Chapter 1971 - 535: Meanwhile, the Train Departs from the Hero's Hometown (Part 2)

"Sir, this is a vintage from the Silver Pine Vineyard in Thunder County, please have a taste."

The attendant stopped beside Horace and his wife, skillfully pouring the red wine with gloves on.

As he watched the ruby-like liquid flow down, Horace sniffed, the rich aroma tickling his throat and triggering his old habit.

"How much does this glass cost?"

"No charge, sir, today's expenses are covered by the Grand Duke."

Yet the attendant's smile remained unchanged, maintaining perfect professionalism, and he said in a humorous tone.

"But on ordinary days, this exquisite drink from Silver Pine Vineyard is priced at five silver pounds."

Five silver pounds.

In his mind, Horace quickly calculated the price; it was undeniably high, but considering it flows within the veins of a Steel Giant Beast, perhaps... it's justified?

Those shrewd eyes began to dart around; he was like a mouse smelling butter, detecting a different flavor.

Although the train doesn't have stops, it's clear that many stations along the railway are reserved but still unused, with bare platforms under the sheds.

If Horace Textile Factory could open some shops on those platforms, could he not earn a fortune just like the vendors outside the Colin Grand Theater?!

Thinking about this made Mr. Horace's heart burn with excitement, feeling as if his seat was set aflame, making him restless.

Saint Sis above—

Five silver pounds for a glass of wine is practically robbery!

Mr. Horace could stand outside the window and personally pour wine for passengers inside; as long as the train doesn't move, neither will his bottle!

And for a glass of wine, he'd charge at most one silver pound!

Of course, he also has expensive options for those wanting a lavish drink!

And for those who can't afford wine, he offers some cheap beer and red tea! Along with newspaper and jerky to go with the drinks!

Though it's a bit odd for a textile factory to venture into this, he pondered that maybe he should emulate Andes and establish a Horace Group.

"The train's name is quite unique, the Prince's Train... does it refer to Prince Colin?" The gentleman seated nearby swirled his wine glass, more interested in the train than the wine in his glass.

"Of course, sir, this train commemorates the friendship between Campbell Duchy and Colin Duchy; the signature on the locomotive was personally written by the Grand Duke, and he gifted the pen to our Prince." The attendant answered with a smile.

Evidently, he had rehearsed this spiel numerous times, not just for the trial passengers on the maiden voyage but for curious guests later on.

These days, the citizens of Thunder City value ceremony even more than the Nobles.

"Are there other models?" The gentleman asked curiously.

The attendant patiently replied with a smile.

"Certainly, the Royal Railway Company will also introduce the 'Duke', 'Baron', 'Knight', and 'Citizen' models... Four trains have been delivered and will be in use by next month at the latest."

"How do they differ? Faster? Bigger?"

"The speed is the same, sir, the only difference is the signature on the locomotive. Whether it's the Duke or the Citizen, the arrival time is the same for all." The attendant said, glancing at the cabin.

"However, while the locomotives don't differ, the comfort and ticket prices of the cabins do vary. This train currently has twelve top luxury compartments, and when the Prince's Train begins operation, there will also be larger affordable versions."

Hearing this, Horace's eyes brightened slightly, he leaned forward, and joined the conversation.

"Can I name a train? Perhaps... 'Horace'?"

The surrounding gentlemen and ladies couldn't help but smile at this interesting idea.

Horace, however, was completely unfazed.

What he spoke of was his name, but in his mind, he was thinking of his factory.

If there were a train, carrying thousands daily across the duchy's land, emblazoned with a massive "Horace Textile Factory" ad and trademark... wouldn't that mean thousands each day greeting his textile factory with a bow!?

Though they might not have money now, one day they all will.

When they have some copper coins and want to get themselves decent clothes or buy a brand new quilt, these fellows will surely remember his name first and choose Horace Textile Factory's trademark!

Isn't that a million times more reliable than tying ribbons on the Ancient Bell at the church?!

"Well..."

The attendant was evidently surprised by such a creative guest, paused but politely said.

"You might need to discuss that with the upper management of the Royal Railway Company. However, I've heard they're considering expanding railway investments, and since they don't reject private funds to expand the railway scale, they probably won't reject a creative gentleman like you participating in their plans."

"Thank you, I'll go chat with them soon!"

Horace leaned back into the soft couch, feeling ecstatic.

He seemed to see a train puffing white smoke, towing his fabrics, racing towards the limitless end of wealth.

While Horace was immersed in a sea of gold coins, Mrs. Fimona beside him was holding a wine glass, laughing gleefully.

She wasn't ridiculing her husband but rather having a warm conversation with a newly met friend.