Lytoboes of Diabolis, an experienced Bulgarian general, was sent with an army by Deljan to occupy Demetrias. He rebuilt its walls, built siege-engines and then relaxed, feeling safe from external attack.He thought the inhabitants, who had sworn allegiance, were simple and inexperienced. But the inhabitants of Demetrias appealed for help to the doux of Thessalonike. He sent his general Zepe pantheotes with a fleet and an army to recapture the kastron. As soon as his fleet arrived and the people of Demetrias were notified, they captured Lytoboes and handed him over to the Romans