[RTW 1.5, DarthMod 9.0.1] The Sons of Mars - UPDATED 15/8/2013, EDITING FINISHED!!

[Philip Regent of Hospitallers]

Well, this is my third attempt to start a AAR-storyline...last two didn´t anticipate so good for me as I hoped due to lack of time...which still is so, but now not that heavy as school has been graduated Also those threads may be deleted, if possible...thank you in advance

This time I am going to play Brutii faction and here are few rules:
1) No autoresolve battles!
2) Difficulties: H/H
3) Battle time limit is off
4) Unit scale is large
5) NO CHEATING!!
6) Long campaign
7) ONE MORE THING I forgot before - playing on RTW Vanilla Map - next one shall be on Provinical one

HAPPY READING!!

This is the story of man, who has great interest in the history of the great Roman family named Brutii and he decided to make a story about it. Although he is not very into pictures, he has a lot of material written by family members of Brutii themselves...mostly generals though. Still he thinks it is important to know, how Brutii progressed under pressure from Rome and their enemies...

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

The Sons of Mars

​Prologue - Tiberius and his Sons
Capitulum I - The Worries
Capitulum II - Morality of the Faction Heir
Capitulum III - Expanding to North and South
Capitulum IV - War On The Fronts
Capitulum V - The Hellen Backbone
Capitulum VI - The Eventful Years
Capitulum VII - Change In Command
Capitulum VIII - A New Threat

[Philip Regent of Hospitallers]

The Sons of Mars

Prologue - Tiberius and his Sons

"We Brutii are the only true Romans. We drove out the Kings. We saved Rome. We made the Republic."

These words said by Tiberius Brutus, who is the current leader of this great Roman noble family, the descendants of the Lucius Lunius Brutus, who drove the last King of Rome in 509 BC and made the Republic. But now Brutii has been left with almost empty hands, only having southern part of Italy - cities of Croton and Tarentum.

The Diary of Tiberius Brutus, 273 BC

All those years, when I have been the leader of our great family, there has been one great mistaken fact, which is still reality and which is greatly disturbing me still - that we do not rule Rome...this has to be corrected by any means necessary. There is no way I am going to die with the fact that our family is not planning on doing nothing for all those years, when we were driven out by those lunatics in the Senate...and also those Julii and Scipii families, who consider themselves "Romans". They just prostitute themselves!! This is not the way true Roman would behave. They have no morals, no honour, no sight, no future perspective and most of all - no guts to deal with their enemies in Roman way!! Now is the time for us to strike fast, strike hard and strike decisively to make others pay for the crimes, what have been committed against us...this they nor I shall never forget!!

As the time passed on to evening Tiberius called his three sons to his royal room:

"Aulus! Amulius! Vibius! Come here at once! I have need of you!"

Sons did not hesitate even for one moment not to go there. They honoured their father, looked him up, as their savior protector and great leader, despite the fact that Tiberius was starting to age and eventually die, but those matters were punishable by death, if brought up in open public...Tiberius was also merciless to all criminals, leaving them no choice but to escape in hope and misery...which was ended by Tiberius´ men...enough fot this...about half a minute later his sons arrived and the heir Aulus started:

"My father, you have urgent need of us, as I understand right? What can we help you with?"

"My sons, I have no need of help now, but I need to talk with you...on very important matters about our families future aspects and you all three have very important roles there.", Tiberius started. "I think that you all know of my age restraining problems, but have not talked about it loudly...I understand it. But you also have to understand that you have to take sooner or later over my leadership, especially you Aulus, my heir and future leader, because you will have great pressure on your young shoulders in upcoming years. Coming back to our future issue, then we have solidify our positions and then start crabbing new lands. We Macedonians, Carthaginians, Greeks and Gauls breathing down on our necks from every direction...worst of them are Macedonians, of course...just strait away from us. Amulius, you are going to make an army against Macedon and make them cry...I have faith in you. If needed, then Aulus or Vibius are willing to help you."

"I won´t fail you, my father.", said Amulius respectively.

"I know that you won´t, my young son. I have seen you grow up from little child to brilliant general and I can tell you that you will make a great general and fame for the family...but this is only the start...you have to cooperate between yourselves and not rival against each other for the best results. You may go now...I am tired and I want to sleep."

And so did go three sons out of Tiberius´ Royal Room...each one to their rooms in thought, what happens next or why their father did say such things about his health...sons didn´t had a hunch of Tiberius´s weakening health he seemed strong personality, who never showed out his weaknesses...

Tiberius, however, had strange dream during the night:

"My liege, army has been assembled. We can start now the assault on Apollonia. Men are ready for your commands."

"Legions!! March on to Apollonia!! We shall take the city with you men!! With you, true Roman soldiers!!"

"Long live General Amulius!!"

As Tiberius continued to dream, he saw the great army before him, under the command of Amulius Brutus, greatest general of three sons. As they progressed towards Apollonia, Amulius brought with him nearly 2000 men against Apollonia´s 400 garrionsed men, under the command of General called Pyrrhus. Although it all seemed quite obvious that Macedon garrison will fall, then they had to through mountains to reach Apollonia and Tiberius the saw, what he didn´t want to see at all in his dream...

"Ambush!! Everyone quickly draw your weapons!!"

By the time weapons were drawn, already first legion of infantry was completely wiped out and second in line was in great difficulties to hold Macedons back. Amulius´ guards started to think in confusion, where they came out, meanwhile Macedons were in bloodthrist to slice to death all Roman soldiers they encountered...but suddenly Macedon cavarly appeared from nowhere behind Amulius and eventually was knocked down...then Amulius, lying in dirt encountered Macedon´s officer, who led the ambush...

"Well, well, well, what we have here? Roman general named Amulius Brutus, I presume?? I am saddened that you "chose" a losing side, I really would have wanted to know you better, but this wasn´t meant to be...I am sorry for the next deed I am going to do..."

"NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!", Tiberius awoke up screaming all over the palace, being confused, disturbed and frenzied...after few minutes he realized that it was just a dream...or was it just a dream...

[Philip Regent of Hospitallers]

The Sons of Mars

Capitulum I - The Worries

It has been passed three years, since Tiberius had the dream, but it still hasn´t gone out of his mind. Either way, he swore to himself that he wouldn´t speak of it to anyone, especially Amulius, who apparently was killed during the dream...or at least was going to die. Nevertheless, it had reached to year 270 BC and Tiberius along with his sons made the conquest plans for the future, starting with Macedon, now the only thing was that Tiberius himself would give the order for his sons Aulus and Amulius to depart towards Macedonian lands and fight them off. Vibius meanwhile was stationed to capital Tarentum, due to loss of his hand two years ago, while being on a hunt for the local rebels, who had risen up against Tiberius´ rule...

Diary of Tiberius Brutus, 272 BC

I am saddened that locals near our capital Tarentum had taken up their pity pitchforks and torches to stand up against my rule...reports say that they were in hope to make whole city to revolt against our noble family, which would have broken the backbone of our resistance and then plans against Macedon and Greece would have turned against us as well...by losing Croton to one of them as well...but Vibius was close by and I ordered him quickly to put down the revolt swiftly and mercilessly. Later reports confirm that those peasantry "Roman workers", as they try to call themselves, were put down, however, it was very costly for my son, Vibius...When the officer had ended the part, where revolt has been put down, he began to stutter, since he knew before me, what had happened to Vibius...

"My King, there is one more thing...it is related to Vibius. He...d-d-did...."

"Captain Licinius, what is it already?? Tell me now!! Don´t test my patience with my sons!!!"

"Vibius has lost his right hand during the skirmish, when putting down the revolt..."

"What blasphemy are talking?! Are you really that full of importance to tell me such lies?? If you say so, then tell me, where is he now?? AND BE QUICK ABOUT!!"

"Vibius is being held at the royal surgeon in Tarentum at the moment...he is currently under operation. Surgeon himself confirmed that his right hand has to be amputated, wounds are to severe to save it...", the captain started to bow and lower his head to show the sympathy towards me and Vibius.

"You may leave now, Licinius."

I was lost for words and said quickly to guards to assemble the party to escort me to Tarentum immediately. After arriving there, Vibius had recovered from the operation, but it was very disturbing sight to see him without right hand...I was completely lost in myself...and I felt guilty, because I ordered him to deal with the rebels...I should have gone there myself and not send my son...What am I going to do now?? What am I going to tell Aulus and Amulius??

As the time passed, Vibius had fully recovered from operation and was essentially put to govern Tarentum, after having shown great management of making trading agreements with local village around Tarentum, this promised faster growth than I had anticipated before...meanwhile were Tiberius, Aulus and Amulius making plans of war against the Greeks and Macedon, how to intercept them best, since phalanx units are quite hard, when assaulted from front...they needed cavarly to charge them from sides and behind. Also they sent diplomat Caius Flaminius out to north to make peace with the Gauls, let the Julii deal with them in "blood and iron" style, we don´t need waste our resources on barbarians yet...as the plans came together, Tiberius had last meeting with his sons, including Vibius, before departure:

"My sons, here we are at the very edge of our great glory, fame, lands and riches, which shall be claimed from those, who don´t deserve it. Those Greeks and Macedon have to be dealt with, as they already have become a threat for us and they shall be not permitted to take Italia from our hands. Let us take their´s instead!! Now, I have last words for you before you depart...Vibius, I was very sad, when I heard of your hand loss during the skirmish two years ago and I almost killed your captain because of it. Now I have realized that you make promising governer for Tarentum and city is growing fast, you have my respect for it, the people of Tarentum think highly of you."

"Thank you, my father. I appreciate your sympathy. Is there any tasks you want me to do before departure?", asked Vibius, who saw his father making worrying faces...

"No, my youngest son. I have no need of you now, I shall tell you, when the time comes.", continued Tiberius. "Amulius and Aulus...it is always hard to say goodbye, but now the has come to you to go...vast lands of Greece await you to make glory for your name and honour for the family. You shall show those lunatics in Rome and to Scipii and Julii fools, what are Brutii made of and why are decisive actions necessary. I only ask one thing from you - if you die, then do so on the battlefield, but not in coward´s way, don´t shame yourselves."

"Your wish is our command.", said Aulus

All the sudden captain arrived: "Forces are ready to march towards the docks, my liege."

"Give men order to take marching formation.", said Amulius, who was appointed as commander of this upcoming war.

Once more Tiberius said goodbye to his sons: "Don´t forget our family legacy, carry it in your hearts and you shall be victorius." and the last meeting had ended...


But just 6 months later Aulus was dispositioned as faction heir and Tiberius decided to make Amulius as new faction heir, referring to traitorous actions taken against Amulius, having not arrived to the docks on time, instead he sent Amulius and Tiberius a letter, where he said that we won´t make it for unknown reasons, which still are mystery til this day...

Diary of Tiberius Brutus, 269 BC

My eldest son, Aulus, has been complete fool. He first agreed to go with Amulius overseas to confront Macedons near Apollonia and take the city...just few weeks back I received letter from him, where he said that he won´t make to the docks and not giving reasons why. These actions are strictly forbidden in the nobility of Brutii and as the answers for his action and sent letter, I have decided to withdraw his position as faction heir and future leader and give it to Amulius instead. How can eldest son to betray his father´s trust and not just go to Macedon withOUT giving reasons?? Where is the honest Aulus now, who I knew from the past?? This scandal shall not be forgiving for his soul, for his honour or his future glory...I send my prayers to Mars, that he still shall be glorius in his battles...But now my hopes and eyes are turned to Amulius, who now bears the weight of heir and as supreme commander of the Army marching out against blasphemy in Macedon...so much to worry about, so much to deal with, so much to withstand against...all this just makes me dead before anyone could even possibly think...

[Kirila the Kitten]

Nice, I'll be following!

[Philip Regent of Hospitallers]

Thank you for the support, I appreciate it!!

[ImperialAquila]

I'll be following this. Great start.

[Philip Regent of Hospitallers]

The Sons of Mars


Capitulum II - Morality of the Faction Heir

Travelling Lodge of Amulius Brutus, 269 BC

My older brother Aulus sent me and my father a disturbing letter, where he said that he won´t make it to the docks in time for departure to the coast near Apollonia, which we did go...by the way of Ontranto Strait. For me it was disturbing, because he had given his solemn word that he will make it to the docks with the reinforcements in time...and when I had heard that he won´t...well I was infuriated of course by this and burned the letter he sent to me. Afterwards, while being on the seas I asked constantly asked myself "What am I going to do now? What strategy should I use, while greatly outnumbered by Macedonian armies? How my men will act, when they see themselves outnumbered? Will they still stand with me to the death rather than run away from the battlefield?" Those questions gave me many headaches...I watched those men, they are just young hastati, who are getting there first experience of real battle and already being outnumbered - well this greatly affects their will to fight for Rome, but most importantly, for the Brutii...I hope that my presence shall strengthen their resilence, will and harden their souls to stand til the dawn has come...

If to come back to my brother Aulus and my father, then I few weeks after Aulus´ letter I received letter from my father, in which he said, that I have been made as his new heir and future leader...at first I didn´t know, what to think of it...father already put me as Commander for the war against Macedon and Greek forces...my shoulders already carrying such weight...I can´t fail now, after I crossed the strait and the Macedonian forces are ready to confront us near the town of Apollonia...under general Pyrrhos of Macedon...well giving my hastati and few velite units an arousing speech should give them hope and will to win the battle...

As the days flew on the seas, suddenly the day had come, where Amulius stood on the coast of Apollonia with forces to march out against Macedon forces led by Pyrrhus...

"Men, take your positions!! Velite units in the front Hastati!!", shouted Amulius "This is our first battle and this will be our first conquest for Brutii! Yes, we are outnumbered by Macedons, but there is no shame dying as a soldier, as a man, as a Roman! There is shame, when you flee, when you weep, when you miss home during the battle!! As Romans you should know that those Macedons are afraid of us! They also bleed, they also die, they also may be afraid, but if you strike fast then you kill them first and not die before they do! So let us do it for Rome! To the glory men, our destiny awaits!!"

And Amulius´ army was once again full of morale, full of will, their spirits were hardened and their general behind was also very confident to show his abilities against those dogs of Macedonian army. As the battle of Apollonia progressed...the men fell dead, the blood splashed in every direction, the fighting was so hard that not one Hastati in the army didn´t expect such heavy fighting near Apollonia...city´s future was decided on the battlefield...

"Guards, CHARGE!! There is the Macedonian general open!! Hastati shall hold enemy phalanx busy."

Suddenly Amulius clashed into Pyrrhus´ guards and Macedon general didn´t see Amulius coming and already saw his guards fall...he tried to run but...one of the Amulius´ guards struck his horse, Pyrrhus fell and Amulius had his honourable duty to strike the final blow...Pyrrhus lying dead, his men trying to fight, but when on the phalanx units recognized their general loss, the whole army was on the run...

"Run to the hills!! Run, run, run!!", whined the running Macedonian forces, while Amulius and his men pursued them and killed everyone, who stood on their way and finally had done great deed - the battle was won...from hopeless situation to great victory, in which caused Apollonia to fall to Brutii hands adding on territorial province under Roman influence. Amulius had proven his worth and fulfilled his first duty as Commander and Faction Heir...but certainly it was sure that Macedon won´t leave it like...sooner or later they come in bigger force...

But as matter of fact, Amulius took second victory at the Battle of Pindus, striking even harder blow against Macedonian forces, losing not only more men than at Apollonia, but also another general, Damasos...but before the battle could start, Amulius got a suprise from his brother...

"Aulus, you finally came!! Although father is angry on you right now for not coming earlier, but now I am glad to see you just before the battle against large Macedon force led by Damasos...we really you and your men to help us defend Apollonia falling back to their tyrannical hands."

"So am I happy to see you, Amulius. Yes, of course I know about the father enragement against me and his dishonourable decision towards me, I feel really disappointed...not towards to you, but to father, since he took from me, what I felt it was right duty for me to fulfill...but it wasn´t just meant to be so, I guess...but enough of this. Let us scare those Macedons out of the battlefield to the mountains, where they came from!"

"Yes, my brother you are right. Assemble your men, we are just about to put them in battle formations."

But after the battle of Pindos, Aulus and Amulius went once again in different ways - Aulus to the north to confront the rebel town of Salona and Amulius took his forces to the south towards Thermon to take another city from the Macedonians. However, Aulus was still troubled by his removal from heir position, one his pages describes his own mental struggle against, but also in favor arguments related to the event.


Travelling Lodge of Aulus Brutus, 268 BC

About a year ago I landed near Apollonia, which by the time was already conquered by my brother, Amulius. When I had heard of his another upcoming battle at the mountain lands of Pindos, then I realized that I had to help, since that time he faced even larger overwhelming odds against him...I don´t sound or write bad thoughts, but my personal opinion was that he wouldn´t have been able to survive or even win the battle, so I decided to turn around with my men and made my way to him, which nearly took 2 months...after the battle was won, I saw him before me once more before our goodbye...looking him, asking myself "Why? What has he done to gain the position, which I lost without any reason?" But the other side of me started fight back trying to fully reason me "Because you betrayed them - both your father and your brother Amulius. That is not the way the future leader should behave...you didn´t give any reason for your delay, which very clearly endangered Amulius´ life itself...to your luck and his skill, the day was saved." But my so-called bad side tried to confront back: "There is no way, why I should have been removed from the position by my father. Why he did so? Can´t I even have my personal reasons? They don´t seem to understand what caused my delay to the docks..." , however the good side of me finally made a breakthrough and convinced me as a whole to agree the decision, what my father made against me... "Aulus, you have still life ahead of you...the glory is still in front of you, all you need to do, is to snatch it. However, breaking your trust to your father and your brother can´t be considered as glorius deed...that is why you lost this position in first place...better look brightly ahead, I know about your good belief to Amulius, the new heir of your faction..." That feeling was right...indeed I had faith and trust in my brother Amulius, who now has the duties to fulfill as faction heir and as a future leader...I know he will do well...he has all characteristics to make a great leader...but for now this is it...tomorrow we are at Salona to put down the Rebels there and make the town as one of the Brutii town...

Indeed long arguing it was in Aulus´ soul, but deep down he accepted his dismissal and trusting it to Amulius...the morals of the faction heir are or were indeed greatly high and also easily breakable during the time...with great power comes great responsibility...

[Philip Regent of Hospitallers]

As said before, feedback is strongly recommended for to know, what you like/dislike about my AAR...Thank you in advance for it!!

[Philip Regent of Hospitallers]

The Sons of Mars


Capitulum III - Expanding to North and South

Letter from Amulius to Vibius, 267 BC

Dear Brother, I have a request to ask from you. As you may have heard Apollonia´s conquest and subsequent victory at Pindos, I humbly ask from you to send me reinforcements to strengthen my forces for the upcoming attack at Macedon town of Thermon. I hope you are willing to send some Hastati units to my army within six months as Thermon is under siege at the moment and ther is no sight or movement by Macedons. Despite the fact and situation that our economy has not been good lately I need your hastati units from Tarentum to strike another hard blow against those Macedon dogs in Thermon...it hopefully would decrease the economical pressure we´re having at the moment and in no time you could sent orders to barracks to retrain your town garrison. Hopefully in few months reinforcements arrive at Thermon...

Your Brother, Amulius


"This is interesting request from him.", thought Vibius by himself "I thought that he could provide forces from Apollonia, as the last reports say that the town should have enough populace to retrain few units of Hastati...did he already exhausted the resource of manpower he had or did he let that incompetent fool Aulus to provide reinforcements for the siege of Salona?? There may both options in use...hmm...this gives me a thinking time, but I can´t leave my brother in trouble and endanger his life like Aulus already did...What was on his mind for the Mars´ sake?!"

Yes, Vibius was very angry towards Aulus having heard of his betrayal towards Tiberius and Amulius...he was on very clear opinion, that Aulus should dismissed from the position as Faction Heir, which would take an immediate effect and giving to Amulius...a leader with one hand, didn´t seem right during the time...as matter of fact, then Tiberius´ grandson Cassius was next in line after Amulius, the eldest son of Amulius. Vibius still had to decision to make and he made his way to Tarentum Barracks...

"Commander Oppius!! Come here at once!!"

"Yes, my governer. What is thy wish or command?", asked Oppius humbly.

"How many men you have in the barracks at the moment?", asked Vibius with his sharp look in the eyes.

"About 3 cohorts of Hastati and 4th is making through their training procedures. May I ask, why you need to know about the numbers?"

"My brother is at Thermon and he needs some reinforcements for the upcoming assault on the town. Are your men ready to go overseas?"

"I...I...I...honestly don´t know." , stuttered Oppius, but he gained himself, when needed and continued: "I think they are. Shall I give the men orders to ready themselves to go to the docks?

"Then so be it.", said Vibius. "Send your men over to Croton docks. The navy is at the moment there. It is highly possible that you have to confront the Greek navy first, since they have giving us a lot of trouble lately, despite the trade agreement between us. Ready your cohorts and appoint one of your Captains as Barrack Commander."

"Yes, my Governer."

"One more thing, Oppius. Give this message to Amulius as well."

"Your wish is my command, my Governer."

And Vibius turned back to palace...while Oppius gave his orders and appointed his captain Lucius as new Barrack Commander to train new Hastati units...

"Lucius, here at once!", shouted Oppius.

"Yes, commander. What are your orders?"

"I appoint you as temporary Barrack Commander here, as I have been ordered by Governer to take my 3 cohorts and go to the docks in Croton. From there we shall sail to the coast near Thermon to reinforce Faction Heir army for the upcoming attack against Macedon forces.", said Oppius.

"Yes, sire I shall give the men orders to assemble into marching formations."


After 3 months of land and sea voyage, Oppius and his 3 cohorts landed on beach coast near Thermon, where they almost immediately made their into Amulius´ camp and Amulis himself was glad to see them and Oppius started:

"My heir, your brother sent us here. I am the commander of Tarentum Barracks Flavius Oppius and I provide you three more hastati cohorts for the upcoming battle against Macedon. I hope this should be enough."

"I thank you and my brother for the reinforcements, Commander Oppius. Yes, this should be enough for the upcoming attack against Macedonian force. Reports say that their army is led by general and Macedon Heir, Aloeus. They should arrive in couple of days and we shall wait them. Oppius, put your hastati cohort tents upi in the camp, we shall stay here for 2 or 3 days until there is sign on Macedon army. You may leave now.", said Amulius.

"Yes, my heir. I shall give the men orders to build up the tents. One more thing, my heir, if I may..."

"Yes, Oppius, what is it?"

"Governer of Tarentum asked me to give this to you."

"I thank you, Oppius, for the message."


I haven´t been able to learn, what the message contained or what Vibius wrote to his brother Amulius...it would have been quite personal message, since Vibius hated his brother Aulus and I have my doubts that the letter, if I happen to find it one day, may contain something related to Aulus and Tiberius...speaking of Aulus, then he managed to take Salona after two years of siege, Rebels were forced to attack his forces...and were utterly destroyed...

Travelling Lodge of Aulus Brutus, 264 BC

Finally, after two years of siege and rebel starvation, the town of Salona is now under Brutii rule. Local populace greeted me as their hero and savior at the gates, after being under such outlaws, as were those barbaric Illyrian Rebels. They were rebelling for last 36 years already, meaning that it all started then 300 BC, when Dacian Governer was executed by Illyrian Mercenaries and they took the control over the town...no one did not even attempt to attack and liberate them...until now, when I, Aulus Brutus, finally managed to liberate the citizens of Salona and they humbly accepted me as their new governer...this town shall grow to a great city, since it has great location on the coast of Adriatic sea. Rebels were forced to take offensive action against us, but their undisciplined forces were no match for us and they died easily at our boot heels...Now there is much work to do...establish first defenses, retrain our men, get the economic up and running and lot more, also put up some watchtowers to see our enemies movements...


But year earlier, 265 BC, Amulius finally met another Macedon army led by Aloeus and Amulius ordered his men to take their battle position...

"Men, take your positions! We have some Macedon blood to bathe in and to drink to tonight!" Oppius take your men to right wing and assault his left wing of Militias there! Velite units, go harrass their lines, throw your javelins into their ranks, on the double!! Cranicus, take your men to the left and leave one cohort as backup! Your going to need it, when battle balance has to be broken for us!"

As both armies marched towards each other and Thermon fate in Macedon hands, they knew that giving everything today is not enough, they knew they face a shrewd commander, who already took two great victories near Apollonia and Pindos and he would not hesitate to take another one...But suddenly Aloeus found Amulius on his left wing and not on right wing as expected...

"Cranicus, CHARGE WITH THE HASTATI!! Guards, CHAARGE!! Their general is over there!!"

Aloeus had nothing to, but to charge back as much as he could, since they found approaching Romans behind their backs. Fighting could even barely start, when Aloeus and his bodyguard had fallen dead...Aloeus´ army was crumbling, hastati and Amulius pursued them down, leaving no survivors...

"VICTOOORYYYY!!" THE CITY IS OOUURS!!"

When Romans approached to Thermon, Amulius ordered Cranicus and Oppius to him...

"Commanders Oppius and Cranicus, to me, now!!"

"Yes, my heir, what do you ask of us?", said Cranicus.

"Enslave the populace, I feel that they might not like us and may rebel...half of them is enough.", ordered Amulius.

"Yes, my heir, we will do as you ask of us.", said Oppius and commanders went to give the orders to the men to send half of the Thermon´s populace into slavery to show, who rules this town now...not Macedons, but the Brutii...

[Philip Regent of Hospitallers]

The Sons of Mars


Capitulum IV - War On The Fronts

Diary of Tiberius Brutus, 263 BC

What am I doing here in Croton? I just could leave with my 4 cohorts and just travel overseas to see and/or help my sons where needed. I could say Valerius that he is now governing Croton...yes, that is exactly what I am going to do. Despite of my old age, I still am able to lead my men to victory, if needed and so I am going to do it as well...though I plan going to north...to see Aulus and see how he has been doing all those years since the removal from heir´s position. I only hope he doesn´t give all the hate on me, what he might have...

Yes, that should be good enough...travelling over Ontranto to Apollonia and then go straight to Salona first, then back down south towards Thermon to see, what Amulius does now. Amulius´ exceptional skills on command have lead to astounding victories at the battles of Apollonia, Pindos, 3 times defended Thermon successfully against the all odds he had...his men by now should extremely battle-hardened hastati, like never seen before in the Brutii lands...started war with Macedon has now progressed on to Greeks, who decided to break the trading lines and sought the chance to attack Thermon, but lucky for us as said before, they have been failed a lot and they have lost two generals as well in their siege attacks...Amulius should take offensive action sooner or later, rather than sit in defense of Thermon...

One more thing. Last week I visited Vibius...and he seems to become more unstable by the day. During my visit he angered on one of his guards with no reason acclaiming that he don´t do his duties as asked...when the guard did all right, at least in my point of view. It seems that loss of his hand during the skirmish has given him a lot stress, since he got Governer of Tarentum...he doesn´t feel comfortable in his position...one-handed person on such position, even people seemed still to look weirdly at him and when Vibius understood that then he just shouted "Go away and don´t look at me like this!! Otherwise I have you imprisoned!!" I am worried because of that...for sake of Mars, let he get over from his rage issues...


About week later Tiberius prepared himself at the Barracks along with Valerius, who supposedly had to say in Croton as a new governer of Croton. Tiberius already had his 4 cohorts of hastati ready and his bodyguards to escort him over sea and travel with him on the other side of Adriatic.

"Valerius, I ask of you to keep this city alive, improve with great new buildings, build up it´s economy, make beneficial trade agreements and most importantly be reasonable of citizens of Croton...I may not come back alive...as my age already shows it out...I just have my last wish to see my sons once more..."

"You don´t have to worry about the city. I will take good care of it lead this city to greatness, which shall not be forgotten, my King.", responded Valerius.

"That is good to hear, but can you make it happen as well? That is question, which time answers in some perspective...but now it is time I order men to the docks...there I shall have word with admiral Marcus.", said Tiberius. "Farewell, Valerius. At least one of us shall see each other again."

"Farewell, my King. Long live Tiberius!", chanted Valerius.

"Hastati!! To the docks, MARCH!!", ordered Tiberius.


Tiberius and his 4 hastati cohorts marched through the complicated streets of Croton, passing Governer´s Palace, Temple of Mars and having eventually reached to the docks. There they encountered the navy of admiral Marcus, who has had major victories over Greek navy in past few years to keep their land forces away from reaching to Italia. Later he didn´t have much sea battle, but more likely function as a ferry traveller across Adriatic.

"My Highness, I see that your forces have arrived. Fear not, my ships are repaired and men are well-rested for the upcoming trip across Adriatic.", started Marcus.

"That is good to hear, Marcus. Assemble your sailors ready. My men shall be departing shortly. Salona watchtower has reported that Gallic forces have sighted and they are moving towards Salona. I have to reach in time to help my son Aulus."

"Consider it done! Sailors!! To the ships!! We need some speed for the trip!! This is an order!!", shouted Marcus.


As I have lately blattered a lot of Amulius, I almost forgot Aulus...he had established watchtower quickly after the city´s liberation. And it seemed it was crucial, which already paid off...

"My Governer, I have urgent news for you.", came suddenly messenger in a hurry.

"What now?!", asked Aulus with his sharp look.

"Gallic forces have sighted at the north of this province and apparently they moving towards Salona to take it from us."

"What!! How many men was in the army?", asked Aulus nervously.

"About 1 500 men, my Governer. About six times as large as our garrison.", said messenger.

"Messenger, send quickly out reinforcement requests to Tarentum and Croton. Thermon is too far and Apollonia has problems of their own to train up their garrison."

"Yes, my Governer.", and messenger left from Aulus´ palace in a hurry to send requests to Croton and Tarentum for reinforcements.


About six months later Tiberius and his forces arrived at Salona. Lucky for him he did this before than the Gauls...however they had a small amount time before the siege could begin and with that the declaration of war as well...

"Father!! You came here!! You have gotten my request for help!!", was Aulus glad to see Tiberius before him.

"Yes, I did, my dear son. So, where Gauls have last sighted?", asked Tiberius.

"By our latest reports, they should be here by tomorrow and start the siege and since you are here we could give them a day they never forget."

"How many men are in their army?"

"First reports said about 1 500, but latest one has decreased the number 1 200 men, lead by their heir Epodorix. Still, we are somewhat outnumbered by about 300 men, but don´t have much choice, do we, father?"

"I suppose we don´t.", said Tiberius. "Our disciplined order and formation will prevail against those barbarians to the north and we´ll push them backto their distant homelands...If they should arrive tomorrow, we shall attack them. Give the order to your men as well, Aulus."

"I shall do that, father.", said Aulus and they went to their men for the preparations.


Though there is not much documentation from the Siege of Salona left, I still know that the Brutii forces under Tiberius Brutus successfully repelled the Gallic attempt and therefore here is only written document of it...by Aulus Brutus...

Travelling Lodge of Aulus Brutus, 262 BC

Yesterday was another historical day for us in Salona. As few years ago we liberated Salona from the Illyrian Rebels, then few days ago first arrived my father here, who will move on tomorrow towards south to see my brother Amulius once more. Coming back to the yesterday again. Three days ago were besieged by Gallic forces, which was a little suprise, since these "Romans" up in the northern Italia, who call themselves proud nobles of Roma and Julii, haven´t apparently dealt with them properly and so they did decide to attack us here in Salona under their general Epodorix, who also happened to be Gallic heir...by now he was...he fell in battle and the army crumbled beneath our disciplined forces. It seems that my father yet can command a force, which is eligible to win even against the odds, but how one leader can´t protect his nation?? But my father did so...he is still the leader and savior of the Brutii, who has lead 17 years already and he has worthy successor as well - Amulius.

But as for the battle itself, then they apparently arrived with 1 200 men in 15 units and general with his bodyguard. We had only 850 men to put against. 550 under my father´s command and garrison of Salona, about 300 men, under my command. But yesterday wasn´t the day, where superior numbers, barbaric strength and impatience won the day. NO, it was good Roman discipline, patient and battle-ready men, who only acted, when they were ordered to. Our men skills overcame their´s, our tactics worked better than their´s and our losses were greatly smaller than their´s...me and my father chased down almost all, who tried to escape from the battlefield...full army of barbarians sent into complete disarray.

Although yesterday can be called as second liberation of Salona, our troubles are far from over. Gauls still threat us from the north, Macedon from northeast - mostly near Apollonia and Salona, though lately they have pulled themselves back, probably trying to make us forget the eastern front, so they could strike hard. And then those arrogant Greeks to the south. After Amulius established foothold here, then the Greeks have seen their opportunity to only increase the troubles for us...but so far Amulius has kicked them away from Thermon for quite some time now...his men are the very best in whole Italia...but of course they are under command of the very best General in Italia as well. Let us hope that Mars grants him more wins over the Greek down south and for us here to repel the invader, whomever they happen to be - barbaric Gauls, Macedon pricks or arrogant Greeks.


Next few years in Brutii lands were quiet. No attempts of siege, no big battles, just few skirmishes in rebelling villages, which were put down severely and swiftly. This lasted to about 259 BC, when Amulius Brutus took his forces out of Thermon, leaving his younger son Cornelius to govern the city (Amulius´ older son Cassius governed then Apollonia, having showed good farmer knowledge in locals, his ways improved farms production quite a bit). Although Cornelius, like his father, had shown great potential of military tactics, but he hasn´t had any real situation yet. So it was, Amulius took about 900 men with him and moved towards Peloponnesos over Isthmus of Corinth...to make Greeks more furious and eager to engage him, so he could have a "highway" to Greeks capital, Sparta...

[Philip Regent of Hospitallers]

The Sons of Mars


Capitulum V - The Hellen Backbone

Yes, found another picture from my dead end part of my archives, which I almost never visit, because well I am blind to see anything, but my sense of touching still knows, where letters are on keyboard...but enough of that. Actually I want now to continue my story, last time we reached to 259 BC, Greece, where Amulius Brutus had already won many battles, his men were very skilled and experienced no other Legio could match his during that time. Amulius decided to take the offensive, since staying defensive doesn´t end wars...sooner or later one side of this Greco-Romani Wars has to fall. More than that, he wanted to break the backbone of the Hellens itself, but that would mean conquering Athens, Corinth and Sparta...if that would happen in later of this story, then Greeks wouldn´t be much of a problem anymore and Amulius could turn his attention then fully to the Macedonians to the north...but this was an ambitious plan, even for a general like Amulius...Greeks are known as Sovereign fighters...at hard times they can and they will unite as one...

"Oppius, here at once!", shouted Amulius from his tent outside of the camp.

"What does my General require at this time?", was Oppius respectful with his answer.

"Oppius, I want report on your men condition."

"My men are tired and weary from the battles, but they will follow you, where-ever you go, my General."

"That is good to hear. Send your scouts out to the Isthmus, we march there in two days."

"Yes, General.", and Oppius left from the tent.

Camp itself was located at the coast of the Corinth´s Gulf, about 50 miles from the Isthmus itself. Crossing it was one of the most dangerous plans for conquest plans, since it was and it still is very narrow, where possibly Greeks could their superior numbers for the first and last time against Amulius´ army, what he tended to call the "Legio of Hellen", but he had to take the risk, if he had any chance at all to break their will to fight...


Travelling Lodge of Amulius Brutus, 259 BC

Those Greeks...they still tend to fight...why? Their freedom is more valuable to them than anything in there Hellen world. And that their only reason to keep fighting against us. No matter, how many kill of them, they still are able to send another army to block our advance. One day our efforts have to be rewarded by Mars or just die trying as hard as we fought for the entire campaign in Hellas. Nevertheless, we march tomorrow onwards to Isthmus, which shall be dangerous part of our advance. If Greeks should encounter us there, then we have problems...and big ones...which may end with entire Legio´s destruction. I only hope they won´t wait us there...

There is still hope for us, that Legio prevail against the Greeks once and for all. Since Oppius´ men joined us, then he had done very well on the battlefield and his men quickly adapted the tactics of this Legio, which has lead his cohort to one of the best in the army...probably best ones in Italia as well then. I should go now, I think, tomorrow is going to be the day, where we succeeded or die.

Amulius was not only a great general, but also exceptional artist and he had consistent conseption of geography, which clearly had helped him even further to engage his military tactics on the battlefield to create victories from situation, where odds were even 1 to 4 against Amulius...but he did so and the documentation proves it...

This astonishing map, believe it or not, was actually made by Amulius himself, but he did not mark his directions there, where he did go with his army, but just before starting their trip to Isthmus, Oppius suddenly appeared before the heir:

"My General, why are we crossing the Isthmus and endangering whole Legio, but not instead the narrow strait instead?"

"Centuria Oppius, your question has fine meaning and brilliant plan to attack them behind, but it has two problems. First one is that, Admiral Marcus´ navy is too far from us to reach us. Second problem is that, even if we achieve victory and manage to take Sparta first, then it would be costly. Furthermore reinforcements would be denied, since our navy can´t yet compete with navies of Hellas and Makedonia.", said Amulius. "Just hope that Mars bestows us enough time to cross it."

"Yes, my General, I am hoping so. Shall I order my men to prepare themselves?"

"Yes, Oppius, go and give the orders to your men."

By afternoon Amulius´s army had crossed the Isthmus and luckily they didn´t encounter any Greek forces, but small units of rebels still tried to stop their way through the land-bridge. They put up their new camp northern part of Peloponnesos. Legend says that Amulius ordered his men to put their other camp up exactly parallel to his previous, so he could stare the last one over the gulf. By today´s conseption, the gulf is too wide from there to see to other side. But back to the story...as afternoon started to progress to evening, Oppius´ scouts had come back with urgent news to him.

"Commander Oppius!! Commander Oppius!! I have urgent news for you!", said clearly nervous scout.

"Yes, scout, what is it now?!"

"Large Greek force advances towards our camp. About 1 200 men. But that is not all. Also Greek reinforcement of 300 men has been sighted at the Isthmus."

"Damn it!", shouted Oppius, who clearly was angered. "I had a hunch that something like that would happen. They just acted this way, so we could cross Isthmus in peace! Those crappy actors of Hellas! I wish that theater or what they call them should have never been invented!! I need to see the General now!!"


Few moments later Oppius appeared in Amulius´ tent:

"General, my scouts brought some grim news.", started Oppius, who obvious waited Amulius´ response, but after few seconds of complete silence Oppius continued. "My scouts report that the Greeks have large army moving towards us, about 1 200 men. To make things worse, then another 300 men have sighted at Isthmus to block our way back. It seems that Greeks have foreseen our plan to cross the Isthmus and then blockade our way."

"Hmm...Our only option is now to fight. We have to make our way through their main army before reinforcements strike us from the back, otherwise Legio of Hellen shall be ceased from the history papers, despite the victories we have had over the years. Oppius, order your men to ready themselves, we need to make a night attack, then the reinforcements have no chance of reaching to main army for sure. Then we make our way to the west coast of Peloponnesia, where Admiral Marcus should be able to baord us from there. Then we go back to Italia for reinforcements.", said Amulius.

Yes, my General. I will order my men to ready themselves.", and Oppius left the tent.


Greek forces did not expect that Amulius would order his men to charge in the middle of the night. The Battle of Corinth was like cat-and-mouse game, where two generals tried to overcome each other with sly plans, but in the end Amulius took longer straw...or did he. Attacking during the night was also very riky feat to attempt.

Still, he did so.

"Men, NOW, charge!!!". shouted Amulius. Greek forces at first didn´t react and that was enough for Amulius to gain upper hand, despite being outnumbered, but he used natural camouflage to his advantage and made another Greek army a bloodbath and on their on sacred soil of Peloponnese. By the morning Greek reinforcements found only mountain of dead soldiers and on top of it was their general Eugenius of Sparta. This was a strong step on Hellen backbone...

On the next day, Legio reached to west coast and eventually crossed paths with Marcus, who promised them safe passage back to Italia for the reinforcements. However they were forced to make their back from Apollonia, since Macedon increased their activity in Brutii lands, trying to take the town again and Marcus was tasked to go to Sicily, since Greek navies were spotted there...

By the year of 254 BC, Amulius was back again near Isthmus and Greeks became once again a threat to Thermon and it´s people. Meanwhile few years earlier, Tiberius, who by the time was 66 years old, had cat-and-mouse game with large Gallic army and tracked them down with his grandson Titus, eldest son of Aulus, in the fields near Salona and crushed the Gauls by releasing ambush party on captain´s unit...and the captain fell and his men with him...

However, Centuria Oppius was killed in the skirmish in Greek village and Amulius didn´t know, who should command Oppius´ men in upcoming battle...until his 2nd in command appeared from nowhere...

"General Amulius, I am Flavius Grantius, Centuria´s second-in-command."

"Is that so?", looked Amulius sharply. "It seems to me, that you no more than a mere soldier, Grantius."

"Pardon me, but that is not true. I commanded Centuria´s 3rd Hastati Centurio since the Hellen war had begun. He made me his 2nd-in-command after last victory over those arrogant defenders in Peloponnesia.", defend Grantius himself.

"Bah, you speak lies or you are just sly to gain upper hand, so you could control my Legio, Grantius, who does acclaim to be 2nd-in-command of Oppius´ cohort. Tell me then, Flavius Grantius, if you think yourself capable of commanding cohort-full of experienced warriors, what would you do against the Greeks then?", asked Amulius, who had little trust to new cohort commander.

"I would send Velite units harrass them on the front, while flanks sneak behind phalanx units and throw pilas at them.", said Flavius, feeling that he had given smart answer.

"You actually do know something of military tactics.", said Amulius. "Very well, Flavius Grantius, you shall replace Oppius then, but I will be watching you...I still don´t like you, but even less I would trust you. Now, Grantius order your men quickly to ready themselves, we have bloody day ahead of us.", said Amulius.

"Yes, General Amulius, I will do as you ask."


Amulius referred to the day, when Battle of Athens was fought and he took another victory, but this time it was biggest one, as Athens fell also...relieveing Brutii´s difficult economical crisis, where they barely could afford any new units to Brutii armies.

"Grantius, here at once!, ordered Amulius and Grantius was there in seconds waiting for orders. "Kill, the Greeks inside the city. We have no more need of them, they will rebel against us, when left alone and being the savior of Athens. Give those bastards a day, which shall be membered forever."

"Yes, my General. Second Cohort!! Kill those Greeks!! No prisoners!!", shouted Grantius.

The massacre of Athens was the bloodiest day of the Brutii history, since the day, when Republic was formed. One year later, 253 BC, Corinth also fell, meaning that two major Greek cities were finally conquered after 15 years of relentless fighting, revenging the loss of thousands of Brutii warrior, who fell during the battles. Only Sparta remained as the "pureblood" Greek city. The Hellen Backbone was broken...

[Philip Regent of Hospitallers]

The Sons of Mars


Capitulum VI - The Eventful Years

Well, indeed after the Conquest of Corinth in 253 BC, the Greeks haven´t given completely up, but they were really pushed back into Sparta and faced greatly overwhelming odds against the Legio I Hellas, commanded by Amulius Brutus...well before going into details I might give some insight of important events, what happened in next decade after Corinth fell under Roman rule of Brutii "branch".

First of all, Rebels started large-scaled rebellion against Brutii in 250 BC, starting therefore Revolt Wars, which ended in 243 BC.

Second, as intelligence before found that Macedon and Greek formed an alliance against the Brutii, however this wasn´t enough to prevent the fall of Sparta in 247 BC, therefore ending Brutii-Hellen War, which lasted about 23 years. Greeks quickly announced withdrawal and agreed to any peace terms, Brutii put to them, Macedon went with the Greeks two years later.

Third, in 244 BC died, at age of 78, Tiberius Brutus, this meant Amulius got to the throne, though he was 57 already by the time.

Fourth and last of major events, Legio II Gallia was formed in 243 BC, under the command of Cassius Brutus, the eldest son of Amulius. The Legio´s target was to prevent any large forces of Gaul to enter into Brutii territory. It also gained it´s first major victory few months later against Gallic army, led by faction´s heir. However, his name is unknown to this day.

Now to the story - after Corinth fell, there was few years of quietness in Brutii territory, but after three years of that Rebels decided to launch more organized attacks against local villagers in 250 BC and Amulius was sent back near Apollonia to start putting out the fire...


Travelling Lodge of Amulius Brutus, 250 BC

Those Rebels, those Slaves, those Brainless men over there at Apollonia! Those bastards think that they can start a war against us - against the Legio I Hellas?! I show them, what they will become, after the battle has been done and any Rebel in the battlefield, fighting or fleeing, scared or not. They made themselves dead men, that is what will happen. I was on way to Sparta, but no Rebels decline that...well I have to make some father-son talk with Cassius and Cornelius...they will keep those Rebels under control, as I have to go back finish the war against Hellens once and for all! I may take Cornelius with me, since I am aging up and someone has to take over the command of the Legio in the future...well I go and "see" those Rebels now, as the time for battle has come once again!


After few hours of searching, I found Legio I banner as well, somewhere in the back end of my archives...not quite big though...

(Legio I Hellas)

This Legion has actually served great, though force was formed already in first days of Brutii-Hellen War in 270 BC, to take Apollonia and Thermon in first place, it grew into Legion somewhere in 261 BC, where Greeks started to launch siege attacks against Thermon. However it served and served, they grew into battle-hardened soldiers, who didn´t lose no battle in the war, which lasted 23 years...of course commander and Faction Heir Amulius, was also exceptional general, who´s achievements didn´t go unnoticed. My archives say that, he did win overall on 23 battles, 7 of them were against all of his odds. One special thing more about this Legion - it didn´t had any cavarly, if to exclude general bodyguards. Legion´s breakpoint was 247 BC, where ultimately they successfully took Sparta and forced Greeks to surrender.


Travelling Lodge of Amulius Brutus, 247 BC

For now, the Rebels have been dealt with and Cassius now tries control them, meanwhile I took my younger son, Cornelius with me, so he could harness some battle experience before taking over the command from me. By now, we have sieged two years Sparta and tomorrow we shall launch final assault on the city. We have prepared some good siege equipment - battering ram, siege tower, 3 ladder units and 2 sap point to collapse their walls, so army could pour in as fast as possible, though Sparta´s walls are quite magnificent and Legio hasn´t seen this kind of walls yet...something new in our hands to destroy and then later rebuild it again. But first we have to confront the defenses beyond those walls - a small garrison of Greeks soldier, lead by Greek general...don´t know his name though...no need to really, too. But we have to make history here...be the first ones, who has actually conquered Sparta and bring it under Roman rule! This we shall do! They can´t be all that fresh after two years of siege...at least to our advantage, but those warriors inside...their Spartans and they don´t need to know how many, but where? We have to be careful with that thought or we will fail fo sure...


"Cornelius, come here!", shouted Amulius.

"Yes, my father, what do you ask this time?"

"Cornelius, take these to hastati and wait until eastern sapper unit do their work. Then you will command them through the walls, that should be the straight way to Central Plaza, where General and his elite troops are now. Kill all you see there."

"Yes, my father. And you shall stay here at the frontier?", asked Cornelius.

"Yes, I will stay here, to give men some orders. I will join you, when the work here is done.", said Amulius back.


"Drop ladders! Battering Ram and siege tower, to walls!! Sappers, start digging!", ordered Amulius. The siege had begun. Walls went down, however they lost siege tower, but also the gates were breached.

"Men, CHAAARGE!! Cornelius through eastern walls, NOW!", ordered Amulius. That it was first defense line went quickly down, they were no match to Amulius´ forces...

"Now only General and his Spartan men left....Hastati from the front, NOW!" Bodyguards and Cornelius, onto General!", shouted Amulius. Greek General fell quickly, got killed and his Spartan men had lost their will...it was done...Sparta had fallen...

"Cornelius and Grantius, kill the Greeks. They don´t like us. Show them some Roman steel."

"Yes, my General.", said Grantius.


Amulius was forced to make bloodbath in all three Greek cities in order to make things solid and certain, that rebellion wouldn´t take place...After few years residing in Sparta, he received a letter from Tiberius...


Dear Son and Heir,

As you know I am very old now and sick as well. By the time you read this letter, be knowledged that I am dead. As soon as you have read this letter, go to Roma and let the Senate crown you as new leader of this faction. Although I know, you are not very popular amongst them, because they fear you and they have seen your success as a general, they want you out of picture. Don´t let this happen. If you don´t want to go to Roma, then at least visit our capital Tarentum, giving therefore your oath to the throne and for the right to appoint your heir...your both sons have shown great military knowledge over the years. Choose wisely...also finish the work up north against those notorious barbaric Gauls, as they call themselves so...but this is goodbye I guess...farewell and be strong...

Tiberius, Former Leader, 244 BC


That was Tiberius´ last hand written paper of his life, he indeed died two weeks after writing this letter. Amulius was thinking hard, when and should go at all go to Tarentum, since he was already 57, when he actually made to the throne, Aulus was 60 and Vibius 55. Old men them as well and next generation of Brutii ws already waiting their time...however Vibius haven´t had offspring of his own...broken line of family was coming up...Vibius´ wife was 15 years younger than him...

But as Amulius was on his way to Tarentum, he suddenly appeared to the fort, where Vibius was in alone...

"My brother, what are you doing here?!", asked Amulius suprisingly.

"Tarentum has been plagued, Amulius, but what are you doing here?! Aren´t you supposed to be in Hellas?", was also Vibius suprised.

"Father has died, Vibius. He sent me a letter, before he died and asked me to come here in Tarentum to take the oath...but since it´s plagued, I can´t do that now."

"Amulius, my brother, you are our leader now, don´t bother yourself with such issues at this point. I shall the city know and send messengers out, when the plague is over, that you shall be greeted as our Leader. Go now back overseas, I think that Apollonia has need of you.", said Vibius.

"Thank you, my brother. I shall go there."


Gauls were the biggest trouble now, since they harrassed Brutii lands and consistently tried to take Salona with large barbaric forces, but before confrontation of another Gallic army, Amulius visited Cassius...

"Cassius, my son! Finally I managed to see you once again."

"Father, I had hoped that you would come! What do you ask from me this time?", said Cassius.

"I need you take some of your cohorts out of Apollonia, go to your uncle Aulus and make new army, what shall be named Legio II Gallia. Your are taking the command of it and your new duty is to clear Gauls from our lands, they have been harrassing us long enough."

"But, father...what about Apollonia, who then defends it??", asked Cassius.

"First of all, this is an order. Second, Macedon also pulled out of war against us, after the Greeks were wiped from Peloponnesos, if two of them aren´t enough against us, then alone they can´t even scratch us even in this case.", said Amulius.

"So be it then, father. I shall take 4 cohorts of my Hastati and join with Aulus and give his orders from you.", said Cassius.


Well, Cassius was on his way to Salona to make new legion and take over the command from Aulus, who has been most of the time governing Salona, but gave it now to his younger son, Oppius and went himself outside to find any Rebels in his lands. Few weeks later before the confrontation of another Gallic army, Cassius appeared to him:

"Aulus, my uncle! Gald to have found you! I bring news from my father!", started Cassius.

"Cassius! What brings you here then? What news Amulius sent me?"

"He wants make new army called Legio II Gallia, which has to clear all Gauls and Rebels from northern Provinces under our dominion. He also added that I shall be commander of new Legio."

Therefore I add the banner of Legio II Gallia as well, found that one too.

(Legio II Gallia)

Bigger one than, other banner...lucky I guess, but back to the story...

"*sigh* So shall be it, Cassius. I am old anyway and can´t lead such men any longer. It seems that new generation of Brutii generals are coming onwards.", said Aulus.

"Thank you Aulus, for understanding, my fathers orders. He shall be grateful to you.", was Cassius thankful.


However, they didn´t know where Gallic forces may strike or what Rebels do next, despite the loss of the Rebellion Wars, but that is why second Legion was formed after all...so much for those years....

[Philip Regent of Hospitallers]

The Sons of Mars


Capitulum VII - Change In Command

After decisive victory in Sparta, Amulius´ emergement to the throne and Legio II Gallia forming, there was to a lot to think about and Brutii general at first didn´t know what to do. Both Macedon and Greece pulled out of war, Brutii spies used Tarentum´s recent plague to "distribute" it to Macedon cities, causing there major devastation and in-border weakning, while risking their own lives. Four spies were sent out and two of died themselves to the plague, while serving Brutii interests. They could have remembered as "heroes" of Brutii, but due to their occupation, Amulius decided to declare this as a faction secret and no one shall know of this outside of Tiberius´ sons. They sealed it completely - spies´ names, their target cities and villages, target generals and their distribution over Macedon territory.

All this secrecy onto potential enemy territories lasted about 2 years, until 241 BC, when suddenly one spy, who was sent to Crete, sent this letter to his superior back in Sparta:


Master Filus,
I have some urgent intelligence news to report from the island Krete. Apparently, Macedon broke their alliance with the Greeks in most betrayal way - they decided to send an army of Makedonia Phalanxies to the town of Kydonia and besiege, therefore declaring a war against Greeks. Kydonia´s garrison is very small - only 2 or 3 units of Militias. Makedonia sent full army of them - about 10 to 12 units, under General´s command, who´s name, alas, is yet unknown to me. I feel that Makedonia sensed the weakness of the Greeks after they lost control over Peloponnesus and they may soon send another army to Rhodos, as they plans have revealed it.
Spy from Krete.


There couldn´t have been better time, when two Hellen faction go in war against each other and while both been greatly weakened one defeat after another, gave Brutii great advantage to finish this once and for all. When Amulius had heard of it, then he summoned his messengers:

"Messengers! Here at once!", and he continued, when messengers arrived. "Take these notes to the cities of Tarentum, Croton, Segestica, Salona and Apollonia. Also add that it is an order from your leader. You may leave now.", finished Amulius. Within three weeks all required figures were present - Amulius´ brothers Vibius and Aulus, Aulus´ sons Titus and Oppius, also Amulius´ sons Cassius and Cornelius. This was the day, when Amulius announced that this will be the Imperial Council of Brutus or Impervm Concilivm Brvtvs, as Amulius originally named it. The historical first meeting took place in Athens, 240 BC, 2nd January.


Impervm Concilivm Brvtvs I, 240 BC, Athenai

"Honoured Brutus members of this day in Athena.", started Amulius - "Today we are making history by starting our own Council, which shall be as faction´s core organization, where our great and bloodpure Brutus discuss and decide, what are our next steps to greatness of forging our sole empire. Yes, we yet are under Roma, but that shall be ended by our children and grandchildren in the future, where we oust those Senat fools and deal with the Julii and Scipii scum. I have ordered you to gather here this day, this place, where we are once again at the crossroads of our perspectives. Few weeks ago received Spartan Intelligence that Hellen factions of Makedonia and Greece have turned against each other, therefore improving our position in Hellas. Honoured men of Brutus, I shall ask this only once - ALL OR NOTHING?", finished Amulius.

Therefore Aulus decided to start - "Dear brother and rest of the Brutus, I support that we shall go war against those Hellen scum and deal with them once and for all. As our past victories have shown that our troops have the quality and quantity to deal with them and yet, we haven´t submitted no battle neither Makedonia or Greece. However we need another Legio to be formed, who with Legio I Hellas shall destroy both Greeks and Makedons and claim those lands as one of our own, including Krete and Rhodos. Only then we can start thinking about the People´s support back in Roma, but if we should persist and not enter - then it shall be another long period, where stalemate is broken after series of battles with many armies colliding in battlefield."

Also other Brutus members took their time to speak something, but it turned into a moshpit, where no-one couldn´t speak clearly and no-one couldn´t understand anything. Finally Amulius called order inside great halls of Athena:

"Men, quiet! What are you doing? Let us now vote, whetever to conquer Hellens once and for all or not? AND no more speaking, just raise your hand, if you favor this."

Every Brutus was in favor.

"Then so be it.", continued Amulius. "Hellen factions of Greece and Makedonia shall be destroyed, as we hold upper hand against both of them. Therefore I degree to create Legio III Makedonia, which shall be under command of Oppius, who shall start from the northern part of Makedonia, by siegeing Bylazora. I shall take my Legio to Rhodos first, then onwards to Crete. Since reportedly Gauls have cut off from Italia, we have no need for them now, as those Julii fools waste their´s onto those Barbarians. This means that Legio II Gallia shall also attack Makedonia, from their capital Thessalonica, under command of Cassius. And if my health allows, then I shall finish Makedonia of with the siege of Larissa. If not, then Cornelius will do it...", referred Amulius to his weak health and future leader, Cornelius with the last sentence. "Now I declare this Council ended. Now, noble Brutus, to your duties.", finished Amulius.

In 239 BC, Amulius landed with his Legio at Rhodes to annihilate Greeks once and for all, since by then, Macedon had already taken Crete. Rhodes was the last bastion of the Greeks. They were greatly outnumbered and also lot less inexperienced than Amulius´ Legio was...six months later Greeks were destroyed. Rhodes fallen, once again it´s citizens killed, any money was looted, any strange temple destroyed to replace with the Roman ones...Greeks world was finally at an end. No more Sparta hero, no more Athena democracy, no more Corinth waging war, because it was all history by then.

Year later, when order in Rhodes was restored, Amulius took his navy and went towards to Crete. There was the point where all Legios were ordered to attack Macedon to put them under great pressure. Amulius did so and the plan went as needed. Attacks on Kydonia, Bylazora and Thessalonica appeared within 3 weeks from first to last. This was great blow for Macedon, since they didn´t had enough force to push them back...since they had bloody wars against Thracian forces, which had weakened them. Not to mention secret spy mission to deliver the plague...

In 237 BC, Crete fell. However that victory was costly, as Amulius suffered severe injuries, calling Cornelius before his death:

"Cornelius...I am dying. My wounds are too deep to recover from it. As the next leader, keep the Brutus name proud and powerful, don´t let your grandfather´s legacy go into waste. I have faith in you. Let the powers of Mars bless you... (dies) aggrhhh...."

"NOOOOOOOOOOO!! Father!!!", screamed Cornelius. But he recovered from it quickly. He knew that now he has the leadership in his hands and now he can do, what he has wanted to this for a long time. As matter of fact, Amulius was on the throne only seven years, dying at age of 64, in Kydonia.

Soon after, also Thessalonica and Bylazora fell, however, Cassius fell ill, after Thessalonica was taken. He ordered to build a fort to quarantine himself until the plague has been cured from him...

In 236 BC, Cornelius Brutus finally finished the Brutii Law, what he called "Degree of Imperivum Brvtvs". It had 4 chapters and 16 law, 4 per chapter.

The Degree of Imperivum Brvtvs
Degree of 3rd Leader, Cornelius

Chapter I - The People

Law I - People has the right to vote for the new governer candidate, if they don´t like their old governer.
Law II - People has to provide taxes at reasonable rate to contribute for Brutus greatness and their own safety from inside and out.
Law III - People classes are as follows - Slave, Farmer, Village Elder, Townspeople, District Elder and Town Elder.
Law IV - In Elder postions there has to be at least two person to avoid one´s attempt for sole power.


Chapter II - The Faction

Law V - Faction is lead by Brutus Consul, it´s heir shall be Second Consul.
Law VI - Both Leader and Heir have to be born Brutus male nobility.
Law VII - The Brutus Consul´s position is for life, it´s power is absolute and it can´t be wronged. The Consul has right to change his Second Consul.
Law VIII - Brutus Consul further degrees have immediate effect after it has been announced.


Chapter III - The Army

Law IX - The Army shall consist of Legios, which shall be formed by Brutus Consul or Second Consul. However, if Brutus Consul does not see the need of the Legio formed by Second Consul, then Brutus Consul has the power to annex it.
Law X - Legio´s General shall be appointed by Brutus Consul or Second Consul, whom formed it. However, Brutus Consul has the right to annex Second Consul´s choice of commanding officer.
Law XI - Legio´s Commander has to be at least General.
Law XII - Ranks are as follows - Sergeant, 1st Sergeant, Centurio, 1st Centurio, 2nd General, General, Legio General, 1st Legio General. Despite the rank of commanding officer, the Brutus Consul is always the army commander, if present in any Legio.


Chapter IV - The Governer

Law XIII - Any people, despite their rank shall be lead by the Governer of the Region.
Law XIV - The Governer has to be at least 2nd General.
Law XV - Governer´s decisions and degrees have to be both approved by the People and Brutus Consul.
Law XVI - The Governer is appointed by Brutus Consul, however it can be voted over by the People.

Cornelius showed great promise in his people and his generals. He knew that he had to continue his father´s and grandfather´s legacy, but he also wanted to make change in command...this was his greatest concern so far...how to do that....

[Philip Regent of Hospitallers]

The Sons of Mars


Capitulum VIII - A New Threat

Few years were complete peace and quiet times at the Brutii borders. Having allied with Thracians, and solidified the eastern borders, they decided to overlook things inside, cast out any spies, deal with the rebels and execute any criminals they encountered in Brutii territory, who seemed potentially dangerous. These were times, when every Brutii family member and general married to one of female Brutii member could take a little rest. But one day Cornelius´ brother Cassius died, who was intelligence master and Cornelius decided to take it over...

Travelling Lodge of Cornelius Brutus, 229 BC

Yesterday reached my ears the death of my brother, Cassius, who died in the fort near Thessalonica, where he few years ago overcame the plague. I thought his health was stronger, he already planned significant plans, how to improve our intelligence...I guess, I was wrong. Maybe the plague left it´s mark and never did actually go out from his body...it may have seen the chance to strike once again...this time decisively. I shall be on my way to Thessalonica at the moment, where his funereal rituals take place. I should be there within few days. Townspeople are already making arrangements, how and when rituals shall be performed. At least they won´t start without me.

But now there also time, when I shall take over my brother´s work and finish his plans for intelligence improvements. Apparently, these are directed to far more aggressive way than it is now...if we even actually have such thing...just only 2 spies - at Crete and Numidia...both of them has no purpose. Cassius´ plans include assassins against our potential enemies, including the Senate, Scipii and Julii families...of course our enemies in the future as well, but who could question our authority in Balkans now?? Greeks are destroyed, Macedonians are destroyed - thanks to my father mostly...but also uncle Aulus and grandfather Tiberius have their parts in this success as well.

Still, the question inside me burns - what next? Who is next? Dacians? Scythians? Germanians? Or even Thracians? I will never know until one of them - potential enemies have taken a step to question our supremacy over Balkans...or even soon even in North - Germania lands, Scythia, Transylvania. This is only matter of time, when we make those regions our lands as well...


In 228 BC, Cornelius had established well-working intelligence system, by using his brother´s ambitious plans to use extensively assassins and spies, especially against other Roman nobility...and it worked. In that year 3 Senate members, 2 Scipii members and 3 Julii members fell to an assassins blade. This was proof enough for Cornelius to dispatch another agent towards Pontus...Brutii´s eastern neighbour, with whom diplomatic relations were scarce and any cooperation between them would lead up to war...one way or another - since two powers was denial at the time. One always had to fall and one had to stay and write history about other´s downfall. It was just that simple.

Suddenly, year later, Cornelius received disturbing letter from Caius Calpornius, who was the governer of Thessalonica then...


Honoured Brutus Consul,

I am forced to inform that our allies, those barbaric Thracians have honour nor virtue. They have betrayed us!! At this very moment they laying siege to my city and I humbly request that you send up here to Thessalonica Legio full of reinforcements to drive them out and destroy them completely. Intelligence has reported that more armies of Thrace is on the way to our lands - targeting our villages, farms, small towns. They pillage everything, rape everyone, kill any men on their way. They have no mercy and they will attack us more and more, if we don´t retaliate this blasphemy!! I once more ask hmubly to deal with those barbarians and show them, who is the supreme ruler in Balkans and their lands. I do my best to make ready the garrison to withstand the siege.

Governer of Thessalonica, Gaius Calpornius, 227 BC


Cornelius was furious about the letter, after he read it. He ripped it into four, threw it into fire and shouted as loud as he could...

"ARRRRRRRGHHHHH!!! This is outrageous!!! How Thracians could even dare to think about such action, lest even making it reality!! Those barbarains are worth of swift death and destruction from our forces!! Messengers to me, now!!"

"Yes, my Consul, what do you wish?", asked messenger, who clearly was frightened from Cornelius´ anger.

"Take these parchments to Legio commanders at once! And no delays!! They have to be there quick!! Understood? Now get going!!", ordered Cornelius.

"Yes, my Consul. We are on our way.", and messenger went out of palace in double-time, whipping their horses to get going only faster and faster.

Cornelius meanwhile, thought deep and hard, what to do next. He knew that he also had to take his army to the north to fend off Thracians first at Thessalonica and then destroy them completely. But this was not an easy task to take. Maybe Thracians did plan so - forge an alliance in first place to build up forces and then stabbing Roman to their backs, where they least expected.

"What would father think of me now? Or grandfather? Am I strong leader enough to carry on their legacies? Have I failed them?", asked Cornelius from himself, as he walked out of the palace, towards to his army...except he did walk past, not them...he intended to go to the Temple of Mars.

"Mars, what have I done to deserve this treachery? Are you angry at me? At my family? At everything? I don´t know. I have come here to ask your blessing against those traitors up north in Thracia, they are the ones are worth of your wrath, not us...", Cornelius continues silently on for about an hour, before he came out of the temple. He made his way to his Legio eventually...

"Caesarus! Gaius! To me at once!", ordered Cornelius his Centurias.

"Yes, my Consul. What are your orders?", asked Gaius.

"I want full report on your men.", ordered Cornelius.

"My infantry is ready for battle, but yet few wounded ones are still needed to get their treat. I suggest to leave them here. They won´t be able to make their trip. I suggest that, when we had liberated Thessalonica, we shall take reinforcements from there to advance further north. Those barbarians can´t have their time on our soil, if needed we shall attack them by the sea.", answered Caesarus.

"Caesarus, tactical movement is my duty and you had to give me the report only about your men, not to plan tactics...though your plans has some merit in it. Gaius, what about your men?"

"Consul, cavarly and archers are ready for their duty fully. Just yesterday we finished bandaging last minor wounds. As for the tactical planning, I suggest that we shall leave it upon you, my Consul."

"Fair enough, Gaius. Ready your men, first thing in the morning they have to be assembled then we move out towards Thessalonica.", said Cornelius.

"Yes, my Consul.", said Centurias at once.

Cornelius´ Legio marched 3 weeks towards Thessalonica. There the city was - tired, citizens in hunger, governer having difficulties to keep populace under control. The city guards recognized Cornelius and his Legio and started to bring their hopes up:

"We are saved!! Consul´s army is arriving here to crush those barbarians at the gates!!", shouted city guard.

The Liberation of Thessalonica took place day after Cornelius´ arrival to Thessalonica...

"Gaius, take the cavarly to those woods over there. I want you to give them a nasty suprise, when they charge our front line. I command archers menwhile.", ordered Cornelius.

"Yes, my Consul. Cavarly on me double-time!!"

"Caesarus, ready yourselves, Thracians are known for their strong charge...especially their falxmen and bastarnae. They are very strong and skilled."

"Not as good as our legionnaires, my Consul. Legionnaires, hold the line, ready your pilas, throw them at will!!", said Caesarus.

"Archers, fire at will!!", shouted Cornelius.

Thracians had heavy charge, but legionnaires stood up to it, but as the battle commenced, Gaius decided to release the ambush - "Cavarly, chaaaaarge!!!" They straight onto Thracian general, who fell in battle, infantry lines of those barbarians were frightned, they started to rout, Gaius hunt down every Thracian soldier on the field, who was at the reach of his or any other cavarly sword or lance. It was the bloodiest day yet in Brutii history, but the city was liberated, the siege was broken, and legions were boosted to make advance to their territory and take their lands, but they had to wait until other armies also reach to northern border.

In years 226-224 BC Brutii armies took victories over Thracia in such battles as Byzantium or Tylis, both of them falling under Brutii rule, breaking the will of Thracians, leaving them only northern parts of their lands of Campus Getae and Campus Scythii...which weren´t very wealthy towns...but soon to be fallen under Brutii rule anyway...at least in Cornelius´ point of view.

Anyway, Thracian were broken, but not utterly. They still had 3 armies ready to take it back, what they had lost to Brutii. They weren´t like Greeks or Macedon, whom upon loss of their capital city were demoralized and broken. They were still fired up...Thracians - simply said to be hybrids of Greeks and Barbarians, who basically were going from one to another...but which, was never found out.

In 222 BC, when Brutii already had gained upper hand against Thracians, there was more to come from Rome - the Reforms of Marius. Newly made army formations, ranks and soldier types, which were passed without the approval of the Senate, allowed the ploretarians to join military service...not only join voluntarily, but in mandatory order. However, it would take years, when Brutii or any other Roman families would grasp the effect or completely go over from Republican forces to Legionnaire ones. And yet Cornelius decided not to wait, but press onwards...with Oppius Brutus´s Legio. Here is some thoughts of Oppius after the siege of Porrolissium:


Letters of Oppius Brutus, 222 BC

News from Rome arrived to me. Apparently man named Gaius Marius made some reforms to the military, which should even improve our odds even further. However, we can´t wait until the full Legio of new soldier arrive here to fight against those Thracians. They would gain to much strength in that time against us. We must press onwards, since they don´t have much left. Their capital is under our control, also are other major cities. They only are left with few towns and enemies from all directions. Scythia to the north, us from the south and Armenians to the east. They won´t last long in the fray, they have themselves got into.

However, they refuse to see their defeat. They are still fired up, thirsting for our blood and retake, what they think it´s their rightfully. Well, I think that betrayal has it´s benefits, but there are more downsides than gains...and they had seen that...hopefully...but let me go now...there is more to be done...by teaching those barbarians a lesson, which they shall not forget...or shall forgive.


Two years later, Campus Getae fell. However, there was suddenly more to contend with...something what really disturbed Cornelius...

[Philip Regent of Hospitallers]

OK, sorry for the delay, had a lot things to do, but thanks for the view so far! I really do appreciate it. But I still await your feedback, though, to see, what you like about this AAR and where could I improve my storyline or any other aspects. Thank you in advance!!