The Attalid Dynasty

[Spartan_Shame]

Ok this will be a new joint AAR between me and aja5191. We will be playing as Pergamum in Ecce, Roma Surrectum on VH/M difficulty. As a little teaser, we are playing on the latest beta release, patch10.

House Rules

Just a few rules to keep the AAR interesting and a little challenging.

1) All armies must have a certain composition. Only a general, a cavalry commander, a unit of cavalry, 6 units of auxiliary troops, and 5 units of city specific hoplites are in an army.

2) Starting date is 270 BC. This is because there are now more cities in hand, we have a fully equipped army, and everyone is slightly more advanced.

3) Only use assassins against other assassins to protect my own characters.

4) Can only attack a faction if there is reason, or if I am provoked into war by constant annoyance.

5) We can only have 1 army per every 10 cities. This is to limit expansion and let the AI have a chance to defend themselves. Roma Surrectum has an option of 1 turn recruitment or 0 turn recruitment. We are playing 0 turn, so armies are created extremely fast.

6) We shall play out the characters traits in the story. We have a great trait mod thanks to a certain team member by the name of SquidSK.

Goals

Basically our goal is to rule both Asia-Minor and Greece, with at least 80 provinces. Along the way we must also destroy Macedon and the Greek Cities completely

[Spartan_Shame]

~ Introduction: ~

~ The Reign of Chrysippos Attalus III ~

~ 270 BC ~

Chrysippos Attalus III, King of Pergamum, stood on the hill where the body of the great Lysimachus was buried. Once one of Alexander’s most trusted generals, Lysimachus had founded the great city of Pergamum on the shores of the Hellespont. It has been 12 years since his passing, though many of Pergamum’s older citizens say that his presence can still be felt today.
At the age of 45, it was now Chrysippos’ duty as his father’s heir to take control of the city. It would be hard to change Pergamum from a city to an empire, but he would do it. Philetaerus had sworn to Zeus on his death bed only last season that his descendants would not rest unless the great walls of Pergamum stood strong and their might was felt throughout the land. He knew it would be a great task, but his people were not your average Greeks.
They had noble blood of the Galatians, the knowledge of the Greeks, and the courage of the great Macedonians of old.
Chrysippos and his brothers currently had all of Anatolia in their sights. Their father, Philetaerus, had died only last season. Though his passing was hard, they had all remained strong together, as they had since they were children.



Chrysippos Attalus III, King of Pergamum


Megadates, Prince of Pergamum


Adonibal


Their army had worked hard over the years. The held Ephesus and Mytilene to the South, and The Kingdom of Nicomedia to the North-East. Though they were not at war, all Pergamumians were edgy, surrounded by great powers. There was Macedon across the Hellespont, the mighty Kingdom of Seleucia to the East, and the Ptolemaic Empire to the South, the two latter threats being kingdoms founded by the diadochi, the successors of Alexander the Great.

But currently the most antagonistic were the Greek city-states. Though they had been told many times times to stay away from Pergamumian territory, another army has been sighted along the coast near Ephesus. What is more, the emmissary sent to talk with them, who was an old friend friend of Chrysippos, had not yet returned from his meeting with the Greek captain, and he was already over a week missing.
So it looked likely that the Greeks would favour a war with them. And so the Royal army, Athena I, marched toward Ephesus with heavy hearts. Long has it been since our people had marched to war, and the prospect of not seeing loved ones for months, possible years, and for some never again was certainly a downturn to the end of the year.
It was lucky, perhaps, that Pergamum had also just finished the training of more her more advanced hoplites. Named after the city of their origin, they were the full citizens of Pergamum, trained from adolescents to be the pride of the Royal Pergamumian army. With their shields adorned with the image of Athena, the symbol of Pergamum, and a fearsome bronze helm, they would soon be the scourge of all those who opposed the people of Pergamum.

Later that month, column moved steadily away from the city, Chrysippos looked over his shoulder at the great city, flooded with sunlight and glinting in the Anatolian sun. Never had he seen such beauty from an inanimate object, yet looking upon his home still brought a tear to his eye.
To his right, his brother Megadates, Prince of Pergamum, only had eyes for the future, looking over the horizon. He looked across at his older brother. Seeing the tears in his eyes, Megadates could not help but remember the times they had had over the years.
They had been almost like friends when they were growing up. And although Chrysippos was older, he was always the sensitive one. If it were not his duty, he would not even be here. But that was why Megadates accompanied the army. He had a will of steel, and as such, led the cavalry into battle. Chrysippos was here for order and give the troops morale to see their King on the field. Megadates knew the time would come when he would be in Chrysippos’ place, but such a time was far from his mind.

War loomed.



~ The State of Pergamum at the start of Attalus III’s Reign ~




The World as of 270 BC


The Pergamumian Royal Family


The General Faction Report

[Spartan_Shame]

~ Pergamum’s Destiny ~

~ 270 BC ~


Chrysippos strode through the enormous library at Pergamum. With it’s marble ceiling and floors, it’s row upon row of books, and an air of grandeur surrounding it, it was no wonder it was second only to the Library at Alexandria. Although it had taken him his whole life to learn its structure by heart, he had little time for it now.
Athena I had returned with nothing more than sore feet only yesterday. The cowardly Greeks had once more made a quick attack, and then begged for a ceasefire. Chrysippos was getting thoroughly sick of this; he had little time as it was without running around after foolish Greeks.


Castor of Elis begs for peace on behalf of Greece

He burst through the marble doors of the Parliament, nodding at various nobles as he made his way towards Lykos, the most respected man in Pergamum who was not actually of noble blood. Lykos had once been a proud soldier in Lysimachus’ army. His own father had even fought alongside Alexander himself. Though he was now old and white bearded, he still possessed an aura of power and grace.
Chrysippos spoke quickly to him. He wanted some advice before he officially opened the meeting. It was imperative that he persuade the nobles that direct war with Greece was unavoidable. But first they must make some executive gains. “Lykos, I believe that we must gain the twin towns of Ancyra and Herakleia. I am aware of the dangers, but their income will relieve the burden on Pergamum’s treasury.” Lykos thought for a minute. He had been a great tactician in his day, and not just in the battlefield. “It is as you say, my lord. It is fraught with danger. But I think it would be the wise decision. The hard part will be convincing Erio and the others of it.” Chrysippos clasped his hand, before turning to start the meeting.
After the usual business of boring matters was seen to, such as the recent trade agreement between themselves and the Ptolemaics, war was addressed.
Chrysippos persuaded them to see his way of thinking. War would come, but before that there was to be expansion. “The twin small rebel towns, Herakleia and Ancyra are just waiting to be claimed in the name of Pergamum. I know you all must have many questions, but I must urge you to think for the good of Pergamum. Yes, it shall open us up to Pontus, and Seleucia, but as I said to dear Lykos, much stands to be gained from such little resistance.” There was much muttering amongst the nobles. Finally Erio, the head noble stood. “My King, it seems as if you have already made your decision. But beware; rulers can be brought to the ground. You had better hope this is successful, Chrysippos Attalus.” Erio sat down amid more muttering from the nobles. Chrysippos did not blame him for his untrusting attitude. He had had a hard life, and they had never really got on. “Well then, it is settled. Herakleia and Ancyra shall be ours. Oh, and by the way Erio, Adonibal shall be in charge in my absence.” He left the chamber quickly, smiling as he thought of Adonibal’s face when he told him he was in charge of Pergamum. A bright prodigy from the start, he was a hard man, and accepted nothing less than obedience. Chrysippos began the duty of mustering Athena I for combat.

In February, 267 BC, they arrived at Herakleia. The local people, the Paphlagonians refused terms of surrender, and so with the help of some local mercenaries, the town was quickly surrounded and captured.


Thracian mercenaries finish the job


A clear victory

As soon as order reigned, they moved onwards to Ancyra. Currently held by Galatian militia, Chrysippos had no doubt that the superior armour and discipline of his hoplites would crush the small force.
As thought, the pathetic defence simply could not last against trained warriors, and the second town was theirs.


Hoplites of Pergamum rush to take Ancyra


Ancyra falls

Back at Pergamum, Adonibal was outraged at the latest daring feat by the Greeks. His military supervisor had told him warily of the Greek’s recent break of their fragile peace-treaty. A message was sent to his brother, and Adonibal now eagerly awaited the news of the Greeks’ defeats. They had both blockaded Mytilene, as well as besieging Ephesus to the South. He had no delusions now that Pergamum stood to invade Greece. And that meant he would be given free reign here. Even as a child, he had loved command. He looked out through the window towards Greece, he smiled. They had no idea what was coming…


The Greeks besiege Ephesus

Captain Myos squinted against the sun, as he saw the rolling hill that the Greeks sat upon. He frowned, before turning to rejoin Athena I.
Chrysippos decided to advance upon hearing the news of the Greeks' high position. It would be unlikely that they would move from such a position, and while the Greeks could wait it out, those starving inside Ephesus could not. With a nod, a tinny horn blowed, signalling the advance. Megadates called out encouragement to the troops, and with a mighty roar, they marched towards the Greeks, ready to kill.


Chrysippos sounds the advance

As they came to a halt only 100m from the enemy, the hoplites raised their spears, preparing to charge the Greek line as arrows from the archers whistled around their ears.


The Pergamumians prepare for the charge

As the two lines met, it was hoplite against hoplite. But whereas the Greeks had levies from Rhodes and Western Crete, Pergamum’s forces were fully trained, and ready to kill.
With a cry, they pummelled the Greeks, sending their formation into disarray as they tore them apart. Screams rent the air, and from behind all the action, Megadates and his Macedonian cavalry proceeded to eliminate the Greek light cavalry.


Hoplite vs. Hoplite

Captain Nomion of the Greeks turned his horse to run. He was a simple soldier, not a commander. When he thought he had made his escape, he dared a look behind him. With a dull thud, the arrow slammed into his chest. As he’s tumbled of his horse, his chest pumping blood, his army fell into ruin.


A timely death

Chrysippos looked around him. Though there were a few scattered groups still fighting, the Greeks were finished. “Megadates! Destroy them! Make them regret the day the faced us!”The Pergamum and the Allied Macedonian cavalry proceeded to annihilate every Greek within sight. None survived the slaughter.

Captain Myos surveyed the countryside once more. Except now, he only saw the fleeing backs of the regretful Greeks.


The Greeks flee across the horizon


A bad day for Greek military

With Chrysippos’ return, the people of Pergamum were waiting in the streets. All congratulated him and his brother on such a determined victory. Adonibal stood at the stairs of the new Imperial Palace, which had been completed only a month ago.
As they walked through the grey stone walls, Adonibal informed his older brothers of the reckless blockade of Mytilene’s port. This on top of the attack at Ephesus, Chrysippos had now made up his mind. He would invade Greece. A new ally had also been gained. An emissary from Armenia had asked for an alliance between their two people on behalf of his King. Adonibal, being a bright, alert young man, saw the advantages of this immediately. They now had a backing force with their war against Greece, and also a repellent to stop the Kingdom of Pontus getting any ideas.


An alliance is formed

The invasion of Greece was now full steam ahead, and they would start with Rhodes. After a year at sea, Athena I disembarked. This time, Greece would be the ones defending.

[dvk901]

Great job! I look forward to reading this.

[pseudocaesar]

what program you use for the picture effects? its the small touches like that that really make AAR's worth reading and more enjoying

[Tankbuster]

Cool! Can you post a world map from time to time, otherwise I can't follow your expansion

[Spartan_Shame]

Thanks

at pseudocaesar: I use Photoshop CS2. It's great for picture and photo editing. Although it is rather expensive. Ahem, yes...

at Tankbuster: I was only goin to post the world map after the death of each ruler. However if it's wanted I can post one every few updates.

[Spartan_Shame]

~ A Growing Threat ~

~ 263 BC ~

Chrysippos sighed as he drank the liquid from the bronze cup the orderly had given him. He was no longer the spry person he had been. He was getting old. And here he was, far from home at Rhodes, ready to strike a blow against the Greeks. He couldn’t wait to get home after this. He had already decided that Adonibal would replace him as commander of Athena I. Megadates would protest, but it was for the best. Even as he composed hmself, the final preparations were completed.


The Assault on Rhodes

The day of the siege, the techies finished work on the siege equipment soon to be brought into play. A massive tower had been constructed, as well as a mine to collapse the Western wall.

As the assault got under way, the archers rushed to cover the hoplites running into the mine. In the distance, the Colossus of Rhodes stood guard over the harbour. Soon to be their harbour, if all went well.



Greek archers cover the miners tunneling under the Rhodian fotifications

After some time, Pergamum’s finest took the walls, and seeing no resistance, hurried to open the gates to admit the main army.


Pergamumian Hoplites spill onto the walls

At the other side, a massive roar followed by a resounding boom signalled the collapse of the wall. Screams were heard intertwined with the raucous as men fell to their death or were crushed beneath massive chunks of hard boulder.


The Western wall collapses, taking hundreds with it

The Hoplites moved in, swiftly ending the life of those fallen off the walls with quick jerks of their spears, and moved into the streets of Rhodes with practised ease.


The Wall is breached!

As they met the light Rhodian cavalry, the slaughter began. Unable to manoeuvre in the tight area of the street, horses here quickly cut down. Captains Iakchos and Hippias were among those killed.


The streets are no place for horses...




Both captains are mercilessly slaughtered

As they entered the town square, the famed Rhodian Hoplites came into view. With the visor of Helios shining in their eyes, the Pergamians prepared for the charge.


The heroic hoplites

Though they were far outnumbered, they gave them a run for their money. Backed by the Rhodian militia, they managed to kill their number of Pergamum soldiers. It was a bloody mess, and the cobbled streets became slippery with the blood of man. Superior numbers could not be beaten though, and soon the banner was flying over head, whipping in the sea breeze.


The Pergamumian banner flies in Rhodes


A great victory over the Greeks

Chrysippos sat below deck of the fleet carrying Athena I home. As they passed the Colossus, many stared in wonder and admiration. Though the people who had made them were now beaten, their craftsmanship did not go unnoticed by the men of Pergamum.


The Colossus at Rhodes

Once more in the meeting hall, a very important meeting was about to commence. Chrysippos stood, and al fell silent. “Gentlemen, this meeting shall decide our fate. For I have both news and announcements. First of all, I shall be retiring my command of Athena I.” There followed gasps and muted whispers. Although they had known he would retire soon, they did not think that day would come to pass this early. “My young brother, Adonibal, shall take leadership. Though he is young, he is no longer a child, and I believe him a worthy and apt choice. I shall assume governorship of the city in his place, and I look forward to spending more time with all of you.”

“And now, I must tell you our new path. Gentlemen, the Ptolemaic Empire has now become the most powerful nation in the known world. The have even started to take the lands of the once mighty Seleucid Empire. Many of you know that Seleucia has long been our ally, however now they are in grave danger. And if they lose their territory in Asia-minor, that leaves us in their path. We must take the first step. We must stop these people before they become truly unstoppable.”

If there was muttering before, it had risen to a positive roar. At once, the infamous Erio stood.

“My King, if what you say is true, then should we not try to make peace with these people? Surely we could live in harmony? And how do you propose to protect the rest of our land with Athena I fighting West?”

“I am glad you gave me a chance to start on this subject. In regards to your first question, I have already tried to talk to these people, to no avail. Besides, they are openly attacking our ally. Many may think of Seleucia as a giant who has done nothing but endanger us, however the fact remains that they have stood by us in our time of need. Regarding safety of our people, I have a plan for that too.”

“Greece is no longer a threat. Macedon has started to take their cities. Besides that, their only decent General, Cleon is busy in Crete. Greece is a mess. Rebel armies run rampant, each city vying for power. It is not unified, but it is too well defended to take yet. But to ensure that there are no rebel uprisings in our own country, and for general safety, I propose the creation of Athena II. We now have enough money with the capture of Rhodes to raise and feed a new army. Who is too lead this, I do not know yet. However I believe that is the future.”

With the main talk over, the meeting resumed it’s orderly atmosphere.

In late August of 258 BC, Athena I took the town of Sardis from the Ptolemaics. Though meeting small resistance, Adonibal wanted to capture the city so as to avoid a meeting with a disgruntled Ptolemaic force.


Pergamum makes it's move against the Ptolemaics



Hermias Zabinas stood on the hill overlooking Sardis. As he remounted his steed, he returned to his army. He was a young, trusted by the Ptolemy family through marriage. He was a brilliant commander, and was ready for the clash against the impudent Pergamumians.


The Ptolemaic Commander, Zabinas


Back at camp, Adonibal was disturbed by the shouts and cries of his men. Squinting into the sun, he saw the Hawk of Ptolemy. With Egyptian horns, and the steady thud of men’s feet, it was heading straight for them. He shouted to his captains, who started organising the men into their formations in front of the tents, ready for conflict.

It was high noon, and a great day for battle.


The first important battle of the Ptolemies vs. the Attalids

[tone]

Nice AAR! I'm enjoying this.

[cherryfunk]

Nice to see Tone's new Pargamum hoplites in action, I love those shields. Is that Athena's face on them?

[Spartan_Shame]

Yeah Athena for Pergamum, and Helios for Rhodes

[rory o'kane]

nice good AAR so far. i want to see you kick those Ptolies!

[S.W.A.T]

Nice AAR, very good. Just hope the Ptolemies give you a run for your money.

@rory.

[Spartan_Shame]

~A New Beginning~

~259 BC~

The hoplites of Pergamum stood in the long grass near Sardis, awaiting the battle’s commencement. Both armies had arrived in the morning, and had spent the day organizing the men for combat.


The Pergamian hoplites prepare for battle

Although he had been itching to attack the Ptolemaics while they were still lining up, the calm Megadates has steadied Adonibal’s hand. This was his first battle, and although he was a man, Chrysippos had asked Megadates to look after their brother well, and he was not about to see his brother die in some courageous charge.

Finally, the horns sounded, and the army below them began to advance. At Adonibal’s signal, Pergamum’s troop marched to meet them.

As the two lines met, the sound of spear on shield could be heard for miles, and the two sides fought under the blazing Anatolian sun. Blood soaked the earth as they battled hard, each trying to gain the upper hand on the other.


The battle reaches it's zenith

Eventually, the number advantages told it’s tale, as the last of the Ptolemaic soldiers were surrounded by their Pergamumian foe.


The Ptolemiacs are completely surrounded

Then with a thunder of hooves, and the roars of death, Zabinas and his companions drove into the Pergamian hoplites, deep into the ranks, breaking the formation, and causing widespread panic.


Zabinas tries a desperate charge

It was only the flanking charge of the allied Macedonian cavalry that saved them. Slowly Zabinas and his men were forced back, and under flashing steel, Zabinas fell, along with the remnants of his army.


Zabinas' death causes panic amongst his men

Seeing their leader fall, the reserve army fled before even giving fight. Remorselessly, Megadates chased them down, slashing with his fearsome cavalry sword.


The cowardly Ptolemaics run for their lives

The remaining men now scattered, all heading for safety near the river. As they wheeled around to return to the army, they realized Megadates was no longer among them.

With a cry, the saw a figure lying spread-eagled on the ground. As they rode up to him, they feared him dead. With relief, they saw he was breathing. They picked him up, and Polytheus placed him on his saddle, as they urgently rode back to the camp.

It had been victory, but had it cost them a life of the Prince?


A bitter sweet victory

***

As the chirugeon surveyed the man, he shook his head. He strode outside where Adonibal was waiting. “Well? How is he?”
Nephetes, the chirugeon looked at him. “He is very luck, sire. He has a bad heart. I suggest it is time for him to retire from military life. It is lucky he is alive now.”
As he walked away, Adonibal frowned. He had counted on his brother to help guide him in the first few years of leadership. Though now he thought of it, he realized that both his brothers were nearing death. Such a large gap between them was hard, especially as a kid.

He sighed, dreading the time when he would have to notify his brother of the bad news.

***

Chrysippos read the letter, startled. He had worried for Megadates’ health, and now his fears were realized. It was not the only news to reach Pergamum of late. Rumour had it from the numerous Macedonian traders in the city that the noble state of Epirus was gone, finally snuffed out by the supreme might of Macedonian power.


Epirus fades into memory and history

One thing that seemed to be going well was the fight against the Ptolemaics. Of course he would now need a new man to send, but there were many noble men in the city willing to take on military life.

But the place he dreamed of was Greece. He had long hoped to walk the streets of Athens, or sail past the Greek coast. Now, at nearly 60, he knew he had little time left, and was probably near death’s cold embrace.

He walked over to the map on his desk, pinned in place by bronze daggers. Be touched the smear of ink representing Greece. If only…

***

Meanwhile, South-East of Pergamum, Athena I had not stopped it’s rampage. They had now taken over Halicarnassuss. The men had wondered at the great city that was surrounded by mere wooden walls. When asked to surrender, the stubborn Ptolemaic governor had stated that Pergamum would never pass the walls. Needless to say, the city had burned for it’s arrogance, and the only people left alive were able men to rebuild the ruined city.


The people of Halicarnassus pay for their folly

In March of 256 BC, the new general, Timon arrived with his host of Companion cavalry. These legends descended from the army of Alexander himself were the new pride of the Pergamian army.

But in 254, disaster struck. At the age of 61, Chrysippos’ body had finally given up the fight for survival. Megadates and all the Attalids attended the somber funeral in Pergamum. Adonibal was forced to stay with Athena I, as a large Ptolemaic force was seen besieging the last Seleucid town is Asia-Minor. With the giant absent, Ptolemy’s forces would be free to attack Pergamian territory.

In Pergamum, Chrysippos’ body was carried out to be buried alongside his father, and the great Lysimachus. The new King, Megadates looked upon his brother’s worn face one last time as he was lowered into the earth.

“I swear to you brother. Pergamum shall rule Greece, if not through me, then our sons and daughters. It is our birthright. Our heritage. Our destiny”

As he left the small hill, rain began to fall on the silent city. Megadates Attalus IV returned to his villa, set in his pact now. Athena II would invade Greece…

~The State of Pergamum at the start of Attalus IV’s reign~

]
The world map as of 254 BC


The Royal Pergamian Family


The General Faction Report

[aja5191]

It was related to patching this edition to a different patch in the beta stages.

What, we have another beta?!

[S.W.A.T]

Oh, sneaky sneaky.



Any chance that the Succesors will be re-skinned?

[tone]

Oh, sneaky sneaky.



Any chance that the Succesors will be re-skinned?

Yes, they will be reskinned. Hopefully, soon.

[Spartan_Shame]

~The Greek's Payment~

~252 BC~

Captain Memmon looked over the wall in shock. He had complained when he had been dragged up here in the middle of his meal, but now all he felt was dread. There, camped on the field in front of Rhodes was a army. By his quick count, there were far too many of them to defend Rhodes.

He called out behind him, “Men, Prepare for battle! Today we fight!”

***

Megadates stood with Adonibal inside the main chamber of the library at Pergamum. After many years campaigning, it was decided to replenish the ranks with fresh recruits. But now it seemed unlikely that they would be here long.

The news of Rhodes’ defeat came without notice. The bastards must have slipped their small fleet through in the dead of the night. Although they had been beaten, the merchant who had visited the city, only to be sent away saw many a Greek body in front of the city. Memmon must have sallied forth in a show of bravery, once he knew that defeat was certain.


Rhodes' untimely defeat


From the Northern Steppes, news came that the Cimmerian Bosporus had eliminated the ancient tribes of the Sarmatians.


Sarmatia meets it's end

Adonibal spoke after the long silence, “Brother, let me destroy Greece. You propose to send an inexperienced General to fight one of the most advanced nations in the known world.”

“And what do you propose we do about the Ptolemaics? Leave them be and hope for the best?”

Adonibal stood over his desk. “No, I believe it is time to levy Athena II. They could hold off the Ptolemaics while we finish off Greece.”

“Adonibal, Greece is in ruins. Rebels thrive in places that once were great, like Sparta and Elis. All these places have waned. The only two cities that remain united are Athens and Argos. After that it is years of hunting down rebel forces, and after that, the pacification of Greece! This is not going to take a week, brother”

“Let me go. You know what Chrysippos would want.”

Megadates remembered the oath he took after his brother’s death, and looked at his weathered hands. With a sigh, he agreed. Greece would be theirs, or no ones.

***

Less than two years later, Athena I stood on the shores of Rhodes. From inside, women were heard screaming, and men shouting. Adonibal smiled. Rhodes was theirs.

***

Meanwhile, across the sea, Nicanor and the new Athena II were about to face their first challenge. One Aischylos of Singara now lead the Ptolemaics into battle. Although he was relatively inexperienced, so was Nicanor. But Megadates had chosen he, and that gave him pride. He would do his best for Pergamum, and the Attalids.


The Ptolemaic commander

Both sides had reinforcements. A small Egyptian scout party had joined up with Aischylos, while the garrison force from the nearby Xantus made the numbers even. It would be a bloody battle.


The two sides meet

The fiery boulder plunged into the ranks, killing tens with screams of agony, and the smell of burning flesh. Nicanor looked to the horizon, and saw yet more of these bringers of death. With a cry, he urged the Companions forward. They rode hard up the hill into the crowd of people that operated the massive onagers. Nicanor looked in wonder at the contraptions that lay before him. He resolved to study these, and use them as his own. They were fearsome things.


The Companions slaughter the engineers

With their weapon destroyed, they Ptolemaics hauled their ass up the hill, ready to clash, even though they were severely handicapped with terrain. Nicanor had chosen the site well.


The Ptolemaics struggle up the steep hill in full battle armour

As they came into range of their javelins, the heavy peltasts and imitation legionaries let fly, and they resulting destruction caused havoc amongst the enemy line.

Suddenly a horn sounded, and the Ptolemaics whirled around. There stood the reinforcements from Xantus. Their leader, Aischylos immediately got carried away by the spirit of battle, and rode towards them in a reckless charge. His companions rode hard after him.


Aischylos commits a crime on his men tantamount to suicide

Although they killed many a men on impact, the short spears of the hoplites told, as horse’s tendons were severed, and their stomachs slashed open. The riders struggled to regain composure, but their steeds had had enough, and they ran like nothing else.

Pythagoras saw in the distance the yellow and black crest. He smiled. “Gents, whoever hits that target shall get an extra beer tonight.”

Their laughs were drowned out by the twang of bowstrings. Aischylos, still not in control of his fleeing horse, never knew what hit him.




Aischylos falls

With renewed strength, the hoplites pushed the Byzantine hoplites back down the hill, using the height to their full advantage.


The Pergamian hoplites use the height advantage to push the opposition down the hill

It only took a few more minutes, but their resolve broke, and they fled for their life, away from the terrible foe that had beaten them and robbed them of a leader.


The Ptolemaics break and run

Although it was costly, Nicanor had shown courage and coolness under pressure. The men now looked at him with full obedience. This was only the start for Nicanor…


A hard earned victory

***

To the West, the Armenian people had lost their struggle for life, to the Pontic people of Anatolia. Now, with no rival, the Pontics looked set to make their own destiny…


Armenia falls beneath a new power

***

It was 247 BC. Athena II had been busy annexing Crete from the Greeks. And now, with the last people huddled in Athens and Argos, they had followed them here. Greece would pay for it’s constant incursion with the ultimate price. Death.

[Tankbuster]

Excellent read

[Spartan_Shame]

Yaeh I tried to ship the AAR to the new Beta, but as a result, it had a heart attack and died. I plan to start the Roman AAR as a communtiy based one. More on that after the release of Patch 10 official...