At first, Pequot considered leading the troops around the mountains with the Pannonians, engaging in guerrilla warfare. But the 2,000 newly enlisted, untrained slaves were undoubtedly a huge burden. More importantly, the provisions in the camp were insufficient to sustain so many people...
So Pequot had no choice but to retreat reluctantly. However, having finally seized an opportunity to lead an independent force and achieve merit, how could he allow himself to return to Maximus so soon?
Indeed, as Pulikas had judged, Pequot withdrew from the mountains to the southwest of the camp. But rather than continuing west to reach the Kolana River and enter Alde Tribe territory, he led the troops eastward instead.
"Adobag, how far is it to the Pannonian tribe you mentioned?" Pequot asked.
