Their engagement with the Romans had resulted in a severe loss to Fabius.
Hannibal then proceeded, without opposition, in a northeasterly direction, by a very circuitous route.

He arrived in Luceria, with much booty and a full money-chest, at harvest time.

Near here he encamped in a plain rich in grain and grass for the support of his army.
At Rome the policy of Fabius was severely criticised.

His apparent inaction was displeasing to a large party, and he was called Cunctator (the Delayer).

At length the assembly voted that his command be shared by one of his lieutenants, Marcus Minucius.