3rd Legion - Roma's Bulls

3rd Legion – Roma’s Bulls

This is my first AAR. I am a RTW veteran and love EB, so I thought, why not? This AAR will simply follow the fortunes of the 3rd Roman Legion. You will notice that I have already started the game at the time of writing, and simply this is because I did not have a 3rd legion at the time. I will be using EB 0.81 and BI.exe.

EDIT: I am playing VH Campaign and Hard Battles.

Also once the legion is disbanded (See below), I will follow the fortunes of the new legion. This means that I should hopefully keep going until the very end of the campaign.

Rules
https://forums.totalwar.org/vb/showthread.php?t=79935
The above is a link to the make up of my legions through time. I will strive to use them as historically as possible, but I find that after a few battles Hastati have taken a real beating and as such I may have to recycle them to the rear of the line.

Every 16 years every unit in each legion will be disbanded, usually in Italy. No exceptions.

For every legion disbanded, I will raise a new one.

I am allowed to retrain, however I will not merge units together, unless forced to do so by the game.

In winter all armies must be either laying siege to a city, in a city, or in a fort at the end of the turn.

Consular armies may only be led by consuls OR a pro-consul still serving the army.

Praetors and Pro-Praetors may lead single legions.

If I have no one who is either of the above ranks, then I will work my way down the Cursus Honorum, starting with Ex-Quaestors. Though there will still be exceptions to the rule, but that is all role playing.

I must have a Casus Belli.

While I am building whatever level of government I choose to use I will have to have a legion in the general area, not necessarily in the city though.

Just as a side note, whenever I say it is the year of the consulship of two people, they will be the two consuls that the game gives me. If I only have 1 or neither then I will just use historical names.

No cheating, ever or at all. This includes toggling Fog of War. If I want to learn something
I reserve the right to add to these rules or bend them whenever I choose.

Index
Book 1
Chapter 1 - Rome's Heroes
Chapter 2 - Battle of Sardinia
Chapter 3 - Siege of Karali
Chapter 4 - Counter-Siege
Chapter 5 - Retaking Sardinia
Chapter 6 - Third Battle of Sardinia
Chapter 7 - Invasion of Iberia
Chapter 8 - Tragedy Befalls
Chapter 9 - Homeward Bounds
Chapter 10 - The Last Great Deeds
Chapter 11 - Last Actions

Book 2
Prologue
Chapter 1 - First Actions
Chapter 2 - To Kill a Gaul
Chapter 3 - A Second Attempt
Chapter 4 - Going North
Chapter 5 - An Offer
Chapter 6 - Do Your Duty

Chapter 1 – Rome’s Heroes

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...erritories.jpg

262BCE – Spring – The consulship of Lvcivs Postvmivs Megellvs and Quintvs Mamilivs Vitvlvs

The year is 262 BCE, or 491 years since Romulus and Remus founded the glorious city of Rome. Rome has risen from being a fledgling city-state under Etruscan rule to greatness! She now owns the entire Italian Peninsula. She has come to achieve dominance over her former masters, the Etruscans, the Lucanian and even the troublesome Samnites, who until 28 years ago were in a state of open war against Rome.

Yet Italy herself is not enough.

What is there that could possibly stop Rome from achieving far more? Who is there that would dare to defy Roman strength at arms. We shall thrust our Gladius’s up to the hilt into those who would dare to openly fight us.

However, there is one who would see us fail. One who would see us die.

Carthage

The name comes off the tongue and leaves the taste of manure behind it.

They are strong, yet we are stronger.

Our armies have spent the last 10 years campaigning in Southern Italy, yet there was always one problem we had. We did not have enough grain. Then we look across from Rhegiom in our south and we see Sicily. Sicily, a land who is blessed by the Gods in her bountiful fertility.

We have it from the best of sources that Sicily openly aided our former foe Epiros. Pah! Even united these pathetic Greeks can not stand against our might! They were weak!

And they suffered for it

Our first 2 Legions crossed the straight. The 2nd Legion took a foothold in Messana, and as I write this the 1st Legion is besieging Syracuse, though that could go on for another year at least.

But what of Carthage? She did not sit idly by as she should have. No, she defied us; she declared war on us under the pretence that Sicily should remain “free”. These Greeks know nothing of freedom. Their petty tyrants war against one another and for what? So that Carthage may further expand her sphere of influence?

So now we were at war with Carthage, however both of our legions were occupied. The 1st was besieging Syracuse, and the 2nd was securing Messana and turning it into the first Roman province.

We needed more men, and the 3rd Legion was to answer that call.

We needed to punish the Carthaginians, and the 3rd Legion was to answer that call.

We needed heroes, and the 3rd Legion was to answer that call.

A new Legion was commissioned and raised immediately. They came from all the Latin colonies spread around the peninsula. Some even hailed from Roma herself, particularly the wealthier Triarii and Equites.

Yet this legion needed someone to command it, but who? Rome has few able commanders, many of them being off campaigning in Sicily as it was, yet there was one man who came forward. His name was Cnaevs Scipio Asina. He was an Optimate and a patrician. A man with True Roman blood in him. He had spent much of his wealth on many of the people, having purchased several parades, and more importantly, he was a great public speaker. He could out debate any other politician of his time.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...cipioAsina.jpg

So he got the job.

“But what to do with this new legion, what to do with the Carthaginians?” The Senatores pondered.

Then Scipio came forth and offered a daring plan. A plan that would bring a swift end to this war with complete victory for Rome.

He would take the Legion, His Legion, to Sardinia, and there he would strike the Carthaginians a blow. There he would teach them the price of defying Rome.

New ships were ordered to be constructed.

The 3rd was to set sail.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...-3rdLegion.jpg

looks promising, looking forward to future chapters!

Thanks Warluster :2thumbsup:

I've got the next chapter played out. The 3rd Legion sees their first combat :o

Woohoo! The fightin' 3rd! Looking forward to their exploits. This is extra awesome because I was planning on a Roman AAR starting with a campaign already in progress, specifically the newly begun Gallic wars, 236. Good to see a similar idea being played out. I'll probably just follow this one instead, do something else another time. ~:) Go Legio III!

Chapter 2 – Battle of Sardinia
262BCE – Summer – The consulship of Lvcivs Postvmivs Megellvs and Quintvs Mamilivs Vitvlvs

Dear Father,

Well my enlistment with the 3rd Legion went well. Due to my experience with the 1st Legion at the disaster at Taras in 270BCE, I was appointed Signifer of the 1st Principes Maniple. This is a great honour, and will do much to help me regain face after I shamefully fled from the battle.

As you know, we have been sent to Sardinia to seek vengeance against the Carthaginian menace. No sooner had we dropped ashore and created a standard camp, than our scouts reported an enemy army approaching.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...ofSardinia.jpg

The orders were sent out to prepare for battle. We were to be ready by mid day. The Centurion oversaw our readiness, his Optio hitting those who did not move fast enough. All of us were ready an hour ahead of time, and we deployed in battle formation.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...a-PrincOpt.jpg

I took up my place on the left hand side of the maniple. We were deployed in the standard 3 line battle system. At the very front were the Leves, those too poor for their own equipment. Behind them, and in front of us, were the Hastati and the Samnite Spearmen. We came next, along with our Lucanian Allies. Then behind us were the Triarii and the Rorarii. The Accensi again were behind that, ready to unload their slings over our heads.

Our general, none other than the great Cnaevs Scipio Asina took the right flank with his personal bodyguard and the Left flank was held by the Equites. They were simply to protect our flanks. This would be an infantry battle. None are better than Roman Infantry.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...inia-Part1.jpg

The enemy came over the hill and approached our position. There was little unity in their line, which was not surprising considering that these were little more than a hastily thrown-together militia.

As they approached faster, the order was given for our men to unleash hell with their javelins.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...inia-Part2.jpg

Many of the enemy’s shields were pinned to their bodies and arms, causing much pain and many of the enemies were simply pinned to the ground by the steely point. Yet the majority just kept on coming unperturbed.

They crashed into the Hastati with the roar that only steel on steel can produce. We watched on. A signal would be given when the time came.

The Hastati fought valiantly for a long time, and in that time I looked up and down our line. To my right the Samnites had been charged by some militia, had broken them, and were now caught in a fierce battle with some reserves. The Rorarii on our right also were clashing with some enemies, however these ones were particularly elite. To my left the Lucanians were holding, though just barely. They were aided by some triarii who were sent forward to hold the line.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...inia-Part3.jpg

Then the order came to charge.

The Hastati had had enough; the enemy hard received further aid from more units, stretching the Hastati almost to breaking point.

The Centurion gave the order, and by the Gods did we charge.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...inia-Part4.jpg

The enemy had foolishly shown their flank to us and they just could not stand the combined pressure of our assault on their flank and the Hastati’s renewed attempts against their front.

They ran, and we cut them down.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...inia-Part5.jpg

After that the enemy’s centre had been broken, so we were just left to mop up the survivors. The Triarii had dealt with the threat to the Lucanians, however the Rorarii were still struggling against the enemy’s on that flank. These were their best troops in the region. The centurion halted our legion, a difficult thing to do whilst we were pursuing, revenge for the fallen fresh in our minds. Yet he managed it. He wheeled us around and marched us to the enemy’s flank.

For the last time that day we charged.

These men were much more organized than the citizen levy that we had previously broken, and even with their flank falling slowly to us, they held their ground. That is, until Scipio Asina charged their rear.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...inia-Part6.jpg

Never before have I seen a cavalry charge. Our men for the most part just stepped back and stopped fighting, watching as these brave riders, our Commander at their head, ripped into the enemy’s rear. The enemy had few men aware of this threat and could do nothing. They were caught between three units with no where to run.

So they were cut down.

Father, it was a great battle. I feel as if already I have atoned for my disgrace at the Siege of Taras. Spread the news in Rome. We won a great victory this day.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...inia-Final.jpg

Your loving son forever,
Spvrivs Cordivs

Man I like this AAR a 1st person AAR awesome!!!!



u know what... F*** IT I am buying a new RTW CD NOW!!!! (I ain't gonna wait for my next paycheck)

Tanks NeoSpartan and Wonderland for your support guys.

:2thumbsup:

Excellent battle, Sardina is ours! very good CA, I like the use of First person thing.

Nice CA. First battle of a fresh legion was an easy one. Now we await the troubles ahead against Carthages elite!

Oh and I love that there are no banners, and the unit sizes are huge. Adds nicely to the feel.

Yeah no banners, no green arrows. Theyare just annoying IMO. Makes it harder as well.

I've got a few more turns of screenshots taken. I'll write them up soon.

Chapter 3 – Siege of Karali

262BCE – Autumn – The consulship of Lvcivs Postvmivs Megellvs and Quintvs Mamilivs Vitvlvs

Father,

It is I, your son, again. I am still in service in Sardinia, as you know. However, some things have happened since I last wrote you.

We recently dispatched the army of Carthage that was on this island and whilst this puts us in control of the north, the south was still contested. The only way to secure Roman control of the entire island was to besiege and assault Karali. It is the main city of the island and in taking that we control the key point.

So Scipio Asina sent the orders out for us to do so.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...nia-Battle.jpg

The city was defended by a man named Carthalo, a man more suited to books and tax figures than warfare; however his bodyguards are tough to a man. They would rather die than run.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...inia-Enemy.jpg

We deployed outside the city, us true Romans on one side and the Allies coming from another street. We marched down through the streets, the citizens baring their way. Vile propaganda and slanderous lies spread by the Carthaginians must have reached their ears.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...inia-Part1.jpg

Finally we reached the city centre. Standing there were a mere 80 men. We outnumbered them more than 10 to 1.

Yet they charged us anyway.

The hastate lead the counter charge, taking the brunt of the assault and paying dearly with blood for every one of these riders that they tore down. They were forced to withdraw from the combat because of the tremendous pressure, and then Scipio ordered us and the Triarii forward and the allies to flank (For our allies, the Lucanians and Samnites, are also armed with Spears).

We sheer amount of armour that these men carry made it almost impossible to kill the man directly, and as such we were forced to stab the horses, mainly around the eyes. Then when the man came to the ground, we would stab him with our daggers as many times as it took to take the man down.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...inia-Part2.jpg

The men fell one by one, each one extracting a heavy toll on us, until finally they were all dead. We lost about 200 men that day father, including almost a third of the Principes. I lost some friends, and saw some things I will never forget, yet this battle taught me to respect the bravery of these Carthaginians. I have nothing to praise these men for, save this.

So we took the town and sold the people into slavery. Scipio became quite rich from this and is now looking quite likely to get a triumph. I pray to Mars that I will be there to march beside him that day.

So for now we wait in the town and have started to pacify the rebellious minorities. They will learn respect, even if we have to beat it into them. We await a garrison force so that we may continue on. There are whispers that our next target will be Corsica. If so, then we still face another fight, though not as hard as what I have seen on this island. I have seen things here I will never forget.

Your son, with love as always,
Spvrivs Cordivs

Good entry, but a little suggestion if you will. Considering there are going to be (I assume) many more battles and events to come, many much larger and more decisive, I'd recommend you save up your reports for bigger battles. Reason being, you don't want to get burned out writing up every single report. You could always mention the other happenings in passing, but save the big write-ups for the big battles. Of course, this might be what you're going for intentionally, given that it's a first person type thing where every battle he partakes in is counted, and that's fine. I'm just saying so you don't get tired early on basically.

Then again, I guess if you only report battles the 3rd legion is in, it won't be too much... not like if it was every battle of every legion. Anyhoo! I will be reading whatever you will be writing my friend. :2thumbsup: Keep it coming.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Wonderland

Good entry, but a little suggestion if you will. Considering there are going to be (I assume) many more battles and events to come, many much larger and more decisive, I'd recommend you save up your reports for bigger battles. Reason being, you don't want to get burned out writing up every single report. You could always mention the other happenings in passing, but save the big write-ups for the big battles. Of course, this might be what you're going for intentionally, given that it's a first person type thing where every battle he partakes in is counted, and that's fine. I'm just saying so you don't get tired early on basically.

Then again, I guess if you only report battles the 3rd legion is in, it won't be too much... not like if it was every battle of every legion. Anyhoo! I will be reading whatever you will be writing my friend. :2thumbsup: Keep it coming.

---

Yeah I am only reporting the fights from the 3rd Legion. That is what allows me to make it far more detailed. But I won't write about every little battle or event. In fat, if he hadn't killed 200 of my men, this would hardly have warranted a mention.

Great AAR so far, Count Arach!! I like the idea of just following the progress of one legion.... it makes all of the battles more personal. Keep it up:2thumbsup:

Chapter 4 – Counter-Siege
262BCE – Winter to 261 BCE – Autumn – The consulship of Lvcivs Valerivs Flaccvs and Tiberivs Otacilivs Crassvs

Father,

I find myself writing to you again. The hours are long; the days just seem emptier the longer I stay away from home. Little has been required of us through the spring, the summer and the autumn. We have been introducing an element of our good culture to the people of the island.

Our first step was to do this in Karali, thus cementing our control of the rebellious south. The fleet then dropped some leves off to take the garrison duties off our hands. They took over the south and we moved to the north. We have been garrisoned there ever since.

We stayed in this simple camp through summer and autumn. It is now moving towards winter, and I keep thinking this will be my last. Let me explain:

After our capture of Karali, the Carthaginians landed a small contingent outside the city. We thought nothing of it at the time, so we moved away and left the garrison in charge of the city.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...-Winter262.jpg

Well just a week ago word arrived that the garrison had been entirely killed by this small contingent. We were all amazed. The leves had outnumbered the enemy 4 to 1. Karali had fallen back into the enemy’s hand.

We were about to break camp, the Scipio realised 2 things. For 1 we would be bogged down by the snow that was soon to arrive, and for another we also heard tell of a small army from Corsica who had landed on the island to challenge us.

Scipio decided we would stay put and let them come to us.

And they did.

They besieged our camp, and that is where we sit now. I know that I cannot send this, but still I find myself longing to talk to you again. But I must serve my country. Rome must prevail.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...-Winter261.jpg

Your son, with all the love of the Gods,
Spvrivs Cordivs

God I love BI. I wonder what composition that besieging army is made up of. This sure puts a stint on the III's plans.

lol, pretty much what I thought. It means that after the battles to retake Sardinia I will have to return to Italy for reinforcements! Gah!

Next chapter should be coming soon, but I can't promise anything ;)

Chapter 5 – Retaking Sardinia
261 BCE – Winter – The consulship of Lvcivs Valerivs Flaccvs and Tiberivs Otacilivs Crassvs

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...-Winter261.jpg

Father,

As I told you last time, we found ourselves besieged at the very end of last month. However, all that has now changed. Let me explain.

The first order that Scipio Asina gave to us was to break camp. We marched out in battle order and assaulted those who were besieging us.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...ofSardinia.jpg

He had all the infantry (Including myself) deploy in front of the main gate. To our left were the Accensi and their slings as well as the cavalry.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...ardinia-Pa.jpg

We marched out towards our enemy. Their spears were reflecting the sun right into our eyes. It was frightening father, though I should not admit that. But this is the plain and honest truth. The grass came up to my chest, it was as if I was wading through the water as I first did when coming on to this island.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...Sardinia-1.jpg

Our leves hurled all their spears, the slingers unloaded their ammo and our men threw all their Pila into the enemy’s ranks. The enemy just stood there and took it. They just stepped forward over their fallen comrades and awaited our charge.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...Sardinia-2.jpg

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...Sardinia-3.jpg

Then we charged.

We ran forward towards our opponents, together with our one-time enemy’s, the Samnites. Together and with a resonating crash we hit their lines. Our Pila had started to tell on their numbers and as such we were able to surround them.


Finally they broke and only revenge for our fallen friends was in our minds. The Samnites continued on with the Rorarii and charged the second line of infantry that our men had deployed. However, our centurion, Marcus, ordered us to turn to our left. We carried out the order and saw the Hastati and Lucanians fighting valiantly against superior numbers of enemies.

We marched at the enemy’s rear.

And by the Gods did we charge.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...Sardinia-4.jpg

Finally, the enemy ran out of reinforcements and we were able to grind down the final enemy detachments. They broke and our cavalry pursued them.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...Sardinia-5.jpg

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...Sardinia-6.jpg

So now we were free of our camp, but we still had one task remaining before the winter was done. We had to fight for Karali yet again.

This time though the garrison was much smaller and the enemy were tired. The locals still caused some casualties amongst our men, but we retook the town without a worry.

So now we are back in total control of the island. There are whispers that we will be returning home next year, or perhaps the year after, but I try not to get my hopes up. The Carthaginian navy still rules the seas. They patrol near us every day, though so far we have not seen anyone disembark.

So father, it appears that I am still alive. I look forward to being reunited with you.

You loving and dutiful son,
Spvrivs Cordivs

Hey, looks like Spvurivs' cohort killed the (2nd) most enemies out of all the infantry. A commendation for the man! He'll climb the ranks in no time, I'm sure.

However this was still a testing grounds one must admit. A group of levies, untrained, unarmoured, unskilled poenis lead by a lowly captain! I still await the future, where Spvurivs Cordivus' mettle will be put to the test in a real battle. Outnumbered, outgunned, outclassed (or so they would have you believe!).

Iupiter speed young SC.

I've read AAR's and yours is great, no, superb!

A story on a single legion is a fresh idea.

But watch out, if you dont want you story to end then

protect spurivs' maniple!

Quote:

---

Hey, looks like Spvurivs' cohort killed the (2nd) most enemies out of all the infantry. A commendation for the man! He'll climb the ranks in no time, I'm sure.

---

Let's just say I have plans for him ;)

Quote:

---

However this was still a testing grounds one must admit. A group of levies, untrained, unarmoured, unskilled poenis lead by a lowly captain! I still await the future, where Spvurivs Cordivus' mettle will be put to the test in a real battle. Outnumbered, outgunned, outclassed (or so they would have you believe!).

---

You are right, Sardinia is a fairly soft target (Though I have still lost probably close to a third of the legion since I arrived). I can't wait until much later in their 'life' to see what kind of opponents they wil come up against and how they will fair. I suppose I could move them to Sicily where there are several better opponents, but Carthage just hasn't got the numbers there to contend with me. We'll see what comes up later on.

Quote:

---

I've read AAR's and yours is great, no, superb!

A story on a single legion is a fresh idea.

---

Wow! Thanks heaps! Great to hear that everyone so far has liked it.

Quote:

---

protect spurivs' maniple!

---

lol that's why I chose the Principes, sitting nicely in the centre of my line. Nicely protected on all sides. I make sure to follow him every battle.

Excellent AAR. First one that I've seen thats focused on a single unit/legion. CA you've inspired me to start keeping my own AAR, although I've yet to post anything on it.

Glad to see the 3rd survived Sardinia. Wish I could say the same thing for my 1st and 2nd legions at Taras...both were effectively put out of action for at least a year in that assault. Not to mention they failed to take Taras....

Kushan

Thanks Kushan! Wow, I've inspired people.

To echo the words of others, this is a bloody brilliant AAR, Arach. A novel idea, too. Keep it up! :2thumbsup:

i like the perspective, and you've put together a nice choice of screens, too. even if that last battle was against a bunch of poeni levies, at least they kept some level of cohesion, and the BI naval abilities are just soooo cool.

As you know I love this AAR ( As I stated earlier in Post #3) and have to agree with all other posts, this is a great story. I wonder if 3rd legion will go out of italy?

Thanks Justiciar!

Thanks Paullus! Your right, BI adds so much to the game, especially with the naval invasions. If you look carefully at part 1 you will see some Carthaginians laying seige to Capua :P

I hope so Warluster, and I have my grand strategy for winning the islands worked out. They should see some real action in a few years.

Brilliant perspective! Love it!

:thumbsup:

Does converting to BI add anything significant other then naval invasions? Been debating on switching but don't want to start my Rome campaign over again unless its worth it.

Kush

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Kushan

Does converting to BI add anything significant other then naval invasions? Been debating on switching but don't want to start my Rome campaign over again unless its worth it.

---

The A.I., both on the battle map and in the campaign, appears to be somewhat improved, but don't expect a huge differences.

very good start with this aar count, im trying the romans too, and im curious how you will progress in it, and how it will go with your legion. Concise and effective and some very nice shots! (cant remember when i fought my last fort battle, i have to try the eb forts)
keep it up with the red bulls mate:boxing: salut!

When is the next insallment coming out?

And I hope the 3rd will go to Spain and Africa, and fight faction leader led armies that are somewhere around 14-16 units including elephants that will decide the fate of a city or the fate of the army.

Not to much to ask...

lol, well I've got the game open on my other computer, so probably this afternoon or tomorrow. As to an invasion of a worthwhile place, I would look a few chapters in the future ;)

@ Kushan - I highly recommend doing it. The naval invasions alone are worth it. Thee battlemap AI is a lot better, and I believe the reinforcement AI is as well.

@ Obelics - Thanks mate! It means a lot coming from you. As you know you were one of the people who got me interested in AARs in the first place.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Kushan

Does converting to BI add anything significant other then naval invasions? Been debating on switching but don't want to start my Rome campaign over again unless its worth it.

Kush

---

Switching to the BI.exe is savegame compatible...

Chapter 6 – Third Battle of Sardinia
261 BCE – Spring to 257 BCE – Summer – The consulship of Gaivs Atilivs Regvlvs and Gnaevs Cornelivs Blasio

Father,

It is I again. I am sorry if you have been concerned about my health, but there is not much worth telling you in recent years. As you know in 259 Cnaevs Cornelivs Blasio was elected consul and Cnaevs Scipio Asina was elected Praetor. He was put in charge of Sardinia, and we were the legion assigned to him.

We learnt in the autumn after that that Cornelivs Blasio had captured the city of Lilibeo with the first and second legion. So the war in Sicily was over in 259. The men there were freed up for other theatres, yet for some reason unfathomable to me high command chose not to capitalize on this. Yet we in the field did not mind. Each of us was given a free Punic slave, which you have undoubtedly received by now.

Then a year later, in 258, we finally left the island and moved north to capture Corsicum.

Very little happened there that is worth mentioning. Suffice to say we took the town fairly easily.

Yet something interesting did come out of it. The Senatores in Rome noticed our efforts, particularly that of Scipio, so much so that they granted Scipio the title Africanvs. He would bear that in his name for as long as he was to remain alive.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...-Winter258.jpg

Yet our departure from Sardinia was not a permanent thing. We received word, once again, that Sardinia was under assault. I am starting to believe that the island is not worth the men we have lost on the island. Since we arrive we have lost a third of our legion. Many of my friends have perished since arrival. These Carthaginians have much to answer for.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...-Winter258.jpg

This time the leves arrived much faster, and we were able to depart within the year. We engaged the enemy just outside the town. The garrison of Karali made our numbers almost equal with that of our enemies. Our enemies are a mixture of elite units and citizen militia. Surely their people must be getting tired of this war.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...OfSardinia.jpg

So deployed in our formation and advanced. I had not noticed just how many Hastati had died recently. There were almost none of them left, though the deployed resolutely and determinedly in front of us. I was determined not to let these guys die.

The enemy split off in two parts. The majority of their army deployed opposite us, yet a few units were detached to attack the garrison of Karali.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...inia-Part1.jpg

The enemy started to advance towards us. We unleashed our Pila on them and many of them dropped, yet some of the enemy charged anyway. The Samnites engaged them. I am so glad they are on our side now. I have nothing but respect for those who subjugated them.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...inia-Part2.jpg

Yet it seemed that some of the enemy had chosen not to charge. They started to redeploy to both sides. So, sensing their weakness, our centurion, Marcvs Frontinivs, ordered the charge.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...inia-Part3.jpg

We engaged some of the Libyans. These people are not the same as the standard Punic citizen we have fought, they are different. These people can fight and have much better equipment.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...inia-Part4.jpg

I pushed towards the front and was determined to get a kill, yet the enemy brought support up before I could. Some of their Numidian skirmishers had charged us. These barely armed and barely armoured people could hardly even think of standing up to us, the pick of Roma’s crop.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...inia-Part5.jpg

These men broke just as easily as all others that we have fought. We turned to our left and saw the Triarii heavily engaged by a mixture of the enemy elites and some citizens. We charged them too.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...inia-Part6.jpg

This time Marcvs Frontinivs and I charged first, we were at the front of the group.

It was the most exhilarating feeling I have ever had, and the start of my new life.

Marcvs and I fought side by side, waiting for some support from our unit. My sword was knocked away early on, yet I started to get under the enemy’s spears and flailed around with my fists. I picked up a dead man’s sword and struck two more of the enemy down. Marcvs went with me to here.

Yet no further.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...inia-Part7.jpg

Just as support arrived, Marcvs was struck. The enemy spears were all pointed at him and they were all striking one at a time. He could not block every blow. I watched as he was struck once in the side, then fell and was repeatedly hit. I had to tear my eyes away as the man in front of me was transfixed through his head.

I had to take charge.

I ordered the men to redouble their efforts, and raising the standard high, I yelled Marcvs’ name up to the Gods. The Principes and Hastati charged once more.

The enemy just fled.

We ran them down.

Mercilessly.

So few of the enemy were left alive, and we had lost very few of our own.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...inia-Part8.jpg

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...inia-Part9.jpg

Then Scipio Africanvs approached me.

“Spvrivs Cordivs, I hereby promote you to the rank of Centurion. You are going to be in command of the entire Maniple of Principes. I saw what you did during that battle, and you clearly deserve it. Do me proud.”

So father, I am now a centurion! I have raised our family’s standing. We can be proud of our name once again.

Your ever loving, and newly promoted son,
Spvrivs Cordivs

Great narrative, as usual

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Cheexsta

Switching to the BI.exe is savegame compatible...

---

Wish I would have known that before saving over my old campaigns. Oh well.

Another great entry. I find myself constantly checking this thread waiting for the next chapter. Keep it up :)

Kushan

Maybe they should call him Scipio Sardinius? Jeez, those Carthies just won't let go of Karali will they? Decent army they brought this time too, and Spvurivs proved his worth. But hey, if he didn't like fighting without a sword at some point, he'd better get used to it as a centurion, heh. He'll be flailing around without one most of the time (I don't know why it isn't fixed, or if it even can be). A hearty congradulations to Cordivs, whose unit again got the 2nd most kills of the infantry. Huzzah!

Nice screenshot of the Hastati's face getting skewered! Where do you think you will send the 3rd after Sardinia, CountArach?

Cool

If Syracuse is secured then move to Spain. Got to see some action in Hispania.

And it will be much harder for Spvrivs to be kept alive. Back then it was easy for him to be alive from the indistinguishable (sp?) troops, now we all know which one he is:help:

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by K COSSACK

Cool

If Syracuse is secured then move to Spain. Got to see some action in Hispania.

And it will be much harder for Spvrivs to be kept alive. Back then it was easy for him to be alive from the indistinguishable (sp?) troops, now we all know which one he is:help:

---

IIRC he was the standard bearer.

Great aar btw.

Thanks Orb!

Good to hear Kushan! Always love to hear that people check back every day.

lol, tell me about it Wonderland! They also just landed the remnants of that army on Sardinia, but damn it! I am NOT going back there!

Well, CaesarAugustus, you will have ot find out next chapter :tongue2:

As Rilder said K COSSACK, he was already the Signifer (The standard bearer).

Thanks Rilder!

Ouch... I'm ashamed...:oops:

Chapter 7 – Invasion of Iberia
257 Autumn to 254 Spring – The consulship of Lvcivs Cornelivs Scipio and Avlvs Atilivs Calatinvs

Father,

Much has happened, and I can not guarantee that this will reach you, however I must do something to distract myself from my throbbing head.

I keep thinking back to the autumn of 257. As you remember we marched in Scipio’s Ovation. It was amazing, and I can not wait until we march in a triumph, which this man so clearly deserves.

Our auxiliaries were disbanded, having served in our armies for long enough. Some new Samnites were recruited into our armies, as they were judged to have served far better than the Lucanians. In addition our depleted ranks were filled by more good Roman soldiery. I have made it a personal goal to take some of these men under my wing.

We remained in Italy until the spring of 255. Then we departed Capua.

For Iberia.

We landed the next year. First of all we unloaded the extra troops we had brought along for garrison purposes. We then besieged Mastia, the primary city in the south east.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...TheLanding.jpg

Sure enough within a week of us setting up there the enemy army attacked our positions, supported by the garrison of the town. The enemy army was a mixture of citizens and Iberians. However, the garrison of the town was completely different. They were small, but they were all heavy cavalry.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...ing-Battle.jpg

This would be my first battle as centurion of the Principes and I had to make it count. We deployed in battle formation and waited.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...ring-Part1.jpg

The battle started with the enemy coming across the field to us and our skirmishers both clashing. We had superior numbers and that started to tell, but eventually the enemy brought up some citizens to support them, so the skirmishers withdrew to safety behind the lines.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...ring-Part2.jpg

The leves withdrawing offered a reason for the enemy to approach us and charge. As they did so we unleashed hell upon them. Our Pila killed many men in the confused mass.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...ring-Part3.jpg

Those who survived charged us. My men help their ground. I felt a swell of pride in my chest. They were willing to die for me. The God’s know that many would by the end of the day.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...ring-Part4.jpg

As the combat wore on more support was brought up for the enemy and they started to approach the left side of the line where I awaited them. They came and I slew them. They came and they died.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...ring-Part5.jpg

The combat lasted a long time. To our left the Hastati were surviving well against superior enemy numbers. To our right there was madness. The Rorarii, some Samnites and Scipio Africanvs were fighting against a hoard of enemies.

Yet the enemy started to waver and finally they broke. We ran them down, just as we had run down all those who had tried to take Sardinia from our hands.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...ring-Part6.jpg

We still had the garrison to deal with. The enemy, who I am later told was led by one Bisaltes charged our unit first. We had almost no time to prepare.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...ring-Part7.jpg

And I paid the price for not being prepared.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...ring-Part8.jpg

I was knocked down and wounded by a blow to the side of my head. I just remember a huge figure bearing down upon me, something hitting me in the side of the head and then there was just blackness.

I am told that the Principes and my new Signifer Camillivs Scaepio struck forward to protect my prone body. Apparently the auxiliaries and Rorarii managed to surround the enemy bodyguard; however they and their accompanying Iberian cavalry managed to get away fast enough to have half of them survive.

We would have to kill the rest another day.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...ring-Part9.jpg

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...ing-Part10.jpg

Well I woke up and was told we had won a massive victory. My wound was only superficial and I was able to walk around a couple of days later. I am writing this two days later again and I still have a headache, but nothing worse than a hangover from Rome’s great taverns.

So father all that we need to do now is take on the city of Mastia.

We will win.

Your son,
Spvrivs Cordivs

Another great instalment CountArach :bow:

Oo, close call. ~;)

On to the city! Let's hope the don't have another large force en route before you have enough siege equipment to attack. City assaults are a bloody afair. Beware Spvrivs!

Fret ye not! I have 3 rams built and ready for the siege!

I'm going to make sure that Spurius Survives... no matter what!

Spvrivs got knocked down and got up? or was he killed?

Speaking on what actually happened, not how the story says it.

Even if Spvrivs was "killed" on the battlefield, I'm CA isn't going to kill him off.

Kushan

He was killed... but it is getting later in this legion's history so I don't want to have to start a new character.

Also as a side note, when Marcus died in the first battle, those are the Hastati Centurion and Signifer shown. Just wanted to advance the plot and seemed like a good opportunity.

Chapter 8 – Tragedy Befalls
254BCE – Autumn to 252BCE – Spring – The consulship of Marcvs Aemilivs Pavllvs and Avlvs Atilivs Calatinvs

Father,

It has been a busy 18 months and I must say some of the saddest. Let me start at the beginning.

It all started with the besieging of Mastia, the Carthaginian headquarters in the area. Though we had defeated the army and the garrison previously, there were still some of them left.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...umn-Battle.jpg

Myself and my uit were put in charge of one of the three rams. We were to support the main thrust upon the gate from the flank.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...tumn-Part1.jpg

Yet Scipio Africanvs had forgotten to put out sentries to look for the relieving army.

And they came up behind us.

Everyone except ourselves and Rorarii formed up in a crude, simple battleline to combat this threat. We watched on.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...tumn-Part2.jpg

I am told that the fighting was almost as fierce as some of the fighting in our previous battle. These men were desperate to save their town and the beloved man inside it leading their garrison.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...tumn-Part3.jpg

The fighting was over eventually over though and Scipio Africanvs ordered the attack on the city to begin. We pushed the ram up to the walls and knocked them down as fast as we were able.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...tumn-Part4.jpg

We advanced through the town and the enemy general came out to meet us, accompanied by his loyal Sacred Band cavalry. He chased down the Accensi who went out to meet him.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...tumn-Part5.jpg

They then charged the Samnite Spearmen, who quickly started to waver under the pressure. But our much loved Scipio Africanvs held them in line. He offered encouragement and even Roman citizenship to some of them. To think, Citizenship? That oversteps even his bounds.

I led my men through a couple of back streets and came up at the Sacred Band’s exposed behind. We charged them.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...tumn-Part6.jpg

They held for a long time and many of my men were killed, but we gave as good as we got.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...tumn-Part7.jpg

The result of the battle had never been in doubt. There could only be one result for the 3rd Legion, the pride of Rome.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...tumn-Part8.jpg

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...tumn-Part9.jpg

So the town was ours! Yet, not everything would be simple. The next couple of season invoved us pacifying some of the more rebellious tribes and setting up a system of tribes allied and loyal to Rome. They were happy with this for the time being. However, as soon as Scipio even thought of leaving Mastia there was mutterings of rebellion and disloyalty to Rome.

Scipio came to be relied upon in the city. They needed him to be there to keep the peace and we needed him to lead us to victory once again. It was a dilemma, and I am afraid he made the wrong choice.

He chose to stay within the confines of the town, primarily within the palace.

One morning we found him in his bed, blood all around him and a dagger in his throat.

On his bedside table was a message, written in the foul letters of these Iberians.

We called for a slave, a slave who was what passed for “educated” here. He read the message to himself and laughed.

“It says, ‘Leave now or your men shall all die this death.’ I guess he didn’t get the message.” The Iberian just continued to chuckle to himself the whole time. I drew my sword and slew the insolent wretch where he stood.

So now we were without Scipio Africanvs.

Without hope.

The Tribunes and my fellow centurions all got together and called a council of war on what to do. We agreed to bring the legion into the town. The people would be uneasy and we had to be ready for them.

We did not have to wait long. They came two weeks later.

At the same time in several parts of the town beacons were lit. At least, what looked like beacons. In actua fact they were the tents of the legions being set alight by rioters.

A warning went out to all who were still alive. We were to meet in the palace of the former Governor.

Most of the men made it back in time and we held that for the remainder of the night, whilst the mobs burned our property and what men could not find safety.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...ring-Riots.jpg

We departed the following morning.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...ng-Leaving.jpg

Now father, we look to return to Roma.

One man short.

Your loving son,
Spvrivs Cordivs

Those that could not find safety must have been killed, instead of being "one man short".

And are you sure you couldnt have held that town?

Sort of dismayed that all the loss of the city after all the fighting to get it.

Quote:

---

And are you sure you couldnt have held that town?

---

CA might have been able to, but without a general what is a legion to do?

Kushan

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Kushan

CA might have been able to, but without a general what is a legion to do?

Kushan

---

Wait for a new general to come of course!

Though of course the army will probably be depleted by the time he gets there.

And I saw your mod for MTW 2 Kushan, great mod is it done? I browsed a little. And do you know where to get patches for MTW 2?

Wow, now that's intense. He was actually assasinated in-game right? Hell of a twist. Those Iberian towns are indeed difficult to keep under control, especially with a depleted legion and no governor. Maybe if they'd stayed on to fight, Spvrivs might have actually gotten promoted to General himself? ~;)

In any case, it's good the men are coming back home, get resupplied and all. Can't wait 'till they get a new commander and go back there for revenge!

Yeah and when they rebel make sure to wipe out entire tribes as Rome did!

Seriously, crucify those filthy barbarians.

Quote:

---

And I saw your mod for MTW 2 Kushan, great mod is it done? I browsed a little. And do you know where to get patches for MTW 2?

---

Am working on Rise of kings v2.0 now, but I'm waiting for v1.2 before continuing. I'll pm you the link to the v1.1 patch, but v1.2 should be out any day now.

Sorry for being off topic CA. If one legion is not enough, send 4 :P Nothing like good old fashion overkill for revenge.

Kushan

@ K COSSACK - You think your disappointed? This was to be my big surprise! Gah! What a waste of men. As to being "One Man Short" it was a rteference to Scipio being the only worthwhile man left behind.

@ Kushan - Yes I could have held it, though even with low taxes it was at 70% happiness. I was not gonna tie up the third legion for however many years until I could pump up the garrison. Also being OT doesn't bother me :wink:

@ Wonderland - Indeed, the AI really shocked me. All my legions will now be travelling with a spy :P. As to returning to Iberia, I don't think it is worth it. More glory can be found closer to home. *HINT HINT*

For shame, CA! What kind of message are you sending those barbarian, rebelling filth if you just leave when they make a bit of noise? Rome hath more honor than that man. Iupiter demands it!

I'd go back. You cant let the barbarian heathen get away with killing Scipio. You'll probably take them at some point in the future, why not sooner?

Kushan

I suppose so... Perhaps this is a call for a consul!

Nice read CA, thanks

My pleasure Jarardo :bow:

CountArach, the Iberians mock you. Your soldiers lie dead, while the barbarians are ploting the destruction of civilization and ROMA.

Clearly you cannot return to Roma in defeat. If you do retrain and re equip.

How ya gonna let this stand? go back and annihalate that town, Roma did it in history, so it should prove effective. In fact, when you conquer it back ( if it rebels) crank up the taxes on whats left of the populace.:furious3:

Yeah, if that had happened to me, I would have abandoned the town, let it rebel, and then retake and exterminate it.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by MarcusAureliusAntoninus

Yeah, if that had happened to me, I would have abandoned the town, let it rebel, and then retake and exterminate it.

---

Except I have no general there, so my legion really can't do anything (An unwritten rule of mine).

Yeah, it's awesome the way CA did it. It's more epic. A big loss like that, such a turn of events. A key character getting assasinated overseas, legion abandons settlement without leader, returns to Rome, regroup, attack. It's genius.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Wonderland

Yeah, it's awesome the way CA did it. It's more epic. A big loss like that, such a turn of events. A key character getting assasinated overseas, legion abandons settlement without leader, returns to Rome, regroup, attack. It's genius.

---

Wow! i'm popular :2thumbsup:

Gonna go play the next chapter out now :tongue2:

Chapter 9 – Homeward Bounds
252BCE – Spring – The consulship of Marcvs Aemilivs Pavllvs and Avlvs Atilivs Calatinvs

My Dearest Father,

As I told you last letter, though it probably hasn’t reached you when I am writing this, we were forced to evacuate Iberia, due to the assassination of Scipio Africanvs. We were preparing to march onto our boats, yet it turns out that our work there was not done.

We were approached by an enemy force consisting mainly of the elite enemy soldiers left in Iberia. We had no idea where they had come, yet we then received word that Mastia had revolted back to Carthaginian hands. They had welcomed in a large garrison, of which these men were just a part.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...2-Withdraw.jpg

The tribunes ordered the men to withdraw. Most of our army comprised of men who were only trained for garrison duty, and were not allowed to fight in battles for this reason. Our legion was badly battered, comprising about half the men we were sent over here with. So we withdrew.

They caught up to us anyway.

We were forced to do battle on the sea side. The view was marvellous; however we had no time for such pleasures. We had a hard job to do today.

The tribunes formed us up into our standard battle line, though we were so battered that we took up only half the space. The cavalry were the only section of the army close to untouched.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...ng-Part2-1.jpg

We awaited our foe, advancing a short way to reach slightly more favourable ground. We did not have to wait long. A section of the Libyan Spearmen charged into my maniple and that of the Samnite’s.

This fight was always going to be a hard one, and I received several small wounds in the service of my homeland. I know that Rome appreciates the blood I bleed for her.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...ng-Part2-2.jpg

Eventually we killed all the Libyans in our immediate vicinity, leaving the others to the Samnites, yet the Hastati were still facing stiff competition from their foes. I wheeled the maniples around and we charged into the rear of more of the Libyans.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...ng-Part2-3.jpg

The fighting here was also brutal, with no quarter given or taken. Even with my men and the Hastati, we were outnumbered. Yet we had the hatred we felt from the assassination of Scipio on our side.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...ng-Part2-4.jpg

Eventually the ferocity we possessed, as well as fresh Rorarii reserves, overcame their superior numbers, and they broke and ran.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...ng-Part2-5.jpg

To my flank though, I saw the Samnites and the Triarii under horrible stress. In addition to the Libyans, they were under assault from some of the Iberian Heavy Infantry. I ordered my men to wheel, as well as taking charge of the Rorarii, and we both charged into the rear of the Iberians.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...ng-Part2-6.jpg

Surprisingly, even with our enemy surrounded and tiring fast, I could feel the fight slipping from our hands.

Then the Equites arrived.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...ng-Part2-7.jpg

The Equites closed the trap and gave the enemy nowhere to run to, as well as killing whole swathes of the enemy. The two Tribunes who were with them were leading the fight, hacking and slashing to both sides.

Eventually though, the Equites too started taking casualties. However, by then the fight was over. The Iberians were forced to fight back-to-back, awaiting the death by our swords.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...ng-Part2-8.jpg

The battle was over with their demise.

I was later told that the Levies and the other Samnites had been fighting more of these Iberians. They had fought well, but never had a chance of winning. The Iberians had turned to surround us, and crisis was only averted by our garrison troops. They swarmed forward and charged the Iberians, determined to sell their lives for their country.

There was no need, the Iberians fled before their numbers.

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...ng-Part2-9.jpg

https://i141.photobucket.com/albums/...g-Part2-10.jpg

So the battle was a success, yet again we were forced to bleed for a pointless battle, defending land we no longer had control over.

I am starting to hate the army father. I need glory, yet it is only presenting me with wasted life.

Your loving son,
Spvrivs Cordivs

Well, I mean they're just asking for it now. Trying to add insult to injury, to ROME no less! If there were any doubts about going back and exacting harsh revenge, they've surely been erased now. Lets just hope Spvrivs and the boys can get out of there and make it home in one piece until then.

Now for the long trip back across the med. Watch out for Carthaginian fleets?

Kushan

Cool,cool

But the hard way (I tried and you have to be some general to pull this off) is to only have the hastati engage. Then when they're tired you let the princapes forward and so on. And have them on defensive stance. Much more difficult, if you tried it like that the 3rd legion would have been destroyed.

But still great AAR!

Great! Cool! Super! What else is there to say?
I suppose it would be possible to have Spvrivs be promoted to General; you'd have to modify script.txt if you want. But I don't think it would be such a good idea. He'd be at a bigger risk that way(assassination).
Trivial question I'm sure but: how old is he? (this is nit-picking of course but by the way you've done things, this might be important.)
Keep it up! Great pics, perhaps you could show a larger view of the world map (carthaginian holdings, roman lands etc...)

I spose he could of played out the campaign earlier till he had a general pop up for adoption and then start the aar...

If it's actually possible to make Spvrivs a general through the script, that would awesome. I doubt it is though. Anyhoo, I wonder if they'll be traveling through hostile lands to get back to Rome, or through hostile waters. Neither prospect seems very good to me. Curious to see if ol' Spvr gets sunk or ambushed along the way.

Retreating along a land path would be an awsome story. Sort of like Hannibal crossing the alps.

Quote:

---

Well, I mean they're just asking for it now. Trying to add insult to injury, to ROME no less! If there were any doubts about going back and exacting harsh revenge, they've surely been erased now. Lets just hope Spvrivs and the boys can get out of there and make it home in one piece until then.

---

You will have to see I guess.

Quote:

---

Now for the long trip back across the med. Watch out for Carthaginian fleets?

Kushan

---

They are everywhere, mainly loading more troops into Sardinia! AGAIN! I have the first legion stationed there ATM.

Quote:

---

But the hard way (I tried and you have to be some general to pull this off) is to only have the hastati engage. Then when they're tired you let the princapes forward and so on. And have them on defensive stance. Much more difficult, if you tried it like that the 3rd legion would have been destroyed.

---

The way the game engine works this is not possible. They do not stop when engaging Hastati, and the hastati can only take up a small section of teh line. If I could take 15 maniplesof Hastatia nd Principes, I would do this. I try to do so every game I play, but I just can't. I do use Stand Ground, but again with the game system it just doesn't work well when charging, so I take it off then.

Quote:

---

I suppose it would be possible to have Spvrivs be promoted to General; you'd have to modify script.txt if you want. But I don't think it would be such a good idea. He'd be at a bigger risk that way(assassination).

---

Hmmm, wouldn't really work with the realism script, also he is being discharged from service in 7ish years.

Quote:

---

Trivial question I'm sure but: how old is he? (this is nit-picking of course but by the way you've done things, this might be important.)
Keep it up! Great pics, perhaps you could show a larger view of the world map (carthaginian holdings, roman lands etc...)

---

He started military service in 272BC. The First Legion (His original assignment) was destroyed at Taras in 270BC. He started in the Third Legion in 262BC and will be discharged in 246BC. He started service at age 20, was discharged for the first time at 22, was enlisted again at age 30 so will be 46 at discharge. He is currently 39 I think.

Dont forget, his dad cant live for as long as he can. Too bad, I feel sorry for his dad already.