The Great Peloponnesian War

[Legion Of Hell]

Hello. For those that attend Total War Heaven I'm Legion Of Hell. Due to a debt I wish to repay for Squash I shall post my war story here. Here is the prologue and I hope you enjoy reading! By the way for those who are major hard line hardcore historians this story is 90% historically true and 10% fiction, but I leave it to you to guess what is fact and what is fiction. Also if you do know what is going to happen I seriously ask you not to spoil it for other readers. Thank you and enjoy the show!

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Prologue

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The Great Peloponnesian War was a conflict, which affected the city-states of Greece and went on for under thirty years. It broke the previously fixed rules of combat and was mired by brutality, along with the merciless actions of Greeks, whether they be Spartan or Athenian. But to tell you why it started we have to go back to the state of Greece before the outbreak of this terrible war.

By 436 B.C.E Greece was divided into two factions. The first group were called the Peloponnesian League, known also as the Spartan Alliance. It was a loose organization bound to Sparta through a series of treaties made in the past. The second group was called the Delian League, formed after the Greek-Persian Wars, with Athens at the head of the league, using their magnificent navy to dominate their areas of influence and domination.

There have been many wars before the Great Peloponnesian War broke out, but Greece had never been fully suppressed or conquered by a foreign foe. The main reason why was because the city-states of Greece had always united against a common foe, which would seek to undermine the democracy of Greece itself. That foe was Persia. The Persians had always been the enemy of Greece. Numerous times they had tried to invade, but due to the bravery of Athenians and the men of Plataea at Marathon, the gallant Spartans and plethora of Greek city states at Thermopylae, along with the battles of Plataea and Salamis, Persia was driven back to Asia Minor to lick their wounds. However after the end of the Greek-Persian Wars the united fist that held Greece unraveled. Soon disputes and quarrels filtered throughout the city-states and this culminated in the First Peloponnesian War.

This war went on for around fifteen years, and although it wasn't as long like the Great Peloponnesian War that would ravage the known world, it was still a bloody conflict. The first Peloponnesian War had kicked off when the city-state of Megara defected to the Delian League. Sparta was extremely worried as Megara was the gateway to Corinth, with the Corinthians in the Peloponnesian League and a staunch ally of Sparta. In addition Sparta was becoming jealous of the growing Athenian Empire. After years of bloody battles peace was sought. The war could be argued that it ended in a draw with benefits and disadvantage on both sides. Although the Athenians ravaged the Peloponnesian region, they were defeated by Boeotia at Coronea in 447 B.C.E. However ten years before that victory the Boeotians had been dealt a crushing blow by Athens at Oenophyta, which caused most of Boeotia to be under Athenian rule until they revolted and defeated the Athenians at Coronea.

A treaty had been formed called the Thirty Years Peace that was ratified between 446/445 B.C.E. The peace terms stated that Sparta would recognize the Athenian Empire. Athens also agreed that no city-state could defect to either the Peloponnesian or Delian League, like Megara had done. Finally the city-state of Megara that sparked off the events leading to war, would go back to the Spartan Alliance.

After the peace treaty was signed for ten years there were numerous incidents that threatened the peace of Greece. Such incidents were for example Spartan and Corinthian suspicions about what Athens were doing with the Italian colony of Thurii. In addition the Samian rebellion could have plunged Greece into war. But peace managed to prevail, by Corinth persuading the Spartans not to send their armies to invade Attica when Athens was preoccupied with other pressing commitments. But the main thing was that war had been averted through diplomatic meditation. For a while it seemed both sides wanted peace. However there was a matter that would unravel the peace agreement and start a chain of events that sadly led up to the Great Peloponnesian War. That was the matter of Epidamnus that was far away from the lands of Spartan and Athenian influence.

Epidamnus was a city situated just off the Ionian Gulf, near the old lands of Illyria. In 436 B.C.E, just nine years after the peace treaty was ratified a civil war erupted in Epidamnus, with the aristocratic rulers driven out by the democratic faction. The aristocrats made an alliance with the Illyrians and laid siege to the city, no doubt wanting to teach their former subjects a lesson. However the besieged democrats called for aid to the state of Corcyra that had founded Epidamnus.

Corcyra, situated in modern day Corfu, refused the pleas of help, because they were known to be isolationists when it came to their colonies. So the defenders of Epidamnus were forced to look towards the founder of Corcyra: the city-state of Corinth. The Corinthians had provided assistance to Epidamnus when Corcyra had founded the city. But there was one problem: Corinth and Corcyra were fierce rivals. For years they had fought many wars, as huge amounts of blood was split and endless sums of money spent. The Epidamnians offered to be a colony of Corinth in return for their help.

Corinth accepted the offer for three reasons. Firstly the Corinthians knew that if they got involved it would seriously annoy the Corcyraeans, possibly up to the point of open war. Secondly in the past during festivals Corinth was always disrespected by Corcyra. For example Corinth, being the founder and colonists of Corcyra, were to be given customary rights, such as the first sacrifice. But they were always treated with utter contempt by Corcyra. Finally the third reason was that Corinth was desperate for a sphere of influence in the Greek northwest, but would certainly bring conflict between Corcyra and Corinth. But Corinth's power had declined while the state of Corcyra had grown, which for years they had challenged Corinthian hegemony in the region. At that time Corinth had few warships, forcing them to rely on their allies and colonists. However Corcyra had one hundred twenty warships, which was the largest naval force in Greece apart from the Athenians.

Things soon stepped up when Corinth sent hundreds of troops to reinforce the besieged garrison at Epidamnus along with many settlers that were to arrive at Epidamnus, due to the agreement that Epidamnus would be a colony of Corinth if the city were relieved. However the force took the difficult route by land, because the Corcyraean navy ruled the seas.

After the Corinthian reinforcements arrived at Epidamnus Corcyra acted and sent forty ships to the besieged city and gave an ultimatum: dismiss the garrison and take back the exiled aristocrats. The ultimatum was refused. But although Corcyra had a fleet blockading the city, along with the Illyrian/aristocratic force by land the Corcyraeans overlooked one important thing: Corinth was allied to Sparta and a member of the Peloponnesian League and could use that to their advantage. Corinth then announced that Epidamnus was their colony and invited settlers across Greece to come. Settlers from Megara and Thebes, who were allies of Sparta, came along with funds and ships.

Corcyra were alarmed and sent diplomats to Corinth, in addition with ambassadors from Sparta and other small city states like Sicyon. This showed that Sparta wanted a peaceful solution and not war. However the conference achieved nothing as Corinth refused to withdraw. This meant that Corcyra was now forced to look for aid elsewhere: Athens.

Sparta recognized that war could break out throughout the region if Corcyra tried to seek an alliance with Athens. So Sparta joined the delegation of Corcyra to force an agreement. However Corinth still wouldn't yield and decided to make a counteroffer. If Corcyra withdrew their fleet and their land forces pulled back they would consider their proposal. This was blatantly done so Corinth could get more supplies and bolster their defenses. However after the Corcyraeans refused the Corinthians simply had enough and declared war.

Corinth sent a fleet of seventy-five ships that was impressive in strength along with two thousand soldiers to relieve the city. However the ships were intercepted by an eighty strong fleet of Corcyraean ships, and were soundly defeated at the battle of Cape Leucimne, located off the southeastern tip of Corcyra. There was double woe when on the same day Epidamnus fell, as Corcyra now ruled the city and seas. The defeat made Corinth really angry, spending two years building their largest fleet, with the men of Corinth burning for revenge. However Corinth employed help that included cities in the Athenian Empire, but the Athenians did not object. This just emboldened Corinth's belief that Corcyra would fail in getting an alliance with Athens. But Corcyra tried to persuade Athens with an treaty. They sent an emissary to Athens to try and persuade the Athenians for help. However when Corinth got wind of this they sent their own ambassadors to persuade the Athenians not to help Corcyra. Soon both emissaries were about to gain an audience with the Athenian assembly.

[CN2]

I want more!  

[Jubal]

Me too!

Welcome to Exilian...  

[Legion Of Hell]

Thanks you guys for making me feel welcome. Here's another chapter and there is a welcome addition: naval combat! I hope you enjoy it!


Chapter 1: Sybota.

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The Pnyx
Central Athens
Mid August 433 B.C.E

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Hector put his hands on his face, as the free men of Athens filled in the area, which surrounded the hill with the sun shining brightly across Athens. As Hector looked up he saw the Acropolis, standing high along the horizon overlooking the grand city. He sighed heavily, knowing he faced a tough task.

As the head of the Corcyraean delegation it rested upon him to persuade the Athenian ekklesia or assembly, which was roughly twenty thousand citizens, along with the council of five hundred, which were elected by the assembly that an alliance with Corcyra was in the best interests of Athens. As he looked to his left he saw the delegation of Corinth. He saw the eyes of the speaker for Corinth, and saw him give a crude smirk, which made Hector's blood boil.

"Look at him," said Hector to his fellow friend Erebus. He was thirty-seven and was the same age as Hector. He was tall, strong and had blond hair. He had a scar along his face when he fought at Leucimne. "He's smirking at us, Erebus. Those Corinthian dogs are a bunch of warmongers!"

"Relax, Hector," replied Erebus. "You'll get your chance. Just focusing on what you have to do," Hector knew he was right and calmed down. As the men filled in Hector thought about the things he had to say. Get your points across and do not dawdle, because that Corinthian will surely grasp upon my mistakes. When the Pnyx was filled with thousands of men the presiding officer of the assembly, which was an old man with white hair stood up. As soon as he rose up the hubbub quickly died down.

"Who wishes to speak?" the elderly man asked, his voice booming throughout the Pnyx. Both the smirking Corinthian delegate and Hector stood up, but the elderly Greek looked at Hector and acknowledged him to speak.

"I am Hector, son of Xylos. Head of the Corcyraean delegation to discuss an alliance with Athens," he answered. The men encircling Hector murmured, as the officer gave him the right of isēgoria : equality in freedom of speech. Hector stood up and walked towards the centre to face the crowd, which surrounded him. He then took a large intake of breath before beginning his argument.

"Honored members of the assembly," he began. "I come here today to seek an alliance with Athens. The reason why? In defiance of Corinthian tyranny, which over the past couple of years have meddled in our business where they have no right!" Hector exclaimed, pointing at the Corinthian delegates, who shook their heads in anger. "I know you ask yourselves: why does Athens need to ally herself with Corcyra? We've never allied ourselves with them and what would we have to gain? Why should we help Corcyra, where the only thing we could achieve is instability? All these questions are valid points," Hector took a step forward, preparing himself.

"Firstly an alliance would be beneficial to Athens for it was stated in the Thirty Years Peace, which expressly allowed alliances between states like Athens and neutral countries such as Corcyra," Hector could see that some of the men in the crowd were nodding their heads in agreement. "In addition we have a navy, which is the largest apart from yourselves. Together with an alliance we could be able to consolidate that power for good intentions," He looked towards where the council were and could see a significant amount was intrigued by what he had said so far.

"Finally you need the alliance, because a war between Athens and the Peloponnesian League is inevitable. Sparta is fearful of you and for that they would go to war. Corinth is an ally of Sparta and an enemy of Athens. Moreover there are three fleets worthy of mention in Greece. Corcyra," he pointed to himself, "Athens," then pointing to the assembly. "And Corinth," he hissed, pointing at the Corinthian group, giving them a menacing stare. The Corinthians gave Hector a stare equal of such menace and hostility.

"If Corinth invades us and by the gods we lose then we'll become their subjects and be forced to join our fleet with Corinth. If that happens then Athens will find itself fighting the Corcyraean and Peloponnesian fleets. If you agree to this alliance then you will fight against them with our ships at your side. I hope you choose the right decision," Hector gave a deep bow and then walked back to where he sat. For a few moments people discussed and either gave their approval or disapproval.

"Well said, Hector," smiled Erebus. The five other delegates all gave positive looks of encouragement, impressed by his oratorical skills. As Hector sat down he saw the delegate for Corinth come to the space that he had occupied. He was of medium height, stocky with dark hair and walked with a swagger that screamed of arrogance.

"Esteemed members," the dark haired man said, which caused Hector to quietly snigger. "I am Atticus, son of Hermes and delegate to the city state of Corinth. We feel that an alliance between Athens and Corcyra is not in the best interests of the region. Now as the delegate for Corcyra had rightfully said any state that is neutral can choose to ally to whoever it wants," Atticus said giving an sarcastic smile to Hector: to which in reply the Corcyraean clenched his fists. "However that clause doesn't include city states which join with the sole intention of hurting the other!" Hector was seething with rage to which Erebus deftly restrained him.

"He lies!" he hissed to Erebus. "He knows the aggressor is Corinth!" Erebus motioned him to be quiet. Atticus could see Hector's anger and sought to exploit it.

"If you join with Corcyra, it will be necessary for us to include you in our revenge against them. Besides Corinth does not want war and that delegate lies when he says war is inevitable," he said, shaking his head at what he believed was fear mongering by Hector.

"We don't seek war. Actually in the past Corinth has actually aided you," Atticus said, to which the elderly members of the assembly murmured in agreement. "We helped you in the Samian rebellion where we helped stop the Peloponnesian League from invading and attacking Athens when you were most vulnerable," Hector could see that the majority of the assembly were agreeing with what Atticus had said: Athens was vulnerable at the time of the Samian rebellion.

"So don't accept the Corcyraeans as allies against our wishes, nor help them to do anything wrong. In doing what we ask you'll be behaving properly and serving your own interests," Atticus gave a courteous bow and walked to his delegation. There was much more murmuring and talking than after Hector finished his speech.

"How do you think they'll vote, Erebus?" asked Hector.

"They'll debate it along the hillside and probably come with an decision by sunset," replied Erebus.

"I hope so too," said Hector. He wasn't sure what the assembly would vote and just hoped that the men of Athens favoured him.

After both delegations gave their speeches to the assembly the Athenians initially favoured to reject the alliance with Corcyra. However Pericles, elected leader of the Athenians was determined to spearhead the pro-Corcyra faction. Such was the ferocity of the arguing between the members of the assembly that a second meeting occurred. By the next day the assembly were ready to give it's decision to the delegations of Corcyra and Athens.

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Both Atticus and Hector sat in the same positions as yesterday, awaiting the decision of the ekklesia. When the presiding officer of the assembly stood up silence descended across the Pnyx.

"Delegations of Corcyra and Corinth," the officer's voice echoed. "After much deliberation and disagreement we have come to an decision. The assembly feels that the full alliance of symmachia is out of the question," Hector and Erebus looked dejected while, Atticus gave a smile and was about to bow to the free men of Athens. "However we feel that an defensive alliance of epimachia is acceptable. As an token gesture we will send ten warships to the Ionian Gulf," Hector was now the one to bow, while Atticus was seething with rage.

"You!" Atticus pointed to a grey haired man, who sat next to the speaker. "It was you all along, Pericles! This is a plot conspired between Corcyra and the Delian League!" Atticus turned around and with his delegation walked out of the Pnyx.

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Mid September 433 B.C.E
The Sybota Islands
Off the coast of Corcyra

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When Lacedaimonius disembarked from his flagship he was filled with worry, as he walked to meet the Corcyraean naval commanders. What made him so uneasy was that although Diotimus and Proteas accompanied him, both seasoned naval commanders: he had also been appointed for this mission. The only problem by his selection was that Lacedaimonius had no naval experience whatsoever, with his expertise in the art of cavalry. He could remember his shock when the assembly had nominated him to be sent out and felt Pericles played a part in choosing him to accompany the Greek naval commanders to support Corcyra in the defensive alliance.

The one question that quickly sprang into his mind was why? To that question there was only one possible answer: his late father Cimon. His deceased father was at his peak a respected Athenian and played his part in the Greek-Persian Wars. Cimon also battled the Thracians, but was exiled for his role in the disastrous Spartan helot revolts. He had returned from exile, but later died battling the Persians at Citium. However the young cavalryman doubted that his father's heroics would have any effect today. Lacedaimonius knew that to succeed here in Corcyra would require great delicacy, experience and good judgment. He felt that Diotimus and Proteas had those qualities in abundance.

As the three naval commanders headed towards the large tent another thing bothered Lacedaimonius. The orders that they had been given by the assembly gave himself, Diotimus and Proteas deep reservations. They had been told: "do not engage the Corinthian fleet unless they sail towards Corcyra or one of their colonies, with the sole intention of attempting to land troops," Lacedaimonius knew that trying to carry out those orders was going to be a tough task for a plethora of reasons.

Firstly the order posed serious problems for the Athenian naval officers, because Lacedaimonius, nor Diotimus or Proteas had no idea of the Corinthian fleet's battle plan. Secondly if they miscalculated, commit their triremes too early, then they would be in a fierce engagement that would be utterly unnecessary. Moreover their orders would also prove difficult to execute, because if they did commit their ships then it would have consequences in the form of bringing in Corinth's ally: Sparta. Lacedaimonius felt that Pericles did not want war and the ten Athenian warships that were at Sybota showed this reiteration for peace. Hopefully a local conflict could be stopped from turning into a broader war.

"How eager do you think the Corcyraeans will be in trying to commit our fleet in battle?" asked Proteas, as they neared the large white tent.

"By their hatred of Corinth, I would say very," replied Diotimus. "They know that if we do commit our ships, then Corinth will be far more cautious in their strategy. However if they faced the ships of Corcyra I suspect little quarter will be given," Lacedaimonius sighed, knowing that Diotimus' assessment was true. But even though he sympathized with Corcyra, the assembly had set him an important task. When they walked in the tent they met the three Corcyraean naval officers, who were dressed in full battle kit. They welcomed the Athenians' arrival.

"Good morning, men," said the first man, at the centre, whose name was Miciades. His stature signified that he was eager for combat and to bring victory to Corcyra. "I thank you for the assistance that the Athenian assembly has provided. The people of Corcyra are grateful," All three Athenians bowed in reply, showing their appreciation.

"I guess we should inform you of the strategy," said the second man on the left, known as Aisimides. They walked to where a large map was placed, which spread across the wide table. The map impressed Lacedaimonius for it showed the entire gulf from the island of Corcyra to the west, the military commanders' location at Sybota and the mainland to the east where the hostile Illyrian barbarians lived. The Athenian and Corcyraeans were huddled across the wide wooden table.

"The Corinthian fleet is located off the mainland coast right here, just south of our position," explained Eurybatus, pointing south of the Sybota Islands. "We think they number in the region of one hundred fifty ships. At least under a hundred are manned by the men of Corinth, while the rest is of their colonies and allies," A potent force thought Lacedaimonius.

"What is your strength?" asked Proteas, as the Athenians digested the information.

"Excluding your ships we have one hundred and ten," replied Miciades. "But we hope that your commitment during the battle will be able to turn the tide in our favour," Lacedaimonius could sense that the Corcyraean's tone smacked of optimism, thinking that by the Athenians coming to the fore, Corinth would back off and think twice before attacking. Diotimus acted swiftly upon this hidden suggestion.

"Although we are here at the request of your people and approval of the assembly," spoke the naval commander, his response quite stern. "We have strict orders not to engage in battle unless they head to your territories," Miciades was about to say something, but Eurybatus deftly restrained him by speaking first.

"We understand your commitment to stick to your orders," he bowed. "Our strategy will hopefully be able to drive the Corinthians out,"

"What is your strategy?" enquired Lacedaimonius.

"We shall proceed to board their ships in the centre so to tie them down," explained Eurybatus. "We'll target their flanks and drive them back to their camp on the mainland. Due to our ships pinning their centre they will be unable to send their warships to help their comrades. We defeated them at Leucimne and we'll defeat them again. Hopefully your ships won't have to help us," The young cavalryman felt that the idea was achievable, but the two other Athenians showed their disapproval.

"It's a reasonable plan, but it could go hideously wrong," said Proteas. "If you engage in a battle where you employ on a strategy of boarding instead of ramming, then brute strength will be required and they outnumber you," Diotimus agreed with his fellow Athenian's advice. Miciades gave a light chuckle.

"I'm sure that our fleet will overcome the ships of Corinth," his voice in a tone that tried to reassure the skeptical Athenians. "With our hoplites and archers we'll defeat the enemy, bringing peace and democracy to Corcyra,"

"I hope that's the case," thought Lacedaimonius.

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As afternoon came the Athenian squadron were positioned on the far right where they had a good observation post of the battle that was raging a good league ahead. Lacedaimonius' ship was at the forefront of the Athenian fleet, eager to see the outcome of this battle. The young Greek watched from the bow, wanting to know how the battle was going. From his hawk eyes he saw that the engagement had been fierce, with many ships sunk or sinking to the bottom of the sea. He could also make out little dots in the sea, which were the unfortunate rowers or soldiers that were drowning or about to drown. But as his eyes surveyed the battlefield he frowned, realizing that the Corcyraeans hadn't heeded their advice. Many ships on both sides were clinging to one another, with their grapple hooks as fierce melees broke out. The battle would hinge on the strength of the hoplites, but so far no one had really gained the upper hand or seized the initiative.

"Look, sir!" shouted Amanus, leader of the hoplite squadron based on the flagship. He pointed to a few leagues east of their position to the left flank. From what he could see the Corinthians had lost many ships: captured, sunk or badly damaged and were retreating. Lacedaimonius was pleased, as the Corcyraeans were pursuing their foe. He looked to the ship next to his that was nearby, where Diotimus was watching the battle unfold. But Lacedaimonius could see that his face was full of frustration.

"Why isn't Diotimus pleased?" he asked Amanus, who was puzzled. The senior hoplite looked around and then gave a grim smile.

"Look over there, sir," he explained, pointing across towards the centre of the battle. "The Corcyraeans are sending ships from their centre to join the pursuit of the fleeing Corinthians. They're following them in the hope that they can lead them to the enemy's camp, where booty possibly awaits them," Lacedaimonius could see up to twenty ships maneuver, heading towards the mainland where the enemy camp was.

"But isn't that a good thing, because they are pursuing those that have routed and are getting support from.." Lacedaimonius slowly stopped speaking, looked at Amanus, quickly figuring out why Diotimus was frustrated and then gave a rueful smile.

"It leaves their centre weakened to attack!" he said slowly, his face one of shock at such a foolish tactic. "By the Gods may their complacency not be punished!"

But the Corinthians did punish their mistake. Thanks to the greediness of the Corcyraean ships on their left flank, which headed towards the enemy camp merely to plunder, the fleet commanders were forced to send a few ships from their right to shore up the centre. While the centre was locked in fierce hand-to-hand combat, as ships were boarded and hoplites drew their doru and used their hoplon the Corinthians made their move. They began to intensify their attacks and used their numerical superiority to put serious pressure on the Corcyraean right.

"Lacedaimonius, look at Diotimus," said Amanus. He turned around and looked at his fellow Athenian. He saw that the naval commander was seriously in thought, putting his head in his hands. What's he playing at? Lacedaimonius wondered. Diotimus didn't know what to do after the sudden reversal of fortunes, and it seriously plagued Diotimus. After a few moments the middle aged Greek looked up to the gods and then to the ongoing battle ahead. He then put on his helmet and turned around to his men on his flagship.

"He's going to fight," said Lacedaimonius.

"He wouldn't," Amanus said, shaking his head. "He wouldn't break an strict order from the council,

"But our orders were to engage if Corinth was to invade Corcyraean territory and soon they will by the looks of it!" replied Lacedaimonius. Amanus looked around the Athenian fleet, and saw coloured flags being used to signal the fleet to engage. He finally conceded that the order had been given for the Athenians to make ready for combat. The men aboard the triremes began to scurry across the deck, while the oars were readied and the rowers began to sail to the rhythm of the drums that sounded throughout the fleet. As they fleet moved forward Lacedaimonius had been thinking of what he had done while they had journeyed to Corcyra from Athens. Due to his inexperience he had been taught the basics of naval warfare. Luckily he had Apollo who was the kybernētēs: the helmsmen of a ship who was under Diotimus' command. Lacedaimonius hoped that he could use those lessons to his advantage.

But as they edged ever closer the wrecked ships confirmed how chaotic the battle had been. The remains of the occupants in those half sunken ships could be seen with the stench overbearing. The sea was littered with the dead floating around; a few pierced by arrows. Those that had drowned were heading to the bottomless pit of the sea. It was grim viewing, but the fleet commander knew he had to brush it aside and focus on the task. When they got close the flags waved furiously signalling the ships to break formation.

"Head for that ship dead ahead!" Lacedaimonius roared, pointing at a Corinthian ship, which was too busy boarding a Corcyraean warship. As he looked at the fierce hand-to-hand fighting an idea came to him.

"Hard to that ship's starboard!" he barked, pointing at where he wanted the ship. The sailors and officers on the deck could see what he was trying to do and because of Lacedaimonius' inexperience the men on deck relayed their orders to the men who were in control of the oars. The one hundred and seventy rowers that controlled the ship used their experience to position the ship to where Lacedaimonius wanted. As they were just one hundred paces away the twenty hoplites and skirmishers came onto the deck, ready to unleash their deadly missiles.

"Draw oars!" Lacedaimonius ordered. As soon the order was carried across the deck the oars on both sides of the flagship were drawn in. Suddenly a javelin whistled across and narrowly missed a hoplite. Lacedaimonius looked around and saw a Corinthian ship on their port side coming towards them. However within a few moments the Corinthians, while sharply focused on Lacedaimonius' ship, frantically tried to turn to port very quickly. Before Lacedaimonius could figure out a reason why they disengaged he then saw why. The flagship of Proteas rammed the Corinthian warship from the astern, which caused major damage, as water began to filter through the immobile ship. The ship was now sinking, causing many men to abandon ship. For those that couldn't swim it meant death. While Proteas dealt with the survivors, Lacedaimonius focused on sinking that ship that lay ahead. They were now within bowshot range and the Athenian flagship was in perfect position to smash the oars on their starboard side.

As they were just thirty paces away the Corinthians spotted them and their intentions. They frantically tried to draw their oars, but they were too slow and not as disciplined, unlike the Athenians. In addition they were in combat with a Corcyraean ship and the hoplites fighting didn't know that an enemy ship was heading this way.

"Tell the rowers below that they need to hold onto something," warned Lacedaimonius, as he drew his shield, knowing they were to be pelted by missiles. Everyone held onto something, as they braced for impact. When it came there was a loud crunching sound with wooden oars snapping. Soon loud screams and shouts were bellowing out from the damaged ship. The Athenians could see it caused some Corinthian sailors to be exposed to the arrows of Athens. By the time the ship passed the enemy trireme Lacedaimonius was surprised by how seriously stricken it was. The plan had worked a treat, with the enemy warship now in serious danger of sinking. Despite the success the lookout saw something that was worrying.

"Sir!" he shouted to Lacedaimonius. "Our right flank has been breached. The Corinthian warships are breaking through!" The naval commander walked to where the lookout had pointed and saw that the right flank had indeed buckled, with tens of allied ships retreating back with the enemy in hot pursuit. Diotimus' ship was at the forefront of the retreat and had signalled the lookout on Lacedaimonius' trireme.

"Right, men!" he barked. "Turn the ship around. Pull back, men! We head for Corcyra!" The orders were efficiently carried out and were soon joining the retreat. They expertly dodged the wreckage of sinking warships, whether they were friend or foe. Sadly they had to ignore the pleas of help from Corcyraean comrades whose ships had been destroyed and were trying not to drown. However despite the setback Lacedaimonius felt a deep sense of pride, feeling he had conducted himself well in battle. He felt that his father would be proud of his actions. But right now all he cared about was the safeguarding and defense of Corcyra.

As mid afternoon came the battle-sea was littered with debris of the battle, where blood and water flowed hand in hand. A large menacing trireme sailed ominously passing the wrecked ships, its oars drawn in, using the wind to direct the ship. This was done so to give their rowers a break after the fierce battle had drawn to a close. Xenoclides was happy with the result that his navy had achieved. They had driven the Corcyraeans off the area of battle, but although he had heard reports of the Athenian fleet fighting in the battle he wasn't worried, because they had also retreated with the Corcyraeans back to the island of Corcyra.

"The Athenians coming to Corcyra's aid could work out well," he thought. "It could mean that Sparta might declare war. Then let us see how Athens deals with that!" Suddenly the prōreus the bow lookout walked to the Corinthian naval commander. The young lookout was sweating profusely after the brutal fighting against the Corcyraean fleet.

"What is it?" Xenoclides asked the prōreus.

"I think you should see this, sir," he answered. The temperamental officer growled, as he walked up to the bow, hoping it wasn't a waste of time. What he saw confirmed the lookout's request to accompany him wasn't a waste. Ahead of the ship there were hundreds of men in the sea, either clinging onto debris or sheltering in wrecked ships that hadn't sunk. It was a slaughterhouse.

"Should we proceed to take them as prisoners for a possible hostage ransom to Corcyra?" the young lookout enquired. Xenoclides turned to see his face and smiled.

"What is your name?" he asked.

"Sam-Samos," he stuttered, surprised by his superior officer's question.

"Well Samos, I respect your humility and decency to the enemy, but they are our hated foe!" he shouted, causing Samos to cower. "No, we shall not pick them up and take prisoners. Those who cling onto their wrecked ships, have been defeated in battle do not deserve clemency, but death!" Samos could see in Xenoclides' eyes the hatred that brewed inside the Corinthian, which frightened him. "Especially, Samos when these defeated men fight for Corcyra," his tone icy and bitter.

As the shipwrecked soldiers spotted the Corinthian fleet they screamed, waved their arms and put their hands up in the gesture of surrender so they would be picked up. When the vast triremes neared the shipwrecked soldiers were relieved when the oars were drawn in. However their faces turned into one of horror when sighting the peltasts, archers and javelin-throwers coming upon the starboard or port side of the triremes. The men tired to scatter, but was futile, as the expert archers butchered the sailors that fled in utter fear. Soon hundreds of Corcyraean sailors and hoplites were floating across the Ionian Gulf massacred, thanks to Xenoclides' limitless brutality.

"Signal this to the fleet," he ordered. "Any prisoners you have kept: seize them. Make a course for Corcyra. Finish off remaining resistance," The signalers acknowledged the orders given, beginning to use the coloured flags to relay the orders. Soon the entire Corinthian fleet sailed towards Corcyra so to finish the job.

By late afternoon the Corcyraean and small Athenian force were cornered towards the shores of Corcyra. The fleet were just half a league away from land, dangerously close to running aground. Over two leagues away were the Corinthian fleet advancing on their position, their triremes sailing through choppy waters.

"Well," Lacedaimonius addressed the crew who could hear him because of the silence that descended amongst the fleet. "We did our best. All I can say is that I'm proud of you men. I want us to give them a good account of ourselves like true Athenians," The deck crew nodded and began to prepare for their final stand.

"May the gods grant me a quick death for my loyal service to Athens," he prayed in thought. The Corinthian fleet were now sailing at a fast pace, eager to wipe out their enemy. They showed their lust for blood by deploying ramming positions.

"Ships sighted four leagues starboard!" bellowed the lookout. Lacedaimonius who was at the bow looked to his right and could see a cluster of ships heading towards the Corinthian right flank.

"Whose ships are they?" he asked the lookout. The proreus shrugged his shoulders, causing the naval commander to sigh in annoyance. But soon Lacedaimonius found out who they were.

"They're breaking off, sir! Corinth are fleeing!" shouted the lookout, pointing at the enemy ships.

"Silence on the deck!" Lacedaimonius roared, as the men cheered wildly. The Athenian could see the lookout was right. Quickly the Corinthian ships were breaking off their attack formation and the warships did a quick u-turn. Their right flank acted as a screen, so to block any attack by the late arrival of the Athenians. Lacedaimonius could not help but grin, as the surprise reinforcements arrived. Quickly Corcyraean and Athenian ships were cheering furiously, as the reinforcements neared their comrades. Corcyra was safe.

*****

As sunset arrived the naval commanders of Corcyra and Athens met upon Diotimus' flagship, as they reflected on the fierce battle that they had endured, while drinking ale.

"I must thank you, Glaucon!" cried out Proteas in appreciation. "Had you arrived this evening you would have seen the wreckage of our ships. But I'm surprised why you were dispatched, and how you were able to force the Corinthians to pull back for you do number highly than us, but not by much," Glaucon gave a hearty laugh.

"A few days after you left Athens the opponents of Pericles' plan, spearheaded by Melesias' son Thucydides along with his supporters attacked the expedition, branding it inadequate and not able to hold off Corinth. So they dispatched us to help you. At the end of the month we sailed and thanks to the divine gods we arrived in the nick of time," Everyone laughed at the sheer good fortune that the Corcyraean/Athenian fleet had been given.

"On why the Corinthians retreated upon seeing our small fleet is a good question indeed Proteas," said Glaucon, as he took a large swig of ale. "The only good reason why they did withdrew could be when they saw my fleet they assumed my ships were a scouting force and the main body not far away,"

"Lucky for them they didn't know that you were the main body!" laughed Lacedaimonius. Everyone chuckled heartily knowing if the Corinthians had engaged, regardless of Glaucon's fleet, then Corcyra could have been under Corinth's control.

"What are the casualty reports?" Diotimus asked the Corcyraean naval commanders. Miciades pulled out a tablet that had been given to him by the battle physicians.

"Athenian ships have been unscathed, but the Corcyraean fleet have lost over seventy ships either sunk or captured," read out Miciades. "Roughly around the vicinity of six thousand soldiers and naval personnel have been killed. A thousand have been captured, most likely facing a grim fate," Silence reigned through the room, as they realized the scale of the casualties that had been inflicted.

"So many dead," said Eurybatus, as he raised his goblet of wine. "For a worthy cause," The Corcyraean officers raised their goblets while the Athenians did the same.

"So what's our plan tomorrow?" asked Lacedaimonius.

"Well we'll go on the offensive," replied Aisimides, his voice full of glee at new Athenian reinforcements. "However whether the Corinthians and their allies will fight is another matter. Their generals over at the mainland will be angry at missing an opportunity to finish us off. They'll be even angrier when they find Glaucon's fleet was the main Athenian force. Although we've lost a substantial amount of the Corcyraean fleet so have Corinth and their allies. We've also got additional reinforcements while they haven't. Despite them losing around twenty to forty ships they will be war weary. I feel that Corinth will not risk a second battle tomorrow," The rest of the officers agreed at the assessment, but everyone knew there wasn't any definite answer.

"Well, I think we best go to sleep and prepare for tomorrow," said Proteas. Everyone agreed, as they stood up, heading back to their ships. As Lacedaimonius was on the small boat, as they rowed towards his flagship, he hoped that Corinth would not fight. Mainly so he could just focus on doing what he was best at and that was cavalry. "At least when I'm on land I won't get seasick!" he thought.

[CN2]

Very good LoH! The naval battle especially, I loved it.