 According to Xenophon, the army was mobilized by the ephors, and after a series of religious ceremonies and sacrifices, the army assembled and set out.The army proceeded led by the king, with the "skiritai" and cavalry detachments acting as an advance guard and scouting parties.The necessary provisions (barley, cheese, onions and salted meat) were carried along with the army, and each Spartan was accompanied by a helot manservant.