The Rise of the Alemanni - PBM write-ups thread

[econ21]

“Why did you recall me?” Hortar angrily demanded of his father. “My men were the closest to Campus Quadi. I should be allowed to lead them against it.”

Suomar watched his son quietly. He suspected that Hortar had been drinking and the ale had emboldened him. Suomar replied patiently: “Campus Quadi is vital to our war against the Romans. The priests of Thor have promised me their support if we remove their upstart chieftain. But they have promised allegiance to me personally and I must be the one to parley with them.”

Hortar looked away, starring blurry eyed into the distance, so Suomar continued: “I need you to defend our homeland. The Romans may strike at any time. Our warriors are few in number and untested. You must hold here until I return.”

Hortar nodded his head resignedly as Cimberius, the oldest of his younger brothers, entered the room.

“You are leaving, father?” Cimberius inquired brightly.

Suomar smiled sadly at his favourite son: “Yes, I ride for Campus Quadi within an hour.”

Cimberius looked excited: “Is it true their berserkers will join with us against Rome?”

“So I have been promised. But you are to stay here with your brothers and do as Hortar says.” Suomar watched as Cimberius seemed to crumple, becoming downcast.

“Yes, father.” Cimberius assented, without enthusiasm.

Suomar held Cimberius by the shoulders and spoke encouragingly: “Next year, you will become a man, Cimberius. And then I expect you to ride with your brother in defence of our lands. I will even send you and Hortar your own band of berserkers to join you in battle”

“Yes, father!” Cimberius said, with more vigour.

Suomar ruffled Cimberius’s hair affectionately and then turned away to embrace Hortar farewell, whispering: “Look after him.”

Hortar nodded quickly, but Suomar left the room feeling a strange sense of foreboding.



Suomar sweeps into Campus Quadi, first over-running the archers of the rebellious local chief.



Entering the centre of the town, the Alemanni spearmen engage the defenders frontally as Suomar and his mounted escort charge them in the rear.



The rebellious local chief is hunted down by Alemanni war hounds.