Luna and her troops were clearly closing in on Atlas's position. They had already spotted him, and a direct encounter was now inevitable.
Trying to run from a sniper like Ember wasn't exactly a smart move. Worse, if they decided to pursue, they could end up chasing Atlas's team into the cave, creating an even bigger problem.
Luna's team had suffered injuries, but their numbers were still solid. And unlike the lord Atlas had previously defeated, this lord and her troops weren't weakened by the freezing temperatures. They could still fight at full strength.
If a battle broke out here and now, casualties would be inevitable on both sides. And for what? Engaging them wouldn't gain Atlas anything, other than the risk of provoking not one, but two alliances into turning against him.
Negotiation was still an option. A ceasefire could be arranged. Maybe even a temporary alliance.
