La Chanson de la Victoire (The Song of Victory): La Petite Arpenteuse (Non, SV, you are a General of France in the Napoleonic War!)
- Thread starter Plausbius
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- Mature Alt. History
Magoose
SV's Questing Fanatic
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Well knowing Murat, if that man isn't killed by rebels or become disillusioned and wishing to return home...
Well lets just say that the possibility of Murat becoming a hero in spain, and living, are quite high.
I wouldn't mind more some authored Action-Options, but I like what you are doing so far. I'm eager to see how things play out going further.
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Can I just say using fate to save a specific character from failure, no matter which character it is, cheapens the quest.
It's a shame, because your doing a lot of great things with this quest, but from this point on I'm Kind of routing for napoleon's death just for having fates favor.
Magoose
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Uh, that was something we came up with years ago, and mearly to highlight that, yes, Nappy is kinda the protagonist here, not us.
At least of history.
And also, he can still fail, it's just a lot harder for him to fail.
Plus, when he does, things will get worse... very worse.
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Excellent. Something to look forward to.
All joking aside my feelings on fate are rather set in stone, and normally a quest ender for me. I'm making an exception because the writing is top notch.
Magoose
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But good news is, we're not going to be getting rumor mills from the rest of Europe yet.
Mostly because I want to focus solely on spain for a little bit.
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- Reader
Cool. I'm 400+ pages back anyways so it'll be a while regardless, but I'll look forward to a theresa focus once I catch up.
I mean, really, this whole Fate Thing is just accurate to real life. Did you ever look closely at Napoleons Career? That Guy had Plot Armor in Spades.
Magoose
SV's Questing Fanatic
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- California USA
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At least until his first abdication.
But hopefully things won't come to that.
Hell, even after that!
I mean, just look at this shit:
View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=puZh2LARvHU
Hopefully indeed.
Les Quatre Caballeros (AlexanderSturnn)
Les Quatre Caballeros
It was a strange group of men that rode into Barcelona that evening, as the Sun was beginning to set. Their Horses, all fine and robust specimen bred for War, trotted down the Main Street, their hooves hitting the cobblestones.
To the outer left rode a Man whose very appearance screamed 'Soldier'. With black hair and a scar running across his rugged, but strangely handsome face and piercing blue eyes taking in the sight around, he wore the dusty and torn Uniform of a Captain of the Infantry. His tall and muscular frame cut a somewhat intimidating figure as he looked around, nodding to the French Soldiers on patrol in the street. He carried a Sabre by his side and, most intriguingly for an Officer, a Musket over his shoulder.
The man to his right, however, looked even more intimidating. While just as tall as his companion, his face had a much sharper and angular look to it. A mustache connected to mutton-chops went across his face. His brown hair was unkempt and sweaty. What really sealed the deal, however, was his milky-white left eye that focused on nothing in particular, and yet seemed to direct it's blind gaze at anyone looking at the man. All of this gave his face dark, almost cruel features. His Uniform of a Colonel was adorned with a wolf pelt around the collar and then draped across the right shoulder. He carried a Sabre as well as two Pistols on his belt.
The next man in line could not have been more different from the previous two. In fact, he stuck out like a sore thumb from the entire Group. He wore not a Uniform, but an expensive looking black traveling coat over what seemed to be civilian clothing. He wore a black top-hat, under which long strands of faded blonde hair ran down his back. His face had aristocratic features and sported a short full-beard. His intelligent eyes scanned the streets around them and he nodded politely whenever they passed a Spanish Citizen of Barcelona. He was armed as well, with a Rapier and a Pistol. Unlike the Military Models of his colleagues, however, his weapons were finely crafted and expensive works, probably custom-made for him alone.
The last man, on the outer right, was clearly a Soldier again, but he looked much less wild then the other two on the left. He had short black hair and a neatly trimmed mustache. His brown eyes seemed to hide a certain playfulness of at least joviality as he let them wander over the City. His Uniform was that of a Colonel of the Chasseurs, although his Trousers and especially his boots were of much finer craftsmanship then usual, indicating a certain amount of personal wealth to his name since he could afford that. His Cavalry Sabre hung by his side, swinging as his horse walked down the road next to the other three.
"Well, here we are again. Back in Barcelona." Guy Loup, Colonel of the Infantry-Batallion that had come to be known as La meute de loups, The Wolfpack, turned his head to the man in Civilian clothes, his left eye seemingly focused on him despite it's blindness. "I hope you did not get too uncomfortable being away from soft beds and heated rooms for so long, your Lordship."
Tomas Vivar, Count of Mouromorto and one of the political Leaders of the Anfrancesado-Faction in the Spanish Court, rolled his eyes at the teasing Comment. "I believe I have proven by now that I can handle myself in the Field, Colonel. However, I AM glad to be back here...for your sake, that is." He grimaced with feigned disgust. "I know you Soldiers are averse to any kind of Hygiene, but dear God, you are truly due for a bath. You stink as much as the Animal that you have adopted as your and your men's moniker."
The Wolf of Spain, as Loup had come to be called after his Successes in recent Months, snorted. "An Aristo like you would know what stench smells like, wouldn't you?"
"Gentlemen, please, I think this is hardly the time." Pierre de l'Eclin, Colonel of the Chasseurs, looked at the two men to his left, shaking his head. "Besides, I think all of us could use a bath now. We all stink from blood, sweat and horse."
"Always so quick to defend your Aristo, eh, Pierre?" Guy let out a barking laughter. "Come on, you know we both are just teasing a bit."
"Of course, of course. Although, at this point, is he not rather OUR Aristo?", de L'Eclin mused with a wry grin.
"I was unaware my Person belonged to anyone here", Tomas Vivar remarked with a dry grin. "And here I thought the Revolution abolished Slavery in France. Do you plan to go back on this now?
"Of course not!" Jacob Dulong, a Captain of the Infantry under Loup's Command and the man riding on the outer left, spoke up for the first time. "What do we look like to you, Liars? Oathbreakers? Or worse, God forbid, Englishmen?"
The three soldiers let out a roaring laughter at that last comment and even Count Vivar could not help but chuckle at it.
Tomas looked at his three Companions and, not for the first time, he marveled at how things had turned out in the end. After his desperate ride to Paris and delivery of intelligence on Spain to the Imperial Couple, he had truly feared that his Country might still be lost. That even if one of the sides in the Civil War won, they would still drag Spain into oblivion by failing to stabilize it. That even if France moved now, it was too late to save his Homeland from itself.
And yet, despite all odds, the French had triumphed. In a single battle, Marshall Suchet had destroyed both Armies of the Civil War and brought the King under the protection of the French.
Vivar snorted. Carlos, now King of Spain at least nominally, had his respect for staying with his Nation while the rest of his cowardly family fled, but he had nonetheless been a fool to believe that he could win this by himself. Even if he had won, he would not have been able to pacify Spain all on his own. Accepting French aid was the only way to not only save their home, but to finally drag it from the superstition and reactionary thinking of the past into a new Future. At least the King somewhat seemed to understand it now, since he was willing to cooperate with the French. And at least in Barcelona itself, the People seemed to come around as well, accepting the French presence in the city and expressing hope for Spain due to their presence.
Of course, not everyone agreed. Much of the Country was now controlled by Bandits and Warlords, intent on carving out their own Kingdom. Egged on by their infernal British Allies, the Portugese eyed their unstable Neighbor hungrily. And Partisan Warfare reaped a bloody toll on both the French and their Allies loyal to the King of Spain.
At least some Partisans were on their side as well, but not many. And these irregulars that fought them were starting to become a true Plague upon the land.
Which was why Suchet had, a few months ago, created a few Task-Forces of Troops picked specfically to deal with Partisan Forces and crush them. Said forces were usually comprised of a mixture of troops from different Units, mostly Cavalry and Light Infantry, though with some Line-Infantry put in as well.
Guy Loup and de l'Eclin, as Colonels, shared Command of one of these Task Forces. Both had during Suchets initial Invasion displayed great skill at hunting down and smoking out Partisans, making them and their Soldiers obvious choice. Dulong, meanwhile, had shown a penchant for leading fast and devastating attacks, ideal to overrun Partisan Positions quickly and efficiently, which was why he had been assigned to command their Task-Forces Infantry on the Assault.
The only thing that their force had been missing was a Translator, a Guide, someone who knew Spain and it's People. Suchet, while designing his Anti-Guerilla Tactics, had put great emphasis on establishing a working relationship with local Civilians to at least try to get what you wanted from them peacefully, instead of just threatening or killing them en masse, which was an all to often abused practice.
Tomas Vivar was one of the men who understood the common People of his Homeland and had some experience in diplomacy, so he had volunteered to serve in this capacity, officially a 'Civilian Liaison', with one of the Task Forces. And that was how he had ended up with his present Company.
It actually had turned out better then he had at first feared upon meeting the Military Commanders. Dulong and Loup had been dismissive of him and his Status as an "Aristo" at first and he had cared little for their somewhat boorish attitudes in return. But de l'Eclin had worked with him before when he had accompanied Suchet's Army back into Spain. He knew him and had convinced them all to give each other a chance.
And they had succeeded. Their Operations had, in the last few weeks, destroyed a Number of Partisan Forces in the Area that would've otherwise harried the French Supply Lines. All the while spilling little to no Civilian blood. Loup had advocated for a brutal and harsh approach, but thankfully Vivar and de l'Eclin had convinced him otherwise and instead give Diplomacy a chance first. And indeed, Vivar had been able to convince the local Spanish People to cooperate and aid them in their fight. Bereft of their support from the People, the Guerillas had been defeated quickly. Some surrendered, but those who resisted had been crushed quickly.
All four of them had come to respect each other greatly during this whole affair. In fact, by now, Tomas would honestly count at least de l'Eclin as a friend of his. And even though he and Loup and Dulong still clashed verbally from time o time, they knew by now that in a pinch, they could rely on one another.
"At any rate", Loup finally said as their laughter died down. "We had a good hunt together. I hope we can do this again soon. We make a good Team!"
"I agree...but that will depend on what Orders the Empress has for our Forces", de l'Eclin said.
"Hmph...still kinda hard to believe that we'll be lead by Empress Therese herself now", Dulong muttered. "I just hope she's as good as the Stories claim she is. We'll need someone in charge who knows what they're doing if we wanna pacify this Hellhole."
Vivar said nothing as he let that thought go through his mind. The Empress herself was now leading the French Forces in Spain...
He had heard a lot about Therese Auclair, now Therese Bonaparte. How could he not have? The Female General turned Empress had been one of the most discussed Topics in all of Europe for years now.
Some saw her as one of the greatest Vanguards of the Revolution, a Champion of it's Ideals. Others regarded her as a Traitor to said Ideals, corrupted and twisted by Power. And a few still believed she was a jumped-up fool who had gotten lucky, nothing more.
As for himself? Well, her accomplishments were undeniable. And while he still had doubts...Therese Auclair had worked Miracles before.
Perhaps now, she could perform one for Spain and heal his homeland.
"Well, Gentlemen, that remains to be seen", Vivar finally voiced his own thoughts. "But with some luck..." A smile came to his lips. "Things will finally turn around for us."
Loup's face twisted into a Wolf-like grin as he took a sip from his flask. "I'll drink to that, your Lordship."
A.N.: I made a Roll of how well these four Sharpe Antagonists would work together when put on a Team.
It was a Crit.
So, here you have a small group of Minor Heroes, The Four Caballeros! Specialized in hunting down and crushing Partisans while trying to keep the Civilian Bloodshed at a minimum.
It was a strange group of men that rode into Barcelona that evening, as the Sun was beginning to set. Their Horses, all fine and robust specimen bred for War, trotted down the Main Street, their hooves hitting the cobblestones.
To the outer left rode a Man whose very appearance screamed 'Soldier'. With black hair and a scar running across his rugged, but strangely handsome face and piercing blue eyes taking in the sight around, he wore the dusty and torn Uniform of a Captain of the Infantry. His tall and muscular frame cut a somewhat intimidating figure as he looked around, nodding to the French Soldiers on patrol in the street. He carried a Sabre by his side and, most intriguingly for an Officer, a Musket over his shoulder.
The man to his right, however, looked even more intimidating. While just as tall as his companion, his face had a much sharper and angular look to it. A mustache connected to mutton-chops went across his face. His brown hair was unkempt and sweaty. What really sealed the deal, however, was his milky-white left eye that focused on nothing in particular, and yet seemed to direct it's blind gaze at anyone looking at the man. All of this gave his face dark, almost cruel features. His Uniform of a Colonel was adorned with a wolf pelt around the collar and then draped across the right shoulder. He carried a Sabre as well as two Pistols on his belt.
The next man in line could not have been more different from the previous two. In fact, he stuck out like a sore thumb from the entire Group. He wore not a Uniform, but an expensive looking black traveling coat over what seemed to be civilian clothing. He wore a black top-hat, under which long strands of faded blonde hair ran down his back. His face had aristocratic features and sported a short full-beard. His intelligent eyes scanned the streets around them and he nodded politely whenever they passed a Spanish Citizen of Barcelona. He was armed as well, with a Rapier and a Pistol. Unlike the Military Models of his colleagues, however, his weapons were finely crafted and expensive works, probably custom-made for him alone.
The last man, on the outer right, was clearly a Soldier again, but he looked much less wild then the other two on the left. He had short black hair and a neatly trimmed mustache. His brown eyes seemed to hide a certain playfulness of at least joviality as he let them wander over the City. His Uniform was that of a Colonel of the Chasseurs, although his Trousers and especially his boots were of much finer craftsmanship then usual, indicating a certain amount of personal wealth to his name since he could afford that. His Cavalry Sabre hung by his side, swinging as his horse walked down the road next to the other three.
"Well, here we are again. Back in Barcelona." Guy Loup, Colonel of the Infantry-Batallion that had come to be known as La meute de loups, The Wolfpack, turned his head to the man in Civilian clothes, his left eye seemingly focused on him despite it's blindness. "I hope you did not get too uncomfortable being away from soft beds and heated rooms for so long, your Lordship."
Tomas Vivar, Count of Mouromorto and one of the political Leaders of the Anfrancesado-Faction in the Spanish Court, rolled his eyes at the teasing Comment. "I believe I have proven by now that I can handle myself in the Field, Colonel. However, I AM glad to be back here...for your sake, that is." He grimaced with feigned disgust. "I know you Soldiers are averse to any kind of Hygiene, but dear God, you are truly due for a bath. You stink as much as the Animal that you have adopted as your and your men's moniker."
The Wolf of Spain, as Loup had come to be called after his Successes in recent Months, snorted. "An Aristo like you would know what stench smells like, wouldn't you?"
"Gentlemen, please, I think this is hardly the time." Pierre de l'Eclin, Colonel of the Chasseurs, looked at the two men to his left, shaking his head. "Besides, I think all of us could use a bath now. We all stink from blood, sweat and horse."
"Always so quick to defend your Aristo, eh, Pierre?" Guy let out a barking laughter. "Come on, you know we both are just teasing a bit."
"Of course, of course. Although, at this point, is he not rather OUR Aristo?", de L'Eclin mused with a wry grin.
"I was unaware my Person belonged to anyone here", Tomas Vivar remarked with a dry grin. "And here I thought the Revolution abolished Slavery in France. Do you plan to go back on this now?
"Of course not!" Jacob Dulong, a Captain of the Infantry under Loup's Command and the man riding on the outer left, spoke up for the first time. "What do we look like to you, Liars? Oathbreakers? Or worse, God forbid, Englishmen?"
The three soldiers let out a roaring laughter at that last comment and even Count Vivar could not help but chuckle at it.
Tomas looked at his three Companions and, not for the first time, he marveled at how things had turned out in the end. After his desperate ride to Paris and delivery of intelligence on Spain to the Imperial Couple, he had truly feared that his Country might still be lost. That even if one of the sides in the Civil War won, they would still drag Spain into oblivion by failing to stabilize it. That even if France moved now, it was too late to save his Homeland from itself.
And yet, despite all odds, the French had triumphed. In a single battle, Marshall Suchet had destroyed both Armies of the Civil War and brought the King under the protection of the French.
Vivar snorted. Carlos, now King of Spain at least nominally, had his respect for staying with his Nation while the rest of his cowardly family fled, but he had nonetheless been a fool to believe that he could win this by himself. Even if he had won, he would not have been able to pacify Spain all on his own. Accepting French aid was the only way to not only save their home, but to finally drag it from the superstition and reactionary thinking of the past into a new Future. At least the King somewhat seemed to understand it now, since he was willing to cooperate with the French. And at least in Barcelona itself, the People seemed to come around as well, accepting the French presence in the city and expressing hope for Spain due to their presence.
Of course, not everyone agreed. Much of the Country was now controlled by Bandits and Warlords, intent on carving out their own Kingdom. Egged on by their infernal British Allies, the Portugese eyed their unstable Neighbor hungrily. And Partisan Warfare reaped a bloody toll on both the French and their Allies loyal to the King of Spain.
At least some Partisans were on their side as well, but not many. And these irregulars that fought them were starting to become a true Plague upon the land.
Which was why Suchet had, a few months ago, created a few Task-Forces of Troops picked specfically to deal with Partisan Forces and crush them. Said forces were usually comprised of a mixture of troops from different Units, mostly Cavalry and Light Infantry, though with some Line-Infantry put in as well.
Guy Loup and de l'Eclin, as Colonels, shared Command of one of these Task Forces. Both had during Suchets initial Invasion displayed great skill at hunting down and smoking out Partisans, making them and their Soldiers obvious choice. Dulong, meanwhile, had shown a penchant for leading fast and devastating attacks, ideal to overrun Partisan Positions quickly and efficiently, which was why he had been assigned to command their Task-Forces Infantry on the Assault.
The only thing that their force had been missing was a Translator, a Guide, someone who knew Spain and it's People. Suchet, while designing his Anti-Guerilla Tactics, had put great emphasis on establishing a working relationship with local Civilians to at least try to get what you wanted from them peacefully, instead of just threatening or killing them en masse, which was an all to often abused practice.
Tomas Vivar was one of the men who understood the common People of his Homeland and had some experience in diplomacy, so he had volunteered to serve in this capacity, officially a 'Civilian Liaison', with one of the Task Forces. And that was how he had ended up with his present Company.
It actually had turned out better then he had at first feared upon meeting the Military Commanders. Dulong and Loup had been dismissive of him and his Status as an "Aristo" at first and he had cared little for their somewhat boorish attitudes in return. But de l'Eclin had worked with him before when he had accompanied Suchet's Army back into Spain. He knew him and had convinced them all to give each other a chance.
And they had succeeded. Their Operations had, in the last few weeks, destroyed a Number of Partisan Forces in the Area that would've otherwise harried the French Supply Lines. All the while spilling little to no Civilian blood. Loup had advocated for a brutal and harsh approach, but thankfully Vivar and de l'Eclin had convinced him otherwise and instead give Diplomacy a chance first. And indeed, Vivar had been able to convince the local Spanish People to cooperate and aid them in their fight. Bereft of their support from the People, the Guerillas had been defeated quickly. Some surrendered, but those who resisted had been crushed quickly.
All four of them had come to respect each other greatly during this whole affair. In fact, by now, Tomas would honestly count at least de l'Eclin as a friend of his. And even though he and Loup and Dulong still clashed verbally from time o time, they knew by now that in a pinch, they could rely on one another.
"At any rate", Loup finally said as their laughter died down. "We had a good hunt together. I hope we can do this again soon. We make a good Team!"
"I agree...but that will depend on what Orders the Empress has for our Forces", de l'Eclin said.
"Hmph...still kinda hard to believe that we'll be lead by Empress Therese herself now", Dulong muttered. "I just hope she's as good as the Stories claim she is. We'll need someone in charge who knows what they're doing if we wanna pacify this Hellhole."
Vivar said nothing as he let that thought go through his mind. The Empress herself was now leading the French Forces in Spain...
He had heard a lot about Therese Auclair, now Therese Bonaparte. How could he not have? The Female General turned Empress had been one of the most discussed Topics in all of Europe for years now.
Some saw her as one of the greatest Vanguards of the Revolution, a Champion of it's Ideals. Others regarded her as a Traitor to said Ideals, corrupted and twisted by Power. And a few still believed she was a jumped-up fool who had gotten lucky, nothing more.
As for himself? Well, her accomplishments were undeniable. And while he still had doubts...Therese Auclair had worked Miracles before.
Perhaps now, she could perform one for Spain and heal his homeland.
"Well, Gentlemen, that remains to be seen", Vivar finally voiced his own thoughts. "But with some luck..." A smile came to his lips. "Things will finally turn around for us."
Loup's face twisted into a Wolf-like grin as he took a sip from his flask. "I'll drink to that, your Lordship."
A.N.: I made a Roll of how well these four Sharpe Antagonists would work together when put on a Team.
It was a Crit.
So, here you have a small group of Minor Heroes, The Four Caballeros! Specialized in hunting down and crushing Partisans while trying to keep the Civilian Bloodshed at a minimum.
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Magoose
SV's Questing Fanatic
- Location
- California USA
- Pronouns
- He
WEll now, I was expecting many things.
This was not one of them.
Amazing. +20 to the rolls.
Very well.
+15 to Create a Net.
+15 to Murat's Action.
+10 to Garrison Duty.
And +10 to Humanitarian Aid around Madrid.
Everyone else who has Boni, feel free to use them.
+15 to Create a Net.
+15 to Murat's Action.
+10 to Garrison Duty.
And +10 to Humanitarian Aid around Madrid.
Everyone else who has Boni, feel free to use them.
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Magoose
SV's Questing Fanatic
- Location
- California USA
- Pronouns
- He
Done.
But please note that for the Murat and Davout rolls, you will not see the results and will need to infer them from the reports you get from them and their staff.
Interesting. Makes sense.
13.3: The Spanish Affair
Magoose
SV's Questing Fanatic
- Location
- California USA
- Pronouns
- He
13.3: The Spanish Affair
-[x]No: Don't say anything, not now.
You had thought you wanted to say something to your bespeckled marshal, and the man was waiting intently, despite his bemused face and otherwise boorish glances, not only to the fireplace and the setting sun but also to the moment of clarity that had drawn upon your face.
He may not be a people person, but he knew how to read you almost as well as Brian did.
So Davout stood up straight and gave a bemused smile. "It is alright not to answer, for I have given much in the way of thought about the situation. And how it may affect you. Decisive action must be taken. Now is not the time for personal grudges and… emotions to cloud our judgments when lives are at stake."
He huffed, and you realized that there was a small part of him that wished to know what words and wisdom drove you as he did, to the soldiering and brilliant trade that was your life.
"I'm afraid you are right Marshal." You replied with a curt smile, realizing his wishes and knowing that you knew. Which made him seem a little embarrassed.
And that made you raise an eyebrow. "Is something wrong?"
There was a moment of silence. Before the bespeckled marshal laughed. "You remind me of my wife. And she always knew what was wrong. I've never met someone like that that wasn't her. Guess I should have paid more attention."
"I hope you remember I am happily married." You stated.
"As am I, perhaps that's why I find it amusing." He stated. "Happy marriages are a rare thing in life. I do not prefer them. I prefer marriage to someone who understands me. Happiness is for the fleeting. A loving one, a trusting one. Those are the ones that last the test of time."
"I didn't take you for someone who knew about marriage?" You replied the question was making Davout sigh.
"I'm not. But I think there is something you know more than anyone, and why you chose this assignment." He started.
"And what would that be?" You asked.
"You miss this, being in command, you miss the action, and peacetime, despite its many benefits, board you. And I hope that is a good thing. Because if it's not, God help us all, for we all die here.."
He left without another word.
Reward: Davout says some unsettling words.
You fear he may be right.
----------------------------------------------------
-[X]Create a Net: They will not go into the City. They will secure the countryside and they will offer much in the way of humanitarian support. Win the hearts and minds
-[x] Murat you must establish two to five camps from where you will stage raid against the bandit. if possible go into each town, and offer your help, and do what you can. But above else preserve your force and do try to establish a friendly relationship with the locals.
Ps if you hear anything from the local about the filthy leaf drinker and their gun deal let me know
-[x]Yes! (Write in which mission you would like to lead.)
--[x]Garrison Duty: You are going to send the men out to the countryside and produce and protect the roads of Barcelona. This will bring a much brilliant sense of normality back to the people of the Area. Rolled: https://rolz.org/embed?jgyx2ov3nq:l18pxmq2
You smiled as you patrolled the lands of Barcellona, with your men in tow.
And nothing went wrong. The partisans are either losing their grip or were too afraid. To try and attack you.
Reward: Rebels are losing control of the region. The crown and French Control strengthens. Chances of Assassination in this region decreases.
--[x]Humanitarian Aid: there is another mission that Napoleon has proclaimed with your new command. Aiding the Spanish people. Something like making sure supply convoys get to villages safely. Rolled: https://rolz.org/embed?jgyx2ov3nq:l18py4q0
Reward: The Spanish countryside in Barcelona thrives due to the Humanitarian aid given by the French Army.
--[x]Intelligence Report (Madrid): You need a more in-depth review of the situation. Mister Ducos is happy to help. Rolled: https://rolz.org/embed?jgyx2ov3nq:l18pyr7e
There was no report from Mister Ducos.
It was like he disappeared, and the only reason you know he is still alive is that he is working with… and you quote 'Cuotros Caballeros."
Whatever the hell that means?
Failure?
He has gone off playing hero with some Men from the Spanish Army?
AN: Enjoy, and please, take care.
I wrote most of this up in a short period of time, mostly due to many...
Problems at home that I need to deal with.
But You may get another update tomorrow if you are lucky.
-[x]No: Don't say anything, not now.
You had thought you wanted to say something to your bespeckled marshal, and the man was waiting intently, despite his bemused face and otherwise boorish glances, not only to the fireplace and the setting sun but also to the moment of clarity that had drawn upon your face.
He may not be a people person, but he knew how to read you almost as well as Brian did.
So Davout stood up straight and gave a bemused smile. "It is alright not to answer, for I have given much in the way of thought about the situation. And how it may affect you. Decisive action must be taken. Now is not the time for personal grudges and… emotions to cloud our judgments when lives are at stake."
He huffed, and you realized that there was a small part of him that wished to know what words and wisdom drove you as he did, to the soldiering and brilliant trade that was your life.
"I'm afraid you are right Marshal." You replied with a curt smile, realizing his wishes and knowing that you knew. Which made him seem a little embarrassed.
And that made you raise an eyebrow. "Is something wrong?"
There was a moment of silence. Before the bespeckled marshal laughed. "You remind me of my wife. And she always knew what was wrong. I've never met someone like that that wasn't her. Guess I should have paid more attention."
"I hope you remember I am happily married." You stated.
"As am I, perhaps that's why I find it amusing." He stated. "Happy marriages are a rare thing in life. I do not prefer them. I prefer marriage to someone who understands me. Happiness is for the fleeting. A loving one, a trusting one. Those are the ones that last the test of time."
"I didn't take you for someone who knew about marriage?" You replied the question was making Davout sigh.
"I'm not. But I think there is something you know more than anyone, and why you chose this assignment." He started.
"And what would that be?" You asked.
"You miss this, being in command, you miss the action, and peacetime, despite its many benefits, board you. And I hope that is a good thing. Because if it's not, God help us all, for we all die here.."
He left without another word.
Reward: Davout says some unsettling words.
You fear he may be right.
----------------------------------------------------
-[X]Create a Net: They will not go into the City. They will secure the countryside and they will offer much in the way of humanitarian support. Win the hearts and minds
To Marshal Auclair, Commander in Chief, Army of Spain,
From: Marshal Davout, Commander of the Iron Legion, 13 April 1798
I write this dispatch, along with many other reports that are coming later on a courier that will reach you in several days' time after this missive, but the primer that will be here.
Operations began three days after we left, when we began moving supplies, and baggage through the Spanish countryside, my men were vigilant in their defenses, to protect not only our supplies but also the Spanish column that were joining our camp for protection.
I must confess, that during the beginning of this operation, I was half expected to force them away from the column and get them to the fields, their homes and avoid interfering in our duties.
However, I was quickly brought to my senses and allowed them to stay, once I realized the danger that entering Madrid and her countryside would be.
I will not lie, for the first three weeks, We lost a hundred men wounded to bandit raids, Republican traitors of the Spanish crown. We were lucky, as none of them suffered truly horrific injuries, and the medical corps that were embedded, and local healers and doctors helped prevent them from dying.
There was a constant fear of death. There still is, but it is now lessened.
Then local partisans that were allied to the Spanish crown, or at very least, law and order, made contact with my corps, and we were able, at least at the moment, handle the situation.
General Deseix has ridden out with two hundred rifles and joined with a Parisian commander Comandante Teresa Moreno, to not only deal with the bandit problem that is plaguing the land, but also to secure valuable Spanish gold that went missing when the Spanish Court Fled.
The Situation, under my estimation, is under control, and the Push to Madrid may begin at your order, but at my leisure. I have a fear we may not be through the worse.
Davout.
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From: Marshal Davout, Commander of the Iron Legion, 13 April 1798
I write this dispatch, along with many other reports that are coming later on a courier that will reach you in several days' time after this missive, but the primer that will be here.
Operations began three days after we left, when we began moving supplies, and baggage through the Spanish countryside, my men were vigilant in their defenses, to protect not only our supplies but also the Spanish column that were joining our camp for protection.
I must confess, that during the beginning of this operation, I was half expected to force them away from the column and get them to the fields, their homes and avoid interfering in our duties.
However, I was quickly brought to my senses and allowed them to stay, once I realized the danger that entering Madrid and her countryside would be.
I will not lie, for the first three weeks, We lost a hundred men wounded to bandit raids, Republican traitors of the Spanish crown. We were lucky, as none of them suffered truly horrific injuries, and the medical corps that were embedded, and local healers and doctors helped prevent them from dying.
There was a constant fear of death. There still is, but it is now lessened.
Then local partisans that were allied to the Spanish crown, or at very least, law and order, made contact with my corps, and we were able, at least at the moment, handle the situation.
General Deseix has ridden out with two hundred rifles and joined with a Parisian commander Comandante Teresa Moreno, to not only deal with the bandit problem that is plaguing the land, but also to secure valuable Spanish gold that went missing when the Spanish Court Fled.
The Situation, under my estimation, is under control, and the Push to Madrid may begin at your order, but at my leisure. I have a fear we may not be through the worse.
Davout.
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-[x] Murat you must establish two to five camps from where you will stage raid against the bandit. if possible go into each town, and offer your help, and do what you can. But above else preserve your force and do try to establish a friendly relationship with the locals.
Ps if you hear anything from the local about the filthy leaf drinker and their gun deal let me know
General Jean-Baptiste Bessières, Deputy Commander, VIII Corps, April 25th, 1798
I write this, in the stead of Marshal Murat, who is indisposed of, and under orders to give this report should he not return within a week of his last orders.
The situation here, as you have ordered, has become perilous, in a manner that may require reinforcements soon, otherwise, our position may be compromised.
The Two camps we have established are in fine defensive positions, by my measure, and that of the Marshal, however, in the sweltering Spring heat, many of our men have been taken ill with fever.
We are lucky to have only lost 70 men at last count, and our quarantine to prevent the sickness from spreading has given us nothing to do but sit, and worry about the guerrillas that are out there.
And they are out there. We have been shadowed by a very organized group ever since we arrived, and every chance we may try and sally them, to stop them, they disappear into the countryside, or into the villages. Murat wanted to spare them and to gather information about the British rifles that are falling into the hands of the guerrillas.
He took two hundred men and rode south towards Saville to speak to the local governor, and left me in command of the situation.
We are under constant threat of attack, and our supply lines, at least to my knowledge are not cut off.
But that could change swiftly.
I am requesting another division to come south, and please bring additional supplies while we secure the main roads to Madrid and Seville.
There are Rumors of the Spanish Fleet still loyal to Don Carlos have continued to sail to Barcelona and gather supplies and men.
We only hope that Marshal Murat will succeed in his mission.
God speed Marshal.
-------------------------------------------------------
From Marshal Murat,
Still alive, but wounded, British sharpshooters are here, training Guerrillas, no proof, but suspicion great.
Men are dead, in hiding, trying to get back to Corps.
Unable to at the moment, partisans and bounty hunters from across Europe are hunting. They have drawings, portraits, official portraits that were from France among their possession.
Be careful, I heard talk that there are assassins about, targeting any French officer here. You are the target of interest.
They aren't interested in Ransom. They are interested in chaos.
Stay alive, maybe the only way to win this.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
I write this, in the stead of Marshal Murat, who is indisposed of, and under orders to give this report should he not return within a week of his last orders.
The situation here, as you have ordered, has become perilous, in a manner that may require reinforcements soon, otherwise, our position may be compromised.
The Two camps we have established are in fine defensive positions, by my measure, and that of the Marshal, however, in the sweltering Spring heat, many of our men have been taken ill with fever.
We are lucky to have only lost 70 men at last count, and our quarantine to prevent the sickness from spreading has given us nothing to do but sit, and worry about the guerrillas that are out there.
And they are out there. We have been shadowed by a very organized group ever since we arrived, and every chance we may try and sally them, to stop them, they disappear into the countryside, or into the villages. Murat wanted to spare them and to gather information about the British rifles that are falling into the hands of the guerrillas.
He took two hundred men and rode south towards Saville to speak to the local governor, and left me in command of the situation.
We are under constant threat of attack, and our supply lines, at least to my knowledge are not cut off.
But that could change swiftly.
I am requesting another division to come south, and please bring additional supplies while we secure the main roads to Madrid and Seville.
There are Rumors of the Spanish Fleet still loyal to Don Carlos have continued to sail to Barcelona and gather supplies and men.
We only hope that Marshal Murat will succeed in his mission.
God speed Marshal.
-------------------------------------------------------
From Marshal Murat,
Still alive, but wounded, British sharpshooters are here, training Guerrillas, no proof, but suspicion great.
Men are dead, in hiding, trying to get back to Corps.
Unable to at the moment, partisans and bounty hunters from across Europe are hunting. They have drawings, portraits, official portraits that were from France among their possession.
Be careful, I heard talk that there are assassins about, targeting any French officer here. You are the target of interest.
They aren't interested in Ransom. They are interested in chaos.
Stay alive, maybe the only way to win this.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
-[x]Yes! (Write in which mission you would like to lead.)
--[x]Garrison Duty: You are going to send the men out to the countryside and produce and protect the roads of Barcelona. This will bring a much brilliant sense of normality back to the people of the Area. Rolled: https://rolz.org/embed?jgyx2ov3nq:l18pxmq2
You smiled as you patrolled the lands of Barcellona, with your men in tow.
And nothing went wrong. The partisans are either losing their grip or were too afraid. To try and attack you.
Reward: Rebels are losing control of the region. The crown and French Control strengthens. Chances of Assassination in this region decreases.
--[x]Humanitarian Aid: there is another mission that Napoleon has proclaimed with your new command. Aiding the Spanish people. Something like making sure supply convoys get to villages safely. Rolled: https://rolz.org/embed?jgyx2ov3nq:l18py4q0
From General Brune, Deputy Commander, The Empresses Own.
I must complain, ever so slightly that the idea of spreading supplies among the rabble is beneath my ever so important skills.
Yet in saying so, i have done the task that was assigned to me with great vigor, as you may have known, that the partisan activity, or rather the lack thereof, has allowed a substantial amount of aid to go into the country and safely redistributed among the counties and villages of the Spanish countryside in Barcelona.
I am told that there is a great deal of work to still be done, but I have also received word, at least in the manner of many of the supplies themselves, are being accepted and enjoyed by all those who manage to get some.
Including, as it turns out, the King himself, who has delighted in the aid that his people have, and is enjoying the taste greatly.
He also expresses gratitude for saving his people, and that there are many forces that may soon find themselves, under their joint command.
Your joint command.
I must complain, ever so slightly that the idea of spreading supplies among the rabble is beneath my ever so important skills.
Yet in saying so, i have done the task that was assigned to me with great vigor, as you may have known, that the partisan activity, or rather the lack thereof, has allowed a substantial amount of aid to go into the country and safely redistributed among the counties and villages of the Spanish countryside in Barcelona.
I am told that there is a great deal of work to still be done, but I have also received word, at least in the manner of many of the supplies themselves, are being accepted and enjoyed by all those who manage to get some.
Including, as it turns out, the King himself, who has delighted in the aid that his people have, and is enjoying the taste greatly.
He also expresses gratitude for saving his people, and that there are many forces that may soon find themselves, under their joint command.
Your joint command.
Reward: The Spanish countryside in Barcelona thrives due to the Humanitarian aid given by the French Army.
--[x]Intelligence Report (Madrid): You need a more in-depth review of the situation. Mister Ducos is happy to help. Rolled: https://rolz.org/embed?jgyx2ov3nq:l18pyr7e
There was no report from Mister Ducos.
It was like he disappeared, and the only reason you know he is still alive is that he is working with… and you quote 'Cuotros Caballeros."
Whatever the hell that means?
Failure?
He has gone off playing hero with some Men from the Spanish Army?
AN: Enjoy, and please, take care.
I wrote most of this up in a short period of time, mostly due to many...
Problems at home that I need to deal with.
But You may get another update tomorrow if you are lucky.
So Marut and his Corp are being followed and targeted, our eyes and ears is out on lunch, Ney is setting up the net, and we are doing a good job at Barcelona. Besides rescuing The Knight of France and taking the capital, is there anything we need to plan out?
