Robert Guiscard conducted a brutal enlistment and training of males in his dominions, regardless of age and competence. He then waited at Otranto for his wife Gaita, who would come with him, and wrote to the pope about the governance of his realm in his absence. He made his son Roger ruler of the whole of Apulia and instructed him with Robert of Loritello, to go to the aid of the pope against Henry IV, if necessary. For some reason he changed his mind about Roger and took him with him. Robert moved on to Brindisi, from where the forces would cross, gathering 150 ships and 30,000 men; he regretted that an offer of friendship to Alexios (I) brought no results. Then Raoul, his envoy, returned from Constantinople with annoying news and recommendations. Raoul reported having seen the real Michael VII living in a monastery, and so called Raiktor an imposter. Equally, Nikephoros III, who had insulted Helena, had now been dethroned by Alexios I, who was guilty of nothing. Raoul thus saw no justification for the attack. Robert was incensed at his envoy's words, supported by Raiktor. Raoul, whose brother Roger had deserted to Alexios I, only escaped their threats by taking refuge with Bohemond. The expedition continued, Robert crossing from Brindisi to Dyrrachion rather than Otranto to Nikopolis (giving access to Naupaktos and other fortresses), as the shorter journey was better in winter. A side-expedition gave him Kerkyra and other towns. He attacked Dyrrachion by sea supported by a destructive raid on land by Bohemond