During the massive retreat northward, the Nephites were disorganized and losing men, women, and children who fell behind and were slaughtered by the Lamanites. Mormon saw that both time and distance were operating against the Nephites. He therefore sent a message back to the leader of the Lamanites suggesting that both armies disengage for a period and then meet together for one great final battle at the foot of the Hill Cumorah. The message came back that the king of the Lamanites agreed.