Now, I think we should aim for the Rebel and the Stormtrooper contracts. Both ask for CQB weapons, which is our forte. The Comet is a shoe in for the Rutz, and the Rebels are all but guaranteed to take it too, but it isn't economical to sell it to the Vostoyans. I can't decide between offering the Valturia Mod 2, or doing a brutal cost cutting Model on the Comet. Both have their ups and downs. Thoughts?
The Vostoyan Rebels are looking for a close-quarters weapon. In Vostoy, much of the fighting has moved into the city. There is now a need for weapons which are compact, quick-firing, and very powerful. Currently the most appealing weapons are repeating pistols, though these lack firepower, and shotguns, though most of the shotguns in use in Vostoy are simple double barrels without repeating fire. However as always with the rebels, budget is a primary concern. They can afford only 32 credits per batch, and cheaper is better. However, they have grown hopeful of overthrowing the Vostoyan royalty- this could be a pivotal moment. 2 batches @ 32 credits, 10 prestige. Available until 1916. Cancellation: -5 prestige, not eligible for next Vostoyan Rebel contract.
Procino is purchasing machine guns: range and power are the absolute primary concern. The minister of arms in Procino has determined that the greater the range of a machine gun, the more field is controlled by its emplacement, and commanding a wide area is the most efficient way to capitalize on positions gained. This must be greater than rifle caliber. Accuracy at range is also of value, which for an emplaced weapon means good quality tripod or something of that nature, as well as a heavy and long barrel. 2 batches @ 62 credits, 8 prestige. Available until 1916. Cancellation: -10 credits, -4 prestige.
Crovem's Infantry is seeking new rifles: Crovem has decided that the old-style of rifles, which were as large and powerful as possible and had sights ranged out to as much as a kilometer, are now antiquated. Engagements are taking place within 400 meters, and there can be no volley fire to threaten an entire area. Rifles should be accurate, quick-firing, and fire several times before being reloaded. If it's possible to make such a weapon sufficiently reliable, a repeat firing rifle might be compelling. 3 batches @ 36 credits, 6 prestige. Available until 1916. Cancellation: -5 prestige, not eligible for next Crovem contract.
Rutz is seeking a weapon for stormtroopers: The task of fighting enemies directly in a trench has been particularly difficult for Rutz, who have specialized in cavalry skirmishes. After trying and failing to make cavalry charges around trenches and machine gun positions, they have resorted to trying to run at trenches when possible, and enter with carbines. However, it's clear that there are better options. Something like a heavy pistol, repeat firing shotgun, or repeating carbine instead of the old lever-action would be a real improvement, but Rutz is considering any type of weapon which purports to be effective for this situation. 2 batches @ 48 credits per batch, 6 prestige. There is some price flexibility depending on weapon type. Available until 1916. Cancellation: -8 credits, -4 prestige.