Wangenstein's Aquatic Methane Mine
Hand: Full House
Price: 3x normal
Reliability: as normal

An alternative to the traditional explosive aquatic mine is the methane aquatic mine. It carries a payload of methane hydrate in a large, pressurized container. When the mine detonates, a small explosion breaches the container and releases the methane into the surrounding water. The resulting methane bubbles lower the average density of the water to the point where it can no longer support objects on its surface. Normally buoyant ships sink into the water, unable to stay afloat. Even people wearing life preservers will sink beneath the waves.

Ships in the water within the area of effect takes 4d20 flooding damage. Vessels that surpass their Reliability threshold must begin rolling for ongoing flooding damage. This is due to the sudden influx of water below decks from their trip underwater. If the damage exceeds the ship's Durability, it goes to the bottom, carrying anyone aboard along for the ride. Note that the ship suffers no real damage as a result of the mine. If it can be reached, it is possible to salvage the ship whole and intact.

People in the water sink down to the depth of the mine when it exploded. They must then swim 4d20 feet (regardless of the depth of the mine) to reach the surface before they run out of air. This distance represents the effort of escaping from the aerated water around them. Each round, until this distance is covered, the person must make a Hard (9) Swimmin' roll. If the roll is failed, they take the difference in Wind damage.

Submersible vehicles sink to the depth of the mine. An Onerous (7) Drivin': submersible roll is required to keep control during the sudden change in depth. Failure causes 1d4 damage to the vehicle, while going bust causes 3d6 damage.

Aquatic Methane Mine Mishaps

As with ordinary mines (Smith & Robards, page 66).

2003 Derek D. Bass
 

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