I went after the Cumans by following the north “fence” then climbing the hill to the tree overlooking their camp. After I stuck an arrow in one they came charging after me trying to flank me. rather than stand in a cross fire I deemed it advisable to beat a hasty retreat.
However once I turned around it was like Henry was running in oatmeal. Once I faced forward (toward the Cumans) curiously I could backpedal faster than when I was fleeing by facing away from them.
I searched but didn’t find this listed anywhere, but I’m not good with the search function so I hope this isn’t a duplicate report.