On the summit of the heights the Goths placed themselves in an extended line of battle.
Totila's horsemen had arrived the first; he was soon joined by Teja, mounted and feverish with thirst for battle. The axe-bearing foot were far behind, for Teja had begged permission to join in the hand-to-hand fight when and where he pleased.
Hildebrand followed later; and lastly the King with the main army.
Duke Guntharis, with his own and Teja's men, was expected to arrive shortly.
Swift as an arrow Teja flew back to the King.
"King," he cried, "beneath yonder hill stands Belisarius. By the God of Revenge, he is lost! He has been mad enough to advance. Do not suffer him to be beforehand with us in the attack."
"Forward!" cried King Witichis; "the Goths to the front!"
In a moment he had reached the edge of the hill and overlooked the valley at his feet.
"Hildebad--the left wing! Thou, Totila, wilt charge in the centre with thy horsemen down that road. I shall keep the right, ready to follow or cover thee."
"That will be needless," said Totila, drawing his sword. "I warrant that they will not be able to withstand my charge down that hill."