"Governor, the Crotonians have superior numbers while we are fewer. Wouldn't attacking them be—" Cornelius began expressing his concern, but Amintas immediately interrupted, "You don't understand warfare, so don't meddle!"
Juleios quickly rebuked Amintas, demanding an apology, and then addressed Cornelius and the older citizens with patience.
"As the governor of Amendolara and a seasoned battlefield leader, I deeply value the lives of our citizens.
I would never recklessly attack Crotone's strong army without a well-thought-out plan.
Crotone's soldiers are undoubtedly proud of their recent victory, and their general, Melanthius, is even prouder.
Laden with plunder, these soldiers are likely focused on dividing their spoils and have little appetite for fighting.
By the time they reach their camp, they'll be exhausted, and their defenses will be lax. That's when we'll strike them hard—just like we did when retaking Amendolara!"
