Varren put his orders away in a safe place and turned to his Centurions "Lets move our target is Sparta." He told them they nodded their heads and they left their commander standing alone in his command tent. Varren needed time to think a bit and he came up with an idea that could be of use. His only problem was implementing it. And making sure it worked. When the legion entered Greece and marched to Sparta he hired a local to feed the spartan army false information. The local failed and ended up revealing how close the legion was so the Romans and the Spartans met somewhere favorable to the Spartans and the Roman Legion was exhausted from it's long march so things seemed favorable to the Greeks.

But things did not go as a Varren thought they would go he thought the Spartans would charge the exhausted Romans but instead they waited and for once Varren and his troops rested after their long march. The next day Varren gathered his ranks and formed them up. He used his light troops to harass spartan forces and goad them into charging. They fell for the bait and it seemed like the gods had blessed them. They chased the light infantry who easily kept out of their reach and fell behind the lines of Hastati who then closed ranks and engaged. The horsemen engaged the back flanks trying to avoid Greek spears.

Legate Titus Pomponius Philo looked to the distant, yet still imposing walls of Syracuse, and his face set into a grim expression. His hand rested upon the large pommel of his gladius, and he almost scowled at the uselessness of the weapon set against the reality of the day. The traitors of Syracuse were locked firmly behind the formidable barrier of their walls, and the might of the Roman sword alone could not hope to dislodge them.

“Excuse me, sir?” Came a voice from behind Pomponius. The large man turned from his view of the walls of Syracuse, the wolf skin that draped over his armor and crimson cloak shifting in an almost lifelike manner, and looked to the rough man that had spoken.

“Yes Laelius, what news?” Pomponius said to the Centurion. Lealius was one of his most trusted officers, and as such Pomponius had sent the man to personally begin preparing the VI Legion for siege.

Laelius nodded, his tight-lipped mouth parting to reply. “Sir, the gathering of materials for the siege engines is proceeding apace. The engineers are overseeing the men felling the lumber, and they have given me assurances that we should have all we need to begin construction by the end of the week.”

“Very well,” Pomponius replied. “Continue to send out skirmishes to scout and probe the walls, all along its length. The Syracusans know we mean to breach their city, but as of yet they know not where. I want them guessing for as long as possible.”

The centurion’s head bobbed in understanding. “Yes sir. I shall see to it myself.” With that, Laelius saluted his general with a firm press of his fist above his heart, before turning to carry out his orders.

Pomponius watched Laelius for a moment before looking back to the walls of Syracuse, and returning to the solitude of his own thoughts.

Time is not with me, the legate spoke within. I pray that I am not forced to trade expediency of my mission for the blood of my men. Mars, I beseech thee, grant me such favor.

---

The VI Legion bent to the task of subjugating Syracuse with alacrity, eager to gain honor in the eyes of their Roman brethren. Yet, even with the might of their will behind them, Pomponius Philo and the rest of the Ironclad, found themselves wanting.

Pomponius had first called for the construction of two siege towers that were to be used under the cover of onagers, and other siege engines, to allow the VI Legion to scale the walls of the outer city. Though his engineers completed the construction of these implements successfully, the Syracusian defense of the walls was fierce. Even with the cover of artillery, the repeated Roman attempts to bring their towers to bear was in every instance rebuffed. The siege was stalled for weeks, and eventually the Syracusian defenders were able to set fire to one of the Roman siege towers, resulting in a large loss of both men and material for the VI Legion.

Seeing that he was wasting valuable time in an effort doomed to fail, Pomponius ceased his attacks, and set back to regroup and reevaluate his strategy.

---

The light of the waning sun cast a deep orange glow upon the walls of Syracuse. From his vantage point atop a hill overlooking the city, Pomponius could see the face of the stonework was pocked and scarred--wounds from the attentions of his siege weapons. Yet, the walls of the city stood defiantly strong, almost daring him to crash the living wave of the VI Legion against them.

Arrayed before him on the field surrounding the walls, the bulk of the Ironclad stood arrayed in formation. Scattered within their midst were the onagers and ballistae, and in the center of it all stood the remaining siege tower. The glow of torches flickered from the ranks of the soldiers, making them seem almost like a crop of burning stalks in the waning light of the day. Atop the walls, the Syracusian defenders could be seen as well, silhouetted like dark ghosts against the torches of the battlements.

Pomponius moved his attention to the rider that was fast approaching. The man astride the horse was a centurion among the equestrians, but as the use of cavalry in the siege was limited, the man had be relegated to the task of runner. If the man looked with ill-favor upon his new tasking, he was wise to not show it in the presence of the Legio Legatus.

“Sir!” The centurion yelled as he brought his steed to a skidding halt before Pomponius. “All cohorts are set, and ready to advance at your command.”

“And what of the engineers?” Pomponius replied.

“They also declare that everything is in order, sir.”

At hearing this, a strange calm seem to set over the commander of the VI Legion. His dark eyes cast themselves once more over the men below, before drifting inexorably across the daunting walls of Syracuse. At last, Pomponius’ attention returned to the rider.

“Sound the attack.”

---

The second press of the VI Legion was a daring maneuver, and a strategy that could have easily failed had fortune not favored Pomponius. Since the failure of the siege towers, Pomponius had ordered the construction of a mine beneath the longest span of the Syracusian outer wall. While the engineers worked to fulfill their mission, Pomponius ordered the near constant assailment of the city with his siege artillery. Night and day the engineers and sappers dug towards the great walls, while at the same instance, Syracuse was bombarded from above.

After months of work, the engineers at last declared themselves ready to fell the walls from below. Using the bulk of the VI Legion, Pomponius ordered a full-scale night attack as cover for the breaching of the walls. With the remaining siege tower as a diversion, the Syracusians set to defending the city from yet another Roman attempt to scale over the top of their defenses.

While the attack began, a small group of experienced triarii used the cover of darkness, and the distraction of the main battle, to scale both the outer and inner walls of the city. Once inside, with the battle for the outer walls raging, this group laid in wait. The engineers beneath the outer walls fired the supports in the mine, and subsequently a large section was destroyed. With an opening now made, the VI Legion stormed through the outer defenses.

Hearing that the outer walls had been breached, the small group of triarii emerged from hiding, and fought their way to the least defended inner gate. Once there, they managed to open the gate, and allow the VI Legion to continue its assault into the heart of Syracuse.

---

My dearest Consul Tiberius Sempronius Longus,

It is with a pleased heart that I inform you of the completion of the Legio Sexta Ferrata’s tasking. Syracuse, and all the traitors within, have fallen to the will of Rome. Even now, as I write to you, my brothers in arms take to refortifying the city in preparation for any further aggression against the Republic in Sicily. I pray that our brothers in the Legio V Almeria are able to stem the advance of the Carthaginian vermin, but I declare that Syracuse, as well as the Legio VI Ferrata will be ready should we be called upon once more.

Along with the news of my success, I must also inform you with a heavy weight upon my soul the cost of Rome’s great victory at Syracuse. In the course of the siege, the Legio VI Ferrata suffered almost a third of its strength to casualties of death, sickness, and injury. Of those lost, I claim full responsibility. The Syracusian defense was sound, and wholly ferocious, and I will confess to my own initial ignorance of the depth of their cunning. If I am to draw the ire of the Senate for the result of my actions on the field, I will bear such solely upon mine own shoulders.

With all my heart I pray you well, and I shall not soon forget your devotion and love for the late Fulvius Lupus. I am but a servant of Rome, and I stand ready for whatever call she bade me follow.

Humbly and with all regards,

Legatus Titus Pomponius Philo

Legate Aelius Horatius Servius read the orders with increasing incredulity. 10,000? 10,000 heavy infantry. He dropped the scroll and leaned back in his seat and rand a hand over his face. He felt a scar he had earned during the final years of the first war with Carthage. It went horizontally across the bridge of his nose and to the far edge of his right cheek. He felt the stubble on his face and knew there were flecks of gray, as well as his short dark brown hair. He leaned forward over his desk and read the orders a final time. His army was garrisoned in a small village about 2 days from Sicily. From there it would be another week to Syracuse. Horatius guessed that since they had no Calvary and only infantry, they would be a month at most, 3 weeks at least. The Legate sighed and put away the orders and went to tell his officers.
***
After 2 days of travel, they had crossed over into Sicily. It was a beautiful Island, the sea was Turquoise Blue, the white caps rising momentarily as the waves crashed into the rocks below. The third night, the Legion made camp and Horatius called for his officers. He had not yet told them of the enemy they were facing or it's size. They entered his tent, showing their signs of respect, before seating themselves. He sighed and said grimly, "We are travelling to Syracuse to defend it, 10,000 Carthaginians are marching toward it." The officers looked at each other nervously, but kept silent. Horatius continued "It seems my Uncle has been boasting to the Senate of my skill and they seem fairly confident that I will pull the greatest feat of military genius out of my ass." Several of them smiled, others did not. "The only positive thing I see of this situation is that they have no Calvary, which will most definitely improve our chances of survival, but not by much." He looked around at his officers, "In the first war, Carthage used mercenaries from the lands they controlled, they will almost undoubtedly do so again. But the problem with mercenaries is that they only fight for coin, and if they feel a battle is a lost cause or are scared enough they will abandon their employers." Horatius rose, as did the officers, "We leave first light tomorrow."
***
A week of traveling, the sunny weather remained ever present. They crested a hill and there stood Syracuse, looking battered and worn, the signs of a recent siege everywhere and panic rose inside of Horatius. Was he too late? He then spotted the banner of a fellow Legate and his worries subsided, replaced immediately with questions. He called for a messenger and told him he wished to talk to the Legate. The soldier nodded and hopped on a horse and rode off.

Sardinia

"Bastards!"

Cursor stood on a wooden platform mounted above his men. He wore his full battle uniform complete with helmet. His legion stretched out across the beach watching him with rapt attention. The ocean held the fleet that had ferried him and his men across the sea to the island. Cursor paced and grinned as he spoke to the legion, his hands behind his back.

"Welcome to Sardinia, men. Welcome to our island. I say our island because for the time being it is not Rome's, and it is damn sure not Carthage's. It is ours. And we have invaders in our home. The curs from the last war have returned to claim what they think is theirs. They are gravely mistaken. For their error the Senate has seen fit that the Carthagean scum be punished in a most heinous way. This is why they do not send diplomats to barter, they do not send warriors to fight, but they send bastards to conquer."

A cheer went out from the men. Cursor smiled widely and nodded at them.

"Our mission is simple: Drive Carthage from this island and do not stop until the last mongrel has been pushed back into the sea and drowned. We begin our march in an hour. I do not intend to stop or slow down until our goal is accomplished. The Senate has given us the grand task of taking the fight to those treaty breakers, and I fully intend to give them a fight they shall never forget. You know what you have to do, and you know what I expect from each of you. Now you bastards get out there and get to it!"

Karalis
Two Weeks Later

Cursor sat on his horse with his staff, watching the action below from a hilltop. The Consul's intelligence had been right for the most part. The forces of Carthage seemed to outnumber him by at least a thousand men. The quality of those troops appeared to be suspect, mercenaries in shoddy equipment. They had many archers that would have made a full-on assault of the city costly. Cursor and his men had negated that advantage nicely. While he knew all there was to know about the enemy, they knew little of him. The march to Karalis is when the plan had formed. The only thing that would convince the cowards to come out of their hole would be superior numbers. Cursor took half his men and marched directly to Karalis while the other half, led by his trusted lieutenant Felix, would take an indirect route to delay their arrival.

From there Cursor played the part of the arrogant Roman general. He parked his small force outside the walls of Karalis, just outside of archer range, and demanded their surrender. He stamped his feet and continued to mock and belittle the Carthagean general into meeting him in the open field. A day later a rider arrived with Felix's message that he was in position. After four days the gates to Karalis opened and the enemy rode out to meet him. Cursor readied his men and they took up their places on the battlefield.

"Our time is now, Bastards!" He announced to the men. "The place is here. Fight for glory, fight for the brother at your side. You do not retreat or give up ground. You fight until the last man and you keep moving forward or else. Any coward I see running I will personally kill. If you think the enemy is bad, then you have yet to see my full fury. For Rome!"

That was two hours ago. Now he watched as his section of troops fought hard. The overwhelming numbers of the enemy was beginning to take its toll. He could sense they were close to potentially breaking. Cursor ordered the signal to go out. A loud horn blasted from nearby. Minutes later, another horn blasted in reply. A few minutes later, the second half of his legion came spilling over Karalis' seven hills towards the enemies' flank. The surprise and swiftness of his men swung the momentum in Cursor's favor.The Iberians tried to hold the tide, but an assault on two sides shattered their defenses. The Carthagean in command signaled retreat and just like that the rout was on.

"Send the word," Cursor said to his lieutenants. "All units regroup. A token force is to stay in Karalis and occupy it. The rest of us are moving forward. The enemy is running, let us not waste this chance to run them down."

---

Consul Longus,

Karalis has been captured with around two hundred losses to the Bastards. We hold the city but continue on. My message is brief because I am currently pursuing the Punic whelps across Sardinia. I mean to cut off their route to the sea and smash them against the island rocks. Further information shall arrive as soon as I have more to give.

-- Legate Quintus Cursor

MID-CAMPAIGN EVENT, 219BC

*** The Second Battle of Syracuse, 1st of Maius 219 BC ***

The Gods spit upon the man who cannot follow orders, and Legatus Horatius' failure to intercept the Carthaginian column before it reached the city of Syracuse has allowed Hasdrubal to gather his strength. Reinforced by turncoat Sicilians, and elements of Hannibal's Iberian army in Spain, the Carthaginian column has grown in size to 15,000 men.

Though the Senate is vocally displeased with Horatius' conduct, they are refraining from calling him back to Rome to explain himself - given the force of the Carthaginians that now surrounds Syracuse.

Rome cannot at this time afford to land additional legions on Sicily, and so Legio V Almeria and Legio Sexta Ferrata must rally themselves against the situation. Furthermore, Syracuse's grain stores are in little shape to withstand a lengthy siege, and Hasdrubal does not care to storm the city. Therefore, the Carthaginian army must be broken on the field of battle, lest the two Roman legions wish to simply starve to death.

Consul Cornelius has ordered an Alae - an auxiliary legion made up from conscripts of Rome's Italian client states - to the scene, and they have landed in time to assist in the battle. This Alae has been allotted to Legio Sexta Ferrata's command.

Battle Details





Legio V Almeria and Legio Sexta Ferrata will stand side by side against the onslaught, but must not falter. Defeat here will spell the end to Roman rule of Sicily.

Pomponius sat atop his horse, regaled fully for battle in armor, helm, cape, and the distinctive wolf pelt that ever adorned his shoulders. The morning sun was rising above the distant sea, casting a bright highlight off of the thousands of legionaries arrayed before their Legate in the lowlands south of the Simeto river. The Legio Sexta Ferrata was set in a classic manipular formation, with the ranks of hastati, principes, and triarii formed into the distinctive triple battle order that was the signature of the Roman legions. Off some distance from the first offset maniples of hastati, the velite skirmishers formed their own loose battle line as the whole of the VI Legion marched towards the looming might of the Carthagian army.

From his vantage point among the triarii, Pomponius could clearly see the shining symbol of the Aquila, and the roaring wolf banner of the Legio Sexta Ferrata that fluttered beneath. The sight of the honorific standard filled Pomponius with pride, and the sentiment managed to dull the sharp edge of his anxiety. Yes, fear was present in the Legio legatus’ heart, and the man would never deny that such existed at a time such as this. To do so was folly, and an insult to the courage of men who overcame such fear. No, Titus Pomponius Philo was not a man without fear, he was simply a man accustomed to harnessing it.

Pomponius looked to the left of the main formation of the VI Legion, and he could see the organized lines of the equestrians advancing in time the triarii. The Ironclad cavalry’s primary purpose was to defend the Roman left flank. The VI Legion’s right flank was set against Legate Aelius Horatius Servius’ Legio V Almeria, and thusly Pomponius feared little for any threat to his right.

That is, Pomponius thought with a scowl, if the V Legion doesn’t decide to ignore their orders, and stop to rest.

In the scant weeks since the arrival of the Legio V Almeria in Syracuse, and the shock that Horatius had not led his men to meet the Carthaginians as Pomponius had understood them to be tasked, the relationship between the two legate had been strained. On some level, Pomponius understood the misinterpretation of the Consul’s orders as they had been relayed to Horatius, but the miscommunication now put the hard won gains of the Legio Sexta Ferrata at risk. Not to mention the possibility of losing the entire island of Sicily to Rome’s enemies. In the end, when scouts had located Hasdrubal’s army, and the Alae arrived to reinforce the Roman fighting force, there was nothing left to be done but relinquish the past, and face the reality of the moment. If the two legions did not band together to fight, they would most assuredly perish.

---

The Legio Sexta Ferrata’s involvement in the Second Battle of Syracuse began in classic Roman fashion. Arrayed facing the northwest, the VI Legion advanced with the higher ground of the Sicilian interior upon their left flank, and the formidable force of the Legio V Almeria upon their right. Pomponius’ velites opened the battle with volleys of javelins before retreating between the maniples of hastate, and moving to form a rearguard for VI Legion.

Continuing their advance, the VI Legion engaged the large Carthaginian army fully. The overwhelming size and ferocity at first pressed back the lines of hastati and pricipes, forcing them to retreat and reform with the ranks of the triarii. With his infantry organized, Pomponius again threw the VI Legion against Hasdrubal. When the two sides met once more, the battle developed into a pitched engagement, and maneuverability on both sides became extremely limited. This was exactly what Pomponius had been waiting for.

With the main body of the Carthaginians engaged with the Roman legions, Pomponius ordered the light and maneuverable cohorts of the Etruscan Alae to advance from their hidden position in the higher ground to the southwest of the battle, and strike at Hasdrubal’s exposed right flank. The Etruscan horsemen, supplemented by the equestrians of the VI Legion, pressed with audacious fervor into the ranks of the Carthaginians. So effective was their attack that the untested ranks of Sicilian traitors capitulated, and either fled the battlefield or were destroyed outright.

Lacking a means to effectively maneuver to meet the attack upon his flank, Hasdrubal’s heavily armored force was obliged to fold and retreat, lest they became fully enveloped by the Roman units.

---

Consul Tiberius Sempronius Longus,

I write to you from the field, as the great legions of Rome pursue the villain of Carthage, Hasdrubal. It is with pride that I inform you that the Legio VI Ferrata and the Legio V Almeria were successful in rebuffing the attack of the Carthaginians, and are even now giving chase to utterly destroy them.

The Senate’s wise deployment of the Alae to reinforce Rome’s holdings in Sicily proved to be an invaluable asset upon the field, and without their assistance, I fear many Roman sons would have been lost in the pursuance of their duty. Toxilus Maecenus of Vulci is to be commended for his valor and astute command of the Etruscan ranks, and I pray the Senate remember him in the coming years. I have taken it upon myself to separate the ranks of the Alae, and deploy the Etruscan infantry to maintain order and security over Syracuse. Toxilus Maecenus, along with his slingers and cavalry, remain with the Legio VI Ferrata, and aid in the hunt of Hasdrubal.

Further, though I cannot speak to the disposition of the Legio V Almeria, I must also extol Legate Aelius Horatius Servius for his prude actions during the battle. His shrewd style of command, and selfless courage, surely allowed Rome to win the day.

I will keep you well appraised, as best I can, of our unrelenting mission to destroy Hasdrubal and the Carthaginian aggressors. With the continued grace of Mars and Disciplina, we will surely succeed, and return Sicily to its rightful place beneath the banner of the Republic.

Humbly and sincerely,

Legatus Titus Pomponius Philo

Marcus stood over a large table upon it was a scattered mess of scrolls and reports around the table also stood several of the Primi Puli head officer of the Legion, in the center was laid out large map of the surrounding area and the last known movements of the Illyrians. the smell of candle smoke and burning oil filled the dimly lit study of the Villa which Marcus quickly took up as a acting headquarters for the legion. The men stood around each making various gestures as they talked in a murmur figuring out trivial facets such as where each cohort was to be encamped. Suddenly the door to the study opened and in walked a young man dressed in the uniform of a adiutor in his hand holding a scroll slightly shaking as it hanged by his side. The man stood there in attention silently as Marcus looked up from the table the other officers stepping aside as the legatus walked toward the man.
"What is it you'd like Adiutor?" Marcus said annoyed at the young man interrupting the meeting.
Giving a quick salute the adiutor stuttering over his words as he addressed Marcus. "Si- Sir, I bring word fr- fr-from Consul Sempronius." the man hesitantly handing over the scroll.
Snatching it from his hands Marcus quickly unrolled it looking over the text giving a small sigh. "Thank you, under normal stances soldier I would have you flogged for your Incompetence but now with this news i will need every able bodied man I can get." Marcus said as he opened the door of the study letting the man out. Turning back to his office his hands firmly clasping the scroll behind his back."Men, Word from the Consul has come along with it the newest report from our scouts, It appears that King Demetrius that dog has raised an army from the Illyrian tribes around 30,000 men strong intent on taking back Apollonia. I have no intent on giving him such a victory, the Senate has promised to send the aid of two legions to help in the defense and possibly a counter offensive, but I fear they will not arrive before the Illyrians arrive and begin their Siege. We are horridly undermanned for this assignment but we must hold this city at all costs go forth and rose your men, Gaius and Julius I want your men to be on constant guard outside the walls send a up a signal if any sign of an enemy force is seen." The legate said maintaining complete calmness and composure in the face of the dire straights he was in.
quickly the men funneled out of the room leaving behind only Marcus and his personal adiutor. Retaking the place at the head of the map covered table he turned toward his assistant who stood silent through the whole ordeal. "I want you to post a edict for all the town to hear, all of its citizens are to gather at the forum by noon anyone not found there will be arrested for Treason." Marcus spoke in a harsh tone his brow furled as he planned the strategized the defense of Apollonia.

---

The Next day Marcus Stood on a raised platform in the Forum the entire populace of Apollonia packed tightly into the square. The sun shining down on mass of People as the town watch struggled to keep the crowd in control. Walking up to the podium a small group of Princpes behind him Marcus Addressed the Populace.
"Patricians and Plebeians alike! I have gathered you here today to announce a state of emergency. Word has reached us that a large Illyrian force is marching toward Apollonia at this very moment." As these words were said a sudden wave of gasps and mumbling ran through the crowd with a few of the women crying out in horror. "Now Hear this! I Promise to you the people of Apollonia that I shall sooner see my forces massacred than lose this city! But in exchange for this goodwill I ask you to listen to me. I can only keep you safe if you follow my word to the letter. My current forces here are too few in number to properly defend this city and repel the attacking forces as such I ask you the citizens to help me. I order that every man young or old who is able to hold a spear or sword be conscripted temporarily into the city's garrison! Those who refuse or try to desert will be arrested and killed as an enemy of the state. You all know your duty the risks and the costs of Cowardliness and insubordination. All we can hope for now is the gods favour in this endeavor.”once again a wave of murmurs and whispers traveled through the crowd as Marcus stepped off the podium and the guards began to organize the crowd separating the women and children from the men who were fit to fight. within a hour or so the men were organized into a column and commanded to walk to the barracks of Apollonia where they each were given a spear and sword and began to be taught the basics of military organization.

---

During the following weeks Marcus enacted several city projects mobilizing his men and the people of the city to fortify the cities defenses raising additional defensive walls and digging anti Sapper tunnels all in preparation for the on coming siege. supplies such as food and clothing from all over the city were commandeered and rationed out to each citizen encase of a prolonged siege.The militia Marcus raised was motley and under armed those who were too late in acquiring arms from the barracks were set to practice bearing nothing more than clubs and hatchets.
within days of the final shoring of the sapping tunnels off in the distance a black mass could be seen the shifting mass of Illyrian troops marching toward the city walls.
__________________________________________________________________________
Soon enough the Illyrian forces had arrived and began to gather their forces preparing to besiege the city. Sallying his forces Marcus prepared to launch a counterattack raiding the camps of the besiegers. as his forces gathered in the parade ground marcus rode up and down the lines preparing his men for the task which was about to come.
Mounted on a great black Giara he trotted to the front of the great mass of shining armour and spears rising above their heads like a small forest.
“Listen Romans! Today we fight for the glory of the republic! our odds are dire but we must hold out to the very last of us fall, until Consul Tiberius and the 1st and 2nd legions arrived to assist us in our defense. At our gates stand a mass of rabble and scum wishing for nothing more than the chance to ravage and terrorize this grand city taking with them all we have worked for. I shall sooner die than to see that happen! So I ask of you men to follow me into battle and possibly give your lives so Rome and her people may flourish! Centurions! prepare your men and begin to move out!”
Marcus yelled his words echoed by the centurions orders placing their men on a march through the city. as they moved a rousing cheer and the clink of metal spears and plates resounded through the whole city. The many columns of men began their slow methodical move to the gates of the city masses of wives and families cheering and throwing flowers as the men marches out the gates and through the improvised fortifications.
Marcus rode at the head of the lone snake of Roman troops know full well the dauntless task that was to follow.

---

No sooner had the Romans formed their lines where they assaulted by a charge of Illyrian cavalry the men whooping and screaming as they pushed their chariots and horses onto the writhing mass of men. Marcus quickly let out a blow of his whistle as the lines of soldiers prepared for the attack quickly no sooner than the whistle heard was a black shower of pilums descending on the enemy cavalry, Marcus watched satisfied as horses and man alike fell to the javelins. He let out another whistle blow as the men quickly began to stand closer angling their spears ready for the attack of the remaining cavalry. but the cavalry began to retreat just as it was in yards of the infantry’s spear line.
“Damn whole thing was just a ruse for me to let loose our pilums!” Marcus mumbled to himself as the cavalry trotted back to the Illyrian lines. Moments after the cavalry had retaken it’s place a large mass of Illyrian Infantry began its approach to the front. as the infantry slowly made its way across the field a mass of arrows showered the Romans as they tried to lift their shields to block the volley. just as the volley of arrows had stopped Marcus once again blew his whistle this time the cavalry from the left flank sally forth prepared to charge the infantry approaching the front. Another whistle blow and the equestrians were galloping full speed toward the Illyrian formation. within minutes the equestrians had hit the infantry on its left flank before it had the chance to turn its direct. As the horsemen fought in a brutal melee the center line of Hastati began to march towards the mass of infantry.the Illyrians let loose another volley of arrows but the romans had enough foresight to raise their shields as they marched toward the enemy line.as the infantry hit the Illyrians a chaotic melee ensued the Illyrians futility attempted to run but were only left with two choices running right where they were surley to be assaulted once again by the Roman Equestrians or retreat back to their lines. The Illyrians quite intelligently choose the latter as they began to retreat back to the main Illyrian forces. The Roman infantry soon followed them stepping over the dead bodies of friend and foe alike. The cavalry had begun to return to its original position in the line fearing a advance from the Illyrian pikemen.
“Citizenry Forward!” Marcus yelled his words relayed down the lines as the motley mass of citizen move forward.”Velites forward!” the Velites too stepped through the lines pushing forward the citizenry ready to dispatch of any men who thought of deserting.The line of men stopped little less than a hundred yards from the Illyrian lines as the velites threw a mass of pilums descending upon the besiegers like a flock of birds. The Illyrian infantry stepped forth charging the writhing mass of citizenry as a chaotic and desperate melee ensued as the citizens attempted to hack and slash their way forward fearing retribution and punishment from marcus more than facing the enemy. As the citizenry line fell into chaos the velites continued their volleys one after another each time feeling many Illyrians.
then once again the Illyrian cavalry appeared from the rear of the besiegers line this time marching full speed upon the rows of velites and plebs. as the chariots and horses hit the javelin men and the militia marcus sat upon his horse his face unflinching as he watch his line begin to be cut down before him. he blew another whistle ordering the citizenry and velites in full retreat back to the roman lines. betting on the over zealousness of the Illyrians he once again set his front lines ready to take the full force of the charge. marcus assumption was correct the over excited and arrogant Illyrians charged following the retreating mob. as the last of the mob got behind the front line of infantry the cavalry hit. those who had braced themselves and their spears watch in awe as the Illyrian horses impaled themselves as their riders tried in vain to pull back the horse while those who had not were pushed to the ground in the massive wave of cavalry.
After a few minutes of melee the Illyrians had regrouped themselves and began to fall back to their lines. hundred of dead horses and men scattered the field as the Illyrians realized the futility of attempting another assault and began to go back to their encampment preferring to try and starve the Romans out of apollonia. The Romans too returned to the city where they were meet with great cheer by the people as they saw their saviors walk through the gates. what they did not see was the many dead and wounded bodies of the citizenry conscripts who gave their lives to give such a victory.
__________________________________________________________________________
Hail Consul Sempronius,
I hope this letter along with word of our victory against the Illyrian besiegers have reached you well. While we were not able to push the scum back away from Apollonia we did manage to stave them off and I believe they have no intention of raising a actual assault against the city’s walls anytime soon. I hope to see you in Apollonia soon along with your legions, their arrival will be well meet and shall be rejoiced reinvigorating the men after having to watch as the Illyrians sat unmolested outside our walls for so long.
godspeed to you and your men,
Legatus Marcus Cornelius Imperiosus

The full moon illuminated the night as about 200 Velites take up position among the trees. 70 Triarii behind them, and 300 Horsemen behind them. Horatius moved silently among the Velites, whispering to his officers, preparing to send the enemy running into the ocean. Horatius was bitter, the Senate sent him orders and he followed them. He was going to Syracuse to defend it, because any other engagement with an enemy of that size would've been disastrous. The only reason they won that battle was because of Syracuse's walls and the combined power of two legions. He had taken a small group of soldiers after the remaining forces to send them packing back to their ships, most of them slept and those on guard duty were nodding off. Our enemy is tired and battered thought Horatius, this final push will see them off. He had the Triarii several feet apart from each other, just enough to allow the horses to pass. They were about 10 miles from Ragusa, on the coast. Horatius nodded to one of his officers. The officer silently raised his hand and the Velites prepared to throw their javelins. The officer made a sweeping motion with his arm and the Velites let loose. The silent night was pierced with agonized screams and the pounding of man and horse as Horatius' small task force smashed into the enemy camp. He unsheathed his Gladius and mounted his horse and rode into the thick of it.

The Carthaginians were totally surprised by the night attack. The men ran around dazed and confused, and being slain by the Roman attackers. Horatius rode into the camp, Gladius raised. A half-naked soldier stumbled out of a tent and yelped as Horatius's blade sliced his face open, killing him. The attack continued for an hour and a half before the remaining troops jumped into the ocean, attempting to get to their ships. Some drowned, some were killed by a javelin, some were chased into the water where a sword pierced their throat. The survivors sailed away, with the Romans cheering and jeering at their backs. Horatius allowed himself a small smile before he pulled a scout aside and told him to search the surrounding areas for survivors with seven other men. The scout nodded wearily and rallied a search party, while the rest of the victors traveled back to Syracuse.

The Legion V Almeria reached Syracuse two days later and the story of the battle spread like wildfire through the city, and Horatius knew that his fellow Legate would know of the battle before the day was done. Meanwhile, he returned to his tent where he wrote a letter to the senate.

Consul Tiberius Sempronius Longus,

The enemy has just been drove off of Sicily, it was an easy fight, as they were still recovering from their failed siege on Syracuse. I've no doubt that there are survivors still, but they will be hunted down and killed. For now, Sicily is safe. As for my orders, the idea that we would be able to prevent the Carthage march before it got to Syracuse is an incorrect one. We would've been slaughtered, and they still would've had enough men to siege Syracuse. It was only because I went to Syracuse and joined forces with the other Legion that you didn't tell me about, did we succeed and prevented Syracuse from becoming a Roman graveyard.

Legate Aelius Horatius Servius

"Well, gentlemen, what do we think?"
Legate Lanius Inculta sat at the head of the table, flanked by his 42 Centurions. In front of them lay a map of the region, as well as the letter from the Senate.

They were, of course, discussing their latest orders - secure the town of Patavium and eliminate Eideard Tulach, King of the Veneti. A simple task, some said, but one that required careful planning and tact.

"It is an... interesting situation we find ourselves in." one Centurion pondered aloud.
"It is also one we must resolve in haste" another responded.
They looked over the maps a little more.
"What do we know of the city?" one of the older Centurions asked. Several more repeated him.

"I asked Vulpes to put a few Frumentarii in each of the nearby cities. According to his men, the city breeds excellent horses, but the soldiers care little for them. They prefer outdated weapons and simple tactics. It seems the good Senator agrees."
"Their ally, Liguria, is otherwised engaged. If we attack the city quickly, they will be on their own." Vulpes stated. Vulpes was Lanius' unofficial second in command, and commander of the Frumentarii, not a bad rank considering he was only 26. He had handled the spies superbly, which in turn gave the Legion the upper hand in most conflicts they were involved in. His ability to obtain knowledge, as well as Lanius' ferocity in combat, made the Tertio Turcicum a force to be reckoned with. "However, we will have to face 10,000 barbarians with less than 5,000 men. We have to think carefully about our plans, especially since Legio X Germina failed to slow the Gallic advance."

There were gasps from most of the assembled Centurions. "X Germina failed?"
"Indeed" Vulpes murmered, unnaturally calmly.
"This means time is even more vital." Lanius interjected. "We need a plan before the advancing armies absorb Patavium into their ranks."

Once more, silence fell over the tent as the Centurions thought.
"Two of their men will not match one of ours. I think we should lure them out of their walls, best them fairly and take the town whilst its defenses are weak."
"An astute plan, but somewhat vauge. Tulach is foolish, but not so stupid as to believe his men superior. He knows our men could take theirs even outnumbered two to one. Even one of our Conscribe could easily best his barbarians. He is unlikely to leave his fort until reinforcements arrive."

"What if we were those reinforcements?" a voice called from close to the back. Many of the officers turned to find the source of the voice, a relatively young Centurion who had so far refrained from taking part in negotiations.
Lanius stood up "Explain yourself. What do you mean?"

"Well" The youth started, blushing slightly "what if we sent Tulach a letter, asking for a meeting? We could say we wished to negotiate a truce with him and the Veneti, or wished to peacefully introduce them to the Republic. We appeal to his vanity, say he would make a worthy addition and ally. At the same time, we contact Legio X Germani and tell them the plan, make it clear they need to slow down the Gauls from tthe north as much as possible. After their failure in Liguria, they'll be eager to regain their honor. We walk in, as though stationing a garrison, maybe teach their troops a few basic combat techniques, but not enough to save them."
"And attack from the inside when they least expect it" Vulpes finished. "It is a mad idea... but it just might work."

"And if that doesn't work, we can always attack them normally., like the Senator suggested"

"It's settled then. We negotiate a truce, invite the Gauls to join the Senate, set up a garrison and take them down from the inside."

"Make haste, gentlemen. We have much to do and not a lot of time to do it."

---

To King Edeard Tulach of Venita

Greetings from the Roman Rebublic! My name is Lanius Inculta and I represent the Legio Tertio Turcicum. I realise Venita and Rome have had a somewhat icy relationship over the past years, but that is why I am writing this letter. I am pleased to declare that, after years of hostility, the Roman Senate is willing to offer a truce.

You and your men have proven themselves capable and resiliant in the face of extreme duress, which are exactly the traits us Romans look for in a potential ally. We wish to put our past disagreements behind us and negotiate an alliance between Rome and Venita. Obviously, there are basic benefits that will come as standard, like the military backup of the Republic if ever you need it, but we are willing to discuss open borders, universal currency, Roman citizenship and other such things. I cannot promise anything, but there may even be a seat at the Senate with your name on it. Imagine - Edeard Tulach, King of Venita and Senator of Rome. That would make one hell of an introduction.

See my enclosed Mark and map. The Mark will protect you from Roman attack as long as you remain in my lands, outlined on the enclosed map, until negotiations have ended. The map also has our meeting place marked on it - feel free to bring as many troops as you like. If we can come to a mutual agreement, then you will be well on your way to being Senator as well as King.

Long live the Republic!
Lanius Inculta

---

"You really think the boy's plan will work?"
"No. I'm going to wait until Edeard shows up, then attack when they least expect it, like the Senate suggested. Why overcomplicate things?"
"Is the other plan not good enough?"
"Too risky. And we have too many men for it to seem real. If it was a simple assassination, the Frumentarii could handle it with ease. But we need to take and hold the city, as will as eliminate the Veneti army. It just isn't going to work out his way."
"I suppose. I just wish you could have thought of a way that didn't cost a aureus."

(Server glitch. A really big server glitch.)

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When Argentus and Legio VII arrived in Massalia, Argentus immediately called a meeting of all the legates. Without orders from the Senate or a Consul vis a vis the commanding officer of this particular task force, it behooved them to elect a senior officer to act as central coordinator. Argentus recieved the majority, and so began to plan their strategy.

Given the choice, Argentus would not have attempted to resist Hannibal at the Rhone. At under 20,000 men against over 40,000 even a river crossing into rough terrain would be feasible for Hannibal. The Senate had asked too much, gave too little, and expected a miracle.

Argentus' strategy was thus to be a rock in the river. He would force Hannibal to cross in as difficult location as absolutely possible, and then retreat, thus buying time for Rome to tie up loose ends on other fronts and redirect forces to deal with this main Punic offensive.

He marshalled the legions on the hills over the banks of that river where Hannibal was expected to cross. Across it, he could hear the unmistakeable plodding of the terrible elephants through forest. From the woods across the river, a pair of lightly armored horsemen burst onto the banks. Not long after, a lone rider in regal dress emerged and surveyed the legions arrayed against him about a mile away. There was no mistaking his identity; he was none other than Hannibal, son of Hamilcar Barca, and commander of the largest army to invade Rome since Pyrrhus of Epirus.

Argentus spurred his horse down from the hill down to the opposite bank. In his characteristic silver scale breastplate he wore on the march, he was equally unmistakeable. Almost simultaneously, the men removed their helmets and locked eyes over the hundreds of feet the river was wide. No words were exchanged, no shouting across the river, each man only attempted to gain the measure of the other. From Argentus' perspective, Hannibal had a noble posture, and in general carried himself with the energy of youth. Even at a distance, he was a young man, particularly for one in command of the army upon which the imperial hopes of Carthage depended. For all of Argentus' disdain for the Punics, they had no shortage of talented generals. If they were putting a man this young in charge of their only hope for victory, it was because he was nothing less than the reincarnation of Alexander.

The tense moment ended, at least between the men, when Hannibal waved his scouts back, and after solemnly nodding, turned and trotted his animal back to the woods. Argentus took a breath of relaxation and rode back to his own men.

Over the next few weeks, the Carthaginian army tried to get ahead of the Romans so as to facilitate an unopposed crossing in the race to the north, but the citizen soldiers managed to keep parity with them, until the racers reached the alps; An alpine crossing would be suicidal, so Argentus felt comfortable camping in these hills while the Carthaginians foolishly wasted their time heading further north along the Rhone valley. Perhaps this Hannibal was not all he'd thought.

Argentus penned a laconic epistle to the Senate about the encounter,

The centurion and Pilus Prior, Agrippa Lealius Mellitus, sat about the cook-fire, and presented his hands to the dancing flames to soak the heat. His breath billowed in a thick, wispy cloud that lingered for some time in the still evening air. The trees around him stood like frozen sentinels, seemingly made all the more static by the biting chill. There was a quiet within the forest that belied the existence of the thousands of men within its confines that had made it their temporary home, and Lealius had little distraction to keep him from the bastion of his own thoughts.

Alone in his sphere of contemplation, Lealius did not hear the approaching footsteps that sounded with the crunch of fallen leaves from behind him. When the Legio Legatus himself emerged from over the centurion’s right shoulder, Lealius started, and jumped to stand.

“Sir!” Lealius said. “I did not hear you there. Forgive my inattentiveness. The shadow of the Carthaginian’s presence has drawn heavily upon my attentions.”

Pomponius, warded against the cold with a thick cloak of furs, reached out a muscled arm to clap upon the centurion’s shoulder. “Be at ease, my dear Lealius. It does me well to know that I still possess enough finesse of movement to surprise a soldier of your caliber.” The legate smiled, and bade his companion to resume his seat. When Lealius did, Pomponius joined him.

“Hannibal’s machinations also command my thoughts.” Pomponius said with a hollow sigh. “This son of Carthage is no minor foe, and he possesses a force that makes his cunning all the more lethal.”

Lealius appraised his commander with a clenched jaw and a furrowed brow. “Sir, if I may be so bold, in regard to Legate Cossus Argentus…?”

Pomponius looked to the centurion in silence, with only the curious expression on his face calling for Lealius to continue.

“The men, they trust in your judgment implicitly, and they respect your election of Argentus. Yet, there are grumbles among the Ironclad that he is ill-suited to the task of leading the combined legions against Hannibal.” Lealius said, his gaze respectful yet confident.

Pomponius nodded sagely, the crow’s feet at the corners of his eyes deepening as he thought upon his response. “Argentus is a capable man,” the legate said at last. “He has led as best as could be expected, given the circumstances. Hannibal has us at disadvantage, of that there is no doubt. It is only a matter of time before he crosses the Rhone, and we will be impotent to stop him. Rome and her legions are drawn too thin.”

“What of the Senate? Surely they will recognize the futility we yet pose to Hannibal’s threat?” Lealius said. “The consuls must assign more legions to our cause. Certainly they must. What of the legions deployed to the east? The Illyrian King Demetrius is but a gnat at Rome’s face, when Hannibal looms as a lion to her belly.”

For a time, Pomponius said nothing in reply. He let his gaze instead loom into the fire and regard the dancing tongues with a detached air. Lealius could almost see the commander of the Legio Sexta Ferrata’s mind churning, and he himself fell silent, not wanting to disturb the thoughts of his friend.

---

Following the Legio Sexta Ferrata’s arrival near Massalia, the four legions tasked with deterring Hannibal’s advance quickly came together to organize the effort. Marcus Cornelius Cossus Argentus, the legate of the Legio VII, was elected to command the Roman force, and soon had the legions deploy upon the eastern side of the Rhone in an effort to deter Hannibal from crossing the river near its southern reaches.

Following weeks of mirroring Hannibal’s movements, and constraining the Carthaginian ever northward, the two opposing armies were forced to separate as the terrain worsened due to the inland travel towards the heart of the Alps. Confident that Hannibal would find it near impossible to locate a crossing so far north among the mountains, the VI Legion, along with the rest of the Roman contingent, halted their advance.

It took Horatius's army of 5,000 (He picked up a few troops along the way) 3 months to march up to Gaul army of 10,000. Scouts were sent ahead of the Legion to learn of the barbarians's position. They were several days away from the Roman encampment and oblivious to their presence. Horatius mulled over a map in his tent, making markings on it, considering strategies to use, when a scout burst into his tent and dropped to one knee. "General, the barbarians are moving." he said breathlessly. "Where?" Horatius demanded, the scout looked at him "Towards us." Horatius thought for a moment and told the scout to go find Centurion Quintus Pious. A few minutes later, his most experienced Centurion entered the tent. "Quintus, I want you to take a thousand men and head east about 20 miles, then loop around and prepare to attack the Gaul force from behind. On their march they will be heading through a narrow valley, there is a lot of tree coverage so use that to your advantage." The Centurion hesitated. "What?" Horatius demanded, "What about you? With only 4,000 men to take the head on, it would be a bloodbath!" Horatius stared at him and said quietly "Do as your told." Quintus glared at him, but nodded and left. It felt cruel to leave Quintus in the dark about his actual plans, but he needed the warrior to think that the fate of this Legion relied on a successful flanking maneuver.

Several days later, Horatius had set up 4 divisions of 1,000 men on either side of the valley. When Quintus hit the back and forced the Gauls to push forward a bit, then 4,000 men would come down on them from either side, ranged soldiers would stay on the slopes to rain fire on the enemy. Horatius waited and waited and waited. The finally, 1,000 troops came from nowhere and smashed into the rear of the barbarian forces. The Barbarians were confused and panicked and moved forward to get away from the slaughter, that's when Horatius gave the signal and 4,000 Romans emerged from the trees, a volley of javelins soaring over their heads. The sight of this force terrified the Gauls and they surged forward, attempting to get to the entrance of the valley. They were cut off, Roman soldiers started cutting down barbarians left and right and the Gauls were forced to fight. They were too late. They had already lost thousands of men from the initial ambush and though the fought fiercely, they were only delaying the inevitable. 12 hours of fighting led to almost 9,300 barbarian deaths and 1,600 Roman deaths. The remaining barbarians were captured and early the next morning, Horatius wrote a letter.

Consul Tiberius Sempronius Longus,
The Gaul barbarians have been defeated and the remaining 600 have been captured. It was a bloody fight and I lost over 1500 men. I ask that you send more if you keep expecting me to fight these large armies. I have to also accommodate my Centurion, Quintus Pious, his valor and bravery when attacking the rear of the massive Gaul force inspired the entire Legion to crush the savages.

Legate Aelius Horatius Severius

Legions: Rise of Rome

Major Military Engagement

The Republic had forced Hannibal northwards into the Alps, denying him the vital Rhone crossing and protecting Italy from a direct Carthaginian assault. However, whether through luck or through Hannibal’s cunning, the army of Carthage found itself plentiful friends in the extremes of the Roman world, and was aided in crossing the Alps – despite the harsh winter occupying its valleys and peaks.

The Republic was aware of this move however, and mustered to meet Hannibal. After weeks of waiting, and seeing no evidence that Hannibal’s crossing was impending, Consul Longus dismissed the legions’ supporting Alae back to their winter quarters, and prepared himself to return to Rome until the Spring.

However, as the legions marched southwards, news reached them of Hannibal’s descent from the Alps. Turning back, Consul Longus force marched his army back into the north, where he was able to arrive in time for Hannibal’s descent.

Both the Roman Consular army, comprised of all of Rome’s active legions, and the Carthaginian invasion force, are exhausted. However, Hannibal cannot turn back, and neither can the Consul. Therefore, the first major engagement between Rome and Carthage falls here, near a tiny hamlet and the opening to an Alp’s valley.

Location: Eporedia

Date: 17th of Ianuarius, 218 BC.

Combatants: Carthage and Rome

Commanders: Hannibal Barca and Consul Tiberius Sempronius Longus

Army Compisitions:





Battle Plan

Hannibal has amassed his Iberian light infantry into a screening force infront of his Iberian heavy infantry, who are organised into a wide solid line. Owing to the narrow landscape, from which Carthage is entering the area, his Numidian cavalry and war elephants remain in his rear – unable to skirt around the wide formations of infantry, for the time being.

Consul Tiberius Sempronius Longus is unwilling to allow Hannibal to move out from the shadows of the Alps, therefore denying him the use of his deadly flanking cavalry forces. With this in mind, the Roman battle plan is as follows:

This is to be treated as a ‘Post Order’, and the stages should be posted chronologically by the various players involved. For example, Byrd Man posts first, then Thorigil and PheonixWhite, then TheMusketMan, then Dedonus, then Feigling.

Legion VIII: Spurii Romanae shall lead the charge, and is tasked with a frontal assault on the Carthaginian centre. The hopes here are that the Bastards of Rome, with their renowned savagery, will drive off the light Iberian infantry, and puncture Hannibal’s armoured mass, buckling his line if for only a while.

Legio Nona Hispania and Legio XI Celeris Acuta will follow up this assault, with Legio Nana appearing on the Bastards’ left flank, and Legio XI Celeris Actua appearing on their right. The two legions are to force back the Carthaginians here, and prevent them from enveloping Legio VIII.

Legio V Almeria shall then move forwards, and through careful manoeuvring, will take the place of the Bastards’ – allowing the by now exhausted legion to fall back and rest up, acting as a reserve in case something goes ill later in the fight.

Legio XII Mineruia shall then deploy to the left, and if the Carthaginian’s left flank has been able to push far enough as to expose itself, then the legion is to prevent Hannibal from sending his Numidians and Libyans through the gap.

Legio Tertio Turcicum Will meanwhile move up on the right, and perform a similar action to Legio XII by preventing, or destroying, the Carthaginian right flank.