022 Metaurus River what-if v2 - Punic Wars

The battle of Metaurus River was one of the most important ( if not the most important battle) fought in the 2nd Punic War. After his defeat at Baecula 208, Hasdrubal Barca had crossed the Alps in the spring of 207 and had penetrated into Northern Italy to bring much needed siege equipment and reinforcements to aid his brother Hannibal. Looking for a possible meeting with his brother Hasdrubal despatched a letter but the messengers were captured, now Rome was aware of his intentions. The Roman Consuls Marcus Livius Salinator and Caius Claudius Nero secretly joined forces and planned a surprise attack near the river Metaurus. Aware that he was facing both consuls but unsure if his Gallic allies will last the night, Hasdrubal turns and gives battle. * This what-if version presumes that the 20,000 Gauls stayed with their Gallic brothers to face the might of Rome.