Maps and claimed characters added to the initial post. More info will be added shortly, but this is one of those moments in history where time does not permit the laying of careful plans.
PROLOGUE: HERAKLEIA
Laevinus Coffeium, King Pyrrhos and his army approach for battle! Force assessment:
Your command numbers just under 26,000 men. It is largest army presently fielded by the Republic, nearly a third of the total force -- in fact, one of every ten Roman citizens is here under your direct authority. However, with the exception of your personal cavalry these are raw recruits with basic equipment. This is not to say they are unskilled, particularly the 1800 or so triarii, elite spearmen which are the best infantry in the Republic. But they are not yet battle-hardened.
Pyrrhos's army is much different. You outnumber them somewhat(estimated 22,000 strong) but they are highly experienced and have good to excellent weapons and armor, superior in almost every respect. The elephants at his disposal are particularly intimidating, and Roman arms have not yet been tested against the Greek phalanxes he commands, considered the best fighting force in the Meditteranean world.
Laevinus Coffeium, you are now on the clock. Will you stand and fight against King Pyrrhos, or will you 'conduct a strategic withdrawal'?
You have 48 hours to respond.