I am your slave! :)

[Raliuven]

Part 2

Note: I need to complete GOTM119 so it might be a while before my next post. Sorry!

Spoiler :

News quickly reached Carthage that the Americans and Persian had signed a peace treaty and the Persian/Mayan embargo against Carthage had also ended.

Then, in a surprising move, the Byzantines and the Chinese signed a military alliance against the Mayans. This could be interesting and might even engage the Mayans in a war against the Portuguese in short order.

But this did cause the Byzantine/Mayan embargo against Carthage to expire. In addition the Portuguese/American embargo against Carthage expired . . . but was then renewed. Then the Sumerians and Byzantines allied against the Mayans.

Given all of the trouble that was starting to circulate it was no surprise when Theodora’s ambassador crawled into the palace to beg Carthage for a Mutual Protection Pact and a Right of Passage. Hannibal chuckled at the offer and send the ambassador back to him embassy to go fish.

The Holy War/Council of B5

Spoiler :

A great darkness fell upon Carthage in the year 1826AD. No one could have anticipated the titanic struggle that would shake Carthage to its very core. Until now the petty civilization of the world had bickered and fought while the gods looked on. To them these were but childish disagreements.

But now the gods themselves were stirring. For one god has decided to send a gift to his chosen people to aid Carthage in their struggles. And by doing so had sparked the ire of the other gods. For all of the gods had agreed that they would not send their avatars to live amongst the people. Instead they would work through Hannibal and the Carthaginian people. Until now . . .

It was a sunny day when the Advisors descended upon Hannibal’s throne room like a row of thunderclouds. Enjoying his day by hiding indoors using the artificial light made possible by the event of electricity, Hannibal grumbled when they entered. Could he not have a single day in peace without the worries of the world weighing heavy upon him?

“Great Hannibal,” The Domestic Advisor called. “We have received word of some very strange occurrences around Carthage. It would seem that there have been numerous sightings of flying ponies!”

“Ponies? I thought we had put a bid on an Ogre and his flying donkey? Not ponies.” Hannibal said.

“It is a talking donkey, not a flying donkey.” The Trade Advisor corrected.

“Talking? I thought it could fly?” Hannibal said, deflated. His hopes of vertically enveloping Spain were rapidly slipping away.

“Only when liberally sprinkled with fearie dust.” The Trade Advisor said with a shake of her head. “But we didn’t order a fearie. It doesn’t matter anyway because the ogre and the donkey were recruited by Dreamworks. There are many layers of complexity to it, lord.”

“Layers? Like a parfait?” Hannibal asked. “Everyone likes parfaits.”

“No, lord, like an onion.” The Trade Advisor said wearily.

“Not everyone likes onions.” Hannibal grumbled.

“Tell me about it.” The Trade Advisor said with a sigh. “It’s a long story. But what we do have are flying ponies.”

“Are you sure they are not flying pigs?” Hannibal tried again.

“That would be the day, lord.” The Domestic Advisor shook her head. “But we don’t have any pig resources anywhere in Carthage or, for that matter, the world.”

“We don’t have any flying pony resources either.” Hannibal pointed out.

“Well,” The Science Advisor said sheepishly, “There were those attempts with ‘lighter than air’ ponies but that just didn’t work out. After the Heidenhorse we couldn’t get any of the other riders – or horses – to try it. It was a complete bust.”

“Very well.” Hannibal conceded. “So what are these ponies doing in Carthage?”

“They are mostly seen hanging around the cavalrymen.” The Military Advisor reported. “Some of the men seem heartened by them. Others are repulsed. They have much the same reaction to the food in the mess hall. But some of them are actually quite fond of them.”

It was then that the mighty Spannibal entered the throne room. Hannibal bowed to the mighty high priest and admiral. “Great Spannibal, how fairs the might fleet of Sparthage? I hope they are happy with their increased amounts of spit and polish. I’ve noticed that no one has attempted a landing lately. This is good news, is it not, even if our men grow a little tired and our coastal fortresses have nothing to bombard?”

“Good news indeed, Hannibal, but this is not about the Sparthaginian Navy.” Spannibal said, a slightly spring in his step. “This is about the arrival of a gift from Sparthage to the people of Carthage. As Sparthage’s chosen people, Sparthage has decided to send his most beloved and mighty followers to you.”

Hannibal clapped his hands together once, letting the loud sound ring in the hall. “This is great news! When will they arrive?”

“They are already here.” Spannibal informed the leader of Carthage. “They are Pegasus, Unicorns and, in rare cases, Alicorns.”

Hannibal paused. “Sparthage sent me flying ponies?”

“No, shortsighted Hannibal,” Spannibal corrected. “Sparthage sent the people of Carthage these wondrous creatures, creatures so wondrous he calls them ‘My Little Ponies”. We priests call them MLPs. And it is the will of Sparthage that each be given command of a company of cavalry so they may lead the units of Carthage to victory!”

“Errr . . . of course it shall be so, great Spannibal.” Hannibal said with a little reluctance. Hannibal was not certain how the men would take to receiving orders from genetically altered equines.

It was then that the wise priests of Elephantium entered casting an accusing glare at Spannibal. Hannibal was called over to confer with the elder priests of the Tusked Order.

“Gullible Hannibal, do not be deceived.” The priests of Elephantium warned. “These are not fun loving ponies as they are being portrayed. In some circles they are considered deadly spam!”

“Spam? You mean we are supposed to cook them and serve them with pineapple?” Hannibal inquired.

“Not exactly, but they are considered just as deadly.” The priests said. “We have unconfirmed reports that these creatures are actually dimensional refugees fleeing their homeland, the once beautiful land of Austria.”

“Austria?” Hannibal’s eyebrows ticked up. “Where is that?” He once more suspected that these were a made-up people but it was not like the priests of Elephantium to lead him astray.

“Yes, the land of the Austrians. But we have word that the soul sucking megalomaniac Iblis has deposed the Austrian civilian authorities and seized control and is even now laying waste to Europe, the traditional home of the MPLs. As hedgehogs and ponies do not get along at all well, these MPLs were forced to flee. “

“Sparthage opened his arms to these celestial refugees and has been nurturing them in order to give them the combat experience they need to go back to challenge Iblis for supremacy over Europe. These creatures do not belong involved in Carthaginian affairs! They will endanger our men and our advance against the Americans and Chinese.”

“This is not so, godly Hannibal.” Spannibal said, coolly eying the other priests. “They will serve Carthage well and they will prove it thought there is no need for such. For Sparthage demands that they be given command and as such, Sparthage’s demand is Carthage’s obedience!”

Hannibal could sense the danger that was arising. Spannibal had remained calm until now but anger was seething. The priest of Elephantium were no less perturbed. Quickly the priest of CommandoBob, the Toxic Priests, the priests of POP and the priests of rarely seen Dirk Diggler were summoned to convene a Council of Faith.

But where could this take place? Smilin’ Bob was a fortress of loyalty to CommandoBob. New Crobuzon owed its name to Elephantium and the Statue of Elephantium was constructed in Caseboy97’s Asylum though the god Caseboy97 had long been silent. Toxic’s Café was loyal to the great god Toxicman007. That left only New Hannibalopolis and Hannibal wanted such a Council to be convened as far from his namesake as possible.

Thus the priests met on a neutral stretched of land known as B5. This was Carthage’s last best hope for peace. It failed.

The priests emerged from the Council of B5 more divided than before but a compromise had been struck. The MPLs would be given the command ordered by Sparthage. At the same time, command for an equal number of cavalry companies would be turned over to the loyal priests of Elephantium. These cavalry would always remain in pairs and they would fight side-by-side, inseparable, and they would shoulder the brunt of Carthage’s wars.

To this end the Toxic Priests agreed to maintain the Toxic Cavalries 1st-10th. The others would be released to the priest of Sparthage and Elephantium. In addition, the priests of CommandoBob agreed to postpone assigning command of the cavalry they had been training and turn them over to the service of Sparthage and Elephantium. Each order would be given ten companies of cavalry with which to prove their bravery and godliness. The people of Carthage would keep the score by tales of their victories, failures, heroism and deaths.

This struggle would be called the Holy War, for it would be primarily fought by the disciples of the gods themselves.

The immediate effect of the Council of B5 was the reassignment of several companies of Toxic Cavalry. The first of Sparthage’s commanders had arrived. This was one of the flying ponies, a Pegasus named Fluttershy. Hannibal was a little flummoxed by this new commander mostly because she seemed too timid to make a good military commander. But Hannibal was not given to questioning the will of the gods and he had to admit she had some rather unique eyes. Hannibal excused the commanders of Toxic’s 17th Cavalry, thanking them for their service and sending them back to Carthage to train new units. The new unit was given the banner of a rabbit(?) and the name of its commander.

At the same time Toxic’s 19th Cavalry were put under the command of Elephantium’s priests and given new honors as Tusker's Defenders.

The Defenders were assigned, at least for now, to travel alongside Fluttershy’s Cavalry. The first test would be the city of Philadelphia.

But these were not the only units available for reassignment. Toxic’s 12th Cavalry was turned over to Sparthage’s 2nd commander, another Pegasus named Rainbow Dash. Now this seemed more like a military commander. Arrogant, competitive and loyal. If they were all like this one, these MPLs might not be so bad. She even had a pet named Tank, which was encouraging. Once more the unit was renamed and given the banner of a turtle.

To match this, the priest of Elephantium converted Toxic’s 13th Cavalry into Tusker's Chargers. Once more they were paired for the attack on Philadelphia.

After some reassignment (to prevent the elite 11th Cavalry from unbalancing the equation) the 11.1th Cavalry were assigned to Twilight Sparkle, the first of the unicorns sent by Sparthage. She commanded under the banner of a dragon, which seemed pretty fierce to Hannibal and she was very studious. It was said she had more than 100 books on the subject of war and was busy studying them all so as to learn the skills necessary to overthrow Iblis.

Toxic’s 14th Cavalry were formed into Tusker's Riders and sent to shadow Twilight Sparkle.

Finally (for 1826AD) the newly formed ranks of cavalry were assigned to Applejack and The Peanutguard. Hannibal was weary of Applejack. After dealing with the Knights of the Chalice for so long he was concerned that this equine commander. But she actually proved to be reliable and level-headed and was one of the few of Sparthage’s commanders that did not sport wings or a horn (or both). She commanded under the banner of a dog.

Both of these new units were immediately sent to the war front though it would be a while before they arrived.

Also newly arrived, Toxic’s 20th and 21st Cavalry were assigned to Pinkie Pie and The Ivoryguard. This new MPL servant of Sparthage was what was known as an earth pony and was very fond of sugar cubes, a delicacy not common in Carthage, the nearest resource being in old Japanese lands. Pinkie Pie, however, was known for her carousing of the Carthaginian clubs and was generally a party horse. This was counterbalanced by the solid and serious Ivoryguard. These units were advanced with Toxic’s 1st and 3rd Cavalry to join OMIA and move onto further glory.

These affairs settled, the management of the empire once more commenced. The defenders advanced upon Philadelphia their escorts which included Toxic’s 2nd Cavalry, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, Tusker’s Charges and Tusker’s Defenders.

POP’s Elite Rangers were still withdrawing from battle and the Order of the Elephant were ordered to clear the American 62nd (formerly of) New York Cavalry from a nearby mountain. The Elephants easily overran the wounded 62nd New York in spite of their entrenchment upon the mountain.

The Paladins of the Silver Ash also cleared the wounded 41st Miami Cavalry that had come to rest in an open field. The American Cavalry, though wounded, put up a steady fire and thinned the ranks of the heavy cavalry before they could even close. This attack was only barely successful with the Paladins reduced to a shadow of their former ranks. Only their elite status and the wounded nature of the American Cavalry made their victory possible.

At the same time the opening contest between Sparthage and Elephantium began in the fields outside Yaxchilan. As the challenging party, the priest of Elephantium claimed the right to the first attack (Actually this was determined by a random roll – even for Sparthage, odd for Elephantium – die roll came up a 3 on 1d6). The most challenging opponent within range were the (American) 15th Houston Regiment of (veteran) Muskets that were moving in column along a nearby hill.

Disaster immediately struck the Tusker's Riders. The American muskets had a solid firing line and, unwilling to leave the field to the enemy least they show cowardice, the Riders perished upon the field. It was now for Twilight Sparkle to lead her cavalry into battle. Though well read on the topic of battle, Twilight Sparkle’s initial foray into combat was less than glorious. Though the wounded Americans were routed from the field, Twilight Sparkle found her command devastated and reduced to a small cadre of less than 30% its strength. But the 15th Houston had been destroyed. Victory Points: 12 [4(D)x2(HP)x1.5(T)]; Sparthage: 12 Elephantium: 0

Twilight Sparkle’s Cavalry were sent back to the LoD to heal and await a new ‘companion’ unit to become available from Elephantium’s men.

OMIA, healed once more, began to pull back to gather new escorts. The focus of the Old Man would be to begin the punishment of the Chinese. There was now a clear road to Chinese core cities and Miami could also be invested and taken. On the way back to the depot, however, the Old Man encountered a field full of Chinese longbows (5 regiments) along with the 88th San Francisco Regiment of Cavalry.

Deciding the Cavalry to be the bigger problem, the Old Man ordered their elimination. The 88th San Francisco was eliminated without any loss to the powerful army of Carthage.

His hunger for blood satiated for the moment, Hannibal allowed his attention to be turned back to the diplomatic and economic affairs of Carthage. Spain was a growing partner in trade with Carthage and Hannibal wished to encourage the growth of their economy, at least for now. At the same time, Carthage still needed gold to continue its scientific research. A deal was thus struck with Isabella. Carthage would supply Wines and Ivory for tribute of 22 pieces of gold. It was Hannibal’s hope that Spain would have new income to offer Carthage in a few years that could be traded for medicine.

 

[Raliuven]

Part 3

Spoiler :

In 1828AD Hannibal was greeted by Carthage’s Science Advisor. The fidgety man looked mighty pleased with himself. “Great Hannibal, we have learned out to make items that are exact replicas of each other. We are not sure why this was so difficult to figure out, but now we can use these parts interchangeably. In addition, we are building items that have many of these parts so that if one of them brakes, we can simply put a new piece in its place and the entire items is once more in working order. This is sheer brilliance!”

Hannibal wasn’t so certain. “But if they have more pieces isn’t it more likely that one of them will break? And what is this new resource rubber? It does not seem at all sturdy!”

“Our scientists claim that it is 99.9% effective.” The Science Advisor said happily. “Those are pretty good odds. And better yet, we have found that we can now make good shoes and shovel handles with comfortable grips. The overall effect of this is that our workers can now work twice as fast! Even more importantly, we have ample resources of rubber!”

“But we already have hundreds of them standing around, doing nothing. It is a heck of a time to make them more efficient at doing nothing.” Hannibal griped. It was just like a government program to make inefficiency more efficient!

“We can also create new defensive units, Great Hannibal. We can create fierce snake eating guerillas and powerful infantry. These units would be perfect for the defense of Carthage’s LoD.” The Science Advisor said. Nothing could drain away this man’s cheer.

“I like the idea of these Infantry.” Hannibal mused. “We need us some of those. What shall we research next?”

“Our options are limited, Hannibal. Unless a new trade has opened for us we will need to pursue the knowledge of the Scientific Method. We can learn these secrets in only 12 years at our current research rate and likely at a small, nearly negligible deficient.” The Science Advisor said with some thought. “I had hoped we could pursue the Corporation, but once more we are left without options.”

Dismissing the Science Advisor, Hannibal was next visited by the Military Advisor. “Great Hannibal, we have the resources to build a great hospital where we can train combat medics. I would advise that with our next great leader we have him rush the construction of this edifice. Once we posses this structure we can then sell the hospital at Toxic’s Café again.”

Hannibal found this to be fair advance and noted to himself to make it so.

Hannibal’s attention once more turned to war. The Defenders were now within range of Philadelphia. According to the agreement made at the Council of B5, it was Sparthage’s turn to make the first attack. The 6th Philadelphia Regiment of (Veteran) Muskets was fortified in a city with nearly a million American citizens (size 12). This would be a difficult battle indeed.

Fluttershy’s first combat was harsh lesson in war. The cavalry began to skirmish against the 6th Philadelphia and it quickly became a full engagement. Unfortunately the Americans were getting the better of the Carthaginians but Fluttershy suddenly became paralyzed by indecision. It was only at the last moment that she finally emerged from her shell and ordered the retreat, saving the company but at a horrible loss in Carthaginian lives. The 6th Philadelphia was virtually untouched (flawless retreat).

In accordance with the rules, the next unit to move into position was the Tusker’s Chargers. Facing the same American muskets, scouts reported that another band was moving into position – these were the 22nd Philadelphia Regiment of (regular) Rifles. But the Chargers could not worry about that. The attack began and the commanders knew their business. The muskets were systematically reduced by the greater firepower of the cavalry and then a final charged cleared the out of the trenches. The Chargers could not, however, take advantage of the assault because the rifles of the 22nd Philadelphia were already in place. They were forced to withdraw. Victory Points: 28 [4(D)x4(HP)x1.75(T)]; Sparthage: 12 Elephantium: 28

The attack on the 22nd Philadelphia was now for Tusker’s Defenders, for it was Elephantium’s turn to attack first. Once more the skilled commanders entrusted by Elephantium to wage war knew their business, however the more powerful rifles began to take their toll on the Carthaginians and a general charge was ordered. This was a risky maneuver; a similar maneuver had caused the death of the Tusker’s Riders. This time the gamble paid off. The 22nd Philadelphia, suffering sever punishment from the Carthaginian rifles, attempted to flee their position only to be cut down. Victory Points: 31.5 [6(D)x3(HP)x1.75(T)]; Sparthage: 12 Elephantium: 59.5

Seeing a break in the American’s defenses, Rainbow Dash immediately ordered her cavalry forward. She was too competitive to allow the followers of Elephantium to gain such a lead (though Elephantium had already lost one unit and Sparthage had yet to suffer a loss). With her banner of the turtle leading the way, Rainbow Dash led the attack personally against the nearly fortified 76th Houston Regiment of (regular) Rifles. It was only after suffering a wound herself that she withdrew. The 76th Houston had suffered as well, but they had only lost little more than 30% of their combat strength. Rainbow Dash’s forcers were reduced by more than 70%.

The final attack was made by Toxic’s 2nd Cavalry. The 76th Houston, already shocked by the vigorous attack by Rainbow Dash and her cavalry, finally buckled under the onslaught of Carthaginian rifles. The end result was very pleasing. Another American city was set ablaze by Carthaginian wrath.

Five new slave bands were formed from the ravaged city: America58-62.

While waiting for his escorts, OMIA destroyed the People’s 56th and 62nd Longbows that were lazily crossing the plains of Yaxchilan. Toxic’s 7th Cavalry also destroyed the 14th St Louis Regiment of Cavalry on the open plains that formerly belonged to Philadelphia. In route to assist with the defense of the city, the regiment arrived in detail for they had not received the news of the city’s fall. The Toxic Cavalry showed the Americans no mercy even though they were rapidly fading into oblivion.

The Iron Lances*, however, did not far as well against the (Chinese) People’s 27th Muskets. Attacking with great vigor, the elite heavy cavalry were routed nonetheless with the 27th Muskets sustaining almost no damage. Hannibal was discouraged by this report, for the Chinese had not shown much aptitude for muskets up to this time. This meant the conquest of China would take more time than previously thought.

On the diplomatic front, Hannibal was a little disappointed. Lincoln was willing to accept peace at gunpoint. He would surrender his world map, Industrialization (which Hannibal sorely wished to possess), all 22 pieces of gold from his treasury and tribute of 98 pieces of gold. In trade, Hannibal would stopped kicking him in the butt and I've him sanitation and electricity.

Hannibal had always planned to betray the Mayans when the time came. The plan was to attack Persia and force the Mayans to declare war so that Hannibal would come out with an intact (if not pristine) international reputation. Unfortunately the Persians and Mayans had allowed their protection pact to expire so Hannibal was stuck with the current arrangements.

In 1830AD Hannibal received a love message from Theodora. She had decided it was in the best interests of the Byzantines to join in an Embargo with America against Carthage. Then the Hittites followed suit, though Mursilis was already on borrowed time.

The People’s 17th Longbowmen had attempted to attack Toxic’s 3rd Cavalry which had, because of poorly written orders, moved far in advance of OMIA and was thus exposed. The 3rd Cavalry, encamped on a series of hills, were alerted to the approach of the longbows because of their pickets and quickly reduced the Chinese warriors with heavy repeating rifle fire. The medieval equipment was no match for the Carthaginian rifles and the 17th Longbows were destroyed with virtual no damage to Toxic’s 3rd Cavalry.

The Jade Rifles of Yaxchilan rushed from their city fortifications to attack the People’s 33rd Muskets that had advanced into the hills. The battle was observed by nearby Carthaginian knights and heavy cavalry and, for a moment, it appeared as though the Jade Rifles might carry the day. But the attack faulted in the face of heavy musket fire and the Jade Rifles perished though at great cost to the 33rd Muskets. Worse, the Chinese men were caught far behind their battle lines, were encamped not far from Carthaginian cavalry, knight and heavy cavalry units and were sorely wounded.

The Americans had also advanced the 94th St Louis Regiment of Cavalry. This passed for an offensive campaign for the deeply wounded American forces.

The Domestic Advisor visited Hannibal with bad news. “Great Hannibal, it is my unfortunate duty to report that the extended war with America and China is wearing on the People of Carthage. They are clamoring for peace and only a great investment in entertainment has any effect on their displeasure. Our expenditures in entertainment and extra luxuries are causing us to run a significant deficit. We must bring these wars to a conclusion as soon as possible.”

“I would, damn it all, if it was not for this foolish alliance with the vile Mayans. We have 12 years left of this agreement and we must keep our word. Once we are done with this alliance it will be cold day in hell before we make another such pact. I also have a strong desire to kill Henry. He has once more become a thorn in my side.”

The Domestic Advisor demurred and excused herself so that Hannibal could stew over this new information. Oh how he hated the Mayans. They were a plague on all Hannibal’s house and all five of his cities.

But there was some good news as well. Carthage had formed two new bands of Cavalry. This of course meant that the news of Sparthage’s champion was called upon to lead. This time it was a unicorn called Rarity who fought under the banner of a cat. Hannibal’s immediate first impression of this equine was that she had a ken fashion sense but that did not have any direct translation to the battlefield. Certainly Rarity’s Cavalry would be the best dressed unit in the Carthaginian army, but would they fight? When Rarity refused to cross a muddy puddle to report to Hannibal, he grew deeply concerned. Fighting was a dirty business. The final straw was when she called him ‘darling Hannibal’. Though he could do nothing about the appointment, he sent the prissy pony packing with her Cavalry.

At the same time the Paladins of Ivory were formed and sent along with Rarity’s Cavalry to embark upon the ICS Curse of the Black Hand CA-01.

But just as important (if not more important) was the formation of Carthage’s first band of Infantry. In accordance with the agreement formed at the Council of B5, the new infantry were named with the conventions established by the priests of CommandoBob. Thus the first Infantry was designated as the Glow Worms.

Because of the wounds suffered by the Defender’s escorts, the units were withdrawn to heal while the defenders took up a new defensive position to dissuade attacks by the Americans.

The Foreign Advisor, short of breath, came running to give Hannibal some good news. “Great Hannibal. Just as the Persian-Mayan protection pact has expired, so has the Byzantine-Portuguese protection pact expired!”

“If this is so, Hannibal.” The Military Advisor said, thoughtfully, “It is time we finally remove Henry completely from this contest of wills. They are weak and will topple easily. We can afford to lay rails directly into their lands and use these rails to reach all of their cities in short order. It will be a quick conquest.”

Hannibal found this fair and ordered preparations to commence but he wanted to wait for the war with American and China to resolve itself.

The contest between Sparthage and Elephantium also continued. The wounded People’s 33rd Muskets and the 94th St Louis Regiment of Cavalry were within range of the Peanutguard and Applejack. According the decree of the Council of B5, it was Spartahge’s turn to make the advance. After consideration the 94th St Louis was consider the more dangerous of the opponent so eliminate (value of 13.2 vs 6).

Applejack, a reliable and hard-working pony, issued the order to charge the unlucky 94th St Louis. Whipping her men into a frenzy, the attack commenced with good order. Though the 94th St Louis struggled to defend their position but the open plains made it almost impossible to thwart attackers that held the initiative and the drive to be victorious. Victory Points: 13.2 [3(D)x4(HP)x1.1(T)]; Sparthage: 25.2 Elephantium: 59.5

Her foes dispatched, Applejack retreated her men to the cover of POP’s Elite Rangers. The People’s 33rd Muskets were left for the Peanutguard. The poor 33rd Muskets did not stand a chance against the hardened followers of Elephantium and the Chinese soldiers scattered after firing a few volleys into the approaching men. Holding their course steady, the Peanutguard easily overcame the defenders. Their stalwart attacked earned them the recognition of an elite band by their piers.

Victory Points: 6 [4(D)x1(HP)x1.5(T)]; Sparthage: 25.2 Elephantium: 65.5
Remaining Units: Sparthage: 10 Elephantium: 9

 

[CommandoBob]

Looking good!

Additional unit names from CommandoBob, to be used as needed.

Spoiler :

Unit names are based on Citizens Band (CB) radios

1. C. W. McCall
2. Rubber Duck
3. Wolf Creek Pass
4. Convoy
5. Smokey and The Bandit
6. Old Home Bread
7. Chip Davis
8. Eastbound and Down (Jerry Reed song, not the HBO show)
9. Buford T. Justice
10. 10-4

Food For Thought for the Other 'Gods'
I would like to suggest a way to organize the naming to give everyone a chance to name units. Let me see if I can explain it well.

The list of who could name would follow the order in which unit names were submitted by us. So, Toxicman007 would be first, followed by Sparthage, then Elephantium and then myself. We have all suggested unit names in the past.

Others could also suggest names, like Dirk_Diggler, Prince of Persia and any other lurker, and they would be added to the list.

First time lists would be used over second or third time lists.

So, as it is right now, if someone were to post a their first list of unit names, they would be used before my second list. If Toxicman007, Sparthage or Elephantium posted another list, they would be used before my second lst, since their first list was posted before my first list. But if they don't have a list ready and mine is the only list available, then mine would be used.

 

[Toxicman007]

Looks good. I like the reference to Fox's AoI game

You must make one High Templar and rename him Tassadar-
Wait, that's Starcraft.

Henceforth, whenever Toxic's café produces pollution, you must wait four turns before you begin to clean it as punishment to the citizens who pollute.

 

[CELTICEMPIRE]

You're going to run out of enemies soon.

 

[Raliuven]

Well, not posted yet but Portugal is back down to one city and only because they are appareantly the only nation that has a harbor in any city. (Okay, maybe China has one, but Hannibal is not done pummeling them yet so we can't check.) I stopped mid-turn because I realized I really have to get GOTM119 done or I might miss the submission. That, naturally, would be unfogivable.

The Hittites and their remaining three cities are up for destruction now that the peace treaty is over and the Mayan peace treatry is almost up. Since Portugal rolled over like a dog I should be in a good position to roll over the Mayans once and for all. And since they are not generating significant gpt or have a port, they are pretty much due for .

America is being a good little cash cow and Spain is starting to spread onto the ESC but they have silk and gpt to offer for trades, which Hannibal sorely needs to keep up research. There are about 150 turns left to the game and there are 11 techs to get to nukes. Hannibal is currently running about a 12 year (6 turn) research pattern and hoping to pick up at least ironclads from the AI and two techs from ToE. That leaves 8(9?) techs in 150 turns. But Hannibal is being subsidized by other nations to the tune of about +200gpt. Of course military is costing about -340gpt. So he could live without support if he could also live without neighbors.

If funding runs out before the military is decomissioned, Carthage only has about 3000gp in the bank. That will run out in 15 turns (about 2-3 techs) if there is no AI to cough up some coins. Barb camps are only repopulating about one every turn, even with all that 'dead' space.

 

[clearmurky]

Here's my list of Cavalry:

Spoiler :

We Will Rock You
We Are the Champions
Somebody to Love
Killer Queen
Another One Bites the Dust
Under Pressure
Bohemian Rhapsody
Princes of the Universe
Fat Bottomed Girls
Bicycle Race

 

[Raliuven]

Turn 381-390

The Static Orders and Pending Orders can be found in the Spoiler; they are collapsed due to their length.

Spoiler :

Static Orders (cannot be overridden without consent of ordering player):

1. Play 5CC (5 city challenge) (pi4t)
2. Make at least 6 tiles between cities. (alzgamer)
3. Betty from Account Temps must always work with Bob from Account Temps, in the same tile doing the same task as Bob, for the rest of the game. (CommandoBob)
4. Rename every unit you produce for the rest of the game. (Elphantium)
5. Following the lead from Bob and Betty from Account Temps, each produced native worker must be given a name beginning with the letter B. Slaves, whether captured, traded for or produced by a foreign city, do not need special names, only something like Dutch01. (CommandoBob)
6. Name all naval units after battle victories. (Elephantium)
7. The Carthaginian Navy must rule the seas. A fleet of 10 warships (Galleys/Caravels allowed until Magnetism is discovered) must be constructed and then maintained until the game ends. (Sparthage)
8. Henceforth, whenever Toxic's café produces pollution, you must wait four turns before you begin to clean it as punishment to the citizens who pollute. (Toxicman007)
9. Add the prefix "ICS" (Imperial Carthaginian Ship) to the beginning of every ship name, and add an identification number such as (DD-01) to the end of each ship based upon the following list. (Sparthage)

Spoiler :

If the ship is a Curragh use the identification code (CU-##)
If the ship is a Galley use the identification code (G-##)
If the ship is a Caravel use the identification code (CA-##)
If the ship is a Frigate use the identification code (FR-##)
If the ship is a Galleon use the identification code (GA-##)
If the ship is a Ironclad use the identification code (IR-##)
If the ship is a Transport use the identification code (TR-##)
If the ship is a Destroyer use the identification code (DD-##)
If the ship is a Cruiser use the identification code (CA-##)
If the ship is a Submarine use the identification code (SS-##)
If the ship is a Carrier use the identification code (CV-##)
If the ship is a Battleship use the identification code (BB-##)
If the ship is a Nuclear Submarine use the identification code (SSN-##)
If the ship is a AEGIS Cruiser use the identification code (AG-##)

Actions (things to get done):

1. The victory achieved must be conquest. (Sparthage)
2. You may only achieve victory by conquering the Netherlands last. (Toxicman007)
3. You can only win after crippling an enemy nation with nuclear weapons (Hitting at least 50% of their cities with nukes) (Dirk Diggler)
4. At least three cities taken from the Hitties must be gifted to the Maya. (Toxicman007)
5. No cities may ever be gifted to rival tribes. [This takes effect after the Mayans receive their three cities.] (Elephantium)
6. During the future invasion of Spain, one Ironclad must be present, but cannot attack or bombard anything. (Toxicman007)
7. The Ironclad involved in the invasion of Spain must be the only Ironclad ever built. (Toxicman007)
8. The name of the above Ironclad shall be "Iron Will of Sparthage" (Sparthage)
9. Ten cavalry units must be named after characters from My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic. [Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, Twilight Sparkle, Applejack, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, Luna, Celestia, Derpy Hooves, Doctor Whooves] (Sparthage)

Spoiler :

In your stories, the pony the unit is named after must be the leader of that unit, they must act as they would in the show (many of them have wikia articles, don't worry). As to how the ponies get there, I'd suggest something involving them coming from the heavens as a blessing from Sparthage to his favorite people.

10. When the units of Sparthage have been named, as listed above, the following ten names are to be used for offensive land based units, Cavalry first, and then other newly available units. These are not designed as names for naval or air units. [Glow Worms, Butterflies, Puppies, Kitties, Lightning Bugs, Harders, Warm Fuzzies, Dandelions, Boys Named Sue, Geek Squad] (CommandoBob)
11. Prince of Persia [We Will Rock You, We Are the Champions, Somebody to Love, Killer Queen, Another One Bites the Dust, Under Pressure, Bohemian Rhapsody, Princes of the Universe, Fat Bottomed Girls, Bicycle Race] (Prince of Persia)
12. Additional unit names from CommandoBob, to be used as needed. [C. W. McCall, Rubber Duck, Wolf Creek Pass, Convoy, Smokey and The Bandit, Old Home Bread, Chip Davis, Eastbound and Down (Jerry Reed song, not the HBO show), Buford T. Justice, 10-4] (CommandoBob)
13. The MLP units spark a holy war! For every Cav named on the MLP scheme, another must be named from the following list: [Tusker's Defenders, Tusker's Chargers, Tusker's Riders, The Peanutguard, The Ivoryguard, Paladins of Ivory, Paladins of the Peanut, Paladins of the Tusk, Paladins of Elephantium.]
Under Discussion

Spoiler :

When going to war, each MLP unit must be paired with a unit loyal to Elephantium. Alternate between the two factions for attacks; any unit that retreats from battle is destroyed by loyalists from the other faction. Whichever faction loses more than five units first is defeated in the civil war and must be renamed to a naming scheme in line with the other faction.

14. You may not research or gain knowledge of Rocketry until you have named Guerillas (or units that upgrade to Guerillas) as follows... (Sparthage/Prince of Persia):

Spoiler :

Delta Force, Spetsnaz, 1st Army Rangers, Night Stalkers, Black Tigers, Batalhão Tonelero, Snow Leopard Commandos, Black Wasps, Estonian Special Operations Force, Kommando Spezialkräfte, Garud Commandos, Quds Force, Sayeret, Gruppo di Intervento Speciale, Japanese Ground Self-Defense Unit, Grupo Aeromóvil de Fuerzas Especiales, Shree Yuddha Bhairav Battalion, Korps Commandotroepen, Korean People's Army Special Operations, Forsvarets Spesialkommando, Puma Special Operations, Operações Especiais, and Recces Brigade, TF 141

Orders Completed this Set:
1. You must make one High Templar and rename him Tassadar (Toxicman007)
2. Henceforth, whenever Toxic's café produces pollution, you must wait four turns before you begin to clean it as punishment to the citizens who pollute. (Toxicman007) [Moved to Static Orders]

This post is going to be in four parts.
Part 1

Spoiler :

The year 1832AD dawned for Carthage with news of a trade embargo signed between the Netherlands and America against Carthage. Hannibal tried to appear concerned as the Foreign Advisor continued to moan. Hannibal was certain what she was complaining about. Wasn’t her job easier when no one would trade with Carthage? It was their loss, after all.

Smoking Jaguar, unable to commit the forces necessary to destroy the Byzantines, came whining to Carthage about a military alliance. Hannibal listened politely and then suggested that the Carthaginians might consider this if they Mayans offered Nationalism. After all, Hannibal had purchased the Mayan’s participation in the wars against American and China.

The Ambassador was insulted by the suggestion, not that Hannibal would have taken the deal anyway. Hannibal waived goodbye to the flustered Mayan.

The assault against Miami was set to begin and the contest between Sparthage and Elephantium was center stage. Though the Old Man was in charge of the assault, even he could not deny the will of the gods. The Ivoryguard was tasked with the most difficult assault; the 10th Miami Regiment of Rifles held the main line of defense and these veterans meant business. They were deeply entrenched in the hills around the city and though they had no permanent fortification, their trenches were dug deep. The only fortunate thing was that the city has recently decreased in size do to the war and the sprawling suburbs – what an invading army considered a deathtrap mostly do to the endless shopping malls – were largely abandoned.

The Ivoryguard did not shrink from their responsibility. The captains of the Guard pressed their men forward and the assault fair well initially. Though veterans, the 10th Miami were not accustomed to the fierce fire that could be concentrated by Carthaginian cavalry. But once the weakest links were removed from the chain, the hardened core of the 10th Miami put down a withering fire into the Ivoryguard and forced them to retreat.

Pinkie Pie laughed at the cowardly Ivoryguard and coaxed her men forward. The 10th Miami was bloodied and weakened by the attack. But when the new cavalrymen prepared for the attack it was the 25th Miami Regiment of Conscript Rifles that greeted them. The hastily assembled Rifle began to fire as Pinkie Pie, one of the few wingless, hornless genetically alerted equestrians, led the charge. Unfortunately, after an initially successful charge, she began to run her men back and forth before the conscripts. This allowed them to punish Pinkie Pie’s men, depleting half of her combat strength before the charge once more got underway and the 25th Miami was routed from their fortifications. Victory Points: 21 [6(D)x2(HP)x1.75(T)]; Sparthage: 46.2 Elephantium: 65.5

The remaining attack upon the 10th Miami was left to the elite Toxic 1st and 3rd Cavalry. The 1st Cavalry attacked while the 3rd Cavalry demonstrated to the east to hold the attention of the 10th Miami. The diversion worked perfectly and the 1st Cavalry made sort work of the 10th Miami. Prepared to enter the city victorious, the 1st Cavalry’s march was disrupted by the sudden appearance of another conscript band of rifles – the 77th San Francisco. Running low on ammunition, Toxic’s 1st Cavalry had to withdraw.

Toxic’s 3rd Cavalry, still fresh, immediately filled the void. The conscripts of the 77th San Francisco could not withstand the assault and withered away under a direct assault. The Elite Toxic Cavalry entered the city, reducing it to ash and capturing two slave bands: America63-64.

Deciding it was time to completely eradicate the Chinese, Hannibal ordered the movement of his entire army towards eastern America. They would destroy San Francisco and then move into china. Three separate armies would converge. One would clean away Macao on the northeastern tip before moving to join the other advancing armies. One would destroy Tsingtao and roll the Chinese westward. The third would attack Tatung in the middle of China and hold out until the other elements could move westward and relieve them.

As America currently seemed to have money to pay to Carthage for peace, they would be left alone, for now. Besides, Carthage wished to reduced America and then utilize their harbors to export luxuries back to their homeland while Portugal and the Mayans were destroyed.

While advancing the forward elements of Carthage encountered the wounded People’s 19th Longbows that were advancing on Yaxchilan. It was decided to leave these invaders alone for now. Attacking them would expose a unit to counterattack and, really, it was Smoking-Jaguar’s problem.

The defenders advanced with one of the largest Carthaginian armies yet gathered. The 13,000 Numidian Mercenaries of the Defenders were accompanied by 4,700 heavy cavalry and 5,000 knights.

In 1834AD Hannibal received good news.

The Mayans had violated the alliance they had forged with Carthage, thus releasing Carthage from any obligation not to kill them!

This also, however, violated the ROP that had been signed and Smoking-Jaguar wanted Carthaginian forces out of his lands. Hannibal agreed to remove his forces. But not for long.

Before peace was forged between Carthage and America, Hannibal ordered an attack upon the 56th San Francisco Regiment of Cavalry. The Dark Brotherhood, long an elite band of heavy cavalry, made the charge up the hill against the Americans. Lincoln’s men did not believe a lowly band of heavy cavalry would attack them and believed it was a demonstration. They had no idea that the massive army of the Defenders was anywhere nearby. The attack was both devastating and humbling for the Americans. The Dark Brotherhood lost 200 of their antiquated force while the Americans lost 400 newly equipped and trained cavalrymen. It was a good trade for Carthage.

Next Hannibal ordered the slaughter of the 51st St Louis Regiment of Muskets and the capture of its supply train. The elite Toxic’s 1st Cavalry were ordered to assault the 1,500 muskets that were attempting to navigate the flooded plains outside of Tatung. This created the America65-66 slaves.

The Knights of the Chalice were ordered to attack the People’s 107th Spears to clear them away from the mountain advances. The 3,000 Chinese spears fought valiantly to hold their position but the odds were not in their favor. Even fortified upon the mountain they were easily overrun. The passage secured, the new American slaves and Toxic’s 1st Cavalry retreated to the protection of the Defenders. All of the wounded were collected under the powerful army’s protection and the security of the mountains. All other units were assigned to OMIA and set to invade China. The battle plan would, however, need to be changed. The full army would bypass San Francisco and Macao and destroy everything else.

These dirty deeds completed, Hannibal contacted Lincoln to talk terms of peace. The American ambassador eagerly agreed to the meeting and negotiations began. Hannibal was pleased with the performance of his Foreign Advisor during the negotiations.

“Listen, you gutless American worm, Carthage has thousands of men that could easily destroy the remainder of your cities.” The Foreign Advisor said with veiled eyes. “But we have decided that our efforts would be better spent killing Henry, Mao and Smoking-Jaguar. Thus, you have received a reprieve from our wrath.”

The American ambassador, much aware of the armed Carthaginian soldiers around him and seeing the endless campfires of the massed Carthaginian army, and also aware that his was not even half of what the Carthaginians could amass, bowed his head low. “What is it that Carthage wises to obtain in this exchange?”

“First you should know that Carthage is willing to give America knowledge of Electricity in this peace deal.” The Foreign Advisor said calmly. “But for this exchange we demand knowledge of Industrialization, the American world map, all 73 pieces of gold horded in your Fort Knox and tribute of 75 pieces of gold.”

“Would you consider adding your knowledge of Sanitation for an additional tribute of 60 pieces of gold?” The American ambassador inquired.

“Perhaps, but first we need to see what cards are placed upon the table. Will you agree to this initial trade?” The Foreign Advisor inquired. “Or would you rather have us continue to slaughter your men for our pleasure?”

The American ambassador knew he had no choice. The peace deal was made.

The American ambassador conferred with his embassy and returned with a new offer. The man’s face was very red. Hannibal wasn’t sure if it was anger or humiliation. He didn’t much care, for the man brought fair words to blunt the effects of his appearance. “I have been authorized to give you tribute of 90 pieces of gold for knowledge of Sanitation. I would suggest you take this deal. It is quite good.”

After much discussion it was finally agreed that Carthage would take this deal. It would ensure Carthage’s high level of research for the next 40 years.

The remaining force would be marshaled to attack Portugal now that America was out of the war. Even with the mass of Carthaginian units rushing into China, Carthage still had plenty of units to send against Henry, not the least of which were the healed and newly arrived units of Sparthage and Elephantium. The contest was about to continue.

The war could not be held off any longer, for the Portuguese had landed a band of settlers near Carthage’s supply of incenses and this could not tolerated by Hannibal or his people.

Henry’s ambassador was called forth to explain himself.

“Weak Hannibal, it is the destiny of Portugal to extend from one sea to the next upon the ESC just as it is your destiny to rule your continent. It is useless to attempt to resist what is self evident.”

Hannibal disagreed.

The first order of business was the city of Lourenco Marques, a small city of 150,000 Portuguese citizens founded in old French lands. It was Sparthage’s turn to make the advance and Rarity was given command of the attack. A unicorn variety of pony, Rarity was a strange commander and Hannibal continued to be concerned with her leadership. While discipline in the ranks was an excellent goal, Hannibal felt that her obsession with polishing brass buttons was more than mere ‘busy work’ to keep the men focused.

When Rarity’s Cavalry arrived the forward elements found that the city it was guarded by the 1,500 muskets of the 40th Infantry Regiment. The assault would not be delayed, however, because of a mere 1,500 muskets. The 400 cavalry of Rarity’s Cavalry prepared the charge. The terrain was favorable to the attackers. Wide open plains left many approaches to the city and the muskets were only fortified in shallow trenches.

Hannibal’s reluctant was quickly revealed to be without reason. Rarity’s Cavalry charged in fine form and eliminated the muskets without more than a scratch or any significant amount of dirty. A single peace of gold was taken as spoils from the city coffers and a new band of Portuguese slaves were delivered unto Carthage: Portuguese43. Victory Points: 16.2 [4(D)x3(HP)x1.35(T)]; Sparthage: 62.4 Elephantium: 65.5

This left the 51st Infantry Regiments of Medieval Infantry held up in their fortress guarding the Portuguese iron colony and the Portuguese 12th Lancers Regiment (Knights) and their band of settlers. After a short debate it was decided that the iron colony was the primary target. The laying of rails, however, allowed Carthage to once more bring its formidable artillery to bear against the Portuguese positions. Once the Artillery was finished both defensive positions had been reduced to 75% of their effective force. The veteran Paladins of Ivory were assigned to the attack on the Iron Colony but the hardened veterans of the 51st Regiment handily repelled the attack, forcing the Tuskers to retreat to protect their command.

Twilight Sparkle’s Cavalry were called forward the assault upon the 12th Lancer Regiment. Another unicorn pony, Twilight Sparkle’s men rode under the banner of a dragon and it was even rumored that she had a dragon as a pet, though most people discounted this as nothing more than an attempt by their strange equestrian commander to elevate her mystique and prestige.

Whatever the truth, once more Sparthage’s forces proved victorious and the 12th Lancers were banished from the field and the settlers collected into the Portuguese44-45. Hannibal was impressed by these accomplishments considering her knowledge of military affairs had come from her study of books and little else. But now she was turning the book knowledge into concrete Carthaginian victories. Sparthage’s forces had captured three new bands of slaves in this year alone! Hannibal sent a message of gratitude to the wise Spannibal for the service of the MPLs. Victory Points: 13.5 [3(D)x3(HP)x1.50(T)]; Sparthage: 75.9 Elephantium: 65.5

Finally the elite Tusker’s Chargers were sent against the wounded 51st Infantry that were stubbornly defending the Iron Colony. After a concentrated attack the iron colony was destroyed and Hannibal ordered the roads destroyed and the mines collapsed in such a way that it would take many years to restore. Victory Points: 9 [2(D)x2(HP)x2.25(T)]; Sparthage: 75.9 Elephantium: 74.5

Next Hannibal ordered an advance upon Ourique to ensure its destruction before Henry could make good use of its saltpeter. The Outriders advanced and were quickly stymied by the appearance of the 63rd Infantry Regiments of Medieval Infantry that had occupied a series of hills overlooking the city. An attack was immediately ordered but the elite Outriders were rudely rebuffed time and time again as they attempted to take the hill. Finally unable to continue the assault, the blooded and battered unit withdrew from combat.

The Green Knights were ordered to follow the attack of the Outriders and this time the heavy cavalry prevailed. Exhausted, the 63rd Regiment could not hold their position and, without reinforcements, were overrun by the heavy cavalry. This revealed the 44th Artillery Regiment (Longbows) on a nearby mountain but they were completely out of position to attack the Carthaginians. Hannibal immediately ordered the advance upon Ourique to ensure its destruction. A force of 2,000 heavy cavalry and 2,700 knights, 10 companies in all, were sent to destroy the city and pillage the saltpeter encampment.

The rude surprise, however, was when Carthage attempted to extend its rail lines. To their great surprise, neither the Mayans nor the Americans had a harbor that could be used to transport Carthaginian coal and iron! Henry was the only one with a port on the continent (though perhaps the Chinese had ports?). Cursing, the Carthaginian workers headed back to their cells at the LoD.

Finally Hannibal decided to make further trades with the nations of the world, beginning with the Mayans.

“For some strange reason the Mayans can still trade Incense to Carthage.” The Trade Advisor reported.

“Using what port?” Hannibal demanded. “We are still at peace with the Mayans but they refuse to allow us to use their ports for our own good! Outrageous!”

“Indeed Hannibal, but it is so.” The Trade Advisor reported. “But we can make a trade with them to insure our security and the happiness of our people. Smoking-Jaguar is willing to give up Incense, 7 pieces of gold - all they have in their treasury- Nationalism and their world map for Industrialization and Electricity. It is not great, but it will give us Nationalism and Incense until we can reestablish our trade route.”

Gritting his teeth, Hannibal agreed to the trade.

“To the Spaniards we could give further trades.” The Trade Advisor suggested.

“Hold, Hannibal. We should reconsider this. The Spaniards are spreading into our land and we should target the next for an invasion. And though we cannot invade their homeland without ironclads, we can repel them from the mainland to discourage their spread into Carthaginian lands. Their settlers are already becoming annoying.”

Hannibal considered these words and looked to his Trade Advisor for guidance.

“This makes sense to me, great Hannibal.” The Trade Advisor thought out loud. ‘We can fight a short war with them when our silk deal has expired. When we reestablish peace we can then combine all of our deals under one umbrella.”

Hannibal liked this idea and the attack on Spain was planned to launch in 20 years if all else went well on the ESC.

For some insane reason the Chinese decided to found the city of Kaifeng in the middle of the Carthaginian advance. The Savannah Knights were quickly dispatched from the ranks to deal with the new city and the 200 rifles of the People’s 110th Regiment. The Knights crossed the river uncontested and then assaulted the city. The rifles had only just begun to dig into the surrounding land when the knights hit them. The rifles began to fell one rider after another but there were less than 100 men left on the firing line after the surprise attack. More than 200 Carthaginian knights died in the span of fifteen minutes. Then the brutal clash was over. The knights got into the ranks of the riflemen and it was bayonet against sword, shield and armor. The Chinese warriors were routed and the city razed.

The assault on Ourique was led by the 500 heavy cavalry of the Shining Knights. The city was protected only by a paltry 2,000 pikemen but the terrain was favorable. Steep hills protected the city and the pikemen had used the rocks from the surrounding area to create a low wall for protection and to break up the charge of the horsemn.

Their plan worked perfect. The 44th Artillery (Longbows) was lying in wait and as the charge began their arrows cut deep into the Carthaginian ranks. The rocks caused many horses to lame and the charge had to be called off after heavy losses. The Portuguese pikemen were virtually untouched.

Phaedo’s Pride, long in the service of Carthage, was called upon next to make their charge. Though the 44th Artillery were out of ammunition and attempting to resupply, the fortification proved too much for the heavy cavalry and once more they were forced back. Finally the elite Trolls were called forward to break the stalemate. Finally the defensive line cracked and the Trolls pushed through, reaching the outer city limits before being halted by the 44th Artillery which had once more moved forward. Their strength spent in the destruction of the valiant 67th Infantry Regiment of Pikes, the Trolls withdrew.

The Green Knights made the final assault on Ourique. The 44th Artillery didn’t have the strength to repel the attack of heavy cavalry and the longbowmen dispersed into the hills to save themselves. The city was razed and the entire population slain save a band of saltpeter miners that were captured when the city fell. These became the Portuguese46.

The final attack was made by the Second Knights against the People’s 59th Longbows. Their charge was made across on open plain and the longbowmen had no avenue of retreat. The charge was textbook perfect and the sons of the Second Knights proved themselves to be true veterans.

A counterattack by the (Chinese) People’s 10th Cavalry overran the Savannah Knights as they attempted to retreat to safety. Hannibal vowed vengeance on the cowardly Chinese for attacking a band that was trying to withdraw their wounded. He would show no mercy to the Chinese cities of citizens.

 

[Raliuven]

Part 2

Spoiler :

In 1838AD the Byzantines and Portuguese signed a new trade embargo against Carthage. Hannibal just laughed at the idea. There wouldn’t be much of a Portugal left in short order.

The People were so overjoyed by Hannibal’s handling of affairs that they decided to add a dome to the top of the palace to create a penthouse. Then they added decorative columns around the doors and on the stone porch. This, they said, was all they were willing to do and no more ‘enhancements’ could be afforded for the palace. Hannibal thanked them kindly. It had been 5838 years and still no door. Sigh.

But if this was to be the last expansion Hannibal was to see added to his palace, this was also the first year that the Sparthaginian Navy had encountered a privateer.

This was the Spanish built Blood Coin and it was no mystery to Spannibal where it had come from. Internationally agreed upon terms meant that Hannibal could not hold it against the Spaniards for this cowardly attack but it also meant that they could do noting if the Sparthaginian Navy sunk it. ICS Charge of Aabraxan FR-02 bombarded the frail vessel before ICS Glory of Seen Elephants the Third G-06 sent it to a watery grave.

Further news reached Carthage that the Portuguese 51st Regiment of Lancers (Knights) attacked the Ghosts of the Pale Riders while they were covering the healing (and victorious) Green Knights. The 51st Lancers underestimated the strength of the Ghosts and their excellent positioning in the hills and ruins of the city of Ourique. The attack was a disaster (for the Portuguese) and the Lancers were utterly destroyed.

The battles for 1838AD began with the advancing POP Elite Rangers and the city of Tatung. The city was situated upon the open plains and was only of modest size with less than half a million citizens. The Ranger’s scouts only reported 2,000 pikemen in formation in the trenches outside the city but it was also believed there were more defenders either in the city or fortified close by and within easy support distance.

POP’s Elite Ranger had been entrusted with a small but powerful force: 600 heavy cavalry, 800 knights and 1,600 Toxic Cavalry. The Rangers decided not to fool around. Toxic’s 4th Cavalry was assigned to the initial assault. The attack was a bloody mess for the Chinese. The entire People’s 13th Pikemen were routed by the heavy fire of the 4th Cavalry and half of the men jumped out of the trenches mid-battle and ran for the city. The entire unit was cut down in the confusion. Only a few minor wounds were reported by the Toxic Cavalry.

More beautiful, perhaps, than this victory, was the sight of the People’s 200th Auxiliary Spearmen, a hastily assembled band of Chinese citizens gathered into a ‘military’ unit with rusty old spears thrust into their hands. These unfortunate souls were pushed into the meat grinder of Toxic’s 6th Cavalry. Once again there were few wounded reported from the battle for the Carthaginians but the 200th Spearmen were slain ruthlessly. Mao might as well have handed them blindfolds.

The destruction of the city resulted in the uncovering of the People’s 33rd Pikes that were on the way to Tatung before its fall.

Three new bands of Chinese slaves were created though Hannibal had no intentions of protecting these slaves. These were the Chinese28-30.

Now a little slight of hand was applied to the warfront. The slower moving POP Elite Rangers swapped forces with OMIA so that the faster Toxic Cavalry would move with the Old Man’s army in a lightning attack. POP’s Elite Rangers were in trade given command of the largest army Carthage had ever assembled.

Toxic’s 3rd Cavalry was assigned the honor of killing the (Chinese) People’s 10th Cavalry that were responsible for the deaths of the Savannah Knights. The two elite cavalry met on the flood plains. Toxic’s 3rd Cavalry had to ford the river to reach the People’s 10th Cavalry and this might have been a disaster. But the Chinese cavalrymen failed to move fast enough to prevent the crossing and were destroyed by the aggressive Toxic Cavalry. Their duty complete the 3rd Cavalry returned to the protection of the Defenders to rest and heal.

With the heavy movement of armies and units, the People’s 202nd Auxiliary Spears were discovered making their way into old American lands accompanying a band of settlers. Mao, it seemed, would not give up trying to colonize the surrounding lands. The Harding Knights were tasked with destroying this annoying band but the charge was completely foiled and the stout 202nd Auxiliary Spears drove the knights away. Falling back, the Harding Knights were suddenly set up by a second band of spears, a detachment sent by the crafty commanders of the 202nd to prevent a retreat. The Knights attempted to surrender but the Chinese warriors were not willing to listen after the devastation wroth on Tatung.

Hannibal, however, could also play this came. The elite Cold Heart Knights were sent to settle score. The attack was brutal and the 202nd Spears were shown no mercy by the Knights. Though the cunning Chinese commander attempted another ambush, the commander of the Cold Hearted Knights, a man so cold he was joking called the King of Hearts, was ready. When the Chinese command split the King of Hearts sent a small detachment to hold off the attack while the main column destroyed the Chinese guards that were covering the settler band. This accomplished, the King of Hearts than followed the same backwater trail to fall upon the ambush party from the rear. The captured flag of the 202nd Spears and the recovered flag of the Harding Knights were sent back to Carthage. The Chinese31-32 slaves were created.

The King of Hearts was proclaimed a great leader by the People of Carthage and Hannibal ordered him to return to Carthage to build a factory in New Hannibalopolis.

The advance into Portugal continued but the attacking force was dwindling. Luckily two new pairs of Sparthage/Elephantium units were ready. Fluttershy’s Cavalry and Rainbow Dash’s Cavalry were ready to move along with their escorts, Tusker’s Defenders and the elite Peanutguard. Their immediate target was the city of Guarda, a small cit on the western most edge of Portugal.

The first attack was for Elephantium. Not wishing to leave anything to chance, the elite Peanutguard were sent for the initial attack. This was excellent planning because the 1,500 muskets of the 27th Infantry Regiment were holding the city defensive line. The muskets were, of course formidable even if they were only ‘regular’ army. But the terrain did not favor the Portuguese as the open plains would allow the cavalrymen to maneuver freely.

The 27th Muskets collapsed like tissue paper before the elite rifles of the Peanutguard while the cavalrymen reported so few wounded as to be insignificant to their strength. Victory Points: 16.2 [4(D)x3(HP)x1.35(T)]; Sparthage: 75.9 Elephantium: 90.7

But as the defenses began to collapse Henry rushed the 31st Infantry Regiment of Muskets into the line personally. This was a surprising and welcomed opportunity to destroy the Portuguese ‘borg’ leader Henry. The escort for the Peanutguard was Fluttershy’s Cavalry. Hannibal was not certain that this particular champion was well chosen by Sparthage. Her first performance had not gone at all well and many brave Carthaginians had died under her command.

But Hannibal did not question the gods. Thousands of brave Carthaginians had died for many reasons. Hannibal nervously awaited word of the battle. To his great sadness his worst fears were confirmed. Once more Fluttershy froze in combat. The Carthaginian Cavalry destroyed more than 60% of the muskets guarding Guarda when suddenly the Pegasus froze. That moment was telling. Fluttershy was mortally wounded by sharpshooters of the 31st Infantry. With the loss of their commander, the cavalry were in disarray and only a handful of men were able to retreat. For all purposes, Fluttershy’s command ceased to exist.

Those that survived reported that as Fluttershy fell to the earth she shimmered and disappeared. The priests of Sparthage and all of Carthage held a moment of silence for the fallen MPL, Sparthage’s gift to his chosen people.

Rainbow Dash quickly entered the field to avenge her fallen comrade, tortoise battle flags waving in the area. The 31st Muskets, however, were but a few fragments holding the city with thin battle lines. Reconnaissance revealed less than 500 muskets remaining. The 31st muskets loosed a total of three volleys before being overrun, killing thirty men and wounded twice that number before being completely overrun.

Rainbow Dash did not pause. Diving the attack home she commanded the gutting of the city and destruction of the Portuguese docks, including a small fleet of caravels. Everything else in the city was destroyed in vengeance for the death of Fluttershy. Rainbow Dash’s Cavalry was given recognition by her piers as an elite fighting force for her victory. Victory Points: 5.4 [4(D)x1(HP)x1.35(T)]; Sparthage: 81.3 Elephantium: 90.7

Without a target to attack, Tusker’s Defenders were sent to hold the line with Rainbow Dash’s Cavalry, as per the agreement during the Council of B5.

The loss of Fluttershy was deeply felt. This pain and loss was not diminished even by the arrival of Sparthage’s newest gift to Carthage. This gift was no less than a princess of her kind. Her name was Luna and she was one of the rare alicorn type ponies. Hannibal was told that she was a reformed tyrant that had once gone by the name of Night Mare Moon and was prone to slipping back into her authoritarian role though she was often remorseful about her behavior afterwards. Though slightly schizophrenic, Hannibal rather approved of this new addition and immediately gave her a command. More impressive still, it was said that when Luna heard of the loss of Fluttershy she ‘made the sky weep’ with rain. Somehow this alicorn could affect the very weather! Luna’s Cavalry was quickly formed and sent to the ESC.

Hannibal received his next piece of good news in 1840AD. The Carthaginian Science advisor entered the throne room with humility and pride. “Great Hannibal, we have learned the Scientific Method. We can now formulate a hypothesis and design repeatable experiments that will either prove of disprove our hypothesis. These are called ‘experiments’. With these experiments we can collect scientific data that will greatly improve the quality of our scientific output.”

“I see. And what have we been paying for all of this time?” Hannibal inquired, thinking of the many thousands of gold spent on scientific research.

“Bingo tournaments, mostly. And a crap load of darts and copies of the periodic table.” The Science Advisor said cheerfully. “It’s amazing we’ve got as far as we have, isn’t it?”

“Is there any chance with this new found method that the gods will give up their blasted use of those ‘magic’ eight balls?” Hannibal truly hated those things.

“Probably not, sire. But now that we are finished with the Scientific Method and we also have learned the secrets of industrialization from the Americans, it is now time to learn how to form corporations. With this knowledge Bob and Betty from Account temps can quite literally produce gold from thin air.” The Science Advisor assured Hannibal. “This can be accomplished by fleecing the life saving from the average Carthaginian citizens and turning it into massive corporate profits.”

Hannibal considered his fickle people and was somewhat concerned. “Won’t this make them angry?”

“No, Hannibal.” The Domestic Advisor spoke up. “We will call it ‘doing your part’ for a better Carthage and labeling the corporations as ‘job creators’. Don’t worry. It will work.”

Hannibal had no time to worry over such things. Word from the Chinese warfront indicated that the Chinese28-30 slaves had been recaptured, as expected. It was not something to worry about overmuch as that was the only counterattack experienced for the entire duration.

The attack on Shanghai commenced immediately. The Old Man moved his units like a master and Toxic’s 4th Cavalry was once more the tip of the spear. Shanghai was much better defended than Tatung. The 400 men of the People’s 20th Rifles were entrenched in the suburbs of the sprawling city of a million Chinese citizens and would be tough to crack. Toxic’s 4th Cavalry did not shy from their work and immediately attacked the fortified troops.

Though the business was bravely planned and executed, the 20th Rifles simply picked their targets and felled them, dropping men from horses with practiced ease. The 4th Cavalry were decimated with little impact on the Chinese defenses. Given that outcome the Old Man decided it was time to use the army in the assault. The mass of knights rushed the defenses and initially met with great success. Nearly 200 rifles were overcome within thirty minutes but it was quickly discovered that these pickets were the weakest and most inexperienced of the men. A further 100 rifles died during the next hour but then it was nearly 800 Carthaginian knights that died trying to dislodge the final 100 rifles.

The army’s strength was spent but the gates to city were now cracked. The 2,000 pikes of the People’s 37th Regiment known as the Shanghai Noon Regiment had used the time given them by the 20th Rifles to move into the defensive works around the city to prevent further advance by Carthage.

It was the duty of Toxic’s 6th Cavalry to clear them away. The charge immediately encountered problems. The command of the pikemen was a crafty man and he had created many ditches and blockages using the ruble in the city. This prevented a concentrated charge by the cavalrymen and limited their mobility. The 37th Pikemen made short work of the 6th Cavalry, forcing them to retreat.

Toxic’s 7th Cavalry was next and met with better results. After a bitter fight by the dismounted cavalry, the modern rifles of the 7th Cavalry proved too much for Shanghai Noon and the unit was utterly destroyed. For their bravery and skill Toxic’s 7th Cavalry was recognized as an elite fighting force.

But the city was not finished yet. The Conscripts of the 210th Auxiliary Rifles had set up position with the city itself, firing from windows. This was most aggravating and Toxic’s 9th Cavalry were called upon to destroy the defenders like the hand of the gods and so the city fell.

This was a mortal blow to China; one of their biggest cities shattered. No gold was to be found in the city coffers because the Chinese were crumbling. Four new slave bands were formed: Chinese28-30, 33. The wayward Chinese slaves were also gathered back up and given the new identification of Chinese34-36 and were once more sent on their way. The Jagged Knights, an elite band of heavy cavalry, were sent to cover for the 9th Cavalry to protect them from attack. In the cold analysis of things, it would be better to lose the Jagged Knights than the 9th Cavalry and the Jagged Knights, an elite band, had a better chance of surviving an attack anyway.

The battle in Portugal also continued. The city of Sao Mamede was the next target for Carthage’s military commanders. The loss of this city, it was believed, would deprive Henry of his use of iron for the remainder of the war. The city was held by the 17th Infantry Regiment of Pikes, a band of army ‘regulars’ that held a sound defensive position in the hills around the city.

The Danes were first into battle but their assault utterly failed. Even the coordinated attack by the Hanged Knights and the Order of the Dragon withered before the mighty 17th Pikes. Finally the elite knights of the Order of Saint George broke the stalemate and the city was destroyed. Two pieces of gold where added to Carthage’s treasury at the cost of over 1,000 knights!

A band of slaves were formed from the city’s population: Portuguese47. But with the end of this attack, so ended the strength of Carthage’s attack and Henry’s source of iron was still secure. Luckily there were still many competing cavalry between Sparthage and Elephantium that could be deployed. Tusker’s Defender and the Peanutguard were joined by Tusker’s Defenders. Applejack, Rarity and Twilight Sparkle were also sent to match the three companies of Elephantium cavalry. As a band they were inserted into Portuguese lands with the target being no less than the city of Faro, Henry’s largest city (and the only thing worthy of being called a city other than Lisbon itself).

The year 1842AD marked a turning point for Carthage. The first Carthaginian Factory was constructed at Caseyboy97’s Asylum and construction on a Coal Plant began. Soon the city would be a military powerhouse!

Even better news was the complete lack of counterattacks by Carthage’s enemies. Hannibal ordered the slaughter of Portugal to continue. By the numbers the followers of Elephantium were responsible for the next two assaults [Tusker’s Defenders were unable to attack anything after Rainbow Dash destroyed Guarda].

The Peanutguard would once more be the tip of the spear against the Portuguese defenders. To the great surprise and happiness of the Carthaginians the recon elements of the advancing Carthaginian forcers identified the ‘regular’ pikes of the 77th Infantry Regiment as the best the city had to offer. Though the city was densely populated, which always worked to the defenders’ advantage, the approach to the city was smooth, gentle grassland.

The Peanutguard decided that nothing fancy was required for this assault and their plan may have worked perfectly except that the 45th Artillery Regiment (Longbows) were concealed in the city and a deadly wave of arrows began to rip riders from their saddles. The clash with the pikemen was also somewhat surprising. The elite cavalrymen were not to be denied, however, and the defenses were shattered in street-to-street fighting but at a horrible price. Over 80% of the Peanutguard were wounded or dead. Victory Points: 12.15 [3(D)x3(HP)x1.35(T)]; Sparthage: 81.3 Elephantium: 102.85

The elite Tusker’s Chargers were next in the line of attack. With the suburbs cleared of resisters and the defensive artillery accounted for, the Charges began their assault with confidence even as the 78th Infantry Regiment of Pike bristled in their defensive lines protecting the inner city and the Portuguese officials within.

Once more the followers of Elephantium were victorious but not without additional loses; the followers of the Tusked Order were setting an example for the bravery demanded Elephantium! Another 300 Carthaginian cavalrymen lay dead amidst the ruins of the 78th Infantry. In the end it came down to hand-to-hand combat but the better training of the Carthaginians overcame the ‘regular’ army of Portuguese. Victory Points: 12.15 [3(D)x3(HP)x1.35(T)]; Sparthage: 81.3 Elephantium: 115

The city, however, remained protected. The fanatical citizens of Faro had cleared out the old armories of their antique spears and formed the Faro Home Guard Regiment (Spears). They had ringed the industrial section of the city with pit traps and ambush points. The dangerous mission of clearing the out was given to Applejack’s Cavalry. Hannibal trusted this dependable work equestrian to clear out the Portuguese rabble.

As expected this no nonsense MPL went to work and cleared the Home Guard with systematic thoroughness that protected the lives of her men and the cavalrymen that were to follow, be they followers of Spathage or Elephantium. For her the focus was victory for Carthage, above all, and Hannibal appreciated her professionalism. Victory Points: 8.1 [2(D)x3(HP)x1.35(T)]; Sparthage: 89.4 Elephantium: 115

This left only the 45th Artillery Regiment to hold the city’s government sector. It was once more Sparthage’s turn on the attack and Twilight Sparkle was left to plan her attack. She was seen pouring over her military books just before the attack, her dragon banner fluttering over her units. Then her entire command simply disappeared. From the sounds of fighting it was clear that somehow through her faith in Sparthage she had teleported her entire company into the city.

The attack was not perfect (and would need much perfecting if this move was to be used against a better foe) but it accomplished its task. The city fell and the governor and the civilian authorities were all captured intact and sent back to Carthage for debriefing. As the leaders of the largest Portuguese cities they had detailed knowledge of all of the military plans. This put Henry at a huge disadvantage. Defeat was now certain. Victory Points: 5.4 [1(D)x4(HP)x1.35(T)]; Sparthage: 94.8 Elephantium: 115

The Portuguese48-50 were formed from the citizens of the city; they could be seen from Lisbon, the ragged line being led away in chains. The Portuguese ambassador crawled into Hannibal’s presence to beg for leniency. Henry was willing to give Carthage EVERYTHING if they would be allowed to keep Lisbon and their nominal freedom. This included their world map, all 44 pieces of gold from their treasury, tribute of 1 piece of gold and all remaining cities (save Lisbon): Goa, Diu, Castelo Branco, Badajoz and Viseu. Henry would also agree to the use of the ports of Lisbon to once more carry Carthaginian luxuries to its people.

Hannibal gave his consent to the foreign advisor to make it so. This had been, in Hannibal’s opinion, the perfect war. All of the surrendered cities were immediately destroyed and offered to Sparthage as blood sacrifices for the loss of Fluttershy.

Once more able to lay rails, the Carthaginian Slaves began to make tracks along the southern lands that led to Portugal and the Hittites. It would also give them free range of movement for their eventual attack on the Mayans.

POP’s Elite Rangers were also within range of the city of Tsingtao. This was a vital city for the Chinese as it held their only source of saltpeter. Unfortunately, the city was guarded by nothing more than the People’s 209th Auxiliary Spears.

All that protected China’s precious resources of saltpeter were 3,000 archaic spears. They didn’t even have fortifications on the surrounding hills. POP’s Elite Rangers ordered the veteran Knights of Swifter Hooves to strike the city before reinforcements could be brought up.

The veteran knights split into two groups and struck the 209th Spears in both flanks. The spears quickly tried to form into a phalanx but their lack of training was obvious. The Chinese were quickly eliminated and the city was sacked. The victory was almost absurd. Two bands of workers from the saltpeter mines were gathered in addition to the citizens of the city to form four new bands of slaves: Chinese37-40.

The city destroyed, POP’s Elite Rangers led the remainder of the considerable army towards Nanking while OMIA rested and healed and traded out escorts for the next assault, the city of Canton. The slave bands were also evacuated save for the latest group which was sent deeper into China in an attempt to divert attackers from the vulnerable Knights of Swifter Hooves. The decision had been made that it was more import to end the war with China swiftly than to protect each straggling unit or slaves. War weariness was already taking it toll on Carthage.

In Carthage two new bands of infantry were created to help secure the LoD and the multiple advances. These bands were named, per the Council of B5, the Butterflies and Puppies in an attempt to deceive the enemies of Carthage into believing that they were harmless. This was a cunning plot on behalf of CommandoBob and Hannibal thought well of it (not that there was another option).

On the high seas Spannibal issued the orders for half of Carthage’s frigates to begin moving towards China along with a caravel to help pick up stranded slaves. Four frigates were dispatched: ICS Sacrifice of Sparthage FR-08, ICS Fall of Karatepe FR-07, ICS Kyoto’s Destruction FR-01 and ICS Raze of Bengal FR-05 escorting ICS Arrow of Ice CA-09.

Diplomatically things had also begun to happen. With the advice of his trade advisor, Hannibal decided to give Mursilis knowledge of Sanitation for a measly 60 pieces of gold and tribute of 3 pieces of gold. The tribute was insignificant and would be discharged when it was finally time for Carthage to destroy the annoying Hittites.

 

[Raliuven]

Part 3

Spoiler :

In a surprising move, the Chinese frigate Hanging Chow struck ICS Raze of Bengal FR-05, sinking the Sparthaginian warship at sea. The marked the first lost of a Sparthaginian warship to an enemy civilization and Hannibal vowed to avenge the brave Sparthaginian sailors.

Still angry over the loss of the Raze and fresh orders in hand for New Crobuzon to begin constructing a replacement frigate (Carthage still maintained ten warships even with the loss of the Raze, as commanded by Sparthage), Hannibal was intercepted by the American ambassador. This was perhaps the man he least wanted to see at the moment but the man was too persistent to avoid.

“What is it that America wishes of the benevolent Carthaginian people?” Hannibal demand of the annoying man.

“Do not use such hard words, friend Hannibal.” The Ambassador said with a slick tongue. “I only wish to affirm the friendship between our two people and to invite you to join a little ROP party we are throwing. We promise we’ll keep our hands to ourselves this time.”

“I’m not interested.” Hannibal brushed the man aside. The construction of the new frigate had to happen swiftly.

“But Hannibal, we are willing to allow you to attend for a meager tribute only 10 pieces of gold!” The ambassador said with some degree of pride, as if he had offered something of such incredible value that the deal screamed friendship.

“Ten pieces of gold to walk around the land you are temporarily borrowing from Carthage?” Hannibal snorted. “That’ll be the day.”

The fun continued when the Mayan ambassador interrupted him only ten steps away from the foolish American.

“Goodly Hannibal, I would like to extend the hand of friendship to our Carthaginian brothers and sisters and extend this peace that has served our people so well!”

“So well?” Hannibal was fuming. “If it is so advantageous, why is it that you would not allow us to use your ports for moving Carthaginian luxuries, coal and iron? Because of you fools we had no choice but to allow Henry to live for another forty years.”

“Hannibal, please consider your next words carefully.” The ambassador had turned pale. “This could have horrible consequences for all our people.”

“Maybe your people. Mine are unhappy that you are still alive.” Hannibal said harshly. “But that is something we can fix right now, as it turns out.”

The Declaration of War cost the Carthaginians roughly 60 pieces of gold in tribute but that hardly mattered at the moment. The Mayans have moved a single rank of longbows into the field. It was a pitiful offering. At the same time the Chinese had failed to send any sort of counter attack against the invading Carthaginian units, which meant the end for the city of Nanking.

But the assault on Nanking would not be easy. Mao had sent the veteran People’s 73rd Rifles to guard the city and it was good ground for the defenders. Rugged hills made for an easy defense and the sprawl of the city was also to the advantage of the Chinese, giving them a commanding view of the surrounding plains.

Given the power of the defenders it was decided that POP’s Elite Rangers would make the initial assault and absorb the brunt of the damage. It was somewhat surprising when the Rangers, led by divine inspiration, stormed the city and swamped the rifleman. Their superior firepower was for naught in hand-to-hand combat and the blessed Rangers prevailed with only a loss of one hundred men and thrice that in wounded. These were numbers easily replaced by the holy army.

The destruction of the 73rd Rifles, however, only exposed a further problem. The 400 rifles of the People’s 76th Regiment had moved into position during the battle and the Rangers were too far out of position to continue the attack. The Knights of the Order of the Oak were closest to the 73rd Rifles and carried the attack. In another stunning success, the heavy cavalry swept down upon the veteran rifles and crushed the formation before they could fully organize. There were many reports of Chinese soldiers throwing their rifles to the ground and fleeing when the rifles would not fire. It would seem that in their rush to push men into battle, the Chinese military had given its brave men defective weapons.

The veteran 79th Rifles, however, were also present and their rifles were in working order. The Knights of the White Mountain were ravaged by the riflemen and 500 Carthaginian heavy cavalry died without coming close to the firing line. In a desperate move, Hannibal ordered the charmed Lady Isabella to make the assault but even her charm could not carry the day. The commanders watched with held breath as the elite Carthaginian knights battered their way into the ranks of the Chinese rifles and for a moment the flags of Carthage waved above the city. Then they disappeared in smoke. Lady Isabella would not retreat and died with her men. A day of morning was called by Hannibal for all of Carthage at the sacrifice of Lady Isabella.

The damage, however, had been done. The elite knights of Old Blood and Guts finished off the 79th Rifles, leaving the city wide open. Only the People’s 105th Longbows remained. But the Rangers still had many fresh units under its command. The Black Devils were allowed to capture the city and prove themselves an elite band. While they easily overran the 105th Longbows, their performance was lackluster and no laurels were forthcoming for this attack.

The city was razed and the Chinese41-43 slave bands were formed and sent towards the landing (loading) zone.

OMIA moved with its cavalry escort against Canton while the balance of POP’s army moved on Xinjian. With the loss of these two cities the Chinese would be finished.

The assault on the Mayans would be difficult if only because their cultural control over the surrounding land made movement difficult. Citizens, blinded by this great culture, stole from supply wagons, felled trees across roads, and cleared food from the path of the army forcing them to spread further to forage for supplies.

Tusker’s Defenders, the next unit to attack in the contest between Elephantium and Sparthage, was tasked with eliminating a Mayan Iron colony. Surprisingly the colony was empty when they arrived, the Mayan defenders fleeing to save their lives. Rarity joined the Defenders to pillage the iron mines and destroy the roads.

The Knights of Chaos were moved against the Mayan horse colony and found that it, like the previous iron colony, was unguarded. The colony was destroyed and pillaging commenced. The heavy cavalry of Lots of Lances was sent to the final Mayan Iron colony which was easily destroyed. This put an end to all of the Mayan colonial holdings.

Finally, six companies of cavalry were sent towards Yaxchilan. The hope was that they could assault the city in 1846AD and that would secure the path towards China and rails could be put down to increase movement. Toxic’s 2nd Cavalry were sent to clear away the Jade Longbows of Yaxchilan. The longbows, without support, were easily overrun by the Toxic Cavalry and the few survivors scattered over the open field. Toxic’s 8th Cavalry joined the 2nd Cavalry along with Luna’s Cavalry, Rainbow Dash’s Cavalry, Paladins of Ivory, and Paladins of the Peanut. Hannibal felt good about this attack. Rainbow Dash and Luna were solid commanders and the combination of Toxic Cavalry and Elephantium’s men made Hannibal confident that Yaxchilan would fall.

Satisfied with the news of the war, Hannibal relaxed to other reports. He stopped at one report and turned to his Military Advisor. “What is this report about Mongols serving in our army? Who are the Mongols?!?”

“It is a long story, Lord Hannibal, but it would seem that our Trade Advisor made a personal trip to a visiting spaceship, the ConsolationPrize.” The Military Advisor said. “Reports are that she negotiated quite aggressively with their captain for several hours behind closed doors.”

“Where did this starship come from?” Hannibal demanded. He did not like the idea of people floating around above his head without his knowledge. What next? A giant yellow space anomaly that could gobble up their entire world with a single ‘chomp’?

“We don’t know for sure, but they are quite advanced, lord.” The Science Advisor said. “Their Mr. Spuke is a highly evolved species of Account Temps. He got along with Bob and Betty quite well.”

“How does that explain the Mongol?” Hannibal demanded.

“During the negotiations we somehow ended up with him. We’re still trying to figure out how.” The Domestic Advisor reported.

“Where is the Trade Advisor?” Hannibal asked, annoyed.

“Unfortunately we haven’t seen her since the ConsolationPrize left orbit. Bob or Betty either.” The Domestic Advisor said. “I think we got jacked on an intergalactic scale.”

Hannibal was beginning to hate all these new people. “Well, we’ll just breed the Mongol away. That will settle the matter.”

“Not so fast, Lord.” The Domestic Advisor said. “The Nerds genetically altered the Mongols to prevent the death of their species. It would seem that without this trait they would eventually die out entirely of natural causes. Such as ugliness and stupidity.”

Hannibal’s head was swimming so he dismissed his advisors. It would seem that Carthage was stuck with the idiot Mongol, at least for now. Hopefully he wouldn’t kill too many people with his hideous face.

In 1846AD the Mayan’s counterattacked with the Emerald Longbows of Yaxchilan. This veteran band of longbowmen were cunning warriors and they fell upon the cavalry that were laying siege to the city. The elite Toxic’s 8th Cavalry were caught still in camp. Most of the men and animals were slain before they could mount an effective counter attack. The few men that remained began a withering fire and for a moment it seemed as if they might hold off the attack. Then the battle ended with a final massive barrage. Toxic’s 8th Cavalry was lost.

Hannibal intended to avenge the lost elite cavalrymen by destroying the city that had spawned the Emerald Longbows. Before the attacks began, however, Hannibal ordered the King of Hearts to build a factory in New Hannibalopolis.

“Hold, whimsical Hannibal.” The priests of CommandoBob said, approaching the Carthaginian ruler. “A factory can be built at any time and it is a good thing. But I have become aware of a storage problem at the Pentagon of CommandoBob.”

“A problem?” Hannibal inquired. He had heard no such thing but it was unforgiveable to question the gods. “What problem is displeasing the great god? I shall correct it immediately!”

“The problem is that all of Carthage’s war trophies are locked away where only the military planners of Carthage may see them. This is like preaching to choir, something we priests should know something about.” The priest said wearily. “This simply will not do. We are also told that Art of Warmongering has become crowded with aspiring young men and genetically altered equines. The time has come for us to found a new military institution.”

“These words sound fair to me, Priests of the divine CommandoBob, but what is it you are suggesting?” Hannibal asked eagerly.

“Just this. It is necessary for Carthage to found the Military Academy of CommandoBob at New Hannibalopolis, for the city has recently created a band of cavalrymen and is ready to begin a new project. You shall order the King of Hearts to build the Academy immediately.” The priest directed. “Once it is completed we shall have new classes of commanding officers that may be dispatched to our armies to make them even more effective in combat!”

Hannibal found this command to be divinely inspired and ordered these tasks completed immediately.

The Paladins of Ivory were called forward for the initial assault upon the city. Because of the idiotic Chinese the Pearl Rifles of Yaxchilan were an elite band, well drilled in the horrors of battle. They would be devastating in battle. Though the city was of moderate size, it was situated upon a hill. But the attack could not be called off.

The Paladins of Ivory, brave and loyal, made the charge even thought it was certainly suicide. The Ruby Longbows began to fire before the Paladins could even come within range. The murderous fire of the Rifles matched the hammer blow from the cavalry with equal ferocity. The Paladins died to the last man but had slain over 200 men in trade.

The attack was still on Elephantium so the Paladins of the Peanut made the next charge. The Pearl Rifles remained in command of the city approaches though some of their men were looting the dead bodies of the Paladins. Taking advantage of their greed, the Paladins of the Peanut slew the men in the field, greatly reducing the already wounded rifles. Greatly outnumbered, the Pearl Rifles made a good account of themselves but it was not enough. The final few men threw down their rifles and fled back into the city.

The Mayan city was now vulnerable. The Quartz Rifles had been mustered out of conscripts but it looked more like a move of desperation than of defense. Smoky was hoping the city would last for another few years while he recruited and trained more men. Victory Points: 31.5 [6(D)x3(HP)x1.75(T)]; Sparthage: 94.8 Elephantium: 146.5

Not to be outdone, the elite men of Rainbow Dash’s Cavalry descended upon the city. Rainbow Dash’s approach was almost lazy, the formations of cavalrymen riding loosely as though they could simply walk into the city unopposed. They were almost right. The Sparthginian cavalry turned with fine form and assaulted the city. The Quartz Rifles panicked, firing blindly into the approaching cavalry. The survivors of the battle reported that their Pegasus commander slew more than 20 men with her own sharpened hooves and made it appear effortlessly. Victory Points: 21 [6(D)x2(HP)x1.75(T)]; Sparthage: 115.8 Elephantium: 146.5

This attack left the cowardly Ruby Longbows exposed to the next attack by Luna’s Cavalry. The alicorn was cunning in her advance, summoning a layer of fog to cover her approach. The Cavalrymen fell upon the city almost without warning. The defending longbows managed a few ragged waves of arrows before throwing down their bows and fleeing the city. Victory Points: 7 [1(D)x4(HP)x1.75(T)]; Sparthage: 122.8 Elephantium: 146.5

Holding firm, Luna ordered the city razed and its citizens imprisoned.

The Mayan52-53 were formed. In a coordinated effort the Knights of the Thistle were dispatched to destroy the arrogant Emerald Longbows that had slain Toxic’s 8th Cavalry. The gravely wounded longbowmen stood no chance and dropped their weapons, fleeing the field rather than standing and dying.

The next target for 1846AD was the Chinese city of Xinjian. The Chinese had rushed the conscripts of the People’s 115th Rifles into the city in a feeble effort to repel the coming attack. It was almost a criminal act to press rifles into the hands of these people. It was also a futile gesture. Carthage’s strength had been sapped on the way to the city but a force of 1,800 heavy cavalry and 2,700 knights remained camped close to the city.

A messenger was sent to the city demanding their surrender. The Chinese governor refused by killing the defenseless messenger. Hannibal ordered the assault. The elite Hessian Company of heavy cavalry were flanked by the venerable Maggot Makers and the Regulators. Hannibal had ruthlessly determined to use these outdated units for the initial assaults to ‘weaken’ the defenders. The city of Xinjian was small but it was well situated amongst the hills. This gave the conscript riflemen a fair chance of surviving the first waves of Carthaginian attacker.

At least in theory. The People’s 44th Longbows weakened the attacking cavalrymen but it was not enough. The People’s 115th Rifles were sorely pressed from the very beginning. The 200 men of the unit were barely enough to properly call a unit and they were overwhelmed. Even though they wounded an number equal to their own strength it simply was not enough. With 600 heavy cavalry, the Hessians could absorb the losses and still claim victory.

Shamefully the Chinese governor began to organize the People’s 222nd Auxiliary Spears, packing 3,000 Chinese citizens into a wedge formation. The Maggot Makers, old hands to the carnage that followed in the wake of Carthaginian armies, swept the poorly trained phalanx aside, leaving the retreating 44th Longbows vulnerable to attack.

So brutal and complete was the attack of the Maggot Makers that the people of Carthage proclaimed them one of Carthage’s greatest bands, elevating the Lord of the Flies to the status of a honored Great Leader.

The Lord would be sent back to Carthage immediately to rush the construction of another great structure for the people’s benefit.

Given the presence of a new great leader upon the field the order of battle was interrupted. The veteran knights of the Gray Guard were given the easy job of removing the 44th Longbows from the fortifications and to raze the city. The Gray Guard chased down the fleeing 44th Longbows and demanded their surrender, which was promptly given. The remaining men of the 44th were added to a handful of captured miners from the surrounding area and the remaining citizens of the destroyed Xinjian to form the Chinese44-48.

The destruction of Xinjian began rolling back the eastern boundaries of the Chinese empire. Only Macao remained in the east, hemmed in by the American city of San Francisco.

The next victim was the city of Canton. OMIA and five companies were encamped outside the city walls. The city was held by only 800 rifles – the People’s 220th and 227th formations. The order of battle was to begin with the competing Ivoryguard and Pinkie Pie’s Cavalry, though the Old Man wished to make the initial attack to soften the city defenses.

Once more the first attack on the hardened position fell to the followers of Elephantium. The Ivoryguard faced the veteran rifles of the People’s 220th Regiment. The city of Canton was a large sprawling city with a population of nearly a million people. The only advantage was the approach – open plains around nearly the entire city. The commanding mountain was poorly situated to stop the attack and the river that began at the mountain flowed away from the city, not through it.

The charge of the Ivoryguard, though brave, was a complete disaster. The People’s 10th Longbows attempted to blunt the charge but failed. In hindsight it might have been better if they had prevented the charge. Not to be dissuaded, the veteran cavalry attacked and were butchered by the relentless marksmanship of the 220th Regiment and they never came close to the fortifications.

Next came the playful Pinkie Pie’s Cavalry. The outgoing and energetic pony was last seen popping several sugar cubes before leading her men at a hop-march towards the battle. Her men actually reached the fortifications of the 220th Regiment before dissolving much like the sugar cubes that their leader so loved. None of her men survived and when the battle field was cleared the equine was never found.

The field clear, the Old Man ordered the army forward. The army swarmed over the battlements held by the less disciplined 227th Regiment at only minimal losses. The Old Man cursed that he did not make the initial assault. Many a good man had died for a thin victory.

Toxic’s 1st Cavalry, an elite band attempted the assault upon the 220th Regiment even as the 227th Regiment was being overrun. This time the 220th Regiment was not so lucky. The elite cavalrymen began to fire at long range from the saddle and their aim was true. The two units began to brutally slug it out in a running gun battle until the 220th Regiment was finally overrun.

To the great surprise of the Carthaginians (who had expected to enter the city victorious), Mao had conscripted the 99th Auxiliary Rifles as a final line of defense. The Old Man ordered his army forward again to clear out the conscripts. In a rare display of bravery the conscripts actually put up a better fight than the veteran 227th Regiment. The army lost over 500 men to death and wounds to clear away the stubborn home guard.

The veterans of Toxic’s 9th Cavalry were finally able to sweep around the flank of the city as the rifle regiments were eliminated. The People’s 10th Longbows were caught completely unaware and were forced to surrender without any further combat.

The city of Canton was reduced to ashes and the citizens turned into servants of Carthage as Chinese49-53.

In 1848 Hannibal received news that Caseyboy97’s Asylum had constructed Carthage’s first coal plant to feed the power demands of the city’s great factories.

Fortunately the city had an endless supply of small children to ruthlessly exploit over the midnight shift now that they had the power to keep the lights on all night.

They could now be kept busy manufacturing rifles and horses to build cavalry and infantry units for Carthage.

Hannibal was greatly pleased by this news but more so by the reports that CommandoBob's Military Academy had been constructed at New Hannibalopolis.

This was also the year that ICS Revenge of Fluttershy FR-12 was launched from the dry docks of New Crobuzon. This was a ship manned by fanatical sailors that worshiped the MPLs to such an extent that they actually dressed up as horses. Needless to say, Hannibal was glad those particular Sparthaginian worshippers were confined at sea.

Further good news was received as ICS Sacrifice of Sparthage FR-08 caught up with the Chinese frigate Hanging Chow as it made its run for his home port at Tientsin. This would have been foolish anyway because Carthaginian land forces were already outside the city. But the Sparthaginian Sailors delighted in revenging their fallen comrades.

It wasn’t much of a battle. The Hanging Chow was badly damaged in its fight with ICS Raze of Bengal FR-05. Sacrifice fired a single broadside into the Hanging Chow and the crew began to abandon ship.

This good news, however, was doused by news that once more the sacred coffee beans had been spilled in the fields of the Toxic Café. While the fields were now useless for growing food, the animals in the area were quite wide awake if a bit jittery.

When news of this latest problem was announced, it was the Toxic Priests that stepped forward to speak. “Godly Hannibal, it is the judgment of Toxicman007 that the Carthaginian people at Toxic’s Café have become careless with the sacred caffeine. This is a gift given directly by the gods and it is sacrilege to be so wasteful.”

“Indeed, great priests of all things Toxic.” Hannibal agreed solemnly. “But what is it that should be done?”

“We shall follow the wisdom of Toxicman007.” The priests said gravely. “For the people to learn the lesson of humility they must meditate upon their carelessness. You shall send a band of workers to the site immediately. Then in each preceding budgetary cycle you will send another. When four such bands have gathered and meditated, they may then finish cleaning what is left. If they are humble before the Toxic god, then the problem shall correct itself. If not, give them some of those new rubber tools and tell them to start shoveling.”

Hannibal could not argue with this logic and ordered it so, even though some of the population might find it hard to come by food in the coming years.

With the departure of the Toxic Priests Hannibal had time to time to review the reports regarding the battle for the Chinese city of Tientsin. The approach of the Regulators revealed the bristling pikes of the veteran People’s 5th Regiment. Hannibal chortled at the thought of pikes fending off his massive armies.

The Regulators knew their duty and immediately attacked before the pikemen could organize. The city of Tientsin was a sprawling mess of civilization that encompassed a river that protected the city from most approaches of attack. The pikes hurriedly occupied the trenches along the river bank but they failed to prevent a river crossing at a narrow ford on the western side of the city. By the time the pikemen rushed to stop the invasion it was too late. The Regulators charged and overwhelmed the pikemen, pushing most of them into the river that they had been trying to protect!

The city approached opened, the elite Snow Knights made the crossing and entered the suburbs of the city. They were greeted by the 200 conscript rifles of the People’s 250th Auxiliary Regiment. The knights did not allow these conscripts even a moment to organize. The battle was fierce but the training of the knights was the telling advantage. Though 300 elite knights lay dead in the streets of Tientsin their bodies lay beside all 200 of the conscript riflemen.

With the death of these units the governor had no choice but open the war museums and empty them of spears, handing them to the city’s national guards that had been deprived of their rifles by the formation of the 250th Auxiliary. The 50th Home Guard Regiment of Spears held the heart of the city. If they fell the government would be lost. The veteran Return of the Black Ravens were selected to attack the weak spear formation. To the great surprise of all, the 50th Regiment held firm even as 2,000 conscripts were slain around the hardened regulars.

The battle was fierce but the Return was sent to join the original Black Ravens in the halls of Carthage’s lost companies. Then to the amazement of everyone, reinforcements were rushed to the remaining spearmen to bring their strength up to 2,000 men. But the Straw Dogs had already begun their attack and were stopped cold by the new line of spears. They began to retreat only to find that yet another 1,000 spears were joining the battle and they were cut off. The Straw Dogs were swarmed, riders pulled from saddles and slaughtered.

They the end of the battle the 50th Home Guard was once more up to its original strength of 3,000 spears and they were now well bloodied. But the city had to be taken. The elite Blackened Knights rushed into the battle, slashing their way to the survivors of the destroyed Carthaginian units. They arrived too late to save any of the Black Ravens or Straw Dogs but they caught the 50th Home Guard while they were trying to form. Another bloody battle ensured but the men of the 50th were exhausted. A final push broke the unit and the Blackened Company flooded into the city.

China’s largest city was set aflame and its citizens imprisoned as the Chinese49-52.

With the destruction of this city Hannibal considered giving Mao peace. The Chinese ambassador was drug before Hannibal, cowering as was proper. “I have considered the fate of China and I have decided I don’t want to bother chasing you around the world to kill you.”

“Great Hannibal this is most kind of you. What do you wish of China for this mercy?” The ambassador begged. “Please be kind to us, your vanquished foe.”

“I shall be kind. As Carthage has had to make due with only five cities, you shall now make due with only one city. I shall allow you to retain Beijing but no other cities. Give us all 9 pieces of gold from your treasure as partial paying for the cost of killing your men and your world map and you may grace the world for another 40 years, if you are wise and do no provoke us again.”

The ambassador looked like he had swallowed a lemon but the deal was struck and there was once more peace between Carthage and China. All newly acquired cities – two of which had harbors – were destroyed much to the chagrin of the Chinese people.

Peace concluded with China, POP’s Elite Rangers were moved back to the Mayan warfront by means of the new laid rails. It was determined that they would best serve Carthage by leading the army columns towards the Mayan capital of Palenque. The western border of the Mayan Empire (and the Carthaginian east flank) was now guarded by veteran infantry of the Puppies who had taken up position in a fortress that sat astride the only road leading through the hills.

POP’s Elite Rangers were put in charge of 2,100 cavalry and 500 knights. At the same time the Defenders were routed toward the southern front to strike at city of Uaxactun. It was known that the Onyx Rifles were under the direct command of the Ajaw of the city and it promised to be a hard fight. For this reason the Defenders were assigned a massive army of escorts: 500 elite cavalry, 3,100 knights, and 2,700 heavy cavalry.

 

[Raliuven]

Part 4

Spoiler :

Hannibal stared at the calendar in 1850AD. For once he was beginning to feel his own mortality. The gods had given him 6050 years to learn their wisdom and he felt he had glimpsed just a little of their greatness over the last 5850 years. He had but 200 years left to his life but things had begun to move faster and, as a consequence, time actually felt like it was passing slower.

Fast or slow, time for the Mayans was running out. Once more it the duty of Elephantium’s Tusker’s Defenders to make the initial attack on the city. A sprawling monstrosity with over a million citizens, it was guarded by a river which could be easily forded. Once across, the cavalry had an open plan upon which to attack.

The veteran Amethyst Rifles held the forward position and easily repulsed the Tusker’s Defenders. This rounded off the battle in the holy war until more contending units could heal. Toxic’s 9th Cavalry was next on the attack and they struck hard against the Amethyst Rifles, driving them from their firing pits but only after suffering horrible casualties. This victory was short lived as the Diamond Rifles of the Mayan ‘regular’ army covered the retreat of their companions and driving off the 9th Cavalry. Then in quick succession the 3rd and 2nd Toxic Cavalries were also repulsed. Additional units under the command of POP’s Elite Rangers continued moving forward.

In the south the Carthaginian Armies faired better but only by numbers. The elite Knights of the Chalice began the assault against Uaxactun and the Onyx Rifles. The attack became a slaughter as the elite heavy cavalry were torn apart under the heavy rifle fire. But just as the commanders had finally written off the drunkard, the alcohol muddled brains of the knights caused them to charge even while the Mayan riflemen were cheering victory. The abrupt attack sent the rifle reeling and everyone was amazed as the knights entered the trenches and put an end to the bloody business.

Encouraged, the elite Toxic’s 7th Cavalry assaulted the Pearl Rifles that were quickly extending their line to cover the sudden gap. The 7th Cavalry used the knights of the White Company to distract the Mayan Rifles and fell upon the right flank of the enemy. Though the White Company suffered horrible losses the gamble was a success. The city was overrun by the 7th Cavalry and razed to the ground. The Mayan54-56 slave bands were formed.

The Defenders left an escort to protect the wounded units and rushed to take the mountain pass that led to the city of Tikal and the heart of the Mayan Empire.

With the laying of new rails the opportunity to assault Copan was made possible. The elite Iron Lances*, the company of the Old Man himself, performed the reconnaissance of the area and found the veteran Ruby Pikes to be under the control of the regional Halach Uinic. The elite band attacked immediately but the winds of war were not blowing the to the favor of Carthage and the renown band perished upon the pikes after inflicting horrible losses on the Mayans.

The Danes, at the front of the attacking column, fell upon the Ruby Pikes but they were already mortal wounded. Demoralized by the long columns of knights approaching the city the men simply refused to fight and fled into the hills. The city of Copan was razed and all its citizens slain in retribution for the loss of the Iron Lances*.

Victory Points: 7 [1(D)x4(HP)x1.75(T)]; Sparthage: 122.8 Elephantium: 146.5
Remaining Units: Sparthage: 8 Elephantium: 8
As for civilizations:
Eliminated: Japan, Ottomans, Korea, India, France
Client States: Dutch, Persians, Byzantines, Sumerians, Hittites
Defeated: Chinese, Portugal
Enemies: Mayan, Spain, America
Nemesis: None

 

[Toxicman007]

Nicely done! I didn't expect you to do anything about that "order" I made concerning the High Templar, made me laugh a little too loudly in my French class, much to the dismay of my fellow students.

 

[Raliuven]

Nicely done! I didn't expect you to do anything about that "order" I made concerning the High Templar, made me laugh a little too loudly in my French class, much to the dismay of my fellow students.

How could I resist such a great opportunity to promote tRicky's game? As soon as I saw that order I started laughing. And, of course, any time I can interrupt a French class I consider it an opportunity not to pass up!

I've got the next turn set finished and halfway through another. The turns are going faster now that there's a little less . . . um . . . diversity on the map.

 

[Raliuven]

Turn 391-400

The Static Orders and Pending Orders can be found in the Spoiler; they are collapsed due to their length.

Spoiler :

Static Orders (cannot be overridden without consent of ordering player):

1. Play 5CC (5 city challenge) (pi4t)
2. Make at least 6 tiles between cities. (alzgamer)
3. Betty from Account Temps must always work with Bob from Account Temps, in the same tile doing the same task as Bob, for the rest of the game. (CommandoBob)
4. Rename every unit you produce for the rest of the game. (Elphantium)
5. Following the lead from Bob and Betty from Account Temps, each produced native worker must be given a name beginning with the letter B. Slaves, whether captured, traded for or produced by a foreign city, do not need special names, only something like Dutch01. (CommandoBob)
6. Name all naval units after battle victories. (Elephantium)
7. The Carthaginian Navy must rule the seas. A fleet of 10 warships (Galleys/Caravels allowed until Magnetism is discovered) must be constructed and then maintained until the game ends. (Sparthage)
8. No cities may ever be gifted to rival tribes. [This takes effect after the Mayans receive their three cities.] (Elephantium)
9. Henceforth, whenever Toxic's café produces pollution, you must wait four turns before you begin to clean it as punishment to the citizens who pollute. (Toxicman007)
10. Add the prefix "ICS" (Imperial Carthaginian Ship) to the beginning of every ship name, and add an identification number such as (DD-01) to the end of each ship based upon the following list. (Sparthage)

Spoiler :

If the ship is a Curragh use the identification code (CU-##)
If the ship is a Galley use the identification code (G-##)
If the ship is a Caravel use the identification code (CA-##)
If the ship is a Frigate use the identification code (FR-##)
If the ship is a Galleon use the identification code (GA-##)
If the ship is a Ironclad use the identification code (IR-##)
If the ship is a Transport use the identification code (TR-##)
If the ship is a Destroyer use the identification code (DD-##)
If the ship is a Cruiser use the identification code (CA-##)
If the ship is a Submarine use the identification code (SS-##)
If the ship is a Carrier use the identification code (CV-##)
If the ship is a Battleship use the identification code (BB-##)
If the ship is a Nuclear Submarine use the identification code (SSN-##)
If the ship is a AEGIS Cruiser use the identification code (AG-##)

Actions (things to get done):

1. The victory achieved must be conquest. (Sparthage)
2. You may only achieve victory by conquering the Netherlands last. (Toxicman007)
3. You can only win after crippling an enemy nation with nuclear weapons (Hitting at least 50% of their cities with nukes) (Dirk Diggler)
5. During the future invasion of Spain, one Ironclad must be present, but cannot attack or bombard anything. (Toxicman007)
6. The Ironclad involved in the invasion of Spain must be the only Ironclad ever built. (Toxicman007)
7. The name of the above Ironclad shall be "Iron Will of Sparthage" (Sparthage)
8. Ten cavalry units must be named after characters from My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic. [Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, Twilight Sparkle, Applejack, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, Luna, Celestia, Derpy Hooves, Doctor Whooves] (Sparthage)

Spoiler :

In your stories, the pony the unit is named after must be the leader of that unit, they must act as they would in the show (many of them have wikia articles, don't worry). As to how the ponies get there, I'd suggest something involving them coming from the heavens as a blessing from Sparthage to his favorite people.

9. When the units of Sparthage have been named, as listed above, the following ten names are to be used for offensive land based units, Cavalry first, and then other newly available units. These are not designed as names for naval or air units. [Glow Worms, Butterflies, Puppies, Kitties, Lightning Bugs, Harders, Warm Fuzzies, Dandelions, Boys Named Sue, Geek Squad] (CommandoBob)
10. Prince of Persia [We Will Rock You, We Are the Champions, Somebody to Love, Killer Queen, Another One Bites the Dust, Under Pressure, Bohemian Rhapsody, Princes of the Universe, Fat Bottomed Girls, Bicycle Race] (Prince of Persia)
11. Additional unit names from CommandoBob, to be used as needed. [C. W. McCall, Rubber Duck, Wolf Creek Pass, Convoy, Smokey and The Bandit, Old Home Bread, Chip Davis, Eastbound and Down (Jerry Reed song, not the HBO show), Buford T. Justice, 10-4] (CommandoBob)
12. The MLP units spark a holy war! For every Cav named on the MLP scheme, another must be named from the following list: [Tusker's Defenders, Tusker's Chargers, Tusker's Riders, The Peanutguard, The Ivoryguard, Paladins of Ivory, Paladins of the Peanut, Paladins of the Tusk, Paladins of Elephantium.]
13. You may not research or gain knowledge of Rocketry until you have named Guerillas (or units that upgrade to Guerillas) as follows... (Sparthage/Prince of Persia):

Spoiler :

Delta Force, Spetsnaz, 1st Army Rangers, Night Stalkers, Black Tigers, Batalhão Tonelero, Snow Leopard Commandos, Black Wasps, Estonian Special Operations Force, Kommando Spezialkräfte, Garud Commandos, Quds Force, Sayeret, Gruppo di Intervento Speciale, Japanese Ground Self-Defense Unit, Grupo Aeromóvil de Fuerzas Especiales, Shree Yuddha Bhairav Battalion, Korps Commandotroepen, Korean People's Army Special Operations, Forsvarets Spesialkommando, Puma Special Operations, Operações Especiais, and Recces Brigade, TF 141

Orders Completed this Set:
None.

Part 1

Spoiler :

Though Hannibal was starting to feel his mortality, he was buoyed up by the fact that the gods of Carthage had well led his people to supremacy. It was with great pride that the Science Advisor approached Hannibal in 1852AD and just by the look of him Hannibal knew something marvelous had happened.

“Great Hannibal, we now know the secrets of build Corporations. This multi-national conglomerates of capitalism can help our treasury explode with gold!”

“This is good news.” Hannibal said, delighted though weary of such promises. “We must make sure these corporations are run by the best people to make Carthage great piles of money!”

“There is no need for that. A recent ruling of from the Toxic Court indicates that corporations are people.” The Science Advisor explained. “So we will staff the corporations with other corporations and that will save us a great deal in labor costs.”

This didn’t sound right to Hannibal but who was he to argue with the gods? Carthage immediately began construction of Stock Exchanges which produced the ‘stock’ that corporations required to survive.

“We should now turn our attention to the secrets of Refining.” The Science Advisor said with his most persuasive voice. “We have learned that oil burns quite will, particularly under pressure and in the middle of the Kuwaiti desert. What we lack is the knowledge of how to turn this crude oil into something we can use for a purpose other than loading it onto tankers with drunken captains so they can run ashore and ruin the ecosystem for then next 100 years. Luckily it will probably take us at least that long to learn about the ecosystem.”

“How long will it take us to learn these secrets?” Hannibal inquired.

“We estimate somewhere close to 18 years. It is a delicate process and will require much practice.” The Science Advisor said.

“That is a steep price.” Hannibal said thoughtfully.

“Indeed, great Hannibal. Our funding is going to dry up soon.” The Domestic Advisor said. “With the Trade Advisor still missing we could be facing difficult times. We may be able to secure additional gold from the Americans and the Spanish, but the Byzantines are bound to be tapped. The only thing the have going for them is their association with the Bolsheviks and their crazy ideas of communal ownership of all property.”

Hannibal considered this new form of government. “How do they decide who is allowed to use an item if there is not enough for everyone?” Hannibal asked.

“They share.” The Domestic Advisor reported. “Or they line up their citizens and shoot them until the number of people equals the number of items.”

“How do they decide whom to shoot?” Hannibal asked. This new system of government sounded a bit wasteful.

“To each according to their ability, to each according to their need. It seems that those people in the opposition parties simply needed a bullet in the head more than the party loyalists.” The Military Advisor said with a shrug. “Oh, and they kill all their priests first. Apparently they were busted for dealing drugs. Opium, I believe. It is very confusing.”

With no other source of income currently available Hannibal ordered for Carthage to stay the course. The gods had a plan for Carthage and Hannibal would see it through.

The domestic issues settled, Hannibal returned to the Carthaginian-Mayan war. The city of Palenque seemed to be laughing at the best Carthage could throw at it. It was now time for POP’s Elite Rangers to clear away the annoying Diamond Rifles and clear the way into the city. It was a difficult proposition; however, as the Topaz Longbows had attacked the Toxic 6th Cavalry which had been meant to assist with the assault. Though the Longbows had been routed the 6th Cavalry had suffered minor wounds which made their use against Palenque doubtful.

The 19,000 swords of POP’s Elite Rangers descended upon the Diamond Rifles. For the first time Carthage’s armies were in the hands of graduates from CommandoBob’s Military Academy. Hannibal could not have been more pleased with the results. Though the army lost nearly 3,000 to death and wounds, the Diamond Rifles were brushed aside and the Rangers were still fresh for a new attack. The Mayans had rushed a new band of army regulars to the defense of the city, however. Crystal Rifles bristled with gleaming bayonets but the divinely blessed Rangers continued the attack.

Losing only 1,000 more swords the Rangers overcame the Crystal Rifles and pressed into the suburbs. But there was a limit to their strength and they had to call a halt to the attack so they could consolidate their forces and tend to their wounded.

Fresh for the first, Toxic’s 4th Cavalry continued to press the attack and swept yet another band of regulars from the field. These were the Black Ruby Rifles, the personal guards for the Halach Uinic of the city. Their complete destruction caused a great panic in the city and there were many rumors that Smoky had fled from the city just as he had fled from Chichen Itza.

The Halach Uinic of the city had died in the attack upon the Black Ruby Rifles but the city was not defenseless. Knowing the fate that would befall their city the citizens broken open the armories and armed themselves, taking to the city. They could not, however, stop the elite Knights of the Thistle who easily brushed them aside and set fire to the city. The Mayan57-60 were formed from those citizens lucky enough to survive the inferno and stumble out of the smoke and into the pickets of the city.

The destruction of Palenque was a mortal blow for the Mayans. Their outlying cities were now laid bare for attacking and only Bonampak, the new capital, would be a formidable target.

With Palenque crushed, the Defenders ordered the assault upon Tikal. The Paladins of the Silver Ash made the initial attack but were smartly rebuffed in their attempts to storm the city. But the Sapphire Rifles of Tikal were not left untouched. They had lost 100 men in the struggle and it was said that the Ajaw himself had been struck down and was even now dying. Of the Halach Uinic there was no word; it was suspected that he had been called away to assist with the defense of Tyrana and was leading a band of longbows.

The Sapphire Rifles held firm and managed to completely destroy the Lances of Steel before finally succumbing to fatigue and falling to Phaedo’s Pride. The city was shown no mercy and the fire could be seen all the way in Bonampak.

Recalled from the Chinese warfront, Old Man Iron led his army into the field to storm Bonampak and destroy the Mayans once and for all. He was immediately joined by Twilight Sparkle’s Cavalry, Rainbow Dash’s Cavalry, Tusker’s Chargers, and the Paladins of the Peanut.

With the string of victories Hannibal decided to order the assault on the city of Tyrana. The veteran Knights of Chaos were sent to investigate the city and found the elite Bloodstone Rifles in the fields outside the city. This was the unit led by the Halach Uinic of Tikal though the reports had said he was with a band of longbows.

The Knights decided to attack in spite of the superior firepower of the rifles and paid the ultimate price. The elite Outriders were sent to take the field to cut off the rifles before they could retreat into the city and heal. This was a wise move and the sturdy Outriders crushed the Halach Uinic of Tikal, preventing the fortification of Tyrana. In addition to eliminating the elite riflemen, the pickets of the Outriders reported that the city was held only by the 3,000 pikes of the Ajaw’s personal guard.

The veteran Hanged Knights made short work of the Mayan pikemen and the city’s flames joined that of the other Mayan victims of 1852AD.

Finally Hannibal ordered the Defenders to continue to move, taking their ever dwindling army against the city of Aleppo.

Finally the time had come to retire some of Carthage’s old units. The following units were decommissioned at Caseboy97’s Asylum: Swordsmen: The Hammer, The Tigers. Horsemen: The Wolves.

The year 1854AD opened with the Battle of Aleppo. This time the Defenders decided to make the attack. Lead by the new commanders bred at the Military Academy, the Defenders scored and easy victory against the regulars of the Topaz Rifles. This left the city scrambling for protection. The veteran pikes that remained in the city nervously watched as the columns of approaching knights and heavy cavalry filled the horizon. Then the miracle of Aleppo occurred. The Onyx Pikes of Aleppo routed the Order of the Elephant, the Knights of Saint Michael, and the Wild Geese; killing the later. They were finally vanquished by the elite Trolls. These brave men were allowed to surrender in the end, exhausted and without reinforcements. Laying down their weapons, the men were allowed to leave the field and return to their homes in peace and honor.

The same could not be said for the Ruby Longbows who were slaughtered in the streets of the city when they refused to lay down their arms. It was a futile gesture and the city was sacked. Two bands of coal miners were captured along with a coal miner’s daughter. She was not given special treatment, however. The citizens and miners formed the Mayan61-63 slaves.

Of the three remaining Mayan cities Bonampak was the now the largest. Unfortunately for the Mayans OMIA and several bands of Cavalry were well within range of the city.

According to the Council of B5 it was Elephantium’s turn to initiate the assault. Tusker’s Chargers were elected to crack the defenses of Bonampak so that the remaining Carthaginians could exploit the breech and destroy the city before the defenders could organize. The main defenders were no less than the veteran rifles of the Ajaw’s personal guard, the Sanguine Rifles.

Screaming for the glory of Elephantium the Tusker’s Chargers attacked ferociously. Unfortunately the attack was repulsed though the Chargers maintained their command during an orderly retreat. Rainbow Dash, ever confident and competitive, lead her Cavalry forward to take advantage of the damage caused by the Chargers. To the horror of all present this attack also utterly failed but Rainbow Dash would not relent and her entire command was chewed apart by the city rifles. The Sanguine Rifles had claimed their first victims.

Twilight Sparkle was next on the attack but she faced only the veteran pikes of the Obsidian Guard. She had carefully study the plans of attack for both unsuccessful units and had briefed her men on what to do. Then, in a wink, they disappeared. Fighting erupted in the city. The divine teleportation had shocked the defenders and initially the attack was executed flawlessly. But then, cut off from reinforcements Twilight Sparkle’s Cavalry had to fight their way back out of the city. They had however, succeeded in their goal. The Obsidian Guard were utterly destroyed in the surprise attack. Victory Points: 22.2 [3(D)x4(HP)x1.85(T)]; Sparthage: 145 Elephantium: 146.5

Finally the Paladins of the Peanut charged forward to assault the wounded left wing of the Sanguine Rifles. This time the plan worked well and though the Paladins suffered a reduction of 50% of their fighting strength to the dead and wounded, the entire left wing collapsed. Victory Points: 22.2 [6(D)x2(HP)x1.85(T)]; Sparthage: 145 Elephantium: 168.7

The Holy War concluded, OMIA destroyed the remaining Sanguine Rifles and destroyed the conscript Faded Opal Rifles. This left only the Jade Longbows of Bonampak to hold the city. Quickly laying rails through the newly emptied lands, the Peanutguard were brought up against the city. The Jade Longbows withered before the attack and dispersed. The last stronghold of the Mayans crumbled into dust. None of the citizens would submit to the service of Carthage so they were all put to the sword.

The Second Knights captured the Mayan64 slaves fleeing the warfront as they moved upon the city of Hattusha. This cleared the way for the remainder of the army to advance on the city.

 

[Raliuven]

Part 2

Spoiler :

In 1856AD the Mayan launched a counteroffensive. Rarity’s Cavalry had moved, in accordance with the Council of B5 to the same camp as the Peanutguard. Because the elegant unicorn’s men were well rested and healed, they took up position around the camp of the weary and resting Peanutguard. When the 400 men of the Emerald Rifles emerged from Pledras Negras they intended to sneak up on the healing Carthaginian men. The Mayans had head that the prissy beauty queen was decorating the battle line with ribbons and bows and would be an easy conquest.

The initial volleys from the Emerald Rifles caught some of Rarity’s men out of position and wounded many of them. But then the Rifles encountered a steady fire from the pretty line of Rarity’s Cavalry. The Rifles braved the withering fire to push into bayonet range but before the could cross the open plains the ‘ribbons’ set out by Rarity’s men began to explode; for each had been set atop landmines.

Wooden shrapnel tore gapping holes in the ranks and then came the cry. “Follow me, Darlings! We’ll teach these heathen dogs what the price is for failing to honor Sparthage!”

The Emerald Rifles were shattered by the sudden charge and were forced to withdraw. The retreat, however, became a route as the men threw down their weapons in an attempt to outrun the enthusiastic unicorn. The men were chased all the way back into the city. All of this was accomplished, so the legend says, without even a single hair out of place on Rarity’s mane. Victory Points: 11.9 [4(A)/1.35(T)x4(HP)]; Sparthage: 156.9 Elephantium: 168.7

Angered by this surprise attack, Hannibal sent a final message to Smokey. Nice to know yeah. The Ivoryguard were first in line for the attack on Pledras Negras. The Amethyst Rifles bristled in the trenches, daring the Carthaginians to approach. The Ivoryguard obliged them but the heavy fire drove them from the field. When the wounded Amethyst Rifles were not relieved from their firing lines the Carthaginian commanders knew that The Mayans were defeated.

Applejack, the reliable equine, was given the task of cleaning out the remaining rifles. As expected this workhorse went about her job with drive and determination. There was something about this pony that was admirable; she was a natural leader. Protecting her men, she pushed the assault against the city and cleared the Amethyst Rifles out of the trenches by demonstrating at a distance and waiting for them to run short of ammunition. As soon as the fire slackened, Applejack charged the fortifications. Her excellent planning and execution of the battle earned her the respect of an elite band in the eyes of the people of Carthage. Victory Points: 24.3 [6(D)x3(HP)x1.35(T)]; Sparthage: 181.2 Elephantium: 168.7

Desperate, Smoky pushed new rifles into the hands of the surviving men of the Emerald Rifles and pushed them to the battlefront. And right into the charging Luna’s Cavalry. These men were brushed aside by Luna almost as an afterthought; in fact, she seem preoccupied with other thoughts. Her men performed with excellence but there were disturbing reports that Luna had withdrawn after the battle to counsel her own personal demons. Her aids reported to Carthage that at the end of the battle she had expressed remorse for the fate of the fallen riflemen. But she had held to her duty. Victory Points: 16.2 [6(D)x2(HP)x1.35(T)]; Sparthage: 197.4 Elephantium: 168.7

Finally Toxic’s 1st Cavalry cleared away the remnants of the Diamond Pikes that were under Smoky’s Personal command. A warrior to the end, Smoky himself was a casualty of battle. His body was added to the flames of the burning city and 8 pieces of gold were transferred to the Carthaginian treasury. The Mayans surrendered to the Carthaginian advance and became the Mayan65-66 slave bands.

All that remained now was the destruction of Hattusha which was, ironically, a Hittite city. The Mayans cowered in their city now that Smoky was dead. POP’s Elite Rangers took the honor of the first attack on the city. The veteran Amber Rifles held the city and fought like devils even though their civilization was now all but gone. Nearly 10,000 swordsmen died on the field trying to overcome the paltry 400 rifles. The repeating fire of the rifles was murderous but the Rangers paid the price and claimed the battlements.

Deciding that Carthage could afford the Casualties, Hannibal ordered the heavy cavalry of the Seekers to attack the final Mayan defensive line. The Pearl Rifles of Hattusha stood fast for their people and easily drove off the raiding cavalry, repulsed the Radiant Knights and slew the following company of the Stainless Steel Hawks. Hannibal was greatly angered by the loss of so many elite men.

With no further elite units available, OMIA finished the battle. The new Mayan Capital-in-exile was razed and two bands of Mayan workers were captured hiding in the city’s buildings. The treasury was emptied of 25 pieces of gold and the city burned. The Mayans were destroyed. History would say they were the glorious Mayans but all Carthaginian children would learn otherwise.

The final bands of the Mayan 67-69 were formed. It should be a comfort to the remaining Mayans that over a half a million people of Mayan descent still survived in the Carthaginian work camps. So long as they worked well for Carthage and did not anger the gods, all would be well.

On the diplomatic front Hannibal was pleased to find that the Sumerians could offer Carthage their world map, a sum of 67 pieces of gold and tribute of 54 piece of gold for the old knowledge of Industrialization. Hannibal congratulated the Trade Advisor Intern, which was part of the Citizen’s Help Initiative (whom her hereafter called the TAI-CHI) on this fine discover and excellent trade opportunity.

Next Hannibal ordered that rails be laid right up the Hittite’s doorstep. For the moment, however, all was peaceful in Carthage, something that had not been experience for nearly 5,000 years.

In 1858AD Carthage prepared for war. Four new cavalry companies were formed. The first two were assigned to Elephantium – the Paladins of the Tusk and the Paladins of Elephantium. These were solid cavalry commanders and their training at the Statue of Elephantium was a proud tradition dating back over 2,600 years. The remaining two were given over to Sparthage’s newest commanders.

The first was another alicorn that was called Celestia. Hannibal quickly discovered, in spite of the fact that Hannibal’s understand that every other civilization was only allowed one princess unit, that she was another princess of her kind and a co-ruler of Equestria with her sister Princess Luna. Hannibal was, however, impressed with the size of Celestia; she looked like a proper war equestrian! Hannibal was also comforted by the fact the she didn’t call him darling and that she seemed as learn in tactics and warfare as her ‘student’ Twilight Sparkle. This combination of strength and cunning would service Carthage well.

This was balanced, of course, against Sparthage’s next commander, a silly little gray Pegasus named Derpy Hooves. Hannibal could not envision a worse commander (except, perhaps, Fluttershy) for a military unit. The cross-eyed pony merely smiled at Hannibal upon her introduction and the only words she seemed able to form into a sentence was ‘feeling pinkie keen’. Hannibal didn’t know what that meant and assigned her the cavalry graduates of CommandoBob’s Academy that had been voted ‘mostly like to die in a horribly embarrassing manner’.

But with the wars ending, Hannibal knew it was time to start returning units to Carthage for disbanding. Now that Carthage’s infrastructure supported the fast movement of units, it made sense to return these men and allow them to retire. The horsemen of the The Crimmerian Guard and the Snakes were ordered to stand down and await rearming and deployment.

In 1860AD ICS Charge of Aabraxan FR-02 was set upon by pirates that were unsurprisingly sailing in a Spanish built ship. The Charge was heavily damaged in the battle but the Spanish privateer was crushed by the superior Carthaginian firepower. The Charge limped away from the battle and made for the distant Carthaginian ports for repairs. In response Spannibal sent the Sparthaginian fleet towards Spain for more a blockade until the ironclads were made ready for the invasion.

In response to the lawlessness that was seizing the ESC Hannibal ordered the Great ESC Divide constructed – a ring of forts that would prevent Chinese and American units from easily traveling the continent. The forts were immediately constructed and forests were planted to prevent easy movement by enemy troops. When complete there would be a great wild forest and only a single rail line connecting the North/South of the ESC and Carthage would control it.

On the scientific and economic front things were not going so well. The deal with the Byzantines had expired leaving Carthage with a budgetary deficit of 120 pieces of gold. With the ongoing construction of corporate stock markets and the decommissioning of the army the deficit was manageable but when the deals with America ended it would become critical. The Americans were paying 165 pieces of gold every cycle.

To stem the tide at least for a while longer, The TAI-CHI recommended the sale of the Corporation to the Byzantines for tribute in the amount of 55 pieces of gold. This would go a small way towards shoring up the deficit until more of the military could be disbanded or more income could be found. Likewise the Sumerians were able to pay their world map, a single piece of gold and tribute of 13 pieces of gold for the knowledge of greedy corporations.

After all of these deals were concluded Carthage was running a modest deficit of 52 pieces of gold each year and only because they were maintaining the highest levels of research hoping for a breakthrough that would reduce the period of research by a few years.

The peace, however, had been too long lived in Carthage and a new war was planned. The Hittites were in desperate need of removal from the world population and orders were given now that Elephantium and Sparthage had units that were healed and ready for the attack.

Mursilis, long on Hannibal’s list of the Who’s Who amongst his most hated enemies was invited to play a new game with Carthage. It was called win or die.

Elephantium was due for the next two attacks and the city of Ankuwa lay vulnerable before them. 1,500 antiquated muskets of the 4th 3Ax Musket formation was the city’s main protection. Though deeply entrenched, the city was surrounded (and founded upon) the open desert sands and it was a small, unimportant city (as were all of the Hittite cities).

The Elite Peanutguard, certain of victory, arrogantly charged the city defenders only to find that the muskets, as antiquated as they may be, were perfectly capable of inflicting serious wounds. The Peanutguard managed to disengage and retreat while the 4th Muskets cheered their victory. It was short lived, however. The Paladins of the Peanut had no trouble overrunning the band. Short on ammunition and tired from the day’s fighting, the musket men tried to withdraw but where cut down the by the Paladins. Victory Points: 10.8 [4(D)x2(HP)x1.35(T)]; Sparthage: 197.4 Elephantium: 179.5

With the destruction of the city the Hittite 10th 2Ps Longbow formation was identified in the nearby desert. Why there patrolling the empty desert was a mystery, but Applejack’s Cavalry were summoned to clear out the infestation of annoying Hittites. Thought to be a routine battle, Applejack ordered her men into the attack with the methodical approach for which she was so well known. What had not been expected was that when the 10th Longbows were overrun the remaining survivors surrendered rather than be slaughtered. Amongst them was none other than Mursilis himself, the Hittite leader. Victory Points: 5.1 [1(D)x3(HP)x1.1(T)]; Sparthage: 202.5 Elephantium: 179.5

The capture of the Hittite leader immediately raised Applejack to the status of a great leader amongst the Carthaginians.

The headstrong workhorse of the Sparthaginian Cavalry suddenly found herself thrust into greatness and her presence at the Toxic Café was requested so that she could dedicate a Stock Exchange for the city in the name of Sparthage. Unable to refuse, Applejack immediately departed for the mainland aboard the ICS Harding’s Victory CA-05.

In her absence a new (and the last) Sparthaginian Champion was appointed leader of Applejack’s band. Doctor Whooves was appointed the leader of Applejack’s sturdy company.

This high educated pony was one of the few that had neither a horn nor wings. He was also the single male pony of the entire group and the only one with a medical degree. Like Applejack, this pony was hard working and reliable and, above all else, liked to be left alone. There were rumors that this MPL was actually a diabolical scientist that was even now creating a deadly toxin that would kill all Hedgehog life on a planet.

This, of course, did little to help Hannibal so he ignored such things. The final attack on Emar was now planned. Though small the city was well position on commanding hills and would be hard to assault. Scouting the position, Luna’s Cavalry made a remarkable find. The city was garrisoned with only spearmen! And only ‘regular’ spearmen at that! The1st 3Ax Spear formation were well fortified in the hills, however and looked ready for a fight.

Luna’s Cavalry made the assault without pause and quickly routed the 1st spears back into the city but not before receiving substantial wounds. Even Luna was reported wounded in the battle though she withdrew too swiftly to be attended. Victory Points: 10.5 [2(D)x3(HP)x1.75(T)]; Sparthage: 213.5 Elephantium: 179.5

Without leadership the cavalry could not press the attack and Tusker’s Defenders were now called forward. The 2nd 3Ax Spear formation had been given time to reach the trenches. It was too late, however. The veteran cavalry smashed the weak spear formation and rode victoriously into the city. Victory Points: 10.5 [2(D)x3(HP)x1.75(T)]; Sparthage: 213.5 Elephantium: 190

The elimination of the Hittites had an amazing effect around the world. The American embargo ended for some mysterious reason. When word of the Hittite’s destruction reached Carthage there were great celebrations, for they had long been enemies of the Carthaginians. Somehow the message was garbled, however, and the report read that the ‘strong’ Hittites had been destroyed. Strong compared to whom? The Mayans?

One last band of Hittite slaves were captured, the Hittite58 slaves. Once more Carthage was at peace. The treaty with Spain would last for six more years before Carthage could force them back off the ESC and create a new deal. At the end of the next deal, Hannibal vowed, Carthage would be ready to invade them.

Good news reached Carthage in 1864AD. The trade embargo between the Byzantines and China against Carthage came to an end. Applejack had also reached Toxic’s Café the construction of its stock exchange was finished with amazing speed under the direction of the honored pony. The people of Carthage considered her ‘My Little Pony’ and celebrated her bravery and victory.

Carthage continue to ‘thin’ is military by disbanding the following units: Horsemen: The King’s Own Take Two, The Veterans.

In 1866AD the embargo enforced by America and Portugal against Carthage also ended. “It seems that the world thirsts for Carthaginian goods now that we have dominated the landscape.” The TAI-CHI reported. With the recent good news Hannibal was beginning to hope that the Trade Advisor would not return. He hoped she was doing a good job for Mr. Spuke, but suspected not.

The Great Divide was also complete an the Garrisons were moving into the line.

The deal between Spain and Cartage was also at an end. Hannibal considered waging war with them but he did not wish to locked into a war/peace cycle until the path to the future was clear. For now, he would wait. The deal with America would expire in only 8 years and the deal with China in 22 years. Hannibal wished to learn the secrets of Ironclads so that Spain could be handled and Carthage’s future secured.

In 1868AD the horsemen of the Snakes and the Foxes were disbanded.

In 1870AD the Trade Embargo arranged between the American and the Byzantines also ended. But that was rather unimportant compared to other news. Hannibal had waited patiently for world from his Science Advisor. When the small man appeared, it was with a smile.

“Great Hannibal, we have learned the secrets of Refining as predicted.”

“This is good, but no one has learned the secrets of how to build the ironclads that the Toxic Priests predict will be needed for the invasion of Spain.” Hannibal said with great disappointment.

“This is truth, Hannibal. The Byzantines have learned the secrets of Communism. And now the Americans have researched knowledge of a new government. Fascism, but this has been the only change. We have no reason to believe that any nation with any power of research remaining is pursuing this information.” The TIA-CHI said sadly.

“Then will need to research it ourselves.” Hannibal commanded. “How much time will that take? “

“Lord, we can learn these secrets in the next 12 years.” The Science Advisor said. “Then, once it is built we can have our first ironclad in Spanish waters in another 20 or so years.”

Hannibal felt the weight of his years; he hadn’t many left to him and he still had work to do. He had seen the god’s plan, if only for a moment, and he knew what must be done. He gave the order to make it so.

The TIA-CHI did not leave, however. “Great Hannibal, there is some gold to be gained from the Chinese. They are willing to give us their world map, their entire treasury of 17 pieces of gold and tribute of 15 pieces of gold for the old knowledge of Industrialization. I would recommend we give them this knowledge so we may maintain our research longer. It will also replace the income from the Spaniards once we decided to attack.”

Hannibal found this to be fair advice and ordered it to be so. He also ordered the Horsemen of the Leopards and that of Peter & Peter of the Japanese Beaters to be disbanded. Finally he ordered the faithful Numidian Mercenaries the Gnats to be disbanded.

Victory Points: 10.5 [2(D)x3(HP)x1.75(T)]; Sparthage: 213.5 Elephantium: 190
Remaining Units: Sparthage: 7 Elephantium: 8
As for civilizations:
Eliminated: Japan, Ottomans, Korea, India, France, Mayan, Hittites
Client States: Dutch, Persians, Byzantines, Sumerians
Defeated: Chinese, Portugal
Enemies: Spain, America
Nemesis: None

 

[Toxicman007]

After Ironclads, a beeline must be made for Flight.
To add to this,
As soon as Flight is researched, an Airport must be constructed in Toxic's Café. Any previous construction must be halted to make way for the Airport.

 

[Raliuven]

Turn 401-410

The Static Orders and Pending Orders can be found in the Spoiler; they are collapsed due to their length.

Spoiler :

Static Orders (cannot be overridden without consent of ordering player):

1. Play 5CC (5 city challenge) (pi4t)
2. Make at least 6 tiles between cities. (alzgamer)
3. Betty from Account Temps must always work with Bob from Account Temps, in the same tile doing the same task as Bob, for the rest of the game. (CommandoBob)
4. Rename every unit you produce for the rest of the game. (Elphantium)
5. Following the lead from Bob and Betty from Account Temps, each produced native worker must be given a name beginning with the letter B. Slaves, whether captured, traded for or produced by a foreign city, do not need special names, only something like Dutch01. (CommandoBob)
6. Name all naval units after battle victories. (Elephantium)
7. The Carthaginian Navy must rule the seas. A fleet of 10 warships (Galleys/Caravels allowed until Magnetism is discovered) must be constructed and then maintained until the game ends. (Sparthage)
8. No cities may ever be gifted to rival tribes. [This takes effect after the Mayans receive their three cities.] (Elephantium)
9. Henceforth, whenever Toxic's café produces pollution, you must wait four turns before you begin to clean it as punishment to the citizens who pollute. (Toxicman007)
10. Add the prefix "ICS" (Imperial Carthaginian Ship) to the beginning of every ship name, and add an identification number such as (DD-01) to the end of each ship based upon the following list. (Sparthage)

Spoiler :

If the ship is a Curragh use the identification code (CU-##)
If the ship is a Galley use the identification code (G-##)
If the ship is a Caravel use the identification code (CA-##)
If the ship is a Frigate use the identification code (FR-##)
If the ship is a Galleon use the identification code (GA-##)
If the ship is a Ironclad use the identification code (IR-##)
If the ship is a Transport use the identification code (TR-##)
If the ship is a Destroyer use the identification code (DD-##)
If the ship is a Cruiser use the identification code (CA-##)
If the ship is a Submarine use the identification code (SS-##)
If the ship is a Carrier use the identification code (CV-##)
If the ship is a Battleship use the identification code (BB-##)
If the ship is a Nuclear Submarine use the identification code (SSN-##)
If the ship is a AEGIS Cruiser use the identification code (AG-##)

Actions (things to get done):

1. The victory achieved must be conquest. (Sparthage)
2. You may only achieve victory by conquering the Netherlands last. (Toxicman007)
3. You can only win after crippling an enemy nation with nuclear weapons (Hitting at least 50% of their cities with nukes) (Dirk Diggler)
4. During the future invasion of Spain, one Ironclad must be present, but cannot attack or bombard anything. (Toxicman007)
5. When the units of Sparthage have been named, as listed above, the following ten names are to be used for offensive land based units, Cavalry first, and then other newly available units. These are not designed as names for naval or air units. [Glow Worms, Butterflies, Puppies, Kitties, Lightning Bugs, Harders, Warm Fuzzies, Dandelions, Boys Named Sue, Geek Squad] (CommandoBob)
6. Prince of Persia [We Will Rock You, We Are the Champions, Somebody to Love, Killer Queen, Another One Bites the Dust, Under Pressure, Bohemian Rhapsody, Princes of the Universe, Fat Bottomed Girls, Bicycle Race] (Prince of Persia)
7. Additional unit names from CommandoBob, to be used as needed. [C. W. McCall, Rubber Duck, Wolf Creek Pass, Convoy, Smokey and The Bandit, Old Home Bread, Chip Davis, Eastbound and Down (Jerry Reed song, not the HBO show), Buford T. Justice, 10-4] (CommandoBob)
8. After Ironclads, a beeline must be made for Flight. (Toxicman007)
9. As soon as Flight is researched, an Airport must be constructed in Toxic's Café. Any previous construction must be halted to make way for the Airport. (Toxicman007)
10. You may not research or gain knowledge of Rocketry until you have named Guerillas (or units that upgrade to Guerillas) as follows... (Sparthage/Prince of Persia):

Spoiler :

Delta Force, Spetsnaz, 1st Army Rangers, Night Stalkers, Black Tigers, Batalhão Tonelero, Snow Leopard Commandos, Black Wasps, Estonian Special Operations Force, Kommando Spezialkräfte, Garud Commandos, Quds Force, Sayeret, Gruppo di Intervento Speciale, Japanese Ground Self-Defense Unit, Grupo Aeromóvil de Fuerzas Especiales, Shree Yuddha Bhairav Battalion, Korps Commandotroepen, Korean People's Army Special Operations, Forsvarets Spesialkommando, Puma Special Operations, Operações Especiais, and Recces Brigade, TF 141

Orders Completed this Set:
1. Ten cavalry units must be named after characters from My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic. [Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, Twilight Sparkle, Applejack, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, Luna, Celestia, Derpy Hooves, Doctor Whooves] (Sparthage)

Spoiler :

In your stories, the pony the unit is named after must be the leader of that unit, they must act as they would in the show (many of them have wikia articles, don't worry). As to how the ponies get there, I'd suggest something involving them coming from the heavens as a blessing from Sparthage to his favorite people.

2. The MLP units spark a holy war! For every Cav named on the MLP scheme, another must be named from the following list: [Tusker's Defenders, Tusker's Chargers, Tusker's Riders, The Peanutguard, The Ivoryguard, Paladins of Ivory, Paladins of the Peanut, Paladins of the Tusk, Paladins of Elephantium.]
3. The Ironclad involved in the invasion of Spain must be the only Ironclad ever built. (Toxicman007)
4. The name of the above Ironclad shall be "Iron Will of Sparthage" (Sparthage)


Part 1

Spoiler :

In 1872AD the Chinese were up to the old and annoying tricks. A convoy of Frigates was heading towards Carthaginian lands. Hannibal sighed. Once more it was time to put an end to Chinese forever.

But there was also good news. The embargo between the America and the Dutch against Carthage also ended. Not that it really mattered anymore.

Everything was not completely quiet, however. Spannibal strode into Hannibal’s presence with a grave face. “Godly Hannibal, the Spanish have increased their pirating activities to a nearly intolerable level. ICS Old Man Ironsides G-08 and ICS Shrub of Civinator II G-05 have encountered a new Spanish privateer – the Spanish Curse. Both squadrons of galleys are slated for scuttling and it was determined to use them to scout the Spanish position.”

“And what was the outcome?” Hannibals asked, gravely aware that the galleys were outgunned on the defensive. On the offensive they just might be able to overpower their adversary.

“Not good.” Spannibal said with disgust. “Both galleys failed in their objective and were sunk with little damage to the privateer. I have ordered the bulk of our fleet towards the Spanish crossing to stop this flood of lawlessness. In addition, as soon as New Crobuzon is finished with its stock exchange it will begin producing warships so we may invade Spain. Ironclads should silence the bastards.”

Hannibal ground his teeth. “Perhaps it is time to push the Spanish off the mainland. I grow tired of their insolence!”

“Hold, Hannibal.” Spannibal urged. “Our treaty with the Americans ends in 2 years. We may then purge them from the land and, shortly thereafter, the Chinese. By the time these wars are concluded it will also be time to put an end to the Spanish.”

It took all of Hannibal’s will to withhold the order to attack.

He was even more infuriated when news reached him that the Spanish Curse put into port at Jaen for repairs. The audacity!

Hannibal’s nerves we calmed slightly by the news that the Foolish Dutch actually had coins to spend and they were willing to spend it on Carthage’ world map! Hannibal laughed and took their money; 9 pieces of gold and tribute of 1 piece of gold. It was a pittance but it just felt right. He also took the Dutch map as their priests could divine the location of all barbarian tribes everywhere in the world even though William himself didn’t know what was happening 200 yards from his back porch.

In 1874AD the horsemen of the Kai Lords were disbanded.

In 1876AD the Americans crawled back to Carthage begging for 40 more years of peace. Hannibal laughed at their treadbear clothes and empty pockets. It was high time that Carthage put down the arrogant yanks.

Even though the America had the opening for the first attack nothing happened. With a massed army of cavalry, Carthage would make short work of America. The first goal was to destroy San Francisco, Portland and especially Las Vegas as it held America’s only source of rubber.

As America’s source of rubber was the highest military priority the elite Peanutguard were sent to make the first attack. Racing to the outskirts of the city the Elephantium cavalry found the city deserted. The Americans, having heard that the elite warriors of Elephantium were gunning for them, had thrown down their rifles and fled in terror.

The Peanutguard entered the city and enjoyed the mounds of rations abandoned by the foolish American military. The people of the city were pressed into a work band as the American67 to serve the Carthaginian victors.

As this was not a true attack, Elephantium dispatched the Tusker’s Chargers to assault the 17th Portland Regiment of Muskets. The 1,500 muskets bristled at the approach of the elite cavalry but there was nothing they could do stop their crossing. The cost of victory was 200 elite cavalrymen dead or wounded by the 17th Portland had been vanquished and the city razed. Victory Points: 16.2 [4(D)x3(HP)x1.35(T)]; Sparthage: 213.5 Elephantium: 206.2

The final attack by Elephantium was the made by the Paladins of Elephantium. The target was the city of Phoenix. A quick reconnaissance of the city revealed the 10th Phoenix muskets, a band of veteran soldiers that were well entrenched on the open grasslands of America. The veteran cavalry smashed the American muskets. Unsupported the men had to withdraw from the field, abandoning another American city and all its supplies. The citizens were forced into the American68 slave band. The attack, however, had cost the Paladins 75% of their strength. Victory Points: 21.6 [4(D)x4(HP)x1.35(T)]; Sparthage: 213.5 Elephantium: 227.8

This was a shock to America. Three border cities had fallen like dominos and Carthage had moved three massive armies into American territory threatening four additional cities. Any response to the attack would be lethargic.

In 1888AD the trade embargo engineered by the Portuguese and Byzantines expired. In addition, a new Spanish privateer, the Lady Killer had entered the range of Sparthaginian guns even as Spanish Frigates began to sail into the open sea. Hannibal wondered where they were going but decided he probably didn’t care. Frigates alone were nothing but targets.

But in a new twist the Americans and Sumerians signed a trade embargo against Carthage, as though Hannibal cared.

But if trade abroad was looking treacherous, trade at home was looking up. With the construction of the Stock Exchange at New Crobuzon the greedy corporations had come together decided they wanted to build an entire street crafted only of walls.

“Great Hannibal, Wall Street will bring us much needed additional revenue.” The Domestic Advisor reported cheerfully. “We can begin to produce 50 pieces of gold each budgeting cycle in interest off our treasury so long as we maintain a balance of at least 1,000 pieces of gold. While this might have doomed us to death by stoning for usury 2,000 years ago, it’s perfectly okay now that have embraced the greedy side.”

“This sounds like a dangerous plan. How will the people take to this idea?” Hannibal asked cautiously.

“They won’t mind at all.” The Domestic Advisor assured him. “We have just erected a statute of a woman holding an upraised flag. For some reason this has granted everyone the right to vote in our elections.”

“We have election?” Hannibal asked, shocked.

“Yes, great Hannibal.” The Domestic Advisor quirked a smile. “You opponent last fall was Tassadar”

“The Mongol?!?” Hannibal choked. “How did I do?”

“The final count in the Senate was 51-49 but Tassadar failed to show up for his inauguration.” The Domestic Advisor shrugged. “No one else wanted the job, so you’re stuck with it. I mean, no one wants to spend the rest of their days living in a house without a door.”

Grumbling Hannibal returned to his reports of the war with America. Such was the gratitude of the Carthaginian people. All glory to the gods but not so much as a door for their leader.

The cowardly Americans had completely failed to counter attack the exposed Carthaginian units and this indicated that America simply had no strength left. The so-called war would be nothing more than a slaughter.

The battles opened with the Holy War. The American capital of Boston lay exposed before Carthage. This was a large sprawling city build upon the open grassland of the American heartland. The area around the city grew thick with tobacco and Hannibal wondered, but not for long, why they had settled directly on top of the fields? Were the Americans that addicted to tobacco?

The sturdy Doctor Whooves* was drawn to the front of the invading army and send into action against the veteran 33rd Boston Regiment of Muskets. To the great shock of everyone the elite band of cavalry faltered in their first attack. The veteran musket laid down a horrible fire into the followers of Sparthage and the entire unit withered away in a matter of minutes. No one saw what happened to the Doctor. Several reports indicated that he was tending the wounded when the remainder of his men fled. The entire army was shocked at this ominous loss to Carthage and the gods.

Unable to leave the Carthaginian dead to the Americans, Rarity’s elite cavalry were drawn forward next. The conscript 5th Boston Auxiliary Rifles and begun to fortify in the suburbs to prevent a direct assault upon the city and the flank of the wounded 33rd Boston. Rarity’s charge quickly busted up the formation with less than 20% casualties. Her banner of the Cat led the charge and once more the cry of “Darlings! Follow me!” led them to victory. Victory Points: 21 [6(D)x2(HP)x1.75(T)]; Sparthage: 234.5 Elephantium: 227.8

The remaining assault and revenge for the fall of Doctor Whooves was left to the Paladins of the Peanut who now faced the murderous 33rd Boston. Now at half strength, the followers of Elephantium planned carefully. There would be no mistakes this time. The attack began as a probe and the 33rd brushed them back with heavy fire. But soon the fire slackened and the Paladins charged. A new hail of bullets tore into the riders but it was now half-hearted. The men wear tired and running low on provision and ammunition and the American commanders had not seen fit to reinforcement them. Lincoln had even fled to nearby Buffalo. The 33rd disintegrated under the hammer blow and the city was laid to waste by the Carthaginian Cavalry. The American69-70 slaves were formed from the senators and congressmen captured when the city fell. Victory Points: 14 [4(D)x2(HP)x1.75(T)]; Sparthage: 234.5 Elephantium: 241.8

Buffalo now lay within easy reach of the invading cavalry and the Ivoryguard was dispatched to investigate the city’s defenses. The city of Buffalo was also a sprawling nightmare but scouting units identified the 19th Buffalo Regiment of ‘regular’ Muskets guarding the approached to the city.

Battle was immediately joined but the veteran Ivoryguard were thwarted and forced to retreat from the field. The unicorn Twlight Sparkles watched the battle unfold and knew that the warriors of Elephantium, no matter how brave, could not take the city. The 3rd Buffalo Volunteer Regiment of Rifles (Conscripted) had moved on the Ivoryguard’s flank and caught them with enfilading fire, nearly destroying them. Without hesitation Twilight Sparkle teleported her command into battle. But this time the attack was a disaster. The haste of the battle plans and her lack of time to consult her books was a costly mistake. Her entire company was routed from the field with little effect upon the 3rd Volunteers. At the last moment Twilight Sparkle teleported her men on the retreat, preserving her command. The Americans laughed as the butchered Carthaginian units and the followers of both Carthaginian gods.

Derpy Hooves, ignoring the damage inflicted upon the other Carthaginian units, charged her unit straight into the American meat grinder and once more the 3rd Volunteers had their fill of Carthaginian blood. The pony’s men rebelled against the slaughter and she was forced to retreat in the face of a mutiny.

Once more the followers of Elephantium were called forwards. This time it was the sturdy and loyal Paladins of the Tusk that made the assault on the now infamous 3rd Buffalo Volunteers. Their fame only grew as they absorbed the attack by the Paladins. Initially suffering heavy wounds from the crafty charge of the Carthaginians, the stalwart survivors butchered the cavalrymen to the last and the Paladins of the Tusk were no more.

The Tusker’s Defenders decided to skirt around the deadly 3rd Buffalo to fall upon the original 1,000 remaining muskets of the 19th Buffalo. Finally the Carthaginians had some success and the 19th Buffalo were overrun on their northern flank and this exposed the 3rd Buffalo to a final assault. In the process the Tusker’s Defenders were recognized as an elite band of cavalry and rightly so. Victory Points: 14 [4(D)x2(HP)x1.75(T)]; Sparthage: 234.5 Elephantium: 255.8

In order to take the city the followers of Sparthage had to take down the remaining 100 men of the 3rd Buffalo Volunteers. The two remaining Sparthaginian cavalry were the princesses of the MLPs. By luck of the draw in was Luna that was called from the ranks by Old Man Iron. Luna, finding inner peace and harmony in the presence of her sister called upon the forces of nature to make the ground tremble at her approach upon the city. The tremble became a violent tremor and then the entire city began to shake. When her cavalrymen reached the line the volunteers were so confused that they were easily eliminated. No mercy was given to those that had slain so many Carthaginians. Nor was the city spared. The American71-74 slaves were created. Victory Points: 10.5 [6(D)x1(HP)x1.75(T)]; Sparthage: 245 Elephantium: 255.8

With these great victories Lincoln had once more fled . . . directly into the path of another invading Carthaginian army. The city of San Francisco lay before POP’s Elite Rangers and their massive army of heavy cavalry and knights. The veteran 22nd San Francisco Rifles held the city firmly in their grasp and it was decided that the army would make the first attack. The city was densely populated and situated on a hill; it could easily chew up Carthaginian units to take such a city.

To the great surprise of the commanders, the battle was not as hotly contested as expected. The veteran rifles began to fire for effect but the multitudes of swordsmen and templars swarmed over their feeble position and swamped the trenches, forcing the riflemen on the retreat.

This stunning victory could not be followed up, however, because the 6th San Francisco Volunteer Rifles (Conscripted) had been pushed forward to plug the hole. The Carthaginians now had experience with these conscripts and they were not underestimated.

Even so, the order of battle was set. The heavy cavalry would lead the attack and the Jagged Knights were first to the attack with the support of the knights of the Order of the Oak, the Dark Brotherhood and finally the Shining knights; 2,300 heavy cavalry in all against 200 riflemen.

This massive assault, as it turned out, was entirely unnecessary. The Jagged Knights, an elite band, simply swept the conscripts aside as if they were tissue paper and seized the city. Never wavering from their course, they simply rode into the hail of bullets and trampled the Americans to death. Their display was an example to all and their leader, a man known as the Jagged Pill was made a great leader of Carthage and immediately sent home to construct an important project.

This lay the city’s final defenses bare for attack. More conscripted riflemen rushed to the front; the 1st San Francisco Regiment gained the trenches as the Knights of the Order of the Oak struck. These conscripts faired better, giving the knights a bloody fight that left nearly 90% of the attackers dead or wounded. But the conscripts finally gave before the determination of the elite heavy cavalry and the city fell.

Once more Lincoln fled, this time to Houston. The American75-77 were formed from the straggling, startled citizens. American had learned the hard way that Carthaginian power could not be denied.

The battering of American cities was not over, however. Toxic’s 1st Cavalry was in easy reach of Seattle and quickly made their way towards the city’s outskirts to perform reconnaissance. They discovered that the city was well garrisoned by the veterans of the 11th Houston Regiment of Rifles. But the city had many open approaches and was thinly populated, giving the cavalry room to maneuver.

The assault began immediately and to the great shock of Carthage the elite 1st Cavalry were drawn into a prolonged battle, trapped and then completely destroyed. The elite 3rd Cavalry was immediately dispatched to settle the score and, upon arriving, found the 11th Houston picking over the Carthaginian corpses. They were easily overrun though they made a good account of themselves as they tried to fall back to the city. Seattle, however, was doomed. The American78-80 slave bands were formed from the survivors.

Before the Jagged Pill could cross to the mainland the Lady Killer had to be dealt with. The Sparthaginian Navy had massed precisely at the point of attack and the newly arrived frigates immediately began bombarding the pirate ship, blowing it to little pieces. ICS Ashes of Persepolis G-07 finished the assault but sustained heavy damage. The flotilla of galleys, however, were long overdue for scuttling and would soon suffer that fate.

 

[Raliuven]

Part 2

Spoiler :

In 1880AD the final death stroke against America was planned. OMIA was outside St Louis and only the 18th St Louis Regiment of (regular) Muskets held the city. The knight army swept them aside with contempt, crushing the city and creating the American81-82 slave bands.

With the Americans nearly vanquished time was passing quickly. In 1882AD the Science Advisor once more appeared before Hannibal though he looked a little strained. “Great Hannibal, we have learned the secrets of Ironclads and New Crobuzon has been ordered to use their industrial might to turn them out in great numbers so we can crush the Spanish pirates.”

“This is good news. Why do you fret?” Hannibal asked. “Are we not the masters of the world?”

“Indeed lord Hannibal, but with the wars continuing and our funding all but gone we are running a deficit of 186 pieces of gold every cycle and it will still take 16 years to learn the secrets of steel. We can no longer count on any of the other civilizations to learn anything worth knowing.” The Science Advisor looked miserable.

“You fret too much. With ironclads to secure our invasion of the Spanish homeland we will be able to decommission our armies and send the men back to their homes. Carthage will prosper and the world will finally know peace.” Hannibal consoled him. “We will not disappoint the gods.”

Hannibal was also informed that the final bands of cavalry were trained for the Holy War. Applejack was given command of a new band of cavalry and the Tusker's Riders were re-commissioned [I don’t know if it was my mistake but I only counted nine units for Elephantium. Not sure if I dropped a name at some point?] They were quickly dispatched toward the battlefront.

At the same time the Carthaginian great leader the Jagged Pill arrived in Smilin’ Bob. Hannibal immediately ordered him to construct the Street of Walls while Caseyboy97’s Asylum was directed to change their build to Battlefield Medicine.

The Numidian Mercenaries of the Elk and the Wasps, both long in Carthage’s service, were now allowed to retire to help build Carthage’s ironclad, as were the Conscripts and the Peanut Butter Brigade, both bands of horsemen.

In addition, with the invasion of Spain more than 20 years off, Hannibal agreed to make a new deal with Spain. He was determined to user their own greed against them. For the useless knowledge of Medicine he would gain from them silks, their world map, all 31 pieces of gold from their treasury and tribute in the amount of 25 pieces of gold to fund the Carthaginian science machine.

Domestic affairs attended to, Hannibal turned to the war against America. Houston lay vulnerable to all the forces of Carthage but it was the warriors of the Holy War that took precedence. Once more Luna was at the forefront of the attack, leading her sister Celestia and the Tusker’s Defenders and the Peanutguard of Elephantium.

Houston was garrisoned with the 8th Houston Regiment of Rifles, a veteran band of soldiers. But terrain did not favor them but rather the swift cavalry of Carthage. The city was of middling size and was vulnerable with many approaches over the open plains. The brave and moody alicorn pressed the attack and vowed not to retreat. Victory was the only possibility for her men.

At first it appeared as if she would hold true to her promise. The 8th Houston Rifles were fighting for their families and their homes and they poured and a relentless fire into the MPL Princess’ men. The battle teetered on the ends of victory. Luna charged the line using her horn to impale the flag bearer of the 8th Regiment. But then she was mortal wounded by a barrage of fire. Seeing their commander so struck, Luna’s Cavalry lost heart and perished in the battle.

The loss of a Princess of the MLPs was also a horrible blow to Carthage and its people and to the hopes of the MPL that wished to return to Austria to fight Iblis.

The 8th Houston also received help. The 15th Albuquerque Regiment of Rifles (Regulars) had moved on the field to hold the new American Capital even as Lincoln boarded a ship bound for Memphis. The Tusker’s Defenders attacked the city in the hopes of preventing the escape of the American leader. Unfortunately the elite band of cavalry was outgunned by the 15th Albuquerque who had been dispatched to ensure the escape of Lincoln. A great clash occurred and even though the battle seemed clearly in the favor of the Tusker’s Defenders, a botched command caused the wrong orders to be issued and half of the company attempted a flanking maneuver that left the exposed to enfilading fire from the 8th Houston. Before the mistake could be corrected the Tusker’s Defenders were lost.

Carthage reeled at the loss of two bands of hardened cavalry against the inferior Americans. The Peanutguard, greatly angered, drove out the 8th Houston, massacring the wretched American warriors. Victory Points: 16.2 [6(D)x2(HP)x1.35(T)]; Sparthage: 245 Elephantium: 272

Likewise angered and even more so at the loss of her sister Luna, Celestia drover her cavalry forward. She had not patience for the barbaric Americans that would destroy something as beautiful as her sister. The 15th Albuquerque, already gravely wounded by the valiant Tusker’s Defenders, were trampled under her hooves and that of her cavalrymen. Houston burned in remembrance of Luna and the Defenders. The remaining citizens of the city were forced into the American83-84 slave bands and forced to tear down their city. What was flammable was added to the fire. What was not was dropped into the sea. Victory Points: 8.1 [6(D)x1(HP)x1.35(T)]; Sparthage: 253.1 Elephantium: 272

The final push to remove the Americans from the mainland fell to the OMIA. Albuquerque lay before the might Carthaginian army. And to their surprise it was found that the city was completely without a garrison.

Without mercy the Old Man ordered the city destroyed.

In 1884AD Henry of the Portugal crawled back to Carthage begging once more for peace to continue. Hannibal reluctantly agreed for economic reasons.

If this irritated Hannibal, he was soothed by reports that the great Street of Walls was completed at Smilin’ Bob and that it was already turning out great sums of gold. This was very good news to Hannibal’s way of thinking!

Word also reached Hannibal that the Spanish funded privateer known as the Silver Cannon attacked the mighty Sparthaginian fleet. Though their sneaky nighttime raid managed to slip past the bristling cannons of the frigates, the pirates ran afoul of ICS Battle of Kanesh CA-06 and its escorts and was quickly reduced to kindling though not before the Battle suffered serious damage as well.

Finally, Lincoln was once more willing to talk peace, which was very, very wise. Hannibal, ever magnanimous, agreed to listen.

“Great and merciful Hannibal, the Americans pray that you will allow them to live in peace in the city of Memphis. We are willing to give you all our remaining cities including Kansas, New Orleans and Baltimore. We will give you our world map, all 68 pieces of gold and tribute of 8 pieces of gold.” The Ambassador looked as if he might weep. “Please Hannibal; allow us to live in peace.”

Hannibal smiled. “I cannot grant you what you wish.” The Ambassador shook his head sadly but Hannibal was not done. “What I can grant you is forty years of peace in which to contemplate your servitude to Carthage. We will take all you offer and your promise to join Carthage peacefully in forty years. If you decide not to accept this fate, then we will return and destroy you.”

Hannibal sent the ambassador running from his audience and took possession of the American cities and gold.

Next Hannibal turned his sight on Spain. The first Carthaginian Ironclad had entered service at New Crobuzon. There was great celebration in Carthage over the construction of these powerful weapons of war and Hannibal immediately ordered more to be built.

“Hold, shortsighted Hannibal!” The Toxic Priests said firmly. “The Ironclad is new and unproven technology. It must be properly tested before it can be pressed into mass production. Do as you were bid by our wise and knowing god and send it to Spain to assist in the upcoming invasion. The sailors of the Sparthaginian Fleet may then evaluate it for further service. Until then you are forbidden to waste Carthage’s valuable resources building any more.”

“Can we not build just one more?” Hannibal begged. “For coastal defense, perhaps?”

The Toxic Priests considered this and consulted with one another and the oracle of their god. Shaking it vigorously, the priests said “Decidedly not” and then departed.

Hannibal cursed.

“Great Hannibal, do not despair.” Spannibal said from the shadows. “We shall evaluate this ship swiftly and send you word. Now do as you are bid but also tend to the fleet. Such a powerful ship requires a powerful name. It must be given a name in honor of our greatest sea god. It shall be the ICS Iron Will of Sparthage IR-01.”

Hannibal made it so and directed the Iron Will of Sparthage to move towards the Spanish island. After reviewing the sea charts, the position of the stars and their magic ‘8’ ball, the priest of Sparthage reported that they would arrive in Spanish waters in 40 years. A great machine of war it might be but the dang thing was slow.

The horsemen of the Izmalis were ordered to disband to save gold as were the Numidian Mercenaries of the Hornets and the Deer.

The year 1888AD came in peace but Hannibal had been watching the calendar carefully. The peace deal with China had expired and Hannibal had no desire to share the world with the Chinese anymore. This would cost Carthage some tribute but that was a small price to pay for the death of Mao and his groupies.

One more Applejack was leading a band of Carthaginian cavalry and the hard working pony took the lead in the charge against Ningpo. The People’s 14th Pikemen held the fledgling city and they were simply no match for the battle wise Applejack. The Pikemen were slain and the city seized. Ten pieces of gold were sent to Carthage to make up for some of the lost tribute.

This left only Beijing as a refuge for the Chinese. OMIA led the eight healed companies of Sparthage and Elephantium towards the Chinese capital so that the Holy War could continue.

Hannibal received news that the overachievers in Caseyboy97’s Asylum had created Battlefield Medicine.

Somehow creating a huge concrete cross in the middle of a garden would make it possible for trained medics to travel with Carthage’s military units and heal them while in enemy territory. While this might have been useful 300 years ago, its benefits were a little doubtful now. Perhaps, Hannibal mused, it would be helpful during the invasion of Spain, though he honestly did not expect much trouble once Carthage’s forces managed to land on the old rock.

The Holy war continued with the assault on Beijing. The 400 rifles of the People’s 1st Regiment nervously gripped their rifles as the cavalry eagerly moved into position. The initial attack was given over to Twilight Sparkle. With a characteristic suddenness the entire cavalry company disappeared. This time, however, the assault failed. The People’s 11th Longbows were awaiting the appearance of the unicorn’s men and a volley of arrows wounded many of Twilight Sparkle’s men, including the unicorn herself. The battle was fierce but Twilight Sparkle realized she could not win this battle. As suddenly as they had appeared the veteran band disappeared, though only a fraction of their numbers.

The Paladins of Elephantium, seeing the debacle, quickly organized a charge to relieve the MPL command and to give her the chance to evacuate as many of her wounded as possible. The attack was brutal and Twilight Sparkle managed to escape but the Paladins were ravaged by the defending 1st Regiment who had proven themselves every bit the veteran warriors.

Low on ammunition and exhausted, the 1st Regiment gave way to the People’s 13th Pikes. Though a veteran band, the Paladins of the Peanut spent time surveying the land and planning their attack so as to avoid the loss of life of the previous two companies. The execution of the charge was perfect and though the 13th Pikes fought fiercely from the trenches the defense of the city finally gave way. The excellence of the Paladins was recognized by their peers and the were given the status of an elite band. Victory Points: 16.2 [3(D)x4(HP)x1.35(T)]; Sparthage: 253.1 Elephantium: 288.2

Not to be outshone, Rarity quickly moved her elite cavalry against the weary 1st Rifles that had been trying to rest. The unicorn led the charge and her men took up the cry of ‘Darling!’ as they crashed against the 1st Rifles. Weary, unfed and under supplied, the Chinese soldiers finally gave way after inflicting wounds on Rarity’s men to reduce their combat effectiveness to less than 60%. Victory Points: 16.2 [6(D)x2(HP)x1.35(T)]; Sparthage: 269.3 Elephantium: 288.2

The city was now in dire straights. The Conscript Rifles of the Paper Tigers were quickly moving into position to defend the city. The crossed-eyed Derpy Hooves was now at the forefront of the attacks. The Carthaginian commanders held their breath as the charge began but they need not have worried. The usually silly pony led the cavalry straight into the teeth of the Paper Tigers and if the victory was not spectacular, it was a victory nonetheless. Victory Points: 16.2 [6(D)x2(HP)x1.35(T)]; Sparthage: 285.5 Elephantium: 288.2

This left the People’s 11th Longbows exposed to attack and the Ivoryguard were not known for their mercy. Their destruction was complete and the city of Beijing, along with the Colossus, was reduced to rubble. With this the Glorious Chinese were destroyed.

Glorious? Who were they kidding? The last slave bands of Chinese citizens were formed: Chinese54-55. Victory Points: 5.4 [1(D)x4(HP)x1.35(T)]; Sparthage: 285.5 Elephantium: 293.6

Sparthage: 285.5 Elephantium: 293.6
Remaining Units: Sparthage: 5 Elephantium: 6

As for civilizations:
Eliminated: Japan, Ottomans, Korea, India, France, Mayan, Hittites, Chinese
Client States: Dutch, Persians, Byzantines, Sumerians
Defeated: Portugal, America
Enemies: Spain
Nemesis: None

 

[Raliuven]

Turn 411-420

The Static Orders and Pending Orders can be found in the Spoiler; they are collapsed due to their length.

Spoiler :

Static Orders (cannot be overridden without consent of ordering player):

1. Play 5CC (5 city challenge) (pi4t)
2. Make at least 6 tiles between cities. (alzgamer)
3. Betty from Account Temps must always work with Bob from Account Temps, in the same tile doing the same task as Bob, for the rest of the game. (CommandoBob)
4. Rename every unit you produce for the rest of the game. (Elphantium)
5. Following the lead from Bob and Betty from Account Temps, each produced native worker must be given a name beginning with the letter B. Slaves, whether captured, traded for or produced by a foreign city, do not need special names, only something like Dutch01. (CommandoBob)
6. Name all naval units after battle victories. (Elephantium)
7. The Carthaginian Navy must rule the seas. A fleet of 10 warships (Galleys/Caravels allowed until Magnetism is discovered) must be constructed and then maintained until the game ends. (Sparthage)
8. No cities may ever be gifted to rival tribes. [This takes effect after the Mayans receive their three cities.] (Elephantium)
9. Henceforth, whenever Toxic's café produces pollution, you must wait four turns before you begin to clean it as punishment to the citizens who pollute. (Toxicman007)
10. Add the prefix "ICS" (Imperial Carthaginian Ship) to the beginning of every ship name, and add an identification number such as (DD-01) to the end of each ship based upon the following list. (Sparthage)

Spoiler :

If the ship is a Curragh use the identification code (CU-##)
If the ship is a Galley use the identification code (G-##)
If the ship is a Caravel use the identification code (CA-##)
If the ship is a Frigate use the identification code (FR-##)
If the ship is a Galleon use the identification code (GA-##)
If the ship is a Ironclad use the identification code (IR-##)
If the ship is a Transport use the identification code (TR-##)
If the ship is a Destroyer use the identification code (DD-##)
If the ship is a Cruiser use the identification code (CA-##)
If the ship is a Submarine use the identification code (SS-##)
If the ship is a Carrier use the identification code (CV-##)
If the ship is a Battleship use the identification code (BB-##)
If the ship is a Nuclear Submarine use the identification code (SSN-##)
If the ship is a AEGIS Cruiser use the identification code (AG-##)

Actions (things to get done):

1. The victory achieved must be conquest. (Sparthage)
2. You may only achieve victory by conquering the Netherlands last. (Toxicman007)
3. You can only win after crippling an enemy nation with nuclear weapons (Hitting at least 50% of their cities with nukes) (Dirk Diggler)
4. During the future invasion of Spain, one Ironclad must be present, but cannot attack or bombard anything. (Toxicman007)
5. Prince of Persia [We Will Rock You, We Are the Champions, Somebody to Love, Killer Queen, Another One Bites the Dust, Under Pressure, Bohemian Rhapsody, Princes of the Universe, Fat Bottomed Girls, Bicycle Race] (Prince of Persia)
6. Additional unit names from CommandoBob, to be used as needed. [C. W. McCall, Rubber Duck, Wolf Creek Pass, Convoy, Smokey and The Bandit, Old Home Bread, Chip Davis, Eastbound and Down (Jerry Reed song, not the HBO show), Buford T. Justice, 10-4] (CommandoBob)
7. As soon as Flight is researched, an Airport must be constructed in Toxic's Café. Any previous construction must be halted to make way for the Airport. (Toxicman007)
8. You may not research or gain knowledge of Rocketry until you have named Guerillas (or units that upgrade to Guerillas) as follows... (Sparthage/Prince of Persia):

Spoiler :

Delta Force, Spetsnaz, 1st Army Rangers, Night Stalkers, Black Tigers, Batalhão Tonelero, Snow Leopard Commandos, Black Wasps, Estonian Special Operations Force, Kommando Spezialkräfte, Garud Commandos, Quds Force, Sayeret, Gruppo di Intervento Speciale, Japanese Ground Self-Defense Unit, Grupo Aeromóvil de Fuerzas Especiales, Shree Yuddha Bhairav Battalion, Korps Commandotroepen, Korean People's Army Special Operations, Forsvarets Spesialkommando, Puma Special Operations, Operações Especiais, and Recces Brigade, TF 141

Orders Completed this Set:
1. After Ironclads, a beeline must be made for Flight. (Toxicman007)
2. When the units of Sparthage have been named, as listed above, the following ten names are to be used for offensive land based units, Cavalry first, and then other newly available units. These are not designed as names for naval or air units. [Glow Worms, Butterflies, Puppies, Kitties, Lightning Bugs, Harders, Warm Fuzzies, Dandelions, Boys Named Sue, Geek Squad] (CommandoBob)

Spoiler :

The year 1892AD dawned with great promise for Carthage. But it was also a time of relative peace. Hannibal reviewed income projections and ‘warnings’ from his advisors that Carthage’s military was still draining the treasury. Even with the tribute that Carthage was extorting from its neighbors to ‘price’ of Carthage’s military was a deficit of 106 pieces of gold per budget. While sustainable, the gold would not last forever. But it didn’t need to last forever, Hannibal reasoned. It only needed to last the next 130 years; or until Hannibal could fulfill the desires of the gods.

This is my command. Go forth and do my will!

It was with these words ringing in his ears, the words of the god with the dark spectacles, that the Toxic Priests found Hannibal. “Godly Hannibal, we have long meditated on the great internet and we have ‘liked’ the forum of the fanatics. For our studious worship we have received a new command by powerful and wise Toxicman007. He has shared a new vision of Carthage’s future with us and we have been commanded to deliver this new vision to you.”

“Great and holy Toxic Priests, I am a humble servant to the gods and to Toxicman007. Tell me the will of the powerful gods of the internet and I shall obey it as I have ever obeyed the gods.” Hannibal assured them. Secretly he was worried what crazy thing they would, with their magic ‘8’ ball, come up with. As much as they claimed to speak to the gods on the internet Hannibal knew that each of them had one of the cursed ‘8’ balls hidden in their sock drawer.

“Now that Carthage had knowledge of Ironclads, it is imperative that we learn the secrets of flight.” The Toxic Priests commanded.

Hannibal found this very wise, in fact, Hannibal had thought the same thing and had ordered it so which is why Carthage was even now learning the secrets of Steel. Apparently it would prove impossible to build aircraft of anything other than incredibly dense metals.

“Great priests, I welcome this news, even if our research of Ironclads has been a bit of an embarrassment.” Hannibal admitted. “It seems as though iron does not float as well as was expected. I would have thought that after centuries of sinking enemy ships and watching the iron fitting sink to the bottom quicker than rocks that would have been obvious but I also just learned that our scientists spent more time throwing darts than paying attention to ‘reality’. But I, and the Carthaginian people, shall preserver. Learning the secrets of flight would be wondrous.”

“Holy Hannibal, do not fret, for the gods shall guide Carthage as they always have.” The Toxic Priests assured him.

“Just like they led us from a fertile river valley with bountiful fields full of cows to ice locked tundra?” Hannibal muttered.

The Toxic Priests must not have heard Hannibal because they did not respond nor did the gods strike Hannibal dead with a bolt of lightning. “With the knowledge of flight we shall be able to build great ports for the aircraft we will build with this knowledge. To this end it is vital that Toxic Café receive a port for air immediately when it becomes available. With this ‘air port’ shall come great wonders for Carthage and its people.”

Hannibal nodded vigorously; glad that for once his vision and that of the gods seemed to match. “I have spoken with the TIA-CHI and the science advisor and it seems so. With this knowledge we will be able to build a link between our cities and the luxuries on the ESC. Then we will no long need the Portuguese and we can do away with the annoyance of Henry.”

The Toxic Priests paused for a moment and then nodded slowly. “Of course, pious Hannibal, and we will also be able to build aircraft to drop things on people from great heights, such as water balloons and acme safes.”

“Couldn’t we just drop exploding canister shot like we use in our cannons?” Hannibal asked.

The Toxic Priests mumbled and agreed, departing but seeming disgruntled.

With the departure of the Toxic Priests the great Spannibal approached Hannibal. Hannibal subjugated himself to the will of the priest so of the great god. “Wise Spannibal, Admiral of the Sparthaginian Fleet and deliverer of Sparthage’s Gift of the MPLs to Carthage, what is it that I can do for you and the great god today?”

“Great Hannibal, we have learned of the creation of the first Guerilla unit of Carthage and we are greatly pleased by this.”

“Indeed it is so, great Spannibal.” Hannibal acknowledged this great advancement. “But it would appear they are not as effective as our Infantry and the difference in costs is not a persuasive enough reason to train guerillas rather than infantry.”

“But they do not require the use of the rubber resource.” Spannibal pointed out.

“Err . . . that is correct.” Hannibal agreed, slightly confused. “But that hardly seems relevant. We have plenty of rubber.”

“Perhaps, but Sparthage had decided that he does not like the use of rubber and has forbidden its use to any of the god’s followers.” Spannibal said firmly. “This means that no unit of military that uses rubber may be trained for the followers of Sparthage. It also means that there will likely be a population boom amongst the followers of Sparthage, which is purely incidental.”

“I understand.” Hannibal said slowly. In fact he did understand. This would be a continuation of the Holy War by a different means. If the Sparthaginians could not force out the followers of the gods, they would breed them out. Hannibal had already heard others calling the High Priest of Sparthage by the name ‘Spannibal the Long Shanks’. Hannibal did not agree with such blasphemy but he had to admit that the High Priest was gaining a reputation for cunning.

“Furthermore, as Sparthage’s followers will be growing in great numbers you will need to train many guerillas. A list shall be provided for your use, in rotation with the other gods, of course.”

Thus it was that the first of the Sparthaginian guerillas were trained.

Delta Force was immediate ordered to take over the post of the Mosquitos, which were dispatched back to the mainland to be released from service. Likewise, the mercenaries of the long serving Adamantium Warriors were ordered back to Smilin’ Bob to be decommissioned.

The ambassador of the Byzantines next approached Hannibal with a ‘great offer’. “Lord Hannibal, we wish to maintain the scientific progress that has so recently advanced the nations of the world. In order to do this, all scientists of the world must be able to freely travel. This will allow them to discuss new ideas and spy upon the military and naval buildups of other nations . . . err . . . I mean cooperate in intellectual endeavors.”

Hannibal found this idea interesting and even stopped to chuckle before rejecting the offer. Next he turned to the list of units that were being disbanded: The Mosquitos, The Watch, The Wall and the Drakes.

A new trade opportunity had also arisen. The TIA-CHI came into the presence of Hannibal and bowed low. “Great Hannibal, the Byzantines have come up with more money. Although we have a trade deal that will soon expire, we also have plenty of technology to sell to the Byzantines. If we linger over the deal it is likely the gold will disappear into Theodora’s wardrobe. She has a ‘thing’ for ribbons and chokers.”

Hannibal thought of this and Carthage’s dwindling treasury. “What do you suggest?”

“Just this, Great Hannibal,” The TIA-CHI recommended. “We should give Theodora knowledge of refining for their map of the world and new barbarian camps, 152 pieces of gold – every drop in their treasury, and tribute of 16 pieces of gold. This is, in my opinion, Hannibal, a reasonable deal.”

Hannibal agreed and ordered it to be so.

The list of discharged units continued with the Bees in 1896AD. This was followed in 1898AD by the Hawks, The Rusty Swords, the Right Boot of templar_x, Redrum, and the Slashers.

Hannibal also received news that the Dutch and the Persians had signed a mutual protection pact, as if these two countries allied would dissuade anyone from knocking them off.

More important than this was the appearance of the Science Advisor. “Lord Hannibal, we have mastered the secrets of Steel.”

“We may now learn the arts of combustion, which is the last thing we must master before learning the secrets of birdless flight!”

“Birdless flight? You mean we know the secrets of birded flight already?” Hannibal asked, perplexed. He knew that some of the remaining MPLs could fly – namely the Pegasus Derpy Hooves and the alicon Princess Celestia, but he was unaware of any other flight via bird wings.

“Ah . . . no, actually. After the whole Icarus thing that was called off.” The Science Advisor said glumly.

“Who the heck is Icarus?” Hannibal demanded.

“The son of the Greek inventor Daedalus, another inter-dimensional refuge that was run out of Europe by Iblis. We think he is the one that gave the secrets of flight to the MPLs. Unfortunately adapting the technology for human use has proven unsuccessful.” The Science Advisor shrugged. “It would seem that Icarus, like many other humans and for that matter pigs, lacked the commons sense Sparthage gave to horses. Therefore we’ll never see a human, or a pig, with wings.

The Greek? Another of these ‘fabricated’ races? Hannibal sighed. “Very well. But don’t we know the secret of combustion? We’ve been burning things for thousands of years and shooting things for a fair amount of time as well.”

“True, but we must learn to harness these combustions in a more productive way. Once this is done we will be able to create ‘engines’ to drive our carriages and power our airplanes.” The Science Advisor assured Hannibal.

“And how long will this take us to master?” Hannibal asked.

“At our current pace it will take 18 years at a modest deficit of 85 pieces of gold” The Science Advisor reported.

“But with the decommissioning of our armed forces and reconstituting into a more effective fighting force I suspect that we will be well position to continue research.” The Domestic Advisor stepped in. “And our treasury has actually grown over the past period to new heights. We have nearly 6,000 pieces of gold in our treasury. We should be well positioned to complete our research without much trouble if we just continue on this path.”

The Falcons were disbanded in 1900AD to help with the budget. But good news also followed. The Byzantines still had access the tribute of 55 pieces of gold and could afford an additional 6 pieces of gold and their world map for the secrets of Steel. This was perfect. The deal was quickly inked.

Hannibal also reflected upon his mortality. He faced only 150 more years amongst his fellow Carthaginians and it seemed as if his life had been all too short. But he was proud that he, as an instrument of the gods, could work their will upon the world. He only prayed that he could fulfill their wishes in the short time left to him.

His contemplation was shattered by the approach of the Spanish Ambassador who, without permission for an audience, nevertheless entered the Carthaginian capital due to the 5900 year oversight of not hanging a door on the palace. Hannibal sighed, feeling the weight of his years. “What do you want?”

“Lowly Hannibal, Isabella has sent a command for you. As you so like to follow the commands of the gods, you will now follow the commands of Isabella, for she has declared herself Princess over all these lands.”

“By what right does she lay claim to all of the lands of the world?” Hannibal asked, amused.

“By right of her birth as a Druish Princess.” The Ambassador said proudly.

Hannibal looked to his Foreign Advisor, who shrugged. “It is said that the Spanish scholars have traced her linage to an ancient druidic sect. But I wouldn’t put to much weight on Spanish scholars. We’ve known too many Spaniards.”

“Funny,” Hannibal said, still amused. “She doesn’t look Druish.”

“This is no time for jokes, Hannibal!” The Ambassador scolded him. “Spain is prepared to go to war with Carthage!”

Signing, Hannibal looked upon the Spanish ambassador. “Well, I’ve been looking for a good reason to kick your arses all over the map. You can take Isabella’s command for coal to tell her shove it up her arse. If she is lucky it will turn into a diamond before Carthage is done wiping Spain from the map.”

Hannibal was mildly surprised when the Spanish Ambassador displayed more spine that expected. “Then it is to be war. Thank you for making this so easy, Hannibal! For your rude response we are breaking our deal that gave your merchants access to our silks!”

Hannibal waved this away. “We have done without for a long time, we can do without again. More importantly, without your silk shield, you will lose every city on the ESC to the holy warriors of Sparthage and Elephantium! They have a little contest going as to which can kill more foreigners and you have just volunteered to become their next targets. Congratulations.”

Immediate the Spanish Ambassador was seized by Carthaginian guards. A pair of bird wings was attached to the man and he was thrown off the tallest tower at the University of the CELTICEMPIRE. It was then discovered that whatever powers Spanish/Druish ambassadors possessed, flight was not among them.

The first act of war committed by the Spanish was a cowardly attack upon ICS Charge of Aabraxan FR-02. Unfortunately for the Spanish Frigate it faced the elite flotilla of the Sparthage’s best sailors. The initial broadside of the Spanish ship had caught the Sparthaginian sailors by surprise; they hadn’t even known they were at war. But the Sparthaginian Sailors had been expertly trained on the waterslides of Sparthage’s Voyage and they responded in kind. A fierce battle commenced with the frigates loading and firing cannons as fast as the crews could manage. The superior training of the Sparthaginians proved conclusive. The Spanish flotilla slipped under the waves of the ocean, its cannons and sailors beyond recovery.

ICS Charge of Aabraxan FR-02 had been ravaged, however, and the captain had a dilemma. He could order the flotilla to immediate return to port for repairs. By the time this occurred the Charge returned it would likely be the end of the war and there was always the chance that another Spanish frigate was in the area and that would spell doom for his command. Or he could order the scathed frigate to join the armada. If he did this it would ensure that all glory would go to the other captains, for he would need to covert his frigates into little more than floating artillery platforms. But the other Frigates of the Sparthaginian Fleet would also protect his command from annihilation while he provided them assistance and cover.

The decision was easy. Swallowing his pride, the captain of the Charge ordered his ships to continue to join the armada, adding his guns to those already waiting at the crossing.

New of the war quickly spread and the Dutch came seeking shelter, begging for a mutual protection pact.

Naturally they were sent away without any such agreement.

While Spannibal began to gather the fleet and New Crobuzon was assigned to create more Frigates (Carthage currently possessed one ironclad and sixteen frigate to ensure that the Sparthaginian navy had enough warships to control the seas), Carthage’s land forces prepared to push the Spanish off the ESC. The invasion of the Spanish homeland could not, however, occur until ICS Iron Will of Sparthage IR-01 arrived.

This was not a concern at the moment, though it soon would be. The foolish Spanish were still guarding their colonial holdings with a paper thin line of spears and medieval infantry. Carthage would make short work of such units.

The immediate target for attack was the city of Asturias and its unfortunate 60,000 citizens and the 3,000 men of IIV Searman Tercios SLEG (Spanish Legion). This attack would begin with two of Elephantium’s elite units. The Paladins of the Peanut were first to the warfront and immediately initiated the charge. The carnage was complete. The Paladins simply walked over the defending Spanish Foreign Legion Tercios and shamed the zonal Captain General. Not a single Carthaginian soldier had died destroying the IIV Spearman Tercios SLEG or sacking the city. Victory Points: 8.1 [2(D)x3(HP)x1.35(T)]; Sparthage: 285.5 Elephantium: 301.7

Hannibal commanded that the population be enslaved and those that were uncooperative should be hung. He then sent a letter to Isabella that the lives of 50,000 citizens and 3,000 soldiers was payment enough for one years worth of silk. As Spain owed Carthage 30 years of silk, odds did not favor the survival of the Spanish (or Druish) nation.

With the destruction of the city and the enslavement of the population, the first Spanish slave band was formed: Spain01.

With this city out of the way, four cavalry units were sent after the next two cities: Jaen and Logrono. Both sets of Elephantium/Sparthage units were covered by armies: POP’s Elite Rangers for Jaen, the defenders for Logrono. A final pairing was sent with Old Man Iron to invade the Byzantine lands in a dash to destroy the city of Palma.

The Rabbits, the Longswords and the Scarecrows were all disbanded in the interests of saving money.

In 1904 AD Theodora showed her true colors and signed a trade embargo with Spain against Carthage. Hannibal chuckled. So what? More annoying, she ejected the Carthaginian units from her territory using a huge boot. Theodora cussed out the Carthaginian Army that even the Old Man could not withstand the blistering storm and they retreated to a very, very safe distance. (What the heck?)

That aside, the attacks against Spain continued. Alliances were quickly checked to ensure no mishaps but the Foreign Advisor reported that Theodora was not so suicidal as to link her survival to that of Isabella. The Peanutguard stood poised over the city of Jaen and its 30,000 inhabitants. The III Spearman Tercios SLEG held the city and their position was excellent. Their trenches covered the crest of the hills and commanded the area even if there shallow. And the Spanish Legion had 3,000 men to fill the trenches though they held only spears.

The elite unit of Elephantium knew what to do with such poorly equipped men. Riding back and forth along the crest, they simply gunned down the unfortunately Spaniards though a desperate charge did manage to wound several of the men and horses towards the end of the struggle. This futile move left the city vulnerable and the Peanutguard sacked the city, capturing a band of miners that had taken refuge in the city. These became the Spain02 and the citizens of the city were lined up and shot. Victory Points: 10.5 [2(D)x3(HP)x1.75(T)]; Sparthage: 285.5 Elephantium: 312.2

With the success at Jaen it was for Sparthage’s MPLs to take the city of Logrono. The IX Medieval Infantry Tercios SLEG held the city which was also well situated upon a hillside. The macemen were woefully outmatched in weaponry even compared to the spearmen but their heavy armor made up the difference. Glancing shots would deflect off their heavy plating and their shields might offer some protection.

That did not discourage Twilight Sparkle, for she had the measure of them and did not intend to engage them at a long distance. With the characteristic flick of her mane she and her entire command disappeared. The Spaniards were so surprised by the sudden appearance of 400 heavy armed cavalrymen in their midst that they simply surrendered. The city was destroyed and the citizens, along with the surrendering men of the IX Tercios were allowed to disperse into the surrounding countryside to take their chances with the many barbarian tribes in the region.

The city of Logrono was destroyed. Victory Points: 10.5 [2(D)x3(HP)x1.75(T)]; Sparthage: 296 Elephantium: 312.2

The road now lay open to the city of Santander and the 3,000 men of the II Spearman Tercios SLEG. The total lack of resistance by the Spanish allowed Carthage to amass its forces. Toxic’s 2nd Cavalry was ordered to expose itself to capture two bands of Spanish workers that were caught unawares by the lighting assault. These became the Spain03-04 slave bands.

The war had now approached the gates of Santander and in 1906AD the elite cavalry under the command of Rarity were ready to take the field. The Zonal Commander attempted to negotiate for the surrender of the city but Rarity would not listen and ordered the attack to commence. The call of ‘Darling’ echoed in the ranks and the charge committed Carthage to a continued assault. But to the great surprise of all the elite cavalrymen were ambushed by the cunning Spanish Legion. The Zonal Commander’s offers to talk had been nothing more than a ruse.

As Rarity’s Cavalry rushed towards the city the spearmen jumped out of small grottos in the hillside and beset the Carthaginians on all sides. Though well armed, the Carthaginians were sorely outnumbered and in close combat the 3,000 spears counted form more than 500 rifles. Rarity barely managed to withdraw her command and though they cut through over 1,000 Spanish spears, they lost 400 of their own men and horses. The attack had been a debacle.

The Paladins of the Peanut immediately rushed to cover the retreat of the wounded Sparthaginians. With the same expert drive, the Paladins cleared the treacherous II Spearman from the hills and drove them into the city, catching a flotilla of frigates in the harbor. The followers of Elpehantium ordered the city inhabitants, the remainder of the II Spearman and the captured sailors hung for their deceit. The frigates, substandard by Carthaginian measurements, were set aflame along with the city. Victory Points: 8.1 [2(D)x3(HP)x1.35(T)]; Sparthage: 296 Elephantium: 320.3

1906AD also saw the disbanding of the Swords of Hagen, the Swords for Hire, Death’s Hand, and the Iron Fist. Reports were also received that ICS Battle of Amsterdam FR-03 had encountered a Spanish Frigate. Emerging from the fog, the Spanish Frigate unleashed a devastating broadside into the Battle and though the Sparthaginian sailors struggled to return fire the Battle was crippled and went down with nearly every hand aboard.

The Sparthaginian Navy responded immediately. The floating artillery of ICS Charge of Aabraxan FR-02 opened fire on the Spanish Frigate from a distance. Several other Frigates joined in the bombardment, riddling the Spanish ship into kindling. In the end the cowardly Spanish frigate was given the ultimate disgrace by being boarded and sunk by the antiquated ICS Glory of Seen Elephants the Third G-06.

Unfortunately the advance of Carthage’s units was stalled due to the placement of the Sumerian and Byzantine cities. But the much awaited Ironclad was approaching the crossing and the Sparthaginian invasion fleet would soon be under sail. For now, Hannibal could only wait and eliminate any Spanish ships or cities that sudden sprung up across the world.

The year of 1910AD was marked by the dismissal of the Shining Knights and the anticlimactic destruction of a handful of barbarians.

Victory Points: Sparthage: 296 Elephantium: 320.3
Remaining Units: Sparthage: 5 Elephantium: 6

As for civilizations:
Eliminated: Japan, Ottomans, Korea, India, France, Mayan, Hittites, Chinese
Client States: Dutch, Persians, Byzantines, Sumerians
Defeated: Portugal, America
Enemies: Spain
Nemesis: None

 

[Toxicman007]

You seem to have forgotten the turns, Ral.