Ryo stood before the gathered rulers, a confident smile on his face as he unveiled his latest invention—a working model of a rail train. The small metallic locomotive rested on a miniature track, its polished frame gleaming under the chamber's chandelier lights. The Vampire Lord, Dragon Emperor, Demon Lord, Elf Queen, and Dwarf Chieftain all leaned forward, intrigued by the strange contraption before them.
With a flick of his wrist, Ryo activated the model. Steam hissed as the tiny engine roared to life, and the miniature train began to move steadily along the track. The leaders watched in amazement as the locomotive followed its path, its tiny wheels turning with rhythmic precision. Gasps of surprise filled the chamber, and murmurs of curiosity spread among the attending officials.
The Dwarf Chieftain, his beard twitching in fascination, stroked his chin. "Lad, what manner of magic or craft is this? The motion is so smooth and precise."
Ryo chuckled. "This is not magic but rather an invention powered by steam and mechanical engineering. It's called a rail train. In essence, it operates by heating water to produce steam, which then moves pistons that drive the wheels. The rails provide a stable and guided path, ensuring efficiency and speed. Additionally, this train uses ether energy as its external power source, allowing it to function without the need for constant fuel replenishment. The ether energy ensures continuous and stable operation, making it an efficient and sustainable mode of transportation."
The Dragon Emperor crossed his arms, his golden eyes gleaming with interest. "So, this device can be built on a larger scale? For what purpose do you intend it?"
Ryo nodded. "Yes, this can be built on a grand scale. The primary purpose is transportation—both for people and goods. Imagine merchants being able to transport their wares between cities in a fraction of the time it currently takes. Armies could mobilize swiftly, and citizens could travel across vast distances safely and comfortably. This train can revolutionize trade and communication."
The Elf Queen, her emerald eyes shimmering with curiosity, leaned forward. "What would be the extent of its reach? Could it traverse forests and mountains?"
Ryo responded confidently, "With the right infrastructure, we can lay tracks across various terrains, including forests, plains, and even mountains. Dwarven engineering could help reinforce mountain passages, and elven craftsmanship could aid in designing routes that preserve nature."
The Demon Lord, his dark horns gleaming under the light, smirked. "A fascinating proposal. However, who would control these trains? Such a powerful system in the hands of nobles could lead to monopolization and corruption."
Ryo shook his head. "That's exactly why I propose that each nation controls its own rail system. No single noble or merchant will have absolute authority over the trains. Instead, the railways will function as a means of transportation regulated by each kingdom's ruling body. This will ensure fairness and prevent exploitation."
The Vampire Lord, ever the strategist, tapped his fingers against the armrest of his chair. "So, you propose that the rulers oversee the railway network? And what of the financial aspects?"
Ryo smiled. "To sustain the railway, there will be a low but consistent charge for using the service. However, to ensure that all people benefit from this system, I suggest implementing different class sections. Citizens and commoners will have affordable seating, merchants will have dedicated cargo space, nobles will have luxury cabins, and royals will have high-end private compartments. This ensures accessibility for all while maintaining financial viability."
The Dwarf Chieftain burst into laughter. "Hah! I like the lad's thinking. Different classes mean different rates, yet everyone benefits. A smart plan indeed."
The Dragon Emperor nodded in approval. "This would drastically improve trade routes. Currently, merchants spend weeks traveling between nations. If we implement this train system, they could transport goods within days. The economic growth would be immense."
The Elf Queen added, "It would also encourage cultural exchange. With faster transportation, scholars, artisans, and travelers could visit other nations with ease."
The Demon Lord, ever pragmatic, smirked. "But tell me, Ryo, what do you gain from this?"
Ryo shrugged. "I may have invented the system, but I do not seek control over it. Instead, I propose that each nation contributes a fair tax for utilizing this technology. This tax will be minimal, simply enough to cover maintenance, expansion, and innovation."
The Vampire Lord chuckled. "You truly think long-term, boy. Not just immediate profit, but sustainability. Very well, we will agree to your terms. The tax will be set, and our nations will work together to build the railway system."
The other rulers nodded in agreement. The Dragon Emperor declared, "Then it is decided. Our nations will collaborate to establish rail networks, each overseeing its respective region. We shall fund its construction, and you, Ryo, will serve as the overseer of the system's implementation."
Ryo exhaled in relief. The hardest part was done—convincing the rulers. Now came the next challenge: actually building the railways. But with dwarven engineers, elven architects, and the resources of multiple nations, the age of the rail train was about to begin.