The morning sun cast long shadows across the Republic’s War Ministry as General Nathaniel Warner and Major Theodore Calloway approached its imposing stone facade. Soldiers stood at attention near the gates, their crisp uniforms reflecting the formality of the occasion. Inside, the sprawling complex housed the uppermost decision-makers of the Great Republic of Amerathia’s military—leaders who would decide the fate of Matthew Hesh’s revolutionary weapons.

Warner and Calloway carried a stack of meticulously prepared documents and a leather case containing detailed blueprints of the Hesh Model 85 weapons. As they entered the main hall, the sound of their boots echoed across the polished marble floor.

"Are we ready for this, Major?" Warner asked, his tone measured but firm.

"Yes, sir," Calloway replied. "The proposal addresses every concern raised during the preliminary discussions. If they’re willing to look at the numbers and consider the potential, they’ll see that this is the logical path forward."

Warner nodded, his sharp gaze fixed ahead. "Let’s hope they’re as forward-thinking as you."

They ascended a wide staircase leading to the meeting chamber. Two guards stationed outside opened the heavy oak doors, revealing a grand room dominated by a long table surrounded by the members of the Military Army Board. These were the men whose influence shaped the policies and future of the Republic’s armed forces.

Warner and Calloway saluted crisply before taking their seats at the head of the table. The room was filled with murmurs as the officers settled in, some exchanging glances while others reviewed their copies of the preliminary reports.

Marshal Horatio Belmont, the chairman of the Military Army Board, tapped a gavel lightly against the table, calling the session to order. Belmont was an imposing figure, his sharp features and silver hair lending him an air of authority. He wasted no time.

"General Warner, Major Calloway," Belmont began, his deep voice carrying effortlessly across the chamber, "you’ve come before this Board to present a proposal concerning new weaponry demonstrated by Mr. Matthew Hesh. You may proceed."

Warner stood, his presence commanding the room. "Thank you, Marshal Belmont. Gentlemen, what we are about to discuss could fundamentally change the way the Great Republic of Amerathia wages war. The Hesh Model 85 series—comprising a bolt-action rifle, an automatic gun, and a semi-automatic pistol—represents a leap forward in battlefield technology."

He paused, letting his words settle. "Our goal today is to provide a comprehensive overview of these weapons, their applications, and the strategies we propose for their integration. Major Calloway will begin by addressing the bolt-action rifle."

Calloway rose, opening the leather case and laying out the blueprints. "The Hesh Model 85 Bolt-Action Rifle is designed for accuracy, durability, and ease of use. Its five-round internal magazine and precise mechanism ensure consistent performance at ranges up to 500 yards. This rifle will provide our infantry with a decisive advantage in engagements requiring long-range precision."

Colonel Everett Albright, known for his critical eye, leaned forward. "Major Calloway, the range and accuracy are impressive, but what about production costs? Equipping our entire infantry force won’t come cheap."

Calloway nodded. "That’s true, Colonel. However, the simplicity of the rifle’s design makes it ideal for mass production. Hesh Industries has already developed a streamlined manufacturing process, which will minimize expenses over time. Additionally, the rifle’s durability will reduce the need for replacements, saving costs in the long run."

Marshal Belmont glanced at the blueprints. "And what about training? Will transitioning to this new model delay operational readiness?"

Calloway shook his head. "Not significantly, sir. The rifle’s design is intuitive, and our initial tests suggest that soldiers can achieve proficiency with minimal additional training."

Belmont turned to Warner. "Your thoughts, General?"

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"I’ve seen the rifle in action," Warner replied. "Its performance speaks for itself. If adopted, it will raise the standard of our infantry and put us ahead of our rivals."

Belmont nodded, gesturing for Calloway to continue.

"Next, we have the Hesh Model 85 Automatic Gun," Calloway said, unfolding another set of blueprints. "This belt-fed, air-cooled machine gun is capable of sustained fire at 400 to 600 rounds per minute. Its quick-change barrel ensures reliability during prolonged engagements."

Major General Frederick Mallory, a logistics expert, raised a hand. "Sustained fire is valuable, but it also means higher ammunition consumption. How do you propose we address the strain on supply lines?" Read new chapters at NovelBin.Côm

Calloway gestured to the blueprints. "General Mallory, the phased deployment plan addresses this. Initially, the automatic gun will be issued to specialized units stationed in critical regions, where its impact can be maximized without overburdening our logistics. Over time, as production increases, we can expand its use."

Brigadier General Caldwell, who had attended the initial demonstration, spoke up. "Gentlemen, I’ve seen this weapon in action. Its potential to suppress enemy advances and secure defensive positions cannot be overstated. With proper deployment, it will become a cornerstone of our strategy."

The murmurs in the room grew louder as the officers exchanged opinions, some nodding in agreement while others remained skeptical.

Marshal Belmont raised a hand to quiet the room. "We’ll address logistical concerns in the next session. Major Calloway, continue."

Calloway laid out the final blueprint. "Lastly, the Hesh Model 85 Semi-Automatic Pistol. Designed for officers and close-quarters combat, it offers quick follow-up shots and ease of use. Its compact frame and seven-round magazine make it a reliable sidearm."

Colonel James Whitaker, a vocal advocate for modernization, leaned forward. "I’ve reviewed the reports. This pistol is a clear improvement over the revolvers we currently issue. Its efficiency and reliability are exactly what we need."

Lieutenant General Grayson, ever the skeptic, crossed his arms. "It’s a luxury, not a necessity. Officers have managed fine with revolvers for decades. Why change now?"

Whitaker countered. "Because revolvers are outdated, General. This pistol gives our officers a tool that’s faster and more reliable. Modern warfare demands modern solutions."

The room quieted as Belmont surveyed the gathered officers. "Gentlemen, you’ve heard the arguments. It’s time to deliberate. We’ll reconvene in one hour for a final vote."

As the officers began their private discussions, Warner and Calloway exchanged a glance. The future of the Hesh Model 85 weapons—and perhaps the Republic’s military—hung in the balance.