Four days later.
Midsection of the Erz Mountains, outside the Naches Pass.
Major Druo, commander of the French Army artillery battalion, turned to look at the endless line of infantry to the north, muttering in puzzlement: "We could have launched an attack by midday yesterday, what are we doing..."
No wonder he was confused. Over 70,000 troops had already assembled on the north side of the pass, and they were all lined up neatly, as if they were preparing for a parade.
It's important to know that although the Naches Pass isn't particularly narrow, it could at most accommodate 7,000 to 8,000 soldiers to launch an attack on the fortress at the ridge.
Colonel Lannes rode over, glanced at the imposing artillery position, and said to Druo: "Have all the ammunition been moved?"
"Yes, sir," Druo said, standing at attention. "It was all prepared yesterday."
"Then open fire," Lannes gestured toward the distant Saint Peter Fortress. "Use the densest firepower."
