At 9.30am, the Ostmarck battalion heads off along the Widenlau road to join Rimmer.
At 9.50am, the observer in the cathedral spire reports a column of troops, of roughly battalion strength, foot and horse, approaching from the direction of Hanau-Brancau.
At 1000am, the second battalion of the Ostmarck regiment arrives, accompanied by the remaining two squadrons of the Giftschlange Dragoons.
At 10.10am, a messenger arrives from the Bremse Squadron detailed to head towards Redderblau Hill. They have arrived at the tower. They report a marvellous view. To this end, a column of troops can be seen about a third of a mile northwest of Hanau-Brancau, heading in direction of Schrote. There is much detritus here indicating the previous presence of some dirty, dirty enemy troops. Should they stay here and observe?
Ziegler's Headquarters: Day Two, 10.10am
The enemy follows Ziegler's rearguard but does not press an attack. Nockenshoppes likewise focuses on avoiding entanglements.
At 1000am, the column passes through Langenzofft. The village is deserted except for a wizened old codger who watches disinterestedly as the invading force marches past.
At 10.10am, the colonel's force crosses the border into Rotenburg. There is a collection of dirty, sly, ruffianly looking fellows waiting nearby – Rotenburg troops, no doubt.
Ziegler's campaign is concluded! Time for some claret, and the writing of a quick report to the Burgrave, no doubt!
The Burggrave has spent many hours pouring over Ziegler's report but no one can tell whether he has it up the right way as Ziegler's handwriting is so abominable. Still, a successful little jaunt through the charming countryside of Schrote. One hopes that the true campaigning season can begin once more and that full revenge can be meted out to the hated Rotenburgers!
ReplyDeleteIn Mittelheim, war is as natural as breathing: and is just as laboured and as full of phlegm. True campaigning is therefore no doubt imminent. Given the usual political shenanigans, however, it is not clear whether Rotenburg might be Nabstria’s enemy, or their allies, or some kind of disliked Christmas relative.
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