The scouts, who had been following the progress of the Macedonian armies since they left Salzburg, reported that they had now entered Steiermark.

Brigands, plundering hordes, enemy armies in Lea's own province! But after Lea's protective fury for her province had died down, further reflection revealed: Steiermark was undoubtedly a very beautiful place, with wide woods, sweeping vistas, imposing mountains - but with little else, such as the comforts of civilization. A few poor peasants were scattered across the lands, who might even own one or two goats, but there weren't any large estates, no organized farming, no rich cattle-herds, in fact you'd be lucky to even find a goat path.

Lea wished the Macedonians joy in conquering the mountains and woods, without supply trains in place, might they all eat roots and bark.

The pirates might show a certain reckless courage in their continuous attacks against Rome, which could easily squash them, should the reports of the Roman scouts ever arrive on time for Rome to bring the full might of it's legions to bear against the enemy - Lea reluctantly conceded. She felt rather disinclined to assign any positive qualities to an enemy. And certainly, while courage might be admirable, Lea had always strongly disapproved of recklessness.