Workshop journal of Torin Ashvane, metalsmith, House Ashvane — Ironhold. Subject: Directed Propulsion via Chemical Detonation. Commenced: Year 313 AF. Current entry: Year 316 AF.
Prototype 1 — Year 313, Month 3 Open iron tube, no chamber. Black powder charge at base. Lead ball seated by hand. Result: Tube split on ignition. Ball did not leave the barrel. Powder charge insufficient or tube wall too thin. Mild burns, left forearm. Note: Iron cannot contain the pressure. Need stronger alloy.
Prototype 2 — Year 313, Month 9 Stonesteel tube, cast by House forge. Thicker walls. Same charge. Result: Ball ejected. Traveled approximately 8 meters before hitting the ground. No accuracy. Tube intact. Progress. Note: Ball does not fit the bore tightly. Gas escapes around the projectile. Wasted force.
