. Led by a very popular man by the name of Xenophanes, he knew they could hold off just about any threat from the forested lands of central Gaul.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/220-11.jpg

the man with no name

04-14-2009, 03:59

I couldn't help but notice that this was about the time, give or take a couple years, that Hannibal Barca, the coolest Carthaginian ever, defeated the Romans at lake Trasmain or however you spell it. In latin i'm guessing it's lake Trasoumenna, as it said in the description. BTW r u at war with the Sarmatians or Epirus yet? Both?

OT: I also couldn't help but notice that the only elutheroi city in getai/sweboz/celtic lands is Eboronum, "The land of the full stacks" as i call it. Predictions: Sweboz are probaly going 2 die and Getai r definately going 2 die :(. Same with Rome. Free your greek brethren in syaracuse! Anyhow, :2thumbsup:

MarcusAureliusAntoninus

04-14-2009, 21:41

Good to see an update. I was beginning to get worried.

Olaf Blackeyes

04-14-2009, 22:25

NOOOOO!!!!!!
My poor Sweboz!!!!!!!
NOOO!!!!!!!:shame:

Chirurgeon

04-20-2009, 17:53

Sorry guys real life has been busy. Will try to get an update later this week

MarcusAureliusAntoninus

04-20-2009, 21:42

You got us too addicted with daily updates. :clown:
Take your time, we'll be waiting.

the man with no name

04-20-2009, 22:01

You got us too addicted with daily updates. :clown:
Take your time, we'll be waiting.

Ur exactly right, srsly.

Vasiliyi

04-21-2009, 06:47

Nice additions to this aar. I just read pages 7-13.. (i should be going to bed though). Reading you kicking roman butt has got me fired up to get going with my aar.. even though thats still far down the road.

the man with no name

04-30-2009, 01:15

Status plz.

Hotseat_User

04-30-2009, 08:33

ehhh what a question. -_-; allthrough I'd like to have a alarmclock one must admit that the sleep-modus is activated - hopfully :smash:

Reverend Joe

04-30-2009, 08:38

COME BACK, SHANE!

Chirurgeon

05-02-2009, 16:27

LV - Delays
219 BC

Xenophanes, the commander of the Massalian army, has done a stellar job of keeping the Arvernii from threatening the peaceful and now profitable southern Gallic region. The lands just north of the Pyrenees offer much. They are also providing a valuable geographic benefit. These lands act as a buffer between our important cities and lands in Iberia. With each passing year the peninsula becomes more peaceful. Even the Massalians have not had to deal with enemies for several years. Commerace as I understand it is reaching new heights.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/219-1.jpg

Here in Northern Italia the tribes to our north recently stormed across the Po. Here they brandished their weapons at us forcing us to make a very difficult choice. Ultimately Agis pursued them back across the Po but that gave the Romans a chance to retake Arretium. Our small garrison would be no match for their forces. So once again the Romans summoned a sizable force and stormed to take back the Etruscan lands.
Soon we were embroiled in another battle outside the city. Thousands of Romans poured into our lines and once again our cavalry proved decisive. Driving back the inferior cavalry of the Romans the advantage swung to us and the infantry of the enemy realized they had once again lost.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/219-2.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/219-3.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/219-4.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/219-5.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/219-6.jpg
The distraction to our north had slowed us down yet again. However we would be moving again in the spring. Many small contingents of Roman troops lingered all around us. Perhaps they hoped to keep us occupied until the republic could recover from their latest setback.
Further south in sicilia the fires of revolt were spreading. Syracuse had tried to break from the shackles of the Romans but failed. However their resolve was great and I was sure that they would eventually join us.
My son Leodes had journeyed to Massalia to train with other young nobility. Here they would learn how to do all that is necessary of noble cavalry. He wrote me to tell of his experience:
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/219letter.jpg

I was taken aback at the horror of it all but I began to realize that my son was nothing like me. He was training for a different path. This path was clear to me when he was very young. He would fight with other boys instead of helping with their studies. His tutors threw their hands up in frustration and questioned aloud if this was my child. Eventually Leodes was placed into thecare of military trainers who began to focus his natural aggression and the peaceful side was made to bond with the beasts of war. By the age of ten he was sparring with other boys several years older than he was. My son was not large but used his intelligence and skill in the saddle.
I remember coming home and seeing him riding with the Iberians playing games with javelins and spears. The Iberians accepted him as their equal. And to be equal with a people who are superior horsemen is a high honor indeed.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/219-7.jpg

Tyrfingr

05-02-2009, 17:47

How does the world map looks like? Must be pretty interesting since it's 219BC

the man with no name

05-03-2009, 05:33

Good job dude.:2thumbsup:

Hotseat_User

05-04-2009, 08:43

glad that you're back Chirurgeon :2thumbsup: nice chapter. But I also wonder, whats the 'world'map like.

Ariovistus Maximus

05-11-2009, 02:09

Hi Chirurgion! Your work is extraordinary.

Your Iberian AAR was INSPERATIONAL! Such a great way of introducing the plot!

It also made me drool for dosidataskeli. :laugh4: :charge:

Anyways good luck with the AAR and busy real life!

Have an army of little Chinamen; they will do your bidding without question. They are also impervious to phalangites; they kinda roll underneath all the spears and wreak havoc inside the formation.:clown:

:bow::bow::bow::bow::bow::bow::bow::bow::bow::bow::bow::bow::bow::bow::bow::bow:

Chirurgeon

05-12-2009, 17:32

sorry i have been MIA lately. My work schedule will be insane till the end of the month. Then I have 8 weeks off starting in early june. Expect better updates then.

Chirurgeon

06-13-2009, 22:44

I will be updating this AAR tomorrow morning :)

Reverend Joe

06-13-2009, 22:52

Nice!

BerkeleyBoi

06-14-2009, 02:57

Gah, what an awesome AAR! It seems like you're doing a lot better than I'm doing with my Greek migration. How did you avoid getting ganged up on in the beginning? I had Aedui, Romans, and Carthage all besieging me from three sides and it killed my income...

Chirurgeon

06-14-2009, 16:51

LVI
The Beacon of Sicily
The staunch resistance of the Romans and their allies had prevented us from sweeping through the peninsula. They are somehow able to call up just enough men to prevent complete annihilation. King Agis wishes for the war to be over so that our gains can be assessed and consolidated. I too wish the war to be over for my son is quickly approaching the age at which he will fight. He is still too young and small to fight in real battles, so Leodes is working to protect our supplies and shipments. He told me recently of his defense of a caravan from mauraders near the coast of Italia. He has started the process of becoming a man and will hopefully grow into his place amongst the noble cavalry.
***
Far to our west in southern Gaul the Arvernii continue to challenge Xenophanes and the army of Massalia. Xenophanes has written Agis as of late and wishes to pursue the Arvernii into their own territory. This is a move our good king forbides. However the power of our king is not as penetrating the further he is away from Gaul.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/218-2.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/218-3.jpg
***
Trade is flourishing with the consistent peace that now reigns all across Iberia, southern Gaul and now parts of Italia. The mines of Iberia continue to supply great quantities of silver, gold, and other metals. Iron from Celtiberia provides the metal necessary to drive the war machine.
***
Recently the Romans again challenged the king to a battle outside of Ariminum. With our recent capture of Arretium, Ariminum remains the only obstacle to capturing all of Italia north of Rome itself.
In typical fashion the Romans sent their lines of infantry into our own. However again our discipline held firm. Our cavalry managed to find the Consul's concealed position in a island of trees and hence slayed him. Again another Roman commander falls to the spears of our men. And yet again the Romans flee to the relative safety of their city. A small garrison now stands in the path to capturing Ariminum.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/218-1.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/218-4.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/218-5.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/218-6.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/218-7.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/218-8.jpg
***
Far to the south developments have taken place that will benefit us greatly. Our good brothers of Syracuse have thrown off the Roman yoke and are now in the process of freeing the rest of the island. Unfortunately the king died during the fighting but a new commander has assumed control and vows to free all of Sicily.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/218-9.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/218-10.jpg

Chirurgeon

06-14-2009, 16:58

How does the world map looks like? Must be pretty interesting since it's 219BC
I will include it in the next update...tomorrow!

Good job dude.:2thumbsup:
Thank you :)

glad that you're back Chirurgeon :2thumbsup: nice chapter. But I also wonder, whats the 'world'map like.
I am glad I am back too. Crazy end to the school year.

Hi Chirurgion! Your work is extraordinary.

Your Iberian AAR was INSPERATIONAL! Such a great way of introducing the plot!

It also made me drool for dosidataskeli. :laugh4: :charge:

Anyways good luck with the AAR and busy real life!

Have an army of little Chinamen; they will do your bidding without question. They are also impervious to phalangites; they kinda roll underneath all the spears and wreak havoc inside the formation.:clown:

:bow::bow::bow::bow::bow::bow::bow::bow::bow::bow::bow::bow::bow::bow::bow::bow:
Thank you for the support. I will have more time for this AAR now that summer is here. Yes the dosidataskeli are amazing soldiers. Kinda wish I had a unit or two with this army :)

Nice!
Thanks!

Gah, what an awesome AAR! It seems like you're doing a lot better than I'm doing with my Greek migration. How did you avoid getting ganged up on in the beginning? I had Aedui, Romans, and Carthage all besieging me from three sides and it killed my income...
Well I chose Emporion because it was fairly remote and surrounded by independent regions. I had many years to build up my economy. I did cheat a bit by adding population to the cities of Massalia and Emporion. That was to represent the migration from the Aegean due to the Macedonian occupation. Once I did make some armies I did have to periodically add some money to the coffers. Overall its been pretty fun and very challenging.

MarcusAureliusAntoninus

06-14-2009, 22:30

You're back! Good to see your updating, I had thought this AAR was going to fade away.

Hotseat_User

06-15-2009, 23:31

just :smash:ing

Chirurgeon

06-16-2009, 01:31

LVIII - The Fall of Rome
Sostias, the nephew of Agis, had been meeting with Agis for some time now. With Agis in his twilight, it was expected that Sostias would take a more active role in ruling the rather large swath of land that our people now held sway over.
Sostias was still a young man but no so young to be lured by his inexperience. He had command experience and did much of the governing of Emporion before coming here.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/217-1.jpg
***
After the last victory before winter, Agis had moved the army to the Via Flamina. This was one of the many famous roads the Romans had built. We built good roads but these were pure genius. The countryside here was littered with vast estates and fields full of grain and other things. Many orchards lined the roads and were crammed into every available space imaginable that could be used for agrarian purposes. Many of these orchards were in full bloom as the spring weather settled across the lands. The march south was quick. Mountains to our east and rolling hills to our west made for a gorgeous setting. There was no doubt why the Romans would choose such a place to live.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/08tuscan_landscape_in_spring_50x70c.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/Oil_Painting_Tuscan_Landscape_054.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/ViaFlamina.jpg
Late in the spring we made it to the outer reaches of the city itself. The walls were impressive and no doubt would cost many a man to breach. However Agis was still a patient man and knew the advantage was his. With his enemies dispatched behind him and virtually all of Sicily fallen to our recently freed brothers, the Romans were in a bind they could not get out of.
***
Agis laid siege to the great city. He controlled the entire region around the city and it would be pointless for the Romans to do anything other than surrender. For three months we waited outside the city. Most of the senate had abandoned the city and the populace that had remained was much smaller.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/217-2.jpg
My son, Leodes, had joined me in the large camp that had grown outside of Rome. The vast grainfields and vineyards that surrounded the city offered a nice view while we waited for the city to capitulate. Leodes, and the rest of the young Noble cavalry had arrived in the camp. They had been called up as a reserveforce. My son was only 14 but he had changed much since I last saw him. I no longer saw him as a boy. His muscles had grown, he had the tracings of a beard, and he had grown tall. No doubt the ladies of Emporion would be seeking his hand in marriage. However for now he was all consumed with spending time with his hippias and their everyday drills and duties. He spent the bulk of the summer traveling back and forth from Arretium. He was escorting fresh men and overseeing the overall security of the Via Flamina. He was particulary fond of the man that helped him through the trauma of killing a man. This man Leonidas was several years older than Leodes but was like an older brother. They would wrestle together, race their horses through the fields, and get drunk on wine. Leodes had no interest in philosophy or other learned topics.
I felt somehow disconnected from my son, however I had some time with him over the last year that seemed to bring us back together. There was hope that this war with the Romani would be over soon.
***
A relief army finally came and attempted to dislodge us from the city. Agis had formed his lines and over the next several days destroyed or severely battered every force thrown at him. This was a long protracted battle that required great concentration but finally the Romans had exhausted themselves against us and the city was ours.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/217-3.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/217-4.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/217-5.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/217-6.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/217-7.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/217-8.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/217-9.jpg

Quick work was made of the populace as they were sold into slavery. The mines of Iberia demanded great manpower and Agis had just done the mine owners a great service. I strolled around this grand city and marvelled at its greatness. It would have been interesting to see if this experiment of democracy could have flourished. They certainly had the tenacity. The high columns and beautiful reliefs could only be topped by the ones from the Aegean itself.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/217-10.jpg
***
Massalia had once again been attacked by the Aeduii. Xenophanes had marched his army to the Rhone river out of Gaul to meet the threat. And apparently he did not want to stop there. Rumors abound that he would march to Mediolanum and sack that city. Of course Agis was opposed to this and could cause a great problem should the Arvernii take advantage of the absence of the army in Southern Gaul. I do not envy the king.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/217-11.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/217-12.jpg

Chirurgeon

06-16-2009, 01:35

You're back! Good to see your updating, I had thought this AAR was going to fade away.

just :smash:ing

Thank you guys. It feels good to be back. I will have regular updates now :)

J.R.M

06-16-2009, 03:06

Woohoo!!! the best migration AAR that i have read has return!:2thumbsup: and even bringing death and slavery to those Romans :skull::whip:, is there something better? :medievalcheers:

Thx for this awesome AAR.

BerkeleyBoi

06-16-2009, 05:50

SWEET! Sacking Rome... bloody awesome!

Mediteran

06-16-2009, 13:24

ah, this is nice, i used to read your carthage AAR, it was amazing, the best aar i ever read.. im going to enjoy this:book2:

satalexton

06-16-2009, 15:38

i can die a happy man, you DESTROYED BARBAROPOLIS!!!! CONGRATS!!!!!!

the man with no name

06-17-2009, 02:53

"ANd he's back and better than ever. Chirugeon has done it again making a great update!" Good Job. How'd you get part of bosphorus?

Maion Maroneios

06-17-2009, 20:07

I bow to your excellence, great sir and Megas Kataktetes. Sacking Barbaropolis was truly the most noble thing I've seen in an AAR for a long time. Congratulations are due :bow:

Maion

Chirurgeon

06-18-2009, 16:18

SWEET! Sacking Rome... bloody awesome!

ah, this is nice, i used to read your carthage AAR, it was amazing, the best aar i ever read.. im going to enjoy this:book2:

i can die a happy man, you DESTROYED BARBAROPOLIS!!!! CONGRATS!!!!!!

"ANd he's back and better than ever. Chirugeon has done it again making a great update!" Good Job. How'd you get part of bosphorus?

I bow to your excellence, great sir and Megas Kataktetes. Sacking Barbaropolis was truly the most noble thing I've seen in an AAR for a long time. Congratulations are due :bow:

Maion

Thank you all. As no man with no name, it rebelled to me a long time ago but recently Pontos took it back. I will have an update later today

Chirurgeon

06-18-2009, 18:13

LIX- The Eggshells of Diplomacy
The Romans had retreated to Campania and had holed up in the city of Capua. The wonderfully fertile lands here gave rise to great fields of grain. Fed by the ash of the local volcano, the land here offered much.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/wheat_field.jpg
Agis however had little to offer the Romans but cold steel. Throughout the year the Romans would attempt to push us out of their territory but each attempt would fail. After a series of battles that were more desperation than actual fighting we reached the gates of Capua. Agis had enlisted the aide of a new cavalry that hailed from the city of Taras. These were skirmishers by nature but were equipped well enough to fight in melee if necessary. Alas we had reached this city and when if fell the Romans would be refugees in their own lands.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/216-1.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/216-3.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/216-4.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/216-5.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/216-6.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/216-10.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/216-11.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/216-12.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/216-13.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/216-14.jpg

As I watched the Romans enslaved and send to the port to be sent all over the world I couldn't help but marvel at the irony of it all. Many years ago when we fled the Aegean, it was a flight from occupation by the Macedonians. Many of us would have been sold into slavery. Yet here we are a few lifetimes later doing the same thing that we sought to avoid. With the Romans trapped, a relative peace fell over Italia.
The maurading Aeduii had been evicted from Massalia by the Massalians. Segesta had been besieged by a small group of overzealous tribesmen who subsequently scattered when Xenophanes marched his men toward that city. He then turned and crossed the Po river and by the winter had surrounded the capital of Mediolanum. Agis was not happy as he did not want a broader war with tribes of Gaul. However he did understand the defense of Massalia.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/216-8.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/216-15.jpg
The sheer amount of land and territories that we controlled put us in a very powerful position on the world stage. Agis had seen his burgeoning empire nearly wiped out when he first took the throne. He singlehandedly reversed the tide against us and made us into the largest empire anyone had seen since the greatness of Alexander or the Persians before him.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/216-7.jpg
Greeks of all origins paid homage to Agis. He was practically a god in their eyes. And now, in addition to the might of Massalia, comes the strength of Syracuse. Her army has pledged to help us return to our true homeland. Having helped break her shackles to Rome the Syracuseans are indebted to us.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/216-18.jpg

Three grand armies stand on the edge of something great.
The city of Taras lies on the heel of italy. It is a Greek city controlled by Epirus. Epirus has been placed ina very difficult position. They have forged an alliance with the Makedonians and did not want to break that alliance. Agis had invited their king to discuss the situation.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/216-20.jpg
I was there when the King of the Epiriotes entered into the great tent that dominated the siege camp. He was an aged man but still had much to offer. He was slightly older than Agis. I watched the two men talking and realized what the world would have been like when they were young. They both got along well. The wine flowed and two kings became like brothers. Unfortunately they both knew that Epirus could not help us directly. Should they aide us they would breach the alliance with Makedonia and likely suffer their wrath. I sat their contemplating the dillemas before them. Finally it was agreed that should we recapture our homeland then the alliance would be allowed to collapse.
The consequences of the tenous situation meant that the port and men of Taras would not be able to help us. King Amitios of Syracuse gladly accepted the request to launch the invasion from Syracuse. The Syracuseans do not forget the past and had our King been from Athenian blood and not Spartan, this could have played out much differently. With the securing of Messana, all of Sicily was at their disposal. The valuable grain supply from that island would be necessary to feed the many men, women, and children that lived under the Greek banner.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/216-2.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/216-16.jpg
Leodes, my son, had come of age and was in the siege camp with the noble cavalry. Should a battle come to pass and cavalry called upon to aide, Leodes would be wielding his Xyston for Greece
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/216-17.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/216-19.jpg

Ariovistus Maximus

06-19-2009, 01:09

ah, this is nice, i used to read your carthage AAR, it was amazing, the best aar i ever read.. im going to enjoy this:book2:

Seconded. "Iberia Rising" was truly epic also.

Awesome narrative, Chirurgeon!

johnhughthom

06-19-2009, 04:33

Did you pour molten gold down the defeated Roman generals throat? :laugh4:

HunGeneral

06-19-2009, 16:58

WOW!! Finally I had the time to read all of it... It was a great read. A true masterpiece ala Chirurgeon. I don't even dare quess what you might bring up next... I have a feeling however that we will witnes a helennic D-Day somewhere on the peleponesos or maybe a Graeco-Celt war...:juggle2:

Please keep up the good work Master of AAR's:2thumbsup:

Chirurgeon

06-19-2009, 17:35

Seconded. "Iberia Rising" was truly epic also.

Awesome narrative, Chirurgeon!
thank you. The events in the game are very interesting. I am just a reporter :)

Did you pour molten gold down the defeated Roman generals throat? :laugh4:
ha! Damn that sounds horrible. I can never get that image out of my head

WOW!! Finally I had the time to read all of it... It was a great read. A true masterpiece ala Chirurgeon. I don't even dare quess what you might bring up next... I have a feeling however that we will witnes a helennic D-Day somewhere on the peleponesos or maybe a Graeco-Celt war...:juggle2:

Please keep up the good work Master of AAR's:2thumbsup:
Yes D day. I guess you could say that. Its a bit further across from Sicily to the Aegean than from England to France. Thank you all for following. Should I have a failure letter to be read to the troops if the invasion does not work? I remember when I think Eisenhower had that letter ready in case the invasion was a disaster.

Leão magno

06-21-2009, 23:39

Finally I caugth up with your AAR... Sensational !!!!!! It inspired me a lot! I loved the Carthaginian and Luso AARs and this one also have an special flavour of it's own!!! Keep t up Cir!!!!

Moosemanmoo

06-22-2009, 00:05

Been lurking on this one for a while, but I have to ask, Makedonia???

Reality=Chaos

06-22-2009, 10:04

Hi, I recently started lurking on here again... I read all of Chirgueons AAR's before.... and this one is very good once again...:yes: I like it....

the man with no name

06-24-2009, 02:07

Good job mate! I love to see Roma fall.

Chirurgeon

06-28-2009, 18:58

LX - Family Pride
215 BC
For the first time that I can remember a member of my family helped directly in the success of a battle. As we laid siege to Capua and a relief army came to rescue that beleaguered city, my son and his hippias were ordered to engage the consul and his personal guard. I was terrified. I remember seeing the thundering mass of horse charging across the battlefield to the location of the enemy command. I could see the collision of the horses and simultaneously it felt like my heart skipped a beat.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/215-2.jpg
I wanted to close my eyes but I felt myself praying to the gods that he would be ok. It was a jarring event for me to watch. I didnt even watch the rest of the battle.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/215-4.jpg
I just focused on the spot far in the distance where the cavalry had gone. Soon they came riding back. The enemy was breaking rank because word had spread that their commander was dead. The noble cavalry, including my son, had slain their leader.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/215-3.jpg
With the destruction of this latest army the city of Capua was defenseless. Agis let the army into the city and began the brutal process of enslaving and selling the people. I saw all this and realized that I did not want to bear witness to battles anymore.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/215-5.jpg
My son visited me in a villa that had been abandoned by the family. Here I informed Leodes that I would be returning to Emporion. I was not yet 45 but I felt much more weathered than others of that age. I yearned for my home and the wife i seemingly abandoned years ago. I had a wonderful visit with my son and he promised to keep me updated on the progress of our campaign.
King Agis had fallen from his horse and likely broke several ribs. The chirurgeons tried to make him stay in bed to heal but he would not have it. The last city of the Romans stood before him and he wanted to rid the roman threat once and for all.
Rhegium had been besieged and was expected to fall within a year. Our brothers from Syracuse were assisting in any way possible.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/215-1.jpg
I left Capua before winter and traveled to the magnificent city of Syracuse. The great shipyard was busy. A fleet was being built. One of the largest ever seen. I had seen great things but I could not watch battle after battle with my son charging into the enemy. I feared that one of those charges would be his last. Distance would be the best coping device I had. In the spring I would take a boat back to Emporium. Likely I would trace the Italian Peninsula northward towards Massalia. In my home I could find a sense of normalcy and get my hands into the soil again.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/Hellinistic%20Journey/215-6.jpg