From Basileion to Arche - An interactive Makedonian campaign/AAR

[Olaf Blackeyes]

((Knowing the AI its goona be hard to avoid war with teh Getai))

EDIT grats on new page ^^

[Socy]

Well, being the racist bastard that my character is, he wouldn't really recognize the difference between a barbarian diplomat and second-to-the-king, or some such. Besides, who can trust smelly barbarians anyway? Ofcourse they have plans to sack our cities, plunder our coffins, and most terrifying of all! Steal or women... And young boys... J/K

[Maion Maroneios]

Olaf Blackeyes: Thanks Olaf, but I really think I should be thanking you for taking me to the next one

Socy: But of course, sometimes I forget we speak purely in-character here :-P As for that boys comment, all I can say is this: We will never allow our fine young fellows to leave Makedonia! It would be a great shame to lose our talented boys and be unable to 'properly' educate them ourselves

Maion

[satalexton]

u mean take them to the bath houses and tell them to bend over (to pick up the jar of cleaning oil).....

n sry again ._.

[Socy]

Nah more like... Educating them.. Properly.. In the hellenic ways.. You know...

[satalexton]

"remember gd child, always pretend u dropped the oil and bend over for......"

[Maion Maroneios]

n sry again ._.

Apology accepted. Next time though, I would appreciate it if you informed me before you posted any side-chapter again. I believe I have told you that before, but please try to at least respect my wish. Also, it would be rational to ask someone if he wishes to participate in your side-chapters, especially if you have intention of killing him.

As for the post, I would rather you deleted everything you have written, as it already doesn't count as a valid side-chapter. Excuse my strictness and offensiveness, but I hope you understand the fact that I want my AAR to be 'clean'. You could create another thread where you can post as many side-chapters as you want, but please not here. Not without my approval trough pm, that is. Sorry again of I sound too offensive, as I deeply respect you and owe you much. You are, after all, one of my most frequent repliers!

Maion

[Tyrfingr]

Will there be anymore input to the discussion in the synedrion?

[Maion Maroneios]

Technically not. I'm waiting for a last post (side-chapter) by someone, after which I will call the Synedrion off and start playing some for a change. I'll cook up some chapters as well

Ending of the Synedrion

Maion

[Maion Maroneios]

Upon the ending of the Synedrion, Alkyoneus and his subordinates where frantically preparing the crowning ceremony that everyone was expecting. Alkyoneus was accepted by the Synedrion, winning a great deal of trust votes from the Synedroi. The ceremony took place exactly two weeks after the last Synedrion and it was one of the grandest since many years with special after-events such as theatrical plays.


After the magnificent crowning ceremony, which was attained by thousands of Hellenes and Barbaroi as well, Alkyoneus begun utilizing his workers in order to construct a network of forts in northern Hellas. The cost was big, but Alkyoneus’ determination kept the project going and within two and a half months, the forts where built and manned by light forces.


In the meantime, the region of Dardanoia was declared an allied state and a local Hellenized Thraikian named Ikaros was appointed as governor of Serdike.



All the while, Alkyoneus remained behind the walls of Pella and organized the Makedonian military for future operations. Then, by the coming of Theros (Summer) of the same year, an unexpected embassy came from the East.

[machinor]

Side-chapter: "Farewell"



Four days after the crowning ceremony.

„Machinoros Demetriados is here to see you, my king“, said the servant.
“Send him in”, replied Alkyoneus. The servant left the room but returned few minutes later, together with Machinoros.
“My… king”, Machinoros said a bit hesitatingly, “I thank you for granting me this audience.”
“You have served the kingdom as synedros for many years. What may I do for you?”
“Ahh, you are straightforward as always, my king. Very well. My humble request is that I may be relieved from my obligation as a member of your synedrion.”
“Why do you wish for that?”
“Please do not take offence in my humble request, my king. It is not that I do not appreciate the honor of being called upon serving my king in this noble council. But I must confess that I am beginning to feel my age. I feel that since our kingdom is on the dawn of a new era, it seems that the council needs young men with new ideas. Also, since the great crisis of our kingdom seems to have come to an end, I feel that this is the time for me to retire, since my beloved Makedonia does not need me anymore. However, should you wish for a member of my family to sit in the synedrion, I will gladly have my son Zenon take my place in the council. He is still very young but I take pride in having provided him with a good education and having him serve in the army as did our ancestors. He will surely make a fine addition to this most honourable council.”
“You have served my father for a long time and provided him with many a good advise. Thus I grant you your wish. Furthermore I wish for your son to succeed you in this council. May he serve me as well as you served my father.”
“I am most honoured by your benevolence, my king.”
“So tell me, Machinoros, how will you spend your time? What will you do now that you have no king to nag?” Alkyoneus asked laughing.
“Do not fear, my king. I still have a wife who has to listen to my endless rants and complaints. I will spend my retirement like any upright Makedon: managing my estates and attending my crops. And I will hopefully finally find the time to pursue my studies of this philosophy business my son keeps telling me about.”
“Very well, Machinoros. I wish you well. You are dismissed.”
“Thank you very much, my king.”
After having left the king’s chambers, Machinoros felt relieved but there was also some concern in the back of his head. He went straigt to his chambers and had his servant pack his things for his journey home to Demetrias. Then he sent a messenger to his home to notify his son Zenon to get ready to transfer to Pella. In a final step he sent a message to Antigonos Aiginios to notify him of his petition to the king and his upcoming departure. Then he went to bed.

Two days later, Machinoros and his escort were standing at the gates of Pella, ready to depart. Antigonos Aiginios had come to wish his friend goodbye.
“I imagine Alkyoneus quite gladly accepted your proposal of retiring from the Synedrion, after all the trouble you caused in the Synedrion by opposing him and his behaviour so vehemently”, Antigonos said smiling.
“Yes, I think he was most pleased to hear from my retirement. He won’t shed any tears.”
Both men laughed but soon Antigonos’ face got very serious.
“You know of course, why he accepted your proposition to have you succeeded by your son. That way, he not only has you out of the synedrion but he also possesses a quite useful hostage in case you should cause trouble in Demetrias.”
“Yes. I anticipated that. I talked about it to my son and he accepts the risk. I won’t cause any trouble though. I would not want to give Alkyoneus any reason to harm him. I am very proud of Zenon.”
“And you are so rightfully. Rest assured that I will do whatever it takes do keep him safe from harm.”
“I thank you for that, my friend. I can sleep calmly in the knowledge that my son will have a friend like you in Pella.”
Both men shook hands. Machinoros took out a piece of clay affixed with both his and Antigonos’ seals.
“This shall be our symbolon”, Machinoros said and Antigonos nodded his head.
They broke it into two parts. Antigonos kept the piece with Machinoros seal while Machinoros kept the one with Antigonos’ seal. They shook hands again and Machinoros and his entourage departed.


--------------
So, Machinoros retired and will be succeeded by his son Zenon. Sorry, that it took me so long to post it.

[Maion Maroneios]

An Unexpected Arrival – Part I

It was a quiet spring afternoon and Alkyoneus was leaning over the balcony of his palace overlooking Pella, trying to clear his increasing headache that bureaucracy was giving him every day.

‘It seems that being Basileus is indeed a hard thing after all...’, he thought by himself.

At one point, the door to his room was knocked and Alkyoneus snapped back to reality, as did his headache.

“Come in,” he said and the door opened to reveal a young servant, who straightened himself up and spoke in a slightly high-pitched voice.

“Basileus, an ambassador has arrived in name of Megas Antiochos Basileus Seleukeias and is requesting an audience with your Highness.”

“Very well, welcome our guest and offer him anything he wishes. Tell him I’ll be accepting him here when Helios starts riding away towards the west,” Alkyoneus mechanically replied without any real thought, used to the occasional aristocrat who wished to speak to him about politics and business.

The young servant nodded and left the room with a gracefully fast pace, closing the doors behind him as he went. Alkyoneus’ mind started to become clearer by the moment, with the servants words slowly starting to make sense to him.

‘In the name of Antiochos... What would the Seleukeidai possibly want from me?’

It is true that he got occasional letters from Antiochos after he was crowned, but most of them where about politics and war. He even got the occasional messenger bringing information from the East, information that was too important to be written by hand, but never an ambassador yet.

‘It must be something very important, maybe he decided to finally act?’, he thought and decided it should be better to discuss this with Alexandros before meeting the newcomer.

Alkyoneus then called upon his cousin Alexandros in his throne room, who arrived within a few minutes. Alexandros seemed worried, bearing a thoughtful expression. He spoke as soon as he entered the room:

“What’s wrong Alkyoneus? You’re not used to call for me in such a hesitant way lately. Has something happened?”

Alkyoneus, after waving him to sit, took his own seat and replied:

“Alexandros, I was just recently informed that an ambassador has arrived in name of Antiochos, the Basileus of the Arche Seleukeia. He wishes an audience with me. While this should not really surprise me with the recent turn of events in Anatolia, I still have a feeling this won’t be a pleasant conversation.”

Alexandros remained silent for a few minutes, his mind boiling with all possible explanations about the arrival of the Royal ambassador. After a minute or two, he looked at Alkyoneus and said:

“You’re not the only one who feels there is something going on, believe me. I never recall any Royal ambassador coming over to Pella. But I think this means something... Maybe the Arche finally decided to react to the series of events in Anatolia. Maybe he wants help from their allies in a multi-front war?”

Alkyoneus nodded and remarked:

“Exactly my thoughts when I was informed about his arrival. But in that case, what should I do? Refusing to help is out of option, I’m not going to throw a strong alliance between our people away just like that. That would be completely amoral and not befitting a true Hellen.”

“Nobody said anything about refusing, Alkyoneus. Indeed, it would be unwise to do so. Instead, I believe we should grasp this opportunity, if that’s the reason of his arrival,” Alexandros said with a light smirk.

Alkyoneus lifted an eyebrow and then smirked as well.

“So you believe we could use that in order to meddle in the Eastern affairs, don’t you? But wouldn’t open war against the Pergamioi and Ptolemaioi and who else known which other power will rise in Anatolia be devastating for us?”, he remarked.

Alexandros simply smiled wider and said with a flicker in his eyes:

“Not necessarily. If the Seleukeidai promise you full backup, we could just act as their allies and not as conquerors. Just think about it, this could be the golden opportunity we’ve been waiting for. An opportunity to get a foothold in Mikra Asia once again.”

Alkyoneus seemed surprised by the schemes of his cousin, with his logic screaming a negativity that Alexandros could almost feel. After giving it some thought, he replied:

“But, cousin, even of we prevail in Mikra Asia, even if we manage to supress the rebellion, won’t this give us more enemies to fear? Besides, we’ll have to give any conquered land back to Antiochos anyway. So why bother launching a full-scale attack?”

Alexandros closed his eyes, and upon opening them again he said:

“I knew you would say that, dear cousin. I didn’t say anything about a full-scale attack though. We can be successful if we carefully plan our moves, there is no need to foolishly throw our troops against the Anatolian rebels. Life is about taking risks, remember what Megas Alexandros did? He defeated the world’s largest Empire at that time single-handedly. Logic said that would be impossible, though he did it. Haven't we talked about this? We need determination and willingness, it’s the only way for Makedonia to be great again! As for us returning the lands to the Seleukeidai... Well, let me say that my bet is that the rebellion in Anatolia will grow into something much greater sooner or later. The Arch Seleukeia is falling apart, haven’t you noticed?”

Alkyoneus seemed hesitant, but the realization that Alexandros might actually be right slowly came over him. He then said:

“Let’s say that you’re right and things go as you’ve said. How are we going to tackle this problem and organize an attack? I suppose using Mytilene as a base of operations with Demetrios as Strategos would be wise?”

“Indeed. But I believe we could do something better, which is to capture the region of Chersonesos Thraikia. Not only is it a strategic naval location, but it will also enable us to have direct access to Anatolia through the Hellespontos. Another army could be sent there as well. The Byzantioi are a strong people, but I suppose they shouldn’t be a problem,” Alexandros replied enthusiastically.

“Hmmm, let me think about this Alexandros. It still seems like a very daring plan, anything could go wrong. Then again, what you said about taking risks is true... Very well, I shall speak with this ambassador and decide what we will do later on. His arrival may be about something completely different, mind you. Let us not plan ahead of ourselves jsut yet,” said Alkyoneus.

Alexandros nodded and sat up.

“Very well. See what that man wants and inform me as soon as your meeting is finished. I will eagerly be awaiting to hear from you. In the meantime...”, he said and took a look at the huge pile of papers on Alkyoneus’ desk. “You have fun and don’t worry too much. This bureaucracy is getting the better of you lately. You aren’t coming to the parties lately either.”

Alkyoneus simply smiled, but it was more of a sad one.

“What is there to do, Alexandros? I chose to be Basileus, it is my duty to do all of this. I’m doing it out of personal will, I don’t want any corrupted argyrophilic bastards to take all the decisions,” he explained.

Alexandros smiled just before walking out of the room to visit the baths, he said:

“Just be careful, dear cousin. All with measure, as they say.”

And by those words, he left. Alkyoneus stood silent and still even after the doors to his room closed behind Alexandros. He then turned around and faced the pile of work waiting for him on his desk.

‘Great,’ he remarked. ‘I just hope this doesn’t continue like this, or I’m going to have a mental breakdown very soon...’

machinor: No problem, thanks for the chapter!

[SwissBarbar]

This is a great AAR, if i had the time for another RPG i'd join

[Maion Maroneios]

Why, thank you. Just reading my AAR is enough for me, though I always welcome new members Your AAR also seems interesting, might lure more guys towards WotB which is cool. I personally wanted to join, but University as well as this AAR drains most of my free time

Maion

[MarcusAureliusAntoninus]

I'll just take this opertunity to pop in and say that I've been following this (kind of, I haven't followed all of the discussions) and want to say 'good job'. I didn't want to interfer in the discussions so I hadn't commented yet...
I'll be continuing to lurk this 'AAR'.

[Maion Maroneios]

I'll just take this opertunity to pop in and say that I've been following this (kind of, I haven't followed all of the discussions) and want to say 'good job'. I didn't want to interfer in the discussions so I hadn't commented yet...
I'll be continuing to lurk this 'AAR'.

Ah, one of my wishes upon creating my AAR has just been fulfilled (the legendary MAA commenting on my AAR)! It is my greatest honor *bows*. Know that I was greatly inspired by your own AAR to start writing mine Anyways, thanks again for reading my humble work

Maion

[Maion Maroneios]

An Unexpected Arrival – Part II

When the sun begun setting in the west, the Seleukid ambassador, an intelligent and experienced man named Apollonides, entered Alkyoneus’ throne room.

The latter was sitting upon his throne with two Philoi at either of his sides as well as two Hypaspistai guarding the entrance, obviously waiting for the man.

The first thing Apollonides did, was to kneel before Alkyoneus. Just as he was ready to speak facing the ground, Alkyoneus interrupted him:

“There is no need to kneel before me, Apollonides. I am no god-king and am no higher than you are. I do not know what your Basileus has you do, know that here we despise proskynesis of mortal men. This includes Basileis.”

Apollonides seemed surprised and rather offended by Alkyoneus’ comment, but he quickly sat up and addressed him in, what the latter assumed, his most formal tone:

“Great and wise Basileus, Alkyoneus Argeades. I have come here in name of Megas Theodoros, Basileus ton Basileon, to announce you my master’s message.”

“Megas Basileus hopes that you still honor our long-lasting alliance, and asks you to hold true to it. As you know, various powers have risen in Anatolia to claim rightful Seleukid lands. Our Basileus’ inability to act immediately to this new threat, has only further fueled their dreams of conquest and supremacy in Mikra Asia. As you also know, Megas Antiochos has focused his attention towards the rebellious East and the regions of Syria, so he cannot immediately answer to the threat that has risen in our western borders.”

“That is why, our great lord has sent me over to our ancestral homeland in order to ask Makedonia for assistance. If you agree to act in name of the Basileus ton Basileon, he is willing to properly assist you and reward you greatly after the situation has cleared up in Anatolia.”

Apollonides paused and waited for Alkyoneus, who seemed in deep thought. In reality, bells where ringing in his head remembering the previous discussion he had with Alexandros. After giving it some thought, or rather simply revising what he had thought about saying in that case, he spoke to Apollonides with his commanding voice:

“Wise Apollonides, first of all I want you to know that I would never betray our alliance in such a barbaric way. Theodoros has worked together with my father during his reign very well, and that’s exactly what I’m intending to do myself as well.”

“As for assisting Antiochos in dealing with the Anatolian affair, I can assure him that I will do anything that passes through my hand to do so. I have already a good-sized army stationed in Mytilene under command of my younger brother, so I believe we are more than able to intercept at least the Pergamioi for as long as it takes for Theodoros to assemble his forces. Speaking of them, what exactly are his plans if I may ask?”

Apollonides seemed rather satisfied with Alkyoneus’ answer, immediately replying to his question:

“Good to sea there is still wisdom within the ancient bloodline of the Argeades. A very wise and rational decision, your Highness. As for my liege’s plans, let us just say that there is a certain Strategos with much experience in eastern styles of combat that is going to come in aid of the Seleukid poleis in Anatolia soon. But I believe such details are to be discussed in more detail in the formal meeting between myself, your Royal advisers and Basilikos Grammateus.”

“But of course,” Alkyoneus said with a lighter tone. “I believe it is time for all of us to retire from this tiresome day now, Apollonides. We shall discuss further details, as you said, from tomorrow along with my advisers and Grammateus. You would do me great honor if you joined me for dinner tonight, as well as enjoy the benefits of my humble residence.”

Apollonides simply smiled, bowed and remarked:

“Who could possibly decline such a magnanimous offer? You are truly a kind and hospitable man, Alkyoneus. I’m rather surprised by that, your people must truly respect and love you.”

The words that came from the man’s mouth where sincere, that much Alkyoneus realized. He then sat up from his throne, walked over to Apollonides with his two Philoi and guided him over to the dining room by placing a friendly hand on his right shoulder.

[machinor]

Anatolia, here we come! :)

[Maion Maroneios]

Indeed, Anatolia it turns out to be then. I honestly thought (or hoped) I wouldn't get dragged into the Eastern affairs, but it seems inevitable. Especially the fact that I moved Epeiros to Pergamon. Actually, I think that's the exact reason they attacked me, remembering old rivalries and such

Anyway, here are two pictures I wish to share with you. The first one is Theodoros Syriakos, the Basileus of Arche Seleukeia. He resides somewhere in Ekbatana if I'm not mistaken, but I of course rp him to remain in Seleukeia. The second one is a Seleukid general who leads the biggest army of the Seleukeidai. It was so astonishing to see such a huge and well-balanced army, that I decided to post it here and show it to you. This is definitely the way to deal with the eastern nomads




Maion

[machinor]

Very clever. Let the HAs drain their ammo onto the Pantodapoi then chase them with heavy infantry and phalangites.

[Maion Maroneios]

It wasn’t long before Alkyoneus had finally made his decision; He would march to Anatolia in name of his ally, Theodoros Basileus ton Basileon. His main target was the mighty Basileion of Pergamon, the sparkle that caused the pyre in Anatolia.

Alkyoneus called upon the council of Strategoi in order to plan their attack and it was decided that the attack would consist of two separate invasions. One from the sea and one from the land. The first invading force would be led by Demetrios Argeades stationed in Lesbos, while the second one would be led by Alkyoneus himself, accompanied by Menephilos Pheraios.

By Theros (Summer) of the same year, Alkyoneus assembled an army of 18.345 men and started marching towards Chersonesos Thraikia. The plan was to capture the region with the pretext of it's inhabitants having lost the path of Hellenism, a path Alkyoneus had to show them again. It was true that the region had been overrun by barbaroi lately, something that Alkyoneus clearly disliked. His first stop was in Odrysai near Tylis, where it was rumored that another Thraikian horde had assembled. Pella was left in charge of Alexandros.


In Mytilene, Demetrios had received orders from Pella to assemble an army and sail over to the coasts of Mysia until further orderes. He prepared his army of 14.520 Makedones, along with 3.060 Lesbioi hoplitai, 1500 mercenary Kretan toxotai and 1500 mercenary peltastai as soon as he was informed of Alkyoneus’ decision. In the meantime, the Makedonian ships blockaded the port of Pergamon.

(Picture of Kambos beach in present day Lesvos)

Just as Demetrios was preparing to sail to Mysia, word reached his ears that the Ptolemaioi had captured the great polis of Sardis. It seemed that Philotas and his fearsome elephantes from Aigyptos managed to score their first victory in Anatolian ground. The region was quickly disposed of any Seleukid influence and was declared as a Ptolemaic Hyparcheia.



When Demetrios reached the shores of Mysia, he could feel a strange emotion coming over him. It was not accustomed for him to feel anything at all, which made him wonder what that strange feeling was. He then remembered the tales of Megas Alexandros, and concluded that this might have been the feeling that came over the great strategos himself when he reached Asia.

By the end of Phthinoporon (Autumn) of the same year, Alkyoneus had reached Byzantion and was besieging the great polis.The Byzantioi refused to allow proper Makedonian overlords to control the region, so Alkyoneus decided he had to make them agree by force. At roughly the same time, Demetrios received a messenger from Pergamon demanding him to withdraw his forces back to Lesbos. Demetrios, of course, had no such orders nor intentions.

As expected, the Pergamioi where enraged by this act and sent forth an army led by a certain Ambrax against Demetrios. Their (Pergamioi) total number of forces was about 18.945 men strong. There, on the forested plains of Mysia, Demetrios faced Ambrax in open battle.

[HunGeneral]

Pergamon here we come

Time to show them (again) what happens to thoose who move against The Basileion Makedonias.

Should the Getai make a wrong move I will have some words to say to there "basileus" (or his representative )

[julius_caesar_the_first]

Congratulations Maion for creating this fantastic AAR. It is one of the few AAR's that I find so interesting that actually don't play EB just to read more.I even read every single post in this thread, and that has never happed with an AAR :P.

I'm also considering joining the Synedrion, if that is still possible, but first I have to:
1. Read a bit about Makedonian history;
2. Memorize all Makedonian units in EB (shame on me for never playing them);
3. Memorize the dictionary from the first post.

Once again congratulations to you and all that have participated in this amazing AAR. Keep up the good work.

[Maion Maroneios]

Congratulations Maion for creating this fantastic AAR. It is one of the few AAR's that I find so interesting that actually don't play EB just to read more.I even read every single post in this thread, and that has never happed with an AAR :P.

I'm also considering joining the Synedrion, if that is still possible, but first I have to:
1. Read a bit about Makedonian history;
2. Memorize all Makedonian units in EB (shame on me for never playing them);
3. Memorize the dictionary from the first post.

Once again congratulations to you and all that have participated in this amazing AAR. Keep up the good work.

Thank you very much, such replies really make me keep this going

As for the points you have stated, let me answer them quickly:

1. Here is a brief description of ancient Macedon's history and institutions. It's an article on Wikipedia
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Macedon
2. Just taking a look at the unit list form custom battles or following this AAR should be sufficient, me thinks.
3. You really don't have to, I know it's difficult to memorize it. I do appreciate someone writing in ancient Greek correctly, but you can always write with Latin characters. No problem with that whatsoever

About joining this AAR, of course it is possible to join! Actually, you are the guys that basically pull the strings. I just follow the general idea formed here and let things go with the flow. Just follow the instructions on the first page if you ever consider to join

Thanks again mate

Maion

[machinor]

The Ptolemaioi army that took Sardis is actually quite balanced. Lack of cavalry but the good cavalry screens make up for it. Not much flanking power, more of a push-through-the-center-army.

[Maion Maroneios]

I actually helped them through console commands and gave Philotas 2 elephantes and 4 Pezhetairoi

Maion

[machinor]

Yeah, the 4 units of Pezhetairoi seemed indeed a bit too good for an AI stack.

[Maion Maroneios]

Ha, indeed! I thought about giving them some cavalry, but I honestly don't want to tip the balabce for the AS. Go to give tose dudes some breathing space, you know

Maion

[Maion Maroneios]

The Pergamon War – Part I

It was during a hot autumn morning that Demetrios ordered his army to leave the fort and face the Pergamioi. The terrain was generally flat, with some exceptions. Mainly it was the trees that bothered Demetrios, as they obscured his vision and neutralized the pushing-effect of the phalangitai.

Despite of that fact, Demetrios was planning to use this to his advantage. He formed up his army in the typical Makedonian fashion, with a phalangitai center, Lesbioi hoplitai guarding the flanks, missile troops behind the main line and some reserve hoplitai from Hellas. He himself was stationed, as customary, on the right wing of the army.


Demetrios’ hidden ace would be the mercenary peltastai, whom he ordered to hide several feet away from the main battleground. He hoped they would play a key role in the course of the battle, if of course everything would turn out as he wanted.


After some time, battle drums and flutes could be heard, as the Pergamon army marched against the Makedones. The latter remained silent and unmoving, waiting for their adversaries to close up on them.


When the Pergamioi came within firing range, Demetrios ordered his missile troops to rain death upon them. Wave after wave of stones and arrows flew above the heads of the Makedones, crashing upon the ranks of the Pergamioi while killing or injuring many as a result.



Ambrax ordered his hippakontistai to attack first and harass the Makedonian line, by throwing their javelins upon them. Demetrios however, made no move as to counter the swift cavalrymen, as he knew it would be a waste of energy. Instead, he ordered his experienced Kretikoi to unleash death upon them.


When the hippakontistai retreated, Ambrax ordered a regiment of hoplitai to attack the left Makedonian wing. They where met with forceful resistance by the Lesbioi hoplitai stationed there, who where more than eager for revenge.


Thinking this was the perfect time to encircle the left Makedonian wing, Ambrax ordered his cavalry to wheel around them and charge their rear. However, he was quickly met with a regiment of Makedonian hoplitai kept in reserve. The stable Hellenic phalanx proved yet again superior to the deadly hippeis.


Seeing his plan had failed, Ambrax send in his main line of Pergamioi hoplitai to engage the Makedonian phalangitai and keep them in place. When the two forces met, a fierce pushing match occurred as sarrisa met aspis.


Even the reformed Iphikratides where no match to the phalangitai up-front, who mercilessly thrust their pikes onto the masses of thureos shields lined up before them.



The only considerable force that could take the Makedonian phalangitai on, where the mercenary phalangitai of the Pergamioi who where, unfortunately for Ambrax, too small in number to have any real effect.


Deciding to launch a full-assault, Ambrax ordered his phyletai to attack the Makedonian right wing. Yet again, the attackers where met with Lesbioi hoplitai. While the axes of the phyletai where indeed fearsome weapons, faced with a wall of shields and spears the barbaroi seemed to have no chance at all.


From afar, Ambrax and his hippeis where observing the battle slipping out of hand. The Pargamon captain was growing more desperate with every passing second, seeing his men already starting to fall back and the occasional Makedonian cheers of: “Pergamon dogs!” or “Makedonia Nikator!”


Meanwhile, a unit of Pergamioi hoplitai had wheeled around the left Makedonian wing and was engaging the Lesbioi. Fortunately, the reserve Makedonian hoplitai had driven away the hippeis quickly and run in aid of their fellow soldiers.


The Pergamioi missile troops had become a considerable nuisance, so Demetrios decided to take care of them as soon as possible. Thus, he ordered his somatophylakes to chanse away the psiloi, seeing that presence of any enemy cavalry whatsoever.


After the initial charge against the psiloi, Demetrios blew a deep battle horn. That was the sing for the mercenary peltastai to come out of the woods. It seemed to him that this was the perfect moment to order them forward, as the all infantry units of the Pergamioi where engaged with his own. The peltastai where fresh and moved swiftly, reaching the right Makedonian wing first. Their fist target where the phyletai, showering them with javelins and charging at their exposed backs. Soon enough, the phyletai where fleeing for their lives.



As the peltastai where sweeping over the entire battle line, Ambrax saw his opportunity: There, about a fifth of a stadion away from his, was Demetrios with his somatophylakes, completely undefended and giving chase to a unit of toxotai. Without losing a single moment, Ambrax charged at the Makedonian Strategos. The latter however, though surprised, fought back with great ferocity.



While Demetrios and his men fought with great valor, they where also greatly outnumbered. Fortunately though, the Lesbioi stationed on the right wing saw their Strategos was in need and rushed in his aid. Soon enough, they joined the combat and Ambrax’s men started falling one by one.


In the meantime, the peltastai had performed exactly as Demetrios intended. They had sweeped over the entire line, deploying the same tactic as with the right wing. Each time, they fired at the enemy’s exposed backs, followed by a charge that almost instantly caused their adversaries to rout.



Soon after the main Pergamon line was retreating, Ambrax, the captain of the Pergamon army, died by the dory of a brave Lesbios who pierced him right through his heart after falling from his steed.


The battle was already won by Demetrios, with only a few units remaining who where refusing to surrender. One by one, Demetrios ordered his men to engage them, followed by a hammering charge by his own somatophylakes.




Once again, Makedonia proved her superiority. Nike had once again smiled upon the Makedones, granting them a much-desired victory. This victory meant much, as it clearly showed the Pergamioi that Alkyoneus wasn’t a tolerant nor forgiving man.


Despite that fact, Demetrios ordered no man to be pursued back to Pergamon. Instead, he returned to his fort with his men to celebrate victory until further orders from Alkyoneus. He knew very well he could make a move against Pergamon itself, but that would be a foolish. Plus, he had no great ambitions. His sole purpose in life was to obey the Basileus Makedonias, and that was exactly what he intended to do.

[Tyrfingr]

(in character)
High King Oroles of the Getai congratulates the armies of mighty Makedonia in her latest victory, may they be plentiful in the future!

(out of character)
Great update Maion!