The Will of the Senate - First Consul reports

[Death the destroyer of worlds]

Senators, I will fill you in on what has happened these past six months, so you are up to date with our present situation.

5. Summer 274 BC (continued)

Legate Publius Laevinius (shifty157) led a brilliant battle, losing only 2 men and accounting for 81 of the enemy. Melite is ours. It comes equipped with a port, a safe harbour and a trader and will thus be a profitable addition to our realm. Leaving a garrison, he will return to Syracuse and will lead the soon to be formed Legio III Sicilia Aemilia. With the profits from the destruction of the Cartheginian Auxilia III I started recruitement of two italian swordsmen and one italian spearmen for garrison duty.

6. Autumn 274 BC

The Gauls once again try to spy on Arretium, but this time our spy Quintis Classicianus (GeneralHankerchief) manages to apprehend him and he is duly executed.
I am a happy man as I have just become a grandfather. My son Manius Aemilius and his wife Titiana are the happy parents of my grandson Servius Aemilius.
Rhegium completed the construction of roads.
Our diplomat Sextus Antio (Ignoramus) succeeds in trading maps with Armenia. He tries to do the same with the Seleucid Empire, but they ask for a fortune in return, so he declines. He moves on toward the kingdom of Pontus.
I start construction of a silver mine +1 in Croton. I also start the recruitement of two hastatii and one triarii unit.
The Gauls combine their armies into a horde of Consular army strength and march to the south just north of our border. I march the Legio I Italia with all haste toward the threathened city of Arminium, gatherhering reinforcements as I move along. I trust the Legio II Sabina Quintia under the command of legate Tiberius Coruncanius (FLYdude) to block the pass to Arretium. A second Gaul army of Praetorian legion strength appears near Jenuensis.

7. Winter 274 BC

The Greek Cities and Illryia sign a ceasefire. Arretium completed the construction of an Roman Auxilia II building. Corfinium completed the construction of roads. Lilybaeum completed the construction of a minor temple to Ceres. Legate Publius Laevinius (shifty157) is officially designated as commander of the newly formed Legio III Sicilia Aemilia. Tribune Augustus Verginius (TinCow) and his wife Fadia are blessed with the birth of their second daughter Arria. Our diplomat Oppius Vintruvius once more tries to make a peace deal with the Greek Cities, but again they refuse. He should reach Iberia soon.

The Gauls have invaded our territory with a vast horde under the command of the powerful chieftain Lugotorix and stand just on the outskirts of Arminium. I send the Legio I Italia under my personal command with all available troops to Arminium as well, including tribune Augustus Verginius (TinCow) and tribune Publius Pansa (Glaucus), but we are still outnumbered at least 2 to 1. I will not attack this season. Their other army, under the command of chieftain Lucco, has moved alongside the coast towards Arretium and stands just over our border. I've ordered legate Tiberius Coruncanius (FLYdude) to attack them and march along the coast to Jenuensis if he does not suffer too many losses. He is outnumbered, but not by a large margin. This I do in accord with motion #13 of the second session of the senate. I await word of the results of that battle. Tribune Titus Vatinus (Tricky Lady) is leading reinforcements the size of a battered Praetorian legion just to the north of Rome northwards. I will send half of the Consular army under the command of consul Quintus northwards to Rome, to celebrate their triumph and assist in the war against Gaul, leaving a Praetorian legion to guard Sicily. I would have preferred to send the entire Consular army to celebrate his triumph, letting another Praetorian legion take over in Sicily, but this is logistically impossible at the moment.

The situation at this moment

To the left the Legio II Sabina Quintia is attacking the horde under the command of chieftain Lucco. To the right the Legio I Italia and all available troops are massed to defend Arminium.

[Death the destroyer of worlds]

7. Winter 274 BC (Continued)

Tiberius Coruncanius (FLYdude) is victorious ! In a pitched battle he destroys the invading horde led by Lucco. The Gauls tried to break his center, but our valiant troops held the line, allowing Tiberius Coruncanius (FLYdude) to envelop and crush the Gauls. The Legio II Sabina Quintia killed 913 men for the loss of 199 of their own. The legion returns to their fort to block the access to Arretium.
I start the recruitement of one italian spearmen and one italian swordsmen. Our diplomat Sextus Antio (Ignoramus) succesfully negotiates for the map of the kingdom of Pontus. He will move on to the Ptolemaic empire. Our spy Quintis Classicianus (GeneralHankerchief) moves north to spy out more Gaul armies. I hold my breath . If the Gauls attack I stand a good chance of being overwhelmed by sheer numbers.

8. Spring 273 BC

Lugotorix loses his nerve and retreats toward Bononia !

Tarentum completed the construction of roads. Syracuse completed the construction of a dockyard. In compliance with the will of the senate I start construction of a naval I building, which will allow us to build warships. I start the recruitement of one italian spearmen, one italian swordsmen and one italian skirmishers unit.
I merge the Legio I Italia together with the Legio II Sabina Quintia and set of in hot pursuit, accompanied by tribune Augustus Verginius (TinCow) and tribune Publius Pansa (Glaucus). I reroute the resupply column led by Titus Vatinius (Tricky_Lady) toward Jenuensis as it is now practically undefended. I send legate Tiberius Coruncanius (FLYdude) to get the rest of the reinforcements.
My army catches up with Lugotorix on the outskirts of Bononia. I suprise him with a night attack. We are outnumbered, but not by a large margin. I position my spearmen in the center, swordsmen on the flanks and missiles at the front.

The armies face off against each other. Romans on the right, Gauls on the left.

Seeing the large rock formation I change my battleplan. The spearmen rush forward and use the rock formation to guard their right flank. This allows me to move my right flank to join my left flank. Then I use my skirmishers and funditores to antagonize the Gauls into charging the spearmen.

The Gauls fall for my ploy and charge the spearmen en masse.

Meanwhile our two flanks sweep around their right flank. Lugotorix sees the danger and several gaul units break off to stop them, but they are vastly outnumbered by my swordsmen. I myself, together with tribune Augustus Verginius (TinCow) and tribune Publius Pansa (Glaucus), charge the Gaul skirmishers and slingers that have run away from the pitched battle. They make a brave showing and fight to the last man. Lugotorix sees that the battle is lost and tries to reverse the tide by charging our weakened front line. Our troops bend, but do not break. Then I and the tribunes charge into the rear of the Gaul army and the Gaul army routs. Lugotorix manages to escape to Bononia with 27 men, but he leaves behind 1440 dead tribesmen for the loss of 142 romans.
My army invades Bononia and kills Lugotorix and another chieftain, Votoporix of Alesia. They fight to the last man and before the last of their 307 defenders have fallen, 27 romans have lost their lives.
I tear down the Gaul Auxilia III building and order the construction of an occupation. This is a local fort that keeps an eye on our new subjects. I leave tribune Publius Pansa (Glaucus) behind with a small garrison and move out towards the bridge with the rest of the troops and tribune Augustus Verginius (TinCow).
Our spy Quintis Classicianus (GeneralHankerchief) sneakes into Patavium to check out its defenses. Our spy Decius Curtius (Braden) leaves Lilybaeum and starts the journey toward Cispine Gaul. Lastly, I start the construction of a shrine to Saturnus in Melite.

9. Summer 273 BC
The kingdom of Armenia declares war on the kingdom of Parthia. The kingdom of Parthia breaks its alliance with the Ptolemaic empire. Manius Coruncanius is born, the son of Amulius Coruncanius (Mount Suribachi) and his wife Tullia. Paestum completed the construction of a Roman Auxilia II building. Agrigento completed the construction of roads. Melite completed the construction of a shrine to Saturnus. I start the construction of roads in Paestum. Our diplomat Sextus Antio (Ignoramus) once again tries to get the map of Seleucia, but they again demand a fortune and he moves on. Our diplomat Oppius Vintruvius finally reaches Iberia and manages to complete trade agreements and a map exchange, but fails to secure an alliance with them. I move him toward Massila.
OOC : I notice that Auxilia II is enough to build AOR units and kick myself in the head. I could have been building 4 units each turn since Winter 274 BC as Arretium also has one .
I start the recruitement of three italian spearmen and two italian swordsmen units.
The Gauls foolishly try to reinforce Patavium before I can reach it. I intercept the small army and kill its 111 men and their leader Bolgois of Garumna. They manage to account for just two romans before they perish. Then I march on to Patavium and lay siege to it. I order the construction of three battering rams. Our spy Quintis Classicianus (GeneralHankerchief) has been kind enough to open the gate for us, but my experience tells me I need more entrances. As consul Quintus (econ21) will soon reach Rome for his triumph, I ask Titus Vatinius (Tricky_Lady) to travel to Rome to make the necessary preparations for the festivities. I send tribune Publius Pansa (Glaucus) to take over the siege of Jenuensis.

10. Autumn 273 BC
The Thracians declare war on the kingdom of Macedon. I attack the strategically vital walled town of Patavium with my battering rams. The Gauls bravely make a sortie through the gate that our spy Quintis Classicianus (GeneralHankerchief) opened the moment we attacked, only to be slaughtered by our skirmishers and funditores. We break through the wall and surround the remaining troops and slay dozens of them with a wiltering stom of missiles. I cunningly trick the surviving defenders to leave the main square and once they are surrounded they quickly surrender. I am most pleased to report to this house that we only lost 9 romans in exchange for 406 Gaul warriors.

The Gauls bravely sally from the city, right into the waiting pila and stones of our skirmishers

I and tribune Augustus Verginius (TinCow) both quickly construct a guard tower at the borders to our north and east and return to the safety of Patavium. Legate Tiberius Coruncanius (FLYdude) is close to the town with badly needed reinforcements. It is my intention to build a fort just east outside Patavium when enough troops have arrived, and I will station a Praetorian Legion there. I will then send tribune Augustus Verginius (TinCow) to capture the last remaining Gaul town in Cispine Gaul, Mediolanium. I sent Quintis Classicianus (GeneralHankerchief) on ahead to scout out the town and watch for Gaul reinforcements from the north. I destroy the Gaul Auxilia building in Patavium and order the construction of an occupation building.
Consul Quintus (econ21) has arrived in Rome and a glorious celebration follows. It consists of a spectacular parade, opened by the chiefs of the conquered towns to our south, followed by wagons overflowing with gold and other valuable spoils captured during the campaign, musicians, dancers, and placards drawn with scenes of the war, after which comes the victorious general, consul Quintus (econ21) at the head of his troops. Morale in the city has never been higher. I am planning to send the consul and his legion to conquer Sardinia next.

Consul Quintus and half his consular army celebrating their triumph

I sent legate Publius Laevinus (Shifty157) with the core of the Legio III Sicilia Aemilia to invade Corsica, but our landing point was ill chosen, as it turns out our men couldn't climb the cliffs, and so we were forced to return back to Italy. He will try again this winter, and then I have no doubt he will succeed. I start the construction of two italian spearmen and three italian swordsmen. I now await word of tribune Publius Pansa (Glaucus) and his assault on Jenuensis.

The situation at his moment
Projected profits 5016 Denarii
Gaul has no allies and is at war with the republic of Rome.
The Illyrians and the Thracians are allies and at war with the kingdom of Macedon, which is allied with the Greek Cities and the Ptolemaic empire.
The Greek cities are at war with the republic of Rome and the Seleucid empire, and are allied with the kingdom of Macedon.
The Iberians remain neutral and without allies.
The republic of Carthage is at war with the republic of Rome and is allied with Numidia.
Military Losses :
Gauls - Romans
3339 - 381

My advice to the senate
Only half my reign has passed and I am well on my way to complete my objectives. We are quite secure for the moment as the Illyrians are occupied with the war against the kingdom of Macedon. Our military is quickly reaching full strength levels now that our troop output has increased. The Gauls have suffered serious defeats in Cispine Gaul and can be controlled. I intend to complete my conquest of the Cartheginian islands and Cispine Gaul. Our balance is still slowly decreasing due to our large military upkeep, and thus the construction of markets and safe harbours should have priority now that I have outfitted most of our towns and cities with roads and have upgraded her mines. As I limited myself to the amount of conquest I will go no further without senate approval. However, the legate Publius Laevinus (Shifty157) has advised me that it would be prudent to conquer Massila, a rebel-held town just west of Cispine Gaul over the Alps. It is very easily defended as the only access to it from Gaul is by crossing a bridge. I am inclined to agree with his reasoning. We might go further and try to extend our influence untill we can attack the Cartheginian colonies in Spain. I have also heard reasoning that we are quite able to strike at Afrika itself now, but I worry about our lack of a strong fleet. I would advise against this, because even if we are succesfull in this venture, we cannot support it financially. The alternative would be a pillaging expedition, but I do not feel that this is the roman way to act against civilized people. We could also strike at Greece, as it has only one ally and the kingdom of Macedon is in serious trouble now as it is fighting two enemies at the same time and they can thus be ruled out. I have no strong feelings either way, but instead I would advise a defensive strategy and focus on our finances instead. I will of course carry out the will of the senate, whatever it decides.

[Death the destroyer of worlds]

10. Autumn 273 BC (continued)

Tribune Publius Pansa (Glaucus) was victorious ! In a devastating attack on Jenuensis the Gauls were utterly crushed. The Gaul force of 355 men was wiped out for the loss of just 23 romans.

Tribune Publius Pansa leading a charge into Jenuensis

I demolish the Gallic Auxilia II building and start construction of an occupation. Our diplomat Sextus Antio (Ignoramus) establishes trade with the Ptolemaic empire, but they want a fortune for their maps, which I refuse. I move him towards Thrace. Our diplomat Oppius Vintruvius (Wishazu) moves to scout out Massilia and encounters a powerful Gaul army, led by Caradog of Samarabriva, which might be about to cross the Alps. This is worrisome. I decide that tribune Augustus Verginius (TinCow) is ready for command of Legio I Italia and so I lend him my priest of jupiter and turn command of the Legio I Italia over to him and send him off towards the west where the danger lies. I move our spy Decius Curtius (Braden) to Jenuensis to scout for enemies. I move Amulius Coruncanius (Mount Suribachi), who has come of age, northwards with reinforcements. I also notice that the chieftain Bolgois of Garumna is not dead, as I reported earlier, but has managed to fool me and is now living in Mediolanium. We will make sure of his demise soon.

11. Winter 273 BC

An illyrian spy is detected in Patavium by our spy Quintis Classicianus (GeneralHankerchief), but he escapes his clutches. We will need to leave a praetorian legion here to guard over Patavium. The Sarmatians declare war on the kingdom of Armenia. The walls of Patavium have been repaired. Our spy Decius Curtius (Braden) spots the Gaul army led by Caradog of Samarabriva, which was last seen at Massilia. After spying on it he searches the valley to the north for additional reinforcements, but finds none. I send our diplomat Oppius Vintruvius (Wishazu) to see if there are any other suprises in the western valley, but find none and order him back to Massilia. Once legate Tiberius Coruncanius (FLYdude) has arrived at Patavium I return his priests to him, thanking them for their wise guidance and the legate for his forbearance, and leave him in command of a slightly battered Legio II Sabina Quintia in Patavium, while I move to the south with a few troops to meet Amulius Coruncanius (Mount Suribachi), who is coming northwards with reinforcements. I start the recruitement of three italian spearmen, one hastatii and one italian skirmishers unit. The tribune Valerius Paullus (YAKOBU) has arrived in Syracuse with additonal garrison units and immediately leaves northwards again to rush along the rest of the troops coming south. I send the Legio I Italia under tribune Augustus Verginius (TinCow) to meet up with tribune Publius Pansa (Glaucus), but the legion is ambushed just west of Bononia, just few miles away from my present location !
It seems that the powerful chieftain Lucco, who was earlier defeated by legate Tiberius Coruncanius (FLYdude), has been amassing a powerful army nearly twice the size of the unfortunate Legio I Italia. It was so cunningly hidden in the forest right under our noses that even I, well known for my skills in reconaissance, did not spot a tree branch out of place. In the distance I can hear the clash of arms and know that my death might be near. I make an offering to the gods, pray for divine assistance for Augustus Verginius (TinCow) and anxiously wait for the outcome of the battle.

The fate of Augustus Verginius and the Legio I Italia hang in the balance

Tribune Augustus Verginius (TinCow) and the Legio I Italia were victorious ! He has written a detailed account of the 'Battle for Bononia' for your perusal. In a dreadful pitched battle, in which even the funditores were pressed to serve in the frontline, he managed to slay the warchief Lucco with the help of his velites, upon which the Gaul force routed and were slain almost to a man. 1191 Gauls perished for the loss of just 201 of our troops, of which many later recovered from their wounds. This is a remarkable achievement and the tribune is the talk of Rome. Feeling has run so high that an unofficial declamation has been made to honour the Legio I Italia with the extra title Victrix, in memoration of this stunning victory. The senate will meet and probably bestow this honour officially on them in the next senate meeting, but in the meantime I will refer to that legion as Legio I Italia Victrix.
Following the victory the orginal strategy was continued. Tribune Publius Pansa (Glaucus) abandoned the recently conquered town of Jenuensis and merged his legion with the Legio I Italia Victrix. Now at close to consular army strength, and under tribune Augustus Verginius's (TinCow) command, this army marches west to confront the army of Caradog of Samarabriva.
Meanwhile the core of the Legio III Sicilia Aemilia, led by legate Publius Laevinus (Shifty157), has invaded Aleria by ship and is attacking the town of Aleria. The attack was a succes and 169 defenders were suprised in a night attack and slain for the loss of only 10 men of the Legio III Sicilia Aemilia. I left a small garrison and shipped Publius Laevinus (Shifty157) and the Legio III Sicilia Aemilia back to Italy to move toward Jenuensis, while picking up reinforcements on the way. I demolished the Cartheginian Auxilia I building and used this money to retrain the consular army in Roma (50% strength) which was nearly ready to invade Sardinia. I start construction of a market in Ancona and a colonization in Rhegium. A colonization effort will improve growth in this region. I also start the training of our first new spy in Syracuse.

12. Spring 272 BC
There is rioting in Jenuensis as our troops have left the town, costing 99 civilians their lives and damaging the warrior hold building. Croton completed the construction of silver mines +1. Syracuse completed the construction of a naval I building, allowing us to construct warships. I am the lucky father of a new son, Oppius Aemilius. Decius Laevinius (Tiberius) comes of age in Arretium. I send him to Roma for his education.



A new spy has been trained in Syracuse. His name is Servius Alimentus. He starts off for our northern front. I immediately start the training of another spy in Syracuse.



An Illyrian spy is spotted in Patavium, but manages to escape the town alive. I send our spy Decius Curtius (Braden) to scout the valley which leades trough the nortwest of the Alps where I suspect Caradog of Samarabriva and his army have gone. They are found in the valley. I send tribune Amulius Coruncanius (Mount Suribachi) to join his father in Patavium with reinforcements. He takes over the governorship while legate Tiberius Coruncanius (FLYdude) constructs a fort outside the town which will be the temporary home of the Legio II Sabina Quintia. I send Publius Laevinus (Shifty157) and the Legio III Sicilia Aemilia to Jenuensis. He restores order and restarts the construction of an occupation and orders the repair of the warrior hold. I rejoin the Legio I Italia Victrix and resume command (and recover my priest of Jupiter). Together with tribunes Publius Pansa (Glaucus) and Augustus Verginius (TinCow) and a force almost the size of a consular army I start off in pursuit of Caradog of Samarabriva. Consul Quintus (econ21), accompanied by tribune Titus Vatinius (Tricky_Lady), takes ship for Aleria. From there he will invade Sardinia. Tribune Valerius Paullus (YAKOBU) has constructed a new fort in Southern Italy, where a praetorian legion will be housed in the near future. I start construction of a market in Tarentum.

13. Summer 272 BC

Caradog of Samarabriva and his army turn around and march back into Cispine Gaul. The Legio I Italia Victrix ambushes him, but the ambush fails and a massive battle ensues. We are outnumbered, but our cavalry advantage is decisive and the Gauls are quickly disorganized and demotivated. I manage to islolate Caradog of Samarabriva himself and he is slain after which the Gauls quickly rout and it becomes a massacre. 1482 Gauls are killed for the loss of only 48 men of the Legio I Italia Victrix

The Seleucid empire allies itself with the kingdom of Armenia and signs a ceasefire with the kingdom of Pontus and the Ptolemaic empire. Our newly trained spy in Syracuse immediately spots a Greek spy, but he escapes ! A good start for Cassius Paulinus nonetheless.



Corfinium completed the construction of copper mines +1. Paestum completed the construction of roads. Jenuensis finished the repairs on the warrior hold.
In accordance with the wishes of the senate our diplomat Sextus Antio (Ignoramus) tries to negotiate an alliance with the Seleucid empire, but he fails. They are still not willing to trade maps as well. He continues his journey to Thrace. Our diplomat Oppius Vintruvius (Wishazu) spots a tiny Gaul army that is guarding the bridge at Massilia. I take this as a good sign. The Gauls are beginning to think of defense instead of offense. He will continue to observe the bridge for the time being. Tribune Valerius Paullus (YAKOBU) has taken up the governorship of Tarentum, on of our most important towns and in dire need of a governor. I start construction of roads in Syracuse. Consul Quintus (econ21), accompanied by tribune Titus Vatinius (Tricky_Lady), lands in Sardinia and begins the journey south. The victorious Legio I Italia Victrix, under my personal command and accompanied by tribunes Publius Pansa (Glaucus) and Augustus Verginius (TinCow), attacks the last Gaul town in Cispine Gaul, Mediolanium. We outnumber the defenders massively and it is an easy victory. I use this occasion to make sure that Bolgois of Garumna really dies this time, and just to be on the safe side, decapitate his lifeless body. 376 Gauls are slain for the loss of 17 romans.

The tribunes Augustus Verginius and Publius Pansa delivering the killing blow to Gauls outside Mediolanium


Legate Lucius Aemilius charging the last defenders

I demolish the Gallic Auxialia II building and order the construction of an occupation. Our spy Quintis Classicianus (GeneralHankerchief) is now free to scout the valley to our north for enemies, but only finds some single Gaul units. Our spy Decius Curtius (Braden) is now free to begin his hazardous mission to spy out Afrika and begins the journey south. I've decided to train an assassin to accompany him as a bodyguard and begin his training in Roma. I also start the training of our third new spy in Syracuse. I split the troops and move toward Jenuensis with the Legio I Italia Victrix, accompanied by tribune Augustus Verginius (TinCow). Tribune Publius Pansa (Glaucus) builds a watch tower in the valley to his north and returns to Mediolanium. I start the recruitement of one italian spearmen and two italian swordsmen units.

14. Autumn 272 BC

Consul Quintus (econ21) tries to ambush a Carthagian army, led by general Ashtzaph, almost three times the size of his half-strength consular army, but fails...what will he do ?

[Death the destroyer of worlds]

14. Autumn 272 BC (continued)

Consul Quintus (econ21) was victorious over the much stronger army of Ashtzaph. 1512 Cartheginians perish for the loss of only 181 men of the consular army. An excellent description of this battle can be found in Titus's letter to Marcella. In the distance vast amounts of Cartheginian troops are moving towards his position and he wisely retreats towards Aleria to await reinforcements. Tribune Augustus Verginius (TinCow) adopts the brave man who saved his life in the Battle for Bononia. His name is Luca Marnilius (Marcus Camillus) and is well known as having the virtues of a true roman.



I send our spy Servius Alimentus toward the west to scout the way for legate Publius Laevinus (Shifty157) and the Legio III Sicilia Aemilia as they begin the march toward Massilia. He is accompanied by tribune Publius Pansa (Glaucus) and tribune Luca Marnilius (Marcus Camillus). I myself march with the Legio I Italia Victrix to Jenuensis to reorganize and reinforce the legion. Tribune Augustus Verginius (TinCow) marches with a praetorian legion into the valley in the northwest of the Alps, after the way has been scouted by our spy Quintis Classicianus (GeneralHankerchief), in order to establish a watch tower on our frontier. Our diplomat Oppius Vintruvius (Wishazu) once more tries to negotiate an alliance with the Iberians, but they refuse. He continues to watch Gaul movements around Massilia. I start the recruitement of two units of italian swordsmen, two units of italian skirmishers and one unit of principes. I have finished training our first assassin. His name is Placus Laelius. As he has to wait for our spy Decius Curtius (Braden) to arrive before embarking on their dangerous mission in Afrika, I let him get in some practice by assassinating an obnoxious Greek diplomat who has been spying on us under the guise of diplomacy. Placus Laelius aquits himself well on his first mission.




A Greek diplomat loses his life

Our third new spy has also completed his training in Syracuse. His name is Sextus Lentulus.



Sextus Lentulus leaves for Roma immediately, to embark on a ship to travel to the aid of consul Quintus (econ21). I leave our spy Cassius Paulinus in Syracuse for the moment to see if he can catch that greek spy that is hiding somewhere around there. I start the construction of a market in Croton. With my last denarii I let tribune Valerius Paullus (YAKOBU) hire some Samnite mercenaries and send them on their way to the Legio II Sabina Quintia, stationed near Patavium.

15. Winter 272 BC

The Gauls and Thracians declare that they are allies. The Gauls also ally themselves with Carthage. This is unfortunate as it is now unlikely that Thrace will ally themselves with us. The kingdom of Parthia signs a ceasefire with the Seleucid empire. Our diplomat Sextus Antio (Ignoramus) arrives in Thrace, but as I feared they are unwilling to discuss an alliance. They are willing to exchange maps and it seems that Thrace has become very powerful indeed. He also tries to negotiate an alliance with the Sarmatians and the kingdom of Armenia, but he has no luck there either. Our assassin Placus Laelius and our spy Decius Curtius (Braden) embark on a ship for their mission in Afrika. Our spy Sextus Lentulus arrives in Roma where the other reinforcements for consul Quintus (econ21) gather. Legate Publius Laevinus (Shifty157) and the Legio III Sicilia Aemilia are halfway crossing the Alps, trudging trough the snowcovered valleys. They build a watch tower on a mountain top before continuing their arduous journey to Massilia. A few small Gaul armies are spotted by our spy Servius Alimentus, but nothing alarming. Consul Quintus (econ21) arrives in Aleria. Luckily the Cartheginian armies, which are in hot pursuit, are temporarily stopped from crossing the narrow strait between Sardinia and Corsica due to a fleet of pirates. Our treasury is really starting to feel the pressure now. I start the construction of a market in Agrigento and only have enough money left to start the recruitement of two italian spearmen and one italian swordsmen unit.

16. Spring 271 BC

The Gauls launch two attacks on Massilia, but they are repulsed and forced to retreat. This will give Publius Laevinus (Shifty157) and the Legio III Sicilia Aemilia an easy time as the defenders of Massilia (and the Gauls) have been weakened by these attacks. Capua finished construction of a market. Patavium finished construction of an occupation. Tranquilina is born, the daughter of tribune Amulius Coruncanius (Mount Suribachi) and his wife Tullia. Tribune Augustus Verginius (TinCow) and his legion construct a watch tower at our border and turn back to Cispine Gaul. He has asked me for six months of leave, to catch up on his affairs, as is his right after ten years of military service. I agree with his request and he settles for the moment in Mediolaneum, while his troops march toward the fort of the Legio I Italia Victrix, which I have just constructed on the plains northwest of Jenuensis. Reinforcements and our spy Sextus Lentulus arrive in Aleria. Yet more reinforcements are marching south to be shipped to Aleria. Our spy Servius Alimentus infiltrates the town of Massilia and finds no surpises. Accordingly legate Publius Laevinus (Shifty157) and the Legio III Sicilia Aemilia launch an attack on the town.
We outnumbered the Greek rebels by a large amount and so Publius Laevinus (Shifty157) was unpleasantly suprised when in the narrow confines of the city streets two groups of our italian skirmishers were caught between two enemy hoplite units. They fought well however and considering their lack of true battle experience held their own until Publius Laevinus (Shifty157) personally could break the enemy line to reach them. The town is ours and all its 250 defenders were slain for the loss of 77 casualties, mostly italian skirmishers. I demolished the Greek Auxilia I building and, leaving tribune Publius Pansa (Glaucus) as temporary governor with a small garrison, legate Publius Laevinus (Shifty157) and the Legio III Sicilia Aemilia quickly take up position at the strategic river crossing to bar the Gauls way trough the Alps. He is accompanied by tribune Luca Marnilius (Marcus Camillus). In desperate need for cash I decide to demolish all the barbarian temples. Accordingly one temple at Bononia, three at Mediolaneum and one at Patavium are demolished. I start recruitement of one italian cavalry, one italian spearmen, one italian swordsmen, one italian skirmishers and one funditores unit. I also start the construction of a temple of Jupiter in Massilia and begin the colonization of Paestum.

17. Summer 271 BC



I wonder if I have upset the Gods by the demolishing of the heathen temples. I order sacrifices to be made to all the Gods to placate their moods. The Germans declare war on the Thracians. The kingdom of Bactria allies themselves with the kingdom of Pontus. The kingdom of Pontus allies themselves with the Greek cities. Ancona finished construction of a market and Syrcasue finished construction of roads. I start construction of a market in Arretium. The Gauls are moving in force towards legate Publius Laevinus (Shifty157) and the Legio III Sicilia Aemilia. Our spy Quintis Classicianus (GeneralHankerchief) spots a large Gaul army to the north of his position. His position is not good, but I have few options. I send all the troops I can spare to join him. They should arrive in two or three seasons. I fear this bridge will be a battleground for quite some time. I intend to offer peace to the Gauls soon. Consul Quintus (econ21) recieves yet more reinforcements and is ready to move out. Our spy Sextus Lentulus reveals that the two Carthaginian armies have split up but are still in Sardinia. Consul Quintus (econ21) and his army move south on the offensive. Our spy Cassius Paulinus leaves Syracuse and begins his journey north to spy on our eastern neighbours. I start the recruitement of two units of italian spearmen, one unit of velites and one unit of funditores.

18. Autumn 271 BC

The Cartheginians land a large army of 1493 men in the north of Corsica and assault Aleria immediately. Our brave garrison of 161 men is overwhelmed and kills just 39 cartheginians for the loss of 102 of their own before they surrender. This is a serious setback and shows us once again that the republic of Carthage is not to be underestimated. To make matters worse the Gaul warchief Merdiadoc launches an attack with his vast army against the depleted Legio III Sicilia Aemilia commanded by legate Publius Laevinus (Shifty157). Altough our troops are severely outnumbered the terrain is in their favour and so I believe they can hold.

legate Publius Laevinus and the Legio III Sicilia Aemilia face the hordes of Gaul

Publius Laevinus (Shifty157) justifies my faith in him by winning a heroic victory. His troops slay 1719 Gauls for the loss of just 138 of their own. He sent me an excellent description of this battle in this battle report. Still, these losses are hard to replace. All available forces are under way to reinforce the Legio III Sicilia Aemilia, but the crossing over the Alps is difficult and the legion will have to hold on for one more season. In the meantime I order tribune Publius Pansa (Glaucus) to join the defense together with half the garrison of Massilia.
Our diplomat Oppius Vintruvius (Wishazu) spends a busy season, confering with representatives of the Iberians, the Gauls, the Greek cities and the Ptolemaic empire, but all his proposals fall on deaf ears. Especially disappointing is the Gaul refusal to discuss a ceasefire. Perhaps the next first consul should conquer some of their cities so he can hold them in ransom for a ceasefire.
Decius Laevinius (Tiberius) establishes a fort just outside Roma to act as a gathering place for troops.
Our spy Decius Curtius (Braden) and our assassin Placus Laelius are dropped of under cover of darkness on the coast of Afrika and immediately set to work. Placus Laelius assassinates a Cartheginian diplomat and Decius Curtius (Braden) infiltrates the city of Carthage itself.

An unlucky diplomat meets his end


The city of Carthage

There are two elite sacred band units in the city, these should not be underestimated.
I send reinforcements to consul Quintus (econ21) and order him to destroy the Cartheginian army that is currently occupying Aleria. Consul Quintus (econ21) succeeds in his mission and deals a devastating blow to the Cartheginians, killing three of their generals and the faction heir and destroying an entire army. He has written an instructive report on his assault for your perusal. We left no survivors and 1463 Cartheginians perished for the loss of 132 killed and wounded on our side. This will strike fear into the hearts of our enemies.
On the consul's advice I agree to recruit two units of gallic slingers for the Legio III Sicilia Aemilia to replace the loss of the funditores. I arrange for the colonization of Jenuensis. I start the recruitement of one unit of italian spearmen and one unit of italian swordsmen. A rebel uprising takes place near Croton, but there are no commanders available as yet to restore order.

19. Winter 271 BC
The Gauls are too afraid of the Gaul slinger mercenaries to launch another attack on the Legio III Sicilia Aemilia, but more Gauls are arriving at the scene. Our reinforcements have also arrived and yet more are on the way. Former tribune Augustus Verginius (TinCow) has put his affairs in order and during his stay in Mediolaneum has developed a great fondness for the local garrison commander, former tribune Gaius Rutilius, and has adopted him into his family.



Together they ride for our legion in Southern Italy to put down the rebel uprising.
Mediolaneum has completed the construction of an occupation. I begin the process of colonization in Mediolaneum and instigate the integration into our empire of Patavium. Our spy Cassius Paulinus has arrived in Patavium. Consul Quintus (econ21) leaves a small garrison in Aleria and once again travels southward to Sardinia. Our spy Servius Alimentus spots the Gaul king Eporedorix, one of his generals Budic of Fossae, and their army to the southwest of the Legio III Sicilia Aemilia. A tempting target, but out of reach for now.

The Gaul King and his army, tantalizingly out of reach

Encouraged by our consul Quintus (econ21) I continue the efforts to incorporate the former Cartheginian cities into our own culture. Correspondingly, I risk the wrath of the Gods and tear down two Cartheginian temples in Agrigento and two Cartheginian shrines in Messana. Their priests had been preaching against our occupation and this had to be stopped. With the proceeds of these demolitions I ordered the start of construction of a minor shrine to Jupiter in Lilybaeum, a minor shrine to Ceres in Melite and a minor shrine to jupiter in Syracuse. Meanwhile our covert operation in Carthage remains succesfull. Our assassin Placus Laelius assassinates another Cartheginian diplomat and Decius Curtius (Braden) infiltrates the city of Hadrumentum to the south of Carthage, where he discovers the Cartheginian faction leader Hasdrubal the Cunning.

Being a diplomat is a hazardous profession


The city of Hadrumentum, home of the Cartheginian commander in chief


The face of our enemy, a worthy foe indeed

20. Spring 270 BC

Faced with the now reinforced Legio III Sicilia Aemilia and still hurting from the painful earlier defeat at the hands of Publius Laevinus (Shifty157) the Gauls dare not attack, but their numbers keep increasing. Former tribune Vibius Pleminius asks to marry the lovely Severina, the daughter of Publius Laevinus (Shifty157). He is well known as a true roman, a restrained, but proud veteran. I could not possibly refuse such a match and they married immediately in Roma.


Such a capable man was required to lead the legion in Sicily to the aid of soon-to-be legate Augustus Verginius (TinCow), and so, after his wedding night, he was duly pressed into service once more and galloped south. Publius Laevinus (Shifty157) is truly blessed this season, as he also welcomes a new granddaughter into the family, the lovely Licinia, daughter of Decius Laevinius (Tiberius) and his wife Orbiana.
The kingdom of Pontus declared war on the Ptolemaic empire. The kingdom of Bactria allies themselves with the Greek Cities. The Gauls manage to forge an alliance with the Illyrians.
Croton finished the construction of a market. Syracuse and Lilybaeum both finished the construction of a minor shrine to Jupiter. Melite finished the construction of a minor shrine to Ceres. Melite's growth requires the construction of a villa for our governor and I order men to get started immediately.
Our spy Sextus Lentulus sees to his amazement that the Cartheginians panic when the rumour of consul Quintus (econ21) and his victorious army advancing south reaches them. They try to evacuate all their troops before consul Quintus (econ21) reaches Caralis, but still 398 defenders are slain on his arrival for the loss of only 22 of our own. Finally, the conquest of the Cartheginian islands has been completed.
Our covert team is still enjoying succes after succes on the Cartheginian home front. Our assassin Placus Laelius assassinates yet another Cartheginian diplomat and Decius Curtius (Braden) spies out a Cartheginian general, Bisaltes, who I advise my staff to leave alive as long as possible as he does the Cartheginian cause more harm than good.

Diplomacy is no longer a popular profession in the republic of Carthage


With enemies like this, who needs friends ?

Near Massilia, the Gauls are disorganized and our scouts report a target of oppertunity, the warchief Virsuccius with a small escort. Tempted as I am to strike at the Gaul King, I order Publius Laevinus (Shifty157) and the Legio III Sicilia Aemilia to make a suprise strike and kill Virssuccius and then to return as quickly to the bridge as they struck. I believe in agressive defense. The strike is a complete succes. Virssuccius along with 255 of his men are slain for the loss of just 8 of our own. The legate Publius Laevinus (Shifty157) sends me a warning that the fighting in the forest was very difficult as that is the terrain the tribesmen excel at. The Legio III Sicilia Aemilia retreated in good order to resume their guard on the bridge once more. Our spy Servius Alimentus infiltrates the strategic walled settlement of Gergovia. Our spy Quintis Classicianus (GeneralHankerchief) spots the thracians laying siege to the last rebel and extremely heavily defended settlement of Trebata. That will occupy the Thracians for quite some time hopefully. Our spy Cassius Paulinus spies on the faction heir of Illyria and discovers the reason the Illyrians have resurged after they were almost wiped out. Lasicus the Bloody-Handed is a stark raving mad beserker !

Leader of the Illyrian revival

I start the construction of a minor temple to Saturnus in Massilia. I start the construction of a minor temple to Jupiter in Caralis. I start the construction of a minor temple to Jupiter in Tarentum.

The end of the consulship of Lucius Aemilius. Summer 270 BC

The kingdom of Parthia declares war on the kingdom of Armenia. The Seleucid empire allies itself with the kingdom of Macedon. The Seleucid empire reaches a ceasefire with the Greek cities. Agrigento builds a market.
Luca Marnilius (Marcus Camillus) marries the lovely Severa. Decius Laevinius (Tiberius) is doing so well at the academy that he has attracted the attention of Hieronymus of Cardia and Herodas, a famous historian and a famous author.

I end my reign as first consul. I have explained our current situation in detail in my parting words as first consul

[TinCow]

1. 270 BC Summer

Two priorities dominate my mind at the beginning of my Consulship: to prepare for the Gallic expedition and to increase the economic efficiency of the Republic. To this end, the following actions have been taken:

Senator Quintus has marched to the Northeast coast of Sardinia with half of the Consular I Army. He will embark on the fleet in the fall, and be transported north, where I shall meet him to take command of the force. The fleet will transport the other half of the Consular I Army at the first available opportunity. The capable commander and governor Titus Vatinius has been left in charge of Caralis.

Despite the demands for military service and personal glory, the Republic is in dire need of effective governance. Where possible, Senators will be rotated so as to continue to gain field experience, but many will be expected to due their duty overseeing the provinces. This is particularly true for Upper House Senators. Many may find this pleasing though, since it will give them opportunities to gather a retinue which most sorely lack. Valerius Paullus has been sent to govern Tarentum. Gaius Rutilius has assumed governorship of Capua. Vibius Pleminius has been sent to Rome to gain managerial experience by observing the young, but incredibly able Decius Laevinus. Luca Mamilius and Publius Pansa have been sent for as well and are making the jouney south to the Italian provinces of Arretium and Ariminum, where they shall govern for the short term.

Having noted that in addition to providing military training and policing, investments in Auxilia facilities provides valuable trade income, I have used what meager funds are available to begin the process in Syracuse, a great trading port.

In accordance with Senate Motion 3.10, Oppius Vetruvius tried once again to secure an alliance with the Iberians. These people cannot be reasoned with though and the effort is in vain.

Finally, it is with consternation that I report that I will be unable to fulfill Senate Motion 5.7. While I will make my best efforts to the project, Patavium is the only territory where Integration into the Republic has even begun and it will be 2.5 years until it is complete. I fear that even at maximum speed and with priority of investment, sufficient facilities will not be available to recruit Gallic auxilia by the end of my Consulship. My apologies for this failure, Senator, but it is beyond my control.

All of this has been done before the end of the Summer, yet my work is far from complete and I have heard news that Legio III Sicilia Aemilia is once again being pressed by the unwashed Gauls.



Senator Publius Laevinius proved once again that Gallic hordes are no match for Roman arms. Victory was complete, with apprixmately 160 casualties to Legio III Sicilia Aemilia. Only 75 Gauls survived to report of the slaughter to their kin.

2. 270 BC Autumn

Manius Aemilius was promoted to Tribune. Quintus embarked for Massilia. Publius Pansa assumed the governorship of Arretium. Luca Mamilius assumed the governorship of Ariminum. Lucius Aemilius and Legio I Italica Victrix leave their station and march west to relieve the battered, though supreme, Publius Laevinius and Legio III, who are in need of a rest and a refit. At my request, Amulius Coruncanius rode west and joined me in Cisalpine Gaul. He shall serve as my Tribune during the Gallic Expedition and it is my hope that he shall gain much military experience on the campaign, despite his young age.

In domestic affairs, the repeated assaults on Legio III make it clear that the ability to recruit auxilia from areas close to our borders would be highly valuable. Investments are thus made to begin the first stage of Auxilia training in Massilia.

In foreign affairs, Decius Curtius reports that a great battle occurred between Carthage and Numidia in the desert west of Lepcis Magna. The Punic forces achieved total victory and a Consular size Numidian force was erradicated.

3. 270 BC Winter

The season opens with happy news for Luca Mamilius and Decius Laevinius. Both have new daughters, Drusilla for Luca and Licinia for Decius.

Quintus and the bulk of Consular I Army disembark at Massilia, close to where Lucius Aemilius and Legio I make camp for the winter. There is now a great concentration of force at the Gallic border, and more shall be shipped over soon from Sardinia and Rome.

In foreign affairs, rumors say that Pontus and Parthia have allied, though this concerns us little. Further investments are made in auxilia training, this time in Ariminum, which is now expected to be able to provide us with Italian auxilia in a year and a half.

As the deep winter begins, the unexpected happens. Spies had reported that the Gallic force destroyed 6 months previous had been the last major army they had available... yet another has appeared as if from the Underworld. Two massive assaults in 6 months against Legio III Sicilia Aemilius. Quintus and Lucius Aemilius are close, but unable to reach the battle in time. Perhaps this will sway the minds of those who still think Carthage our foremost enemy.



Senator Publius Laevinus again proves himself a brilliant commander. His reputation now rivals that of Quintus himself.



4. 269 BC Spring

As the season began, the reorganization of Legio III, Legio I and Consular I Army began. I took command of Consular I Army, and Quintus began the march south to Sicily, where he shall eventually oversee Legio V Alaudae, tasked with protecting the Punic Isles. Consular I Army absorbs a few maniples each of hastati, principes and triarii from Legio III, along with some of its auxilia and moves west to begin the Gallic Expedition. Lucius Aemilius and Legio I takes over the defensive position at the Massilia crossing, supplemented by the remainder of Legio III's auxilia, with further troops only a season away. Publius Laevinus takes the core veterans of Legio III and marches east to take up residence in Legio I's abandoned quarters. The men shall be rested and their light troops and auxilia will be brough up to full strength.

In domestic issues, political issues result in Publius Pansa assuming governorship of Capua and Gaius Rutilius is sent north to take Pansa's old position in Arretium. Finally, Titus Vatinius is promoted to Legate and Tarentum begins work on Auxilia I.

5. 269 BC Summer

Incredible news arrives from merchants in the east...


In addition, our spies inform us that Seleucia and Armenia have formed an alliance and that Carthage has recaptured Hippo Regius from the Numidians. Sextus Antio proposes an alliance with Germania, but is turned down.

The hooting mad Manius Aemilius is overwhelmed with joy at the birth of his new son and decides to name him after his little brother, Marcellos. While wonderful news, this has potential to cause confusion as there are now two men named Marcellus Aemilius. Some suspect that Manius did this intentionally to annoy the Senate.

As the Gallic Expedition marches west, a small Gallic force flees before us to the 'safety' of Gergovia. We besieve the city and prepare to assault in the Autumn.

6. 269 BC Autumn

Seleucia has become a great power, with most of Asia Minor subjugated and the Bacrians signing a protectorate treaty. The Ptolemaic Empire allies with Thrace and joins them in their war with Macedon. In desperation, the Macedonians look for allies everywhere. An offer is made to the Republic, but it is insulting. Further negotiations for a more reasonable treaty fail.



Titus Vatinius and the remainder of the old Consular I Army embark on the fleet, destined for Sicily where they will join Legio V Alaudae in the vigil over the Punic Isles.

For the Gallic Expedition, it is a season of glory...

The assault on Gergovia is carefully planned and executed. Our agent, Sextus Lentulus, manages to sabotage the crossbars on the town gates, preventing them from being closed.



To take maximum advantage of the multiple openings, I divide Consular I Army into two full Legions; I personally command the Legion assaulting from the south while Amulius Coruncanius commands the Legion assaulting from the east.



As the walls are torn down by our rams, our skirmishers rain death down upon the waiting enemy. They make a vein attempt to sally and destroy the velites, but are held by auxilia and slaughtered by Hastati.



With the gates open and the walls down, we swarmed in from all sides, killing all before us.



In the end, a few Gauls made a final stand in the town square, but they died quickly enough. It was a beautiful sight.




Once the fighting had ceased, I ordered all able bodied townsfolk rounded up and chained. This was completed within minutes as it turned out that the 'city' was nearly empty. Interrogation of a weak old man revealed that the town had been drained of all manpower in order to assemble the last force to assault the Massilia crossing. I was so outraged at such a pathetic lot of slaves, that I ordered the city burned to the ground. The men tore through every structure in sight, looting everything of value, before setting them ablaze. What do they need homes for if there is no one to occupy them? In the end, some 3,500 dinarii of profit is gained... hardly worth the effort.

The desire for more plunder drove the army though and a forced march allowed us to close on Comata only a few weeks later. Without walls, no siege engines were necessary and the assault was a simple affair.




Comata yielded more slaves than Gergovia, but was far poorer, with barely a civic structure in sight. Some 2,000 dinarii were salvaged from the pitiful shacks, but the slave chain was sufficiently large to allow major construction to begin in Bononia. With this labor and the plundered loot, a Governor's Villa was begun to oversee projects in the province, and work was begun in Arretium on a safe harbor for trade ships.

Spies report that the northern Gallic cities are far more heavily populated and Alesia in particular is center of incredible wealth and prosperity. There is much still to be won.

7. 269 BC Winter

Work on the first phase of Auxilia training finishes in Syracuse and there is news of two baby girls for two worthy Senators! Verlius Paullus names his daughter Gratidia and Titus Vatinius names his daughter Atia. Atia in particular could have an interesting future...



The remaining plunder from Gaul is invested in building praved roads to and from Rome itself. Such a system is a model for all future provinces and the speed with which our cohorts can march over them is amazing. Trade will also bloom substantially with such a weather-proof system.

As the Expedition marches north from Comata, I pause to urinate on the ruins of the chieftan's house. I swear to do so in every Gallic settlement in the known world. Scouts report that the Gauls have reoccupied the ruins of Gergovia, but what use it will be to them, I do not know. Perhaps they like the stench and filth.

It seems the Gauls have a new 'king,' is that the third one this year? He assembled a substantial force and offered battle on our march north to Alesia.



I drew up the Expedition in the traditional style and waited for the beasts to show themselves.



The cowards soon realized I would not fall for their trap and enter the forests, to be ambushed. They soon began to trickle out of the woods like a pack of rabid, starving wolves. Whomever says these things are humans has not seen what I have seen.




Skirmishers were sent forward to spear them like the animals they are, but a group of mounted warriors rode out of the woods and gave chase, threatening to overrun the Velites. Amulius Coruncanius was leading the cavalry and he headed a glorious charge that dropped half of the Gauls in mere moments.



He stayed to finish off the survivors, but the Gallic King urged his whole line forward in a rush.



Amulius pulled back with the cavalry and a great melee began in the open field.



A flanking maneauver quickly put an end to this farce of a field battle.



As the enemy broke and fled, I personally ran down and slayed the 'King' of the Gauls. I suppose that makes this the year of Four Gallic Kings.



Perhaps it is due to their lack of shelter from nature, but I truly believe the Gauls are now rabid. Not only just savage, they have become legitimately insane. I tiny force has attempted to force the Massilia crossing. When nearly 2000 Gauls could not do so against a single Legion, what demon is it that makes these fools believe less than 400 of them can defeat an oversized Legion?

Insanity... or animalistic instinct? Either way, this is not the act of thinking beings.



Into the valley of death, ran the 300...



So impressive and yet so pathetic. Not a single Roman fell to their attack, though some reprimands were meted out to those who had been careless with their pilia.



8. 268 BC Spring

After a ceasefire that lasted only a season, Iberia and Carthage are again at war. Gaul breaks off their alliance with Carthage, and it appears that they are turning to their barbaric neighbors for friends now. The odds against Illyria continue to mount, as the Greek Cities formally declare war and send to massive armies into Illyrian territory.

In Rome, Decius Laevinius and his wife Orbania announce that they have a new son! Tertius Laevinius is young and healthy. He shall make a fine Senator one day. With a new son and his time in the Academy nearly complete, Decius Laevinius is nearly ready for full Senatorial duties. In preparation for assuming the full duties of a Roman Senator, he is sent to Capua to begin a proper governorship. Publius Pansa is now overseeing Rome itself. This joy is quickly overcome by a great tragedy, though. Faustina, wife of Senator Quintus, has died. She lived a long life and went peacefully in her sleep, but all of Rome is in mourning.

After suffering a harsh northern winter, the men of the Expedition are happy to see Spring come. They are rejuvenated and hungry for battle. Sextus Lentulus duplicates his feat at Gergovia and sabotages the Alesian gates. I begin the attack immediately, as I do not believe I would be able to restrain the army long enough to construct siege weapons. They are hungry for battle, so I give it to them.



Like before, I split the army into two full Legions, with Amulius Coruncanius commanding the northern Legion and I the southern.



As the skirmishers go to work, the Gauls once again lose their discipline and charge out in an attempt to reach their attackers. They are cut to pieces in moments by Hastati and Auxilia.



With the way clear, the assault begins...



The Gallic forces try to hold both gates, but they are stopped, flanked, and broken in short order.



Withe the gates and walls cleared, both Legions converged on the center of the city. While marching, the southern Legion was assaulted by slingers. I rode forward to cut them down. Seeing the plight of his men, the enemy General charged at me and a fierce melee ensued.



A nearby maniple of Hastati saw the charge and rushed to my assistance. With the aid of these brave men, we slew the slings, the Gallic bodyguard, and finally the man himself.



From there, it was only a matter of time. Surrounded and converged on from north and south, the Gauls were doomed.



A group of Chosen Spearmen put up a heavy fight, but they fell one by one until they were eventually engulfed in a sea of Romans.




With the victory complete, the jewel of Gaul was stripped of all its worth. Thousands of men, women and children were rounded up and put in chains. The column leading them back to the Republic was miles long. This massive influx of labor swells Jenuensis, which has now become a true city. It is with great pleasure that I report that not only was Alesia a prosperous city, but it appears to be where many Roman relics, looted by Brennus, were stored. In addition to nearly 10,000 dinarii worth of treasure, priceless statues of Romulus and Lucius Junius Brutus were recovered. They are being taken back to Rome and will be erected in the forum. Out of my own funds, I have personally commissioned a third statue to stand between the two. It shall depict a Roman soldier triumphant with a Gallic warrior in chains at his feet. Let it be know to all Romans and throughout the world, that the Republic does not forgive nor forget the crimes committed against her.

The wealth of the horde has been directed towards infrastructure improvements in many provinces. The second level of Auxilia training was begun in Massilia, while efforts have begun on the first stage of the process in Caralis, Lilybaeum and Agrigento.

With the sack of the city complete, the Expedition moved off north, towards Remi. A small Gallic force that had been afraid to come to the aid of Alesia was caught and annihilated along the way.




Nothing can stop the Expedition now. Gaul is doomed. Let all nations watch and observe the fate of those who oppose Roman will.

9. 268 BC Summer

Our spied report that in the east, Illyrian forces have once again pulled off a great feat of arms. Two massive armies, one Greek, one Macedonian, have been almost totally destroyed in an assault on Delmatia for the loss of a relatively small number of Illyrians. This magnificent struggle is keeping the Helenic forces from our border and giving us peace. Though they fight for their own reasons, we should be grateful nonetheless.

In Italy, Capua has become a major city and construction of a Governor's Palace begins in order to allow for an increase in control over the province. In the field, word reaches us that Amulius Coruncanius's wife has given birth to a baby girl, Marcia. While this would normally be a happy event, it is well known that Amulius has been in the field with the Expedition far longer than the last 9 months. Given the blatant realities, the rumors are starting to spread...



Now restored to full strength, Legio III Sicilia Aemilia begins the march west to Massilia. Vibius Pleminius is dispatched from Rome to begin service as Tribune in the Legion, under Legate Publius Laevinus.

With the momentum of the war fully with us, Consular I Army moves in force on Remi and assaults it. It is a short and bloody affair, but the blood is almost entirely Gallic.




In excess of 3,000 dinarii of goods are located and taken back to the Treasury, along with another chain of slaves for the fields. For all of this death and destruction, the Gauls remain a simple and petty species. Any nation at all, even other barbaric tribes, would divert their armies and their efforts to the defense of their homes. The Gauls, with the cities in ruins and their people in chains, feel nothing. The desire only more plunder. The last large Gallic army in existence once again attempts to take the Massilia crossing. How can anyone call these beasts human? Humans would not go off in search of gold when their families were dying and the homes being burned. They are a plague and must be erradicated.



I received this report from General Lucius Aemilius:

Ave consul Verginius,

I positioned my men well, using maximum advantage of the terrain. The Gauls charged en masse into a hailstorm of pilas and stones.



The impact of the horde rocked our frontlines, but we held them. Eventually, a cavalry charge broke trough our defenses.



Waiting for this moment I lauched a counterattack with my reserves. Caractus of Scaldis replied with a last ditch effort and led the countercharge personally. The lines clashed violently, but with no room to manouver they were pushed back and Caractus of Scaldis panicked. He was slain by the valiant triarii.



Then the panic spread among the Gauls ranks and they fled. A warband bravely held the rearguard, but I led the charge myself and they perished under the hooves of our warhorses. They remains of their army tried to retreat, but I followed them mercilessly and dispersed and killed the survivors who tried to rally on the other bank. About two hundred barbarians managed to escape, leaving 1000 dead on the field.



Blood and Honour !
Lucius Aemilius

10. 268 BC Autumn

As the summer ends, we are approached by a diplomat again desiring an alliance with us. This time it is Thrace, but once again they demand an insulting sum of money for this 'favor.' It is, of course, rejected out of hand.

Congratulations are due to Senator Publius Pansa who has married the lovely Domitilla. I am sure that she will bear him many True Roman children. With the newly arrived slaves from Gaul, construction of a Governor's Villa has begun in Jenuensis to provide the necessary facilities from which to oversee their labors.

Placus "the Killer" Laelius, recently returned from Africa, dispatches a Greek diplomat in Cisalpine Gaul who was attempting to bribe Romans to betray the Republic.



The Expedition continues, with Remi left a wasteland behind us. The march to Gwenea passes quickly, and the men, now familiar with the tactics, falls upon the city in glorious style.



I say, no Roman could see such a sight and not weep for the joy of it. Our men are soldiers without equal. Their skill and ferocity in battle is equalled only by their strength and discipline. Roman and Italian alike, they make an army that Alexander himself would fear. With the stories of our conquests preceding us, the Gauls now panic at the mere sight of the Legions. In Gwenea, a single volley of pilia was enough to break the will of nearly 300 swordsmen, in mid-charge.



The remainder of the garrison died just as quickly.



Nearly 5,000 dinarii and thousands of slaves are taken before the city is burned and the Expedition moves south, towards the last remaining unsacked Gallic settlement. As I was preparing the battle plans for the next season, I had a revelation. The Gauls were truly destroyed, they will never again threaten anyone. Yet they could still live on, if we held back the sword. In such a situation, they would surely menace us further, disregarding their own best interests. This cannot be allowed to occur. Gaul cannot be allowed to continue these raids. We should finish them once and for all.

The Gauls had not yet re-occupied the smoking ruins of Alesia, Remi and Gwenea, the northernmost provinces of their homeland. These are territories that are worthless to us and which the Senate had wisely decided that it was not worth holding. Yet eventually the Gauls would return and eventually more warbands would be raised from these cesspits to march on Rome. I saw another alternative: Germania. They are barbarians as well, but they have remained at peace with Rome and are concerned with their great conflict with the Thracians. I do not believe they will attack us in the near future. If Germania took the territories we had ravaged instead of the Gauls, we would be safe from their peoples being sent against us for some time. For this reason, I sent Sextus Antio to meet with the Germans. He told them that the provinces were a gift from the goodwill of the Republic to their growing tribe. He wished them peace and friendship, and was on his way. Northern Gaul remains a wasteland, but one that shall not raise up arms against us, at least for the moment.

This is but the first step in a great plan that is unfolding before me. To south there lies another barbaric people. One that has defeated the might of Carthage and which considers itself an ally of the Gauls. The Iberians are strong. The Iberians are Gallic allies. The Iberians will come... unless we go to them first.

With haste, I wrote a letter to the Senate detailing the state of the war and my proposal. I now must wait while they consider and deliberate...

[TinCow]

10. 268 BC Autumn (continued)

Following the lengthy and heated Senate deliberations, much has changed. As the season comes to an end, Publius Pansa journeys south to assume full control of Legio IV Gallica and lead them into battle against a small group of Italian rebels. The unblooded Legio IV will need this first taste of battle if they are to survive what is to come.

11. 268 BC Winter

As the snows began to fall, I finally arrived at the last untouched Gallic settlement: Bourges. Another "King" defended the place, but I have lost count of how many of these weeds we have killed in recent years. It seems every other Gaul is a King somehow. He fought better than some and worse than other, but he died like all of them.




With this final lesson taught and our baggage train bursting with treasure, I began Consular I Army on the long march back to Rome.

The wealth of Bourges, along with the gains of previous seasons has brought our treasury to unprecedented levels. A massive investment in domestic development is the result. Bononia and Patavium begin work on road networks. Mediolanium beguns construction of a Governor's Villa. Rhegium, Messana and Aleria begin the first phase of Auxilia training.

Marcus Laevinus weds the beautiful Aurelia.

The season ends with Publius Pansa leading Legio IV Gallica into battle against the Italian rebels. The victory is complete and the men know better what to expect from their coming expedition to Greece.




12. 267 BC Spring

Spring... a time of rebirth, of renewal. For Rome in 267, it is the moment of calm before the storm.

Consular I Army continues its march through Gaul towards the Alps. It will be over a year before they are in any position to support the Greek expedition. The will of the Senate must be obeyed though, so Quintus assumes command of Legio IV Gallica and embarks for Apollonia. The former commander, Publius Pansa, returns to Legio IV's fort with a cohort of auxilia and will maintain it until a new Legion can be built for him to command. At his request, Vibius Pleminus leaves the service of Legio III Sicilia Aemilia and begins the journey south to Tarentum. He will arrive too late to make the trip with Legio IV, but with luck he will be able to slip into the city soon after it has been captured.

Financial investments are made in a market for Arretium and the first phase of Auxilia training in Melite.

13. 267 BC Summer

The season begins with the marriage of my adopted son, Gaius Rutilius, to the excessively youthful Julia, who is but 12 years old. While this may raise some eyebrows in the Senate, surely it is not as 'unusual' as my other adopted son, Luca Mamilius, whose wife gave birth at the age of 12.

The trials of Legio IV Gallica are preceded by the favors of Fortuna. Greece and the Ptolemaic Empire declare war, hopefully diverting Greek forces that would otherwise be sent against Quintus.

In preparation for the assault, Cassius Paulines and Placus Laelius journeyed through the Illyrian warzone to reach the city by land, prior to the arrival of Legio IV Gallica. Cassius scouted the city for a short time and noticed the presence of a Greek agent watching the city for just such an infiltration as was about to be attempted. Placus Laelius slipped into the city and skillfully eliminated the man. This allowed Cassius to freely roam the city and he was able to bribe the gate guards to abandon their posts only days before Legio IV arrived.

Senator Quintus has surprise on his side and will be able to assault the city without waiting for a prolonged siege. With luck, he will have fully fortified the city and prepared its defenses long before the Greeks can arrive in force.



Quintus' Battle Report

In Italy, some reshuffling of governors is necessary to make up for Publius Pansa's absense from Rome. Decius Laevinus, governor of Capua, assumes the post and Marcus Laevinus is sent to Capua. Though Marcus is still a student, he has learned faster than most during his time in the academy and has little left to gain from being there. Spending some time in the greatest of our allied cities will do him good.

The seasonal investments are devoted to improving auxilia training in southern Italy, with Tarentum and Corfinium begning the second phase.

14. 267 BC Autumn

As the heat dissipates and the leaves turn, Bourges returns to Gallic control, though I know not why they would wish to possess such a slophole. Shortly after his arrival in Capua, Marcus Laevinus' wife gives birth to a daughter, Fannia. This season's investments are once again devoted to improving auxilia training, though this time in Sicilia, where Lilybaeum and Agrigento begin the second phase.

The covert team of Cassis Laulinos and Placus Laelius discover and dispatch a Greek agent residing in Thermon. Vigorous efforts will be made to ensure that the Greeks do not infiltrate Apollonia as we did. Yet, no matter how many Greek agents are killed, Legio IV Gallica will still be in great danger. A Legion sized Greek force besieges the city and Quintus sallies forth to dispose of them before they can be reinforced.



Quintus' Battle Report

Quintus' success frees the city from siege and Vibius Pleminius is able to cross the sea and slip through the gates in before the snows begin to fall. His military experience and personal guard will surely be a great boost to Legio IV Gallica.

15. 267 BC Winter

A message from Oppius Vitruvius brings news that Carthago Nova has finally fallen to the Iberians. With all Punic forces now completely driven from the peninsula, the Iberians will surely turn their attentions north...

The Illyrians, pleased with our attack on the Greeks, approached Quintus himself and offered an alliance... for a price.



It seems that while they are facing extinction at the hands of Greece and Macedon, they still consider themselves the superior partner in any prospective agreement with the Republic. Our of respect for their brave struggle, Quintus attempted to reach a more reasonable agreement, but one could not be found. Perhaps when 10,000 more Illyrian sons have died, they will be less demanding.

The great building projects I have initiated are finally beginning to bear fruit. This season, roads were finished in Bononia and Patavium, allowing increased mobility to our northern border. In addition, Rome has finally completed the first paved road system in the Republic. I am sure that many Senators have already enjoyed the benefits of keeping their sandals free of mud while journeying to their country villas. To further expand the sytem, construction on a road system for Jenuensis begins, which will include a route through the Alps almost all the way to Massilia and Legio I Italia Victrix. Patavium also received attention, with investments made towards the first phase of auxilia training.

Manius Aemilius is the proud father of a new daughter he has named Plautilla.

In Greece, Cassius Paulinus and Placus Laelius journey north, where yet another Greek agent is uncovered and disposed of in Scodra. The Greeks seem to be growing more determined to oust Legio IV Gallica from their territory. A larger force than last season besieged Apollonia. While it is led by a mere captain, he has brought with him a group of fanatical Spartans. It is rumored that in addition to their impressive skills, they possess the physical strength of three normal men. We shall see...



Quintus' Battle Report

16. 266 BC Spring

The calm before the storm...

With the roads clear of snow and the pavements around Rome completed, Consular I Army was able to make rapid progress south. Along the way, I was informed that a group of rebellious Italians had taken up arms, most likely following payment by the Greeks. I confronted them south of Ancona. They fled a short distance, but we caught them and slaughtered them. Most Italians are our allies, but some, it seems, need to be further convinced of that fact.




Cisalpine Gaul received this season's financial investments, with road construction beginning in Mediolanum and the process of Integration beginning in Bononia.

Apollonia remained free of siege this season, but Roman agents brought news of massive formations gathering in the surrounding mountains. In the north, Macedon and Greece organized a joint assault on the main body of Illyrian men at Delmatia. There is little doubt that it will fall soon. The stalemate will be broken, Macedon and Greece will march west, towards the Cisalpine frontier.

As if the news could not become worse, as the season ended, a massive Greek force, nearly 4 times as large as the previous ones, laid siege to Apollonia. Legio IV Gallica could not sally in the face of such a group. Their only hope is to hold the walls until Consular I Army can arrive to relieve them. If that were not bad enough, two more massive Greek forces are nearby and on their way to the crisis area. Macedon too seems to be moving forces towards Apollonia... perhaps they finally mean to support their Allies.

17. 266 BC Summer

The moment of decision is before us, the fate of Legio IV Gallica and perhaps even the entire Greek War, will be decided soon. However, there are still domestic matters to attend to.

Decius Laevinus experiences joy that Quintus can but dream of, as his wife births a daughter, Ustina. While not in keeping with Senate economic policy, I decided to set aside a large sum of money to create improvements to the Roman Academy. With the birth of dozens of young noble boys and girls over the course of my Consulship, we will need to provide superior education to meet the needs of all Roman senatorial families. The academy will be upgraded to Scriptorium level and will serve as a beacon of enlightenment for all future generations. Massilia, the gateway to Italy and foremost defensive line against the barbarian hordes, begins the third phase of Auxilia training. By the next Consulship, it will be ready for a Provincial Barracks, an investment that will allow Rome to reinforce Legio I Sicilia Aemilia without recalling it to Italy.

Merchants bring news that Macedon has been engulfed by a great plague. Perhaps this will sap their strength enough to deter them from joining in the war against us. One can only hope...



Their front line armies are uneffected by this disease at home, though. A combined attack by Macedonian and Greek armies finally defeated the Illyrian force holding Delmatia. It has fallen and been occupied by the Macedonians. Nearly half of Illyria's strength was destroyed in this great confrontation and I fear that they will never recover. The next Consul would be wise to strengthen Legio II Sabina Quintia and prepare it for war.

Yet, Macedon's preoccupation is of little comfort to Legio IV Gallica and its brave commanders. They are surrounded and besieged, with no hope of escape. A forced march brings Consular I Army to the ends of Italy and within sight of the transport fleet. So, close, but so far.



The crossing simply cannot be made before Autumn, and by then it may be too late. Publius Pansa joins Consular I Army in preparation of the split which will be required to transport the entire body to the relief of Apollonia. He will command one of the two component Legions, while I will retain the other.

These preparations are for naught though, as our eyes in Greece report that the enemy will attempt an assault before we can arrive. Quintus, Vibius Pleminius, and all of Legio IV Gallica is vastly outnumbered by quality enemy troops. If they hold, Consular I Army can arrive in strength and aid them against the other Greek forces. If they hold... If they hold...




Quintus' Battle Report

18. 266 BC Autumn

With the southern route to Tarentum becoming increasingly important due to the Greek War, an investment was made in Capua to extend the paved road system. It is my hope that eventually the network will reach from Massilia to Tarentum, allowing quick transit for our Legions from one front to another.

Prior to my arrival Placus Laelius eliminated yet another Greek diplomat. No man is safe when his nation takes Roman blood. Consular I Army was broken up into two Legions for transport to Greece. I led the first crossing, landing outside the city, and Publius Pansa was given command of the second, disembarking directly into the city itself.



With all of Consular I Army across the sea, I reorganized the force for action against the Greeks. Senator Quintus was relieved of command and returned with the fleet to Italy. It is his wish that he shall retire to Rome, there to live out the rest of his days in the company of his daughters and friends. Though great leadership is needed at such a time of crisis, I could hardly refuse any request by him. Consular I Army was restructured into a single group to allow for action in force against the enemy. Publius Pansa assumed formal command of Legio IV Gallica, though it is a Legion in name only. He shall remain with the remnants in Apollonia, with some reinforcements from Consular I Army, while he prepares to assume the rank of Legate, which is due to him after 10 years of loyal service.

To take the pressure off of Apollonia, I moved with Consular I Army to engage the nearby Greek forces. The smallest was isolated first and attacked.



Outnumbered and outmanned, they fled after only a skirmish.




I then moved Consular I Army east towards the mountains. I made camp there and attempted to draw the Greeks into attacking, giving us the advantage of defensive terrain. They avoided contact though and moved south as the season ended.

19. 266 BC Winter

Senator Quintus arrived back in Rome, to the joy of the Republic. The people turned out unprompted to see his small retinue enter the city. Though in retirement, he shall oversee the affairs of Rome and is expected to be formally appointed Governor of Latium before long. To futher the development of the northern provinces, integration was begun in Jenuensis and the third phase of auxilia training was begun in Arretium and Ariminum.

In Greece, Placus Laelius elimited yet another Greek diplomat, this time one who had attempted to bribe soldiers garrisoning Apollonia. Consular I Army broke camp when it became apparent that the Greeks would not engage us on our own ground. We moved south and brought battle to the strongest of their forces, including two elite hoplite units and a full group of Spartans.



Much care was needed to confront such a formidable force. I arrayed the men into an unusual formation, with the Funditores in front of a center line of Italian Spearmen and Triarii, flanked on each side by Principes, Hastati, and Italian Swordsmen, and backed by Velites.



The Fundatores were used to harass and infuriate the enemy, so that they charged, enraged, into the center of our formation.



When they closed, the Fundatores would retreat behind the spearline and the surrounding men would hurl their javelins at the oncoming Greeks. Upon realizing the trap, the hoplites would then retreat, to resume their place in the line of battle. We had infinite patience though, and the constant hammer of lead bullets on Greek skulls broke their discipline again and again. Eventually, the General himself charged. To his credit, he did not retreat as the others, though it resulted in his death on the spears of the auxilia.



When the slingers had exhaused their ammunition, the line advanced and split to engulf the foe.



The encirclement was completed quickly.



The Spartans, flanked by the elite hoplites, fought for a long time, but in the end they died like the rest. Eventually, even their will was broken and the last fled for their lives. This was not a second Thermopylae.





Consular I Army then moved south in pursuit of yet another Greek army that was moving for the safety of Thermon.

20. 265 BC Spring

The last season of my Consulship was a momentus one in the diplomatic sphere. In the east, the Greeks made peace with the Illyrians. With only the Republic as their enemy, the Greeks will surely concentrate further efforts on Apollonia. In the west, the Iberians proclaimed their desire for further conquests by besieging German held Alesia.



At home, Mediolanum began the process of Integration, and Croton and Rhegium commenced the second phase of auxilia training.

In the east, a Greek army moving south from the now peaceful Illyrian front approached Apollonia and forced me to abandon the pursuit of the other force and move back north to protect the city.



Using similar tactics as the previous battle, the foe was destroyed in detail.



As the season ended and summer began, a few last pieces of new were conveyed to me. First, Thrace and Iberia had signed an alliance against Germania. I fear that we shall soon find ourselves surrounded by hostile barbarians in every area of our alpine borders. Far to the east, Armenia became the protectorate of Seleucia. Finally, Decius Laevinus achieved the rank of Tribune and Senator Quintus has recruited the staff necessary to become Governor of Latium.

Though I still command in Greece, it was with great relief that the weight of the Consulship was lifted from my shoulders. I fought for the Republic with all my soul, but it was a long and difficult struggle. Unexpected foes raised themselves both abroad and in the Senate. Though I shall serve the Republic until the last of my days, I am happy to see my time as the leading man come to an end. It is a position that demands much and satisfies few.

[flyd]

1. 265 Summer

At the start of my term as Consul, I found myself in a fort in Venetia, on the Illyrian border. I summoned Legate Publius Laevinus and left him in charge of the fort's garrison, which was reinforced somewhat. Legate Lucius Aemilius was left stationed at Massilia Ford. Meanwhile, I rode south into Latium, where I was joined by Tribune Decius Laevinus. We continued south with the intention of entering Greece.

But I was not going to hold the planned Greek offensive until I arrived, as I already had a commander in Greece perfectly capable of conducting it. I speak, of course, of Legate Augustus Verginius, who was ordered to march the Consular Army on the Greek town of Antigonea without delay. Some Greek troops were between him and Antigonea, but withdrew before him, until the city, where they made their stand. As it turned out, that was a bad decision:




"They died, we did not." He said in his report.

Perhaps we are used to being victorious on land, but on the seas we have not dared to engage our enemies. Perhaps this lulled them into a false sense of security, as a single Greek warship (of Heptare type) decided to transit the Strait of Tarentum, with the entire Roman fleet nearby in port. The fleet sailed under Admiral Flavius and engaged the enemy ship. I am proud to report the first Roman naval victory in the last 15 years. The Greek warship was sunk, and no friendly ship was damaged. 1 casualty was taken during the battle. In another naval first, the shipyard at Syracuse has begun the construction of our first dedicated warship, a Quinquereme equipped with a corvus.

In accordance with Motion 7.7, recruitment of additional troops has begun. Also, Phase III Auxilia has been started in Patavium, which will fulfill the old Motion 5.7, which demands Gallic auxiliaries. In accordance with Motions 7.5 and 7.7 an attempt was made to ally with Illyria and Germania, but no agreement could be reached.

2. 265 Autumn

As soon as Antigonea fell last season, two Macedonian armies, albeit small ones, marched toward our territories and stopped right on the border:



If that's not an offensive posture, I don't know what is. I decided to keep Verginius near Antigonea this season, and will give the Macedonians one season to withdraw. Further north, it appears that Illyria is about finished:



I have reinforced III Legion as a result. However, I am reluctant to intervene on behalf of the Illyrians as it could jeopardize our efforts in the south, assuming Macedon does not intend to attack us, and that their latest maneuvering is merely a show of power (a pathetic one at that) rather than a preperation for war.

Recruitment for VI Legion continued, and some Auxilia development occured in Paestum. The Thracians attempted to secure an alliance with us, but their terms were outrageous. For those following the Ibero-German war, I report that the Iberians have captured Alesia.

A small Gallic force attempted to cross the Massilia Ford, with no success:




Lucius lays down the first layer in what may become a Gallic dam.

Finally, Manius Aemilius and Titiana had a daughter, Violentilla.

3. 265 Winter

The Macedonian armies that looked threatening last season withdrew as the first snow fell. In Illyria, the Macedonians failed to capture Segestica, but did capture Aquileia. III Legion has been reinforced sufficiently, and should be able to hold off any Macedonian incursions, although those seem unlikely. I still believe a war with Macedon is avoidable, and will do what is practical to avoid it. The only issue at hand is a single large Greek army to the north, which seems to be seeking refuge deep in Macedon territory, and is currently on the outskirts of Pella. Verginius has marched north in an attempt to provoke an attack, but if that does not work, he will have to enter Macedon territory. There is time to work with as the Greeks have not yet managed to coordinate an attack from the south.

There is little further activity this winter. Recruitment continues, and a shipyard was started in Tarentum. I arrived in Apollonia this season, although I will not be taking command of any army as of yet.

4. 264 Spring

The new year brings with it things both good and bad. The bad news is that the Carthaginian navy is conducting operations close to our shores:



It is confirmed that these fleets carry no troops, but their purpose is unknown. It is possible that the Carthaginians are taking an interest in a future invasion. The good news is that the northernly Greek army has been drawn out of Macedonian territories by Verginius, who attacked it as soon as it entered our territory, with the following result:



Full battle report here.

While the Consular Army was somewhat depleted, the Greek army was completely destroyed. The Greeks have no forces north of Apollonia, other than a small garrison in Scodra. The expected Greek response from the south finally came, but it was a small force of about 200 hoplites and no less than two generals. I deployed the garrison of Apollonia, augmented with some mercenaries, which led to a skirmish with the following result:



With reinforcements but one season away, this seemed to be the moment to strike south.

5. 264 Summer

And yet it was not to be. A significant Macedonian army entered our territory through Verginius' pass and stopped some distance north of Antigonea. Not only did the Macedonian army outnumber the Consular Army, it was composed mostly of elite and veteran troops. It likely would be a challenge to defeat this army, and unnecessarily risky, as reinforcements were arriving in Apollonia. However, I was hoping that a show of power would make the Macedonians withdraw. So, Verginius intercepted the Macedonian army, without the intent to engage. The two armies came within striking distance of each other:



Reinforcements arrived in Apollonia, bringing my command, which is now known as the I Field Army, to perhaps depleted Consular strength. Unfortunately, having covered a great distance in getting to Apollonia, the reinforcements could not be mobilized for further movement. Further reinforcements are en route.

In a bit of happier news, Decius Laevinus and Orbiana have had a son, Nero Laevinus, while Publius Pansa and Domitilla have also had a son, Herius Pansa.

6. 264 Autumn

Perhaps Verginius' reputation has already reached as far as Pella, for the Macedonian armies withdrew. The Carthaginian fleets revealed their plan as they blockaded Syracuse and Malta. The Roman fleet moved south into port at Croton, which will allow them to strike next season. The Greeks finally responded from the south. A Greek general with about 300 troops marched toward Apollonia followed by another 1000 men under a captain. As the battle started, I found myself between the Greek general and his reinforcements while he found himself between me and my reinforcements from Apollonia under Decius Laevinus. The result of this was a confusing melee in a forest. The Greeks suffered, as a result:



Wasting no time, I marched south, attacking a small Greek army outside of Thermon. The army was reinforced from Thermon itself, but it was not enough:



The city of Thermon stood before me undefended:



It was captured. I have now advanced as far south as I set out to. A raid on Athens would be possible, but the withdrawal from it may invite the Macedonians, which may only be looking for a weakness to strike. It would possibly be better to raid Athens, destroy some things, and then give it back to the Greeks in exchange for a ceasefire and/or tribute. I will bring up this possibility at the mid-term Senate session. Verginius advanced on Scodra, but met some resistance, and led an epic charge, as documented here: Charge of the Pee Brigade.

Bad news in Italy, however, as a group of brigands organized outside of Ariminum:



There was no standing army within one season's march of Ariminum. Quintus set out from Rome and rode north into Umbria, where he collected all the mercenaries he could find. He was joined by garrisons from Arretium, Ancona, and Ariminum, as well as some newly recruited troops that were preparing to deploy to Greece. All of that combined to about 700 men. There were only 500 brigands, and they were easily crushed. With Ariminum safe, Quintus returned to Rome, the garrisons returned to their respective cities, and the mercenaries, who are Italians, were stationed in a fort in Latium, in case of another emergency.

7. 264 Winter

During the winter, the Macedonians again marched an army through Verginius' pass:



I have done what I could to avoid a war with Macedon. I have been very patient with their childish behavior. But these incursions have been more than a little annoying. I will give them one more chance. I will establish a permanent fort at the pass, on the border. In front of this fort I shall put a giant sign, upon which in Greek and Latin it will be written: "YOU ARE ENTERING THE TERRITORY OF THE ROMAN REPUBLIC. ORGANIZED ARMIES BEYOND THIS POINT ARE CONSIDERED HOSTILE INVADING FORCES. BE WARNED." Should they choose to not be warned, and try another incursion, they will be attacked.

Other than this, the winter was fairly uneventful. There was no naval engagement as the Carthaginian fleet broke off the blockades of our ports. Their location is currently unknown.

8. 263 Spring

The Macedonian army failed to withdraw as the snow melted, further annoying me. I am now begining to suspect that they're trying to get us to attack them, so they can claim that we started the war that would result. I am not about to cooperate with dishonorable Macedonian schemes, however, and do not order an attack. At least not this season.

In the south, it seems that there was a riot in Thermon:



As a result, the garrison was strengthened, and Decius Laevinus was installed as governor. These actions were sufficient to pacify the city.

Aetolia is fairly secure from attack at the moment. There are no significant Greek or Macedonian armies in the south. I moved back north into Epirus, and Scodra should fall before the mid-term. In accordance with Motion 7.4, a large Temple of Mars has been constructed in Capua. The consturction of the temple of Jupiter in Rome is in final stages at this time. The Gauls and the Greeks have signed an alliance, and for those following the Carthago-Numidian war, Decius Curtius reports that the Carthaginians have captured Capsa.

There was a marriage between Secundus Salvidienus and Arria, daughter of Verginius.



Now, I'm not sure what happened three seasons ago, but it must have been something fun, for there were no fewer than three births this season:

Crispina to Marcus Laevinus and Aurelia,
Prisca to Valerius Paullus and Minervina,
Helena to Titus Vatinius and Marcella.

Congratulations to all involved in these happy events.

9. 263 Summer

The Macedonian army withdrew, avoiding the war once more. Verginius built the fort and garrisoned it, while I advanced on Scodra.

A part of the Carthaginian fleet was spotted again. It had moved east, and was some distance southeast of Tarentum. The Roman fleet sailed again, under Admiral Decimus, and engaged the Carthaginian fleet, which consisted of two heavy ships, both of which were sunk, at the cost of one Aphract. A nearby light Greek ship was also sunk without damage to friendly ships. The fleet then moved into port at Thermon. Since Syracuse got the capability to construct Quinqueremes, it has been doing so continuously, and as a result, our fleet now has several of them. We can look to build them at an even faster rate when a Naval Architecture is completed in Tarentum, the construction of which has started this season.

Vibius Salvidienus was born to Secundus Salvidienus and Arria just one season after they have been married.

In Massilia, the Gauls are up to their dirty tricks again:



Our assassin is currently in Greece mostly keeping the population of Greek diplomats in check. We may need to send him to Gaul.

10. 263 Autumn

While marching to Scodra, I was attacked by a large Greek army including the garrison of Scodra itself, with the following result:



With its garrison destroyed, Scodra was captured immediately. Battle report should be forthcoming.

Admiral Decimus engaged 3 Greek ships off the coast of Aetolia, sinking all of them while losing one ship. One last thing that should be noted is that the Thracians have captured Moesia, cutting off the Macedonian armies in Illyria from Macedon itself.

Mid-term

10 seasons have elapsed since I took the office of Consul. The cumulative reports to this point should be considered to be my mid-term report to the Senate.

The Greek campaign has been effectively closed. I set out to conquer Greek lands around Epirus, and as far south as Thermon, and that has been accomplished. Here is the current status of the Greek theater:



State of the Army. The army in Greece nominally consists of two consular armies and one legion, but none are at full strength. Each of the units contains an appropriate amount of core Roman and Italian troops, but are lacking in skirmishers and cavalry. The garrisons at Massilia and Illyria are both effectively at consular strength, while the garrison in Sicily is a single legion. Those six units compose the bulk of the active army. There are also numerous garrisons in cities and internal forts. Forts in Cisalpine Gaul and Latium contain some troops, but are led by captains. The fort in southern Italy is empty, however.

State of the Navy. The navy consists of 3 Quinqueremes and 11 Aphracts. It is stationed in Tarentum.

State of the Republic. The current income is 9954 denarii per season, and the treasury contains 15585 denarii. The diplomatic status remains unchanged, the Republic is still at war with Carthage, Greece, and Gaul.

State of the World. The Iberians have had the upper hand in their war against the Germans, and have expelled the Germans out of much of Gaul. The Thracians have captured Moesia, cutting off Illyria from Macedon. The Illyrians remain confined to Illyria only, but have not been under attack. The Maceconian forces in the west have been focused in Histria; perhaps as guard agains us. The Carthaginians have captured Capsa but have made no further progress against the Numidians.

The requirements of following Motions have been fulfilled completely: 7.2, 7.4, 7.11. Motion 7.3 will be fulfilled in 1 turn when the construction is completed. Motion 7.10 was not fulfilled as stated; new troops were recruited and sent to Greece but were organized under the I Field Army; however, Publius Pansa has been now given command of a legion, and will likely receive the VI Legion banner. An attempt was made to fulfill Motions 7.5 and 7.7, but the other parties refused.

As for the future, I don't believe we need to undertake any major operations at this time. An invasion of Africa is still an option, but not particularly necessary as we now have the ability to engage the Carthaginians on the sea. It is up the Senate to decide, but I would personally focus on naval operations, and the complete destruction of Carthaginian and Greek navies, and perhaps even the Ptolemaic navy in the east. If we are to operate further east, then establishing bases in Crete, Byzantium, Rhodes, or Cyprus would be in our interest.

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Savegame: http://www.totalwar.org/patrons/pbm/263aut.zip