The Rise Of An Empire In Ancient Europe-Chapter 177: The Arrival of Avinoges

As the meeting began, Juleios’ voice cut through the air, drawing the attention of the gathered elders. "Has there been any activity from Grumentum to the north?"

Sesta stepped forward, his expression cautious. "On the second day after capturing Neutum, Grumentum sent scouts into the ’fertile lands between the mountains.’ However, soldiers of the Fourth Battalion discovered them, and they fled immediately."

"They learned of Neutum’s fall so quickly?" Juleios asked sharply. His tone carried an edge, for the Senate had received assurances that no one had escaped during the city’s capture.

Sesta hesitated under Juleios’ piercing gaze. "Well..." he began, his voice faltering. "Bagule and I later analyzed the situation. It seems that during the attack on Neutum, some locals herding livestock in the mountains saw the city’s fall and fled directly to Grumentum."

Juleios’ expression darkened, but Sesta pressed on. "Since then, Grumentum has taken no further action. According to reports from Lucanians traveling south, after Picocis’ chieftain, Cincinnagus, took control of Grumentum, tensions have arisen between him and the tribes who betrayed Lusaur. These tribes are now resisting his authority, claiming he failed to fulfill his promises. Grumentum seems too mired in internal strife to act."

Despite the seemingly favorable news, Juleios’ face remained stern. "Why wasn’t this reported to the Senate earlier?" His voice carried a weight that filled the room. "The Senate governs the entire League, not just Neutum. Every piece of intelligence—no matter how small—shapes our strategy. Whether to make peace or prepare for war, whether to mobilize the League’s full strength, or assess Neutum’s ability to withstand an invasion—all of this depends on timely information. This failure in communication is unacceptable."

Sesta’s head hung low, and Asistes shifted uncomfortably, guilt weighing heavily on him. He recalled Sesta’s earlier advice: "Let’s wait until we clarify the situation. Reporting too often will make us seem incompetent." Asistes had agreed, eager to prove his independence. Now, Juleios’ rebuke made him painfully aware of his misstep.

"Sesta," Juleios continued, his tone colder, "you’ve already violated Senate orders once by executing prisoners without authorization. I interceded on your behalf, preventing further repercussions. Now you withhold critical intelligence. Do you believe the Senate is powerless to act simply because of your two-year term?"

The other elders voiced their discontent, their sharp remarks cutting through the room. Sesta remained silent, his face flushed with embarrassment.

Later that morning, Avinoges, the ruler of Laos, arrived at Neutum, his appearance both commanding and unpolished. A stocky man in his forties, his rugged features bore more resemblance to a Lucanian warrior than a Greek noble. Despite wearing the traditional Greek himation, he carried himself awkwardly, betraying his unfamiliarity with such attire.

By contrast, his 17-year-old son, Henipolis, was slender and graceful, his refined demeanor resembling that of a young Greek aristocrat. The stark contrast between father and son drew quiet remarks from the gathered elders.

Avinoges approached Juleios with great respect, walking a half-step behind him as they entered the hall. Once seated, Henipolis, bold and curious, spoke up. "I heard Greek banquets are held lying down. Why is this one different?"

Avinoges glared at his son, his expression a silent reprimand. However, Scombras chuckled. "Young man, you seem quite familiar with Greek customs."

"Of course!" Henipolis retorted, his tone brimming with pride. "I am Greek!"

Avinoges, clearly embarrassed by his son’s bluntness, lightly slapped him on the shoulder.

Juleios defused the moment with a warm smile. "Our League’s doctors determined that reclining during meals hinders digestion and can lead to obesity. Sitting while eating ensures better health."

Henipolis, intrigued, nodded. "I’ve heard the Dionian League has the finest doctors in Magna Graecia. Is it true they’re guided by Hades himself?"

Juleios laughed. "That’s not for me to say. If you visit Thurii, you can ask our chief physician, Helpus, yourself."

"I’d like that," Henipolis said eagerly. "I’ll be going to Thurii soon." freёnovelkiss-com

The elders exchanged amused glances, their initial wariness of Henipolis softened by his youthful enthusiasm.

Avinoges shifted in his seat, his expression growing serious. "Lord Juleios, I have a request," he said.

"Please, go ahead," Juleios replied.

"I wish for my son to live in your League," Avinoges said, surprising everyone present.

Juleios’ expression turned solemn. "Lord Avinoges, the alliance between Laos and the Dionian League is a sacred covenant witnessed by the gods. Unless Laos betrays that bond, the League will never abandon its commitments. You can be assured of this."

Avinoges smiled bitterly. "I have no doubts about the League’s honor, Lord Juleios. My request is a personal one. Henipolis has been weak since childhood, and his mother... passed away from illness. I’ve heard of your League’s extraordinary medical care. Additionally, my son’s fascination with Greek culture grows daily. It pains me to send him away, but as his father, I hope the League will accept him."

Moved by Avinoges’ sincerity, Juleios exchanged glances with the elders before nodding. "On behalf of the League, I warmly welcome Henipolis to Thurii. He will receive the best care and education we can provide. In the future, he can return to Laos to inherit your legacy."

Henipolis clapped his hands in delight. "Thank you, Lord Juleios! I look forward to it!"

That evening, the Dionian elders hosted a banquet in Avinoges’ honor. Held at the Neutum administrative hall, the event was both grand and intimate. Avinoges presented gifts of cattle, sheep, animal hides, amber jewelry, and ten talents of silver, a gesture of gratitude for the League’s assistance.

The elders, pleased with the offerings, praised Avinoges’ sincerity. Juleios, seated at the head of the table, raised his cup in a toast. "To the enduring friendship between the Dionian League and Laos!"

"To friendship!" the room echoed, voices filled with hope and resolve.

As the banquet continued, Juleios’ thoughts turned to the challenges ahead. Strengthening the bond with Laos was only one step in his greater vision—a unified Magna Graecia, fortified against any threat. With allies like Avinoges and the trust of his people, he felt confident that the League’s future shone brightly on the horizon.

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