Will give brainliest. how does dionysius advance the plot of this story? dionysius mocks damon for believing pythias will return to save him, creating surprise when pythias does return. dionysius sentences pythias to death for speaking out against him, creating the central conflict in the story. dionysius sets a day and time for pythias to return for his execution, creating the rising action in the story. dionysius's hot temper leads many in the city to fear him, creating tension in the story.