NationStates Jolt Archive

Nile docks.

Rameses II looked out from his palace at the sprawling docks where huge and intimidating ships of war were being built. His messages from the gods complete his knowledge of their inventions total. The cedar and papyrus vessels thrummed with the power of the gods.

"These... These vessels will deliver us to the corners of the world. With each vessel a great host of warriors. Our time will come soon Harra our time is near arriving. The gods have gifted us great boons with these vessel." Rameses II whispered to his high priest and friend Harra.

Watching the slaves chisel and hammer at the huge 150 foot long boats Rameses II allowed a small smile to play over his face. "Watch how they work, see their skill and craftings come to life. Today we celebrate the birth of a new Empire!" he whispers softly as yet another boat finished and ready for use floats lazily down the river it's cautious and ill experianced crews struggling to control the huge and heavy vessel.

Frowning Rameses II mutters a quick prayer of forgiveness to the gods for the ineptitudes and inexperiance of his boat people. All along the river trade vessels can be seen floating with ease, sailing and fishing. Gifts from other countries float along the great river. The Empire is indeed larger for it's worth.

Palace of Rameses II

It is night time in the capital, Rameses II sits in his throne ruling over the two lands of egypt. Before him a tournament is being fought between two noble and well trained warriors.

Their toned and tanned bodies flash dangerously as each moves with a fluid grace borne of a true warrior. Their scimitars sing and squeal with each successfully defended slash. Their breath is heavy and the adoration of the crowd intense. Watching these two warriors Rameses II smiles softly knowing the winner will become his new general. To lead the armies accross the nile into lands previously unable to be conquered by the invincible armies of the pharoahs.

A kick to the ankles causes one of the warriors to fall to the floor in a heap lighting quick the standing warrior thrusts his scimitar towards the belly of his adversary stopping just short of landing the blow. A clean kill, Rameses II applauds proudly and stands from his throne, around him the gathered people drop to their knees their heads bowed.

"well fought my noble warriors a match worthy of Munto-Ra himself." Turning to the victor Rameses II holds out a headdress of silver and copper. "To you Nefarithi I give you the head dress of command. The general of the empire." Bowing his head Nefarithi accepts the head dress and dons it upon his sweaty head.

The silver and copper shine brilliantly in the torch lit room and once more Egypt gains a warrior capable of leading the armies to victory. "My king, it is with your guidance and faith that I accept this role. For you the world will know Egyptian might. Munto-Ra would be pleased my king." Nefarithi whispers and bows once more, leaving to inspect his army and prepare for the coming conquest...........

OOC: Hmm... I wonder how I can join...

The shores of the nile

Row after row of armoured warriors stand ready for departure, a great host of knights stand proud their scimitars and armour glinting maliciously in the early morning light. Footsoldiers stretching as far as the eye can see, their bronzed and muscled bodies echo deeply into the morning desert.

Chariots roll to stops their archers proudly sporting new bows and leather armour, the general whom won his spot as commander of the armies stands proudly in his shining scalemail armour glinting with a regalness rivaled only by that of Rameses II. Scimitars sing as they are drawn from sheaths and cast a glinting cresendo of light over the hundreds and thousands of warriors standing ready for their order.

Walking down a long column of warriors Rameses II walks proudly to the front of the host and steps onto the first of many huge and hardened warships. His scalemail glints maliciously in the twinkling sun it's green and golden edgings giving the pharoah a shine of holyness that only a Pharoah should have.

"Warriors of Egypt! Blessed of the Gods! Today we march on lands we only dreamed of! Today the Empire expands! Munto-Ra has given us his blessings, the eyes of ra are with us now! Together with the priests will we bring fire and brimstome and holy death to our enemies! We march for rome!" Rameses II shouts as the warriors below roar their approval clanging their scimitars against scimitars they swarm the huge ships which engulf the vast horde of warriors with ease.

Slowly and lazily the huge warships set sail down the nile and to the open oceans their skilled drivers finnaly able to sail the mighty ships with ease. In his room aboard the great ships Munto-Ra Rameses II watches the rolling sand dunes and grasslands give way to crashing waves and open oceans.

Sehkmat be with us on our journey, protect us with your light. May our enemies crumble in the light of her wrath. he chants in silent prayer to one of the Eyes of Ra. "The gods are with us Harra we are unchalleneged in these lands. Once we have conquered rome we will march on the lands of this realm. We will make egypt united in all corners!" Nodding silently Harra smiles "Yes my king, and with that the gods will know truly that you are worthy of their blessings. To war we march and to ultimate victory!"

The ships sail into the vastness of the open seas, their course laid out...Europe...Rome....The world. A great army some 700,000 in size huddles in the bellies of the mighty ships of the gods, their warriors waiting to put scimitar to throat and spill the blood of enemy warriors once more.... War is good for them, the traitors of upper egypt learnt that long ago.......

*Tag, feel free to land a regiment in China*

[OOC: Will look into it. And if anyone has an ancient roman nation....uh it'd be quite enjoyable if ya decided to surface ;) I dont really want to RP this out by myself. :P]

OOC I might just create an Ancient Civ nation just fgor the fun of it... it won't be RL Nation though. Would you RP with that?

[OOC: Yup..... :P]

OOC: hey this is Raysia... lemme develop this nation tomrorow and I'll join this RP... I'm off to bed though. This nation will be a Multitheistic Mesopotamian/Egyptian/Roman/Greek/Egyptian mix :) Should be fun.

OOC: Also, would you be comfortable about "Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon" type Kung-fu?

ooc: I will kill that ******************* that got 'Tyros' just a few days/ weeks ago >.<

---

ic:

"That doesn`t look good."
"Indeed, my friend... a storm will come upon us. Let us prepare, and sail to the coast. Crete is near, and will be a safe haven for us."
"Yes, mylor... wait, whats that?"
Both look to the horizon, where suddenly, a fleet has come in sight... a mightly fleet.
"Who`s that? I can´t remember their co... no, i know them..."
"Egyptians. Since when are they a seapower?"
"I don`t know. But we should be cautious."
"Indeed. Let´s not risk to come in contact yet, we are only three ships, and unarmed merchants..."

Slowly, the ships change their course... heading for crete, and slowly moving away from the egyptian fleet...

In the mediterranean sea

A single warrior with sharp eyes stands at the front of the ship scanning the vast watery horizon. Living in the desert with miles of sand and flatness has honed his sight to see as far as one can see.

Just in his sight he spies small vessels turning from them. "My king! I see vessels in the distance! Small vessels! They are fleeing from us!" he shouts down to Rameses II who smiles triumphantly. "We are nearing the waters of Rome the peasants and merchants flee before the might of the Egyptians! Onwards my warriors! We will smell the flash of battle yet!"

As one the mighty fleet turn towards Italy. Inside the bellies of the mammoth ships the warriors prepare for war, scimitars begin being sharpened and bows restrung. Armour is cleaned and donned prayers to Munto-Ra and Sehkmat whisper through the hordes of soldiers.

"To our victory we beseech you Munto-Ra the shinging god of War, To Sehkmet we ask for your protection of our King." Is what is whispered.

Slowly their course is laid and the mighty vessels prepare their defenses should they meet enemy warships, the landing rafts are prepared and the blood begins to boil...... The Egyptians have come.......

It`s a beautiful da yin northern Sicilia, or, better, it would be a beautiful day if it weren`t so hot.

The soldiers in the wastern 'fortress' are bored to hell, and try to relax in the shadows the occasional trees offer.

Fortress is actually a way to big word for the tiny thing it is. It is build for about 2000 men, however, the standart garrison is only 1000 men, and only 500 of them are present.

Few, if any, wear their light armour, more than half of them are half. naked, sweating in the sun. Actually, a nice view for the older girls and young women from a nearby village, who occasionally come to the river to get some water.

Another boring day, another useless waste of time.

But high above the fortress, the banner of Tyros stands, showing the might of the republic.

OOC: Don't forget China....

Shores of sicilia

The mighty ships of the Egyptians land their hordes upon the burning shores of Sicilia. At the head of the huge host of warriors the general Nefarithi stands regaly surveying the surrounding lands.

The horde of warriors some 7,000 in strength gather their witts and weapons about them and follow the march. The great warships float lazily in the waters content to watch their mighty foot soldiers march on the island their intent......conquest and occupation.....

Scouts on camels ride forth ahead of the columns of troops scouting the area and noting possible enemy locations. Behind them the warriors march slowly at the pace of the ox-drawn carts which carry their provions of food and water.

The scouts landing on the south eastern shores head north searching for enemy positions........

Sicilia will fall and the empire will grow.

Near the coast, a small, but fast ship cruises, it shows the banner of Tyros.

The ships name is Zdenka, 32 men are on board.

It`s a light ship, meant for surveillance, for fast missions, not for actual battle.

Six days earlier, they left the harbour, it`s commander, Abibaal, on a mission to find and hunt down pirates...

However, now, he found something much more dangerous...

"That is... Incredible."
"It is. And they`re definitely not pirates."
"Quite correct. They`re state pirates. Like we are." Abibaal grinned. "We need to inform the sicilian command. After that, we need to send a message back to Tyros... ah... and we need to find out who they are, before."

The ship turned, it`s oars hitting the sea.

OOC: I'll be Rome if ya want...

The Krytos Legion was marching wearily... They had marched for what seemed like ages. Their invasion of Macedonia was underway, and the Krytos Legion was marching to support them... But the way from Italy to Macedonia was long, and the legionaires are tired...

Standing watch on the deck of the Anubis the might warship of Ramesses II a single watchmen cries out. "My king! A ship in the distance. They have spotted us and are leaving!" Looking up Ramesses II frowns. "Get word to general Nefarithi. We might be facing more forces than local villiagers." He orders a messenger who nods and sets off at once along the path the marching horde took.

At sea one of the mighty ships turns to chase the ship it's giant oars rising slowly and propeling the craft. The beating of drums sound out as the rowers move to the beat of the drums. At the front of the boat archers stand ready their arrows needing only to be let loose on their target....

The race begins.

troll gods smash egy-eg-, man-thing gods

"Oh, damn... they follow us."
"Don`t worry, we`re lighter, faster. Look at their ship, it`s big, way to big... They wont be able to keep up." Abibaal smiles. He is better than this clumsy people. Although he has yet to learn about their motives.

Slowly, the ship moves forward, becoming faster. It`s purple flag waves through the wind, and the twenty oarsmen give their best. Slowly, the distance between the two ships grows, while the twilight of the night begins to turn the sea red...

As if it`s a prediction of what to come...

Still, they`re not completely out of range for the archers... if they are good.

Watching the ship move farther and farther from them the captain of the Anubis frowns. "Set the archers to fire.... Only if they think they can hit... Fire a volley then we return to the rest of the fleet." Nodding a soldier calls to the archers. "Release your arrows! Shoot for the hearts!" As one the 20 Archers put arrow to bow tilt back and draw their weapons back.

As the sun sets staining the sea red the captain nods "Fire!" as the last letter fades away the archers unleash their arrows into the air the weapons whistling in the wind and soar towards the enemy ship.

Not waiting to see if it lands the mighty ship begins to turn around returning to the fleet to warn Ramesses II of the risk of hostile warships and to describe the flying flag of the fleeing ship.

"More for our warriors to burn and claim... Munto-Ra will shine on us with glee." The captain whispers as the mighty vessel begins it's slow trek back to Sicilia.

Wearily, the Krytos Legion settles down for the night. As 4,900 soldiers bed down for the night... 100 soldiers begins to patrol the area for defense.

The twenty arrows are hard to see in the red sunlight of the evening... but the range is already too large, and only five arrovs actually hit the ship, three of them end harmlessly stuck into the wood of the ship.

Two others, however, hit. One hit`s a warrior in the arm, he screams out in pain, the blood shooting out of him in a little fontaine reddening the ship, the other an oarsman, right into the back of his head. He falls over, dead, the arrowhead coming out of his mouth, blood dripping from it.

Abibaal doesn`t like it. He really doesn`t like it.

"Return fire!"

And they return it, the nine remaining warriors firing their arrows at the slow egyptian ship.

With a dull whistle and a repeated thunk as the arrows land against wood and body alike the captain of the Anubis Looks about shocked. "They are returning fire! Take cover! Oarsmen increase speed! Archers return fire!"

With the hollow screams of people wounded the distant smell of blood and the stained wood of the mighy ship the archers return fire shooting arrows after arrows at the enemy vessels.

Munto-Ra will not be pleased with me.... I hope blessings remain favourable....

As more warriors fall victim to the arrows from the enemy ships the archers run out of range and the mighty ship pulls away. "Hold your fire archers! Lets see if that will hold them back."

*Perhaps one, two days later*

The Zdenka had finally arrived at the western fortress. And Abibaal had bad news for the commander.

"They seem to be strong. I`m not entirely sure, but they definitely have enough ships for five thousand men."
"That is... more than we have! Entirely! Who could that be?"
"I`m not sure... We have the hethites in anatolia, the romans... the egyptians. Must be one of them. It could be one of the greek nations or one of our 'brothers' as well, but i doubt they would send that massive forces. I mean... five thousand men. That would weaken their own defences considerably."
"True." The commander gave a rather worried look. This wasn`t good, that was for sure.
"We will have to make contact, to see what they want. I will send ships to inform the others. We will meet in the central fortress. When we know what they are up to, we will send a message to home."
"At least they`re not directly attacking us."
"That is correct. There might be some hope left. We cannot use a war, not now. We just finished expanding to the pillars of heracles. A war against a superpower... no, thanks."
The commander stopped, and Abibaal bowed. However, he disagreed. In his opinion, they had to strike as fast as possible. It was possible, least he thought so.

OOC: Do you mind fantasy? I am basicaly the same tech (early-mid mideival period), with minor changes, like Skyships and mechanical warriors :twisted: , if you dont, Ill join soon)

Marching steadily for two days and nights Nefarithi grew tired of the enemyless lands. The Villiages they passed were small and useless restricted in their passage.

"Two days and no resistance....could Rameses II of been wrong?" he mutters on more than one occasion. During the early hours of the third day Nefarithi sat prayin in the middle of camp when one of his scouts rode up on camel.

"My king! I have spotted a fortress north of us! It is little more than a days march!" Looking up Nefarithi smiles and calls for his lieutenants. "Have the soldiers waken and prepare to march! send word back to Rameses we march on a fortress in one day."

Nodding the lieutenants bow and rush off, hours pass and the horde of soldiers rouse into marching columns the ox drawn carts loaded once more and the lines of war march on once more......Soon there would be blood letting.

OOC: and uh what do you think....I will not accept such silly things.

OOC: Where are your armies Ramesses II? My men are in southern Macedonia...

OOC: Where are your armies Ramesses II? My men are in southern Macedonia...
Sicilia.

He will attack from the south (If he comes that far...)

---

ic:

Eastern fortress:

Unlike the soldiers in the western fortress, the troops in the eastern fortress didn`t know anything.

It was early morning, the patrol, fifty men with full equipment, was perhaps half a day from the fortress. They were one of the ten patrols controlling this third of the Tyros possessions in Sicilia.

Nothing had happened, as always. Well, they DID find a group of robbers, and wiped them out, with only one of them slightly injured... well, he would live on, even without his right ear.

But this day, it was different. It was early morning, they were still a bit tired, when they heard the noises... clanking weapons, people talking in a strange language...

They checked it, followed the source of the noise...

There they were.

"Strange animals..."
"They`re too many... we need to inform the commander."

Centurion Janus Novak grimaces at the letter he had recieved. The Krytos Legion was to march to conquered Athens and board warships to transport them to Sicilia...

With the scouts pulled back the marching horde missed the patrol watching them. In the distance the runners could make out the growing shape of the enemy fortress. Scimitars clanking and carts creaking the egyptian warriors marched onwards their faces showing grim determination.

Nefarithi atop his chariot rubbed his hands eagerly the battlefield nearing the onslaught almost ready.

"Tonight my warriors we will taste the blood of victory!" he mutters to the surrounding chariot archers and knights. "To victory we will ride!"

Marching ever onwards the Egyptian horde halts once more, in plain sight of the fortress. Archers walk to the front of lines upon lines of Footsoldiers, the egyptian knights stand ready with their bronze scimitars and studded armour.

With the pitched deep roar of war the battle horns open up announcing their presence and challenging the enemy. War has arrived.

The patrol had arrived at the fortress, just a few minutes before the egyptians came in sight.

Impressive view... Commander Sirom looked at the egyptians, deep in thoughts. The ship that was meant to warn the others had already left the small harbour they had, only one more remained.

"Egyptians. It`s their banner. But what the hell are they doing here?"
"Well, it is quite obvious..."
"Baal will punish them, through our hands."

Sirom wasn`t that sure, really. They had 540 men in the fortress. Not really impressive. He had send eight men to warn the others, so that they would not fall into the traps the enemy might plan for them, however...

Well, at least it looks like their general is a moron. No scouts to secure the region, nothing... brute force only... with trickery, we might even win the day...

But then, he had to think about the 'fortress' he was in...

The walls were four meters high, there were no towers, except the one at the harbour, which would be quite useless.

"We need to provoke them, so that they do soemthing stupid. Can the archers reach them?"
"Well... no. A few, perhaps, but it would be a waste of arrows."
"Hmmm... Well, stay alert. If they wait until tomorrow... well, we might surprise them in the night. If they attack now, they wont be a match for us, they are tired from the march."

The commander went away, looking up to the banner of Tyros... Hopefully, he would be able to honour it.

***In Athens***

Centurion Janus Novak surveys the uploading of the 5000 soldiers of the Krytos Legion onto several triremes and quintremes... The Centurion with his praetorians were the las to board the warships. The ships set sail on the rising sun...their destination Sicilia...

Studying the 'fortress' intently Nefarithi smirked with arrogance at the thought of takeing such a small and useless prize for egypt. "It's a start.... Set up camp and have the guards stand ready in case of attack. Find me someone among our merchants that speak's the language of this land. Roman at best.... Greek if possible." Nefarithi orders one of his lieutenants as all around them tents are erected and soldiers rest after the weary march of days.

Three hours pass before the lieutenant returns with a chubby well rounded man with a bright smileing face. "You asked for me my general?" he puffs out between shallow breaths. Nodding Nefarithi motions his guards and chariot to him. "Come with me merchant we are going to speak to the commanders of this fortress and see if they surrender without bloodshed."

Riding towards the fortress under the banner of Egypt arms outstretched Nefarithi smiles and whispers to the merchant. "Commanders of this fortress I come in the name of Rameses II, Pharoah of Egypt and Son of Ra. Hear my words. Surrender to us and swear loyalty to Rameses II and bloodshed shall be avoided. We await your answer."

Nodding the merchant repeats the words first in the language of rome and then the language of greece once he has finished Nefarithi orders his guards to shield them from arrows and awaits the answer from the fortress within.

The coast of Sicilia

Sitting in the mighty warships of Egypt Rameses II frowns and orders another of the vessels to take up patrols near their beach landings. "Secure the waters have all the archers ready for battle we must prevent any attacks on our flanks." Recieving their orders the mighty vessels chosen for the job sail away from the group and patrol the waters their decks lined with archers and shields.

May Sehkmet shine with us today in this comeing war. May her wrath and vengance strike those that dare touch us.

ooc: I am surprised not to have noticed this going on! The Ralish Empire is a late bronze age civilisation (iron has been produced, but it is as yet of poor quality, and the technology is not wide-spread- we're working on it) with no so called "fantasy" elements (well, we have a few self-proclaimed wizards, in truth they're stoners who're good at slights of hand ;) )

The Empire is supposed to be set on a massive continent named Aisa, which is shaped somewhat like Eurasia excluding Iberia, Scandinavia, and everything east of the Indus in the south, and West Siberian Plain in the north. As such it dominates -from the seat of King Ralish IV in Alshor's (Turkey) capital Azaria many ethnicities, from Celt to Arab. I have been considering the population to be 1% of that listed in the national profile (which would make it a little over 7 million at the moment).

These things I can change however, if it'll mean we finally have someone with whom to interact. I wonder if I may trouble you for any thoughts or opinions? Should I place Aisa in the Atlantic? (hey, we could be the origin of the Atlantis legend ;) ) Pacific? Or for the sake of ease, position The Ralish Empire in a real location? And if so, would anyone mind my dominating Turkey and Iraq?

If I'm too late to get in on this, fair enough, but maybe we could at least open some sort of relations for the future?

When Sirom hears about the speech of the egyptians, he can`t hide his concern...

"So, they`re indeed egyptians... poor intelligence, thinking we`re natives... However, we can`t underestimate egypts power.

Write the following message... In egyptian:"

"Greetings. I`m Commander Sirom, from the Republic of Tyros, ordered to defend this fortress of the republic, meant to defend the property of the republic!

Listen, egyptian general: We are not able to hold our own against you. However, the republic can. Attack us, and we will fall.

But so, egypt will fall, when the republic avenges our death!

So, you have the choice: Leave us, and northern sicilia, alone, Go to the south, and do whatever you want. We wont interfere.

However, if you decide to attack us, to go for all of sicilia, you will be responsible for egypts downfall.

Be wise, my friend, be wise."

A few minutes after it was written down, an archer shot the message to the egyptians. The arrow which carried the parchment landed about 10 meters from the nearest egyptian.

---

Meanwhile, the ships that had seen the egyptian fleet on their journey to Tyros, had arrived, and brough the news to the senate of Tyros. The senate, in fact the hundred wealthiest men of Tyros, were indeed concerned.

"First the romans attacking macedonia, now this! The republic is in grave danger, we must act, immediately!"
"I concur. But further intelligence is neccessary. We still don´t know enough."
"Baal with be with us. We will succeed."

---

ooc: Five civilised nations: You attacked macedonia, and now, you`re able to march through the entirety of greece without any problems? (esspecially since it`s the greek... souvereignity freaks...) I think you have a slight continuity problem there...

The Ralish: Ummm... I wouldn`t have a problem with it, although it may be better to stay within RL geography... No idea what iraqstan/ Raemsses says...

But if you take, say, turkey and/ or mesopotamia, that would indeed work perfectly (A big nation threatens in my back, at the same tim e a real competitor for the egyptians).

OOC: At this point, the Roman Empire has just defeated a Macedonia Rebellion under the command of King Phyrus XIII. The Greek City-States are afraid of the Roman Empire, so they are being subservient...

Is Sicilia, Sicily?

IC: The triremes and quintremes of the Roman fleet sliced through the Mediterrean Sea.

OOC: I dont mind you dominating Turkey would be quite interesting when Ramesses II gets round to marching on the middle east and uniting the arab realm under his banner. But yes real competition :D

IC.

Retrieving the arrow the guard runs back to Nefarithi and hands him the message reading over it he frowns and. "Take us back to camp." He mutters as the guards and chariot as one turn and return to their camp.

Upon returning he calls for a runner and gives him a message. "Tell Ramesses II that we should reconsider attacking the northern parts. The southern regions are enough for us to land and march to rome. If he wishes it I will of course attack this fortress. But tell him if he wishes open war on these people that our defenses at home should be doubled and fortified.

If he wishes to attack I will need more men and archers. Sehkmet will not protect us in this war."

Receiving a curt nod from the runner who turns and heads off as fast as possible towards Ramesses II waiting fleets Nefarithi sits in deep contemplating. "At nightfall divide the troops into two units of equal strength send the second unit around the back of the fortress stay out of view. Should we have to attack we will divide their defenses and storm them from both side. Have the guards and patrols double their strengths tonight. I fear an attack on us."

Recieving compliance Nefarithi retires to his tent to meditate the current problem and how best to storm the fortress. "Perhaps we should show grace and march on rome from the south.... We have much that could be lost to the Tyros."

Outside the troops are given their orders and when night falls half the force take their things and begin a slow quiet walk around the fortress to to make ready for a possible attack. "Wait for my signal before attacking. An arrow of fire into the sky will be your signal when it is fired attack with archers and prepare to break down any doors. We will win this fortress if we must.." Are the words ringing in Nefarithi's chief lieutenant Anuksamari as he walks silently with his horde of troops.

(ooc: I thought, as events in this thread are some way west of Alshor (which henceforth shall be how the people of Turket refer to their land), that I would get at least a little parallel development going on in the east. I can easily take it to a dedicated thread if you would prefer)

King Ralish IV sat quietly in his Azarian (near Gaziantep) palace. Expeditions into Persia were failing to make much head-way. There wasn't iron production enough to mount a major offensive.. his predecessor had learned that an army carrying nought beyond bronze had no chance. 15,000 had fallen at Gerash less than a generation ago (Kuwait).

Now there was talk drifting in from the west of trouble brewing near Agentia (Greece and the Balkans), and rumor had it that the third continent (Africa) was rising again.

Perhaps it would be wise to confirm some sort of lasting peace with Persia, and turn the empire's attentions south to Gershor (Saudi et cetera) and Akralon (Cyprus.. who's on Cyprus now?).

(oh bother- I meant to go on, but I'm about to miss my bus!)

ooc: At first, some pieces of Information on Tyros City as i see it (Not exactly matching the correct historical data *cough*)

1. Size: About 5 mio people, 500000 of them are 'Tyros citizens', with 250000 people in Tyros (A small island near the coast), and as many people in the small area at the coast.

The other four million are living in the colonies (And were 'colonised' by Tyros), as there are:

1. Crete
2. Northern Sicilia
3. Southern Sardinia
4. Northern Tunesia (Carthage, with a tendency to rebel against Tyros)
5. Ibiza
6. Gibraltar
7. Southern France (Marseille, Avignon, Nimes, Montpellier- line)

Oh, and for those who aren`t sure *glares at Raemsses*, Tyros = eastern mediterranean, Kanaanite coast, todays southern Libanon.

The military is 50000 men strong, half of them are in the fleet (But can be used as land forces, too... It just sucks to abandon ships, someone might take them...), 1/3 of them are mercenaries, another third are natives from the colonies, both groups are not exactly 'loyal'.

---

ic:

It was late evening in Tyros, and the people were enjoying themself.

Today, they celebrated Baal, and they would show the might and wealth of Tyros.

Hundred virgins would join the celebration, become women while honouring Baal and Ashera with their girlish bodies, and with their soon to be lost innocence.

The men waited in expectation for the great moment, while the drums were played, while flutes sounded, while bells rang in a concert of peauty and lust.

They were to honour Baal, who allowed them to become what they were: Rich and powerful.

As the celebrations, the festival continued, men and women alike joined each other, frenetically enjoying the lust they felt, the heat in their bodies, while strange shadows were coloured on their naked bodies by the fires that ghostly lighted into the night.

The festival went on for hours, the people ate, drunk, and loved, dancing for hours, until dawn.

The drinks the priests had made made them feel tireless, invulnerable, and the temple prostitutes enhanced their lust even more.

Finally, midnight came, and the prieds slaughtered the sacrifices, a thousand animals, and in their blood, the people danced, loved, coloured red, as the flag of Tyros, as the colour of the purple snail, forgetting all they were, anything that made them human, for they felt like animals, full of lust, and joy, and... sin.

Finally, at dawn, the celebration ended, and the people slept, men with women, naked, as ordered by their gods, not caring if it was someone else`s wife, or daughter.

---

Meanwhile, at Sicilia, the message had arrived at the fortress in the middle of the northern sicilian coast.

And they were concerned.

"Egyptians... They are a danger. We have nothing that could compete with them on the ground."
"True. We need to act. Even if they decide not to attack us, more will come, and if we allow them to increase their seapower..."
"That cannot happen. We, the phoenician cities, are the only ones who can be allowed to control the seas. If we don`t control them, we will fall."
"So, what do we do?"
"We will send a message to the senate. They will send the forces we need. We will try to keep the egyptians out of our territory, by negotiating with them, then, when we have the forces neccessary, and the seapower to cut off their supplies, we will strike, break their power. They can expand in africa, but not here."
A moment of silance followed, then the others bowed their heads, agreeing.
"So, it´s decided. One more thing: If we see a chance to take them out now, we will use that chance."
"Yes. we have work to do, let´s do it. Baal will lead us to victory."

(ooc: I thought, as events in this thread are some way west of Alshor (which henceforth shall be how the people of Turket refer to their land), that I would get at least a little parallel development going on in the east. I can easily take it to a dedicated thread if you would prefer)

King Ralish IV sat quietly in his Azarian (near Gaziantep) palace. Expeditions into Persia were failing to make much head-way. There wasn't iron production enough to mount a major offensive.. his predecessor had learned that an army carrying nought beyond bronze had no chance. 15,000 had fallen at Gerash less than a generation ago (Kuwait).

Now there was talk drifting in from the west of trouble brewing near Agentia (Greece and the Balkans), and rumor had it that the third continent (Africa) was rising again.

Perhaps it would be wise to confirm some sort of lasting peace with Persia, and turn the empire's attentions south to Gershor (Saudi et cetera) and Akralon (Cyprus.. who's on Cyprus now?).

(oh bother- I meant to go on, but I'm about to miss my bus!)

ooc: Buses suck XD

Ummm... no problem, keep it in this thread... esspecially since the things that go on in asia/ mesopotamia definitely concern me. *remembers assur destroying the phoenician power*

Greece is, well, five civilised nations is a danger... saudi arabia is Egypts next aim, and cyprus is under... *thinks* nobodies control, but as about half of Egypts wood comes from there, i will stage an invasion as soon as the Tyros senate fully knows whats going on... can`t let him have seapower XD

*fears his numerical inferiority against all other participants*

*hails his technological superiority *Iron Iron IRON*

[OOC: Go right ahead with your behind the action posts Ralish. It all works out to be nessecity for this thread ;). And yes buses suck!.

Some info on Ramesses II's egypt. It's a mix n match of parts of egyptian knowledge.

Roughly 6 million people in upper and lower egypt the military is mainly all army roughly 120,000 soldiers. Archers, chariot archers and knights come from that 120,000 too. Naval power is limited to very remote numbers basicaly enough to carry 20,000-30,000 accross the seas at a time. Mainly used woods are cyprus and so...that could get interesting ;).
Iron...not much roughly weapons grade but not as well along as Tyros' :(]

IC.

Midnight came and the troops where still marching their way around to flank the fortress. The lieutenant nervous and cautious of traps orders total silence and total stealth no warrior to wield a torch weapons to be held in the utmost silent ways. Reaching their destination by starlight navigation the lieutenant calls for a halt and his troops settle in for the wait.

The main camp Nefarithi sits at a fire eating roasted meats and drinking wine nodding to his soldiers he jokes and jostles with them truly a man among men. The guards standing watch keep a watchful eye on the surroundings intent to not let danger pass their senses.

Sitting at the fire Nefarithi's cheif advisor repeats his nightly prayers and begins formalising his stragetgies to advise his general in the following days should war come to his people. "tell me lieutenant are the archers ready for conflict?" Nefarithi asks his cheif advisor as he sits down beside him. "Will they be prepared to fight for their king?" Looking up the lieutenant smiles and nods "They will be my general, they have shown a desire to win the lands for Rameses II they will not fail him." Nodding Nefarithi pats his shoulder and looks into the flames. "Then tomorrow we shall give them one last chance in three days we will march on them. Sicilia if they do not surrender will be egyptian."

Standing up he smiles and walks to his tent and eases himself down into a rough straw bed and dreams of military conquest for his king......

While the egyptians were marching, the patrols had all been informed about what was going on...

And now, they had finally met.

Only two patrols were missing, hundred men they would need.

Hundred men they desperately needed.

However, they all were informed, and begun their march to the egyptian forces. It was roughly a day until they would reach them...

---

Meanwhile, in the fortress, plans were made, walls were reinforced, and troops watched into the night and it´s threatening shadows.

A storm was coming...

Sleeping soundly the egyptian camps were a peaceful sight in a decidedly hostile position. Guards patrol the perimiters constantly their eyes scouring the darkness and it's threats.

On his ship Ramesses II sits eating a meal and listening to the soft murmer of guards patroling the shore line standing up he moves to the deck of the ship and looks out over the oceans. "Such a place....lots of trees and hills, so much different than Egypt.... Ra would love this place."

Sighing softly he sits back to read the messages from the forward scouts. No sign of enemy presence. Able to move on Rome itself from southern shores. Northern sicilia unknown. REports from runners indicate non-native movements. Possible threats.

Sitting up he makes a decision. "We cant wait for northern sicilia. Prepare the fleets for launch. We march on rome whilst Nefarithi marches on Northern Sicilia. Montu-Ra will bask in the blood of our enemies on two fronts." He orders and sits back waiting for the mighty vessels to move once more.

Recieving their orders another 2,000 troops debark their ships and garrison themselves in farm lands to supply the general's forces. As the last soldier leaves the ships the mighty vessels begin to move out their destination italy. Final landing Rome.... Aboard his ship Rameses II sighs softly and waves farewell to noble warriors. "Be swift in your work and win the lands for Egypt." he offers in prayer and turns towards the distant lands of italy and rome.

(Being as The Ralish Empire is entirely fictional, it doesn't correspond exactly with civilisations from the same part of the world IRL.. though I find the ancient world terribly interesting, I consider myself far from an expert on the general subject.. if anything I describe about the empire seems a bit unlikely or just unfair, I probably won't take offence to your pointing it out ;) )

The total population of the empire probably slightly exceeds seven million. Population is of course most dense along the northern ends of the likes of the Tigris and the Euphrates, and up to Azaria (or Gaziantep).

It is almost unprecidented however for the empire to raise from its significant population so huge an army as might be in theory possible. The empire has traditionally been bent more on glamour, spectacle, and wealth than anything much else. The population is for its day relatively skilled. Farming is quite intensive where it is possible at all, and the landscape is dotted with grand buildings. Forums, temples (to the empire itself, rather than a deity as such.. the people almost believe Alshor to be a living and powerful entity), huge granaries, palaces, monuments, institutes of learning, and needlessly elaborate forts dot the landscape.

The empire is awash with skilled masons, bronze workers, farmers, artists, politicians and philosophers. Iron working remains a poorly understood art, however, and the pool of dedicated warriors is moderate compared to some other parts of society.

The military itself is organised around two core armies.

The first, known as the Alshorian Guard hovers around the 25,000 mark in terms of effective fighting man-power. A significant portion remains always in Alshor, and the Guard travells to outlying provinces in partial strength only in times of dire need. The pride of this army is a small cadre of elephantry. Brought in from the east, King Ralish IV's 'herd' contains over a hundred animals, though this includes all of those in training, and those retired, as well as the combat-ready beasts. The elephants are typical of Alshor's love of grandure and ceremony above all else, and their true reliability in battle is unproven. They often appear to subdue potential rebellions- the sight of them being usually enough to convince an unhappy serf to lay down his home-made spear.

Most of the Alshorian Guard's strength is made up by well trained and hardy short swordsmen clad in ornate bronze and leather armour, and carrying a round bronze shield, and by reliable spearmen carrying longer shields, which again tend to display lavish decoration. These are supported by ever evolving chariots and chariot archers (the ornate nature of which once again makes them expensive and this may cause inexperienced generals to hesitate over their commitment), moderately well trained archers (the empire wishes to use the archer almost as artillery, but poor bow technology and the primitive nature of metals in the arrowheads limits their effectiveness). Finally, there is limited cavalry and camelry, but camels are relatively few in the empire, and cavalry tactics and technology quite new to Alshor. Cavalry archers exist, but they have barely ceased riding in clumsy pairs, let alone developed into a battle winning force.

The second army is drawn from the lower classes and outlying provinces. Up to 45,000 strong, efforts are made to maintain some level of training in this force which spends more time disbanded than on duty. The result is something above the quality of a hastily raised serf army, but short of the likes of the Alshorian Guard, or the legions of Rome.

Of course in the event of invasion, a larger army could be raised, but it would have to receive modest armament and "on the job training" so to speak.

(Hopefully subsiquent posts won't need to be quite this long, heh)

After some discussions about who is supposed to post, here...

ic:

"We have now 457 men. But where is Amaels group?"
"We don´t have the time to wait. we must attack immediately."
"I agree. Lets march."

While the now united patrols discussed and finally made a decision, said last patrol hadn`t been warned in time...

They didn´t know anything, until it was to late...

When the fifty men realised they had 2500 men in front of them, the egyptians had already seen them...

Spotting the 50 men a lieutenant calls for riders. "Capture those men!" Is all he shouts as 50 riders spring forth atop chariots, racing towards the patrol group.

At nefarithi's main camp the two days have come gathering his guards he rides back to the fortress and address the people inside. "I know you speak the language of Egypt! Hear me! WE do not wish to fight you, open your doors and let us pass through peacefully and you will be spared bloodshed! Swear fealty to Rameses II and you will live in prosperity!

The army of Egypt has no quarrel with you! Should you wish to start one we will fight back with all possible force! You have one hour to give your answer" Behind him the 2,500 strong army prepares itself for battle should they not get their answer, lines of men stretch accross the field as archers take their positions, arrows ready and oil prepared should they need to shoot arrows of fire.

The Egyptians will bring blood to the sun in the morning if need be........

OOC: Woopsie Daisie.

They stand near the woods, which was an advantage when the chariots came. They quickly vanished into the woods, realising that out there, there was an enemy.

After a moment, a few of them, perhaps ten, twelve, aimed with their bows, and fired.

---

At the fortress:

"Well, well..." Sirom looked at the egyptian force. "I think we will give them enough of an answer when they attack. Prepare the defences! Anything hasd to be ready! Water, arrows, hot oil! Be fast!"

Their position wasn`t that bad. Although they were outnumbered 1:5, the fortress was covered with water from two sides. So the 490 men inside were able to concentrate their defence on a smalöl sector, where the egyptians had to attack.

Also, they had build roofs at the walls, so that archers wouldn´t be that much of a danger. And they had a small well inside the fortress. enough water to drink.

However, while the western wall was quite good, the southern wall was relatively weak, and small. 290 of his 490 men were concentrated there.

And another problem: They hadn´t enough arrows.

They would have to wait until the egyptians were near, so that they could aim directly, slaughtering their enemy.

But it was a risk...

---

Meanwhile, in the central fortress:

"Ok. We need to act. What should we do?"
"First of all, patrols between the three fortresses. So that we are informed about what happens. Daily. Then, we need to send larger forces to reinforce the eastern fortress."
"We will do that, You and i, we will both send 100 men. We shouldn´T outrule the possibility to use naval forces as well. And in the case it comes to war... we need to destroy their ships in southern sicilia, where we spotted them first."
"Agreed. Lets start."

Realising the folly of following into the woods the chariots slow to a stop but not before arrows rain from the forest and strike 16 of the chariot riders killing them painfull. The others urge their rides around another five falling to arrows in the back. The rest managing to escape. "They are attacking from the forests we cannot approach without being attacked." Hissing in anger the Lieutenant waves the chariot riders away and returns to his tacticians to think.

---

Standing outside the fortress Nefarithi waited angrily spitting out a curse he orders his riders to turn about and leave. Before leaving he calls out. "So be it! You have chosen war! May Ra and Anubis have mercy on you." Waving his guards on he returns to camp and signals his lieutenants.

"They will of no doubt built defenses against arrow and fire, the ladders will be vunerable to archers you have until tomorrow night to think of a way to defend against archers. Those doors must be bought down." He orders them. Recieving curt nods and promises of success the lieutenants disperse collecting tacticians and engineers and begin preparing to solve the problem.

On the battle field the egyptian forces slowly begin to form them selves into squads and fighting groups well out of range of enemy archers and out of range for their own archers the egyptians stand valiantly in the sunlight at peace with their leader's decisions and ready to die for their king.

War was comeing....and blood would rain.

[deleted]

ooc: Ally? whose ally?

---

ic:

"And they still don´t attack... seems like they don`t like our preparations..."
"Yes. Lets prepare further, for they will surely try to get through one, or even through both, of the gates. They shall suffer. They will suffer."

They were prepares, and the egyptians would pay for their deeds.

---

Meanwhile, the ships where travelling. Reinforcements for the eastern fortress were neccessary, and would arrive soon enough.

Only a few hours... the next morning, they would arrive...

The sea they sailed on was friendly, they came forward fast enough.

"Baal smiles upon us, we will eradicate the scum that draed to attack us."
"So we will."

---

The land forces were on the same way, approaching the fortress... scounts miles in front of them, searching for hostile forces...

After a while, they approached the fifty men that retreated when they saw the egyptian force.

Quickly, a plan was made.

"So... pülace scouts near the egyptians. Disguise them as villagers, but keep them well away from them. We will wait until they attack the frotress. Then, we will catch them from behind. And patrols all the time, in the case they send out scouts!"

---

ooc: Tactical positions:

1. ~ 100 men on their way to the fortress, with a few ships. Will arrive sometime the next morning.

2. fortress itself, with about 490 men in there.

3. about 510 men somewhere in the west, about 1 1/2 hours from the egyptians, with scouts near the egyptians, and patrols to catch egyptian scouts.

Sighing angrily the Lieutenant orders the scouts to spread out into the forest and surrounding areas to watch for the fleeing men. "Send out the patrols to restrict surprise ensure we remain hidden from the fortress. Nefarithi has something planned but what I do not know."

Nodding the scouts moved out heading into the forest and over the surrounding hills and grasslands. patrols took up arms and once more began patroling the areas around the camp their eyes intent on finding any enemy positions.

---

In the seas the mighty warships of egypt move steadily and gracefully along the waves the mainland of Italy in plain sight. Watching from his ship Rameses II nods and rubs his thumb with his forefinger. "Soon Munto-Ra blood will rain and war will be in your honour. Sicilia is but a ploy to keep all eyes focused there. The might of Egypt will fall upon Rome like the sand falls upon the dead. We will devour them with arrow and scimitar.

Blood will flow for the glory of Egypt!" Little more than half a day out of landing on the shores of italy to land. (Near Taranto in today's names. Since I'm unsure of the ancient names if they've changed at all ;)).

In the holds of the mighty vessels some 28,000 men waited to unleash their wrath upon an enemy.

OOC: Tactical.

5,000 men near the besieged fortress, another 2,000 in the egyptian controled parts.

28,000 half a day out of landing in italy.

[deleted]

Five ships appeared on the horizen in the detroit of Gibraltar...
They were moving rather fast, they form resembling a cross between a phoenician vessel and a roman trireme.

On the back of each ship was a sort of a horizontally fixed plate, made out of glass...
Each of them seemed to be of around 2 meters in diameter and had a sort of a parabollic form - with the deep interior of the plate...
The use of these plates couldn't be guessed, but judging by the predator appearence of the ships - these plates weren't just there for the decoration.
Actually - each of them was covered with a sort of a leather hood, as if the crew feared that something might happen...

The captain on the leading ship, in an armor, which seemed to be a mix of Roman one with a Babylonian, was gazing at the shores.

His lieutenant came towards him.

- My lord, there is nothing in sight for now. The shores seem to be empty.

- We shall continue onwards, Kaanat, and we shall scout the waters ahead for the fleet! The Supreme Lord and Ruler shall not be dissapointed in us!
In the glory of the Empire!

- As you wish, my lord. Should I put men on the oars?

- No, Kaanat, leave my warriors free of tasks for now. We do not know what waits ahead. I might need them in full strength!

- As you wish, my lord...

The five ships moved onwards through the detroit...

OOC:

Entering the thread after having discussed certain "specifics" of my nation with the initiator of that thread :wink:

Watching the shores of italy roll ever closer to him Rameses II smiled inwardly and muttered another prayer to munto-ra and other assorted gods. May the fires of Anubis shine bright and the rays of the sun shine with blinding accuracy down upon the enemies of Egypt. Rome will fall and with it the world will open to Egypt!

As the mighty vessel reach the shore lines the troops inside prepare their small landing craft hundreds of vessels thousands of troops all begin the quick trip to the shore archers and foot soldiers prepare to defend their people as the mighty ships of the empire cover the waters with archer and arrow.

Securing the shore lines the Egyptian warriors span out in the surrounding villiages, intent on capturing more supplies and furthering the name of Egypt..... Smileing at their actions Rameses II turned to face his cheif lieutenants and listened to their reports intently. War was comeing to rome and with it the birth of a new Egyptian Empire.....

(OOC: For those that are interested I've landed where Taranto is today dont know what it was called back then but *shrugs* Rameses II always looked at the advantage of landing closest to Egypt since his ships are not overly sturdy and his sailors are not that skilled. the Sicilia landing was to pacify and distract but rome is the true target ;) Enjoy.)

News from the west was slow in coming, and details sketchy, but it appeared to Azaria that Egypt was serious about its campaign. A huge war between major Mediterranean empires would greatly impact on Alshorian life.

A Cassir (ooc:a sort of given political rank and title, making its recipiant a member of the Alshorian nobility) would be sent to the capitals of involved nations. Hopefully The Ralish Empire would be allowed to establish a court in each empire, through which they could keep-up with the progress of war (and of course spy on potential rivals..)

Cassir Jerro was sent to Rome, where he was to use Alshor's imperial coffers to purchase a grand residence, hire a guard, and move in Roman high society.

Cassir Esir was to do similar in Egypt.

***In Rome***

"Hail Cesear..."

"Stand up, you whining pig... Give me a report on the Northern situation..."

"We have a large Gaulish force moving south... But we do not have preliminary estimates on how many they number. The 1st and 3rd Bear Legions have been dispatched to hold them off for a while. From the south, we have drawn the 9th and 11th Acturian Guardsmen, the Pela Legion, and the Tyrsis Legion, to defend Rome, as our main force is marching north..."

"Good... Prepare my Praetorians for battle... Let those Gauls face the might of the Roman Empire..."

As the meeting took place, 30,000 Roman legionaires were forming up outside of Rome ready to move north towards the Alps.

ooc rant coming:

Five civilised nations: You seem to have slight problems.

1. Your troops move to fast. In the few days since Ramses landed on sicilia, you moved thousands from macedonia to athen (without any resistance, sure...) SUDDENLY you had ships appearing to carry them to sicily...

at the same time, my or Ramses forces move within the tiny parts of sicily.

Be slower. Just because you`re eager for battle doesn`t mean you have railways to transport your troops that fast.

2. Information. You may not have realised it, but in this timeline their is no fucking telephon.

Did you see the egyptian scouts? They don´t know where i am, because they have No satellites to give them information.

Why do you think my people in tyros still don´t know who the hell attacks Sicilia (or that sicilia is even attacked!)? Because in this time, information cannot be faster than a fast horseman!

Keep that in mind, and edit what happened. I, as well as Raemses II, (He asked me to post this on irc), wont accept 1. That rome is already informed and 2. that you are on sicily.

3. Your numbers. you mobilised 125000 men by now. While this number isn´t such a big problem, you can have it, you should perhaps keep in mind that, while we play different epoches, anything should be balanced. So far, i have 5 mio people, of which 4.5 mio are colonised and not exactly loyal. The Ralish and Raemses have both ~7 mio people.

If we want to keep it balanced, the 125000 men are anything you have. Nothing to protect your borders remains.

Not only that, but you are in war in macedonia.

Your numbers are, simply, ridiculous.

Change all that, and we may be able to continue. Remember: This is still a game about politics, and just because a war in RPed here, doesn´t mean that you have to teleport insane numbers of troops to the battlefield, just because you´re eager for battle. Remember, battles are decided months before they actually happen

*Points to the fact that so far, nothing has happened*

Oh, and don`t even start to complain that ralish is obviously informed about the war while i hit only you: It is hard to keep the mobilisation of tens of thousands of troops a secret. He can easily know that.

Thanks.

---

ic:

They waited, and watched.

It seemed like the egyptians weren´t exactly as dumb as they thought. They had send out scouts.

However, they weren´t too scared. They spoke the local language, and they had disguised themselves as locals...

When the egyptian soldiers questioned them, they answered in the local dialect...

Now, lets hope the locals don`t betray us...

---

Meanwhile, at Gibraltar:

"Ship in sight!"

Hannon, commander of Gibraltar, was fairly surprised. Ships from the other side of the strait? That wasn´t rare, that was... something completely knew.

He looked at the foreign ships, interested.

"Send out our own. Five ships, as many as they have. No open weapons, but be ready.

I wonder who those are... harbinger of death, or a chance to expand our trade empire?

- Sails on the left board!

The yell of the watcher was quite... clear.
Kaanat turned his head to the left and saw at a distance five sails coming out from behind a cliff...

Kaanat ran to the captain on the front side of the ship.

- My lord! Ships coming in at us...

The captain's voice was calm.
He looked at his lieutenant and spoke with a calm, relaxed voice.

- Worry not, Kaanat. We are ambassadors after all...
They will not dare attack us, or they will suffer the consequences!
I wonder from which culture do they come from...

He pondered for a moment...

- Raise the hellenic sign of peace. I hope they will understand.

- Yes, my lord, as you wish...

Kaanat turned around...

- Raise the olive branch to the mast!

A man ran to the hold and opened a chest there. It was full of some weird items - normally each of them meant "peace" for one culture or for the other...
He took out a rather large olive branch, a bit dry of course, and gave it to Kaanat, who attached it to a rope which brought the branch up the mast, for the mysterious ships to see...

ooc: That all sounds quite reasonable, I think that I am in agreement with it. I hope I don't make any vast jumps with what The Ralish do and do not know.. so far I've got it that we've gathered "there's trouble afoot out west- best pop round and see how everyone's doing.." :)
(I may be a little eagre to get people out there so that we *can* see what's going on.. do feel free to call me on it if I get carried away)
[/tangent]

The sky was blue, there was little wind coming from the west, from the ocean... A few seagulls could be seen, hovering in the air, always looking for something to eat.

It looked like a normal day, however, it wasn`t. Ten ships could be seen, coming near to each other.

Five of them had the red banner of Tyros, the other showed...

"What? That must be a joke. I will be damned if they are greek."
Commander Matho seemed to be unable to suspend his disbelief. It was simply impossible that greek would come from the other side... from the large, wide, endless ocean.

There was just no way this could be possible.

"Try to block their way, so they slow down. We will see what they have to say. Oh, and raise an olive branch, too. They could mean it as a sign of peace, rather than as a deception."

And slowly, the ships moved, trying to block the passage. At the same time, they raised the olive branches. Well, two of them did, the others didn`t have any, why would they have them on the ships?

When they were near enough to each other, one finally called, in greek, as they assumed the foreigners would speak the language, considering the signs they used.

"Who are you, and from where are you coming?"

OOC: I changed the posts... :x

IC:

***At Rome***

Emperor Augustus X rode in front of his legions...

"Countrymen... We are gathered here today to march north and exterminate the threat the Gauls pose to us... Your exploits will be known throughout history."

As Augustus spoke the legionaries and the civilian spectators cheered loudly.

With a wave of Augustus's hand, the six Roman Legions begin marching north to do battle with the Gauls.

***At Taranto***

The 5,000 legionaires of the 3rd Ghost Bear Legion had the duty of protecting Taranto... They had grown complacent after years of peace...

The five Nahashiri ships broke formation. Two - the one with the captain in his mix of roman and babylonian armor and the olive branch high on the mast and a second ship.

The three others slowed down and put themselves behind, as to not get taken up in an attack on the first ship, if it ever happened.

Kaanat ordered his ship closer to the five mysterious ships and came towards the commander in front of the ship.

- My lord, these strangers speak hellenic...

- But they do not look line hellens, Kaanat. Neither do we...
Respond in hellenic. I shall only intervene if necessary.

- Of course, my lord.

With that, he turned towards the ships and yelled out, in greek.

- The place we come from is far into the direction of the setting sun, noble sailors!
We have no ill intent and come in search of peace!
Might I know which culture and people do you represent, noble sailors?

OOC: ACK forgot about this thread, apologies all.

IC

Under a rain of arrows the landing forces rushed the settlement of Taranto intent on securing it for landing. Under the cover of arrows a spattering of arrows bathed in the crimson glory of fire rain down upon the town.

As the arrows fly the landing ships begin to land unloading hordes of soldiers ready to do battle against any that stand against them. Careful as to not flood the battle ground too much the landing ships hold off from landing more than 5,000 troops easily capable of overwhealming the town.

Watching the arrows rain down and the fires start to burn the egyptian soldiers rush forward their scimitars ready their blood boiling for war.........

- The place we come from is far into the direction of the setting sun, noble sailors!
We have no ill intent and come in search of peace!
Might I know which culture and people do you represent, noble sailors?

Matho blinked. Is this a trap? Doesn´t look like one... still...

"We are from Tyros, head of the phoenician republics! As you come in peace, perhaps we can talk in our base, where we come from?"

The legionaries of the 3rd Ghost Bear Legion were complacent but not stupid. As soon as they saw the onrushing soldiers whose origins were unknown, they began to move to the fortifications to defend Taranto. A trio of riders were dispatched to Rome to report the attack. 3000 legionaries were dispatched to defend the south, while a further 1000 were dispatched to attack the attackers on the flanks. A remaining 1000 legionaries were kept in Taranto as a reserve.

- The place we come from is far into the direction of the setting sun, noble sailors!
We have no ill intent and come in search of peace!
Might I know which culture and people do you represent, noble sailors?

Matho blinked. Is this a trap? Doesn´t look like one... still...

"We are from Tyros, head of the phoenician republics! As you come in peace, perhaps we can talk in our base, where we come from?"

Kaanat gave a quick glance at his commander.
The two ships were now quite near each other.
The commander nodded, without saying a word.
Kaanat then turned back to the Tyrosian ships and spoke in phoenician.

- We will follow you to your city then, honorable Tyrosian sailor.
I am Kaanat, second in command of this ambassadorial expedition.
Guide our way... and we shall follow.

Kaanat made a slight bow to the speaker from the other ship and gave some orders to this men...

Quickly, they reached Gibraltar...

The Tyrossean fortress was quite impressive, with it´s high walls, and the rather large harbour... way more impressive than what Tyros had on sicilia.

Finally, the ships reached the docks, and anchored.

Matho left his ship, walking towards the foreigners.

They couldn´t possibly come from the north, as tyros controlled trade with the northern islands (ooc: Britain) due to it´s control of Gibraltar...

So they would possibly come from the south, from africa...

And i always thought southern africa is too hot for any life to exist there...

Finally, he reached the foreigners.

One of them, who did look rather special, considering his clothes and attitude, seemed to be their leader.

Matho bowed. "Welcome. I think it`s best if you follow me up to the fortress/ city. We will have enough opportunities to talk there."

For a moment, he glanced at the foreign ships.

I wonder what kind of stuff they have on there... possibly something incredibly stupid... well, we will see.

Halting outside the city limits the Egyptians roared in a blood lusting way, behind them archers poured arrows of fire into the city aiming to light anything they could. Behind them came another host of men, some five hundred in strength.

In the water landing craft were filling up with yet more troops and landing at different parts of the shore line, another 2,000 landed and began marching on the city from another direction all the time arrows rained down from archers.

Landing with a host of guards Rameses II looked about him with grim determination, ordering 300 chartio knights to the front followed by 700 foot soldiers he set off behind them his scalemail glinting in the lights around him. "Prepare for assault! All units watch for flanking attacks. Archers concentrate on burning the place! I want this city and I want it now!" He yells as his men begin marching towards the city.

The legionaries fought bravely against the overwhelming odds wielding their pillums and short swords. A force of 250 cavalry moved against the chariots of the unknown attackers, armed with bows and arrows, pikes, and swords. The western flank of 900 soldiers weakening against the attackers, broke, with the legionaries fleeing towards the city. The Centurion in command of the legion, Julius Antonius, rallied the survivors, consisting of 500 men and reformed them into a set of prepared defensive positions.

Kaanat and his commander stood on the front on the ship as it entered the harbour.

- Impressive... very... what do you think, my Lord?

- This piece of rock is nothing compared to the Imperial Gate Citadels, Kaanat. But yes, I am rather pleased that the first mainland citadel we come to, is of such... stature...
I think the Empire can find good trade allies in those who built it.

- I listen to your judgement, my Lord. May I leave?

- Yes, go on with your duties!

Kaanat bowed to the commander and went to give docking orders.
When the ships docked, the commander came down on the stone, accompanied by Kaanat. A half a dozen of men, in full battle equipment accompanied their officers.
On their shields was a distictive sign - some bird in a black circle, with its wings wide open...

Kaanat nodded to Matho.

- Yes, we shall follow you and talk to your superior.

Leading from the head of the assault forces Rameses II split the on rushing horde into even pairs archers raining arrows and fire upon the besieged town their aim striking building and setting fire to wood and thatchings.

Footsoldiers draw their scimitars the bronze glinting malevolently in the sunlight behind them the roar of chariots and more arrows raining on the defenders deathly. Drawing his scimitar Rameses II urges his troops on his shielding guard keeping any missiles from striking their glorious leader...their pharoah.....

On the chosen battle field in Sicilia the egyptian lines rattle scimitar against shield as behind them huge ladders are dragged forward. Stepping from lines archers line up and light arrows on fire and arch their bows back and point to the heavens. "Archer! Draw" Nefarithi bellows and smiles grimly.

"Fire!" As the last letter echoes down the line the arrows are let loose flying fire roars intowards the enemy fortress as more and more arrows rain down upon the enemy. Footsoldiers wielding ladders begin charging forward hundreds of soldiers to climb the ladders intent on storming the fortress quickly.

Placing the ladders against the walls men falling from enemy attacks soldiers begin the slow climb up intent on drawing the first blood of close quarter battles..... Behind them the roaring approval of the hordes silences the surrounding areas as more and more troops in waves rush the fortress to climb the ladders and rain blood and death down upon their enemies.......

[ooc: a bit of a writers block... will do the part with the nashewhatever later. first of all, Raemesses]

ic:

The egyptian arrows seem to darken the sky, and dozens fall. However, the engineers did know their job, and build the small fortress in a way it protected them.

They return the fire, and one egyptian after the next falls, wounded, or dead. However, their superiority is just too extreme...

Hot, boiling oil in large kettles is thrown upon the attacking force, many of them, enthusiastically climing the ladders, fall down, their skin burned, their blood literally boiling.

But the people holding the line fall... ten percent are already dead or wounded and unable to fight.

It wont take long...

---

Meanwhile, in the western woods, the scouts bring the message...

It has begun.

The decision is clear, and made fast. They have to reinforce their brothers... And so, they begin their march. Possibly their last one...

OOC: Wait... Is Ramesses II RPing the attack on the Roman City or the Tyros city?

[ooc: a bit of a writers block... will do the part with the nashewhatever later. first of all, Raemesses
OOC: :x
*Slaps Tyros*

NAHASHIR!!! *insert a billion :Evil: smileys here*

OOC: both FCN. Rameses is in the roman town and Nefarithi is in Sicilia.

As around him soldier after soldier falls to arrows from the fortress Nefarithi curses the enemy and utters a quick prayer to Munto-Ra. As around him ladders attach to the walls and the slow and deadly climb to the top begins.

On some ladders soldiers make it to the top their scimitars glinting deadly in the sunlight their lust for blood heightened. At the door the battering ram is suffering the boiling oil causing many to fall but yet more come.

All over the battle field men lay bleeding or dead hundreds of them paying tribute to their gods as yet more vow to avenge their deaths. The archers giving up seeing their arrows fail back out of range and watch the flanks as the chariot knights patrol the area ready for any enemy attacks.

Sitting off to the side to second group of soldiers wait their blood rising with the noise of battle in the distance. The lieutenant snarls softly as he hears the screams of death. "Anubis to you they go." He whispers and looks up as over head an arrow arcs into the sky it's firey tip shining in signal.

"That is it! Ladders to the front! runners prepare!" He shouts and all around him the two thousand five hundred strong horde ruish the fortress their cries rushing ahead of them as they charge into the battlefield.....

-*-*-

On the beaches of Taranto Rameses II looks about the battlefield as soldier after soldier storm the city intent on taking it from it's roman defenders. Along the shores patrols of men march in tight formation guarding their landings against flanking attacks. The boat archers switching sides to watch for hostile vessels of the sea.

Nodding with satisfaction he takes up his scimitar and orders his chariot forward rushing headlong into battle his blade swinging with deadly accuracy at the enemies around him. "Aah but the blood of warriors is glorious!" He shouts as he battles for victory...

As the battle goes on, more and more fall.

Finally, the egyptians make it upon the walls, attacking the defenders directly.

They are lucky, having Iron weapons to fight off the inferior egyptian bronze scimitars, and many of the attackers fall...

But they are just too many, and the defenders have the problem of not wearing any heavy armour...

Slowly, the egyptians gain control of the wall.

Not entirely, though, the battle was raging on.

And not only at the fortress...

The 450 men who waited in the woods were informed... and came near...

Finally, they reached the end of the woods, and could see the egyptians fighting.

They were ready.

[ooc: I`m not sure if you kept your scouts or not... if yes, you should have been warned a few minutes ago, if not, well... surprise surprise ^_^]