File: Vice-Commander.jpg (80 KB, 515x760)

80 KB JPG

The freezing rain has turned to snow now, falling quite heavily all around. For the first time in years, you light up a cigarillo, puffing on it gently before speaking. “So you’re sure your people didn’t encounter anyone?”

Hijikata Toshizo nods. “We have every road and alley guarded.” He grimaces, puffing on a cigarillo of his own. “This is very strange…”

You frown, looking toward the building you and your men just cleared. You had been expecting anywhere between thirty and forty hostiles inside, but only ended up facing about a dozen. “This city doesn’t have any sort of tunnel system beneath it, does it?”

He shakes his head. “Not to my knowledge. They must have found some other way to slip around our blockade.” He swears quietly in Japanese, kicking the ground. “At least it is not a large amount of hostiles.” He nods toward the building. “Tell me more of what you found in there.” Your company now controls the building itself, as well as the small piece of the district where the enemy was hiding. You and your top lieutenant, Nakajima, led a team of men to take several buildings while the rest of your company supported you with volley fire. Though you found yourselves in a combat situation ill-suited to your training and equipment, you took the district with surprisingly few casualties. You lost one man in the assault team, and three in the main formation. The bodies of the men killed in action have since been moved away from the site, to a location where they will be prepared for traditional funeral rites, you are told.

You lead the Shinsengumi Vice-Commander toward the building in question. It is another warehouse, apparently, and you were quite surprised to find its occupants trying desperately to defend the contents of a few dozen crates. When you got the crates in question open, you understood why. These would-be rebels had quite the stockpile at their disposal.

You take Hijikata inside, walking past several of your troops as you do. The main room is where the majority of the loot was located. Several crates are laid out beside one-another, lids tossed aside to allow viewing of their contents. “This is impressive,” he remarks.

You nod, puffing on your cigarillo. Many of the crates have weapons in them, repeating rifles mostly, though none of them have any ammunition. You figure that is the reason why the enemy never used these against you and your men. Some of the other crates have European and other Western valuables, things like cavalry boots, hard-tack, raw cotton, and other various things.

Those aren’t the items that take priority though, and you lead Hijikata to the crates that you believe warranted the most attention. Over in a corner, away from the other crates, are three decent-sized boxes with heavy hinges and locks. You open the one on top, pulling out a single example of its contents: a gold bar. Handing it to Hijikata, you grimace.

He also grimaces. “I knew the yakuza were importing Western goods, but…” He sighs. “To think they would throw their lot in with rebels, it is sickening.” He looks at you, pausing to puff on his cigarillo. “I believe the Shinsengumi should handle the investigation of this place. Excellent work here, Colonel.” He nods toward your men standing guard. “Perhaps you all should return to your base and rest. You have had a long day…” He frowns, seeming to remember something. “Though, perhaps you should also report to Edo Castle, I am sure Matsudaira and the Shogun would like a debrief from the commander who led the operation.”

>”Doesn’t it seem strange that the rebels would return to this place after a failed attack on the castle? You’d think they would try to draw attention away from their stockpile.”
>”Very well, we’ll head home.” (return to base)
>”We’ll report to the Castle immediately.” (debrief the Shogun, accompanied by your men)
>”I’ll send the men home and head to the castle.” (debrief the Shogun alone)
>Write-in.

>>3072100
>>”Doesn’t it seem strange that the rebels would return to this place after a failed attack on the castle? You’d think they would try to draw attention away from their stockpile.”
Bring Nakajima along with us to debrief the Shogun.

>>3072100
>>”Doesn’t it seem strange that the rebels would return to this place after a failed attack on the castle? You’d think they would try to draw attention away from their stockpile.”

then we
>”We’ll report to the Castle immediately.” (debrief the Shogun, accompanied by your men)
they deserve the honor I guess

>>3072100
>”Doesn’t it seem strange that the rebels would return to this place after a failed attack on the castle? You’d think they would try to draw attention away from their stockpile.”

>”We’ll report to the Castle immediately.” (debrief the Shogun, accompanied by your men)

>>3072100
>”Doesn’t it seem strange that the rebels would return to this place after a failed attack on the castle? You’d think they would try to draw attention away from their stockpile.”
>”We’ll report to the Castle immediately.” (debrief the Shogun, accompanied by your men)

>>3072100

>”Doesn’t it seem strange that the rebels would return to this place after a failed attack on the castle? You’d think they would try to draw attention away from their stockpile.”

Naka and us to the debrief

>>3072100
>>”Doesn’t it seem strange that the rebels would return to this place after a failed attack on the castle? You’d think they would try to draw attention away from their stockpile.”

>>”We’ll report to the shogun immediately.” (debrief the Shogun, accompanied by your men)

I wonder if we can use some of the equipment ourselves though burnside carbines have a particular ammo

>>3072100
>”We’ll report to the Castle immediately.” (debrief the Shogun, accompanied by your men)

>>3072181
and by men i mean just Nakajima

File: Shogun.jpg (4.05 MB, 2544x5124)

4.05 MB JPG

You frown, placing the gold bar back in the box. “It seems strange to me,” you begin. “You’d think that the rebels would try to draw attention away from their hideout after a failed attack on the castle.”

Hijikata nods. “That is true. Perhaps there is more to the situation than seems immediately apparent.” He crouches by the crate of gold, examining the bars. “I am sure the truth shall reveal itself in time, Colonel.” He stands up again, grinning. “When the Shinsengumi are involved, it always does.”

You nod. “Good to hear. I suppose I’ll leave you to this then.” With that, the two of you bow at each other and you turn to gather your men.

As you exit the building, Nakajima walks up to you. “Sir, we have finished accounting for injuries amongst the men. Four were injured enough to require medical attention.”

“Have them sent to the nearest hospital.” You grimace. “I’ve got enough money to pay for it.”

Nakajima nods. “Understood, sir.” He then barks some orders in Japanese at the men standing guard, and they immediately move out. “What is our next step?”

You puff on the cigarillo. “First, we report to the castle and debrief the Shogun. After that, we’ll see if he has any additional orders.” As you take a final puff, you put the cigarillo out on the heel of your boot.

With that, you organize the company and march out of the district, heading for the castle at a rather slow pace. You can tell the men are tired, and almost certainly a bit shaken up. Nobody says much as you all walk, and the snow begins to fall more heavily as you approach the castle. It is late afternoon now, and the sun is low in the late November sky.

You reach Edo Castle and are welcomed in. The attendants and guards greet your men, ushering them to the guest buildings to rest. Your lieutenants go with them, save for Nakajima. The two of you are taken to the main keep of the castle, which is under heavy guard in the aftermath of the attack.

As you approach the keep, the Shogun steps out of the front doors, flanked by Matsudaira on one side and a grizzled samurai in a Shinsengumi robe on the other. He immediately approaches you, arms crossed.

“Colonel Stockton.” He greets you with a slight bow, which you return. “Has the situation been resolved?”

“It has. Some of the enemies got away, but we secured the district and captured a supply cache.”

He nods slowly, looking to the sky. “I see. It is good that you could act on such short notice. Do you have time for tea, Colonel?”

>”I really should be returning to the base. There’s no one there to defend it right now.”
>”Of course.”
>Write-in.

>>3072193
>”Of course.”

>>3072193
>>”Of course.”

Be polite, maybe we can use the contraband to our advantage

>>3072193
>>”I really should be returning to the base. There’s no one there to defend it right now.”

fuck tea, we are on business

>>3072193
>>”Of course.”

>>3072206
Taking with the shogun is business.

With that said I wonder what repeaters did they have?

Though I imagine not anything too good considering the period

>>3072193

>”I really should be returning to the base. There’s no one there to defend it right now.”

I'll have to remind you guys that some of the enemies escaped and we have a bunch of non combatants there defenseless, we can't waste time or let our guard down

>>3072217
this,

we'll have time for tea later

>>3072193
>>3072199
>>3072217
Fine switching my vote to return to base

Actually OP how far out is our base from Edo?

How well are we in ammunition?

>>3072248
Maybe an hours' walk from the outskirts of Edo, 45 minutes if you march hard.

>>3072254
You don't have an exact number, but your men were shooting continuously for quite some time.

>>3072263
AND considering the standard pack usually contains 70 rounds or so. We must be at least half.

Least the men are now battle hardened

>>3072263
Wait wasn’t volley fire invented to keep track of rounds?

“We really should be returning to our base,” you say with a bow. “There’s nobody there to defend it at the moment.”

The Shogun raises an eyebrow, then bows in return. “Very well, Colonel. Allow me to have a wagon train prepared for your men. They have to be exhausted.”

“Thank you, sir.” You bow again. “I’ll go let them know.”

You and Nakajima head down to the guest houses, gathering the men as soon as you arrive. It isn’t long before the Shogun’s men have the wagons out front, five of them, and you all hop on. You and Nakajima, as well as eight others, pile into the first wagon.

You sigh, leaning against the wooden sides of the wagon and pulling your cap down over your eyes. “Nakajima,” you speak up. “What’s our ammunition supply looking like?”

He sighs. “Last I checked, each man had less than twenty cartridges, sir.”

“I see.” You grimace. “Then we’ll have to avoid doing target practice until we can secure more ammunition.” You glance down at your pocket watch, noticing that the time is just after 5 PM. “I hope the cooks have prepared supper.”

Nakajima leans forward, removing his cap and rubbing his forehead. “Urban combat is rather detestable.”

You nod, stifling a chuckle. “It is. Most battles are directed away from towns for that reason, among others.”

The conversation trails off, as everyone in the wagon is really too tired to keep it going. After a while, the wagon train arrives in camp, and all of you dismount. As you do, Harp walks up to you. “Colonel, I just got back from Edo.” He points to a horse over by the stables. “I went ahead and checked on the men who were injured. Everyone is being taken care of.”

“Good to hear,” you reply. You are about to give more orders when the sound of footsteps crunching along the snow gets your attention.

“Dan- I mean, Colonel.” Sarah Holman steps toward you, with someone else in tow. “I understand you and your troops just returned from battle.” She gestures to her colleague, a young man with a large camera resting on his shoulder. “Would it be possible to get a couple photographs of the company fresh back from battle, and perhaps an interview?”

>”Absolutely not.”
>Ignore her and keep talking to Harp.
>”You can take a photograph, but no interviews.”
>”No photographs, but feel free to conduct interviews.”
>”Sure.”
>Write-in.

>>3072348
>>”You can take a photograph, but no interviews.”

>>3072348
>”You can take a photograph, but no interviews.”

>>3072348
>>”You can take a photograph, but no interviews.
>At least until after the men are rested and as long as nothing confidential

>>3072348
>>”You can take a photograph, but no interviews.”
We've lost some men, there's no mood for anything else

>>3072358
also, maybe just give her an official statement so she doesn't bother the men, harp can come up with something

>>3072348
>>3072358
Sure, official statement is fine. Supporting that.

>>3072358
Good for me

>>3072362
>>3072360
Supporting pictures and a official statement.

You sigh, frowning at Sarah. “You can take a photograph, but no interviews.”

She nods. “Excellent, excellent.” She then gets her cameraman and has him set up the camera, while you gather the men and stand them in a manner that suits the photographer’s needs.

You all stand there while they take three separate exposures, just in case one turns out poorly, then once it’s done, you all prepare to head to the mess hall. As you’re walking to the main building, Sarah stops you again.

“I know you said only one photograph,” she begins. “But could I get a photograph of you alone? It will go well with the article, I think.”

You grimace. “How long should that take?”

“Not very, I assure you.” She points to the main building. “Perhaps we should take it in your office, for better lighting?”

You shrug, looking at the photographer. “As long as it doesn’t take too long.” The three of you enter your office without hesitation, and as the photographer sets the camera up, you pour yourself a whiskey. “You know,” you remark. “This will be the first time I’ve ever had my picture taken.” You chuckle.

Sarah smiles a bit, looking over at the camera. “These are quite impressive machines. I convinced the chief to bring a photographer along with us after reading about the inclusion of photography in Harper’s Weekly.”

You stand still for the time required to get the exposure, then sit down in your chair. As the photographer leaves, Sarah remains in your office. “Can I help you?” You frown upon seeing that she doesn’t have any intention of following the cameraman out.

“My apologies, I was going to ask if you would like to give a statement on today’s military action.”

You grimace, pouring another whiskey and drinking it. “An attempt was made to attack the Shogun’s residence earlier today. The attackers were repelled and forced into a small section of the city, where our company was tasked with dislodging and attacking them.”

Sarah nods, writing quickly in her notebook. “And what came of it?”

“The enemy was successfully dislodged during a bout of urban combat. We lost four men in the exchange, and succeeded in eliminating the threat. That is all.” You lean back, frowning deeply at Sarah.

“I see.” She closes her book after writing some more, then turns to leave. “Thank you for the statement. Good day.”

You nod. “Good day.” As the door closes, you take another sip of your whiskey. Looking out through the window, you see that the snow is falling even harder now, with no indication of stopping. You rub the bridge of your nose, standing up and walking out of your office. You figure now is as good a time as any to eat with the men.

File: 1543223887528.jpg (56 KB, 1024x622)

56 KB JPG

That's going to be all for tonight. I apologize for the short session, but I've got some things to do before bed tonight. We'll go live at the same time tomorrow, and run until our usual time. Thanks for playing!

>>3072455
So any notable repeaters in the contraband or were they breech loaders?

>>3072460
You didn't look too closely at the contraband weapons, but it appeared to be a mix of breechloaders and repeaters.

Also session at 6PM Eastern.

With the casualties your company had sustained, combined with the stress of the first battle, deployment had to be postponed for a week. During that time, funerals were had for the fallen men, the injured were treated and returned to your base, and everyone made themselves ready to ship out.

Once everyone deployed to their respective posts, that left you, Harp, Nakajima, and nine sergeants on-base. For the first couple days, you were all occupied with preparing the base for incoming recruits. The renovations to the base were complete, and most of the issues to be sorted out were administrative, but such things can take time. You got it all sorted out on the eve of the cadets’ arrival, and handed their training over to Nakajima and his sergeants after running them through orientation.

While the men trained, you found yourself enveloped in the responsibilities of a colonel, that is to say, paperwork and staff meetings. The next month or so, you spent a great deal of time in Edo. Though you would return to the base every evening to sleep, your only real exposure to the mens’ training was through progress reports compiled by Nakajima.

Right around the first of the year, when many of the men had been sent home for the holiday, you found yourself summoned to Edo once again. Though the purpose had not been stated, you were told it was to be an important function.

You look out at the snow falling around the carriage as it trundles toward the city. Across from you are Harp and Nakajima, and Mr. Beretta, who the Shogun requested come along, is sitting beside you.

You examine the fur cap cover, which makes your hat look less like a kepi and more like a short shako, rubbing the bear fur appreciatively. You are also wearing your pelisse, much to Nakajima’s dismay, and you greatly appreciate the warmth it provides.

“Why do you think we have been summoned to Edo?” Beretta leans forward.

You shrug. “Probably something to do with the holiday. Maybe a state ceremony or something.”

Nakajima frowns, seemingly about to say something, but returns to gazing out at the passing landscape. You sigh, leaning back in your seat. It’s still a good distance to Edo, especially in this weather. With how late in the afternoon it is, you imagine it will be dark by the time you arrive. It nearly is already.

>Talk with Harp to pass the time.
>Talk with Nakajima, he seems to have something on his mind.
>Talk with Beretta. He’s been spending a lot of time in his workshop since you gave him that Burnside you captured.
>Try to take a short nap along the way.
>Write-in.

>>3073719
>>Talk with Beretta. He’s been spending a lot of time in his workshop since you gave him that Burnside you captured.

>>3073719
>>Talk with Nakajima, he seems to have something on his mind.

naka and his custom of claming up, out with it man, tell us what you think we will face

>>3073719
>>Talk with Nakajima, he seems to have something on his mind.

>>3073719
>>Talk with Nakajima, he seems to have something on his mind.

>>3073719
>>Talk with Beretta. He’s been spending a lot of time in his workshop since you gave him that Burnside you captured.


Really iffy on the burnside carbine

>>3073719
>Talk with Beretta. He’s been spending a lot of time in his workshop since you gave him that Burnside you captured.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jjt6P7bPV1I

>>3073791
Qm what model of burnside carbine did we take?

>>3073719
>Talk with Nakajima, he seems to have something on his mind.

>>3073719
>Talk with Beretta. He’s been spending a lot of time in his workshop since you gave him that

>>3073719
>>Talk with Nakajima, he seems to have something on his mind.

>>3073804
Fourth Model. The same as in the video.

Also just got back from the store, and it seems we have a tie. I'll wait ten minutes, then roll a d2.

Oh, never mind a vote just came in. Writing now.

“Something wrong, Nakajima?” You lean forward. “You’ve been rather quiet the last couple days.”

He shakes his head. “It is nothing, sir.”

You frown. “If something’s on your mind, it might help to air it out.” You lean back, rubbing your chin.

Nakajima sighs, looking at you. “I just wonder how my family is celebrating the holiday.” He returns his gaze to the outside. “I have not seen them since the summer.” He shakes his head, grimacing. “But that is selfish of me, I should not complain when all of you have been away from your families for longer.”

You cross your arms. “What exactly makes you think missing your family is selfish?”

Nakajima raises an eyebrow, surprised at your reaction. He look over at Harp, who merely shrugs. “After my fourth wife, I realized that I was better off soldering about than trying to make a family.” Harp chuckles, and you join in at the memory of his stories.

You nod, adding your own experience. “I don’t really have a family to miss either.” Looking over at Beretta, who is also looking out at the scenery. “And what of you, Mr. Beretta?”

Your question seems to surprise him. “I beg your pardon, sir? I was looking up at the mountains.”

You chuckle a bit, realizing that he was making a little drawing of the mountain peaks in his sketchbook. “Do you miss your family any?”

He nods. “I do sometimes, but my work keeps me busy enough to not mind it.”

You look back at Nakajima. “See? There’s nothing wrong with being homesick, kid. Especially at your age.”

Nakajima looks at the floor, seemingly embarrassed. “I see. Thank you, sir.”

>”Where is your family? If they’re close, you should pay them a visit.”
>”Is there a reason you’ve not taken leave to visit them? Everyone else did.”
>”You’ve not mentioned your family much. What are they like?”
>Remain silent until you reach the city.
>Write-in.

>>3073898
>>3073804
Also I was a lying man, it's a fifth variant.

>>3073948
>>”Where is your family? If they’re close, you should pay them a visit.”

>>3073948
>>”You’ve not mentioned your family much. What are they like?”

>>3073948
>>”Is there a reason you’ve not taken leave to visit them? Everyone else did.”

>>3073953
So we have a fifth variant?

While I’m reluctant to use it, it will make a decent Calvary arm

>>3073961
Supporting this

“Where is your family?” You lean forward. “If they’re close, you should pay them a visit.”

“Perhaps I shall,” he replies. “They live in the southern part of Edo, near the sea.”

You frown, that’s quite close actually. The conversation quickly shifts to stories of home, with you and Harp telling the most raucous ones. You all talk rather actively during the rest of the ride, making it seem far quicker than it actually is.

When you arrive at Edo Castle, you see that you are far from the only guests here. Many important-looking Japanese men, likely officials and daimyos, are in the process of arriving.

Your group is intercepted by an attendant, who guides all of you to the main keep. An expansion has been added since you were last here, a reception hall you realize, and you are brought inside. The hall looks like a much larger version of a traditional Japanese dining hall, with a long table holding a veritable feast. You are brought up near the head of the table, where the Shogun, Matsudaira, and their respective officials are seated. Across from you sits Hijikata, as well as several other Shinsengumi.

“Colonel Stockton,” the Shogun greets you happily. “It is good to see you.”

“And you as well, sir.” You reply with a bow, then seat yourself when invited to.

“I like your coat,” he remarks. “What sort of fur is that?”

“Bear,” you reply. “I shot one near our camp a while back, so I had the pelt made into a coat.”

Once some more people begin to file in and seat themselves, the Shogun speaks to you. “All of these men are the daimyos that I can be sure are totally loyal.” He gestures to several men further down the table. “They are from all across Japan, though mostly from the northern half.”

>”This doesn’t seem like a common occurrence, gathering all of your daimyos. What’s the occasion?”
>”This food looks delicious. May I?” (begin eating)
>”How have things been since the attack?”
>”Any updates on the arms deals?”
>Write-in.

>>3074051
>>”Any updates on the arms deals?”
business

where are our guns chief?

>>3074051
>”How have things been since the attack?”

>>3074051
>”This doesn’t seem like a common occurrence, gathering all of your daimyos. What’s the occasion?”
>”Any updates on the arms deals?”

>>3074051
>”How have things been since the attack?”

>>3074051
>>”How have things been since the attack?”

>>3074051
>>”How have things been since the attack?”
>>”Any updates on the arms deals?”

>>3074051

>”How have things been since the attack?”

>”This doesn’t seem like a common occurrence, gathering all of your daimyos. What’s the occasion?”

“How have things been since the attack?”

The Shogun sighs, rubbing his temples. “Things have been… Tense. The idea that rebels or subversives could move so freely in Edo of all places.” He looks at you, a thoughtful expression on his face. “It has many of my family and cabinet members on-edge.”

You nod. “I can imagine. No further security breaches?”

He shakes his head. “None to speak of. I have ensured that security remains heightened until we know all of the details surrounding the attack.” He look at the rest of the people seated, frowning. “Anyway, I must address the daimyos. Hijikata will translate so you can understand.”

Hijikata takes over as the Shogun switches to Japanese and begins his speech. He speaks quietly, so as to not interfere with the Shogun’s speech being heard by the daimyos. “Good evening, esteemed guests. I have called all of you here for an important meeting.” The Shogun speaks some more, and the daimyos all react in different ways. “As you all know, tensions have been on the rise, with the disloyal daimyos of Choshu and Satsuma openly showing their treachery.” The Shogun leans forward, gesturing toward all of the present guests. He speaks, and Hijikata again translates. “As many of you are aware of, I have been in talks with suppliers of modern weaponry, and many of you have been in similar talks on the behalf of your respective domains.”

The Shogun pauses, then speaks again. His statement is clearly quite surprising, because even Hijikata seems taken aback by it. He begins translating after the Shogun takes a pause to clear his throat. “I have also been conducting many meetings with my top military officials, and we have come to a decision that I shall relay to you all. Within the next half-year, a military expedition shall be brought upon the most openly disloyal of my subjects, the Choshu Domain. I request the support of every one of you. Such a military campaign will show other disloyal and seditious groups the folly of their ways.” He leans back, pouring himself a glass of sake. “I expect as many troops as each of your domains can field.”

You hear murmuring amongst the daimyos, especially the ones near the far end of the table. The Shogun brings his speech to a close with a call for the feast to begin, and everyone proceeds to begin eating. The festivities are oddly solemn, and it isn’t long before various daimyos begin excusing themselves. Within about an hour, most of the guests have cleared out, having left gifts for the Shogun as they did.

You find yourself rather anxious from the announcement of a full military campaign. It seems quite clear to you now, with the preparations having been somewhat obvious in retrospect. After a while of the Shogun talking casually amongst the remaining guests, there is a lull in the conversation. If you were to speak with him, this would probably be the appropriate time.

>Keep eating quietly.
>You think you’ve been here long enough. Excuse yourself.
>”Have there been any updates on those arms deals?”
>”Will I be expected to lead troops in this upcoming campaign?”
>The daimyos seemed less than happy about your announcement. Do you expect them to make good on their dues?”
>Write-in.

>>3074186
>”Will I be expected to lead troops in this upcoming campaign?”

I would rather not question the loyalty of a japanese weeb infront of him.

>>3074186
>”Have there been any updates on those arms deals?”

>>3074186
>>”Will I be expected to lead troops in this upcoming campaign?”

>>3074183
>”Will I be expected to lead troops in this upcoming campaign?”

>>3074186
>>”Will I be expected to lead troops in this upcoming campaign?”
>>The daimyos seemed less than happy about your announcement. Do you expect them to make good on their dues?”

“Excuse me, your highness?” You look at the Shogun.

He smiles, fighting off a chuckle. “You needn’t call me that, Colonel. What do you need?”

“I have a question regarding the upcoming campaign.” You frown. “Will I be expected to lead troops?”

The Shogun looks down at the table momentarily. “Yes, you will. The Aizu Domain has no senior commanders trained in the ways of Western tactics.” He leans forward, resting an elbow on the table. “You will be under the supervision of Aizu generals reporting directly to myself and Matsudaira, but you will basically be in control of all Western-style Aizu forces present.”

You nod, taking a moment to process the information. “I see. So I’ll be acting as a stand-in for the generals on the ground.”

“You shall.” He frowns slightly. “I understand that you may have some reservations about this, but I believe you are the most qualified to take command.” He leans back casually. “Besides, with the amount of troops we will have fighting the Choshu forces, the campaign will be over no more than a month after it starts.”

“Very well,” you reply. “I just wanted to get a better picture of my role in this. Thank you.”

The Shogun smiles. “Of course, Colonel.” Your conversation trails off after that, and you go back to eating. Some more guests begin to leave, and the banquet seems to be winding down.

“Sir,” Nakajima gets your attention.

You look over at him, taking a bite of herring as you do. “Yes, Lieutenant?”

“May I be excused, sir?” He looks away. “I think I would like to go see my family, before it gets too late in the evening.”

>”Of course.” (let him go)
>”I was thinking of leaving too. Why don’t I come with you?” (roll a 1d20)
>”It would look bad if you just left in the middle of the feast. Stay a while longer.”
>Write-in.

Rolled 15 (1d20)

>>3074266
>>”I was thinking of leaving too. Why don’t I come with you?” (roll a 1d20)

time to get some secrets

>>3074266
>>”It would look bad if you just left in the middle of the feast. Stay a while longer.”

>Ask the shogun about the arms sea and the contraband. Also inform him about the artillery dealer eccentric nature to let him know ahead of time.

File: search.png (10 KB, 76x66)

10 KB PNG

Rolled 18 (1d20)

>>3074266
>>”I was thinking of leaving too. Why don’t I come with you?” (roll a 1d20)

naka is a Satsuma spy

Rolled 7 (1d20)

>>3074266
>”I was thinking of leaving too. Why don’t I come with you?” (roll a 1d20)

BULLI

Rolled 6 (1d20)

>>3074266
>”I was thinking of leaving too. Why don’t I come with you?” (roll a 1d20)

Best waifu please.

Rolled 15 (1d20)

>>3074266

Say, just a second and I'll be coming with you, I have just a couple of questions more

And
>
>Ask the shogun about the arms sea and the contraband. Also inform him about the artillery dealer eccentric nature to let him know ahead of time.

And leave with him


Rolling for the option of leaving with him too

>>3074266
>>3074276
Supporting in at least asking. I want armament info so I can at least prepare on what to expect and what formations we can do

We would need two or three different types of main long arm for cavalry, artillery and infantry

“I was actually about to leave as well,” you remark. “I’ll go with you.”

Nakajima looks away immediately, muttering something in Japanese you don’t quite understand. “Very well, sir.” He speaks in a rather stilted manner once he turns back to you.

“Good,” you reply. “Let me just tell the Shogun first.” You look over at the Shogun, getting his attention. “Sir?”

“Yes, Colonel?” He raises an eyebrow, taking a sip of sake.

“Myself and my Lieutenant here are going to take our leave, if that’s alright.”

“Of course,” he replies happily. “Is there anything else you need?”

You frown, rubbing your chin thoughtfully. “Oh, have there been any developments regarding arms deals?”

The Shogun nods, grinning. “There have. I do not wish to say anything yet, but there is a good chance you will all be getting new weapons soon. Better weapons, I might say myself. Oh, and I met with the other arms dealer, the one who lives at the British Garrison. He is certainly a strange fellow, his weapons are intriguing though.”

You nod, a grin appearing on your face. “Good to hear. And what of the weapons confiscated last month?”

He waves that question away casually. “Mostly nothing of particular value, compared to what is on its way here. I have given them to the Shinsengumi for their use.” He grimaces. “Did you know most of them were still equipped with matchlocks?”

“I see.” You lean back, scooting away from the table. “Then if there’s nothing else you need, I think we shall excuse ourselves.”

The Shogun bows lightly, which you return. “Have safe travels, Colonel.”

With that, you and Nakajima exit the banquet hall, and are very quickly on your way out of the castle entirely. The snow has begun to accumulate on the ground now, and is still falling steadily. “So, what is your family like, Nakajima?”

He looks down at the cobblestone of the streets, rubbing the back of his neck. “Well, they are rather traditional, in many ways.” He shrugs. “My father was a samurai before me, and his ancestors have all been samurai in service of Shoguns and other lords.”

“I see,” you reply. You’ve not encountered staunch traditionalists in person yet, at least not in a non-combat setting. “They sound interesting.”

Nakajima sighs as the two of you exit the castle gates. “That is one way to describe them, sir.” With that, you both begin walking down the street, heading toward the home of the Nakajima family.

File: 1543229574111.jpg (28 KB, 517x452)

28 KB JPG

And that's going to be it for tonight. Next session will be on Sunday. As always, feel free to drop questions, comments, concerns and everything else here. I'll try to answer what I can. Thanks for playing!

>>3074369
Thanks for the run boss.

>>3074369
it was great, looking forward to the next run.

Better Weapons?

so we will be equipped with breechloaders?

Shogun is rolling in dough

>>3074369
How do you court imperial nobility?

File: 1492504109400.jpg (345 KB, 1280x670)

345 KB JPG

>>3078820
>How do you court imperial nobility?
Very, very discreetly.

>>3081236
I am thinking of a deadly game, Aren't I?

>>3081350
>>3078820
you don't is my amswer anon lol

File: New Ironsides.jpg (87 KB, 740x411)

87 KB JPG

>>3081350
>>3082300
Oh it's a very doable endeavor, just one that must be approached carefully.

Also we're still good for a session tomorrow, going live at around 6PM Eastern.

File: 8F58436D-B864-470C-A06E-F(...).jpg (116 KB, 625x468)

116 KB JPG

Quick update regarding today’s session: it’s going to be later in the evening than initially expected. Somewhere around 8PM Eastern. I’ll try to run later into the night as a result.

>>3083989
When do you need the ship roster?

I got distracted playing a game for the last couple of weeks?

>>3084909
You can post it whenever you feel like. Take your time if you need to.

“This is your house?” You look on with wide eyes at the Nakajima residence. It is a walled, multi-home complex with a central house that is two stories tall. The estate sits right near the edge of Edo, as your lieutenant had explained, and the other homes around are similar, though none quite match the splendor of this one.

Nakajima nods. “Yes. As I said, my family has served the Bakufu for many generations.” He looks down at the ground, crossing his arms. “It comes with many rewards.”

You nod, taking another look at the place. Without much more waiting, the two of you stride up to the front gate, and an attendant lets the two of you in once Nakajima introduces himself. The place is just as impressive on the inside, with meticulous landscaping and beautiful gardens, covered up with a light dusting of snow. The attendant leads the two of you up to the main house, and you both remove your boots upon entering.

Nakajima gets your attention as you are guided into the house further. “I already mentioned that my family are very traditionalist, right?” You nod. “Good. I want to be sure you are prepared for that.” As he speaks, the attendant guides the two of you into a dining room where dinner appears to have just commenced.

The attendant says something to the people at the table, and they look up. One is a motherly, older woman with some gray in her hair. She wears a simple kimono with rather few decorative designs on the fabric. The other occupant at the table is a ferocious older man, maybe in his fifties. He has a topknot, as well as nearly a full beard (a first amongst the Japanese you’ve ment), and wears a black kimono with no embellishments whatsoever. You notice a katana on his belt with a shiny, black scabbard and handle.

The woman, obviously Nakajima’s mother, stands up first, running over to her son. She hugs him tightly as you step back out of the way. “Shiro!” She uses his first name in between various Japanese phrases too jumbled for you to catch. For his part, Lieutenant Nakajima tries to calm her down. That being said, he’s still a kid, and you can tell how much he missed his mother.

Your gaze returns to the other side of the room as the father stands up, making direct eye-contact with you and walking in your direction. He moves precisely. He stops just in front of you, his expression remaining blank. Finally, he extends a hand, speaking as he does. “I assume you’re Colonel Stockton, the American?”

You nod, shaking his hand. His English is absolutely flawless, with a hint of a Southern accent. You think he might be the first Japanese man to use contractions in his speech. “I am. It’s a pleasure to meet you, sir.”

The man, Nakajima’s father, shakes his head. “You don’t need to call me ‘sir.’ I’m no military man.” He gestures to the table. “I’ve just had the New-Years’ feast laid out, please, sit and eat with us.”

You do as you’re asked, and within a few minutes you are all sitting down and eating various hardy, traditional foods of the holiday. As it would turn out, Nakajima’s father is named Shigeru, and his mother’s name is Nanako. You remain mostly-silent at first, as Nakajima holds a conversation with his parents in Japanese, occasionally gesturing to you. After a few minutes, the conversation dies down.

>Remain silent. They’ll address you when they want to.
>Comment on Shigeru’s English ability.
>Comment on the size of the home.
>Ask about their opinion of modernization efforts.
>Write-in.

>>3085257
>>Remain silent. They’ll address you when they want to.

Be polite

>>3085257

>Remain silent. They’ll address you when they want to.

>>3085257
>>Comment on Shigeru’s English ability.

To hell with that. We're a gaijin and might as well make use of it. They would hardly expect us to conform to local norms.

>>3085257
>>Remain silent. They’ll address you when they want to.

>>3085257
>Comment on Shigeru’s English ability.

Ok, now I'm confus, is Naka's family in on the soft hands ploy?

>>3085254
>Comment on Shigeru’s English ability.

>>3085257
>Remain silent. They’ll address you when they want to.

>>3085257
>Comment on the size of the home.

>>3085254
>Comment on Shigeru’s English ability

Hey guys, I think I'm getting sick. I hate to do it, but I think I'll have to lay down and postpone the session until tomorrow. Sorry.

>>3085642
Rip, feel better QM

>>3085642
Get well soon

>>3085257
>>Remain silent. They’ll address you when they want to.

Let's just observe for a while

I believe Shiro is a unisex Japanese name. Then again maybe this whole Nakajima = Woman theory is false.

>>3086581
Nakajima probably doesn't have any brothers or if there is one he will have some serious issue

Her father wanted a son, didn’t get one. Shiro you are son now.

>>3085254
That's a pretty overt and public expression of affection for a traditionalist family. Nakajima's mom must have really, really missed him.

>Remain silent. They’ll address you when they want to.

After having gotten some rest, I'm feeling much better. Session in half an hour.

You decide to remain silent, enjoying the food and atmosphere. You notice that Nakajima’s mother and father seem worlds apart. She is quite open and friendly, even speaking to you a couple times, which Nakajima translates for you. She seems quite intrigued by the West, and America in particular. His father, on the other hand, is every part the samurai you expected him to be. He rarely speaks, often responding in one or two words to what other people say, and never seeming to start a conversation of his own. He moves deliberately, and though his eyes wander from time to time, they do so with a purpose.

Finally, after a few minutes of you merely listening to everyone else’s conversations, Shigeru speaks up, leaning forward. “So, Colonel. How long have you been in Japan?”

You rub your chin thoughtfully. “Almost five months.”

He nods slowly. “I see. You’ve made quite a name for yourself in that time.” He grins slightly. “Most foreigners are… Reluctant to make close relations here in Japan. I believe many of them consider us beneath their lofty goals.” He frowns, eating a bite of some rice. “Or at least, they did. Now, things seem to be getting much more complicated.” You don’t really know how to respond, not wanting to anger someone such as him. “Ah, but such conversations are too serious for a New Years’ celebration. What do you think of the food?”

“It’s delicious,” you reply.

“The New Year is an important celebration for us,” he adds. “Ushering in the new, after that which was old has passed.” He shakes his head, taking a sip of tea. “And it is a reminder that we are all a year older. Much to my dismay.” He chuckles, then trails off. After a couple seconds of silence, he raises an eyebrow, pointing at you. “The fur of your Jacket, is it bear?”

You nod. “It is.” An almost fearful feeling takes hold in you, as you remember what Nakajima said about many Japanese’ aversion to fur garments.

Shigeru frowns. “Did you kill it yourself?”

You nod again. “There was one near our camp. I ran into it on patrol one night.”

The old samurai has a somewhat surprising reaction. “Good.” He then takes another bite of food. With that, the conversation breaks up again. You find yourself occasionally talking with Nakajima, as well as with his mother (with Nakajima translating of course), but Shigeru doesn’t say much after the subject of your coat is brought up.

After a while, once you’ve all finished eating, Shigeru gets up and goes over to the window. “The snow seems to be falling quite heavily now.” He looks back to the table. “It would probably not be safe to travel back to your base under these conditions. You mentioned that it was to the north?”

“It is,” you reply.

Shigeru frowns, looking out through the window again. “Yes, in this snow, the country roads would be quite treacherous.” He nods at you. “We have a guest house for you, and Shiro can use his old room in this house. You both should remain here overnight.”

>”We really should be returning to our base. I’m sure a little snow won’t stop us.” (leave)
>”Staying in a warm home is preferable to braving the elements. I’d be glad to.” (stay for the night)
>Write-in.

>>3087290
>”Staying in a warm home is preferable to braving the elements. I’d be glad to.” (stay for the night)

>>3087290
>We really should be returning to our base. I’m sure a little snow won’t stop us.” (leave)

Want to see if we can improve the base

>>3087290
>”Staying in a warm home is preferable to braving the elements. I’d be glad to.” (stay for the night)

Maybe we will be invited to a night cap

>>3087314
You don't fuck with Weeb winter anon. Its almost as bad as calling japans waifu a shit.

>>3087290
>”Staying in a warm home is preferable to braving the elements. I’d be glad to.” (stay for the night)

Naka will melt with embarassment, good.

>>3087290
>”Staying in a warm home is preferable to braving the elements. I’d be glad to.” (stay for the night)

>>3087290
>>”Staying in a warm home is preferable to braving the elements. I’d be glad to.” (stay for the night)

>>3087322
Buy I’m not interested in waifu right now but rifle.

“Staying at a warm home is preferable to braving the elements,” you say. “Thank you for your hospitality.” You bow.

Shigeru returns the bow. “Let me show you to your room, Colonel.” He then says something in Japanese to Lieutenant Nakajima’s mother, and the two of them get up from the table.

“I will be heading to my old room, sir.” Nakajima looks over at you. “Good night.”

You nod. “Good night to you as well, Lieutenant.” With that, Shigeru guides you out of the dining room.

He takes you down a hallway, then you both exit the house and walk along a covered walkway leading to the guest house. As you walk, he gestures to a garden with a small building near it. “I have taken to gardening in my old age,” he remarks. “If you are ever in town during the late spring, I would like to show you this one.” He looks back at you, grinning ever so slightly. “I do not like to brag, but I am quite proud of that one.” He points to the building next to it. “In the winter, I have to put my koi fish in tanks in there, because the pond is not deep enough for them to survive the winter.” He crosses his arms. “I have a couple that are nearly a century old.”

“You mean that you have fish nearly a century old?” You raise an eyebrow, making sure you didn’t miss some other meaning.

He nods. “Indeed. They can live for many years, if you take good care of them. My father and grandfather raised koi as a pastime.” He nods toward another small building. “The guest house is up here. Follow me.” You both begin walking toward the guest house.

>Remain silent.
>”I thought most traditional Japanese had an aversion to fur. You didn’t seem to mind my jacket.”
>”Your English is flawless. Where did you learn it?”
>”I heard that your family has served Shoguns for generations. What’s that like?”
>Write-in.

>>3087438
>>”Your English is flawless. Where did you learn it?”

>>3087438
>”I thought most traditional Japanese had an aversion to fur. You didn’t seem to mind my jacket.”

>>3087438
>”Your English is flawless. Where did you learn it?”
>”I heard that your family has served Shoguns for generations. What’s that like?”

>>3087438
>>3087451
This

>>3087438
>>”Your English is flawless. Where did you learn it?”
>”I heard that your family has served Shoguns for generations. What’s that like?”

>>3087499
>>3087451
Guys don't impose and ask him such a family question about the shoguns

>>3087511
Eh fine just ask about The the english

>>3087438
>>”Your English is flawless. Where did you learn it?”

>>3087438
>”Your English is flawless. Where did you learn it?”

“Your English is flawless,” you remark. “Where did you learn it?”

Shigeru chuckles. “I see Shiro didn’t tell you much about me.” He slows down to walk beside you. “I was with the group that met Commodore Perry back in ’54.”

You raise an eyebrow. “I see. So you were one of the first to have any contact with Americans.”

He nods, a far-away look in his eyes. “Indeed. The world became much larger that day.” He shrugs. “Though, my English got better when I spent a while in San Francisco.”

“I had no idea you were with the group of Samurai that came to the US.”

Shigeru shrugs slightly. “Well, it isn’t something I go out of my way to mention, normally. Of course, I don’t normally have Americans over as guests, either.”

“What did you think of America?” You look over at the old samurai.

“It was very strange to me, especially at first.” He sighs. “And in a way, it frightened me.”

“How so?” You find it strange that a grizzled, veteran samurai would admit to being scared of anything.

Shigeru’s gaze remains fixed ahead, toward the guest house, but you can tell he’s not looking at it specifically. “Because I realized that it was the future.” He shakes his head, looking over at you again. “Japan is like an old man, scared of change, of the future. Set in his ways, for better or worse.” He grimaces. “But just like how the snow melts in spring, the future will come here eventually. Whether we want it to or not.” The two of you arrive at the door to the guest house, and Shigeru opens the door. “Anyway, here’s the guest house. There’s a futon in the corner there. We eat breakfast at around sunrise.” He bows, which you return. “You're invited, of course.”

“Thank you,” you reply. As you step into the guest house, you feel tiredness beginning to take you, likely from all the food you’ve eaten.

“Is there anything else you need, Colonel?” Shigeru crosses his arms.

>”No thanks. Good night.”
>”I was curious about something. Most traditional types are averse to fur, but you didn’t seem to mind my jacket.”
>”Did you go anywhere besides San Francisco while you were in America?”
>”I had heard that you were very traditional, but you actually seem quite open-minded.”
>Write-in.

>>3087604
>>”No thanks. Good night.”

>>3087604
>”No thanks. Good night.”

>>3087604
>>Write-in.
"Not particularly, except perhaps about your son." Commend shiro to his father, emphasising his capability and value to the unit, especially with the last action our unit took part in. As a traditional father, hes not likely to ask us directly of this but he'd want to know.

>>3087604

>”No thanks. Good night.”

>>3087604
>”No thanks. Good night.”

>>3087632
we can embarrass Shiro at breakfast

>>3087604
>>”No thanks. Good night.”

“No thanks,” you reply. “Good night.”

“Good night, Colonel.” Shigeru bows, stepping out and closing the door.

You walk over to where the futon is, unrolling it as you get undressed. You lay your weapons out beside you, yawning as you drape your pelisse over a hook on the wall normally meant for a lamp of some sort. Laying down, you sigh as you close your eyes.

----

Doubling over to cough quietly, you retch some green phlegm onto the rust-red Georgia dirt beneath you. Immediately your head pops up and you look around to check for anyone following you. Though it is probably quite warm tonight, the rags that used to be your uniform provide little insulation for your weakened, sick body. You shiver, adjusting your kepi and crouching through the bushes. It is nighttime now. You don’t remember how long you ran for once you cleared the walls, it had to have been hours until you finally collapsed in a thicket. In your haste, you never bothered to check the sun’s position in the sky, so you don’t have the slightest idea where you are. For all you know, you could’ve been running in circles around the forests of Sumter for the last few hours.

“Dammit,” you whisper to yourself, forcing your legs to keep moving. You pray that no Confederate patrols are in the area. Though you have a shiv made from a piece of tree root, it is not nearly enough to defend against an able-bodied fighting man. Part of you wants so badly to lay down against a tree and rest, but you know that you’ll die from exposure out here. You need to get someplace warm and dry. Need to get some actual clothes on your back. As you peek out of the thicket you’re hiding in, you notice something. Potential salvation on the horizon, if you play your cards right. A distant plantation house, with the lights on.

----

You awaken with a short yelp, looking around erratically. The guest house is exactly as you left it, with your belongings laid out beside you. Swearing to yourself, you sit up and rub your eyes. What the hell has gotten into you? These nightmares aren’t normal. Glancing out through the window, it looks to be nearly morning, with the sun either being just about to rise, or having just risen.

>Go over to the main house and see if breakfast is ready.
>Remain here until someone comes to get you.
>Put on your pelisse and explore the grounds. You want to see the gardens, even if they’re covered in snow.
>Write-in.

>>3087696
>Remain here until someone comes to get you.

>>3087696
>>Remain here until someone comes to get you.

>>3087696
>>Put on your pelisse and explore the grounds. You want to see the gardens, even if they’re covered in snow.

>>3087696
>Put on your pelisse and explore the grounds. You want to see the gardens, even if they’re covered in snow.

Comon guys, opportunity, lets see what we stumble in, we need to clear our head after the nightmare and remaining inside will only get us more protocol and nothing else

>>3087696
>Put on your pelisse and explore the grounds. You want to see the gardens, even if they’re covered in snow.

>>3087696
>>Put on your pelisse and explore the grounds. You want to see the gardens, even if they’re covered in snow.

>>3087714
>>3087719
>>3087724
>>3087730
Roll a 1d20

Rolled 6 (1d20)

>>3087735
ded

Rolled 4 (1d20)

>>3087735

>>3087735
Go

Rolled 10 (1d20)

>>3087735
Go again

Rolled 19 (1d20)

>>3087735
forget if this is bo3

You throw on your pelisse over your shirt, donning a pair of sandals near the door of the guest house and stepping outside. It is cold out, but you note that there are no clouds in the sky. You take a step off of the covered path, walking over to where the snow-covered garden is.

The dusting of snow is light, and you can tell that it must look spectacular in the spring and summer. You notice that the Japanese have a rather different concept of gardens than Americans do. There are many structural elements, many of them derived from nature, that give the place a striking appearance even when covered in snow. There is a tree hanging over the koi pond, leaves gone because of the winter. You glance over at the building where the koi winter tanks are, and briefly you think about going over to see them for yourself.

“It is far more impressive when the cherry tree blossoms, in spring.” Lieutenant Nakajima speaks as he walks up to you. He has foregone the full uniform, and is wearing a heavy-looking kimono draped over his button-up shirt. You notice that he doesn’t have his shoulder-length hair tied back into the tight ponytail he normally has, and it gives him a rather strange appearance. He crosses his arms, looking over at you. “Did you sleep well, sir?”

You nod. “Well enough, I think. I had a nightmare though.” You shrug. “Other than that, I slept great though. This is a nice place.”

Nakajima looks back at the garden, nodding slowly. “My family has lived here since my grandfather was a child.” He turns toward the main house. “Breakfast is almost ready. Shall we eat?”

“That sounds good,” you reply. The two of you head over to the main house.

Breakfast consists of a light soup and some rice, with fish on the side. Conversation is, as you expected, mostly small talk. You tell a story or two about the training maneuvers you did when training the original 50 men, and Lieutenant Nakajima joins in with stories of his own, some of which are quite amusing.

After breakfast is finished, you all begin getting ready to leave.

“I hope you will come back more frequently,” Shigeru says to Lieutenant Nakajima. “This is your home, after all.”

Nakajima bows deeply. “I shall, father.” You notice that Lieutenant Nakajima has a katana on his belt, just behind his saber.

Shigeru turns to you. “And it was a pleasure making your acquaintance, Colonel.” He bows.

You bow in return. “Likewise.”

You and Nakajima leave not long after that, walking down the road toward the main part of Edo. “So sir,” Nakajima begins after a while. “Shall we go looking for Major Harp, or just find a carriage and get back to the base?”

>”Harp is probably down at the tavern, now that you mention it.” (go look for Harp)
>”The Major would’ve gone home after the feast at the castle was done. Let’s return to base.” (trust Harp’s judgment)
>Write-in.

>>3087840
>>”Harp is probably down at the tavern, now that you mention it.” (go look for Harp)
With the current political climate, better not leave one of our guys alone.

>>3087840
>”Harp is probably down at the tavern, now that you mention it.” (go look for Harp)

>>3087840
>>”The Major would’ve gone home after the feast at the castle was done. Let’s return to base.” (trust Harp’s judgment)

>>3087840

>”Harp is probably down at the tavern, now that you mention it.” (go look for Harp)

>strange appearance
Daniel is noticing, I wonder what we would get if we rolled higher

File: Colonel Taylor.jpg (298 KB, 1240x1800)

298 KB JPG

“He’s probably down at the tavern…” You grimace. “Let’s go get him.”

The two of you immediately head toward that part of town. It is a cool morning, but the sun has little trouble melting the snow that fell last night. The trade district is much like it was when you last stepped foot here, save for the occasional soldier wearing an Aizu uniform. You know that one of your lieutenants, Sato more specifically, has been assigned to train troops in Edo at a military academy of some sort.

You eventually arrive at the street where the saloons are, and make a bee-line for the one that Harp most often goes to. As you walk up to the building in question, you hear a commotion inside.

You stop a few feet from the door as a man is kicked out through it, onto the cobblestones. You immediately realize that it is a heavily-intoxicated Harp, and are about to go pick him up when two familiar characters step out onto the porch. The confederates from before stand there, wearing greatcoats over their uniforms. “You sloppy, drunk old bastard,” one of them says. It’s laughable, considering they both seem sloppily drunk themselves.

The other, the one you remember as being the leader between the two, chuckles, pulling a revolver out. “I ought to put you out of your misery right here, old man.”

You and Nakajima step forward, your own revolvers drawn and pointed at the confederates. “You boys should know better than to give me an excuse to shoot you.”

The men turn to face you, cocking their hammers as they do. “You know, with how inept the local constabulary are, we could probably shoot you and be halfway to Yokohama before anyone got here.”

You cock the hammer of your Dragoon. “I’d have six rounds flying before you could let that hammer down.”

You feel your pulse quicken, and a knot form in the pit of your stomach. This is not how you wanted to start your day.

However, a third figure steps out of the saloon, putting a hand on the shoulder of the higher-ranking confederate. “That’s enough, don’t you think. Getting in a fight with the Shogun’s soldiers doesn’t look good.” Johnny Reb’s face goes pale as the man talks, and he lowers his revolver quickly. The other man does the same. The stranger steps past the confederates, walking toward you. He wears regular, though quite opulent clothes, and has slicked back hair. He looks maybe forty, or a little bit older, and walks with a slight limp. There's a scar above his eye that interrupts his eyebrow, and you can tell he's got a brace of revolvers under his coat.

“Who the hell are you?” You lower your revolver slowly, nodding at Nakajima to do the same. Harp stands up, walking over to stand behind the both of you.

The man grins slightly, nodding at you. He speaks in a gravelly tone that makes you think of how a mountain might sound, if it could talk. “Colonel Allen Taylor, Confederate Army. Retired, of course.”

File: 1534477540976.jpg (70 KB, 1080x1080)

70 KB JPG

And that's going to be all for tonight. We'll run tomorrow at around the same time. As always, feel free to leave any questions, comments, concerns, and shitposts here. Thanks for playing!

>>3087909
>I wonder what we would get if we rolled higher
A nat 20 would've gotten you something quite amazing.

>>3087927
>“Colonel Allen Taylor, Confederate Army. Retired, of course.
>Can't be retired if you don't have a nation to call home.

fucking hicks, Ain't got no damn honor at all.

>>3087932
So I take it we saved Harp then from being killed?

>>3087932
Gaaaah! Now I'm very curious. Can't wait for the next chance to wwalk on him.

On an unrelated note, we should warn the shogun to not get involved with this scum

File: 1514192357393.jpg (102 KB, 488x589)

102 KB JPG

>>3087938
>So I take it we saved Harp then from being killed?
I'm sure he would've found a way out of it, Anon.

>>3087942
This is why we let them march through the south

>>3087932
It's not going to take poor Stockton 30 years to connect the dots is it?

File: 1464052009476.jpg (50 KB, 614x915)

50 KB JPG

>>3088027
Big spoiler here, so be warned:
I have a planned reveal-point in the story, but you've got chances to learn before that comes.

File: 5CA3A9E0-8C0B-4C3C-93BD-B(...).jpg (2.08 MB, 4032x2614)

2.08 MB JPG

Saw some civil war era guns today. Will post more pictures later.

After hostilities were defused between you and the Confederates in town, you all decided to return to base. That Colonel Taylor didn’t sit well with you at all, something about him seemed far more dangerous than his buddies. Still, short of having the Shinsengumi detain them, causing a big scene no doubt, there wasn’t much you could do.

The next weeks after that were more of the same old thing. The trainees returned from their holiday, and their training was soon over. They were sent to a garrison somewhere as another batch came in, along with several wagons of new weapons and munitions. The Shogun had bought Sharps breechloaders, you learned, in no small amount. After Nakajima began training the new batch of cadets (after you gave him a basic rundown of the Sharps rifles’ features), you went into Edo to speak with the Shogun.

As it would turn out, he ordered nearly fifty thousand Springfield rifle-muskets of the various models (to be given to levy units, as well as distributed amongst semi-modernized units trained by Japanese commanders in the modern style), as well as ten thousand Sharps rifles and carbines for use with the most modern infantry units, and a couple thousand Spencer carbines for use by NCOs and officers. You were highly impressed by the quantity of new weapons, and thankful for it. The troops you had trained (and thus the ones trained by your lieutenants and sergeants) were already familiar with the Needle Guns, and retraining for a Sharps isn’t a monumental task at all.

As January trickled into February, you rotated another class of cadets through your camp, growing impressed with the rate at which Nakajima’s sergeants trained new recruits. By your estimation, your camp had seen somewhere between four and five hundred men brought into the ranks of the Aizu Domain’s rifle regiments. You find that much of your time has been spent in meetings, discussing strategy and logistics. The Shogun clearly intends for this Choshu campaign to be a massive show of force, intended to cripple the militaries of his disloyal subjects and force them back into line.

“I can’t wait for this weather to break,” you remark. As you speak, your boot splashes through a puddle of slush. While it is now warm enough to melt snow, it isn’t quite warm enough to turn it all to water. It is nearly March, and the weather has remained the same since mid-February.

“Agreed,” Nakajima nods. “This wet air is playing havoc with the gunpowder.” The two of you walk briskly from the gates of Edo Castle to your horses, which remain exactly where you hitched them. You head over to your horse, donning your cap as you prepare to mount up.

“The powder in the armory hasn’t been getting wet, has it?” You raise an eyebrow.

Nakajima shakes his head. “No, but the cadets seem to have a poor grasp of how to keep their powder dry on maneuvers.” He sighs. “Perhaps I should have them disciplined for it in the future…”

>”Very well. Let’s go.”
>”How about I accompany them on maneuvers one day soon? I’ll see what they’re doing wrong and try to fix it.”
>”Sometimes powder just gets wet in the field. Not much that can be done about it.”
>”Do you think the powder could be defective from the supplier? We had some issues with that early in the War.”
>Write-in.

>>3089293
>”Do you think the powder could be defective from the supplier? We had some issues with that early in the War.”
>”How about I accompany them on maneuvers one day soon? I’ll see what they’re doing wrong and try to fix it.”

>>3089293
>>”Do you think the powder could be defective from the supplier? We had some issues with that early in the War.”
>”How about I accompany them on maneuvers one day soon? I’ll see what they’re doing wrong and try to fix it.”

>>3089293
>”Do you think the powder could be defective from the supplier? We had some issues with that early in the War.”
>”How about I accompany them on maneuvers one day soon? I’ll see what they’re doing wrong and try to fix it.”

>>3089291
>”Do you think the powder could be defective from the supplier? We had some issues with that early in the War.”
>”How about I accompany them on maneuvers one day soon?

Let's not say we are fixing things, I'm sure he is doing a good job, we are just curious.

>>3089316
yeah, ok, change to that

>>3089316
I'll third this

“You think the powder could already be flawed when we’re getting it?” You look over at Nakajima.

He frowns. “It is a distinct possibility.”

You nod, looking ahead as you both ride out toward the edge of the city. “I’ll accompany the men on drills sometime soon if you want. Maybe I can see if they’re doing anything wrong.”

“Ah,” Nakajima begins. “You do not need to do that, sir. I am sure they will learn.”

“Nonsense.” You grin, looking forward to stretching your legs a bit. “I’d be glad to take them on some maneuvers.”

As it would turn out, that decision was perhaps a mistake. You grunt, struggling to climb a muddy hill. After returning to base, you got the men assembled and decided to lead them on a march around the countryside. Things were going well enough, until the weather turned against you dramatically. Since then, the terrain around you has turned into a slushy, muddy mess. You are thankful that you ditched your nice pelisse in favor of a standard greatcoat at the main building.

“This way, men.” You call back to the nearest troops. “If you can climb a hill in this,” you gesture to the icy rain coming down in sheets around you. “Then you can handle climbing a hill under fire. Remember to keep your ammunition dry, that’s critical!”

You slog toward the top of the hill, with Nakajima following relatively close behind. “Do armies really fight in weather like this, sir? It seems quite contrary to what most people would consider fighting weather.”

You look back at him, seeing that he is even struggling to keep up in the mud. The formation has loosened since you started your march, and now the men have taken to using whatever paths give them the best traction. “Well, you don’t always get to choose what weather you fight in.”

“How shall we handle things once we get to the hilltop?” Nakajima points to the summit. “Earthworks, or just firing practice?”

>”You decide. This is your training company, after all.”
>”Have them prepare defensive positions.”
>”Firing practice should be enough.”
>”Neither. We’ll take the hilltop, then march to a different one. Keep the men on their toes.”
>Write-in.

>>3089469
>>”You decide. This is your training company, after all.”
We want our officers to have initiative after all.

>>3089469
>>”You decide. This is your training company, after all.”

>>3089469
>>”You decide. This is your training company, after all.”

>>3089469
>You decide. This is your training company after all.

>>3089469
>”You decide. This is your training company, after all.”

>>3089469
>>”You decide. This is your training company, after all.”

Holy shit Spencer rifles and carbines?

I’m afraid of how much money was spent on all of that.

Btw which model of Spencer did we get?

>>3089469
>”You decide. This is your training company, after all.”

>>3089522
A mix of models, though primarily the 1860.

>>3089560
Eh... reluctant to hear that but there is not much difference between them other then he patch box so it will be fine

File: Sharps paper cartridges.jpg (86 KB, 540x720)

86 KB JPG

“That’s your call, Lieutenant,” you say. “They’re your company.”

Nakajima nods, looking back at the men. He shouts at them in Japanese, drawing his saber and using it to emphasize the top of the hill. Once you all arrive at the peak, he grimaces, digging the heel of his boot into the mud. “This will be unsuitable for making fighting holes…” He then orders the men to form a 2-rank circle around the peak of the hill.

You look over the men as they enter formation. They move with a practiced level of precision, making use of their ranks to allow both circles to fire at once. Nakajima orders them to fire down the hill, and they do as ordered. You begin to notice that the Sharps rifles are having more problems than the Spencer carbines of the NCOs, and it hits you immediately: the paper cartridges must be getting water on them, despite the leather ammunition pouches. It is maybe one misfire for every five or six shots, not a tremendous dent in the company-wide fire rate, but enough to get men killed unnecessarily.

“You see the problem, sir?” Nakajima points out the misfires, crossing his arms.

You nod. “Paper cartridges are getting wet.” Grimacing, you say the one thing you wish you didn’t have to. “Not much we can do about that, I think. Rain like this is going to soak the ammunition pouches regardless of what we do.”

Nakajima sighs. “Damn. I suppose it is no better for rifle-muskets?”

You shake your head. “Often worse. Loose powder gets wet easier.”

He sighs, looking around. “I suppose we should bring the men in for the day then. This rain shows little sign of letting up.” Sheathing his saber, he grimaces. “If only there was a way to protect the powder in the cartridges…”

>”Well, no use worrying about it today. Let’s head back.” (drop the issue)
>”We might be able to coat the sides of the paper in wax to keep the water out.” (try a quick fix)
>”I’ll bet Beretta could design us a work-around. I’ll talk with him about it.” (attempt to modify the guns/ammunition)
>”Bring them in? Now is the perfect time to practice an emergency bayonet charge!” (continue training)
>Write-in.

>>3089601
>>”We might be able to coat the sides of the paper in wax to keep the water out.” (try a quick fix)
Do this first then once we get back to base let's talk to our Italian friend.

>>3089601
>”We might be able to coat the sides of the paper in wax to keep the water out.” (try a quick fix)
>”I’ll bet Beretta could design us a work-around. I’ll talk with him about it.” (attempt to modify the guns/ammunition)

Use the quick fix but tell bereta to work in a permanent solution.

If we can effectively keep the powder dry and our enemies don't the rain just moved from battlefield annoyance to important tactical advantage.

>>3089601
>”We might be able to coat the sides of the paper in wax to keep the water out.” (try a quick fix)
>”I’ll bet Beretta could design us a work-around. I’ll talk with him about it.” (attempt to modify the guns/ammunition)

>>3089601
>>”Bring them in? Now is the perfect time to practice an emergency bayonet charge!” (continue training)

Continue training.

Then explain to the men the quick fix
>”We might be able to coat the sides of the paper in wax to keep the water out.” (try a quick fix)

Talk to Bretta later

>”I’ll bet Beretta could design us a work-around. I’ll talk with him about it.” (attempt to modify the guns/ammunition)


We need to teach the men bayonet training. It’s the 1860s this is important

>>3089601
>>”We might be able to coat the sides of the paper in wax to keep the water out.” (try a quick fix)
>>”I’ll bet Beretta could design us a work-around. I’ll talk with him about it.” (attempt to modify the guns/ammunition)

>>3089560
How about the Sharps rifles

>>3089601
>”We might be able to coat the sides of the paper in wax to keep the water out.” (try a quick fix)
>”I’ll bet Beretta could design us a work-around. I’ll talk with him about it.” (attempt to modify the guns/ammunition)

>>3089631
Pretty much every model available at the time, with a seemingly-random mixing of carbines and rifles. The predominant ones are the 1858 and 1863 though.

File: Enzo Beretta, 1865.jpg (39 KB, 564x715)

39 KB JPG

“I have a couple of ideas for a work-around,” you say. “They both require heading back to the base though.”

“Right,” Nakajima nods. “Let’s go.” Nakajima orders the company to pack it up and march for home, making haste under the rain. It is maybe half an hour before you are all back at your camp, after which you get a dry change of clothes on and meet with Nakajima in the main building.

“So here’s my idea,” you begin. In your hand is the paper cartridge for a Sharps. “Now, our paper getting wet is the main problem here, so we need to coat the walls of the cartridge with something waterproof.” You gesture to a lit candle on your desk, with a small paintbrush dipped into the wax. “If we coat the sides with wax, the only spot we have to worry about is the back of the cartridge.” You gently apply the wax to the paper, taking care to not lay it on too thickly. “We don’t want too much melted wax left over in the chamber, however, so we’ll have to experiment a bit.”

Nakajima frowns. “This seems like an effective solution in theory… But how will we hand-treat every round we expect to shoot? That would take up a great amount of time.”

You nod. “It might, but this is more of a stopgap effort than anything.” You point in the general direction of Beretta’s shop. “I’m going to see if our resident gunsmith can come up with a better solution. He might even be able to rig these Sharps to shoot metallic cartridges, just like the Spencers.”

“I see,” Nakajima nods. “Do you think it would be possible to fit the Sharps rifles to fire the same cartridge as the Spencers?”

You frown, rubbing your chin. “Doubtful. The Sharps fires a .52 caliber bullet, and the Spencer uses a .55,” you reply. “Though, I could definitely ask.” You hand Nakajima the wax-coated cartridge. “In the meantime, take this and show the men. Have them make some of their own.”

“Yes sir,” Nakajima replies with a salute. With that, you part ways. Nakajima heads over to the barracks, and you make your way to the workshop built onto the side of your main building.

Enzo Beretta’s workshop is a rather cluttered place, with lots of loose spare parts, tools, some small machinery, and several rifles and pistols lying about. As you enter, you see Beretta hunched over a workbench, doing something with that old Burnside carbine you seized back a couple months ago. “Mr. Beretta,” you greet him.

Enzo turns around, grinning at you. “Ah, hello Colonel. To what do I owe the pleasure?”

>”You seem to be getting settled in here rather nicely.”
>”What are you doing with that Burnside? Anything particularly interesting?”
>”We’re having problems with the paper cartridges in our Sharps rifles. Think you could waterproof them?”
>Write-in.

>>3089706
>”What are you doing with that Burnside? Anything particularly interesting?”
>”We’re having problems with the paper cartridges in our Sharps rifles. Think you could waterproof them?”

>>3089706
>>”What are you doing with that Burnside? Anything particularly interesting?”
>>”We’re having problems with the paper cartridges in our Sharps rifles. Think you could waterproof them?”

>>3089706
>”We’re having problems with the paper cartridges in our Sharps rifles. Think you could waterproof them?”

“What have you been doing with that Burnside?” You walk over, looking at the weapon in question.

Beretta grabs it, holding it in front of you to give you a better look. “Mostly I have been reverse-engineering it, trying to see how it works.” He points to the chamber. “It is a rather unique system, though not one I would want for a military gun, I think.”

You raise an eyebrow. “Why is that?”

He opens the breech, showing the rather odd design of the action. It flips up, likely to let the round be dropped in nose-up. “I believe that loading a round nose-first is a better system. That being said, I think I could modify this to make it more useful.”

“I see,” you nod. “That’s quite interesting…” You trail off. “Though, I came here for a different reason. I was wondering if you could help me solve a problem.”

He sits the rifle down on his workbench. “You are having issues with your new weapons?”

You shrug. “Well, we would’ve had the same problems with the Needle Guns, if I’m being honest. It has to do with the rain getting the powder wet in our paper cartridges. For the Sharps rifles.”

Enzo nods slowly. “Ah, that definitely can be a large problem. One moment please.” He turns around, going through the heavy door to the armory. He roots around in there for a little while, and comes out with a Sharps carbine, as well as some of the paper cartridges.

“See what I mean?” You point to the nitrate paper wrapped around the powder charge. “That paper gets wet in the rain, and the guns misfire.”

“Yes,” Enzo says. He examines the cartridge closely. Then he pulls a brass rimfire cartridge from his pocket, a .56-56 Spencer. “Hmm…” He examines the cartridge, opening the breech of the Sharps and inspecting that next. He then lays the paper cartridge next to the Spencer one, examining both of them closely. Finally, after a good two minutes of silence while he examines the things in front of him, he looks up at you, grinning. “Colonel, I think I may have an idea.”

File: 33dc7360f4b39cbc7ab973ac8(...).jpg (92 KB, 563x766)

92 KB JPG

And that's gonna be it for tonight. Our next session will be in a new thread either Sunday or Monday, and I hope to get us up to the beginning of the Second Choshu Expedition during the next thread. As always, feel free to ask questions and post comments here until then. Thanks for playing!

>>3089811
I’m worried about making a new military carriage.

I hope he can provide something to the ammunition

>>3089815
Thanks for running. Second Choshu will definitely be interesting compared to what happened OTL

>>3089815
Can't wait for a full scale fight. Are we using the d20 like last time?

>>3089940
Yeah the d20 system will still be in place, which reminds me. It's time to offer you guys some perks to choose from. Prompt will be coming soon.

File: 1522195862093.jpg (1.19 MB, 2000x1306)

1.19 MB JPG

Choose a skill from the list below. Prompt will be open until the thread goes to archive.

>Marksman
With practice comes results, and you have had much practice with rifles. As such, you can make shots far in excess of the range typical of most riflemen, and with far superior accuracy. A bullet in the right place, at the right time, can change history. (+1 to long-range shooting, enables you to use a scoped rifle)

>Quick-Witted
Your experiences with the Shogun's court have given you a sense of how to convince powerful people to your way of thinking. Though you lack the seemingly-natural charisma of a diplomat or politician, you can keep up with them to some degree. (+1 to persuasion rolls)

>Keen Strategist
Commanding scores of men has deepened your understanding of military strategy. Though the chaos of actual combat leaves much to be decided in the heat of the moment, you now have the ability to make better decisions on a grand scale. (+1 to strategy rolls)

>Exceptionally Brave
You are always the first into danger. Whether leading your troops in a bayonet charge, kicking down the door of a hostile building, or galloping ahead with scouts, you feel most natural at the front. As such, you've hardened to the petty dangers of blade and shot. (+1 to close/personal combat rolls)

>>3090546
>>Keen Strategist
>Commanding scores of men has deepened your understanding of military strategy. Though the chaos of actual combat leaves much to be decided in the heat of the moment, you now have the ability to make better decisions on a grand scale. (+1 to strategy rolls)
We're gonna be essentially a general in the upcoming war, we'll need this then.

>>3090546
>>Exceptionally Brave
>You are always the first into danger. Whether leading your troops in a bayonet charge, kicking down the door of a hostile building, or galloping ahead with scouts, you feel most natural at the front. As such, you've hardened to the petty dangers of blade and shot. (+1 to close/personal combat rolls)

>>3090546
>Keen Strategist
>Commanding scores of men has deepened your understanding of military strategy. Though the chaos of actual combat leaves much to be decided in the heat of the moment, you now have the ability to make better decisions on a grand scale. (+1 to strategy rolls)

>>3090546
>>Keen Strategist
>Commanding scores of men has deepened your understanding of military strategy. Though the chaos of actual combat leaves much to be decided in the heat of the moment, you now have the ability to make better decisions on a grand scale. (+1 to strategy rolls)

>>3090546
>Exceptionally Brave

>>3090546
>>Keen Strategist

>>3090546
>Keen Strategist

>>3090546

>Keen Strategist
Commanding scores of men has deepened your understanding of military strategy. Though the chaos of actual combat leaves much to be decided in the heat of the moment, you now have the ability to make better decisions on a grand scale. (+1 to strategy rolls)

>>3090546
>>Keen Strategist

>>3090546
>Exceptionally Brave
You are always the first into danger. Whether leading your troops in a bayonet charge, kicking down the door of a hostile building, or galloping ahead with scouts, you feel most natural at the front. As such, you've hardened to the petty dangers of blade and shot. (+1 to close/personal combat rolls)

I know my option is gonna loose but I really wanted to get some cookie points with the japs by being badass.
I guess we can still do it like we did in the urban engagement me participated, only without the bonus.

>>3090546
>>Keen Strategist

>>3090546
>Exceptionally Brave
You are always the first into danger. Whether leading your troops in a bayonet charge, kicking down the door of a hostile building, or galloping ahead with scouts, you feel most natural at the front. As such, you've hardened to the petty dangers of blade and shot. (+1 to close/personal combat rolls)

>>3090546
>Exceptionally Brave
You are always the first into danger. Whether leading your troops in a bayonet charge, kicking down the door of a hostile building, or galloping ahead with scouts, you feel most natural at the front. As such, you've hardened to the petty dangers of blade and shot. (+1 to close/personal combat rolls)

>>3090546
>>Keen Strategist
>Commanding scores of men has deepened your understanding of military strategy. Though the chaos of actual combat leaves much to be decided in the heat of the moment, you now have the ability to make better decisions on a grand scale. (+1 to strategy rolls)
This is how I picture Daniel in the quest: a leader first and foremost. There has been more than plenty of fighter protagonists.

>>3090546
>Keen Strategist

>>3090546
>Exceptionally Brave

>>3090546
>>Keen Strategist

File: 1527011402670.jpg (49 KB, 406x1137)

49 KB JPG

Info Paste is up to date, working on the next story post now. Session will be at 6PM Eastern, in a new thread.

>>3101729

linking the new thread here since most people might have missed it like I did
>>3102415