Those who would not support either an aggressive defense or an offensive, and offer no counter-proposals of their own, are indeed cowards. However, you were the first to use that term, not I.

I have to question why you would put such words in my mouth. I would think the label "pacifist" does indeed apply to those who would neither strike first nor prepare adequate defenses. Is that an unfair label?

I have no wish to quibble with you over my phrasing, especially if you seem unclear of what my phrasing actually was. I may be combative over important issues, but this particular discussion is pointless. Since we seem to agree on the main issues, why are we still talking?

Let's draw up a plan and put it into action. I would ask that the floor be opened to discuss our actual defense plans. My suggestion, an assault against the fringe settlements of the Venetian Republic, may well be rejected, as it would seem to go against the Emperor's decree and it would be unpopular. However, my other suggestion, an active defense, hasn't even truly been discussed. I feel it's the best option.