I had to conqueror Olbia first, from the Sauros in my game. There was no way in hell, I could aquire Pantikapaion because of the that Eleutheroi stack next to it.

Strangely enough, the Sauros agreed to peace afterwards... even though I killed their FM.

Gave me enough time, to build up my barracks & get a steady cash flow, to when they finally did attack again :D