Chapter 210
T+12 hours since the start of Operation Daniel Steiner.
Temporary Field Command Post, established inside the estate of Count Khaledra.
“How could this happen? How was Daniel Steiner’s brigade spotted in the north? Didn’t aerial reconnaissance report that he had established defensive positions 200 kilometers west?”
“...That was Daniel Steiner’s scheme. He apparently anticipated that the Allied Forces would rely on aerial recon and constructed a fortified position using inflatable tanks and crates.”
Because aerial reconnaissance couldn’t provide clear identification, they had blindly believed it.
Amidst the growing confusion, one of the staff officers finally spoke up, sounding exasperated.
“What about the regiment and defense forces we sent across the bridge? Tell them to hasten their retreat! When the hell are they expected to arrive in Fenbark?”
“I’ve already issued orders to move the troops as fast as possible. By now, the vanguard should have reached the bridge, so perhaps even before Daniel Steiner’s brigade—”
While the staff were still exchanging opinions, a liaison officer burst into the room.
Panting heavily, the liaison immediately spotted Khaledra seated at the head of the table, his forehead in his hand.
After a salute, the liaison quickly opened his mouth.
“Urgent report! The sluice gate... the sluice gate has been destroyed!”