Maximilian attempts a strategic feint: his main display near Constance should attract Swiss attention while Heinrich von Fürstenberg advances against Dornach's fortification. The distributed cantonal system frustrates the plan because local leaders remain alert even when forces gather elsewhere. Dornach's professional garrison commander, Benedikt Hugi, warns Solothurn and secures masons, personnel, and artillery to strengthen the castle before the imperial attack. Local information and initiative allow this decentralized defense to resist the diversion.
Chapter · 27:38-31:54
Maximilian's Dornach feint fails against local vigilance
An imperial demonstration near Constance is meant to pin the Swiss while a separate force attacks Dornach, but local defenders strengthen the castle and watch the approach.