"I understand. I'll discuss this with Mersis tomorrow," Philesius nodded, his tone resolute.
"Mersis is a stingy fellow," Juleios remarked, a hint of mirth in his voice. "He'll probably want to scrape even more for the treasury. You'll have to stand firm on principle."
"I'll bring Amintas and Martonis along tomorrow," Philesius responded earnestly, prompting a hearty laugh from both men.
Seizing the opportunity presented by their jovial mood, Philesius broached a subject that had been weighing on him. "My lord, public officials receive salaries for their work. But soldiers, who serve for extended periods and are unable to return home, receive nothing. Shouldn't they also be paid for their service?"
"Well, well!" Juleios exclaimed, pointing a teasing finger at him. "Our military officer has learned how to look out for his own department!"
Philesius grinned unabashedly. "If I don't, the soldiers will say I was irresponsible as military officer."
