Teancum is now facing a larger army well established in defended cities. That would make Teancum’s task nearly impossible, so he does not undertake a direct attack. What he does is similar to laying siege. He places his army in position, but doesn’t attack. Instead, they build defenses for their own positions, and await reinforcements. Teancum knows that while the Lamanite army is larger and in excellent defensive positions, they will nevertheless become vulnerable should they attempt to leave their places of safety. Teancum awaits that eventuality.