File: Major Albert Morgan.jpg (47 KB, 615x409)

47 KB JPG

“I’d be glad to,” you reply. The Major invites you into the building, which you can see he’s been using as an office. It is a rather ascetic place, with the only notable creature comforts being an engraved tea kettle and set of china. He invites you and Harp to sit at a small table in the corner, and he quickly prepares the tea. After he sits the kettle on a stove to heat up, he sits down with you.

“I must say, I wasn’t expecting a visit from the Shogun’s lads.” He frowns, looking from Harp to you, and back to Harp. “Nor did I expect to see Yanks on the payroll of the Shogun, truth be told.”

You nod. “I can see how strange it must look.” You glance around, gesturing at your surroundings. “This is quite the impressive setup, I must admit.”

Major Morgan shrugs. “The stockade has been sufficient so far. I would’ve preferred if they built stone walls personally. Less flammable.”

“Indeed.” Harp chuckles. “But at least it’s not paper like the rest of the buildings around here.”

Major Morgan smiles. “Aye. From what I understand, Edo has burned down every twenty years or so since the Fifteenth Century.” He leans forward. “But it’s better than the mud and grass huts elsewhere in the world. More pleasing to the eye, at least.”

You chuckle. “I can imagine.”

The Major looks like he’s about to say something when the kettle begins to whistle. He walks over and takes it off of the heat, letting it cool a bit before pouring three cups and returning to the table. “Hope you boys like Grey’s Blend.”

You raise an eyebrow. “Beg your pardon?”

The Englishman points to your cup. “The tea. It’s been flavored with Bergamot.” He frowns a bit upon seeing your blank expression. “A type of orange, Colonel.”

You nod slowly, taking a sip. It’s bitter, but not so much as coffee. You can definitely taste some sort of citrus in it. “This is quite good, thank you.” You set your cup down.

>”We’re here looking for an arms dealer. I had heard he was living here.”
>”I wasn’t aware that the British Army had Gatling guns.”
>”So I take it you’re the highest-ranked British officer in Japan?”
>All these men and all this equipment… It almost seems like you boys are planning an assault.”
>Write-in.

>>3042510
>>”We’re here looking for an arms dealer. I had heard he was living here.”

>>3042510
>>”We’re here looking for an arms dealer. I had heard he was living here.”

>>3042510
>Arms dealer
>Based on the Huts comment, I'm guessing you were in Africa. What did you do there

>>3042510
>”I wasn’t aware that the British Army had Gatling guns.”

>>3042510
>”We’re here looking for an arms dealer. I had heard he was living here.”

>>3042510
>”We’re here looking for an arms dealer. I had heard he was living here.”
>”I wasn’t aware that the British Army had Gatling guns.”

>>3042510
>>”We’re here looking for an arms dealer. I had heard he was living here.”

Eh gataling guns are heavy artillery piece probably best for defense in fortresses

File: Major Morgan.jpg (43 KB, 600x300)

43 KB JPG

“Harp and I are looking for someone.” You lean forward. “An arms dealer. I had heard that he was living here with the garrison.”

The Major frowns deeply. “Ah, you’re here to see the Jaw.”

“I beg your pardon?” You raise an eyebrow.

Major Morgan shakes his head. “Oh, it’s nothing. Just a nickname.” He sets his cup of tea down. “The man you’re looking for, what do you know about him?”

You shrug. “Honestly? Not much. I had been told he has access to British surplus, more specifically heavy weapons such as artillery.”

Morgan sighs lightly, frowning again. “Well I can tell you for certain that we do have an arms dealer staying here, and he’s very likely your man.”

“Could you take us to him?” You sip your tea, having nearly finished your cup.

The Major grimaces, downing his tea in a single go. “I suppose I can. I must warn you though, he’s a strange one.”

“Strange how, exactly?” You frown as the Major stands up and beckons for you to follow him. The three of you exit the building, stepping into the main courtyard.

Morgan walks stiffly, seemingly possessing a bit of a limp. “I’m afraid that’s a bit difficult to say. Let’s just say he’s a bit of an enigma. Certainly gets results, though.”

The Major leads you to another one of the buildings, on the opposite side from where his own office is. He knocks on the door twice, then cracks it a bit. “There are men from the Shogun here to see you, good sir.” There is a muffled reply from inside, which prompts Major Morgan to open the door wide enough for you to enter. “This is where I shall take my leave, gents.”

File: The Jaw.jpg (301 KB, 980x1469)

301 KB JPG

You nod at him, waving as he walks away. Then you step into the building, noting how dimly-lit it is at first. As your eyes adjust to the darkness, you see a man sitting in the corner, reading a large, leather-bound book. He looks up at you, gesturing for you and Harp to sit across from him.

You walk over, extending a hand for the man to shake. “Am I to presume you’re the English arms merchant I’ve heard so much about?”

The man stands up, getting uncomfortable close to you. He doesn’t shake your hand, instead merely looking at you as he speaks. “English? No. No, no.” He shakes his head. He speaks with a strange, hushed accent, but definitely an American one. “Not English. My mother was Irish, and my father was a failed newspaperman from Indiana.” He smiles widely, his mustache emphasizing the expression. “He died in a gutter when I was five.” The somewhat manic smile never leaves his face.

“I… Okay?” You frown, not sure how to respond to the man.

Quicker than you can react, his hand shoots out to shake yours, startling you a bit. “Jackson Adam Wilson, at your service.” He chuckles a bit, still shaking your hand. “Or JAW, as some people like to shorten it. How may I help you gentlemen?”

>”Actually, I think we might have the wrong man.” (attempt to leave)
>”I was wanting to talk weapons. The Shogun is looking to modernize his military.”
>”A fellow American? How’d you end up here in Japan, working for the Brits?”
>Write-in.

>>3042738
>Fellow American?
>Talk about weapons
>Would he like a milkshake

>>3042738
>>”I was wanting to talk weapons. The Shogun is looking to modernize his military.”

Part of me wants smoothbore due to surplus but ordinance rifles maybe good.

Though weight is a factor

>>3042738
>”I was wanting to talk weapons."

Remember INFORMATION is key here, So don't fucknig say WHO we were working for.

>>3042758
They can tell by our uniform

>>3042738
>”I was wanting to talk weapons. The Shogun is looking to modernize his military.”

File: Jackson A. Wilson.jpg (109 KB, 1113x970)

109 KB JPG

“I want to talk weapons.” You sit down across from Jackson, as does Harp.

Jackson rubs his chin thoughtfully, leaning forward. “I see. Tell me, what do you already know of me?”

“I’ve heard you have access to British weapons, particularly artillery and heavy weaponry.”

The man nods slowly, seeming to weight his words before continuing. “This is true. The British Empire is a vast one. It spans the globe, you know. The sun never sets on it, or so they say.” He chuckles. “Such an empire needs vast supplies of arms and equipment to function. This outpost alone requires tens of thousands of musket balls, many pounds of gunpowder, large quantities of oil to keep metal from rusting. Logistics management for such a place is quite the job.”

“So I can imagine,” you nod.

Jackson continues. “That being said, the British produce a large number of weapons intended for export as well. Tell me, did you fight in the Civil War, back in America?”

You nod again. “I did.”

Jackson smiles widely. “Then you’re familiar with the Enfield Musketoon. The British supplied them to both sides in no small amount.”

Grimacing, you sigh. “I’m aware.”

The man rubs his chin again. “Good. I would want to make you aware of the availability of my supplies. You mentioned artillery, is that something you would be interested in acquiring?”

You lean forward. “Possibly among other things.”

“Good, good.” Jackson smiles, looking at Harp, then back to you. “I can’t say I’m familiar with your uniforms. Who do you both work for?”

>”The Shogun.”
>”The Aizu Domain.”
>”I’m not at liberty to say.”
>”For now, treat it as though we’re representing ourselves alone.”
>Write-in.

>>3042820

>”For now, treat it as though we’re representing ourselves alone.”

>>3042820
>>”I’m not at liberty to say.”
>>”For now, treat it as though we’re representing ourselves alone.”

Oh jeez might as well look at british smooth bores

>>3042820
>”For now, treat it as though we’re representing ourselves alone.”

I think I'm gonna call the session here for tonight since I'm on the verge of passing out. Tomorrow's session will start at around the same time and run for longer.

>>3042820
>>”I’m not at liberty to say.”
>>”For now, treat it as though we’re representing ourselves alone.”

FYI, the col already knows we're from the shogun's command. And this dude is living in his compound. It's going to be a very easy thing for the col to ask how the meeting when and say we're from the shogun's forces.

>>3042820
>”The Shogun.”
>”For now, treat it as though we’re representing ourselves alone.”

>>3042820
The Shogun. But treat It like we are working alone for now

There’s been a change of plans. A buddy of mine just got in from out of state, so I’m gonna be hanging out with him tonight. Next run will be tomorrow.

>>3044824
I've been rused.

File: 1525583663164.jpg (545 KB, 1024x700)

545 KB JPG

Session at 6PM Eastern today.

You cross your arms. “For now, treat it as though we’re representing ourselves alone.”

The strange man nods, chuckling. “Very well, free agents then.” He leans forward. “Well let me tell you, the British are at the forefront of artillery technology. Even now, I have a supply of Armstrong Guns, breech-loading cannons, available for purchase.”

You raise an eyebrow. “How large a supply?”

Wilson shakes his head. “That is a trade secret, my boy. I do not reveal my supply numbers until I know I stand to have a paying customer.” He smiles widely. “But I assure you, gentlemen, I have a very respectable amount of stock.”

Harp grimaces, glancing at you before looking at Wilson again. “Artillery pieces are nice, Mr. Wilson, but they require a support infrastructure. They require ammunition, they require carriages to move the cannons, they require spare parts.” He lights his pipe. “And suppose we were representing a group that had no established artillery corps, we would need access to skilled artillerists to act as instructors.”

Wilson sighs, rubbing his chin. “You make a good point. I am aware that heavy weaponry requires greater logistical support than rifles do, and of course I can facilitate anything you have in mind.”

“I see.” You frown thoughtfully. “Let’s move away from artillery for a moment. What other weaponry do you have access to?”

The man grins. “Ah, that is quite the question, my friend. As it would turn out, I have access to a varied supply.” He makes a sweeping gesture with his hand. “Cannons obviously, rockets, flintlocks and rifle-muskets, old wooden warships decommissioned due to obsolescence, the list goes on from there.”

You nod, more than somewhat impressed. “Interesting.”

Wilson continues, leaning back in his chair. “And of course, if you wanted anything I didn’t already have, I could almost certainly source it for you. For an additional fee, of course.” He adjusts his hat, looking at you with a raised eyebrow. “So tell me, shall we enter negotiations?”

>”For now, I’ll let my employer know about you. He’ll decide whether we enter negotiations.”
>”You talk a big game, but I still haven’t seen any evidence that you actually HAVE these weapons.”
>”I’ll have to think on it for a while. Good day, sir.” (leave)
>Write-in.

>>3046989
>>”For now, I’ll let my employer know about you. He’ll decide whether we enter negotiations.”

>>3046989
>”You talk a big game, but I still haven’t seen any evidence that you actually HAVE these weapons.”

>>3046989
>>”For now, I’ll let my employer know about you. He’ll decide whether we enter negotiations.”

>>3046989
>>”For now, I’ll let my employer know about you. He’ll decide whether we enter negotiations.”

>>3046989
>>”For now, I’ll let my employer know about you. He’ll decide whether we enter negotiations.”

>>3046989
>”You talk a big game, but I still haven’t seen any evidence that you actually HAVE these weapons.”


Armstrong cannons are good but they require more complex learning then old muzzle loaders and are expensive.

It was bad enough that the British went back to rifle muzzle loaders. Also we will need carbines for the artillery and cavalry

“For now, I’ll let my employer know about you,” you reply. “He’ll decide whether to get in contact and begin negotiations.”

Wilson nods slowly. “Very well. I hope we can work something out.” He gestures toward the door. “Anyhow, I’m sure you men have busy schedules. I won’t hold you up any longer.”

You nod at him, standing up. “Very well. Thank you for your time, Mr. Wilson.” You and Harp exit the building without hesitation, stepping out into the courtyard.

“He was certainly a strange one.” Harp grimaces as soon as the door closes behind you.

“Indeed,” you sigh. “It seems like a lot of people around here are strange in one way or another.”

Harp chuckles, puffing on his pipe. “That’s true.” The two of you begin walking toward the quartermaster’s office to collect your things.

As you arrive, the clerk checks your belongings, handing them back to you without incident. Again, you notice that your Dragoon draws a few stares as you put your gun belt back on. However, before you go to leave, you are approached by the garrison commander again. “Major Morgan,” you greet him.

He crosses his arms. “You gents find everything you needed?” He walks the two of you to the front gate, stepping out with you both as it opens.

You nod. “I believe so.”

He grins. “Very well, sirs.” His expression changes as he steps closer to you. “Also, I think I should make you aware of something. Earlier, another pair of Yanks stopped by here and talked to the Jaw.” He glances back to the garrison. “He must’ve been expecting them, because he was already waiting at the gates when they arrived.”

You frown. “Were these guys wearing uniforms?”

The Major shakes his head. “No, just regular clothes. It was still strange, we don’t normally get civilian visitors.”

You nod. “Thank you for the information, Major.”

“Of course.” He gives you a casual salute. “You gents take care, now.” With that, he returns to the fort, gates closing behind him.

Harp takes another puff of his pipe. “Anywhere else we need to go, Colonel?”

>”I think I’ll pay that gun store a visit while we’re here.”
>”Let’s stop by the Associated Press office. Just to get a newspaper though.”
>”I don’t believe so. Let’s head home.”
>Write-in.

>>3047121
>>”I don’t believe so. Let’s head home.”

>>3047121
>>”I don’t believe so. Let’s head home.”

>>3047121
>>”I don’t believe so. Let’s head home.”

>>3047121
>>”I don’t believe so. Let’s head home

>>3047121
>”I don’t believe so. Let’s head home. Sounds like the hicks are at it again.”

>>3047133
Aren’t we a hick though?

>>3047158
We fought for the north?

>>3047121
>>”I don’t believe so. Let’s head home.”

File: Sarah Holman.jpg (33 KB, 506x320)

33 KB JPG

“I don’t believe so,” you reply. “Let’s head home.”

“Alright.” Harp nods. “I’ll get the carriage.” He does exactly that, and in less than five minutes, the two of you are on your way back to the base. Though your stagecoach is a rather nice one, it still travels rather roughly over the bumpy, dirt roads that crisscross the countryside.

“Who do you think that British major was talking about earlier?” Harp speaks up after maybe five minutes of silence.

You shrug. “I couldn’t tell you. Part of me wants to assume it’s those damned Confederates…” You shake your head. “But the likelihood of that is too low for me to make that guess.”

Harp sighs, puffing on his pipe as he relights it. “I don’t know, sir. They seem like trouble to me.” He grimaces. “Something tells me they’re going to be causing a lot of trouble for us in the future.”

You shrug. “That’s always possible. I certainly hope not, though.”

The conversation trails off after that, and you spend most of the ride looking out at the scenery. You nod off a couple times, but end up being awoken by a bump on the road after a few minutes each time. It starts spitting snow and frozen rain as your carriage enters camp, and you grimace as you step out into it. Flipping your collar up and pulling your hat down low only helps so much, especially with the wind coming out of the north, from the mountains.

As you exit your carriage, you are greeted by a noticeably sour Nakajima. “Sir, we have a problem.”

You sigh. “Alright. Brief me.” You begin walking toward the main building with Nakajima and Harp in-tow.

“Sir, that woman from before, your ex fiancé…” He messes up the pronunciation of ‘fiancé,’ trailing off. “She is here again.”

You swear to yourself. “Dammit.” You throw open the door to the main building, entering without hesitation. “Well why didn’t you kick her out?”

“Because that would be a direct violation of your superiors’ orders.” Sarah Holman stands directly inside the main building, luggage laying against the wall beside her. She grasps a very official-looking piece of paper in her hand, which she holds up to you.

You grab the paper with a loud sigh, reading it. “Alright, what is this?” As it would turn out, the paper is a communique from Matsudaira Katamori. He’s authorized the Associated Press to send Sarah Holman as an embedded reporter with the Aizu Domain’s New Rifle Brigade. You rub your temples as you hand the paper back to Sarah.

“Well then.” She smirks just a bit, gesturing to her luggage. “Where shall my lodgings be, Colonel?”

>”You can take my quarters. I’ll sleep in my office from now on.”
>”A spare room in the Main Building.”
>”You want to report on soldiers? You’ll sleep in the Barracks.”
>”Nakajima, do we have any extra A-frame tents?”
>”I don’t care what command says. You’re not living here.”
>Write-in.

>>3047204
>”You want to report on soldiers? You’ll sleep in the Barracks.”

>>3047204
>>”A spare room in the Main Building.”

>>3047204
>>”A spare room in the Main Building.”

>>3047159
Hick is a term usually referring to someone from an agrarian area. I believe we grew up on a farm if I’m not mistaken.

>>3047204
>>”You can take my quarters. I’ll sleep in my office from now on.”

>>3047204
>”A spare room in the Main Building.”

>>3047204
>”A spare room in the Main Building.”

>>3047204
>”A spare room in the Main Building.”

“You’ll get a spare room in this building,” you say. “The one on the south corner.” You point down the hall to the room in question. “It’s the door on the right, down the hall.”

“Very well, thank you.” She politely (yet smugly) replies as she picks up her luggage, walking down the hallway.

You sigh again, leaning against the wall. “Dammit.”

“Sir,” Nakajima speaks up after a few seconds. “Are you sure letting her stay here is a good idea?”

You shrug. “Well Lord Matsudaira gave her clearance, so it’s not like I can say no.” You look over at your lieutenant. “Anything else happen while we were away?”

“No sir,” he replies. “Everything has been quiet here, other than her arrival.”

“Got it.” You nod, walking over to the door to your office. “Then unless I’m needed elsewhere, I’ll be in my office.”

“Understood, sir.” Nakajima salutes you, which you return, and leaves the main building. You enter your office and sit down at your desk, leafing through the papers laying around. It’s mostly all of the same stuff as usual: paperwork, letters, the occasional advertisement. You toss an already-read parcel to the side and pull your journal out, writing the day’s events down.

As midday turns to afternoon, the freezing rain continues. At this rate, you figure, the wagons might not be able to reach your base in time to send your men to their postings. Eventually, Harp stops by with some mail, more of the same stuff, and has a glass of whiskey with you. He leaves after that, mentioning something about having business in Edo to take care of. You see the carriage leave not long after that, with Harp sitting in the passenger compartment.

A few minutes later, you get a knock at your door. “Come in,” you answer. To your surprise, Sarah opens the door, entering with some hesitation.

“Hello, Daniel.” She frowns a bit upon using your first name, not making eye contact.

>”What do you want?” (harsh)
>”That’s Colonel Stockton to you.” (double-harsh)
>”Hello, Sarah.” (neutral)
>”Good afternoon. Please, have a seat.” (polite)
>Write-in.

>>3047281
>>”What do you want?” (harsh)

>>3047281
>>”What do you want?” (harsh)

>>3047281
>”That’s Colonel Stockton to you.” (double-harsh)

>>3047281
>>”Hello, Sarah.” (neutral)
>also make that colonel Stockholm in front of the men

>>3047281
>”Hello, Sarah.” (neutral)

>>3047281
>>”Hello, Sarah.” (neutral)

>>3047281
>>”Hello, Sarah.” (neutral)

“Hello Sarah,” you reply.

She takes another step into your office. “I was… Hoping I could get you to do an interview.” She points to a pad of paper she’s carrying. “For the paper, I mean.”

You lean back in your chair. “Why?”

She sighs. “I think the readers at home would like to know about the American leading the modernization of Japan’s military.”

You nod. “Yeah, but you know me.”

Sarah frowns. “I think we both know that’s not true, Daniel.” She gestures to the chair in front of your desk. “May I sit?”

Shrugging, you nod. “Sure.”

She sits, opening the pad of paper and grabbing a small pencil that was previously resting on her ear. “So, would you be willing to answer some of my questions?”

You nod again. “I know I’m going to regret it later, but sure. Ask away.”

She begins writing, looking intently at you as she does. You imagine she’s trying to write a description of how you look. “So you fought in the American Civil War.” She looks at you with a raised eyebrow. “How would you describe your experiences there?”

You give her a deadpan look. She knows damn well how your experiences were. “Hellish,” you say flatly.

Sarah nods several times, writing something down. “So then, why did you go to Japan? So many others returned home to live simple lives, to forget about the War.”

You shrug. “I didn’t want to be a farmer, and there weren’t a lot of jobs back home that required my skillset.” Rubbing your chin, you continue. “Plus my former company commander had sent me a letter telling me there was plenty of work for soldiers here.”

“It would seem he was right,” Sarah says. “And how would you describe your opinion of Japan so far?”

“It was completely foreign to me at first. I felt like a fish out of water.” You grimace. “I still do sometimes. They’re a very polite people though, and very hardworking.”

Sarah nods. “I see.” Looking up at you again, she makes direct eye contact for the first time since she entered the room. “And what is your objective with this modernization?” She stops herself, clarifying. “Do you have any ambitions for what you’re doing here?”

>”I hope that Japan can become the America of the East. Their people deserve that much.” (idealistic)
>”I honestly don’t think Japan will survive without modernizing.” (pragmatic)
>”My ambition is keeping my troops alive.” (loyal)
>”I’m just looking to get paid for my services. I don’t have any grand designs on this country.” (cynical)
>Write-in.

Also this is gonna be the final story post for tonight. I'll be able to run a late session this Thursday after 9PM Eastern, and after that we'll have our next regular session on either Sunday or Monday. Until then, feel free to vote, ask questions, comment, shitpost, and whatever else. Thanks for playing.

>>3047412
>>”My ambition is keeping my troops alive.” (loyal)

>>3047412
>”My ambition is keeping my troops alive.” (loyal)

>>3047412
>”Hello, Sarah.” (neutral)

Besides Armstrong, can you give us some hint or detrails on what model guns or ships he has?

Want something to research

>>3047412
>>”My ambition is keeping my troops alive.” (loyal)

>>3047412
>”My ambition is keeping my troops alive.” (loyal)

>>3047412
>Keep my men alive
I kinda hope we get flashbacks to when we were with her, but as of right now she ain't got shit on Naki

Nakajima reveals a female when?

>>3047412
>”My ambition is keeping my troops alive.” (loyal)

>>3047470
Knowing dice, it's either the best or worst time for it.

>>3047412
>”My ambition is keeping my troops alive.” (loyal)

>>3047412
>>”My ambition is keeping my troops alive.” (loyal)

>>”My ambition is keeping my troops alive.” (loyal)

>>3047412
>”I hope that Japan can become the America of the East. Their people deserve that much.” (idealistic)

File: 4E579AB6-10CD-4921-9A18-C(...).jpg (290 KB, 960x720)

290 KB JPG

>>3047434
You’ve pretty much researched everything he has as far as artillery and small arms. And as far as ships go, I think I’ve got it covered. If you want to have a go at it, the range of ships he might have would be ones built between 1790 and 1820.

Also we’re still good for a session tonight. It’ll be in about 4 hours.

>>3049486
I’ll dig something up later

Okay I just got back from work. Writing now.

>>3049854
AAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHH

“My ambition is keeping my troops alive,” you say flatly.

Sarah raises an eyebrow. “I see. No plans to put down roots in this nation?”

You shrug. “Right now my focus is on doing my job. Anything else would come later, and frankly, I haven’t planned for anything beyond this.”

“Very well…” Sarah trails off, writing intently. “And how would you describe the political situation here? Why does the Shogun need a modern army?”

You lean forward. “The Shogun has been the military leader for centuries.” Scratching your chin, you remember back to the explanations given to you by various people. “But since the country was opened to the West, the need to modernize pretty much every aspect of Japan has been pretty clear.”

Your ex-fiancé doesn’t relent however. “Still, the Shogunal government seems oddly quick to adopt military reforms compared to non-military ones.”

“Japan is a feudal nation.” You sigh. “Each daimyo is partially independent from the Shogun, I’m sure you were briefed about that before arriving.” Sarah nods. “Well some daimyos are dissatisfied with the way things are going. There have been attacks on Shogunal officials and Westerners, attempted coups, and other disobedience.”

“The situation sounds oddly familiar, wouldn’t you agree?” Sarah raises an eyebrow as she speaks. “I remember such acts of disobedience leading up to the Civil War.”

>”This interview is over.”
>”My job isn’t to speculate, Miss Holman.”
>”I agree. I only hope it doesn’t turn out the same.”
>”You’re comparing apples to oranges here, Sarah.”
>Write-in.

>>3049937
>”My job isn’t to speculate, Miss Holman.”

>>3049937
>>Write-in.
"There may be some superficial similarities but here in Japan, the Shogun still commands in the name of the Emperor. There may be incidents of unrest but full out war is a remote possibility."

Political answer emphasizing the stability of the government. Just because we're preparing for it doesn't mean we have to say it out loud to the press.

>>3049950
Supporting.

>>3049937
>>”My job isn’t to speculate, Miss Holman.”

>>3049937
>>”My job isn’t to speculate, Miss Holman.”

>>3049937
Backing this >>3049950

“There may be some superficial similarities, but here in Japan the Shogun still commands in the name of the Emperor.” You frown. “The possibility of all-out war is virtually zero, despite the incidents of unrest.” Glancing out through your window, you notice that the sun has set, covering the landscape in darkness.

“Interesting…” Sarah writes intently on the pad of paper before looking back up at you. “Well, I’m sure the readers back home will be quite intrigued by your words. Do you have any direct statements to the American people, or the world at-large?”

>”No.”
>”Yes, I do.” (write-in)

>>3050010
>>”No.”

>>3050010
>”Yes, I do.” (write-in)
God Bless America and the American people.

>>3050010
>>3050036
Yea, why not.

You shrug, figuring you may as well say something nice for the papers. “God bless America and the American people.”

Sarah writes it down, closing the pad of paper and resting the pencil back on her ear. “Very well. Thank you for the interview, Daniel.”

You nod. “No problem. I take it you’ve gotten settled in properly?”

“I have,” she nods. “I was under the impression that the Japanese slept on the floor, but there is a cot in my room.”

“I have cots in all the spare rooms.” You chuckle. “The Japanese may take to sleeping on bedrolls, but I prefer being off of the round myself.”

“In such weather, I can see why.” She gestures at the view through your window. “I had thought Japan had mild winters…”

Shrugging, you reply. “I did too. Apparently this weather is rare for this time of year.”

“Good to know…” She trails off.

For a solid minute, neither of you speak. You try thinking of something, but no appropriate words come to mind. Finally, Sarah speaks.

“Have you been well?” She leans forward a bit.

You nod. “For the most part.”

“That’s good,” she replies quietly. “You look healthier, at least.” A few more seconds go by before she speaks again. “I truly am sorry for my behavior when you returned to New York. I shouldn’t even ask you to forgive me, but…” She trails off again, then stands up quickly. “I believe I’ll return to my quarters now. Thank you for the interview.” She walks for the door quickly.

>Let her go.
>”Would you like to get some supper with me? The cooks should be serving it by now.”
>Write-in.

>>3050068
>"You'll understand one day. " go for a smoke.

>>3050068
>>Let her go.

>>3050068
>>”Would you like to get some supper with me? The cooks should be serving it by now.”

Time for research.

>>3050068
>>”Would you like to get some supper with me? The cooks should be serving it by now.”

>>3050068
>”Would you like to get some supper with me? The cooks should be serving it by now.”

I just want to make Nakajima jealous.

>>3050068
>>Let her go.

>>3050068
>Let her go.

>>3050068
>Let her go.

>>3050068
>>Let her go.

You genuinely think about stopping Sarah. About offering to dine with her or something. But you don’t, instead you lean back in your chair as she leaves. The door shuts quietly behind her, and you find yourself alone in your office.

Sighing, you grab your bottle of whiskey and a glass, pouring yourself a decent measure and drinking it up. As the warmth of drink begins to take hold, you look out at the fierce winter night. The frozen rain has resumed, though you aren’t completely sure that it ever stopped. With a grimace, you pour another glass and get to work on it.

A few minutes later, you hear a knock at the door. “Sir,” Nakajima calls from the other side. “The mess hall cooks have made some rice and bear meat. I have some for you.”

You lean forward in your chair, setting your now-empty glass down. “Come in.”

The Lieutenant opens the door, entering with a bowl and a pair of chopsticks. “Good evening, sir.”

“And to you as well, Lieutenant.” You grin as he sits the bowl on your desk. “Care for a whiskey?”

Nakajima shakes his head. “No thank you, sir.” He looks over his shoulder briefly. “Is something wrong?”

You shake your head. “No, nothing wrong…” With that, you begin digging into your dinner.

“Very well sir,” he replies. “Enjoy your meal.”

“Thanks, Lieutenant.” You salute casually as he leaves. It doesn’t take long to finish your supper, especially since it was only the second thing you’d eaten today, and you tire not long after finishing it. Yawning, you down a final glass of whiskey and head to your quarters. It would be best to turn in early, you think, so that you can be awake early when the carriages arrive to take your men to their deployment areas. After preparing yourself for sleep, you fall into bed.

The night goes by quickly, with you sleeping more soundly than you have in a while. You have a dream, but upon waking momentarily in the night, you forget what it was. You spend maybe five minutes lying awake in bed, then fall asleep again.

You are startled awake the next morning. A bearded face, not far from yours, speaks roughly at you. “Colonel, you need to wake up!” After blinking a couple times, you realize that it’s Harp.

“Major, Major…” You grimace. Looking around, you can see the blue light of pre-dawn. “What’s so wrong that you would wake me like this?”

“There’s been trouble in Edo.” He says, stone-faced. “A courier just arrived. We’re needed in the city at once.”

“We?” You rise from bed, instantly awake. “As in just us, or the officers as well?”

Harp grimaces, and his next statement makes your blood run cold. “The whole company, sir.”

And that's gonna be it for tonight. As I got off from work early (but still too late for a regular session) I figured I'd run enough to finish up this part of the story. The next session will be Sunday. Until then, any questions, comments, concerns, and shitposts are welcome. Thanks for playing!

>>3050165
Whelp either our homie is dead, The Confeds launched another attack or... we're at war with the british?

>>3050082
>>3050119
>>3050140
>>3050141
>>3050156
You fucking dickheads got in the way of my delicious drama

>>3050343
She's a news reporter in japan, She was just gonna use us and our personal connections for her story and fuck back off. We have better waifus to wed.

>>3050343
Also our EX WIFE what petty drama for the quest that we're in also
>>3050368
this guy sorta has the right idea

>>3050343
nah, I actually liked how we were formal and neutral with her, that must have stang if she thinks she can still get a reaction out of us.

now we just have to have a nice meal with our most trusted Lt. Naka and tell him all about our old relationship, kek.

>>3050368
I couldn't care less about waifuing this bitch, I want to watch a melodrama

It’s looking like another late workday for me. I might have to run the session tomorrow instead.

>>3055682
All good Boss, be safe

>>3055682
Good still working on ships.

You don’t mind me adding hulks and converted prison and hospital ships and depots

>>3056563
>You don’t mind me adding hulks and converted prison and hospital ships and depots
Sure thing Anon. Variety is always good.

>>3056576
No it’s not variety it’s more like they were converted to them due to them being old. Not quite sure if Sailable

File: 1479759858252.jpg (1.46 MB, 2816x2112)

1.46 MB JPG

>>3056715
Well I don't mind if you research them anyway. Hulks can always be converted back into sailable warships.

Also, session at 6PM Eastern.

File: Iron Frame Henry.jpg (31 KB, 1024x291)

31 KB JPG

“Where’s this courier?” You call out to your lieutenants as you exit the main building, donning your cap. Harp walks beside you, but breaks off to walk over to the barracks.

“Over here, sir.” Sato speaks up. As he walks toward you, a wiry, older Japanese man follows behind him. The man says something to you in Japanese, but it’s too hurried to make out.

“What’s he saying?” You look over toward the barracks, where the rest of your men are filing out in full kit.

“There has been some sort of attack in the city of Edo.” Sato grimaces. “The Shogun and Lord Matsudaira have requested our presence immediately.”

“Any further details on this attack?” You sling your Henry over your shoulder, making sure you have enough rounds in the ammunition pouch on your belt.

Your lieutenant shakes his head. “No sir, but it must be bad to require us.”

Sighing, you look around. “Well, let’s get ready to move.”

Nakajima jogs toward the three of you, rifle slung over his shoulder. He salutes you, which you return. “Sir, all of the men are ready to march.”

“Very good.” You nod. “Let’s get going.”

“We have horses,” Nakajima continues. “Enough for four people to ride. Do you think anyone should go ahead to assess the situation in Edo?”

>”Harp and I will ride ahead. Leave the other two horses here.”
>”All four of you Lieutenants will ride ahead.”
>”I’ll ride with three of the lieutenants.”
>”You and I will ride ahead.”
>”No. I don’t want to split up the company, especially the officers.”
>Write-in.

>>3058061
>”No. I don’t want to split up the company, especially the officers.”

>>3058061
>”No. I don’t want to split up the company, especially the officers.”

>>3058061
>Have your best scouts go on ahead and survey the situation . The officers must rally the men as soon as possible!

Bring Ammo and weapons only. We are doing a force march

>>3058067
>>3058068
I suggest our best riders to go on ahead to get an idea on what the hell is going on.

Carry only weapons and ammunition to be light as possible to minimize fatigue.

>>3058073
We don't know if this is gonna be a prolonged fight or a short term one. We may need more then minimzie ammo, Use the hroses we have as pack animals.

>>3058061
>send two scouts ahead, not the officers

>>3058088
I meant to only carry their weapons and ammunition didn’t say carry only a light load.

As for using them as pack animals might take longer to set up.
We need to be deployed fast and if we are going by the civil war soldier model.

Each soldier should carry 60 rounds of ammunition, should be enough and if not we are screwed

I'll wait ten minutes then roll a d2 to break the tie.

>>3058169
We agreed not to send the officers? Why not just send two guys up ahead while keeping the CommandeRa and Ncos together?

>>3058172
There's 2 votes to not send anyone, and 2 votes to send scouts, unless I'm just not seeing an additional vote one way or another.

Rolled 2 (1d2)

1 for scouts
2 for no riders

Great we are going in blind then....

File: Edo Castle.jpg (41 KB, 530x480)

41 KB JPG

You shake your head. “No, I don’t want to split the company up. Especially the officers.”

Nakajima nods. “Understood, sir.”

You look at the men, who have all formed up around you and the lieutenants. “Gentlemen, there’s been an incident in Edo. I don’t know the full details at the moment, but we’ve been requested there as soon as possible.” You nod in the direction of the city. “Let’s march.”

The men get into marching formation, with you and the Lieutenants near the front, and begin heading down the road. It’s a cold morning, and you’re thankful that these uniforms have a reasonable amount of warmth to them. The frozen rain from last night had covered the ground in ice, but it has since melted in the sun.

As you all march on, the city comes into view. In the distance, probably near the center of the city itself, you see some smoke rising up into the winter air. It isn’t a large plume, but certainly enough to not be normal. “What do you think could have happened?” Nakajima walks beside you, carrying his rifle.

You grimace. “Hard to say. They wouldn’t have summoned the whole company unless it was serious though.”

Nakajima frowns. “Indeed. Do you believe we will see combat today?”

Shrugging, you adjust your rifle sling. “There’s a good possibility of it.”

With that, your conversation trails off. Your company enters the city without any special fanfare, the locals seem to be in their homes, possibly under order of the Shogun. The plume of smoke is definitely in a nearby district, but not terribly close. You all make your way to the castle, walking up to the front gates.

There are clear signs of a fight here, with bullet holes in the wood of the gates and guard towers. You see several blood stains on the ground in random areas, some clearly having been where bodies fell. The gates are immediately opened upon your arrival, and you are greeted by a cadre of samurai and guards. Hijikata and Matsudaira are among them, accompanied by their own group of Shinsengumi.

Hijikata walks right up to you, a grim expression on his face. “Colonel, I am glad our courier arrived.”

“What happened here?” You look around the courtyard. There are signs that a fight happened inside the walls as well.

“There was an attempt to attack the castle.” He crosses his arms. “We believe they were planning to kill the Shogun, or some of his cabinet members.” Hijikata sighs, rubbing his temples.

>”What’s our mission?”
>"Looks like it was more than an attempt. How did they get past the front gate?"
>”I'm not seeing any attackers now. Where'd they go?”
>”Is the Shogun alright?”
>”How long ago was this attack?”
>Write-in.

>>3058279
>”What’s our mission?”

We are here for a reason. Get the mission details first ask questions after.

>>3058279
>”What’s our mission?”

>>3058279
>”Is the Shogun alright?
>”What’s our mission?”

>>3058279

>”What’s our mission?”
>”Is the Shogun alright?”
>"Looks like it was more than an attempt. How did they get past the front gate?"

>>3058138
Sorry my mistake, 60 to 80 rounds is the average

>>3058279
>"Looks like it was more than an attempt. How did they get past the front gate?"
>”What’s our mission?”

We'll very quickly learn if the Shogun is dead in the coming days. Better to ascertain if there is artillery, explosives, or possible traitors on the battlefield.

“Is the Shogun alright?”

Hijikata nods. “Perhaps a bit shaken up, but he has not been harmed.”

“Good.” Looking around, you grimace at the damage to the castle. Even inside this courtyard it looks like there was quite a firefight. “What’s our mission?”

He looks back towards the gate. “Follow me.” He and his Shinsengumi friends begin walking out through the gates, and you all go as well. “We managed to repel the attackers,” he begins as you all walk down the street. “However, we were not able to capture or kill all of them.”

“So they’ve holed up somewhere,” you reply.

“That is true.” Hijikata frowns deeply. “They have holed up in a district that many of the Shogun’s levy refuse to enter.”

“Why exactly do they refuse to enter it?”

The man sighs. “Criminals have ruled that part of the city for quite some time, sir. And we believe that the attackers know the district better than our levy. They would be slaughtered if they attempted to storm it.”

You give Hijikata a weary look. “So you want me and my men to go in.”

He shrugs. “You are equipped with repeating rifles. Many of the levy are equipped with spears, or matchlocks if they are lucky.”

“What about your Shinsengumi?” You nod toward the men in blue robes accompanying you.

“We already have most of the city’s Shinsengumi and other samurai guarding the edges of the district.” He makes a box shape with his hands. “We have them confined to a relatively small part of the neighborhood, but are stretched too thin to send in an assault.”

“And that’s where we come in?” You raise an eyebrow.

“Yes.” He nods. “However, the Shogun also believes that the assault team must be your company so as to send a message. He believes you putting this attack down will scare any potential subversives away from militancy.” Your group comes to a halt. Standing in the street are several Shinsengumi with matchlocks, as well as one with a Sharps carbine slung over his shoulder. “Beyond this point is the area controlled by the enemy.” He draws up a little map on paper, showing that the area has maybe five or six buildings where the enemy could be hiding.

“How many hostiles are in there?” You cross your arms.

“Sixty or seventy, too many to hide for very long.” He shrugs upon seeing your somewhat sour expression. “They are believed to have matchlocks and swords, so you should be at an advantage in open combat.”

Nakajima frowns, looking at the area in question. “How should we proceed, sir?”

>”Surround the area and try pushing the enemy towards the center.”
>”Split up into teams and check every building individually.”
>”I’ll go in with some bodyguards and find someone to interrogate.”
>”Torch the buildings. Let the enemy come to us.”
>Write-in.

>>3058385
>ask if burning the buildings down would be permited or if that would cause to many issues for the Shogun.
>IF permited, burn it all down and kill whoever is left
>If not permitted, Sweep building to building.

>>3058385
Fuck....urban combat.

That ruins our Riflles effectiveness.

Also we are using single shot bolt action rifles not repeaters but I’ll chalk that up to hype and misunderstanding.


But does the district look like, how big are the houses?

>>3058385
>”Surround the area and try pushing the enemy towards the center.”

Could be convinced to switch to splitting up into teams but I feel it would result in more casualties on our part. Trying to capture one with a small squad is foolhardy and torching the buildings could result in civilian deaths. Would like to try not committing war crimes while we still have a choice in the matter.

>>3058385
>>3058396
Also supporting this but have the levies burn one end of the district forcing the criminals to escape through the other end in which we can set up a killing zone of line infantry

>>3058398
>But does the district look like, how big are the houses?
Two story, medium-sized buildings. Large enough that one building could theoretically house all of the hostiles, though that would be rather foolish of them.

>>3058409
Do the shogun's forces have any moveable shields we can make use of.

And do we stock any grenades. Otherwise we can make oure own moletov cocktails.

>>3058409
How populated is the district? Is it mainly enemy forces? And can the levies and shinsengumi hold all the exits?

>>3058422
Movable shields won’t do much against matchlock muskets (if they won’t miss entirely)

Not sure of Molotov’s cocktails were invented yet

>>3058427
>How populated is the district? Is it mainly enemy forces?
You're not sure how populated it is. The buildings don't seem residential though, and you haven't seen any civilians around the area.

>And can the levies and shinsengumi hold all the exits?
Hijikata seems confident in his mens' abilities to keep the district blockaded.

>>3058385
Okay here is my plan though I’m rather iffy on it.

Okay if we can’t burn it due to possible civilian casualties.

I want to form several lines of infantry with BAYONETS mounted, if we are facing swords we need to extre length and blade in close quarters.

Also any loss of accuracy is already moot due to line formation and having to fight in a urban setting.

Then we will march having a few man sweep through each building at a time from on end to the other end until they either die, surrender, or try to escape into the blades of the levies.

It will be slow, close, but through.

Is this plan good, considering if these are criminals they might have loot and information that might be needed.

>>3058458
Well not blade but spike. Since our M1841 Bayonet are Socket bayonets but you get the idea

Also as a side note, the tanegashima matchlock has not Bayonet Mount so we are in a advantage close quarters, unless they have a sword but a mounted bayonet has more reach.

And having the few men sweep building by building will for a direct confrontation which we can mow down with line fire.

Does the extra explanation help

>>3058458
I'll support.

My only concern are matchlocks in the second story windows but the men clearing the building should be able to deal with due to the aforementioned equipment.

If they have revolvers all the better

File: Edo.jpg (25 KB, 411x330)

25 KB JPG

“Hijikata, would it be possible to burn the buildings in question?”

The Shinsengumi Vice-Commander does a double take, then composes himself. “With all due respect, Colonel, burning these buildings would likely result in an out of control blaze.”

You grimace. “Right, understood.” You then look to your Lieutenants. “Gentlemen, form ranks. We’ll move up slowly through the district, with small teams searching the buildings for enemies. Any that we find will either be forced to surrender, or be forced into our line of fire.”

“Yes sir,” your lieutenants reply. The company organizes itself into the necessary formation, with a small team reporting to you. Nakajima stands with the team of three men, crossing his arms. “Shall we affix bayonets, sir?”

“Yes. I want us to have a range advantage if we get into melee.” You look to the rest of the men as everyone affixes bayonets. “Alright, men. Move up.” You draw your Henry, cocking the lever as you take a position at the front of the formation.

You all begin moving up toward the first of the buildings. It looks like some sort of inn or saloon, with two floors and a decorated entryway. Nakajima and the sweep team approach the front door, readying their weapons. “Breaching on your orders, sir.”

Roll a 1d20.
>”I’ll accompany you. My Henry could give us an advantage in a firefight.”
>”We’ve got you covered from out here, good luck.”
>Write-in.

Rolled 6 (1d20)

>>3058562
>”I’ll accompany you. My Henry could give us an advantage in a firefight.”

Rolled 15 (1d20)

>>3058562
>>”We’ve got you covered from out here, good luck.”

This will be good experience for them

We don’t have a bayonet for our Henry do we?

>>3058579
No you don't.

>>3058562
>>3058564
Changing my vote to entering the building. The extra firepower in close quarters might be more useful

“I’ll accompany you,” you say. “My Henry could give us an advantage in a firefight.”

“Understood, sir.” Nakajima nods.

You look back at your men in formation. “Be ready out here in case a firefight happens. Don’t let anyone get the drop on you.”

You walk up to the door, taking point and levelling your Henry at the center of it. With a good deal of caution, you use the muzzle to knock on the door. There isn’t an answer, so you nod at Nakajima. He shouts something in Japanese, nods at you, and you kick the door open.

Walking in slowly, you can see that it’s some sort of restaurant down here, with tables and floor mats everywhere for sitting. As your men file in through the door, you step further into the room. There is still food on the tables. Cups of tea are still giving off little trails of steam. “Whoever was here left in a hurry,” you mutter. Looking over to one side of the room, you see a set of stairs, to the other side, you see a serving counter with a kitchen behind it. “I’ll check the kitchen. The rest of you check upstairs.”

You hear a grunt of acknowledgement from Nakajima, and you begin moving toward the counter. The whole place is quiet, save for the sounds of you and your men walking. As you approach the counter, you see a small knife laying on it. The thing is clearly just a kitchen implement, judging by its size, but you pick it up and stow it in a pouch on your belt anyway.

As you round the counter, you see a couple pots still on the fire, threatening to boil over. The kitchen itself looks empty though, but you aren’t about to leave without being absolutely sure. Stepping into the kitchen itself, you sigh. There doesn’t appear to be anyone in here.

Just then, you hear a commotion upstairs, followed by a gunshot. “Nakajima?” You shout to be heard through the floors. As you turn around, a silver shape streaks across your view, making you leap back in surprise. There is a loud clang as you raise your Henry defensively, and you raise step back to see a man in front of you, wielding a katana.

He shouts something in Japanese, charging at you. Without thinking, you immediately dump three rounds in his direction. The first smacks the wall next to him, throwing wood splinters everywhere, and the next two hit him. One is clearly a graze, because it just leaves a red streak on his face, but the other clearly hits something important, because blood sprays all over the white wall next to him.

File: Nakajima's LeMat.jpg (31 KB, 1024x528)

31 KB JPG

You side-step to avoid the man’s next sword swing, and it nearly clips you. Cursing, you try to move backwards, into the main restaurant area. Your Henry’s barrel length is proving to be a problem in such close quarters. The man swings again, and you parry with the barrel of your rifle, instinctively firing as you do. The man clutches his ear, stumbling back. The muzzle blast of your gun almost certainly deafened him. You work the lever of your Henry again, preparing to end this brawl, when you hear a massive blast next to you. The man doubles over, a surprised look on his face. And falls forward into a pool of his own blood. Looking to the side, you see Nakajima standing there, holding his LeMat. The underslung shotgun barrel is still smoking. He stares at the former person laying on the floor, wide-eyed.

“Nice shot,” you remark. Nakajima blinks a couple times, looking at you.

“T-thank you, sir.” He lowers the revolver, sighing. “We found a couple enemies upstairs.” He points to the staircase.

You nod. “I heard the commotion. Everyone alright?”

Nakajima shrugs. “The enemies are not.” You chuckle just a bit at that. He continues talking. “One of my men shot an enemy with his rifle, and another tried to ambush us in the confusion. My rifle misfired when I tried to shoot him.”

You begin walking toward the stairs. “So how’d you handle it?”

Your lieutenant gestures to his saber. “I am a Samurai, sir.”

You nod. “Fair enough, Lieutenant. Is the second floor clear?”

He nods. “Yes, sir.”

“Good.” You ready your Henry. “Let’s get back to the-“ Sounds of gunfire from outside interrupt your sentence. You hear Sato shouting orders to the men. “Dammit! Get your men and meet me outside!” You turn on your heels, rushing out through the door.

Your men are firing as quickly as possible at a couple buildings across the street. They’ve all taken cover behind various objects: market stalls, abandoned carts, stacks of various goods, and other sizeable items. You can see from the gun smoke and muzzle flashes that enemies are firing from the second floors of two buildings. You crouch amongst your men, swearing as fire opens up from a third building. You raise your Henry, firing at wherever you see a muzzle flash. Cursing yourself, you realize that your company has just walked into a well-laid ambush.

And that's gonna be it for tonight. We'll have a session tomorrow at the same time, and until then feel free to post questions, comments, and everything else here. Thanks for playing!

>>3058686
This first taste of real combat has left me excited for the future. Can't wait to see how the large-scale strategies and battles work out.

>>3058694
Actually I have a perfect plan for this ambush: due to this scenario.

Anyone care to hear?

>>3058708
Sure thing, Anon.

>>3058721
Okay, this was the reason why i wanted several line formation in the risk of some causalities.

I knew they will attack from the second story window. That is why we would have two line of men to fire at the enemy from the second story window.

One line reloads, while the second line fires, Rinse and repeat.

There is no need to even aim either (since continuous firing will create a smoke cloud) just enough to keep the heads down while we send Nakajima and several other under the surpressive fire to storm into the building and clear them out.

Several reason why we have the advantage.

A Tangegashima is a muzzle loading, match lock musket. Not only you have to keep the fuse in place and lit, you also have to muzzle load each round, and that will require standing up properly. Not to mention the smoothbore gun is usually inaccurate but that is somewhat negated due to the higher position and large body of targets.

Our units use the M1841 Dreyse Needle Rifle, a Bolt action single shot rifle. In which while a tangeshima in practice can shoot 1-2 rounds a minute. Ours with a self contained paper cartilage and breech loading capability can fire 5-6 rounds a minute.

This can allow us to reload, fire and repeat much faster while preventing the enemy from firing back since they will have to expose themselves trying to stand up and fire, while one line can kneel, while the other can stand and shoot.

and if its three buildings fireing at us, we will have to create two lines 5 to 8 men each to suppress then enemy while the other half of our company clears out one building at a time.

While the Needle Rifle has issues with the firing pin, and gas leakage over heavy usage, I'm sure our gunsmith has maintained these weapons and this is the first time of them seeing hard use in a while. so we can keep up the fire for the while.

Does this cover everything? and Any questions?

One thing that surprised me about this “open warfare” is that it isn’t open at all but urban combat

Session in half an hour or so.

You fire at the enemies, ducking behind cover to work the action on your rifle. The sound is deafening. Smoke fills your nostrils and stings your eyes. “Sato!” You call out for one of your lieutenants.

“Here, sir.” He replies in the midst of reloading. “They began shooting out of nowhere.”

You move over to his location, behind a cart with a couple other soldiers, and begin laying down fire again. “Yeah, ambushes aren’t the most ideal of engagements to be caught in.” You duck to top off your magazine, checking how many rounds you have in reserve. Thirty or so, by your estimation. “Any casualties?”

“None so far.” Sato fires a shot into a window, hitting an enemy. The man falls forward, out the window, and onto the cobblestone road below. “What happened in there, sir?” He nods to the building you just emerged from.

You grimace, firing on the enemy some more. “Found some hostiles. We took care of them.”

As you speak, Nakajima and his team exit the building, laying down some defensive fire as they move to cover with you and Sato. “This looks bad.” Nakajima crouches next to you. He’s still got his rifle slung over his shoulder, and is carrying his revolver in one hand, with his saber in the other. “How should we handle this, sir?”

>”Order the men to fall back to safe distance while firing. Our rifles have superior range, let’s use it to our advantage.”
>”Let’s gather a small team and assault the buildings while the rest of the men provide covering fire from here.”
>”Find me something flammable so we can torch those bastards. Three buildings on fire won’t spread to anything in this weather.”
>”Order everyone into the building we just emerged from. That will provide better cover than what we’ve got right now.”
>Write-in.

>>3059714
>”Let’s gather a small team and assault the buildings while the rest of the men provide covering fire from here

>>3058745
Most similar to this plan. Hope it works.

>>3058745
>>3059714
Supporting The strategy.

We might take a few casualties but we can get this done more effective then staying put or retreating

>>3059714
>>”Let’s gather a small team and assault the buildings while the rest of the men provide covering fire from here.”

let's take the same guys and maybe some more, those already prove their worth in close quarters

>>3059714
>”Let’s gather a small team and assault the buildings while the rest of the men provide covering fire from here.”

Roll a 1d20+2

Rolled 5 + 2 (1d20 + 2)

>>3059773
no one please, may the waifu not suffer

Rolled 2 + 2 (1d20 + 2)

>>3059773

Rolled 18 + 2 (1d20 + 2)

>>3059773

>>3059796
praise be!

>>3059751
I rather Nakajima lead the raid while we direct the line infantry.

We need someone with authority to yell his lungs out to issue the ready aim. Fire reload!

“Sato, keep the men here providing suppressing fire.” Sato nods at your request. “Nakajima, gather a team of men to assault those buildings.”

“Yes sir,” he replies with a salute. “Will you be accompanying us?”

“I will.” You nod. “We need to get this done as soon as possible.”

Nakajima immediately heads over to another piece of cover and begins gathering men. He starts with the three that searched the first building, then gets some more. When he returns, he’s hot eight men with him. “Will a team of ten be sufficient?”

“I think so,” you say. “We need to keep enough men back here to provide sustained fire.” Looking over at Sato, you give a final order before leaving. “Make sure everyone fires by rank. I want a continual pattering of fire on the enemy.” With that, the ten of you make your way out of cover, jogging toward the first building. You fire your Henry several times on the way, keeping the enemy from getting a bead on you.

You get to the door, kicking it open and stepping inside with your men close behind. There are a couple of enemies in the first room, and you all gun them down before they can charge you. The smoke from firing in such close quarters fills the room quickly, but you can tell nobody else is in here. “Should we split up to cover more of the building quickly?” Nakajima steps into the room, removing his cap and wiping his brow.

You nod. “Have a couple men search this floor. You and me will look for a way to the upstairs.” Walking up to a wooden door leading to another room, you have a soldier open it while you level your Henry at it. Nakajima walks up beside you, LeMat in hand. The door swings open and you see several men with matchlocks and katanas inside. You both storm in, firing at the enemies in rapid succession. Nakajima makes liberal use of his saber as he gets within swinging distance, lobbing the arm off of a man with a katana. You fire two rounds into the first enemy you see, making him double over. The next two men are quickly dispatched, with you shooting one in the head, and Nakajima hitting the other in the middle of the neck with a shot from his revolver.

You look around for an obvious way upstairs, finding a staircase on the far side of the room. You are about to order everyone to follow you upstairs when an enemy with a long gun comes down, leveling it at you as he moves. You level your rifle at him, but he is torn practically to pieces by your men with needle rifles.

“Excellent shooting,” you say to them.

“Thank you, sir.” One of the soldiers bows slightly. “We found another staircase on the far end of this building. Should we split into groups of five and each go up a different staircase? We could catch the enemy in a pincer type attack that way.”

roll a 1d20
>”Good thinking.” (go up both staircases)
>”Let’s keep together. We have no idea what the upstairs is like.” (don’t split up)
>Write-in.

Rolled 4 (1d20)

>>3059835
>”Good thinking.” (go up both staircases)

10 men mean shit in a cramped staircase, split and rendezvous upstairs

Rolled 18 (1d20)

>>3059835
>”Good thinking.” (go up both staircases)

We should have Nakajima lead the other team.

Rolled 13 (1d20)

>>3059835
>”Good thinking.” (go up both staircases)

“Good thinking, soldier.” You nod. “Nakajima, lead the other team. We’ll rendezvous upstairs.”

“Understood,” Nakajima nods and begins walking in the direction of the other staircase.

You look at the four men with you. “Alright, let’s do this.” The five of you begin moving up the stairs quickly. An enemy stands at the top, waiting for you, but he takes two shots from your Henry and falls. You all arrive at the second floor without any further incident. It’s a long corridor with rooms on one side, where you estimate the enemies are shooting from. “The three of you, check those rooms. I’ll check the first two.” The men go to follow their orders, and you kick the first door open.

There are four enemies inside, and at first they don’t notice you. You shoot one of them in the head, making him fall through the open window. That gets the attention of the others, who all spin around and prepare to attack you. Two of them have matchlocks and the third has a katana. You deal with the katana-wielder first, putting two rounds in his chest before moving on to the first musketeer. He fiddles with the matchlock action, giving you a precious second to fire a round that drops him. The other levels his weapon at you, which you immediately realize isn’t a matchlock at all, but some sort of repeater. You swear loudly as he fires the weapon, and a bullet whizzes past your face close enough to feel the air.

You don’t hesitate, shooting the man in the chest with your Henry. The first shot knocks him against the wall, making him drop what you realize is a Burnside carbine. You cock your rifle again for another shot, only to find it empty. The man slumps over, sliding down the wall and coming to rest on the floor.

You are about to draw your revolver and put the poor bastard out of his misery when the life fades from his eyes. You shake your head, grabbing enough cartridges to fill your magazine as you walk out into the hall. You make a point to collect the man’s discarded Burnside repeater while you’re at it, slinging it over your back. Your men exit a room, talking amongst themselves. Their bayonets are covered in blood, and you can tell they’ve been through quite the scuffle. One man has a rather nasty cut on his forehead, likely a graze if you had to guess. They salute you tiredly. “All enemies neutralized, sir.”

“Good work.” You nod. “Where’s Nakajima and the other team?”

“Here, sir.” Nakajima exits a room further down the hall, followed by a couple soldiers. His saber is bloodied, and he’s in the process of reloading his revolver. “I believe this building is clear.”

“Excellent.” You grin slightly. “Let’s take care of the next one.” Looking out through a side window, you see that the next building is some sort of storage building, possibly a small warehouse. There is a minimal gap between a small balcony and the window you’re looking through, easily small enough to climb through, as well as a doorway down on the ground level that looks easy enough to kick open.

roll a 1d20
>Climb through the window onto the balcony. They won’t be expecting an attack from above.
>Breach from ground level. It’s the safest bet.
>Split into two teams again and breach from both entry points.
>Write-in.

Rolled 12 (1d20)

>>3059888
>>Split into two teams again and breach from both entry points.

we go over the top, Naka dear sweeps the ground floor

Rolled 1 (1d20)

>>3059885
>Breach from ground level. It’s the safest bet.

We should clear the bottom floor first and then send a team to climb through the window onto the balcony when we begin clearing the second floor.

We've done very well thus far but we shouldn't become overconfident.

Rolled 19 (1d20)

>>3059888
>Breach from ground level. It’s the safest bet.

>>3059905
Holy fuck! Are there crit overrides in the quest?

Rolled 7 (1d20)

>>3059888
>Split into two teams again and breach from both entry points.

>>3059905
What have you done Anon.

File: 1525583500374.jpg (84 KB, 913x1024)

84 KB JPG

>>3059905
>That 1
>we shouldn't become overconfident.
This is true, Anon.

>>3059907
>Holy fuck! Are there crit overrides in the quest?
Yes there are, meaning 12 is the roll that I'm going with.

Also, I'm taking a break to get dinner and a shower. Be back in a bit.

Rolled 8 (1d20)

>>3059888
>Breach from ground level. It’s the safest bet.

“Alright,” you look down at the ground-level door. “Let’s get down there and breach as a single group. It’s safer that way.”

“Yes sir,” Nakajima salutes. The ten of you begin moving downstairs, exiting out through a back door and making your way to the door of the other building. Once you get there, you can see that it is a flimsy, wooden door that should give easily under a good kick. You ready yourself and place a swift kick just below the handle.

The door flies open with a great crash, and inside you see a couple men armed with katanas. They are surprised by your entrance, and have little time to react as you and Nakajima open fire. Both men drop to the floor, dead, and you all move into the room. It appears to be a little office, and you immediately move into the storehouse proper. Inside are at least a dozen enemies, and they immediately open fire. “Shit!” You grimace as a bullet whizzes past you. “Everyone to cover, now!” You duck behind a large crate, looking back to see a bullet tear into the shoulder of one of your troops. He shouts in surprise and pain, returning fire as he jumps to cover himself.

Nakajima takes cover next to you, frowning deeply as more bullets whistle through the air. “Sir, these men are firing too quickly to have matchlocks.”

You nod. “I agree. Some of them have got to be using repeaters.” You gesture to the Burnside on your back. “I found this in the other building.”

“How should we handle this, sir?” He takes a potshot over the crate, killing an enemy.

You peek over your cover, looking about. The warehouse has two levels, with the second floor having an ample view of the first. There are men on both floors, as well as some moving towards you on the ground. “Follow me.” You move from one piece of cover to another, firing as you are able. Two enemies fall by your hand, but it’s not much of a dent considering the situation.

You and the men move up, killing enemies as you are able to. Eventually, you reach the stairs leading to the second level. Once you get upstairs, you all find pieces of cover. The remaining enemies, seven or so, have all clumped toward a single corner of the warehouse’s second floor.

“Alright, let’s take the rest of them out.” You stand up, firing rapidly at every enemy that you see. Your men join in, and you rapidly thin their numbers. The needle rifles are proving to be an excellent force-multiplier so far. You all get into cover again as the enemy begins firing. The man who was hit in the shoulder is too slow however, and takes three musket balls to the chest. As he falls, you feel a pang of guilt in your chest. “God dammit, we’ve got a man down!” You grimace, firing indiscriminately over your piece of cover. As the shooting subsides, you peek over cover again. With the noise of shooting gone, you can hear the sounds of rain on the roof, likely freezing rain given the temperature outside.

The enemies in here are all dead now, you walk over to make sure. When you walk back, Nakajima and the others are standing or crouching near the killed soldier. You sigh, rubbing your eyes a bit. “What do we do, sir?”

You nod toward the direction of the rest of your company. “Have two men carry his body outside and lay him in a safe, dry place. We’ve got only one more building to clear.”

Two of the enlisted men pick up their comrade, carrying him out of the room as the rest of the team readies their rifles. Nakajima crosses his arms, looking out through the window at the next building. As you’d assumed, freezing rain is coming down ever so lightly. You can see that the rest of your company has moved under the awnings of a nearby building to keep their powder dry. “All of the remaining enemies should be in that last building, sir. How should we continue?”

>”Same as we’ve been doing. We wait for the others to get back, and we assault it.”
>”Let’s have the whole company surround it and move in though every entrance. Overwhelm them with numbers.”
>”In this weather, fire won’t spread. Let’s throw some flammables through the windows and burn it down.”
>”Let’s regroup with the rest of the company. I want to see how they’ve fared so far.”
>Write-in.

>>3060033
>”Let’s regroup with the rest of the company. I want to see how they’ve fared so far.”
>”Same as we’ve been doing. We wait for the others to get back, and we assault it.”

I'm concerned that the house may be booby-trapped in some way.

>>3060033
>>3060045
Supporting this

>>3060045
>>3060068
With this vote you'll have to choose one or the other, I'm afraid.

>>3060033

>”Same as we’ve been doing. We wait for the others to get back, and we assault it.”

>>3060033
>>”Same as we’ve been doing. We wait for the others to get back, and we assault it.”

“Same thing as we’ve been doing,” you say. “We wait for the others to get back, then we assault the place.”

Nakajima raises an eyebrow. “Sir,” he begins. “Hijikata estimated that there were sixty hostiles to be dealt with. We have killed maybe twenty.” He leans forward, rubbing his temples. “I do not think it is a good idea sending nine men into a building with forty enemies.”

You grimace. “With the pressure we’ve been putting on them, I doubt we’ll see much actual resistance.” You walk over to the window and look at the third building. Your men outside are still peppering the second floor with rifle fire. “Besides, the suppressive fire has almost certainly killed some of them. I’m hoping we can force them into a retreat, which would lead to them running into friendly forces.”

Lieutenant Nakajima frowns, taking his revolver out to reload it. “I hope you are right, sir.”

You cross your arms. “Trust me, Lieutenant. I’ve gotten through worse tactical situations than this.”

You can tell that Nakajima is about to say something else, but the others all return, ready to fight. “What is the plan, sir?” One of the soldiers steps forward, a fiery look in his eyes.

“Assault the final building, same as before. You think you’ll be up to it?”

The man nods, reaching down to pick up the katana of a fallen enemy. “We are ready, sir.”

“Good,” you reply. “Let’s get moving.” You all group up, heading downstairs and exiting the warehouse through a side door. You all cross the space between it and your next target, and you signal to the rest of the company that the previous two buildings are clear as you walk.

The next building appears to be another restaurant or inn, though it is a good deal larger than the previous two buildings. You step up to a side door, readying your Henry. You figure you’ve got maybe a full reload left in reserve now, but you still have your revolver and saber, so you aren’t too worried about ammunition. Looking around, the eight men in your team all stand near you, weapons ready. Their expressions are steeled and just angry enough. They look like proper soldiers.

“Let’s finish this,” you say. With that, you walk right up to the door, raising your Henry as you kick it in. You step into the hostile building with your men, opening fire at the first enemies that come into view. The scent of gun smoke fills your nostrils and stings your eyes, the sounds of guns firing deafen you, your pulse quickens. You don’t want to admit it, but a part of you missed this feeling.

File: 1542672476003.jpg (171 KB, 500x724)

171 KB JPG

And that's going to be all for tonight, and likely this thread. Our next session will be either Sunday or Monday, depending on my work schedule. Until then feel free to drop questions, comments, concerns, shitposts, and all manner of other commentary. I'll try to answer whatever I can. Thanks for playing!

>>3060139
Just woke up, could't participate. But nice run Bossman!

>>3060139
Thanks for running!
We must be an ace with a Henry if we're able to doubletap people before others can react

>>3060139
Thanks for running

I think this video could be interesting as it relates to the operation of the Henry.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dRZHsZkv-2A

>>3061972
Actually, this one is even better: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cuFZYfX4_Vc

>>3061972
>>3061974
I'm actually a fan of Forgotten Weapons and InRange. I have to say, that Henry did surprisingly decent in the first mud test. Good stuff, Anon. Thanks for posting it!