When the messenger from the nearby coastal towns finally managed to find Publilius, delivering the news that "Crodianus's army was defeated," Hamilcar was already advancing with his troops.
With superior forces, Publilius immediately arranged his troops to confront the enemy.
However, Hamilcar did not attack but simply arrayed his forces in opposition. When Publilius ordered his troops to initiate an attack, Hamilcar swiftly withdrew his forces.
Publilius sensed something was amiss and immediately ordered a retreat.
But Hamilcar closely followed with his troops, forcing Publilius to be cautious, which significantly slowed down the retreat.
Ultimately, Publilius led his troops to a defensible location, flanked by mountains and a river, and once more arrayed his forces.
By the afternoon, Spartacus arrived leading a large army. After observing the enemy's formation, he organized the rebel army to launch attacks in batches.
