Captain's Log, Supplemental
Ironclad Roth's Defiance
Captain Jasmine Same Roth recording
Day of departure from Haven's Reach
The fleet leaves the harbor behind.
Crews secure final lines.
Sails catch the wind.
Motors drive us forward.
Imperia threats remain east.
We head west.
The voyage begins.
The morning sun climbed higher over Haven's Reach, burning away the last traces of dawn mist as the harbor came alive with final preparations. Jasmine Same Roth stood on the ironclad's broad quarterdeck, hands gripping the rail while she surveyed the activity across the fleet. Crews hauled in anchor chains with steady pulls, the heavy links clanking as they disappeared belowdecks. Longboats returned from shore one last time, rowers leaning into oars to bring the vessels alongside for final handoffs of water casks and bundled sailcloth.
Roth's Defiance led the departure, mana motors already engaged at low power to ease the ship away from the quay without relying on sails alone. The vibration traveled through the deck plates as the ironclad moved forward, hull cutting clean through calm harbor water. Jasmine issued orders to the helm, directing a slow turn to starboard that aligned the bow with the open channel. Verdant shifted in his reinforced keep amidships, the lesser forest dragon spreading wings briefly to balance against the motion, his bond sending a pulse of readiness through her mind.
Father Elias remained on the main quay, robes stirring in the growing breeze as he raised both hands in a final blessing. His voice carried across the water, strong and clear despite the distance, offering words of protection and guidance for the journey ahead. Refugees lined the docks, waving cloths and calling farewells to family aboard the barges. Jasmine met Elias's gaze one last time and raised her hand in acknowledgment.
Reports from shore scouts had confirmed rising tensions overnight-Imperial vessels sighted closer to coastal waters, forcing hurried departures for several smaller craft. Elias's presence helped maintain order among those staying behind, but his expression showed concern as the ironclad pulled farther away.
The fleet followed in organized formation. Merchant galleons raised sails first, canvas filling with the offshore wind as they gained speed in the ironclad's wake. Fishing ketches maneuvered nimbly to take scouting positions on the flanks, crews trimming sheets to catch every gust. Noble barges brought up the rear, heavier drafts requiring careful handling as they cleared the harbor mouth. Jasmine watched the process from the quarterdeck, noting how the vessels maintained spacing to avoid collisions in the narrowing channel.
Once clear of the breakwater, Roth's Defiance increased motor power. The ship surged ahead smoothly, waves parting along the armored hull without the creak of sails or strain of wind alone. Jasmine felt the steady thrust through her boots, mana core performing exactly as Sebastian had calibrated during the recharge rite. The ironclad pulled ahead of the sailing vessels, providing a clear path while ketches adjusted to screen for any sudden threats.
She walked forward to the bow, wind whipping her cloak as the coastline receded. The fleet stretched behind in loose arrow formation, sails white against blue water, barges trailing steadily despite their load. Verdant rumbled approval from his keep, bond sharing the dragon's satisfaction with open sea and forward motion. Jasmine allowed herself a moment to take in the sight of dozens of vessels carrying Rothgard's survivors westward, a moving remnant determined to rebuild.
Sebastian approached from belowdecks, wiping residue from his hands after final core checks. "Motors running optimally, Captain. We maintain speed ahead of the wind-driven ships if required." Jasmine nodded, eyes fixed on the horizon. "Keep output steady. Signal the fleet to hold formation." He hesitated only a second before returning below, leaving her alone with the wind and waves. The ironclad continued forward under mana propulsion, motion effortless compared to sail-dependent vessels.
Jasmine drew the communication crystal from her belt pouch, the small facet warming against her palm as she focused her will to activate the link. Her father's voice responded after a brief delay, tired from recent battle but carrying
familiar strength. "Jasmine. You have departed?"
"We have," she answered, keeping her tone reassuring. "Resupply completed at Haven's Reach. Provisions loaded for extended voyage, including grain, meat, water, and medical stores. The fleet sails in good order under fair winds, with the ironclad leading. No signs of pursuit yet." A pause followed, filled by the faint sound of his breathing. "The line holds here. Eleanor recovers from wounds taken in the last ambush. We continue to delay their advance."
Jasmine gripped the rail tighter, doubts surfacing despite her efforts to contain them. "Father, I worry about this journey. The open sea stretches far, and Albion remains uncertain beyond maps and old tales. Storms could scatter us, or Imperia ships could catch up if they break through your defenses. I fear for the people trusting me to lead them safely." His response came steady, encouragement clear in every word. "Those fears show you understand the responsibility, daughter. They do not mean you will fail. The ironclad gives you strength that the enemy lacks. Keep the fleet together, use the motors when the winds fail.
Reach your uncle in Albion-he commands forces there that can shelter and rebuild our numbers. Stay the course. Protect our people. You carry Rothgard's future."
She drew a slow breath, wind carrying salt to her face. "I will. For you and Mother. For everyone we left behind."
"Adoni watches over the faithful," he said. "Hold strong. Stay safe."
The crystal dimmed as the connection ended. Jasmine stood longer at the bow, watching the fleet maintain formation behind, sails full and steady.
They sailed west and north, course set for the next safe anchorage.
The voyage pressed onward.
For now.