Sextus, having established his base in Sicily, has continued his rebellion and used his fleet to ravage the coast of Italy for the past few years, but the second triumvirate's first priority has been the Cassius and Brutus faction.

Thus, with the whole island as his base, Sextus has had the time and resources to develop an army and, even more importantly, a strong navy operated by Sicilian marines, which he has used to interrupt the crucial shipments of Sicilian grain to Rome.

Pompeius' own son is put in charge as naval commander in the effort to cause widespread famine in Italy.

Unsurprisingly, Pompeius' control over the sea has prompted him to take on the name Neptuni filius, "son of Neptune."

By the time the triumvirs turn their attentions to Sicily, Sextus is prepared for strong resistance.