Alexandros Syriakos rises to address the council

Basileus and fellow strategoi, I extend my greetings. I am much in agreement with what has already been proposed, regarding both immediate military and diplomatic action. I would, however, suggest that the cities of the Levant not go so unnoticed. While the 1st Syrian army is away in Mikra Asia, Antiocheia and Damaskos need to be defended. The Basileus' Royal army would provide an adequate defense, but consider this: If the garrisons in the appropriate cities were raised to be able to handle a small to medium sized Ptolemaic attack, much responsibility would be alleviated from the Royal army - allowing it to assault Sidon or any other appropriate target. This would both consolidate our position and weaken that of our impious enemy.

I am sure you are all aware of the importance of this region, and I would like you all to know that I remain personally committed to seeing it brought within the borders of the Arche.

As I final note, I second Edict 1.4.

Alexandros returns to his seat