Rome Must Perish

"You always retort with that line now," Acoupaigos pointed at the other man helplessly, then spoke in a low voice, "I can see that young man is just humoring us. He wants to turn those Skodisqi slaves into his people, and maybe he hopes to make those Segestica prisoners submit too. That way, his forces can quickly grow."

"I have the same feeling," Cleobrotas acknowledged. Maximus’ act couldn’t fool their experienced eyes, but Cleobrotas had a different thought: "Perhaps the Skodisqi slaves can be won over, but the Segestica people will be tough. If he can really achieve that, it would actually be a good thing, because then our northern side would be completely safe."

"With the threat from the Segestica people gone, a new threat might arise—" Acoupaigos stopped midway, clutching his chest to suppress a coughing urge, resting for a moment before murmuring, "The future is hard to predict, let’s just see how it goes for now..."

.....................

After Acoupaigos and his companion left, Karsipempas also bid farewell, "Leader Maximus, I am truly sorry! I should stay to face the upcoming Segestica Army with you, but I have been away from my fleet for too long, and I am somewhat worried about their safety!

I also need to check on my tribe, I am unsure of how they are living now, so—"

"Elder Karsipempas, if you continue, I might be too ashamed to see you!" Maximus said sincerely, "Our successful arrival here and getting permission from the Alde Tribe to settle was all thanks to your tireless efforts over the past few months!

Without your dedicated help, we might still be exhausting ourselves marching on the land of Italy or wandering aimlessly in the mountains, so my people and I will forever remember your kindness!"

Karsipempas was pleased by the praise, waving his hand repeatedly, "You overpraise, you overpraise! You also helped us greatly before, what I did was well warranted!