Latinia Major wasted no time in sending its forces into Onzijdigian territory. Legio II under the command of Aulus Appia proceeded south from the city of Flovios and crossed the border.
Several cohorts paved the way into enemy held lands. They marched for several hours before coming to a bridge known as Pons Meltior. It was the only crossing for miles capable of supporting the entire legion.
Advance scouts warned of enemy forces in the vicinity. With that information in hand the three cohorts bravely crossed the bridge. The legionaries watched the tree line prepared to repulse an attack at any moment. Surprisingly none came.
I, II, and III Cohors Appia continued their march when a glint of metal reflected from the trees. Onzijdigian cavalry were hidden in the trees.
In belief of a sure victory the legionaries marched in battle formation into the trees. The I Onzi Onzijdigian cavalry recoiled in surprise. A game of cat and mouse ensued where the cavalry tried to escape. Instead of getting away they were boxed in by the trees and the Latinian cohorts’ classic pincer movement.
With their line of retreat cut off the I Onzi had no choice but to attempt a desperate charge. Commander Marcus Odopius of the I Onzi hesitated several heart beats too long. Aulus Appia’s three cohorts threw their pila to deadly effect.
A smattering of horses were struck by the deadly weapons in their breastplates. One rider’s femur shattered as a pilum nailed him to his mount. Then the Latinian cohorts charged!
After a quick and bloody battle the day was theirs! Despite suffering 72% casualties to his I Onzi cavalry, Commander Marcus Odopius fled the battle with a retinue of seven.
Latinian losses were light. The first cohort suffered no losses. The second received 12% and the third cohort only had 5% casualties. At the end of the day II Cohors Appia stood 422 men strong and III Cohors Appia 456 strong.
Once the rest of Legio II arrived it would be ready in case Hammilar Mineraller sent troops to defend its friend. Cautious by nature Aulus Appia didn’t like to be surprised. He would make his legion prepared for all eventualities. For now the men could celebrate the day’s victory…after they constructed a temporary camp.
