How does the initial interaction between dionysius and pythias affect the story? responses it helps the citizens of syracuse understand that dionysius is a cruel and unfair leader. it helps the citizens of syracuse understand that dionysius is a cruel and unfair leader. dionysius and pythias become friends, and life improves for the people of syracuse. dionysius and pythias become friends, and life improves for the people of syracuse., it sets the stage for dionysius to learn a lesson about the value of loyalty and friendship. it sets the stage for dionysius to learn a lesson about the value of loyalty and friendship. pythias and damon form an alliance to remove dionysius from power. pythias and damon form an alliance to remove dionysius from power.