File: Nakajima.jpg (69 KB, 564x799)

69 KB JPG

You lean forward, beckoning her toward you. “Let me see your hand. That looks painful.”

“S-sir?” Nakajima raises an eyebrow, but holds out her hand.

You grasp it gently, looking at the cut in question. It isn’t deep, but hand wounds always hurt. Grabbing your canteen, you pour a little bit of water over the wound first to clean the blood off. Next, you reach into your jacket and pull out a small bottle of whiskey. Harp once advised you to pour liquor over wounds to chase away any infectious vapors. You aren’t sure if his reasoning was sound, but it’s always worked for you. “This will sting,” you caution.

She breathes in sharply as the alcohol hits the open wound, and you feel her hand start to shake. “What is that for, Colonel?” You hand her the half-empty bottle as you begin wrapping her hand in gauze.

“To prevent infection.” Nodding at her, you continue. “Now drink the rest of that to dull the pain.” She does as instructed, downing the shot’s-worth of whiskey quickly. Her eyes wrench shut as she grimaces. A few moments later, she shakes her head and hands the bottle back to you.

“Thank you, sir.” She pulls her hand back gently, flexing her fingers.

“You’re welcome, Lieutenant.” You sit back, rubbing your shoulder. “Now, I doubt those were the only enemies around here. Let’s fan out and explore this forest a bit to find any hidden enemies.

She salutes. “Yes sir.” With that, Nakajima goes over to the rest of the troops and relays your orders. The next few minutes go by quickly as the men organize themselves and reload their weapons. Soon, they are ready to proceed.

“Colonel,” Sato greets you. “How should we proceed?”

>”Stay in a group as we push into the forest. We can’t afford to get separated if there are a lot of them in there.”
>”Split up into groups of two or three and fan out in different directions. Cover as much ground as possible.
>”Divide the unit in two and send the groups in different directions.”
>Write-in.

>>3424039
>>”Divide the unit in two and send the groups in different directions.”

tell sato to lead the other one and we meet in a pincer further on

>>3424039

>”Divide the unit in two and send the groups in different directions.”

>>3424039
>>”Divide the unit in two and send the groups in different directions.”

>>3424039
>>”Divide the unit in two and send the groups in different directions.”
>>Write-in.
Find Keiki, work with him to task some of his own soldiers too so he gains some experience.

>>3424066
>>3424073
>>3424077
>>3424082
Roll a 1d20. Also I'm gonna resume the story posts tomorrow at around 4PM Eastern. Got some responsibilities to take care of tonight before bed.

Rolled 11 (1d20)

>>3424109

Rolled 19 (1d20)

>>3424109

Rolled 7 (1d20)

>>3424109

>>3424109
I'm thinking about running a quest that runs in the same rough time period as this one. You don't mind if I lift some of the mechanics you've been using, do you?

>>3424607
Feel free, Anon. Most of my mechanics are blatantly stolen anyway.

Also, session in two hours.

File: confederate-2-dollar-bill.jpg (260 KB, 624x300)

260 KB JPG

“We’ll split into two teams and go in separate directions.” You cross your arms. “Sato, you will command one group, while myself and Nakajima will be in charge of the other.”

“Understood, sir,” Sato salutes you. He then begins the process of dividing the unit evenly.

Nakajima walks up beside you. “What makes you think there are more in the forest?”

You take another drag of your cigarillo. “These tactics are similar to what the Confederate guerillas used during my country’s Civil War.” You gesture at the bodies of the enemy soldiers lying about. “Small groups will split off from the main force to do hit-and-run attacks. It keeps the commanders and logistics people out of harm’s way, and is usually pretty effective against conventional line infantry.”

“I suppose it is a good thing we are unconventional.” Nakajima grins just enough to notice.

“You got that right.” You grin openly. “Excellent shooting back there, by the way. That charge at the end was unexpected.”

“Such a charge is usually a last resort.” Nakajima frowns. “They are highly dangerous to the soldiers conducting them, but usually quite effective as well.”

You nod. “I see. For now let’s just see if we can’t find their base camp.”

Over the next few minutes, your unit splits up into two teams, fanning out as planned into the forest. The underbrush is thick enough to require the use of machetes and sabers as you move forward. After perhaps twenty minutes of finding nothing, you meet up with Sato’s unit. Not only that, but you discover something curious.

Sato’s team have found the guerillas’ base camp. It is deserted now, clearly having been left in a hurry. There is a horse-drawn wagon, sans horses, with a small campfire next to it. All around are various traces of recent activity: a shaving kit left on top of a wooden box, some bandoliers with paper cartridges in them, a couple of slouch hats, sleeping rolls, and even a tent. Walking over to the tent, you see that it was clearly the commander’s dwelling. Inside is a small cot, with a portable desk next to it and several odds and ends laying strewn about. You are about to turn and leave when you see something laying under the campaign desk, nearly out of sight. Kneeling down, you grasp the object. It is made of cheap paper, with an off-brown hue to it. As you read the printed words, Nakajima enters the tent. “Sir, have you found something?”

“I have,” you say. Standing up, you hand the piece of paper to her. “Can you read English?”

“A little.” She nods. Squinting, she reads aloud some of what is on the paper. “Two Dollars… Richmond.” Raising an eyebrow, she hands it back to you. “What does it mean?”

“This is Confederate money.” You grimace, exiting the tent with the bank note in your hand. “It would seem I’m not the only foreigner in these woods.”

“How shall we proceed from here?” Sato walks over to you.

>”We’ll search for a trail from this camp. I want to at least find one of these enemy guerillas.”
>”Take everything that you can carry easily, then march back down to Keiki’s force.”
>”We need to get back down to our allies as soon as possible. Burn this camp before we leave.”
>Write-in.

>>3425233
>>”Take everything that you can carry easily, then march back down to Keiki’s force.”
burn what's left

>>3425279
Support.

>>3425279
Support

>>3425279
supporting

>>3425279
+1

>>3425279
Supporting

“Take everything you can carry easily, burn the rest.” You step back, addressing the rest of the men. “After that, we’ll return to the wagon train in the valley. I want to see how Keiki’s men handled the enemy.”

“Understood, sir.” Sato begins directing the men to take the most valuable items, mostly rations and ammunition, while Nakajima and her troops prepare the camp to be destroyed.

You go back to the commander’s tent and search it yourself. Other than that confederate bill, you can’t find much evidence about what sort of man inhabited this tent. There is little in the way of decoration, and even the cot is threadbare. You estimate that the guerilla commander was a man used to this sort of lifestyle. He likely had no difficulty packing all of his belongings in a hurry. With a grimace, you take out a match and light the tent’s canvas on fire, exiting as it begins to burn.

Soon, your men have pilfered the enemy camp’s valuables, and they set the rest of it alight. You stand there for a few minutes watching the blaze, making sure it won’t go out easily. As the flames begin to climb above the treetops, you all turn around and head for Keiki’s forces.

When you arrive at the wagon train, you discover that the enemies on the other ridge have been neutralized as well. They weren’t able to capture any, nor did they kill all the hostiles, but the allied troops returned with minimal casualties. As you get information from Keiki’s officers, you begin to wonder where the man himself is.

Searching around the wagon where you last saw him, you find the young man sitting exactly where you left him, nearly two hours ago. He appears to be writing dispatches in a small notebook.

“Keiki,” you greet him.

“Colonel Stockton.” He nods at you. “I take it the enemy have been dealt with? I hear no more gunshots.”

“That’s correct.” You nod.

“Very well.” Keiki stands up, exiting the wagon. “Attacking from the hilltops… Such a cowardly way to wage war.” He shakes his head.

>”If you can get your wagons dug out of here, my forces have found some dry ground to march on.”
>”Were you… In the back of that wagon the entire time we were fighting?”
>”That way of fighting is probably being taught to them by a rebel from my own country.”
>Write-in.

>>3425351
>>”That way of fighting is probably being taught to them by a rebel from my own country.”
>>”If you can get your wagons dug out of here, my forces have found some dry ground to march on.”

>>3425351
>”That way of fighting is probably being taught to them by a rebel from my own country.”
>”If you can get your wagons dug out of here, my forces have found some dry ground to march on.”

>>3425351

>”If you can get your wagons dug out of here, my forces have found some dry ground to march on.”

>>3425351

>”If you can get your wagons dug out of here, my forces have found some dry ground to march on.”

>>3425351
>”If you can get your wagons dug out of here, my forces have found some dry ground to march on.”

>”That way of fighting is probably being taught to them by a rebel from my own country.”

Could we. Have hitched the enemy wagan to one of our horses and filled them with items

>>3425389
>Could we. Have hitched the enemy wagan to one of our horses and filled them with items
Theoretically, assuming you could get the horses up the game trail. Getting the wagon back down would have been virtually impossible, though.

>>3425351
>>”If you can get your wagons dug out of here, my forces have found some dry ground to march on.”

>>3425351
>”If you can get your wagons dug out of here, my forces have found some dry ground to march on.”

>>3425399
Though quick question, extra rations I understand but I’m not sure about ammunition since our men have either sharps or single shot rifles. The enemy had either Henry’s or muskets unless they took the spare black powder for something else?

>>3425451
Your men took everything regardless of compatibility, just in case it could be useful later.

>>3425351
>did you spend the entire battle cowering inside a wagon?

“I think one of my countrymen may have taught those men how to fight like that,” you admit. “A rebel, most likely.”

“I see,” Keiki nods. “That is troubling.”

You grimace. “It is. Anyway, let’s see about getting these wagons out of here.” You gesture back towards the entrance to the ravine. “My men have found dry ground that your wagons can use.”

“Excellent.” Keiki smiles. “It will be good to continue marching.”

You and Keiki organize the troops, who use the remaining horses from the wagon train to begin pulling the wagons out of the mud. It is slow going, taking perhaps an hour to get the first wagons un-stuck and moving. After a while, however, things begin to go more smoothly. Soon, all of the wagons are moving toward your own formation, with your troops leading them.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3RmQTYLD398

You sit atop your horse, scouting ahead with Nakajima and a couple troopers. Though this area is thought to be mostly safe, you aren’t taking any chances after the encounter with those enemy guerillas. You adjust your hat to block the rays of the sun. It is hot today, and you find yourself wiping sweat out of your eyes rather frequently. As you scan the horizon with a pair of field glasses, you hear Nakajima speak up. “Sir, I have a question.”

“Ask away,” you reply.

“Have you ridden horses for a long time?” She moves up alongside you to be heard more clearly.

“Not really.” You shrug. “On the farm, my family had a couple draught horses and a donkey, but they weren’t any good for riding.”

“I see,” she nods.

You raise an eyebrow. “Why, am I doing something wrong?”

The lieutenant frowns, seemingly searching for the right words. “I would not say that you are doing anything wrong… But you seem a bit uneasy around horses.”

You nod. “Well of course I am. Horses are dangerous animals.” You shake your head as Nakajima stifles a chuckle. “Anyway, we’re coming up on the formation now.” You nod ahead, where your troops and wagons sit just off of the roadside.

You all ride up, going over and briefing everyone on the situation. Pretty much as soon as you get your horse hooked back up to the artillery carriage it was pulling earlier, the rest of the wagon train arrives. It takes maybe another half hour to get everyone ready to continue marching to Hofu.

Once you get marching again, you decide to ride in the wagon with some of your non-military personnel. Among them are Colter Lee, General Custer, Sarah Holman, Enzo Beretta, and a few other people. You lean back against the wagon’s wall as you write your daily reports using a lap desk you found recently.

>Keep to yourself during the ride.
>Speak with Custer about his cavalry regiment he plans on raising.
>Talk to Commander Lee. His Marines have been seeming restless with their support tasks.
>Talk to Sarah. You may as well see what sort of stories she’s writing.
>Write-in.

>>3425544
>talk to Custer about his cavelry
Irregulars can generally work with cav pretty well
How good are we at long distance shooting?

>>3425569
>How good are we at long distance shooting?
Better than most around this time.

>>3425544
>Talk to Commander Lee. His Marines have been seeming restless with their support tasks.


keep them in line

>>3425544
>talk too commander lee
>also inform them we're dealing possibly confeds and they might take them as targets of oppuritsn

>>3425544
>Talk to Commander Lee. His Marines have been seeming restless with their support tasks.

Its important to keep them in check. There are confeds around but they need to stay put.

>>3425544
>Speak with Custer about his cavalry regiment he plans on raising.

also, Naka dear bantering on our horse riding lol, we have to race her some day.

>>3425544
>Talk to Commander Lee. His Marines have been seeming restless with their support tasks.

>>3425616
>her

>>3425657
are you reading the thing man? Stockton is already using female pronouns

>>3425668
Jesus, I didn’t even notice

>>3425544
>Speak with Custer about his cavalry regiment he plans on raising.
>Talk to Commander Lee. His Marines have been seeming restless with their support tasks.

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

44 KB JPG

“Commander Lee,” you greet the Marine commander.

“Colonel,” he tips his hat at you. “Something I can help you with?”

You nod. “I noticed your Marines seemed a bit restless recently.”

He frowns, rubbing the back of his neck. “I suppose that’s true, sir. They’re mostly anxious to get back into combat as soon as possible.”

You raise an eyebrow. “I’d have assumed they would want the opposite, considering how heavy your casualties were in that shore landing.”

Colter shakes his head. “Not necessarily. The US Marines have always been more willing to enter the fray than regular infantry.” He shrugs. “I guess they’re just getting tired of digging latrine ditches and organizing supplies.” He quickly puts up a hand defensively. “No offense meant by that, though.”

You shrug. “None taken, Commander. So the Marines want to head back out into the field. Do you think you have enough men to be combat-effective out there?”

He nods immediately. “Our injured have healed up, so we’ve got a hundred or so men able to conduct operations in the field.”

“A hundred men? That would certainly be a bolster to our vanguard.” You light a cigarillo and puff on it a while.

“It’s ultimately up to you, boss.” Colter crosses his arms. “But I’d rather my men were out fighting than getting up to the sorts of things soldiers do when they’ve got nobody to kill.”

>”For now your Marines will stay in their support role.”
>”Very well, I’ll allow them to return to fighting.”
>Write-in.

>>3425743
>>Write-in.
Tell you what, I'll let them be on the reserves, after my vanguard softens up the enemy and they get tired I can rotate you guys in so they can get some action

>>3425750
Supporting. Use them for the breakthrough

>>3425750
Support

>>3425743

>”For now your Marines will stay in their support role.”

Can't risk it, they've done their part already

>>3425743
>>3425750
Sure, but have many repeating rifles or single shot with extra ammunition can we spare for them?

>>3425750
supporting

>>3425750
Support

>>3425750
I thought marines are used as the first strike/breakthrough? Or were they used differently?

>>3425953
Marines are usually used as shocktroopers yes but we can use them in the assault of the internal castle stronghold after the walls fall.

>>3425953
Pretty much this. Well they are more for amphibious attacks but they make decent shock troops due to their aggression. Only thing we can do is have them be a strike force due to their low number

>>3425960
>>3426084
Good to know I'm not retarded. Carry on then gentlemen.

“For now, I’ll allow them to act as reserves.” You lean back. “Once the battle commences and the front-line troops begin to waver, yours will be sent in to bolster the force.”

Colter raises an eyebrow, then frowns. “Understood, sir.”

“Is there a problem with that?” You frown also.

“No, no problem at all, Colonel.” Commander Lee shakes his head. “We’ll act as your reserves.”

“Good,” you nod. With that, the conversation pretty much ends. You continue making your reports, occasionally glancing at the surrounding countryside.

“Colonel Stockton,” Sarah gets your attention.

“Yes?” You look over at her.

“I was curious what all you did today.” She points to your arm. “I’ve noticed you were wounded.”

You shake your head. “This? It’s nothing.” You then lean forward. “Our forces investigated reports of our allies being stuck in the mud. Some enemies attempted to ambush us, but they were defeated.”

She writes your words down in a notebook. “I see. You seem confident in your troops’ ability to defeat the enemy.”

You nod. “They’ve done an exemplary job so far.”

She nods, writing some more. “I see. Thank you.”

You shrug. Leaning back once more, you complete your last report, then look at the passing landscape. It won’t be long before your forces reach the city of Hofu. Though you’ve been told there isn’t much resistance waiting there, it makes you anxious. You were also told there wouldn’t be much resistance at the beach, and it turned out to nearly be a defeat for you. Hofu remains on your mind, just another obstacle in your forces’ way, hopefully. You’ve not besieged a town before, and are interested to put that artillery to work.

File: 1cl3517r2_RgZIWan.jpg (82 KB, 488x654)

82 KB JPG

And that's all for tonight. Thanks for playing! We'll have a session tomorrow, likely around 6PM Eastern, and possibly another one the next day. Until then, the floor is open for questions, comments, concerns, critiques, shitposts, and anything else.

>>3426246
So I'm guessing the Marines are upset they're not going in first? Will this affect their morale?

>>3426246
Thanks for running.

>>3426246
thanks for running

>>3426253
probably, but what can we do, any more of them slaughtered and we have a diplomatic incident in our hands, they drop like flies

>>3426253
Not much we can do about it. Sending them head first will be a slaughter.

Instead of a session tonight, we'll be having our next one on Sunday afternoon and another on Monday.

>>3427799
Thanks for telling us.

File: Battle_of_Fredericksburg,(...).png (475 KB, 900x628)

475 KB PNG

Hey everyone, our session will be going live at 6PM Eastern tonight. In the meantime, please vote for a perk/skill.

>Basic Kanji
You can now read some bits and pieces of the Japanese written language. Though you aren't skilled enough to put together complicated sentences, you can decipher words and basic statements.

>Intimidating Presence
It would seem some people can only be motivated through fear. You can make ready use of your foreboding demeanor when necessary, aiding in persuasion. It is especially effective against people who aren't used to that sort of treatment.

>Gunslinger
Through practice and necessity, you have become something of a pistolero. You are more comfortable with your Colt Dragoon than with a rifle, and have nearly mastered the ability to draw and shoot quickly. (also enables you to carry additional revolvers, with a limit of four on your person)

>Explosives Expert
The US Marines' use of hand grenades has left an impression on you. Now, you carry a small bag of grenades in combat, and have become skilled in their use. Though a major tactical benefit, there is always the risk of the bag being shot during combat and exploding.

>The Determinator
Experience has hardened your resolve. Things that would normally shake and frighten most men have little effect on you. Small cuts, grazes, and non-serious wounds go ignored in the heat of battle. (+2 to personal combat rolls)

>>3433955
And yes, this is still me. My computer crashed last night and I forgot to put my trip back on.

>>3433955
>Basic Kanji
We need to get the influence and networking going, because if this operation succeeds we'll earn a hefty dose of prestige and become a target for politicking.

>>3433955
>Basic Kanji
safe choice
As my second choice i would go for
>The Determinator

>>3433955
>The Determinator

Relentless

>>3433955
I'll vote for
>The Determinator
if it has uses outside of close combat, such as resisting intimidation rolls and the like, but if not I'll go with
>Basic Kanji

>>3433955
>>Basic Kanji

>>3433955
>Determinator
We can just get some more lessons from Naka to get basic kanji

>>3433955
>The Determinator

>>3433955
>>The Determinator

combat will be fucked up, for the language we can relly on Naka

>>3433978
>if it has uses outside of close combat
Sort of. It does, but they're not crunch-related necessarily. Stockton will basically become a little less tolerant of bullshit, and dialogue choices will reflect it.

>>3434052
Hey Zap, how do I get out of this chicken-shit outfit?

>>3434052
I change to
>basic kanji then

File: 1489707353270.jpg (27 KB, 294x325)

27 KB JPG

>>3434059
What

>>3433955
>basic weeb

>>3433955
>Gunslinger

>>3433955
>The Determinator

>>3433955
>Basic Kanji

>>3433955
>Basic Kanji
You can now read some bits and pieces of the Japanese written language. Though you aren't skilled enough to put together complicated sentences, you can decipher words and basic statements.

Alright, it looks like Basic Kanji wins. Session in half an hour.

File: 1533460040100.jpg (1.03 MB, 3032x1902)

1.03 MB JPG

Hofu, Japan. It is a city right next to, but not quite on, the coast. You stand outside of your tent, looking at the city. In the distance, it seems quite small and insignificant. You have no idea how many enemies are there. Last night, around sunset, your forces arrived. While your infantry set up camp, the rest of your troops helped set up the artillery. It was quite the job, apparently, because this morning several positions remain to be set up and readied.

Observing the city with your field glasses, you see trenches just outside of the town proper. Further in is what looks like a small castle. It is maybe a tenth the size of the one you visited in Edo, but still something to be aware of. As you observe the raised platform on which the keep sits, you see the enemy rolling out several cannons that look to be made from wood. There is a brass one as well, likely two hundred years old, if you had to guess.

Keiki and Takei’s forces are in the same approximate location as yours, making up a large half-circle around the city to act as a besieging force. The Izumi Domain’s force is on the far edge of that half-circle, completing it and preventing anyone from fleeing by land.

Though Hofu does not sit right on the coastline, several piers and wharfs extend out into the water, likely owned by fishermen and the like. Small sailing boats are tied up there, nowhere enough to allow a retreat by sea. The enemy will have to come out and face you. A curious realization dawns on you as you take another pass across the city. There are no townspeople to be seen, anywhere. That being said, there’s no way to tell if they are being kept in their homes, or if they have been evacuated to a safe location. You find the latter highly unlikely.

Lowering the binoculars, you set them on a small table. The day is still young. You estimate that you’ve got another hour or so before those last artillery positions are ready. Lighting a cigarillo, you sit down on a crate just outside of your tent.

>Take a short nap before the battle commences. You’ll need the extra rest.
>Go and see the artillery positions. You want to inspect them before they’re hurling projectiles over your heads.
>Meet with Lieutenant Sato. He’s requested to see you as soon as possible.
>Talk with Custer about his Cavalry regiment. He’s apparently already raised the men and begun training them.
>Send a messenger out to the enemy under a white flag. Perhaps their commander can be persuaded to lay down his arms without fighting?
>Write-in.

>>3434375
>meet with sato

>>3434375
Meet with Lieutenant Sato. He’s requested to see you as soon as possible.

What as up?

>>3434375
>Meet with Lieutenant Sato. He’s requested to see you as soon as possible.

>>3434375
>>Meet with Lieutenant Sato. He’s requested to see you as soon as possible.

>>3434375
>Meet with Lieutenant Sato. He’s requested to see you as soon as possible.

File: Lt. Sato.jpg (41 KB, 564x798)

41 KB JPG

You walk over to Lieutenant Sato’s tent. Earlier this morning, you received word that he wanted to meet with you. As you walk up, you announce your presence. “Sato, it’s Colonel Stockton.”

“Of course, sir,” he calls from inside his tent. “Please, come in.”

You enter, and find him shaving in front of a small mirror and basin. He appears to be touching up the edges of his goatee, and his hair is impeccably slicked back. “You wanted to see me, Lieutenant?”

He nods, laying the straight razor in the basin and standing to full height. He dries his face off with a towel, sitting it on a chair before speaking. “Please sit, sir.” You do, and he sits down opposite of you. “I trust you are doing well.”

You nod. “I am. The enemy appear to be holding their positions, for now.”

Sato leans forward, rubbing his chin. “I see. That is good, it gives us time to prepare.”

“It also implies they have prepared for us,” you remark. “But there’s nothing that can be done about that.”

“Indeed.” Sato’s expression darkens. “But that is not why I wished to speak with you, sir.”

You raise an eyebrow. “Then what was the reason? I’m curious.”

“The commander of the Izumi forces, Honda Tadakira.” He grimaces. “I do not trust him to follow through on his promises.”

You shrug. “Then we’ll have to make due with Keiki and Takei’s forces.”

“That is not my only worry, sir.” He frowns deeply. “In the heat of battle, with gun-smoke everywhere, it would be remarkably easy for his troops to train their guns on you and get away with it.”

>”What makes you think he would do a thing like that?” (curious)
>”I doubt it will be an issue, Sato.” (dismissive)
>”Train their guns on me? They had better not.” (aggressive)
>”Now is not the time to doubt our allies’ convictions.” (trusting)
>Write-in.

>>3434517
>>”What makes you think he would do a thing like that?” (curious)
leading into
>>”I doubt it will be an issue, Sato.” (dismissive)

"They wouldn't dare target such an important member of the military campaign"

>>3434517
>>”What makes you think he would do a thing like that?” (curious)

>>3434517
>”What makes you think he would do a thing like that?” (curious)

>>3434517

>”What makes you think he would do a thing like that?” (curious)

>>3434527
+1

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

92 KB JPG

“What makes you think he would do a thing like that?” You lean forward, concerned.

“To put it simply, honor.” Sato frowns.

You cross your arms. “I would think it dishonorable to shoot your ally in the back.”

The lieutenant shakes his head. “You chastised him, a noble, in front of all his men.” Sato grimaces. “And to make matters worse, you are a foreigner, whose station is below that of a common peasant.”

You frown. “Is that so?”

Sato nods. “Speaking as someone who was born a peasant, sir, I can confirm it.” He continues. “To lose face in such a manner, to someone like him, is unacceptable.” Leaning forward, his eyes narrow. “I have also done some research into this Honda Tadakira. He has a history of killing those who shame him.”

“It’d be foolish to kill someone so important to the campaign,” you reason.

“Not to him,” Sato counters. Honda Tadakira, and the Honda Clan as a whole, are an ancient Samurai family. They value honor above all else.” He rubs the part of his leg where the old gunshot wound is. “I am certain he will try to kill you in the near future, probably during this battle.”

Rubbing the back of your neck, you frown deeply. “You barely even know him, what makes you so sure?”

Sato breaks eye-contact. “Because if I were shamed so thoroughly, it is what I would do.” He coughs into his hand once, clearing his throat. “I believe we should act preemptively.”

You grimace. “And how do you think we should act?”

Sato stands up, walking over to his desk. “I have done some research into his officers. Honda Tadakira’s second-in-command is a commoner, but also a competent military commander, and is the one that runs the day-to-day of the Izumi Domain’s military.” Sato looks over at you, a menacing expression on his face. “If Tadakira were to be removed from the picture, that commander would be far more… Pliable. We would have no issues with the Izumi Domain pulling their weight after that.”

>”Absolutely not. I’ll take the risk over betraying our allies.”
>”Could you do it without drawing suspicion on us?”
>”Instead of getting Tadakira out of the picture, could this commander be persuaded to act in our favor from his current position?”
>”If it will guarantee the Izumi pulling their weight, I will leave this matter in your hands.”
>Write-in.

>>3434618
>>”If it will guarantee the Izumi pulling their weight, I will leave this matter in your hands.”
add in something along the lines of
"I have no clue how politicking works in general, let alone in another nation. I'll leave this in your hands."

>>3434618
>>”Instead of getting Tadakira out of the picture, could this commander be persuaded to act in our favor from his current position?”

or else

>”Absolutely not. I’ll take the risk over betraying our allies.”

we are not doing some fucked up shit

>>3434618

>”Instead of getting Tadakira out of the picture, could this commander be persuaded to act in our favor from his current position?”

Rather not fuck up our relations with our allies

>>3434618
>>”Instead of getting Tadakira out of the picture, could this commander be persuaded to act in our favor from his current position?”

>>3434618
>>3434633
This.

Or we can just shoot at him right back

>>3434618

>”Instead of getting Tadakira out of the picture, could this commander be persuaded to act in our favor from his current position?”

>>3434618
>>”Could you do it without drawing suspicion on us?”

>>3434704
And also
>”If it will guarantee the Izumi pulling their weight, I will leave this matter in your hands.”

>>3434618
>”Instead of getting Tadakira out of the picture, could this commander be persuaded to act in our favor from his current position?”
Is there any dirt on him we can use for blackmail?

>>3434618
>”If it will guarantee the Izumi pulling their weight, I will leave this matter in your hands.”

>>3434618
>”If it will guarantee the Izumi pulling their weight, I will leave this matter in your hands.”

You sigh, rubbing your temples. Though it would be highly beneficial to have someone you can rely on in charge of the Izumi forces, you don’t think you could justify what Sato is planning.

“Is there any way we can get that commander to act in our favor without removing Tadakira from his position?”

Sato frowns deeply. “It would take longer.” He grabs his pistol belt and puts it on, adjusting it while looking in a mirror. “And we would need someone on the inside there, which would risk us being discovered meddling in the Izumi Domain’s affairs.” He looks over at you. “Such tensions could spark a war between the Aizu and Izumi Domains.”

You lean forward. “I see…” Looking at him again, you continue. “But wouldn’t your plan risk starting a war as well?”

He shakes his head. “Not if I do things the way I planned on.”

“And how did you plan on doing it?” You raise an eyebrow.

“It would be impossible to trace back to us, sir.” He shakes his head. “Telling you more could put you in a bad position, were it to fail.”

You sigh once more. “So it sounds like you’re planning on assassinating Tadakira.”

Sato nods. “If it is necessary.”

>”It’s too dangerous. We aren’t going to undermine the Izumi Domain.”
>”See if you can put a man on the inside. We’ll try to lean on that second-in-command.”
>”If you’re truly confident that it won’t get back to us, I’ll allow you to execute your plan.”
>Write-in.

>>3434905
>>”If you’re truly confident that it won’t get back to us, I’ll allow you to execute your plan.”
>>Write-in.
"Whatever you need, you'll get. I'll write you a requisition note so you can get anything you require so it succeeds."

>>3434905

>”See if you can put a man on the inside. We’ll try to lean on that second-in-command.”

Fuck you sato we are not assassinating our allies

>>3434905

>”See if you can put a man on the inside. We’ll try to lean on that second-in-command.”

>>3434905
>>”If you’re truly confident that it won’t get back to us, I’ll allow you to execute your plan.”

>>3434905
>>”If you’re truly confident that it won’t get back to us, I’ll allow you to execute your plan.”

>>3434905
>>”See if you can put a man on the inside. We’ll try to lean on that second-in-command.”

Quite torn here. I don't really want to get involved in the backstabbing competition this could become but I do believe Sato is correct that this guy will try and kill us, and likely soon.

>>3434905
>”If you’re truly confident that it won’t get back to us, I’ll allow you to execute your plan.”

>Goddamit Sato.

>>3435051
I think getting involved in backstabbing would be a mistake, and a path with no return, we can deal with the fucker if it ever comes to this but let's not enter this now.

File: Lieutenant Sato, 1866.jpg (33 KB, 564x811)

33 KB JPG

“See if you can get a man on the inside,” you say. “We’ll try to lean on that second-in-command, see if he’ll come around to our way of thinking.”

Sato grimaces. “It will be a greater risk of discovery for us… But I shall arrange it.”

You nod, standing up. “Good. Is there anything else you needed?”

“No sir.” Sato salutes.

“Very well,” you reply. Saluting him back, you turn to leave. “Good day, Lieutenant. I’ll see you when we prepare to head to battle.”

“Yes sir.” With that, you leave Sato’s tent. Glancing down at your new pocket watch, which you only recently happened upon in your travels, you see that your meeting with Sato took only fifteen or so minutes.

Walking back toward your tent, you consider the potential fallout that might come from meddling in another domain’s affairs. It isn’t ideal, but you need the Izumi on your side. It would be ideal if the Shogun could develop and raise a standing army, you think, but such a thing would probably require abolishing the feudal lords’ levies. That would turn out quite badly, you imagine, especially in a country whose government has been basically unchanged for five centuries.

Shaking your head, you walk back to your tent. Picking up your field glasses, you scan the enemy lines once again. They are still in their trenches, though some stand around in the town itself. Many wear Western clothing of a vaguely military persuasion, though some have actual uniforms on. You think you spy a red jacket or two, likely purchased from the British, but nothing distinctive sticks out beyond that. The enemy artillerists up at the castle appear to be having a Hell of a time trying to set up their cannons. The brass one has lost a wheel, and lays over on its side. Fighting a chuckle, you lower your field glasses.

>Go meet with Custer. See his progress with the Cavalry.
>Gather your lieutenants and begin preparing for the battle.
>See how your own artillerists are coming along. You certainly hope they’re having better luck than the enemy.
>Write-in.

>>3434905
>>>”See if you can put a man on the inside. We’ll try to lean on that second-in-command.”

File: 1546245443184.jpg (372 KB, 609x753)

372 KB JPG

Also this will be the last post for tonight. Tomorrow we'll have a session around the same time. Floor's open for questions, comments, concerns, etc. Thanks for playing!

>>3435067
Yeah, but right now our alternate solution seems to be just... waiting and hoping that we can soft-coup him before another battle happens? Which seems a little iffy.

>>3435074
>>See how your own artillerists are coming along. You certainly hope they’re having better luck than the enemy.

>>3435074
>>Go meet with Custer. See his progress with the Cavalry.

>>3435074
>>See how your own artillerists are coming along. You certainly hope they’re having better luck than the enemy.

Do we have any sharpshooters?

>>3435087
>Do we have any sharpshooters?
All of Lieutenant Kojima's men are trained as sharpshooters.

>>3435074

>See how your own artillerists are coming along. You certainly hope they’re having better luck than the enemy.

>>3435110
We should start sending them up to skirmish and engage at will.

Targeting officers and artillerists.

>>3435074
>Go meet with Custer. See his progress with the Cavalry.

I thought executing the plan won 4 to 3?

>>3435150
Shit, that last vote came in when I was already done writing. My bad.

>>3435158
>>3435150
I can retcon it to Sato executing the plan if anons want.

>>3435074
>Go meet with Custer. See his progress with the Cavalry.

>>3435163
Nah, starting writing is part and parcel of voting.

Just go with this.

>>3435163
Just wanted to make sure I wasn't seeing things. Keep going QM.

>>3435177
It feels weird not to trust our LT,s though. They've never steered us wrong before.

>>3435163
I mean I'd rather the execution then what the fuck you wrote boss.

>>3435074
>check on the artillery lads

File: 1468698981344.png (1.36 MB, 850x1100)

1.36 MB PNG

>>3435169
>>3435177
>>3435269
I genuinely might retcon it since the story post would've gone almost the same. Literally two lines of dialogue would've been different. I'll decide tomorrow when I'm less drunk.

>>3435074
>See how your own artillerists are coming along. You certainly hope they’re having better luck than the enemy.
The enemy artillerists' ineptitude urges us to attack immediately, but that can be just a show to lure us into a false sense of security. After all, they had a ton of time to prepare, why are they only rolling out the cannons now?

>>3435158
>Shit, that last vote came in when I was already done writing. My bad.
Why did you proceed if it was a tie then?

I too agree that we should be bold. Sato sounds determined and knowing what he is doing.
Honda will turn on us in the heat of battle and some of our subordinates may die in the process trying to save us.

Yeah, let's go with Sato's plan.

>>3435286
hey Zap, are you on Discord?

>>3435286
>retcon
and
>Sato's plan

>>3435286
>Voting against the retcon.
Sato's plan will put us in deep shit when it inevitably gets discovered.

>>3435074
>See how your own artillerists are coming along. You certainly hope they’re having better luck than the enemy.


>>3435286
+1 change to assassinate

>>3436092
If Izumi's going to openly fire on us, may as well secretly slit his throat.

Hey, is the Kotetsu going to be a boss fight?

>>3435976
>Why did you proceed if it was a tie then?
I must have miscounted and thought there was one more for the other option. Again, my bad.

>>3436045
Nope.

>>3437061
There's a high likelihood of it.

Session in two hours.

The enemy cannons are from a few hundred years ago or are they purchased from the British as well?

Because brass/bronze was still used until the civil war

I wonder when Kenshin's going to manslay us?

>>3437785
They looked old to Stockton, but he's also a bit of a brainlet when it comes to artillery, at least for now.

>>3437830
Can we use hollowed tree trunks and clay balls for artillery?

>>3437842
Theoretically, yes.

>>3437871
But we've never shut down the entire system before. It might not come back on at all!

File: Jules Brunet.jpg (128 KB, 443x800)

128 KB JPG

You decide to head up to the hilltops surrounding Hofu. Your artillerists, as well as Enzo Beretta, are up there preparing firing positions and readying cannons. It is a bit of a walk getting up there, but at least the ground has dried out since it last rained.

The first few positions are set up and ready to go. Most of the cannons your forces have are old muzzle-loaders from the beginning of the century. Some are American, some British, and others likely served in the armies of Napoleon himself. None of your army’s munitions are standardized, as far as artillery goes, so you’ve instead ordered the guns to be arranged by national origin for the sake of logistical simplicity. It’s an imperfect system, but probably the best that can be done.

As you walk along the positions, greeting the artillery crews as you go, you find the captured Armstrong guns near the top of the hill. They are all set up, with sandbags and trenchworks surrounding them. You notice that they’ve been cleaned and polished recently, and the ammunition for them is neatly stacked nearby. An Aizu flag flies from a short flagpole just behind the cannons.

As you approach, you see Beretta talking with several Europeans. Very few of them wear actual uniforms, save for the few Aizu soldiers you see milling about. “Hello, Mr. Beretta.” You greet your resident gunsmith as you approach.

“Ah, Colonel.” He turns to face you. “It is good to see you up here.” He gestures toward one of the Westerners, a man with a mustache wearing a dark blue uniform. “This is the artillerist who has been helping organize things for us.”

The man extends a hand, which you shake. “Jules Brunet,” he says with a smile. He is perhaps around your age, with an open face and bright eyes. By his accent, you assume he is French.

“Daniel Stockton,” you reply. “I’ve heard you’ve been in charge of our artillery corps for a while.”

He shrugs. “Officially, I am just an observer and instructor, sir.” Grinning, he gestures at the gun emplacements. “That does not mean I cannot provide some practical advice in the field.” He then raises an eyebrow. “I take it you are American, yes?”

You nod. “I am.”

>”How do you like these Armstrong Rifles we’ve captured?”
>”Are we ready to begin firing, or do more preparations need to be done?”
>”I’ve noticed some enemy artillery pieces at the castle in the city. Do you figure they will be a serious threat?”
>”I haven’t heard of you, Mr. Brunet. What are your credentials?”
>Write-in.

>>3437882
What did you decide for earlier?

>>3437882
>”Are we ready to begin firing, or do more preparations need to be done?”
followed by
>>”I’ve noticed some enemy artillery pieces at the castle in the city. Do you figure they will be a serious threat?”

>>3437887
Ah, right. I'm just going to retcon it to Sato executing the plan.

>>3437892
Thanks. Does he smirk with a cloud of darkness emanating from his person as he salutes us?

>>3437882
>>”Are we ready to begin firing, or do more preparations need to be done?”
>>”I’ve noticed some enemy artillery pieces at the castle in the city. Do you figure they will be a serious threat?”

>>3437897
But of course.

>>3437882
>”How do you like these Armstrong Rifles we’ve captured?”
>”Are we ready to begin firing, or do more preparations need to be done?”
>”I’ve noticed some enemy artillery pieces at the castle in the city. Do you figure they will be a serious threat?”

Actually Napolians era cannons aren’t bad for the era. And this theater

As sir standardization it should be mostly fine since they use solid shot

>>3437882
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Year_XI_system

Here is a basic explanation of the system the French used.

I think the other major nations used a similar system of the same type eventually

Currently catching up, but have we read any history of how wars used to be done in Japan?

Could be useful in understanding the traditional doctrines, but I think what Oda Nobunaga did with guns was pretty unique. Could be something positive to show the more traditional how Japan can make the "New" ways their own.

>>3437964
Oda Nobunaga did this independently of European thought or instruction: https://empiretotalwar.fandom.com/wiki/Fire_by_Rank

>>3437882
>”I’ve noticed some enemy artillery pieces at the castle in the city. Do you figure they will be a serious threat?”

“Are we ready to begin firing?” You cross your arms.

Brunet nods. “Indeed we are, Colonel. On your command we can begin laying barrages, or we can wait until the battle commences and fire at targets of opportunity to avoid stray shells hitting the city itself.”

You raise an eyebrow. “Very well. I’m glad to hear that we’re ready.” You then point down to the location of Hofu Castle. “I saw the enemy preparing some artillery of their own.” You frown. “How much of a danger do you expect them to be?”

He pulls out a set of field glasses and looks at the spot you were pointing at. “My god, are those tree trunks?” Brunet chuckles before continuing. “Other than the two brass cannons they have, I see nothing worrisome from their artillery.” He lowers the glasses and looks at you. “Though, you should still be aware of potential cannon fire. They could always be hiding more cannons somewhere else.”

You nod. “That’s true.”

Jules Brunet looks at you again. “So since you are an American, I take it you fought in their Civil War?”

“I did.” You frown.

“So you must have a great deal of experience.” He smiles at you. “Many of the Westerners coming to this nation have little experience fighting a war against a modern adversary.”

“I suppose so.” You shrug. “Though I was only a sergeant in the United States Army.” Looking out over the field where the battle will take place, you grimace. “Truth be told, I’ve had to learn strategy and administration as I’ve gone along.”

Brunet chuckles. “I believe we are all merely learning as we go along, Colonel. Though they do not like to admit it, I am sure the old generals still learn new things every day.”

You also chuckle. “Perhaps so, Mr. Brunet.”

He shakes your hand again. “Well, Colonel. I am sure you have more preparations to attend to.” The Frenchman nods toward the captured Armstrong guns. “We shall stand by and await the start of the battle.”

>”Very well. Good luck, Mr. Brunet.” (leave)
>”You can begin barraging the enemy positions now if you wish. Soften them up a bit.”
>Write-in.

>>3438134
>>”You can begin barraging the enemy positions now if you wish. Soften them up a bit.”
"Although if our ammunition stores aren't up to that you can rest easy until the main assault"

>A curious realization dawns on you as you take another pass across the city. There are no townspeople to be seen, anywhere. That being said, there’s no way to tell if they are being kept in their homes, or if they have been evacuated to a safe location. You find the latter highly unlikely.
5 anon bucks says they're in the stronghold. Remember anons, civilians are expendable.

>>3438134
>>3438138
This. Depending how much distance is from the castle use the Armstrong cannons.

The old bronze cannons can deal with the trenches, maybe force them to do a charge

>>3438138
+1

File: vuf01fs624811.jpg (596 KB, 697x1230)

596 KB JPG

>>3438161
With that being said
>>3438134
”You can begin barraging the enemy positions now if you wish. Soften them up a bit.”
Fire away!

>>3438134
>>”You can begin barraging the enemy positions now if you wish. Soften them up a bit.”
>>Write-in.
Their buildings are mostly wooden, Mr Brunet. You have leave to start fires as much as possible. Keep their men running about and tired."

>>3438134
>>3438168
Whoops
>”You can begin barraging the enemy positions now if you wish. Soften them up a bit.”

>>”You can begin barraging the enemy positions now if you wish. Soften them up a bit.”

>>3438175
They don’t have incondary ammunition yet.

Iirc they have solid, grape, and canister

File: 1461276332302.jpg (9 KB, 230x252)

9 KB JPG

>>3438201
>They don’t have incondary ammunition yet.
I have read reports of "Greek Fire" being used in the Civil War. That being said, your army has nothing of the sort. At least for now.

>>3438201
Actually heated shot exists, but that would be mainly for fortress guns because you'd need a furnace to heat up the cannon balls.

>>3438201
Pity.

Havoc should be the day's word tho.

Need to have the soldiers busy faffing about and not resting.

File: 1480792907005.jpg (23 KB, 360x280)

23 KB JPG

Hey guys, I need to call the session here for now. Next one will be Wednesday at around 6PM Eastern. Floor's open for questions and all that jazz.

>>3438434
thanks for the live but i got nothng for now.

>>3438134
>Write-in.
Brunet probably has some knowledge of military engineering. Ask for advice on breaching and assaulting the castle.

Lurker here. Was wondering if we could somehow get our hands on a .577 Bland-Pryse. Also incompetent with google-fu. Dunno when it was actually produced I just know the bullet it fires predates the Boshin war by a year so eh.

Wait shit this'd be a year early from the round itself coming about. Damn. Nevermind. I was just hoping to get an absurd gun to replace our outdated but equally ridiculous gun. Really though having to replace the entire cylinder to reload is a huge disadvantage.


Yes I watch gun jesus

File: Colt Walker field stripped.jpg (286 KB, 700x497)

286 KB JPG

>>3441487
>Really though having to replace the entire cylinder to reload is a huge disadvantage.
It really isn't when everyone else is using roughly the same technology. Cartridge revolvers are rare and mostly low-powered at this point in history.

>>3441549
I know we wouldn't see it since it was produced in 1870 but the Model 3 was hardly low powered. Not like the bullets care too much or the bodies on the other end of them. But I suppose exception to the rule. If it were just a couple years later the cartridge revolvers would be catching up. But you know the real draw of cartridge revolvers is that they tend to be more foolproof, more water resistant, and much easier to carry ammo for. Admittedly not in huge bulk but that is for baggage trains and not soldiers.

Apparently the .577 was a hell of a round. Big as fuck but still pulled over 700 fp/s. It definitely loses to the Dragoon or Walker in velocity. But velocity is better for dealing with cover and armor than people unless it's at a stupid high level. You don't really need it in Japan. Half the time all they are wearing is cloth.

Also pls rate of fire and ease of reloading is always important. Not that Stockton has any trouble with any of this experienced as he is.

Not trying to argue or anything, I just thought it was interesting food for thought.

>>3441614
This is a revolver for stopping wounded tigers from eating your face. For stopping people it's an absolute overkill

Session in two hours

“You can begin laying a barrage now, Mr. Brunet.” You nod toward the enemy positions. “Soften them up a bit.”

Brunet grins. “Of course, Colonel.”

You bid the Frenchman farewell and begin heading down to the command tent as the first of the cannons begin to fire. By the time you get down there, the steady pattern of the barrage practically sounds like a drumbeat. The louder reports, likely from the Armstrong guns, cause the ground to shake even down in the camp itself.

“Alright, gentlemen.” You waste no time briefing your officers as they all arrive. “This is the first proper pitched battle we’ve had. The shore landing was tough, so I know this will be a walk in the park for us.” Gesturing out toward the battlefield, now heavily cratered from the barrage. “The enemy are mostly sitting in trenches just outside of Hofu itself. This artillery barrage should force them out of their defenses, however.” You pause to light a cigarillo, puffing on it vigorously to encourage the flame to take hold. “We have no idea whether there are civilians in the town. For all we know, the enemy have reinforcements hidden in the buildings.”

“So the plan is to attack and defeat the enemy out on the battlefield.” Nakajima frowns, looking out at the field in question. “How shall we proceed after that?”

You nod. “Once the enemy in the field are taken care of, we will push into the city and take the castle at the far end.” Crossing your arms, you continue. “Once the castle has an Aizu banner atop its keep, we will consider the city of Hofu captured.” You look at your four lieutenants. “Each of you will be commanding your rifle companies, as well as two companies of regular line infantry. Any questions?”

“No sir,” the lieutenants say.

You nod. “Very well, go rally your men.” As the lieutenants leave, Sato stays behind. You walk over to him as he prepares to leave. “Lieutenant, did you take care of that thing we spoke about?”

He nods, an ever so slight grin appearing. “The matter is handled. Within perhaps half an hour, our adversary will no longer be a threat.”

You nod. “Good. Now go rally your men.”

He gives you a salute, which you return. “Yes, sir.”

You sigh, sitting down in the command tend. It will be at least twenty minutes before the troops are ready to go. Now you need only decide how best to command this force.

>You will go along with one of your Lieutenants, and command from the front.
>You will head up to the artillery positions for a better vantage point, and command via message runners and flags.
>Write-in.

>>3443048

>You will go along with one of your Lieutenants, and command from the front.

Like have always been doing

>>3443048

>You will go along with one of your Lieutenants, and command from the front.

>>3443048
>You will go along with one of your Lieutenants, and command from the front.
I wonder if samurai body armor would still be good to wear tho?

>>3443149
I guess not anymore, at least we have our unit with Naka well trained and with some combat experience, we'll have this one

>>3443048
>>You will head up to the artillery positions for a better vantage point, and command via message runners and flags.

>>3443149
How good would a scaled armour be against bullets?

>>3443186
Might do something against shrapnel.

>>3443187
though it won't be enough considering how heavy the armor plate is.

>>3443210
I've heard plate armor is lighter than grunt body armor. Maybe the stuff samurai wear would be about the same?

>>3443214
not really, laquor isn't quite as good iirc.

>>3443223
We're not talking about good, we're talking about weight.

>>3443214
If i recall Samurai armour is composed of small leather and iron scales or plates. My guess the chest piece and the helmet might provide some protection in long range but not so great in short range when you are in a fire line against the other guy.

So elements of it COULD help but i guess it's a question if you want to add the chest plate weight to a infantry man gear.

>>3443232
Well, the MC got taken out by shrapnel to the chest, so you tell me.

>>3443048
>>You will go along with one of your Lieutenants, and command from the front.

>>3443235
I say that it wouldn't it would be better to not be hold by the weight of a metal chest plate plus the fabric one would have to use under said piece and have more the agility of getting out if the way and look for cover.

File: zTvvr2qM_400x400.jpg (31 KB, 332x332)

31 KB JPG

>>3443243
>I say that it wouldn't it would be better to not be hold by the weight of a metal chest plate plus the fabric one would have to use under said piece and have more the agility of getting out if the way and look for cover.
OHHH???

File: 33dc7360f4b39cbc7ab973ac8(...).jpg (98 KB, 563x766)

98 KB JPG

You decide to command as you normally do, from the front. As the troops begin to rally, you find your way over to Nakajima’s company. As your second-in-command, it makes sense that you would stick with her for the battle.

“Lieutenant,” you greet her.

“Colonel Stockton.” She salutes you. “Is there something you need?”

You shake your head. “I intend to command from the front. I’d rather be in the thick of it in case I have to adjust our strategy.”

“Understood.” She nods. “Our company will be arranged at the center of the force.”

Looking out at the battlefield, you see that some of the enemy soldiers have left their trenches, moving toward your formation. “Well,” you say. “Let’s get this show on the road.” Your army begins marching forward in formation, rifles on their shoulders. Save for the line infantry, your force looks quite the picture of a modern army.

Shells whistle overhead as you march, landing amongst the enemy. The explosions throw dirt and men, as well as pieces of men, up into the air. Occasionally, shells hit the city, and at one point an entire building collapses.

Your attention stays on the enemy, however, as they all advance in a line toward you. Many of them are armed with rifle-muskets, and some even with repeaters, judging by the glint of brass against the sunlight. You unsling your Henry, carrying it at your hip as the lines of men draw closer to one another.

“Steady, men.” You hear some of the sergeants in the formation giving words of assurance. One in particular stands out, speaking in a very clear dialect of Japanese. “They are not even close enough to shoot at us yet.” You can tell he’s addressing the line infantrymen. Your men already know the range of most guns pretty well. As that range approaches, your men all unsling their rifles as well, and the air is filled with the clicking of hammers being pulled back.

You aren’t sure whether your men or the enemy fires the first shot, but within seconds, occasional puffs of smoke come from the enemy line. The first of the musket balls whiz over your head. With no ceremony whatsoever, the Battle of Hofu begins.

Roll a d20
>”Remember your light infantry training! Spread out and pepper them with aimed fire!”
>”Form ranks and fire in volleys!”
>”Affix bayonets!”
>”Try and flank them!”

Rolled 2 (1d20)

>>3443290
>”Try and flank them!”

Rolled 1 (1d20)

>>3443290
>”Form ranks and fire in volleys!”

i guess this is the best for combat on a open field.

Rolled 3 (1d20)

>>3443290
Damn

>>3443316
Lookd like we are getting shot

Rolled 7 (1d20)

>>3443290
>”Remember your light infantry training! Spread out and pepper them with aimed fire!”
Sheeeeeeeeeit.

File: 1492280749677.jpg (143 KB, 543x522)

143 KB JPG

>>3443306
>>3443316

>>3443332
https://youtu.be/zgqs21cGDZ4

>>3443332
Let's hope our 4 lts can pull this off because we are coming back on a stretcher damb

>>3443340
But what's the order we hopefully gave before we got shot?

>>3443346
Currently it's tied between 3 different options. Will wait for some more votes to come in before I start writing. Bold of the anon above you to assume Stockton will be the only victim of these rolls.

Well, then we should vote for the least risky option and blame the metagaming on a "bad feeling"

By the way, this is why you choose options before rolling. Because now there is a bias towards picking the least risky/damaging one.

>>3443357
well, the entire unit is coming down of course, but daniel will probably get his too

>>3443362
Yup, I have no shame.

Rolled 16 (1d20)

>”Remember your light infantry training! Spread out and pepper them with aimed fire!”

>>3443290
>>”Remember your light infantry training! Spread out and pepper them with aimed fire!”

>>3443360
>>3443362
You can certainly try, but what is really the least risky one?

>>3443375
Well, I suppose telling our troops to remember their training and fall back on discipline.

>>3443380
>tfw the roll determines that Sato's covert op was a bust

>>3443388
I suppose that just comes with expecting subtlety from Sato.

>>3443391
And also comes with a bunch of bullets from our backs

https://youtu.be/mj4MOWMhHDM

>>3443290
>>”Remember your light infantry training! Spread out and pepper them with aimed fire!”

“Spread out and take aimed shots.” You kneel and chamber a round. “Remember your light infantry training!”

“What about the line infantry behind us, sir?” Nakajima crouches perhaps twenty paces from you.

“If we stay low, they can just fire volleys over our heads.” You shrug. Taking aim, you begin firing at enemy troops. As you and your men begin firing, things start to go wrong.

You are in the midst of reloading your Henry, after successfully firing all of your rounds at enemy soldiers, when you fumble and drop some cartridges on the ground. As you reach down to pick them up, a musket ball grazes your shoulder deeply, running right next to your neck and causing you to scream in pain. The warmth spreading across your back tells you that it has already begun to bleed quite heavily. As your troops endure the enemy’s volley fire, many begin to drop around you.

“Shit,” you say to yourself. Tearing open your jacket, you stuff a wad of cotton fabric onto the wound and tie the rest up under your armpit to tighten it. You quickly pick your Henry back up and continue reloading. Your men begin forming up around you, offering covering fire as you snap the magazine closed and resume firing yourself. “Keep shooting!” You grit your teeth. “Don’t let them get any closer!”

Your men do a rather excellent job of holding the enemy off, and the hostile line begins to break after a couple more minutes. However, as the enemy line separates, you see several puffs of smoke from the Hofu Castle.

“Incoming!” You shout the word several times at the men around you. “Disperse! Artillery incoming!” The men do as you instruct, but for the line infantry in particular, it is too late. Several shells land among them, tearing the formation of around 200 men in half. As you look on in horror at the two lines that were once one, a shell lands close enough for its concussion to throw you onto your back.

You lay on the hard earth, dazed. The sky is slightly cloudy. You don’t know which way the wind is blowing, but the clouds are moving faster than you’ve ever seen. Your ears are ringing louder than ever before.

You roll over onto your side and see where the artillery shell landed. It was among your own light riflemen. You see men lying on the ground, dead, as well as pieces of men. The earth is stained red in some places. You feel as though you are going to vomit. Your mouth seems to move on its own, shouting the first thing you think of when you see the carnage. “Nakajima!”

>>3443290
>>”Remember your light infantry training! Spread out and pepper them with aimed fire!”

"Prone or kneeling positions are authorised."

File: Sakura Nakajima.jpg (83 KB, 564x799)

83 KB JPG

You feel a hand on your shoulder. Looking over, to your relief, is Lieutenant Nakajima and several of her sergeants, as well as maybe fifteen or twenty enlisted light riflemen. “Here, sir.” She helps you to your feet. “I am here.”

You shake your head, unable to think straight. “The enemy-“

She nods. “Still ahead of us. The troops are holding them off for now, but there are more coming.”

You nod. “How many do we have left?”

“Of the troops we left with earlier,” Nakajima looks around. She grimaces. “Maybe half.”

“Shit,” you mutter.

>”We hold the line here. Consolidate our formation with the remaining line infantry and act as a line company.”
>”Order everyone to fall back to the nearest friendly company. We’re no good alone out here.”
>Write-in.

>>3443433
>>Write-in.
Behind leapfrog fallback to our planned prepared positions. Organise into adhoc platoons and begin skirmishing, buy time for the line infantry to reform and get into cover.

>>3443435
>Behind leapfrog

GDI. Meant "Begin leapfrog".

>>3443433
>>3443435
Nice write-in anon. Supporting this QM.

>>3443433
Backing this >>3443435

>>3443433
There are five possible operations for any army. If you can fight, fight; if you cannot fight, defend; if you cannot defend, flee; if you cannot flee, surrender; if you cannot surrender, die.
>>3443435
Time for Defense!

>>3443433
>Fall back for the previous position the enemybartilary has this place zeroed in


My heart stopped when daniel screamed Nakajima in one post just to have her pull him up on the next, that was some cruel use of post break right there Qm, based Naka almost had me screaming

>>3443435
seems good, we need to buy time for the line to reform

>>3443451
tell me about it, that was close

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

31 KB JPG

You struggle to think clearly, blinking hard as you stare at the dirt for a few seconds.

“Sir?” Nakajima gets your attention.

“I…” You trail off. Finally, you think of a plan. “Fall back and organize into small platoons. Keep the formations loose and harass the enemy long enough for the line infantry to reorganize.”

Nakajima nods. “Understood.” She then turns to the sergeants and relays your plan in rapid-fire Japanese. The sergeants immediately snap to action, attending to their duties as hastily as they can. As the sergeants go to the enlisted men, Nakajima stays with you. “Are you sure you are alright, sir?”

You shake your head several times, still feeling hazy. “I’m… I’m fine, just a little shaken up.” Gritting your teeth, you stand to full height. “Let’s get this going. We are not losing this battle.”

“Yes sir.” Nakajima grins as she goes over to the nearest light infantry platoon. You look around on the ground, finding your Henry not far from where you landed. The magazine tube looks a little bit dented, but it is far from a fatal issue. Cycling the action, you join up with Nakajima’s platoon.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O4irXQhgMqg

Quickly, you all move back fifty or so yards, fanning out as you move. The enemy, seemingly thinking you plan to all run, begin shooting less frequently. It works to your advantage, as they seem quite surprised when you all crouch, turn around, and begins shooting at them again.

The rapid pattern of your repeaters’ fire initially overwhelms the enemy completely. Once again their lines waver, and their attention is forced completely on you. The remaining Aizu line infantry realize this, and within a half minute or so, unleash a frightening volley into the already-wavering Choshu line.

The volley hits them dead-on, and they are all unprepared for it. Dozens of enemy soldiers drop, and you hear panicked screams from the enemy line. Choshu troopers, once filled with confidence from their momentary victory, shatter under the combined weight of aimed fire and a full volley. The line in front of your force crumbles, its remnants running away as many drop their muskets onto the dirt.

“They are running!” Nakajima smiles as she looks over at you.

You nod. “They are…” Your head hurts again, and you have to blink hard several times to refocus your vision. “Alright,” you finally say. “Excellent work.”

>”Let’s group up with friendly regiments and push forward with them.”
>”We’re still capable of continuing with the original plan. Forward!”
>”Those cannons are a problem. Let’s push into the city right now and try to neutralize them.”
>Write-in.

>>3443504
>”Those cannons are a problem. Let’s push into the city right now and try to neutralize them.”
Should we send in the Marines now or wait for the castle?

>>3443504

>”Let’s group up with friendly regiments and push forward with them.”

>>3443504
>forward push but keep spread, remember the plan!. Don't let the cannons get ya

>>3443515
It'll look really good if the Marines take it, and also shock the American people if all the Marines die, meaning more American troops over here.

>>3443523
I actually think they should be away from the vanguard, to keep them alive, enough have died.

The castle specially, the shogun's troops should take it so as to not generate internal turmoil with the other daymios

>>3443543
Marines also need to feel like they're contributing or else their rudimentary sailor brains will kick in and they'll start shit.

>>3443504
>>”Those cannons are a problem. Let’s push into the city right now and try to neutralize them.”

>>3443504

>”Let’s group up with friendly regiments and push forward with them.”

Time for the other lords to bleed their troops too.

>>3443553
Well, there's plenty of skirmishes and the siege proper for them to fire, just keep away from the push, half of them died at the beach so I say they've done more than enough as a contribution.

>>3443504
>>3443515
Send the marines against the cannons.

Its a great military target and they're already being cowed by our artillery. Great press and fewer american casualties.

>>3443553
Maybe we can attach the Marines with us. Any daimyo trying to 'mistakenly' trying to shoot at us in the confusion will have to deal with the wrath of the United States if American soldiers get killed in the crossfire.

>>3443504
>>3443515
>>3443568
Sounds like a plan!

>>3443504
>>3443515
This. Time for marines

So it's looking like the vote is to assault with the Marines attached to us. Roll a 1d20.

File: advice-guardsman_o_1757577.jpg (52 KB, 240x252)

52 KB JPG

Rolled 9 (1d20)

>>3443605
Let's go!

Rolled 17 (1d20)

>>3443605
MURRRIKA

>>3443608
FUCK YEAH!

Rolled 1 (1d20)

>>3443605

Rolled 2 (1d20)

>>3443605

Rolled 10 (1d20)

>>3443605
FIRST TO FIGHT FOR RIGHT AND FREEDOM
AND TO KEEP OUR HONOR CLEAN~

>>3443612
Damn, there goes the marines

>>3443612
Nakajima, nooooooo!!!!

>>3443612
GDI

File: 1551035520555.png (653 KB, 1024x576)

653 KB PNG

>>3443606
>>3443608
>>3443612
Oof.

Also I think we'll pause the session for tonight. Next one will be at 6PM tomorrow in this same thread. It's gonna be a fun one.

>>3443612
I didn't want my meme pic to become real anon.

>>3443624
Thanks for running.

Have mercyyyy

>>3443619
Don't jinx it man, I don't expect we to walk out unscated of this one but that 17 can at least save some some skins>>3443620