Thassalokratia- A Carthaginian AAR

[Vasiliyi]

Brothers


Hamalcar reached Mastia earlier this morning. He had much to say
to Hasdrubal. Reaching the city wasnt difficult. The whole city revolved
around its port so the road was well paved and protected. When Hasdrubal
heard of Hamalcars arrival he quickly prepared a fine meal as a welcoming.

As two brothers neared each other they got of their horses and ran to each
other. They embraced and gave their greetings. They had much to talk
about, not seeing each other for years. Hasdrubal was assigned by the
council to manage Spain, which kept him very busy, and Hamalcar had to
defend Sicily from Heiro, the king of Syracuse.

They were very close to each other before parting. Riding, sailing, playing
together every day. They grew a great fondness that doesn't happen very
often. Soon they reached the palace entrance.

"What brings you to my humble home brother?" Hasdrubal said, not being
able to withhold his smile.

"Humble? Your palace is much better than mine, Iberia is rich and beautiful.
Sicily, is well, Sicily." Hamalcar said with a bit of disgust finishing the sentence.
"Mago has insulted me in Kart-Hadast. They elected Hanno to lead the army.
It should have been me, I have plenty of experience for it."

"What is it you would like me to do brother?" Hasdrubal said without hesitation.
He always agreed with Hamalcar. In fact he even defended him whenever he
was wrong as well.

"One day, I will be Shofet. I need to know that I have your support." Hamalcar
said sitting down for the meal.

"Support for what? Who would dare stand against you?" Hasdrubal replied, being
a bit puzzled.

"Its not that, Its just there are some policies that i believe in that some
of the council doesn't."

"You have my word. I am your loyal friend and brother." Hasdrubal said to
him. Hasdrubal has always been a bit naive. Being the youngest in a royal
family, he didn't always receive the attention he wanted, allowing Hamalcar
to exploit this. Nonetheless, Hamalcar did love his brother.

"Good, I'm glad I have you brother." Hamalcar said frankly.

They went on talking into the night. They talked about politics, trade, Rome,
Iberia, Africa, and the wealth that could be extracted from it. In the morning
Hamalcar left for Sicily, being assured that he had support somewhere in the family.