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(I screwed up the OP)
Fug. This week keeps getting better and better.

Sighing, you relent. “I never saw you.” The Princess thanks you silently as you get up and leave the café. Stepping out into the street once more, you feel conflicted. The sister of the late Shogun claims that his early demise was foul play instead of illness, and worse, that your employer was somehow responsible. You wouldn’t lend even the slightest credence to such an accusation normally, but if Hikari is telling the truth, Hijikata Toshizo is the one who gave her this information, and he apparently has evidence.

Shaking your head, you walk down the crowded street, dodging the occasional pedestrian as you mull over the decision you’ve just made. Matsudaira ordered you to help find the princess, but you’ve decided to let her go and forget she was ever here. If what she said about Matsudaira is true, perhaps it isn’t a bad decision to make, but what if she’s been misled by power-hungry members within the Shinsengumi?

As you pass a newsstand, you decide to buy a newspaper and leaf through it. More of the same is contained within the pages, though you are thankful that this one focuses more on European affairs (the seller was a Frenchman), meaning it can give you a bit of information for your upcoming military outreach mission.

As you walk up the street, you spy Major Nakajima exiting a nearby row of market stalls. “General!” She jogs up to you. “Have you found anything?”

You look around, considering whether you should tell of what happened. Not here, you decide. “Nothing. She must be in another part of town.”

“I see. Damn,” Nakajima sighs. She removes her cap to wipe her forehead. In this late-summer heat, your woolen uniforms take on an oven-like quality. Perhaps a separate summer uniform made of lighter materials is in order. “What should we do?”

You grimace. “There’s no particular district close enough for us to walk to in time. Let’s head back to the castle and tell Matsudaira.”

“Understood,” she nods. Flagging down a nearby carriage for hire, she pays the driver to get us to the castle. As you both climb in, Nakajima removes her cap and lays it on the seat. “We saw the Princess just before she escaped…” She frowns deeply. “Hikari seemed a bit saddened by the Shogun’s passing, but this seems incredibly out-of-place.” She looks at you. “Did you notice anything? Perhaps she said something that stood out to you?”

>”Nothing I can think of.”
>”Well she mentioned Matsudaira seizing some of her late brother’s things… Maybe she was upset about that.” (hint at the truth)
>”Actually… I did find the Princess.” (explain what happened in the café)
>Write-in.

>>3687084
>”Actually… I did find the Princess.” (explain what happened in the café)
I was hoping to put Nakajima in female clothes and make her spy on the princess.

>>3687084
>”Actually… I did find the Princess.” (explain what happened in the café)

>>3687149
I like that idea just to see her in female clothes

>>3687084

>”Actually… I did find the Princess.” (explain what happened in the café)

“Actually,” you lean forward, removing your cap. “I did find the Princess.”

“What?” Nakajima raises an eyebrow.

You continue. “I let her go after she told me why she left.” Looking at Nakajima, you pause. The carriage trundles down the dirt roads. “She said that someone told her Matsudaira was responsible for the Shogun’s death.”

“How?” Major Nakajima frowns. “I thought the Shogun died of an illness.”

Nodding slowly, you sit up straight. “It’s what I thought too. Hikari said that she thinks he was poisoned, on the orders of Matsudaira Katamori. She said he did it knowing that Keiki would become shogun, and that he would be able to take over after that.”

Nakajima seems to fight of an incredulous laugh. “Well, sir, that seems a bit absurd. Would you not agree?”

“I would agree completely,” you reply. “But then she told me who she got this information from.” You pause to light a cigarillo, cracking the carriage window before puffing too much. “She said that the one who told her all of this is Hijikata Toshizo.”

Nakajima’s face goes pale. “Oh… I see.” She looks down for a moment, as if to digest the information. “If someone like Hijikata says that the Shogun was poisoned, then such an accusation can’t just be shrugged off.”

“My thoughts exactly,” you say. “So, I let her go.”

Nakajima looks out at the passing buildings. Her expression is grim. “General… What if it is true? What if Matsudaira killed the Shogun to take control of Japan?” She leans forward again. “If it turns out to be the case, what should we do?”

>”Nothing. We’re soldiers of the Aizu Domain, not some praetorian guard.”
>”I don’t know… We’ll have to cross that bridge when we get there.”
>”We need to make contact with Hijikata Toshizo and see what his plan is.”
>”Well, Ezo is always on the table.”
>Write-in.

>>3687328
>>”We need to make contact with Hijikata Toshizo and see what his plan is.”

>>3687328

>”I don’t know… We’ll have to cross that bridge when we get there.”
>" but getting Keike back is out of the question"

>>3687328
>>”We need to make contact with Hijikata Toshizo and see what his plan is.”

>>3687328
>”We need to make contact with Hijikata Toshizo and see what his plan is.”

Puffing on your cigarillo, you think of what to do. “We’ll need to make contact with Hijikata Toshizo. I don’t want to make any decisions before hearing what his plans are.”

“Well Hijikata is in the former-Choshu Domain, right?” she raises her eyebrow.

You shake your head. “I don’t think so. Princess Hikari was planning to meet with someone, and I doubt it would just be some associate of his.”

Nakajima looks at you with a curious expression. “Do you think we should turn the carriage around?”

Shaking your head again, you speak. “That would attract too much attention. We can make contact some other way if we have to.”

“Understood.” She nods.

You arrive at the castle a few minutes later, relaying to Matsudaira that you found nothing. He is frustrated, but merely sends you back to your base. Of course, you later learn that none of your officers found any signs of the Princess either. Later that evening, you send out a courier to Hijikata’s last known location with a message requesting that he meet with you as soon as possible. Even if he isn’t in Osaka anymore, someone will relay the message to him.

Just before sundown, the first of the building crews arrive and set up camp around your base. They will be living here for the duration of their work. You order the cooks to prepare a meal to welcome them, then return to the main building and relax in your office.

“So that’s how it went,” you finish telling Harp about the incident with the Princess. You tell him the true story, of course, since he is probably your most trusted associate. The two of you have been sitting there, working to polish off a bottle of bourbon for the last hour or so.

He puffs on his pipe, remaining silent for nearly a minute. “Out of one mess, and into another.” Chuckling, he sits down and pours himself a glass of bourbon. “It would seem whenever these Japanese get a taste of power, they let it go to their heads.”

“I think it’s the same for everyone, really.” You grab the bottle, pouring yourself a glass as well. “You seem much more calm about this than the other situation.”

He nods. “It’s not your head on the chopping block this time.” Leaning forward, he drinks his bourbon. “So, I heard we’re going on a foreign outreach mission. What’ll that entail?”

You shrug. “Pretty much what it sounds like. We’ll go to Europe and curry favor with various diplomats and leaders.”

“I see,” he nods. “More politics…” As he speaks, he finishes his glass and pours more into it, finishing off the bottle. He downs his glass in a single go, then sits the empty bottle on your desk. “What’s say we open another, Danny boy? For old time’s sake?”

>”I’ve had enough, I think. I need to be coherent in the morning.” (decline)
>”For old time’s sake? Sure.” (open another bottle)
>Write-in.

>>3687557
>”For old time’s sake? Sure.” (open another bottle)

>>3687557

>”I’ve had enough, I think. I need to be coherent in the morning.” (decline)

>>3687557
>>”For old time’s sake? Sure.” (open another bottle)

>>3687557
>”For old time’s sake? Sure.” (open another bottle)

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“For old time’s sake?” You grin, producing a fresh bottle from beneath your desk. “Sure.”

As you fill both glasses, Harp speaks. “You know, things have worked out quite well for us so far.”

You nod, handing him his glass. “That’s true. Hopefully things will keep up.”

Harp drinks his bourbon, sighing. “You know, during the War, there were times that it felt like the whole world might be ending.” He grins, looking at you. “But then, the sun always rose the next morning, right?”

“Right,” you say. Sipping your bourbon, you feel a chuckle coming on. “Those damn Graybacks would’ve kept the sun from rising, if it meant winning their damn war though.” You raise an eyebrow. “Were they really sending old men any young boys into battle there at the end?”

Harp nods, sadly. “I shot a lad in Selma who couldn’t have been more than thirteen. Wasn’t even big enough to hold his own musket, he had it slung half over his shoulder to keep it steady.”

You grimace. “You’ve not talked much about the end of the War.”

He nods again. “Our ranks were shuffled around during the Appomattox Campaign…” Trailing off, Harp stares into his glass before finishing it. “Just before the War actually ended, they sent a bunch of us to Alabama.”

“I wasn’t aware there was much fighting around there? Weren’t the Rebs licked by then?” You raise an eyebrow, taking another sip of bourbon.

“Oh, they were.” Harp grimaces. “But they didn’t have the good sense to stop fighting.” He shakes his head. “But the generals decided that we needed to make a point. That the people of the South needed to be thoroughly punished.” Drinking deeply, he finishes his glass and immediately pours another. “Not that the sentiment wasn’t shared by the enlisted men. Even I felt it to a degree, and I fought alongside Southern boys when I was in Mexico…”

“Then why worry about it?” You shrug, finishing your own glass. "Damn Johnny Rebs had it coming."

“Because what we did… What we let ourselves do…” Harp trails off. He then looks up at you, his drunkenness seemingly gone. “It was different. Worse.” He looks down again. “Let’s just say it might be a good thing you weren’t there to see it happen.”

“Maybe?” You can’t help but chuckle. “By then, I was back North, getting waited on by pretty nurses. You bet it was better than sweating in some Alabama shit-hole.”

This is enough to break Harp out of his self-loathing. He openly laughs, nearly doubling over. “Right, right. My mistake for feeling sorry for you.” Harp’s laugh diminishes into a chuckle. “We sure could’ve used your sense of humor, Sergeant.” [/]

“I’m sure of it, Captain,” you reply. “The other NCOs were absolutely dour.” You fill your glass again.

“To humor in hard times,” Harp raises his glass.

“The times when it’s needed most,” you reply as you raise yours.

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>tfw I mess up the italics
The week keeps getting BETTER AND BETTER.

Anyway, that's all for tonight. Thanks for playing! I have to fix my car tomorrow, and knowing my luck it's going to be an all-day job, so next session will be Thursday. Until then, feel free to drop any questions here until then.

>>3688135
Thanks fpr running

>>3688135
Thanks for the run boss, was fun. Be safe.

>>3688135
Arigato!

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>>3688135

Yo Zap! Don't mind me I'm probably not even going to join this thread, just here to tell you I've been reading through the Archives and I absolutely love your work.

I shall be caught up soon and when I am, expect me to be dropping by much more frequently.

Naka best girl you anons better hook up with her as soon as possible, if that hasn't happened already.

>>3688457
Whelp we got bad news for you

we sent her to her death last thread

>>3688457
He doesn't know we're dating Harp
Oh boy are you in for a surprise.

Session in two hours.

It’s been eight days since Princess Hikari decided to disappear. During that time, you’ve received no communications from Hijikata. The builders have been working around the clock at your base, stopping only for meals and once the sun goes down. You sit at your desk, reading a translated copy of a Swedish newspaper. It is one of the countries your mission will encompass, so you figure it would be a safe idea to gather some intelligence from their news media. You’ve also spent time researching Norway, Holland, Prussia, Belgium, Italy, and Austria. As it would turn out, Prussia was at war with Austria during your campaign in Choshu. Europe’s military and political climate is as tumultuous as ever.

Sitting the newspaper down, you sigh. As the European mission gets closer and closer to getting underway, you can’t help but think your time might be better spent in Japan, overseeing the Army. Still, with things moving as they are, you know that the Shogunate will need outside support from as many players as possible. Just in the time since you’ve returned to Edo, three domains have shifted their support to the disloyal Satsuma Domain and the Choshu government-in-exile. Aside from publicly declaring their solidarity, however, no real actions have been undertaken by either side.

“Sir,” Nakajima enters your office. “Coffee?”

You nod. “Thank you, Major.”

She hands you a cup. “Of course, General.” Sitting down, she gestures to the newspaper. “Where is that one from?”

“Sweden,” you reply. “It seems to be more of the same, though. I doubt the Swedes will be much help to us, but I could be wrong.”

“What do you see as the most promising prospects?” She raises an eyebrow.

“Prussia and Austria.” Sipping your coffee, you continue. “Though they’re both rivals, so we might have to choose one over the other. Belgium seems promising as well.” You lean forward. “They’ve begun to flex their muscles politically, and I can tell their overseas ambitions are pretty serious. Plus I’ve read that there are a lot of gunsmiths in Liege and Herstal.”

Nakajima nods. “So we could find some good contacts there.”

You grin. “It does look promising.”

Nakajima leans back. “Something of note came in this morning.” She hands you a letter. “It is from Hermann Zorn.” You open the letter, raising an eyebrow.

Good day, Herr Stockton. First, I would like to congratulate you on your campaign and recent promotion. At this rate, you will likely make field marshal before thirty! I have received your letters regarding supplies for your army, and would be glad to discuss an ongoing arrangement. For the next two weeks, I shall be staying at the Grand Parisian Hotel in Yokohama. Feel free to drop by whenever you like.

Sincerely, Hermann Zorn.

You sit the letter down. “Interesting. He’s in Yokohama.” Handing the letter to Nakajima, you let her read it in full.

“Shall we pay him a visit?”

>”Sure. Prepare the horses.”
>”Perhaps later this week. I’d like to stay on the base for today.”
>Write-in.

>>3693225

>”Sure. Prepare the horses.”

>>3693225

>”Sure. Prepare the horses.”

Now that I think about it, maybe we will get to see Naka in women's clothing when we get to europe, that would be cool, to have a proper date and spend time as a couple

>>3693225

>”Sure. Prepare the horses.”

>>3693225

>”Sure. Prepare the horses.”

I’m pretty sure Sweden had decent firearms, pillar breach rifles. And a okay military.

Decent tech, limited production, not too much of a doctorine

Btw what month is it?

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You nod. “Prepare the horses.”

Perhaps ten minutes later, the two of you are riding towards Yokosuka. You adjust your slouch hat, having decided to wear civilian clothes this time. The weather is honestly just too hot for the woolen uniforms. “So who is this Hermann Zorn?” Nakajima looks over at you. She too has elected to wear civilian clothes; trousers, a shirt and vest, as well as a hat not dissimilar to yours. “I have only heard mention of him in passing.”

You nod. “He was someone I worked for before I joined the Shogunate. I’m sure you’ve heard the story.”

“About how you were arrested and cut a deal?” She smirks at you. “Indeed, you told me.”

You shrug. “Well, he was an arms merchant I was pulling bodyguard duty for.” As the two of you turn onto another road, electing to avoid downtown Edo altogether, you continue. “He seems to have an in with just about everyone who’s anyone. I recently asked him about getting medical supplies for our forces. If we undertake another campaign like the one we just got back from, we’ll need medicine. Morphine, laudanum, antiseptics, bandages, and other such implements are worth their weight in gold when you’re on the battlefield.”

“I see.” Nakajima nods. “And you think Zorn will be able to get these things?”

You nod. “He got us the Needle Rifles you trained with.” Looking over at her, you adjust your hat. “Who knows, he might even be able to get us more of those too.”

The two of you ride into Yokohama with little ceremony. Nobody so much as glances at you in your civilian clothes. The Grand Parisian is a new hotel, built to European design specifications for the many Westerners arriving in the country.

You both enter the hotel and quickly go up to Zorn’s room, knocking on the door. After about thirty seconds, it opens and Zorn stands there. “Ah, General!” He grins widely. “You look well, please come in.”

You both enter the room. It is a large suite, with only the finest adornments. “How have you been, Herr Zorn?”

He chuckles, lighting his pipe. “Quite well, despite the difficulties in my home country. I made a small fortune selling rifles.”

“I can imagine,” you reply.

>”I’ll be heading to Europe on a diplomatic outreach mission soon. Do you have any advice for me?”
>”The Aizu Army needs medicine in large quantities. Can you supply it?”
>”I know you mentioned being a free agent last time we spoke, but is there any way to set up a long-term trading partnership with you?”
>”I don’t suppose you have more of those Needle Rifles, do you? Perhaps enough to arm several regiments?”
>Write-in.

>>3693330
>”I’ll be heading to Europe on a diplomatic outreach mission soon. Do you have any advice for me?”
>”The Aizu Army needs medicine in large quantities. Can you supply it?”

Medicine is more important.

And I rather not fuck up the supply chain more and I doubt Prussia will supply anytime soon.

>>3693292
Currently late August

>>3693330
>>”I’ll be heading to Europe on a diplomatic outreach mission soon. Do you have any advice for me?”
>>”The Aizu Army needs medicine in large quantities. Can you supply it?”
>”I don’t suppose you have more of those Needle Rifles, do you? Perhaps enough to arm several regiments?”

>>3693342
Didn’t the Austin- Prussian war finished?

>>3693349
Yes, just very recently. It took place in June and July of 1866.

>>3693349
>>3693364
maybe we can get some good deals

>>3693330

>”I’ll be heading to Europe on a diplomatic outreach mission soon. Do you have any advice for me?”
>”The Aizu Army needs medicine in large quantities. Can you supply it?”
This is priority

The guns too if we can

>>3693330
>”I’ll be heading to Europe on a diplomatic outreach mission soon. Do you have any advice for me?”
>”The Aizu Army needs medicine in large quantities. Can you supply it?”

>>3693382
I mean Prussia are currently replacing their old muzzle loading artillery with breech loaders so there might be something there

Needle rifles, I fear for logistics.

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“The Aizu Army will be in need of large quantities of medicine.” You produce a cigarillo, lighting it. “Can you supply that?”

“Of course,” he nods. “I assume a variety will be needed? There are large surpluses of such medicines with the end of the war in my homeland.” He gestures with his pipe. “Are you in a position to be making such a purchase?”

You shake your head. “At the moment, I am not. I’ll put you in touch with the people who are, though.”

“Very good.” He nods. “Would you like a brandy?”

“Absolutely.” You look over at Nakajima. “Major?”

“Yes, please.” She nods politely.

“Ah, I don’t believe we’ve had the pleasure of meeting.” Zorn tips his hat to Nakajima. “Hermann Zorn.”

“Sakura Nakajima,” she bows.

“Sakura…” Zorn raises an eyebrow. “I do not know much about the Japanese, but I believe that is a woman’s name, yes?”

Nakajima nods. “It is. General Stockton believes I am competent enough that such a fact is irrelevant.”

Zorn glances over at you, grinning. “Very well, three brandies, then.” He walks over to a small bar counter and pours three glasses, handing them to you and Nakajima, as well as keeping one for himself. “You’ve begun to command in an unconventional way, I like it.” He grins at you once more.

You clear your throat before taking a sip of brandy. “Also, Herr Zorn…” You take a sip. “I am to be going to Europe soon on a diplomatic outreach mission. Do you have any advice for me?”

Zorn seems to perk up at this revelation, gesturing to the couches in the middle of the room. “Please, sit.” You all sit down on the couches, with Zorn facing you. “First,” he begins rather haughtily. “I hope you will not be wearing that while in Europe.” He crosses his legs casually. “What would you like to know, Herr General?”

>”As an American going to Europe, I’m curious what sort of reputation will precede me.”
>”I’m particularly curious about specific countries’ potential benefit to the Realm.”
>”Tell me more about this war Prussia has had with Austria.”
>”What’s wrong with what I’m wearing?”
>”Would you be interested in coming along with me? I’m sure there would be interesting business opportunities for you, and you could help me get around more easily.”
>Write-in.

>>3693520
>”Tell me more about this war Prussia has had with Austria.”
>”Would you be interested in coming along with me? I’m sure there would be interesting business opportunities for you, and you could help me get around more easily.”

I really want him to come with, But I'd rather not lose him plus his a free agent.

>>3693520
>>”I’m particularly curious about specific countries’ potential benefit to the Realm.”
>>”Tell me more about this war Prussia has had with Austria.”

>>3693520

>>”I’m particularly curious about specific countries’ potential benefit to the Realm.”

>”Would you be interested in coming along with me? I’m sure there would be interesting business opportunities for you, and you could help me get around more easily.”

>>3693520
>”Tell me more about this war Prussia has had with Austria.”
>”Would you be interested in coming along with me? I’m sure there would be interesting business opportunities for you, and you could help me get around more easily

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“Would you be interested in coming along on the mission?” You lean back, sipping your brandy. “I’m sure a man such as yourself could make some rather valuable business contacts on a mission like this, and I could definitely use someone as well-traveled as you for a guide.”

Zorn raises an eyebrow, taking a long drag of his pipe and blowing the smoke in a long-fine line that terminates in a small cloud. “What you’ve offered is an intriguing proposal, General.” He leans forward. “Please, explain further.”

You nod. “The mission will depart from Edo and land in Rotterdam, Holland.” Taking several puffs of your cigarillo, you continue. “Destinations will include Sweden, Norway, Prussia, Belgium, Italy, Austria, and possibly Switzerland.” Clearing your throat, you sip some more brandy, nearly finishing your glass. “The objective of the mission is to gain international military and political support, as well as to make contacts throughout Europe in the industrial and business sector.”

Zorn’s expression slowly changes from one of businesslike seriousness to a sly grin. “Europe is quite a varied continent, it would make sense to have a well-traveled guide.” Chuckling, he nods. “I accept, General.”

You lean forward and shake his hand. “Very well, Herr Zorn. We leave in approximately two weeks.”

“Good, good.” He continues nodding. “That gives me plenty of time.”

You raise an eyebrow. “Time for what?”

He points at you with the stem of his pipe. “Well, we cannot have you walking around the storied castles and bustling factories of Ganz Europa wearing that.”

You frown. “You mean these clothes?” To be fair, you are wearing a plaid shirt, canvas pants, a canvas vest, and a slouch hat made from cheap wool.

“Indeed.” Zorn nods, standing up. “We must go to the tailor, immediately.” He snaps his fingers and a woman wearing a rather plain maid’s outfit appears seemingly out of nowhere. “Klara here will take Nakajima to get some clothes as well. The people of Europe are not as progressively-minded as you, and I believe a woman in trousers will frighten them.” He chuckles.

>”Well, we do have military uniforms…”
>”That won’t be necessary, Herr Zorn.”
>”Very well, lead the way.”
>Write-in.

>>3693850
>”Very well, lead the way.”

Can't wait to see naka in a dress

>>3693850

>”Well, we do have military uniforms…”

>>3693850
>”Very well, lead the way.”

You shrug. “Lead the way.”

“Lead I shall,” Zorn replies. With that, you all exit the hotel room, and soon find yourselves walking down the streets of Yokosuka. “Now,” Zorn turns to you. “The styles of Europe are far different than those of America. It might be a good idea to blend in, but going with a distinctly foreign look could work as well…” He rubs his chin thoughtfully.

“I wasn’t aware you were into fashion.” You raise an eyebrow.

Zorn nods slightly. “Anyone who is as well-traveled as I must stay abreast of what is fashionable. Certain clients can be very particular.” He grimaces. “And European nobility are exceptionally particular. If they think you look like you were ever a member of the poor strata, they will be hesitant to do business with you.”

“I see,” you reply.

“So tell me, General.” Zorn takes the lead, walking just slightly in front of you. “What was your occupation before becoming a soldier?”

“Well, I came from a family of farmers.” Shrugging, you continue. “If I hadn’t joined the Army, that’s probably what I’d be doing now.”

“Then we will need to make sure you do not look like a farmer.” He looks over at you. “Do you have money available for purchasing clothes?”

You nod. “I’ve got plenty of cash at my disposal. I don’t exactly use much of my salary.”

Zorn shakes his head. “A common problem with soldiers.” Looking over at you, he frowns slightly. “You should consider acquiring assets of value; property, precious metals, businesses, anything like that.” As the two of you arrive at the tailor, Zorn stops himself. “But that can come later.”

“I assume this is the place?” You gesture to the door.

“Indeed it is,” Zorn replies. “After you, Herr General.”

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And that's all for tonight. Thanks for playing! Our next session will likely be on Sunday at our regular time, but until then feel free to ask questions or chat here in the thread. I'll try to answer anything you guys ask.

>>3694008
Thanks for the run, Also... Question could we use our pay too help get an upgrade or something for our base? Or shit as he said?

>>3694008
Thanks for running

Property eh? Maybe a house here doesn't sound that bad, but we should wait until after the newest conspiracy resolves itself

>>3694012
>could we use our pay too help get an upgrade or something for our base? Or shit as he said?
Now that Stockton has been made aware of his ability to use his money for bigger things, there will be options to make major purchases in the future.

Huh, Naka is getting ready to come out.
Still, if she will wear female clothing in Europe the truth may surface before she wants it.

>>3694121
Wait a minute, QM is Stockton retarded

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>>3695246
Not retarded, just from a poor background in the 19th Century. He has zero experience with using (or even thinking about) large sums of money, so he's just sort of sitting on it until he could think of things to spend it on.

>>3695515
I would like to buy property here but I want to see what will happen to that Matsudaira situation first before investing

>>3695515
God bless

Session in two hours.

You stand with Zorn in the tailor’s shop, looking at the various wares available. Everything you could possibly imagine seems to be housed in this small shop. Tweed hunting jackets, embroidered waistcoats, felt top hats, lush fur topcoats, and all other manner of formal wear for the upper-crust of society.

“Impressed, I take it?” Zorn looks at you with a raised eyebrow.

You nod slowly. “That’s one way to put it. I always figured rich people had their clothes custom made.”

Zorn chuckles. “Well, the examples hanging here are merely that: examples.” He then gestures to the shop counter, where a small man in glasses pours over stacks of ledgers. “Once you find what you like, alterations and customizations are made, of course.”

“I see.” You continue nodding. “So what should I wear?”

Zorn shrugs. “The options are nearly endless, Herr General.” He crosses his arms. “Though, I can provide some assistance.” The German walks over to a rack with coats of varying styles on it. “By the time we arrive in Europe, it will nearly be winter, so we needn’t worry about dressing too warmly.” Lighting his pipe, he pauses.

“You could wear something more restrained and conservative, that would go over best with nobility and the like.” For emphasis, he produces a black frock coat that looks not unlike something a professor at a university might wear. “Of course, you might not want to go with too plain a wardrobe if you intend to mingle with the industrialists and socialites of many countries.”

He puts the jacket back on the rack and selects another, far fancier one. “Wearing something like this would make you stand out and seem quite trendy. It would absolutely scream ‘new money,’ but among the wealthy non-nobles, that might not be a bad thing.” Zorn walks further down the racks, finding a rather strange set of clothes.

Striking colors, embroidered patterns, pinstripes, and dramatic proportions jump out at you. “A more bohemian aesthetic could benefit you as well. Everyone pays attention to an eccentric, especially one from a foreign land.” You frown at the odd clothes, causing Zorn to put it back on the rack.

Zorn shrugs, producing a set of clothes that looks quite odd. In a way, they look almost like a military uniform, but made to be more stylish and less functional. “You could go with clothes that emphasize your occupation as a general, as well.” He gestures to the jacket in particular, which bears a close resemblance to your own pelisse. “Though, this sort of style is mostly only favored by nobles and members of the officer class.”

“Interesting…” You look at your options, thinking of what would work best.

>Go with a conservative, yet high-quality wardrobe. It is the safest bet.
>You rather liked the trendy clothes. It will also help you stand out to non-nobility.
>The Bohemian style seems like the right choice. Eccentrics tend to draw the interest of people from all classes and walks of life.
>The military-derived style suits you best. It is a military-outreach mission, after all.
>Write-in.

>>3702536
>>You rather liked the trendy clothes. It will also help you stand out to non-nobility.

>>3702536
Spend more money and buy two sets

>the trendy
>the military

We use the military as default but can change into the other if we are going into a non noble event or other such circunstance

>>3702536
>>The military-derived style suits you best. It is a military-outreach mission, after all.

>>3702580
Support

>>3702580
This.
We have more money than we really have any idea what to do with. Might as well put it to good use.

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You decide to get a wardrobe’s worth of clothes in both a stylish cut as well as the more military-derived style. As you tell the tailor what you’re looking for, he quickly goes to work. First, he takes your measurements and goes to the back of the store. Shortly, he returns with several articles for you to try on.

Several minutes later, you stand in front of a full-length mirror looking at yourself. The first outfit put together by the tailor doesn’t exactly resonate with you. It is a cream-colored, three-piece suit with a high collar and black necktie; you are instructed to wear brown deerskin gloves with the outfit, which admittedly adds to the overall image. The only thing missing is a Panama hat. “I look like some plantation owner.” You view yourself in the mirror.

Zorn walks up beside you. “That is true, but this look will certainly endear you to Europeans with money.”

You shrug. The cream-colored suit may be a bit much for your taste, but this is all about putting on appearances for potential benefactors. You try on several other suits and sets of clothing, buying them all as you get fitted. Of course, you get several topcoats and top hats as well. Zorn insists on you buying four different walking canes. At your request, the tailor modifies all of the clothing to have extra space for your Dragoon’s holster, allowing you to wear the pistol in a cross-draw fashion on your hip, covered by your jacket. Once you complete your transaction, the tailor arranges for the clothes to be delivered to your base.

Zorn recommends you keep the plantation suit on, handing you a matching wide-brimmed hat as the two of you exit the store. “You look quite good, Herr General. If I didn’t know better, I would think you were a globe-trotting industrialist. A man of the future!” He chuckles, putting a hand on your shoulder. He also hands you a weighty walking cane with a brass handle.

“If you say so,” you shake your head.

“I absolutely do,” he replies. Gesturing to the cane, he continues. “Twist the cap to the left.”

You do, and the handle comes loose, revealing a concealed blade perhaps two or three feet long. “By god,” you say. “It’s a sword!”

Zorn nods. “Most men of action have concealed weapons in their canes. Now put it back to normal, we are in public after all.”

You stow the sword back in the cane immediately. “Intriguing,” you say. “So when rich men walk around with these canes, it’s not really to help them walk?”

Zorn shrugs. “Only partially. It helps to have a weapon hidden in plain sight.” The two of you begin walking back toward the hotel.

>”So what did you get up to while Prussia was at war?”
>”You mentioned putting my money to use. Could you discuss that some more?”
>”Do you suppose we could stop by the Associated Press office? I want to see about having a journalist along for this outreach mission.”
>Remain silent for the rest of the walk.
>Write-in.

>>3702757

>”So what did you get up to while Prussia was at war?”

>>3702757

>”So what did you get up to while Prussia was at war?”
>”You mentioned putting my money to use. Could you discuss that some more?”

Kek, definetly not bringing the ex along

>>3702757

>”So what did you get up to while Prussia was at war?”
>”You mentioned putting my money to use. Could you discuss that some more?”

>>3702757
>”Do you suppose we could stop by the Associated Press office? I want to see about having a journalist along for this outreach mission.”

>>3702757
>”You mentioned putting my money to use. Could you discuss that some more?”

>>3702960
Add
>”Do you suppose we could stop by the Associated Press office? I want to see about having a journalist along for this outreach mission.”
too please

>>3702783
Add

>”You mentioned putting my money to use. Could you discuss that some more?”

>>3702757
>”So what did you get up to while Prussia was at war?”
>”You mentioned putting my money to use. Could you discuss that some more?”

No ex. Naka is waifu now.

>>3702974
She will bully her way in like she always do anyway lol

>>3702757
>”Do you suppose we could stop by the Associated Press office? I want to see about having a journalist along for this outreach mission.”

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“So,” you begin. “What did you get up to in the Prussian war?”

Zorn chuckles. “Ah, what didn’t I get up to?” He rubs his chin thoughtfully. “Well, I mostly sold rifles. Both sides needed them, of course. I dealt in pretty much everything an army could need, though. Medicine, blankets, uniforms, contraband. It was quite a good month or so for me.”

You nod slowly. “I can imagine. You seem to have your hands in every endeavor.”

Zorn nods. “Almost every endeavor, yes. I do try to avoid politics though.” He gestures to you. “I understand you were on campaign yourself while the war was happening in Europe. Tell me about it.”

You sigh. “Well, we were sent to the southern part of the country to put an unruly domain in its place.” Shrugging, you grimace. “It was pretty bloody, but we got through it better than I think most people were expecting.”

“I heard that the new shogun has actually revoked the lands of those unruly subjects.” Zorn looks over at you. “That cannot bode well.”

You nod, if only slightly. “It’s unprecedented, yes.” Looking at the German, you change the subject. “Earlier you mentioned ways to use my money. Could we keep discussing that now?”

Zorn laughs. “I suppose we could, General.” Removing his hat, he runs a hand through his considerable mane of gray hair. “I know many generals who either invest in or outright start businesses. That is always a good place to start. Of course, property holds its value better than currency, so there is another option.”

You frown. “What sort of businesses would I even be able to invest in?”

Zorn looks around as the two of you walk. “Well, I would look around at Japan and see what they do not already have. Factories, steel mills, perhaps even railroads.” He shrugs. “You would need to find experts to actually run the businesses, but if you financed them, your investments would be making returns in no time.” He points at you with the handle of his own walking cane. “I know personally of several generals and field marshals who have essentially spearheaded the steel and rail industries in their respective nations.”

“Hmm,” you raise an eyebrow. “Interesting.” The two of you arrive at the hotel once more, walking up to Zorn’s room. As you enter, you stop in your tracks. Nakajima stands in the middle of the room with Zorn’s maid, the two of them talking about something. Nakajima is not wearing her usual baggy clothes, nor is she wearing any kind of formal dress. She is dressed in a cavalry colonel’s uniform, though it has been modified specifically for her.

She turns to face you, her cheeks growing red. “G-general, I was not expecting you to return so soon.” Looking down, she gestures at the uniform. “I know the plan was to buy dresses… But the dressmaker offered to custom-fit a uniform for me...”

>”That kind of goes against the whole idea we originally had.” (frustrated)
>”Did you also buy some dresses?” (pragmatic)
>”Well it looks quite good. The Europeans will just have to get over themselves.” (supportive)
>Write-in.

>>3703100
>>”Well it looks quite good. The Europeans will just have to get over themselves.” (supportive)

she looks stunning

>>3703100
>>”Well it looks quite good. The Europeans will just have to get over themselves.” (supportive)
then
>>”Did you also buy some dresses?” (pragmatic)

>>3703105

>>”Well it looks quite good. The Europeans will just have to get over themselves.” (supportive)

And then

>approach her close and whisper into her ear "but I admit I was quite curious to see you in a dress my dear" (sly/flirty)

>>3703105
>”Well it looks quite good. The Europeans will just have to get over themselves.” (supportive)

>>3703119
+1

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“Well you look quite good,” you reply. “The Europeans will just have to get over it.”

Nakajima nods, barely enough to be noticed. “Thank you, sir.”

Zorn chuckles behind you. “Ah, young love.” You look over at him with a slight frown. He shrugs, continuing. “Regardless, I think the nobility of Europe will be at least partially receptive to a woman in a military uniform. They might assume it is normal for the Japanese.”

“Regardless,” you say. “We’ve probably taken enough of your time, Herr Zorn.” You shake his hand. “I’ll keep in-touch.”

“Of course, Herr General.” He nods as you and Nakajima go to leave.

The two of you walk down the stairs, not saying anything for a few seconds. “You look good, too.” Nakajima looks over at you, her eyes scanning your suit. “Perhaps a shave is in order, but that suit makes you look quite refined.”

You chuckle. “Thank you, Major.” Leaning in, you whisper. “While I quite like your uniform, I would’ve liked to see you in a dress, too.”

Her face turns red at this. “P-perhaps later, sir.” More quietly, she continues. “I did also buy several dresses, I just liked the uniform more.”

“That’s fair,” you reply. The two of you step out into the streets, walking toward your carriage. “I must say,” you begin. “Thank goodness for a white suit in this weather.” You remove your hat to wipe your brow. “We might have to switch to white jackets for our summer uniforms.”

“I believe the Izumi Domain uses white jackets, though.” Nakajima frowns slightly. “It would be bad to get confused with them on the battlefield.”

You nod. “That is true. Perhaps there should be a single uniform that all of the domains use, to avoid any confusion whatsoever.”

“That would require the realm be unified,” another voice speaks in Japanese. The source of the voice comes from behind your carriage. A familiar voice, to be sure. Hijikata Toshizo steps out from behind your carriage, walking casually toward you. He smirks as he speaks. “With that way things are, I don’t see Japan being unified that way any time soon.” He wears a black three-piece suit and a matching bowler hat.

“Hijikata Toshizo,” you say. Even though you’ve had no problems with the man before, there is something threatening about the whole situation that makes you want to reach for your Dragoon. Nakajima side-steps and grabs your arm, her other hand going to the location of her holstered revolver. The hairs on the back of your neck stand up.

“General Stockton. Congratulations on the promotion, by the way.” His eyes narrow. “I understand you wanted to meet with me.”

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And that's all for tonight! Thanks for playing! I'm not 100 percent sure when our next session will be, as I've found new employment and I go to orientation next week. I'll be sure to keep you guys posted regardless. Until our next session, feel free to ask me any questions or just chat here in the thread.

>>3703215
thank you very much for running see you next time

>>3703215
good luck then chief with the new job, Also I wonder if we're being retarded about the former boss being posioned.

>>3703105
>”Did you also buy some dresses?” (pragmatic)

>>3703335
I do wonder that myself

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>>3703335
>Also I wonder if we're being retarded about the former boss being posioned.
What precisely do you mean, Anon?

>>3703418
Did he actually get posioned or is somebody working against the interests and SAYING he was posioned to gain power? Like this entire group is abunch of shadow cunts.

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Well guys, still no word from the place that has supposedly hired me. While I was waiting for my phone call today, I got started building a model of my irl truck! If nothing develops regarding my job, expect a session this Sunday.

>>3713085
Thanks for the heads up

Another heads up guys: things are going to be a little hectic the next few days, so no session tomorrow.

>>3722224
looking forward to next session boss

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I know you guys are probably tired of seeing my model truck, but I’m proud of the fruits of my autism. All it needs now are bumpers and the grille. Anyway, we’ve got good news and bad news: the bad news is that I was lied to at my most recent job interview, and I will have to keep looking for work. The good news is that means we can have regular sessions again! Next session will be either Saturday or Sunday, in a new thread.

>>3729618
Sorry to hear about your job situation. I hope you have better luck next time.

What the fuck could make people lie to applicants?

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>>3729635
>What the fuck could make people lie to applicants?
Basically it's that HR is filled with idiots. Long story short, my previous employer told me I'd be able to get my old job back when I interviewed there. I was even assured my old position was vacant and I could get back into it. They said they'd call me later that week to arrange placement and give me my new uniforms. The week went by with no communication from them, so I called and the HR lady basically told me "oh, sorry we don't actually have any open spots for you right now, sorry."

>>3729648
Damn, that shit sucks

>>3729648
>HR
everytime it's brought up it always causes problems. Does this position even do jack shit? Is it required by law for businesses to have it?