Shouldercannons: The Powerhouses of Ragna

The Need for Firepower

While standard handguns and muskets dominate the arsenals of Misty Waters, there are moments when such weaponry proves inadequate. When faced with the task of breaching the hull of an enemy airship or combating heavily armoured foes, a more formidable solution is required. Enter the shouldercannon, a masterpiece of Ragna’s renowned gunsmiths.

Design and Functionality

Shouldercannons are compact adaptations of traditional board cannons, designed to be wielded by individual crewmembers—albeit with great effort. While “portable” may be a generous descriptor, their reduced size allows for unparalleled accuracy compared to their bulkier counterparts. These weapons are meticulously crafted to deliver devastating firepower without sacrificing the precision required for aerial combat.

Mastery in Handling

Operating a shouldercannon demands both physical strength and tactical skill. Only the hardiest skyfarers can bear their weight, and even they must undergo rigorous training to master the weapon’s complexities. Proper positioning is paramount: the cannon must be securely braced against the shoulder to absorb its formidable recoil. Any misalignment risks not only a missed shot but also the weapon being torn from the user’s grip.

Trajectory and Aim

The marksman must account for the cannonball’s trajectory, aligning the weapon carefully with its intended target. This requires not only physical prowess but also an acute understanding of distance, wind currents, and the dynamics of flight. In the chaos of battle, a skilled operator can transform a shouldercannon into a decisive advantage, crippling enemy vessels or scattering opposing forces with a single, thunderous shot.

Cultural Significance

Among skyfarers, bearing a shouldercannon is a mark of prestige and trust. These weapons, often custom-forged and inscribed with personal emblems, symbolize the wielder’s strength and dedication. To wield one is to carry the weight of responsibility—both figuratively and literally—for the safety and success of the crew.

Oh, Shouldercannons of Ragna! Yours is a might unmatched, a testament to the ingenuity and determination of the archipelago’s finest craftsmen. May your barrels roar true, your bearers stand unyielding, and your legacy remain as thunderous as the skies you defend. For in your fire lies the resolve of a people unbowed by the heavens.
— Dorian Fleetquill



Cover image: by Mike Clement and OpenAi

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