Chapter 45: Steam And Steel

    A murmur rippled through the room. Seraphine raised a brow, her golden armor gleaming as she folded her arms. "A train system? Forgive me, Emperor, but what exactly is a ''train''? You didn''t explain it to me yesterday."

    Arkanos allowed himself a faint smile. "A train is a series of carriages propelled along tracks by a steam engine. It can transport goods, soldiers, or citizens far more efficiently than any carriage or caravan."

    Arkanos'' faint smile remained as he continued to address the room. "Trains operate on tracks... metal rails laid out in precise paths across the land. The train''s wheels lock onto these tracks, allowing it to move swiftly and efficiently along a fixed route."

    Thalion''s silver brows furrowed slightly as he leaned forward, his fingers tapping thoughtfully on the table. "These tracks... how extensive are they? Surely, laying them across the capital will be no small task."

    Arkanos nodded, his tone firm. "You are correct, Guildmaster. To accommodate these tracks, we will need to clear significant areas within the capital. Homes, shops, and even existing roads may need to be demolished to make way for this progress."

    The officials leaned in to examine the blueprints. Thalion Dawnstrider, the silver-haired guildmaster, traced a finger over the meticulous designs, his blue eyes narrowing in curiosity.

    "Your Majesty, if I may... this concept is fascinating, but how do you propose we gather the materials and forge these so-called steam engines and the tracks? Such an endeavor will surely demand resources beyond our current capabilities."

    Arkanos nodded. "Precisely why you all are here. Master Grundar, I expect you and the Dwarven Guild to take the lead on crafting the engines and the tracks. The first step will involve identifying and securing the necessary raw materials: iron, coal, and timber."

    Grundar stroked his braided beard thoughtfully. "Iron''s not a problem, not with the mines under our control. But coal, now... that''ll take some effort. We''ll need to send teams to the Blackstone Veins in the north."

    "I''ll assign adventurers from the guild to escort the miners," Thalion interjected smoothly. "The Blackstone Veins are known for their wild beast infestations. Proper protection will be crucial."

    Arkanos nodded. "We''ll employ citizens as laborers, offering fair wages. This project will create new jobs, ensuring economic growth. Thalion, I trust you to manage the recruitment process."

    Thalion inclined his head. "It will be my honor, though we must also consider the tools needed for such a monumental task."

    Grundar grunted. "Tools, you say? Leave that to me. I''ll ensure the laborers are properly equipped."

    "Good," Arkanos said. "Now, onto the steam engines themselves. I''ll personally oversee their design and construction. The concept may be foreign, but with our combined efforts, we''ll make it a reality."

    The officials exchanged glances, the sheer scale of the plan dawning on them. Arkanos''s gaze swept across the room, his voice calm yet intense.

    "This project is unlike anything our empire has ever attempted. There will be challenges... dangers, even... but I trust in all of you to see it through. The success of this endeavor will define the future of our capital and our people."

    Isolde clasped her hands together, her voice calm but resolute. "With the blessings of the gods, we will see this vision realized, Your Majesty."

    Thalion chuckled. "Count on the Adventurers Guild to keep the chaos in check."

    Grundar slapped the table with a hearty laugh. "If it''s metal ye need, ye''ve got the finest smiths in the land at yer service."

    Arkanos allowed a rare smile to grace his lips. "Then let''s get to work."

    As the meeting concluded, Arkanos gestured for Arvel to follow him. The two exited the strategy room and made their way through the grand halls toward the treasury.