"We have the Roman legions X and XIII encamped in the hinterland and here we have posted and deployed the Gallic legions II and III along the Caes solum and Donegallia51 with the promise that this land will become theirs forever, if they know how to defeat Pompey."
"Very well, I promised them that land as a reward and compensation if they followed me here. Are they already settling there now?" asked Caesar.
"Yes Caesar, they have gladly taken possession of it and lined up in front of Pompey's troops. They will defend that land well," replied Mark Anthony.
"Maybe it's not enough that they defend it; tell them I intend to ask them if they are also willing to attack and march on Rome. And in exchange I will promise them land and responsibilities on Italian soil and not only here in Romandia," replied Caesar.
"They know that already and many are ready to follow you, as long as you leave the land to their veterans and the land given to the Gauls to their relatives who are following," answered Asinius Pollio with a smile.
"How do they know? Wasn't my plan supposed to be secret?" answered Caesar.
"Everyone has known this for months. The Gallic legions that came here some time ago go around telling everyone that sooner or later they must attack and take other land in Italy and that is why Pompey's men know about it," said Asinius Pollio.
"Is the area teeming with Pompey's spies?" Caesar asked loudly.
"Yes and you should be more cautious about revealing promises and plans to your troops, Caesar," Asinius Pollio added jeering a little, since he was Caesar's very good friend and could afford to.
"To hell with secrets. How much time would we have if we decided to take Rimini by surprise and go to the Marches, General Hortensius?" asked Caesar.
"All winter Caesar. They are Roman soldiers like us and are not used to fighting in the winter, but they could start strengthening the defenses and the territory. So in my opinion, if we want to attack the Rubicon, I would act right now," replied Hortensius.
"Calm down. Who is commanding Pompey's legions, now, beyond the Rubicon?" asked Caesar.
"Commander Titanus."
I know him. As his name suggests, he is a giant, a Catonian52 who is very loyal to the republic but unwilling to go to war," smiled Caesar.
"I know him too, he is a good soldier who prefers negotiation and doesn't take much pleasure in sending his men to be massacred for nothing. I add, if I could meet him to talk about a truce or an agreement," asked General Labienus.
"Veto53 . I have no intention of giving Pompey the advantage of negotiating or believing that we are afraid to attack him," Caesar answered firmly.
"Instead, I have a plan to dismantle the defenses and take Rimini by surprise. I ask permission to discuss it now," said Mark Anthony.
"Licit"54 replied Caesar.