In the temples of the gods of peace and war, the following announcements are made:
In the Temple of Eirene, in the city of Syracuse, a dozen doves are released as the Tyrant declares his state of war with the Romans at an end.
Across town in the Temple of Enyo, a black bull is slaughtered and the blood is used to paint the doors of the ambassador from Spain. Syracuse declares war against Iberia!
In Gaul they are a bit more homespun. The Spanish ambassador is greeted at his gate as he returns one evening from dinner with certain local businessman. A party are waiting for him dressed as Broad-Chested Cicoluis, God of Battle, and his minions. They clap the ambassador in the skin of a freshly killed deer and pummel him with rods before dumping him in a vat of mead.* A different take on the ceremony, but clear nonetheless: Gaul also is at war with the Spanish!
I will post a new map in a few minutes. Syracuse will have the first move in 213. His army starts in western Sicily. Other armies will be revealed as they move, are invaded, or send contingents.
* Rumours that the heralds then pulled the ambassador out and held an impromptu party with him and his staff, consuming all the mead, the deer (roasted), and a large quantity of other game cannot be confirmed, but knowing the Gauls are quite believeable.
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