Chapter 118: Something Wicked This Way Comes

One of the core tactical principles of an ambush is to attack from a prepared position onto an unprepared and unsuspecting enemy force, thus taking full advantage of the element of surprise as a force multiplier…

''Note that an ambush can be spoiled and turned around if the targets of the ambush become prematurely aware of the trap. In such circumstances, a retreat by the aggressor force is suggested, as they are no longer in a position of tactical superiority and face prepared opposition.''

The worst time for the ambush target to become aware of the ambush is when the ambushers are only partially but not fully situated…

—NSE Skytrooper Tactical Manual, 19th Edition

Foreshadowing
Put spoilers here

Epigraph Tie-In

 * The epigraph explains that an ambush can be spoiled and even turned around on the ambushers if they are discovered, with the worst possible time being when the ambushers are partially but not fully in position. The chapter shows Mac Bethad's forces in disarray and scrambling to fight the Hooligans after Jacob warns them about their ambush.

Links to the Chapter
ArchiveOfOurOwn link