Achilles acted as if he had already won, and because the other kids followed him, he had.
In "Ender's Shadow," Achilles displays a confidence that influences those around him, leading them to believe in his superiority. His actions suggest that he considers success inevitable, which in turn encourages his peers to align with him and adopt a similar mindset. This reflects how leadership and charisma can shape group dynamics and perceptions of strength.
The quote highlights the notion that the belief in one's victory can often translate to actual success. When others perceive someone as a winner, they are more likely to support and follow that person, creating a self-fulfilling prophecy. Achilles' behavior serves as a reminder of the power of confidence and influence in social interactions.