THE LINN POCKET

The approximate location of the Wardens cut off at The Linn of Mercy.

WAR 97, DAY 9-10, Linn of Mercy --- Commentators predicted, even during the mobilisation prior to the present conflict, fluidity in the fronts early on. That said, given the relatively primitive equipment with which both sides have begun this war, outright encirclement of logistics centres by infantry forces however, was not a widely expected outcome.

Caovish troops, throughout the faltering negotiations which led to the present conflict, held an advanced salient in the Linn of Mercy, anchored by natural defences and choke points created by the rivers and gorges which subdivide this rugged countryside. It was thought also, at least by some, this would be a quiet sector, given the relative difficulty of meaningful advance. This has not eventuated.

The fall of a few small settlements to Legionary attacks, in amongst the push-and-pull of these early days of the war would not be very alarming to a casual observer, but to the Wardens of the Linn, it represents crisis. Like a chisel sparring open a gash in bare rock, Colonial Infantry have poured across the border near Outwich Ranch, seized the bridges at Lathair, and now completed their encirclement of The Long Whine and Ulster Falls with the capture of Rotdust.

The besieged Caovians however, are not the only ones now struggling for supply as they cling to their defences. Operating now at what seems the limit of their logistical chain, and supporting a large attacking force, Legionnaire's advancing on the Caovish garrison talked despairingly of their poor supply situation. Though pleased with their gains, and applying consistent pressure, their axis of attack is now split on several lines, and the pocket appears to be solidifying with both sides digging in.

The defenders, on the other hand, seem keenly aware too of their situation. They bemoan the lack of large, organised regiments, and do not like their odds of maintaining their foothold, but note supplies are still slowly trickling in. A consensus among the garrison appears to have developed that they can no longer break out, and they await, with considerable urgency, relief from the Caovish strongholds in aptly named Callahan's Passage.

If Measean forces do eventually overrun the pocket, they will have a potent forward logistical position with which to continue their advance. If not, it appears unlikely they will be able to hold their long, stretched lines maintaining the encirclement. Whatever the greater course of the war, this will be a region to watch in the coming days and weeks.

The aftermath of a repelled Colonial assualt

Warden troops manning defensive positions in the Southwest of Ulster Falls

Written by: [PRESS] Edward Bloke

Edited by: [PRESS] Henry Stewart

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