Dear Captain General,
I departed the main land a few weeks ago and set sail for Eldorado. Before I left, I assisted the prep crew in threading the rigging and it was a bit tricky to set it correctly and get the tensions correct. However, once in place, it gave the ship the look and the feel fit for a governor. Although it is not a large ship, my vessel proved sturdy and able to handle the waters on my journey. The lantern on the stern was very useful for the late night and early morning hours.
After the trip across the sea, I was anxious to arrive at the newly constructed Eldorado Fortress. From a distance, the blue and white flag with the crown and cannon insignia signified that this position is strong and ready. It is fair warning to all travelers passing this way. My first impression was that it is a secure, well-fortified structure for the Armada.
Upon getting closer, I reflected upon my childhood hobby of geology. This continuing interest caused me to noticed the rock and stone foundation on which the fort is built. There is a great variety of water-smoothed surfaces and formations that lend themselves to a strong base. I appreciate the years this stone has endured and will continue to provide durable support our establishment.
At the top of the ramp, the log gates are sturdy and will keep unwanted guests out when closed securely. They are framed by arches which also support the levels above. The first level above that includes a safe position for guarding the ramp entrance. Two rifles are the ready when needed. The governer’s office is also on this level. My map and journals are stored there. Above the office is the primary cannon that can be seen beside the aforementioned flag. It has the ability to rotate 360 degrees and protect the fortress no matter from which direction an adversary may come.
My eye was then drawn to the cobblestone ramp that leads up from the water level to the main level. A variety of cobble sizes are placed thoughtfully to create both a stable surface and natural design that blends into the stone foundation. Although most of the stones are smooth and possibly slippery when wet, some include additional traction for sturdy footing when walking up the ramp. At night the ramp is lit up by two torches at either side.
A secondary cannon and two rifles help to additionally guard the cobblestone entrance. Along with the defensive positions, I do not want to forgo the detail that the Eldorado designers and builders put into making this fortress. Smooth stones and consistent elements are used as finishing touches on the tops of the walls. It is apparent that they wanted the fortress to be both easy to defend and pleasing to the eye. I feel they succeeded in both endeavors.
I would like to also comment on the imperial soldiers that are stationed at Eldorado Fortress. Their uniforms always pass inspection and they are generally a cheerful bunch to work with. Each is skilled with their rifle and sword and are always ready to defend when necessary. When not on duty, they enjoy relaxing under the palm trees on the beaches. They do have to avoid the native crab, but watching the local monkey climb the trees makes it worth it. A parrot has made himself at home among our towering turrets. His pretty blue feathers are a treat to watch when he flies.
It may be possible that they are getting a little island crazy though. They tell me tales of a treasure hidden beneath the fortress. When I ask them about exploring and possibly retrieving the treasure, they warn about a pirate who attempted to do just that some 100 years ago, but never returned. It is said he is hiding below and guarding the gold. They fear he may trap anyone who seeks the treasure and make them stay with him.
Also hidden below the fortress is our spirits supply. The barrels stay secure and safe an are accessed when needed. Our crew does not fear retrieving drinks from there as necessary.
An invaluable addition is the well-constructed crane on the east side of the fortress. Resupply ships and traders alike bring large cargo that needs to be unloaded or reloaded with goods exchanged. The crane sits high enough to retrieve crates from most any size ship that visits. A supply room just below the crane is convenient for long term storage. And again, I give credit to our soldiers who are well trained in the loading process.
There have been a few encounters with a pirate or two that must reside close by. They are likely to appear on foggy mornings to hinder our ability to see them coming. While not very successful, the show up in a small rowboat in hopes to plunder and pillage that which does not belong to them. It is not enough of a concern to send more soldiers. The soldiers here do a great job of chasing them off as needed.
I do humbly invite you to visit Eldorado Fortress at your earliest convenience to see for yourself all these wonderful features and to meet the crew that manages it.
Yours truly,
Governor Broadside II
Eldorado Fortress