I was fighting in an adventure and my general was sent to a seperate camp, call it camp 2. He was intercepted by camp 1. He defeated camp 1. He then proceeded to camp 2 (as intended). I clicked retreat and the hourglass came up. I then (before it made the noise) clicked off the adventure screen (return home).

Graphically here is what happened. The general continued along the path toward camp 2. I clicked back on the adventure and he was proceeding to camp 2. I watched graphically him go into fight mode at camp 2. After a few moments the skirmish graphic disappeared, at the same time I got the ding that he was available to be used again.

What I think actually happened. The general actually retreated but because i changed screens graphically he continued. I found him all safe and sound again without suffering the blemish on his undefeated record.

So in conclusion, you can trick the graphics to make the general attack a camp.

I do not know if it is repeatable, the heart attack of almost losing all my troops will prevent me from trying again, just noting the inconsistency that can be created.