The result was, as might have been expected, inglorious for Rome.

During A.D.587 the two divisions acted separately in different quarters; and, at the end of the year, neither could boast of any greater success than the reduction, in each case, of a single fortress.

Philippicus, however, seems to have been satisfied; and at the approach of winter he withdrew from the East altogether, leaving Heraclius as his representative, and returned to Constantinople.
During the earlier portion of the year A.D.588 the mutinous temper of the Roman army rendered it impossible that any military operations should be undertaken.

Encouraged by the disorganization of their enemies, the Persians crossed the frontier, and threatened Constantina, which was however saved by Germanus.

Later in the year, the mutinous spirit having been quelled, a counter-expedition was made by the Romans into Arzanene.