In the battle of Mylae, Rome showed its initiative and offensive strategy in the use of the Corvo, to transform the battle from naval to land based on its strengths, obtaining a precious advantage. Once Carthage was vulnerable due to military defeat, Rome opportunistically seized Sardinia, revealing its desire to expand the Roman empire and steal Carthage's power. The ultimatum to Carthage to hand over Hannibal or face war was a reflection of their opportunism and hegemony. The surrender of Carthage would have meant the loss of the entire empire, as most Carthaginian allies and control were tied to the Barcid family (Rosenstein, 2006). Rome recognized this and took the opportunity to conquer territory and oppress Carthage, as the odds of the Second Punic War were very much in Rome's favor prior to the alliance of Hannibal and Philip V of Macedon. This was an offensive move on Rome's part, as Carthage avoided breaking the treaty until absolutely necessary, to avoid provoking Rome into war. Unfortunately for Carthage, the mighty power was actively waiting for an excuse and immediately seized the opportunity for war. After the victory of the Second Punic War, Rome demonstrated its offensive characteristics by continuing to go to war and expand its territory.