The Holy Alliance Army gradually learned that the National Guard was splitting its forces to march south again.
"If we retreat now, we still have a chance to recover. We can use the mountains to hold off the northern Valois people," the military attaché from the Vinea Republic said, already entertaining the idea of withdrawal. "Vinea will not wait until the brink of bankruptcy to be liquidated by the enemy."
"Bankruptcy? This isn't a business!" The general from the Sardinia Kingdom slammed his hand on the table. "From the moment we set foot on Valois soil, there has been no turning back for us!"
"That applies to you, you country bumpkin." The Vinaia attaché's merchant-like demeanor returned. "We hold a massive number of Valois bonds. We have lent them money in the past, we lend to them now, and we can continue to do so in the future. The Valois people are desperate for everything right now…"
