BACKGROUND
The Battle of La-Rothière, fought on the 1st of February 1814, about five miles south of Brienne, where Napoleon had won an inconclusive victory against Blucher's Army of Silesia just three days before.
Following Blucher through La-Rothière on the 30th in order to keep an eye on the enemy's movements, Napoleon bided his time to await further developments, but the heavy snowfalls hindered his intelligence through this period. He was unaware of the danger, that during this time, the Allies, having linked up near Trannes were in the very process of launching an all out attack against him.
By the 1st, Napoleon had at last made up his mind. He would fall back to Troyes. At 10:00 am, he gave the orders for a general withdrawal, Ney setting out immediately via Lesmont with his three divisions of the Young Guard. Marshal Marmont was ordered to occupy Lesmont itself. As the snow fell from the cold grey sky, the unexpected then happened; Marshal Victor reported that strong enemy columns were marching upon Brienne and Napoleon decided to stand his ground and accept battle in order to clarify whether it was a major attack or just a bluff while the axe fell elsewhere. With his army barely 40,000 strong, Napoleon's decision had placed the French army in great peril, but with the enemy column's rapidly closing, it had become too late to withdraw.
Battle Notes
Allied Army
• Commander: Blücher
• 5 Command Cards
• 6 Tactician Cards
• Move First
French Army
• Commander: Napoleon
• 6 Command Cards
• 5 Tactician Cards
Victory
14 Victory Banners
Special Rules
• The River is impassable except at the bridge
• The town of La Rothiere is a Temporary Majority Victory Banner Objective worth 1 Victory Banner for the side that occupies it at turn start.
• Each other town hex is a Temporary Victory Banner for the Allies if occupied at turn start.
• Mother Russia rule is in effect. Ignore sabre results.
