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Region: Kirinna

Aureliun reforms

Reges Palatium, 603 AH

Following the battle of Midellus and the conclusion of the Uder-Tiburr border war, the Red, Lucius Sergius called a council of the top commanders and governors to discuss army reforms. In the council chambers all stood silent for the words of the Rex to be spoken.

“Legatus Basilus, I wish to thank you for leading the army against the northern scaled men. But I will be the first to say that the army underperformed. The men were not ready and I wish to know why.”

Legatus Basilus stood up from his seat. His armor was an iron chest plate, adorned with the horses that represented his family. Basilus’ helmet was adorned with a single row of red feathers running from ear to ear in the middle of his helmet, signifying his rank as Legate. Basilus wore a red cloak that hung behind him.

Basilus removed him helmet and kneeled before the Rex before speaking. “My King, I offer my resignation following the battle. The troops were not trained and unready to take on a battle of those proportions.”

“And yet you prevailed. I do not accept your resignation, Basilus. Tiburr and it’s people need you more than ever. Besides, I did not ask nor demand people be accountable. I asked them to fix this army.” The Rex descended from his throne and placed his hand on the shoulder of the kneeling Legatus.

Basilus lowered his head upon feeling the touch of his Rex before attempting to speak before he was interrupted by one of the younger provincial governors.

“My king, if I may. It was not the training of the men, but their organization. The men were not set nor trained for heavy shock combat. The levies could not stand up to the heavy forces that the northern army deployed.” A man stepping down from the group of governors spoke up.

“So what do you suggest nameless man?” The Rex inquired as the young governor continued towards him.

“My name is Aurelius Remus. I stand in for my father who is ill. He is governor of Midellus and the surrounding region. I watched this battle after hearing your call. With me I brought the few men that could be mustered from the village. I commanded the unit from Midellus and fortunately, we were never committed into battle. This allowed me to watch the chaos unfold in front of me.”

“So you saw the flaws in the army?” The Rex asked, taking an interest in the words young soldier spoke.

“Yes my king. The issue was not the training, nor the discipline. Sure, some of the men fled the battlefield in panic. But the archers prevailed, the chariots crushed the enemy and the heavy infantry crushed the northern pikemen. No problem was the light infantry. They could not use their mobility in this battle. This led them to their deaths as the heavy shock troops of the northmen were able to drive into them and force them back.” Aurelius paused briefly to ensure the Rex had his full attention before continuing. “My suggestion is we abolish the levies system completely. Make the provinces responsible for fielding professionally trained units for the use of the kingdom in future engagements. Light infantry should not be neglected, rather retrained as a light fighting force. The other units performed well but we need assistance. The use of field artillery should be of utmost importance.”

The Rex pondered the words of the young soldier before speaking. Very well Aurelius. I’m appointing you as a Tribune under Basilus. Carry out these reforms. I want to be prepared.”

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