In Baudolino book, the Huns invade Pndapetzim, the city at the border with the Universal Religion realm. I think about replacing them with the apocalyptic Gog and Magog. However, while searching the internet I find a depiction of them less apocalyptic, apparently working hard in a Muslim land. Were they punished or just making a living?
I choose to introduce them as hard working within the communities that the pilgrims encounter. Meaning that maybe not all the Gog and Magog are bad. Some are good and seeking for integration wherever there is work to be had. See my drift? Drifting too much? I just want to strengthen the relationship between the symbols in the movie, history and some realities of the present time.