It was difficult to assemble an army of thirty-six thousand men, and despite this, Marcellus had given the order to muster, which was issued to every fortification where his legion and foederati held their ground. Men who were just recently having a jolly time drinking in their encampments were swiftly rounded up by their superiors and ordered to gather supplies. The campaign to claim Rome had begun earlier than anyone had expected.
Everyone, including Marcellus, had expected the campaign to begin in the spring. They figured they could enjoy the winter huddled in their homes, awaiting out the snow with a village girl or two in their arms. Unfortunately, this was not the case.
