Antony assembled a large force and moved toward Italy, but withdrew to winter in Greece after meeting an Octavian squadron rather than forcing an early decision. His army and fleet then became concentrated near Actium while Octavian gathered troops where they could be supplied and sustained. Agrippa raided and disrupted the surrounding coast with limited risk, steadily increasing pressure on the bottled-up force. Indecision consumed the maneuver advantage, and fears for Egypt and encirclement ultimately made a naval breakout necessary on 2 September 31 BC.
Chapter · 12:55-16:58
The campaign closes around Actium
Antony's halted advance and prolonged stay near the Ambracian Gulf let Agrippa apply pressure until retreat required a breakout battle.