{Shogun 2 AAR} From a lonely corner of Japan.

[johnhughthom]

Winter 1544 AD, Japan. A time known to the history books as Sengoku Jidai

Shimazu Takahisa sat on his stool, deep in conversation with his most trusted advisors, themselves crosslegged on the floor as if in supplication to their overlord.

We are far from the eyes of Kyoto, we can take control of Kyushu before they have time to stop us. Once we are in control war with us would be too unpopular.

That much is obvious, the only thing we need to agree upon is how we take control. We need not fight everyone, certainly we should crush the Ito like the insects they are, but the Sagara would be loyal allies.

It is true that Osumi and Hyuga must be taken with force, but don't forget Higo has the finest horses in Kyushu. We may have the finest swordsmen in Japan, but cavalry can be a decisive force on the battlefield. Controlling that region ourselves would be more beneficial than friendly relations.

And then, after we have southen Kyushu, we...



Takahisa raised his hand, silencing the discussion. Every man in this room could give an opinion, only one made the decisions.

We decide what we do with the Sagara now, next year we march against the Ito. Either the Sagara are our allies before we march or they are our next target. When that is accomplished we make our next move.

The other men looked at each other warily, what would their Daimyo's decision be?

Next: Chapter 1, The Ito.