Both Sides Make Plans

Night fell, and both banks of the Tugela River defensive line sank into silence. Crossing the river under cover of darkness was not within the British Army's considerations; night battles had never been the preferred choice in war.

Although East Africa had only one brigade stationed across the river, battlefields were full of unexpected developments, and both sides possessed limited intelligence. British commander Commander Rost had to assess the situation cautiously.

No one could be sure whether East Africa had reinforcements, when those reinforcements would reach the Tugela River, or how many of them there would be.

East Africa's closed-door policy proved immensely useful at this moment. Conversely, East Africa found it equally difficult to learn of the British Army's movements and plans in the Natal Colony. It might have been possible to plant intelligence personnel in rear areas such as Durban, but there was simply no opportunity at the Tugela River front. Anyone entering the combat zone would be easily discovered.

Under the dim lights, British commander Commander Rost was discussing a summary of the day's fighting with his subordinates.

Rost's expression was extremely unpleasant. His first battle after arriving in South Africa had ended with him running into a wall, completely different from what he had envisioned before coming to South Africa.

His subordinates looked at Rost's grim face and barely dared to breathe. Several commanders from the British Indian troops were especially fearful that Rost would vent his anger on them.

"Today's battle has left me deeply dissatisfied with every unit. Four full assaults, and every single one was repelled by the East Africans. The Tugela River is no impassable natural barrier. If we cannot defeat the East Africans even under such conditions, then won't we find it impossible to take even a single step in the