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It occurs to you that Mecisteus and Pronax intend to steal this prince’s cattle to supplement the Argive war effort – the advantages would be significant. Even if only half the Tegean cattle are stolen, this would represent a substantial addition to the army’s reserves – cattle having the prime advantages of being capable of both movement and duplication; the herds can follow the army itself, reducing the burden on the supply chain from Argos. Of course, a raid of this size risks war along the southern front, which is something that King Adrastus likely cannot afford. Pronax says nothing to you as the scouts report, his eyes shining with curiosity, and once the scouts are dismissed, he whispers to you in a conspiratorial fashion, as the crimson tent flaps overhead.
“What do you make of it, Hippomedon? Should we risk it? And before you answer, consider this – even if Agamemnon provides Mycenean spears, he will demand tribute for the passing of the army through the isthmus of Corinth. The young High King is said to be prideful and never forgets to demand his tax. Cattle would suffice, but what Agamemnon truly wants is gold – and gold cannot be eaten by Argive soldiers.”
Pronax pauses dramatically, eyebrows climbing as he spreads his palms before you.
“Hippomedon, the Tegean palace is home to Archigeiros, youngest brother of Agepenor, and son of old king Ancaeus. He is said to have inherited a portion of his father’s earnings from his travels as a Argonaut, and is reputed to be clever besides – a wealthy man. A cattle raid would do much to help the war effort, but not so much as the stolen vaults of Archigeiros. A small force, commanded by a legendary soldier, may well escape identification; anonymity is a must! What say you?”
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