With the act of burning half a dozen cities, the Gauls managed to cut off the Roman supply line, severely restricting their resources and provisions. This dire situation meant that the 20,000 Roman soldiers had limited time to achieve victory against the formidable force of 30,000 Gauls.
The setting for the decisive battle was the hill of Alesia, a strategically advantageous position that the Gauls had fortified themselves on. It loomed over the surrounding countryside, offering an elevated vantage point and natural defensive barriers.
As the Romans surveyed the battlefield chosen by the warrior king, they realized they had been outmaneuvered and deceived by the Gauls. The terrain favored the defenders, giving them the advantage of higher ground and defensive positions. The hill itself was dotted with ancient oak trees, their branches casting long shadows over the field.