Histories

In this turn of affairs, the tyrants of Cyprus [33,35] (island), AsiaCyprus called together the generals of the Ionians, and said to them: “Ionians, we Cyprians offer you the choice of engaging either the Persians or the Phoenicians.

If you want to draw up your army on land and try your strength against the Persians, then it is time for you to disembark and array yourselves on land and for us to embark in your ships to contend with the Phoenicians. If, however, you desire rather to engage the Phoenicians, do so, but whichever you choose, see to it that Ionia (region (general)), Europe Ionia and Cyprus [33,35] (island), AsiaCyprus become free.”

To this the Ionians answered, “We were sent by the common voice of Ionia (region (general)), Europe Ionia to guard the seas, not to deliver our ships to men of Cyprus [33,35] (island), AsiaCyprus and encounter the Persians on land. We will attempt then to bear ourselves bravely in the task which was given us. It is for you to prove yourselves valiant men, remembering what you suffered when you were enslaved by the Medians.”

This was the Ionians' response, and when the Persian army afterwards arrived on the plain of Salamis [33.9,35.166] (deserted settlement), Famagusta, Cyprus, AsiaSalamis, the Cyprian kings ordered their battle line. They drew up the best of the Salaminians and Solians against the Persians, leaving the remaining Cyprians to face the rest of the enemy's army. Onesilus placed himself opposite Artybius, the Persian general.