The sun rose over the Sybaris Plain, casting golden rays across a landscape that seemed to tremble with anticipation. The Crathis River gleamed like a silver ribbon, its calm waters a stark contrast to the storm of war brewing on its banks. The Greek coalition forces moved westward in three great columns, their lines stretching across the plains like a massive serpent, undulating with the rhythm of marching feet.
The signals for attack and retreat, uniform across the city-states, were issued with precision. Yet, subtle changes in Thurii's deployment were evident. The entirety of their cavalry had been reassigned to Archytas, a decision that solidified his bond with Juleios, who expressed his gratitude repeatedly.
