Gnaeus stepped out of the tight, compact formation that was housed around him; his hands never left the banner, despite their now ragged and torn state. It was a symbol of pride, survival, and above all, it would be a sign of victory. "I can't say I have seen the Legate nor the Commandant, and I certainly don't know where they went." The Aquilifer replied, raising his head so he could address the mounted horseman properly. "If you ask me, stretching the lines out was a big mistake. Not sending the damned scouts out was a big mistake. And letting Varus command the troops was a big mistake." He caught himself mid-rant, and admitted ruefully, "Not that you're asking me."<br/><br/>He took a glance back at the ragged bunch of men taking turns to hold up to the Testudo while others sat down. If the Germanic Tribes attacked again, Gnaues and his cohort would at least be safe. "The 18th is a mess right now. But at least we've got survivors."