Chapter 26 - Train Station

As I stepped into the train station, the sounds of hissing steam, murmuring crowds, and clanging metal enveloped me, transporting me to a world of bustling activity.

The station's high, vaulted ceiling, adorned with intricate ironwork and gleaming brass fixtures, seemed to stretch up to the sky, while the polished marble floor, inlaid with gleaming silver lines, shimmered like a still pond.

I made my way to the ticket counter, where a kindly lady with a warm smile and a neat, bun-like hairstyle greeted me.

Her eyes sparkled with a hint of curiosity as she asked, "Good day, sir, where do you intend on heading to?" I flashed a charming smile, careful to conceal my true identity behind my disguise.

My silver hair, now a deep, fiery red, and my eyes, hidden behind a pair of brown contact lenses, transformed me into a completely different person.

I responded with a casual air, "One ticket to Marith, please." The lady's fingers danced across the keyboard of a sleek, black computer, its screen glowing with a soft, blue light.

The soft clacking of the keys and the gentle hum of the machine seemed to blend seamlessly into the station's background noise.

As she worked, I couldn't help but feel a sense of wonder at the resurgence of old-world technology.

While the internet remained a distant memory, computers and other machines had begun to reappear, transforming the world into a fascinating blend of medieval charm and modern convenience.

The lady's voice broke into my reverie, "That'll be one gold coin, please." I reached into my pocket and produced a glittering gold coin, which I handed over to her.

She smiled, handing me a small, paper ticket, and pointed me toward the train area. "The train to Marith will be departing in ten minutes."

As I walked toward the entrance to the train area, a stern-looking guard stepped forward, his hand resting on the hilt of his sword. "Identification, please," he requested, his eyes narrowing slightly.

I smiled inwardly, knowing that my royal insignia would grant me access, but also aware that it might raise unwanted questions.

I produced the insignia, and the guard's eyes widened in surprise. He was about to bow, but I quickly stopped him, knowing that such a display would only draw attention to myself.

With a nod, I passed through the inspection gate and entered the train area, the sound of chugging engines and hissing steam enveloping me once more.

Before me stood a behemoth of a train, its fifteen massive cars stretching out like a gleaming, crimson serpent.

The engine's imposing front grille seemed to glare at me, its polished chrome surface reflecting the light of the station's lamps.

As I approached the line of passengers waiting to board, the conductor's booming voice echoed through the air, "The train to Marith leaves in seven minutes. This is the final boarding call!"

When it was my turn, I handed over my train ticket and royal insignia to the conductor, who scrutinized them with a practiced eye.

As soon as he spotted the insignia, I swiftly placed my hand over my lips, signaling him to discretion.

He nodded almost imperceptibly and hastily returned my ID, his expression a mask of neutrality.

With my credentials cleared, I stepped aboard the train, my eyes adjusting to the warm, golden light that filled the carriage.

The interior was sleek and modern, with rows of comfortable, cushioned seats and large, panoramic windows that offered breathtaking views of the passing landscape.

The only noticeable difference from the trains of my former world was the subtle hum of crystal-powered energy that vibrated through the air.

Crystals, I mused, were the lifeblood of this world. Not only did they offer a more efficient means of leveling up, but they also held the key to powering entire cities.

A single orange grade crystal could sustain the imperial capital for an entire week – a staggering feat, considering the city's size and importance.

As I settled into a seat near a window, I rested my head.

The conductor's voice came over the intercom once more, and the train's doors slid shut with a soft hiss.

With a gentle lurch, the train began to move, gliding smoothly out of the station and into the unknown. Next stop, Marith City.