The Sands Of Africa

[Chirurgeon]

https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/SandsofAfrica1.jpg

Since we know that the Carthaginians were eliminated by the Romans there is no real history to report after the ending of the third Punic War. This gives me a little more freedom to do what I want with this nation. One theme will rule this AAR and that is Commerce. Motivated by trade Carthage became an Empire of Merchant might not military supremacy. Motivations for Expansion were not to necessarily defeat another empire but rather to secure their continued trade. The overall theme will be that of commercial dominance. Of course this will lead to conflict which is why the Carthiginian military will have to be a professional and competent machine. Ports will be a great priority as maritime supremacy is paramount to controlling a merchant empire. Having finished several books on the history of Carthage, or the Phoenician colony, and having read a biography of Hannibal I feel I have enough background knowledge to get started. I played with the faction for about 25 game years and have a feel for the mechanics. I have a rudimentary foundation of how the Carthaginians waged war and their tactics. Combining Phalanx with more mobile troops and Cavalry gave them a sort of Hybrid between Roman Maniples and Hellenistic phalanx.

The format of the AAR will not be like a history book like that last AAR but rather from the perspectives of the Commanders themselves. Sometimes they will be commanders and other times they will be governors. It will be in Journal format that I may add third person perspective to when needed to show additional goings-on. Overall I want to give a rich and encompassing aspect to the game. As much as I enjoy the battles, there are so many other treasures to this game and I will make an effort to expand on them.

Without further delay here is an Introduction to get us up to date on the situation with Carthage and her interests:

"Around 814 BC, Carthage - meaning 'new city,' was founded by the Tyrian Queen Elissa, fleeing the tyranny of her brother King Pygmalion in Tyre. Her flight from the island city was prompted by her brother's assassination of her husband, the priest of Melqart, leading a number of prominent nobles and former royal attendants to accompany her in flight.

After traveling for some time, Elissa's party landed in Libya, within a short distance of the older the older Phoenician city Utica. Upon their arrival, Elissa secured land from the local Libyans for temporary use, but eventually settled in the area after some encouragement from the Uticans and the discovery of good omens in the land where the city would be founded.

The first trading empire of Carthage was built initially on a strategic position for trade within the central and Western Mediterranean, and eventually building up most of it's clout by trading heavily with the wealthy Iberian peoples of Tartessos. After the fall of their older Iberian trading partners, the Carthaginian merchant ships bypassed the ancient cities location, and approached the major tin producers in North-Western Iberia and among the Southern Britons directly. To supplement a newly invigorated trade relationship with the Iberian tribesmen and the Celtiberians in the North, Carthaginian merchants also moved along the Mauretanian coast and even farther south towards Senegal to establish informal trading relations.

During the ensuing years, increasing dependency on Carthage as well as the great trading empire's reasonable military aptitude, led to the political assimilation of the Balearic Islands East of Iberia, as well as Sardinia and Corsica, and parts of Sicily. Their burgeoning prospects also found them in lasting alliance with the Etruscans of Italy, who would trade with Carthage for centuries, and even enter into military alliance with them.

The Carthaginians dominance in the Western Mediterranean was finally challenged however, by a maritime power closer to their own former homes in Pheonicia: Greece. This conflict finally culminated with the first Carthaginian attempts to finally secure Sicily, and ensure their guard against the Greek armies there.

The war in Sicily began when Carthage's general Hamilco led an enormous army onto the island, landing first at Panormus. His numbers, reduced to an extent by storms during their transport, were virtually wiped out by Gelon, the ruler of Syracuse, at Himera. Hamilco would be one of the earliest Carthaginian generals to partake in suicide for failure, and would not be the last.

Peace between Carthage and Syracuse ensued, though it was tenuous at best, and it was quickly ended. By 410 BC Carthage had lost it's colonies in Iberia, but had replaced them with new ones in North Africa, as well as an expansion of their territory beyond the great inland Sea of North Africa and into the Libyan coast. In addition to their great territorial expansions, they enjoyed another re invigoration of their trading partnerships throughout the whole of the Mediterranean, and new territories discovered by previously unmatched efforts of exploration throughout Africa.

With a burgeoning power base at his back, Hamilcar's grandson Hannibal Mago, renewed the war in Sicily by seizing several cities in the South, as well as the site of his grandfather's defeat. Despite his initial success, his siege at Agrigentum was broken, and his forces thrown back - suffering from the plague.

Hannibal Mago's successor, Himilco, managed to continue the war farther into Sicily by defeating the Syracusean tyrant... but was eventually forced to sue for peace after his forces had been weakened by another plague. After this, the peace would again disintegrate, and leave Carthage to war with Greece for many decades - leaving them finally restricted to a Southern corner of the island.

In 311, the tyrant Agathocles of Syracuse renewed the war against Carthage, seizing most of their remaining Sicilian holdings and laying siege to their only strong positions. In response, the Carthaginian general Hamilcar was dispatched to raise the siege and take the offensive against the Greeks. Within a year of his arrival in Sicily, Hamilcar had raised the Greek siege, and made himself master of much of the island. Without any recourse against his superior opponent, Agathocles moved against Carthage itself, prompting Hamilcar's recall to the African coast - where he crushed the Greek army. Despite an admirable position, Hamilcar concluded a peace with the Syracusean tyrant, leaving his home-city as the final stronghold of Greek power."

-Taken from the Introduction at the EB page at: https://www.europabarbarorum.org/ebcomwww/factions_karthadastim_history.html

[Sassem]

Hi ,

this is my first reaction on any AAR.

I'm a number 1 lurker so I will follow (reading) it just

like like many other AAR's i'm enjoyed you're other one

too but won,t post reactions I just one let you now

that you don't do it for nothing

[Thaatu]

By the time I posted this message, there are already 50 views. Lurkers love AAR's.

[Megalos]

Yup, I'm a lurker as I am usually too lazy to bother typing. I enjoyed your last AAR very much, and i'm very much looking forward to this one.


I'm glad you are taking a different approach to writing this one, and I can't wait to meet the many Carthy characters that will be written about.


A Request: I'd love it if you could also write about any other non-carthy characters you might come into contact with also and expand upon their relationships with the carthy's. Iberians, Gauls, Greeks and Romans! Having read your last AAR, you definetly gave a taste of that so know you are a very capable writer to implement it. I just feel it would add some extra depth to the writing, and I'd love to see some arch-enemies dukeing it out on the battlefield!


Can't wait for episode1!



Mega

[Chirurgeon]

@Sassem: So your one of the 90% that watch silently :). Thanks for your compliments and I hope you enjoy this one as well.

@Thaatu: Yes I have noticed there have been a number of view already. Good to know that people are indeed following it :)

@Megalos: I have every intention of incorporating other characters into the AAR :) . Thank you again for your support.

[Spoofa]

I read this last night but didnt post a comment because i was too tired :laugh4:

Looks good, I would have prefered a Macedonian one but Carthage is another great and interesting faction! So good luck, I look forward to it.

[Chirurgeon]

@Spoofa: I know alot of people wanted Makedonia but Carthage should be interesting as well. like 30 people voted in the poll so far and Carthage is leading so I went with it. I havent seen any Epic AARs on Carthage so hopefully this will appease the Epic AAR gods :)

[Chirurgeon]

https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/SicilyChapterPicture.jpg

Winter, 272 BC - Western Sicily
After conferring with the senate for what seemed an eternity and having been given my brothers (Mago's) best Libyan troops we have left Carthage and arrived in Sicily.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterI-2.jpg
My name is Bomlikar. I am the younger brother of Mago and second in line to head the Senate of Carthage. I have been given the most important task of securing Sicily. A task that my ancestors failed to do on numerous occasions. The trip was most pleasurable in the early spring and after following local trails we have arrived at winter quarters. We are encamped near a large mountain and have a commanding view of the countryside. I have put my men in charge of building a road from Lilybaem to the Central area of Sicily so that we may move a little quicker on the Island. As beautiful as this island is the Coast is rugged and ships have limited areas where to harbor. The countryside is spectacular and rugged.
I have brought Libyan recruits and loyal Iberians who are quite dependable and have requested some Numidian cavalry as well. It will not be till next season that they arrive however.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterI-12.gif
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterI-13.gif
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterI-3.jpg

Sicily has been a thorn in our side since our ancestors first settled Carthage(new city). Every army that tries to defeat Syracuse winds up dying from some strange disease. The plague it would seem is an ally of King Hiero II. Having taken over after the Epirotes left the island he is quite powerful and put himself in quite the prosperous position. This city is one of the most powerful in this part of the world. Our agents have discovered that his army is not as great as it was and the city does not expect an attack. This will certainly play to our advantage. Attempts to further broker a trade deal have collapsed.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterI-1.jpg
With the great port of Syracuse not trading with us it hurts our ability to conduct business with our allies. There is much business to be had. This island offers much. The soil is remarkably black with long valleys full of grains. Small streams criss cross the landscape. Olive trees grow wild on the hillsides and contained in those hillsides are rich minerals like lead and iron. The grains alone will bring much wealth as Rome has an insatiable appetite for it. Possesion of Sicily will grant us ports in the heart of the Meditereanean. We cannot fail to capture this land.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/Sicily11.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/Sicily4.jpg

***

Winter, 271 BC - Beseiging Syracuse
This ancient city is massive. Its great walls and high ramparts would cost us dearly to directly assault it. The heart of the city is on an island that is impregnable. Arriving late in the summer during the early harvest we were able to dig lines of circumvallation and trap the king and his men inside. I have set up towers and strongholds and its hopeful that they cannot holdout for too long. In addition our fleet has blockaded their port and we have confiscated much loot from this action. Syracuse is cut off. It is uncertain how many men they have to fight but it could be as much as us. Assuming their ally of the Plague does not rear its ugly head this plan should work. Word will get back to Hiero's allies in Greece but with the infighting the Greeks are so good at achieving it is doubtful they will intervene. We have now but to wait to see the results of our actions. I could find hardly a man that was willing to fight against the Syracuseans so it is up to my men to achieve this siege. Mercenaries seem to be a precious commodity. Lilybaeum is working to expand the port as to accomodate the extra trade we will recieve should we capture this great city.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterI-7.jpg


***
Winter, 269 BC -Royal Palace of Syracuse
After an ardorous and exhaustive two years of waiting and with great excitement I can now say that Syracuse belongs to Carthage. On a crisp morning emissaries from inside came out to say that King Hiero II had taken his life along with many of the garrison. We were free to enter the city and take what we desired and the populace was at my mercy. Although the population is restless, with time they will learn their new rulers. So many of the citizens resisted i had to put them to the sword as a lesson to those remaining. The spoils of war are ours. I have sent word of our victory to Mago in Carthage proper and have requested a governor and a substantial garrison. It will not be till next year at the earliest that I can leave. I am busy setting up an appropriate government and we have to assess what goods we have acquired. A city this size has treasure that will appease the greatest of all kings for sure. Just yesterday some of my men discovered a room stacked full of gold. Much of it has not been refined but nonetheless there it is. I have sent it back as a gift to the senate who will hopefully use it to the betterment of Carthage. The port is in operation and the trading vessels we have secured are already moving goods to elsewhere. Capua in Italy is willing to buy grain and wine is being sent back to Africa.
I have also requested stone workers and carpenters to travel to the city to repair damaged and run down areas and to begin much needed repairs to the port. I have sent diplomats north to speak with representatives of Messana and hope they will join our glorious Republic.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/Sicily7.jpg


***
Winter, 268 BC - Beseiging Messana
Our diplomats appeals fell on deaf ears as the men of Messana refused to give up their independence. The fleet was sent north to blockade the port but was involved in a large battle with an Epirote fleet off the Toe of Italy. Although battered, the ships survived and have returned to Syracuse for repairs. Our fleet fared better than the Epirote fleet as the latter is currently at the bottom of the sea. Although a bit discouraged we trekked north with the main army that has grown quite large with mercenaries.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterI-5.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterI-4.jpg
The capture of Syracuse has allowed me to buy the services of local men who owe alligiance only to gold. They will be useful should Messana refuse to surrender. Some of the men fled the city when our army came into view. Passing by a magnificent Volcano, called Etna, on the way and seeing other wonderful sites has truly made me love this land. Its beauty is a resource all its own.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/Etna.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/Sicily6.jpg
I have ordered the construction of several rams to be used to knock down the minimal defenses. If they have not surrendered before the harvest I will take the town by force. The choice is theirs.
I have sent diplomats to the City-state of Rome to offer a tribute to our allies. I hope that this will seal the alliance we have maintained for some years


***
Harvest, 267 BC - Forum of Messana
As the fields of grain turn their predictable golden hue ready for cutting my men stormed into Messana and did cutting of their own. It was a brutal fight and the men fought well. I first sent in my mercenaries. Each unit with their own ram. Two of the units routed but the others broke through and a brutal street battle ensued. Eventually the fighting ended up in the center of the town where every man who could hold a weapon did just that. They died holding that weapon. The remaining men and other able bodied women were first employed to remove the bodies and then they were sent to gather the harvest. After the harvest is over I will send them to Carthage to be dealt with where they will be divvied up amongst the various nobility of the Republic. The Senate has asked me to build a great port outside the city and to bring the roads and other infrastructure up to minimal acceptable standards. The skilled builders which helped in Syracuse will be employed here. Having repaired and expanded the port in Syracuse their experience will be valuable. The major cities of this rich Island have fallen into our hands and Karthadastim will be properly rewarded for her persistence.
Battle Of Messana:
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterI-8.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterI-10.jpg
Short Video of Battle:
http://s67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/?action=view&current=47e6c2e4.flv


https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/Sicily5.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterI-11.jpg

[Cash Staks]

Well another lurker that finally decides to post :beam: To be honest I was just too lazy to actually register in order to post.

I have followed your Roman AAR and I must say that it alone has encouraged me to continue my own Roman campaign. Thus, the respectable thing would be to compliment you on your wiriting and determination in your campaigns. So keep up the good work and I'll be following this one and hoping for updates on your Roman AAR.

[Treverer]

Beautiful pictures :painting: and captivating writing :book: ... what does an AAR need more? Thank you for sharing it with us. :yes:
BTW, I'm waiting for your Pontos AAR ... you might write one day ... in the future ... not too far away.

[Chirurgeon]

So many factions so little time right Treverer? I hope that the EB team doesnt release the final version of this mod before i finish :) Thanks for the compliments :)

@Cash staks:
It seems many lurkers are coming out of the woodwork. I do plan to continue the Roman Campaign. Its just tricky doing two campaigns at once. Its easy to get confused. Ill give it a little rest and have another go at it later. Thanks for following the AAR and giving me encouragement.

[d'Arthez]

Great start to what will undoubtedly become another epic AAR.

[Wolfman]

Not trying to flatter you or anything but you are a very talented writer. Reading this was not like reading another Puniceus Paludamentum which was like a history book. This is a completely different style all together kinda like a journal. Good Work. :balloon2: :2thumbsup:

[Caelus]

Wow, great start!

The visuals you used are excellent; it adds so much to the immersion, as well as simply being beautiful in its own right.

I’m very glad you’re doing Carthage. I’m sure it will only get better! :2thumbsup:

[Chirurgeon]

@wolfman: Yes i wanted to go a different route with this AAR. It is a journal of various commanders of Kart Hadastim. I felt like i couldnt get in touch with the personalities of the commanders in the PP AAR. I started to in my last update but I dont want to change the theme of the AAR in midstride. I like the "history book" approach much better for that AAR. This one will be a little more personal. I also wanted to add some geographical significance to where the armies were fighting at. We all see the volcano on the map in the game but to actually see it provides a whole new context. As the battlefields move from area to area, expect to see photographs/paintings of the landscapes as they appear in real life. Too bad they didnt have cameras in 200 BC :no:. This AAR will be much more immersive and not as combat centered as my last. Thank you for the compliments. It means alot. I have been doing some rough brainstorming as to a novel I would like to have a go at.

@Caelus thanks for following and I hope it helps add much to the experience. I am very excited about Carthage. So far there hasnt been any major challenges but we all know that will change.

[Warmaster Horus]

Great beginning! As many have said, you are talented.
I personally voted for Makedon in the poll, but the Kart-Hadastim were a close second. Seeing this, I think you made a good choice.

[Basileus Seleukeia]

This is simply great, keep up the excellent work, Chirurgeon:2thumbsup:
Hope the Anti-Barcids don't make your northwards expansion suddenly stop:laugh4:

[Chirurgeon]

That will certainly affect how the game will play out, Basileus Seleukeia. To be sure.

Good to see you on this AAR too Warmaster. Your insight is greatly appreciated.

[Chirurgeon]

Chapter II - The Numidian Menace

Winter, 266 BC
Having placed Aderbaal, my son, as governor of Messana and supplying some militia from Lilybaeum as a garrison I have departed Sicily and are now encamped for the winter West of Carthage. I spent much of the year in the capital resting and conferencing with various senators. While there I have been kept abreast of our position. Mago has told me that Rome is Beseiging Taras in southern Italy and it is likely that if they succeed they will not stop and will likely aim to capture the independent city of Rhegium, less than a days sail from Messana. "The Riches of Sicily are not only cherished by our eyes my brother.", he told me shortly before I left. Senators privately expressed concern that these Romans are like a cancer and will continue to spread. Although the Romans could be a distant threat more urgent problems have occured. Several Rebelious tribes to our south and west are wreaking havoc on our trade with the deeper areas of Africa. Mago has requested i deal with these mauraders and to find out where they are coming from. In the Spring we march to meet these rebels.

***

Winter, 265 BC encamped on the Medjerda River
We are currently awaiting more to replace the brave men that lost their lives in our campaign. Two large unruly groups of Numidians and other tribal avoided us for quite some time. Finally in the late summer we trapped them against the Aures Mountains where they were subsequently destroyed. They were but a third the number of men and a quarter the quality. The ones that did survive either fled or were captured and sold into slavery in Kart Hadastim.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/ChapterII-1.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/ChapterII-3.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/ChapterII-2.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/ChapterII-4.jpg
Few Carthiginians have been this far south of the coast and it is quite splendid. Juniper trees cover the hillsides and other plants seem to flourish quite nicely. There is valuable timber here and should a road reach into this area it would behooth us to harvest it. Although they are not as large and valuable as the Corsican pines from Corsica, nonetheless their value cannot be overlooked.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/AuresMountains.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/AuresMountains2.jpg
Spies have indicated that the source of many of these mauraders and bandits is a sort of nomadic town to the west beyond the great Medjerda River. We will follow the base of the Aures mountain range and work our way to the west until this town is discovered.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/CentralAfricaIII.jpg


***

Winter 264 BC, Besieging the Numidian City of Kirtan
Having discovered the city and trapping many of the inhabitants inside we will wait for them to fight, surrender, or starve to death. Three bleak options if you are the one inside the city. After conferring with officers I have decided not to assault the city due to the fact that I do not want my army becoming a giant pin cushion. The men inside are expert at throwing javelins and i dont need to sacrifice lives just to be done with this sooner. Spies have followed the men that escaped and they have taken refuge in Siga, on the coast. Kirtan is located on a hot plain between the Aures mountains in the East and the Central Atlas mountains in the west.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/CentralAfrica5.jpg
The Atlas mountains being much larger. Even from here there snow capped peaks can be seen. The cold seems to flow off the mountains at night and brings an incredible chill.
Men have to break the ice for the horses before they can drink from their pails in the early morning hours. As the day progresses and the sun rises the temperature reaches an oppressive level. For my part i will be glad to be back at the coast as soon as possible.
Obtaining supplies for the men has been aleviated a bit by the hunting prowess of the Numidian horse riders. Apparently they are just as good as killing game as they are men. As a result, we have been feasting on the local animals that run wild in these areas.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/CentralAfrica8.jpg
As dry as this area is there are hidden water resources and the Numidian Cavalrymen have a knack for finding these water spots. This fact adds yet another dimension to employing them in my service. Our foodstuffs from Kart Hadastim has been difficult to procure as the natives of the mountains still resist the Carthiginian way. They have a nasty habit of attacking our caravans enroute which slows down delivery of food. I have sent the Geographer with these Numidians to map out these water sources.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/CentralAfrica7.jpg

Spring 262 BC, Kirtan, Numidae
The inhabitants mainly surrendered and were sold into slavery. One-thousand of these will go to the new gold and silver mines in Mastia in Southern Iberia.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/ChapterII-6.jpg
^^Army of Kart Hadastim
Apparently the mountains there are full of gold and silver. I have been called back to Kart Hadastim to meet with my brother and the Senate to discuss the Numidian problem. No doubt if Siga does not turn over the cowards who escaped the capture of Kirtan the Senate will be most upset. Another reason I wish to return to the capital is to see my new grandson. Born on my birthday he will be one year old. My sons, Aderbaal (the father) and Himlicar, will also be in the capital with their wives.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/ChapterII-9.jpg
Alas I will be able to rest. At the age of 45 I am not Young anymore. Mago is nearly 55 and apparently feeling his age. As I am in line to be Shopet I know the Senate will wish me to possibly stay in Kart Hadastim. It is likely the senatores are debating who should follow me as the next leader....politics is something i have no love of. With the exception of the Numidians our borders remain secure.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/ChapterII-8.jpg


Winter, 261 BC - Lilybaeum
It would seem that the father has joined his sons so to speak. I met for the better part of the day with the senate and they thanked me most noteably for my service to the Republic. After a discussion that lasted another day a vote came forth and a new commander was voted in. This is how it works I suppose. The politicians always want a fresh young noble face to tie to its mighty army. After having seen my grandson and my family united I realized I had no time to be a father. Several of my friends being senatores knew this and undoubtedly told others that it is time I settle down. Hamalcar will control our armies now. At the age of 33 he is much younger than I. He is the youngest of us brothers. Although I was his age once. I can hardly fathom how far I have come since those early days 11 years ago. Being nominated to travel to Sicily to finally crush the Syracuse tyrant Hiero II. Then achieving that goal. Moving to Messana to capture that very important city. I am not one for self promotion but it would seem without me Carthage would still be struggling and who knows what would have happened had Syracuse been allowed to exist. I have no regrets and history will remember me fondly. From Sicily back to Africa to deal with the new menace, the Numidians. It started with desert brigands and wound up becoming a war. War is something I know longer wish to deal with. I have seen enough men die. Hamalcar is ambitious and green and wants to make a name for himself. So be it. I get to govern a paradise here. Somehow I knew I would end up here in this rich land of Intoxicating beauty. As the governor here my goal is peace and with my two sons governing the other cities of this great Island I sleep well. Very well indeed.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/ChapterII-11.jpg

[Treverer]

:applause:

[Tristrem]

Excellant read, I am throughly enjoying this AAR, and wish you luck with your campaign. :book: Hopefully, in the future we will see carthage reclaiming it's old homeland in Phonicea . ~;)

[Chirurgeon]

Indeed that is a long term goal...only time will tell

[Chirurgeon]

https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/IntotheWest.jpg


Winter 260 BC, South of the Djedi River
Having been granted command of the armies by my older brother Mago I will not let him down.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterIII-2.jpg

After crossing the Djedi River we began pursuit of a small group of Numidians who no doubt were planning on arresting our crossing of the river. Scouts have indicated that they are south of us in a small oasis. In spring we will pursue them. The senate has decreed that i am to bring all of these lands under the watchful eye of the Senate. If we are to be successful traders we cant have enemies right on our doorstep. The persistant badgering of our trade routes from the mountains by these nomads must be quelled. This land is arid and tough with the exception of the few small oasis and rivers that cross this area. Having sent spies ahead it is clear that the Numidians wish to stay close to their hunting grounds. Elephants abound in this region and are ever-present as we march.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/elephants.jpg
I would prefer to take the sea to Siga and attack that way but these areas between Ippsos and Siga are untamed and some order must be established. We sleep at night and hear the roar of lions around us. Many of the men are terrified by this. I feel the lion is empowering us with his greatness.
It may be several months before we reach that city.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/WestAfricaLion.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/WestAfrica7.jpg

Winter 259 BC, Beseiging Siga
With Siga harboring the Numidians that have wreaked havoc on our trade, we are currently starving this city out. Our fleet is bringing fresh troops and when they arrive I will assault this city. With its weak walls and still weaker people inside they will regret attacking Carthage. In the spring we attacked a small group of warriors that actually put up quite the fight and managed to bloody up my Libyan spearmen nicely.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterIII-4.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterIII-5.jpg

My elite troops are the Liby-Phonecians that have been trained in Kart hadast. They are my anchor to the army.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterIII-3.jpg

I use the light troops of the Iberian peninsula to protect them should they get flanked. These Liby-Phonecians are a tough breed indeed. The country between here and Ippsos is so untamed i feel that it may never be subjucated completely

Spring 257 BC, Siga
After a year of resisting the people of Siga have surrendered. Enslaved and sent back to Kart Hadastim. Some will eventually wind up in Iberia where the mining there seems to have a negative affect on lifespan. A steady flow of slave labor is needed to maintain manpower as the search continues underground for the rich gold deposits. Several senatores have come here after the successful capture of the town to congratulate me. There has been much to celebrate but to the west lie more foes. My scouts have indicated that maurading bands of Numidians are but a seasons march from Siga. Hadrabuls son in Mastia will be governing Siga to give him some much needed experience in the art of Governance. No doubt he will want me to tutor the young man as I have demonstrated my managerial skills on several occasions. The senatores have had some updates from our diplomats traveling abroad. From the East in the land of the Pharohs, the Ptolemies continue to fight with the Successors to Alexander The Great's empire. The Ptolemies are faring well having won some major battles. Our old city of Sidon is now being attacked by the Pharohs army. Rome is losing ground to the persistance of the Epirotes. After the Romans suffered a humiliating defeat outside of Arpi the Epirotes proceeded to attack the great city of Capua in Campania. Campania has fallen to the Epirote and the Romans are shifting their forces south to deal with the threat. Our friends the Aeudi continue their war with the Arverni having made some gains far north of the Mediteranean. The tribes of Iberia are slowly being pulled together through sheer force as one tribe, the Lusitanns, have shown dominance and are now expanding their realm of influence. They are pressing east and could reach the mediteranean in a few years time. Many nations are expanding and it is only a matter of time till that results in conflict.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/WestAfrica6.jpg


Spring 255 BC - Tingis
We are resting comfortably in Tingis. We left Siga in late spring and crossed into Tingi Mauretania before the early harvest. Stopping to build a bridge over the Moulouya River(modern name), we quickly made for the capital. Looking behind us a great towering Range of mountains called Atlas gazed over the plains that lead to the Mediteranean. They seem to watch us as we pressed toward the city.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/WestAfrica3.jpg
After a brave battle for the city the Numidians finally surrendered. My how they fought though! Although they had no armor and but a small shield they fought like dogs. I placed the Libyans in the Front line and they held quite well. Their cavalry, more skirmishers, charged my left flank. I had a new addition to the army which i sent to deal with their cavalry: my son. My son Hamalcar came of age two years ago and joined my army with his graceful and deadly cavalry. The Numidians were outmatched but their speed enabled them to avoid annihilation. They would rout but return for more all the while hurling their javelins at us. As some of their skirmishers engaged the Libyans others stood back and hurled their spears into the ranks. My own Numidian mercenaries were routed when their tactics were turned against them. The Libyans took the brunt of the damage but despite their losses their strength was strong enough to charge and push the enemy back into the city. After successfully routing the enemy so gloriously i retired them to the rear and brought up in line the Liby-Phoenicians. Their services were not needed however as the Numidians hiding with their Mauretanian allies had had enough.
Scenes from the Battle of Tingis
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterIII-9.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterIII-8.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterIII-10.jpg
Video of Various Battles:
http://s67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/?action=view&current=BattlesinWestAfrica.flv

However I was so pleased of the way they fought I handpicked some to stay in the city as garrison. One last bastion of defense remained here in the west. As soon as I have rested and placed my son as governor I will move south down the coast to Mauretania proper and put an end to this Numidian menace for good.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/WestAfrica8.jpg


Winter, 254 BC - Besieging Sala, Mauretania
After spending a year outside of Tingis we have moved south over some more rocky terrain into a much more Arid area.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/WestAfrica2.jpg

After crossing another river my guides tell me we cannot go any further west. The city of Sala is as far as we can go. South of here the great mountains of Atlas rise up from the Earth and beyond lay the sands of the great desert where life is practically devoid. I give the inhabitants only a few more months before they submit to Carthiginian rule. There are resources here such as timber and wild animals necessary for arenas and other forms of entertainment. Here I feel truly far from home. The senate wishes to meet with me to discuss future positions. Being one of the most successful generals our people have known apparently gets the attention of the nobility.

Winter, 253 BC - With the Fleet
I am approximately halfway between Siga and Ippsos along our glorious coast. As I look over the side of our lead ship toward land I realize that this vast coastline I have been sailing past for several days now belongs to KartHadastim. The sheer size of the Republic is staggering to me. For someone to have suggested that all of North Africa West of Lepki belonged to us I would have labeled them mad. Having seen this now I realize how great we have become. I watch the dolphin leap alongside the ships guiding us home to the Capital. I miss the capital and my urgent trip home indicates something has transpired. The senate cannot communicate their message via messenger rather I must be physically present. Mago's health is failing im told and Bomlikar is so reclusive in Lilybaem they may fear what may transpire if he fulfills his duty as Shopet. Perhaps they will name me when Mago finally succombs to the god's embrace. These next few months at sea will lead me to focus my thoughts. Visiting Senatores have told me a variety of wishes for the Republic. The successors to Alexander's war with the Ptolemy goes poorly. They lose territory not just to their west but to their east as well. Old subjects are turning the tide on their old rulers. The independent city of Kyrene feels threatened by the Ptolemies sudden growth. One Senator has suggested we take that rich land for ourselves. Would our old allies the Ptolemies suddenly feel threatened with another empire right against them? War with Egypt is not desired but if we are to rule Africa then it is something we must consider.
Kart Hadastim is a divided Republic when it comes to determining our future. My success unfortunately has reopened this great debate. There are group of very prominant men who are staked in great tradition and believe that the African coast is truly our domain. We are connected by a single land and not scattered across the sea. yes we have colonies but these are not designed to be launching points for invasions. Iberia has riches but to invade brings more enemies to the fray. Swarms of barbarians north of Iberia would feel threatened and we would either have to fend off relentless invasions or take all of Europe. In my opinion and from a practical view that idea does not bode well with me. All in all we are not conquers, we are traders. We went to war with the Numidians because they threaten our trade. Raiders from south of Lepki and Agrigento continue to haunt our trade routes overland through the desert. I feel we need to put a buffer between us and those southern raiders and capture territory further south in the desert expanse. There is money to be made in the resources there.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterIII-1.jpg
Then there are other men, more ambitious men. These men would have Carthage rule the world at the very least to reclaim the homeland. A far worse prospect from my perspective is an invasion of the Italian teritories or further into Iberia. For now we have healthy alliances with all those powerful northern people. Why threaten that just for the purpose of expansion into lands unknown to us? Is Africa not enough? Well apparently these men see the fighting of our northern neighbors with each other and we can somehow us that for our own gain. They say, the barbarians north of the Pyranees fight endlessly making them weak and vulnerable. The Lusitanns are loosely connected and have no real central authority. Rome has been weakend by the persistant invasions by the Epirotes. I remain unconvinced. How do we know our invasion wouldnt force old enemies to join together against a common foe? How would we deal with a unified front from men of Rome and the forests of Europe. This is not our domain.
I would not feel so strongly about this but the debate has come to my doorstep. My own son, Hamlicar II, has stated already that our grip on Iberia is not strong enough and that the Italian peninsula is ripe for the taking. The more I reason with him the more vehement he becomes. He is slated to join me in the capital and I have no doubt he will be embraced by the men who want to expand northward. Fortunately the minority of the senate feels that we need to further our expansion north. For the moment Africa is where Our destiny lies. The current senate will undoubtly support action to the south. The risks are small and the resources are potentially very profitable. What about after that? In a few years when the desert nomads either scatter or succumb to rule what then? Can we afford to be a stagnant empire? Will we falter by not growing? Unfortunately you cant answer these questions until hindsight. Our successes will lead us to greater and greater conflict im afraid.

https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/WestAfrica10.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterIII-13.jpg

[Lovejoy]

Another update already!? Love it! Keep it up!

As a Barcine myself I say go north! Dont listen to the fool!

[Chirurgeon]

Well thanks for following Lovejoy. I hope you enjoy the AAR. A Swedish Barcine....must be an interesting family tree there :) I'm afraid going north would only make enemies. Think of all the lost trade if our alliances collapsed. The money from the Romans alone is worth averting war.

[Spoofa]

You sort of inspired me to try a second attempt at a REAL carthaginian campaign and I did, so far It's been a blast of fun, our empires are simliar, sept I dont own the province that is south of the westernmost african province and instead i own the one directly south of Lepki, The Ptolemies own the rest of the entire Mediterranean coast east of greece :inquisitive: And they Took Lepki from me once, which REALLY made their empire look impressive on the world map, but Hamalcar and his son retook it and repelled several large armies while being outnumbered, of course the Ptolemies cant stand up to our highly disciplined and well equipped troops, and Rome has taken Corsica from me, while i hang on to Sardinia, I decided to let them keep it for now, trying to reinact the punic wars. Rome seems to be having trouble in italy, Epirus still holds Taras, but the Romani keep beseiging it, eventually they will win, The Romani also have a full stack, extremely well balanced on the southern coast above the mercenary held town of Rhegum :inquisitive: If they manage to aquire Taras then i fear they will set their sights upon Rhegum and then, sicily. I'm already pressed as it is from the east by the semi-constant pressure of the Ptolemies, even with my alliance with the grey death It seems to not do much. I dont know if I'll survive much longer with my sicilian and eastern north africa holdings.

Anyway, the updates are looking nice. I look forward to the next one.

I think I've fallen in love with Carthage

[Chirurgeon]

I think I've fallen in love with Carthage


Haha as have I my friend...as have I

Good to hear I inspired you. So far i havent had any battles which could give my army a major challenge. Arche Selucia is getting their butts handed to them. I wonder who will fill that giant void?

Keep it up and give us some periodic updates :)

[Wolfman]

Good update! I agree with your expansion. You should expand only where it benefits your empire.

[Warmaster Horus]

Great update! And nice update rate.

Keep 'em coming!

[Sassem]

Hi Chirurgeon,

I now that you asks in the post were we could choose

what your next AAR would be if there were any good

addons/mods to play with this campaign

so what addons/mods do you use now and do you play

RTW/EB or BI/EB

(I know the lurker comes out of the closet:laugh4: )

[Caelus]

Truly excellent!!

This has inspired me and I have even started my own Carthaginian campaign. Although I must say, being a true Roman as I am, it is hard to play as my enemies!

[Chirurgeon]

Im just using RTW/EB. I dont have the BI expansion. Pretty much using the .81av2 or whatever the latest is. I havent had one CTD since getting that version. I used that version for my Roman campaign and it worked quite well. overall im really happy with the mod as it exists :)

[Chirurgeon]

@ Caelus. I wish you the best of luck with your campaign. I am actually enjoying the fact that I am not constantly being attacked. Make sure you tribute your allies to keep em that way. I can focus on my economic empire.

[Chirurgeon]

Good update! I agree with your expansion. You should expand only where it benefits your empire.

Yes it makes sense:) No need to start a war without a real good reason right?

[Chirurgeon]

Great update! And nice update rate.

Keep 'em coming!

Whew this is a whirlwind pace for me...hope you guys enjoy the fruits of my labor :)
:sweatdrop:

[Chirurgeon]

https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterIVHeading.jpg


Winter, 252 BC - Karthadastim

As I feared Mago's life left his body and with it came a new Shophet. Word reached us nearly two days from Karthadastim. Upon deboarding i was whisked away to the senatores forum where I was unanimously named Shopet. I knew this day would arrive. Somehow all the pieces came together. I am fearful but excited. My son also in the capital was named Shophet elect and would assume duties if something were to happen to me. Hamlicar II has been named the governor of Karthadastim and in that position he will have great influence.
No doubt while I am away chasing dune raiders across the sands in hope of procuring some more land for the republic he will be working in the shadows with his ideas of expansion. His voice will slowly turn the Senate into one that wishes expansion across the Mediterreanean. It may not happen soon but I fear it will happen. He has considerable traits that would lend him to succeed in convincing others of his beliefs and goals. He is my son and he is the greatest a man could hope for. He wants the best for the republic, but as misguided as he is, he will not hear of settling just for Africa. Not with the gold and glory of place like Iberia being dangled in front of him so tantalizingly close he can nearly taste it. Like a date hanging from the lowest branch its just too much of an opportunity. It is too ripe for him, and others, to pass up.
Could I intervene? I assuradly could and when i did i would tarnish my sons political image and he would never forgive me for it. Aside from these opinions that differ vastly we agree on almost everything and he looks up to me immensely. He constantly seeks my council and I am flattered a man with such a great destiny would still hold his father as the most influential person in his life. I am honored by him and i wish to maintain that honor. We head south in the morning.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/SaharanAfricaIV.jpg


Winter, 250 BC - Cydaeus
We have captured a paltry village of little more than dust and despair. The men thinking conquest instead found a pathetically guarded village that offered very little comforts. When the armor we wear doesnt burn the wearers skin it becomes as cold as ice before dawn. Donning armor in the frigidness of the morning only to have it burn you later in the day is a cruel irony of this sandpit.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/SaharanAfricaII.jpg
I feel as if the senate will mock me for journeying this far to battle sand fleas and dehydration. There is one more outpost that must be brought into the fold of Karthadastim influence and then I will gladly return home. Although these sentinels of the desert are important I am confident no army from the south could survive this expanse. All the villagers insist that there is no life to the south...just hot gritty sand. I for one think they are telling the truth.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/SaharanAfricaI.jpg

Winter, 248 BC - Garama
The natives were not coming out so I went in. These Numidians fight like caged animals! It took the better part of a day to subdue this glorified village. The Libyans again went in for the kill after my archers softened them up a bit. This was not a "great" victory but we have acquired more land and allowed us to have eyes to the south.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterIV-7.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterIV-2.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterIV-3.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterIV-4.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterIV-5.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterIV-6.jpg
While besieging the town a messenger from the Senate arrived indicating that I should return to Karthadastim at my earliest convenience. That is a polite way of saying "don't keep us waiting". I could not agree more and I am more than willing to escape this sandy abyss. A garrison is enroute from Lepki to hold this patch of sand. I will meet the fleet and sail back to Kart Hadastim from Lepki
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/SaharaAfricaIII.jpg

Winter, 247 BC - Karthadastim
Having arrived in Karthadastim I again get to spend time with my son who has grown into quite the ruler. A new palace has been built and is massive in scale to the old one.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterIV-1.jpg

Our trade is booming with new ports and merchants quarters all over the Republic. Great structures have been erected everywhere making the city take on a whole new appearance.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterIV-8.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterIV-9.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterIV-10.jpg

After touring the city for much of the morning over mid-meal my son and I had a chance to finally talk. In a private meeting my son explained the Senate's wish to capture Kyrene before the Ptolemies do. "Having them occupy that prominent land would put us too close to their burgeoning expansion." he stated.
"And if you were a Ptolemy how would you feel if a 'burgeoning' Karthadastim took over a large area adjacent to your republic?" I replied.
"Father once again you are wise and have looked at actions from another perspective. The senate however feels differently. Although I agree with your assessment, things are already in motion. The resources of that kingdom are great and the effort to gain them is minimal".
It was clear that this was going to happen. In my absence while parading around the desert the senate got wind that there could be great gains by adding Kyrene to the republic. No doubt my son was fanning that wind.
The senate also feels I would do better service here in the capital. My son has been chosen to lead the army of Carthage into war against the independent kingdom of Kyrene.
The things i foresaw on that ship returning from Sala, so far away, are beginning to take shape. My son is putting himself in a position of even greater influence than he already exerts: military command. Perhaps in his absense i can reverse some of thoughts of conquering across the Meditereanean. I too have many influential people in this city. I fear a disaster should we travel over the seas and beyond. I too want the best for the Republic.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/SaharaAfricaV.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterIV-11.jpg

[Warmaster Horus]

And another one!


Whew this is a whirlwind pace for me...hope you guys enjoy the fruits of my labor :)
Yeah, it is. But don't worry, we enjoy it. At least, I do.

[Wolfman]

You can feel the political tension running off the page. Good work and like Warmaster Horus said another great update!

[Chirurgeon]

You can feel the political tension running off the page. Good work and like Warmaster Horus said another great update!

Yes indeed Carthage is divided. But something is about to happen to unify her destiny.

Drinking wine and playing EB...gotta love it :)

[Cash Staks]

There is really no better way to play...

Anyway, good up date and hope to see more soon.

[Wolfman]

Adds to the historical mood and feeling of the game.:wink:

[Bootsiuv]

You're an excellent writer. I am enjoying both of your aars very much. :)

[Chirurgeon]

Thank you all...I will have an update up in a little while :) I may have spoken too soon...photo bucket is doing site maintenance

[Basileus Seleukeia]

I felt it. I felt it as if I was there. Chirurgeon, that piece of text, that bunch of letters, actually gave me the impression of a living story! Isn't it fantastic how letters, put next to each other, in such an artistical form, can give you the feeling that this once was real? Keep on the great work, man. You surely did inspire me to start a Seleukid AAR when the new build of EB is out. And then we shall see if I can rival your mastery of storywriting:laugh4:

[optimax]

You write well, and I like how you portray Hamalcar. More story soon, yes?

[Chirurgeon]

https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/LibyanAfricaI-1.jpg

Winter 246 BC - Lepki
With the blessing of the Senate I have left Karthadastim with our great army towards Kyrenia. Our diplomats have failed to broker a trade agreement with the Kyrenians and as a result we are sending a convincing message. My father, nearing 50, the smartest man I know is entrusting this important mission to me. He wants me to make sure that Kyrene becomes successful and prosperous and to quench doubt of the Egyptians that our move is a malicious act. They are a valuable ally and i do not intend to do anything to threaten that. Many prominent men including my father fear that the Ptolemies will respond to this threat and may attack us. if that is the case we will be ready. My men have been fighting in the desert for years and are battle ready. I hope my father doesnt realize that I prodded the senate into this action in his absense. Although I suspect he knows me better by now.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/LibyanAfricaII.jpg

Winter 244 BC- Beseiging Kyrene
We have landed and after some failure to come to agreement we have since besieged Kyrene. Kleon was not willing to enter into the republic.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterV-1.jpg

After the harvest we laid seige and in the spring I intend to attack. The country here is almost like the far west but behind the city a vast plateau erupts from the earth and is a teeming forest of such density i have never seen.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/LibyanAfricaIV.jpg

It is hard to believe that beyond this plateau or Jebel Akhdar as it is called is a vast desert. There is alot of timber to be had here. Using some of this timber I have constructed three rams to deal with the walls of the city. Made of sturdy Cedar and other materials they will fall. They have Greek trained hoplites and other various troops as a garrison. This will be the first time since my uncle battled for Messana will we have fought a Greek garrison. No doubt this will sour our relationship with the Greeks even further. Other developments have come to my attention as well. Rhegium in southern Italy and Taras in the heel of Italy has fallen to the Legions of Rome. It would seem that the Romans are offiicially our neighbors.
My meeting with Kleon revealed an enigmatic man. He actually did not care that we assaulted his city. He almost challenged me.
"Dont you see Hamalcar? Even if you turned around and left today the damage is done. Peace is shattered for my kingdom. Even now the army of the Pharoh will be marching west to capture my city in the name of their 'god'."
"Why would the Pharohs do that? We have an alliance"
"Alliances are nothing more than illusions to cover up your true actions. An alliance is nothing more than admitting that an adversary is stronger than yourself. Alliances are a realization that you cant beat another civilization and its better to not fight." Pausing briefly he continued. "Better not to fight till one or both members of the alliance thinks they are strong enough to conquer the other. Your naive view is almost childish. Your easy control of my city once I am gone is an illusion. You will see".
Speechless and some what furious I left and prepared the men for the upcoming assault.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/LibyanAfricaIII.jpg



Winter 243 BC - Enroute to Karthadastim
After a bloody fight in the streets of Kyrene we have successfully Destroyed any hope of independence of this city.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterV-6.jpg
^^Death of Kleon
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterV-2.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterV-3.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterV-4.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterV-5.jpg
I should like to stay longer. However more urgent problems have arisen and the senate has requested I return to the capital immediately. Messengers reached me not long after the capture of Kyrenia to inform me that the Romans are beseiging Messana.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterV-8.jpg

My forces are strong but they are weakened from the bloody fight and I will need fresh recruits to replace the men I lost. After picking up the fresh troops and consulting with the senate I will likely be sent to Sicily to defend our interests there. For the first time we face a competent enemy. Whats worse is that we may not be able to save that city if the Romans decide to attack soon. I fear the worst.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterV-11.jpg


Winter 242 BC - Mount Etna, Sicily
Messana has fallen to the Legions of Rome.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterV-10.jpg

We spent the bulk of the year acquiring new troops and a new weapon. A new terrifying weapon that will instill fear in the Romans. We have acquired 24 war elephants to aide us in the fight. Additional men are being trained in the capital and Agrigento in preparation for this war. Emissaries have sealed a deal with the Aeudi confederation in Northern Italy to attack the Romans to force them to deal with two threats simultaneously.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterV-9.jpg

There was no debate on the floor of the senate. None of the normal quibbling of tired old men. They were unified and resolute about evicting the Romans from the soil of our lands. My father has told me that the Legions of Rome are no Numidians. They do not fight like Greeks. They are a flexible and capable force that is extremely disciplined. "Keep them in front of your spears at all times and use your superior cavalry. Make use of the Iberians as a flanking force. Pin them down and they will wear down. Eliminate their abilty to move freely and you will win the fight."
Father suggested using the elephants to scare the enemy cavalry. "Horses naturally fear elephants" he told me thoughtfully. Use that fear to your advantage. With those words we boarded the fleet and set off for the journey to Sicily. Upon arriving I had to deal with my uncle who was on his deathbed. It is never a good sign to have the one who is to welcome you, die upon your arrival. I hope this is not indication of our future journey. I usually enjoy the spring. But this time i fear the fresh growth after this winter will be fed with the blood of Romans and Carthiginians alike.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/LibyanPainting.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterV-12.jpg

[Chirurgeon]

I felt it. I felt it as if I was there. Chirurgeon, that piece of text, that bunch of letters, actually gave me the impression of a living story! Isn't it fantastic how letters, put next to each other, in such an artistical form, can give you the feeling that this once was real? Keep on the great work, man. You surely did inspire me to start a Seleukid AAR when the new build of EB is out. And then we shall see if I can rival your mastery of storywriting:laugh4:

Wow thanks for the compliment. It is a living story. The people shape the course of history.

[Spoofa]

with those traits no wonder Kleon didnt accept the peaceful subjugation of his kingdom. :2thumbsup: but his Charisma gave you a good speech to ponder on.



Anyway, how did u manage to get the aedui to agree to attack the romani? They always say "this attack against our rivals would'nt be good" or somthing to that effect.

[Basileus Seleukeia]

Anyway, how did u manage to get the aedui to agree to attack the romani? They always say "this attack against our rivals would'nt be good" or somthing to that effect.

Force Diplomacy perhaps?

[pseudocaesar]

probable because he is paying tribute. you have to give them an incentive to brave the risk.

[Chirurgeon]

lol "forced diplomacy". Now thats an interesting concept. How would one force a diplomatic resolution when diplomacy is built on comprimise? I have been paying tribute to the Aeudi for 20 years. I'm just cashing in a favor :)

Exactly PseudoCaesar

[Thaatu]

lol "forced diplomacy". Now thats an interesting concept. How would one force a diplomatic resolution when diplomacy is built on comprimise?
With a mod (https://forums.totalwar.org/vb/showthread.php?t=80763).

[Chirurgeon]

update tonight :)

[Chirurgeon]

https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterVITitle.jpg


Winter 240 BC - Syracuse
In a bizarre series of diplomatic moves Rome negotiated a peace and gave back Messana.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterVI-1.jpg

They blamed the action of a rogue general. However in a recent visit with my father he suspects there is more than meets the eye here. He detects some of our senatores are manipulating the situation for their own benefit. Through illicit agents my father has learned that there was some sort of protection treaty between Kyrene and the Ptolemies. If we attacked Kyrene then the Ptolemies would gain a right to rule Kyrenia. In addition there is an alliance between the Ptolemies and the Romans. However the Romans attacked Messana just after we attacked Kyrene. Father has figured that there is a senator or possibly others pulling the strings and playing Rome, Karthadastim, and the Ptolemies against each other. But the important question is why would a Karthadastim senator want a war with the Ptolemies? The re-diliverance of Messana back to us is a great relief because interestingly Kyrene has been captured while we were in Sicily preparing for a war with Rome that appears to be already over.
It is exactly as my father predicted. Our garrison was no match. Had we stayed in Africa instead of in Sicily we may have arrived in time. I hope my father and his contacts can figure out exactly what happened.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterVI-2.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterVI-3.jpg

However I had my sweet revenge. We sailed to Kyrenia and brutally beat the Egyptians. I await the rest of my men anxiously. Reserves have been raised and are being sent here. In addition I will be using the famed Numidian skirmishers. Due to blockades From Aegiptus and what not our economic status has dropped and because of that I have had to let the Elephants go for the time being. Perhaps later we can use them. I have placed my son in law in charge of Kyrene. He is a competent leader and one day may make quite the name for himself.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterVI-7.jpg


Winter 238 BC - Beseiging Aguilia.
In an attempt to draw attention away and prevent a backdoor assault I am working to Capture Aguila. Not much more than the sandpits that we posess south of our coastal region nonetheless losing this would be a blow the the Egyptians. Our journey has taken us into what is like a sea of sand.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/LibyanSandSea-1.jpg

The men have had to endure sandstorms and other malodys on our way here. By this time next year I hope to be heading back to the coast to take on the Ptolemies to the East of Kyrenia. Surely the Egyptians will realize they are conducting a war to their east and their west. This could only result in failure as your forces have to be divided.

Spring 236 BC- Ammonion Oasis
the Ptolemies sent a paltry force of light infantry and skirmishers in an attempt to dislodge us from their small town here in a sea of sand. With their defeat I am taking the opportunity to continue East. The oasis of Amonion is a sacred site and its capture would enable us refocus our attacks back to the north.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/OasisinLibya.jpg

The heat is oppresive and movement during the day is impossible. To deal with the situation I have some Numidian scouts who are quite familiar with this country to lead us at night and to camp during the day. This way the men will better their own survival and perhaps their morale will improve.

Winter 235 BC - North of the Ammonion Oasis.
After a nice fight with some of the barbarians the Ptolemies sent after us we successfully routed them. The Liby-Phonecians held their lines and performed admirably. Our skirmishers turned their men into porcipines and our cavalry smashed their retreating units. We rested for a bout six months and now we head north back to the coast to make more gains and be closer to the fleet who is bringing us more men for the fight. Clearly we have the momentum of this fight! I have sent envoys to the mighty Selucids to try and broker an alliance.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterVI-14.jpg


Winter 234 BC - Paratoinon
The Egyptians have been one step behind our actions for the entire campaign. We have outmarched them on several occasions using my Ethiopian guide at night to navigate around their small bands and now with great precision we have emerged from the desert and lie in front of the great Citadel of Paratoinon. This city has massive walls and a capable garrison. Made up of those Barbarians from the north that somehow the Ptolemies are using in their army. With their great strength the Ptolemies have given them armor and are quite the fighter. No doubt we will attract the Ptolemies attention and they will bring a full army to bear on us here. We are as prepared as we can be. Reinforcements are enroute from Kart Hadastim as we speak.

Winter 234 BC - Paratoinon
The Citadel stands defiant. However the army that came to remove me is shattered. They came with a variety of troops. With primitive spears, slingers, and phalynx. They feigned several charges and then focused a huge chunk of their forces on my left flank. I had to divert the Libyans from the right flank and move to counter their envelopment of the left flank. For a while things were a bit precarious. Then I brought the Cavalry to bear and that finally scattered them. Those men were cut down like wheat as they fled. Although we did quite well the skirmishers and the men on the extreme left seemed to take most of the damage. Their efforts were half-hearted and did not appear to have a solid plan of action.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterVI-12.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterVI-8.jpg

In there interim it would appear we have a short break. I have pulled some reserves from the fleet off the coast and have replenished my units.
Father has come to visit me. He is ill but insisted. He told me that he has much to tell me about the plot he suspected some six years ago. In his investigation that spanned several years he discovered a particulary powerful senator named Boccharis that has been slowly siphoning off money out of the treasury. Father was able to "procure" the help of one of his man servants and this man discovered that Boccharis had managed to siphon off a huge amount of money without much notice. With the provinces up to their necks in profits this can hardly seem surprising.
This is where things get interesting. The man servant said that Boccharis chartered a vessel out of Agrigento and met with Kleon of Kyrene secretly. He does not know what happened but an agent of the Pharaoh with a long scar on his face was at the meeting. When the meeting was over Boccharis came back to the ship and left...without the gold. How much gold he used is unknown but in addition to this shady meeting it was learned that Boccharis had lost his entire family estate several years ago on the island of Kyprus off the coast near Sidon. It was the Ptolemic army that did it and despite his cries the Ptolemy would not help him. His entire family was murdered. Kleon after the meeting with Boccharis then went to Alexandrea and met with the Ptolemy in private and achieved a defense agreement to protect Kyrenia should it be attacked.
Boccharis the following spring chartered a boat and this time went to Rome. In Rome he met a man named Lucius Spurrius a young general. Lucius had control of a small army that was stationed in Rhegium. When Kyrene was captured by our men, this Lucius led an assault on Messana. Lucius knew our army could not get there in time and he sacked the city. This Lucius disappeared from the Roman scene and everyone father talked to said that no one has seen him. Interestingly enough after the sacking of Messana the treasury of the city was empty. The Roman soldiers did not even know where the treasury was hidden. Boccharis must have told Lucius the location of the hidden gold and said that it was his if he could manage to attack the city. Boccharis knew that when this occured the army i commanded would be called to Sicily. The Ptolemies knew this as well and they attacked Kyrene. Boccharis had a fore-knowledge of the attack on Kyrene that the Ptolemies did not. So when it was attacked...under the protection treaty that Boccharis's gold paid for, the Ptolemies responded.
I sat there for some time mulling all of it over in my head. "So Boccharus started a war with the Ptolemies on purpose? He gave them gold! The same people that killed his family." I was stunned.
"He did all this to pre-arrange a war in hopes that Kart-hadastim would win and he would regain his lost estate in Kyprus."
But the plot thickens even more. Remember that shady agent with the scar? Well it turns out that when a peace agreement was reached between Carthage and Alexandrea, that Boccharis would have his estate restored and be promptly compensated. He actually would have gained nearly twice the land and his compensation would have been vast. The agent had bribed one of the scribes of the court at Alexandria to sneak in Boccharis's demands. Peace documents are the longest documents typically. It would be highly unlikely that anyone were to catch it. It was to be an offering of good will by the Egyptians to senator Boccharis who was personally affected by the war.
"My god father its no wonder it took you 6 years to get to the bottom of it."
Boccharis apparently caught wind that his plot had been foiled and he escaped into the Aures Mountains. It is likely that he will die there if he hasnt already. Boccharis is depending on us to come to a peace agreement. But what if we won the war and captured the entire Ptolemic Kingdom including Kyprus. Perhaps a pre-arranged treaty was supposed to happen? Well with Boccharis having fled it would seem his plan has unraveled. Along with the peace that Carthage and Egypt have enjoyed for a long time.

Winter, 232 BC - Kyrene
Just before the heat of summer enveloped the desert the battle for Paratoinon took place. A massive Ptolemic army full of Phalynx and sword weilding Galatians charged down to the sea where we had deployed.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterVI-4.jpg

I used a three line approach. The first line was mad of six units of skirmishers/light troops. They were to screen out the enemy and hopefully take out some of the infantry. The second line I deployed four units of Libyan spearmen. Using their Javelins they were too take down more of the enemy and engage them in Melee and tire the enemy to a certain extent. The third line was made of six units of the Liby-Phonecians which were to be a wall against the remaining enemy. The plan was to withdraw my light troops after they had released their missles and stood toe to toe for a bit. When they started to waver or take heavy casualties withdraw them to behind the Liby Phonecians for possible deployment later. Things did not go as planned. The heavy cavalry of the Egyptians poured down onto the skirmishers before they could let loose most of their missles. The remaining units of skirmishers released their missles into the face of the Galatians but it had almost no effect Few of the barbarians fell as the Skirmishers were quickly overwhelmed. Dissapointed that they had not caused any casualties I withdrew them before they would rout. Reduced by half the front line had been ravaged while 95% of the enemy remained intact. The Libyans released their projectiles as the front line withdrew and the enemy smashed into them. The Libyans had no effect on the heavily armored men of the Ptolemic army. They fought valiantly but after some time I had to withdraw them. Their numbers too were reduced nearly in half. Some units faring better than others. It would be up to the Liby-Phonecians to hold the enemy and allow my spent units to recover. The Liby-phonecians fought gloriously. However the Phalynx of the enemy was slowly eroding them. I redeployed the libyans and the skirmishers to flank the enemy. Althought they fought well they were exhausted and somewhat demoralized from the earlier fighting. The battle could never be turned. My cavalry exhausted themselves trying to break the phalynx and my men were completely spent. We withdrew after dark having sustained a smarting defeat. The seige was broken.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterVI-17.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterVI-16.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterVI-15.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterVI-18.jpg
(I would have a video of the lost battle but for some reason Fraps wouldn't record video)
After the loss I consulted with my advisors and began to re-analyze how to deal with this threat. One of the things the heavy shock infantry had from the Ptolemies was chain mail armor. Made up of thousands of interlocking rings this armor is very effective at stopping most weapons. The shock of realizing that the javelins of the men rarely punctured this armor made me consider its effectiveness. My men would need to be equipped with this. I have sent word to the senate. I realized the only effective way of stopping these armies were to exploit their weaknesses. The Liby Phonecians can go head to head with their men all day. They would remain the force that keeps the enemy pinned. Instead of using the Libyan spearmen in front of the the Liby phonecians they will be placed behind and used to swing up the flanks of the enemies force, allowing us to box them in. There they can use their javelins to hit the rear and flanks of the enemy. Making their javelins more efficient. So six units of heavily armored libyans, six units of Liby-phonecians and then the traditional lighter armored Libyans as a screening force. The latter instead of using mercenairies and skirmishers.
Although my father was ill I was not prepared completely for his passing. He died peacefully in the palace at Karthasdatim. I had a marvelous visit with him in the winter of last year and so I felt I had said good bye to him. My only regret is that he died knowing I lost this battle. But he must also have known that my persistance would carry the day. We are not beaten.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterVI-13.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterVI-6.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterVI-19.jpg

[Treverer]

( ) = speechless.

Now, really! Your AAR is just fantastic. Where do you get those marvellous pictures? And that intrigue ... ( ) = again speechless.

Keep writing, please.

[Chirurgeon]

Treverer,
One of the more difficult aspects of this campaign is the picture/painting integration into the story.
First I have to find pictures on the internet, using Google Earth and Google Pictures, that are of areas that the men have passed through. But these pictures have to be high quality and not show signs of modern civilization. For example finding pictures of Sahara Desert was easy but finding ones that were not copyrighted or had some guy next to a jeep was not. Google earht is very handy for this because you can find an exact location and see if anyone uploaded pics. Unfortunately 90% are of cities/buildings/cafe's, boats ina harbor, people hiking, or aerial pictures. Things that would be out of place in 272 BC! By finding pictures of preserved areas like coastal reserves or forests I have been able to give the reader a feel of the terrain.
Most interestingly I have a much better knowledge of North African geography than i did before.
One of the hardest things to find was pictures of Libya. LOL most of the pictures are Momar Quedaffi(spelling?). The pictures you see for the above chapters were difficult to procure due to the fact that Libya is so closed to the rest of the world.
I wanted some good night pictures of the Sahara but most of those are just not artistic or beautiful enough for my story(I have a high standard). Oh and there is a porn star named Sahara...lets just say this site would be real populare had I put those in there :) I guess you could say she was an Oasis? Ok thats just in poor taste.
Anyway thanks Treverer for following the story. It means alot for me to see that people have commented. It keeps me going. And to all you lurkers feel free to post...I dont bite(but I bet Sahara does ;)). Alright on that note im gonna stop. I'm working on chapter VII and it should be up sometime tomorrow. In the meantime let me know your thoughts

[overweightninja]

I'm a lurker i guess, and this is sexy
keep it coming mate!
:2thumbsup:

[Megalos]

Great stuff Chir! Loving the character intergration, Who si ptolemy in Egypt at the moment?

Where are the Carthies going to get their chain-mail from?


Keep it going! fabulous so far!


Mega

[Chirurgeon]

@ninja: welcome to the forum :) Thanks for the encouragement
@Megalos. Im not sure who the Ptolemy is at the moment. He is not in any of the cities around the Nile...perhaps he is hiding in Cyprus? Well on the chain mail issue is helped by sending back to karthadastim the chainmail off of dead Ptolemic troops. We are simply copying their design for our own use. It will take some time to get the Libyans properly equipped. However you will see the emergence of chainmail in my next installment. I am honored at the presence of the screenshot winner! Where are your screenshots at if you dont mind me asking? thanks,
Chirugeon

[Megalos]

It was the July screenshot comp (mainpage somewhere).

I like the novel approach you are taking with this too...I wouldn't have taken on Egypt so early, I would have been concentrating on Iberia etc.

What's going on, on the Iberian front btw? Any of the carthy generals taking a fancy to it yet?

Love the way you are roleplaying with this, letting the events and characters shape how it's going to unfold.

Anyway, like I said, keep up the good work!


Mega

[Chirurgeon]

I too would have not attacked the Ptlolemies. However they attacked Kyrene and the damage was done. Also remember that the Shophet at the time was against invading Iberia so the senate was still indecisive about an expansion north. I'm letting game conditions dictate my tactics and it makes for a more realistic, IMO, albeit unhistorical outcome. Thats the beauty of this game :) Thanks for following and Ill check your screenies out Mega :)

[Chirurgeon]

I guess ill just plop this tidbit here. I just finished reading "The Sword of Attilla" by Michael Ford. What a great read. Great story and really good action. I highly reccomend it :)

[Thaatu]

I usually don't comment on AAR's, even though I read them occasionally, but here I just have to say 'Thank you Chirurgeon!'.

[Chirurgeon]

Thank you Thaatu, I hope to continue to draw your support

[Cash Staks]

Once again another great update. Keep 'em coming!

[Chirurgeon]

Alright I will do that. Should have another update today or tomorrow :)

[paullus]

Wow, that was a vicious Ptolemaic army. EB2 will be nicer to you in that respect...

[Chirurgeon]

Wow, that was a vicious Ptolemaic army. EB2 will be nicer to you in that respect...

I suppose thats good. I think I could have beaten them had I used different troop placements. I needed a good smackdown for my overconfidence

[Chirurgeon]

https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/CrimsonSands.jpg


Winter, 230 BC - Besieging Paratoinin
Earlier in the year while enroute to attempt a second siege of this Citadel the Ptolemies sent a substantial army after us. Similiar to the one that defeated us two years ago. This time we were supreme and the men have now regained confidence. We again lay before the walls of this fortress and await its fall. The army they sent was designed to slow us down and the new battle plan worked to perfection.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/coastalEgypt2.jpg

Winter, 229 BC - Continuing the Siege
A dark development to the north has all of Karthadastim in an uproar. Rome is again Beseiging Messana. The city will fall once more to their forces. This time it is not due to a rogue general. Rome is hell-bent on conquest and they have us squarely in their sights. They are allied with the Ptolemies and they vow to cut up our Republic like a plate of fine beef, feeding each other off of our own flesh until they cant eat any more. The council of 12 elders who set the agenda for the Senate have met with me in an ad-hoc meeting off the coast with our powerful fleet.
Romes forces are substantial and they will overrun sicily if we cant stop them. We cannot afford another army. The conquering army I command has to have constant infusions of fresh troops which are merged with depleted units. The Ptolemies are reeling from the war and have lost territory. The Selucids continue to collapse the hopes of the Ptolemies east of the Nile. The loss of the territories so far has cost them income and land. One more victory and Alexandria will be before me. The very capital of the Egyptian empire! But what of Sicily? Do we abandon our campaign here and come home so close to destroying the Egyptian betrayers?
The debate raged for hours but it came down to one thing...our fleet. The Karthadastim fleet is more powerful than the Romans can dream of. If Rome tried to invade Africa the fleet would destroy them before enough men could arrive to seriously threaten us.
As Sophet I made the decision to continue the campaign here. Rome would not dare come to Africa. When the Nile is ours I will return to Sicily and exact revenge upon the Romans.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/CoastalEgypt3.jpg

Winter, 228 BC - Paraoitonion
Alas we have captured this city.

https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterVII-17.jpg

So many have died. The sand is now red with their blood. The Ptolemic armies were good but with my new Libyan heavy infantry that are more heavily armored they were able to easily turn the multitudes of lighter troops that the Ptolemies have sent at us. The general that commanded these men has escaped after he know the fight was lost. It is likely he escaped to Alexandria. I hope to see him again...
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterVII-3.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterVII-4.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterVII-5.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterVII-6.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterVII-7.jpg

I have gathered the men left a garrison and now we march in force to Alexandria. Time is critical. The Romans are moving faster than I anticipated. Messana fell a mere month after being seiged and the Syracuse and Libybaeum garrisons were bribed.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterVII-16.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterVII-18.jpg

Our Fleet has destroyed several of their own vessels, sending the men to a watery grave.

https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/CoastalEgypt5.jpg

Winter, 226 BC - Alexandrea
We left in the spring after capturing Paratonion. We trekked across a unique terrain. We largely followed the coast and our guides would plan each day so that we would find water. It seems everything here revolves around water. As we marched relentlessly into the east we were not harrased and slowly the terrain changed. We came upon some mountains, the first we had seen after leaving Kyrene. The guides became visibly anxious as we marched through the mountains. Finally we camped on the last ridge that would descend back into the desert. When the dawn broke I saw a magnificent sight before me. As far as the eye could see the sand of the desert was crimson. A sea of red stretched to the horizon. Apparantly the guides were unwillingly to proceed and I met with them to discuss why they were so nervous.
"My lord we cannot procede. It is forbidden." They calmly stated.
Not so calmly I asked them why we could not move east.
"You cannot cross the Crimson Sand without a blessing from the great gods of Egypt. Crossing the sands is a defilement of the gods!" They exclaimed.
I allowed them to explain.
"The sand has been stained red by the blood of so may mortals who would dare challenge the right of the gods. A dire warning to those that do not appease the old gods. It is said that when the gods grew angry by invaders or not enough respect from Egyptians the mortals were cast into a sandy abyss. After countless generations the sands before us has become stained with their blood! It is written that crossing the sand is a bad omen and those that dare risk annilation. Those that do not have the blessing from the gods are cursed."
"what must we do to appease the gods to cross?" I asked fascinated.
"You must get a high priest that represents each god and make an offering to them individually."
I left the guides and talked to my quartermaster and geographer who both said that going around the sand on land would take nearly two weeks.
"Two weeks! Can you imagine what the morale of the men will be after marching around a patch of sand?"
"What about the fleet?" I asked hopefully.
"The fleet has returned to Karthadastim for repairs and new supplies. It could take a month to get them here."
I made up my mind. I would march across the sand and straight to Alexandria. "Damn the gods". The guides took fishing vessels down the coast and rejoined the army on the other side of the ominous red sand.
I had to convince the men that crossing the sand would not bring us suffering and death. It was a gamble I hoped to pull off and the men would believe. I could not have them waver before the real fight for the Egyptian homeland began. After the guides left I addressed the men:
"Men of Carthage before us stands a great Omen. Our guides have told me that the great red sea of sand that lies before you was never here before. Our arrival has caused the very sand of this country to turn crimson! This is a good Omen. If the sand of the enemy has turned red, Imagine the damage you will do to their flesh. The enemy bleeds before we even get to the hard fighting. The advantage is ours! Will you take it? To not fight would upset the gods and endanger the brothers around you. Marching across the sand will give us added strength. The gods have painted us a path stained with our enemies own blood that leads to heart of their empire!! Will you join me brothers and fight Egypt with the gods will in our favor?"
A huge applause and yelling erupted from the men. The mood was ecstatic. Never had I seen such a sight. The men desperately wanted to conquer something. Each one of them felt kissed by the gods and for that they felt a touch of immortality.
So we marched and arrived at the gates of the great city. A strapping Greek general T. Memphites came out of the gates to discuss terms.

https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterVII-II.jpg

"So Hamlicar the Brave has made it to Alexandria. That is quite an accomplishment. You have recovered from defeat and changed your army." He squinted at the battle lines of my men and turned back to look at me.
"I fought you at Paratonion...although we were never formally introduced." He stated.
Nodding, "you looked familiar".
"I see you have chain mail on your Libyan infantry. Finally your men may actually give us a worthy fight. I also know that you passed across the Crimson Desert without proper etiquette for the gods. Did you tell your men of the defilement? Trudging across that sacred soil will only bring about their own demise. You will suffer greatly for your hubris, Carthaginian. Fortune does not favor you, Hamilcar of Karthadastim."
Changing the subject I spoke frankly "Surrender now and your lives will be spared. If you do not do this you too will suffer greatly."
"I have the favor of the gods on my side. You have angered them. My defiance is my strength and your arrogance is your downfall." And with that he left to go back into the city.
We have cut them off and already the Ptolemies try to pry us from their capital. I have told the men to put yourself in their shoes. What if Kart-Hadastim was being seiged? How would you react? I guarantee these men will fight hard to regain their lost land. My men are so brave it makes me proud to speak of their deeds. The largest contingency of the army, the Libyans, fight oh so well. The youngest recruits are placed in the front of the Liby-Phonecians and they have made a name for themselves defending the rest of the army and shocking the enemy with their reliency. Despite their lesser armor and lower quality spears they perform admirably. They resist being pulled from battle even after suffering shocking casualties. The remaining men want to retain their pride. I have been rewarding the bravest of these men with promotions to the Libyan Heavy Infantry. Armed with the best spears, shields and the new chainmail armor, it is every one of these young Libyan's dream to serve in that beautiful formation. More Liby-Phonecians come from the west each week to further bolster my forces. Kart-hadastim has informed me they are making chain mail and better shields and spears for the Liby-Phonecians. It would seem the effectiveness of this armor has convinced the Senate to fund the Massive rearming process. It will take years before enough armor has been pain-stakingly crafted for each man in the army.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterVII-23.jpg


Spring, 224 BC -Alexandrea
The magnificent city has fallen. The battle for the city was intense. Thousands of Ptolemic troops poured down upon us.
Led by T. Memphites himself they made a hell of a fight. Their phalynx against ours. Their heavy infantry against mine. Their cavalry against my own. For some time the lines of battle were static. From above it must have looked frozen in time, with only the occasional man falling down and another replacing him. I watched from behind as my light troops held for some time before being withdrawn. The Liby-Phoenicians stood as they always do...an anchor. However even their lines began to become disjointed. Several times during the fight I would have them withdraw, in order, several yards and reform in line. The Egyptian Phalynx was not quick enough and they were able to reform without much harrasment from the Ptolemic troops. A fierce cavalry battle took place off the left flank. Finally our heavy infantry Libyans who were stopping the flanking of the Phonecian troops managed to rout the famed Ethiopian Guard. T. Memphites died while trying to save his city from capture.
Scenes from the Primary battle of Alexandria:

https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterVII-26.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterVII-11.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterVII-12.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterVII-13.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterVII-14.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterVII-15.jpg

Video Summary of The Battle To Capture Alexandria:
http://s67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/?action=view&current=PushToTheNile-2.flv

A last effort was made by a Ptolemic army scrapped together into a desperate force. With so many of their Hellenic generals slain by the spears of my men, we faced an army that was leaderless. Wave after wave of attackers crashed onto the face of my men. Like giant boulders they stood firm against the relentless tide of Ptolemic troops.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterVII-19.jpg

Never did they falter or rout. So many died this day. We spend a day just burning the bodies and offering prayers to the gods. When that gruesome work was finished we moved into the city.

There are many wonders here. Alexander the Great lies entombed here.

https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/AlexandertheGreat.jpg

I have yet to visit the site but I will at some point. A great library full of scrolls waits to be investigated. Much of it is in Greek.

https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/AlexandriaLibrary.jpg

At night you can see the magnificent lighthouse unlike anything I have ever seen. Using glass, mirrors, and flame it is a guiding beacon for the ships in this wondrous port.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/AlexandriaLighthouse.jpg

In the mean time our army is preparing to march south. Another great city with its own hallowed relics of greatness will need to be conquered.
We have lost Corsica to the Romans. They slaughtered the garrison and put the populace to the sword...Bastards. The money that city brought in was substantial. The treasury struggles to keep up with all the expenses we have. The Epirotes have negotiated a ceasefire with us and they have stopped their blockades. I am unable to wage war in two locations simultaneously. Our losses in Sicily will be repaid by Egypt.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/CoastalEgypt4.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterVII-29.jpg

[Rundownloser]

Another excellent installment.:2thumbsup:

[Chirurgeon]

Thank you rundownloser...I dont think I've seen you post before. Thanks for following the story :)

[Rundownloser]

Yeah, I only joined recently, though I've been playing since 0.74.

Up until now, I had just been lurking. I even read your Roman AAR: another great one (I rank it up there with the World According To The Koinon).

Keep up the great work.

[Chirurgeon]

Yeah, I only joined recently, though I've been playing since 0.74.

Up until now, I had just been lurking. I even read your Roman AAR: another great one (I rank it up there with the World According To The Koinon).

Keep up the great work.

The world according to Koinon was awesome!! Alot of comedy built in there...a nice and refreshing approach to AARs.

[Rundownloser]

The continued updates concerning Corpulentus [sic] and his ultimately untrustworthy german chef were a nice touch.

[Chirurgeon]

The continued updates concerning Corpulentus [sic] and his ultimately untrustworthy german chef were a nice touch.
:yes:

[Wolfman]

Yes that was a nice touch with TWAK! Great update Chirurgeon!

[Chirurgeon]

Thank you gentlemen...update later today!

[Bobolicious]

Yay, this is an great story - alot better than my required reading for school.

[Chirurgeon]

haha thanks Bobolicious. Well if your required reading was anything like mine it wouldnt take much for something to be more interesting. I had to read some boring stuff. Anywayz thanks for following the AAR.

[Chirurgeon]

Ok I lied i guess the update will be on Tuesday

[overweightninja]

Keeping us in suspense huh?

:D

[Chirurgeon]

Been busy with real life unfortunately. I should have the update tomorrow.

[Sassem]

Title of the next chapter : LOST IN THE DESERT:clown: :clown: :clown:

Anyway Chirurgeon is one of the very few that updates his post frequently i'm sure his next chapter would be a good one ...again

[Chirurgeon]

Funny you should say that...I'm working on the next chapter now...Its huge. LOL it took me a while to come up with a title for this chapter. But yours works :)

[Chirurgeon]

https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/SandAndWater.jpg


Winter, 222 BC - Marching south of Memphis
After a bitter struggle we fought two significant battles to gain the city of Memphis. In one battle we fought in the great shadow of the Pyramids. Khufu's old tomb stared down upon us eternally present in its magnificence. The battles we fought seemed insignificant compared to the marvels of the Giza Plateau. I could not tell if the men were inspired or intimidated.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/sphinx.jpg

Regardless they were a strategic advantage as we used the walls of the complex to protect our flanks. The history of this place humbles any living soul who comes here. I did not know that man could built such things.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/Giza3.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/Giza2.jpg
As we moved south along the Roads that paralled this great river you realize that the only reason Egypt exists is because of this great river. Its life giving floods allow huge tracts of land to be planted with all sorts of crops. There is so much grain swaying in the breeze one can almost see the wind as it gently
rustles the great husks of the wheat.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/nile2.jpg

I am told the water level is low. In a few months, great mountains to our south will release the snow they captured over the winter and the water will push the river over its banks and dump life giving nutrients into the soil. In the last two battles we are fighting less and less quality troops. Most of the men are light spearmen, raised in haste, to protect their lands. The further we move south the darker the skin of these people become. A fascinating land indeed.
Scenes from the battle of Memphis:
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterVIII-1.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterVIII-2.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterVIII-3.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterVIII-4.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterVIII-5.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterVIII-6.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterVIII-7.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterVIII-9.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/nilesunset.jpg

Winter 220 BC - Thebes
We continue to follow this great river to the south. In the winter the ships move south against the flow of the river using the winter winds from the north to fight the current. After dropping their cargo they lower their sails and let the current take them back to the mouth of the river. It is truly remarkable how an entire civilization is dependent on one river. The fact that there is a great river in a sandy abyss is truly impressive. It is like a childs mother who through her breasts provides the life necessary for their survival. Should her milk ever dry up, this place would be just another desert.
Earlier there was a battle for the city of Thebes.
The enemy fields more farmers than soldiers I'm afraid. The crimson sands before we arrived in Alexandrea were not the only red sands to be had. So much blood has spilt we have created our own river that runs next to the Nile.
Yet another ancient city had to be subdued. Again I have been careful not to disrupt the rituals of these ancient people. The fight from the natives has been minimal. the quality of their troops is more primitive. Elaborate chain mail has given way to padded linen. At 54 I feel as old as some of these monuments we pass. One of my generals is with me should something happen to me. Although these men that accompany me are better traders than fighters. A new general from Kart-Hadastim is on his way to take over command. Having put down several rebelious Numidian tribes along the Atlas Mountains he is likely a good choice. I yearn to return to the city of Alexandrea with all its beauty and wonders.
Battle of Thebes:
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterVIII-10.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterVIII-11.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterVIII-13.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterVIII-15.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterVIII-12.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/Luxor.jpg

Winter 218 BC - Enroute to Alexandria
At the age of 56 I have entrusted the forces to my protege.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterVIII-24.jpg

He was chosen after the last one was deemed not up to the task of running the military. The divorce from my forces was bittersweet. Many cried and moaned when i announced I was leaving. It is time i settle in to a more relaxed routine. I am feeling my age and although the men are inspired by my presence I do not have the same vigor as when I was younger. M. Castulo is in charge of the military now. He is a capable commander. The war for the Nile will soon be at a close. There are a few holdout cities further up the great river and then the Ptolemic influence is gone so therefore we will not need to progress further.
My last battle was for the city of Hiffa, came about due to the fact that the leader of the Ptolemies was holed up in this oasis called Hiffa. He had fled there when the war started as a precaution and now he was trapped.
Our lines drew themselves up against each other. Two parallel lines facing each other. L. Thraikikos and myself rode out and met about halfway between the lines.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterVIII-20.jpg

He was old and feeble. He scarcely seemed to be able to hold himself up on his own horse. Hunched over he and I sat on our steeds staring at each other and the men behind us. He spoke first.
"I somehow knew we would meet before I died."
"It does not have to be this way...I can grant you safe passage to Syria. Surrender the city and you shall live." I replied politely.
I really did not like the idea of killing the king of the Ptolemies. Especially a brittle old man.
"Ha! For me to surrender now would only delay my death by the hands of my own people." he stated stoicly.
He continued, "I have spent the last fifty years of my life building what you have destroyed. It is an appropriate fate that I at the end of my life, the king of my people, die by the sword of the man that ruined me. It is a fitting end I should think. I am dying and my empire will join me in the grave. Life, it would seem, has come full circle."
He paused and scanned my men standing in the early morning sun. The fresh dew still on the ground. A light mist hovered amongst the palms.
"This will be your last battle Hamalcar?"
Surprised by the question I answered as best I could. "Yes I will be travelling north to Alexandrea to become governor."
"Ah Alexandrea...a beautiful city and one I feel is appropriate for you."
"Why do you say that?" I asked.
"Ride with me would you?" He asked
I obliged following him as he rode between the drawn up armies. My forces seemingly looking forward to the battle and his looking like they would rather be harvesting crops. "My men are going to die today not for me, son, but rather for you." He said thoughtfully.
I could not comprehend what he was saying. I let him go on.
"You see since your march down the coast at Kyrenia and your recovery at Paratonion, nothing stopped you. Our armies could not stop you, the desert could not stop you, and the gods could not stop you. This makes you the most powerful mortal possible. How can one cross a boundary laid down by the gods themselves and you just walk across with no regard for consequence?" He gestured broadly as he said this.
"Then when you conquered the great Nile that is when my men began to whisper 'Hamalcar the great'. You had beaten the people whose ancestors fought for Alexander the Great!"
He proceeded to tell me that no one has ever done what I have done. "Name one conquerer, general, or empereror who has united Africa under one flag. One standard for all men to fight under. It was your destiny to rule this land and my men are willing to die knowing they faced the most honorable of all generals. Some would say they died by an army of a god! They know when they die they will pass into the annals of history. Their offspring will speak of these men as their ancestors that fought and died against Hamalcar the Great."
I tried to speak but he held up his unsteady hand.
"Remember that all empires must come to an end, Hamalcar. Some of us are just unfortunate enough to actually see the end."
He turned his horse and gently told me "May you always drink from the Nile" Then he trotted back to his lines.
I have never told anyone of our conversation. But to this day I am perplexed.
He led his men bravely but against my seasoned men he did not have the numbers to carry the day. He died with several of his bodyguards as he tried to rally his men. Outnumbered and untested in battle most of the men died easily enough. Through out the fighting I still could not shake what he told me. How could someone die for an enemy? I suppose I would never know the motives. By the midday there were no more enemies left.
Battle for Helfa:
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterVIII-21.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterVIII-21-1.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterVIII-22.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterVIII-23.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/Ramses.jpg
Video Compilation(awesome snapshots of something i call "infantry bowling" :)
http://s67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/?action=view&current=TheNileCampaign.flv


Winter 216 BC - Alexandrea
I have arrived in this great city once again. I have taken up residence in the palace and have fallen into a comfortable routine. Sleeping in the same place each night is a welcome change from what I have done in the past. M. Castulo has sent word that he has pressed as far as Kush. I have told him that when he is finished there he needs to return to Alexandrea. It would seem our old allies the Lusitanns have betrayed us. Far away in Iberia our trading colony of Mastia has become a victim of their aggression. First the city was beset with plague and then the damn Iberians tried to besiege the city. Thankfully the Aeudi have been giving them a go at it in the north around the Pyranees. Rome continues her expansion and the damn Selucids are not capturing Ptolemic territory as they were supposed to as per our agreement. Alas I am too old to be frustrated by things. I will do my best to maintain the image of Kart-Hadastim. Younger men will have to continue the fight.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/Giza1.jpg

Winter 213 BC - Alexandrea
All of North Africa is under our control. After countless years of fighting we have finally achieved what no one else had done. One banner flies over each city of North Africa. Just as L. Thraikikos said so. It is good this is finished. We will need to refocus our efforts. Rome has attacked our Allies the Aeudi. The Lusitanns have also attacked them. While the Lusitanns are focused in the northern part of Iberia I will send Castulo to Iberia to claim the resources for Kart-Hadastim. The senate has agreed that we cannot stand by while the Romans continue their expansion. It is time to bring Iberia into the fold so that we have the necessary resources to go up against the Romans. The senate will be commissioning funds to support several armies for Castulo to use. The fleet is here in Alexandrea and waits to sail back to Kart-Hadastim at once. I will rest here far away from the fighting.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterVIII-27.jpg

[Bobolicious]

that was quite an end to an interesting campaign. I cant wait for the next update.

[Basileus Seleukeia]

Ha, I had a similiar idea when my Seleucid king will fight the ptolemaic king in the AAR I want to do when the new version of EB is out. I think that this character calls for some apathic resignation:laugh4:
This is surely the best chapter of this story. You are amazing, "Chirurgeon the Great (Storyteller)" :laugh4:

[Cash Staks]

This is surely the best chapter of this story. You are amazing, "Chirurgeon the Great (Storyteller)" :laugh4:

Agreed. Can't wait to see what happens next.

This inspires me to go take on the Ptolemies in my Makedonian campaign. I'm just too involved with the Seluecids right now though... Guess I'll just have to knock them out and swing back to Egypt.

[Bootsiuv]

I want another update now. I don't care if you just wrote one. That's no excuse. Now, now, now. :P

[Basileus Seleukeia]

Ehm, Chirurgeon, how did you chaneg the layout of the battle screen? so that the buttons for run, fire at will etc pop up at teh top of the screen when you scroll to there. I have seen that in many AARs, but never found out how to do it.

[Bootsiuv]

I've never seen that. I figured he just cropped out the UI.

[Karo]

he uses minimazide Ui I believe

[Treverer]

...
This is surely the best chapter of this story. You are amazing, "Chirurgeon the Great (Storyteller)" :laugh4:
Right he is! Right he is! A Great Story-Teller this Chirurgeon is! :applause:

[Rundownloser]

This AAR is too damn good.

[Wolfman]

This is surely the best chapter of this story. You are amazing, "Chirurgeon the Great (Storyteller)" :laugh4: Agreed. All hail Chirurgeon the Great! One of the Legendary Bards on this forum!

[Sassem]

Excellent, especial the conversation between the two generals



Ehm, Chirurgeon, how did you chaneg the layout of the battle screen? so that the buttons for run, fire at will etc pop up at teh top of the screen when you scroll to there. I have seen that in many AARs, but never found out how to do it.


I've never seen that. I figured he just cropped out the UI.


in you're EB folder

\Activision\Rome - Total War\EB\preferences




then preferences.txt

then change the red word FALSE/TRUE

LABEL_CHARACTERS:FALSE
LABEL_SETTLEMENTS:TRUE
MINIMAL_UI:FALSE
CAMPAIGN_MAP_MAX_SCROLL_SPEED_MIN_ZOOM:30
CAMPAIGN_MAP_MAX_SCROLL_SPEED_MAX_ZOOM:30

Sorry Chirurgeon a few weeks ago i was asking myself about that too and i had a hardtime to find that out so that why i reply i now it is not the proper place

[Rundownloser]

Cool, I've always been curious about the minimized ui.

[mrdun]

Very good work Chirugeon, this is the first of your works I have read and I must say you have a fan. :beam:

If you are interested in ancient warfare like I am may I suggest to you the Colleen McCullough series' about the rise of Julius Caesar, the first of 6 is called The First Man in Rome.

[Bootsiuv]

Thanks for the info Sassem. I was not aware of that either.

[Wolfman]

I've always wanted to do this but never found a guide on doing it. Thank you
Sassem!:beam::2thumbsup:

[Chirurgeon]

Well I left the house this afternoon after posting this to go cycling and I come back and there are a ton of replies! I must say I greatly appreciate all of your comments. I am a little concerned that i have raised your expectations too high lol. I hope future chapters will be as impressive as this one. I will admit this one took the longest time to write and find pictures for. When the battle for memphis loaded and I saw pyramids on the battlemap i nearly fell out of my chair! To fight in the shadows of the pyramids was so cool. The next chapter is a shorter one. It is a chapter of transition.
Oh the UI thing was from reading the Roma's bulls AAR i believe. The author told how to remove the banners and arrows from the troops and how to maximize the screen so you didnt see the controls. Its very handy indeed. OK I'm off to go play to satisfy my fans voracious appetite for this AAR :egypt: :whip:

[Sassem]

You can als auto hide your radar and unit cards in the minimized UI it's with the F keys i believe 2,3,4 if i'm not mistaken

[Treverer]

...
I am a little concerned that i have raised your expectations too high lol. I hope future chapters will be as impressive as this one.
...
Well, even if you fall back / down to the level of your first chapters, IT STILL IS DAMN GOOD !!!!

So, don't worry, be happy! :beam:

[Chirurgeon]

Chapter IX - Preparations

Winter 212 BC - Alexandrea
My name is Melcartpiles Castulo. The senate has voted me to succeed Hamalcar when he passes. I come from a fine heritage of warriors. My father was from Sparta and was a mercenary captain that first worked with Epiros. This took him to Italy where he left after the Epirotes were driven from there by the Romans. Traveling to Sicily he followed the garrisons as they evacuated the island and wound up being employed as an advisor to the senate. By the time he died and I came of age he had established himself firmly. He married a Phoenician woman and I am a result of their lust. Having been taught all things military I felt I could continue to advise the senate on military matters. I was not expecting much but when Hamalcar saw how I dealt with rebellious tribes south of Kart Hadastim he made the suggestion that I should command the armies of Carthage. The senate agreed and now I am here in Alexandrea consulting with Hamalcar. This man with his vaulted army has done so much in his lifetime. He was a year shy of 30 when he brought Kyrene to its knees. For the next 25 years he brought Egypt under our control. To reward his men we have agreed that they can have estates along the Nile and other locations. We have divided up land parcels for men that fought so hard for Carthage. Some of these men are in their 40's and have known nothing but war. To go from fighting to farming must be an interesting transition. Although some wanted to come with me to Iberia I insisted they had given much already to Carthage and they should enjoy the rest of their lives in peace.
Our future lies in Iberia and I have met with Hamalcar to decide the best path for procuring the wealth of that land. Capturing Iberia will be difficult but we will be using our cities of Gader and Mastia to train men for a campaign. These cities are a healthy mix of Punic and Iberian. Having been trained in the way of the phalynx we will use this formidable weapon to crush the mobs of the Iberian peninsula. I will be leaving in the spring to supervise activities at those sites. With the war essentially over here In Egypt our resources are being devoted to upgrading valuable trade infrastructure. 25 years of persistant and draining war has forced the senate to neglect building projects such as mines, markets, and ports. The grain supply from the Nile floodplain will bring in a substantial profit. When we secure Iberia I have a feeling I know where the senate will send me.

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Winter 210 BC - Gader, Iberia
Having sailed for two years and stopping in each major city along the way it is painfully apparent that the republic still has alot of internal problems to sort out. The size of the republic is overwhelming. It is hard to believe that from the Nile in the East to the great sea west of Africa, all that is in-between belongs to Kart-Hadastim. Our new acquisitions in Egypt have been difficult to manage and I am quickly running out of competent administrators. Corruption is rampant. The expense of raising an army in Iberia is taxing the treasury greatly. The senate complained greatly and I replied to them : "Gentlemen, yet another reason to take these rich lands". The conquest of Iberia will fill the treasury until it overflows. My preparations continue.
During my journey Hamalcar passed into the ethereal plane and no doubt will join the likes of Alexander.

https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/ChapterIX-1.jpg

The senate has decreed a temple to be built in his honor. After his accomplishments I feel like a shadow that is trampled upon relentlessly. As the ripples of his death relent I am eager to perform my duties and begin the long fight for this rich land.

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Summer 207 BC - Encamped North of Gader, Iberia
I have been training and recruiting for two years now. The men of Iberia are fierce warriors and as a result I am actively employing them in my army. The majority of my forces now consist of Iberian troops. The mainstay of the Iberian forces called the Scutarii will be my light spear infantry. They are to replace the Libyans from the long African campaign against Egypt. The lighter armored Libyans had amazing staying power and with some of the greek mercenaries at Hamalcar's disposal was a hell of a screening force. I have told these Iberian Scutari of the prowess of the Libyans and they assure me that they will take care of the job.

https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/ChapterIX-3.jpg

Behind the screening force of course are the Vaulted Liby Phonecians. They have earned the name "Wall of Carthage" and appropriately so. No forces have ever been able to breach their stubborn position. Those that do try are faced with a sea of speartips. I have made these men even more strong by adding chain mail to their armor. They are depended upon to pin down the enemy to allow a more specialized force to move into action.

https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/ChapterIX-2.jpg

From the front as anyone knows the phalynx is nearly immovable. From the flanks however they can be worn down. To prevent flanking I am employing the best of all the Iberians I can find. Outfitted with the finest armor and unique helmets, they will be the deathblow to the enemy. These assault infantry will move against any men that attempt flanks of the Liby-Phonecians. They are a capable and ferocious force.

https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/ChapterIX-6.jpg

I have never been impressed with Greek cavalry. My father was an infantryman however I feel that the men of Iberia have a significant edge against others because of their cavalry. Nobles from adjacent areas have been highly paid to make up a specialized group of heavy cavalry. These men are some of the best riders I have ever seen. Even the nimble Numidians do not have the staying power that these Iberians have in battle. Each of their horses is equipped with an armored blanket to protect them from all but the most determined thrust. They come at a steep price but i will use them to counter other heavy cavalry and give a death blow to the rear of infantry units.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/ChapterIX-4.jpg

There are a range of skirmishers that reside in the hills of the area but I have hand picked several units of Belaric Slingers. These islanders are proficient and accurate with a sling. Using lead bullets they can place the bullet into a mans eye for a good distance. They have the ability to maim and wound scores of men before contact is even made. For every man that falls before he reaches my lines, it is one less to contend with upon the initiation of melee fighting. From what I have seen of the Lusitanns significant forces they generally do not employ slingers or archers. The enemy will be outranged at the beginning of the battle.

https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/ChapterIX-5.jpg

Looking at all the maps laid out in front of me it is apparant that we must capture the mining regions to the north and east of Gader. Succum-Magi and Baikor will be the first cities to feel the new army I have created.
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[Thaatu]

I must complement you on that horde. Simple and effective, although a bit expensive.

[Basileus Seleukeia]

Phew, that is some army! I hope you took good care of your old Lybian veterans and granted them great portions of land (you could use the cartaginian version of the estates to roleplay this:laugh4: ) They are 25 years older now, after all. I'm sure that Iberia will fall to your hands, but I hope that the Iberians will give a good fight! And after those Iberian tribes are no more, I could think of one warlike mediteranean city-state you could head for next...:2thumbsup:

[Chirurgeon]

Indeed indeed. I didnt put a picture of Castulo in the update but if you are interested look in chapter VIII. He makes an appearance there.
@Thaatu:
Yes it is expensive. I have tweaked it since the last update. Now I only use four units of Iberian Assault Infanty and six units of Iberian medium spearmen. Those Iberians are so resilient. You will see in the next chapter they are a dependable and flexible force.
@Basileus Seleukeia:
Thats exactly what I did in Egypt. I did grants of land where the garrisons were at and began to replace the libyans and older units from Egyptian campaign with native units. Thats so funny you mentioned that. Now im building estates in many of the cities along the nile. Damn I had that written in my notes but forgot to add it to the chapter. Alright its in there now check the edit of the chapter out

[Rundownloser]

Is this new character the son of that Spartan mercenary that Carthage starts with (something like Xanthippos)? If he is, that's pretty cool, because I've never seen that guy have kids (even after roughly four or five games with Carthage). I think he even starts off with at least a trait or two that makes him more infertile. Really unusual for him to have kids, but this is hardly the ordinary Carthaginian campaign. It's much cooler.

Thumbs up on another cool installment, and I can't wait to see the harm that army is going to inflict on those poor Luso's. They're f-u-k-t.

[Chirurgeon]

Is this new character the son of that Spartan mercenary that Carthage starts with (something like Xanthippos)? If he is, that's pretty cool, because I've never seen that guy have kids (even after roughly four or five games with Carthage). I think he even starts off with at least a trait or two that makes him more infertile. Really unusual for him to have kids, but this is hardly the ordinary Carthaginian campaign. It's much cooler.

Thumbs up on another cool installment, and I can't wait to see the harm that army is going to inflict on those poor Luso's. They're f-u-k-t.

Yes it is the grandson of Xanthipus...he had one child...a boy and that child had several children. Xanthipus was mainly sidelined during my AAr as a governor of Agrigento, south of Carthage. I guess I never really thought about it before. Another thing I have noticed is that after Hamalcar II died he was the last one with the BArcine/anti-barcid trait. I have no family members that have those traits since he died.

Thank you the campaign is definitely interesting.

[BozosLiveHere]

You should get some points in the Barcid line when you conquer Iberia and Sicily.

[Spoofa]

Lol wow, I always sort of get a sense of being dumbstruck after reading one of your chapters.

[Chirurgeon]

Lol wow, I always sort of get a sense of being dumbstruck after reading one of your chapters.

haha did you mean awestruck? Anyway I'm working on the next installment.

[Spoofa]

dumb·struck

ADJECTIVE:

So shocked or astonished as to be rendered speechless.



:laugh4:

[Wolfman]

That stack is downright EVIL Chirurgeon.:hmg::evil: I like it:2thumbsup:

[overweightninja]

Chirugeon your AAR gets sexier every time I check :beam:

I had a question for you if you'd care to answer it, do you write the AAR as you play the campaign, or is it a previous campaign that you've taken the time to document, write up and organise later on?
Just interested (yeah I have strange interests :D)
Cheers mate keep up the good work! :2thumbsup:

[Chirurgeon]

@Ninja:
I generally am ahead in the game by about one chapter. I do the writing as I play. Alot of times I will revisit the various entries and add more info. Most of the work comes from editing screenshots and videos. The next installment has over 30 game captures and there will be some backround scenery pictures as well. So probably close to 40 pictures all told in the next installment. I had 12 minutes of video I captured from various battles. I will compress that to less than 4 minutes though. According to Xfire I spend around 20 hours a week playing EB. Its alot of work. You guys are worth it though :):sweatdrop:

@Spoofa: Ah ok...not sure why I thought that wasnt a word

[Chirurgeon]

Update Tonight!! :)

[Cash Staks]

I'm looking forward to it!

[Chirurgeon]

https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXtitle.jpg


Spring 206 BC - Baikor
We marched for the bulk of the summer and crossed the great river into Lusitann territory. We were not welcomed. A group of tribesman challenged us as we tried to cross the river. My new Iberian spears worked wonders and killed many. Crossing the river and beseiging Baikor for nearly a year we had some light battles with the various tribes that inhabit these foreboding hills. After a seige of a month we were attacked in the winter by several bands of spearmen from neighboring tribes. By the end of winter one last attempt was made to dislodge us. It was halfhearted and doomed to fail. The Iberians finally relented their stronghold. We captured much gold and silver in the fall of the city. I sent several chests of it back to Kart-Hadastim to appease the senate and to let them know how were doing. I used some of the remaining loot to employ some more Iberian spearmen. They are a magnificent force to behold with their bronze and black outfits glittering in the sun. Our army has not had a real test. I feel as if the Iberians are testing our resolve and looking for weaknesses. I should hope they are dissapointed. I anxiously await a garrison from Gader to take control of this city and a governor to maximize our mining profits.

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Winter, 205 BC - Beseiging Succum Margi
After resupplying we traveled the short distance west and have laid seige to a second Lusitann city of Succum Margi. We have had several "altercations" with the natives. Their tenacity and resilience is much greater than what I encountered in Egypt. They fight with a reckless abandon that surprised me. We have yet had a large scale fight with these men. When we do It will a tremendous battle I'm sure.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/Iberianlandscape4.jpg



Winter, 204 BC - Encamped West of Succum Murgi
I had rams constructed and the few defenders of the town fell to my Iberian men. Shattering the pathetic walls they stormed the center of the town and despite the few men they did have they put up a tenacious fight. My Iberians proved again that they are great warriors. Here in the camp there is a mood of Euphoria. We are preparing for a spring offensive against the capital of the tribes. A place called Oxtraca. This place is well defended and the king himself is said to be recruiting warriors from the surrounding area. I too am recruiting. As the Iberians begin to make a name for themselves the small villages we pass through see the men in their shiny armor and the glorious cavalry, and they too want to fight. I offer gold and other treasures to each man that enlists. My force has swollen to an immense size and the officers are concerned about having too many Iberians fighting for us. They are concerned they may turn against us. I decided to see the level of their dedication. I left the main camp, and traveled to a creek where a sea of animal skin tents had been erected. The men saw me walking alone and simply stared. Finally a man came up to me and identified himself as Margish.
"My lord you have come unexpectantly. Is their something you require? Something I can do for you?"
He spoke in very good Punic and I told him I just wanted to see the men.
"Ah we are preparing for our evening meal."
"Where do you hail from Margish?" I asked curiously.
"My village is large by village standards it is called Otaoa. I am the chieftain and control many men. It would seem I am in charge of your Iberians."
"Well that is a relief. You are obviously a fine leader Margish. You lead the Iberi heavy Cavalry?"
"Yes my lord we are a proud cadre of men. Many of them have fought by my side for many years." He replied proudly.
"I have seen your training. Your men are most magnificent as they fight. I can tell they look to you for many things."
I took a deep breath as i walked with Margish, "I want you to be my cavalry commander."
Margish continued to walk unfazed, "I was hoping I could be of a greater use to you my lord. I accept your proposal."
It was important for me to forge ties with these warriors as they would be employed by me for some time. I was criticized but it is not for others to question my decision.
We walked amongst the many tents that dotted all along the streambed. For more than a mile it snaked along with the men using the river for all their needs. Many men were gathered around their fires. The flocks that feed the men ambled about. The goats and sheep were remarkably tough. Able to eat anything for sustenance. Some of the men laughed and joked as they prodded the dirt with flattened sticks.
Pointing at one group of eight men gathered around a fire i asked what they were doing.
"Ah they are cooking their dinners."
He went on to explain, " Earlier they let the fires burn down to embers and put those embers in a hole. Then they take a sheep or goat and after killing it, stuff the stomach and intestines with meat and vegetables. Then they place sand on top of the embers and put the whole thing in the hole putting more embers on top."
"You dont use pots or pans or kettles?" I asked as I watched the men move embers about.
"No no that is not our way. The meat cooks in the bellies of the slain animals. We have no need for such things. How can one fight when you have to haul so much extra equipment. It would slow and tire the army."
I sat there and watched the men and realized these men were the perfect warriors. They traveled light, fought hard, and apparently ate well.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/lusitano.jpg
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Each tent housed around 8 men and they used the sheep and goats for everything. They milked mares and made cheese by burying the curdled milk often in the stomachs of sheep and other animals. They would place the stomachs of these animals, bloated with fermenting milk into piles of hay and manure that periodically dotted the camp. The heat from the breakdown of the hay and other plant material caused the cheese to form. In a week the men had a wad of cheese in the shape of the stomachs of the animals they kept near. The cheese kept a very long time and they would carry this with them as they traveled on campaign.
Taking it all in I looked at Margish in great wonder.
"Your people are truly amazing. Phonecians would have never thought of all this."
He was most grateful and we eventually wound up at his tent where we gorged on meats, carrots, and tubers all stewed in the bellies of their flocks. It was good. Earlier the men had discovered honey in some nearby trees and harvested it to make a delicious dessert.
After dinner I made Margish a proposal. He was my age but knew his men better than I. A monster of a man he would serve me well. I asked him to be my chief advisor. I needed a liason to his men and having been impressed at how he led his men against the enemy, I would need him for the campaign ahead. He accepted that he would meet with me daily and we would discuss tactics and how to best utilize his men. Having fought each other for years these Iberians had developed into a formidable force. In one night I had gained a cavalry commander and a chief adviser. No doubt there would be some Punic jealously to be had but I delicately put their concerns to rest.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/Iberialandscape5.jpg

Winter 203 BC - Oxtraca, Iberia
The capital of the Lusitanns has fallen into our hands. The king sent his youngest son and several small but capable armies to attempt to break the Seige. Their men threw themselves at our lines and could not break through. The Iberians i employed in the front lines as a screening forcer were always outnumbered and still they blistered the enemy until they smarted all over. The vast majority of the makeup of these Iberian "relief" forces were made up of hastily assembled men who had poor equipment, little training, but incredible staying power. Some of their units would lose half their men before they routed. This is much more resolve than the ill-equipped hellenic troops I encountered in Africa. The persistence of the Lusitanns was amazing that they would send wave after wave in hopes of dislodging us. The young prince fell during battle. He was so young and could have been destined for greatness. At 22 he was in a position to have a great future. Killing the very old or the very young is particulary hard for me.
Battle for Oxtraca:
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterX-7.jpg
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There is a debate amongst my retinue as to where we are to head next. Do we continue north up the coast and capture more land in that direction? Or do we cut across the interior and capture land on the Meditereanean coast? I will continue to look at the maps and pros and cons of each course of action.

Winter 202 BC - Encamped on the Segura river
We are west of Arse, the capital of a region that is swollen with resources. Our way was contested but I put Margish and his hardened Iberians to the test. A local chieftain by the name of Enulu had brought several thousand men and blocked our path. Their position was not strategic. And it was vulnerable to attack. I told Margish to remove them from our path. I gave him complete command of the battle and watched intentively from a hill overlooking the battlefield. Our Iberians looked to be slightly outnumbered by theirs. I told him to us whatever resources he needed. He asked for the Belaric slingers and I nodded allowing him to deploy them. Putting the slingers on the ends of his infantry lines he advanced to the range of the slingers and let them do their deadly work. i watched as the stones punched holes in the lines of the enemy. I watched as men lost eyes, fractured their skulls, and broke bones. Having been demoralized he advanced his six units of infantry against their eight. The enemy released their javelins first but Margish's men continued to march straight through the barrage. "Impressive" I heard myself saying. Having brought his men into line he ordered them to release their javelins. Having wrought destruction upon the enemies lines with their javelins the men re-equiped their primary spears and waited. After a long pause in which you could hear the man next to you breathe and feel your own heartbeat, Margish ordered the charge. They slammed into the enemy and a full on Iberian brawl was underway. For some time the enemy resisted but they were not battle hardened and their equipment was not as good. Eventually they broke and Margish chased down just about every last one of them. He rode up the hill with his men and joined me. "The road is ours Castulo". I chuckled, "I see that".
Clearing the Road::
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Summer 200 BC - North of Arse
After a short siege we captured the city of Arse. A significant contingent of Iberians fell upon us as we were laying seige. Again I used Margish's wonderful men to engage the enemy. After a long fight his men were beginning to take a beating and I replaced them with the Iberian assault infantry. While they cut through the enemy like a scythe through grain I placed the cavalry on the flank of the enemy and obliterated any hope of their success. It was a moment of great pride when we captured this important coastal town. We will be moving back to the interior and make a sweep of the rest of the peninsula as soon as we are able. I first must wait for a garrison to take over in Arse and then we will be able to continue.
The men have won many battles.
Battle for Arse:
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterX-24.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterX-25.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/Iberialandscape2.jpg

Video of Battles:

http://s67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/?action=view&current=BattleForIberiaPartI.flv
I remember the hot summer day with the winds blowing through the cool shade of the wild olive trees. Olives the size of plums made the branches heavy. Sitting there on a hillside overlooking a rich valley I made my decision.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/Iberialandscape1.jpg

Later that evening I met with Margish and we had a useful discussion.
"My lord the men grow weary of campaigning". He stated bluntly.
I looked up from the maps I was squinting at and squinted at him, "Oh, and why is that?" Even though i knew his answer before he spoke.
"They miss their villages, they miss their wives, and they miss their children." He stated softly.
I understood his concern. I got up from my chair and walked around the tent, with my hands behind my back and my head looking down. His eyes intently followed me.
Taking a deep breathe, "I had a suspicion of this for some time. I think the men deserve a good break no?"
Margish nodded politely.
The men were paid each year of service during the winter camp. It was still another six months before we would be encamped for the winter.
"Give each man half of his yearly allottment." I said casually.
My quartermaster nearly fell out of his chair. "My lord if we do that they may never return!"
"So be it. If they are that eager to return home than I do not need them in my army. There are many other men to serve Carthage." I replied.
"But the spring campaign is in jeopardy", he exclaimed. Dumbfounded his eyes shifted between mine and Margish's.
Margish cleared his throat, "The men will return when you ask them, I promise you that. Giving an Iberian payment before he does work is an honor and a sign of great trust. They would be outcasted should the renig on their end of the deal. They just need some time with their families. Many of my men have not seen their families for five years."
I looked at my quartermaster and ordered half the pay now and half the pay when they returned in the spring.
"If you would sir I must tell the men the news." Margish went for the flap of the tent and I stopped him briefly.
"If they do not return before the first buds emerge than their pay is forfeit. Please make that very clear to them." I patted Margish on the back and he dissapeared into the warm evening of the encampment. I hoped that upon the return of spring that their vigor would only be matched by the emerging life from the dormant plants of winter.
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^^The big picture
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[Cash Staks]

Another great chapter! You really do manage to bring a strong human element into you AAR's, making all the characters more lifelike and believable.

[Chirurgeon]

Another great chapter! You really do manage to bring a strong human element into you AAR's, making all the characters more lifelike and believable.
Thanks Cash. I want you to think all this actually happened. I am trying to balance realism with entertainment. This story is more than just an AAR to me. Its become an exercise in passionate expression. I find myself getting attached to the characters. I really enjoy writing this stuff up and doing all the screenshots and movies. It provides a wonderful escape to everyday life. I am glad you enjoy it.

Edit:
Wow five pages

[Wolfman]

again I feel like one of those robots that been programed to say only a few words but EXCELLENT UPDATE!!!

[Rundownloser]

I see the Iberians returned for the spring.

Kudos on the victories and the great story.

[Treverer]

Another great chapter! You really do manage to bring a strong human element into you AAR's, making all the characters more lifelike and believable.
:yes:

[Sassem]

excellent

I'm so eager to read this that i forced myself to check this thread only once a week so i'm sure there is a update. really excellent

[Chirurgeon]

Good to know Sassem. So your saying i should do just one update a week? :wink:

[Bobolicious]

I check every two days!

[Bootsiuv]

I check every 12 minutes, 37 seconds.

[Wolfman]

I check every half hour

[Chirurgeon]

Wow...you guys are on it! So wolfman if i updated this once a week, and you check it every 30 minutes....calculating...168 hours in a week...then you check it 336 times in one week! now that is dedication.

[Sassem]

Good to know Sassem. So your saying i should do just one update a week? :wink:

That's Ok for me let's say every saturday 3 or 4 chapters:yes:

[Wolfman]

Wow...you guys are on it! So wolfman if i updated this once a week, and you check it every 30 minutes....calculating...168 hours in a week...then you check it 336 times in one week! now that is dedication. :bow:

[Cash Staks]

I usually check whenever I get the chance. And that comes out to more than a few times per week. I think an update once a week would be perfect. Especially with school coming up. I don't know how much free time I'll have then. I'll have to worry about my own campaigns plus schoolwork plus work. It's going to be a busy semester.

[KuKulzA]

damn, you've inspired me to start my own AAR!

well since you do Kart-hadast, I will probably AAR either Getai or Lusotanna, or Saka Rauka or Sauromatae :yes:
Carthage is awesome but their super economy spoils me... I get onto the non-celt barbarians or the nomads and I see the debt and I am like "OH MY HOLY CRAP!" but it's all good, I just go on a roll conquering until it evens out... problem is if your losses are too high you'll be left with a few cities and no army and angry neighbors

but I think my first AAR will be a lot of fun, I see it has been for you

[Bootsiuv]

Carthage might have a "super economy", but I've really been struggling fighting a war on two fronts. The Romani are brutal, just brutal. I've conquered most of southern italy, but following a crushing defeat, I may have to fall back to Sicilia, because I can't train anything but Lucanian Light Infantry and Rorarii in Italy. Shipping armies from Africa is becoming increasingly difficult because the Romani have a huge fleet, and I can hardly afford one. Qarthadastim is actually pretty tough.

[KuKulzA]

i agree i mean it can be pretty damn tough but say as a nomad faction, when you go against a powerful faction, if you don't sweep 'em you could be screwed big time... but as a more advanced and settled group your chances of recovery are higher

at least you have the economy to fight the brutal romans (hopefully)

[Chirurgeon]

Carthage might have a "super economy", but I've really been struggling fighting a war on two fronts. The Romani are brutal, just brutal. I've conquered most of southern italy, but following a crushing defeat, I may have to fall back to Sicilia, because I can't train anything but Lucanian Light Infantry and Rorarii in Italy. Shipping armies from Africa is becoming increasingly difficult because the Romani have a huge fleet, and I can hardly afford one. Qarthadastim is actually pretty tough.

This is why I let them have Sicily. I have to pick my battles. Things are well now but one problem is that geographically the size of my empire and the distance from Kart-hadastim so great I have to keep taxes super low in cities in Egypt. Otherwise the populace starts to get nasty. I really only have enough money for a "holding" army in Egypt and a conquering army in Iberia. I only have a couple of grand left over each turn. Sometimes I bank it so that I can upgrade markets, farms, etc

[Bootsiuv]

That's been my problem. Hell, even Gader in Iberia requires quite a large garrison just to keep them happy, and, until recently in my campaign, Iberian governors were hard to come-by. I hear what you're saying about saving for upgrades, but, due to constant fighting in Italy, I haven't been able to do as much with my infrastructure as I would like. I could be training Hoplitai in Rhegion and Syrakousai if I had the money to upgrade my MIC's there. Those Liby-Phoenician Heavy Infantry have also alluded me, due to the fact that it costs 12,000 to upgrade my MIC in Kart-Hadast. It is probably one of the funnest EB campaigns I've ever had, though, so it's all good.

[Chirurgeon]

I have yet to fight Rome...Update tomorrow night im hoping :)

[pseudocaesar]

coming out of lurking, i must say, as a roman fan (flame suit on), i tend to hate carthage out of principle. Your aar however, has made me realise how cool they are, in fact, i might even start a campaign myself! good work!

[Wolfman]

I like both Carthage and Rome. They Represent to very different distinct cultures.

[KuKulzA]

i dislike romans for political reasons, but i respect their troops, after Polybian and onward... fair enough? :beam:
as Getai or Lustotanna, or Saka or Sauromatae... gets a lil tougher to kill 'em when they get their tougher armors, and I tend to not have to deal with them till LATE game... as Kart-hadast its easier to keep neck-to-neck and go toe-to-toe with them, usually

but the Roman soldiers can be tough and flexible, which i must respect

[Pius Curus]

Hi Chirurgeon,

your AAR Kartago is perfect! Could you write me, pls, on what level did you start Kartago campaign? It was Very hard(strategy map)/Medium or Hard battles? Did you use other mods or add-ons to EB like Redmeth's Mini-Mod?

[Chirurgeon]

coming out of lurking, i must say, as a roman fan (flame suit on), i tend to hate carthage out of principle. Your aar however, has made me realise how cool they are, in fact, i might even start a campaign myself! good work!

I wasnt much of a Carthage fan either...Until I started playing I realized what an amazing civilization existed before being destroyed. Update in a little while!

[Chirurgeon]

https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/TheFortress.jpg
199 BC - Celtiberia
Progress has been frustratingly slow. At each turn there is an army of the enemy. Poorly equipped but highly motivated the continue to rally the cause. I feel as if we have killed every last man in this land. Truly this is a country of warriors. My spies indicate that many of the cities are void of men of fighting age. This area called Celtiberia is the most rugged landscape I have yet to encounter. Full of hills, canyons, and streams it makes marching difficult. We fought no less than three battles over the course of the year. Each battle easily won but each one taking its toll on the numbers of my men. I have had to constantly pay out for new recruits. Iberia has yet to turn a profit and the senate is demanding tangible results. In my meeting last autumn with several prominent senators they indicate they want an end to this war that is leeching the treasury. These idiots do not know that it takes many years to get the sort of production they are asking for. We have been fighting for 8 years! Eight years is nothing for a war. In that time half of the Iberian peninsula has fallen into my hands. They will see that Iberia will be carressed of its riches.
There is going to be more hard fighting come the next campaign season. Large bands are migrating to the capital of the Lusitanns, Numantia. By spring we will again be facing scores of these warriors. Margish tells me that a great chieftain is residing in Numantia and is working to defend the heart of his lands. We are but a seasons march from this city but it seems as if eternity seperates us further.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/NorthernIberia1.jpg


Winter 197 BC -Celtiberia
For much of the last year we continued to endure repeated attacks by tribes owing their alligiance to chieftain of the Lusotanns, N Cartetocoi. Having arrived at the capital in the heart of this unforgiving land we encircled the city with lines of circumvallation, assuring that no one escaped the seige. In a desperate battle a relief army engaged my men. I again put Margish up to task and had him engage them. As they fought the substantial garrison of Numantia poured out and I placed my Liby-Phonecians in their path. They ran into the spears of my African troops and were utterly destroyed. At the same time I spurred my own personal cavalry and the lighter Iberian cavalry and made for the Lusitann King who had taken a view of the battle on a hill off to his right flank. He turned to run when he saw our cavalry coming. Unfortunately it was not enough and we caught him as he was trying to flee and regroup. There was a brief fight in which he was slain. Highly demoralized his army routed and the relief army that Margish was engaged in also began to rout. A true blood letting was underway as the Iberian assault infantry and Margish's men covered the green grasses with sticky crimson.
After the battle the city surrendered.
Images From the Battle for Numantia:

https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXI-2.jpg
^^Enemy troops, poorly trained and highly motivated
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXI-3.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXI-4.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXI-5.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXI-6.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXI-7.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXI-8.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXI-9.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXI-10.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXI-11.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXI-12.jpg

I let the men plunder and much gold and other precious items were brought before me. I had a plan with what to do with the loot.
I addressed my quartermaster, "I want you to send envoys and this loot to Emporion up the Iberian coast."
puzzled he looked at me, "For what reason would we do that? That city is in the hands of our gracious allies the Aeudi."
"I am well aware of that. I want the Aedui to give us that town."
A look of incomprehension overtook the members of my retinue, except of course Margish. He seemed to grasp my plan.
Looking at the men I explained, "The Aeudi need funds to continue their fight with the Romans. They are not using troops from Emporion. The king of the Aeudi will be grateful that they dont have to babysit another town." Pausing I noticed a few nods. I continued, "The envoys will also set up a tribute for our good friends of the north and that will also help finance their war."
Half of the men agreed with the idea and the rest wished we kept the bribe for ourselves. Later that year i recieved word that the Aeudi had accepted my offer and looked forward to a continued relationship with us.

https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXI-13.jpg

Carthage would need the aide of the Aeudi in the future. In the spring I would meet with the Aeudi King and discuss what I wanted to do. He and I have the common interest of revenge against the Romans.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/NorthernIberia2.jpg

Winter 196 BC - Asturia

The king of the Aeudi could not meet because of continued fighting in Southern Gaul. His armies have been attacking with success the Romans in the area. I should hope to meet with him in the future.
We spent the last year moving north towards the northern coast of the Iberian Peninsula. We crossed the Duero river and besieged Pallantia. About a week ago we assaulted the city. Another brutal battle ensued. The Iberians fought the lusitanns amongst the buildings of the city and we suffered more losses than I was comfortable with. Again however my men's superior training and rigid discipline allowed them to carry the day.
Battle for Pallantia:
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXI-15.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXI-16.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXI-17.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXI-18.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXI-19.jpg


I am hurried for time. The northwest region of Iberia still has yet to be subjucated. My men signed on for a 16 year committment. I am 11 years into the campaign to control this land. That leaves me a scant five years before my veterans are to be retired. The senate is not enthusiastic about raising another army. They feel that when they gain control of Iberia that we will have progressed far enough. Granted, that we are the undisputed rulers of Africa and the Iberian Peninsula will likely be ours as well. It seems the loss of Sicily and Corsica becomes a more distant echo as time goes on. No one is still alive that remembers that. Sicily has become so "Romanized" that our own mark on the land is fading. The only reason we control Sardinia is because Rome is so Embroiled in the war with our good friends the Aeudi. I'm afraid the senate will not permit me to campaign beyond this land. It will likely be up to my protege to continue the fight.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXI-14.jpg

In fact Himilcar Barcino has arrived in Numantia and will be joining me soon. He is serving as governor of Numantia, until proper order is established in that restless region.

https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/NorthernIberia3.jpg


Winter 194 BC - Asturia
Upon the start of the spring campaigning season I sent my protege to take down one of the last cities of the Lusitann. Tyde lay on the extreme northwest coast of this rich land. I stayed here in Pallantia and made sure that governance was expedited effectively. With some basic institutions in place and after nearly nine months I heard from Hamilcar Barcino that Tyde had fallen and regional administration was being implemented. As I write this he has sent as many men as he could spare to join me here. They should arrive by the summer and then we march on the last refuge of the Lusitann. The remaining tribes have gathered north of the Ebro River and have centered their last hope of resistance in Velika. I have left my most trusted friend and Advisor make preparations for the assault. For myself I have met with the most gracious King, Diviciacos and his son, Mandubracious of the Aeudi Confederation.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXI-21.jpg
^^Prince of the Aeudi
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXI-20.jpg
^^King of the Aeudi
We dined and the two battle-hardened men talked candidly.
"I see your control of Iberia is nearly complete." stated Prince Mandubarcious.
The king was ill and likely would not survive the journey back to the north of the Pyranees.
"Yes we have but one last region of resistance before we have military control of Iberia. However there is much work to do. The Lusitanns are defeated but I will need them to fight side by side with their enemies." I pointed at myself as I stated this.
The Prince looked back at me. "Gaining the trust of the defeated is a great feat but I see you have allies here in Iberia. I have no doubt that the Lusitanns and the other tribes will aide you despite being under your thumb. Defeat leaves a bitter taste...but all tastes fade with enough time."
I admired the prince. Being ten years my younger he would do well for his people.
Looking around at the pages, advisors, and others in my tent I dismissed them. I waited for the men to leave before continuing.
"My lord I know you are ill and your journey has been very taxing. I want you to feel as comfortable as possible before you depart." All three of us knew deep down that I did not reference the king's journey home but rather to the planes of his ancestors.
He managed a weak chuckle and spoke, "Your words are laced with many meanings. I will take this as a gesture of good will between two cultures with a common interest. I have no doubt I will be taking a journey. I have fought well and served my people with honor. What I want to know is what you will do with your new found land?"
He paused only to continue after collecting his thoughts. "This was a one way journey for me and I have to know what I traveled so far to hear."
I nodded slowly and went over to a chest with a map of the Lands north of the Pyrenees. Placing the map before father and son I pointed at two large swaths of land on the northern side of the mountains. "I understand the Romans have taken your lands here."
They both nodded and I continued. "I want to give them back to you."
Silence enveloped the room as both men sat quietly. Only the winter winds rustling the tent could be heard.
The king spoke, "You would do this for us?" he seemed astonished.
Walking around the two men I explained to them that they have held Rome at bay for our own advancement.
"Rome could have come to Africa. They could have taken Sardinia. They could have had Iberia. Your confederation has thwarted their plans." I looked at both men sincerely. "You have sacrificed much and gained little. So many brave men and women and children have vanished from this Earth because of your stoic resistance."
I had nearly brought myself to tears but the King did not hold back. Tears streamed down that proud man's face. In this intimate moment he felt vindicated. No one would know of what transpired in our meeting and he did not hold back his pride and sadness. Mingling together they produced tears from a people that had suffered much and had never known peace.
The prince was overwhelmed but managed his emotions.
I told the men that this would make them stronger and hurt Rome. "You will no longer have an enemy in your lands, and we will not be threatened. For as long as you hold the land West of the mighty Rhone river, Rome, shall never prevail."
The men looked relieved. The king dismissed himself and the Prince and I continued to talk about the future of his nation and of mine. Later that week , King Diviciacos died peacefully in his sleep. The man was truly at peace knowing that his people were safe and Carthage a steadfast ally.

Winter 193 BC
It is finished. The last chieftain of the Lusitanns is dead.
Before the battle ensued we met on the ground in front of Velika. He rode up with his horse and his body guards as I did the same.
I allowed him to speak, "I see you brought your traitor dog with you." Pointing at Margish accusingly he continued, "It is nice to see his loyalty doing so well to protect his own people." He stated mockingly. Margish sat motionless in his saddle. His imposing demeanor ever present.
King Nertobricoi looked out at my army and shook his head. "So you are using Iberians to exterminate Iberians? And what do they think of that?" He swept his hand in front of him at the long line of Iberians assembled.
Margish spoke slowly and deliberately, "I should think they are ready to kill you and return to their womenfolk."
A small cadre of men behind Margish smiled and laughed.
The King glared at Margish with a deep hate but was silent.
I let Margish continue, "We have served Castullo for 14 years and he is the best commander I have ever seen. He respects the Iberians and wishes only our help against a more menacing threat."
At that point I spoke for the first time, "King Nertobricoi you are in the most unfortunate geographic position. You sit on top of rivers of gold and silver and other resources. You also happened to be between two Empires that will, in due time, come to a great struggle to the death. Only one will survive. Your land is no longer yours to defend. I am afraid the world has changed and your independence and reluctance to thwart the Roman menace will only hamper our goal." I paused briefly and the cool breeze of the morning swept over the grasses in front of the town. "Ultimately the fate of Iberia is no longer yours to control. You can resist, but you cannot prevail."
The King sat on his horse. A long silence ensued. The light clinking of armor and weapons could be heard from both armies...almost musical the sound carried across in the wind. The king knew that these were the last moments of his people. "So this is the new world eh? A world where the 'civilized' destroys the barbaric? You too are barbarians. You think us primitive and yet it is you who do the senseless killing. We are protecting the lands we have lived on since the dawn of time itself! Who is the true barbarian here? A barbarian loots and destroys, and that is exactly what you have done to our lands!" I sat quietly while the king stammered on. "If this is your new world then I don't want to be a part of it. You will have to kill me to take my freedom, and you can be damn sure many of your men will join me in my new world."
With that he reigned his horse towards the town and his bodyguards followed.

Without even walls to protect him I ordered the Iberian troops in and they set about their bloody business. The Lusitanns put up a fierce fight. King Nertobricoi fought with reckless abandon. His men fell all around him and they fought to the last. His guard cavalry broke free from our lines and attempted to run up the hill to renew his defenses at the heart of the town. It was not to be. A unit of Iberian Assault infantry released their javelins and no less than six struck him in the back. With the king dead, the resolve of the defenders broke. Many tried to run to the middle of the town but were cut down as they fled.

Death of the Lusitanns:
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXI-29.jpg
^^Castullo and Margish ready for their last battle
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXI-28.jpg
^^Defiant King Nertobricoi
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXI-27.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXI-24.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXI-23.jpg

As we cleaned up the bodies I met with my protoge, Himilcar Barcino. The son of a senatore this man would do well for our people. He has learned from me and understands the value of the Iberians. His mother is an Iberian and his father Phonecian. Some would call that a tainted mixture...however after seeing these Iberians in ferocious battles throughout the last 14 years I can say with great confidence that their blood is worth having in your veins. Himilcar will no doubt use the vast resources of Iberia for the Armies benfit.
Ah the army! It has saddened me but I am releasing my men. The men deserve to be with their families. And I will travel to Gader to be with mine. My wife and her children I have barely met. I should take the last years of my life raising my family. My sons are of age and perhaps one day will be named Shophet.
Margish left this morning with the Iberian cavalry to at last go home to their families. He is a good friend and insists i come by his village for some "stomach stew". I will surely take him up on that. This land has intoxicated me with its beauty and harshness. It is the harshness that makes the men such good fighters and the Beauty which makes the land worth fighting for. I have disbanded my vaulted Liby-Phonecians and Iberian Assault Infantry. My slingers have departed for their home on the various islands off the coast of Iberia. It is just me and a small garrison. I will tour the various cities and im sure when the time is right Himilcar will carry out my wishes regarding the Aeudi.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXI-22.jpg

[Treverer]

:drama3:
... and I remember one tale-teller in fear of not keeping that level of tale-telling ...

[Bootsiuv]

Impressive....Is it time to finally take on the Romani? Or does Qarthadastim covet the Levant and Asia Minor? I'm interested in seeing where you decide to go next.

[Basileus Seleukeia]

Another great piece of art, Chirurgeon. But the first picture with the title is too dark, I can barely read the words.

[Chirurgeon]

Another great piece of art, Chirurgeon. But the first picture with the title is too dark, I can barely read the words.

Ok I fixed it :) enjoy

[Cash Staks]

Impressive....Is it time to finally take on the Romani? Or does Qarthadastim covet the Levant and Asia Minor? I'm interested in seeing where you decide to go next.

Me as well. Although his general promised to return lands to the Aedui taken by the Romani. So I'm guessing that it is finally time for a glorious conflict between the Romani and Qarthadastim. :2thumbsup:

[Chirurgeon]

I bought MTW2 Kingdoms today...been messing around with the Americas campaign.

[Bovarius]

Me as well. Although his general promised to return lands to the Aedui taken by the Romani. So I'm guessing that it is finally time for a glorious conflict between the Romani and Qarthadastim. :2thumbsup:
By attacking Rome from the North? So Hannibal... :laugh4:

Great AAR, chirurgeon

And now revenge Sicilly!!!

[Karo]

Let's ride to rome and bring dead to their homes. Can't wait to read you'r next Chapter :laugh4:

[Chirurgeon]

By attacking Rome from the North? So Hannibal... :laugh4:

Great AAR, chirurgeon

And now revenge Sicilly!!!


Thanks for following Bovarius and welcome to the forums!

[Chirurgeon]

Should have an update in the next day or so

[Chirurgeon]

Well I seemed to have screwed up the title slide from the last chapter. It should have been chapter XI but i made it XII. This chapter is actually chapter XII:

[Bootsiuv]

No worries. :)

[Chirurgeon]

https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXIIcover.jpg

Spring, 191 BC - North of Mastia
M. Castullo has met with me at length. His conquest of Iberia was not directed at the Romans and I realize that. Being half Iberian myself I know of the fierceness of my people. My mother was a maiden of honor. Should the men in the village fail to defend then there were selected women trained to fight as well.
Castullo has met with the Senatores from Kart-Hadastim and has gotten tepid approval for an invasion of southern Gaul with the intention of bolstering Aeudi resistance. I will be relying on our Celtic neighbors to the north to help in this campaign. I fear however we may become embroiled in a larger war with Rome. Many in Carthage wish to stop at our current borders, but the Aeudi have helped us so much I think even the pompous politicians are not willing to abandon the Aeudi. I am north of Mastia raising an army for the march north. My goal is to begin a campaign after two years of preparation and making sure I am ready for as many possible scenarios imaginable. Already our navies are sparring with each other off the coast. We will soon find out how much the Romans are willing to defend their holdings in Southern Gaul. Should the Romans attack the Aeudi lands that we would free for them we will be obligated to help.

Spring, 190 BC - Forced Marching to Emporion
The Romans are mobilizing quickly. We are under seige by the vile dogs. Emporion is in grave danger.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXII-1.jpg

Not only that but our allies have lost several cities. Time is of the essence. We have to break the siege and attack the Roman interests in southern gaul. I have ordered camp on the Ebro River and from here we will march as quickly as possible to save our city. The men complain but I feel they are toughened by this marching.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/EbroRiver.jpg

Winter 189 BC - Aquitae

Our brave men of Emporion held off the Romans. In a heroic feat the garrison commander took his cavalry out a side gate and charged into the rear of the attacking force causing much panic among the Romans as they tried to enter the town. They threw down their weapons and fled. Perhaps they will think twice before attacking. I for one breathed a great sigh of relief and changed course. We followed the mighty Ebro River across the base of the proud Pyrenees and turned north into Aquitae. By winter we had arrived at the city and set about beseiging the city. Our assault on the stronghold of Burdigala went marvelously well. They had a small garrison but the governor was the son of a wealthy senator. That will surely resound in the city of Rome. We passed the magnificent boundary of the Pyranees and had several skirmishes with the Romans. We killed several of their senator appointed Praetors and in the process I believe we have sent a strong message to the Romans. Having our allies the Aeudi help us in this matter has been most beneficial. As promised we handed control of Burdigala over to our Aeudi Friends. We are now encamped at the north side of the majestic Pyranees in a land that is remarkably different than the other side. The air is cooler and ground is more lush with vegetation and animals. The Romans, it would seem, have many strengths but few weaknesses. For the moment they have withdrawn their men to the east perhaps to consolidate their forces. When the spring comes I plan on taking advantage of the chaos we have caused in this region. The Aeudi have no doubt caused much mayhem of their own. The men of these lands are even more raw than the Iberi of my mothers land. Many of them do not wear armor and a select few apparently fight naked. A naked man it would seem has little to lose or worry about.
Skirmishes north of the Pyrenees:
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXII-2.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXII-3.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXII-4.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXII-5.jpg
^^The Aeudi General and Himilcar Barcino make a Roman sandwich of the Consuls cavalry
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXII-6.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXII-7.jpg


I have sent word to the senate of our success and they are using our victories as diplomatic tools against the Romans. The Romans are infuriated by our actions but our diplomats insist we are simply coming to the aide of our allies. The Roman diplomats have been up to no good trying to bribe armies and cities. Several of them have had unfortunate accidents.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXII-8.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXII-9.jpg

If the Romans wish peace with us, they should garner a peace accord with the Aeudi. I know the men of Rome would never admit defeat from the barbarians that inhabited their north lands so peace will be elusive.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/Pyrenees.jpg

Winter 188 BC - seiging Tolosa
We defeated a significant Roman army during the summer. These Romans do not field much cavalry and the cavalry that is present is light and unable to resist our own. We have used this to our great advantage. In addition to the hordes of men from Iberia that wish to enlist in my army we have proven to be a powerful presence in the region. We have overwhelmed the Romans with our numbers. Individually the Iberians and the Gallic men are not on par with the Romans, but as a group we outnumber them and that has proven most advantageous. In this particular conflict the Iberians wound up wrapping around the flanks of the Romans. Panic set in and a bloodbath ensued. The Aeudi have managed to evict many Roman forces from their lands and are currently not threatened. The Romans hold a few towns far to the north, east of the Rhone but with their hands freed from the south I have encouraged the Aeudi to move north and ravage them.
Defeat of Roman forces near Tolosa:
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXII-10.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXII-11.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXII-12.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXII-13.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXII-14.jpg

When Tolosa falls and control of land west of the Rhone is firmly in the hands of our allies then we can turn our attention to other issues. I have met with several senatores who feel that capturing Corsica from the Romans would increase our hold on the trade in the Western Mediteranean. One thing at a time though.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/southernFrance.jpg


Winter 187 BC - Encamped on the Ebro River
After several attempts to break the Seige the Aeudi helped us and we fought side by side and defeated the Romans. They continue to hunt any Romans that dare venture across the Rhone. The city fell and control was given to the Aeudi. We have not had a full battle with a Roman army. Each battle has been more of a glorified skirmish then an actual battle.
Fall of Tolosa:
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXII-15.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXII-16.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXII-17.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXII-18.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXII-19.jpg


I have been summoned to the Senate in Carthage. A disastrous situation has ensued. The Romans in their desperation have bribed the capital of Sardinia and we have lost control of the island. The natives are rebelling and it is likely that they might continue to rebel even against roman rule. The damage is done however. I have taken two units of my trusted Iberian Cavalry and I am going to march to Mastia where the fleet will take me back to our own capital.
Many in the senate are terribly angry at the latest development in Sardinia and are demanding revenge. Perhaps this is the moment we have been waiting for? Rome is embroiled in her north with a war with the Aeudi. Our great allies are emboldened by their victories and their new cities and have crossed the Rhone and now attack the ancient city of Massala. Should that city fall, Rome will lose a powerful outpost for their republic. Even if it doesn't it will occupy the Romans for some time and should give us time to plan our next move.

Winter 185 BC - Carthage

The council of elders, that is the 12 longest serving senators, requested I meet with them privately before the general senate meeting. We all shared in an evening meal and nothing about war was spoken. Some of the men talked of the latest whores they have taken. Others talked of their families. Many questioned me about Iberia and the promise she had to make the republic rich. I spoke of our recent trade agreement with an Island north of Iberia that offered a great variety of metals including tin.
Wine from Iberia was brought out and any thoughts about how terrible the world was melted away. One of the elders even commented that if we were to invite the consuls of Rome to our meeting that even they might forget we are their enemies.
After the meal a stiff brewed beverage was given to all of us. One of the senators next to me explained, "This is from the rich lands of Arabia and deep Africa. It is made from a bean that is allowed to dry in the sun and then roasted in clay pots. It is then ground to a powder and water ran through. I forget the name but it is all the rage here in the capital." I looked down at the deep brown in the cup and drank the hot brew. It was bitter but rich. It was almost like the earth had become liquid. The senator looked at me and nodded "See you do like it? It will wash away the effects of the wine and you will be awake again."
He was right. My heart pounded and I had a new found energy. Usually after the evening meal I would retire. Now I felt like it was the morning. A curious drink indeed. Perhaps I should serve this to my night sentries while on campaign.
The clapping of hands at the front of the room snapped me out of my thoughts. The high elder, Haddicus Ipponis, was speaking. "Senators of Carthage and most honored guest, Himilcar Barcino, we have much to discuss. As you know the financial attack on Sardinia has cost the republic dearly. Rome has become more brazen than ever." He paused briefly, "They are also vulnerable. Because of the cunning of Himilcar Barcino the honorable Aeudi ravage the Romans on all their border provinces. Himilcar has managed to instill new confidence in the Aeudi, and with the help of his younger general, Gisgo, he continues to support the Aeudi militarily. For if the situation becomes tenous then we can again rescue the Aeudi. A brilliant plan that has bought us an opportunity a fool would not even pass up." He held his hands out to me, like he was showing off a prized possession and everyone in the room cheered. After a few moments the room grew quiet. I sat their proud and unmoving. I nodded slowly and made eye contact with everyone in the room. Haddicus Ipponis grew more serious and waited for silence before continuing. "Every man of Carthage has suffered because of Rome." Some of the elders looked down others shook their heads and agreed with the elder without saying a word. For a brief moment anger boiled in my bowels as well. He continued, "And now every man of Rome will suffer because of Carthage!" He slammed his fist into the table, rattling the glasswear and displays. He looked directly at me seated at the other end of the table. A fire burning in his eyes, "Our hope rests with you most honored Barcino."
I nodded slowly in acknowledgment. The room erupted around me. The senators practically worshiped me. It was a night I would never forget. And I would never forget my commitment to Carthage.

Much had to be done. Margish's son Guardon accompanied me from Iberia. He was to be my adviser. I have been busy recruiting men from all over and training them as a fighting force I hoped would rival what we had in Iberia. Castullo has also kept up communications in his letters. The training mimicked the types of units we had in Iberia. "Iberians and Romans have a similiar fighting style. They both use pila and their tactical flexibility is staggering.", I remember him writing in one of his letters. I knew the Romans had a highly disciplined force and their core troops, the hastati, principe, and triarii would have to be somehow destroyed. Training of the men would have to be exhaustive and I wanted the discipline to rival that of the Romans. Africans and Iberians alike seem to follow me here and as a result some of the most highly prized men were at my command.
The core of my infantry would be a hoplite style of fighting men that could form a phalynx if needed but also be able to use their spears in a more flexible manner. The Macedonian phalynx never particulary appealed to me due to the fact that they were easily flanked and could not be turned quickly. These new infantry were comprised of the most hardened men. They almost dared the enemy to kill them. This sacred band would anchor the battlefield for carthage.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/sacredband.gif

Behind them I would place my heavy assault infantry. Their main role in battle was to prevent the phalynx from being flanked. Modeled after our success in Iberia these men would be similiar to the Iberian Assault Infantry but would have even better armor.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/elite-african-infantry.gif

I could not resist employing Belaric slingers. These rough-hewn effective troops enjoyed killing from a distance. I hope to use them to counter some of the Roman skirmishers.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/Slingers.gif

In front of my line of sacred band would be a multitude of men. These lighter troops would be used to screen and weaken the roman lines before they met my elite troops. Some Iberians have been employed but also LIbyan spearmen and some hellenic mercenaries. Overall the Infantry is formidable, stalwart, disciplined, and flexible.
The cavalry was decisive factor I was depending on. Guardon worked with the other horse trainers and had developed an incredibly effective cavalry force. Rome's best could not deal with my vaulted cavalry. Besides the Iberian Lancers the new Sacred Band Cavalry would be used to simply demolish any other cavalry fielded.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/SacredCav.gif
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/IberianCavalry.gif
In the spring I hope to start the campaign. We will make the sail to Corsica
and begin our foray into the abyss.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXII-21.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXII-22.jpg

[Bootsiuv]

That army is deadly....very nice.

The war with the romani goes well. I'm enjoying it very much. :)

EDIT: I notice Makedon has taken Babylonia. Interesting. Usually they get crushed by the KH and Epeirotes.

[Chirurgeon]

That army is deadly....very nice.

The war with the romani goes well. I'm enjoying it very much. :)

EDIT: I notice Makedon has taken Babylonia. Interesting. Usually they get crushed by the KH and Epeirotes.

Indeed the Makedonians are on a tear at the moment. That map you see is not reflective of the current situation. AS is almost dead and the Baktrians and Makedonians are fighting over the pieces of the AS holdings. The Ptolemies are stagnant. next update Ill do a FOW removed so you can see the world situation.

[overweightninja]

Wow Chirurgeon you've actually managed to hold my attention for several weeks! Most things struggle to achieve five minutes with me :2thumbsup:
Keep up the good work! Make those romans pay!
BTW a toggle_fow screenshot would be much appreciated, I too am interested in seeing the overall situation :yes:
Cheers again!

[Chirurgeon]

Wow Chirurgeon you've actually managed to hold my attention for several weeks! Most things struggle to achieve five minutes with me :2thumbsup:
Keep up the good work! Make those romans pay!
BTW a toggle_fow screenshot would be much appreciated, I too am interested in seeing the overall situation :yes:
Cheers again!

Awesome :) Glad I could keep you entertained. Ill get a FOW map up at some point soon

[MarcusAureliusAntoninus]

I love that picture of the horse being stabbed while rearing up.

[Chirurgeon]

I love that picture of the horse being stabbed while rearing up.
yea I think I will submit it to screenshot of the month :) for September. I timed that pretty good...I hit the key like five times so I had five to choose from...that one was the best

[Cash Staks]

As always another well done chapter.

And I'm so happy to finally see you at war with the Romani:beam:

[Wolfman]

I just got back to reading your AAR and this is all i can say is this again. :jawdrop: You are brilliant! The combination of raw human emotions and hard historical facts plus of course the terrain detail is astounding. You almost had me crying tears of joy with the old gaul. :sniffle: Keep it up.

[Sassem]

I couldn't resist i had to have a mid week peek


You're AAR's are like reading a really good book

:2thumbsup:

[Treshka]

I have always love cathage but haven't play with them for a while, but that is about to change thanks to you. BTW kick some roman ass

[Chirurgeon]

Thanks the continued support I really appreciate it. This is for your enjoyment and I am glad the story still entertains.
@Cash staks: I know I have been waiting for this for a long time. Ever since they ravaged sicily, Corsica, and Sardinia. I also enjoy fighting side by side with the Aeudi Along the Rhone River.

@treshka: I plan on it my friend...I plan on it

@sassem: Thanks I really like writing the dialogue its fun playing with the different characters of the game.

@Wolfman: Thanks bud you are one of my most Stalwart Allies :)

[Bootsiuv]

Hey, Chirurgeon.

Now that you're "official", will you be continuing this aar? Just one update a week would be fine with me, although I know you might be changing versions. This is just one of the best aars I've ever read, and it would be nice to see it come to fruition.

I know you'll be a busy man now, though, so I understand if it's done. :(

Just curious. :)

[Chirurgeon]

Hey, Chirurgeon.

Now that you're "official", will you be continuing this aar? Just one update a week would be fine with me, although I know you might be changing versions. This is just one of the best aars I've ever read, and it would be nice to see it come to fruition.

I know you'll be a busy man now, though, so I understand if it's done. :(

Just curious. :)

Although being selected as a Beta Tester is a wonderful thing the one main downside to this honor is not being able to continue the AAR once I start testing. I will be using a different version and unfortunately I cannot divulge information regarding the latest build. However I'm sure the EB team won't mind if I throw up one more chapter for the AAR here. I really was torn and was not sure if I wanted to Beta - test as I have never done that before. I'm willing to try new things and I suppose I will foray into the world of Beta-Testing. I'm hoping to post one more chapter to appease the AAR gods before diving into testing. I will likely put my full effort into it as it will help the team make a great product even better. I put about 20 hours per week into this game so that will hopefully help the team out. My next chapter is nearly complete so I will likely be beta-testing by the weekend. Until then enjoy the AAR

[Philip of Massalia]

Too bad...

This AAR is so good, I will miss it:wall:

Good testing and thank you so much for this unfinished story...

[pseudocaesar]

If your finished the AAR, do you mind posting the save game? It would be fun as!

[d'Arthez]

Sorry to chime in so late Chirurgeon. Lack of internet access at decent speeds :(.

But what a wonderful AAR!

[TWFanatic]

Excellent work Churirgeon!:2thumbsup:

Two questions though:
1.How'd you get the cool new symbols for influence and command? Is that a BI thing?
2.How do you do it so fast? It would take me many months to get that far in a campign, escpecially if I was writings an ARR as exciting as yours!:sweatdrop:
Maybe I'm just a slow-ass Basileous.:wall:

[Bootsiuv]

Those symbols are a Qarthadastim thing, and some other factions might use them too. If you play Qarthadastim, you should see the same symbols.

[Chirurgeon]

Excellent work Churirgeon!:2thumbsup:

Two questions though:
1.How'd you get the cool new symbols for influence and command? Is that a BI thing?
2.How do you do it so fast? It would take me many months to get that far in a campign, escpecially if I was writings an ARR as exciting as yours!:sweatdrop:
Maybe I'm just a slow-ass Basileous.:wall:

1. As bootsiuv said those symbols are specific to the Carthage Faction as far as I know. Maybe others
2. I just play. I usually write up something short at the end of each year and then add to it when I get ready to update. According to Xfire i spend about 20 hours a week playing RTW. Its really the only game I play other than dabbling into MTW2.

I will have an update later today I hope. Thanks for your continued support

[overweightninja]

If your finished the AAR, do you mind posting the save game? It would be fun as!

Now that sounds like a plan, I'll miss this AAR would be nice to perhaps continue it ourselves....up to you of course cheers again Chirugeon!

[Chirurgeon]

Final chapter will be up in a little while.

[Bootsiuv]

Now that sounds like a plan, I'll miss this AAR would be nice to perhaps continue it ourselves....up to you of course cheers again Chirugeon!

It just wouldn't be the same.:no:

[Chirurgeon]

https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/Horseandeagle.jpg


Summer 183 BC - Sicily
The fleet landed our army here in Sicily much to the Surprise of the garrison of Lillybeo. In a few months when our seige equipment is ready we will break down the walls and charge the city. Our key is speed. It will only be a matter of time till Rome mobilizes her armies and comes for us. I want to have allies at our backs with the enemy in front. The more territory we capture the more it will hurt Rome. Corsica was pathetically defended and the paltry defenses fell quickly.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXIII-1.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXIII-2.jpg

The leader of the garrison was killed with a sling stone and many of the garrison fell to my forces with only a loss of 10 or so of my own men. Time again is crucial. In the north, Balshelik, is leading his army against Roman forces who have made progress against the Aeudi Clan. The last city of the Arverni have been plaguing the Aeudi forcing them to seperate their forces. I want Balshelik to best the Romans whenever the opportunity presents itself, but not to put significant risk to his army. The Romans sacked Gergovia and slaughtered the inhabitants. Dispicable bastards. I told him to make sure that Gergovia is freed from Rome's clutches.

Winter 183 BC - Besieging Syracuse
Once again we find our armies in front of this great city. Not being a patient man and not wishing to take undue risks is a bad combination for dealing with cities such as this. Rome has not sent a proper army to deal with the threat we are making to their holdings here. I think the best course of action would be to wait out the city. If a large army is spotted approaching our position I shall give permission to attack the walls. The Fleet is blockading their port denying the arrival of necessary goods. Guardon was quite impressed with the sheer size and seeming impregnable position. He said he never saw anything like it. I remember looking at him and telling him neither had I.

Spring 181 BC - Brettia

We did not have to capture Syrracuse directly. A small relief force engaged us and the garrison sallied out to fight as well. Both were destroyed. I used my light troops to overwhelm the numerically inferior forces of the Romans. The city seeing their garrison destroyed opened the gates and welcomed us. The populace was most relieved to see us apparently. The Romans had put many Syracuseans to the sword when they captured the city from us. We simply walked in.
Fall Of Syracuse:

https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXIII-4.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXIII-5.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXIII-6.jpg


Massala was a similiar affair with another pathetic attempt by the Romans to break our seige. My army is swatting flies. I relish a large engagement that pits my men against the best Rome has to offer.
Fall Of Massalla:
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXIII-8.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXIII-9.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXIII-10.jpg

We crossed the straits between Sicily and Italy and now we have crossed into new territory. Although the land looks much like Sicily, the men know they are on Roman Ground. Not since Pyrrus of Epirus had anyone dared to do what we do now. As we march along this rough terrain the city of Rhegium has come into view. The first battle For Italy will be for this great Italian city. The camp is noteably quiet as the men know that Rome will surely come. Finally it is noteworthy that M. Castullo passed into the ancestral plains earlier this year. He died in peace at Numantia. The conquerer of Iberia will always know that he did many great things for the republic.

https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXIII-7.jpg


Winter 180 BC - Kalabria
Come they did not. My light troops scattered any forces they sent. My slingers murdered them with lead balls and my cavalry, under Guardon and his famous Iberians, trampled them into the Earth. Rhegium fell rather easily and we quickly found ourselves in front of Taras in Kalabria.
This land is stunning. Most of the land we traveled through, the noteable exception being Sicily, contained little ground for growing crops. Upon entering Kalabria we found ourselves walking in what is surely the breadbasket of southern Italy. Large flat plains with only gentle hills extended around us. We arrived in the autumn and the golden grasses were swaying strongly in the wind.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/wheat.jpg
Laden with a seasons worth of grain they seemed to struggle to stay upright. The Grain never made it into the stores of Taras. Here we trapped One of the Consul's of the Roman Republic and I seized the grain and other foods for my army. I tasked my men with harvesting the crop. We set into surrounding the city and building our lines of circumvallation and waited. No more than six days into the seige an emmisary came out of the town and asked if I would be willing to join the Consul for dinner.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXIII-11.jpg

"Yes I would be delighted but I must insist he be my guest." I remember saying.
Guardon and others in my retinue suspected a trap so I laid their fears to rest by making him my guest.
Late in the afternoon as the Sun came close to kissing the great sea, servants brought food from all over. Racks of lamb and whole ducks were laid out in my private quarters. Roasted pork with fresh eggs and some of the most amazing wine and bread I had ever tasted. I ate with my counterpart across from me. I found myself enjoying a lovely glass of wine from the northern reaches of Italy. Alas, having been satiated with the rich foods of the region Consul Augustus spoke.
"Your army is absolutely magnificent, Himilcar. I will no doubt have the honor of facing it soon."
I leaned in and looked closely at the Consul and told him, " Your garrison is hardly a force I would fear."
Smiling he continued, still picking at various morsels and washing it down with gulps of great red wine, "Indeed! They are brave but the rest of the forces the Senate is sending is just as impressive."
I stood silent for a moment. Perhaps it was the wine but after a moment I realized the man was being sarcastic.
"Rome is in chaos. The senate is sending men all over the place. They are divided as to reinforce the north or protect the South." He paused taking another drink from his goblet and neatly wiping his chin. Setting his napkin down gently next to the plate his tone changed. "To be honest Rome is terrified of the army you have brought on our lands. The fact that you swept through Corsica, Sicily and Rhegium in scarcely three years has convinced them that you are a juggernaught that cant be stopped."
I laughed lightly for a moment. "You realize how many people in Carthage would have loved to have heard what you said? It is incredulous to think that the arrogant Romans could stoop as low as this?"
Nodding in agreement and reaching for some bread he continued. "Who have we fought Himilcar?" Holding his hand up, "No need to answer, I will tell you. Lets see for starters we have fought the Barbarians in the north. The Celts and Aeudi and other heathens to our north are quite the fighters but they have never learned to be professional soldiers. They fight because they have too." He shrugged and held his hands up. "Who else you might ask? Well we have fought some rebels in and around our provinces. A hundred years ago we fought the Epirotes. A century ago!! Oh and how could I forget the tribes of Germania." I sat quietly as he was prepared to talk more. "All these men except the Epirotes of course have the same thing in common. They are not professional soldiers. How many of the men you command actually have other trades than warfare? Very few I would venture. Your men have known nothing but death and destruction. And I assure you they deliver it instead of receiving it." He ripped a hunk of bread off the piece he had on his plate and dipping in some leftover gravy continued. At this point the man was dizzy with wine and seemed to have little inhibitions left. I watched him devour the bread and wash it down with more wine. A servant gracefully appeared filling his glass again. Sometimes I wished servants did not do as they were asked. Focusing back on me he continued his interesting analysis. "Now lets see who you have fought. What warriors has mighty Carthage had to face in battle? First you had to contend with the Numidians. Graceful horsemen and deadly accurate javelins. Then you had to deal with the descendants of Alexander the Great. Hamalcar the Great defeated Egypt in 25 years and revolutionized the way war was fought. Then you moved to Iberia and fought the noble and resilient Iberians. The point is that you have fought a variety of armies and tactics while we have had to fight one dimensional foes." I did not agree with assessment of the Aeudi but it was better not to argue. "You see we have been fighting amateaurs. My men haven never seen a disciplined phalanx, or professional cavalry." He got up and ambled half stumbling towards the door.
"Consul Augustus surrender your city. You blood and your countrymen need not be spilt on this soil."
Glassy eyed and wobbly the man looked at me, surprised by my statement. He waved his finger at me as if to scold me.
"My relief forces will be arriving shortly and when they do I will face you on the battlefield, honorable Himilcar Barcino."
With that he left with his guards and I heard him talking loudly about the might of Rome.
I could not belief the stupidity of this man. His relief forces consisted of three maniples of allied troops and some hastati and principe. Combined with the garrison of Taras it was less than half the size of my army. His men bravely charged my light troops and after a significant period I withdrew them. The Roman infantry plunged headlong into my lines of phalynx. The result were a giant version of the skewers I had at dinner the other night with the drunken Consul. The Romans pushed and shoved but only managed to get impaled by the force of the men behind them pushing them on. I sent my sacred band and Iberian cavalry after the Consul who was alone on the battlefield behind his infantry. He did manage to destroy a group of my Belaric slingers, but facing our cavalry his resolve melted and his bodyguards fell to my own cavalry like snow in the desert. I did not see him fall but after the battle was over a part of me was glad he was not the Consul anymore. I couldnt bare to fight another poorly led group.
Battle of Taras:
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXIII-16.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXIII-17.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXIII-18.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXIII-19.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXIII-20.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXIII-21.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXIII-22.jpg
Spies in the north indicate a very large army marching south and that army, a mixture of Allied, mercenary and Citizen troops could be the first challenge my men would face. Before that however, in the spring I would charge the city of Taras. Sitting around a city with someone elses timeline dictating my actions is not my interpretation of warfare. Warfare is man to man, horse to horse, wits to wits, and honor to honor. May the best win.

Winter 179 BC - Apulia
A glorious year for Carthage. In the north Bashelik has written me a letter telling of a great battle he had with the Romans. He was beseiging Gergovia when a great relief force came to force him away. After some maneurvering Bashelik put himself in a prominent position and accepted battle:
"Dear honorable Himilcar:
We have given battle to the Romans and have carried the day. Our victory has stung their resolve and Gergovia will hopefully be recaptured. I used the Iberian and Gallic mercenaries in two lines. Half of my army now consists of these brave warriors. The Romans came with scores of infantry and some cavalry. They charged my lines and the Iberians and Gauls fought shoulder to shoulder. These Gauls are great men of strength and honor. They fight with a wondorous resolve. Watching the Iberians and Aeudi men fight and die next to each other as brothers gave me pause. It was a wonderful amalgam of men pressing and fighting each other to the death. For hourse the battle plowed on. The Romans lost their commander early in the battle and their brave Centurions continued the fight. My lines slowly drifted backwards until the first line melted into the second. The second melting into my Liby-Phonecians. We held them there. For what seemed an eternity the lines were relentless. Every space that could hold a man was occupied. When a man died another would step over the corpse and assume his place. I watched one particular Aeudian called Gerganto, a giant even among his own people, swing his sword taking down man after man.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXIII-34.jpg

I watched him kill no less than ten Principe before being surrounded and brought down like a giant bear. A fierce race these men are. As daylight faded the Romans broke off the fight and fled the battlefield. I have many casualties and many more died but we have carried the day.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXIII-35.jpg
I am returning to Emporian to recruit more men for my depleted ranks and will resume campaigning in the spring. I hope your fight in the south goes well. I look forward to embracing you again after this war is finished.
May the Gods keep you,

Bashelik"

Having read his letter after my own great battle also gave me pause. Two great victories and two great defeats for the enemy. A good year indeed. My own battle here in Apulia while approaching Arpi resulted in a horrific loss for the Romans. A great number of infantry approached my lines. My light infantry peppered the enemy with javelins and my slingers ruined limbs and spirit alike. Eventually the Romans engaged my light troops and they fared quite well. My Libyan spear men and Iberian troops along with some local rebellious Samnites, who joined our cause, held off the Roman tide for some time. Eventually I withdrew my first line and let the Romans poured into the prickly facade of my Sacred band. The Romans reach was limited and they tried to slip between the spears but few made it and the ones that did were brought down quickly. They tried to envelope the flanks of the phalynx and my Elite Africans broke all attempts. I employed the cavalry against the infantry and brought my Africans up from the rear and completely surrounded a giant pocket of Romans in front of my phalynx. Forming a cube I had them trapped and used the cavalry to push their men into the speartips of the Sacred band. This caused mass panic amongst the enemy and many died as they trampled each other trying to escape the mayhem. All three Praetors were killed and we captured 12 legionary standards. However if one thing is certain is the resilance of the Romans. They will return.
Battle of Arpi:
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXIII-27.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXIII-23.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXIII-24.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/chapterXIII-25.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXIII-28.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXIII-29.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXIII-30.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXIII-31.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXIII-32.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXIII-33.jpg

Spring 177 BC - Governors Residence, Arpi

Another large but haphazard army attacked my forces while laying seige to Arpi. My battle hardened troops and their lack of comprable cavalry has enabled me to dominate the field of battle. I have complete reign with my Iberian and Sacred Band Cavalry and use it to its greatest potential.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXIII-36.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXIII-37.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXIII-38.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXIII-39.jpg

I am now preparing for another spring offensive. The senate is sending my Protege via ship from Kyrenia. The son of the governor he has led several successful campaigns against resistant Numidians along the coast between Kyrenia and Lepki. Showing great promise he should be here during the year and I will put him in charge of the cavalry and see how he performs under a larger command.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXIII-40.jpg

I turned 50 and although I feel good, I want nothing to comprimise what we have gained here in Italy. Guardon and I have drawn up plans to lay siege to Capua. My protege will hopefully be able to command this highly disciplined army. He must gain respect, and respect will be gained with the cavalry first. Success there will lead to confidence with the rest of the men. Walking through the camp outside the city walls the men know that each one of them is contributing to our history.

Winter 177 BC - Encamped in southern Latium
Bashelik's success in the north has caused the Romans to abandon the city of Gergovia.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXIII-44.jpg

This was their last stronghold West of the Rhone river. In several glorious battles in which he was facing a sea of levied Celts and other men he prevailed. In a letter he described his battles in detail. Bashelik has turned himself into quite the strategist and I am honored that he leads our great allies in the north. Bashelik is using his army as a shield to check the Romans West of the Rhone and I am the spear. Even now I continue the ardorous climb up the Italian Peninsula. The citizenry flee before my army. Whole villages are deserted. We set about beseiging Capua and another poorly led attempt to dislodge us ended in total disaster for Rome and her Allies.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXIII-42.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXIII-43.jpg

We walked into the city after just one season of waiting. The fall of Capua caused mass panic in the north. The capital of the Roman republic was moved to Mediolanum far in the north. The senate abandoned their great city for fear of me. Even now we are encamped within an easy march of their capital. Deprived of men from her south the Romans are conscripting poorer and poorer quality troops. Bashelik has told me that the armies of recent memory are mostly levied spearmen coming from lands occupied by the Romans. These levied troops already despise the Romans and have very little desire to kill their Aeudi brothers or even the mighty Iberians that make up the Northern Army. "They rout quickly and attack half-heartedly" According to Bashelik.
I am perplexed as to the absence of Consuls or senators commanding the Armies of Rome. Praetors and Centurians are leading the defense and it is ill-planned. Consisting of just infantry my cavalry continue to exert horrific tolls on the men of Italy. With the Senate fleeing the great city itself perhaps they are trying to consolidate themselves in the north.

Summer, 176 BC, Roma
Carthage is awash in celebration. From The sand of Africa, of Egypt, to Mauretania, to Iberia and the Land of the Aeudi a great festival encompasses our success. Rome has fallen! It is true that there is still much fighting to the north but for now we celebrate. The men have sacrificed much, as have I. Bashelik has congratulated me and the Senate is prepared to come to Rome to see the great city for themselves. It is a majestic city with great temples and forums, fountains, and gardens. We ride in triumphant after the garrison sallied out to try and help the relief force. After some hard fighting my mercenaries and allied troops broke the defense of Rome and the city, losing her defenders, had no choice but to surrender.
Last Defense of Rome:
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXIII-45.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXIII-46.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXIII-47.jpg
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXIII-48.jpg

My men looted and destroyed and many valuable things have been lost. I have kept most of the documents from the Republican Library under the great Forum. These will be of interest to later generations. The coffers overflow with the riches of these brutal people.
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXIII-50.jpg

Sitting in the palace of this great city I overlook the huge sprawling mass of houses and other structures. I cant help but think of how history will remember Carthage. I think we are just and fair. Will the people of the future feel the same? How will the ill-fated Romans be remembered? Will they be remembered as victims of conquest? Or will they be remembered as a brutal civilization that was bent on ruling the world. How has the world changed? What would the world look like had Carthage never existed? I drink deeply from the cup in my hand. The rich beans of Africa, grown from her robust soil, the stout liquid flows through my veins. There are many questions with little to offer for answers. I look into the cup and I see my reflection. At the same time I see the lands of my ancestors. The beans having taken the soil of the land into itself. The very flavors of Africa. Looking at the shimmering reflection amongst the ripples of the brew I can't help but think how will history remember me?
https://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h301/troyboy1208/The%20Sands%20Of%20Africa/ChapterXIII-49.jpg

[Chirurgeon]

I want to take a moment to thank all of you for following this AAR. I will continue to write but for now I am charging ahead with my other duties. I will do my small part to make EB the most rich and enjoyable experience possible. You all are awesome and it your contributions to the AAR, with your comments and insight, that make it great. EB was the canvas, I was the painter, and you the art critics and fans :) I think it worked well and could have never done what I did without you. Indeed I will be back but for now a new journey awaits. Again thank you all for your dedication and insight. You have no idea what it means to me.

-Troy

[Bootsiuv]

Fantastic job.

I will miss your writing very much....but am glad you'll still be around the forums.

Thanks for all of your time and hard work just to give us a little entertainment.

Have fun beta testing. :)

[Bobolicious]

quite an chapter, they didnt put up much of a fight did they? I would have loved to hear about one final, climatic battle out side the walls of Roma with her best troops, but it was still an amazing story. and most of the other factions were active (Getai!,Saba, bactria)

[Treverer]

<at a campfire in the lands of the Trevereri>
- "That Storyteller has left us last night."
- "Ahh! What a pity! He was ... he IS a great Storyteller."
- "Some of us say he shall return ..."
- "I hope he does. I hope he does."
___
Chirurgeon, thank you for your work. Of the many AARs, I've read (EB, RTW & other games), yours was one of the GREATEST.
Good luck for your future!

Yours,
Treverer

[Basileus Seleukeia]

It's a pity that this AAR has now ended. It is always a pity when a great example of literature comes to an end. But I assume that's the way of all things. Thank you for the hours of great entertainment, Chirurgeon!

[Sassem]

@Chirurgeon Thank you for writing your amazing AAR's

I will miss them but I know that you're working on very good case

So success with finding bugs and improving the next EB release

[Chirurgeon]

@Bootsiuv: Thanks I will and when the new EB comes out your mouth will drop as mine did :)

@Bobolicious: Yes I was dissapointed but there was a full stack just north of Arritium that could have challanged me. I just thought ending the chapter upon the capture of Rome was appropriate. I wanted to Continue the AAR further but alas I have had a higher calling ;)

@Treverer: One night a stranger will come to your campfire but you will quickly realize he is not a stranger...rather a long lost friend and storyteller

@Basileus Seleukia: Thank you for your comments. Dont worry you will see me again :)

@Sassem: Thank you and I hope that I can bring something to the EB experience.

[Thaatu]

Just make sure you keep your savegame intact.

[Chirurgeon]

thats long gone Thaatu...besides its not compatible with the new version I believe.

[Wolfman]

It'll be a blast beta testing with you! And I hope your able to do a new AAR soon perhaps as the Aedui?
P.S. I have a cousin named Troy.

[Chirurgeon]

It'll be a blast beta testing with you! And I hope your able to do a new AAR soon perhaps as the Aedui?
P.S. I have a cousin named Troy.

That could be cool :) I'm testing the Lusitanns and Carthage but the Aeudi have always been intriguing. Maybe I will try beta-testing them next :)

[overweightninja]

Good run Chirugeon thanks for doing the toggle_fow at the end there get on!
Cheers! :2thumbsup:

[Chirurgeon]

Good run Chirugeon thanks for doing the toggle_fow at the end there get on!
Cheers! :2thumbsup:


Your certainly welcome! thanks for following :)

[Fraekae]

Just wanted to thank you for a great AAR after being a silent lurker from the beginning. I really hope you will return with a new AAR when the next version is out, so that we can all enjoy your wonderful writing again!

[Chirurgeon]

Just wanted to thank you for a great AAR after being a silent lurker from the beginning. I really hope you will return with a new AAR when the next version is out, so that we can all enjoy your wonderful writing again!

Beta testing is going very well. The EB team has made an incredibly stable game. You guys are in for a real treat. So hopefully we can get this thing released and I can start writing again.

[Bootsiuv]

Personally, I can't wait for those spiffy new campaign map graphics I've seen....it seems to look much more like a "satelitte photo" in the new version (from the previews that I've seen).

Of course, I'm looking forward to the other stuff too (pahlava and hayasdan look like they'll be real interesting), it's just I've always thought the water should look blacker, like in real life.

[TWFanatic]

Great AAR.:2thumbsup:

I have a question that does not deserve a thread: How do you display a character's ENTIRE scroll of traits and ancillaries as shown in your screen shots without having to scroll down?

[overweightninja]

It always seemed to me like the large traits scrolls are displayed by taking a screenshot of two halves and then pasting them together.
Or it could be that more can be displayed at higher resolutions, and chirugeon has a nice monitor and video card.
Not sure on either though :embarassed:

[Chirurgeon]

Take your general and put him in a fort :) Then right click on him and boom you can see all his info. On another note: Damn I was reading my own AAR again after working on the next EB build and wish I could pick up where I left off. Same with the Roman AAR. Seems I am 0-2 when it comes to finishing what i start. I promise to actually finish an AAR next time. Thanks again for following.

[alatar]

I think you can call sands of arfica finished, I mean, only one more settlement and you've won the game I think.

[TWFanatic]

Ah, OK! Cheers. I'll be looking out for your next AAR.:yes:

[Chirurgeon]

I think you can call sands of arfica finished, I mean, only one more settlement and you've won the game I think.

I wanted to meddle in Greek affairs. I wanted to pit my Carthage phalanx against Macedonia and Epirus :) Not to mention the Arche Selucia and Bactria.
Another time I suppose huh?

[Chirurgeon]

Not sure where to put this but since most of the people I know on the forums check this thread I thought I would just let you know that if you ever want to play Titan Quest Immortal Throne together you can hit me up on xfire. my screen name is linaeus. Its a really cool game set in ancient times and is alot of fun to play as a team. My xfire is on whenever I'm on the computer

[Long lost Caesar]

amazing AAR, you really have some awesome writing talent man. especially lovin the little bit at the end "how will the world remember me?" those kinda phrases MAKE ancient stories.

[Chirurgeon]

amazing AAR, you really have some awesome writing talent man. especially lovin the little bit at the end "how will the world remember me?" those kinda phrases MAKE ancient stories.

Thank you Long Lost Caesar. I put a considerable amount of time and thought into my AARs. Its guys like you that make me want to continue :) Thanks for following and when EB 1 comes out I cant wait to see all the new fresh material and new AARs that will accompany it.

[johnhughthom]

Very good read Chirurgeon, I just read through the whole thing over a couple of hours while I was supposed to be working. I've recently started a game as Carthage and you've made me eager to get home to play it.
I think I'll check out the other AAR you mentioned early in the thread when I'm in work tomorrow...

[Chirurgeon]

Very good read Chirurgeon, I just read through the whole thing over a couple of hours while I was supposed to be working. I've recently started a game as Carthage and you've made me eager to get home to play it.
I think I'll check out the other AAR you mentioned early in the thread when I'm in work tomorrow...

glad to hear I'm affecting your productivity ;) The Roman AAR is a different style than the Carthage one. Its more like a history book. I actually prefer the sands of africa style. It kinda mixes the two together. Good luck in your Carthage campaign. By far they are the most enjoyable and flexible. I too have lost time at work reading other AARs. "The world according to koinen hellenon" is by far the most humorous I have run into in the forums. I was actually laughing at my computer.

[alatar]

Great AAR.

[Chirurgeon]

Sorry I have been so absent on the forums. School and work are taking their toll. These real life pressures should abate by december and then I can get back to writing. Enjoy 1.0 is beautiful :)

[overweightninja]

Anything planned Chirugeon?
PS that says something, I'm still subscribed for replies to this thread even now! :laugh4:

[Sassem]

Sorry I have been so absent on the forums. School and work are taking their toll. These real life pressures should abate by december and then I can get back to writing. Enjoy 1.0 is beautiful :)


Anything planned Chirugeon?
PS that says something, I'm still subscribed for replies to this thread even now! :laugh4:

Same hear still subscribed and maybe you want to join us in the future

looking forward to see you back :2thumbsup:

[IndianPrince]

That is THE best AAR I've ever read. Amazing work :D

Prince

[carthage_supreme]

A superb AAR on my favorite faction, the best ive read so far.

[Chirurgeon]

Thanks for continuing to support this and again when the semester is over I will be at it again. I am already doing research for the next one :)

[Chaotix]

What faction's it gonna be, Chirurgeon? How about an Aedui or Arverni AAR? Or perhaps you could play as... The Grey Death! Whatever faction you play as, it's going to be awesome anyway, so I don't think we have to worry about your choice.

[icydawgfish]

How about a Parthian or Ptolemaic AAR?

[Treverer]

... a campfire in the land of the Treveri

- "Have you news of that epic storyteller?"
- "Yes, m'lord, I hear he heads again northwards. Soon he will be here again."
- "Ah!"
__
Whatever faction you choose, I'm sure the story you tell about them will be as fine as was the one about Carthage ...

Yours, T.

[Raphia]

I have the whole AAR on pdf
http://www.mediafire.com/?edjbttn3xgn

[IndianPrince]

This is really amazing ... cant wait for more :)

Prince

[Chirurgeon]

I have the whole AAR on pdf
http://www.mediafire.com/?edjbttn3xgn

Thats truly amazing :) and quite the compliment. can you email it to me? troyboy1208@hotmail.com if you have a moment that would be awesome. I was going to print it out and show some publishers from the website but pdf would be more manageable. For those of you that follow this thread I will probably get started on my next AAR over the Thanksgiving holiday as I have the whole week of Thanksgiving off. Look for something possibly this weekend or the next :)

Thank you all for continuing to follow.

[gamegeek2]

Kill me, but I love playing as The Gray Death. It's fun fighting 5 enemies and owning them all.

[Chirurgeon]

I kinda hate playing factions that are so exposed...one of the reasons I didnt play Ptolemy for a long time. Carthage has a nasty habit of stabbing them in the back and trying to take Kyrene. So far though in my Ptolemic campaign its not a problem... The trick is giving them tribute every turn

[Moosemanmoo]

I came across this only 3 days ago and have only now finished reading it :book:

Just wanted to say that this was an incredible AAR and you have inspired me to play as carthage, a faction Iv'e always neglected but im finding it really great fun! Currently dealing with Ptolemois encrouching on my forts west of lepki and preparing to wipe out all the numidians in northwest africa. I've managed to wipe out the roman fleets, leaving them stranded and blockaded on Sicily and I hope to have captured the island by tonight

And again thanks for introducing me to such a great faction, and thanks for providing such a great read:2thumbsup:

[Chirurgeon]

I came across this only 3 days ago and have only now finished reading it :book:

Just wanted to say that this was an incredible AAR and you have inspired me to play as carthage, a faction Iv'e always neglected but im finding it really great fun! Currently dealing with Ptolemois encrouching on my forts west of lepki and preparing to wipe out all the numidians in northwest africa. I've managed to wipe out the roman fleets, leaving them stranded and blockaded on Sicily and I hope to have captured the island by tonight

And again thanks for introducing me to such a great faction, and thanks for providing such a great read:2thumbsup:

It is my pleasure. I am glad to see you like playing Carthage. I think they are one of the most versatile of all the factions. The Barcid/anti-barcid roleplaying was really fun. They truly are alot of fun to play with

[Mediteran]

whao ive only just read this AAR, and i must say its beautiful :) carthage is my favorite faction, and youve really brought them to life :)

[Chirurgeon]

whao ive only just read this AAR, and i must say its beautiful :) carthage is my favorite faction, and youve really brought them to life :)

Thank you sir. Glad you enjoyed it. Carthage is my favorite faction as well. I really enjoyed playing them.

[Chirurgeon]

In an effort to promote EB and all its glory I have submitted my Sands of Africa AAR into the TWC AAR forum. I do not do this as self-promotion but rather to generate more interest in the mod. I found out about EB on a different forum. So perhaps this is one way to recruit more people to play. Here is the link:
http://www.twcenter.net/forums/showthread.php?p=3422246#post3422246