The Dionysian freemen were different. Coming from all over, they struggled to make a living, developing selfish habits. Even before becoming Dionysian reserve citizens, most had never received heavy infantry training or seen combat. Over six months of intensive training couldn't completely eliminate these long-established habits.
When the enemy's lance pierced his right chest, he should have let his teammates defend while he retaliated with his own lance, forcing the enemy to retreat and relieving pressure on his own side. However, out of instinct, he retracted his shield, exposing half of his teammate's body to the enemy's lance. This vicious cycle left everyone concerned for themselves, weakening the line and preventing an effective joint advance. It also allowed the Crotonians to squeeze through the gaps and use their individual abilities to further disrupt the Dionysian line.
