[RTR AAR] Victum , Triumphus quod Roma - A Roman AAR

[Rittsy]

Ave,
This is my first attempt at an AAR after a long absence for RTR.

House Rules: Historical Expansion and Armies (no immediate attacks on Gaul with an army of Triarii) aswell as administration (governers). I'll be using Quintus' Guide to Conduct Becoming of a True Roman to assist me. The mod I'm using is Imperator II by Lestat.

Notes on Cheating: I regret to inform readers that I will be cheating to a certain extent. In order to keep factions alive long enough for Rome to face them as they historically did, the add_money code followed by bribery of a certain settlement or army will be used. The settlement, and any remaining money from the cheat, will then be given to it's historical owner. My initial plan was to use armies to prevent the unhistorical expansion of the AI, but this fell through when I realised I'd have multiple armies fighting from Babylon to Germany who are unable to conquer settlements and just cost money, only to have to return in 5 years time when the situation repeats itslf. *phew*

The AAR begins in the year 262BCE, as I'd already started the campaign before deciding to write the story. The First Punic War has just begun so here we march to Sicilly. Before you read it, i should point out there is strong language during the piece. Enjoy...

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Voyage to Sicilly

The air was heavy with salt, sweat and other beastly odours. Amulius had awoken to the sound of a soldier coughing and silently cursed the man. It had taken him hours to drift off. The rough sea's that rocked the Trireme made sleeping almost impossible. As his eyes adjusted to the darkness he noticed a few men gathered together, all discussing their lives back in Italy and what they were going to do when they returned. Amulius knew that these campaigns were tough on the men, no matter how close they may of been to Rome.

As the sickly air began to reach his stomach, he decided to head to the open. Standing up, he had to steady himslef against the walls, or risk tumbling upon an unsuspecting soldier.He manged to menauver his way past those who still slept and at that moment, wished he was amongst them. For him, sleeping had become a luxury. His position as Tribune in Consul Pubius' Legion was nothing less than an honour, but to be their with him as he sought victory and glory over the Carthaginian's in Sicilly was something more.

"Can you not sleep?" a voice said. Startled, Amulius turned to quickly and lost his footing. It was the Consul. "Mind yourself there lad. A broken bone this early in the campaign would turn you into a laughing stock amongst
the men"

He scrambled to his feet, his knees aching and frustrated at his own clumsiness.
"Sir. I was just... getting some air"

"Glad to here it. Fresh air clears the mind and allows one to contemplate whatever it is they want to contemplete. I myself am here to deliberate on the 'Myth of the Cave', one of my favourite of Plato's works." Publius replied, in a tone reminding Amulius of his father. "Are you familiar with Plato?"

"A little" Amulius lied. He'd never had much on an interest in Philosophy.

"Excelent. I look forward to our time together. May we 'brutal' Romans, answer the many great questions those 'civilised' Greeks failed to." Publius replied jokingly

Amulius smiled. He'd expected the man who had destroyed the armies of Pyrrhuss and defeated the Latin states with Tiberius Coruncanius to be more soldiery, more brutal in his speech. More concerned with battle and victory than the queries of some perfumed Greek.

"You're Amulius aren't you?" Publius asked

"Yes Sir. Amulius Decius Mus."

"Your brother is Manius?"

"Yes sir."

"A strong soldier that one. In one or two years time he'll have his own Legion. I must say he is one of the greater minds amongst the Tribunes". Publius said, hoping to spark a reaction. The rivalry between the two brothers had been a constant souce of humour for many of the men in the legion.

Amulius clenched his teeth.
"Yes sir. I've heard nothing but praise about him."

"I must ask, how old are you?" the Consul questioned. "You seem... young. Not yet twenty"

"17. I requested that i leave my studies early so that i may begin my career in the Legion."

"Hmm... eagar are we?"

"Yes sir"

"I don't like eagarness in young my officers. It often leads to foolishness, and fools aren't to be trusted with a command." Publius said coldly, the benevolence in his voice had gone.

"I am no fool sir" Amulius replied, shocked at the Conul's sudden change of tone

"I should hope not... Goodnight Decius"

"Goodnight Sir" He replied, saluting as he did son. Amulius smiled to himself, glad that his first personal meeting with the Consul had gone so well. Not perfect, but well. He'd expected his age may come up and was prepared for a lashing on the subject. Publius was famous for his stance on education, especialy for future Preators.

Rome
Tiberius paced the floor of the Senate house, knowing that his future aid with the success of Publius. How stupid he'd been. Why did he support the man's foolish ambitions to subjucate Sicilly. Carthage had a strong foothold on the island, and it would take nothing short of a miracle to loosen it.

"Dammit Publius" He said aloud, hoping that there were none who heard him. The last thing he needed was some senator trying to make a name for himself at the next session by question the two Consul's unification in the matter.

The two men had known each other for years. Their father's were both influential landowners who had fought together decades ago. Ironic to some that both Tiberius and Publius should be elected conculs together... a little too ironic for their enemies.

He heard footsteps aproach and ceased pacing. He considered sitting down and pretending to be asleep but decided against it. A consul should not fear a senator's suspsisions.

"Consul. I thought I might find you here" the senator said, as he made himself known.

"Vedius, how terribly clever of you to find me. If only you could fetch a stick... then you could serve a family well as their dog one day" Tiberius replied. He'd always hated that man.

"Oh you joker you. It is a shame of Publius' rashness. Thinking he could take Sicilly from those Carthaginians tut,tut,tut. I'm sure he and his army have already been sunk by storms. What a shame that would be?"

Tiberius, for a moment, considered killing the man. It would be easily done. A few blows to the head and then simply cracking the mans head open on the hard floor. But he decided it may seem suspicious, turning up to the Senate House tommorow with a blood stained Toga, as Vedius lie cold and bleeding on the floor. No, far better to have it done privately.

"I have absolute faith in Publius." Tiberius contered. "I am sure that he has made the crossing safely, and with any luck, Messana will be soon in his hands."

"You have too much faith in the man. That is your downfall."

"And yours is your stupidity. Tell me Vedius, how is it that a man who's mother made a living on her back managed to become a senator?"

"You are scum Coruncanius. I look forward to the day when the Plebs are calling for your blood." Vedius answered, as he stormed out of the building

"Goodbye my friend, do not visit any whorehouses on your way home. You would not want to be serviced by a relative."

Tiberius knew the insults were childish, but they made him feel better. He stared at the Consul chairs and, remembering his predicament, continued the pace.

Servius the Profane
"By the God's, it's as hot as Vulcan's ass" Sevius shouted, loud enough for all the men to hear. Many of the younger soldiers laughed loudly whilst the veterans remained silent. They'd grown used to the Legate's comments and were begining to annoy.

Servius had served in the Roman legion for a period of 12 years, and in that time as Tribune, had managed gain himself the nickname '...the Profane', thanks to his uncouth, offensive and foul mouth. Although the men loved it, many of his superiors were not impressed, and if it hadn't been for the man's obvious skill on the battlefield and diciplined style, he'd of no doubt been in a far less influential position.

The Legion had been marching through central Italy for weeks now, in pursuit of a small Illyrian force who'd landed just outside Ancona. Although the majority of the enemy lie defeated, there still remained a small group of raiders. Not enough to pose any major threat to Rome or her Italian allies, but certainly enough to hurt her farms and grain thay would rely on in the coming winter months.

"Where are the bastards. We've been following them for days. Why don't they show themselves?" Servius questioned. He was tired of chasing these damned Illyrian raiders, he yearned for a battle. "Manlius!"

A scout rode up quickly, determined not to make the commander wait.

"Send your men out ahead up the coast, should you spot the enemy do not engage. Let them see you but do not engage. I won't you to lead them back to us" Servius told Manilius, the lead scout

"Yes Sir"

The scout took off, with a few units of cavalry, they'd find the enemy faster than Servius' infantry heavy legion.

"By Juno's ****, if they don't find them i'll go and hunt them myself." Sevius said under his breath

"Sir, it will be dark soon." Velerius, the young Tribune stated

"Oh for f... MEN HALT!" Servius called at the top of his lungs, frustrated that the Tribune noticed. He'd hoped to go on throughout the night, but knew Valerius' father would have something to say about that.

Valerius was the son of a senator, an administrator in the making. He had no place in a legion but it was needed if he had any hope of future in politics. He'd initially been assigned to the legion of Consul Publius, but his father's influence had kept him close to Rome much to the disdain of Servius and his soldiers.

"Begin preperations for camp. If it's not up by the time Mars spots us I will make examples. Those who don't work will answer to me." Servius told the young Tribune. Realising the harshness of his words, he added "Double the wine for each man, if the enemy are too cowardly to attack we might aswell be as drunk as the unwashed barbarians we chase"

Upon hearing this the men cheered.


To be continued...

[Rittsy]

Rome

Tiberius strode through the Forum toward the senate house, preparing himself for what would no doubt be another beating from Vedius and his faction. The man had been relentless in his attacks on Tiberius and Publius ever since they had lost their consulship's a few years ago. Although Polybius still remained in control of the Sicilian Legion, his progress was hampered by the constant need for him to return to Rome upon request of the Senate. The two new Consuls, Mocius and Rutilius had been indecisive in their decisions, neither were leaders, but unfortunately, both were obscenely wealthy and popular with the Pleb, whilst Publius' lack of progress in Sicily and Tiberius' poor administration at home had left the two with ever decreasing popularity.

In the past six years, both men had been re-elected to the Consulship twice, unfortunately these same two years were amongst Rome's most financially disastrous since over a decade ago when Pyrrhus marched through Italy. The Illyrians and Greek Cities constantly blockaded ports in Western Italy, and although Rome had obtained a peace treaty with the latter, the former had begun launching large raiding armies upon the towns of Corfinium and Ancona. Although Servius and his Italian Legion frequently pushed the armies back, he was unable to tie either down to a decisive battle. This, coupled with the Gallic spies spreading false information about the defeats of Rome's armies and the, let's just say, private lives of the senate, had led to huge amounts of unrest and a strong fear of rebellion, forcing the Consul's to lower the rate of taxation in the regions. As for Publius in Sicily, although he'd met with much success early on in his campaign, with the triumphant siege and enslavement of the Carthaginian town Messana and the fall of Agrigentum thanks to the betrayal of one of her citizens, his luck, by the conclusion of his second year on campaign, had run out. The army was caught up in some of the worst storms Publius had ever seen; whilst the plague that had cursed Syracuse had reached his legion and more fell to the sickness than had in battle. These constant disasters led some of the men to believe the gods had cursed Publius and many deserted. As his popularity waned with his troops, so too did it at home.

Tiberius noticed his old friend waiting at the senate steps waiting for him. No doubt dreading entering the building as much as he did. The ex-Consul was a General, not a bureaucrat; he hated these meetings and yearned to return to his Legion. Alas, he needed first to acquire further reinforcements, so that he may take the town of Lilybaeum, Carthage’s final strong hold on the island.

As the two men neared each other, they both smiled and rolled their eyes as the entered the Senate house.



Italian Legion

They’d been marching now for hours without rest, but there was certain eagerness within the men’s hearts as their chests swelled with excitement. At last, they were nearing the Illyrian army. For several months, the Legion had been in pursuit of a large Greco-barbarian horde, which had dared to besiege the town of Corfinium.

Servius smiled to himself. “Do you know what I’m going to do when I catch that basted warlord?” he asked his Tribune, not expecting him to answer. “I’m going to drink wine from his skull, and turn his ass into a war drum!”

His bodyguards laughed.

“You seem awfully quiet today boy. Something the matter?” he inquired. This time hoping for no answer. It was in Servius’ nature to be concerned with his officer’s wellbeing… he just wasn’t particularly concerned with this one’s.

“No sir nothing’s the matter. I’d just hoped to have been back at Rome by now” replied Marcus, in his most soldiery tone

“Rome? What in the God’s name is back in Rome but whores and cheap wine? No lad, far better to be out here in the open. Away from the corruption and filth of the city, pursuing an enemy you are so close to you can smell him.” Servius smiled as he said this, looking to the sky as he sniffed the air.

Marcus didn’t respond. He was not made for a soldier’s life. Not only did he suffer terrible back pains and cramps in his legs from riding all day, but he also couldn’t make decisions fast enough. He lacked the speed and military genius of his commander. Although he’d admit to of enjoying certain parts of a soldier’s life; the men’s cheers after the successful defeat of an enemy, the sense of accomplishment after building a fort fit for 5,000 soldiers in a matter of hours or the connection he felt with the natural world that one summers day by the coast of Rhegium, when the sun hit the water in such a way that it made him appreciate the smaller things, he still longed to return to his beloved city.


Senate House

The cries of 300 angry politicians were beginning to give Tiberius a migraine. They’d been debating for hours, with neither side making any ground on the other. It was not until Vedius rose from his seat and called for silence that relief was granted.

Vedius was well respected amongst the wealthy men of the senate, and his oratory skills had in the past swayed arguments into his favour. Born into a life of riches and dishonour, Vedius’ family were often used as a means of attack against the politician. His mother was well known for being a loose woman, using her looks and charm to ‘woo’ the most powerful of men to her bed, in the hopes of a possible future within one of the patrician families. Her persistence paid off, and was soon married into the Vedii. Although she died during childbirth, her name was still defiled by many of the Plebeians, believing her to be nothing but a whore who sought control and possessions. As for Vedius’ father, he was known to be a brutal man, on the verge of insanity. It was rumoured that he would during the winter when available game was low, kill his own slaves to quell his bloodlust. Despite his family, Vedius had risen through the political and public ranks and at age 30, was granted a role within the senate. In the 20 years he’d been a part of the Republic’s government, he’d ran for Consul three times, each year being defeated. He now sought to change this with the elections on the Ides of March this year; however to do this, he’d have to take drastic action.

“Senators…Friends…Romans!” Vedius called out at the top of his lungs, his hands emphasising his every phrase. “Why do we bicker on such trivial issues? Each of us knows there is only one solution to our predicament. Why is it none of you raise it?”

A soft murmur broke out amongst the senate. Publius and Tiberius’ eyes met from across the floor, each man showing his obvious confusion and concern.

“I will not waste your time with petty speeches on why this is the best course of action. Each of you already knows the reason why. Carthage has a hold over the island of Sicily and will not withdraw. We are unable to remove them by force and this war of attrition so many of you have supported is simply not working. Whilst we may cut off Lilybaeum’s supplies by land, the colony is still supplied by sea. I propose the following…”

By this stage Vedius had the attention of all in the senate house. Not one of them dared make a sound.

“I propose that Rome build a fleet to rival Carthage”

With that the senate broke into uproar. Such an idea had never been proposed before; none had dared suggest it. Carthage was the undisputed ruler of the Western Mediterranean; to attempt to rival her was madness. Vedius smiled to himself, knowing that he would have the support he needed. When they began to die down he continued.

“My friends…my enemies” He said, as he stared at Tiberius “The defeat of Carthage’s navies is the only way we can achieve victory in Sicily… but it is not the way to achieve a victory in this war.”

Vedius expecting a reaction paused. He was met with only blank faces.

“I propose that Rome not only turn its sites on defeating Carthage’s navies… but defeating Carthage itself. I propose Rome send a legion…” He paused, savouring the moment and the looks of shear awe on the senates face “…to destroy Carthage!”


Vedius lowered his hands as he was met with a thunderous applause. It was only Publius, Tiberius and their supporters who sat silent, unable to comprehend the situation. Tiberius stood.

“The senate recognizes Tiberius Coruncanus” was bellowed from beyond the stands, the curial magistrate had spoken.

Tiberius was known for his oratory skills, but he did not speak with the same passion that Vedius did.

“Senator’s. I support Vedius in his pursuits to build Rome into a naval power. With that you will hear no objection from me. I believe that we must pour all our available recourses into what will no doubt be a costly, and perhaps foolish pursuit in the name of victory!”

Cheer and applause began but Tiberius silenced it.

“However…however I do not believe an invasion of Africa is not in Rome’s interest”

Senators again began to murmur

“An invasion would put a severe strain on our recourses. We struggle to supply a Legion in Sicily effectively, so how is it you propose we supply one right in the heart of Carthaginian lands? Our Numidian allies will no doubt assist us, but they cannot feed 5000 hungry mouths as they struggle to feed their own people. Perhaps once Sicily has been secured and we have a clear line of supply and…”

Vedius cut him off

“Once Sicily has been secured? Sicily will never be secured. Carthage will continue to send army after army to the region until it is theirs. They have a near unlimited supply of men. As long as Carthage survives so will Lilybaeum and so will our new provinces on the island remain at threat. No, it is far better to attack the Hydra at its heart, than it is to cut of one of it’s heads.”

He was met with a thunderous applause. But Tiberius countered.

“And who will lead this proposed army? Our esteemed Consuls? Publius? Who is it that has the skill and the determination to lead an army on a fools errand?”

Tiberius sat down. Dreading Vedius’ rebuttal.

“I have a commander in mind. He at present serves as a Legate in Italy.” Vedius stated, keeping the senate in suspense.

Consul Mocius rose. “Who is this man you speak of?” It was the first time he had spoken during this session, and all were surprised to hear from him.

“He once served in Publius’ Legion, as a Tribune I believe.” Vedius answered, “Do you know who whom I speak?” The question was directed toward Publius

Publius rose from his seat slowly. “I do” he spoke aloud “You of course speak of Manius Decius Mus, Legate of the second Italian Legion, and one of my ex-tribunes.”

“I do indeed speak of Decius. A capable man in his own right… would you recommend him to such a task?”

“I would not recommend any to such a task!” Publius countered, knowing full well he’d been trapped

“If you were forced to recommend a commander for this charge, would it be he?”

The room once again fell silent. Publius surveyed the room, all eyes wee on him.
“Decius is a strong and capable commander… if I were to recommend a man for such a campaign it would indeed be him”

Publius slowly lowered himself back into his seat, knowing that he and Tiberius had been defeated.

“Carthage must and will fall if Rome is to prevail. Manius Decius Mus is the commander who will lead us to triumph. You can stand with me in this, the hour of our victory, or stand against me and suffer at the hands of defeat.”

As Vedius sat down the senate roared their approval. The man had taken a gamble and it had paid off. The two consuls rose from their seats and began to further deliberate the matter. Vedius’ fate now rested with Decius’ victory whilst Tiberius’ rested with his defeat.

To be continued…


Authors Note: I know that there has been a lack of battle and screen shots in this story but not to worry, future editions will include battles with Carthage and Illyria. Also my interpretation of the senate is no doubt inaccurate, alas for the sake of the story I made it so.
If you’d like me to continue with the AAR or have suggestions please feel free to post.
Rittsy

[MasterOfThessus]

Looking good

[Blackshamrock.]

Good stuff here Rittsy keep it up.

[Rittsy]

Bad News...
It seems i have hit a CTD which I'm unable to avoid. Unfortunatley the AAR is over before it really got a chance to begin. Thank you for taking the time to read it.
Rittsy