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I was hoping the Emperor was going to stick around, visit the front enjoy a triumphant processional entry into Paris, place his foot upon the Sun King's neck and generally rub Sunny boy's nose in it.
Megas Domsetikos Beliarios sounds very close to Belisarius. I hope the similarities extend beyond the name. 
Rising Star
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A calming breeze slowly swept over the plains of Dauphine, grass blowing gently in the wind. The sound of birds chirping could be heard throughout the camp of the Stratos Italias. The warmth of spring was a welcomed change after the bitter chill of the past winter. Supplies were now plentiful, and the losses suffered during the French counteroffensive had been replenished with fresh troops from Italy.
Megas Domestikos Alexandros Beliarious had just recently returned to the camp, giving the army a much needed morale boost. Upon returning, he was informed of the bravery displayed by the 19th, and their Captain Georgios Curcuas.
Georgios soon found himself being summoned by the Megas Domestikos to his command tent. Unsure why he was being called on, Georgios nevertheless quickly made his way to the command tent, not wishing to appear nonchalant or unpunctual.
He had to admit that the fact that the Megas Domestikos would call on him so soon after he returned made him feel fairly nervous. Normally such things were only done when an officer had made some sort of transgression that need to be immediately addressed.
Stepping through the entrance of the command tent, Georgios instantly spotted Megas Domestikos Alexandros Beliarious analyzing a map, most likely of the next province they would be attacking.
“Captain Georgios Curcuas reporting, sir!” Georgios stated, saluting sharply. Alexandros glanced over at him without rising from the map.
“At ease Captain.” Alexandros said calmly. “Come here Captain.” Georgios instantly did as he was told and moved to the Megas Domestikos’ side.
“This is a map of the province of Languedoc. It shall be our next target.” Alexandros stated. Georgios could only speculate to himself as to why he was being told all of this. Normally he and the other Captains weren’t even told where they were going until they had already arrived. Why is he telling me this? Georgios thought to himself.
“I am going to move the army along the coast, towards the city of Montpellier. Once we have captured this city, I’m confident that the rest of the province will quickly fall into our hands.” Alexandros finished. “Tell me, Captain Curcuas, what is your opinion of this plan?” Alexandros questioned him, standing up straight now.
Georgios was astounded by the question that he was just asked. The Megas Domestikos wanted his opinion? Georgios reluctantly cleared his throat,
“Permission to spea-“
“Granted.” Alexandros quickly cut him off.
“Well sir, isn’t that plan slightly obvious? Will the French not be prepared for such an obvious attack?” Georgios asked him, though still unable to fathom why he would be asking him such a question. Wait…was this…yes, it had to be…
“Hrm, perhaps you are correct Captain. What course of action would you recommend?” Alexandros questioned, still looking him in the eye.
Georgios cleared his throat, and spoke this time with far more confidence “Well sir, the Cevennes Mountains would provide an excellent point of attack I believe. In the spring the climate is tolerable, and I don’t believe the French garrison will be expecting this.” He finished. Alexandros nodded slightly and was about to speak; however he was surprised when Georgios continued,
“And if I remember correctly sir, that areas Protestant population has taken up arms against the King of France. Perhaps it would be wise enlist their help?” Georgios questioned, arching his eyebrow.
Despite being called ‘peasant’ by the likes of Rshtuni, Georgios was in fact a lower end Bourgeoisie, and had received a formal education in Thessaloniki. Geography was a favorite subject of his, and he had hoped to one day become a Cartographer before the war broke out. His father had pressured him into the army after that.
“Ah yes, the Camisards I believe the French call them.” Alexandros stated, “However, why do you believe they would help us, Commander?”
He didn’t miss it; he called him Commander. But he would play dumb for now. “Well sir, these men likely hold no loyalty to Louis XIV whatsoever, and a promise to end his reign might appeal to them.” He said, remembering how quickly the Orthodox Turks were willing to turn on their brothers in the 15th century.
Granted, these were Protestants, however, the Empire had always shown tolerance to the few who actually lived within it, and was friendly with most Protestant nations. A promise to depose Louis XIV and ensure a more ‘tolerant’ King ascended the throne would be appealing to the peasants who mostly made up their ranks, even if such a thing was in fact an absurd possibility and would never happen.
A civilized country couldn’t just depose another’s King for such a paltry reason; it just wasn’t proper. They likely didn’t understand that however.
“Hrm, very well. I shall consider it, Commander.” Alexandros said, face till stern.
“Thank you sir.” Georgios said calmly.
Alexandros picked up a uniform and saber from the table and handed it to Georgios, “My previous Center Commander was unfortunately killed in the last battle while I was in Italy. You will be replacing him.” He said as Georgios took his new uniform and blade.
“Very well sir. Thank you sir.” Georgios said, hiding any emotion he might have been feeling behind his usual blank expression.
“You are dismissed, Commander Curcuas.” Alexandros stated, saluting him.
Georgios returned his salute sharply and exited the Command Tent.
Alexandros smiled slightly as he watched him leave. “You are indeed proving to be as skilled of a leader as I had anticipated.” Alexandros stated to himself. “No…you have surprised even me a few times.” He finished as he chuckled.
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Read and reply. More soon. I'm feeling the itch to really write right now.
I hope Beliarious' aides wait until Rshtuni is eating chicken before they tell Curcuas is superior to him. May he choke on a bone!
That's some step up Captain to Centre Commander. Is that a second-in-command of the army; that if Beliarious were to be absent, the whole army would be in Curcuas' hands?
May Georgios' star continue to rise for many decades.
The meeting between The Grand Chamberlain and Rshtuni, who didn't manage to choke himself to death, is one report I am really looking forward to reading. I suspect it will be short and not so sweet for Rshtuni.
That's some step up Captain to Centre Commander. Is that a second-in-command of the army; that if Beliarious were to be absent, the whole army would be in Curcuas' hands?
May Georgios' star continue to rise for many decades.
The meeting between The Grand Chamberlain and Rshtuni, who didn't manage to choke himself to death, is one report I am really looking forward to reading. I suspect it will be short and not so sweet for Rshtuni.
Leaders of the Faith
After giving his Grand Domestic, Alexandros Beliarious an audience in Milan, Italy, Emperor Konstantinos XV moved further eastwards, traveling by ship from the port of Genova to Marseille and then traveling by land to Avignon, home of the Papacy and the current Pope, Clemens XI. A meeting with the Pope was the true reason why Konstantinos XV had traveled from Constantinople to Italy. Relations between the two had been cool at best since the Papal exodus from Rome in the early 16th century, and this had only served to widen the fissure between the two Churches.
On October of 1704 the Emperor had dispatched an envoy to Avignon requesting an audience with Pope Clemens XI on the grounds of officially ending the hostilities between their two Churches. The Pope accepted his offer and the Emperor agreed to meet with him at Avignon. The trip from Constantinople took nearly six months, but the Emperor finally arrived. On April 14th, 1705, the two leaders of Christianity met.
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The sun gleamed off the small but peaceful city of Avignon on the early morning of April 14th, 1705. The inhabitants of the city went about their daily lives without any real concern for the world outside of the modest but sturdy walls that protected the Papal seat of power. Things rarely changed for the people of Avignon.
Since 1309 they had been under the rule of the Papacy, and twice had they been the seats of a succession of Popes, as well as number of Antipopes. Since the Papacy was forced to reestablish itself in the city after the fall of Rome, Avignon had become a popular ‘resort’ for wealthy Catholic nobles from all over Europe.
In spite of this however, the permanent residents of the city changed little in number over time. Unknown to the content people of this relatively quiet city, one of the most powerful Monarchs in Europe was riding through their streets to meet with Pope Clemens XI. He was the Roman Emperor, Konstantinos XV, whose very ancestors drove the Pope from Rome, and were responsible for his stay in their quiet city.
The sounds of hooves beating against the gravel roads filled the streets, as shop owners gazed at the illustrious carriage that was flanked by several horsemen on each side. This one clearly wasn’t just some random Aristocrat coming for a vacation.
“Such a stark contrast from Constantinople this is, do you not agree Your Majesty?” One of Emperor Konstantinos’ retinue questioned him, as he gazed out the window of the carriage. Konstantinos simply nodded his head slightly; as he quietly watched the modest buildings of the city pass them.
The quietness of the city was soothing to him. The noise of Constantinople, with its population of nearly 700,000 could become taxing. Especially considering that the Imperial Palace was located practically at its heart.
As the Emperor continued to stare out the window of his carriage, he could make out the highest points of the Palais des Papes, literally the Palace of the Popes. Despite the opposition of the Imperial Army, the Emperor had chose to go to Avignon, rather than ask the Pope to come to Constantinople.
The military had feared he was placing himself in too much danger going with only a dozen or so horsemen as escorts. However, Konstantinos knew that if he wished to truly win over Clemens XI, he would have to treat him as his equal, and not act as if he wishes to assert dominance over the Catholic Church.
As their carriage rounded the street corner the Palais des Papes clearly came into sight. It was truly a grand sight to behold, and had clearly been well kept by the Pope. As the carriage grew closer, more details could be made out with the naked eye.
The Champeux Gate of the palace filled the view of the Emperor as he approached, its construction still awe inspiring even to one who lived amongst such wonders as the Hagia Sophia and the Imperial Palace. Their carriage slowly turned to ascend the ramp in front of the gate, before turning to enter it.
The Guards at the gate hastily opened it for Clemens’ special guest. Konstantinos couldn’t help but notice the vast difference in size between the actual door, and the wall that surrounds it. The castle was clearly meant to withstand a siege, even if the chance of it being attacked was nearly inconceivable today.
As they entered the Palace, the Emperor could clearly see the Grand Chapel, where the Pope himself supposedly said his prayers and went to be with God. The Palais Vieux, or ‘old palace’ loomed in the distance, mostly uninhabited but still well kept, while the Palais Neuf, where the Pope currently resided was clearly active, as clergymen moved throughout the palace grounds going about their religious duties.
Finally, they arrived at the entrance of the ‘New Palace’, and a member of the Papal Swiss Guard awaited the Emperor as he exited his carriage.
“The Holy Father awaits you inside, Your Majesty.” The guard said with a slight bow of his head. Konstantinos nodded his head slightly, and the guard led him through the entrance of the Palace.
Immediately, he could see Pope Clemens XI waiting for him in the distance. As the Emperor approached, they both remained silent. A long moment of awkward quietness proceeded, as they both struggled to find their first words.
How should I address him? The Emperor asked himself. He did not wish to show disrespect, but he would not undermine himself either. He was the Emperor of the Roman Empire, and head of the Orthodox Church, after all. The Pope was tackling the same questions himself. The silence was unnerving, and both men could sense one another’s uneasiness.
“Welcome to my palace, Konstantinos.” The Pope finally forced himself to say. Konstantinos could almost feel himself breathe a sigh of relief.
“It is my pleasure Clement.” He replied. Another short pause between them followed, before the Pope gestured towards the Dining Hall with his hand.
“I have instructed my cooks to prepare us a fine dinner with which we can discuss important matters over.” The Pope said with a warm smile.
Konstantinos nodded his head slightly, ”My thanks to you, it is most appreciated.” The Emperor said in a cordial tone.
The two men went through the large double doors and into the illustrious dining hall. The walls were lined with colorful stain glass windows, and in the center of the room sat a relatively small table that was quickly being populated by several delicacies that were hastily being brought in from the kitchen by the chefs themselves.
Konstantinos noted that it was probably made specifically for the Pope and his private guests, as it was too small for a banquet, which would have likely been seen as over indulgent. A fireplace crackled and popped as yellow flames danced within it, as the two took their seats at opposite ends of the table.
For the next ten minutes, the two men ate and spoke light heartedly about the day-to-day task of ruling their respective realms. This helped to ease some of the tension that had been in the air when the two men had first met.
As they continued to eat however, the conversation gradually became more serious, as the matter of their two Churches gradually took over the discussion.
“We can not continue to delude ourselves by pretending that the ‘Great Schism’ was a single event.” Konstantinos said as he sipped from his wine. “It was caused by centuries of separation between our two Churches, that started with the fall of the Western Empire.” Konstantinos finished as he gently sat his glass down on the table.
“Perhaps sooner than that. Perhaps it started when the Roman Empire was first split.” Clements stated, as he took a modest bite from a loaf of bread. “The linguistic barrier was fundamental in the collapse of the Unified Church. A Latin speaking west, and a Greek speaking east.” The Pope finished.
Konstantinos ruffled his beard slightly in thought, “It is true that after the fall of the Western Empire, we became isolated from the Western Patriarch in Rome – your predecessor.” The Emperor sipped of his wine once more, “However, I fear I must mention the ‘filioque’…it was, and still is a great center of tension between our two Churches.” He knew he was treading on sensitive ground by bring this up, but it had to be discussed in full, or his trip would be pointless.
“Its formal acceptance into Nicene Creed in the early 11th century was a major contributor to the growing rift between the East and West. And the Schism itself was nowhere near as damaging as the 4th Crusade, and the horrific sack of Constantinople…” The Emperor stated strongly, though doing his best to stay calm.
Clements also remained composed and calmly replied, “The 4th Crusade was indeed a tragedy, but surely its wounds have healed with the destruction of Venice and its Republic, as well…as well as the conquest of Rome.” The Pope finished. He could feel himself becoming angered, but he held his tongue.
“The acceptance of the filioque was…necessary, the Papacies’ independent authority was weak at the start of 11th century, and we were forced to submit to the will of the Emperor, which was to adopt the filioque.” Clements explained.
Konstantinos sighed slightly, realizing they were on the verge of turning their discussion into a hotheaded bicker. “It is true that the wounds of 1204 have been mostly healed, and our pride recovered, however the filioque remains highly controversial to the Patriarch of Constantinople, and…” Konstantinos paused, trying to choose his words carefully, “The subject of the power and influence and power you wield over the other Patriarchs is also one of the primary obstacles to reunification. The Patriarch wishes to hold the position of ‘First among equals’ in the East, while you maintain a similar position in the west.” The Emperor explained in the most respectful way he could.
The Pope shook his head, “Such a position is impossible. For the past centuries, up until the emergence of the Lutherans, the Papacy has held the undisputed position as the Head of the Western Church. First among equals would never be acceptable.” Clements stated calmly. They had almost finished with their meal at this point.
Konstantinos nodded his head slightly, understanding the Pope’s determination to hold on to his position within the Church. “I am not a fool. I do not believe reunification can happen now, or even in the near future.” Konstantinos said, still gently stroking his beard as the Pope quietly listened to the Emperor’s words.
“The scars of the Great Schism still run deep, and it will take time before they are able to truly heal. What I have come here today for, is to extend my hand to you in friendship. For now, that is all that I can do. I’m afraid the Patriarch is, as you are, unwilling to change his position. However, I come here asking for our Churches to end the hostilities that have flared since the 4th crusade. I promise to respect the faith of all of the Catholic citizens within the Empire, and end missionary activity in the regions they inhabit as a sign of that friendship.” Konstantinos concluded.
The Pope sat silent for what seemed like an eternity, in silent thought. Finally Pope Clemens XI nodded his head slightly, and smiled at the Emperor. “Very well. I understand the words that you speak, and see the wisdom within them. Perhaps one day, our two Churches will be one again. Until then however, they will at least be at peace with one another.”
Konstantinos returned his smiled, “That is something I shall happily agree to.” The Emperor stated. The tense mood had finally been broken, as Pope Clemens XI and Emperor Konstantinos XV Palaiologos continued their light-hearted conversations from before. As the day grew late, the Emperor departed from the Palais des Papes in his carriage, knowing that he had accomplished what he had set out to do.
The Catholic subjects of the Empire had always been somewhat resentful about the Papal Exodus from Rome, especially as the Papacy preached against Constantinople from Avignon, further enflaming the situation.
The preaching would finally end however, and hopefully, the Empire would be at peace with its Catholic subjects.
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The Roman Emperor’s meeting with Pope Clemens XI served to ease relations between the Catholic and Eastern Orthodox Churches for the time being, and stabilized the situation within the Catholic regions of the Empire. Though many modern historians claim that the meeting had little affect in the long run, as the Churches have yet to even come close to reuniting, it can be safely said that it indeed served to cool relations between the two branches of Christianity, and allow them to live side by side without hostility.
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Hope you enjoyed that. And you better give me more than one reply this time if you want more.
Okay, response time.
The-Great-Dane: Later, later. I'm keeping the feeling of suspense high at the moment.
Mr. Capiatlist: Thanks as always.
CatKnight: Thank you, coming from a great character creator like you, it’s a pretty decent compliment.
Maximilliano: You very well could, though likely in a very different form than its ancient counterpart.
VILenin: Heh heh, you might find it funny, but I didn't notice the similarity in their names until about after the third post with which I used Alexandros.
Chief Ragusa: The Center Commander is the highest-ranking commander in an individual army, above both the left-wing commander and right-wing commander. Usually unless in an emergency when one isn't available, the position of leading the Stratos Italias would go to one of the Generals from one of the other armies. Only in an emergency would the center-commander take charge, but it is among his duties should there be a need for it.
Don't be mistaken, the center-commander is the center-commander of the Stratos Italias, which though it is the army that the Megas Domestikos is currently attached to, doesn't carry any responsibilities outside that army unless designated so by a General or the MD.
The-Great-Dane: Later, later. I'm keeping the feeling of suspense high at the moment.
Mr. Capiatlist: Thanks as always.
CatKnight: Thank you, coming from a great character creator like you, it’s a pretty decent compliment.
Maximilliano: You very well could, though likely in a very different form than its ancient counterpart.
VILenin: Heh heh, you might find it funny, but I didn't notice the similarity in their names until about after the third post with which I used Alexandros.
Chief Ragusa: The Center Commander is the highest-ranking commander in an individual army, above both the left-wing commander and right-wing commander. Usually unless in an emergency when one isn't available, the position of leading the Stratos Italias would go to one of the Generals from one of the other armies. Only in an emergency would the center-commander take charge, but it is among his duties should there be a need for it.
Don't be mistaken, the center-commander is the center-commander of the Stratos Italias, which though it is the army that the Megas Domestikos is currently attached to, doesn't carry any responsibilities outside that army unless designated so by a General or the MD.
And Byzantium moves forward under good command. It is nice to see a the constant battle scenes being broken up a bit. Some nice, casual updates were in order. Good work.
Some nice, casual updates were in order. Good work.
Soothing the relationship between Orthodox and Catholic Churches is a positive step, especially as Konstantinos is goingto rule lots more Catholic provinces and does not need Papal objections.
I'm positive a need will arise for the Stratos Italios to fall under the command of Centre Commander Georgios Curcuas.
I'm positive a need will arise for the Stratos Italios to fall under the command of Centre Commander Georgios Curcuas.
Sorry for nor posting for a LONG time SeanB but RL has made that impossible.
I'm glad to se the progress that the empire, her armies and her emporer are doing on both fronts (diplomatic and millitary). And I do hope that Georgios gets to be the one that informs Damien of his promotion just to see his face
I do wonder if the senate is to be resurected in a modern form, or will this be the begining of a new civilwar in the empire betwen the old and the new ways?
And Sean, I must say you haven't lost youre writing skills during youre illnes thats for sure.
I'm glad to se the progress that the empire, her armies and her emporer are doing on both fronts (diplomatic and millitary). And I do hope that Georgios gets to be the one that informs Damien of his promotion just to see his face
I do wonder if the senate is to be resurected in a modern form, or will this be the begining of a new civilwar in the empire betwen the old and the new ways?
And Sean, I must say you haven't lost youre writing skills during youre illnes thats for sure.
Smoothing relations with the Pope is probably a good move as Byzantine influence in Western Europe and traditionally catholic areas expands.
BUMP! for the love of god! this is an ecellent AAR, dont stop now!
and a map of the current political boundaries would be good too.
and a map of the current political boundaries would be good too.
The Camisards Attack
After returning to the waiting Roman army in Dauphine, Grand Domestic Alexandros Beliarious reorganized his army and once again split them into two separate regiments, the Stratos Italias under his direct command, and the Romelia Tagma under General Domnus. With his army of 35,000 men he marched on Languedoc, while the Romelia Tagma, which consisted of roughly 25,000 men marched on the province of Cevennes. The bulk of the French army had been forced to move northwards again to defend against a renewed Germano-Dutch assault, leaving the South’s defense in the hands of their Spanish allies once more.
Setting out from their camp in Dauphine on March 27th, they arrived in Languedoc on April 9th. The city was quickly besieged and surrounded by the Stratos Italias, the French garrison inside the modest fortress resisting the Roman siege with surprising fervor.
The Spanish were quick to respond to the new Roman offensive, and sent an army of 40,000 from Gerona to drive the Imperial Army out.
Alexandros had been expecting this however, and, by providing them with modern muskets and making “questionable” promises had enlisted the aid of the provinces “persecuted” Camisard protestant community from the Cevennes region.
Waiting in their mountains, the “Black” Camisards prepared for the Spanish to march towards the besieged city, given the false dream that they would be freed from Louis XIV persecution and have the Edict of Nantes restored upon the wars conclusion.
The General at the head of the Spanish army, James, Duke of Berwick, had marched from Gerona in Spain planning on moving through Guyenne and through the Cevennes Mountains to attack the Roman Army at Languedoc from behind, believing they would be too preoccupied by their siege to mount a proper defense.
Before he was able to reach Languedoc however, he found the Camisards waiting for him within the mountains of Cevennes.
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The sounds of chirping birds filled the seemingly peaceful valley of Cevennes, the streams quietly flowing over the rocks that littered their surfaces. The sun lent its warming glow to the valley, as the trees swayed gently in the wind. This spring morning was truly a wonderful and soothing sight to behold.
For certain men, however, the peaceful setting before them brought little comfort before the coming bloodshed. As they peered down from their mountain hideouts at the marching columns of Spanish infantry, they knew that their serene setting was about to be drowned with the blood of the Spanish invaders.
Moving quietly through the mountains, and across the valley itself, a force of no more than 1,000 men waited for their chance to strike. The Spanish, whose army, as far as they could see, was easily over 10,000 men strong, vastly outnumbered them.
They were use to facing heavy odds, but this was a greater threat than any before it. They had been well prepared for it, however. Their Roman ‘allies’ had given them modern muskets that were superior to the older Spanish designs in weight, ease of reloading, and accuracy as well. They had even provided them with a skilled commander to lead them, which was possibly the most welcomed gift of all.
The effort against Louis XIV had been heavily damaged when Jean Cavalier, the most influential member of the movement, had been bribed away with a promise of a position within the French Royal Army. This severely damaged the revolt.
With a new and capable leader however, perhaps the tide could once again turn in their favor. Throughout the valley, the Camisards waited in ambush. They had taken up positions on both sides of the dirt road that the Spaniards were marching upon.
More importantly, however, they had taken up position at several key points on the cliffs above the marching path of the Spanish, and prepared a trap as old as time itself for the approaching army.
They waited quietly as the first of the Spanish moved past them. They wished to attack the middle of the marching line, to ensure the greatest amount of chaos and confusion possible. Finally, after the Spanish were deep into the valley, their attack began.
“Something doesn’t feel right here Felipe…” One of the men within the marching column whispered to his comrade beside him. “Its like we’re being watched or something.” He finished, glancing side to side.
“Stop being paranoid José, we’re in a valley, the enemy can’t surprise us here, there isn’t any room to maneuver their army.” He reassured him.
“I guess you’re ri-“ He began to say, before the loud crack of rock against rock echoed through the valley. Looking around rapidly in confusion, he saw it one second too late. A large rock had ‘fallen’ from atop one of the many sharp cliffs along the mountains to the sides of the valley, quickly ‘bouncing’ down the mountain to finally smash directly into José, Felipe, and many other Spanish soldiers, killing them instantly.
Confusion quickly swept over the Spanish column as their commanders attempted to ascertain exactly what had just happened to them.
They were not given long to think however, as several other rocks soon followed all along the path, creating further confusion and chaos among the Spanish ranks. It was now that they made their move. From all around them the Camisards descended from the mountains and their hiding places within the valley itself.
Musket fire from both left and right, from both ahead and from behind rang through the valley, increasing the panic within the Spanish army, which began frantically returning fire. However the Camisards were dispersed throughout the valley in lose groups, making musket fire from the Spanish ineffective due to the weapons inaccuracy.
The Spaniards on the other hand were still clumped together in columns, making easy targets for the quick and mobile Camisards. While their commanders attempted to order the Spanish soldiers to disperse, the confusion and utter chaos within the ranks prevented any orders from being carried out on any large scale.
A few more rocks were dropped upon sections of the Spanish column that were packed closely enough together, as the Camisards continued their attack. Fear rapidly spread all throughout the Spanish column, and that fear finally turned into an all out rout after their Commander was shot from his horse by a stray musket ball.
Packed tightly in the valley, the Spanish attempted to flee back the way they came, trampling over each other in the effort. The Camisards did not let up on their attack even as they fled, as musket fire continued to batter the terrified Spanish column as it attempted to flee from the hell that the once peaceful valley had become.
By the time the Spanish column had fled the valley, the ground was littered with the crushed, shot, and trampled bodies of their comrades. The once beautiful streams and rivers ran red with Spanish blood, as the Camisards ruthlessly descended upon the surviving wounded and killed them without hesitation.
The serene valley had in just an hour been transformed into hell on earth, and while the waters might eventually wash away the blood of the fallen, the horror would haunt the memories of the survivors for the rest of their lives.
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The ambush by the Camisards in the Cevennes Mountains was a resounding success, with a much larger Spanish army being forced to flee from a much smaller force through sheer terror and panic. Total casualties for the Spanish range from 500 to 1,000, while figures for the Camisards are said to be between 40 and 100.
It was not the Spanish casualties that forced their retreat, but the fear created from them. This attack was arguably the best pre-industrial example of a well-coordinated ambush on a larger force in the early modern era.
The Spanish army that originally consisted of 40,000 was reduced to 30,000 by the desertion of the column meant to attack the Imperial army from behind through Cevennes, forcing the Duke of Berwick to abandon the plan and attack head on, despite protests from his commanders and his own doubts.
Megas Domestikos Alexandros Beliarious, having reduced the Spanish army by roughly 10,000 thanks to the Camisard’s ambush, left 5,000 soldiers to continue the siege of Montpellier while the main body of the Stratos Italias moved to engage the Spanish army in the field. Both forces contained roughly 30,000 men.
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Sorry for the long wait. My hand had swollen up again. I'm not sure what it was; I don't think it was staff infection this time, but merely a case of carpal tunnel. It went away after I laid off the keyboard. This was suppose to be part of a larger post, but poor Dionysius' pleas convinced me to release it early. Expect the rest soon.
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I can't believe I missed that many updates...
aww...
well, now I read it... and it's awsome...
YAY!
Right then... keep with the updating... and I'll try to be a better reviewer next time...
aww...
well, now I read it... and it's awsome...
YAY!
Right then... keep with the updating... and I'll try to be a better reviewer next time...
joebthegreat said:
Same here, Iw as expecting one update I hadn't read when I clicked the thread, instead I find 3! Good battle there with the Camisards. Was the province just filled with rebels and you used that to fit the storyline, or what happened, game wise?
-TGD
The-Great-Dane said:
The Camisards were historically rebelling against Louis XIV at this time in that region, so it is basically a historical reference.
Expect another update later today. I finally found the inspiration to write, which has been denied to me the past couple of weeks.
That's an impressive piece of literary work!
I'm truly looking forward to your next update.
Also , do you have any plans to reconquer the Old Roman Empire during Victoria?
Remember , badboy can be quite helpful in Victoria - if you wish to go on a conquering spree.
Perhaps picking a time such as the Franco - Prussiian war might be advisable
And perhaps the opium war - how are the chinese doing right now?
Perhaps it might be a good time to reconquer Britannia then.
I'm truly looking forward to your next update.
Also , do you have any plans to reconquer the Old Roman Empire during Victoria?
Remember , badboy can be quite helpful in Victoria - if you wish to go on a conquering spree.
Perhaps picking a time such as the Franco - Prussiian war might be advisable
And perhaps the opium war - how are the chinese doing right now?
Perhaps it might be a good time to reconquer Britannia then.