The Road to Immortality: An Arche Seleukeia AAR

[seleucid empire]

Hey guys my other AAR conquest and a game of empires died due to CTD s this will be a spiritual successor to that game. Enjoy

[seleucid empire]

Act I: REBIRTH

Prologue: The Silver Dawn
Summer 272 BC
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"No man, against my fate, sends me to Hades, And as for fate, I'm sure no man escapes it, Neither a good nor bad man, once he's born (Hector, The Iliad)

Antiochus sat alone in the empty throne room. He had ordered his guards to stand outside and for for no one to disturb him. The King was deep in thought. He was already 52, nearing his twilight years. He would die soon he knew that but would he be remembered in the pages of history? And if he was what would he be remembered as? A Savior for his victory over the Galatians? A hero like Leonidas? A conquerer like Megas Alexandros?.....A tyrant perhaps? No...most all he would be remembered as the man who left his empire to decay and ruin at the hands of his enemies.
"I will not let that happen" he said to himself
He still had hope, that one day men would remember him as the man who had against all odds held together a massive empire, the empire of Alexander the Great. The man who had ushered in a new era. A silver dawn

But he realized he was too old to lead another campaign. His hope lay with with his three sons, Sarepedon, Alexandros and Theodoros. If he had done one good thing in his life, it was the up bringing of his sons. They were fine men and one day he hoped they would become Great men. Greater than himself

Archeas one of his companions entered the hall

"My king, the war council has been assembled as requested."
"Good, I will meet them now"
Antiochus walked slowly to the chamber of war. He paused outside the gates. The grand strategy would be made today and the fate of the Empire would rest on his decisions. With a heavy heart, Antiochus pushed the doors open and entered

[seleucid empire]

Big thank you to strategos vasiles who helped me get these pictures up

[seleucid empire]

Chapter 1: The Three Brothers Part 1
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"All men are of one metal but not one mold"

A young man sat proudly on his warhorse watching the column of men marching. Behind him, arrayed in a semi-circle were 7 older men riding similar steeds, wearing the finest armour and armed to the teeth. Their names were Apollonois, Diogenes, Heliodoros, Lycus, Nikomedes, Philandros, and Demetrius. The young man himself was Theodoros Syriakos, crown prince of the Seleucid Empire and the 7 men were his companions

Behind the 8 men were 400 other horsemen waiting on their prince's orders. The column of men were made up of 1 600 archers from Ecbatana. The young prince waited patiently for his force to catch up to his cavalry. They had been marching for more than a month. Theodoros remembered that day when he had received the message from his father
Gather 2 000 men, rendezvous with Alexandros on Royal road. March to Antioch in all haste

In just 3 days he had gathered all of the forces he needed and began the long march to Antioch

"My Lord, I see something in the distance. Looks like a large group of men headed our way" reported Lycus
"Can you see banners on them?"
"No my lord I cant see any from this distance"
"They could be bandits or rebels. Have the archers form up on that hill over there. Hide our cavalry behind the hill"

The men were issued orders and the frightened Persian levies slowly formed up. Then they waited for the forces to approach

"My lord! I see banners. There are Silver ones of the Empire and also flags of the Satraps of Susa"
"That must be Alexandros. Order the men to stand down"

As the force approached Theodoros could see the agema of his brother's cavalry as we as his brothers army which was considerably more impressive than his own. The two men embraced

https://img208.imageshack.us/img208/3892/alexndrossyriakos.png

"Greetings brother!" said Alexandros, "I trust you've been well since we've last met"
"Indeed I have. But tell me brother, did our father tell you why he needed us to march to Antioch personally? Syria is not under threat as far as I have heard"
"No it isn't but it may soon be.The Ptolemies are massing their forces in Judea and they could strike soon"
"The regional defenses are more than enough to stop the Ptolemies. This is something bigger, I can feel it"
"You may be right" replied Alexandros, "Lets discuss this later tonight. I've had a weary day. You didn't bring any of that famous Ecbatana wine with you be any chance did you?"

Theodoros smiled. His brother was famous for his drinking ability

"Yes in fact I have. Lets set up camp now, Its been 2 years since we've last met we have much to talk about"
Alexandros left to address his men.

Now alone Theodoros, stared off into the west, uncertain what he might find once he arrived.

[seleucid empire]

Chapter 2: The Three Brothers Part 2
272 Asia Minor

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"Men rise from one ambition to another: first, they seek to secure themselves against attack, and then they attack others (Machiavelli)"

Sarepedon was in a good mood today. In fact he had been in a good mood ever since he had received the orders from his father. After a year of defending Cappadocia from frequent Ptolemaic attacks he would finally take the offensive. His destination was the Ptolemaic fortress of Tarsus. Although his scouts reported that the Ptolemaic garrison was larger than his army, Sarepedon was not worried. His men were professionals compared to the Ptolemaic levies.

"My lord," one of his companions spoke,"We have just entered Ptolemaic territory. Perhaps we should march more slowly and give ourselves more time to form a battle plan."
"Why would I do that? I want to arrive as soon as possible"
"But My lord we have no battle plan and they outnumber us by at least 2 000 men."
"You leave the battle plan to me my friend"

[seleucid empire]

Chapter 3: Lambs to the Slaughter
"I am not afraid of an army of lions led by a sheep. I am afraid of an army of sheep led by a lion (Alexander the Great)"
272 The Gates of Tarsus
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Sarepedon woke his men at on the very brink of dawn. He ordered his men to have breakfast quietly and then to form up. They weren't going to take the town by surprise. He knew that but at least this way his men would be well fed and less groggy than those of the enemy. As his army approached the walls, Sarepedon could already hear the panic and chaos of the defenders trying to organize their defenses.

They had camped outside Tarsus for 3 months. Sarepedon had expected the Ptolemies to attack as soon as he arrived. After all they had 6 000 men to his 2 000 but it appeared the Ptolemaic commander was smarter than Sarepedon first thought and he saw Sarepedon's cavalry and superior infantry as too much of a threat to face in the open. However there were two important things he didn't know. Firstly that there would be no help arriving from Side as the town had just fallen to Seleucid forces under general Attalos. The second was the stubbornness and determination of Sarepedon. No man would have dreamed that Sarepedon would assault the fortifications while outnumbered 3 to 1. But that's exactly what he did

"Men of Seleucus! Today is the day we've been waiting for for the last 3 months. Fight with honor. Fight with everything you have! And remember, you cannot die today because you will live on forever in history!!"
His men cheered and they began to push the great ram up to the walls.

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The Peltasts broke through the wall and began to slaughter the enemy skirmishers. The Ptolemaic general sent his spear men and slingers to halt the advance of Sarpedon's peltasts. The Peltasts began to take casualties and Sarepedon and his personal guard charged into the fray, killing the enemy general and causing all of the Ptolemaic troops to flee to the town center where they were massacred

https://img72.imageshack.us/img72/3368/victoryattarsus.png

Sarepedon was relieved when it was finally over. He didnt want to waste anymore time killing sheep

[seleucid empire]

Chapter 4: Sleight of Hand
Summer 271 BC
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"By the breaking in of enraged merciless armies, flourishing countries have been laid waste, great numbers of people have perished in a short time, and many more have been pressed with poverty and grief"

"Impressive sight isn't it brother?" Theodoros whispered. Alexandros did not reply but stood there fixed on the sight below him. The sight of 30 000 men marching under the silver banners. A beautiful sight
The brother's mission became clear as soon as they arrived in Antioch. An enormous camp with countless soldiers awaited them at the great city. This was not another squabble over Cole Syria. This army had one purpose, To drive into the the heart of Egypt itself

Alexandros and Theodoros both knew that if they marched down the coastal road, the Ptolemies would immediately send aid to Sidon. Instead they would do the unexpected. The marched their army into Cole Syria intending to march on Sidon from the desert, an extremely risky move considering how close it brought them to the hostile city of Palmyra

They would arrive in 2 weeks. The Ptolemies dont stand a chance against this army, thought Theodoros. What nation could?

[stratigos vasilios]

Big thank you to strategos vasiles who helped me get these pictures up

You're very welcome, but I think I need to thank you for giving us such a good AAR to read!

[seleucid empire]

Chapter 5: The Fate of Merchants
Summer 270 BC
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"Money is the ultimate form of power, said the old man. After a minute of thought the boy asked. Then why do generals command men?"

Attalos and Sarepedon sat on their horses side by side watching the Greek army slowly approach
"That's a big army" muttered Attalos
"You put too much stock in numbers lord Attalos, as do those merchants we are facing now."
The Greeks began to increase their pace, shouting their war cries.

"Men brace yourselves!" ordered Attalos. The shields of the Karians and Celts locked together. Chaos erupted as the two lines clashed
"Sarepedon, with me!" commanded Attalos and the 800 elite cavalry moved to flank the enemy. Their charge was overwhelming and an entire battalion of enemy hoplites routed. They gave chase for a few hundred metres and then turned around for a second charge. This time the entire Greek army ran for the safety of their walls. The Seleucids gave chase all the way up to the gates of the city. When they arrived they found open gates. The Greeks had surrendered. Rhodes, the prize of Asia minor was now theirs

[seleucid empire]

Chapter 6: Enemy at the Gates

So much had happened in the last year thought Theodoros. The attack on Sidon had been an overwhelming Success. The siege of Jerusalem was also a quick but bloody affair. Now came the hard part. As Theodoro's army set foot on the soil of Egypt they all began to fear. What did the Pharaoh have in store for them? They would face fierce resistance. After all they were going for the jewel of the Mediterranean. They were going to capture Alexandria itself.
"No matter" thought Theodoros,"Let all of the hosts of the Nile come. They will all fall..one by one"

[seleucid empire]

Chapter 7:The Burning City
Winter 269 BC
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“The most shocking fact about war is that its victims and its instruments are individual human beings, and that these individual beings are condemned by the monstrous conventions of politics to murder or be murdered in quarrels not their own”

The fires had subsided but the air still smelt of burnt flesh and death. Theodoros stood on the walls of the great palace of Alexandria, overlooking the city he had just destroyed. It had been Alexandros' reasoning which had lead them down this path. If they wanted to destroy the Ptolemies, he argued, then they must break their spirits and instill as much fear as possible. This led to over a week of slaughter in which 100 000 citizens were killed. Surprisingly the Pharaoh himself wasn't in the city which meant the war wasn't over. They would have to drive deeper into Egypt.

"Can't sleep?" a voice behind Theodoros startled him. He turned around to see his companion Demetrius standing behind him
"I keep seeing the faces of all those we slaughtered. The young girl, The butcher, The farmer and his wife.."
"My lord, it was a necessary action. I have fought many wars with your father before I served you and I assure you that there was nothing pleasant or noble done by either side. It is a burden which all Kings have to face. Your father spared many cities but only to win favor with his mercy."
"But all those innocent people..."
"I'm afraid my lord that in a war like this, you must see those innocent people as potential soldiers and recruits for the Ptolemies. Alexandria is the Key to controlling Egypt. If we had not massacred the population, they may have revolted. Now even if they retake Alexandria, they will never be as strong as they once were."
"You're right Demetrius. I suppose I will have much more blood on my hands in future.."
"You look tired my Lord. You should sleep. Tomorrow we need to begin reorganizing the city's government and to raise a strong garrison before we leave the city."
"Yes your right."
Theodoros began walking to the palace quarters. He paused and looked back at the city one more time. Then he continued walking. The thoughts which had assaulted him earlier had all but vanished from his mind

[seleucid empire]

Chapter 8: The City that dreamed of being a Kingdom
Summer 267 BC
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"War is the continuation of politics by other means"

"Magnificent walls aren't they?" Sarpedon asked his companion Areus
"Yes my lord. Although it's a shame we're the ones who have to scale that thing"

The two men sat on their horses observing the walls of Pergamon, and old enemy of the Seleucids. The defiant Pergamese under the rule of Philetaerus had dared to break away from the empire when it seemed weak. No matter thought Sarpedon. In a few months they would cease to exist. Antiochus had sent Sarepdon the message while he was in Rhodes asking Sarpedon to gather a force and crush Pergamon. Antiochus had also explained that the Macedonian fortress of Mytenile was under siege by the Pergamese general Alkibiades. By attacking Pergamon they would both increase their influence in Asia Minor and gain the good graces of their Macedonian allies.

"We wont need to scale those walls, they will come out to fight."
"How do you know that my lord?"
"Because i've planned it this way"
Areus looked puzzled so Sarpedon explained further.
"The Pergamese have the most professional, flexible and diverse army in Asia Minor while i've gathered a force of levies"
"So you think they will attack thinking we are weak?"
"Precisely. But we are not weak. After our recent victories the fire of Seleucus and Alexander has been rekindled in our troops. The Pergamese will find a tougher adversary than they expected. Soon my friend they will come out to meet us. And we can destroy them in one fell swoop."

[seleucid empire]

Chapter 9: The Gift of Magas
“So powerful is the light of unity that it can illuminate the whole earth."

Theodoros and his guards walk into the Palace of Cyrene. There sitting of the throne, his brother in Law Magas, King of Cyrene greets him.

"Welcome Prince Theodoros. We are honored to have you in our city."
"I am honored to be here" replied Theodoros
"Your attack on Egypt came in the nick of time. A few more months and the Ptolemies would have overrun us."
"I am glad to be of service. But I am here to renew our alliance treaty."
"Ah alliance...Perhaps that is something better discussed in a more private setting"

Magas lead Theodoros to his private chambers. Theodoros started to speak
"It is in our best interests to secure another military alliance with your Kingdom. We will fight the Ptolemies together and split their lands accordingly"
"My prince...What is an alliance tell me."
"Well..Its a mutual treaty between two nations that states aid should be exchanged between the two."
"Yes. Precisely. Two nations. Would an alliance between two Kingdoms be stronger than a single Kingdom with the strength equal to both of these Kingdoms combined?"
"No i suppose not. If it were a lone Kingdom it would be more organised and the entire Kingdoms' resources would be directed in its best interests whereas in an alliance, support is not always guaranteed."
"Exactly right. My Prince. For too long my Kingdom has been isolated. A lone city between the powerful nations of Egypt and Carthage. It has been like this since the founding of Cyrene. I do not want my people to be isolated anymore. You offer me an alliance? I offer you the Kingdom of Cyrene. We wish to join your empire so in the future, if any enemies attack us we will not have to face them alone."

Theodoros was speechless
"You would give up your sovereignty to us?"
"Yes I would. My son Philon died attacking the Ptolemies. I have no other sons and i am nearly 60 years old. When I die a civil war will begin which will further cause suffering to my people. It is best if i bequeath the Kingdom to you."
"Well in that case Magas. We will accept. From this day on to the end of all days the Seleucid empire will protect your people and your country. Any nation that has ill intentions towards your people will face the full wrath of the Seleucid Empire."

A single tear slid down Maga's face.
"Thank you", the old man replied

[seleucid empire]

Chapter 10: Call of the Desert
Summer 265 BC
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“You should not see the desert simply as some faraway place of little rain. There are many forms of thirst.”

The troops gathered around their prince as he began to speak
"My men, you may be wondering why i have brought you to the edge of this great wasteland. Simple. We are going to cross it."
The troops began to murmur.
"We are going to cross because on the other side we will find the oasis of Siwa, The oracle of the Gods. After all Megas Alexander crossed the desert with his army. We are his descendants. Why shouldn't we?"
His troops cheered and Thedoros smiled. He now knew he had full support of his men. They would follow him into death

[seleucid empire]

Chapter 11: Oasis

The two men sat beneath the open night sky sharpening their swords, drinking and talking. They were Demetrius and Lycus, two companions of Theodoros
"This place is beautiful"
"Yes the Oasis of Siwa is the jewel of the desert"
"Not just the desert Lycus. I've been to many cities and countries. None have been as beautiful as this place."
"That is true. The desert has a certain majesty about it."
Lycus paused for a second before continuing
"Demetrius have you noticed a change in the prince?"
"Yes. I noticed the day after he visited the Oracle."
"So whatever the oracle said, it changed him?"
"The oracle of Siwa has been known to change the people who visit it. Alexander the Great himself was changed by what he heard. Our prince has become more strict and serious."
"That cannot be good for us then"
"On the contrary, I believe whatever the oracle said to the prince has made him even more determined."
The two men continued talking through the night until the stars disappeared and the desert sun in all its glory rose from its bed

[seleucid empire]

Chapter 12: A Big Mistake
Summer 261 BC
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A hero is no braver than an ordinary man, but he is brave five for minutes longer

Sarpedon was weary. He had been at war for the last 10 years without resting, defeating one enemy after another. Now he faced his toughest challenge ever. The The prince of the former Seleucid Satrapy of Pontus, Mithridates Kianos had marched a sizable army into Seleucid land near Sardis. When the seleucid envoys approached him asking why he trangressed in our lands. He told the envoys that he had just been repelled from Galatia who had blocked his path home. However after a few weeks the Seleucid scouts returned saying that Galatia had been conquered months ago. The envoys then asked Mithridates why he lied and asked him to leave immediately. Mithridates' response was to hire 10 000 mercenaries. So Sarpedon recalled all of his veterans and they marched off once again to war.

"My lord." Areus spoke,"The Pontic army under their prince is only a week away from Sardis. why are we marching to Sinope?"
"Our adversary has a large force but i believe Sardis is too well defended for a direct assault. Attacking the prince directly now would be a wasted opportunity. Even if we defeat their prince they can simply regroup and attack us again later. However if we go straight for their homelands, they will be cut off from supplies and reinforcements. The Kingdom of Pontus will cease to exist before Mithridates takes a single city."

They were now only a month away from Sinope. Soon the Greatest port on the black seas would be his thought Sarpedon. And the enemy will be surrounded

[seleucid empire]

Chapter 13: The King of Seleucia
Summer 260 BC
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"A dying man needs to die, as a sleepy man needs to sleep, and there comes a time when it is wrong, as well as useless, to resist"

The Funerary procession was over a mile long. The body of Antiochus I Soter was carried in a 4 horsed chariot, his face unveiled so his people may see him again one last time. At the head of the column was Theodoros and beside him Alexander. The news had arrived while both brothers were celebrating their completed conquest of Egypt. Their ancient enemy the Ptolemies had been destroyed but the brothers were no mood to celebrate after they heard. Instead they quickly traveled back to Antioch to insure Theodoros was crowned King.

The body was taken into a great Mausoleum and the Tomb was sealed. The body of Antiochus I Soter, the saviour of Asia Minor and the 2nd founder of The Seleucid empire would lay undisturbed for all eternity.

The procession went back into the city and the funerary feast began. Stories of Antiochus' courage and life were shared between his acquaintances and songs were sung about him. At the end of the night the sadness had lessened for the friends of Antiochus. The next morning all of the lords gathered in the palace hall to see the crowning of the new King. Theodoros approached the throne with his brother at his side. Next to the throne was the high Councillor, The Priest of Seleucus and The Lord commander of the Kings Silvershields. Theodoros sat down on the throne. The Priest of Seleucus began to speak the customary words

"Theodoros, son of Antiochus do you accept this responsibly. To be King of Seleucia. To protect her people and sacrifice health for your Kingdom until your dying breath?"
"I do"
The Priest placed the crown of the Seleucid Kings on Theodoros' head. Suddenly Theodoros felt a great weight pressing down on him
"I present to you your new King. Antiochus II Theos King of the Seleucid Empire!"
The Lords all bowed down. The High Councillor spoke," My King i served your father and I hope to be as equally useful to you."
"Thank you High Counciller. Your services are greatly appreciated"
The Lord Commander of the Silvershields spoke next
"My King. You have the Loyalty of the Silvershields."
"Thank you lord commander. You are as true as you are loyal."

After Antiochus had spoken to the important lords he had walked to the palace steps with the Royal procession where he had been proclaimed the new King to the public who cheered for their former and popular prince. Afterwards Antiochus went into his personal chambers and ordered his guards to leave him alone. He took the crown off. But the feeling of a weight pressing down on him remained..


End of Act I

[seleucid empire]

Intermission
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In 260 BC Antiochus I Soter the second King of the Arche Seleukeia died at the age of 63. He is compared by many to Cyrus the Great who turned his weak and unstable Kingdom to a large and powerful empire. In the latter years of his life he concocted a master plan to rebuild Alexander the Great's empire. His plan was very successful and their arch rivals the Ptolemaic empire was wiped out in 15 years. Also the Seleucid possessions in Asia Minor has been extended greatly. In the Far east, the situation was very stable. When the Parthians had began to get the upper hand and conquered Asaak, Antiochus responded by capturing Nisa, the Parthian Capital. Due to illness he was unable to reconquer Asaak but the conquest of Nisa effectively surrounded the Parthians reducing their threat. The borders have since become very stable.

His three sons have been campaigning for the last 12 years conquering huge swathes of land and destroying many enemies. Theodoros the conquereing of Egypt is currently the highest ranking general in the Arche Seleukeia followed by Sarpedon the conquerer of Asia Minor. Alexander is the third who conquered Nubia and is currently in Ethiopia
The three Great Brothers
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https://img220.imageshack.us/img220/4076/sarepedon34.png

https://img802.imageshack.us/img802/2821/alexander36.png

After the destruction of Egypt the Empire of Alexander the Great had nearly been reunited. Pergamon and Rhodes, two of the most powerful hostile cities in Asia Minor fell to Sarpedon within 2 years of each other. The only remaining threat in the west was Pontus. The young Pontic prince declared war on the Arche raising a huge army of Mercenaries from within Seleucid lands including rebels and former Pergamese troops. Meanwhile, Theodoros was subjugating the Northern Arabian tribes around Palmyra and Bostra while Alexander was laying siege to the last great Nubia city of Meroe.

However in the same year that Antiochus I Soter died. The Epirotes declared war by allying themselves with Pontus, setting the stage for a bloody war and the winner would rule all of Asia Minor and Greece.

[seleucid empire]

Act II: Blood

Prologue: Blood Moon

http://fc09.deviantart.net/fs71/f/2010/278/b/a/blood_moon_splash_by_aelita_amigurl-d304vve.jpg
“Whether we fall by ambition, blood, or lust, like diamonds we are cut with our own dust.”

The city was under a curtain of red light. It was as if blood was pouring from every wall and every building in the city. It looked like the palace of Hades himself. The blood moon had appeared 3 nights ago and returned each night after. It was a sign. There was no doubt about that. Whether it was a good or bad omen Theodoros couldn't tell but he knew one thing: Blood would soon be spilled. Theodoros suddenly realized he was not alone. His hand moved down to his kopis.

"Who's there? Show youself"

"You really shouldn't go off by yourself my King. Especially on a night like this."
Out of the shadows Demetrius emerged. He was now 60 years old but he still walked and fought like a man many years younger.

"Oh it's you," Theodoros sheathed his sword and replied,"I can defend myself."
"Nonetheless, I swore an oath to protect you. Why are you here again my King. You have been here every night looking at the moon ever since it appeared"
"Yes, I've been pondering its meaning."
"Do you wish to hear my opinion my King? They are merely warnings from the Gods to signal a great event but they are not meant be deciphered by men."
"You may be right. I have a terrible feeling about the future. Ever since this...omen...appeared, I have been struck with a sense of dread which I cannot explain."
"Well then it is even more important you get some rest my King. If your intuition is right then something big is coming and you will need your full strength to face it."

My intuition has never failed me Demetrius. If it had, we would not be standing here and our bones would be littered across the sands of Egypt. Brace yourself my friend. Darker days are coming.

[seleucid empire]

Chapter 1: The Visitor
Summer 257 BC

The ship was old and dingy. In many places there were signs of rot and the once white sails were grey with old age. Five men stepped onto the docks of Seleucia Pieria, the great port of the Syrian Tetrapolis. They wore hooded cloaks covered in dust which hid suits of fine armor underneath. Approaching the nearest stables they procured some horses before riding to Antioch. At the gates of the royal palace they were stopped by the guards but after a few words from the leader of the group the guards quickly moved aside. The men seemed to know their way around the palace well and they quickly arrived at his destination. The leader pushed the two great doors aside and entered the war chamber. The King and his generals looked up from their maps startled.

"What is the meaning of this? Who are you?", asked Theodoros
"Its been a long time...brother"
"Sarpedon?"
"Yes..I thought you would recognize me, but then again, it has been 15 years. Can we talk in private?"

The two men walked to Theodoros' chambers. Theodoros spoke first.
"Your visit is most unexpected brother. The last letter I received from you told me that you were marching on Pontic lands."
"Yes I marched to Pontus and conquered their cities very quickly. But even with his Kingdom destroyed Mithridates Kianos stubbornly refused to surrender. He found support from the King of Nikaia so he had supplies to continue campaigning in our lands."
"So you had no choice but to fight him directly?"
"Yes. We fought about 7 months ago north of Ipsos."

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"He had the advantage in more professional troops and heavier mercenaries but I had a secret weapon. I had been testing out scythed chariots and I perfected their usage. In that battle I sent them around the side and used them directly against Mithridates Kianos' personal guard. Mithridates was cut down almost straight away allowing my troops to gain the upper hand. I then went on to conquer Nikaia"

https://img814.imageshack.us/img814/4017/kianosdead.png

"But brother I did not return to tell you about my victories. I returned to tell you what is about to come. You see, I captured several of Kiano's highest ranking officers in the final battle. They revealed to me a terrible plot against us. I had began to wonder why the Pontics were so daring to attack us with such a high chance of failure. Well I discovered why. The nations surrounding our borders made a secret alliance to invade our lands. This alliance consists of Epirus, The Parthians, The Sabaens, Carthage and Pontus."
"Thats troubling indeed"
"But thats not even the worst part. You see, our allies the Macedonians and the Hayasdan were part of it too."
"What?"
"Yes when I heard they were involved I was shocked. Their original plan was to send their armies into our land all at once to overwhelm us. Luckily for us things didn't go according to plan for them. The Hayasdan were attacked by the Horse lords of the north while the Macedonians delayed their plans due to a military build-up at Sparta."
"I see.."
"Brother I came to ask you for permission to attack Macedonia. They must pay for their betrayal even if they haven't acted yet. I also urge you to attack the Hayasdan before they attack us. Although It might not seem like it brother we are in dire straights. If we do not rid ourselves of some of our enemies before they all mobilize I fear we will be overrun"
Theodoros was silent for a moment trying to come to terms with the news. Then he said, "Ok brother It shall be done."

Theodoros felt the same sense of dread return. The events heralded by the blood moon were coming to pass. Little did he know the worst was yet to come

[seleucid empire]

Chapter 2: Oh How the Mighty have fallen!
Winter 251 BC
https://img854.imageshack.us/img854/5310/battleoflakedon.png

"Thy glory, O Israel, is slain upon thy high places! How are the mighty fallen!" (King David)

The cold winds of the Greek winter bypassed his cloak completely, biting into his skin.. But Sarpedon did not feel it. All his attention was fixed on what came ahead. The last 6 years of his life had lead to this moment. Before him lay all the might of Sparta, the once glorious city unmatched in military strength and valor. He had 20 000 men to their 14 000 but he knew better than to underestimate them for among them there were 2 000 Spartiates. The true Spartan warriors. If Sarpedon overcame these Spartans he would be the first man since the time of Phillip and Alexander to unit Greece. Sarpedon had not asked for this battle. His goal had been to destroy the Macedonians. This he had succeeded, but no sooner had he captured the last city of Corinth, he had received news that the Spartans were now marching against him.

Both the Agiad King Akrotatos and the Eurypontid King Eudamidas were present as well as a contingent of elite greek cavalry. The sight of the heavy cavalry surprised Sarepedon

"They're learning Areus" he muttered to his favorite companion.
"Yes my lord their cavalry numbers 1000 as do ours."
"They are lacking quality and experience though. They shouldn't be too much trouble for our veteran cavalry to handle."

The Spartans began to march at double the pace. Sarepedon was amazed how quickly they could move in their heavy armor

"Phalanx lower sarissas!"

His veteran Phalangites lowered their sarissas and braced for the impact. The Spartan charge was overwhelming. Sarpedon saw spear tips breaking and heard the cry of men dying. Amazingly the phalanx held against the Spartan hoplites but Sarpedon knew he only had a limited amount of time before the more heavily armed Spartans broke through the formation and began to slaughter his lightly armored phalangites.

https://img69.imageshack.us/img69/8605/thelastspartans.png

"Cavalry with me!" cried Sarpedon

The cavalry contingents began to move behind Sarpedon's Companions and they moved to engage the inexperienced spartan cavalry which routed after minimal resistance. Sarpedon turned around and saw to his horror that the center of his phalanx had been broken and his phalangites were now engaging the Spartans with their small hand axes. The Spartan Kings had sent all 2 000 Spartans to the weak point and now his phalaghites were being overwhelmed despite their brave efforts. Sarpedon wheeled his horsemen around and ordered them to charge into the backs of the Spartans. The horsemen gained speed. They lowered their lances and thundered straight into the backs of the Spartan warriors. Sarpedon's first charge killed many Spartans but to his dismay they didn't flee and simply turned a part of their line around to face them halting the cavalry charge.

Sarpedon decided to pull out his cavalry and he reached for his horn. He then realized to his horror that Areus was nowhere to be seen. he desperately scanned the battlefield looking for his friend and at last he saw him. Areus was engaged with the Spartan King Akrotatos in single combat. He had picked up a hoplon shield and was exchanging blows with the Spartan King. Areus ducked and parried the King's spear while slashing with his kopis. Sarpedon gathered the nearest horsemen and rode in the direction of the Spartan King. He then saw Akrotatos bash Areus down with his shield and lift his spear.
"Nooo!" cried Sarepdon
The spear came down entering Areus' chest. Blood spurted out and his friend began to jerk violently before laying still. Fueled by his anger Sarpedon charged at Akrotatos who noticed too late. Sarpedon rode past severing his head from his body. Seeing this, much of the Greek army began to flee except the Spartans who rallied around the second King Eumamidas. The Seleucid army surrounded the 2 000 Spartans and the massacre began. At the end of the day no Spartiates remained alive and only 300 surviving allied greeks arrived in Sparta. Over 5 000 Seleucids lay dead aswell and Sarpedon lost a quarter of his army strength. However the battle for Hellas was over and he had won. There would be no more resistance here and once he had conquered Sparta, all of Greece would be his.
https://img717.imageshack.us/img717/7708/endofspart.png

https://img594.imageshack.us/img594/4185/khded.png

That night Sarpedon buried his fallen and gave Areus a heroes' funeral. The war was far from over he knew that. The Epirotes would attack him soon, threatening his new holdings and he would have to fight them...Without his friend at his side

[seleucid empire]

Chapter 3: A Family Reunion
Winter 249 BC
“Who is the happiest of men? He who values the merits of others, and in their pleasure takes joy, even as though t'were his own."

In the highest tower of the Palace of Antioch there is a room. It was a forgotten room that had not been used since it's creation. But today that would change. A dozen men walked up the winding staircase. At the top of the tower three men from the group entered while the rest stood outside guarding the room. The three men were brothers, famous throughout the land for their innumerable victories. They were of course Antiochus II Theos, Sarpedon, and Alexandros, the three Great Brothers. It had been Alexandro's idea to meet here in secret. After all they didn't want their enemies to know their armies were leaderless. After a servant had brought in wine and left Antiochus began to speak.

"Brothers it has been a long time since we all stood in the same room together"
"Yes around nine years?" replied Sarpedon
"Well I would like to say I am very glad to see you both here. Unfortunately I have not brought you here to make up for lost time, although we have plenty of time to do that tonight. I have brought you here to discuss the next phase of our plan. Alexandros I trust Ethiopia is pacified enough that you can permanently leave the region?"
"Well there is some trouble with the Axumites but it is stable enough."
'What about you Sarpedon, how goes the war in the west?"
"It is nearly done brother, as soon as i finish off the Kingdom of Tylis and destroy the last remnants of the Epirote Kingdom in Illyria my work in the west will be done. There is a troubling note though. I had originally planned to take Serdike to secure the northern border of Macedonia but the Getia Federation has beaten me to it."
"Well when you return to the west evaluate their strength. If they seem weak attack Serdike and take it. It is vital we secure Macedonia."
"Of course. But what is our next move Theodoros?"
"I have finished my conquest of the Hayasdan Kingdom. Now all that remains is the East and Southern Arabia."
"Arabia?", asked Alexandros
"Yes, as you know we have recently been attacked by the Sabaen Federation who are getting stronger as we speak. I want you Alexandros to invade their lands and subdue them."
"Why do we need to subdue Southern Arabia. We are perfectly capable of defending our lands from their raids and their isolation would make any invasion very difficult."
"If we conquer arabia we will have secure our southern borders freeing our forces for other fronts. I understand it is a difficult task but I will put all the resources of Egypt at your disposal. As for you Sarpedon I want you to continue your campaigns. Destroy any threat to Macedonia and Greece and then begin conquering the ports of the black sea. I will place all the resources of Asia Minor at your disposal. I will go east personally to deal with the Parthian Menace."

"Oh and one more thing. As you know 15 years ago I visited the oasis of Siwa. I asked two questions and received 3 answers for them. One of the questions I will not reveal to you now but the second question I asked was whether we would reunite the Empire of Alexander the Great. The oracle told me these two things: First he said, It will take three mortals to unite the empire of a God, and then he told me, If the three mortals fail then all Greeks will be consumed by a red tide"
"I understand the first part," replied Sarpedon,"The three mortals clearly refer to us. But what of the second part?"
"It means," replied Theodoros,"That we must not fail..."

[seleucid empire]

Chapter 4: Darkness Ascending
Winter 246 BC

Antiochus II Theos slowly unfolded the letter but already knew it contained ill tidings. The state of the message bearer was enough to tell him that. He had stumbled into the throne room tired and dirty. He looked like a man who had not slept in days. After handing the message to the King he had collapsed from exhaustion. Antiochus slowly began to read.

My King were it not for my ill health and advanced age I would have personally came to you to tell you of this news. However the years are not kind to me and I have been forced to send my son Parmenion instead. What I tell you will be troubling. Many years ago you told me of the prophecy you had been told at the Oasis of Siwa. The red tide that would consume the Greeks. I believe it has arrived. Weeks ago troubling news came to me of strange and horrifying occurrences at the outskirts of the empire. Travelers told stories of burning villages empty of life and piles of skulls strewn along the landscape of the east. I went to investigate and arrived in Alexandria Ariana just as a huge horde of horsemen descended upon the city. I saw their banners. Red as blood.

I saw nothing I could do for the city so I retreated. Days later a large group of refugees from Bactria arrived in the village I was staying at. They told me terrible news. These invaders were the Sakae, horsemen from the far east. They had began to migrate months ago overwhelming many peoples and conquering the entire north-east. They arrived at Bactra about a month ago. The so called King of Bactra lead his impressive hosts out to meet the nomads. That was the last anyone ever saw those men. They simply vanished. Bactra itself fell. It is a terrible enemy that can destroy a Kingdom such as Bactra so quickly.
https://img33.imageshack.us/img33/941/sakainvasion.png

I urge you my King to come to the east as soon as possible. The Red Tide is upon us.
Your loyal and faithful servant Demetrius

Theodoros turned to Lycus
"Lycus that was a message from Demetrius. It seems we must push our plans ahead. Ready the men, we are marching east!"

[seleucid empire]

Chapter 5: The Next Generation
"We may consider each generation as a distinct nation, with a right, by the will of its majority, to bind themselves, but none to bind the succeeding generation, more than the inhabitants of another country"

It was noon when the scouts returned. Earlier in the day they had spotted vast number of men camped in the plains near Seleukia. Antiochus had sent several of his men to scout ahead. If they were hostile it could be a problem as he had only brought a thousand cavalry with him while they numbered at least 10 000. Apollonois jumped off his horse and approached the King with a relaxed smile.
"My King they march under the silver banners. They are friendly forces."
https://img528.imageshack.us/img528/7309/thenewmen.png

After hearing this Antiochus ordered his cavalry to move towards the camp. As they approached the soldiers in the camp began to cheer and shout Antiochus' name. In the center of the encampment two young men waited and bowed to the King as he approached. One of them began to speak
"My King I welcome you to our humble Camp. My name is Diomedon of the house of Isaurikes first among the noble houses of Antiocheia. This is my brother Apolloniketes."
https://img207.imageshack.us/img207/1671/diomedonantiocheiasisau.png

https://img196.imageshack.us/img196/3258/apolloniketesantiocheia.png

"Greetings young brothers. What is your purpose here? And under whose authority did you gather this army?"
"This army is for you my lord. We are friends of your youngest son Antipatros and it was he who convinced us to raise an army for your journey to the east. It is not a large force but I hope you can put it to good use."
"Antipatros?"
"Yes my lord, he hopes this token force will please you. We have 5 000 phalagites, 3 000 Thureophoroi and 1 000 elite cavalry "
https://img823.imageshack.us/img823/7079/antipatros.png

"Well you must tell my son I am very pleased when you return to Antiocheia"
The two brothers exchanged looks. Diomedon began to speak
"My King it is our wish to accompany you to the East"

Antiochus hesitated for a moment. Then he nodded his head in approval
"So be it"

[seleucid empire]

Chapter 6: Priorities
Summer 244 BC
“What difference does it make how much you have? What you do not have amounts to much more"

When Diomedon entered the tent he could immediately tell the King was troubled again. He was on his desk looking over sheets of Papyrus.
"My King what ails you?" asked Diomedon
"Ahh Diomedon just the man I wanted to see. You have a good knowledge of statecraft and management. Tell me Diomedon what does a Kingdom need?"
"It needs a King and it needs people"
"Yes but what else?"
"A strong military"
"And what does a strong military need besides its leaders?"
"Well...strong men?"
"No even more than that it needs money. Without money an army cannot exist. We are marching towards perhaps the greatest threat Greeks have ever faced, even more dangerous than the Persian Empire during their invasion."
"Yes my King but we have your leadership. You have never lost a battle"
"Yes but this time even if I don't lose battles I can still lose the war. We have 24 000 men, less half the amount I wanted for this war. The Sakae have over 100 000 horsemen. These men don't fight like the men of the west. Battles against these men will mean huge casualties. To win this war young man we must focus not on our armies but on our treasuries"
"What do you intend to do my King?"
"As you know since my father's grand strategy came into action 30 years ago, all of our funding has gone into our military and to pay for my brother's armies. Its time to change that. We have conquered many territories. Now we need to develop them so they will be of some benefit to us. I will begin by building a large network of roads to stimulate trade. Then I will move onto ports and eventually mines"
"A wise plan"
"Yes we must fight on the defensive for now and slowly build up our strength before we can destroy the Saka. Diomedon fetch paper and write a message to the governors of my new acquisitions. Tell them to build basic roads connecting all major towns and cities."
"Very well my King"
"This will be a war of attrition Diomedon. If we do not find the money to raise new forces then I fear we have already lost"

[seleucid empire]

Chapter 7: Eastfall
Summer 240 BC

“Death is nothing, but to live defeated and inglorious is to die daily.”

The Giant walls of Bactra cast a shadow over the entire camp. They had arrived yesterday and immediately started setting up siege lines. The Sakae garrison was large but mostly infantry which could not go head to head with the Seleucid infantry. What worried Diomedon was that they had encountered no resistance on their march here. What worried him even more was that the usually cautious King Antiochus had suddenly become optimistic and without care. Diomedon decided to have a talk with him. He entered the Kings tent and bowed

"Greetings Diomedon, shouldn't you be with your men supervising the siege works?" said Antiochus without looking up
"Yes my King but there is something on my mind."
"You wish to know why we have not encountered resistance on our march here and where the Sakae horde is"
"Yes my King," replied Diomedon, hiding his surprise.
"I am guessing the Sakae horde have surrounded us and even now close in on our army for the kill" replied the King calmly

https://img59.imageshack.us/img59/6973/eastfall.png

Diomedon was shocked.
"Then we must break off the siege and find favorable ground to avoid being surrounded."
"We'll do no such thing."
"But..."
"I thought you trusted my leadership Diomedon"
"I do my King, but we will be surrounded if we don't move"
"Diomedon have you ever fought a nomad army?"
"No"
"I have. I chased the Hayasdan King into the stepples after conquering his Kingdom. He found support from the local Scythian tribes and every day those fast horsemen showered arrows down on my army before retreating, never offering battle. It nearly destroyed me. However this time we have encountered nothing on our march. That tells me that they feel confidant enough to face us in open battle. They know as well as we do that Bactra is the key to controlling all of the east. They will come to us so we know exactly where we are going to fight. We know they will act soon and we know the majority of their horde will be here. Their King Arsakes will not miss a battle this important so he will be present as well. This is our chance Diomedon. Our chance to break the horde in a single battle"

[seleucid empire]

what does everyone think of the style of this aar? any criticism would be apppreciated

[seleucid empire]

Chapter 8: King of the Mountain
https://img694.imageshack.us/img694/4008/sarpedondacia.png
“If you don't scale the mountain, you can't see the plains”

Sitalces was sharpening his rhomphaia. He was proud of it. It had been his father's during Sarpedon's invasion of Macedonia. His father had been one of the many mercenaries who flocked to Sarpedon's side. He had fought admirably and at the conclusion of the war he had received a plot of land near Tylis. Now Sitalces took his father's place in the Seleucid army. Sitalces worshipped Sarpedon was a God of war. He had defeated the Spartans, Macedonians and Epirotes and without rest he marched onto Dacia, taking Serdike and Naissos within a year. Now they were marching under the shadow of the Carpathian mountains heading for the Dacian Capital of Buridava where the Dacian King awaited. The warriors in his company had been nervous. Marching against the Dacians in their own homeland was a dangerous move. The Dacians were known as great warriors equal to the Thracians. For the past week Sarpedon had been visiting different companies giving encouragement to his men

He looked up and saw the great general Sarpedon walking towards him. His palms began to sweat
"Greetings thracian."
"My lord."
"What is your name?"
"Sitalces my lord. My father was Belisarius."
"Ahh Belisarius I remember him well"
"really?"
"Yes he was an exceptional warrior. He saved my life once you know."
"He never mentioned that to me my lord"
"Yes he not found of talking I recall but he was a damn good killer. Tell me Sitalces how are your men? What are they saying about the task ahead of us."
"My lord they are nervous. We are marching into lands which even we do not know. A land perfect for ambushes"
"I see. They are right. I have come to you for a task. You say your the son of Belisarius. Because of this you have my trust. I need an infantry bodyguard to supplement my Hetairoi. I need men I can trust to defend my life. I need you to be one of those men and for you to find several others for me. Will you accept this task?"
"It would be an honour my lord"
"Good Sitalces. You wil report to my tent tomorrow morning."
With that the general walked away leaving a surprised Sitalcles. As he came to he realized his position. They would soon face the full force of the Dacians. And he would be next to the general, right where the fighting was the thickest.

[seleucid empire]

Chapter 9: The Houses of Seleucia Part 1- The Syriakes

Three men sat in the dark room. One of the men was older than the other two and from the way the two men acted around him, an observer would have concluded that he was their father. His name was Androsthenes Syriakes, the Satrap of Asia Minor and the richest man in the world. The other two men were his sons Polyxenidos and Kendebaios. They were in deep discussion.

https://img525.imageshack.us/img525/3674/thesyriakes.png

https://img687.imageshack.us/img687/9265/polyxenidos.png

https://img442.imageshack.us/img442/193/kendebaios.png

"Father I don't understand why we have to make this move. How will conquering Crete affect the Isaurikes family at all?" asked Polyxenidos
"My son. Surely you have heard. The brothers Diomedon and Apolloniketes Isaurikes have joined the King in his campaign in the East. Also they are personal friends of the King's son Antipatros"
"But how does that affect us?"
Androsthenes sighed. His older son had always been more interested in women and wine than politics.
"They did it for power and a higher standing. They are close to the King and they will gain much influence. We need to counter that with achievements of our own or they will become the most powerful family in the Empire. That's why I have used our wealth to raise a small army for Crete."
"I understand father," replied his younger son Kendebaios,"The King and his brothers are now all older than 50 and they are campaigning at the outskirts of the empire."
"Exactly. They might not ever return. The new King will turn to the noble houses for support. Whoever he turns to will become the most powerful faction within the empire. Make no mistakes my sons. When the great brothers are dead there will be a clash among the houses. We must extend our power and influence now or we will be brushed aside in the aftermath"

[seleucid empire]

Chapter 10: Blood and Steel
Summer 240 BC
https://img3.imageshack.us/img3/1117/battleofbactra.png

Thus it is that in war the victorious strategist only seeks battle after the victory has been won, whereas he who is destined to defeat first fights and afterwards looks for victory.

Antiochus waited patiently for his enemy to approach. His face showed no worry. He had prepared for this.

The Sakae reinforcements had arrived three days ago only to find the Seleucid siege lines abandoned. Antiochus had hidden his army in the forest near the city and after the Sakae had arrived he ordered his army to attack. The horde had lost thousands of horsemen in a skirmish with the Seleucid archers before they withdrew into the city. A second force had arrived challenging the Seleucids to battle and the garrison of Bactra saw this as an opportunity to sally out. Antiochus found himself facing 20 000 horsemen.

He smiled. Arrayed against him were all of his enemies. He could end this right now and here.

Antiochus would face the best of the horde in this battle: armored cataphracts and horse archers whose armor gleamed in the sunlight and whose war cries would make most men shake with fear. But not the men of the Seleucid army. These men had had been fighting with Antiochus Theodoros for years. They had been through Egypt, Libya, Arabia, and Armenia. The Sakae would not find their foe so easy to intimidate. As they approached, Antiochus gave the order to his archers to advance. At his signal 6 500 archers emerged and marched to the front of the Phalanx.
https://img838.imageshack.us/img838/44/battleofbactrapart2.png

The Sakae horde began to approach more quickly. Theodoros gave the order to fire and 6 500 arrows were unleashed upon the horde. Many of the light Sakae horsemen were struck down immediately. They began to return fire. Arsakes and his heavy Cataphracts moved towards the left flank of the Seleucid phalanx. Spears were lowered and they prepared to charge...only to have a shower of javelins rain upon them causing mass confusion. They panicked as 4 000 hykranian axemen charged from the nearby forests where they were hiding. When the Cataphracts tried to withdraw, Diomedon and Apolloniketes lead their cavalry around trapping the Sakae horsemen. The brother's cavalry fell onto the backs of the Saka elite wiping them out. Their King Arsakes was among the fallen.
https://img525.imageshack.us/img525/5603/arsakesdead.png

Seeing this the Saka horde began an organised retreat while firing arrows back at the Seleucids who were following. Theodoros would not let them leave with their army intact. He initiated the final phase of his plan. Prior to battle he had instructed his Hetairoi to don lighter armor similar to the prodomoi. This was risky as the arrows of the Saka could have devastated them however it gave them extra speed. Theodoros' Hetairoi burst out of their hiding place and into a mass of Saka horsemen. From the other side of the battlefield his prodomoi emerged and mimicked the companions. The Sakae retreat became a full rout and the Seleucid cavalry gave chase. At the end of the day the Saka horde was completely destroyed and the Gates of Bactra were thrown open by the Greeks inside.

As they entered the city Diomedon asked the King,"What should we do with the Sakae who have settled in the city?"
"Do nothing to them. The Greeks of Bactra have always been a rebellious people. They will thank us for liberating them today but tomorrow they could turn on us. Keep the Sakae in the city so they remember that they need our protection."
https://img232.imageshack.us/img232/4239/capturedabctra.png

At the end of the day Antiochus retreated to his temporary room in the palace of Bactra. The Sakae still controlled the north so he knew it wasn't over yet but the east was safe for now and the King lapsed into a well earned sleep

[seleucid empire]

Chapter 11: The Houses of Seleucia Part 2 - The Ioudaikes
Summer 238 BC
https://img836.imageshack.us/img836/2333/ballarossamariasloudaik.png

"To know the pains of power, we must go to those who have it; to know its pleasures, we must go to those who are seeking it."

Ballaros Ioudaikes, Satrap of Babylonia watched the festival proceed below him. But he took no joy in the festive mood nor did he wish to celebrate, for something troubling was on his mind. As Satrap of Babylonia he had control of the core provinces and was undoubtedly one of the most important and powerful men in the empire. But the news he had received from the east and west still caused him great concern. The Syriakes had sent an army to Crete and the Isaurikes had been gaining favor with the King. This would bode ill for his house in the future. That much was for certain. A noise distracted him from his thoughts. He turned around and saw his son Pherekles standing behind him with a grim expression.
https://img577.imageshack.us/img577/7236/pherekles.png
"What news?" asked Ballaros
"I'm afraid only bad news. It appears that all four of the Isaurikes brothers have come of age and are now actively gaining influence and power. Two are in the east as you know and one is gaining influence with the royal princes as well as sons of Sarpedon and Alexandros."
"So basically the entire royal family."
"Yes what is even more troubling is that our spies could not locate their fourth brother. There are rumors saying he has gone east."
"Damn it! They must be planning on gaining control of the east after the conquests."
"Yes I think so too father...There is one more piece of news. Do you recall Megasthenes Syriakos?"
"The youngest son of Antiochus I Soter and the youngest brother of our current King Antiochus II Theodoros?"
https://img528.imageshack.us/img528/4163/megasthenessyriakos.png
"Yes. Well It appears he is not content sitting around while his three great brothers are amassing glory."
"Why? He has fought many battles"
"Yes but he isn't as famous as his three older brothers. Barely any one outside of Syria has heard of him or even knows there is a fourth brother"
"That was because he was 2 years old when the Great brothers were off fighting their famous wars."
"Well yes but he has began to raise his own army. The word is he is heading west."

Ballaros was silent coming to terms with the news. Megasthenes was not doing this for glory alone he thought. Power was on his mind. The world would soon be in flames and Babylon as the center of the empire would be right in the middle of all of it. He turned to Pherekles.
"My son, I think its time to raise a few men of our own..."

[seleucid empire]

Chapter 12: Bold Moves
Winter 235 BC

"My lord there is a lone horseman approaching us. Looks like an Sabaen messenger"
Alexandros turned to look at where his companion was pointing. The rider was dressed in desert robes but there was something not quite right. Then he realized the man was riding on a Nisean charger instead of the Arabian ponies which the desert tribes used. The rider saluted Alexandros and began speaking in Greek

"Hail lord Alexandros, conquerer of Nubia and Arabia. I have been sent by Antiochos to inform you that he is on his way to the Sabaen fortress of Carna with 15 000 men to start a second front against the Saba'
"My brother is here? How is that possible? He is fighting in the east"
"No my lord not King Antiochus. I am referring to your son Antiochos. He is marching down the desert of M'ain hoping to surprise the Saba"

https://img221.imageshack.us/img221/8027/sonafalexander.png

"What? The desert of M'ain. That fool. The desert will destroy him."
"He asks that you have faith in him my lord."

Alexandros became worried. Antiochos was his only son. Knowing his son was a very headstrong boy and that he would not agree to return to Antioch, Alexandros resigned himself to the fact that Antiochos had put himself in grave danger and there was nothing he could do about it.

"Very well he replied. Tell my son I will meet him in the middle.."

[seleucid empire]

Chapter 13: The Lion of the West
Summer 233 BC

https://img341.imageshack.us/img341/3488/olfsarpedon.png

"I'm tired of old men dreaming up wars for young men to die in."

Sitalces quickly marched over to the general and bowed.
"Good day Sitalces."
"My lord. I have a message from Singidunum"
"Yes?"
"A small Epirote-Illyrian Army has laid siege to it sir. What are your orders"
"Leave them."
"What?"
"I have left 6 000 of my professional gallic mercenaries there and my client ruler has raised 1 000 heavily armored elites. They will hold against a small army."
"But my I lord thought we returned to Pella so we could gather more troops for an offensive against the Epirotes."
"Yes but i'm afraid I've changed my plans. We have already conquered all of Dacia and exiled the Dacians to some foreign land."
"But they are still a threat my lord."
"Yes, a threat that younger men can repel"

Sitalces was puzzled by this. Seeing his confusion, Sarpedon continued

"Sitalces my friend tell me, what do you think I have achieved in my life?"
"Sir your achievements have been extraordinary. You have conquered all of Asia Minor, Macedonia, Greece, Epirus, Thrace and Dacia by yourself. You have defeated the strongest of our enemies, the Pontics, Ptolemies, Epirotes, Galatians, Pergamese, Rhodians, Macedonians, Spartans and Dacians. Men who speak your name speak it in awe and you are called by many the 'Lion of the West'. Your achievements mean you will be remembered always as one of the greatest generals who ever lived alongside your brothers."

"So you think my brothers and I will be immortal?"
"Immortal?"
"Yes, Megas Alexandros knew the key to immortality. It is not about living forever. No, a mortal man will only become immortal if he is remembered by history. If his achievements are remembered throughout the ages until the end of time. You know Sitalces, all my life I have been obsessed with immortality as Megas Alexander was. But over the years I've come to realize that my life, however glorious it may seem to others, was a complete waste for me."
"I do not understand my lord"
"You say I will be immortal, remembered through the ages but all men of flesh must die. And here I am, 56 years old. I have been fighting for 40 years without rest and for what? The glory? The Empire? What good will glory do for me now? And I know that however great my conquests have been, no empire lasts forever. My life would have been better spent looking after my sons and wife. My family. I wish to spend the last few years I have on this earth doing the things I should have been doing. I have fought enough wars for this Kingdom and for my Brothers. I need not give anymore. Tomorrow my friend, the lion of the west returns to the east. And I leave you with this one piece of advice. When I leave for Syria tomorrow, go home, make love to your wife, have children and begin a family. You are still young Sitalces. Don't spend your life fighting like me.."

[seleucid empire]

Chapter 14: Maryab
Winter 230 BC

(This picture was taken after the battle so pretend Maryab is still under the control of the Saba)
https://img37.imageshack.us/img37/1461/oldalexandros.png

"Four men who do not know each other will hesitate to face a lion, but once they know and trust each other they will do so without fear"

This was it, thought Alexandros. After all these years, the fighting would end. Not two miles away from where he was standing were the last of the Saba. There was just one obstacle in his way: The Great walls of Maryab. From its roots deep in the ground it rose up into the sky like a range of mountains. Towers lined the walls like sinister peaks which housed dangerous devices within them. Alexandros could see that his men were nervous. He was too. In none of his previous battles had he ever scaled walls like these. But he hid his emotions. He must not show worry around his men.

As dawn broke, his men began to rise and eat their breakfast. The camp was silent as it always was before battle. The men grabbed their weapons and donned their armor, forming up into ranks. The ranks turned into battalions and the army began to take shape. When all was ready, the siege engines were pushed to the front lines. Alexandros and his companions rode to the front of the army. He turned around to face his men.

"Men, glorious soldiers of the Seleucid Empire! Today, we face the last of those Sabaen cowards. For ten years we have hunted our enemy deeper and deeper into the desert. Now they have no where left to run. They hide behind their large walls but know this! Before the day is done their walls will have fallen and their city will be burning!"

A loud cheer came from the army. Alexandros continued

"I know many of you are nervous, for their walls are high and their archers are numerous. But remember who you are. You are men who have fought in Egypt and Nubia. You are fighting under my command. And I have conquered the deserts of Arabia itself! The Gods themselves support our cause. My son marched through the desert of M'ain, an impossible task. But he made it and he took Carna against all odds. Who now can doubt that the Gods are with us? Fight well this day and I promise you this: When the sands of time take their toll and our spirits have journeyed to underworld, you will still be remembered!"

The cheering was deafening. Alexandros gave the order to advance and the lumbering siege towers began to move. The Sabaens on the walls lit their arrows and rained them down upon the Seleucid army. Alexandros saw several of his Arabian mercenaries catch on fire, screaming in agony. The siege towers met with the walls and his Ethiopian mercenaries charged out engaging with the Sabaen spearmen. Several of Alexandros' towers had not reached the walls before the Sabaen archers lit them on fire with the troops inside. Despite all of the horrors he had witnessed in his life the noises coming from the burning towers still sent a chill down Alexandro's spine. The fields beneath the walls were littered with hundreds of the dead but more and more Seleucid towers reached the walls. Soon the walls were overrun.

The Sabaens retreated from the walls and blocked the streets leading to the palace. Alexandros ordered his slingers to climb the walls and rain lead upon the Saba. Volley after volley met with flesh and the Sabaens had no choice but to retreat further into the city. The gates were opened and the rest of the army poured in. There was heavy fighting in the streets and eventually the Saba retreated to the Center of the city. Alexandros gave his men time to rest. Finally at noon the Seleucids once again began to advance. They slowly marched to the center of the city and they found not more than 1 000 defenders left, commanded by the King. These were the elite warrior priests and they would not go down without a fight. They were surrounded by the skirmishers who rained javelins down upon them. However the fine armor of the elites meant little damage was done... So Alexandros ordered all of his infantry to charge. Surrounded, the Sabaen elites fought furiously. They took down three men for every one of theirs. By afternoon they all lay still.

Alexandros entered the conquered city at the front of his companions and his troops cheered for him at every street corner and turn. Their great general had led them to victory once again. The war was over. They could finally go home

https://img684.imageshack.us/img684/9224/endofsaba.png

[seleucid empire]

Chapter 15: The Curse of Mortals
Summer 229 BC

"All men must die"

Inside the dimly lit room a small group of men formed a circle around the bed. On the bed lay Alexandros Syriakos, the great conqueror of Nubia and Arabia. The white sheets of the bed were dotted with traces of the blood he had been coughing up all day. He spoke in a quiet voice bidding each of the men around him farewell. Even the veteran companions, hard men who had seen much death shed tears for their great general. He beckoned for his son and Antiochos stepped out from the crowd. He motioned for the other men to leave the room. Alone with his son, Alexandros began to speak.

"My son."
"Father..."
"I do not have long. I can hear Hades beckoning to me. Listen my son, there are many things I have achieved in my life but I consider my greatest achievement of all to be you. You have made me proud over the last few months. You have shown me that you are a true son of Seleukos, worthy of your royal blood. I know I have been a harsh father but know this: I have always loved you and now I am the proudest father in the realm..."

The father and son talked for an hour. Finally Antiochos emerged from the room, having been forced out by the surgeon. As he came out tears were streaming down his face. The men waiting outside tried to console him as best they could. Eventually he stopped and waited with the others outside the room. Not an hour later, Alexandros, eldest of the three great brothers, passed from this world

[seleucid empire]

Chapter 16: A Simple Bargain
Summer 229 BC

The King was sitting on the bed, with a letter in his hand. His face was completely emotionless. As Diomedon and Apolloniketes approached he acknowledged them with a slight nod.

"My King you summoned us?" asked Diomedon
"Yes.. This was a letter from Antioch...My brother Alexandros is dead."
"I am sorry for your loss my King."
"It is not only my loss. He has done great things for the empire and its people. His death will be mourned by many. But that is not the reason I've summoned you. The death of my brother has made me realize that I do not have many years left either. When I die I do not wish my Kingdom to fall into civil war. I am asking you for your help to make sure this doesn't happen."
"But my Lord there are slim chances of civil war. Kallinikos is the heir and no one disputes him."
"Kallinikos is not the heir."
"What?" asked both brothers in unison
"He believes he is the heir but in my will, I have not chosen him to succeed me."

"Forgive my boldness my King but you cannot do that! He is the eldest."
"Ahh but have you forgotten my story? My brother Alexandros was the eldest of us yet my father chose me to inherit the throne because I was more capable and Alexandros had no wish to be King."
"But why refuse Kallinikos the throne?"

The King's eyes darkened.

"Because he is incapable of ruling this empire I leave behind. He is now more than 40 yet he spends time drinking, whoring and abusing peasants! It is the same for all of my sons!"

"Not Antipatros my lord, we were his closest friends and..."
"No, it has been 16 years since you've seen him. He has changed. I have been receiving letters from my wife, the grand councillor and one of my former companions named Lycus. They all tell me the same things...My sons are wasted men. The oracle of Siwa warned me of this years ago. I'm sure you've been talking to my companions and been told of the prophecy of the Red Tide. Well what they don't know is the second question I asked the Oracle. I asked if my descendants would rule this empire forever and they told me this:The sons will undo the deeds of the father. I didn't know what those words meant until now. If I pass the throne to Kallinikos or any of my sons, they will bring ruin to this empire."

"Then who did you chose?"

https://img228.imageshack.us/img228/7926/phillipossyriakos.png

"I have picked Phillipos, son of Kallinikos a very young yet incredibly competent man. He is my eldest grandson and thus of royal blood. Now as I said, because I have made this decision, there could be civil war. Yet if i do not make this decision my empire will decay. Now do you see the position I'm in?"
"What will you do?"
"Well I know as soon as my will is read out, all the contenders will make their move. There are many who covet the throne. My youngest brother Megasthenes will believe he has more right to the throne than my grandson. My son Kallinikos might be angry enough to raise an army to claim the throne. There is only one thing that can prevent this disaster and ensure Phillipos ascends the throne without blood and that is the will of the army. This army."

"So you want us to lead the army and give our support to Phillipos?"
"Yes once I am dead, the two of you, Megasthenes and Sarpedon will be the most experienced generals in the Empire. Sarpedon will support whoever I ask him to but he has retired and has no army. If Megasthenes decides to raise an army then Phillipos will be crushed. However If you bring the royal army back to Antioch and vouch support for Phillipos then no one would dare to make a move...I know that you feel a sense of loyalty to Antipatros and you might chose to support him as he is your friend. I am asking you to abandon your friendship. In exchange I offer your family the seat of Bactria. You will be satraps of Bactria and Warden of the entire east. Your second youngest brother Ophelandros is already in Bactra at my orders, to create a new government. If you accept my offer and support Phillipos when I am dead then I will make Ophelandros the Satrap permanently. Your family will govern Bactra from now on till the end of days."

https://img221.imageshack.us/img221/9034/ophelandrosisaurikes.png

Both of the brothers kneeled.

"My King, we accept. It shall be done."

[EB rocks]

Great AAR this is bookworthy!

[seleucid empire]

Chapter 17: Eternal Rest
Summer 227 BC
https://img13.imageshack.us/img13/1263/theodorosdies.png

"The day which we fear as our last is but the beginning of eternity" (Seneca)

The Golden Sarcophagus had neared the end of it's journey. The body had traveled over 3 000 miles, from Bactra to Alexandria. Twenty five thousand men marched alongside the procession, for inside the Sarcophagus was the body of Antiochus II Theos, King of the Seleucid empire. Four men led the column, dressed in their best robes and armor. Sarpedon rode on the very left, his face unreadable. On the right were the brothers Diomedon and Apolloniketes, their faces downcast at the death of their King and Mentor. In the center rode a young man, the future King Phillipos. The solemn procession passed under the Canopic gates and along the Canopic way. It slowly made its way into the Brucheum, the Greek quarter of the city. At the corner of the Agora, a huge stone structure had been erected; The final resting place of Antiochus II Theos. The man who had reunited Megas Alexandros' empire would be buried in the same city as the great conqueror, with an equally splendid mausoleum. There, the Greatest general and King the Seleucid Empire had ever seen would rest for eternity

Antiochus II Theos before his death
https://img542.imageshack.us/img542/1433/theodoros10star.png



****


Once again the Great houses of The Seleucid Empire congregated at Antioch to see their new King crowned. Kallinikos sat on the throne and waited impatiently as the crown was brought forth. Before the ceremony could begin, the doors were flung open and in marched Sarpedon, Phillipos, Diomedon and Apolloniketes. Behind them, 100 soldiers of the royal army poured in.

"What is the meaning of this?", asked an outraged Kallinikos
"I should be asking you why you are sitting on the throne" replied Sarpedon
"I am the King!"
"No my nephew, you are not. I have here in my hand the last will of my brother Theodoros. I shall read it out now: I, Antiochus II Theodoros, second of my name, decree that upon my death, my crown shall pass to my worthy successor whose name is Phillipos, son of Kallinikos. Step down from the throne Kallinikos or these men behind us will use force to remove you"

Sarpedon rolled up the scroll. The entire court was deathly silent. Kallinikos was the first to break the silence.

"You have betrayed me Phillipos, you are no longer my son." said Kallinikos before storming out of the throne room.

Phillipos hesitated for only a moment. Then he approached the throne and sat down. The Priest of Seleucus lifted the crown above his head.

https://img195.imageshack.us/img195/7173/kingphillippps.png

"I give your new King, Philli..."
"No," interrupted Phillip,"I wish to have a name and title that is befitting of this empire and its glorious founder. From this day on wards I will be called Seleucus"

The Priest of Seleucus nodded. He placed the crown on the head of Seleucus. The nobles all bowed down

"Arise Seleucus, second of your name. King of the Seleucid Empire.."


End of Act II

[seleucid empire]

Intermission: The World

The World at the Death of Theodoros
https://img20.imageshack.us/img20/4138/worldatdeathoftheos.png

The Major Players:

The Getai-Dacia was conquered by Sarpedon however, after his retirement the Getai quickly re-surged and took back most of their former possessions. This was due to the incompetence of the Seleucid generals who replaced Sarpedon

Carthage-The Carthaginians led by the Anti-Barcid party took control of all of Africa. Once the conquest of Africa was complete, the Barcid party argued for more expansion so the Barca family sent their troops to Iberia and reinforced garrisons in Sicily. The first punic war began began not long after and because the Romans were dealing with the newly formed Talentine, Epirote, Illyrian alliance, they were unable to oppose Carthage and all of Sicily fell under their control. In Iberia, the Barca family slowly conquered land until they controlled the entire eastern coast of Iberia.

The Sarmatian Empire-What began as an alliance of Sarmatian and Scythian tribes quickly became a powerful federation which swept across all of the north conquering every city they came across. The Greeks of the Crimean Bosporus quickly fell and the tribes continued to move west. After conquering many tribes of Baltic peoples they were finally stopped by an alliance of Baltic and German tribes who raised an army of 80 000 men and defeated them

The Romani-attacked by the twin powers of the Tarantine, Epirote, Illyrian alliance as well as the Carthaginians, their power slowly began to crumble. Rome was taken by the Epirotes but they continue to resist

The Tarantine-Epirote, Illyrian Alliance- After Pyrrhus of Epirus left Italy, Taras surrendered to the Romans without bloodshed. Because of this they were allowed to keep their wealth and keep some of their independence. After the Invasion of Epirus by the Seleucid Empire, the Epirotes fled to Illyria bring with them their treasury. Using their treasury they hired an army of mercenaries and carved out a Kingdom in Illyria. By building up mines and taking advantage of the sea trade from the Greek cities of Illyria they quickly became rich enough to raise several armies of mercenaries. The King of Epirus sent word to the Tarantines offering Liberation and they quickly accepted forming an alliance between their city and the Epirote Kingdom of Illyria. The Epirotes surprised the Romans landing 50 000 men near Arpi. They were joined by 16 000 Tarantines and the combined force took several Roman cities in quick succession. Sacking thse cities they gained enough money to hire more mercenaries and eventually took Roma itself. Now they are fighting the Romans for dominance over northern Italy

The Extent of Influence of the Epirote-Illyrian Kingdom and the Tarantine Empire
https://img600.imageshack.us/img600/9609/illyriantaratines.png

[seleucid empire]

Act III: A Crown of Flames

Prologue: The Fires of Antioch
Syria 227 BC

Most powerful is he who has himself in his own power.

Antioch, the shining capital of the empire. Originally a fortress built to protect the port capital of Seleucia Pieria it soon overshadowed the city and became the center of administration. It grew with the empire, reflecting its continued expansion. Now as capital of the largest empire on earth it was also the largest city matched only by Alexandria in the south, Seleucia in the east and Carthage in the west. Under the shadow of its walls and buildings lived half a million souls. But in every shining jewel there lay darkness. Within its streets and alleyways dwelt murderers, thieves and rapists. In its high courts corruption was abundant and within the aristocracy a struggle for power resulted in blood.

These were the thoughts going through the King's mind as he overlooked his city from his chambers in the palace. The city needed to be rid of its filth. He would cleanse this city or he would die trying. He turned around just as he saw two of his guards charging at him with their swords out. He barely had time to register before the man was upon him. The King managed to knock the sword out of his assailant's hand before he was tackled to the floor. The second attacker was holding off the other guards with considerable success. The assailant pinned down the King and reached for his knife but he kicked him in the in the shin and threw him off. The king grabbed his own sword and stabbed the assassin in the gut. He fell with a dull thud. He looked around and saw that the second assassin had been cornered by his guards. Seleucus approached him.
"Who sent you?" he asked.

The man did not reply. Instead he pulled out a hidden dagger and pushed it into his own heart. He fell down..dead. Seleucus' heart was still pounding. He sat down and took some deeps breaths. Who had sent the assassins? Megasthenes? Antipatros? Surely not..his father? He King recovered and stood up. He ordered the captain of his guards to marshal his men and make sure there were no more unfamiliar faces. He didn't want a second attempt on his life in one day.

His enemies had acted and he had been unprepared. Seleucus knew then that he had been thrust straight into the fire..

[EB rocks]

Great AAR keep it up!

[seleucid empire]

thank you! im glad you like it

[hippyeuan]

I've not played EB in years and randomly found myself back here. You've really made me want to install it again, great AAR! I was never very good with Seleukeia, the empire always got far too large to govern.

[seleucid empire]

haha thank you! The key to Seleucids is just knowing priorities such as what cities you can or cannot afford to lose and which enemy is the biggest threat

[seleucid empire]

Chapter 1: Out of the Frying Pan, Into the Fire
Illyria 223 BC
https://img717.imageshack.us/img717/1265/kingphillopsarmy.png

“It takes two to get one in trouble.”

Day and night the great army marched. Their destination? The Great City of Dalminion, the second largest and greatest city of the Tarantine-Epirote Empire. Although the Epirotes had long since given up on retaking their homeland, the King had decided to attack them anyway. He told the men that Macedonia, the great homeland of Megas Alexandros was not safe until the Epirotes had been banished to the other side of the adriatic. He told his men that their noble allies, the Romani were fighting a losing war against these Barbarians. The real reason, of course, was so the King could leave the dangers of Antioch behind him without seeming weak or cowardly to his enemies.

Sitting astride his horse the King began to wonder if he had made a mistake. Now instead of the daggers of his political enemies he might die from the club of an Illyrian soldier.


****


The army arrayed itself on the hill overlooking the city. They had built no battering rams but they did not need them. For the city gates lay open to them, sabotaged the night before by one of the greatest spies under Seleucid employment

https://img7.imageshack.us/img7/2092/battleofepidamnos.png

The spy had done his work well, spreading news that a huge Roman army was marching from the north. The city was only defended by 5 000 men. At his signal the fearsome Galatian Tinodalae marched forward, eagerly anticipating the bloody massacre they were about to wreak..

[seleucid empire]

Chapter 2: Legacy
Winter 222 BC
https://img194.imageshack.us/img194/9461/vcsleukia.png

Row after row of men paraded through the streets of Antioch in their best armor. There were veterans from virtually every campaign since the reawakening of the empire. The few remaining veterans of the Egyptian campaign rode on magnificent steeds In the front of the column. Soldiers from the Macedonian, Armenian and Arabian wars marched 10 abreast behind them. Persian troops from the eastern wars carried their bows proudly on their shoulders. At the head of the parade in a golden chariot was Apolloniketes. Beside him stood Sarpedon, who although in his 60's, held himself high like a younger man. Behind him, carried by three wagons lay large statues of each of the three Great Brothers: Theodoros, Sarpedon and Alexandros. Then came the prisoners of war: Indian warriors, Saka archers and Parthian lords all led into the city in silver chains. Everywhere people lined up at cheered for the soldiers. For these men had brought about a dream which none had dared to wish for, the reunification of the Empire of Megas Alexandros.

Everywhere people drank to celebrate the victory and by the end of the first day of celebrations everyone was in a drunken slumber. But not Apolloniketes. He sat quietly in his room with a jar of wine. The men outside were celebrating, but he was grieving. In his hand was the letter than had been delivered to him from Bactra. Its contents had shaken Apolloniketes to his very core: His brother Diomedon, had been killed in battle by the Saka. Suddenly, Apolloniketes knocked over his goblet. Tears of rage flowed down his face. When the last of his tears had fallen he stood up. The Saka would pay for all the suffering they had caused. As soon as these celebrations were over he would return east...and finish what his brother had started..

[seleucid empire]

Chapter 3: Another Funeral
Winter 220 BC

The body of Sarpedon Syriakos lay in the room for 3 days. Men from all over the empire came to pay their respects to the last of the Great conquerors. Megasthenes had waited until all of the other visitors had left before he himself entered. He approached the body cautiously as if it would spring back to life any moment. Megasthenes kneeled down so his face was close to that of his older brother. He began to speak
"I know you can hear me brother, wherever you have gone. I say to you this. I curse you, for you have denied me a throne that was rightfully mine. I curse you for your conquests for they have filled up the pages of history, leaving no pages for the likes of us. We will be forgotten, overshadowed by you.."

Megasthenes stayed with the corpse for a few more minutes. He shed a single tear for his fallen brother, and then left the room. Plans needed to be made, now that Seleucus' protector was gone..

[seleucid empire]

Chapter 4: Into the Wild
Summer 217 BC

"But love of the wilderness is more than a hunger for what is always beyond reach; it is also an expression of loyalty to the earth which bore us and sustains us, the only home we shall ever know, the only paradise we ever need - if only we had eyes to see."

Sitalces scanned the horizon for his scouts. Damn those men! They were going to be late again. At age 33 Sitalces was one of the youngest stategos in the army. And considering he was a Thracian, it was no small feat. His late master Sarpedon had told him not to live out his life fighting. He followed Sarpedon's words until the great general's death. Afterwards he joined the army of Seleucus II. He was a Thracian after all. War was his calling. He now commanded 6 000 thracians in battle, over 1/5 of the army.

When he had first joined the army of Seleucus he had very little faith in his new commander. That had changed. In less than 3 years, Seleucus had reconquered all of the lost lands in Dacia and they were now making their way up to Getic holdings in the north. This time, they would finish the Getai once and for all. At the current moment his Thracians had been put in the vanguard, a weeks march ahead of the main force, sent ahead to prevent ambushes.

Finally, he saw something in the distance. As they approached he could see they were the scouts he sent out earlier. The scouts approached Sitalces
"My lord, the path to Olbia is guarded by many small companies of Getic cavalry. We barely escaped from one of them. Inside Olbia itself is an army of at least 30 000."
"Ride to the King. Tell him we will remain ahead to deal with the Getic patrols and we will try to lure them out of Olbia."
A fresh messenger was dispatched towards the main army. Sitalces walked into his tent. He pulled out a jar of wine and the rest of the night passed very quickly..

[EB rocks]

this has inspired me so much that i will attempt to conquer the world as the {ptolemoi}.

[seleucid empire]

i find ptolemoi campaigns very hard on H or VH campaigns. They are much harder than the Seleucids for me. Theres this large rebel stack that attacks the town west of Alexandria which you have to deal with. After that the seleucid empire has already taken tarsus and is besieging side and on their way to becoming grey death. But good luck EBrocks! I hope you fare a lot better than me at Ptolemies

[seleucid empire]

Chapter 5: Friend of Rome
Summer 217 BC

The Roman envoy approached slowly up the great hall of Olbia. He was dressed in his diplomatic toga, a plain and white piece of clothing that nonetheless held an air of majesty. Seleucus had been educated in Rome in his early years and was constantly impressed at how dignified the Romans always looked.
"We welcome you my friends to Olbia."
"We are honored to be here friend of Rome. Although I must say the accommodations your providing in this shithole are nothing compared to what we offered you when you were in Rome. Wheres your sense of hospitality my friend?"

Seleucus was shocked. No envoy should speak like this to a King. He was about to rebut but then he saw the envoy had a cheeky smile and a twinkle in his eyes that were all too familiar to the King.
"Decimus?"
"Finally, I thought you'd never recognize me."

The King recalled those early days of his stay at Rome. He had befriended Decimus and the two of them were always up to mischief and playing pranks. They had caused untold anguish for the noble families of Rome before the senators threatened to send him back to Syria if they did not stop their behavior

"It is good to see you after so many years."
"Yes it is my friend."
"So what bring you to this Shithole?"
"I have been dispatched by the senate. To bring you news. We have reconquered Rome and we have you to thank for that. The senate has offered you something that has never been offered to an outsider of Rome before. We are offering you a full triumph through the streets of Rome. However they have agreed to hold it until you have finished your conquest of the Getai. The memory of Greek (Epirote) troops marching through the streets of Rome is too fresh a memory. If we give you a triumph now, the mob will hardly be pleased or grateful to see you."
"I agree it is a wise choice, and I am honored"
"There is one more thing. We have not consolidated our holdings, The Epirotes have lost Taras but still control one last city, Capua. We cannot reconquer this city while the Carthaginians threaten us from their holdings in Sicily. If you can spare the men to mount an invasion of Sicily we will be eternally grateful."

The King thought for a moment.

"Of course Decimus, we will come to your aid, I will send one of my most able generals to Sicily. After all the greeks of Sicily need to be liberated from the punic barbarians. Come with me Decimus, it has been a long time, we have much to talk about"

Hours later the Great hall of Olbia was filled with the sounds of a feast and the two friends sat next to each other reminiscing about older days..

[seleucid empire]

Chapter 6: Dissension
Summer 216 BC

"Born in iniquity and conceived in sin, the spirit of nationalism has never ceased to bend human institutions to the service of dissension and distress."

The Great city of Tyre was the perfect meeting place for Megasthenes and his liaison from the Carthaginian republic. The Great population of Phoenicians in the city meant that a Carthaginian outsider would not be noticed. Megasthenes slowly made his way to a house on the outskirts of the city. He made a series of knocks and taps on the door that identified himself and the door was opened for him by a servant. Inside a man sat waiting for him.

"You're late," the man said in Greek with a broken accent
"Don't give me that, you know as well as I do that I had to take precautions." replied Megasthenes
"Very well, lets get down to business. What is it exactly that you want from us?"
"An army."
"Why should we give you an army? We have few men to spare."
"Don't lie to me! I know for a fact that you have 300 000 men in Africa alone for no particular purpose other than to garrison some Numidian hovels."
"What they are doing in Africa is no concern of yours. What i want to know is what we gain from this."
"How about important information and breathing space."
"Breathing space? The last I heard our empire was on the offensive."
"By that you mean you've been attacking a little town called Cyrene at the edge of our empire? How many men have you lost doing that I wonder? At least 200 000 over the years I would say. And you still haven't taken it"

The Carthaginian scowled. Megasthenes continued

"The information I offer you is quite important and I will also offer you that shabby little town of Cyrene if our venture is successful. What I require is Carthaginian mercenaries and Gold"
"Continue.. I am listening."
"The King has sent one of his brightest young generals to Sicily with an army. This army is 35 000 strong and is composed of the strongest troops of the empire. Deadly Cretans, Unstoppable Galatians and the best mercenary Greeks that Ionia has to offer."
"It will be beaten. Our defenses are more than enough to.."
"Why do you keep trying lie to me? We have spies all over Sicily. You do not have more than 10 000 troops on the entire Island. You will be crushed. Here's what I propose. You bring a fraction of those hordes you have in Africa to Syria and give me gold so I can supplement the army with mercenaries. I will take Antioch. It is the heart of the empire and all the lords will fall in line after I take it. The King is in Dacia. He will not return in time to save the city and the empire will be under my control by the time he returns. His forces will be battered while I will have gathered a huge force. After I crush him. I will order the forces to withdraw from Sicily and I will give you Cyrene as your easternmost border."
"Hmm Just one thing. As you pointed out, we can't even get our troops past Cyrene. How do you propose we send them to Syria?"
"I am the lord commander of the fleet. I will send them to Arabia on the pretext of fighting Arabian pirates. They will leave in 3 months. You will find no resistance."
"Very well. I will speak to the Senate. If they agree we will land 40 000 men at Tyre where you will meet us. The rest is up to you."
"Thank you. When I am King, we will work closely together. And the rest of the world will fall beneath our mighty Kingdoms.."

[seleucid empire]

Chapter 7: The Calm before the Storm
Winter 216 BC

Gorgias Syriakos, son of Sarpedon and regent of the empire sat in the room with two others talking in hushed voices. One of his associates was an old but fit man who had a horrific scar on his left cheek. He was clearly a man who had seen the worst of war. And indeed he had, for he was, Acheas the lord commander of the Kings Silvershields. An exalted position, and not one gained through cowardice. The other man was younger but he held a far more prestigious and powerful title. He was Ophelandros Isaurikes, Satrap of Bactra and ward of the east.

"Why isn't the Lord chancellor present in this meeting?" asked the Lord Commander
"Because I don't trust him," replied Gorgias,"Now I'm sure you've heard by now that Kallinikos and Megasthenes have both left Antioch. Right now their location is unknown to us but we can assume they are secretly gathering an army."
"No doubt to come here."
"Yes. Lord Commander, how many troops do we have guarding the city?"
"We have 7 500 city guard, 1 000 royal guard and 1 000 silver shields."
"We have nine and a half thousand men? What about the sister cities of the tetrapolis? Seleucia Pieria, Apamea and Laodicea?"
"Seleucia Pieria has 3 000 city guard. Laodicea 2 000 and Apamea 1 500"
"We should levy more men for the defense of Apamea. Our empires treasures are kept in that city." said Ophelandros
"Apamea was built as a fortress. It needs fewer men to defend it. What I'm really worried about is Seleucia Pieria. It is as important as Antioch itself." replied Gorgias

"No, if anyone decides to take the throne for himself, they will go straight for the heart of the empire. They will come for Antioch. Not Seleucia Pieria, Laodicea or Apamea. If they take Antioch, the all of the other lords will fall in line. Also, remember that any person who is daring enough to attack Antioch will bring a large and well equipped army. Not just some rabble of levies. Our city guards are no match for professional troops. The Silver shields and royal guard could probably hold the citadel indefinitely but that would mean leaving the rest of the population at the mercy of the enemy. Even if we do lift the siege the people will have turned against us and king we serve,"said Acheas.

Gorgias thought for a moment.

"Ophelandros, I want you to gather as many men as you are able to in the east and bring them to Antioch at the first sign of trouble."
"I'm afraid I can't do much. General Apolloniketes has set out with the eastern army to hunt down the Saka. We have been unable to locate him. I have 10 000 men in Bactra but they are needed in the city. It will also take more than a year to march an army to Antioch from the east. If afraid that if someone attacks, it will be up to you to stop them. Although...I have heard rumors of one or two other people who have an army..."

[seleucid empire]

Chapter 8: War on the Horizon
Summer 215 BC

"War is on the horizon"

"My Lord a fleet of battleships has been spotted on the horizon! They are heading towards Seleucia Pieria"
"Shit!" exclaimed Gorgias as he stumbled out of bed. He ordered his servants to bring him his armor. By the time he had finished putting on his armor, the servants had brought horses and his companions were assembled. They rode out of Antioch and soon passed under the gates of Seleucia Pieria, the Great port of Syria. Acheas was already organizing the defenses. Groups of Syrian archers rushed to the walls. Squadrons of city guards assembled underneath them. A few battalions of newly trained phalangites formed up in the streets as a last defense.

"Whose ships are those?"
"There are no flags," replied Acheas.

They waited for the ships to approach. As they neared the mouth of the harbor, one ship sailed ahead of the fleet. A single messenger disembarked. He approached the walls without fear.

"Who are you? Turn your fleet around or else it will be seen as a declaration of war against the Arche Seleukeia."
"I represent Kallinikos Syriakos, the rightful King of the Arche!"

So Kallinikos has made his move, thought Gorgias
"We do not recognize Kallinikos as our King. Tell your master than if he stops this madness now, the King may yet have mercy on his father. Now leave!"

The messenger returned to his ship and the ship left the harbor. An hour later the fleet began to approach. Troops poured onto the harbor and siege machines were transported from the boats. Gorgias tried to assess the strength of the opposing army
"Around 6 500 men." whispered Acheas next to him. Gorgias did not doubt the old commander.

The Syrian archers began to wreck havoc on the army below below them. Everywhere there were cries of dying men. The sounds of bowstrings drawn. The sounds of war...
The ladders reached the walls and the Syrian Archers fell back. The City guard braced themselves. When the first men reached the walls. Chaos erupted. Men fell off the walls in the dozens, pushed off by their adversaries. Eventually the city guard fell back and Kalliniko's troops slowly overran the wall. At this point the Syrian archers began to fire at the wall from the ground and hundreds of men fell. The defenders fell behind the wall of pikes and waited. Kalliniko's men charged down the street only to meet their deaths on the pikes. It was a furious struggle in the streets. Two throngs of men pushing each other trying to get the upper hand. By noon, the royal forces were gaining the upper hand and the invaders were being pushed out of the city. Slowly they began to panic and the army began to rout. They raced back to their ships only to find them burning. The garrison of the city ran out and chased them into the ocean. By the afternoon, few were left alive and hiding. The men cheered for Acheas and Gorgias and returned to nurse their injuries.


****

Acheas and Gorgias stood on the walls of Antioch, overlooking the view of the surrounding country.
"We'll we did it"
"Yes Gorgias but we did not find Kallinikos among the bodies."
"It matters very little. We've always known kallinikos was an incompetent fool. This just proves it to the world. I doubt anyone would be willing to follow him now. We can hunt him down at leisure"
"Yes but you realize its not over. Kallinikos was a fool but Megasthenes is not. He is a frighteningly good commander. Almost as competent as your great father Sarpedon. He will come, That I am sure of."

Before Gorgias could respond, a horn sounded in the distance. Several more followed afterwards. Both men turned to look south. On the horizon was a huge mass of men marching toward Antioch. It covered the Syrian plains as far as the eye could see. The army of Megasthenes had arrived...

[seleucid empire]

Ive recently been embroiled in a bit of a mental, spiritual and philosophical crisis with myself and my writing hasn't been as focused as I had hoped. I migiht take a break from writing this AAR for now, and I might occasionally post a few chapters if im feeling up to it. I promise I will return and see this AAR through to its very end. I hope you guys will understand (if anyone is still reading this).

[EB rocks]

Im still reading seleucid and this aar is great !

[seleucid empire]

Chapter 9: The Siege of Antioch
Summer 215 BC

“Draw thee waters for the siege, fortify thy strong holds: go into clay, and tread the mortar, make strong the bricks.”

Megasthenes watched as his army approached the walls of Antioch. Seventy thousand men marched under his banners. An army of this size had not been seen since the battle of Ipsos. The Carthaginians had kept their word and more. They had sent 50 000 men to Tyre which reinforced the 10 000 he had already gathered. With Carthaginian gold, 10 000 more mercenaries were hired from Arabia and Jerusalem. Nothing could save Antioch now.

His army consisted of a core of 8 000 Greek phalaghites and 2 000 cavalry as well as 10 000 Carthaginian pikemen, trained in phalanx warfare. Also present was a company of 5 000 men trained by Carthage to fight in Roman fashion and 5 000 heavy Libyan cavalry. The number of Spanish and Gallic mercenaries numbered 5 000 each. This already formidable force was supplemented by 20 000 Numidian skirmishers and archers. Megasthenes was not quite happy that the Carthaginians had sent these men but his disappointment was somewhat diminished when he found 200 elephants accompanying the army. He kept his 10 000 Jewish and Arabian Mercenaries in reserve, in case the Carthaginian troops had any notion of betraying him and taking the city for themselves.

Megasthenes ordered his men to to halt and create siege lines. He would not make his tired men attack today..


****


Gorgias and Acheas gazed at the enormous army encamped beneath their walls. They spotted Numidians hurrying to their posts and Gauls practicing their swordplay. It seemed to Gorgias, that the world's armies had conveyed at Antioch.

"How many?" asked Gorgias
"Its hard to say," replied Acheas,"I have never seen such a large army. I an estimate around 60 000 to 100 000 men."
"Where on earth did he find such a force?"
"Judging by the number of Gauls, Africans and Spaniards, it would seem Megasthenes has made a deal with Carthage."
"That bastard, he would ally himself with Carthage?"
"Men have done worse things for power."
"We cannot hope to hold out against such a force."
"Have faith my friend. We have just equipped 5 000 men to supplement our defenses. That brings our garrison up to fourteen thousand. We still have a chance to repel this attack."
"Against a lesser general, maybe. But this is Megasthenes we are talking about. A dangerous general with a truly overwhelming force. We have no hope of stopping him," cried Gorgias, his heart filled with despair
"There is always hope.."


****


As dawn broke, the camp came to life. Each man scurried off to find his battalion. The siege engines had been assembled the night before and Numidians began to push them to the front lines. After all preparations had been made, the army stood still, awaiting their general. Megasthenes rode to the top of a small hill and every man turned his head to him. For a moment, there was silence. Then, he began to speak.


****


Five thousand men watched the army of Megasthenes from the wall. The rest of the defenders stood beneath it, waiting. They were the lucky ones. Unlike the men on the walls, they did not see exactly how large the army they faced was. Acheas strolled along the walls, making sure everything was in order. He looked at the faces of his men. They weren't even trying to hide their fear. He knew he had to do something quickly or the battle was already lost.

"Men of Antioch! Today we face the hordes of the pretender Megasthenes. I know many of you are fearful of their numbers and shining armor. Know this! They have come to kill you. Even if you lay down arms and flee or surrender, they will show you no mercy. None to you, and none to your families! Your wives and daughters will be ravaged. Your sons will be tortured and beheaded! So today I am not asking you to fight for our King's throne. I am asking you to fight for your homes and families. Fight until the last droop of blood has leaked out of your body, then they will fear us! They will realize that they are facing the likes of Leonidas and his 300 Spartans. This is our Thermopylae. We are his Legacy! So lets stand our ground and kill any bastard who climbs over this wall!"

His men cheered and began to taunt the enemy, who had begun to push their siege engines up to the wall. Archers drew their bows and fired. The first volley caused hundreds of men to fall down, with arrows in their bodies. The siege towers slowed allowing the archers on the walls to devastate the enemy with more volleys


****


Megasthenes watched from afar as his numidians began to fall in the hundreds. That caused him little concern. As long as the Gauls and Iberian infantry inside the siege towers reached the walls, he would not fret too much. He had expected to lose men in the initial push which was why he made his numidians push the towers. They were expendable. Suddenly he spotted two of his towers which were aflame. He cursed and ordered his archers to return fire. One of the siege towers reached the wall and his Gauls poured out. His heavily armed Gauls began to cut their way through the troops on the wall until suddenly they stopped. They were being pushed back by something. Megathenes looked more closely and saw that the troops responsible were armed with fine swords, armor and shields, bearing the royal crest. Damn! they had Hypaspistai.

More of his towers caught on fire and he saw some of his Spaniards who had reached the wall were having trouble with another group of Hypaspistai. His men were being butchered. He turned to one of his captains

"Send in the Gate Breaker!"


****


Acheas cut down another Iberian who had underestimated the old man and turned to look at the plains. A giant ram was being pushed towards the wall. He turned to the troops waiting beneath the wall and shouted at them to form up and brace themselves. The ram reached the gate and began to pound it. Soon the head of the ram made a hole. The next swing broke the gate completely. Immediately, hundreds of Numidians poured in. They charged at the line of defenders, swinging their axes and throwing their javelins. Then defenders lowered their spears and counter charged. A group of defenders on the wall had repelled the enemy and they grabbed their bows, firing into the backs of the Numidians, who screamed as they fell.

The defenders on the ground pushed the Numidians to the gates. Soon, they routed. Acheas signaled to his silver shields to array themselves in front of the breach and allow the rest of the defenders to rest. The silvershields quickly formed up as Megasthenes' Libyan cavalry approached. They charged into the silvershields, impaling themselves on the spear tips. The silvershields held firm and the enemy horsemen began to panic.


****


Megasthenes cursed as he saw his Libyan cavalry fleeing from the gate. His eyes turned to the walls just in time to see the defenders cut down the last of his Gallic and Iberian mercenaries. The sun had nearly disappeared behind the hills and he motioned to his second in command.
"Tell the men to withdraw to camp. We will attack again tomorrow."
"But sire, they are tired now, we can finish the job."

"They have destroyed most of our siege towers. If we rush all of our men through the gate alone, they will be forced into a choke point. And it is nearly night time. Do not worry captain. We may have lost a lot of men today but so have they. Tomorrow, I will send my best, and they will be crushed..."


****


"We'll done Acheas," said Gorgias, "You have held them off against all odds."
"Today he only sent his expendable troops, and look how much damage they did to us."
"But you have given our men hope."
"Yes, we took down 15 000 of their men today and lost 3 000 of our own. Tomorrow he will attack us with the cream of his army, and when he does...only the gods can help us...."

[EB rocks]

Great battle Seleucid.

[seleucid empire]

Chapter 10: The Darkest Hour
Summer 215 BC

"The night is darkest before the dawn"

Acheas waited nervously on the walls. It was afternoon already. Why hadn't Megasthenes attacked? Acheas knew that the deadly accuracy of his Syrian archers would be nullified in the dark, but would Megasthenes really risk his army in a night assault? Attacking the city at night would give the garrison an advantage over the larger army. There would be mass confusion and they would be cut down by the defenders, who were familiar to the streets and alleyways. Finally, at dusk, there was movement in the enemy camp. Acheas observed them curiously, as they formed up into lines. From the back of the camp, they began to drag several hundred newly made ladders to the front lines. They were very long ladders and Acheas realized that they could reach up to the top of the high walls of Antioch. So that's what they've been doing all day, thought Acheas.

Megasthenes' Numidians began marching towards the walls. Behind them, Carthaginian swordsmen in heavy armor manned the ladders. Acheas looked more closely at the swordsmen. He recoiled in surprise. They were armed similarly to Roman infantry with a large shield and gladius swords. At the same time, 10 000 Carthaginian pikemen with a ram approached the gates, which had been broken and hastily boarded up the day before. As the Numidians came within arrow range, Acheas ordered his Syrians to rain hell upon them.

Acheas lopped off the head of the first man over the ladder. He kicked the ladder off the wall and watched as the twenty men climbing it fell to their deaths. His Syrian archers dropped their bows and pulled our their long swords and a furious struggle began on the wall. The Syrian archers were armed with the best equipment that gold could buy. Most had chain mail and a large Galatian long sword as a secondary weapon. However they were trained as archers and soon the Carthaginian legionaries began to gain the upper hand. Acheas' hypaspistai were holding against the "legionaries" but other parts of the wall were being overrun.


****


Gorgias waited with his men under the gate. He had placed his city guard in the front and the silvershields behind as a reserve. Gorgias turned to his men.
"Men of Antioch, remember, whatever they send at us, we must hold here or they will spread to the rest of the city."
The Gates burst open to reveal the shape of several large beasts charging at them...


****


Acheas turned to the source of the commotion. He looked down and saw 200 Elephants charging through the gates, right into the city guard. The elephants stampeded over his men and their morale broke completely. They ran and the elephants followed, only to be stopped by the Silver shields, whose incredible discipline held the line. They soon panicked and ran amok but the damage gad been done. The defenders had been disorganized. The Carthaginian pikemen followed the elephants into the city and engaged the silvershields, trying to break them with sheer numbers before the rest of the garrison could rally around them.

Acheas knew he had to think of something fast. He caught a glimpse of something colorful in the dark and scanned the battlefield. He finally spotted Megasthenes in his plumed helmet, approaching the wall with 100 of his best men. He motioned to a group of his hypaspistai to follow him. He intended cut off the head of the serpent... As Megasthenes' personal guard climbed over the top of the wall, Acheas and the hypaspisati charged at them, cutting down many. Acheas made his way to Megasthenes while his Hypaspistai kept the rest of the men busy. He thrust his sword at Megathenes who parried just in time with his own sword.
"Die Traitor!" hissed Acheas
"It is you who is a traitor, for I am the rightful King!" replied Megasthenes before charging at Acheas.

The two men were locked in combat for what seemed like hours. Then, without warning, a sharp object struck Acheas helmet, disorientating him. He pulled his helmet off and realized a Numidian slinger had hit him with a lead shot. He was too dazed to parry Megasthenes' sword...


****


Megasthenes finished the man off and beheaded him. Then he realized that the man he had killed was Acheas, the lord commander of the King's Silver Shields. He looked around and saw that his men were winning the fight on the walls and on the ground, more and more of his army was pouring into the city. The Silvershields could not hold forever. Soon it would all be over. Nothing could prevent his victory now.

But before these thoughts had passed through his mind, a loud, clear note that was blown from a horn, rang through the air. Next came a large rumble, like the sound of thousands of hooves. Megasthenes realized that it was indeed the sound of hooves. He turned east to the source of the sound. As the sun came up over the hills, it illuminated a lone horsemen with dazzling armor. A second man appeared next to him and soon, the outlines of thousands of horsemen appeared on the edge of the hill..


****


Pherekles Ioudaikes took in the sight below him. A massive army, which was trying to force itself into the city. A third of it was already inside. He blew his horn and then shouted at the top of his lungs,"Beware, traitors to the Empire and take heart those who are still loyal to the King! For Babylon has come!!"

(If you do not know who Pherekles is or how he has gotten an army, read ACT II Chapter 11: The Houses of Seleucia Part 2 - The Ioudaikes)


****


Megasthenes watched in horror as tens of thousands of horsemen appeared over the hill. They charged straight into his disorganized Arabians, Jews and Numidians. The effect was overwhelming. The first few rows simply vanished underneath a sea of horsemen. The rest turned to run and ran straight into their comrades. This caused a chain reaction until the entire army was running away from the Babylonians. Even the Greeks.

"No you cowards! Stand and fight!" screamed Megasthenes
"My Lord we must get you to safety!" one of his companions shouted and he began to drag Megasthenes away from the fighting...


****

Gorgias found the body of his friend Acheas, surrounded by the corpses of his Hypaspistai. He had searched the rubble for hours until he found the head. It was stitched onto the body so it would be presentable for the grand funeral they were holding for him. He looked down into his friend's face. He looked so peaceful, thought Acheas.
"You did it. You saved us all and paid for it with your life. But I envy you my friend, for only the dead have seen the end of war..."

[seleucid empire]

Chapter 11: Shield of the Getae
Summer 214 BC
https://img407.imageshack.us/img407/1275/greatbattleofdacia.png

"Beware the wrath of a patient adversary."

A gentle valley separated the two armies from one another. In the center of the valley lay a shallow creek and a clump of trees. It was here that Sitalces and his scouts hid, observing the enemy army. At nightfall they slowly crept out of the grove and made their way back towards the camp of Seleucus II. They hailed the sentry, who opened the gates for the scouts. Sitalces made his way to a tent in the center of the great camp. King Seleucus looked up as the Thracian entered.

"How many Sitalces?"
"The enemy numbers 40-50 000 men my King. It is a huge army."
"I see. What of the quality of their troops? Are they mostly levies like the ones we have faced so far?"
"No my king. They have gathered all of their best. Vicious falxmen, the elite of their skirmishers and the heaviest cavalry they can field. My King, would it not be best to withdraw and set an ambush for them as they chase after us? My Thracians and I can devastate the army in the confusion."
"No. The Dacians still have many cities and men. These barbarians are nothing if not proud. Even if we defeat their best in an ambush, they will say the Greeks are cowards and cannot face them in an open battle. More men will flock to the Getae and we will find our war prolonged. However, if we defeat these men right now, in an open battle, they will begin to fear us..."

[seleucid empire]

Chapter 12: The city of Archias
Summer 212 BC
https://img256.imageshack.us/img256/3184/siegeofsyracuse.png

Mendis Temnou Aiolikou watched as his army surrounded the city. He very proud of the force he had gathered. It was more impressive than the royal army itself. They had been on ships for months before finally reaching their target: Syracuse, the greatest Greek polis the west.

He remembered that time, years ago when he had been given the official summons to the palace of Antioch. There he had met with Gorgias, the son of the legendary Sarpedon. When Mendis was told that he was to lead a huge army to liberate Sicily, he was shocked. He was only 16 at the time and they would put one of the largest armies in the empire at his command? Of course now he realized that he was the only choice for them. The older generals had questionable loyalty. Megasthenes and Kallinikos rebellions were proof of that. And among the younger men, he was the most able. He brushed these thoughts away as one of his captains approached him.

"My Lord, our contact inside the city tells us it is defended by 2 000 men. What are your orders?"
"We attack tonight..."

[seleucid empire]

Chapter 13: Triumph and Betrayal
Summer 211 BC

“It is easier to forgive an enemy than to forgive a friend.”

Throngs of people lined up in the streets to see the Greek King who had saved Rome. Seleucus' procession made their way slowly through the streets until they reached the Forum. Gold from the Dacian wars was distributed to the people of Rome, who cheered as they passed. In front of the senate steps, the procession stopped. The King slowly ascended the steps until he had reached the top, where the members of the senate stood clapping. Decimus walked forward and began to speak to the crowd gathered below.

"People of Rome! In our darkest, hour, when Rome had fallen to the Barbarians of Epirus, when enemies pressed us from two directions and all hope seemed lost, a light appeared in the night. A man came to our rescue and shattered the hordes of Illyria. And without their allies, the Tarantines fell to our brave legions. This man is standing before us today, as one of our most steadfast allies! For his actions, he had been granted the title savior of Rome and we present him with our highest honor: The Laurel Wreath. I give you King Seleucus II, Lord of Macedonia, King of Syria, Pharaoh of Egypt and Emperor of the East!"

The crowd cheered as the wreath was placed upon the head of Seleucus. The celebrations began and continued on into the night.


****


The next morning, Seleucus and Decimus strolled through the garden of Decimus' villa.

"Decimus, I didn't realize you were a senator until now."
"Yes, my house has always been a noble one, but sadly fortune has not been kind to us. When I became the head of the family, we were nearly broke. I had to borrow gold from other senators and thanks to the influx of Slaves from your war with Dacia, I managed to make huge profits trading those slaves. I was finally rich enough to restore my Senatorial status. I owe it all to you my friend."
"So what now? My general has landed in Sicily and taken half the island already. The Carthaginians no longer threaten you so you are free to retake Capua?"
"Yes, we have already besieged it with 3 legions. Capua will fall within the year."
"I mean what of the future of our peoples? I wish to work more closely with Rome. We still have a common enemy, that of the Carthaginian empire. I would like to propose a joint invasion of Carthage by our armies."
"Yes, I will speak your proposal in the senate meeting today."
"I did not realize there was a senate session today"
"Yes, well they made a secret session. I do not yet know why, but I will find out soon. I will push for your proposal. I must go prepare myself now, I will speak to you tonight my friend."


****


Seleucus was rudely awoken by someone shaking him. He opened his eyes and saw Sitalces and Decimus standing over him.

"What is the meaning of this?" demanded Seleucus
"We must get you out of here, there is no time to explain but you must trust me." replied Decimus
"No Decimus, what is going on? I will not move until you tell me."
"Please my friend, I will tell you on the way but we must go now!"

Seleucus could hear the serious tone of his friends' voice so he got up without arguing. They exited the villa through the back door and made their way towards the gates, taking the alleyways.
'What is happening my friend?" asked Seleucus
"There was a reason why the Senate was being so secretive today. The planned to Assasinate you and put your uncle Megasthenes on the throne."
"What! Megasthenes is here?"
"Yes, he fled here in secret after the siege of Antioch. He offered the Senate all of your conquests in Sicily and Illyria and the senate has always feared the power of your empire. It seems this entire triumph was a way to lure you to Rome where they could kill you. We are nearly at the gates now, I have called your companions and your Thracian guard to meet us there."

As they approached the gate, they saw a group warriors and horses waiting. They slowly made their way to the gate. Decimus signaled for them to stop.

"Somethings wrong, there are no guards at the gates.."

Suddenly, a pilum flew through the air and hit the man next to Seleucus. From every corner, legionaries appeared from the shadows and closed in on the group.

"Get to the Gates and open them, I will hold them off!" ordered Decimus. He pulled his gladius and charged at the Roman legionaries. Sitalces and his Thracians followed to help as the companions headed towards the gates. The Thracians defended themselves fiercely but soon the numbers of the Romans began to overwhelm them. Sitalces dodged a thrust from a roman gladius and rolled out of the way as a shower of javelins hit the ground where he was standing a second before. He reached Decimus who was in the thick of all the fighting.

"Sitalces, get the King to safety now!"

The Thracian turned and saw that the gates had been opened. He made his way to the King, cutting down several Romans. He grabbed onto a fallen companion's horse and rode to Seleucus.

"We must go my King!"
"Wait! where is Decimus?" asked Seleucus

The King turned his head just in time to see a blade entering his friend's chest and protruding from his back.

"Noo!" cried Seleucus. He turned around and rode out of the city with Sitalces and his remaining companions, tears flowing down his face...


****


They had been on the run from Roman forces, trying to escape from Italy for weeks now and had finally reached the border to Illyria. In the distance, he saw his scouts return, grim faced.
"My King, the Romans must have been planning this for a long time. They have already besieged Segestica with an army."

https://img694.imageshack.us/img694/4719/betrayedbyrome.png

Seleucus felt despair rising in him. He thought of Decimus' sacrifice and anger quickly replaced it.
"We will go north and rendezvous with the army in Dacia. Then we will return and show these Roman scum the price of Betrayal. I swear that when this is over, Rome will be nothing more than ashes and dust..."

[seleucid empire]

Chapter 14: Disaster
Summer 206 BC

The contents of the letter had filled the King's heart with anger and sorrow. His young general Mendis, who had always been a frail boy, had died of illness. His army was passed onto a mercenary general from Syracuse who went on to conquer Rhegion. However this general was a fool and he marched to Taras where he was surrounded by 2 Roman armies. The Seleucid forces were crushed and now the defense forces in Sicily were hard pressed. Seleucus would have to put his plans to take Rome on hold. And as he was now nearly 50, it seemed those plans would have to be held indefinitely.

In the last 5 years, Seleucus had finished off the last of the Getai, who had built a very strong network of fortresses in their remaining lands. Seleucus knew that without a very strong successor, his dream of destroying Rome would never come to fruition. He ordered scrolls to be brought into his tent and began to write...

[seleucid empire]

Chapter 15: A Bloody Retribution
Summer 201 BC
https://img62.imageshack.us/img62/3145/appoloniketesattackigns.png

“Vengeance has no foresight”

Apolloniketes had been waiting for this day for over 20 years. He had chased the remaining Saka from one of their conquered lands to the next, leaving no survivors in his wake. Now they had no where left to run. The last remaining Saka tribe hid in the city of Gava-Mazsakata with 8 000 horsemen and all that remained of their peoples. By nightfall, they would all be dead.

"My Lord! A small group of Sakae horseman are approaching us from the city."

The horsemen stopped halfway between the city and the Seleucid army. There they waited. Apolloniketes rode out with his companions to meet them. As he approached he saw a man in the finest Saka armor he had ever laid eyes on. This must be someone important, thought Apolloniketes.

"Greetings General, Allow me to introduce myself. I am Vanaspara, the High King of the Saka" said the man. Apolloniketes almost laughed. This man had 8 000 warriors and the remnants of a once strong tribe and he called himself High King.
"What do you want?"
"I have come to negotiate the safety of my people. Give us a month to leave your lands forever and we will never trouble you or your empire again."
"No, none of you will leave this place alive."
"Your empire has been at war for many years with many different nations yet you have always spared those nations when you defeated them. But it seems you wish to destroy us completely. Why do you hate our peoples so much?"
"Your Horde once swept through our lands, causing much woe and destruction. You have cost me a life of peace and happiness and you have cost me a brother! For this, Your peoples will all die!"

With this, Apolloniketes ordered his companions to turn around and ride back to the army, leaving a shocked and dismayed Vanaspara sitting on his horse. Apolloniketes reached his army and immediately gave the signal to attack...


****

https://img593.imageshack.us/img593/5214/sakadestroyed.png

Apolloniketes wiped the blood of his sword. He looked around and saw the destruction his men were wreaking on the city and its inhabitants. The Saka men had all died in the battle and the children had their throats cut in front of their mothers, who were then raped, killed and mutilated. By nightfall only a few of the Saka women were alive. They were still in the process of being raped. Apolloniketes did not feel pity for them. He had treated them much the same way in which the Saka had treated their defeated enemies. And finally, after 20 years, he had avenged the death of his brother...

[EB rocks]

seleucid how do you have the pateince to play for this long?

[seleucid empire]

well it is my favourite faction. and because AS is so large it has a lot to offer you in your campaign.

oh a recieved your message, For phalanx warfare I usually limit my phalanxes to 6 units. That way I have a stable center but flexible wings

[seleucid empire]

Chapter 16: Bloody Shores
Summer 199 BC
https://img140.imageshack.us/img140/2286/landingatitaly.png

Seleucus considered his options and found only two: To leave the shores of Italy or stay and face the Roman Hydra. At 56 he knew that if he left, he would never return to Italy, but if he stayed he would have to face countless Roman armies. His army had landed two weeks ago and immediately found themselves facing 7 Roman Legions. Seleucus had quickly destroyed them. However, before they were even ready to leave the beach, another army had arrived. After destroying the second army, he found he had only lost a total of 1 000 men in both battles, but his scouting parties returned with news that several more Roman armies were on their way. Now he knew exactly how Pyrrhos of Epirus had felt during his war with Rome. He turned to Sitalces.

"What do you think?" asked Seleucus
"Sire it is your decision. You have defeated two of their armies with less than 1 000 losses. If you believe we can win this war, then I am with you"
"Yes, but we haven't even left the shores and have already faced 60 000 men. Reports from our scouts tell us there are 60 000 more on the way."

Before Sitalces could reply, a messenger rushed into the tent.
"My King, it is urgent news from Pella. The Sarmatian Empire..They've attacked Olbia and their hordes are gathering for a full scale invasion of Dacia."

The King's decision had been made for him..

[seleucid empire]

Chapter 17: The Tides of War
Summer 193 BC
https://img577.imageshack.us/img577/4143/sleucus2atdeath.png

"Once the return tide starts, it will be impossible to stem it, and it will prove our undoing."

As Sitalces walked towards the King's tent, he reflected on the last six years of his life: A never-ending series of forced marches and bloody battles. For the last 6 years, they had been pushing back the Sarmatian hordes. Sitalces remembered the time when they had arrived back in Pella, exhausted and demoralized from their battles in Italy. It was then that King Seleucus had revealed his plans to him. The army was to be disbanded and instead a small force of elites and Mercenaries would be used to stop the horde. Sitalces had been incredulous so Seleucus explained further. The reason for the disbanding of the army was so that the Macedonians could return to their estates and help stabilize the economy of the empire, which had not kept up with the pace of the expansion of the empire. Once the economy grew, they would recall the troops and still have the gold to raise more armies.

The plan had been a great success and the empire's income tripled in 2 years. However, this meant that for two years Seleucus was forced to defend the Dacian frontier with only 10 000 men. In those two years, Seleucus had marched his small force many thousands of miles to stop the Sarmatian incursions. The first large Sarmatian incursion was ambushed near the border of Dacia. Sitalces and his Thracians hid in the forests and attacked from the rear when the horde had passed. At the same time, Seleucus lead his companions and Galatian Mercenaries in a frontal assault and the chaos caused the horde to dissipate. Seleucus had then tempted local Dacians to hunt down the remaining Sarmatians with a reward of one gold piece per for every head of a Sarmatian warrior they presented.

Afterwards, reinforcements from Pella had arrived and Seleucus hired local Dacian and Pontic horse-archers to supplement the army. The crown prince had also raised an army and conquered the Greek cities of the Crimean peninsula. Now they were on the offensive.

Sitalces realized he had reached the tent of the King. The guards acknowledged him and let him through. Seleucus was writing something and didn't notice him.

"You called for me, my King?" asked Sitalces. The King looked up and smiled
"Ahh yes, Sitalces. I wish to ask a favor of you."
"Anything you wish my King."
"I realize that I do not have much time left in this world. When I am gone, will you promise me one thing? Look after my son Antiochus Nikator. He is but a young boy and I fear without guidance he may struggle to rule this empire I leave him. As you know, my first son died of illness when he was very young and my second son died in the siege of Antioch. I was lucky enough to be blessed with a third son in my advanced age. If anything should happen to him, I dare not imagine what would happen to the empire.."

https://img703.imageshack.us/img703/3618/nikator.png

"Of course my King, I will protect him with my life and serve him to the best of my abilities."
"Thank you old friend.."

[seleucid empire]

Chapter 18: Winter's Peak
Winter 193 BC
https://img268.imageshack.us/img268/9659/seleucusiidies.png

“Brace yourselves, winter is coming.”

The freezing winds of the winter steppes bit into the skin of every man like icy daggers. Snow, hail and sleet assaulted the men day and night, the cold penetrating all clothing, sparing no-one. The inside of the tent was as cold as the blizzard outside. On the bed in the center, lay the frail form of King Seleucus II. Another cough racked his body as his followers watched on helplessly. The King suddenly regained consciousness. He stared around the tent, his eyes finally resting on his son Antiochus.

"Leave me..with my son." the King managed to say, his voice feeble. The others turned to leave
"Not you Sitalces, you stay as well."

Antiochus and Sitalces kneeled beside the King's bed.

"Father, I came as soon as I could. You must fight your illness father. Fight to live another day."
"What you must learn my son, is that sometimes it is unwise and indeed useless to resist. My time is up. I place the future in your hands and I know you will make me proud."

Seleucus took the crown off his head and placed it into his son's hand. Antiochus looked at Sitalces, silently pleading him to say something. Sitalces remained silent.

"My son, before we part I will give you this one piece of wisdom. Ruling is much like the seasons. There will be summers, when the Kingdom is thriving and peaceful. Treasure these moments, for they are few and long in-between. For all of my reign, I have known only winter, with few glimpses of the sun..."


****

Antiochus and Sitalces left the tent. The men crowded around, waiting, their expressions grim. Sitalces turned to face Antiochus and kneeled down
"The King is dead... Long live Antiochus III"

https://img836.imageshack.us/img836/1424/antiochus3atcoronation.png


End of Act III

[seleucid empire]

are people still reading this?...

[seleucid empire]

Intermission

In the Winter of 193 BC Seleucus II died while campaigning in Scythia and the young boy Antiochus III took the throne. From very early on his prowess and genius in military tactics was apparent and at age 22 he was already considered the greatest general in the empire. His victories over the Sarmatians and his conquests meant that the entire black sea was now under Seleucid control. The black sea provided much grain and control of the pontic sea meant much trade. The empire became one of the richest in the world.

During the reign of Seleucus II and latter years of Antiochus II Theos, the noble houses of Seleucia were gaining more and more power and began to raise their own forces which slowly turned into armies. The Syriakes house sent Mousaios Syriakes to the north with their formidable army in order to continue their war with Sarmatia.

https://img267.imageshack.us/img267/5222/mousaios.png


In the battle of Oblia, the Sarmatian horde of 50 000 was destroyed by the combined army of Antiochus III and Mousaisos. The Sarmatians fled north, with general Mousaios following. Another army sent under Lysimachus, the son of stategos Sitalces was sent as a supporting force which was composed of mostly Thracian warriors and cavalry as well as the remnants of Seleucus II's mercenary army.

King Antiochus III at age 22 returned to Pella to oversee the recruitment of a new army, with the intention of fulfilling his father's dream of destroying Rome. The young King would one day be called Antiochus III Megas

https://img705.imageshack.us/img705/403/nikatorsyriakos.png

[seleucid empire]

oops i double posted

[Rifal]

Can´t wait untill Antiochus III and his godlike army get their hands on some Roman Scum! Kill'em All!

[Alexandros Megas]

Very nice seleucid! I always look at the forum to read your updates for this story. I am waiting for the time when your empire conquests the western mediterranean and defeat Carthage and the romans! (I always attack first Carthage and then Rome). Your story is really great!

[EB rocks]

best aar on the org

[seleucid empire]

next update will probably take longer. i have to plan my next act carefully

[seleucid empire]

Act IV: A Tale of Two Empires

Prologue: The Son of Zeus
Delphi 189 BC
http://dl6.glitter-graphics.net/pub/394/394746dj0pkkijea.gif

"Heaven cannot brook two suns, nor earth two masters" - Alexander the Great

Antiochus was led by an old priest into the Adyton, the inner sanctuary of the Temple of Apollo. Vapor rising from the chasms in the ground filled the room, making Antiochus dizzy. In the center of the sanctuary, surrounded by a cloud of fumes, a woman in a red shroud sat on a high, three-legged seat made of beautifully carved wood. She waved her hands and the cloud seemed to dissipate. Antiochus gasped. Her eyes were emerald green and her hair was a dark red. She must be half-Thracian, thought Antiochus. The woman began to speak

"Surely you have not come all the way here to inquire about my heritage, Antiochus, King of the Greeks?" asked the Pythia, her powerful voice echoing throughout the room. Antiochus recoiled in shock but he quickly composed himself.

"No, I have come to ask an important question."
"You may ask that question now."
"My predecessors were all great kings and generals, but now I face an enemy stronger than any the empire has ever faced before. Will I have the strength to accomplish what the man who ruled before me could not?"

"Oh but Antiochus, you are no ordinary man..."

[seleucid empire]

Im glad you guys like it but the credit isnt all mine. I get a lot of inspiration from other places

In fact there is quite a long list:
-song of ice and fire + its tv show
-house of chains
-Lysimachos' AAR The Legacy of Megas Alexandros which is probably the best Seleucid AAR on the forum. its a shame that it was played on v 1.1 and he didn't finish it.
...
and many more

[seleucid empire]

Chapter 1: The Sons of Aeneas
Summer 189 BC

"Wars at an end, harsh centuries then will soften,
Ancient Fides and Vesta, Quirinus
With Brother Remus, will be lawgivers,
And grim with iron frames, the Gates of War
Will then be shut: inside, unholy Furor,
Squatting on cruel weapons, hands enchained
Behind him by a hundred links of bronze,
Will grind his teeth and howl with bloodied mouth."

Antiochus watched the sun as it set. Very soon he would follow it's path, into the west...always into the west...

Since the days of the great brothers, the west had been a source of strife for the empire. The Greeks believed that they had found a strong ally in the Romans but their treachery was soon revealed. Now it was time for the young King to finish their affairs in the cursed west forever..

Sensing a presence behind him, he turned around and saw Amadocus, grandson of the retired strategos Sitalces standing there. The young Thracian was wearing a fine suit of armor, with golden inlays, befitting of a captain of the Hypaspistai.

"Is there any word from Hyrkanos or Miltidades?" asked Antiochus. He was worried for his two friends. He had sent them ahead of the main army with a huge mercenary force to secure a landing spot in Italy and a base of operations

"Yes my King, Miltidades sends word that they have taken Taras from the Romani."
"That is better news than I could have dreamed of."
"He also wishes to inform you that Hyrkanos has found support from many of the cities in Magna Graecia and now besieges Arpi with 30 000 men."

https://img689.imageshack.us/img689/1097/miltidadessyriakes.png

https://img23.imageshack.us/img23/1858/hyrkanosmarakandikos.png

"Damn him! Those were not his orders. If he is defeated..."
"Why would it matter? We have you my King, the greatest Greek army ever assembled and the guidance of your divine father Zeus."

Antiochus brooded silently and realized Amadocus was right. The Oracle of Delphi had confirmed that his father was zeus and that he had the same divine blood in his veins as the Demi-Gods Hercules and Alexandros Megas. His army was a collection of the greatest warriors in the Empire, veterans of countless wars. But most of all, he had faith in his own abilities

https://img266.imageshack.us/img266/8753/antiochusiiiarmy.png


Antiochus was only 23, only a year older than Alexandros Megas when he crossed into Asia.

"I cannot fail, it is my destiny to follow the footsteps of the Greatest conqueror who ever lived," Antiochus said to himself, "for I am Alexander reborn..."

[seleucid empire]

Chapter 2: The Savage North
Summer 189 BC

"The North is too vast, too wild to be held by outsiders" - Cersei Lannister, A Game of Thrones

coming soon

[seleucid empire]

Broken Promises

hey I know i promised to finish this seleucid AAR but i just discovered a wonderful mod pack for EB. Now I can move my armies across the map a lot quicker meaning that now I can write an AAR without the 5 year gaps. Also, because I installed this mod, the save files were corrupted. I will begin another AAR shortly. If you're sick of Seleucid AARs then tell me and i will make an AAR with a different faction

[SoFarSoGood]

Shame this one won't finish.

[seleucid empire]

yeh im sorry about that. but i can make another seleucid one if people want it. My first one died cause of CTD which wasnt much of a loss isnce i was practically finished and also it wasn't very interesting as a historical recount. This one was a better effort in my opinion but it took too long to get my armies across and my updates were like 5 years in between

[SoFarSoGood]

I'd like to see a Getai AAR about reuniting the tribes. I am also doing a Getai campaign at the moment so partly for selfish reasons.

[seleucid empire]

oh sorry, i mean one of the more civilized factions. The Getai have never really appealed to me despite their elite units. Usually they dont even provide a challenge when I am fighting them. They have never been a major threat in any campaign i've played

I want to make an AAR for a more civilized faction so i can create an AAR about events happening in an empire which would be more interesting than a war between the hellens and the barbarians

[Rifal]

I would like to see either Ptolemaioi (Spelling?) or Macedon. Either way you walk in the footsteps of Alexander.

[seleucid empire]

ok.. err not Ptolemies cause then i would have to go against arche. And If i do a Macedonian AAR it wouldn't be alexander style. I would probably start the AAR when I already have a huge empire.

[EB rocks]

Seleucid you shouldn't:whip: have done that now i am giving back Egypt to the Ptolemaic empire and will destroy the SELEUCID EMPIRE.:damnmate:

[seleucid empire]

haha im sorry. I can begin another seleucid empire one but im scared people are sick of Arche AARs. if you want ill start one just for you since you read my AAr the most ;)

[EB rocks]

no problem though i would love a unheard of aar the Norwegians......

[seleucid empire]

that would just be a sweboz aar wouldnt it? cause they are too close so your gonna end up conquering germany like a normal sweboz game

[EB rocks]

okay i see your point how about the kingdom of cyrene?