Chapter 139: Trial Production of Gunpowder

The wind of February swept across Lake Texcoco, bringing with it a hint of chill. The winter sunlight was bright and dry, yet it warmed one a bit.

Early in the morning, Xiulote set out with over a hundred escorts on a large boat of the Naval Forces to inspect the production of saltpeter and gunpowder. Dozens of boats sliced through the lake's morning sun, and in less than a quarter hour, they arrived at an island of heavenly fire within the Eastern salt lake.

Small boats had already gone ahead to report; the saltpeter manager Esko had already led the people to wait at the makeshift port. As the fleet moored at the shore, the Head Warrior Bertade waved his hand and gave an order. More than a hundred Samurai immediately landed on the port, swiftly inspected the surroundings, then spread out vigilantly and stood guard with strict attention.