A week has passed since the steam train ride with Emi. Everyone on board enjoyed the journey, which proceeded smoothly and swiftly. Instead of a day, which would be the normal carriage travel time, the steam train covered the same distance in just four hours.
Needless to say, everyone was surprised by how quickly we arrived in Solaris. Furthermore, the four hours I spent with Emi were quite rewarding. We talked about many things and enjoyed the journey together, while the landscape outside made the atmosphere even more relaxing.
Comparing it to my old world would be almost absurd. While in my old world, there were buildings practically everywhere, in this world, there is much more vegetation along the roads than buildings.
In the end, when the steam train arrived at the Solaris railway station, the applause from the citizens witnessing the newest mode of transportation filled the disembarkation area. On that day, the most notable thing I remember is the awe-struck faces everyone had when witnessing the steam train. This memory will probably stay in my mind for a long time.
After the inauguration of the steam train, there were no significant events. Now that the train was in operation, it was just a matter of time until various routes to different destinations were opened. This would allow us to travel to various places faster and more efficiently. Additionally, a specific model of steam train for cargo transport was about to be completed.
It's also important to mention that everyone involved in the steam train project, including my classmates, Emi, and, of course, myself, received several sponsorship proposals and job offers from renowned places in Solaris. Each of us had opportunities related to our respective fields, as mentioned earlier.
Everyone seemed excited about these prospects, which made me really happy because they were finally being recognized for their efforts. However, after these events, a large amount of work piled up for me in my territory.
Fortunately, with the help of Oliver, one of the employees I trusted the most, I managed to finish everything quickly. This left me with some free time to spend with Emi. Now that the journey from Solaris to my territory is much easier, I am constantly going to the palace to visit her.
Certainly, it wasn't all good things. Thoughts about the other continent continued to linger in my mind. Every time I reflected on it, I wondered how much longer we would enjoy peace. Couldn't we be friendly neighbors? It worked in my old world, why wouldn't it work here? All I wished for was that someone could answer these questions.
"Sir, we have already arrived. Are you okay?"
Lost in thought, I don't realize when an older man calls me. In his hand, he held a key, indicating that he was one of the train workers.
"I apologize for invading your privacy, but I've been calling for you for a while and didn't get a response. I thought something might have happened, so I decided to come in"
He said as he stepped back a bit, giving me room to get up. After releasing a small sigh, I looked back at the man with a tired smile on my face.
"Sorry about that, I've been quite lost in thought lately"
I said. Hearing my words, the man nodded in understanding.
"I know this might sound like the musings of an old man, but life is like a river that never stops flowing. You're at the beginning of your journey, full of thoughts and ideas, and that's wonderful. However, remember that sometimes it's important to just let the river take its course. Don't rush to solve all the problems at once. Learn to savor each moment, face challenges calmly, and seize the opportunities life offers you. Time is your ally, not your enemy. Answers will come with time as you continue to walk along this river of life"
He advised. Listening to the man's words, I opened my mouth in clear surprise. Strangely, his words made me see my current situation from a different perspective. Just as the man said, it might be the best path to follow in my current situation.
"Besides, you might be losing sight of what's truly important to you"
The man said as he observed my hand, especially the ring on my ring finger, a symbol of my union with Emi. This brought a smile to my face, bringing Emi's face to mind.
"I think you're right, sir. Thank you for your words"
I replied. Hearing my words, the man smiled and waved his hand.
"It was nothing, really. But I'm glad to hear that. It's good to know that these old bones can still be useful for something"
After that, I bid farewell to the man and left the train. I started walking towards Arclight Castle, where I would meet Emi. Just as the man had said earlier, I should simply face everything that was happening with more calmness.
It's good to be cautious, but maybe I'm overthinking it right now. We still have time, and I'm determined to do whatever it takes to ensure that, in the end, Emi's smile remains intact. These feelings intensified in my heart as I approached the palace.
With each step I took, my determination grew, as if something was propelling and motivating me. The future was uncertain, and the outcome of my story was unknown. All I could do was prepare and hope for the best, keeping the faith that things would work out.
In the end, I'm just one person, unable to do everything alone. But who said I'm really alone? I have several amazing people by my side, and it's because of them that I'll keep moving forward.