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The Belly of the Beast

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CAMPAIGN · THE LAST KHANS

The Belly of the Beast

Build up in northern Italy, take the fortified cities of Aquileia and Cremona, then approach Ravenna only after the emperor is ready to receive an envoy. Sarus’s betrayal turns the negotiations into a final fight.

The Belly of the Beast Age of Empires II campaign artwork
The Belly of the Beast Age of Empires II campaign artwork

Overview

Build up in northern Italy, take the fortified cities of Aquileia and Cremona, then approach Ravenna only after the emperor is ready to receive an envoy. Sarus’s betrayal turns the negotiations into a final fight.

Player approach

The Belly of the Beast gives you time to establish a resource-rich second base, but Aquileia is the closest and most aggressive opponent. Remove its outside economy and breach the northern gate before securing Cremona.

Step-by-step plan

Build west of the starting position near Cremona’s resources and use the delay before attacks to boom. Scout Aquileia’s economy outside its walls and raid it to weaken the faction, then assemble siege and Huskarls for the northern gate. After Aquileia is captured, add Pikemen against Cremona’s Knights and attack from both north and east. Watch the later Scout Cavalry event carefully because Sarus’ betrayal changes the diplomatic map.

Risks and adjustments

Ataulf will not lead the assault effectively, so do not rely on the ally to exploit weak defenses. Keep siege protected and hold a reserve for the scripted betrayal rather than sending every unit toward Cremona.

Focused strategy page

For a dedicated version of this plan, open The Belly of the Beast Aquileia-first expansion.

Mission overview

Build up in northern Italy, take the fortified cities of Aquileia and Cremona, then approach Ravenna only after the emperor is ready to receive an envoy. Sarus’s betrayal turns the negotiations into a final fight.

Objectives

  1. Defeat Aquileia.
  2. Defeat Cremona.
  3. Send an envoy to Emperor Honorius.
  4. Defeat Sarus after his betrayal.
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The Last Khans
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