[IB:SAI AAR] Julian, The Savior Of Rome? [ FINAL UPDATE 13/06/2013 | COMPLETE ]

[Knonfoda]

Regarding on new ideas, perhaps a young and eager general could be sent to reclaim the empire's former lands in Bhospora.

I know, there are only to problems with that. The sea lanes are infested with pirates and so far I have not invested in a fleet proper. The only two ways to go are either through Armenia and then the Huns backyard in the Steppes, or through Dacia through Gothic and then Hun land again. It honestly surprises me that the rebels there are still alive, I thought that city would have fallen to the Huns quite quickly. If I knew then it would be that resilient perhaps I would not have abandoned it.

Great as always, and good to see most of the wars rapped up. You'll need the extra money and manpower given how much of a pain the Persians are proving to be. I would definitely have to agree that the Persians really are portrayed properly as the most dangerous enemy the empire faced. Just as someone said in a vv thread a while back, you ignore them at your own peril. Do you intend to have Aetius or Nevitta finish the rebellion, as Aetius would live long enough to do so. By the way, I had in mind using that heavy metal song for perhaps Julian himself.

True, that money could not have come at a better time. It's still going to take a while for the invasion though, as I would like to first clear the sea lanes so that I can bring reinforcements quickly from the rest of the Empire before starting the invasion, and also recruit some of the better units (which I will no doubt need) and that will take quite a few turns.

Whichever reaches them first, but Nevitta has Julian's army, which he can use to crush the numerically and even qualitatively superior army of the rebels. Aetius has mostly understrength legionaries and limitanei units. Not to mention there are something like 6-7 stacks in total for them to fight, so I think they will have their hands full.

You have some typos:

Shouldn't that be: Our on site agent in Rebus?

Sorry, I sometimes alternate between latin and english, and in latin its agente in rebus

I think you meant: And the first to feel its cool breezes was our Magister Militum Praesentalis, as he stood before the gorges of the Danube River.

Yes, that does sound better.

Shouldn't that be in past tense?

You got me again.

I think you meant: a mighty construction to support the mighty army.

I stand corrected.

Shouldn't that be: And so it was that the coming of autumn brought with it not just the colder weather?

You just have the answers to everything don't you

Did you mean: Aetius wastes no time in moving his forces forward?

Moving, rallying, yes I suppose your way actually sound better, I'll give you that.

At least there were no 'Instead off's this time

Looks like you got yourself an editor.

Indeed, I think dezikeizer's efforts should be recognised by this forum in general, he provides a great proof reading service to most AAR's in the forums and I think he deserves a lot of praise for that.

[The Kybrothilian]

I know, there are only to problems with that. The sea lanes are infested with pirates and so far I have not invested in a fleet proper. The only two ways to go are either through Armenia and then the Huns backyard in the Steppes, or through Dacia through Gothic and then Hun land again. It honestly surprises me that the rebels there are still alive, I thought that city would have fallen to the Huns quite quickly. If I knew then it would be that resilient perhaps I would not have abandoned it.

Then perhaps anti-piracy policy needs to be set up, when possible.

[Knonfoda]

Now that the coffers of Rome are once again full, we can invest in a fleet. I remember disbanding the ships a few years ago at a time when we could not afford them because it was far too expensive to pay for their upkeep. No longer though, no longer!

[Knonfoda]

Ladies and Gentlemen, we would like to apologise for the delay in updating this AAR (and for double posting) especially after the promises of large scale battles and sieges and fate altering events suggested in the previous episode.

We have encountered technical difficulties that have plagued us for days, but not any more. You will be pleased to know these technical difficulties have been found, brought to justice and shot. As such, please remain calm and maintain your limbs and enthusiasm within this AAR at all times. An AAR update associate should be with you shortly, that is to say, expect an update within the next twenty four hours.

We thank you for your patience and for choosing Knonfoda AARways.

EDIT: Esteemed ladies and gentlemen, the update is here.

I have decided to grant dezikeizer's wish and add his heavy metal score to this update. I also have some minor spoilers below, which should probably be read after you finish reading the episode below.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

It's interesting to note that besides the obvious differences between the AAR and reality, there are a few subtle ones too that I think a few people who are well read on Julian will appreciate.

While Julian's wife Helena died in 258-260, this is obviously not the case ingame, as she is still alive and married to him. Julian and Helena have also managed to conceive a child, despite the 'barren' trait given to Julian. The child has been named Nectaridius. Historically, Helena had a number of miscarriages, never giving Julian a son and heir. This was attributed to a 'potion' given to her preciously by Eusebia, the previous empress and wife of Constantius II. Helena's death devastated Julian, and also caused him to chose a celibate lifestyle.

In my AAR though, which has thankfully been devoid of any such tragedies, Julian still enjoys a loving marriage with his young wife Helena, and also adopting a lifestyle very much opposite to celibacy. Their son Nectaridius will also become the future emperor and heir to Julian. I like how despite all the odds, Julian has a son, because it adds continuity to his reign and adds a new facet to the AAR. I hope you enjoyed how I tried to portray the relationship of hte young couple. I hope to expand on this on later updates.

[Knonfoda]

Episode LVII: Baptism by Fire

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

- Embedded Soundtrack I, play while reading this episode.

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It was a bright sunny day on the plains of Moesia. The winds blew a refreshing breeze through the columns of marching troops, eyes peeled not on the road as one would expect but towards the horizon. It was a full three hours after midday that Aetius Flavius spotted what he was looking for. Ridding at a steady pace towards him was the scout he had sent east a few days, his white robe gleaming in the sun, clearly relieved at rendezvousing with the main army. He orders the column to a halt, before approaching the incoming scout.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

“It’s true sir, Verenianus has amassed a huge army and sits outside of Constantinople as we speak. It will be days before we reach him, and there are a number of armies guarding both the Via Militaris and the Ignatia. We will not be able to surprise him.”

Aetius’ face went pale as he realised the predicament he found himself in. He had still harboured hope of intercepting the traitor and attacking him before he mustered his forces, but it had been too late.
“What’s the composition of their forces?” The scout looked up as his commander, clearly exhausted, and replied in quick sentences, short of breath.

“Erhh... I reckon ... anywhere between ten... and fifteen thousand.” Aetius could barely disguise his surprise as his eyes widened in shock at this revelation.

“Fifteen thousand!?” The scout however was clearly not finished.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

“There’s ... more sir.” I reckon at least four cohorts, two thousand men in all, are the elite Pedites Domestici of Arbetio, the Prefect of Constantinople, whom Verenianus had kept in reserve before venturing into Dacia. The mounted component is half that number. They also have a large number of Gothic heavy foederati, which I am guessing they will use as assault troops.”
No longer able to hide his anger and frustration, Aetius let out an audible sigh as he pressed on to his next question.

“Anything else exploratore?”

“As a matter of fact, there is sir. I am sorry to keep giving you bad news, but there are also two large Gothic warbands on the Via Militaris, between Serdica and Hadrianopolis, with sizeable contingents of Alani, Iuthungi and Sarmatian tribesmen. Heavy cavalry and infantry.”

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

“I also witnessed a large scale naval engagement of the coast by Propontis, but I could not discern the two forces.”

“I guess that ends any and all ambitions of heading east then” Aetius said morosely. “The engagement you witnessed was probably between Nevitta’s fleet and pirates, no doubt hired by Verenianus now that he has more gold than he knows what to do with. I can only hope he has been successful in the battle and will be able to relieve the siege, as we cannot press on any further.”

The scout looked at him in confusion, unable to discern the intent of his commanding officer.

“All we have here are under strength garrison cohorts, and very few legionaries, plus a handful of cavalry regiments. Against the elite units Verenianus has at his disposal, and the thousands of Goths in his pay, we would be finished in a battle or two. Better to head west, to Sirmium, restock, and keep the road clear and check his advance west.”

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

“But sir, what of Constantinople?”

“These are my orders exploratore, now fall in line and prepare to march west. Dismissed.”

Looking east, Aetius quietly whispers “You’re on your own now” before turning to his men and giving them their orders. Considering they had had been in constant action ever since the Quadi War, a brief respite would probably do them good.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

Autumn came to a close, and soon the bitter chill of winter could be felt in the Empire’s northern lands. So too came other, undesirable news:

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

Nevitta and the fleet commander of the Classis Alenxandrina had lost their naval engagement with the Pirates, and were indeed lucky to still be alive with most of their transports, plus the army, intact. This news came as a relief to Verenianus and his lietunants, who could now proceed with the siege of Constantinople:

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

Knowing their flanks by the Propontis and Euxinus sea would be protected.

The imminent fall of Constantinople has also led many officers that previously were sitting on the fence...

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To finally take sides.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

In the meantime in Nsibis, Julian enjoyed the luxurious comforts that his newly built residence in could provide.

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The fortress had previously lacked any residence worthy of an emperor, given its close proximity to the Persian border. But now, with land acquired East and an invasion pending, the Emperor required a heavily fortified residence from which to plan his operations and muster his forces. But far from enjoying peace and respite, Julian currently found himself in the midst of a heated argument with his wife Helena.

“No darling, no. I must do this, do you think I am aloof to – “

“You are Emperor Julian! You can give orders and see them followed! You need not do this yourself!” Though Julian loved Helena very much, he had very much come to hate her trying habit of interrupting him mid sentence.

“As I was saying, do you think I am aloof to what they say of me? Julian the lazy, Julian that does nothing for himself... Julian the spineless! And now soon to be Julian without a capital!” Julian’s reeled at the thought of losing his capital, and no doubt with it his entire support in the Eastern provinces.

“Helena, darling, listen to me. You are right, in the West, I could give orders and see them followed. But not here, here I am untested, I have done nothing of worth. Why do you think it was the Prefect of Constantinople and not of Rome that betrayed me? Why the soldiers of the limes dacica and not the Germanica?”

“Here on the Oriens my orders are followed because of people such as Nevitta, Heraclianus and Aurelianus. They do not carry their own weight, you know that. You saw what the vile people of Antiocheia think of me, which is the reason why we are here and not there.”

“But your studies, your son! What will the republic become should you die? What will Nectaridius inherit but the smouldering ruin of Rome, torn apart by civil war? What will become of me? I will not remarry!” she said in a playful mocking tone.

Julian had often found giving orders in the heat of battle and discussing strategy with his generals much easier than placating his wife. The gentleness of her character and the legitimate love she harboured for him made the task of saying no to her more complicated than even the most prolonged siege.

“Helena my love, if the world were down to just philosophy, The One would rule supreme and we would have all found our own perfection through philosophic contemplation. But it is not. The world is a cruel and dark place. And I must do this. You and Nectaridius will be safe, even if I fall, there is still Nevitta and Aurelianus to protect you. I have seen to it all.”

Helena lowered her head, her eyes now fixed on the ground beneath her, trying to hide the tears she could not hold back at the prospect of leaving her husband again. Julian embraced her closely and kissed her on the forehead.

“All will be well my love. You and Nectaridius should return to Antiocheia, you will be safer there. The Persians are relentless and could attack at any moment, which is the reason I must leave. It is the reason I must prove myself. But not yet, before you leave, how about we...” He shot his wife a lustful look, holding her close so tightly having unwittingly around him.

“You don’t think I would leave my husband without giving him a goodbye gift did you?” The seductive tone of her voice and the suggestive smile she gave him was all the encouraging he needed to give her a passionate kiss, unclipping her stola while doing so...

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

The Battle of the Tigris - 9th Battle of De Bello Persico

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“And so men, we find ourselves here, on the wrong side of the Tigris, facing these nameless monsters that would separate us from our brothers. Iuliani Invicti, you that bear my name, will you fight as valiantly and bravely for me as you fought for Nevitta?” The deafening roar the legionaries gave, together with the banging of their spears against their shields was the answer Julian was looking for.

“Will you fight and kill these barbarians that seek to destroy your sister cohort on the fort across the river? You will not allow this, surely!” Exchanging glances with legionaries throughout the ranks, trying to gauge their temperament, he continued.

“Men, I will not be known as the Emperor who sat behind his walls while his empire was torn apart! I will not be known as just a Philosopher! And so I will give you and the world something we have not yet seen! I will bring these lecherous and licentious Persians utter ruin and destruction! We will roam their lands freely and bring all their peoples under our sway. And it must begin with this victory, and so it is victory we shall have!” The roar of cheering and approval he received meant he felt the men were now ready for the killing that would follow.

“Go then, charge unto the breach! Into the fray comrades, for the republic and for glory! Charge!”

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MFVs7bDbZxY - Embedded Soundtrack II, play while reading this episode.


And so, in one fluid movement of an army trained and disciplined in the ways of war, the entire line surged forward towards the bridge that separated them from the enemy.

Far from adopting a passive strategy, Julian had gone all out. He would not be known as meek or shy, one to choose caution over action. He would be known as the Emperor who leads his troops to victory, and to do so he needs aggression! The Persians chose to bar our advance though.


The lines clash on banks of the Euphrates, cold roman steel meeting warm Persian spears as the battle begins.

While the Roman line is unable to form, the sheer skill of the soldiers mean that even in a confined space they present a deadly front to the enemy.


The foolish Persians have all gathered on either side of the Roman orbis, attempting to hem them in, but actually being pushed back by the calculated punches of our scutums and the thrusts of our spathas.

They also die in their dozens as they are well in range of our archers, which loose quick painful death unto them.


The only to stand fast against the Roman onslaught are these Payadagh-I-Nizagan, the more well trained of the Persian infantry regiments.

And for all that, even they cannot withstand the relentless advance of the Roman killing machine, grinding its way through their ranks and eliciting the support of the Persian general himself.


Seeing his line disintegrate before him, the Persian general attempts to rally his men and save the battle, which is quickly slipping from his control.

The presence of the Persian Royal banner though, far from encouraging the Persians, simply causes our men to fight with greater intensity, eager at the prospect of killing the enemy general himself.


Julian, having spotted the Persian bodyguard entering the fray, prepares to make his move.

[CENTER]
[/CENTER}

“This is the moment we have been waiting, troopers! On me, to the enemy prince! To the head of the snake!”


As if our infantry were not causing the enemy enough distress, our arrows had made a sizeable hole in their unprotected flank.

Even the mighty Delamite infantry could not hope to stop our advance:

As our miles viciously punch at them with the bosses of their shields, before finishing them off with a thrust of a spear or spatha. The prospect of having to step over hundreds of their fallen comrades as the Persians advanced was doing wonders for their morale.


With the Persian line weakening, and a breakthrough imminent by the men of the Iuliani and Thebanorum legions, the enemy general throws his bodyguard and everything he has to attempt to plug the gap in his line:

But they faced the men of the Iuliani and the Thebanorum, heavily armoured from head to toe, armed with long spears ideally suited for cavalry fighting. Many of the Shah’s bodyguards found their demise at the hands of our forces, some speared in the guts while others found themselves unhorsed and surrounded by angry Romans.


A shout rang throughout the lines. “The Emperor is here! The Emperor is here! He fights with us!”

In unison, the men would cheer and roar, a menacing sight and sound to the Persians who were by now fighting a losing battle, especially as our reinforcements approached them from behind.


The enemy needed only to see the banner of the Emperor’s bodyguard, the laburum, to realise their end was near and the fight over.

Their line broke in its entirety, their men making in all different directions.


Displaying his bravery and callous regard for his own life, Julian himself advanced ahead of his army.

[CENTER]
[/CENTER}

Pursuing the fleeing foe, cutting many of them down with his own hand, sending them to meet their Gods.

For his part, the enemy general chose to die a glorious death, choosing not to run like his disgraced army but to fight to the last.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

One of our men sees fit to grant him his wish, the sudden blunt impact of a heavy iron mace against his head sending Darayavaush off his horse and reeling to the ground. His large assailant dismounts, and brutally bludgeons the Persian’s skull in with each successive blow of his massive iron club.


So came to an end the Battle of the Tigris.



Julian himself had come to the rescue of the besieged fort on the Tigris, relieving its garrison from the Persian blockade.


By at last commanding an army against the Persians, and winning a resounding victory, Julian begun the task of cementing his authority and demonstrating his ability to lead to the Eastern Armies.


More problematic though, was the prospect that what had begun as a punitive expedition had clearly spiralled out of control and had in fact marked the beginning of the Roman incursion. Despite gaining the strategic cities of Bezabde and Nineveh, the Persians were clearly unwilling to give this up and settle for terms, and more than comfortable to continue to conflict.


This posed a problem for Julian though, as he lacked the army necessary to take on the Persians. He thus faced the prospect of a long war of attrition over the disputed territories, exactly the kind of conflict he sought to avoid. His ‘allies’ were also not making things any easier:



It was clear another front would soon open up on the Arabian border.


These were though, mere trifles compared to the menace that loomed to the west:

...

[Luxchamp]

Again, 1st rate material!

However, if i may;

Helena was several years older than Julian, and it is very much doubted that there ever was much affection between the two, Julian referring to her in his letters only 3 times, and each time with extreme formality and distance.

the first time is in a letter to the empress eusebia, in which he thanks her for the 'gift' Helena, and talks about her as if she were an object.

the second time i do not recall.

the third time is the night of his 'coronation' as emperor in Lutetia, in which he merely states that 'she is still alive'.

i draw these informations from Adrian Murdochs 'The Last Pagan - Julian the Apostate and the death of the ancient world', a highly recommendable book

[Knonfoda]

Again, 1st rate material!

Ah Luxchamp, good to see your still grace us with your presence! I'm glad you still find the quality of my writing pleasing!

Cheers mate!

However, if i may;

Helena was several years older than Julian, and it is very much doubted that there ever was much affection between the two, Julian referring to her in his letters only 3 times, and each time with extreme formality and distance.

Indeed, I think she would have been around 29 at the time of her marriage to Julian in 355AD, which would make her 37 at the current time of writing, 363AD. This is if we accept Edward Gibbon's interpretation in the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire. Although I think in game she is only something like 34 or so, so she is still young.

We also have to take into account the context of those letters.

the first time is in a letter to the empress eusebia, in which he thanks her for the 'gift' Helena, and talks about her as if she were an object.

Julian was I think the only heir related to Constantius II Eusebia as empress by extension. It seems wise to presume he would not want to incur her anger, at least while her husband was still alive. To me at least, this also explains his letter 'praising her'. We must also take into account the times.

Women in those days were indeed seen as 'objects', even more so in Roman society. Helena was 'given' away in wedlock to Julian, indeed as if she were an object, a gift, which was what she was. It doesn't surprise me Julian saw her as such. I'm also guessing this letter (I am not sure we have a date for it) was written either immediately after the marriage or soon afterwards, and I very much doubt Julian knew much about his wife at that time.

In time though, I can imagine him harbouring some affection for her, even love, especially after 8 years of marriage. It was not at all uncommon for arranged marriages then (and indeed today) to end in love, its just our modern view of it that distorts the possibility.

the second time i do not recall.

the third time is the night of his 'coronation' as emperor in Lutetia, in which he merely states that 'she is still alive'.

Again, we have to look at the context of the letters or panegyrics. The third one you refer to is the Letter To The Senate And People of Athens. Given the context of the letters, I very much doubt he would go into great detail about his love life and the health of their marriage. If he had written a panegyric on love (and for all we know he may well have) and ommited her entirely, I think that would have said more.

I also have to admit I am taking slight artistic license here. I am trying to flesh out the character of Julian as more than just a philosopher-king who will *hopefully* conquer Asia. Still, I like to think lack of evidence is not evidence of lacking

As for Adrian Murdochs, its a really good book. That is indeed the book I had with me when I was intercepted by the Mormons, which made for an interesting conversation. I would also recommend
Shaun Tougther's Role of Panegyrics in Antiquity, which is where I draw some inspiration from.

[Luxchamp]

I'll have a look at that one then thanks for the information

However one essential question remains...

Would you pretty please tell me why the Mormons intercepted you?


P.S.

I'm a regular reader of your AAR - even if I don't comment on every update

[Knonfoda]

I'll have a look at that one then thanks for the information

However one essential question remains...

Would you pretty please tell me why the Mormons intercepted you?


P.S.

I'm a regular reader of your AAR - even if I don't comment on every update

Good to know you're still around.

Well you know Mormons, its like what they do, intercept people.

It was like I said, I had gone to the library, returned with a handful of books on Rome, heading home minding my own business when I was approached by two Mormon 'missionaries' who wanted to talk to me about the Lord and religion and all that.

Being in a good mood, I invited them in and we had coffee. I told them about my love for ancient rome and paganism (when asked why I had a book on Julian the Apostate) only to be told about current apostasy and how mainstream religion has distorted God's original message, which is why he revealed himself to a Native American Indian and then some pilgrim.

I think the expression on my face at their last sentence was all they needed to see in order to realise they were wasting their time and that they had overstayed their welcome.

[The Kybrothilian]

Well I don't think Mormons would be as crazy as Jehovah's witnesses

Yet, why does Julian shout “Will you fight and kill these barbarians that seek to destroy your sister cohort on the fort across the river?" and "for the republic and for glory!" ?
Those sound more like what Crassus could have said just before Battle of Carrhae. As firstly Romans held Sassanids as their equals and not as barbarians, and secondly, Rome wasn't a republic anymore. Or when did I miss the part where Julian was "President Julian"?

Just minor corrections, hope you don't mind

[Knonfoda]

This is why I love my readers!

Challenging me at every turn and keeping me on my toes. And I would have it no other way!

Hilarious

And as always, a great AAR Knonfoda. I love every update and the way you keep the story going. I'm actually hoping that Julian will do a last-minute turn around and vanquish the rebels himself and prove to the eastern part that he is indeed worthy of the emperor title. Only future will tell!

Yeah, I kind of realised perhaps a little too late that Julian himself should have sorted out the rebellion, pretty much like any other Emperor who had his authority challenged.

I see either Aetius or Nevitta finishing it off, but both are still pretty far from Constantinople. As for Julian, he will have to prove himself in Persia.

Well I don't think Mormons would be as crazy as Jehovah's witnesses

Yet, why does Julian shout “Will you fight and kill these barbarians that seek to destroy your sister cohort on the fort across the river?" and "for the republic and for glory!" ?
Those sound more like what Crassus could have said just before Battle of Carrhae. As firstly Romans held Sassanids as their equals and not as barbarians, and secondly, Rome wasn't a republic anymore. Or when did I miss the part where Julian was "President Julian"?

Just minor corrections, hope you don't mind

I've seen quite a few speeches of the late Roman Empire where they refer to it still as the Republic, and so I thought I'd do the same. The book I recommended above is full of such examples, and I think one of the quotes in the game itself mentions Julian speaking of the republic.

As for 'barbarians', in Greek speaking circles, Barbarians were almost always used to refer to Persians. And seeing as the East was mainly Greek speaking and Julian had a Greek education, I thought it would be appropriate. Also, Barbarian was used in a sense to mean 'foreign', not simply the negative pejorative connotation it has today.

[Knonfoda]

Episode LVIII: The Enemy Reveals Itself

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

Meanwhile, in arid deserts of the Oriens, Orestes of Arabia continues the thankless tasks of fortifying the limes Arabicus:

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Yes, it’s boring, but it must be done. Jupiter knows what phantom menaces lie beyond these sands. If I told the Romans that in three hundred years an army so motivated and so well led would lay waste to both them and the Persians, do you think they would believe me? Exactly. And that is why we must maintain vigilance. Vigilance is the eternal price of freedom.

Elsewhere, regiments and cohorts are retrained, for both continued border duty and having been called for the oncoming Persian campaign.

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Aetius also desperately needs more troops to fight the civil war, which is coming close to claiming Constantinople.

And far from being able to lift the siege, Nevitta finds himself in a bit of a pickle:

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Being surrounded by pirates, he is forced to dock in Anatolia and lead his forces on foot from there. It will be almost a week before he reaches the capital however, far too late he reckons.

The treachery of the rebels knows no bounds, their audacity is limitless:

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Right outside of Aetius’ stronghold of Singidunum, some of his own troops have turned over to the enemy, no doubt at the behest of Sebastianus, a previously loyal general. It comes as no surprise now why he chose to camp outside the city rather than within it with the general staff of Aetius. It was clearly his mission to attempt to bring over as many of Aetius’ troops as possible to the rebels side. This treachery must not be allowed to stand.

He splits his army into two, one to be led by Valens, the other by himself. Together, they would crush both rebel armies before they had a chance to escape into Thrace:

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And crush them they do. Sebastianus is killed in battle, and a certain George of Laodicia, a Cilician and an Arian, is found hiding in his camp. This well known Arian priest has been a notorious rabble-rouser, no doubt having played his part in corrupting both Sebastianus and the Goths. Aetius, knowing trouble when he sees it, orders the man chained and thrown into a nearby lake. So dies George the ‘Cappadocian’.

Winter passes. The snow slowly melts, and around Singidudum Hyacinth flowers are to be seen. So beautiful and yet still cold, the mornings of pale spring still clinging to winter’s chill.

Late is the hour that traitors chose to reveal themselves:

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As even in Africa there are those that would oppose the wisdom of our emperor.

And yet, for the loss of some incompetent treacherous fool:

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We gain a loyal, dedicated follower.

Of more pressing concern is not the treason of one individual but of an entire nation:

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Tellest thou me of "ifs"? Thou art a traitor: Off with their heads!

In Germania and Noricum, the subjugated tribesmen bear the heavy price of bondage, as we establish ourselves in their territory.

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Soon they will experience the benefits though; for does peace not follow war?

And in keeping with our word, we return the realm of the Quadi:

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Happy is the barbarian who lives to see Roman Dominion established over his people!

Meanwhile, in the Hellespont:

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Nevitta marches full speed towards the rebel armies that dare oppose the will of the emperor.

Aetius, having amassed a large army of his own, including cohorts from the Iulia Tertia Alpina, Joviani and Herculiani legions, sends scouts forth before marching east:

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No immediate enemy army is found in the vicinity, and Aetius must chose whether to keep north, through the Via Militaria, or proceed south by the Via Ignatia.

“Valens, I know you have been called by the Emperor to report to Antiocheia for the coming campaign, but I am sure you will agree you are needed here, now” Aetius was brisk in addressing his subordinate, who was ironically twice his age. Valens nodded his awknowledgement.

“It will be done. The roads aren’t safe anyway, I would hate to run into another ambush like the one a few weeks ago by that fool Sebastianus” The memory was still fresh in Valens head of how the traitor’s bribed cavalry alae tried to ambush him as he approached the gates of Singidunum.

“Very well” Aetius said. “I am lacking lieutenants I can trust for this campaign. If the Emperor trust you, that is enough for me. You will lead the left wing, the scutarii and the Rugii tribesmen. They are ruthless and boorish, but they ply their trade of killing very well. I hope to see you lead them to victory as we attack the Gothic horde in the next few days. Dismissed.”

Valens was relatively untested in battle, having spent most of his time in Singidunum, dealing with bandits and rebels. He relished the chance for combat, but had not been chosen by Aetius for his combat experience (or lack thereof) but for his loyalty, of which he was assured. Valens, for his part, was happy to have been chosen to lead the left flank and having been presented the chance to prove himself.

The chance came soon enough. Outside of Serdica, a large Gothic army had amassed, positioned there by Witiza to block the Via Egnatia, impeding Aetius and his army to carry onto Constantinople.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

To Aetius, this just meant yet another obstacle to overcome, another enemy to destroy. And so, he hears the call of battle and death once more:

The Battle of Serdica – 8th Battle of De Bello Gothicus

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

In haste, Aetius and Valens engage the Goths by the mountains outside Serdica.


Valens leads the left flank, drawing the enemy away from the hills and towards the plains.


His ala is composed of Rugians, scutarii and promoti cavalry.


The enemy falls for the bait, and soon their horse are seen galloping towards our advancing ala.


Holding their banners up high, they charge into our ranks, not realising the trap that has closed around them and their army.


With their army now on the plain, our infantry is ordered to advance:



Which they do, with the speed and precision of expertly trained and drilled troops.


Meanwhile, Aetius and his heavy cavalry contingent watch from the nearby hill as the enemy line engages ours.


The time comes to unleash his heavy horse downhill onto the unprotected right flank of the enemy.


Hemmed in from three sides, assaulted by our cavalry and opposed by the meat grinder that is the Roman infantry line, they break and scatter.



But are relentlessly pursued and destroyed, chieftain Chintila sharing in the pain of his men as he is trampled asunder by our pursuing cavalry, his broken and battered body left to rot for the carrion birds.


Seeing the utter destruction of their main army, the city garrison decide to run back to the safety of their city.


Sending a unit of their treacherous equites axuilia and their gothic skirmishers to halt our advance and cover their retreat.


Our impetuous Rugians though, are less than impressed at the enemy cowardice:


And set about harassing their retreating lines, repeatedly charging into the retreating infantry group.


Valens had the foresight to order a cunei of light cavalry to advance ahead of their retreating line, and so, they are now trapped between our two forces:


This gives the time Aetius needed to arrive with the heavy horse, now dealing some serious pain to the infantry cohorts, as they are pressed from both sides and unable to fight properly.


Demoralised by the defeat of their army, and with their retreat cut off, the spirit of the Gothic tribesmen breaks and they scatter, each man fending for himself.


Gothic Chieftain Gudilla meets his end at the axe of a Rugian, which viciously swings it at the man’s head, splitting it open. Blood gushes as insides of the dead man’s head are now clearly visible on the plain for all to see.


So perishes another three thousand five hundred men before the might of Aetius’ army.



Sadly, a number of the enemy garrison managed to escape the slaughter and fall back to Serdica with its high walls. Still, Aetius was very much impressed by the conduct and skill of Valens, cutting off the enemy retreat and slaughtering hundreds of them. He sees his confidence has not been misplaced, and predicts the man can go on to achieve great things should he reach Persia.

And in the Oriens, with the news of the Lakhmid betrayal, cities see to their walls and their garrisons:

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

Damascus finally repairs its walls, left to decay after the Ghassanid rebellion.


Meanwhile, in Mesopotamia, our scout spots yet another Persian army approaching our borders:

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

The composition of this army worries Julian, as the Sassanids have mustered their most elite and experienced units to come to their defence. The conflict has quickly spiralled out of control; the Lakhmids have now become involved, opening yet another front.

To the north, the Armenians face their own troubles with the Huns, diverting resources away from their war with the Sassanids. As for the Romans, we have only the resources for defence and not yet offense.

The thought of another two long years of a war of attrition with the Sassanids does not appeal to Julian, who wishes to launch his incursion on his own terms. Peace must be secured with the Persians if we are to have the time and means to muster an army for offense and not just defence.

In the meantime though, we must dig in for the Sassanid onslaught, building forts along the Tigris and guarding them with sufficient troops to hinder the Persian advance.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

Heraclianus is given the task of finding the garrisons to inhabit these forts, and organising the coming reinforcements:

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

Which continue their steady trickle east, into the gaping maw that is the Persian Empire...

[2Shy]

Amazing AAR !!!

[The Kybrothilian]

Wait, so that's what happened to saint George!

Great work, hopefully Constantinopole will hold (we don't want our good friend Theus Excitidus Onus to get slain by the blades of traitors and Goths, now don't we )

[Knonfoda]

Amazing AAR !!!

A new reader! Seize him!

Glad you like the AAR. Any suggestions or criticism is welcome.

Wait, so that's what happened to saint George!

Great work, hopefully Constantinopole will hold (we don't want our good friend Theus Excitidus Onus to get slain by the blades of traitors and Goths, now don't we )

Saint George, *sadly*, met is end chained at the bottom of some lake in Dalmatia. He was asking for it, poisoning the minds of our generals and auxiliaries with talk of this 'God' of his and his disloyal blathering.

Yes, only Jupiter knows what Theus Excitius Onus is doing now that our beloved capital is under siege. I would have liked to continue with the siege in the AAR sooner, but the dumb AI takes like three turns to bloody siege it, so I must wait...

[Knonfoda]

Episode LVIX: De Bello Arabicus - A Kingdom for Sale

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZxP-6...eature=related - Embedded Soundtrack, play while reading this episode.

In Arabia, the Lakhmids test our patience by entering our lands and besieging our cities. We send out desert expert, Aurelianus, to deal with them.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

Bitter shall be the taste of the medicine of Rebuke whence these fools lie dead in droves in the desert sands! Red shall the sands be stained! IMPLACABLE shall our anger be!

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

The Battle of Neve – 1st Battle of De Bello Arabicus

Lakhmid Battle Order:

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

These fools are led by the soon to be dead Malikum. Having discovered some mail and cataphract armour, these tribals think themselves ready to take on Rome. Well, perhaps in three hundred years. But NOT TODAY! Not on my watch, and CERTAINLY NOT ON AURELIANUS’ WATCH!

Roman Battle Order:

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

We do not fear you. We have the Quinta Macedonica! We also have Al-Wadai3, and Catapracts, and some ‘rehabilitated’ Ghassanids, etc. In short, we have all the necessary implements to ground your enemy line into a thin red paste. And so it shall be done. With some Garum on top too!

Battle begins, and our legions march forward under the baking sun!

The men of the 5th march onwards singing their paean, something about not going anywhere or something other, Aurelianus was not really listening at the time.


Aurelianus leads the entire cavalry contingent, ready to smash into the enemy flank.


“You know men, I was due to retire to Antiocheia this month. First time in two years of fighting desert rebellions, putting down tribes, annexing territories. But NOOO! These Arabs want in on the action too. Well so it shall be done! Give them a taste of what we can do, let them know why the desert dwellers fear us! Onwards!” The cavalry gave a mighty cheer, having heard it all before, being trained and seasoned in the ways of desert warfare.


Meanwhile, in a field of corn:

Our men emerge from the field, lone soldiers first, followed by groups and then the entire line comes from out of the field, presenting a terrifying spectacle to the terrified Arabs, some of which are unable to contain their runny bowels.


Aurelianus wheels his cavalry around and crashes into the unprotected enemy flank...


“Men, execute manoeuvre KILL THEM ALL! Now!”


The men of the 5th and their Veteranii comrades laugh in the face of such feeble enemy:

“Ha! Your wicker shields are no match for the power of the dark side!” cries one Miles. “I bet your wives will put up more of a fight when we’re finished with you than you yourselves do now!” incomprehensibly screamed another as he thrust his spatha into the mouth of a bedazzled Arab.


It was not long before their illustrious leader, Malikum, met a shameful death:

Attempting to retreat before the assault our cavalry unleashed on his forces, he found himself shot in the back by the arrows of our elite Parthii equites sagitarii. No longer shall he trouble us.


The village of Neve was quiet once again:


And victory belongs to the Roman forces.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

With one Lakhmid army destroyed, we need only destroy their second army laying siege to Calinicium to thwart their offensive.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

These imbeciles severely underestimate our resolve if they think a feeble excuse for an incursion will dissuade us from defending our cities. PLEASE. Did they not witness how we stopped the Sassanid invasion dead in its tracks, the Sassanids, a people who have forgotten more about warfare than these effeminate tribals will ever know?

Aurelianus, reforming some of his forces, intercepts a certain Procopius and enlists him into the army.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

“Yes, Julian can have you soon enough, but I need you and your cataphractii here, now!”

The Battle for Calinicium – 2nd Battle of De Bello Arabicus

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

Lakhmid Battle Order:

The Arabs field thee usually rubbish which passes for soldiers and warriors in their realm: lightly armoured horsemen, wicker shield bearing infantry and the odd assortment of slingers and archers.

Aurelianus, aspiring to something different for a change, makes a slight alteration in his usual battle deployment.

Rather than concentrating all our cavalry forces in one super heavy ala, we split them into two in the more ‘traditional’ manner, Procopius leading the left while he leads the right.


Battle is joined, and the skies are torn asunder as our artillery crews fill the air with burning tar and naphta, lobbing exploding projectiles of molten death unto our inadequately armoured foes.

Consumed by the fires of Hades many Lakhmids tribals are.


And in a classical pincer movement, the flanks of the enemy are engaged simultaneously by our superior cavalry.


The enemy are overwhelmed. They fight a little, playing a game of chicken with their own comrades to see who breaks first, but sooner or later the cowards turn tail and flee.


Seeing their battle lines disintegrating, some put stock in their false Gods.

It’s no good crying to the heavens now! Your god’s will not rescue you from your profligacy, or shelter you from the wrath of Rome!


Our men have but to march on the enemy.

Before they realise the grave mistake they have made and flee before us in terror.


Aswad is next, again, killed while retreating.

Do these people have no honour? Will all their leaders die from back injuries related to flight?


Unsurprisingly, victory is ours once more.


There remains only one more minor Arab army for us to deal with before their offensive crumbles completely. For the meantime, our army must rest and recoup its strength though.[/QUOTE]

Elsewhere, we tie some ‘loose ends’.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

Perhaps you thought the vast expanses of Mauretania would hide you from vengeful eyes, or that perhaps the Berbers would shelter you and your treason, didn’t you Verenianus?

Well, tell me, WHERE IS YOUR GOD NOW!?

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

Let all know this. Death to all traitors!

Meanwhile, in Carthage, the Berber warriors present themselves to us for their military inscription:

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

Aurelianus, having heard of the conduct of these people and their skill in warfare, not to mention their usefulness for battle in desert terrain, has ordered a few cohorts of these hardy men formed into Auxilia Palatinae units and sent east immediately.

And in Armenia, outside of Bezabde, Julian continues his line of fortifications against the Persians:

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

Building numerous forts along the mountains and passes, impeding the Sassanid advance and displaying by show of force the Roman intention to hold its newly acquired ground through all possible means.

Meanwhile, our capital continues under siege:

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

The rebels have been laying siege now for close to two months, mustering the men and resources needed to storm the impressively defended capital, building their siege machines and preparing their men for the massive undertaking ahead of them...

[The Kybrothilian]

Great. This really makes me wonder, what world would look, if Julian would have managed to wipe out christianity. (though I think that Mithras-cult would have replaced the others sooner or later)

[Knonfoda]

Great. This really makes me wonder, what world would look, if Julian would have managed to wipe out christianity. (though I think that Mithras-cult would have replaced the others sooner or later)

Indeed. The world did seem to be going in the direction of monotheism, with Islam coming soon and cults such as Mithras and other eastern 'mysteries', so I'm not entirely sure what would have happened. I would like to think Paganism would have regained its importance, but I don't think that's what would have happened sadly.

The thing about Christianity was that it was organised in a way and manner that made it very difficult to compete against. It's no surprise it achieved what it did.

[The Kybrothilian]

Indeed. The world did seem to be going in the direction of monotheism, with Islam coming soon and cults such as Mithras and other eastern 'mysteries', so I'm not entirely sure what would have happened. I would like to think Paganism would have regained its importance, but I don't think that's what would have happened sadly.

The thing about Christianity was that it was organised in a way and manner that made it very difficult to compete against. It's no surprise it achieved what it did.

Yeah, but Christianity kinda got corrupted after emperor Theodosius integrated it to politics, and after the germanic tribes used it as an excuse for war (and that's how we got Pope, crusades and so on...)

Middle-east is unique in being the birth-place of all monotheistic "salvation" religions (Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Zoroastrism and Mithra-cult) Just wonder if the last two of those would still exist.

[Luxchamp]

Great. This really makes me wonder, what world would look, if Julian would have managed to wipe out christianity. (though I think that Mithras-cult would have replaced the others sooner or later)

It's something I find myself pondering quite often as well - would Mithraism have commanded its followers to spill the blood of those who do not share their beliefs?

If Julian had lived his life in full, and died of old age somewhere (maybe in Athens, as it used to be his wish to live and die there), would the Roman Empire have crumbled as fast as it historically did? Would I be a comitatus somewhere in Germania Superior?

Urbs Aeterna indeed