Why did Mensa travel with so many people and so much gold?

Mensa, a fictional character from the novel "The Last Crusade" in the Indiana Jones franchise, traveled with many people and gold to support his quest for power and influence. The large entourage served to provide protection and demonstrate wealth, while the gold was likely intended as a means to bribe or negotiate with others, reinforcing his status. This combination of resources underscored Mensa's ambition and the lengths he would go to achieve his goals.