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Adrastus nods placidly, as usual, and then opens the floor:
“Men of Argos – what pressing matters are there to address?” Of course, there is no need to discuss tactics or strategy against the Thebans – victory is beyond doubt.
Mecisteus and Pronax are first to speak, brusque and efficient:
“King Adrastus, we have a new issue to raise – we have credible reports from several scouts about… something… preying upon our cattle herds grazing to the southeast. The herds are vast, in no small part due to the successful cattle raid last season, but we are losing prime head every week. We must send one of the Argive captains to investigate the matter.”
Polynices speaks next, in pleasing tenor:
“Nothing to report, King Adrastus.” But as you look to Polynices, he catches your eye strangely, and makes a subtle gesture with his index finger – <span class="mu-i">I have something to discuss with you, Hippomedon</span>, you intuit.
Tydeus, somehow resembling a dog gnawing over a bone, with his unruly mop of blonde hair and tensing jaw, says nothing at all.
Amphiarus has only this to say:
“We search the skies for signs, King Adrastus, but we Melampians have nothing to report.”
Young Parthanopaeus surprises you all by clearing his throat:
“King Adrastus, I have received word by my mother, Atalanta – some few hundred Heraclidae or Dorians have camped on the eastern forests between our two kingdoms and make havoc in her hunting grounds. I grant your leave to take some troops, and perhaps another Captain to run them off?”
Adrastus, seemingly pleased at the initiative, replies:
“Granted, Parthanopaeus!” and looked pointedly at you – you are quick to shake your head, as you have nothing of note to share. You see the faintest frown crease old Adrastus’ face, but he is quick to move ahead with his own news:
“As you all know, it is my opinion that we are not yet ready to march – not all of our allies have replied to our couriers, sometimes even after two or three attempts. Only I and I alone have access to all information – so when I say that the time is not yet right, know that I have the best interests of Argos at heart. But… we must keep morale high, inspire our countrymen and spark their martial interest from time to time. At some point, I propose that we host a sparring tournament between the Captains, in full view of our army, to achieve these goals. Of course – it must also be said that κλέος will be the primary reward to the victor...”
At this point, Adrastus looks pointedly in your direction – the council at large seems to hang on your next word…
