The senior Sexmentris Tribune raised his eyebrows

But, sir, it is the moral duty of every commander to take the auspices before a battle! (OOC: See Rule 4.21). Even if there is no Augur, Auspices can still be taken by the commander on the spot in an emergency. We didn’t actually bring any chickens with us, but I’m sure you are well up with interpreting the flight of birds, aren’t you sir?

Note: Auspices (unlike Vota) must be taken. If Lucius doesn’t call for them, the Umpire will take them anyway – with an adverse weighting to the die to represent the impiety involved!