You stand on the balcony, looking out at the city of Hofu. As of this morning, it has been twelve days since you took the city. In your hand is a letter, addressed to you, with instructions to be delivered directly. It arrived early in the morning, before sunrise. You’ve already read it, of course, and the news is quite the opposite of good. The Shogun died sometime last night, just before the courier was dispatched. In the envelope are two pieces of paper, one written by Matsudaira Katamori informing you of the Shogun’s passing, and the other is a personal letter from the Shogun himself. You have no idea when exactly it was written.

Honorable Colonel Stockton,

My race has nearly run its course. For one reason or another, I know must leave this world soon. In the short time that I have known you, your performance as a military commander has been exemplary, and I hope that my successor, whoever that may be, will see that as well. As it will likely take days or even weeks to name a successor and have him appointed, I have laid out orders for your force, as well as the forces marching with you. As soon as possible, you are to march toward Hagi and take the castle. Ensure that Princess Hikari is kept safe, do not allow her to be used for political maneuvers by anyone, even my own successor, should he be the sort to attempt it. Go forward with the same honor that you have exercised since I have known you. Good luck.

Beneath the text is the Shogun’s official seal. You fold up the letter, pocketing it and glancing over the one written by Matsudaira. It merely confirms that you will be executing the orders given by the Shogun, and that he expects your forces to surround Hagi within two weeks at the most. It also orders you to tell absolutely no one of the Shogun’s death, and that official word will be passed down when it is less likely to affect morale.

You pocket that letter as well, just as you hear a knock at your door. “Enter,” you say.

“Colonel,” Sato enters your office quietly. “You seemed to disappear as soon as that letter was given to you.” He raises an eyebrow as you look at him. “And you look as if you’ve seen a ghost. Is something the matter?”

>”We’ve been given orders to march on Hagi. Ready the army as soon as they’ve gotten their breakfast.”
>”Go wake the Princess. I need to speak with her.”
>”The Shogun is dead.”
>Hand him the letters and let him read them.
>Write-in.

>>3489849
>>”Go wake the Princess. I need to speak with her.”

>>3489849
>Hand him the letters and let him read them.
>”We’ve been given orders to march on Hagi. Ready the army as soon as they’ve gotten their breakfast.”

>>3489849
>>”We’ve been given orders to march on Hagi. Ready the army as soon as they’ve gotten their breakfast.”
>Hand him the letters and let him read them.

>>3489849
>”We’ve been given orders to march on Hagi. Ready the army as soon as they’ve gotten their breakfast.”

>>3489849

>Hand him the letters and let him read them.
>”We’ve been given orders to march on Hagi. Ready the army as soon as they’ve gotten their breakfast.”

Well, Sato's better put all his knowledge of covert operations in defending the princess, he'll be personally responsible for it.

>>3489849
>>Hand him the letters and let him read them.
>>”We’ve been given orders to march on Hagi. Ready the army as soon as they’ve gotten their breakfast.”

>>3489889
he'll probably have a plan or two as soon as he reads the letter, things will get dangerous

>>3489849
>>Hand him the letters and let him read them.
>>”We’ve been given orders to march on Hagi. Ready the army as soon as they’ve gotten their breakfast.”

File: [menacing].jpg (92 KB, 474x669)

92 KB JPG

You hand Sato the letters, grimacing as he takes them. “We’ve been ordered to mobilize and march on Hagi as soon as possible.” Crossing your arms, you continue. “Have the men prepare to tear down camp and move after they’ve gotten their breakfast.”

Sato reads the letters carefully, his face going a bit pale as he does. “I see…” He frowns deeply, handing the letters back to you. “This is a sensitive matter, sir. Had you planned on telling anyone else?”

“Perhaps the Princess,” you say.

Sato’s eyes widen. “I would advise against it, sir.” Shaking his head, he explains. “That girl has something of an inability to keep a secret. Not only that, but the news would undoubtedly cause her to act irrationally.”

“What would you suggest, then?” You raise an eyebrow.

“Tell her after we take Hagi.” He nods. “That way, any outbursts she has would not risk interfering with a military objective.”

You frown. “If you say so… I still think she should know.” You look toward the door. “I mean, she’s right across the hall, for God’s sake.”

Sato looks toward the door as well. “Indeed. It is ultimately up to you, sir.” He turns to you again, crossing his arms. “I also have another suggestion.”

You nod. “Let’s hear it.”

He hands the letters back to you. “Have the army stay here for a couple more days, let the men take their time packing up.” He moves his hands as he talks, gesturing toward the field outside of the city. “Custer has almost finished training his cavalry unit, and from what I have seen, Commander Lee has taken to training some of our men in the aggressive assault tactics that the Marines use.” He leans forward. “The Cavalry and assault troops would give us a critical advantage, should the siege turn into a battle. But they cannot be trained while we are doing a forced march through the foothills.”

You nod. “I’ll consider it.”

Sato bows, leaving the room. “Very well, sir. I will leave you for now.”

You bow as well. “Stay sharp. Be waiting for orders to move.”

As Sato closes the door behind him, you frown. Sitting the letters on your desk, you sigh.

>Hold a meeting with all of your officers.
>Go across the hall and tell the Princess what has happened.
>Start packing your things. You hope to be on the move by this afternoon.
>Write-in.

>>3489950
>Hold a meeting with all of your officers.

sato has two good points

>>3489950
>Hold a meeting with all of your officers.

>>3489950
>Hold a meeting with all of your officers.

>>3489950
>Hold a meeting with all of your officers.

>>3489950

>Hold a meeting with all of your officers.

>>3489950
>>Hold a meeting with all of your officers.

>>3489950
>>Hold a meeting with all of your officers.

You step out into the hall, getting Sato’s attention. “Lieutenant,” you call after him.

“Yes, sir?” He looks back at you.

“Gather all the officers here for a meeting.” You frown. “Ideally as soon as possible.”

He nods. “Understood, sir. I will return with the officers post haste.”

Perhaps half an hour later, you have all of your officers gathered in your office. Sato leans against the wall, looking around at his peers more than at you. You’ve requested that Commander Lee and General Custer attend as well, and they stand off to the side. You honestly aren’t sure what you should divulge, particularly in regards to there being no official Shogun at present. Looking over the letters once more, you stow them in your jacket pocket before speaking.

“Good morning, Gentlemen.” You cross your arms, looking from one lieutenant to another, until you’ve made sure they are all paying attention. “I’m sure you’re all wondering why I’ve brought you here…”

>”We’re packing up and marching to Hagi after breakfast.”
>”Tell the troops what we’ll be marching on Hagi. I want camp torn down and packed within two days.”
>”Commander Lee, General Custer, how have your training endeavors been going?”
>”The Shogun is dead.”
>Write-in.

>>3490087
>>”Commander Lee, General Custer, how have your training endeavors been going?”

I don't want the two of them here when we tell the others, they have no stake in this and it would alert the US government of the shogun's situation

after we ask them and we are alone with our Lts. we say
>”The Shogun is dead.”

>>3490087
>>”The Shogun is dead.”

>>3490096
This

>>3490087
>>3490096
Supporting.

>>3490096

just reminding everyone that Custer is here as an American observer, so everything we tell him is like telling the American government, and I don't think that would be good for the shogun

>>3490096
Supporting

>>3490087
>”Tell the troops what we’ll be marching on Hagi. I want camp torn down and packed within two days.”
>”Commander Lee, General Custer, how have your training endeavors been going?”

Why are you tards spewing that the shogun is dead?

>>3490096
support

>>3490130
I suppose it's because these Four are the future of Japan.

But very well,
>>3490087
Switching >>3490102
to
>>3490130

>>3490138
Just tell our LT's later without the Americans present. That's what I'm worried about.

>>3490145
well, that's what we are voting for I think
at least that's what I meant

>>3490087
>”Tell the troops what we’ll be marching on Hagi. I want camp torn down and packed within two days.”
>”Commander Lee, General Custer, how have your training endeavors been going?”

File: Colter Lee.jpg (44 KB, 513x513)

44 KB JPG

“Commander Lee, General Custer,” you begin. “I understand you’ve both been making progress on training my men. How is it coming along?”

Custer is the first to speak. “My Cavalrymen are nearly ready for battle, Colonel.” He grins. “I see them having a bright future in this line of work.”

You nod. “Approximately how much more training will they need?”

He rubs his chin thoughtfully. “They are practically ready, perhaps a couple more days of rigorous training.”

“Good.” You cross your arms, diverting your attention to Commander Lee. “And what of your endeavors, Commander?”

He rubs the back of his neck. “Well, it was more something that just happened while I was killin’ time with the NCOs, sir.” Shrugging, he continues. “That being said, they definitely know how to fight like Marines now. I’d say they’re ready to fight alongside us, but they could still use a little more fine-tuning.”

You raise an eyebrow. “So you had intended to train them to fight alongside the Marines?”

He nods. “Sort of. I figured my Marines wouldn’t be seeing much combat, seeing as our numbers are so thin now.” He leans forward. “So I thought you might appreciate having some men that could fill that role.”

You nod. “I see. Very good.” Looking over at Custer, you grimace. “Now, Gentlemen, I need to speak with my Lieutenants alone please.”

The Americans both salute you, then exit after you return the gesture. Sighing, you lean against your desk and wait a solid half minute for them to get far enough down the hall. “Now, for the reason I called all of you here in the first place.” You light a cigarillo and puff a couple times, making eye-contact with each of your lieutenants. “The Shogun died last night.”

They react in similar ways. Kojima takes a step back, grimacing. Subaru goes pale, staring at the floor and saying nothing. Nakajima steps forward, an expression of disbelief on her face. She is the first to speak. “Sir… What will we do?”

>”We’ll stay here a couple more days and get ready to march on Hagi.”
>”I received orders to move out as soon as possible. We’re marching to Hagi after breakfast.”
>”What would you suggest, Lieutenant?”
>”First off, what I’ve just told you isn’t to leave this room, understood?”
>Write-in.

>>3490278
>>”First off, what I’ve just told you isn’t to leave this room, understood?”
>”We’ll stay here a couple more days and get ready to march on Hagi.”

>>3490278
>>”First off, what I’ve just told you isn’t to leave this room, understood?”
>”What would you suggest, Lieutenant?”

lets get opinions

>>3490287
>>3490278
I change to
>”What would you suggest, Lieutenant?”
>”First off, what I’ve just told you isn’t to leave this room, understood?”

>>3490278
>”First off, what I’ve just told you isn’t to leave this room, understood?”

"That includes the princess. I will inform her of his passing at a later date."

>”We’ll stay here a couple more days and get ready to march on Hagi.”

>write-in
"The shogun's final order to me was to continue the campaign, retake Hagi and protect her highness. I intend to honour his last command and I expect the best efforts from all of us."

>>3490278
>>”First off, what I’ve just told you isn’t to leave this room, understood?”
>”We’ll stay here a couple more days and get ready to march on Hagi.”

Gonna pause the session here until the same time tomorrow. Thanks for playing! As always, the floor is open for any questions and whatnot.

>>3490278

>>”First off, what I’ve just told you isn’t to leave this room, understood?”
>”What would you suggest, Lieutenant?”

Session in two hours.

“First off,” you begin. “What I’ve just said is not to leave this room, understood?” Your officers all nod. “Good.” You then cross your arms, puffing on the cigarillo. “Now, as far as how we proceed from here, I’m open to suggestions.”

Nakajima speaks up after a few seconds. “I am honestly not sure how to move forward.” She frowns deeply, rubbing her chin. “Do we have any standing orders from Matsudaira Katamori?”

You nod. “As soon as possible, we are ordered to march on Hagi.” You then gesture to Sato. “However, I’ve been told that it might be a better course of action to wait a couple days. That way we can be as prepared as we can be when we get to Hagi.”

Nakajima nods slowly. “That does make sense.” Then, she raises an eyebrow. “Although, it could be seen as a violation of the standing orders if we take too long.”

Subaru speaks up next. “Indeed. I believe we should move out as soon as possible.” He gestures in the direction of the camped troops. “I would bet we could have camp packed up by lunchtime if we moved with haste. If we waste time around here, the enemy could reinforce further at Hagi. Or worse, they could be planning a counter-attack on this location. Moving out today is likely the best course of action.”

Kojima shakes his head. “Such a dramatic change in plans would indicate to the troops that something important has happened.” He frowns deeply. “All it would take is one of us to let a hint of the truth slip by accident, and rumors would spread like wildfire.” He crosses his arms. “We need to preserve morale, especially at such a critical juncture.”

Looking back at Sato, you see him merely nod. “You have heard my input, sir.” He then shrugs. “And Kojima is right, this is a critical point in the campaign. It is possible that our success hinges on the way we move forward from today.”

You grimace. Taking another puff of your cigarillo, you consider your options.

>”We’re leaving as soon as we can. Tell the men to begin packing up after breakfast.”
>”Tell that we’ll be packing the camp up in two days’ time.”
>Write-in.

>>3492391
>>Write-in
>"Tell the men to prepare and that we're marching tomorrow morning."

>>3492391
>”Tell that we’ll be packing the camp up in two days’ time.”

Act cool, nothing has happened, and rhe princess must NOT know about this until after Hagi

>>3492391
>”Tell that we’ll be packing the camp up in two days’ time.”

>>3492397
+1

>>3492394
Backing, we March come morning.

>>3492391
>>3492394
Voting against, we either get behind something totally or not at all.

You take another drag of your cigarillo. “Tell the men that we’ll be packing up camp in two days’ time.”

“Yes sir,” Nakajima replies.

You look around at the rest of the lieutenants. “And not a word of the Shogun’s passing gets out. Everything is normal, we’ve just received marching orders. Understood?”

“Yes sir.” Subaru and Kojima salute you, which you return.

“Good. Dismissed.” You nod as the lieutenants begin to file out of your office.

Eventually, only Nakajima remains in the room. “Sir, may I ask a question?”

You shrug. “Sure.”

She frowns. “Does the Princess know about this yet?”

Shaking your head, you reply. “No. I figured it would be best to wait before telling her.” You sigh. “For security’s sake.”

Nakajima nods, still frowning. “It puts a bad taste in my mouth, but considering the importance of this campaign, I would probably do the same.”

“My feelings exactly,” you reply. Puffing on your cigarillo some more, you continue. “Is there anything else you needed?”

“No sir,” she salutes.

You salute back. “I’ll see you later then, Lieutenant.” She leaves promptly, and you lean against your desk as the door closes.

>Go see Custer’s cavalry for yourself. You’ve not gotten an in-depth look at them yet.
>Find Sarah and inform her that your army will be packing up camp soon.
>It’s nearly time for breakfast, you should head down and eat with the men.
>You need to clear your head. Go for a walk in Hofu.
>Write-in.

>>3492507
>>Go see Custer’s cavalry for yourself. You’ve not gotten an in-depth look at them yet.

>>3492507

>It’s nearly time for breakfast, you should head down and eat with the men.

Routine and we are hungry too

>>3492507
>It’s nearly time for breakfast, you should head down and eat with the men.

>>3492507
>Go see Custer’s cavalry for yourself. You’ve not gotten an in-depth look at them yet.

>>3492507

>It’s nearly time for breakfast, you should head down and eat with the men.

>>3492507
>>Go see Custer’s cavalry for yourself. You’ve not gotten an in-depth look at them yet.

do we roll or....?

Seeing as we have a tie, I'll wait ten more minutes, then roll a d2

>>3492507
>It’s nearly time for breakfast, you should head down and eat with the men.

I usually just lurk but I will break this tie.

You decide to head down and eat with the men. The mess tent is serving more of the usual, noodles with a side of rice. You get a bowl and sit among several enlisted men.

“How are all of you doing this morning?” You speak to them in Japanese.

“We are well, sir.” One of them answers, bowing politely as you sit. You return the gesture. “Though I am sure I speak for all of us when I say I’m glad to be moving on soon.”

You raise an eyebrow. “I see, so word has already reached you about our orders?”

He nods. “Yes, sir.”

You begin eating your noodles. “Good. It always pleases me to see my troops ready for battle.” Leaning back, you notice the green neckerchiefs that the enlisted men are wearing. “Say, are you men from the Sharpshooters?”

The man grins. “Indeed we are.” He gestures to himself. “I am a Matagi, so being a scout is pretty natural for me.” You remember hearing mention of the Matagi before, they are a culture of hunters who thrive in the rough country, if you remember right.

You nod. “All of you are from the Mountains, right?”

“Indeed.” He takes a few slurps of noodles before continuing. “I never would’ve imagined I would travel this far in my life.”

You chuckle. “That’s true. The military life can take you to places you’d never dream of.”

The man nods. “You’re from America, right?” You nod, and he continues. “I’ve heard they have brown bears there as strong as twenty men.”

You shrug. “I don’t know too much about bears, other than to stay away from them.” Rubbing your chin, you continue. “But I think the brown bears are mostly out west.”

The man nods. “I see.”

You are about to say more when a familiar person sits down amongst your group. “Good morning, Colonel.” Enzo Beretta eats his soup with a metal fork, which he spins around in the noodles to get a solid mass onto the fork before taking a bite.

You raise an eyebrow. “Good morning, Mr. Beretta.”

“I know this is an odd time,” he begins. “But would you care to come to my tent? I have some things to show you.”

>”Can it wait until later?”
>”Lead the way.”
>Write-in.

>>3492670
>”Lead the way.”

>>3492670
>>”Lead the way.”

>>3492670
>”Lead the way.”

>>3492670
>>”Lead the way.”

>>3492670
>"NEEEEEERRRD!"

File: Beretta Trident.jpg (53 KB, 300x290)

53 KB JPG

You nod. “Lead the way.” As you bid farewell to the enlisted men, you finish your food and deposit the bowls at the mess tent on your way. It takes perhaps three or four minutes to navigate to Beretta’s tent. It is slightly larger than the others, with crates of varying sizes sitting just outside in uneven stacks.

“It has been tough to find you, sir.” Beretta chuckles. “While we have been here, I have taken the liberty of experimenting on some designs of mine.”

You nod. “I take it you have something to show me?”

He grins as you both enter the tent. Inside is a rather well-appointed workshop, considering the conditions under which it has been set up. You see several partially-assembled machines, mostly guns by the looks of it, and there is a chemical smell in the air that reminds you of hot tar. The young Italian brings you over to his desk, where piles of design drawings lay.

“What’s this?” You pick up a drawing that looks like a large carriage with a steam boiler attached. “Some sort of train engine?”

Enzo chuckles, but plucks the drawing from your hands. “Just a little idea of mine that I drew up. A horseless carriage.”

You nod. “A horseless carriage… That’ll be the day.”

Beretta hands you a couple of drawings from the pile. “Well, actually one was already built by an Englishman nearly fifty years ago. It burned down though.” He sounds a bit dejected upon saying the last part, but then perks up again. “Anyway, here were the things I wanted to show you.”

You raise an eyebrow. “What am I looking at here?” The drawing looks like a Colt Dragoon, but with a strange ring drawn below it. Upon flipping to the other drawing, you see an artillery shell with the inside drawn. There are multiple sections inside the shell, all labeled in Italian.

“Those are the two prototypes that I wanted to show you.” He points to the Dragoon drawing. “The first is a cartridge conversion for your pistol. It would have a loading gate at the back, and fire the same rounds as your Henry. You would no longer need extra cylinders, and could reload much faster.” He shrugs. “Though, it would be a permanent modification, I could get it done before we tear down camp.”

You nod appreciatively. “And what’s this shell drawing? A new type of explosive shell?”

He shakes his head. “Greek Fire. I can take hollowed-out shells and turn them into incendiary ones. They would be particularly useful against heavily-defended castles, like the one in Hagi we will be attacking.” He crosses his arms. “I already have a formula for the Greek Fire that will work, and I could manufacture about fifteen or twenty shells in the time it would take to pack up and get ready to march.” He frowns. “But I would have to do one or the other.”

>”Start manufacturing those shells then, Enzo.” (Greek Fire)
>”Being able to reload my Dragoon quicker would come in quite handy.” (Cartridge Conversion)

>>3492742
>>”Start manufacturing those shells then, Enzo.” (Greek Fire)
Greek Fire would scare the shit out of the enemy considering how everything is made out of wood.

>>3492742
>”Being able to reload my Dragoon quicker would come in quite handy.” (Cartridge Conversion)
>Don't really wanna be known for a March to the Sea myself.

>>3492742
>”Start manufacturing those shells then, Enzo.” (Greek Fire)

>>3492742

>”Start manufacturing those shells then, Enzo.” (Greek Fire)

Strategic advantage is better than personal upgrade, we can just sicle through weapons when one runs out

Come on guys, can't we just make our war easier instead of trying to burn the country down?

>>3492775
we won't burn the country, this could be useful to burn out gates like the one we encountered or take out a pesky tower, I don't plan to raze the city myself

>>3492742
>>”Start manufacturing those shells then, Enzo.” (Greek Fire)

Faster rate of fire is nice but can be compensated with tactical maneuvering or more men.

Actual incendiaries would be a new tool.

>>3492775
If we can scare the enemy into surrendering due to what these shells can do it'll definitely make this war way easier. Also perserving our troops' lives.

>>3492780
More bullets in the air would do the same.

>>3492775
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OXUomKkjK7w

I am 90% joking but still.

>>3492778
>>3492780
Not to mention if this stuff is like proper greek fire, it'll burn for a good while meaning we can use it to corral and guide enemy units into kill zones or away from particular places.

>>3492782
More bullets in the air from 1 gun on the guy who probably shouldn't risk his life.

File: Same Energy.jpg (173 KB, 1175x620)

173 KB JPG

You grin, putting a hand on Beretta’s shoulder. “Well then, looks like you’ll need to get started making those shells, Enzo.” You look down at the design papers once more. “Greek Fire will give us a serious edge in pretty much any engagement. It should give us a strategic advantage too.”

“Indeed,” he nods.

You think back to the assault on Hofu castle, remembering the bloodbath that occurred after scaling the wall. “And it’ll scare the Hell out of the enemy. Might even encourage them to surrender after minimal fighting.” You hand Enzo the design papers. “I’ll leave you to it, then.”

“Yes, sir.” Enzo grins. “I will have the shells ready to go by the time we leave.” He stops himself. “Oh, and once we finish this campaign, I can still modify your revolver, if you want.”

You nod, exiting the tent. “Good man.” As you step back out into the military tent city, you note that things have sped up. Men move around with more urgency, and a hint of excitement at the prospect of getting on the move again. You don’t blame them, it’s not easy sitting around and waiting for orders while on campaign. Part of you is just glad they didn’t get restless and cause trouble in town. Walking up along the main straightaway, you ponder what else you should do this morning.

>Perhaps you should explore Hofu. You’ve heard your troops were rather well-received by the locals.
>See if Custer is out training his cavalry. You’re curious how that’s coming along.
>The Mountain Sharpshooters have been conducting scouting operations every day. You want to tag along with them for today’s patrol.
>You should head back up to your office and start packing your things.
>Write-in.

>>3492811
Nooooooooooooooooo!

>>3492811
>>Perhaps you should explore Hofu. You’ve heard your troops were rather well-received by the locals.

>>3492811
>See if Custer is out training his cavalry. You’re curious how that’s coming along.

As a southerner, I implore y'all: please don't burn down Japan.

>>3492827
Everythings wood. It'll burn down by itself eventually anyways.

>>3492811
>See if Custer is out training his cavalry. You’re curious how that’s coming along.

We better see them training before we actually use them.

>>3492829
You know what else is on fire? Hell.

>>3492827
I don't plan to, relax

>>3492831
Hellfire. Yes.

We attack with Hellfire® shells.

That'll be great for our morale and it'll sell.

>>3492827
You deserved Sherman's march and got fucking lucky you hick.

>>3492811
>See if Custer is out training his cavalry. You’re curious how that’s coming along.

>>3492845
Only soldiers should have to die in war.

>>3492848
Not when it's a civil war, put down all the enemies supporters. Men, Women and children or else they'll grow up and resentful or worse

>>3492827
Personally I have no stake in the american civil war (beyond that which a person in the 21st is supposed to) nor the events therein which some characterise as war crimes. So I kinda want to watch a Japanese city get lit the hell up by american firepower 79 years early.

We will of course offer them the right to surrender or die, as is only entirely fair and honourable.

>>3492851
>>3492852
Man that would be terrible, Daniel would not burn woman and children I believe, that would be really awful

>>3492851
No, wars can only really end when fighting and resentment ends.

>>3492856
I doubt the slant eyes will use kids in this era.

>>3492861
Which requires a firm hand on the rebellions throat too ensure it ends.

>>3492856
In my experience, it is very hard to identify woman and children from enemy combatants after the correct method is used. We'd be lucky to tell which bones belong to which corpse if we do our job properly.

Seriously though, I agree that he probably wouldn't but if we could prove that a district housed only combatants then I imagine we'd accept the possibility of minor losses of innocents.

>>3492865
No, you need to help them up off the ground.

>>3492870
Ya cause that worked oh so well.

>>3492873
You're only going to breed resentment with resentment.

>>3492879
Not if we remove them altogether. The dead can't resent anything.

>>3492880
The burial mounds the North built houses over would beg to differ.

>>3492889
Eh, should've used it as farm land. Would've made the greys actually useful

>>3492893
See, hateful comments like these show that you don't care about the Japanese any more than they are tools for you to fight a war.

Anons, come on. I have an ancestor buried at Andersonville and even I don't feel that kind of resentment towards the South. The Civil War was a national tragedy for both sides. Let's calm it down a little. Also, I've almost got the update done.

>>3492897
I firgured this was rather tamed too the normal austically screening replies that could be.

>>3492897
Again, Scottish, I feel about much about your civil war as I do for the Russian, French, Italian, Serbian, Ottoman or other ones. My condolences for your ancestor however.

>>3492899
You said the lands of my ancestors deserved pillaging, rape, murder, and fire.

>>3492903
A tratior is worse then an enemy, he was once called brother.

>>3492919
And a pillaging raping murdering arsonist is just that. Be better than that.

>>3492919
>>3492903
Now now, would the gentlement stop fighting?
I can pretend to be a mexican so you can both be united by hate lol.

>>3492928
Why would I hate Mexicans?

>>3492930
It was a bad joke about american stereotypes and wall building

>>3492937
The wall is a stupid idea. The main source of illegal immigration is air travel.

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You decide to head into the city of Hofu. It is a small city, more of a town really, with one main road that leads from the castle’s gates to the countryside. The buildings are identical to the ones in every Japanese town, short and made of wood. People mill about, having conversations relating to everyday life as they go about their business. You see children running around occasionally.

As you walk down the main street, you come to a building situated on the corner where a side street intersects. The sign, if your interpretation of the kanji is correct, labels the building as a restaurant. You’ve heard that the Japanese treat eating as a social function, and that restaurants are almost like saloons back home.

You decide to enter the building, walking through the open doorway carefully. Inside, it is far darker than the sunlit streets, and you have to let your eyes adjust for a moment. “Hello, sir!” A cute waitress, likely not much older than a teenager, calls out to you in Japanese. Upon getting a better look at you, she switches to English. “Hello, sir.” You can tell she only knows enough to say a greeting, and probably a few basic phrases.

“I understand Japanese,” you reply casually. “Good day, Miss.”

“Ah,” she switches back to her native language. “Would you like a table, sir?”

You nod. “Yes, please. I’ve never been to a Japanese restaurant before.”

She bows, which you return. “I see.” She then gestures to a low table nearby. “Please, have a seat and I will bring you some tea.”

You walk over to the table and sit down, leaning back as you relax a bit. There are about a dozen or so other patrons in the establishment, mostly having casual conversations. Nobody seems to have noticed, or at least cared, that an Aizu officer has entered the building.

The woman brings you a glass of tea shortly thereafter and asks if you would like any food. Even though you’ve just eaten, you decide to try the dumplings since it’s a food you’ve never had before.

“Well, well, well.” You hear a gravelly voice speaking Japanese. Looking over your shoulder, you see a man sitting up against the wall with a sake bottle at his table. As soon as you get a good look at him, you recognize the man. He is a samurai, with unkempt hair and a scruffy overall appearance. There is a sword at his hip, and he wears red. “I’ve gotta say,” he speaks an informal dialect of Japanese. “I wasn’t sure it was you at first. You’ve really made a name for yourself, American.” Sitting in the same restaurant is one of the rebel samurai that you and Zorn were going to sell Needle Rifles to, nearly a year ago. He grins, chuckling as he sees the look of recognition on your face.

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And that's all for tonight. Our next session will probably be Thursday or Friday, depending on my schedule this week. Thanks for playing! In the meantime, feel free to drop any questions, comments, concerns, shitposts, or anything else here.

>>3492945
Can we have our revolver under the table? And has this guy ever seen Star Wars?

>>3492928
That's fair. I did attack >>3492939 mainly out of a hate for southerns from wars gone past and was the cunt here .

>>3492945
I actually have a question what thread did we encounter this man in again? I for the life of me cannot remember

>>3492952
When we were hired as security for zorn when he was going to do a deal to sell guns. The one which the shinsengumi crashed.

>>3492946
You aren't even gonna listen to what he has to say? That's cold.

>>3492952
I believe it was thread 1, whenever the arms deal that brought you to the Shogun's attention happened.

>>3492954
Well damn. He got out. Thanks for remind me boss

>>3492957
Don't worry, if you're afraid our action will make us seem too much a villain, we can always shoot second.

>>3492945
Muchas gracias for running, see you next time.

>>3492952
It was on the first or second thread, I think it's from the very first job we got when we arrived here when we played bodyguard for a german arms dealer, this guy was a rebel and was planning to use needle guns against our current employers if I remember correctly.

>>3492957
Which year is it? Is Ryukyu Kingdom still pseudo-independent?

>>3493321
>Which year is it? Is Ryukyu Kingdom still pseudo-independent?
It is 1866, which means the Ryukyu Kingdom is still a thing, though I haven't researched them particularly in-depth.

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We'll have our next session tomorrow at 6PM Eastern.

Your hand instinctively drifts to the butt of your revolver. “I’m surprised to see you made it out.”

The samurai chuckles. “I’ve been slipping out of dangerous situations since I was old enough to walk.” His eyes narrow. “I’m surprised that you made it out, and even got yourself a nice commission as an officer to boot.” Looking down, you see that his left hand rests on the handle of his sword.

You frown. “I suppose you could say I cut a deal.”

The samurai nods. “Sold ‘em the guns you were going to sell us, right?”

“Among other things,” you reply.

“So now the Shogun has himself an American general and a modern army.” The samurai raises an eyebrow. “Seems like things are changing pretty quickly from how they were.”

Your thumb rests atop the hammer of your Dragoon. “Indeed. And it would seem that some people take exception to that.”

The samurai shrugs. “People hate change, especially when they think it’ll put them on the losing side.” His expression gets serious. “Your exploits have shaken the old order up, you’ve changed things.”

You raise an eyebrow. “You sound oddly neutral for someone loyal to that old order.”

“Who said I was?” He chuckles. “I’m loyal to whoever pays my tab, Colonel.” He takes a sip of sake, grinning. You notice that his other hand has never left the hilt of his sword.

>You’re not taking the risk, shoot him.
>”I suppose I’ll pay your tab, then.” (attempt to retain his services)
>”I’m not in the business of buying drinks for other men.” (decline to hire him)
>Write-in.

>>3498528
>>”I suppose I’ll pay your tab, then.” (attempt to retain his services)

>>3498528

>”I’m not in the business of buying drinks for other men.” (decline to hire him)

Not medling with yakuza

>>3498528
>”I suppose I’ll pay your tab, then.” (attempt to retain his services)

>>3498528
>”I’m not in the business of buying drinks for other men.” (decline to hire him)

>>3498528
>”I suppose I’ll pay your tab, then.” (attempt to retain his services)

We can shoot him later.

“I suppose I’ll pay your tab, then.” You nod at the samurai.

He grins, leaning back and drinking more sake. “Sounds good to me, Boss.”

You raise an eyebrow. However, before you can say anything more, the waitress returns with your food. “Here you go, sir.” She sits the plate of dumplings in front of you.

“Also, I’m picking up that gentleman’s tab.” You gesture to the samurai.

“Very well, sir.” She bows.

The samurai gets up from his seat, going over to your table and sitting across from you. “Name’s Jiryu.”

You nod. “And I’m Daniel Stockton.” You take a bite of the dumplings, chewing for a while to enjoy the taste. “What sort of work do you do, Jiryu?”

He takes a sip of sake. “I’m a swordsman, what do you think?” Shaking his head, he continues. “Other than killing people, I can gather information. Most people don’t even notice me unless I want them to.”

“So you could act as a spy or scout,” you begin. “Do you have any skills that would work in a military context?”

He shrugs. “Well I never liked authority too much, so I doubt I’d be a good soldier. Some sergeant barking orders at me while I get shot at doesn’t sound appealing.”

“I see.” You rub your chin thoughtfully.

Jiryu leans back, drinking more sake. “So, do you have any jobs for me right now, or should I just stand by until you do?”

>”We’re going to be moving to Hagi soon. I want you to ride ahead and see what’s going on there.”
>”For now, just stay here and keep an ear to the ground.”
>”My troops have found traces of enemy activity in the hills. Could you investigate that for me?”
>Write-in.

>>3498528
>>”I’m not in the business of buying drinks for other men.” (decline to hire him)

>>3498688
>”We’re going to be moving to Hagi soon. I want you to ride ahead and see what’s going on there.”

>>3498688
>”My troops have found traces of enemy activity in the hills. Could you investigate that for me?”

>>3498688

>”We’re going to be moving to Hagi soon. I want you to ride ahead and see what’s going on there.”

>>3498688
>>”We’re going to be moving to Hagi soon. I want you to ride ahead and see what’s going on there.”

My internet has taken a shit again so I have to pause the session here. Assuming I get my connection back we’ll have our next session on Sunday afternoon.

>>3498688
>”We’re going to be moving to Hagi soon. I want you to ride ahead and see what’s going on there.”

>sending unscrupulous sellsword ahead of the army to a town we want to take

Surely nothing could possibly go wrong

>>3498695
>>3498725
>>3498786
>>3498834

it is like anon wants to risk Hagi getting warned by sending a untested agent ahead of the surprise advance.

>>3499408
I mean, Why would it be a suprise. They have 2 days too prepare before we march and there should already be spys in the mountains keeping there eyes on us.

>>3499418
Agreed.

His role would be to look about the place and find a way to get that info to us. If he can work it out, good. If he betrays us, no big deal. Burn the place down.

>Send him to a nearby settlement other than Hogi, giving him false info that it will be attacked next, to prove his loyalty

Schedule correction: session will be two hours from now.

“My force is going to be marching on Hagi Castle soon.” You cross your arms. “Do you think you could ride ahead and gather some information for us?”

Jiryu raises an eyebrow. “Hagi, eh? Should be easy enough.”

“Good,” you reply.

The samurai continues. “Though, I’m a bit surprised you’d trust a stranger with gathering intel like that.” His eyes narrow. “What’s stopping me from getting there and selling you out to the Choshu forces there?”

You shrug. “Well, I’m pretty sure they already know we’re coming.”

“I see.” Jiryu chuckles. “Well consider it done, then.” He stands up from the table, adjusting his sword belt. “Now to find a horse… Good day, Colonel.” He grins as he leaves the restaurant.

You stay and finish your meal, paying for your and the samurai’s bills before leaving. As the morning rolls over into the afternoon, you return to the castle and begin preparing your things to be packed up.

After getting the majority of your things squared away, you return to the balcony to look out over your troops. Many of them are already starting to pack up the non-essentials, mostly extra munitions and rations, though you see that some of the men are running drills out on the field. In particular, the blue uniforms of Custer’s Cavalry stand out. Squinting, you also see the remaining Marines giving instructions to some of your troops. Over in the tent city, you see three of your Lieutenants drinking together, all except for Nakajima. As you look through the tent city from your vantage point, you see Sarah standing alone by the castle wall, writing something in a notebook. Further along the wall, you see your surgeon beginning to pack his tent up, directing your men as to which crates go where.

You grimace, feeling another headache come on as your ears begin to ring. These episodes are less frequent now, perhaps only once or twice a day, but their intensity borders on being enough to debilitate you for their duration. You shake your head, feeling the worst of it begin to subside after a few minutes.

Sighing, you lean against the balcony. You certainly hope that sending Jiryu to Hagi isn’t a mistake. Part of you wonders just how much you can trust a mercenary, but then you remember that you’re technically no different than he.

>Seeing the cavalry wearing blue uniforms has piqued your curiosity. Go and see what Custer’s training is like.
>It’s a bit odd to see Sarah out of the improvised press office. Go see what she’s up to.
>Go drink with the Lieutenants.
>Write a letter to Mr. Zorn. If anyone can get the medicines your surgeon needs, it’s him.
>Relax for a while. (timeskip to leaving the castle)
>Write-in.

>>3505597

>Write a letter to Mr. Zorn. If anyone can get the medicines your surgeon needs, it’s him.

I liked Zorn a lot

>>3505597
>Write a letter to Mr. Zorn. If anyone can get the medicines your surgeon needs, it’s him.

>>3505597

>Write a letter to Mr. Zorn. If anyone can get the medicines your surgeon needs, it’s him.

>>3505597
>Write a letter to Mr. Zorn. If anyone can get the medicines your surgeon needs, it’s him.

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You get an idea, and immediately head over to your desk. Your surgeon had mentioned needing medicines, particularly morphine, in as large of quantities as possible. You honestly hadn’t been sure how to acquire such things until just now. As it would turn out, you know exactly the man for the job.

Pulling out a piece of paper and a pen, you immediately begin writing a letter addressed to Herr Zorn. As someone with an occupation such as his, you imagine the crafty German would be more than able to help you out. Thankfully, you have allowed Harp to keep correspondence with him, and know how to get a letter to him relatively quickly.

You pen the letter in perhaps half an hour, keeping the language as direct as possible. Immediately after finishing the letter, you seal it and write Herr Zorn’s name on the envelope. You then head down to the tent city, finding Lieutenant Nakajima near the wall, sitting down with her back against it actually.

“Lieutenant,” you greet her.

“Sir,” she salutes you as she stands.

Returning the gesture, you hand her the letter. “I need you to hand this off to our fastest courier.” Crossing your arms, you nod. “That needs to get to Major Harp, I want him to send it along to Herr Zorn.”

“Herr Zorn, sir?” She raises an eyebrow.

“You’ve heard the story of how I started working for the Shogun, right?”

She shakes her head. “No. Only that you caught his eye due to your experience as a soldier.”

You scratch your cheek sheepishly. “Well, that’s mostly true…” Shrugging, you continue. “Anyway, it’s not important. Herr Zorn is someone I met when I first arrived in Japan. He can get us the kinds of resources that Matsudaira Katamori might not have access to.”

“I see,” she nods. “So he is a trader?”

You frown, crossing your arms. “Pretty much.”

She bows, which you do as well. “Understood, I will take this to the courier right away.”

She turns and heads toward a group of tents, leaving you standing by the wall. Curiously, you notice a small book sitting against the wall, with the front cover lying face-down. Was the Lieutenant reading before you found her?

>Pick up the book.
>It’s none of your business. You’ve got other things to do.
>Write-in.

>>3505750

>Pick up the book.

>>3505750

>Pick up the book.

>>3505750
>Pick up the book.

>>3505750

>Pick up the book.

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>>3505750
>Pick up the book

>>3505750
>Pick up the book.
Books should not be left on the floor! Also curiosity.

You frown, kneeling down and picking the book up. You realize exactly what you’re looking at when you see the paper it is printed on, thick, cheap paper consisting mostly of wood pulp. You’ve just picked up a dime novel. Chuckling, you flip the booklet over to see the front cover, which looks like pretty much every other dime novel cover. “Dangerous tales of Adventure,” the top portion reads. There is an illustration of a roguish-looking US Navy officer wielding two revolvers, shooting at men in conical hats and kimonos, while a scantily-clad geisha cowers behind him. You realize that it is a collection of dime novels put into a single book, and the cover merely represents the main story.

“Captain Clark and the Dragon Empress,” you mutter the title to yourself, chuckling. Well now you have an idea where Nakajima must’ve gotten the assumption that Western officers had a penchant for philandering about with foreign princesses. Sighing, you read a few pieces of the story in question. It is quite scandalous, and though you don’t read fiction very often, you’re sure most of what you’re reading is painfully cliché.

Sitting the book back down where you found it, you walk away from the wall. As you walk through the tent city, you hear the various conversations between your soldiers. They talk about the same things that you and your compatriots did when you were marching through Virginia nearly five years ago; sweethearts back home, hobbies, ways to keep their boots dry while marching, techniques to make the rations taste better, and all sorts of other things. Part of you feels a pang of guilt at the thought of sending these men, many barely older than boys, into battle once again. It cannot be helped, you think, and you continue walking.

>You should go check on Custer’s Cavalry.
>Sarah is still standing over by the edge of camp with her notebook. You’re curious what she’s up to.
>Go drink with the Lieutenants.
>Return to the castle and relax for a while. (timeskip to leaving the castle)
>Write-in.

>>3505902
>You should go check on Custer’s Cavalry.
Please, for the love of God, please!

>>3505902
>>Write-in.
Go and check in on the princess. Make sure shes doing fine.

>>3505902
>Sarah is still standing over by the edge of camp with her notebook. You’re curious what she’s up to.

>>3505902

>You should go check on Custer’s Cavalry.

Kek, naka a cute

>>3505902

>You should go check on Custer’s Cavalry.

>>3505902
>>3505908
This

>>3505918
Also, we have to make sure to bully her about the novel when we get the chance.

>>3505902
>Sarah is still standing over by the edge of camp with her notebook. You’re curious what she’s up to.

>>3505902
>You should go check on Custer’s Cavalry.

Looks like Custer's Cavalry wins. Session will continue tomorrow at 6PM.

>>3505992
Thanks for running

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You head down to the field, looking over to where Custer’s Cavalry are training. He’s running them through some sort of drill on horseback when he sees you approach.

“Dismount, men!” He calls to his troopers, who all follow his orders flawlessly. “Good afternoon, Colonel.”

You nod. “And to you as well, General.” You look at the cavalry troopers, who all stand confidently next to their horses. Their uniforms are reminiscent to those of the US Cavalry, though each trooper wears his garb a little bit differently. They less resemble cavalry than cattle rustlers with cavalry jackets on, with many of them carrying multiple revolvers in braces. Each man has a saber, as well as having repeating carbines slung over their backs. They all wear blue or tan slouch hats, and leather gauntlets reminiscent of the ones worn by Custer himself. You also notice that all of them are large men, likely hand-picked for their strength and toughness. “How goes the training?” You look over at Custer.

He crosses his arms, smiling at the troopers. “Well, I must say that I’m impressed at how quickly they learn.” He chuckles, gesturing to the troopers. “If I’d had a battalion of them at Gettysburg, we’d have made a real mess of those Johnny Rebs.”

You nod. “I see. So they’re ready for combat?”

Custer rubs his chin thoughtfully. “Just about. I’d like to run them through more drills before sending them into the fray, of course.” He then looks over at you. “You seem rather anxious to get this show on the road, Colonel. Is everything alright?”

You shrug. “Our orders are just high-priority, that’s all.” Focusing on the cavalry again, you raise an eyebrow. “How many men do you have here, fifty?”

He nods. “Fifty troopers, yes.”

“Will that be enough?” You look over at Custer.

The young general grins. “It should be more than enough. Even twenty cavalrymen in a spirited charge can break an infantry line, sir.”

>”Their uniforms look oddly American. Where’d you get them?”
>”Do you intend to lead them in battle, or have one of them in charge?”
>”They’ve got a wide variety of weaponry. Care to give me an overview?”
>”Well they look good, General. Good day.” (leave)
>Write-in.

>>3507434

>”Do you intend to lead them in battle, or have one of them in charge?”
>”They’ve got a wide variety of weaponry. Care to give me an overview?”

Remind him that as an observer it would not be good for us if he died

>>3507434
>>”Their uniforms look oddly American. Where’d you get them?”
>>”Do you intend to lead them in battle, or have one of them in charge?”
>>”They’ve got a wide variety of weaponry. Care to give me an overview?”

>>3507434
backing this lad >>3507473

>>3507473
+1

“They seem to have a wide variety of weapons,” you say. “Care to give me an overview?”

Custer nods. “Most of the revolvers are Colt Navy and Dragoon models, though some men have Remington Army models as well.” He then gestures to the rifle of the nearest trooper. “Spencer carbines and Henry rifles are the main long-arms of the company. I wanted something with a decent rate of fire, considering the effectiveness of such quick barrages.” He crosses his arms. “And they all have US-pattern cavalry sabers, for close engagements.”

“I see. Sounds like they’ve been issued quality arms and equipment.” You look at the troopers. Judging by the way they carry themselves, you can tell that their training has been quite rigorous.

Custer grins. “Of course. I wanted to make sure they would have the best equipment possible, seeing as they are the first modern cavalry unit in Japan.”

You frown. “I do have a question though.” Looking at the general, you continue. “Do you intend to lead them into battle?”

Custer nods enthusiastically. “Absolutely, sir. As one of the most experienced cavalry commanders in the Army, it only makes sense that I would lead by example!”

>”Very well, General. I trust your judgment.”
>”I’m afraid I can’t have you jumping into combat. You’re a military observer, after all.”
>Write-in.

>>3507621
>”I’m afraid I can’t have you jumping into combat. You’re a military observer, after all.”

>>3507621

>”I’m afraid I can’t have you jumping into combat. You’re a military observer, after all.”

>>3507621
>>”I’m afraid I can’t have you jumping into combat. You’re a military observer, after all.”

cvnp++

You shake your head. “That won’t do, General. I can’t have a military observer going out and risking his life.”

Custer frowns. “I highly doubt it would be any risk. I weathered the Civil War quite well.”

“My order stands,” you say plainly. “You can keep training them, but I expect you to remain out of harm’s way when the bullets start flying.”

“Very well,” Custer replies. He adjusts his hat. “I suppose I should begin training a man to lead this cavalry company, then.”

You nod. “That would be a good idea, General.”

He gives you a quick salute, which you return. “Then, Colonel, if there’s nothing more that you need…”

You nod. “I’ll get out of your hair, General.”

You walk away from the formation as Custer begins barking orders at the troopers. You don’t like how he reacted to your refusal. Though you doubt he’ll violate your orders, there’s always the chance of it happening.

Grimacing, you head back toward the castle. You light a cigarillo as you walk, observing the surrounding terrain. The cavalry will undoubtedly prove useful in the upcoming battle. You’ve seen the results of a successful cavalry charge before.

It isn’t long before you return to the castle, heading up to your study to take care of some paperwork. After you’ve finished the last of it, you notice that the sun has nearly set. Wanting to be up early in the morning, you prepare to lay down for the evening. It is just after sundown when you fall asleep. During the night, a thunderstorm passes, and you wake up several times from it. Finally, well after three in the morning, the storm passes and you are able to get to sleep for the rest of the night.

The next day goes about the same as most. You men continue packing more of the camp up, loading as much of it onto the wagons as possible. Custer trains his men out on the field, and the Marines instruct some of your troops on assault tactics. Your time is mostly occupied with briefings, as well as planning the attack on Hagi itself. You estimate it will take four days at a marching pace to reach the castle. As the day goes on, more and more of the camp is torn down, until only the most necessary tents are left. You get your office all packed up that night, sleeping in a wagon after you are done.

The next morning dawns under overcast skies, with a blanket of fog hanging over the hills. You organize a meeting with your officers as the soldiers pack up the last of the camp. “Gentlemen,” you begin. “This is it. Once we get to Hagi and knock the castle out, the campaign should end.” You cross your arms, looking from one officer to another. “Do you have any questions?”

They are all silent, and eventually Nakajima speaks up. “I think we are all anxious to get this done, sir. No questions from me.” The rest of the officers nod in agreement.

“Alright,” you grin. “Then let’s get this show on the road.”

“Sir,” one of your couriers walks up to you. “The commander of the Izumi Domain’s forces wishes to speak with you.”

>”About what?”
>”I don’t have time right now. Tell him that we’ll meet while on the march.”
>”Fine. Tell him to come here and meet with me.”
>”Lead the way.”
>Write-in.

>>3507716
>>”About what?”

>>3507716
>”About what?”
>”Lead the way.”

>>3507716
>>”About what?”
>”Lead the way.”

>>3507716

>”About what?”
>”Lead the way.”

>>3507716
>>”About what?”
>>”Lead the way.”

>>3507716
>”About what?”

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“Did he say a reason why?” You raise an eyebrow.

“No, sir.” The courier shakes his head.

You frown. “Well then, let’s go to meet him. Lead the way.”

“I would like to come as well,” Sato calls out.

You nod. “Of course, Lieutenant.”

The three of you mount your horses, heading out toward the Izumi camp. It is a bit further away from the city than the rest of the military camps, and you can see it sprawling out across the plains as you ride up. The Izumi troops are putting the majority of their tents into wagons as you arrive, and you are thankful to see that they appear to have taken the marching orders seriously. You imagine they will be just behind your troops during the march, if they continue moving at this rate.

You all ride up to the command tent, dismounting your horses as you arrive. It is covered in patches now, as are many of the tents that you’ve seen in a state of partial-disassembly. Entering the command tent, you announce your presence. “Hello, I heard that someone wished to speak with me?”

A young man with tan skin stands in the tent, carrying a stack of papers. “Ah, Colonel Stockton, Lieutenant Sato!” He smiles as he turns to you. “So good to finally speak with you personally.”

You walk up and shake the man’s hand. He can’t be more than twenty, you imagine. “Indeed, we’ve not been introduced yet.”

“Captain Hiroki Takahara,” he replies. “Acting commander of the Izumi land contingent.”

“Colonel Daniel Stockton,” you say. “Terribly sorry to hear about your former commander.”

The young captain nods, frowning slightly. “It is very sad that Honda-sama was killed.” Straightening up, he clicks his boot heels. “But now it falls to me to bring glory to my domain, and to my Shogun!” He turns to a Shogunal flag hanging from the tent wall, saluting it. “Long live the Shogun!”

Sato chuckles, just enough for you to hear. “I told you he was pliable.”

You grimace slightly. He certainly is gung-ho. “I was told you wanted to speak with me?”

Captain Takahara nods. “Indeed, Colonel. I wished to volunteer my force as the vanguard, for when we assault Hagi Castle.”

>”Very well, you shall be the vanguard.”
>”Are your troops experienced enough for such a task?”
>”I would feel more comfortable putting that role in the hands of my troops, for the time being.”
>Write-in.

>>3507907
>”Are your troops experienced enough for such a task?”

>Ask Sato if this might be an honor thing or something else encase his trying too raise his own status amongst the domain

>>3507907
>>”Are your troops experienced enough for such a task?”

>>3507907
>>”Are your troops experienced enough for such a task?”


This, give me a rundown of equipment, training and experience.

I need info before making a decision.

I think we should probably decline his proposal first. Stating that we need to see the situation on the siege first but promise him a prominent role for any assault that comes.

>>3507907
>>”Are your troops experienced enough for such a task?”

>>3508068
It's about time some other troops started doing some heavy lifting, it's always our guys in the meat grinder

Session in three hours.

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Crossing your arms, you frown slightly. “Do you think your forces are experienced enough to act as the vanguard?”

The captain nods vigorously. “Indeed, Colonel. I have six thousand line infantry armed with the latest rifle-muskets. All of them are more than willing to give their lives for their Shogun!”

You look over at Sato, who shrugs slightly. Turning back to Captain Takahara, you speak once more. “You say they’re armed with rifle-muskets, are they Springfields?”

“They are,” Takahara replies. “And the sergeants even have repeating rifles.”

You rub your chin thoughtfully. “Alright, that’s quite a standard set of arms for a line infantry company. Still, you’ve not told me what sort of experience they have.”

The Captain looks down, seemingly a bit embarrassed. “My apologies, sir.” Clearing his throat, he continues. “Their first taste of battle was during the attack on this city. They made up the East flank. We kept pressure on the enemy formations until their artillery was silenced and they crumbled.” He stands up straight again. “And then we cut off the cowards’ path of retreat, crushing the last of the enemy’s forces.”

You frown, looking over at Sato. This lad just admitted to killing routed enemy troops. Sato crosses his arms, raising an eyebrow. “It would be good to let someone else do the bleeding for a change, sir. Don’t you think?”

“My men would gladly bleed in the name of victory, Colonel. Just say the word, and we will seize any objective!” Captain Takahara snaps into a salute, a serious expression on his face.

You sigh, rubbing your chin thoughtfully.

>”Your army doesn’t have enough experience to spearhead the attack. If they start to rout, it’ll spread to the rest of the army like wildfire.”
>”Your soldiers are human beings, Captain. You should not talk so casually about them dying for their Shogun.”
>”Very well. Your men will make up the vanguard of the assault.”
>Write-in.

>>3509569
>”Your soldiers are human beings, Captain. You should not talk so casually about them dying for their Shogun.”

But i'm willing to give you a bigger role, to be decided after we plan the assault

>>3509569

>”Your army doesn’t have enough experience to spearhead the attack. If they start to rout, it’ll spread to the rest of the army like wildfire.”

But tell him we will have a good role for him

>>3509569
>your eagerness will be taken in consideration after we scout analyze and plan the attack

>>3509621
+1

>>3509569
>>”Very well. Your men will make up the vanguard of the assault.”

>>3509569
Backing this >>3509621

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You grimace. “For now, your request will be considered.” Crossing your arms, you continue. “I still have to plan the specifics of the battle with my men, after convening with my scouts.”

The Captain drops into a deep bow. “Of course. Thank you, sir.”

You bow as well. “No need to thank me, Captain. My job is to get this campaign done as quickly and effectively as possible. That means weighing all of my options.”

Captain Takahara stands up straight. “Understood, Colonel.”

Crossing your arms, you fight the urge to sigh again. “Now, is there anything else that you needed to speak about with me?”

He shakes his head. “No, sir. Thank you for your time.”

You nod. “Thank you for having me, Captain.”

Without further conversation, you and Sato both turn and leave the tent, quickly mounting your horses and riding out of the camp. Sato chuckles as you get out of earshot. “I told you that he was a good candidate.”

You shrug. “I suppose that’s one way of looking at it. He’s certainly… Eager.”

“His family were all samurai.” Sato grins. “Many of his ancestors served the Shoguns, as well as their ministers. He wants to prove his honor, I think.”

“He’ll get a bunch of his men killed needlessly if he’s not careful,” you say. “That kid seemed far too eager to let his men die for their Shogun.”

Sato shrugs this time, looking over at you with a casual expression. As long as our men are not the ones needlessly dying, does it really matter?”

>”It always matters, Lieutenant. Lincoln measured battles by how many widows that would create, it would be wise for us to take the same attitude.”
>”I suppose you’re right. Better to conserve our men for emergencies.”
>Write-in.

>>3509776
>”I suppose you’re right. Better to conserve our men for emergencies.”

Lets be honest here, We are currently forced too protect the Sister and we need all the troops we can encase another fucking attack happens.

>>3509776
>>”It always matters, Lieutenant. Lincoln measured battles by how many widows that would create, it would be wise for us to take the same attitude.”

>>3509776
>>”Very well. Your men will make up the vanguard of the assault.”

>”I suppose you’re right. Better to conserve our men for emergencies.”

>>3509776

>”It always matters, Lieutenant. Lincoln measured battles by how many widows that would create, it would be wise for us to take the same attitude.”

We do not throw luves away, what the hell?

>>3509776
>>”I suppose you’re right. Better to conserve our men for emergencies.”

>>3509776

>”It always matters, Lieutenant. Lincoln measured battles by how many widows that would create, it would be wise for us to take the same attitude.”

Looks like we've got a tie, so I'm going to wait ten minutes and if no other votes come in, I'll roll a d2.

Rolled 2 (1d2)

>>3509902
1 for Lincoln's Way
2 for agreeing with Sato

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You frown. “I suppose you’re right,” you relent. “It’s better to save our own forces for the worst-case scenario, really.”

Sato nods. “Indeed. Better to send someone else’s troops into the worst of things, if they are already being offered for such a thing.”

Looking out towards the castle, you still can’t help but feel wrong for making such a decision. It is inevitable that an officer in your position will have to decide whose troops’ safety to prioritize, but it is an uncomfortable decision nonetheless. You both arrive at the wagon train a few minutes later, finding it nearly ready to go. You dismount your horses and go your separate ways.

“Ah, Colonel,” Beretta greets you as you approach the front of the wagon train.

“Mr. Beretta,” you reply.

“Those shells of Greek Fire are complete and loaded onto their carts.” He gestures to a pair of wagons near the middle of the convoy. “I have taken safety precautions regarding their transport.”

“Wagons, plural?” You raise an eyebrow. “How many shells did you make?”

Beretta practically beams as he talks. “I was able to make good time and manage my resources well, so I was able to double the number of shells made. We now have forty-three in stock.”

“Forty-three shells,” you nod. “Impressive. Good work, Mr. Beretta.”

He salutes you, which you return. “Thank you, sir.” He looks back at the wagons. “Now if you will excuse me, I must stand watch to make sure they are handled safely during the march.”

You gesture toward the wagons. “Very well, see you later.”

You walk up to the front of the wagon train. You’ve situated your force so that you have your light infantry marching in front of the wagons, with the regular infantry marching behind. Custer’s Cavalry will act as scouts, with the remaining troopers riding alongside the wagons as guards. You mount your horse and ride up to the front of the infantry column.

“Men!” You shout at the infantry as you bring your horse to a stop. “Soon, the wagons will be ready and we can head out.” Looking amongst the light infantry, you see some of your lieutenants. Nakajima and Subaru in particular stand out. “Our target, Hagi Castle, is just over the foothills to the north. It should be a two or three days’ march if we keep our pace up.” Grimacing, you allow your horse to pace back and forth in front of your men. “Hagi is the final stronghold of the Mori Clan. It will not be an easy fight. We’ve likely got numbers on our side, but they’ll fight tooth and nail to keep their banner flying from the castle’s towers.” You light a cigarillo with one hand, puffing on it momentarily. “We’ll have to give ‘em hell, but we’re pretty good at that. Prepare to march!”

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And that's all for tonight. Thanks for playing! I know it's a little early in the evening to call the session, but I had actually planned on wrapping things up last night. Our next session will be on Monday afternoon, likely in a new thread. Until then, the floor is open for any questions, comments, concerns, critique, and shitposts you might have.

>>3509990
Thanks for running

At least Stockton feels bad if he decides to suddenly turn into a pragmaticfag

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N E W T H R E A D
>>3521154
>>3521154
>>3521154