Roman Renaissance

Hi all,

This is a TL I've been working on for a while.
I recently discovered some errors and I'm going to do a rewrite so I thought I would pick your brains first before the rewrite.

Some people have said that this is implausable whiile others claim that a rudimentary low pressure steam engine is possible with the casting and plumbing of the first roman empire.

I had originally considered this part finished now I consider it as a draft.

Please note that the steam engines in the early part are mostly made from cast bronze even though I have not strictly mentioned of what they were made from.

Now onto the timeline

Roman Renaissance: The Power of Steam

66BC: Damascus - A young recently widowed Syrian potter, named Nammu Assan, while cooking his evening meal has a tightly sealed copper pot explode in his face and discovers the power of steam.

50BC: Damascus - After many years of thought and experimentation, Nammu has created the first steam powered walking beam engine to power his pottery wheels.

48BC: Damascus - Marcus Servius, a Roman centurion, discovers Nammu and his steam powered engine while looking for a gift, realising the importance of Nammu’s discovery takes Nammu and his engine to his family in Rome.

47BC: Rome - Nammu is introduced to Junius Servius a moderately wealth shipwright by Marcus. After demonstrating his steam engine Nammu is employed by Junius Servius to develop a steam engine for use in ship.

46BC Rome - Nammu is partnered with a bright young engineer by the name of Latinius Noricus, together they design the first Roman steamship.

31BC: Rome - The steam galley “Neptune†is launched by none other then General Octavian Caesar amongst much pomp and ceremony. (To imagine it, think of a Roman galley of this period blended with the walking beam engine and paddle wheels of an 1800’s era paddleboat without a stern centred rudder). The “Neptune†is the marvel of the age, however its creation is not with out cost. The stress and cost of the new technologies for the “Neptune†has cost Junius Servius his life, while the financial cost has driven the Servius family to the point of bankruptcy.

30BC: Rome - After a year of operations (which include supplying Caesar’s Legions), the “Neptune†and the Servius family are starting to recoup the losses from it’s construction. However it has become apparent that without government backing the cost of construction will prevent any more steam galleys from being built.

29BC: Antioch - Octavian Caesar and Marcus Servius sign a secret deal, when Octavian becomes emperor, he will sponsor the construction of these steam galleys for the exclusive use of the Roman Navy and Servius marine. However this is not without cost, as it requires Servius marine to start construction of the new ships now with only the secret backing of Octavian and his supporters.

27BC: Rome - Octavian becomes Emperor Augustus. His first proclamation as emperor is for all future navy ships to be of the of the steam galley type, he also appoints Marcus Servius as a Roman consul in charge of naval operations.

26BC: Rome - Nammu Assan dies aged 61. His legacy has led to a new age of technology, industrialisation.

25 BC: Rome - The first of the steam powered war galleys are delivered to the Roman navy. Marcus Servius, during a discussion with Emperor Augustus muses to himself and then enquires of Latinius Norcius, what other uses steam power may have.
Emperor Augustus instructs Marcus Servius to create a new service of engineers to find and implement new uses of steam power.

24BC: Rome - Latinius Norcius is made a general and is placed in command of the Legion of Engineers. He reports to Consul Servius who has been given the responsibility of developing any new ideas for the greater glory of Rome.

23BC: Spain - The war galley “Julius Caesar†creates a new speed record of seven days from Rome to the Pillars of Hercules. Steam powered water wheels increase the flow rate of the main Roman aqueducts even at the height of summer.
Construction of both war and merchant steam galleys continue at an increased rate, there are now 9 war and 5 merchant galleys in every day use in the Mediterranean Sea.

21BC: Rome - Latinius Norcius demonstrates for the Emperor and Servius the first major idea from the Legion of Engineers, a steam engine mounted on a large rigid cart frame powering the rear wheels. The first steam powered land vehicle has been created.

19 BC: Rome - Consul Servius and Emperor Augustus are discussing the failure of the latest attempt to conquer the barbarian lands to the north and east of the empire. The Emperor is not pleased and instructs Servius to find more land for empire to expand at any cost. There are now 19 war and 12 merchant steam galleys.
Consul Servius is the second richest man in the empire behind only the emperor.

18 BC: Rome - The first battle between the war galleys and the north African Pirates is a smashing success with only one of the ten war galleys damaged while the pirates lost all 39 ships.
The emperor is pleased and makes the fleet commander a hero with a grand parade through Rome.
After the celebrations Marcus Servius approaches Marius Tullius and offers him a dream to find new land for the Empire.

17BC: Rome - Servius and Tullius working from Phoenician source maps taken from the Library at Alexandria prepare a small fleet of steam galleys consisting of three war and seven merchant galleys the direction west to the Pillars of Hercules then south.
The fleet leaves later this year seen off by Emperor Augustus himself.

16BC: Rome - Marcus Servius now in his 51 year brings his youngest son Lucius, a gifted engineer into the Legion of Engineers in the hope that one day he will take the place of the distinguished Latinius Noricius.
There are now 27 war and 16 merchant steam galleys excluding the 10 galleys that have passed beyond the Pillars of Hercules.

15BC: Rome - Lucius and Latinius strike up a close friendship.
One of the first ideas that Lucius has relates to the steam powered land cart. He suggests the use of rails to make the vehicle travel in a straight line.
After demonstrating the new concept to Marcus Servius, he agrees to bring it to the attention of the Emperor.
Demonstrating the new concept to the Emperor, on a specially built length of track, meets with glowing praise from the Emperor, immediately instructs the building of a steam cart track between Rome and Tivoli.
Construction begins immediately.

14BC Rome - The work of thousands of slaves is complete. In just nine months the steam cart track is complete. The Emperor in opening it announces this but the first of a series of motorised public transport that will be built in the years to come.
There are now 32 war and 20 merchant steam galleys.

13BC: Rome - Emperor Augustus meets with Marcus Servius and instructs him to begin linking all the Roman cities and provinces with steam cart tracks. Marcus Servius advises the emperor that it will be done, however due to the size of the empire and the cost of construction this project will take many years to complete.
He make a suggestion that the emperor agrees with, a small fee will be collected for each trip made on the steam carts with the income being evenly split between his construction business and the empire who will supply the labor force.

12 BC: West African Coast - Marius Tullius and his fleet have been gone for five years in this time they have mapped all the African coast to the Red Sea. With the holds of the ships full with examples of the boundless bounties of Southern Africa the fleet is heading home to what Marius is sure will be a great reword from the Emperor, before he heads below deck he glances to the west, sighs and thinks not another storm.
Genoa - A young wood worker named Fabian Quintius with the help of the Legion of Engineers develops the first steam powered lathe. He quickly corners the market in Genoa for decorative furniture.

11BC: Rome - Civil unrest has broken out in several cities including Rome, the cause unemployment. The increasing amount of industrialisation especially in pottery, wood and metal working fields is making unemployment level explode.
The Emperor passes a decree any male Roman citizen between the ages of 14 and 30 must join the Roman army for a period of no less than ten years unless the male concerned has found employment or is needed to take over as head of his family.
Middle of the Atlantic - Marius Tullius is dismayed. Two merchant steam galleys lost in the latest tempest, but worst of all the fleet is lost, the stars are in the wrong positions and another tempest is building. Then he sees smoke on the horizon, this means one of two things, land or his lost galleys. He heads the fleet in the direction of the smoke.

10BC: Islands unknown - Marius Tullius and his fleet have been travelling from island to island, the natives are primitive but willing to trade both food, resources and labor in exchange for iron, steel and bronze tools. Once more Marius sets out, the storm season is approaching again and he now knows from experience that he needs to find a safe harbour if his fleet is to survive.
Rome - Lucius Servius proposes a new class of war galley one with three paddle wheels, each with it’s own steam engine but with a central boiler supplying the steam to each engine.
Marcus Servius during a discussion with his tailor, Servius get an idea for a steam-powered loom after seeing his tailor making cloth by hand.

9BC: A new land - Marius Tullius and the remnants of the fleet have found a protected harbour, however the cost has been high of the original ten galleys only five remain all heavily overburden with rescued crew and salvaged goods. Three are damaged but can be repaired the others are beyond repair. Marius faces a cruel choice abandon half his people in an unknown land or to try to make a new life in this new land. Marius puts off a decision, first they must make repairs and this will take the best part of a year.

8 BC: Rome - The first steam cart line between two major Roman cities is complete.
In opening the Rome – Naples steam cart link Emperor Augustus states that it is now possible to get from Rome to Naples in just a day’s travel.
The latest steam powered factory is now in operation. Steam powered spinning wheels make fine cotton threads which are spun onto bobbins. These bobbins are then used as a continous thread source for the steam powered looms. The first modern fabric factory has arrived.
A new land - Marius Tullius ponders what to do, his crews have started a new Roman settlement in the land they call Atlantia, several have taken wives from the native women whom, while darker than there own kind have a lighter skin than the barbarians of Southern Africa. In a few months the first child will be born. The natives seem indifferent to the Romans; they are willing to trade food their local knowledge of what are edible and their women for Roman tools. Marius knows the barbarians know nothing of metalworking and have a nomadic lifestyle following the great herds of hairy cattle.
Finally he makes a decision. He will take the three repaired ships back to Rome by hugging the coastline as much as possible and only transiting open water when there is no other choice. In advising his crews of the decision he leaves his second in command Rufus Dorius to continue to build the settlement.
He leaves behind fifty men, all non essential equipment and the damaged steam galleys advising Rufus not to antagonise the natives as it will be many years before a new Roman fleet arrives.

7BC: Atlantia coast - Marius Tullius starts to wonder if the new land will ever end, for a year now he has travelled and mapped the coast with his crew stopping only for supplies. The last winter was bitter and cold and the further north he travels the cooler it gets. He makes a decision we’ll stop and provision for a long open water journey and head due east in the hope of reaching the African coast.

6BC: A large island in the ocean - Marius Tullius has crossed a large body of water and found a large island that is nearly devoid of large trees. Another merchant was smashed on this worthless island. Marius is now down to two galleys his war galley and one merchant. With the lack of trees he orders the crews to tear the shattered hull apart for fuel so the journey can continue in the remaining galleys.
Naples - The Steam Ram “Emperor Augustus†is launched, by the Emperor himself. It is by far the largest warship ever built. It has a large stern mounted paddle wheel and two independently powered side wheels, which allows the ship to turn faster than anything afloat. It has a maximum speed of 20 miles an hour.
The emperor continues to stare with glowing pride as his ship sets out on its maiden voyage.

5BC: Rome - The Rome – Genoa steam cart line is opened. The Emperor Augustus in conversation with Marcus Servius, who’s health is failing, issues a decree that the steam cart lines have the highest priority. The emperor wants all the empire linked by steam carts as soon as possible.
There are now 66 steam war galleys, 1 steam ram and 92 steam merchant galleys.
A frozen land - Marius Tullius views the desolate landscape with an amount of pride despite the loss of eight galleys and the leaving of fifty men in Atlantia. The stars are nearly in the correct positions; fuel, food and water are plentiful. He now knows where to go south into the warm embrace of the empire.
Judea - A male child is born to Mary and Joseph in Bethlehem before moving to Nazareth.

4BC: Rome - the legion of engineers have come up with a new marvel – a steam powered winch which when combined with a catapult enabling it to throw objects further and faster. Designed by a young engineer recruited from Palestine, Walid Yacoub’s career stretches before him. After a demonstration, the Roman generals petition the emperor to commence mass production of the steam-powered catapult. Promised rapid victories against the empires’ enemies, the emperor agrees but demands guarantees.
More war galleys are deferred, as resources are short.

3 BC: Gaul - The Genoa – Paris steam cart track is in operation, with track laying to the channel coast continuing and expected to be finished by the end of the year.
Marius Tullius sighs with relief. In the main harbour of Gaul are many ships of the empire most are wind powered merchants, he is however surprised to discover 3 war galleys stationed here. He makes a report to the Roman Governor of Gaul, Quintas Mamimus who immediately sends the report to Rome. Marius enquires why the report is sent over land when he will be in Rome before the messenger. Quintas laughs and simply says the message will be in the emperors’ hands in under a week.
Rome - The steam catapults are being built at an increasing rate. All are being sent north. Emperor Augustus is determined to crush the northern barbarians once and for all. There are now 10 legions in Romanised southern Germania with an another 5 in transit. This represents 15% of the current Roman army. The emperor reminds the generals of the promises they made. If they fail here, they will suffer the consequences.
Emperor Augustus greets the returning hero’s at the docks. It appears that all of Rome is with him. During the parade Marius is amazed by the changes in Rome and the Empire during his 14-year absence. The emperor accepts the name of the new land without a thought and immediately proclaims that the original crews, Tullius and Servius are granted huge allotments of land in the new territory.
The emperor also instructs that a colonisation fleet be assembled and sent to Atlantia.
There are now 70 war steam galleys, 3 steam rams and 107 steam merchant galleys.

2BC: Rome - Marcus Servius retires as Consul due to ill health, his ambitious young son Lucius replaces him. Marcus Servius dies later this year as one of the richest men who ever lived.
The Atlantia colonisation fleet is taking shape the fleet consists of 50 steam merchant galleys and 10 war galleys. It is envisioned that the war galleys will remain at the new colony for protection, while the merchants will unload and return home. A regular schedule for shipping essential supplies is devised. Trans oceanic commerce is about to commence.
Marius Tullius is appointed Governor of Atlantia, with him travel 3 legions to subdue any resistance from the native barbarians.
Brutus Servius, the older brother of Lucius, is sent with his family to claim and administer the Servius holdings.
As the fleet leaves for Atlantia, the first news is received of the conquest of the barbarian lands to the north.

1BC: Romanised Germania - The Roman Legions in Germania have been formed into three groups of five, each have been given a separate route of advance, east, west and south with the Roman general Tiberius in over all command.
Atlantia - The colonisation fleet has arrived and is greeted with joyous celebrations, of the original 50 men left behind 38 still live the others having died of disease, age or in accidents. The colony however is thriving, all the original crew has married and the total population has risen to two hundred in the last seven years.

1AD: Atlantia - Marius Tullius is amassed at the progress that has been made in the last year. All the ships have been unloaded and are preparing to return to Rome. The colony is growing rapidly a steam powered saw mill is creating timber for buildings while the engineers and soldiers brought along are exploring deep into the uncharted land looking for resources that can be exploited for the colony and the Empire.
The remaining colonists are planting crops and building a stone pier to make the loading and unloading of ships quicker and easier. Marius is pleased and thinks to himself that the colony could be completely self sufficient in under ten years.
Brutus Servius meets with Marius Tullius in relation to his families land allotment from the emperor, after much discussion a large tract of land far to the north of the settlement is ceded to the Servius family. The land is heavily forested but once cleared will make excellent farmland. During the discussions Brutus, a teacher by trade, suggests that a school be sent up for the barbarian children, to more rapidly assimilate them into the empire. Marius Tullius agrees and the worlds’ first general public school is founded.
Gaul - Quintas Mamimus opens the last section of the main north – west steam cart link. A line now traverses Gaul east to west linking Genoa and Rome to the Gaul coast off Britannia. Quintas Mamimus also announces the start of a Genoa – Hispalis link. This however will take many years.
Mediterranean - The slave powered galley Serapis is smashed on rocks during a storm. While swimming for shore, slave number 42 sees another man drowning in the sea. He swims across to him and drags him to shore. Dominus Tullius awakes on the Judea shore with a slave standing over him and asks why he saved him. Number 42 sighs and says I don’t know I just did. Dominus laughs and asks what is your name slave? Number 42 thinks for a while and says Antony Nasser of Syria. Dominius says well Antony Nasser of Syria by saving you have saved yourself, to which Antony replies that may not be possible, Dominius asks why. Antony then explains that he was caught up in a rebellion against Rome and his whole province was enslaved for treason. Dominius ponders the problem for a while and says I pay my debts, if you can’t live as a free man here how would like to live as a free man in a distant land? Antony seeing the hope of freedom for the first time in three years agrees.
Six weeks later Antony Nasser is aboard a steam galley heading for Atlantia, with a letter of introduction from Dominius to his brother Marius, the Roman Governor of Atlantia.
Rome - Emperor Augustus open a new iron foundry this steam powered foundry quadruples the empire’s iron production and more of the foundries are under construction. At it’s opening the emperor states that the new iron foundry will allow steam cart links to every city in the empire.
Germania - the conquest of the northern barbarians is progressing well in the east and west, however in the south, General Marcus Valium is having difficulties in his heavily forested region. The steam catapults are not as effective in the forests as in the plains. Casualties are heavy as the barbarian’s use hit and run tactics from the cover of the forests. Seeing no choice General Valium sends a courier to Tiberius advising him of the situation. Unbeknown to General Valium he has left his plea for help to late for the barbarians are now ready to strike a massive blow to the Roman army.

2 AD: China - The Han Dynasty gets the plans for an early Roman steam engine from Persian spies. On seeing this marvel the Han Emperor orders the construction of a prototype steam engine. He also orders his military to get a working model of the Roman steam engine by any means. Instructions are sent to the Persian spies, promising great rewards if a working model attained for the emperor.
Germania - The barbarian horde attack General Valium’s legions, in a fighting retreat to the south Valium’s legions inflict massive casualties on the barbarians, however in doing so the same happens to Valium’s legions. After a three-day battle Valium returns to a Roman fortress but the cost was high, of the 25 thousand men he set out with two years before he returns with just 2200 men.
General Tiberius is reviewing the over all progress of his armies when a messager arrives from the southern legions. Tiberius is incensed, screaming insults at the messager and Valium in general; he summons his commanders from the eastern and western legions and decides to take advantage of Valium’s stupidity. His eastern and western legions will march south to encircle and destroy the barbarians. A week later Tiberius stands atop a small hill and surveys the carnage. The barbarians not expecting an attack from the rear have been annihilated, of the ninety thousand armed barbarians only fifteen thousand remain. General Tiberius decides to make an example of them, they will all be crucified on the road to Rome where Tiberius will present Valium and a conquered Germania to the emperor. Rome now controls all of Western Europe to the Oder River and now has a natural barrier between itself and the barbarian tribes of Eastern Europe.
Atlantia - Surveyors discover huge deposits of iron, tin, copper, gold and coal. Marius Tullius is astounded by the wealth of the new colony and immediately sends word to Rome asking for experienced miners and all the equipment required to build a steam cart line from the resources to the main colony. Tullius also instructs his engineers to build a small foundry to allow the colony to produce some of the metals it needs while they wait for the modern equipment to arrive from Rome. Industrialisation of the colony has begun. The first students start at the world’s first public school, the Romanisation of the native barbarians is in full swing.
Native barbarian archers join the Roman legions as auxiliary units swelling the number of men at arms to twenty thousand while others begin training as tradition roman infantry. Within two years the first native roman legions will be formed to protect and expand the colony.
Antony Nasser is presented to Marius Tullius with his letter of introduction. After reading the letter from his brother Marius asks what Antony would like for his reward. In reply Antony asks if he could help explore this land and build a new life for himself. Marius Tullius agrees and sends Antony Nasser to join the surveyors exploring to the north and west of the colony.
Rome - The legion of engineers test a new steam engine, the first with a geared transmission, on a small boat, which is different from current designs. It uses a single screw at the rear of the boat attached to a drive shaft linked to the transmission. There is also one noticeable difference as this vessel has a stern centred rudder. The test was moderately successful with the screw and rudder working well together, however the metallic components of the transmission were not manufactured to the precision required for the transmission to function as designed. Walid Jacoub shrugs and begins to think of ways to improve the quality of the parts.

3AD: Rome - Emperor Augustius receives the information regarding the mineral wealth of the new colony. He orders the immediate shipment of whatever resources Atlantia requires to bring the new resources in to production for use by the empire. Thousands of German slaves, as well as dozens of steam carts with the required tracks are sent along with other trained professions to enable the colony to produce whatever it needs to expand. To encourage people to travel to Atlantia with their skills, the emperor offers land grants to whoever travels to Atlantia and stays there for a period of no less than ten years.
After ten years and the expenditure of enormous quantities of labour and resources every major city in Italy is linked to Rome by steam carts.
The emperor is pleased and in discussion with Lucius Servius agrees to slow the construction of the steam cart tracks with exception of Atlantia; to allow the Roman economy to recover from the cost of forced industrialisation.
General Tiberias returns victorious to Rome. In appreciation for his services the emperor grants him a large land grant in the newly conquered Germania. Valium’s reception is anything but friendly and after a quick trial by the senate is crucified outside the emperor’s palace.
Judea - Tensions erupt into open rebellion against Rome. The Roman legions in Judea, Syria and Mesopotamia find themselves outnumbered by rampaging occupants of the region (The Persian spies in the employ of the Chinese emperor have secretly fomented the rebellion). News of the rebellion is sent to Rome along with a request for additional legions to but down the rebellion.
Rome - The Emperor on hearing of the rebellion immediately summons General Tiberius and asks him to load his eight remaining legions (two were left in Germania) onto the 25 steam galleys Lucius Servius has made available at the emperors request. Tiberius’ orders are simple crush the rebellion and return order to the province by any means necessary.
Due to steam cart expansion, production of steam powered ram and war galleys have come to a virtual halt over the last few years. No new construction of warships have been approved with only those already under construction being finished. This however did not effect the steam powered merchant galley production.
In the empire there are now 80 war steam galleys, 9 steam rams and 132 steam merchant galleys.

4AD: Atlantia - The Atlantian colony with the latest arrivals now has a population of 80,000. The emperor instructs that a capital city be built for the colony and that it be named after the empire’s latest hero Tiberius. Plans are drawn up for the new city to be built at a river delta 20 leagues to the north. Tiberium will be a purpose built city with long stone piers and a deep port for shipping as well as wide streets to accommodate an extensive steam cart network. Construction of Tiberium will begin with in months, first however the slaves must build the steam cart tracks to the mineral deposits.
Mining the vast mineral deposits to the north has commenced with the first shipment of coal, iron ore, copper and gold being sent to the colony by ox cart. As the mineral caravan reaches the colony it passes the slave gangs building the steam cart route. The lead cart driver, Dominus Varak watches the construction as the oxen slowly pull the heavily laden cart to town, and thinks to himself, at this rate of progress the steam cart link will be finished in less than a year.
The Roman legions in Atlantia now number six as native barbarians join to gain the benefits of Roman citizenship, which come to those who complete their tours of duty.
Marius Tullius makes a decision that will change the colony forever. The new native inductee’s are merged into the existing legions with the more experienced Roman soldiers being promoted to command the new legions. The new legions are slightly different to the existing legions, as Marius Tullius has instructed that the sons of the chiefs of three local tribes be given the positions of second in command. The chiefs, glowing with pride as they see their sons, resplendent with gleaming roman armour, pledge the allegiance of their tribes to the Roman Empire. In return Marius Tullius declares that the three chiefs will be granted Roman citizenship immediately with the rest of the tribes receiving citizenship in another ten years, if peaceful relations continue.
There are now 30 thousand men under arms in Atlantia excluding auxiliary units. What is more important however is that the three main tribes on the east coast of Atlantia are being rapidly assimilated into the Roman culture and Roman expansion into the new land is assured.
Judea - General Tiberius unloads his legions at Antioch and quickly puts down the uprising in the city. Unlike his campaign in Germania, Tiberius does not crucify the captured rebels; instead they are all enslaved and immediately put to work building steam cart tracks in both northern and southern directions. The slaves die by the thousands under the pressure of building the steam cart tracks around the clock. This however is of no concern to Tiberius who seems to have an unlimited supply of rebels to enslave for the purpose of building his fortifications and supply lines. As his legions march in and put down the towns and cities in rebellion, steam cart tracks quickly follow enabling Tiberius to quickly move his legions to other areas in rebellion.
Rome - Emperor Augustus is unhappy with the news from Tiberius. Although Tiberius continues to put down rebellions, another one springs up before he is finished the last one. His communique announces the need for more legions to prevent the uprisings occurring. Unfortunately for the emperor, that although the required number of legions exist, it would mean stripping the legions from other areas which would rise in rebellions if the legions were to be moved. After careful consideration the emperor send an urgent communique to all his regional governors. The message is simple; the governors are to raise more legions for the empire. To encourage their subjects to volunteer, the governors are empowered to half the service time to ten years and promise any whom complete their service full roman citizenship as well as a parcel of land in the newly conquered territories.

5AD: Atlantia - Marius Tullius receives the latest communique from the emperor with a wry smile as he had implemented a similar idea last year.
The new colony is growing at an extraordinary rate as marriages between the male roman legions and speciality occupations of the first fleet and the native females are an every day occurrence.
During an inspection of the new capital Tiberium Marius is amassed at the progress in the last year. The governor’s palace and the senate building are well under way as well as amphitheatres and steam cart tracks. It occurs to Marius that in a couple of years the whole colony will be able to move to the first Roman City in Atlantia.
The steam cart track has finally reached the mineral deposits in the northwest and resources are poring into the foundries, set up to smelt the ores into useable materials.
One report that crossed Marius Tullius’ desk was a welcomed surprise the clearing of farmland has enabled the production of large quantities of cereal grains mostly wheat and rye. It occurs to Marius that for the first time, the colony has no need to import food from Rome, as the great herds of hairy cows supply ample meat and now that the colony is able to grow it’s own grains, the colony is self sufficient in food production.
In his reply to the emperor, Marcus advised that there is now no need to ship food to the colony. He also states that if manufacturing equipment is supplied the colony will not only be able to produce it’s own food, it will be able to manufacture what ever equipment it needs including steam carts and galleys.
The training of new soldiers is progressing well with Marius Tullius expecting to add three more legions in the next year.
He has also heard reports from the surveyors of a great river, 250 leagues west of Tiberium, which was the furthest he had allowed the surveyors to go. Across from the river are vast plains that would be perfect for growing crops and raising animals. Marius decides that next he will run the steam cart track due west to the great river where he will base a couple of legions and build Atlantia’s second city.
Germania - The Roman governor of Germania, Sulis Catullus, acts immediately upon receipt of the emperors’ proclamation. In months he has tens of thousands of barbarian volunteers for the Roman legions. Such an overwhelming response encourages Sulius Catullus to build a city – fortress in the far north east of the territory. This city will become the capital of Germania, which Catullus calls Berlinium. With the continued interest of the barbarians in joining the legions showing no sign of slacking, Germania in the years to come, will supply over half the infantry legions of the empire and as such both Sulius Catullus and Germania will grow more important to the empire.
Gaul - The Genoa – Hispalis steam cart link is running well behind schedule as many of the resources required to complete this steam cart link has been redirected to either the Atlantia colony or to Judea. Quintas Mamimus on hearing of the latest delay sends yet another plea to the emperor to be allocated the resources needed to complete construction. The response he receives from the emperor is not encouraging, as the emperor explains that resources are in short supply and only areas of strategic importance will receive all they ask for and the rest of the provinces will have to make do on what resources remain.
Judea - The rebellion continues, no sooner than Tiberius’ legions suppress one rebellion then another breaks out in another area. The crucifixions and enslavement of the rebels does little to stop new rebellions from breaking out. Tiberius is worried and asks the emperor for more legions and resources saying “somebody is encouraging these rebels and the only way to stop it is to find out who and carve out their hearts.â€
Rome - The emperor reads Tiberius’ plea and realises that every asset must be used to put down these rebels or else the rebellion against Rome may spread to other adjacent areas including Africa and Germania. He issues two new instructions, one to the Roman governor of Germania, Sulis Catullus ordering him to send five of his new legions to Judea immediately as well as recruiting and training as many legions as he can. The second instruction goes to the Legion of Engineers demanding the immediate construction of a steam cart track from Genoa to the Germania capital Berlinium. This construction is to be given the highest priority.
In response to a communique from Marius Tullius, the Emperor Augustus sighs with relief. Atlantia has been a drain on the empires’ resources for the last six years and the emperor is pleased that the investment is starting to pay dividends. In discussions with Lucius Servius it is decided to send all the modern industrial equipment that the colony will need to create an industrialised manufacturing centre in the hope that Atlantia will be able to produce materials that the empire requires.
All construction of steam powered rams and war galleys have now ceased, as the emperor believes that the resources would be better spent on steam cart and industrial expansion.
There are now 88 war steam galleys, 15 steam rams and 155 steam merchant galleys. The emperors instructions regarding construction of steam galleys does not effect the construction of the merchant hulls as the emperors agreement with Servius Marine on subsidised private construction is still in operation.
China - The first prototype Chinese steam engine is demonstrated for the Han emperor. On seeing it he instructs his generals to convert a junk to steam power so that the Han dynasty can challenge the Roman Empire’s dominance of the seas.
The emperor is also briefed on the ongoing efforts to get a working Roman steam engine and the results of Persian spies endeavours to stir up rebellion in the areas of Roman control closest to Persia and China. The Han emperor is pleased with the results of the rebellions to date.

6AD: Atlantia - Marius Tullius inspects the cargo of the latest fleet from Rome. He then issues an instruction the surprises the captains of the galleys. They are instructed to sail 20 leagues further north in the great bay until they locate the new capital Tiberium, there they will unload their cargoes at the newly constructed stone piers. A message is also sent to Octavian Macedo, the chief engineer of the colony instructing him to get the newly arrived industrial equipment installed and operating to enable the colony to be completely self-sufficient from Rome.
During the construction of Tiberium, Octavian Macedo has an idea the will change the construction techniques through out the empire. He mates a steam-powered winch, with a pre-existing crane and discovers that it can lift much more weight then that of normal cranes. The first steam powered crane is now in every day use.
The mining of resources is increasing exponentially. Nobody in the new colony had any idea just how rich the new land is and it is only now becoming apparent that the land grants given to the colonists could make many of them rich beyond imagination.
Rome - the legion of engineers has created a new steam engine.
The high pressure reciprocating steam engine will enable the steam carts to travel at speeds as yet unimagined. This new engine resembles a locomotive of our time-line in that for the first time the steam carts will have horizontal pistons instead of vertical ones.
This new engine design will quickly find its way into the galleys of the empire.
The new high pressure reciprocating steam engine comes to the attention of Walid Jacoub and Lucius Servius and is immediately included into the design of a new deep draught galley one that incorporates a stern centred rudder with two screw type propellers linked to drive shafts. It is hoped that the new design will allow this new ship design to be half as fast again as the steam rams.
Judea - The Roman legions in Judea, Syria and Mesopatania continue too battle the rebellions against Rome. The need to move troops quickly is never more apparent so Tiberius orders that all carpenters and blacksmiths drafted into service to build more rolling stock for the steam carts. Two of the carpenters drafted into service from Nazareth are Joseph and his deeply religious son Jesus.
Germania - Construction of the Genoa – Berlinium steam cart track continues. As resources are short, they are redirected from Gaul to insure the rapid transit of the newly formed German legions to Judea.
With the additional attention received from the emperor, caused by the continuing flow of volunteers for the legions, the governor of Germania, Sulis Catullus asks the emperor to authorise the diversion of resources to enable such a loyal region to build it’s own capital. After careful consideration the emperor agrees.

7AD Judea - The rebellion against Roman rule has spread. Despite Tiberius’ harsh punishments, rebellions have now broken out all over the region and have even started in North Africa. The emperor is not pleased by this development and has told Tiberius that if he doesn’t put down the rebellions by the end of the year he will be replaced with someone who can. Tiberius can see his lives goals slipping from his fingers and is determined to remedy the situation. He orders that everybody in the rebellious regions who do not pledge allegiance to the emperor to be enslaved or crucified at the discretion of the officers in charge of the regions with no exceptions.
The construction of steam cart carriages by the conscripted labor force is starting to produce results as the additional rolling stock is enabling the legions to be dispatched to many trouble spots at the same time greatly improving Tiberius’ reaction time to freshly broken out rebellions. During an uprising in Jerusalem a roman centurion by the name of Hermann Reichter captures a Persian who has been helping ferment the rebellions against Rome. After interrogation by the Romans the Persian spy admits to being part of a conspiracy to cause as much disruption to the Roman Empire as possible. With this information the local tribune Adolphus Scheer take the spy before Tiberius who instructs his subordinates to ring the Persian out like a sponge. Unfortunately the spy dies before he can reveal who is sponsoring the rebellions against Rome.
Steam cart links in the Middle East now stretch south from Antioch to Alexandria with plans to expand the link across the entire African north coast.
Atlantia - The construction of Tiberium has struck a snag supplies of the volcanic ash used in the concrete has been slow arriving. In desperation Octavian Macedo began experimenting with locally mined lime mixed with various types of local clays. After much trial and error he discovered that if you burned a mixture of pure limestone with local clay at the right temperature you got a substance that was almost identical to the concrete made with the volcanic ash.
The first example of modern concrete has been created.
Marius Tullius thinks about the new development and other aspects of the colony with a sense of joy. The newly installed industrial equipment is producing all the tools and material that the colony needs while the mines and foundries produce the ores and refined metals for use in all manner of endeavours. In a report to the emperor he states that the colony is now self-sufficient of the need for material and equipment. All that the colony needs now is the continued migration of skilled citizens of the empire and of course the latest plans of whatever new developments are created by the legion of engineers.
Rome - The emperor reads the report from Atlantia with a sense of satisfaction all the time, effort and resources poured into the new colony have paid off. Now it is only a matter of reaping the benefits of the wealth and resources the new land can supply the empire. The report from Judea is far from satisfactory especially the news that the rebellions in this region and northern Africa are being organised by Persians acting on behalf of an unknown power. After careful consideration the emperor instructs Tiberius to capture more of these Persian spies at any cost so as to enable the empire to determine who is responsible for these outrageous crimes.
Servius Marine commences construction of a new deep draught galley which utilises a high pressure reciprocating steam engine, stern centred rudder and two screw type propellers linked to drive shafts. This vessel will look very different from any previous ships and it’s most obvious one will be that it is three times as large as any other ship yet built.
Gaul - Quintas Mamimus screams in outrage as he hears the latest news from Rome. Construction of the Genoa – Hispalis has been suspended two thirds complete with all the resources from this project to be directed to the northern steam cart link and the construction of Berlinium. Quintas Mamimus sends an impassioned plea to the emperor to restore his pet project; the plea however falls on deaf ears. The only comment the emperor makes in his reply is his dissatisfaction at the lack of response in Gaul for volunteers for the legions of Rome.
Germania - The Roman governor of Germania, Sulis Catullus smiles when he hears the emperors’ latest decree. With all the resources diverted from Gaul, the Genoa – Berlinium steam cart track is being built at a breath taking speed. The chief engineer’s report on it’s progress states that if no problems are encountered the track will be completed in the next two years. Sulis knows that with the emperors continued favour and the resources flowing in for the steam cart track that the construction of Berlinium will accelerate beyond his wildest dreams.
China - The first Chinese steam powered junk is launched it is however underpowered and is far outclassed by the Roman steam powered galleys.
The Han emperor seeing the junk for the first time realises that this is the path to the future and orders the immediate implementation of steam power in all facets of the empires industry. The forced industrialisation of China has begun.
 
Part two

8AD: Atlantia - Marius Tullius inspecting the new construction of Tiberium simply can’t believe his eyes the colonies new capital is nearly complete. The stone piers and slipways for ship construction are complete, steam cart tracks run down every street and onto the piers. Even the Governors palace and the people’s forum are complete and now only minor items remain. Marius Tullius sends a dispatch to Rome announcing the near completion of Tiberium and asking if the Emperor would like to come and officially open the capital of Atlantia. He also advised the emperor that production of tools, industrial equipment, steam carts and ships have commenced. One thing that he didn’t mention and is saving as a surprise for the emperor when he arrives to open the new capital is a vast store of gold and gems produced in the new colony that he intends to present to the emperor on his arrival.
Production of food, resources, metals and other necessary products has reached a level at which the colony is over supplied. The first exports of these products from the colony back to Rome have begun.
With Tiberium nearing completion Marius Tullius decides that it is time to build an out post far inland and decides that a city on the banks of the great inland river would be perfect. Before construction can commence on the new city a steam cart link needs to be built to the construction site. He orders Octavian Macedo to commence building the new steam cart track immediately. The first Atlantian trans continental steam cart tract is begun.
Judea - The year of sorrow has begun. Tiberius’ proclamation regarding a pledge of allegiance to the emperor has for all intensive purposes failed. Blood stains the streets as armed rebels are put to the sword by the legions, while the males of the region who fail to made the pledge are crucified, the females and children are enslaved and sold to whom ever pays for them. The legionaries who have been deprived of female companionship for many months purchase a lot of the young women. There are however exceptions, the young son of a carpenter conscripted into making rolling stock for the steam carts, speaks out against the violence and calms down the workers who have heard that their town was destroyed in the fighting. As a show of thanks to the young man a tribune allows his family and the other workers not to take the pledge and not be punished for it. His fellow workers thank Jesus who responds that we are all God’s children and there are better ways to protest than the use of violence.
Germania - The violence in the Judean region has spread and the nomadic tribes of Eastern Europe are now attacking the border outposts of the Germanian legions. Sulis Catullus is concerned by the increasing frequent attacks and asks permission from the emperor Augustus to wage a war of pacification against the nomadic tribes of the east. The emperor agrees and advises all his governors that more legions are required.

9AD: China - The first Chinese steam powered junk the “Dragons Wings†sets out on its maiden voyage. Island hopping through the South China Sea its course is that of a southeasterly direction.
Rome - The emperor Augustus has summoned all his governors to Rome, the reason for the meeting is the continual building of insurrection and attack from the East.
During the meeting the emperor decrees that those regions not involved in the fighting must supply all assistance possible. He however make one exception, while Atlantia will supply as many tools, ships and weapons that it can produce it will not have to supply legions for the military campaigns as the emperor wants to turn it into the largest military industrial complex in the empire. Marius Tullius in response to the emperor’s decree announces that he has already decided on the site for the colonies second city and construction will begin as soon as a steam cart track reaches the location. At the end of the summit the emperor make one further announcement. He will be travelling to Atlantia to open the new capital and see the wonder of the new land. In doing so he realises that he will be out of contact for a few months and appoints Tiberius, regent during his absence.
Atlantia - During Marius Tullius’ absence Tiberium is completed. With resources being in abundant supply Octavian Macedo throws all the colonies energies into the construction of the east – west steam cart link. His goal is simple to have the link complete by the time Marius Tullius and the emperor arrive. All the slaves from the construction of Tiberium are sent west to work at a backbreaking rate to complete the steam cart link. In other areas of the colony industrial and resource production have reached an all time high at the same time Servius Marine commences construction their new deep draught galleys which utilises a high pressure reciprocating steam engine, stern centred rudder and two screw type propellers linked to drive shafts. These modern vessels are now being built at all the slips in the colony and it is envisioned that Atlantia will be able to build a dozen to these ships a year.
Germania - Sulis Catullus is concentrating a large number of legions east of Berlinium. This army calling itself the Fist of Rome has very simple instructions, to find and destroy the invading hordes by any means available. The stratagem behind this offensive is twofold to stop the barbarian hordes from raiding the eastern Roman provinces and to try and take some of the pressure from Tiberius’ legions in Judea.
Judea - The brutal suppression of the areas in rebellion is starting to show signs of success with open rebellion grinding to a halt as many of the areas have suffered massive casualties and are simply unable to continue hostilities. Tiberius is pleased with the results but concerned that the underlying hostility towards Rome has merely passed from a phase of open rebellion to an underground one. There is a bright note to this unpleasant situation during the last round of fighting dozens of Persian spies were captured alive and Tiberius hopes to be able to supply the answers to the emperors questions of how and why the rebellion started.
With Judea having been ravaged by war Joseph of Nazareth decides to leave Judea with all his relatives and start a new life for him and his family in the distant land of Atlantium. The incentives to migrate to the new land are still in place and with his skill as a carpenter Joseph believes that he will be able to build a happy life for his family. His deeply religious son Jesus will also leave for the new land, however he will not be going alone as he has developed quite a following with his religious views and many wish to follow this young rabbi.

10AD: Atlantia - The emperor Augustus is amazed by the new city of Tiberium it is unlike any other in the empire. At Tiberium’s official opening the emperor states that Tiberium is but the first of a series of cities to be built in the new land and it is the first example of what the modern cities of the empire will look like in the years to come. Marius Tullius while escorting the emperor on the tour of Tiberium takes him to a large building and after opening the doors shows the emperor a vast treasure of gold, silver gems and pearls which he announces is a gift from the new colony to the emperor. Augustus is overwhelmed by the gesture and as a sign of appreciation promises that anything the colony needs it will get.
Outside in the crowd Joseph, Jesus, their relatives and all the other new immigrants from Judea have just seen the emperor for the first time. They however have more important matters that concern them. As freemen they must find lodgings and then report to administration building to report their arrival and to find out where they are to work, as part of the immigration agreement states that they must first work off their transport debt before they are given any land allotment for themselves.
Back in his office Marius Tullius is catching up on the reports he missed while in Rome. During this time Octavian Macedo announces that the east – west steam cart track to the great river is nearly complete and that they can now start planning the colonies second city in greater detail. Marius Tullius is pleased and issue orders that all available carpenters are to be sent west to build temporary barracks for themselves and for the legions that will protect the labourers from harm while they build the new city.
Tullius also decides that the name of the new city will be Servium and the river will be named after one of the local native tribes and is called the Ohio. Servium will be built at the fork of two tributaries to the Ohio giving the empire greater access to the inland regions through the use of the river systems.
Rome - The legion of engineers has created a new steam powered vehicle. This is a heavy iron and steel vehicle with the steam engine driving two sets of wheels through a transmission and differential set up.
The world first steam tractor has been created. Walid Yacoub and the legion of engineers can’t wait for the emperors return Atlantium to show him this wonderful new marvel.
Germania - The Fist of Rome commences its military campaign against the barbarian hordes of Eastern Europe. All told there are fifty legions that make up this powerful army. These legions make up just under 50% of the total men at arms for the Roman Empire. This is a massive gamble by the emperor and Sulis Catullus, for if these legions are destroyed or suffer serious losses it will be years before these trained soldiers can be replaced.
South China Sea - Tan Le the captain of the “Dragons Wings†has discovered a series of islands on his journey of discovery. In a few more weeks he will turn around and head back home to report his finds to the Emperor. Then if the rumours are to be believed, he will start shuttling soldiers and supplies to these islands to enable the empire to grow in other directions. It is important not into the areas controlled by the barbarians currently fighting the great power in the west, where the plans for this marvellous engine came from.
China - The Han Dynasty launches a war of conquest against the small countries in Asia using steam catapults of Roman design but of Chinese manufacture. Progress in this war is rapid as the smaller Asian Empires, while knowing of the military build up in their neighbourhood, were very xenophobic and had closed their borders to the outside world thus they were unaware of the new technologies coming from the west.
The Han Emperor Tse Han is pleased with the reports of his generals about the war as they state that their armies are sweeping aside the enemy troops and they expect complete victory within a few weeks.

11AD: Atlantia - Antony Nasser while surveying the land west of the Ohio river is captured by a roving tribe of native barbarians and taken to their settlement. The black foot tribe is amassed by his dress, his steel and iron tools and particularly by his horse.
The local chief Dancing Bear is fascinated by the animal has Antony brought before him. Where can I get more of these animals he asks, Antony replies that his people are the only ones to have them in this land and the only way the tribe could get any would be for them to trade for them. Dancing Bear thinks for a while and offers Antony two of the most beautiful women in the tribe as his squaws in exchange for his horse and asks him to act as an agent on their behalf to purchase more horses for the tribe. Antony agrees but states that without something valuable to exchange it is unlikely he could get more horses for them. Dancing Bear thinks for a while and asks what Antony’s think are valuable. Antony pulls out his money pouch and shows the Chief a selection of gems, pearls and gold, silver and copper coins. Dancing Bear looks at the contents and picking some gems and pearls says we have these but we thought they were useful only as ornaments for the squaws. Antony then explains the gems and the pearls in particular are valued most highly by his people. Dancing Bear asks Antony to stay with the tribe for a while and enjoy the companionship of his squaws. Antony agrees and is treated by the rest of the tribe like a visiting king. While this is happening Dancing Bear calls his senior braves together and sends them to collect all the gems and pearls the tribe has and to barter with the other neighbouring tribes for any that gems and pearls that they would have.
After a couple of months Dancing Bear shows the horde of pearls and gems to Antony and enquires if he could purchase more horses for the tribe. Antony agrees and sets off with his squaws to the nearest settlement to make the arrangements.
Servium - Jesus, Joseph, Mary and other immigrants from Judea have arrived at the new settlement at the fork of the great river. They are immediately put to work building barracks and stables. During a meal break Jesus and Joseph watch the steam carts come and go from the new settlement. They never cease to be amassed by to organisation and purpose Rome is putting into it’s largest province, having only been in the colony a few weeks both wonder just how large the new land is having only been shown a map of the immediate area that concerns them.
China - The war of conquest against the smaller Asian nations has finished. China now controls all the land from the Mongol border to the southern sea. The Han emperor now turns his eyes to the south and west in Asia with the view of adding these countries to the empire. The Chinese war of expansion has begun.
Judea - Tiberius has learned from the captured Persian spies that it was the Chinese Empire far to the east that commissioned them to ferment a rebellion against Rome. Tiberius must now decide what to do with this information. After much thought Tiberius decides to use the senior Persian spy as a go between himself and the Chinese empire, he promises the spy Phalik Khan an enormous reward if he can organise a meeting between himself and a senior official of the Chinese empire. Tiberius also mentions that if Phalik betrays him and Rome, he will take his legions into Persia to search and destroy Phalik and his family. Phalik swallows nervously and promises Tiberius success.
Germania - The Fist of Rome is making excellent progress against the nomadic barbarian tribes. The Fist of Rome is composed of ten army groups each of five infantry legions with other auxiliary units attached as the situation of each army group dictates.
It’s area of operations stretch from the Baltic to the Black Seas. This powerful army’s orders have been changed slightly not only are they to find and destroy the raiding barbarian hordes but they now must push the border of Roman influence east until they find a natural barrier that can be fortified to protect Rome’s interests in Europe.
The ferocious reputation of the Fist of Rome proceeds it where ever it goes with many barbarians surrendering on sight before battle has even commenced. Sulis Catullus openly wonders why and then the answer dawns on him. Most of the legions in the Fist of Rome are composed of men from the Romanised Germanic tribes and even though they are trained in Roman ways they still practice there brutal cultural ways on the battlefield which include the rape and slaughter of their enemies. Sulis Catullus smiles and thinks that for once the Germanic barbarian aggression is actually working to the benefit of Rome.
Gaul - The Emperor Augustus stops over on the way back to Rome to have a frank discussion with the Governor of Gaul, Quintas Mamimus. The discussion is very heated with neither side willing to give ground on the dispute between Rome and Gaul’s apparent disinterest in raising legions for the defence of the Empire. The emperor before retiring for the evening after a fruitless day of discussions states that Gaul is becoming a laughing stock in the senate and that the region and it’s governor by proxy are considered cowards at best and traitors at worst. As he leaves Augustus says that the only reason he hasn’t replaced Quintas Mamimus is that he needs his more able governors and generals where they are and the second one is available Quintas Mamimus will be replaced and exiled unless he starts to get some results.
Quintas Mamimus is gravely concerned, he knows that the empire doesn’t tolerate failure and he hasn’t succeeded, he wonders how he can save himself before the emperor completely loses patience.
The next morning before the emperor boards his steam cart for the trip back to Rome; Quintas Mamimus guarantees the emperor two legions by the end of the year and ten with in three. The emperor considers this for a moment and says that is acceptable for now but the empire requires a greater contribution from the region in the future. Before he boards his steam cart at the station Augustus advises Quintas that if the legions arrive on time he will have Atlantia send the resources to complete the Genoa – Hispalis steam cart link. He also advises him that if the legions were not ready, Quintas had better have been practicing his gladiatorial skills because the next time he sees him he will be in the arena.
Quintas Mamimus thanks the emperor and rushes back to his office. In a meeting with his aides Quintas Mamimus announces that that every male between the ages of fifteen and twenty are to report immediately for military training and duty. To encourage a good response he orders the legions in Gaul to punish the families of those that do not report.
When asked what the punishment should be, he responds the family homes and possessions are to be confiscated and the families themselves killed or sold into slavery. He also advises that if the officers in command can think of other ways to encourage compliance they may do as they please as long as it gets the results required.

12AD: Persia - A secret meeting is taking place between General Tiberius and the First Minister of the Han Empire, Mao Tse Chan. After a month of often-raucous negotiations a deal is made. In exchange for the Roman Empire not passing the boarder of Persia or the Asia – Europe divide, the Han Empire will stop fermenting insurrection in the lands controlled by Rome. In effect this agreement gives China all of Asia while Rome gets all of Europe and Africa. Persia as brokers of this agreement remains independent of both China and Rome.
Phalik Khan is now the Persian leader having purchased his position by bribing the influential families of Persia with the reward money he received from both China and Rome. During secret negotiations with both parties he signs defence agreements with both Rome and China to protect Persia with out either China or Rome knowing of the others agreement.
Both General Tiberius and Mao Tse Chan leave thinking they have got the better of the other in the deal. What neither of them know is they have just signed a treaty that will guarantee a strategic stalemate for years to come, with neither side being able to break with out suffering unaffordable losses.
As they leave both representatives think of what they’ve gained for Tiberius and Rome, relative peace in Judea and Eastern Europe as well as the land masses of African and Atlantia which China doesn’t know much about.
For Mao Tse Chan and China freedom from the potential aggression of Rome, all of Asia and the chance to rebuild a shattered economy caused by the need to industrialise and maintain a huge army to control the conquered lands.
As they head their separate ways both men are smiling not knowing that the only real winners from the treaty are the Persians.
China - Mao Tse Chan makes his report to the Han Emperor. After advising the emperor of the situation he makes a few recommendations. Firstly China needs to build another wall this one stretching north – south from the existing east – west one that protects China from the Mongols. Secondly China needs to continue to get the northern barbarians to agitate against Rome to tie down large numbers of their legions. Thirdly China needs to continue its policy of forces industrialisation so that its industry and economy are a match for Rome. The emperor consults some of his other advisers and agrees with Mao’s plan with one alteration. For China to match Rome it needs access to raw materials and land to expand into so there is now a fourth part, conquest of the savage land north of the Mongol lands and of the Hindi lands to the south.
South China Sea - Tan Le the captain of the “Dragons Wings†has new orders he is to continue to explore for new lands that might be of use to the empire. When he reads his instructions he is surprised to find that he has the authority to requisition whatever resources and supplies he needs by order of the emperor himself. Swelled with pride, Tan Le and the “Dragons Wings†are determined to make the empire proud of them. To do this they will travel far to the east where there is a rumoured great southern land.
Judea - General Tiberius is pleased with the outcome of the secret treaty he has negotiated. Already the level of hostility towards Rome has decreased noticeably in Judea and Northern Africa. He thinks to himself that he really pulled the wool over those idiots’ eyes. All the empire needs to do now is to fully develop Europe, Atlantia and Africa. Even though this will take many years Tiberius believes that this will leave the empire in an impregnable position from which it will be able to destroy the Chinese to the east at its leisure.
Gaul - Quintas Mamimus has delivered on his promise of two legions by the end of the year. However the short-term cost of keeping this promise was high. To get the ten thousand men hundreds of families were killed or sold into slavery and there were even some reports of mothers, wives and sisters being raped in front of the “volunteers†to get them to comply with the military service order. The emperor however has kept his promise and ordered Atlania to send the material needed to complete the Genoa – Hispalis steam cart link. Labour for this project will not be a problem as many thousands of slaves were created by the military service order, Resentment of the administration is however high.
Germania - The Fist of Rome continues to achieve success on the field of battle with the eastern barbarians. After each battle thousands are either killed or enslaved by the armies. The men of the armies also rape and pillage where ever they go leaving nothing behind them other then resentment by what ever males remain and disgrace for the females who were used and thrown aside by the armies as they moved onto their next objective. Sulis Catullus is pleased with the progress of the war to date with many thousands of slaves sent back west to be used on whatever construction projects Rome needs them for. There is a down side to this situation however, many of the barbarians either those enslaved or remaining in the conquered territory exhibit massive amounts of hostility towards Rome and especially the Fist of Rome. To counter this Sulis Catullus has had to deploy many of the newly conscripted legions from Germania and Gaul to maintain order and to keep the supply lines open to the Fist of Rome. This however creates a problem, no legion can continually remain in battle with out being worn down by constant combat injuries and illness and Sulis Catullus has no available legions to replace them with. He decides to mention this to the emperor in the hope that Augustus might have an idea on how to fix the problem.
Rome - The emperor is reading his dispatches. It seems that more and more of time are spent doing this than other constructive activities. He is pleased with the reports from Gaul, Judea and Atlantia less so with the report from Germania but it is what were expected when the campaign began. After careful thought Augustus directs Marius Tullius to send five of his legions to Germania and the tools and materials required completing a large steam cart track to Gaul. He explains his decision by stating with no major hostile activity in Atlantia and with its increasing capacity to raise its own legions, Atlantia of all the Roman provinces is in the best position to provide the legions and the material that the empire requires. Augustus informs both Sulis Catullus and Quintas Mamimus that the men and materials they need will be coming shortly from Atlantia. The only matter that remains is what to do with Judea, as the region is calming down he doesn’t need his best general there anymore. There are also the decisions of whom to appoint as governor of Judea and how to reward Tiberius for his excellent service. Augustus decides the latter is easy, he will announce that Tiberius is his chosen successor when he dies and as for the former he will appoint tribune Adolphus Scheer as governor with his senior military officer being Hermann Reichter. Augustus smiles to himself and thinks, those two Germanians are ruthless efficiency incarnate, and in short that they are perfect bastards, can’t control the Judeans than nobody can. Please with his day’s work Augustus decides that he will go and check out the chariot racing and might even go to the arena for the gladiatorial contests if time allows.
After a couple of years of uncertainty and debate Lucius Servius and Walid Yacoub have finally convinced the emperor to allow production of the steam tractor. Production of this vehicle will however be limited as steam cart links still have priority over everything else. Strangely in Atlantia the steam tractor will be built in greater numbers as it has excess industrial capacity for its needs and even with exports has more resources available than what they know to do with.
Atlantia - Marius Tullius receives the instructions from the emperor with a sigh. The instructions were not something he wished for yet he had been half expecting them for more than a year now. Deciding that there was no point putting if off he asks one of his clerks to request the presence of the colonies commanding general, Titus Pulcher.
When the general arrives they discuss the emperors instructions and the best way of implementing them. After a long meeting it is decided to that of the fifteen full strength legions, two veteran and three green legions will be sent to Germania under the command of Dominus Howling Wolf one of the native son’s of a local tribal chief. To transfer these legions to Germania Marius Tullius commissions all 24 of Servius marine’s deep draught freighters these modern ships are capable of transporting cargoes of up to five thousand tons burden at a cruising speed of 25 miles per hour. Each ship will be able to transport a quarter of a legion with all its supplies and equipment. The transport of the legions will take 20 of these freighters. The other four will be used to transport the tools, track and equipment to finish the Genoa – Hispalis steam cart link.
Construction of Servium has commenced, overseen by Octavian Macedo, this new city will be the industrial heart of the province as it is close to resources and linked by steam cart to Tiberium has access to all the resources that the empire has to offer. Servium has one other thing going for it, being surrounded by the vast Servius holdings this powerful and wealthy family is for all intensive purposes building the capital of their estate in Atlantia.
Antony Nasser has purchased all the horses available for sale in Atlantia. Even though he had to pay a premium price for these animals he still had a large quantity of pearls and gems leftover. Antony decides that he deserves a commission on the deal and uses most of the remaining gems to purchase a large estate on the outskirts of Tiberium. After he sets his squaws up in residence he hides the pearls and decides to relax for a while. After all winter is fast approaching and the Black Foot tribe will be far to the south, so he has nearly half a year to enjoy the feminine charms of his squaws before he has to deliver the horses.
The state of the Roman Empire’s steam powered fleet is as follows: the navy has 88 Steam Galleys and 15 Steam Rams while Servius Marine has 210 steam merchant galleys and 29 of the new deep draught freighters. Lucius Servius has made a decision not to produce any more of the old style galleys and from this time onwards only the modern deep draught freighter or a variant of this type will be built for Servius Marine. While contemplating his decision Lucius also decides to build an experimental warship based on the deep draught freighter in the hope that he can show it to the emperor and convince him to recommence naval construction.

13AD: Persia - Susa, the Persia capital is a hot bed of intrigue and espionage as both Roman and Chinese agents try to get each other’s secrets. On hearing of this, Phalik Khan smiles to himself, for he knows through his political manoeuvring he has created a haven for both sides to try to steal each other’s secrets. This policy is however not with out risk, as Phalik Khan knows that either side could overwhelm his country before assistance arrives. He knows that Persia’s only hope of survival is the knowledge that any move on Persia will cause the other side to react and neither side can afford a war. At present Phalik is more than willing to sit back and accept the bribes of both sides while they conspire against each other.
The Chinese army conquerors the area west of there present borders to the Persian border. Phalik Khan objects strongly to the Chinese representative but is ignored. This does not surprise Phalik as Persia is trapped between two great powers and it’s only chance of survival is to play one against the other. Phalik is annoyed and angry as the only chance he had of increasing his territory has just disappeared in the blink of an eye.
China - After such an easy victory the Han emperor orders the immediate start of construction of a fortified wall running north-south from the current east–west wall protecting the empire from the Mongols. This wall when complete will circle the empire allowing rapid movement of forces to where a perceived threat might lay. For this massive construction project peasants are rounded up by the thousands and forced into hard labor to complete this demanding project. Such is the manpower required for the construction the emperor reluctantly agrees with his advisers and decides not to wage war on the Hindi states until it is completed. With the capture of this territory China now surrounds the Hindi Rajahs on three side and their only contact with the outside world is by sea.
South China Sea - Tan Le the captain of the “Dragons Wings†has used the emperor’s authority to requisition whatever resources and supplies he needs. Accompanied by the just completed steam junk the “Dragons Breath†Tan Le has set out for a distant set of islands with holds of his ships filled with livestock, grains and selected personnel. His immediate goal is to set up a small colony and supply base on the most southern of these islands which will enable him and any others who might came after him, to travel much further before having to turn around to resupply. Tan Le’s plan is simple yet brilliant just the same. After having got the blessing of the generals and the emperor himself, Tan plans to use the steam junks as they become available to set up little colonies and supply depots on each island within the range of the ships. This will enable the continual exploration of the ocean for the land the empire needs to expand with the junks not having to waste valuable time returning to the Chinese mainland to resupply.
Judea - In his last act before leaving to become consul of Rome general Tiberius on hearing of China’s invasion of the land between it’s border and Persia makes contact with the Hindi states. After short and quick negotiations he signs a trade agreement with them. In exchange for a small island off their coast and access to port facilities Rome will sell to Hindi Rajahs modern weapons and equipment that will allow them to stave off invasion from the Chinese.
Atlantia - Dominius Tullius is welcomed to Atlantia by his older brother on the docks as he disembarks. The brothers embrace after having been separated by their duties for fourteen years. With tears of joy in their eyes they walk towards the governors’ palace. As they walk Dominius says papa would have been proud of what you have achieved. Marius pleased by the praise of his youngest brother tells his brother that after he is rested he has a surprise for him. The next morning after breakfast Dominius enquires of his brother what the surprise might be. Marius jumps to his feet and says come with me and I’ll show you. Hurrying after his brother, Dominius wonders why Marius is heading back towards the docks. After their arrival the brothers stand looking at the ships, Dominius soon grows impatient and demands to know why they are here. Marius with a huge grin on his face turns and points to a ship unlike any Dominius has served upon and says why we’re here to check out your new command. Dominius is speechless as his brother drags him up the gangplank and onto the deck of a futuristic looking ship. On the bridge Marius explains the “Wrath of Mars†is the first long-range deep draught cruiser in the empires fleet. And she’s fast he explains between chuckles faster than anything is on or under the sea is and she’s all yours.
Antony Nasser sets out with his squaws to meet Dancing Bear and the other Black Foot Indians. Dancing Bear is impressed with the results of the transaction in a Gerry built coral he has 203 horses both mares and stallions. Walking up to Antony Dancing Bear wraps him in a bear hug and thanks him for his assistance. Dancing Bear now has the ability to travel further and faster than any other Indian tribe. These animals will enable him to wage war on his tribe’s enemies and to trade or gain favours from other tribes that are friendly towards the Black Foot. Antony Nasser doesn’t know it yet, but he has just supplied the Indians with the means to be able to at least, resist the Romans when they reach the lands the more aggressive and war like Indian tribes. The only question that remains are whether the Indians can grow the herd of horses fast enough to be able to slow or stop the Roman expansion. Whatever the outcome Rome’s expansion into the interior of this vast land will be slowed as the native Indians will be better able to resist in the future.
Germania - The five legions from Atlantia, under the command of Tribune Dominius Howling Wolf are merged into the Fist of Rome. The Fist of Rome now has it’s own commander, instead of reporting to Sulis Catullus the provincial governor, a new general, Fabian Valium, the youngest brother of the disgraced General Marcus Valium now reports directly to Rome. Looking at the additions of his new command Fabian is determined to regain the honour of the family name and erase the disgrace of his brother’s failure. Under his command and the command of his young and ambitious tribunes, the “Fist of Rome†will forge a reputation as the finest fighting force in the empire, part of it’s reputation however will be that this force is also the most ruthless and brutal in the annuls of history.
Gaul - The supply of tools, equipment and resources from Atlantia have enabled the completion of the Genoa – Hispalis. Quintas Maminus is pleased to finally have completed this steam cart link. The cost however has been high, with tens of thousands killed or sold into slavery. Even so Gaul is still on course to deliver the ten legions promised with another three being transferred to Germania now and another five in training for delivery next year. Quintas Maminus is gravely concerned with some reports he has received recently, about the growing levels of resentment to Roman administration of Gaul. Reports of protests and civil disobedience is common place and it would not take much Quintas knows for this resentment to explode into full-scale insurrection. To prevent this Quintas Maminus orders his legions to ferret out the ringleaders and make an example of them to discourage armed insurrection.
Rome - Rumours that the emperor’s health is failing spread like wild fire through Rome. Tiberius just arrived from Judea immediately goes to the emperor’s palace to see if the rumours are correct. On arrival the staff advise him that the emperor is not ready to see him and could he return in the morning. The next morning Augustus sees Tiberius to discuss his role as Consul of Rome. At first sight Tiberius know that the emperor is not well and Augustus confirms his suspicions by advising him that the doctors think he does not have long to live. After a short discussion on his duties Tiberius leaves the palace and heads for the forum. Before entering the forum Tiberius send a message to some of his legions that are stationed around Rome instructing the commanders that he might need there forces should anybody challenge his right to the throne. The discussions with the senate are often raucous and heated, as several senators believe they should succeed Augustus. Tiberius announces to the senate that he will be Emperor and that he is willing to fight for it. Seeing how determined Tiberius is the senators agree to support Tiberius’ claim to the throne as long as they get rewarded for their support. Tiberius agrees and through a series of back room deals several new provinces will be created with the governors being appointed from the families of his rivals. Through this agenda the peaceful transfer of power will be achieved with little disruption to the lives of the Roman citizens.
 
Part three

14AD: Rome - Augustus Caesar dies and in a bloodless transition Tiberius becomes emperor. In his first act as emperor Tiberius proclaims two new provinces one comprising of all of North Africa the other from the captured territory east of Germania. Tiberius in discussions with Lucius Servius and other key advisers orders the transfer of 25 steam galleys to the Red Sea as well as asking Servius to have the same number of steam merchant galleys sent there as well. When Lucius enquires as to the reasoning for this Tiberius advises him of the trade agreement with the Hindi Rajahs. Seeing an opportunity Lucius advises Tiberius of the new deep draught cruiser design and laments the fact the Augustus would not allow any construction of these powerful new ships.
After thinking for a while Tiberius authorises moderate construction of these ships as long as it doesn’t adversely effect other essential construction.
Atlantia - Dominius Tullius stands on the bridge of the “Wrath of Mars†as it’s fitting out is completed. He simply can‘t believe the difference between the ships he had served on in the past and this modern warship on which he now stands. While there are still slaves on board no longer do they have to pull an oar. They now have an easier life of stocking the boilers with either wood or coal, which gives them the chance of living much longer then they would in a slave, powered galley. The ship itself is five hundred feet long with four shafts driven propellers with a massive steel ram bolted to its bow. With a top speed of thirty miles an hours it is a fast ship to go into harms way. It is capable of carrying half a legion of troops as well as its complement of fifty sailors. The weapons it has on board are powerful siege types adapted for naval use. These include sixteen steam-powered catapults and twenty-five heavy ballistae. Standing here on the deck of the “Wrath of Mars†Dominius feels like the most powerful man alive.
Construction of Servium is progressing well with the mapping out of the city including large streets to accommodate steam cart tracks as well as under ground sewer and water supplies the will service the entire population. Joseph and Jesus watch the steam tractors and cranes while they construct scaffolding at a building site shake their heads at the technological progress the empire has made in the last few years. Jesus turns to Joseph and says if progress continues at this rate, nobody knows what the empire will develop next. Joseph laughs and says why Jesus it I’ll be a machine that flies like the birds! Both men laugh as they continue with their task. Both men laugh and continue with their work as construction of the colonies second city continues around them.
Antony Nasser has just become a father for the fist time when he is paid a visit by Dominius Tullius. After taking him on a tour of the estate Antony asks why Dominius came at this particular time. Dominius stops walking and says I came to issue you a warning and to offer you a job. Antony all serious now asks what type of warning. Dominius then explains that it has become known that Antony had sold a large number of horses to a tribe of barbarians and while this was not illegal it was perhaps unwise as these barbarians are now hassling the explorers of the interior. At present it is only a nuisance should it ever become a threat to the Roman control of this land then you will be held accountable for your actions. Antony who has now turned very pale, is more than a little concerned as a convicted traitor already he knows that should suspicion fall on him again he won’t be enslaved this time he would be crucified. Worried for the first time in many years Antony asks what the job would entail. Seeing the distress his warning has caused Dominius says that is why I am here to offer you a job. Dominius says my brother Marius has instructed me, to explore the entire coastline of this land and as such I have decided that I need to set up some supply depots. One has already been established in a warmer area on the tip of the great peninsular to the south. The one I wish you to run will be far to the south in a safe harbour recently discovered past the islands many leagues south of the peninsular. This I hope will assist me in my mission to map and explore the coastline while at the same time keeping you out of reach of Roman justice. The area I have chosen has a nice subtropical climate with a deep safe harbour. The ship that discovered this harbour, after being blown off course by a tempest, built a small wooden pier to make repairs before returning to Tiberium. Your job should you accept it would be to build a large safe, deep harbour for the empires ships to resupply at before returning home or continuing their exploration. Dominius pauses for a while and than says if you take the job and the empire comes after you, you could always head into the forests to hide and perhaps start a new life for yourself and your family where nobody knows who you are. Seeing a chance to escape his fate Antony asks when he and his family would need to leave. Dominius replies, soon. My ship is nearly ready and I have heard from my brother that if there is one more attack on our explorers he’ll crucify the bastard who sold them the horses. After a little thought Antony agrees to the proposal. As they walk back to the main residence Antony wonders what will happen to his estate when he leaves. Dominius replies normally traitor’s estates are confiscated by the state however I might be able to help you here as well. He goes on the explain that he will purchase the estate from Antony in a routine transaction, unfortunately he would not be able to meet the full price without borrowing the money from his brother. As this would cause suspicions that Antony was planning to leave and might cause his immediate arrest, Dominius offers Antony two-thirds the amount he paid for the estate. Apologising that this is all the money he has and to get this much he had to realise all his other assets. Antony nods in agreement and the transfer is made. Dominius advises Antony to get his wives and child aboard ship the next day as his ship will sail with the afternoon tide. After handing over a bag of gems in exchange for the title of the estate, Dominius also hands over a document that will allow Antony and his family to board the “Wrath of Marsâ€; Antony reads the document and is surprised that the name on it is different. Dominius seeing his confusion, says this way nobody will know you left with me or where you have gone, all they will know is that you sold me your estate and disappeared.
If they start a search for you they will look at the logs of all the ships that departed around the time you left. Not finding your name on any of them, they will think you went native with your family, quite possibly back to their tribe to live under their protection.
Seeing the logic of Dominius’ plan Antony agrees and heads off to pack up his family and belongings for the trip to a land far to the south of Rome’s current influence.
Gaul - After hearing of the death of Augustus Caesar, the population of Gaul, thinking that the new emperor would be too busy consolidating his rule, rebel against Rome. Quintas Mamimus on hearing of the break out of armed insurrection immediately orders his legions to put down the rebellion. This however is unsuccessful and the rebellion continues. On hearing of the rebellion and of the legions of Gaul failure to crush it, Emperor Tiberius orders five legions of the “Fist of Rome†to head to Gaul and smash this insurrection once and for all.
Germania - Sulis Catullus receives the news from Rome about the rebellion with mixed emotions. The failure of one of his main rivals will ensure the growth of his importance while the insurrection will cause havoc with the Fist of Rome’s supply line. After lengthy discussions with Fabian Valium it is decided to use the five legions from Atlantia, under the command of Tribune Dominius Howling Wolf as the force to put down the rebellion in Gaul. Fabian Valium makes one other decision before dispatching the Atlantium legions he orders the newly arrived legions from Gaul moved to the forward edge of battle with at least two battle hardened Germanium legions behind them. The orders to these Germanium legions are simple. To rest and recover from the rigours of battle while at the same time keeping an eye on the legions from Gaul. Should they show any signs of cowardice to destroy them from behind and continue the fight against the barbarian hordes.
Judea - Adolphus Scheer, in his first act as governor, loosens the conditions of occupation with a strong warning to the Judeans. If they continue their peaceful pursuits they will have no problems but if they decide to use this opportunity to rebel again he will order his senior military commander Hermann Reichter to show no mercy and to crush any rebellion by any means available.

15AD: An Island south of the Judean peninsular - General Lucius Quintus Cincinnatus, the commander of a fleet of war galleys and merchant steam galleys has just taken possession of a small island at the mouth of the Red Sea. This island ceded to Rome by the Hindi Rajahs will in future become the main naval base, which Rome will use to inhibit Chinese influence in Africa. General Cincinnatus after much thought names the island Janusia after the Roman god of covered passages and entrances. After unloading the merchant galleys are sent up the Red Sea to load the first of steam catapults and steam carts for the Hindi Rajahs. Although the equipment being shipped to the Hindi’s is old and obsolete it will enable the Hindi Rajahs to put up a spirited defence against the Chinese should they attack. The sale of this equipment benefits Rome twofold. Firstly it helps keep the Chinese from expanding into the Hindi lands and makes them expend resources to cover any future threat from the Hindi region. Secondly it allows the Roman empire to dispose of it’s obsolete equipment in exchange for valuable commodities thus allowing Rome to continue it’s production of modern equipment for it’s own usage without the cost of having to scrape or discard the old equipment.
Judea - Adolphus Scheer acting on instructions from Emperor Tiberius commences construction of two steam cart tracks across the great desert to the south and southeast coast of the peninsular. These tracks when complete will enable the empire to support the Hindis much quicker as well as allowing the resupply of Janusia to take days instead of weeks.
North Africa - Gaius Duilius disembarks from the steam ram that has transported he and his family to the new province set up by Tiberius in exchange for him not challenging him for the empire. Looking at the old settlement at Carthage that dated back to the Punic wars his first decision, as governor is to build a new modern Carthage on top of the old one. To do so means that he would need to recruit labor and increase taxes on the populace. Gaius immediately instructs his military commanders to do exactly that.
China - The Han emperor is not pleased with the current reports being presented to him. The construction of the “Gigantic Wall†is progressing slowly and because of the forced labor requirements large sections of the rural countryside is facing famine. What is most displeasing are the reports that Rome and the Hindi Rajahs have signed a trade agreement that is seeing the Hindis get Roman equipment in exchange for gems, pearls and other valuable items.
Mao Tse Chan, sensing danger reports of the excellent progress captain Tan Le, of the “Dragons Wings†has made of his mission of exploration. He also mentions the fact Tan Le has set up little colonies and supply depots on most of the islands as he explores eastward. The emperor grunts in recognition of the fact but still insists on better performance on the construction project. As the meeting breaks up the emperor poses one last question, What are we going to do about the Roman interference in our territory? Nobody dares answer as they leave the meeting fearing what the emperor might order.
South China Sea - Tan Le stands on the deck of the “Dragons Wings†and speaks with the captain of the “Dragons Breath†Zhang Xu. I have decided to split to our resources you will continue to circumnavigate these and the other island we have discovered to set up colonies and supply depots while I will head south to the great land rumoured to exist far. While I am gone you must continue our mission too explore and colonies these islands. Turning to his friend of many years Tan says I might be gone for several years don’t let the empire forget me. Both men embrace and then part knowing that they might never see each other again.
Germania - The “Fist of Rome†with the inexperienced legions of Gaul in front continue their mission to destroy the eastern barbarians. The legions of Gaul fight like men possessed; as they know that at the first sign of cowardice the battle hardened legions behind them will simply fight through them. Casualties are high but they continue to fight knowing that the slightest faltering on their behalf could have disastrous consequences for the families and their homeland.
Gaul - The Legions of Atlantia have decided that they should have a name of their own now call them the “Rod of Steelâ€. As the “Rod of Steel†disembarks from the steam carts they are greeted by Quintas Maminus who walks straight to Tribune Dominius Howling Wolf. Quintas explains that the situation is rapidly deteriorating, as his legions are fully committed to battle. Dominius Howling Wolf smiles evilly and says that is not my concern and asks where is the nearest city in rebellion. Quintas gives instructions and asks what Tribune Howling Wolf intends? Dominius turns and says why I intend to obey the emperors’ orders and crush this rebellion. If you interfere, you’ll be one of the first crucified. With that said Tribune Howling Wolf and the “Rod of Steel†march off towards their first objective Lutetia or as the locals call it Paris.
Atlantia - With the emperors blessing Servius marine commence the construction of dozens of the powerful deep draught cruisers that will in the future be the main naval vessel of the Roman Navy.
In the slipway a young shipwright wonders why we can’t use iron plating on the ships keel instead of lead and poses the question to Walid Yacoub who has been commissioned to over see the construction of the deep draught cruisers. After some thought on the matter Walid assigns Justinian Somnus a special task. A sloop style boat some forty cubits in length were used as a test vessel for the new steam engine. Since it had proved the idea of the high pressure reciprocating steam engine it has been left alone. The only reason that it is in Atlantia is that Walid wants the vessel enshrined as an exhibit of what Rome can achieve. Justinian is to work on this boat fixing iron plates to its hull and deck. When Justinian questions Walid about why he is to attach iron plates to the whole boat Walid simply says why only do thing by half measures, lets seen if a boat covered with iron can still float and steam. If so then perhaps we can convince Lucius Servius that a warship covered like this would be invincible on the high seas.
South of Atlantia - The “Wrath of Mars†continues to steam southwards following the coastline. Dominius Tullius sits on the bridge mapping the coastline and thinking about what he had done. He had owed Antony Nasser his life, now he believes he has repaid that debt. Antony and his family are safe far to the south running a supply depot for the survey ships. Still he thinks back to his return to Tiberium and his brother’s wrath. Marius had screamed at him for the first time since they were children demanding to know what he had done. Dominius knowing that there was no evidence to link him to Antony’s disappearance lied to his brother. He told his brother that Antony has offered the estate to him at a very cheap price saying that his squaws wanted to be closer to their families so he had accepted the offer and purchased the estate. Marius sighed and then whispered, Dominius you had better make sure nobody can prove you conspired with the traitor because if they can you will share his fate. Dominius remembers the dispute going on in the people’s forum when they heard that savages on horseback had slaughtered a survey team. Now all the remaining legions in Atlantia were being mobilised to search for and destroy the savages. For the first time since Antony dragged him from the sea to the Judean coast Dominius Tullius knew fear.
 
Interesting, even though I can't really comment with expertise on the plausibility of a Roman steam engine (although it sounds plausible to me), but most of the events seem fairly likely. Good work so far.
 
I do recall that in the Second Century AD a prototype steam engine was invented in or around Alexandria, however, its use had been purely agricultural, and has not spread significantly beyond Roman Egypt. However, if some rather bright Roman official had realized the potential of such device, and was successful in proving his point to his higher-ups, the history of the world could have been very different indeed...
 
Starting European Colonization of North America in Mobile Bay is unusalal. But the Ohio is a name from much farther north [Miami Indian tribes] Mississippi is accually a local Indian Name.

Except for personal Curosity over the Steam Engine, ?Why is Augustus willing to completly overthrow the whole Ecomonic & Social structure of the Empire? Well I like the TL, but I think Your forced Industrialization is going way to fast.

The Greeks [a major part of the Empire] had been fighting the Persians for 500 years. Upon learning of the Persian involvement in the revolts. Rome would have gone to war.
 
Latin "Valium" is a neuter form and unlikely as a man's name. Try "Valius".
Contact with China may bring gunpowder to Europe sooner, and thus guns.
Islam: Muhammad's gang would be put a stop to pretty quick.
Light distillate from petroleum was known of then, perhaps only by a few. E.g. earlier, in the Bible where where Elisha's sacrifice caught fire although it was soaked in water - well - it wasn't water!

Some time someone would try to run an engine by naphtha explosions instead of by steam, and that would lead to internal combustion engines. Unless electricity was discovered, ignition in the cylinders would be a problem, until someone discovered the principle of the diesel engine, and thus release THE SMELL on the world's traffic roads. But without electricity, all such engines would have to be started by hand cranking or by a smaller starting engine.
 
Anthony Appleyard said:
Latin "Valium" is a neuter form and unlikely as a man's name. Try "Valius".
Contact with China may bring gunpowder to Europe sooner, and thus guns.
Islam: Muhammad's gang would be put a stop to pretty quick.
Light distillate from petroleum was known of then, perhaps only by a few. E.g. earlier, in the Bible where where Elisha's sacrifice caught fire although it was soaked in water - well - it wasn't water!

Some time someone would try to run an engine by naphtha explosions instead of by steam, and that would lead to internal combustion engines. Unless electricity was discovered, ignition in the cylinders would be a problem, until someone discovered the principle of the diesel engine, and thus release THE SMELL on the world's traffic roads. But without electricity, all such engines would have to be started by hand cranking or by a smaller starting engine.

I'd like an idea on how to introduce electricity I know the Babalonians knew of a primative form of electroplating but for this TL to progress into other sciences electricity needs to be introduced for a lot of the metals discovered after 1800 were discovered using electficity.

All Ideas welcome.
 

NapoleonXIV

Banned
Syphon said:
I'd like an idea on how to introduce electricity I know the Babalonians knew of a primative form of electroplating but for this TL to progress into other sciences electricity needs to be introduced for a lot of the metals discovered after 1800 were discovered using electficity.

All Ideas welcome.

That IS difficult.

You are no doubt aware that Thales of Miletus knew of static electricity and Magnus had discoverd magnetism when it pulled the nails from his sandals. Neither one would be of any help, really, since nothing came of the discoveries in the ensuing 2000 years.

IF with all the extra sailing they're doing somebody might discover the compass. And then have somebody notice that compasses sometimes go crazy in electric storms.
 
Can't be bothered to read this right now but one point I will make-
Renaissance= relearning.
There is nothing for the Romans to relearn hence they can't have a renaissance.
 
Leej said:
Can't be bothered to read this right now but one point I will make-
Renaissance= relearning.
There is nothing for the Romans to relearn hence they can't have a renaissance.

Three cheers for Captain Nitpick! :rolleyes:
 

NapoleonXIV

Banned
And Renaissance means "reawakening" not "relearning". A society that had stopped progressing, as one could argue the Romans did in the sciences just a few years prior to this, could have a renaissance. Though one would more likely consider that Civilization had just taken a short nap.:p :p

There were actual renaissances in the eighth (also called Carolingian) and twelvth centuries, as well as the more well known one
 
DuQuense said:
Starting European Colonization of North America in Mobile Bay is unusalal. But the Ohio is a name from much farther north [Miami Indian tribes] Mississippi is accually a local Indian Name.

Except for personal Curosity over the Steam Engine, ?Why is Augustus willing to completly overthrow the whole Ecomonic & Social structure of the Empire? Well I like the TL, but I think Your forced Industrialization is going way to fast.

The Greeks [a major part of the Empire] had been fighting the Persians for 500 years. Upon learning of the Persian involvement in the revolts. Rome would have gone to war.

Considering the fact that it took 200 years for Europeans to do what the Romans do in 30 years, I would say, Yes it is going a little fast.

Denis Papin invented the Steam Engine in 1687. The train was invented in 1830s. Perhaps I'm being nitpicky, but that's a long time. Especially since Europe, especially England had a few advantages such as the printing press, and abundant coal supplies. Just something to think about.

Interesting timeline however. Can we get a map???
 

NapoleonXIV

Banned
I'd like an idea on how to introduce electricity I know the Babalonians knew of a primative form of electroplating but for this TL to progress into other sciences electricity needs to be introduced for a lot of the metals discovered after 1800 were discovered using electficity.

All Ideas welcome.

How about someone noticing how corpses twitch after death? From there going to nerves and postulating the "nervous fluid" as the "elan vital", then someone noticing how victims of lightning strikes jump about and making the Ben Franklin connection?

Still doesn't link magnetism and electric though, which is the crucial thing.
 
NapoleonXIV said:
And Renaissance means "reawakening" not "relearning". A society that had stopped progressing, as one could argue the Romans did in the sciences just a few years prior to this, could have a renaissance. Though one would more likely consider that Civilization had just taken a short nap.:p :p

There were actual renaissances in the eighth (also called Carolingian) and twelvth centuries, as well as the more well known one

The Romans never went to sleep to reawke however...Well the proper Romans didn't anyway, the Byzantines did a fair few times...
 

Faeelin

Banned
You know, why do we always see Roman steam engines, and never Roman canals, Roman banking systems, etc?
 
Faeelin said:
You know, why do we always see Roman steam engines, and never Roman canals, Roman banking systems, etc?
Because everyone knows that once you develop the steam engine you instantly enter the industrial age and gain the ability to build iron clads that can always sink any other sea ship easily!
 
Faeelin said:
You know, why do we always see Roman steam engines, and never Roman canals, Roman banking systems, etc?

The roman banking system was going to come along but they needed the decimal point first.
The Romans could have built canals I believe they might have had ideas to build the suez canal well at least in my TL.
 
Kidblast said:
Considering the fact that it took 200 years for Europeans to do what the Romans do in 30 years, I would say, Yes it is going a little fast.

Denis Papin invented the Steam Engine in 1687. The train was invented in 1830s. Perhaps I'm being nitpicky, but that's a long time. Especially since Europe, especially England had a few advantages such as the printing press, and abundant coal supplies. Just something to think about.

Interesting timeline however. Can we get a map???

At this time the Romans had the coal in both England and Turkey, coal that was close to the surface.

The Romans were military engineers when they built thing they were general built for a military purpose.

They were also a lot more advanced they we originally thought.
They had massive water powered factories to grinde grain into flour, concrete and steel although the later was very difficult to produce.
 
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