This message is to be delivered to the Volcae leader inside the city:

You know as well as I do this will not play out well. Sally out in aid of these enemies of Rome and my legions might very well be defeated. But you also know Rome will eventually return to these lands and we will not forget any transgression on your behalf. If you aid the Gauls you may win this battle but you will ultimately loose the war. Rome will return and how she reacts to you will be determined by the actions you take today. Attack, and this city will eventually be destroyed and the Volcae along with it. I say this not to threaten, but as a statement of fact. Remain within the city and lend no aid to the Gauls and there will be no animosity between us. I swear the Volcae will be treated with the dignity and respect owed to them. I will withdraw my legions and we can resolve this matter between us. Nothing will be demanded of your people. I will draft a law protecting the heritage of all the native peoples of Narbo province. Your responsibility is to the Volcae, support the Gauls and it will eventually lead to your downfall.

BATTLE ORDERS

All legions are to empty from the castra and array before the enemy Gauls in Offense: Attack posture.

The Legio IV and VIII are to form the centre of the attack and advance towards the Gauls to engage them. The combined cavalry from both legions is to guard the flanks and harry the Gauls should the opportunity arrive.

The Legio III Narbonensis is to split in half. One half is to protect the main flank facing the city of Tolosa whilst the other half takes the oppsite flank. Their cavalry are likewise to be halved and split between the flanks.

If it becomes apparent that the Vocae mean to offer battle the entire III Narbonensis is to form up and offer battle, but they are not to engage or persue the enermy with artillery range of walls under any circumstances.

N. Lucretius Tacitus