Lachoneus rejects this demand. Perhaps his surprise at Giddianhi’s “boldness” is because previous Gadiantons/Nephite battles have not been decisive. Unless something had drastically changed, Lachoneus could continue to expect that the Gadiantons would still lack the ability to overwhelm them. His rejection, however, means that the attack will surely come, so he begins preparations by having his people supplicate Yahweh for protection.