Black Barges

"...hulking vessels the likes of which I have never seen. Fortresses that sail! Our ships are splintered flies against their black hulls."

— Dynasty King Tytos

Flagships of the Shadow Empire, Black Barges are enormous ships used in their wars. Multi-decked and possessing of vast hulls, they carry over five hundred men, have large sails and are typically equipped with ballistas. The method of their construction is infamously illusive; the Shadow Men go to great lengths to prevent reverse engineering and do not share the design with any, even their closest allies in Thripia. The Palatial Barge used by the Dynasty King prior to the People's Uprising was a luxury ship originally a Black Barge that was given as a gift.

Appearance

As is customary of all vessels in the Shadow Empire and as implied by their title, Black Barges are entirely devoid of color both in their wood and in their sails. They have five decks, four below surface, two manned by rowers, one for cargo storage in the hull and one for use by soldiers. The ship itself finishes at a point at both ends but is nonetheless very wide, particularly at the rear. At the center of the top deck is the cabin, sometimes called the palace, which has a square design and multiple rooms. Black Barges' sails are square, angular and are five in number; three at the front and two at the rear.

Usage

Black Barges are principally military vehicles. Their prodigious size and sturdy construction makes them very difficult to destroy and even more difficult to commandeer and their place is at the center of any Shadow Empire fleet, usually flanked by a host of smaller vessels. They are strong enough to even break the chain of the Gate of Halemica. Because of their durability, they commonly transport important individuals. Additionally, their capacity for cargo makes them useful twofold as ships used to move troops as well as goods for trade.

Nickname

Fortresses that Sail

Manufacturer

The Shadow Empire

Owning Organization

The Shadow Empire

Price

~5,000 Sun

Rarity

Relatively Rare

Cargo & Passenger Capacity

~500 Men