Instead of fighting, Moroni creates a situation in which the Lamanite guards could tell that their situation was hopeless. Moroni waits for that situation to occur naturally. Perhaps one of the reasons he waited for the drunkenness to work off was to avoid the possibility of the drink-influenced bravery to attempt a fight where none should be given. When the Lamanites awakened in at least somewhat greater control of their faculties, they are able to recognize their situation, and the situation is resolved without bloodshed.