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=== Legio I Hispania marching camp, Saguntum; Maius 137 AD ===

Fortunas had been driving his legion hard and fast towards the city of Saguntum. On the way he had made sure that all the soldiers were highly motivated and as he had promised was leading by example, walking up and down the line encouraging his soldiers to exert extra effort to get to their goal, which was the city of Saguntum. He had continued to use Tribune Falcin and the Hispano-Roman cavalry as a screen to ensure that his legion was not taken by surprise. As he was travelling through the region of Tarraconesis he stumbled across an idea: The legion was already hardy, but lacked the battle experience; Fortunas believed that this could be the legion’s undoing if he attacked the Freigoth’s land directly, so he surmised that recruiting the local peoples in the area of Taraconnesis would be to his benefit. Fortunas sent out a call to arms as soon as he entered the region, and for some time no men of support came until one night when he was in his depths of despair.

“Sir,” his clerk said, poking his head round the door. “You have a visitor sir.” The clerk hurriedly rushed out the words. Fortunas cocked his head, unsure and apprehensive of who this visitor could be. The man who entered the room was garbed in leather studded armour and carried a short shord on par with a gladius. His shin guards reflected the light in the room. His name was Frontinus, leader of the Ielevocates. He has persuaded the group to join upon hearing of Fortunas Julianus’ and Valens Julianus’ resistance to the Freigoths. After a short pause he began to speak.

“Hail Fortunas Julianus, son of the Tullian family of Hispania! My name is Frontinus, leader of the Ielevocates. I come today to answer your call to arms. I have brought with me roughly two thousand men, but before I hand over the will of my men and I, what will we receive in return for aiding you on your quest to destroy the Freigoths?” Frontinus looked at Fortunas, waiting for an answer.

“Well, Frontinus the answer to your question is hidden within it. I offer you the destruction of the land of the Freigoths, the very people took the land south of you and will no doubt try and take your land. I am offering you the chance of aiding in its destruction, if you join me we will have a serious chance of total victory and I will leave NO Freigoth standing. I am of Hispanic and Celtebrian origin- this is my land as much as it is yours.” Fortunas paused, clenching his fist. “Together Frontinas, we can free it.” The hairs on the back of Fortunas’ neck stood on end. Believing deeply in what he had just spoken, Frontinus also began to smile as he also believed in what Fortunas was saying.

“My friend those words were finely put, but a part of me feels that they are just words, do you truly feel what you have just spoken?” Fortunas mused for a second. Before he was about to answer, he pulled out a small blade from his side and ran it along the palm of his hand and held his bleeding palm out to Frontinus.

“Is this enough? We are of the same blood, we will now become brothers also.” Frontinus joined hands with Fortunas and they nodded to each other, and Frontinus left. Fortunas mused on the fact that now he had some experienced soldiers, although only two thousand. The experience would be necessary when finally encountering the Freigoths. This gave him seven thousand men- more than any match he thought.

=== The Next Morning ===

Fortunas had roused the legion early to steal a quick march on the city of Saguntum and finally give his legion a chance to rest. Saguntum on the east coast of Hispania was the final point before the legion’s invasion of the Freigoth lands beginning with Valentia. Saguntum would be a key supply base and will have good lines of communication with the rest of the empire if all else failed. Fortunas was walking along his lines as he had done for the entire journey as he left SouthWestern Gallia. Fortunas looked back at some of the soldiers looking into there faces, a lot of them young men in their early twentys reminding him of his youth when he used to run free around the lands of Equestris with his brother Cicero. He mused at how his life had changed, how in the span of three years he had gone from living in Rom,e getting by with his cousin Lucius Tacitus Vitellius. Now he is leading seven thousand men into war. As the walls of Saguntum came into view Fortunas hollered:

“First Hispanic Legion halt march, Tribunes and cohort commanders to the front!!” Fortunas turned to see the shouts reiterated around the legion and a mass of officers and Tribunes converging on his position. “Well gentlemen we have reached our goal. It has been a long march and a tough march but we can say that we have pushed these men to the limits of their stamina. You have also done a fine job in ensuring that these men have reached their destination. But…” The other officers sighed but buoyed by there Generals praise continued to listen attentively. “We must remain vigilant. I want the city walls fortified and a double watch posted. We cannot allow our guard to slip when we are this close. We must keep drilling the men and ensure they don’t lose focus.” He looked around and all the officers bar Hortensius left to bark there orders.

“Sir, do you think it wise to push the men as hard as you are and then force them to drill and double watches, I have to say I don’t necessarily agree.” Fortunas eyed, him conscious that others might be listening.

“Hortensius, I have to push them, don’t you see since we left Hispania months have passed and these boys are becoming men. They have come together as a group and when we finally have to put them into the field they will be ready to fight and die for each other. Surely you can see that.” Fortunas looked Hortensius straight in the eyes.

“Yes Legate, I agree. I am sorry I questioned your judgement.” With that he excused himself and marched off towards the legionary command group.

=== That night ===

The first Hispanic legion had just fortified the town of Saguntum, creating a ring fortress around its perimeter. As per the instructions of Fortunas the guard on watch was doubled and a Tribune had to approve entry to all non-Legion traffic. This kept his men busy and in his mind this reassured him that his men could not gain any thoughts of mutiny. So with the rest of the legion settling in, Fortunas himself to conclude his affairs. He had been consistently worried over the past few days about his forces effectiveness in battle he had already recruited two thousand Ielevocates but he still felt he should increase his force so he decided to send a letter to his cousin Tacitus Vitellius, who was in the Baleares. The message read:

“Dear Cousin,

I hope this letter finds you well and I am unhappy I could not have written sooner, but more urgent matters have arisen, the Freigoths have assaulted Equestris and I am heading off to attack the Freigoth homeland itself I currently only have 5,000 men. I feel that this is definately not enough for me to full make use of my surprise assault on the region. I have several intiatives underway but any support in terms of manpower would be fully appreciated.

Signed: Tullius Fortunas Julianus”

Fortunas handed the message to a runner who rushed out towards the gates, Fortunas looked on hoping for good news and soon. He then turned his attention to the map in front of him, laying his finger on the map and hovering over Saguntum, he moved his finger to the town of Valentia, this would be the focal point for his attack.

Later that morning Hortensius and the other officers were summoned to the command tent of Fortunas Julianus, Hortensius was walking down the main Praetoria stretch towards the tent went Tribune Avarnus rushed up beside him.

“Salve Hortensius,” came the shout from behind him. Hortensius looked round and saw the short stocky figure running towards him. Hortensius was a quiet man but was a strong leader. He was training up the young tribunes and Avarnus was the one tribune that showed real promise.

“Yes Avarnus, what do you want?” came the short but stubborn reply.

“Well Hortensius, isn’t it obvious. Do you know why we have been summoned?” Avarnus asked.

“I suppose Avarnus, the Legate has something to tell us.” He said looking at Avarnus as though to say no further questions. But Avarnus, true to his reputation ignored the warning.

“Come on Hortensius you must know, he tells you everything.” Hortensius stopped and looked Avarnus straight in the eyes.

“Listen here boy, because that is what you are- a boy. I said leave it there and I mean leave it there. The Legate has summoned us because he is our commanding General and we as soldiers do as we are told, now let it rest you will find out sooner or later.” With that Avarnus was silenced and walked a step behind as to not incur a sharp knuckle blow which Hortensius was famous for being able to inflict. Hortensius and Avarnus were one of the last to enter the room and the Legate was already waiting for them.

“Nice of you to join us gentlemen, I hope I am not interrupting anything important,” Fortunas said raising an eyebrow at Hortensius and Avarnus, making sure he got his point across. “Right where was I… I was about to explain the next steps for this legion, as you know two thousand men of the Ielevocates have already joined us and I have sent word to Lucius Tacitus Vitellius for any men he can spare. I have done this because once I have received word from Tacitus the legion will prepare to advance.” Fortunas stopped to let the words sink in and then began again. “This means gentlemen we will be attacking the Freigoths directly and our target will be Valentia. From there we will blaze a trail and defeat all comers and we will not stop until the freigoths are defeated. So gentlemen I am clear as to our goals as now you are, I expect all Centurionate commanders to be briefed and the legion to be ready to move out on my word, Understood?” The officers and Tribunes all nodded and said there agreement with that they were dismissed.

Two days later early in the morning a scroll arrived in front of Fortunas, Fortunas raised an eyebrow and opened the scroll it read:
" Tullius Fortunus,

I intercepted your letter in Valentia as I landed. I was briefed on the situation regarding the Freigoth attack on Equestris and made for the mainland with as much support as I could muster. I have with me a cohort of my own private guard, and only a few hundred loyalists from the islands; It wont be much of a supplement, but I assure you the Tullian Guard are veteran and experienced in battle. I am making haste North out of Valentia, perhaps we will rendezvous?

Tacitus."

===Septem, Mauretania Tingitana; Maius ===

Romulus Tiberius Maxus ducked under a blow aimed at his head and at the same time he brought his own practice sword around to deflect a thrust aimed at his left side. The three men he was sharing the training area with were panting hard as they tried to encircle him. Each was an accomplished swordsman themselves and Maxus was forced to work hard to keep them from overwhelming him. The key was to keep them from surrounding him and working together because if that happened, no amount of skill with a sword would save him.

Maxus kept moving, attacking and retreating both to keep them from encircling him and from uniting, these were soldiers and they knew how to fight as a unit, knew how to support one another. The three men grew increasingly frustrated as Maxus kept dancing about, deflecting blows and delivering clever counter strikes that kept them at bay. Finally one broke the pattern and charged the young General.

This was what Maxus had been waiting for and he sidestepped the foolish attacker, deflected his practice sword and ran his own practice weapon over the man’s middle, ‘killing’ him. The man dropped where he was and lay still as he was meant to do, watching as Maxus engaged his two comrades.

“Good.” Maxus panted when the fight was won and men smiled and nodded, accepting their general’s praise. The young former Legate took the cloth that was offered him and wiped the sweat from his brow as three new challengers picked up practice swords and stood ready. Maxus enjoyed the exercise and refused to believe that he probably didn’t need the training, he had practiced the sword every day since he was ten years old and he wasn’t about to stop now.

Just as he was moving back into the centre, a man came running in, pushing through the ring of soldiers. They let him pass at a gesture from Maxus but many hands still lingered on sword hilts. Those weren’t for practice. “Sir,” the messenger began, struggling for breath. “This just arrived, I was told to bring it to you immediately.” He extended his hand and Maxus took the scroll it held without comment before breaking the seal and reading its contents.

When he had finished, he rolled it up again and tucked it into his armour. “You have done well Julius, take a horse and ride to the camp of II Septem immediately, tell Tribune Artorius I want the men ready to sail in three days and send Tribune Quintus to me.” Julius saluted and ran off towards the stable without a word and Maxus handed his practice sword to one of his guards, they would have to train later. There was much to be done.

Maxus spent the rest of the day making preparations to leave Septem. There were people he had to see, orders he had to give and instructions he had to leave and little time to do it all. He met Tribune Quintus atop the recently completed stone wall that now surrounded the city. Maxus had come to Septem with orders to fortify it and fortify it he had. It had taken a month to gather enough materials and labour to begin construction and the plans had been drawn up in that time. It had taken thousands of slaves and hired workers working steadily for a year to complete the project but when it had been finished; there had been celebrations and feasting throughout the entire city. The people of Septem and the soldiers had all watched the wall grow from nothing and felt a great deal of pride in the structure that now guarded their homes and families.

“Ave General, you sent for me?” Tribune Quintus asked after saluting.
“Yes Tribune, I want you to go to Rome. I need someone to represent me in the Senate and keep me informed about what those old men are talking about. I know you would make a good politician Quintus, will you do this for me?” Of course, the man would never refuse him but he thought it polite to ask anyway. Quintus was already a man of Senatorial privilege, though low on the social pecking order and so had opted out of his right till now.

“If you think it is how I could best serve you sir, of course I will.” The Tribune replied eagerly. He did not want to leave his men but if Maxus wanted him to swim all the way to Rome, he would do it.

“Good man, then go now and take this scroll to Senator Ramirus Flavus when you arrive.” He handed the Tribune a scroll and clasped his hand in farewell. He had come to consider Quintus as a friend would miss the man who had served under him for years. He had grown used to having him around to call on for advice but he needed someone in Rome to speak for him, someone who he trusted and someone who could handle politics. Still, he didn’t have time to dwell on it, there were still many things he had to do.

=== Three Days Later ===

Tiberius Maxus looked back at walled city of Septem from the stern of the flagship. He left some men there to defend the city with the city guard and to continue training the recruits that were not ready for battle as well as those that were still coming in. He was taking those that were ready to Abdera and from there to join the Hispanic army in their fight against the Friegoths. His army numbered two and a half thousand troops and although many lacked battle experience, they were well trained and led by the best officers the eastern armies had had to offer.

Maxus looked around at the sound of footsteps and his gaze fell upon Avitus, one of the men he had taken with him from IV Fortis. The young man looked nothing like the elite soldier he was, he looked awkward and, even a little delicate at first glance, but if one examined him carefully they might see archer’s calluses covering his hands and the way his eyes darted about, missing nothing. Avitus had been the best archer in IV Fortis and was an uncommonly skilled scout to boot.

“I don’t like the look of these sailors, General.” He spoke quietly so as to not let anyone hear, but Maxus frowned at him none the less.

“Enough of that talk Avitus, you’re being paranoid. Though, to tell you the truth I can’t say I’ll ever see eye to eye with people who actually enjoy this cursed motion,” he said eyeing the men moving around the deck darkly.

Avitus scratched his head looking impressed. “Why sir, you almost made a joke!” the flat look he received in return wiped the incredulous look off his face and he reddened. “Sorry, General...” he mumbled and stumbled to the ladder, no doubt to relate the wonder to Maxus’ other men below. Maxus just shook his head slightly and cursed softly. He wished the bloody ship wouldn’t move about like this. Oh how he longed for solid ground again, even one day at sea was one day too long!


=== Abdera, Baetica; Maius ===

The combined army of the Valenii Juliani and the Consular forces of Hispania were marching through the seaport town of Abdera. The seaport had once been a trading station of the Carthaginians, conquered by the Romans and now part of the Baetican province it had been surpassed by the larger port cities of Carthago Nova and Gades.

“Freigoths are heading towards us.” Manius Vibenius Decentius reported. The Baetican in his late twenties had only just arrived from Rome with Senator Esik Vasconnes a month before and now found himself deeply involved the cloak and dagger of espionage.

“You saw them yourself, Vibenius?” Proraetorian Valens Julianus asked.

“Indeed I did, took three horsemen with me, we came flying back down the coast road. There’s at least twenty five thousand, maybe more.” Vibenius answered before taking a swig of a flask of water that was held out to him by a legionary.

Valens thought for a moment. “Can’t be the army that conquered Equestris. That army is still sitting there under Thaurismers. They must have raised a second army to deal with us.”

=== Baria, Southwest of Carthago Nova ===

Previous to the attack on Equestris the Gothic army stood at roughly 55,000 warriors. 24,000 of those warriors had been employed for the attack on Equestris; of which 3000 had been killed. Thaurismers still remained at Equestris with his soldiers; to abandon Equestris now would be to admit defeat. He sent his younger brother Ahtabairhts to Carthago Nova to raise the rest of the Freigoths warriors for an impending counter attack by the local Hispanic forces. Ahtabairhts had done so, only to discover that a small Roman army consisting of Legio I Hispanica and Spanish allies under Legate Tullius Fortunus Julianus was marching on Valentia and a even larger combined army of consular and Valenii Julianii forces was marching on Carthago Nova.

Having no option Ahtabairhts split his new army in two; General Hildegais would head north with 5,000 warriors to deal with Legio I Hispania. They were deemed more than enough to deal with this freshly raised legion. Meanwhile he took the remaining 26,000 warriors southwest to engage ProPraetorian Legate Valens Julianus’ new army before he could reach Carthago Nova and do too much damage to the newly settled Freigoth population.

“Our numbers are roughly equal.” Valens observed as he watched the Freigoth army of Ahtabairhts move up the coast road towards his position.

“Except this time we have the veterans of Colonia Floriana, a fourth legion and several more auxiliary cohorts and of course most importantly myself,” Legate Sentius Tutor said with a hardy chuckle. “Don’t do anything fancy boy and we will carry the day.”

Valens nodded at the veteran from the Iustian legions. Riding down the hill he saluted at the officers waiting for him. He looked at them and smiled. “You have your orders, do remember that I have the highest expectations of you all.”

The officers nodded and some saluted before they made their way to their units and ordered them forward in formation. Valenii Juliani Consular army covered the ground on both sides of the coast road, from the beach all the way up to the hills.

As the Freigoths came forward the Libritors manning the Carroballistae and Onager opened fire. Artillery was largely inaccurate against moving targets but it helped to create panic amongst soldiers who had never faced it. Unfortunately for the Romans most of the artillery had been lost at the Battle of Equestris, so the entire army was relying on the pieces that Legio IX Classica Hispana had brought over from Africa and what they’d been able to quickly construct. Therefore where the army should have had 40 Onager and 200 Carroballistae; they only had 9 Onager and 43 Carroballistae. Nonetheless the Libritors manned their pieces diligently and set to reloading and firing as quickly as they could.

“This army has alot to prove today.” Valens stated to one of his Tribunes. “We all have alot to prove today after what happened at Equestris three months ago.”

“Sir. There is a rumour going across the army that the Freigoth have been plundering all the towns from Carthago Nova to Baria and their baggage train is laden with gold, silver and women. This doesn’t quite make sense to me.” The Tribune stated.

Valens chuckled. “Yes don’t tell anyone this but I figured it would encourage the soldiers a little if they thought winning today would make them all rich men.”

“And when we win and theres no gold, silver and women?” The Tribune asked.

“Oh there will be gold, silver and plenty of Freigoth women... wait till we sack Carthago Nova,” Valens said with a sheepish grin.

While the Propraetorian Legate and his officers watched the enemy deploy into line for an attack. The legionaries and auxiliaries across the front began preparing themselves for the traditional warband charge. Unlike at Equestris where the Freigoths had legionary trained soldiers and auxiliaries; this army consisting of second line troops only knew how to fight in the old war of warbands, one large headlong charge at their enemy where sheer weight and numbers was expected to carry the day.
Under the fire from artillery and the surviving slingers from Cohors I Hispanica Funditorum and Cohors II Hispanica Funditorum, the Freigoths hit the Roman-Iberian line of battle. It was a thunderous clash as over twenty thousand Freigoth hit a similar number of legionaries and auxiliaries. The slingers evading behind the heavy infantry just seconds before the two lines met. The Romans though were deployed in duplex acies; two lines. Half the legionaries in one line of cohorts, the other half in a second line of cohorts. Auxillaries were on either flank and the cavalry and a small contingent of cavalry on the left flank... or so the Freigoths were left to assume.

The mass of Freigoths did however push the first legion back and in several places they broke through. But these holes were quickly plugged by legionaries from the cohorts in the second line. Having not achieved a breakthrough immediately the two lines began to fallback to reform and rally, before amassing enough courage to charge for again. In this manner various scattered duels occurred, especially between the Maure and Berbers from Legio IX Classica Hispana and Freigoths who were quite used to this style of single handed warfare.

Legate Lucius Asinius Catonius of Legio IX Classica Hispana shook his head in disappointment watching as several of his soldiers broke formation to engage the Freigoths in duels. The grumpy old professional who’d served the Tullians in Hispania for years, couldn’t bear to watch his soldiers, he rode up to Valens and began complaining. “Propraetorian Legate! Have you seen this disgusting display by my men..?. I blame you for this.”

Valens smiled at the old Tullian servant turned Valenii Juliani turncoat. “Oh Asinius. Must you always complain.” Valens paused in thought. “Fine order your legion forward. It’s time to put some pressure on the Freigoths.” Then Valens turned to his Tribunes. “Tribunes enough of this nonsense report to your legates that ProPraetorian Valens Julianus orders a counterattack and general advance along the entire line of battle!”

The Tribune’s all eagerly saluted and headed off to tell the Legate’s of the four legions; three of which were grossly under strength to attack. Valens then looked back at the veterans of Cohors I Evocata and Cohors II Evocata who were waiting to move forward; in fact they were discretely dressing their ranks in a manner as such as they were moving close to the line of battle each time. Riding over to the Prefects of the two cohorts Valens sighed. “Fine. Go forward and win the day. Attack down the centre between Legio V Probi Mulorum and Legio VI Vasconicorum.”

The two Prefects nodded drew their swords and ordered their cohorts forward. The orders did not arrive across the line at the same time, Legio VI Lusonicorum closet to Valens received the order first and Legate Sentius Tutor ever the loyal soldier threw his second line in forward and led his legion bravely forward. Legio V Probi Mulorum and Legio VI Vasconicorum seeing this move by their sister legion also now charged against the Freigoths. The Cohors I Evocata and Cohors II Evocata not to be outdone by recruits and amateurs charged in behind the legions. In this manner the entire Valenii Juliani Army-Consular Army charged forward and engaged their enemy.

Having waited for the entire line of the Freigoths to come into contact with the Romans; Manius Vibenius Decentius now made his way forward with the light cavalry which had been held back several hundred meters behind the eastern hill lines. Over four thousand heavy and light cavalry formed up on the hill to the sheer surprise of the Freigoths. Then with a single from one of Valens Juliauns’ flag bearers, they came streaming down the hill into the flank and rear of the Freigoths army.

Ahtabairhts quickly rode with his cavalry reserve to engage the Roman cavalry, but most of the Freigoth noble heavy cavalry had been destroyed at the Battle of Equestris, and what was left were inexperienced warriors who’d been given mounts they did not themselves know how to ride properly. They were quickly brushed aside by the experienced cavalrymen from Baetica, Hispania and Western Mauretania.

The young general Ahtabairhts, had fallen off his horse, several of his bodyguards had dismounted to stand around him and defend him till the Romans would except his surrender. But the Romans today had no intention of doing such thing, and he and his bodyguards were pelted with javelins from the light horsemen till all had been killed.

=== Elsewhere in the battle, II Septem and Tiberius Maxus ===

Maxus sat astride Falco and watched the battle take place. He had seen larger battles in the East but that wasn’t to say they were bloodier than this one. All battles were costly and Maxus ran his eyes over the currents of moving soldiers, watching for the signs he had learned to recognize. Around him were his soon to be elite bodyguards the Equites Maxi. They sat stiff in their saddles and their armour gleamed in the sun. These men would charge with one gesture from him, even if it meant their death. The rest of II Septem were arrayed in front of him. They watched the battle too and no doubt, they were nervous, but they stood almost as quietly as the Equites Maxi for the officers had brought from the East would have nothing other than iron discipline.

They had joined the army of Hispania near Abdera and had joined them on their march. Some of his men had been involved in screening the army and with scouting and all in all, it provided valuable experience for the men, the only thing the officers couldn’t teach. Now they stood as a reserve for Maxus had made sure that they would not be a part of the front line. Not in their first battle at least. Far better to give them some easy fighting first up to lift their confidence and allay their nerves. The time for bloody battles that left many friends dead and nightmarish struggles that had men collapsing with fatigue would come soon enough, but not today.

It was then that Maxus saw what he had been looking for. Directly in front of them the battle seemed to be going poorly, the Hispanic troops were beginning to falter under a bitter assault by the enemy who were starting to gain momentum. If they broke through it would spell disaster for the army and might just be fatal. He looked over at Valens Julianus questioningly, and the man nodded. In a carrying voice he gave the order. “II Septem, Forward!” The orders were relayed back and forth by the officers and Maxus watched, holding his breath. He caught Tribune Artorius’ eye and gave him a nod. The older man gave a salute and set off with his own bodyguard, taking command as II Septem rushed to prevent a breakthrough.

Maxus watched with pride as the men marched in step towards the battle. Once they were in range they halted and hurled their javelins into the enemy formation, taking care to avoid their allies already fighting. With that they moved forward and joined the battle to support their comrades. The legion that had been on the verge of breaking began fighting with renewed vigor, heartened by the arrival of two and a half thousand fresh troops and together they pushed the enemy back. Maxus watched, a slight, satisfied smile playing across his lips.

Maxus continued to watch the battle, satisfied with his men’s performance. It was exactly what he had wanted; the men had got a taste of real battle but at a low cost. Very few lives had been lost as the fighting had not been short and easy. Before long the enemy was breaking and it soon turned into a full scale route. Now the real killing began. Maxus watched with silent satisfaction as he saw the cavalry, his own light cavalry among them chase after the fleeing Goths. There was no need for his own bodyguard to join the chase; even a peasant with horse and a pitchfork could stab a fleeing veteran in the back! The men of II Septem charged forward with the others and joined it the general pursuit. This easy killing would give his no-longer-virgin-force added confidence for the next time they went into battle and Maxus was glad they had been able to learn from seeing the other soldiers in battle.
As the Freigoth army now broke and began to flee. Valens gave the order for a full pursuit by the entire army. The legionaries broke ranks and began chasing on the heels of the fleeing warriors. A large portion of the cavalry under Centurion Spanos raced down the coast road to block the retreating Freigoths, leaving only the sea and the hills to flee to. Both were poor options; as their was nowhere to swim to and the hills and further up the mountains were confusing and well known to the locals who would flush out the surviving warriors in the next few days and weeks.

The Freigoth home army consisting of most of their second line troops who’d been left at Carthago Nova while their main army went to Equestris; their youngest and oldest warriors was now destroyed. There were now only two remaining Freigoth armies in the field. The 22,000 Freigoths occupying Equestris and the 5,000 Freigoth and 5,000 reluctant Carthago Nova Romano-Iberian militia heading up to Valentia, and perhaps several thousand that had escaped the debacle at Baria; were now all that remained of 60,000 warriors that had crossed the Pyrenees a little over one year ago.

=== Meanwhile In Rome ===

Marcus Fallentus was a man of vast experience; he was tall for a Roman with a particularly thin build which disguised his true strength. His short brown hair and clean shaven face hailed back to true Roman values. Marcus Fallentus was a good friend of the Legate of the newly formed legion in Hispania, Legate Fortunas Julianus. Marcus Fallentus was a former soldier himself but never made it himself to the rank of Legate. He used his military experience when approaching any Senatorial task as organisation was still vitally important in this line of work. For many years Marcus Fallentus had been a quiet member of the Senate but seeing his friend finally taking his life into his own hands was a refreshing thought for him.

Several days before Marcus Fallentus had received a scroll from Fortunas Julianus stating that he had received news from Hispania of Freigoth territory and was heading off to investigate the matter as he strongly believed that an attack on his homeland deserved retribution. Marcus Fallentus was strongly against allowing the gothic lands existence and thus against anything or anyone who was of gothic origin, thought that this was an excellent opportunity to rid Rome of these parasites. So he began to deliberate and muse on how he could achieve this.

Marcus Fallentus felt that only one option was available to him and that was declaring in the Senate house that all Freigoths are enemies of the state, so he began to prepare himself for what he was about to do. Two days later Marcus Fallentus was walking towards the Senate house deep in thought his wrinkled face showing nerves and possible regret. But Marcus Fallentus was resolved to complete his task. He sat in his seat in the Senate house preparing to make announcement, his throat was dry and his heart pounded before being announced to speak.

"My esteemed colleagues of the Senate House today I stand before to present a motion that has not been presented before here in these halls." Fallentus paused and then continued.

"As we are all aware the Freigoth peoples have attacked in the Hispanic region and attacked the city of Equestris. As an empire we must not stand for this bare faced insult to our honor. We as an empire must act both with sword in hand and with an eye on the future. Surely now it is certain that the Freigoths can never be trusted again." Fallentius paced as he spoke, looking deep into the eyes of the younger Senatores.

"So gentlemen we must ask ourselves what must we do, I have word that the first Hispanic legion has halted its march and has now turned and headed towards Hispania once again. I say now diplomacy has failed we should use all of our might both here in Rome and on the battlefield. So I stand before to propose that all Freigoth peoples are named ENEMIES OF THE STATE with it then becoming every Roman citizens noble duty to do them harm at every opportunity, were ever they are situated. I believe that the Freigoth peoples deserve no less and should be shown as an example to all those would be regions who would rebel against us what happens to those who rebel Rome."

"So gentlemen I ask that you put this up for the vote and I recommend that we enact this as soon as possible." with that Fallentius sat in his chair, his heart beating fast.

The debate went for several hours with no real outcome which enraged Marcus Fallentus. Thinking to himself, “clearly this matter needs to be decided upon perhaps I will have to force the issue”, he leaned to his friend and Senator Gaius Honestus, a short and chubby man famous for his many appetites but was still an astute politican and a confirmed confidant for Marcus Fallentus. He looked at Honestus and said in muttered tones.

“This clearly will not be decided today and our Emperor seems to be disinterested with how our little governing body acts. Perhaps we should persuade him to act.” He said winking at Honestus. Honestus nodded and the two men agreed to meet at the home of Marcus Fallentus after the Senate adjourned for the day.

=== Several Hours Later, Home of Marcus Fallentus ===

The two men stood on the balcony of Marcus Fallentus’ villa drinking heated wine, something that soothed Marcus Fallentus extremely well. The two men were discussing how to procede.

“Honestus, I think we need to force our Emperor Reconcilus.” He said in a sarcastic tone. “To act, he clearly has no interest in Hispania, especially that we have those damn dirty gothic senators in our halls.” Marcus Fallentus said with venom in his voice. “Those servile scum dare degrade our halls, especially after they attack Hispania. I wish I joined my good friend Fortunas on his journey back to Hispania to crush those damned Goths. But I am not and we are here... so Honestus, what do you feel we should do?”

Honestus thought for a moment and looked at Marcus and spoke.“I think Marcus, that we have to force the Emperor’s hand and the best way to do that is through the mob. We rouse an anger against the Goths that Rome has not seen for a long time. We show the Emperor through the mob which way to turn.” Honestus said smiling to his Marcus.

“Excellent idea, Honestus. I have just the man for the job, he is head of the Romana Collegia, they hate the Goths as much as we do if we can get them to incite a bit of passion into Rome then we can achieve our goal.”

=== Later That Evening ===

“Dominus,” shouted the house slave of Marcus Fallentus. “A man by the name of Pulcher to see you sir.”

“Well show him in then!” Came the reply from Marcus. Pulcher was a short man with a deep scar across his right cheek. Pulcher and Marcus were aquaintances from past plans and the two men seemed to understand each other complicity.

“Why am I here Marcus?” Pulcher got straight to the point.

“You are here because I need you to start stirring up trouble against any and all Goths that are left in Rome. I want you to rouse the people against them, I want the mob to show there anger and I want you to cause it,” Marcus enjoyed the presence of Pulcher as he was a blunt man which both men appreciated.

“Well it may involve a few dead bodies, are you happy for that to happen Marcus.?” Pulcher replied.

“Well if it gets the desired outcome then of course, I expect it, do what you have to do to get the desired effect,” Marcus said with a wry smile.

=== Defensive Camp of Legio I Hispania, Northern Baetica ===

Centurion Macro stood on the walls looking our over the town of Saguntum. Macro was new to the Centurionate and was looking for the chance to prove himself. He like the rest of the legion was of Hispanic origin and were all itching to get there chance to make the Freigoths pay for there actions. Macro was standing over the gate of the defensive camp when a shout came from below.

“Open the gate!” Tribune Falcin barked.

“On whose order!” Macro replied.

“By the order of Legate Fortunas Julianus!” Tribune Falcin retorted.

“You heard the Tribune open the gate you lazy curs!” The legionnaires hurriedly pulled up on the wooden bar and gradually opened the gate allowing Tribune Falcin to leave the camp of the First Hispanic Legion. About an hour before he had been given his final orders for his scouting mission, Falcin, a young patrician from Rome was on his first tour of duty and was relishing the chance to make a name for himself. He had been with the legion’s cavalry since they began there return journey from Gallia. Falcin’s task was to fully scout the area surrounding Valentia and to report immediately back to the legion. His role would be key in giving the legion enough time to prepare. He was to return with territorial information so Fortunas will be able to pick the best battlefield position.

=== Several Hours Later ===

A dust cloud was rising on the horizon, the legionnaire on duty stood squinting, his youthful looks and deep blue eyes straining to understand what was moving on the horizon. He waited and waited until finally when the first sight of soldiers crested the ridge his eyes widened with surprise.

“Centurion of the watch to the wall!” The legionnaire shouted in a rushed manner, he heard the metal studs of the Centurion could be heard thudding up the steps muttering profusely to himself while chewing on some salted pork. He looked at the legionnaire and scowled, “This better be good… so what have you got?”

“Sir, large body of men in armour advancing on our position, Sir!” The legionnaire said while using his Pilum to point to the position of the advancing group. The Centurion looked and squinted and said allowed, “No, it cant be...” He turned to behind himself to the edge of the wall and bellowed. “Call for the Legate, he will want to see this.” A legionnaire rushed off and a few moments later returned with the Legate and Camp Prefect Hortensius, Fortunas climbed the steps to the walls and approached the Centurion.

“What have you got Centurion,” Fortunas asked.

“Not sure sir, but I thought you might want to see.” Fortunas eyed the Centurion, he looked at the body of men noticing the man at the front of them; it was Lucius Tacitus Vitellius arriving from the Balereas. He barked back at the Centurion.

“Centurion do you believe that the body of men approaching the wall is a threat big enough to scare five thousand men? I doubt it, you also thought it wise to call out the Legate and his Camp Prefect also, luckily for you these are our reinforcements from the Baleares, make sure the gates are opened and I am never, and I repeat never disturbed like this again.” The Centurion seemed severely embarrassed, Fortunas left to go to meet Tacitus at the entrance. The Consular arrived with a full first-legionary cohort of private guardsmen, plus roughly a few hundred natives from the islands. They were happily recieved.

A few hours late, a lone rider thundered toward the camp. He is tired after riding all night to reach the legion and inform the legate of his news. His horse was strained under the intense speed he raced towards the gate the legionnaires noticing the fast approaching riding call him to a halt. The rider was requested to present a password, he replied and stayed on his horse, thundering toward the legion’s command tent and Fortunas Julianus. He arrived at the tent and was blocked by the clerk, after ten minutes of explaining his importance the clerk finally interrupted the Legate’s meeting. Shouting could be heard from the legate and the rider was summoned inside the tent.

“So legionary whats the news?” Fortunas ordered.

“Sir, the freigoths have left Valentia. we estimate the force to number around five thousand men, but they are well armed and seem due to the chainmail they are wearing and the orderly fashion of there advance to be veterans. We have scouted all paths leading to the legion and there are no tracks found going in either direction so it will only be the force coming from Valentia.”

“What about the Hispanic levies, have they marched with the army?” Fortunas’ mind was racing, desperate to predict the outcome.

“No Sir they are still in Valentia, so the force is entirely made up of freigoths.”

“Excellent, you are dismissed, water yourself and the horse and be ready to move out as soon as the legion is ready.” The legionary left the room and Fortunas called for his slave for and the clerks. “Fetch my armour and call assembly, I want Hortensius, Tacitus and Frontinus here as though it was yesterday!” The clerks nodded and left. Hortensius, Frontinus and Tacitus were all gathered in the command tent with Fortunas minutes later.

“So gentlemen, we know that the Freigoths are advancing on our position, as far as we know it is a force entirely made up of Goths. The Hispanic levies have remained in Valentia, I gentlemen intend to meet the Goths head on. Now I know it’s a risk but it is one that we will have to make to beat them. My plan is for me to take the main force including the Tullian Guard- with your permission Tacitus- and all remaining forces, while you Tacitus; I require you to ride hard for Valentia and persuade them by all means necessary to stand down. Oh and Tacitus if they struggle to make a decision, let them know that if one person resists I will tear there town apart. I will leave no stone unturned.”

Tacitus wasn’t exactly used to taking orders from Legates, but seeing the vigor in Fortunus’ command made him okay with being directed. He had watched his cousin grow from a restless clerk under his employ in Rome to a strapping man in command of a fine new legion. It made him proud, as it did when his son Rufus proved his worth the same way. “Fine enough,” Tacitus said. The others nodded in agreement.

The next morning the call for assembly had been sounded. The crashing of armour and the barking of orders from Centurions Tribunes assembled at the front of the lines men hurried into position awaiting for the order to move out, nervous faces and twitching limbs made the legion seem impatient. The men eventually fell silent with all in postion and the cry went out for the legion to advance. With the first cohort in the lead and the Tullian Guard behind, the rest of the legion advanced, the cavalry headed by Tribune Falcin also flanked either side of the advancing column.

=== Rollings Plains just North of Valentia ===

Fortunas had been marching the legion for over an hour when news came that the Goths were only a mile away. Fortunas halted the legion on the plains just north of Valentia. The legion formed up in standard line formation with each cohort four deep. The Tullian Guard were in the centre with the first cohort, this was to be Fortunas’ theatre of battle. He sat astride his horse at the rear of his force surveying all of the cohorts. He noticed that the Freigoths were about to appear from behind the ridge in front of him and as they continued to advance the force revealed it self as entirely made up of infantry. Sliding of his horse he called Hortensius and Tribune Avarnus to him.

“Right, here is how I see it. It’s going to be a straight slog, but we have the advantage of having superior numbers but we have to use them wisely. I will take the centre with the first, second and the Tullian Guard cohorts Hortensius you will take the right with the third and fourth cohorts and Tribune Avarnus I am giving you the opportunity to shine, Hortensius believes you are ready and I agree you will take the fifth and sixth cohorts on the left. I will leave the Ielevocates in reserve on the left flank to be used on my command only the same for the cavalry on the right. Gentlemen we have a chance to make history, let us not forget that. Now I shall address the troops.” Fortunas marched off to the front of the lines looking towards the enemy first, taking in the spectacle. He seemed strangely at home in adversity and turned back to his men with a smile on his face.

“Soldiers of Rome and Hispania, we stand here on an auspicious day. Today the First Hispanic legion goes into its first battle and we are honoured to serve in her ranks as loyal soldiers! We march to battle today to drive the Freigoths from our lands! We have the chance to free Hispania- our homeland- from this burden. Let us not forget that they also have come here to fight, but the difference that we have is that we fight for a greater cause, we fight for peace, honour and the glory of Rome and Hispania. So my brave soldiers of Rome, I ask will you fight with me today!!!” A roar erupted with cheers of “We are with you” coming from all over the legion. Fortunas felt great pride in that moment for this was his first battle also and he hoped that he would make it through the day.

The two armies stood opposite each other, the gothic commander also attempting to inspire his troops to great deeds. After performing to his men, both commanders turned and faced each other across the battlefield. Both men standing tall and proud Fortunas did not break his stare as to not be considered a coward. The freigoth turned first and Fortunas smirked he turned to Hortensius and said:

“Sound the advance Hortensius, lets skin us a goth!”

Hortensius gave a wry smile at the comment and the bellowed, along with the familiar sound of the cornicern. “Legion advance!” The call was echoed down the line and in the rear to the Ielevocates, Fortunas took up his position next to the First Centurion of the first cohort a man by the name of Maxentius, a tough grizzled veteran one that can always be relied upon.

Fortunas looked at Maxentius and asked, “Are you with me Centurion?”

“Yes sir, to the gates of Hades!” Maxentius said back.

“Good, lets show this scum what happens when you mess with Rome!” The two men took position within the ranks and began to tang there swords against there shields, Fortunas held his sword aloft, his shield in his left hand and sword in his right. His helmet crest fluttering in the wind and cloak denoting his rank tucked in behind him, he stood next to the standard bearer, a man named Porcius. Fortunas lowered his sword point towards the enemy and the legion advanced continually tanging there swords on the side of there shields. The Goths in turn replied with their own measured advance, not rushing forward as was the gallic custom. This battle was going to be hard run.

The two forces continued to advance. The forces closed to within a few hundred yards of each other where the Goths broke into a jog, Fortunas halted the legion.

“Steady lads, they will try and break the line with a hard charge! Stand firm, and pila’s to the front- launch on my order!” He ordered. The Goths closed and got closer, still no signal. When Fortunas could see the features on one of the Goths faces he prepared the launch.

“Pila ready!” Arms drew back waiting for the call. “Release!!” Fortunas called it was echoed and a hail of pilum’s flew into the front ranks of the Goths lines, stalling them. Another call came. “Prepare! Release!” Again causing consistant damage but not enough to break the Goth lines. “Release at will!” Fortunas bellowed. Now to surprise the enemy he decided it was best to use the stallment of the Goths against them, he bellowed: “Legion advance! At double pace!”

Heads behind their shields, the legionnaires and centurions alike charged the line of Goths with a great roar. The freigoths, not realising quick enough to form a coherent front line were caught unaware. The battle began in hand to hand combat.

The intial impact of the charge although made an impact was now lost due to the middle and rear lines regrouping. A real fight had developed. The legion, despite it’s inexperience, was showing it’s tenacity and will to fight, but that will would only last so long; soon the legion would tire and when that happened the Goths would counter. Fortunas, still in the front ranks, pulled himself to the rear to get a better overview of the battle. The line was holding but for how long, so he decided now was the time to try and use his reserves. He signalled for Frontinus, leader of the Ielevocates to launch an assault on the Goths left flank and begin to roll up the left flank. Two thousand fresh men on the flank would surely cause the force of the Goths to buckle. Frontinus received his orders advancing his men to the left flank of the enemy they went crashing into the line with real fervour causing the gothic line to bend but not buckle, although the intial impact of the charge was not as successful the overall impact of fresh men should take its toll.

Meanwhile on the right flank Hortensius was having a tougher time. His men were being steadily pushed back. Hortensius pulled a legionnaire to the rear to send word to Fortunas.

“Sir, Hortensius sends word, that reinforcements on his position would be appreciated!” Fortunas turned to look. “Damn,” came the reply. “Signal the cavalry, hit them in the right flank hard and fast- I will be there shortly!” A rumble could be heard and the cavalry headed by Tribune Falcin went headlong towards the Goths right flank. The impact of the cavalry threw them off balance. Hortensius noticing, this urged his men on. This was the turning of the tide, the left was holding and pushing back the freigoths beginning to encircle the Goths. While on the right the line was beginning to straighten out.

The battle still raged but after an hour of fighting the Goths were now completely encircled, still the toll on the legion was heavy many men were injured, and were struggling to finish off the enemy. Fortunas still at the front line was urging his men on unitl only a pocket of resistance remained, of the five thousand Goths that arrived, the battle ended when the remain two thousand surrendered without hesitation. A respite seemed to have occurred between the two armies, sensing the chance for an easy end to the battle Fortunas spoke to the remaining enemy.

“Surrender now Goths, and you will receive a quick death here and now, but if you refuse we will take you apart piece by piece!”

The gothic commander approached Fortunas, bloody and angry. “Roman, we be at peace now, we surrender.” Fortunas stepped closer to the goth, who was slightly taller than Fortunas but not by much. Fortunas’ anger swept over him, time went into slow motion and Fortunas plunged his sword under the jaw and up into the brain, blood spattered over his face the Goth fell to the ground dead instantly. As soon as the Freigoth leader’s body crumbled to the ground, the rest of I Hispania tightened their circle on the remaining enemy and secured their prize: slaves.

At the end of the day, numbers weren’t yet calculated for the surviving Roman allied force under Fortunus, but the first estimates looked good. The support of Consular Lucius Tacitus’ Vitellius and his fabled guard, as well as the inclusion of a native band of soldiers bolstered the inexperience drive of I Hispania’s soldiers and pushed them harder, and better than imagined. Losses were evident, in some cohorts severe, but morale was high- and victory was always a sweet refreshment.



Written By: Tullius Fortunas Julianus, Carus Florianus Julianus and Romulus Tiberius Maxus
Edited By: Ferus Juventas
137 AD