Basileion Bosphorou: a Tale of the Pontos Euxeinos

[Mjolnir]

https://img523.imageshack.us/img523/1282/aarintropicqa8.jpg

Chapter 1: The Wind and Troubles (https://forums.totalwar.org/vb/showpost.php?p=2127760&postcount=4)
Chapter 2: Pantikapaion (https://forums.totalwar.org/vb/showpost.php?p=2129427&postcount=28)
Chapter 3: A Course is Set (https://forums.totalwar.org/vb/showpost.php?p=2130534&postcount=34)
Chapter 4: On the Edge of Civilization (https://forums.totalwar.org/vb/showpost.php?p=2132674&postcount=45)
Chapter 5: Old Alliances (https://forums.totalwar.org/vb/showpost.php?p=2134946&postcount=55)
Chapter 6: An Old Feud (https://forums.totalwar.org/vb/showpost.php?p=2139671&postcount=81)
Chapter 7: Calm Before the Storm (https://forums.totalwar.org/vb/showpost.php?p=2143371&postcount=92)
Chapter 8: Hatching a Plan (https://forums.totalwar.org/vb/showpost.php?p=2148151&postcount=100)

[Chirurgeon]

Alright! Im excited :) Cannot wait for that first chapter!

[SwissBarbar]

Hear, hear! Can't wait to read how you prepared it all :2thumbsup:

[Mjolnir]

OOC Notes:
First of all, a couple of shoutouts:
Hax and SwissBarbar - thanks for helping with my modding issues. :2thumbsup:
Maion Maroneios - thanks for supplying me with the necessary Greek translations. :2thumbsup:

I'll be playing the campaign on H/M using EB 1.2. I don't exactly know which mini-mods I'll be using yet as I still have a couple of issues to work out, but I'll at least be using FD for RP purposes and to keep things realistic. This is not a full mod; I did some editing of the EB files changing some names, ethnicities, faction name and color, AoR for some units, and used console commands for the rest.

I'm fairly certain this is the first Bosporan AAR for EB, so I'm breaking some new ground here. I'm very excited about the unit mix and RP possibilities for a Hellenic Bosporan faction.

I really think that pictures give depth to an AAR and help people visualize the story, so my apologies to those of you using dial-up.

Hope you enjoy. :beam:


Chapter 1: The Wind and Troubles


Summer, 270 BC

The wind originates in the forests of the great frozen north, it makes its way south across the vast steppes passing over the nomadic tribes driving their herds on their way to summer grazing grounds, and finally reaches an odd shaped peninsula on the north of a great oval shaped sea. Our sea.

https://img145.imageshack.us/img145/1439/crimeal2dv4.jpg
The cool wind is a welcome relief from the heat of the midday summer sun here on top of the southern walls of the city. As I look out over the walls south towards the docks and warehouses of the port, a set of sails appears on the horizon and slowly draws closer. Squinting I can make out the coloration on the sails and the shape and size of the ship, a merchant ship from Trapezous most likely carrying iron and copper goods.

https://img516.imageshack.us/img516/1252/ss1gy7.jpg
Good, trade has slowed to a trickle of late. Our port can hold 30 large galley type ships, but it is presently less than a quarter full. That is very troubling; this city was built on trade.

https://img4.imageshack.us/img4/6381/portyv5.jpg

They say this city is over 300 years old and was founded by colonists of the Milesioi from Anatolia whose ancestors themselves were colonists from Hellas itself. They made a good choice when they founded Pantikapaion. The city is positioned on high ground commanding the mouth of the large Lake Maiotis and has many natural harbors for the use of our ships on top of the port facilities that have been constructed.

https://img21.imageshack.us/img21/1337/crimeabg9.jpg
The Tanais River empties into Lake Maiotis bringing with it nutrients needed for the rich grain fields surrounding the lake. Down the river also comes a steady supply of barbarian slaves and other trade goods which along with the grain are shipped to Athenai, Sparte, Korinthos, Thermon and other cities in Hellas and to Sinope, Trapevous, Karia, and other Hellenic cities in Anatolia. In exchange pottery, metal goods, and luxury goods flow back to us. Oh how the gods have blessed us with wealth; or at least that’s how it used to be.

It has been a year now since the news of the fall of the city of Athenai, our friend, ally, and trading partner. Six months later we received word that Sparte too had fallen. Now Rhodos stands alone against the Makedonian scourge, and what can they hope to accomplish against the might of Makedonia? Our hope in the Koinon Hellenon has been crushed. And with the death of our hope comes the withering of our trade. Makedonian warships now own the Aegean and our trade ships are seized and confiscated under the pretense that our ships and goods were intended to aid Koinon Hellenon rebels.

https://img252.imageshack.us/img252/3677/jenkin1sm2.jpg
Trade from Hellas now goes east to the Makedon’s allies in the Arche Seleukeia instead of north to us. And just when things seemed darkest, it got worse. A month ago Makedonia dispatched messengers to all the Hellenic cities: Pergamon, Kallatis, Sinope, Trapevous, Karia, Nikaia, Byzantion, Kydonia, Thermon, and us in the Basileion Bosphorou.

https://img518.imageshack.us/img518/1825/messengerxa8.jpg
The messenger informed us that Makedonia was reclaiming her rightful place as the true heir to Megos Alexandros, and as such, all Hellenes must once again unite under Makedonian rule. With many thinly veiled threats that this would happen whether we liked it or not, Makedonia offered us their protection and the resumption of normal trade in exchange for regular tribute and the allowing of Makedonian garrisons in our cities.

We stand at a crossroads; a great decision lies before us and no less than the fate of the Basileion Bosphorou and her people are at stake. As I gaze out at the Pontos Euxeinos I consider what peace must accompany having no worries like the sea or the wind. The mindless sea which comes on with a rush and then breaks and recedes only to repeat itself again and again for the rest of time or the wind which blows for forever and a day without a care in the world. Ah, but the cool wind does feel nice.

https://img24.imageshack.us/img24/4035/audagsu0.jpg

[SwissBarbar]

Veeeerryyyy nice !!! I like the narrative form, it's a tale from a contemporary witness. And the pics are awesome (will you create a map in future?). This AAR is as invigorating as a cool wind in hot summer ;-)

[HunGeneral]

Nice start. This should become interresting. Good luck to it:thumbsup:

[Maion Maroneios]

Excellent start, Mjolnir:thumbsup: I'll sure be following this:yes:

Maion

[Olaf Blackeyes]

This will be good

[machinor]

Excellent first post, Mjolnir. Keep it up!

[Olaf Blackeyes]

Hmmm i wonder if you and chrureigon should team up? I mean u are both doing the same thing, a migration campaign, just in diff directions.

[SwissBarbar]

You mean integrating the other's campaign in your own and let it end in a great MP-War? ^^Interesting Idea, but I think not what they intended to do ;-)

[Chirurgeon]

I don't think it would work out. A lot of Logistical issues. Although I must say that this AAR has a remarkable resemblence to my own. Albeit in a different area of the world. Should be very interesting to see what happens. I will be following this closely :)

[gamegeek2]

Once we get AtB done, this sort of thing will be quite easy to do!

(If you want to learn more about AtB, please click the link in my sig)

[Olaf Blackeyes]

Awww man!!!!:no:
I was SUUUUU hoping for a grand Hellenic SUPOR ALLIANZE

[Maion Maroneios]

When I come back as the Makedones, you filthy Emporiatai and Pantikapaioi shall both kneel before the only true Basileus of the Kosmos. Mwhuhahahahahahaha!!! :evil2: Together with the Germanoi (under Olaf), we shall spread chaos and darkness to the world :evil3:

Maion

[Mjolnir]

Thanks for all the well wishes everyone.


Hmmm i wonder if you and chrureigon should team up? I mean u are both doing the same thing, a migration campaign, just in diff directions.

I'm not sure how that could be done besides pure RP, and we'll have to wait to see for that. Our AARs may take us in two completely different directions.


I don't think it would work out. A lot of Logistical issues. Although I must say that this AAR has a remarkable resemblence to my own. Albeit in a different area of the world. Should be very interesting to see what happens. I will be following this closely :)

Thanks Chirurgeon, I've been planning most of the elements of the AAR for two weeks now, I guess great minds think alike or something like that. :clown: It will be interesting to see how our AARs diverge as our campaigns progress.


When I come back as the Makedones, you filthy Emporiatai and Pantikapaioi shall both kneel before the only true Basileus of the Kosmos. Mwhuhahahahahahaha!!! :evil2: Together with the Germanoi (under Olaf), we shall spread chaos and darkness to the world :evil3:

Maion

And you wonder why people don't like the Makedonians. :laugh4:

[Olaf Blackeyes]

When I come back as the Makedones, you filthy Emporiatai and Pantikapaioi shall both kneel before the only true Basileus of the Kosmos. Mwhuhahahahahahaha!!! :evil2: Together with the Germanoi (under Olaf), we shall spread chaos and darkness to the world :evil3:

Maion

SWEET!!! Ill get the mind@#$@ mushroom and berserk potions, as well as dark magics and demons, ready for chaos to unfold!!:horn::nurse:~:mad~:mad~D

[Maion Maroneios]

And you wonder why people don't like the Makedonians. :laugh4:
:clown:

Maion

[MarcusAureliusAntoninus]

Interesting start. Keep it up. :2thumbsup:

[Mooks]

Was waiting for a pontic AAR.

[Maion Maroneios]

Was waiting for a pontic AAR.
Blasphemer! The Pontioi are filthy traitors and half-breeds, there shall never be a Pontic AAR:whip:

Maion

[machinor]

Blasphemer! The Pontioi are filthy traitors and half-breeds, there shall never be a Pontic AAR:whip:

Maion
Leave my beloved Pontics in peace! At least they put up quite a bit of a fight, contrary to your precious little Makedones. :laugh4: <--- Laughing in the face of oh-so-powerful Makedonia.

[Mediolanicus]

This is looking like a very promising AAR, Mjolnir. I'm eager to see more.


(I'm less eager to see more off topic spam though, but as long as Mjolnir is all right with that..)

[Maion Maroneios]

Leave my beloved Pontics in peace! At least they put up quite a bit of a fight, contrary to your precious little Makedones. :laugh4: <--- Laughing in the face of oh-so-powerful Makedonia.
Are you laughing at me, the Basileus? This is blasphemy, this is madness!












Go on someone, I know you want to say it:yes: (hint: a balloon for the first one to do so)

Maion

[Olimpian]

THIS IS SPARTA !


(did this just for the balloon)

[Maion Maroneios]

THIS IS SPARTA !
As promised: :balloon3:

And ok, I'll be a good boy and stop spamming.

Maion

[Mjolnir]

Was waiting for a pontic AAR.

Sorry to disappoint.


Let's try to keep the off-topic spam to a minimum please. Chapter 2 should be posted within a couple hours.

[Mjolnir]

Chapter 2: Pantikapaion

Summer, 270 BC

http://www.wildwinds.com/aca/fakes/2452rs6.5g.JPG
OOC Note: The back of the coin reads "PAN" for Pantikapaion.

Turning my back on the sea, I address the man beside me, “I think our time of idling here on the walls is at an end, Lysandros”

“As you say, my lord”

I walk back down the wall towards the tower to the west, my armored companion a step behind. We pass the lookouts and take the winding stairs down. As we pass out of the guard room at the base of the tower we are joined by 6 of my body guards who fall in behind myself and Commander Lysandros and we begin walking down one of the wide stone streets towards the center of the city. We pass large grain warehouses and two story residences with tiled roofs on either side. As we near the city center, Pantikapaion’s Shrine to Poseidon, god of the sea, comes into view.

https://img27.imageshack.us/img27/5866/596pxposeidonsculpturecyj6.jpg
A steady trickle of people flow in and out and a smell of the burning sacrificial meat begins to fill my nose. As a city of the sea which depends upon her trade ships and fishing boats for supplies, wealth, and a portion of our food, Poseidon’s altar never lacks for sacrifice whether from a fisherman giving thanks for a great catch or a merchant praying for his ships’ safe return. We pass the Shrine and fall in behind a trio of market goers carrying large empty baskets and talking loudly of the latest gossip.

As we near the trading stalls in the center of Pantikapaion, the streets begin to fill with people flowing in both directions and the noise level rises to a muted roar. The majority of those crowding the streets are Hellens like myself and my guards, but dressed in the Hellenic woolen chitons and himations ranging from the rough drab of the poor to the richly adorned of the merchants rather than in armor.

http://www.bible-researcher.com/ancient2.jpg
The rest are mostly Hellenized native Pontics from the towns and villages inland who have been part of our Basileion almost since the Milesioi arrived here. They wear trousers and loose fitting shirts and come in from the country side to sell the grain and vegetables they grow in exchange for the pottery and metal goods we buy from the trade ships. Sprinkled throughout the crowd are leathered animal skin wearing barbarians, Scythians and other northern nomads and semi-nomads, come down to sell slaves or to simply to view the “town made of stone”. And every now and then a brightly clad foreign merchant from far off Armenia or Babylon can be seen through the mass of people.

https://img18.imageshack.us/img18/4444/traderjb6.jpg

We push our way into the market square through the milling crowd past vendors and traders hawking their wares and towards the large iron gates at the east side of the city center. I and my retinue are immediately recognized by the guards and the gates swing back to let us into the entrance gardens of the Basileus’ palace; a large ornate two story stone house with surrounding gardens and a stone wall enclosing it. Perhaps not a palace in the eyes from someone Athenai or Rhodos, but here on the edge of civilization a palace it is.

https://img3.imageshack.us/img3/845/villarn6.jpg
As we reach the wide entrance doors past rows of columns and all of my guards except Lysandros peel off to the side. Lysandros pushes the doors open and I step in out of the midday heat. A servant is ready to take my dusty cloak which I readily surrender and begin to make my way down the hall with long strides past scurrying servants.

Lysandros catches up with me and breaks the silence, “What hurry, young one?”

Casting a sidelong glance at my companion I respond, “I wish to make some inquiries before the Synedrion meeting gets under way”

Nodding he replies, “Do you think it is good news or bad which warrants this emergency meeting of the Synedrion?”

Pausing at a large wood door with ornately carved bronze trappings I answer in a slightly sardonic tone, “When has good news ever warranted an emergency meeting”

Pushing open the door I step inside.

[Chirurgeon]

Very nice. You are a good writer. Keep it up. I can feel the tension building.

[Olaf Blackeyes]

The Bosphoros had better kick !@#!$@%

[Antinous]

Their archers will destroy whoever challenges them!!!!

:surrender: :hmg:

[SwissBarbar]

Very well written !!!!!!

[Mjolnir]

Thanks for the continued support.


The Bosphoros had better kick !@#!$@%

The first three chapters are the introduction to set the stage and atmosphere for when the action starts in chapter four.

[Mjolnir]

Chapter 3: A Course is Set


Summer, 270 BC

The door opens into a long covered patio which exits into the garden in the back of the palace. Walking back out into the sunlight I quickly glance across the half dozen groups of men scattered about amongst the small fruit and ornamental trees and shrubs.

https://img26.imageshack.us/img26/5216/victorianeragardenwithjsh9.jpg
Finding the man I’m looking for I head for his group while nodding a general greeting to the other groups I pass. Reaching the seven men circled in discussion I catch a snippet of the conversation.

“…so I think we can count on his vote in-“

The tall board-shouldered man cuts off as he notices my approach. Inclining my head towards him, “My apologies for interrupting Synedros Brentisinos”

Smiling, “Nonsense, the Kleronomos Arches is always welcome”

I return the smile and turn towards the man I seek, “Basileus”

“Spartokos, my son you are just in time. Did the gods give you any revelations today on the walls?”

“No father”

“A pity”

“Although” I direct my comment back to Synedros Brentisinos, overseer of the Pantikapaion port, “I did see a trade gallery in bound from Trapevous”

Synedros Brentisinos’ face brightens, “Well that at least is good news” turning to his secretary, “Go make the appropriate preparations” The secretary bows and hurries off.

Addressing my father again, “So what news is responsible for this emergency Synedrion meeting?”

A frown crosses my father’s face, “That is best left for the meeting itself” Rising his voice “Synedroi, it is time”

We all move towards the large one-room building, the Synedrion chambers, sitting a little apart from the palace itself. I follow my father inside leaving Lysandros outside with the rest of the secretaries and bodyguards. My father takes the seat at the head of a long table with a large map of the Pontos Euxeinos and surrounding territories on it while I take a seat to his left against the wall as I am not officially a member of the Synedrion. The twelve members of the Synedrion, the twelve most powerful men in the Basileion next to my family, take their seats around the table. Synedros Brentisinos and Synedros Oionios, my father’s greatest supporters, sit to his right and left respectively. The Brentisinoi and Oionioi have been allies of ours since even before my great-great-great-great-great-great-great grandfather, and namesake, Spartokos overthrew the Archaeanactids and established the Spartocid dynasty 175 years ago. Others like Synedros Archilochos and his cousin Synedros Poikas have a more adversarial relationship with us. Synedros Archilochos is the direct descendant of the sister of the last Archaeanactid Basileus and it is whispered that he would like to press that claim given a chance. Thankfully for us he lacks the support necessary for such an enterprise and thankfully for him my father is a benevolent man.


https://img3.imageshack.us/img3/2928/synedrionmeetingjj7.jpg

My father, Pairisades Spartokides, Basileus of the Basileion Bosphorou addresses the Synedrion in a firm voice, “I call this meeting of the Bosphorou Synedrion to order. Synedroi, two days ago I received very troubling news from my agents in Olbia and yesterday the same news from Tanais. Our client rulers in both regions have decided to take this opportunity of perceived weakness on our part to forsake their oaths of loyalty to the Basileion Bosphorou. All officials, soldiers, and citizens still loyal to us have been expelled or killed.”

A murmur of shock, anger, and dismay jumps up from the silence.

“What will become of us? We depend upon Tanais and Olbia for slaves and grain, we can’t survive without their trade!” Synedros Tenedios, the city’s largest slave dealer, almost shouts panic evident in his voice.

Voices rise in support and I confess that my own thoughts run along those lines as well.

“Quiet, quiet!” Synedros Oionios nearly shouts above the clamor while pounding his hand twice on the table, as the noised dies he adds, “Panicking will get us nowhere, logic and cool heads are what is required of us now”

“Thank you, Synedros Oionios” my father says, “this is indeed dire news, but this is not an end of us”

“P-p-p-perhaps it would be a good idea to reconsider the Makedonian offer?” the fat Synedros Koios almost whined in his slight stutter, “I d-d-do not think there is anything perceived about our weakened position nor do I think having the strength of Makedonia t-t-to support us would be a bad thing at present”

I feel my lip curl in disgust at Synedros Koios’ display of his well known bent towards cowardly self-preservation. If his family was not so prominent or his monetary reserves and land holdings were not so great, my father would have long ago removed him from the Synedrion.

“Surrender is not the answer here, a display of strength is what this calls for” Synedros Brentisinos answers him.

“I agree” my father nods, “Olbia and Tanais must be brought back under our authority, by force if necessary”

Synedros Oionios, “I concur”

A number of heads around the table nod in agreement, Koios whimpers softly. I have no doubt this exchange has been foreplanned by Brentisinos, Oionios, and my father.

“And so, Basileus Spartokides” Synedros Archilochos’ smooth deep voice cuts in, “your idea of ‘displaying of strength’ is to strip us of defenses and send off our armies into the steppes?”

“And you would have us simply sit here waiting for the hammer blow?” My father’s retort.

They lock stares for several moments before Synedros Archilochos drops his eyes.

“I will order local levies to be raised to augment our Hellenic troops. The Pantikapaion forces will take boats across Lake Maiotis to besiege and retake Tanais. In the meantime, I will head west to-“

“Wait, who exactly is leading this army if you head west?” Synedros Tenedios interrupts.

My father turns his head to look directly at me, “Spartokos will be commanding the attack on Tanais”

My heart skips a beat.

“The boy?” Synedros Poikas asks scornfully, “He’s only 19”

“Twice he has gone north with me to drive back nomadic raiders and proved his worth on the battlefield. I have every confidence that he is up to the task”

He smiles reassuring at me and then turns back to the Synedrion.

“Meanwhile I will take Synedros Tenedios and Synedros Eleios with me to Chersonesos. We will sure up support there and raise an army to retake Olbia. Synedros Brentisinos and Synedros Oionios will be in charge of affairs here in my absence”

Synedros Brentisinos, “I call for a show of support”

Eight of the Synedroi stand indicating their support of my father’s plan. Synedros Archilochos and Synedros Poikas are two of those seated. The Synedrion is dismissed. I thank my father and exit the building. Lysandros immediately joins me.

“What is the news?” Lysandros asks quietly as soon as we were out of eyeshot of the others.

“Bad news; ready your men for war Commander, we march on Tanais”

His broad smile emphasizes the battle scar on his left cheek, “I thought you said it was bad news”

I laugh.


https://img9.imageshack.us/img9/7353/454570helmet035aug10032og5.jpg

[Olaf Blackeyes]

This is made of AWESOME!!!!!

[Antinous]

You can say that again!!!! Here's to you Mjolnir :balloon2::balloon2:

[Mjolnir]

I'm glad you both enjoyed it. I put a lot of time into planning how I wanted this chapter to play out and then writing it all down.

[Chirurgeon]

Kudos...great job. lets see what this kid is capable of

[SwissBarbar]

really awesome! I agree with Lysandros, that's some good news ^^ and your AAR is good news as well

[Hax]

This is really very interesting. Hoping to read more soon!

[Tristuskhan]

Just discovered it and it's great, i'll be following the AAR

[Mjolnir]

Thanks for the support guys.

I'm working on the next chapter and I'm having some trouble with screenshots. I get in the middle of a battle and hit the "prt sc" button, alt + tab into Paint, and then copy the screenshot and save it, but when I try to get back into EB the game CTDs. Any ideas on how I can take and save screenshots without the game crashing?

[Chirurgeon]

Thanks for the support guys.

I'm working on the next chapter and I'm having some trouble with screenshots. I get in the middle of a battle and hit the "prt sc" button, alt + tab into Paint, and then copy the screenshot and save it, but when I try to get back into EB the game CTDs. Any ideas on how I can take and save screenshots without the game crashing?

Download the program called FRAPS. www.fraps.com Its free but if you pay ten dollars to get the full version you do not have to convert bmp files int jpeg files. It runs in the backround and you see the fps in the top corner of your screen. I have F10 as my default screenpic key. The fps number will flash white when you take a screenshot. Hope this helps!

[Mjolnir]

Thanks, I'll try that.

[Mjolnir]

Chapter 4: On the Edge of Civilization


Winter, 270 BC


https://img264.imageshack.us/img264/5941/w18thcg9.jpg
It’s cold out here on the edge of the steppes at night in winter, but our goal is in sight – Tanais is but half a day’s march south of us. I have over 15,000 men under my command.

https://img3.imageshack.us/img3/1052/spartokos19yw0.jpg
https://img517.imageshack.us/img517/1963/spartokosarmy270ck6.jpg
6,500 Hellenic light hoplites, drafted from the port workers and poor farmers of Pantikapaion, half of them veterans from my father’s previous campaigns the other half green and eager to prove themselves. 1,500 Hellenic slingers, recruited from the shepherds and farmers around Pantikapaion, also veterans of my father’s campaigns. 4,000 Pontic light spearman, levies supplied to us by the native Hellenized tribes as part of their oaths of loyalty to our Basileion. 1,500 heavy archers from Pantikapaion’s city guard, these are heavily armed men from mixed backgrounds who are highly trained and paid to be the best archers a Hellenic army has ever fielded. 1,500 Scythian horse archers from the northern border area of our Basileion, recruited with the promise of loot. And finally almost 1,000 elite hoplites commanded by my second-in-command Lysandros, these are the best of the best – veterans of a dozen battles and armed with the best weapons our blacksmiths are capable of making.

https://img13.imageshack.us/img13/5706/khgreekgeneralqx3.gif

We crossed the strait at the mouth of Lake Maiotis in mid-autumn using a small fleet of ferries.

https://img156.imageshack.us/img156/7043/yalta04xk5.jpg

Heading north and east to cross the river Tanais north of the town itself, we now sit here just north of the town as winter is beginning in earnest.

“What was it like when my father took Tanais, Lysandros?” I ask as we sit huddled around a campfire as the night sets in and the snow continues to fall.

“Well that would have been about 15 years ago. Hellen merchants from the south had founded a small trading post at the mouth of the Tanais River about 10 years prior. It had grown quite a bit and a local Scythian warlord decided that it was too tempting a target. The merchants called for aid and your father answered. The battle was short and decisive. Afterwards your father put one of his officers, a Hellen from the south named Ourgios, in charge of the city and he has ruled well and apparently loyally until now.”

All is silent for several minutes except for the howling wind.

“My lord, what forces will we be facing tomorrow?”

I answer, “It now appears that Ourgios has been agitating against us to the local Scythian tribes for some time now. Many of them support him and have supplied 6,000 archers to his cause, most of them foot archers thankfully. He also has the support of the 3,000 mercenary light hoplites stationed in the city by my father. Additionally he has over 1,000 medium cavalry composed of adventurers and cut-throats loyal to him. He was just waiting for us to show weakness to make his move.”

“It won’t be easy tomorrow”

“No, it won’t, may the gods be with us”

**********


https://img22.imageshack.us/img22/6278/battleoftanais270tw2.jpg
A light snow falls as we begin our advance into Tanais an hour after midday. The town is unwalled so we have no need of siege equipment. The green hoplites comprise the left, the pontic levies in the center, and the veteran hoplites on the right. On the left behind the green hoplites are the slingers and heavy archers, I send the horse archers swinging wide out to the right, and my elite hoplites advance behind the veterans on the right flank.

https://img13.imageshack.us/img13/9828/battleoftanais2701ps9.jpg
We are seen, warning horns sound from the town and I give the order to charge. My heartbeat quickens as we near the town at a fast trot, Lysandros at my side in the battleline. A group of huts blocks our way to the town center and the veterans and my elites swing to the right, while the greens and the levies swing left. My slingers and archers halt and fire a volley of missiles into the town. In response, a volley of arrows from within the town falls amongst us as we pass the first few huts. Most bounce off our heavy armor and shields with metallic clanks, but a hoplite three men down from me topples backwards grasping at an arrow sticking out from his throat above his breastplate. To my left on the other side of the huts I can hear the roar of battle as my left flank clashes with a unit of the mercenary hoplites and Ourgios’ horse archers. We come out into the open at the bottom of a sloping hill halfway up which waits the rest of the mercenary hoplites. With a shout the veterans in front of my elites rush forward, but just as they reach the waiting spears a cry from off to their left draws my attention as Ourgios and his medium cavalry charge out of a side street into the left flank of the my veterans.

“Attack! Death to the traitor!” I shout.

“Death to the traitor!” Lysandros echoes and the cry is taken up as my elites surges forward into the cavalry.

Some of the horsemen turn and kick their horses towards us. An oncoming rider thrusts his spear at my head.

https://img294.imageshack.us/img294/7505/battleoftanais2702hl2.jpg
Deflecting the blow with my shield I raise my sword and cleanly slice the horse’s throat open toppling the rider to the ground at my feet. A quick thrust of my sword between the ribs finishes him. The space around me is a swirl of spears, horses, and men. Hacking and slicing, the cries of horses and men is all that exists for minutes which seem like eternity.

https://img17.imageshack.us/img17/2154/battleoftanais2703xn1.jpg
Finding a moment of respite I discover Lysandros still beside me. Glancing across the conflict I see Ourgios fending off several hoplites about 30 yards off.

“Lysandros, your spear”

He hands me the broad shaft, the entire thing several feet taller than myself. Leaning back I throw the spear with all my might, and just like on the practice field, my aim is true. The shaft catches him full in the chest carrying him backwards off his horse to the ground. A roar goes up from my troops as the enemies turn and begin to flee.

“Forward; kill them all!” I roar.

As we charge up the slope, I look to my left and see that my troops there have won their fight as well. All of Ourgios’ soldiers save the archers in the town center are in full flight.

https://img26.imageshack.us/img26/3765/battleoftanais2704mc3.jpg
A last volley of arrows hits us and then we are upon them. The battle is quickly over.

All in all the battle only took two hours and in the end all 10,000 of Ourgios soldiers are dead or scattered, while 6,000 of mine lie dead as well. A bloody day.

https://img4.imageshack.us/img4/3994/battleoftanais2705af3.jpg

**********

The next day as the work of burying the dead is carried out in the fields to the west, I take the opportunity to walk the streets of Tanais. I did not have time to notice much in my time in the town yesterday, but now I take in the sights. The town is a thorough mixture of Hellen and Barbarian. Barbarian huts sit beside Hellen houses, steppe riders with bows on their backs lead horses past richly dressed Hellen merchants, and half-Hellen/half-Scythian children play in the street.

https://img17.imageshack.us/img17/7395/greektownjn3.jpghttps://img49.imageshack.us/img49/5648/nomadtownzc0.jpg
This is the edge; the northern most outpost of Civilization. It is a strange thought that everything north, west, and east of this point is totally and utterly barbarian.

My father commanded me to find a replacement for Ourgios, someone whom could be cemented to us through marriage. I reach the meeting hall on top of the hill in the center of Tanais, waiting for me there is a man named Demaratos Therapnaios. He is a Hellen who settled in Tanais and took a Scythian wife. He and his family, including his 16 year old son Aitios, were imprisoned by Ourgios when they refused to swear loyalty to him.


https://img15.imageshack.us/img15/6180/aitios269hw0.jpg
https://img15.imageshack.us/img15/4606/skythohellenjw6.jpg

“Come Therapnaios, we have much to discuss”

**********


Spring, 269 BC

Having setup a provisional government and constructing a small wooden palisade around the town for defense, I left Demaratos Therapnaios in charge of the town and military forces there and take a trade ship to Pantikapaion in the spring.

https://img3.imageshack.us/img3/8764/crimeanoviysvetgolitsinbh6.jpg
Standing in the bow of the galley I watch Pantikapaion’s walls drawing ever closer.

“You’ll like Hermine, and I think my sister will like you too” I say reassuringly to Aitios who is standing beside me gazing wide-eyed at the city.

“I do hope so, I am honored to be asked to marry into the Basileus’ family”

Our ship pulls into the dock and is tied up. My father has been forewarned of our approach and is there to greet us. We embrace.

“Is all well with you? Did things go as planned in the east?”

“Yes Spartokos, Olbia is once again ours. My congratulations on your taking of Tanais; Lysandros writes that you did our family proud.”

“Thank you father. This is Aitios” I wave Aitios closer.

“Ah yes, let us walk” says my father eying the young man up and down.

My sister and Aitios were married the next month and a month afterwards I too was wed to the youngest daughter of Synedros Brentisinos, Antheia. It will take time to get used to the idea of being married.

https://img17.imageshack.us/img17/9071/marriagegt8.jpg

Afterwards we had over a year of peace and quiet before we received troubling reports from the south.

**********


The Known World in 268 BC
https://img21.imageshack.us/img21/3701/worldmap268yt4.jpg

[Chirurgeon]

nice job! Although I have one question. Is there some equation you use to estimate the number of people in your army? I guess its more realistic that way.

[Mjolnir]

nice job! Although I have one question. Is there some equation you use to estimate the number of people in your army? I guess its more realistic that way.

I just x10 everything. I think that's the way most EB players do it if they want more realistic numbers.

[Antinous]

This is awesome!!!

[SwissBarbar]

Very nice !

[Maion Maroneios]

Excellent, truly excellent. Hell, in my previous Makedonian campaign, I had moved the KH to the Taurike and they expanded just as you have!

Maion

[Mjolnir]

This is awesome!!!

:bow:


Very nice !


Thanks, yours is coming along nicely as well.


Excellent, truly excellent. Hell, in my previous Makedonian campaign, I had moved the KH to the Taurike and they expanded just as you have!

Maion

It's a good area. With just the four settlements I have a +600 income every turn, and it would be quite a bit more if I wasn't RPing a lack of trade and therefore not signing any trade agreements.

I am a bit worried about the Sauromatae though, they keep on moving half-stacks into and out of my territory. :hide:

[V.T. Marvin]

Excellent chapter! Keep up:2thumbsup:

If I may give you two recommendations:
1.- Switch off the green arrows and you will get even nicer screenshots. There is a shortcut called "Preferences" in your EB folder in StartUp Panel, launch it and tick "Disable Arrow Markers" ON. You may also want to UNTICK "Show Banners".
2.- To take screenshots, consider using "Howie's Quick Screen Capture Tool" (download here (http://www.howiesfunware.com/)- it is in the "Misc Software" section) instead of FRAPS. I find Howie´s better as it saves the pictures already in .jpg format.

[Mjolnir]

Thanks for the advice. I've disabled the green arrows, but I think I'll stick with Fraps since I have to edit everything in Paint anyway so the format Fraps uses doesn't really matter.

[Mooks]

Im playing a pontic campaign right now. People say its hard, but if you blitz the Seleucids in asia minor then you get lots of extra income and bring the fight to them (they will eventually attack you). They have basically no army in AM.

[Mjolnir]

Chapter 5: Old Alliances


Autumn, 268 BC

https://img9.imageshack.us/img9/83/2068052630e677e5df7asj4.jpg
In the year and a half after the Tanais campaign tranquility prevailed. While we still cannot move our goods into the Aegean, we have worked out an agreement with Byzantion to ship our goods for us after we drop them off there. That along with the more direct control we now wield over the slave and grain trade with solidification of Olbia and Tanais in the Basileion Bosphorou means that our immediate crisis is over. We have constructed stone sewers and larger granaries in Pantikapaion to help deal with the influx of refugees of Athenai and other parts of Hellas after the Makedonian conquest and things are generally peaceful.

https://img443.imageshack.us/img443/8664/sewered4.jpg
https://img443.imageshack.us/img443/4473/granarywa4.jpg

I am spending this warm autumn afternoon out at our family’s country house east of the city with my wife and two younger brothers when a messenger arrives on a lathered mare.

“The Basileus requests your immediate presence at the palace”

“What is it?” I inquire.

“I do not know Kleronomos Arches, but the Synedrion did met this morning with a representative from Trapevous”

Nodding, I give orders to have a horse saddled and ride into Pantikapaion. Arriving at the palace just after nightfall I find my father, Lysandros, Synedros Brentisinos, and Synedros Oionios in a meeting room on the second floor seated around a circular wooden table.

“Ah you’re here, good you’re just in time” My father addresses me as I enter.

“Greetings Spartokos, how is my daughter?” Synedros Oionios greets me smiling.

“She is well Synedros, she’s with Nikanor and Phrixos at the country house”

Taking a seat, I ask, “The messenger said the Synedrion met with a man from Trapevous this morning, but he could tell me no more. What was the purpose of his visit?”

“Very bad news, unfortunately” My father replies, “apparently the Arche Seleukeian satrapy in northern Anatolia capitaled in Amaseia has declared itself independent, proclaimed itself the Basileion Pontikos, raised an army, and is deadset on conquering everything it can reach. Our allies in Sinope have fallen and the Basileus Pontikos has supplied men and funds to a noble in Trapevous named Neoptolemos to seize power and rule as a puppet for him there.” My father’s voice is grave.

Synedros Brentisinos cuts in, “The man from Trapevous we met with is Synedros Thorikios, he has requested that we honor our alliance with Sinope and Trapevous by dispatching an army to free those cities from Pontikos rule and we have agreed”

“Spartokos” my father resumes, “I am not as young as I once was, I cannot go campaigning for seasons on end like I did in my youth. That is why you will be commanding this expedition.”

https://img3.imageshack.us/img3/1969/pairisadesspartokides26on3.jpg

I nod slowly.

He continues, “Troops are being called in from the frontier and new units are being raised as well. You and Lysandros will set out as soon as winter is over”

**********


Spring, 267 BC


https://img144.imageshack.us/img144/282/turkeycoastmuglaoy9.jpg
We land on the coast of the heavily wooded plains east of Trapevous just as the spring flowers are beginning to bloom. The Hellens of Trapevous and Sinope are our brothers as we share the same father, the Milesioi. Sinope and Trapevous handle the rich trade flowing north from the Euphrates river valley and west out of the Caucasus mountains. They have been our trade partners and allies for generations and losing them would be a heavy blow. Summer is almost come by the time we reach the walls of Trapevous and form our siege ring around it. I have over 20,000 men under my command.

https://img3.imageshack.us/img3/108/spartokos267oz1.jpg
https://img502.imageshack.us/img502/9672/bbarmy267sq6.jpg
10,000 light hoplites - half of them veterans, 2,500 Pontic light spearmen, 2,500 slingers – half of them veterans, 1,500 Bosporan heavy archers, 3,000 Scythian foot archers – supplied to us as recompense for their backing the traitor Ourgios at Tanais, and of course my elite hoplites commanded by Lysandros. We face an opposing force of 17,000 defenders; 7,500 Hellenic missile troops and hoplites, 4,500 Persian light skirmishers, and 7,000 warriors from various Caucasian barbarian tribes from the wild mountainous region in the south and east with which Neoptolemos has allied or bought.

https://img5.imageshack.us/img5/6113/trapevousgarrisongd9.jpg

We maintain the siege for several months, allowing disease and hungry to work on our enemies’ strength while we construct three huge rams to batter down the gate and walls. On a clear cool autumn day I deploy my troops as if to assault the walls. Neoptolemos is clearly a politician and not a soldier, for immediately he sends his troops rushing to the walls. But I, instead of ordering the rams forward, order the archers to fire. Volley after volley is shot over the walls into the lightly armored mass of defenders.

https://img12.imageshack.us/img12/1374/trapevousbattle1ik4.jpg
By the time the order is given for them to fall back nearly a third of their number lie dead. With the walls clear, I give the signal for the rams to move forward. The ram on the south wall and the ram on the gate smash holes in the wall, but the defenders manage to set the ram on the north wall on fire before it can do its job.

https://img3.imageshack.us/img3/1158/trapevousbattle2ez6.jpg
Once inside the walls I divide my troops into three columns, sending one south and one north, I lead the middle column directly west into the city center. Fights begin to spring up all over the city as my hoplites clash with the city defenders.

https://img178.imageshack.us/img178/1755/trapevousbattle3us3.jpg
My column engages several thousand of the Hellenic troops including Neoptolemos’ hoplite bodyguard in a large square. As we slowly advance we leave the bodies of countless dead enemies in our wake many from the earlier missile barrage.

https://img13.imageshack.us/img13/4701/trapevousbattle4jz5.jpg
The stench of blood and sweat is everywhere and my sword arm grows weary.

Down the line a shout goes up, “Neoptolemos is dead!”

The remaining Hellenic defenders throw down their weapons and surrender while the barbarians flee the town for the safety of the hills. Trapevous is ours. 15,000 defenders dead while I only lose 2,500; good, I will need every man I can get when I face Pontikos.

https://img150.imageshack.us/img150/2181/trapevousbattle5xv1.jpg

We winter in Trapevous and setup a provisional government under the control of Synedros Thorikios as well as repairing the damage we caused to the wall and gate.

**********


Spring, 266 BC

With the coming of Spring comes tragic news from Pantikapaion, my father came down with an illness over the winter and died. The news deeply shakes me, I loved my father and I had counted on his support and encouragement. I do not know if I am ready for the responsibility that is now mine. Lysandros is shaken as well, maybe even more so than myself, he fought with my father since my father became Basileus over 35 years ago only leaving his direct service to command my bodyguard. But we have a job to do and we must be about it, mourning will have to wait.

Leaving 1,500 light hoplites to guard Trapevous along with 1,500 Caucasian warriors from tribes I convinced to ally with us, we march west along the coast towards Sinope passing through beautiful forest.

https://img407.imageshack.us/img407/8180/ssisan1.jpg
However they are without roads and we are slowed accordingly. The Basileus of Pontikos has ample warning of our approach and as we begin the siege of Sinope in mid-autumn he springs his trap. A Pontikos army of 5,000 men moves in to attack us from behind as the 5,000 defenders sally out. While I out number them with my 16,000 men, I am caught between an anvil and a hammer.

https://img19.imageshack.us/img19/9577/sinopebattle1hg7.jpg

I gamble. I deploy my forces to face the force advancing on my rear, ignoring the force sallying from the town leaving my left flank completely vulnerable. I hope to be able to defeat their forces piecemeal.

https://img25.imageshack.us/img25/2641/sinopebattle11aj2.jpg
Deploying my hoplites in a battleline with the archers behind us, I await the Pontikos forces’ advance. They charge across the field taking heavy casualties from my archers and by the time them reach my line they are easily disposed of.

https://img8.imageshack.us/img8/4062/sinopebattle12ge5.jpg
Quickly shouting orders I swing my battleline to the north to force the second Pontikos army advancing from Sinope. The gamble worked. My battleline is formed and ready as they exit the woods and come under my archers’ fire.

https://img530.imageshack.us/img530/2740/sinopebattle13df6.jpg

“What are those?” I ask in amazement to Lysandros as several hundred heavily armored men on heavily armored horses come into view sporting long lances. These are nothing like the lightly armored horse archers of the steppes or the Hellenic medium cavalry I am used to.

https://img530.imageshack.us/img530/9192/pontosearlybodyguardau4.gif

“I don’t know, but I don’t think we’re going to like it” Lysandros growls.

The ground trembles as they lower their lances and charge the light hoplites at the center of my line to the right of my elite hoplites. The Pontikos cavalry, later we learned they are called the Pontikos Royal Kinsmen heavy cavalry, smashed into and almost completely through my line. Over a hundred of my light hoplites died in their initial charge alone and my center bulged backwards precariously.
The Scythian archers behind the center turned and began to run, something had to be done at once.
Recovering from my shock I yelled, “Pivot on the right; charge!”

Swinging around my elites crashed into the rear of the cavalry. Turning to ignore my ruined center, the Pontikos cavalry began a desperate struggle with us as the arrow continued to fly overhead.

https://img514.imageshack.us/img514/243/sinopebattle14jy8.jpg
Though intense, the struggle was soon over and their leader received a spear in the chest. Panting, I turned to find the remains of the Pontikos army fleeing back towards Sinope. We pursued them, but they managed to make it back and lock the gates and discouraged us from following them with a rain of arrows.

https://img514.imageshack.us/img514/8048/sinopebattle15wi9.jpg
Withdrawing back to our camp I find one of my scouts waiting for me in my tent.

“My lord Basileus” I’m still not used to be called that, “there is another Pontikos army approaching from the south. It will be here within 2 days.”

“How many?”

“Our best guess would put them at over 12,000, my lord”

Thanking and then dismissing him, I lean back in my chair wiping blood from my hands and thank the gods this new army was late. If it had arrived with the other one, we would surely have been lost. Even now it will be a close thing. We only lost 1,000 men today, but my soldiers are exhausted and will be facing fresh soldiers. And those heavy cavalry, gods, I hope this new army doesn’t include any more of those.

**********

As I deploy my battleline on ground still dark with blood, I look into the distance and see the Pontikos army approaching. With a sinking feeling I can see more of that heavy cavalry, but thankfully most of the rest of the enemy seems to be composed of light missile troops with only 4,000 light and medium infantry in support.

https://img141.imageshack.us/img141/6303/pontikosarmycv9.jpg
Making a quick change to the battle formation I put my elites out in front of the light hoplites in the center of the line, I think our heavier armor and greater training will allow us to fare better against that implacable charge.

https://img23.imageshack.us/img23/2850/sinopebattle2eg7.jpg
Once again the ground trembles as the cavalry thunders towards us. A violent shock runs through my body as a horse impales itself on my spear. Somehow we manage to hold the line and the light hoplites swarm in to help us bring them down.

https://img3.imageshack.us/img3/7079/sinopebattle21pk2.jpg
Once again the fight is short but severe, and once we have disposed of the cavalry the rest of the Pontikos army again goes to pieces and routs.

https://img4.imageshack.us/img4/6702/sinopebattle22dj6.jpg

Sure that we would be crushed, the garrison of Sinope sallied again to join the fight, but we were ready this time and cut them off from the town. The people of Sinope welcome us into their city with open arms. I lost nearly 3,000 men in the battle, but my ranks are quickly filled with volunteers from the Hellenic inhabitants of the town and my army is swiftly brought back up to strength.

**********


Winter, 266 BC

Winter is well under way when I received an embassy from the Basileus Ponitkos. It seems the loss of over 22,000 soldiers along with two of his best generals has convinced him that I am too painful a thorn to deal with and perhaps afraid that I mean to take Amaseia next and is offering peace. I accept upon the condition that he renounces any claims on Sinope or Trapevous. It is agreed and a trade agreement between our two Basileions is signed as well.

https://img177.imageshack.us/img177/3578/ceasefire266zr6.jpg

I am quite pleased with current events until I receive a letter from my wife informing me of trouble back home and begging me to return to Pantikapaion with all haste.

**********


The Known World in 266 BC
https://img26.imageshack.us/img26/2760/knownworld266ez6.jpg

**********

OOC Note: I really wish I had a screenshot of the charge the Pontos Royal Kinsmen cavalry made in the first battle, but I was in too much shock from seeing my entire center almost collapse to remember to hit F12. I had forgotten how powerful those guys are, I won’t make that mistake again, but it did make for some good RP.

[SwissBarbar]

Your AAR not only is a very good read, I also like those very beautiful pictures! Can't wait for the next chapter.

[Hotseat_User]

damn, that is so nice Mjolnir, I wonder what struggles that will be. Maybe the Sauro are about to start a campaign. O_o;

[SwissBarbar]

haha, just noticed your Signature :laugh4: my young padawan :2thumbsup:

[Mjolnir]

Your AAR not only is a very good read, I also like those very beautiful pictures! Can't wait for the next chapter.

Thank you; I'm waiting for the next update of yours with much anticipation.


damn, that is so nice Mjolnir, I wonder what struggles that will be. Maybe the Sauro are about to start a campaign. O_o;

We shall see. ;)

[Chirurgeon]

Great stuff. I continue to relish your story. You are expanding alot faster than me though. Its taking a while to get things going with only one city to use. But it makes for a different story thats for sure. Yea Swissbarbar you need to get your ass in gear ;) Anyways there are alot of really good AARs right now

[MarcusAureliusAntoninus]

Indeed, there are many good AARs at this time. I'm finding it hard to keep up on them all. Keep up the good work, Mjolnir.

[Mjolnir]

Great stuff. I continue to relish your story. You are expanding alot faster than me though. Its taking a while to get things going with only one city to use. But it makes for a different story thats for sure. Yea Swissbarbar you need to get your ass in gear ;) Anyways there are alot of really good AARs right now

Well thank you. I don't have your talent of drawing things out in beautiful narrative so I use action to compensate. :clown: :laugh4:


Indeed, there are many good AARs at this time. I'm finding it hard to keep up on them all. Keep up the good work, Mjolnir.

Glad you're enjoying it.

[the man with no name]

Good job man! I'm looking forward to the next chapter! :smash::smash::smash::smash::smash: Edit: btw i have some ?'s
1. Why is your territory display color purple?
2. What version of eb is this?

[Mjolnir]

Good job man! I'm looking forward to the next chapter! :smash::smash::smash::smash::smash: Edit: btw i have some ?'s
1. Why is your territory display color purple?
2. What version of eb is this?

Thank you, I should have the next chapter out some time this weekend.

1) I changed the colour when I modded the KH. I wanted a different to signal that this is a "different" faction.
2) I'm playing with EB 1.2 with all the fixes plus the 1.2 mini-mod pack, the phalanx mod, naval mod, and RS textures.

[Antinous]

Whats the naval mod, and can't wait for the next chapter!!!

[Mjolnir]

Whats the naval mod, and can't wait for the next chapter!!!

It doesn't effect gameplay, but it makes all the ships look a lot better. Check it out. (https://forums.totalwar.org/vb/showthread.php?p=1797231#post1797231)

[Antinous]

That is awesome!!!!!!!!!!!! Where can I find that mod?

[Mjolnir]

That is awesome!!!!!!!!!!!! Where can I find that mod?

There's a link to the download near the bottom of the post I linked to.

[the man with no name]

Some more ?'s
1.Did you mod it so you started as the hellenes in Bosphorous?
2.What's the phalanx mod?
3.What's that 1.2 mini mod pack thing?
4.In my Koinon kampaign(i spelled it that way on purpose)I took sinope. What gov't should I install there?

Again good job.

[Mjolnir]

Some more ?'s
1.Did you mod it so you started as the hellenes in Bosphorous?
2.What's the phalanx mod?
3.What's that 1.2 mini mod pack thing?
4.In my Koinon kampaign(i spelled it that way on purpose)I took sinope. What gov't should I install there?

Again good job.

1) No, I used the "move_character" cheat to move my army and agents north and then Force Diplomacy to give Sparts and Athenai to Makedonia. Rhodios revolted to neutral on it's own once I had taken Pantikapaion.

2) It keeps your phalanxs in tighter formations and allows them to hold a line when they charge, there's a link to it in the 1.2 mini-mod pack thread.

3) https://forums.totalwar.org/vb/showthread.php?t=105242

4) I'm installing type 3 governments in every city I take for roleplaying purposes, however in a normal campaign I would recommend a type 2 government.

[the man with no name]

Thx man. Keep up the good work! Do I have 2 start all my games over for the minimod 2 work?

[Hax]

1) No, I used the "move_character" cheat to move my army and agents north and then Force Diplomacy to give Sparts and Athenai to Makedonia. Rhodios revolted to neutral on it's own once I had taken Pantikapaion.

Wait, so you didn't use my mod in any way?

[Mjolnir]

Thx man. Keep up the good work! Do I have 2 start all my games over for the minimod 2 work?

I'm not sure.


Wait, so you didn't use my mod in any way?

I used some character names and ethnicities from your mod, but there were a number of files missing from your 0.7 version so I was unable to use more of it.

[Hax]

Achso. Of course, I was a bit confused.

Been enjoying it, good luck with your next chapters!

[Antinous]

Wait is the boat mod in the mini mod pack for 1.2?

[Mjolnir]

Wait is the boat mod in the mini mod pack for 1.2?

No, these are included in the mini-mod pack:

* ALEXANDER.exe; thanks to maksimus for the wonderful instructions on how to make the swap between exes.
* AI Battle Formation Mods* ; by --Sinhuet and special thanks to Lysander13 for the compilation
* Spoils of Victory; by V.T. Marvin
* Some trait changes (command stars & cursus honorum) by konny.
* Win Conditions; originally by JRMC and special thanks to konny for making a new 1.2 version
* Roman Allied Legions; by konny
* Aquilifer unit; by lt1956, creator of the SPQR mod
* Force Diplomacy Minimod; by DimeBagHo , update byJarardo
* Darth Stalin's 1.1 Romani Fix with "corrected" Gallic Helm
* MP Swapper; by ||Lz3||

The City mod, Phalanx mod, RS Textures, and Naval strat map add on have to be installed individually if you want them.

[Antinous]

Ok thanks. Where can I find the naval and city mod?

[desert]

Actually, they are in the Mini-mod pack.

Sort of.

If you go to the Mini-mod thread, you can get the Phalanx Mod, City Mod, and Naval Strat Map mod individually.

[Antinous]

Thanks.

[Potocello]

Great AAR man! I love these Greek relocation AARs that seem to be popping up. someone should do one for Syracuse...

[Mjolnir]

Chapter 6: An Old Feud


Spring, 265 BC


https://img23.imageshack.us/img23/6510/blackseaa20041431105250vu8.jpg

Taking ships as soon as the winter storms have pasted, we sail north to Pantikapaion. We arrive at the port in good time and after unloading begin our triumphant march through the town. Cheering crowds greet us, but there is something wrong. A tension fills the air, averted eyes, silent stares. The square at the center of the city has been cleared for our arrival and my troops draw up in perfect military order. I give a short speech praising their bravery and thanking them for their service and then dismiss them to their homes. Entering the palace gardens with Lysandros and my bodyguard in tow and I can fill the air of tension even more here.

Synedros Brentisinos is waiting for me in the entrance hall, “Greetings Basileus, thank the gods for your safe and speedy return”

I nod, “Greetings Synedros, what is going on? My wife only wrote in general terms of trouble, but I can feel the tension all across the city. And where is my father-in-law, Synedros Oionios?”

Synedros Brentisinos’ face creases with worry, “He has not yet recovered from his wounds and is resting at his house. Come, we have urgent matters to discuss”

We make our way to one of the large meeting rooms, motioning for my bodyguards to stay outside but Lysandros to follow me, I follow Synedros Brentisinos inside and close the door. Sitting and standing around a large table sipping on cups of wine and talking quietly are Synedros Sosipatros, Synedros Gonnios, Synedros Petelinos, a half dozen high ranking officers of the city guard and military, and a young man I have never seen before.

Those who are seated rise and murmurs of, “Greetings Basileus” fill the room.

“Greetings, and please be seated” I reply and take the chair at the head of the table, “Now who will tell me what’s going on?”

Synedros Sosipatros clears his throat, “Just over a year ago when your father came down with his sickness he knew that he did not have long to live. He charged Synedros Brentisinos and Synedros Oionios in particular and the whole of the Synedrion in general with the care of Pantikapaion and the Basileion until you had completed the campaign in the south and could return to claim the throne.”

Synedros Sosipatros glances at Synedros Brentisinos who then takes up the story, “This of course did not sit well with Synedros Archilochos or Synedros Poikas. They viewed this as their opportunity to take down the Spartocids and regain the throne for the Archaeanactids. It was subtle at first, hints that perhaps the Basileion would be better off in more “experienced” hands or little criticisms of this or that policy and how “another” government might run things better. We believed it was simply Synedros Archilochos up to his same old tricks, but then his political opponents’ houses and trade stalls started getting vandalized and attacked and Synedros Archilochos and his supporters became more and more open with their verbal attacks on the Spartocids and their “puppets”. We noticed that Synedros Poikas’ had been sending and receiving an enormous amount of massages from both Pantikapaion and other cities in the Basileion and we managed to intercept several of them. They contained nothing overly treasonous, just the asking from political support and the like, but there were hints of deeper things. We just didn’t know how deep until eight days ago when Synedros Archilochos attempted to seize the city when he heard that you were returning.”

“What?!?!” I can hear the shock in my voice, “Surely that is further than even Synedros Archilochos would be willing to go!”

Synedros Petelinos answers me, “Unfortunately it is true, my lord. Eight days ago he tried to have all of us on the Synrdrion who opposed him assassinated. Two of the attempts were successful; Synedros Timogenes got his throat cut and Synedros Lindios’ wine was poisoned. Myself-“


https://img4.imageshack.us/img4/9218/assassinbr4.jpg

Synedros Gonnios interrupts his face pale, “He tried to have me poisoned too. It was only the luck of my cook catching one of the serving boys putting something in my wine that I escaped. I have lost my appetite for wine of late” his voice trails off.

Synedros Petelinos nods in sympathy and continues, “Myself, Synedros Sosipatros, and Synedros Brentisinos were all targets of assassins’ blades as well, but our guards were able to foil the attempts. Unfortunately Synedros Oionios was stabbed in the chest before his guards could respond, thankfully the doctors say he will live, but it was a near thing”

“Synedros Archilochos had bribed almost half of the city guard” Synedros Brentisinos takes up the story, “and they attempted to seize the palace, the barracks, the walls and gates, and the port. It was a close thing, the fighting was very fierce and taken by surprise as we were it did not turn in our favor until Mytilenaios led a force of the ex-military Hoplitai from Athenai to drive Archilochos’ forces from the market square where they were about to take the palace.”

“Wait” I cut in, “Who’s Mytilenaios?”


https://img509.imageshack.us/img509/8992/mytilenaios265sw8.jpg

“Ah, that’s right you have not met my adopted son yet have you?” turning to the young man I did not recognize, “Basileus, this is Mytilenaios. He came here as a boy with his aunt and uncle after his parents died in the Makedonian conquest and is now one of the most influential men amongst the Athenaios community in Pantikapaion”

The young man bows, “It is an honor Basileus, we from Athenai owe your father a great debt for giving us sanctuary”

“It is a pleasure, any friend of Synedros Brentisinos is a friend of mine” turning back to Synedros Brentisinos, “where is Synedros Archilochos now?”

“He fled the city with Synedros Poikas, Synedros Tenedios, Synedros Eleios, and many of his supporters to Chersonesos after his attempt failed. The city has declared support for him and he has proclaimed himself Basileus. He is currently raising an army”

“And what of the Scythians? And Synedros Koios and Synedros Imbrios?” I ask.

“The Scythians remember well the beating they took 5 years ago from you and your father and do not wish a repeat. And with your brother-in-law Therapnaios firmly on your side in Tanais, the Scythian tribes either support you or are neutral” contempt fills Synedros Brentisinos’ voice, “Synedros Koios and Synedros Imbrios have retired to their country houses and are not responding to any messages. Doubtless they hope to wait until one side is clearly winning before declaring support.”

Standing and adding all the confidence and firmness I can muster, “Well then my friends, we prepare for war”

**********


Summer, 265 BC

The next couple months are a flurry of activity. Veteran units from the Trapevous-Sinope campaign are re-organized and their ranks replenished, armor and weapons are repaired, and supplies gathered and stockpiled. By the time I set out west at the head of 21,000 men summer has fully come. I have all the units I commanded during my recent southern campaign except I have exchanged the light Pontic levy spearmen for 3,000 classical hoplites recruited from the Athenaios population and commanded by Mytilenaios.

https://img21.imageshack.us/img21/9254/bbarmy265za7.jpg

We march through the woods and hills in the middle of our peninsula and reached the road running south to Chersonesos. A couple days march from the city, my scouts reported that a large army is marching to meet us. As night falls we camp less than 3 hours march from our enemies, there will be bloodshed tomorrow. We break camp and continue south in the morning. Soon off in the distance we can see the enemy’s banners and hear their horns. I call a halt and array my battleline. A small group of riders break off from the enemy’s formation and ride slowly towards us, one of the riders waving an olive branch above his head.

“Lysandros, Mytilenaios, looks like they want to talk. Come with me” I walk towards the approaching horsemen with the two men and half dozen bodyguards.

The riders pull their mounts to a halt and Archilochos addresses me, “Spartokos, I’m glad you came personally. I was afraid you might send one of your puppets instead”

“Archilochos, it doesn’t have to come to blows. If you lay down you arms I will accept your exile to Hellas”

“Exile? No, I am the true Basileus. However I would accept your surrender of Pantikapaion to me in exchange for your leaving for Sinope and never returning”

“Then I fear it must come down to the sword then for I will never surrender my father’s throne to an impostor”

Archilochos snorts, “I will look for you on the battlefield”

Turning his horse he gallops back towards his army the rest of his retinue following. We begin the walk back to our own forces.

“Did you get a good look that his troops?” I ask.

“Yes” Lysandros replies, “mostly green troops with some mercenaries thrown in, but he must have over 30,000 of them. It will be a hard fight”

https://img25.imageshack.us/img25/9779/enemyarmy265ms4.jpg

https://img9.imageshack.us/img9/9189/battleofchersonesos2651wn4.jpg

Archilochos had arrayed his battleline with his mercenaries on his right and his green troops on his left. I put the Athenaios hoplites facing the mercenaries and my veterans facing his green troops with my elites on the very right end on my line. Battle horns echo up and down the line and across the field as both sides order a charge.

https://img9.imageshack.us/img9/5747/battleofchersonesos2652kr7.jpg
Our lines smash into each other in the middle of the field while archers and slingers send volley after volley into the melee. The entire melee quickly becomes a mess with both battlelines losing all cohesion and hundreds of individual fights emerging across the battlefield.

https://img161.imageshack.us/img161/5578/battleofchersonesos2653if1.jpg
In the end, the experience my soldiers gained in the southern campaign won the day. One by one Archilochos’ green units begin to rout under the pressure of my battle-harden vets. Archilochos leads his cavalry in a desperate charge against my center hoping to turn the tide. However it is much too late and I am able to move my elites around behind him trapping and slaughtering him and his cavalry in a sea of spears.

https://img161.imageshack.us/img161/9007/battleofchersonesos2654vb7.jpg
https://img17.imageshack.us/img17/3930/synedrosarchilochosfallko1.jpg
Seeing that the battle is lost the rest of his army takes to flight leaving the field to us.

https://img4.imageshack.us/img4/9694/battleofchersonesos2655il0.jpg

I lose 4,000 men, but Synedros Archilochos is dead and his army gone. I enter the city of Chersonesos unhindered and agree to spare the city leaders if they accept Mytilenaios as my ruler there and pay much higher taxes for the next 5 years. They agree. Synedros Tenedios and Synedros Eleios are not so lucky. I order them put to the sword after they are found cowering in a wine cellar. Treason and murder will not be tolerated.

I am informed that Synedros Poikas and his son along with Synedros Archilochos’ wife and infant son had left Chersonesos some time ago for Kallatis to hire more mercenaries for Synedros Archilochos’ cause. I cannot leave a sore to fester. Replenishing my army’s numbers and leaving Mytilenaios in charge of Chersonesos I set sail for Kallatis.

**********


Autumn, 265 BC

https://img18.imageshack.us/img18/1759/danubedeltaromaniaphotogc3.jpg

Kallatis is the major Hellenic port on the western shore of the Pontos Euxeinos. One of the major arms of the Amber Route ends in Kallatis and much trade flows in and out of its port. There are many barbarians in the area most of them of powerful Getai tribe to the west of the Istros (Danube) River.

We land a couple days march north of the town and begin making our way south down the coast.
About a half days march north of the city a scout rides up, “My lord Basileus, we found several thousand people camped in some rocky hills an hour west of the road. We are bringing the leader to speak with you”

I order a halt and a man is led to me. I recognize him at once, “I know you, you’re Boiskos, Synedros Poikas’ son”

The man looks at me his face dirty from many nights under the stars and his clothes torn, “I am, or was, my father is dead” He said his voice a bit hollow, but with anger burning is his eyes.

“How?”

“We were hiring mercenaries for Synedros Archilochos’ service. It was going well, we had almost 10,000 barbarian tribesmen many of them from the Getai tribe sworn to us when a trade convoy arrived in Kallatis. It was led by one of the Getai’s tribal leaders a man named Oroles per Drobeta. He apparently didn’t like the fact that Getai were going to be fighting for Hellenes and convinced most of the mercenaries that simply sacking Kallatis would be easier, less dangerous, and more profitable than fighting for us. He personally led the band that killed my father and Governor Sinis. I was able to get several hundred of my soldiers and a couple thousand civilians out of the town and into the countryside. They have been too busy looting and burning to search for us”

I lean back against the tree and close my eyes, it is a lot to take in. I look at the young Poikas, “Synedros Archilochos is dead and his army scattered. The rebellion is over. If you agree to lay down your weapons and accept me as your rightful Basileus, I will take you and your men under my protection”

He nods, “I will do so”

“And what of Synedros Archilochos’ wife and infant son?”

He shakes his head, “I do not know more than that they left for Byzantion a week before the attack”

We spend the rest of the day bringing the survivors of the Kallatis into our camp and feeding them. The next day we reach Kallatis. All the gates stand wide open and the smell of smoke hangs in the air. Most of the Getai have already left the area, but I send soldiers to drive off those who haven’t as I enter the town with Lysandros, Poikas, and several hundred soldiers. Oroles per Drobeta did his job with brutal efficiency.

https://img510.imageshack.us/img510/9495/113908330500f607050gg0.jpg
Most of the buildings show signs of looting, at least those that have not been burned to the ground. Furniture and broken piece of pottery lie scattered in the street. The shrine to Demeter is blackened and the walls bear ugly writing in a strange tongue. The stench of rotting death is heavy in the air and we see the corpses of those Hellenes unlucky enough to be unable to flee the town. We reach the center of the town to find several dozen spears stuck into the ground each with a head atop it. One of them is Synedros Poikas and another is Governor Sinis, the rest appear to have belonged to Hellenic military officers. Brutal indeed. I order the bodies gathered and buried outside the walls and the buildings either repaired or torn down. I resolve to make this town habitable again before I consider my next course of action. Autumn and winter have come and gone before I deem that we have restored the town to its former self.

Such an act of barbarism against Hellenes cannot be left unanswered. I decide to track down Oroles per Drobeta and put a spear in his gut.

**********


Spring, 264 BC

We march west for several days and cross the Istros River into the heavily forested territory of the Getai. Poikas has proven himself to be good to his word and I have given him and his men their weapons back. He is eager for revenge.

Our journey west soon becomes a nightmare. Ambushes become an almost daily occurrence, every tree, every rock, every clump of tall grass could be a hiding place from which an arrow or javelin may fly. Scouting and foraging parties simply don’t return.

https://img4.imageshack.us/img4/4530/ambushis1.jpg
The most frustrating thing about the situation is that there is nothing solid to grab on to. Our attackers simply fade back into the forest when we get too close or outnumber them and every village we come upon is disserted. Finally after several weeks of marching and 3,000 of my men dead or missing we reach the Getai town of Buridava. It is the major trade hub of the entire region and is ruled by none other than Oroles per Drobeta.

**********


Summer, 264 BC

My men are eager to finally face a tangible enemy and 3 huge rams are quickly constructed. I order the assault.

https://img22.imageshack.us/img22/7444/battleofburidava2641ta0.jpg
The three rams do their work and we pour through the wall into the town. My right column swings around in a flanking maneuver while my left column and center column are immediately engaged by Getai soldiers as they try to push us back.

https://img509.imageshack.us/img509/9215/battleofburidava2642ti1.jpg
The fighting is sharp but we quickly cut through the minimally armored light infantry and push deeper into the town. Meanwhile my right column commanded by Poikas has engaged Getai soldiers near the north gate of the town. Seeing part of my force isolated from the rest of my army Oroles per Drobeta leads his cavalry in a charge against the light hoplites.

https://img8.imageshack.us/img8/9100/battleofburidava2643br1.jpg
The column begins to lose ground. Seeing the situation I lead the rest of my soldiers charging into his right flank turning the tide. In the end it is Poikas’ spear which brings Oroles per Drobeta to the ground; I feel it is fitting.

https://img156.imageshack.us/img156/1457/battleofburidava2644aj6.jpg
Still the Getai fight on, they rally their forces on the hill in the town center and await our advance. Amongst them are men welding long sickle shaped swords the like of which I have never seen before.

https://img518.imageshack.us/img518/8632/battleofburidava2645wq3.jpg
As we clash with them I soon find that these swords cut right through shield and armor with ease. Thank the gods that these warriors are unarmored or our casualties would have been very great. Their warriors are finally dispersed at the cost of 4,000 dead Hellenes.

https://img26.imageshack.us/img26/4766/battleofburidava2646na3.jpg

We round up any young fit Getai we can find and put them in chains to be sold as slaves. The rest of the inhabitants are turned out of the town, the town is looted of valuables, and all the buildings are set on fire. We camp there for three days to make sure the fires continue to burn and then set off back to Kallatis. The return journey is relatively quiet. I do not think the Getai will be troubling us any time in the near future.

**********


Winter, 264 BC

We arrive back in Kallatis as the snows begin to come. We winter outside the town and in the Spring set sail for Pantikapaion. I leave Poikas as my governor in Kallatis, I know he is a much different and better man than his father. Trade is flourishing now that we have over half of the Pontos Euxeinos ports under our direct control and Pantikapaion is growing ever larger. Using the revenue from the trade and the funds gained from the looting of Buridava I begin the task of enlarging the palace. The gardens are expanded, another wing is added, and a separate structure is built for city administration purposes.


https://img21.imageshack.us/img21/4198/governorsvillada5.jpg

For the first time in 4 years I am able to rest.

**********


The Known World in 264 BC
https://img4.imageshack.us/img4/228/knownworldin264ft4.jpg

[SwissBarbar]

Ah, nasty Civil war. Great! Show every ursurper who's boss.

[Βελισάριος]

Ah, come on... you've never seen a falx before? Tsh!

Kidding, kidding. You know... just a few more regions and you could call the Black Sea "Mare Nostrum".

Not to be the nitprick... it seems you've put a lot of effort into this. It'd be a whole lot better if you'd disable the banners and maybe deselect the units when you're taking a screenshot... the transparent arrow really ruins it, you know.

Keep up the good work!

[Antinous]

HOORAH HOORAH!!!

[Chirurgeon]

nice update. Some good screenies in there. Although I have to agree removing the banners would help alot. Then it would look totally real

[Mjolnir]

Great AAR man! I love these Greek relocation AARs that seem to be popping up. someone should do one for Syracuse...

Thanks; and I would definitely read a Syracuse AAR.


Ah, come on... you've never seen a falx before? Tsh!

lol, well I'm trying to write through Spartokos eyes and with the knowledge he would have.


Not to be the nitprick... it seems you've put a lot of effort into this. It'd be a whole lot better if you'd disable the banners and maybe deselect the units when you're taking a screenshot... the transparent arrow really ruins it, you know.

Keep up the good work!


nice update. Some good screenies in there. Although I have to agree removing the banners would help alot. Then it would look totally real

Thanks for reading. :)

Wouldn't have armies back then used banners though? I like the banners since they help me keep track of what's going on, but I will delete them if that's the consensus. Also, I try to delselect untis when I'm screenshooting them, but that means selecting a unit across the map and those the arrow. I guess I could start cropping it out...


HOORAH HOORAH!!!

:bow:



And now a couple questions for my readers:

1) Am I using too many character? I'm trying to involve and make reference to a lot of different characters to give a more realistic sense of a kingdom rather than just one man running the whole show. But I don't want it to be so that y'all start having problems remembering who's who. Less characters, more characters, just right?

2) My chapters have been getting longer as the story becomes more involved. Do y'all want the chapters shorter or should I continue just writing until I reach natural stops? Which chapter so far was the "best" length?

[SwissBarbar]

1) Am I using too many character? I'm trying to involve and make reference to a lot of different characters to give a more realistic sense of a kingdom rather than just one man running the whole show. But I don't want it to be so that y'all start having problems remembering who's who. Less characters, more characters, just right?

2) My chapters have been getting longer as the story becomes more involved. Do y'all want the chapters shorter or should I continue just writing until I reach natural stops? Which chapter so far was the "best" length?

1) No, you aren't. That's what makes it interesting. You don't need to write a background story about every Hoplite, but a few Synedroi and usurpers like just now are perfect.

2) That's a quite interesting questions, because the chapters in my AAR are as long as your last one.... *shock*

[Antinous]

1. You need all those characters. All the rebellion makes the story even better, especially with the many diferent evil characters.

2. The length of the chapters are fine.

[the man with no name]

Great AAR man! I love these Greek relocation AARs that seem to be popping up. someone should do one for Syracuse...

I did a game (note: not an AAR) where i went and took Syaracuse.


For ur ?'s
1.You have a good number of characters.
2.Same as Antinous.

Remember your the author, not us.

[Mjolnir]

Thanks for y'alls input, I hope to have the next chapter out soon.

[Βελισάριος]

The thing about chapter length... if this were a book or any other such piece of literature, the length would be fine, maybe even short.

But you have to keep in mind this is a forum... attention span does tend to fall dramatically online. You could try splitting your chapters into sub-chapters and post them maybe two days apart. You shouldn't reduce the amount of information conveyed, just divide it.

[Mjolnir]

Chapter 7: Calm Before the Storm


Spring, 258 BC


https://img301.imageshack.us/img301/5690/crimeal1cr5.jpg
The next 5 years were quite enjoyable for me. Most of the army was disbanded and allowed to return home. I turned my attention from war to building the infrastructure of the Basileion. My experiences in the various campaigns of the last decade has shown me that relying on levies and light infantry has weaknesses and a more professionally army will be needed if our Basileion is to defend itself. Therefore new and larger barracks were constructed, many more training grounds were prepared, and our stocks of armor and weapons were upgraded and increased.

https://img25.imageshack.us/img25/576/barracksmv3.jpg
I put Lysandros in charge of the recruitment and training of the new permanent army. The new heavier soldiers require better weapons and I hired blacksmiths to handle the military’s demand.

https://img6.imageshack.us/img6/1222/blacksmithdu7.jpg
The Pantikapaion market was enlarged to handle the ever increasing trade.

https://img25.imageshack.us/img25/2669/markethc5.jpg
One of my dreams is to make Pantikapaion into one of the great Hellenic cities of the world; towards this end, I have built and sponsored a school for the young men of the city to study in.

https://img18.imageshack.us/img18/5948/schoolbz1.jpg
Roads and sewers have been built across the Basileion and the ports in Sinope, Trapevous, and Chersonesos have been expanded.

My two younger brothers have grown up. Nikanor has taken after me and our father in the love of armies and battles, although only 19 he has already led two successful military operations; one against rebellious Caucasian tribes south of Trapevous and one against Sarmatian raiders north of Tanais. He is very popular with the soldiers, he will be a great general one day.

https://img187.imageshack.us/img187/3158/nikanor258dx7.jpg
Phrixos is 16 and has taken a different path. He is the star of the school I had built and excels in his classes in rhetoric, mathematics, and language. Synedros Brentisinos had taken him under his wing, he says Phrixos has the makings of a great politician.

https://img23.imageshack.us/img23/1804/phrixos258oc7.jpg

In Chersonesos, Mytileaios is doing quite well. He has brought their Synedrion under his control and now that the period of higher taxes is over they have become a loyal and integral part of the Basileion. Mytileaios has two children, a 2 year old girl named Maiandria and a newborn boy named Pylaimenes. Unfortunately the gods have not yet given myself and Antheia any children.

But while we have lived in relative peace the last few years, others have continued to fight. The Ptolemaioi and Seleukids still struggle with one another with neither gaining an advantage. The Romani have finally succeeded in driving the Gauls north of the Alps. And in a one conflict more important to us has come to a worrisome resolution. Makedonia and Epeiros have been locked in struggle since before the fall of Athenai and Sparte, however two years ago Makedonia finally gained the upper hand and seized all of Epeiros’ Illyrian territory. Many Epeiros nobles, soldiers, and civilians fleeing the Makedonian conquest landed in Megale Hellas and promptly seized Taras from the Romani. They are now allied with Rhegion and Syrakousai and waging war with the Romani troops transferred south from the Gallic war. Makedonia turned its attention to Thrace and over the last year has conquered all of the Thracian tribes south of the Getai except only for the territory around Byzantion. Fearing that we would need to take action to protect our only trade route out of the Pontos Euxeinos, I ordered our army to begin mobilizing in preparation for action in the spring. However the first few spring trade ships arriving at our port during the last week have brought news of the fall of Byzantion to the Basileion Pontikos. The Basileus of Makedonia has given an ultimatum to Pontikos ordering them to surrender Byzantion to him and has dispatched an army from Pella to back it up.

https://img187.imageshack.us/img187/3664/makedonianempire258lm4.jpg
Whoever controls the Chrysokeros controls the trade between the Pontos Euxeinos and the Aigaio Pelagos, this trade is our lifeblood and we cannot allow it to be controlled by someone hostile to us.

https://img15.imageshack.us/img15/4889/chrysokerossf4.jpg
We must drive Pontikos out of the city and then defeat any Makedonian forces sent to do the same.

This is why I am here in one of the new barracks inspecting part of my new army; we’re leaving as soon as enough ships can be assembled. We must beat Makedonia to Byzantion.

“Lysandros, I am pleased with our progress. These men most definitely look superior to the levies we had been using”

https://img413.imageshack.us/img413/2056/khiphikratoushoplitaixs9.gif
“Yes” he replies, “these regular hoplites will prove much more formidable than the light hoplites we used before and you will need every advantage you can get if you are going to challenge Makedonia. They have swept aside every opponent they have faced so far”

“Well I intend to end that streak. Will you be accompanying us?” I ask.

“No my lord, I am too old for another campaign, I will be remaining here to continue the overseeing of training. I will be putting your bodyguard under the command of my nephew, Akadios, he fought with us in the Kallatis-Buridava campaign and is a fine and loyal soldier”

“I will miss you on the battlefield, old friend, you have served me and the Basileion well” I say, my voice cracking a little with emotion. "I sure that Akadios will live up to his uncle's name, and I will make sure he returns to you safely"

Lysandros bows gratefully.

**********


Summer, 258 BC

http://www.geocities.com/crimeaukr/seathree.jpg
We land just north of Byzantion as spring is ending and quickly move to surround the town. I have 19,000 men with me; 6,000 of the new professional hoplites, 3,000 classical hoplites, 3,000 Hellenic spearman, 3,000 Bosporan heavy archer, 1,000 Hellenic medium cavalry, and Nikanor and my elite hoplites commanded by Akadios.

https://img8.imageshack.us/img8/5747/spartokos258av0.jpg
https://img210.imageshack.us/img210/1585/bbarmy258xr2.jpg
An impressive army, they only lack battle experience. Pontikos is not expecting our arrival and the town is defended by only a small garrison. My scouts tell the Makedonian army is but several weeks march to the west, we must be quick.


https://img210.imageshack.us/img210/1497/battleofbyzantion2581sj1.jpg
https://img264.imageshack.us/img264/1272/battleofbyzantion2582wv5.jpg
https://img3.imageshack.us/img3/2341/battleofbyzantion2583hm8.jpg
https://img264.imageshack.us/img264/9514/battleofbyzantion2584fe0.jpg

The battle is short and Akadios and Nikanor perform admirably. 5,000 enemy dead and only 700 of ours, the new hoplites are most satisfactory. Byzantion is ours, for now.

The Makedonians it seems are just as surprised by our appearance as the Pontikos were, they have halted their advance on the town.

**********


Autumn, 258 BC

The Makedonian army has received reinforcements and is once again on its way to Byzantion, apparently Makedonia intends to force the issue. Preferring to meet them on open ground since the wooden palisade of Byzantion will afford little protection, I meet the Makedonian army about a day’s march from the town. I outnumber them 3 to 2, but their army includes well over 5,000 of the dreaded Makedonian pikemen. These are the men that took Megos Alexandros to the Indus.

https://img301.imageshack.us/img301/9608/battleagainstmakedonia2xv5.jpg
The first snow of winter is falling as I begin maneuvering towards the enemy line. I halt within bow shot for my Bosporan heavy archers, but out of range of their Peltasts. Their skirmish line advances on my right flank and Nikanor engages them with his elites and a unit of Thureophoroi.

https://img186.imageshack.us/img186/7360/battleagainstmakedonia2wn1.jpg
The Makedonian skirmish line breaks and I order the hoplites forward in their wake. We hit the first line of Phalangitai and our stopped dead. My hoplites spears are shorter than their Makedonian opponents and simply won’t reach through the wall of pikes. I quickly swing my elites and a unit of hoplites around behind the Makedonians, but even then it takes much effort to break them.

https://img186.imageshack.us/img186/6836/battleagainstmakedonia2iu0.jpg
We advance on the second line of Makedonian pikes and I order the hoplites to pin them down while Nikanor takes his elites to the right and I take mine to the left. My cavalry then charges in from behind and we have them surrounded, but yet again they refuse to rout and fight stubbornly on.

https://img3.imageshack.us/img3/2646/battleagainstmakedonia2ww0.jpg
Finally the Makedonian commander orders a withdrawal and I allow a third of their army to retreat unengaged. They fall back towards Pella and I return to Byzantion to lick my wounds. I have lost almost 4,000 men in what was basically a draw and most of my losses were from my hoplite ranks and will take time to replace.

https://img3.imageshack.us/img3/4823/battleagainstmakedonia2px9.jpg

These Makedonians are not the Getai or Scythian barbarians or Hellenic militias I have faced before, I will have to readjust my tactics if I hope to hold my own in the coming struggle.

**********


The Known World in 258
https://img27.imageshack.us/img27/5254/knownworldin258uv0.jpg

[SwissBarbar]

BEAUTIFUL !!!! Great! Looking forward to more Makedonian battles and new strategies and tactics :smash: :smash: :smash:

Where is the next chapter? Where? Where? Where??? ^^

[Mjolnir]

BEAUTIFUL !!!! Great! Looking forward to more Makedonian battles and new strategies and tactics :smash: :smash: :smash:

Where is the next chapter? Where? Where? Where??? ^^

Thank you. I was really surprised how ineffective my troops were against the Makedonian pikes. We shall see what I can come up with. I should have another chapter out this weekend.

[Ruepelheinz]

This AAR ist very entertaining, I keep checking every day for an update. Thx

:2thumbsup:

Why did you remove the slingers from your army?

[Potocello]

Aww too bad Lysandros isn't fighting anymore, I liked him. Great update though!

[Mjolnir]

This AAR ist very entertaining, I keep checking every day for an update. Thx

:2thumbsup:

Why did you remove the slingers from your army?

Well thanks. :beam: I was shooting for a more "professional" army after I upgraded my barracks, but considering how badly I fared, I'll probably be reworking my army composition and they may make a comeback.


Aww too bad Lysandros isn't fighting anymore, I liked him. Great update though!

Don't worry, I hear Akadios is quite similar to his uncle. ;)

[the man with no name]

If you aren't already, ally with the ptolies so you won't have a potential threat from them. Good chapter man.:smash::smash::smash::smash::smash:

I agree with Potocello. I liked Lysandros alot alot and alot.

[Potocello]

Don't worry, I hear Akadios is quite similar to his uncle. ;)

Good to hear :2thumbsup: can't wait for the next chapter.

[Mjolnir]

Chapter 8: Hatching a Plan


Spring, 257 BC


https://img24.imageshack.us/img24/6308/blacksea068.jpg
I feel as a man who stands alone with his back to a precipice and an entire army in front of him. I now hold a beachhead in Byzantion, but on the other side of the straight the Basileion Pontikos is already raising an army to retake the town and to the west the full strength of Makedonia will eventually be turned to us. And we must hold this town and the Chrysokeros, should we lose our access to the Aigaio Pelagos and the Mesogeios our Basileion may very well whither and all my and my father’s gains will be for nothing. I fear nothing but bold action can save us.

I have called a meeting to discuss our future course of action. Myself, Nikanor, Akadios, Synedros Kresios commander of the cavalry, and a number of infantry commanders are present. Akadios had received a nasty wound on his shoulder where a Makedonian pike glanced off his shield and missed his throat by inches and his shoulder is still bandaged although it is no longer in a sling.

“Akadios, I see your shoulder is getting better, but you’ll have a nice scar there”

Akadios grunts, “Blood is the price of glory”

I laugh, Nikanor chuckles.

“Will you be able to carry a shield?”

“If there’s a battle I’ll be there shield or no”

I nod. “Well then done down to business”

After I lay out our situation Nikanor whistles, “If you can’t go back, and you can’t stand still, the only way to go is forward”

Three hours and many arguments later, we have a plan.

Orders are immediately sent to Mytileaios to have the shipwrights in Chersonesos begin the construction of a fleet of Triereis class galleys and to Phrixos in Pantikapaion to send replacements for the hoplites losses.

**********


Summer, 257 BC

We send the time waiting for the reinforcements by upgrading the defenses of Byzantion and convincing some of the local Thraikian tribes to supply soldiers for a garrison. As summer grows towards its peak we received an embassy from the Makedonians led by a man named Kyphios. I receive them in the meeting room of the house I am staying at.

“Welcome to Byzantion” I greet them.

“Thank you for your gracious welcome” Kyphios says was a bow, “I am royal ambassador for the Basileus of Makedonia. I am afraid that it is my duty to bring you a decree from my Basileus”

“Well?”

“His highness, commands you to hand Byzantion and Kallatis over to him as rightfully belonging to the Basileion Makedonia by right of Megos Alexandros's lineage. If you do so and pay an annual sum to the Basileus he will not lay claim to any of your other territories and will consider you under his protection”

I cock an eyebrow, “And if I refuse?”

“Makedonia’s armies are currently engaged in Illyria, but they will not always be so. Byzantion and Kallatis will be ours whether you agree to this or not, my king simply wishes to give you the easy way out”

“Perhaps he has forgotten how the last army he sent for me fared”

“With all due respect, that was but a small expedition sent against the Pontikos garrison before we realized you had taken the town, our main armies are much more formidable” He takes a piece of parchment from one of his aides and hands it to Nikanor who steps forward to take it, “Here is a treaty along the lines I have laid out already signed by my king, it awaits only your signature.

https://img6.imageshack.us/img6/4033/negotiations256.jpg
You will want some time to consider it no doubt, so I-”

“Ambassador Kyphios, the Basileion Bosphorou will be signing no such treaty” I interrupt as he turns to leave, “I will hold on to this treaty though, and give it back to your king as I am burning Pella to the ground around him” I motion for the guards to take Kyphios and his party from the room.

“Are you sure that that was wise, taunting him like that? Makedonia will surely send an army now after their ambassador has been threaten and mocked” Nikanor asks after they have left.

“Our course has already been set even if those terms were acceptable, and if Makedonia does send troops to Byzantion – well that plays right into our plan, doesn’t it?” I smile.

Nikanor nods.

**********


Spring, 256 BC

At winters end the fleet of a dozen Triereis galleys carrying 3,000 hoplites and 3,000 slingers arrive in Byzantion. The ships are quite a sight to behold, massive ships built to inflict destruction.

https://img8.imageshack.us/img8/7303/tiereis.jpg
I load my army on to the ships for the short journey across the straight and then send the fleet south to blockade Nikaia’s port.

Accompanying us is a man named Damastor Kamarinaios. He is a noble from the area east of Nikaia. He was driven from his lands by the Pontikos when they took the city almost 10 years ago and has been fighting a little private war with them ever since. He has sworn loyalty to me in exchange for the promise that he will be granted governorship of Nikaia after I take it. He will act as our guide.

https://img514.imageshack.us/img514/8049/damastorkamarinaios257.jpg

We land 22,000 strong and march east and then south following the eastern bank of the Sakarya River. We reach the fords due east of Nikaia and camp on the eastern side.

https://img3.imageshack.us/img3/2798/bbarmy257.jpg
https://img140.imageshack.us/img140/3161/sakaryariver.jpg

The next day the main Pontikos army of 27,000 men moves to engage us.

https://img100.imageshack.us/img100/3433/battleofnikaia12571.jpg
The enemy general foolishly doesn’t wait until we cross, but throws his own army across the ford at us. I set up my hoplites three rows deep blocking the exit of the ford with the archers and slingers in the rear.

https://img510.imageshack.us/img510/4664/battleofnikaia12572.jpg
As they splash across the ford towards our waiting spears my ranged units unleash volley after volley of missiles.

https://img110.imageshack.us/img110/9581/battleofnikaia12573.jpg
Like an oncoming wave they smash into my line...

https://img3.imageshack.us/img3/9713/battleofnikaia12574.jpg
And like a wave on rocks they break on my wall of spear and shields.

https://img172.imageshack.us/img172/2418/battleofnikaia12575.jpg
Synedros Kresios orders his cavalry forward and the Pontikos army routs. The river runs red.

https://img12.imageshack.us/img12/27/battleofnikaia12576.jpg

https://img13.imageshack.us/img13/7940/battleofnikaia12577.jpg

**********


Summer, 256 BC

Having crushed the Pontikos field army, I move to besiege the town itself and its sizeable garrison.

https://img264.imageshack.us/img264/4476/battleofnikaia22571.jpg
I, Nikanor, and Kamarinaios elite hoplites lead the attack. Punching through the walls we engage the garrison.

https://img4.imageshack.us/img4/689/battleofnikaia22572.jpg
The outcome was never in doubt even with the Pontikos Basileus’ son leading several valiant charges against Kamarinaios’ column.

https://img407.imageshack.us/img407/2572/battleofnikaia22573.jpg

https://img407.imageshack.us/img407/906/battleofnikaia22574.jpg

Nikaia is ours and the Pontikos royal line is without hiers. Later that month we received news that Amaseia had fallen to the Seleukids and the Pontikos Basileus slain. The Celtic Galati tribes wasted no time in slaughtering the Pontikos garrison and restoring their own tribal governments. The Basileion Pontikos is dead.

Leaving Kamarinaios in charge of the garrison at Nikaia, I lead the army to the port to load back on to our fleet. Step one in our plan is complete our rear is secured and our hold on the Chrysokeros solidified, time to begin step two.

**********


The Known World in 256 BC
https://img183.imageshack.us/img183/7200/knownworld256.jpg

[SwissBarbar]

Yeah, show those wannabe alexanders who's boss :2thumbsup: Looking forward to the Makedonian armies coming

[Hotseat_User]

hehe, I don't want to spoil but I expect a ... ... on ...! But we'll see whats going to happen soon.
Nice chapter! :book:

[the man with no name]

:2thumbsup:

Glad 2 hear that those damn pontics are fucked up!!!!! :smash::smash: No offense to pontic lovers but, ...PONTUS SUCKS!!! And also, who are the yellow guys on italia, The green-blue guys?

[Mjolnir]

Yeah, show those wannabe alexanders who's boss :2thumbsup: Looking forward to the Makedonian armies coming


hehe, I don't want to spoil but I expect a ... ... on ...! But we'll see whats going to happen soon.
Nice chapter! :book:


:2thumbsup:

Thank you all. :beam:

[Chirurgeon]

This needs an update!

[Chirurgeon]

:2thumbsup:

Glad 2 hear that those damn pontics are fucked up!!!!! :smash::smash: No offense to pontic lovers but, ...PONTUS SUCKS!!! And also, who are the yellow guys on italia, The green-blue guys?
Those yellow guys on Italia are soldiers of Syracuse :)

[A Very Super Market]

Oh my, are those Kyrenians I see?

[Mjolnir]

This needs an update!

Mid-terms are a b*tch, but I should have an update sometime this week.


Those yellow guys on Italia are soldiers of Syracuse :)

Indeed, and they're doing rather well to. They've taken Capua from the Romani and are threatening Arpi, although you can't tell since I haven't sent a spy over there in awhile.


Oh my, are those Kyrenians I see?

Indeed it is, decided I would move Pontos down there after I "killed" them just see if anything interesting would happen.

[Βελισάριος]

So, wait... you created Syracuse as a separate faction in-game?
How do you do that?

Great chapter, by the way!
And damn those eyes are hypnotising!

[A Very Super Market]

I think they are Epeirotes... with a different color

[the man with no name]

I think they are Epeirotes... with a different color

Interesting.

[Mjolnir]

Great chapter, by the way!
And damn those eyes are hypnotising!

Thank you, I think it's pretty cool too - I entered that screenshot into this month's screenshot competition just for the heck of it.


I think they are Epeirotes... with a different color

This.

[the man with no name]

1.What eyes?
2.This what?
3.What happened?

[Chirurgeon]

What is the status of this AAR?

[the man with no name]

I is vewy vewy vewy :sorry2::sorry2::sorry2:sad. scept i'm not sorry i just the sad bit. Anyhow what happened to make you quit?

[the man with no name]

He probaly died in a car crash. If u still there dude sry.

[the man with no name]

Definately dead, how i do not know. Lets hope he was given a proper burial.:no::no::no::thumbsdown::thumbsdown:

[Maion Maroneios]

Dude, chill a bit. He's probably very busy, no need of multi-posting.

Maion

[the man with no name]

Dude, chill a bit. He's probably very busy, no need of multi-posting.

Maion

To busy to even post once on any thread? Not 2 be mean.

[MarcusAureliusAntoninus]

Perhaps something happened in real life. Perhaps he found a new game to play. Most people who frequent these forums just disappear one day without giving a reason. It is a shame that a nice AAR died, but I don't think he's coming back.

[the man with no name]

Perhaps something happened in real life. Perhaps he found a new game to play. Most people who frequent these forums just disappear one day without giving a reason. It is a shame that a nice AAR died, but I don't think he's coming back.

Yeah probaly. Let's hope he comes back, eventually.

[Elcmar]

Dammit. Only just read through this now - really, really good stuff! Pity there ain't more of it!

[Vasiliyi]

Yah, it was really good. It sad when people dissaper like that.

[Ghaust the Moor]

Maybe he has been on vacation?

I hope he comes back soon. I want to know what all he did to the game to get the story and all the funky characters.

[the man with no name]

Maybe he has been on vacation?

I hope he comes back soon. I want to know what all he did to the game to get the story and all the funky characters.

If he is on vacation, then he has been on it for 2 months.

[Ignopotens]

so call it a sabbatical :P

[Quirinus]

D: It was getting really exciting, too. Was really looking forward to the showdown with the Maks.

[the man with no name]

D: It was getting really exciting, too. Was really looking forward to the showdown with the Maks.

That was A little late...



:wall:

[Quirinus]

Heh, yeah..... don't normally come to the mod forums here at the Guild, but for some reason I have been unable to access TWC in the past week so..