Chapter 39: Finished Product
Year 0003, Month XI-XII: The Imperium
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Day 122: The New Wagon
The morning sun cast long shadows across the training grounds as August completed his final set of exercises, sweat glistening on his brow despite the cool air. His daily routine remained unbroken—a testament to the discipline that had carried him through countless challenges. Today, however, held special significance. After more than two months of waiting, their custom wagon was finally ready.
Marcus's servants had delivered the message the previous evening, bearing the familiar seal of Gremir's Customizable Wagon Shop. The parchment, written in Mr. Gremir's distinctive hand, contained news that sent a surge of anticipation through August's chest: their commission was complete. The timeline had been ambitious—two to three months for such an elaborate project—yet the master craftsman had delivered within two months and fifteen days, a testament to his workshop's exceptional skill.
August wiped the perspiration from his face with a rough towel, his mind already racing ahead to the possibilities this new wagon would unlock. Andy approached from the equipment shed, having finished securing the training weapons, while Sibus emerged from the main house, a leather satchel containing important documents slung over his shoulder. Marcus, impeccably dressed as always, waited by his ornate carriage, its polished surfaces gleaming in the morning light.
"Are you guys ready for this?" Milo asked, his excitement barely contained. The young man had grown mature considerably since joining their group, his enthusiasm for their merchant ventures infectious.
"More than ready," August replied, pulling on his coat. "This wagon represents everything we've been working toward."
The carriage ride to the workshop district was filled with animated conversation. Sibus reviewed the specifications they had requested, cross-referencing his notes with the original blueprint. Marcus, though not directly involved in the engineering creation of the blueprint as he was the head accountant of their business, seemed genuinely interested in the engineering marvel they were about to witness in reality.
"The scale alone is still impressive as the first time Sibus presented it months ago," Marcus remarked, studying the dimensions Sibus had outlined. "Eighty-two feet in length—that's larger than some buildings in the residential quarter."
As they approached Gremir's establishment, the massive warehouse came into view. The structure itself was a marvel of engineering, designed to accommodate the largest custom orders. The heavy wooden doors, reinforced with iron bands, stood open to reveal the shadowy interior where their prize awaited.
Nothing could have prepared them for the sight that greeted them inside the warehouse. The wagon—their wagon—stood like a mechanical cathedral, its imposing bulk dominating the vast space. The Premium Custom Large Type Wagon was a masterpiece of craftsmanship and engineering, its proportions both elegant and formidable.
**Wagon Type**:
Premium Custom Large Type (Merchant Wagon) - Technical Specifications
**Overall Dimensions**
**Length**: 77 feet
**Width**: 15 feet
**Height**: 15 feet
**Total Volume**: 15,750 cubic feet
**Weight Analysis**
**Base wagon weight**: 30 tons
**Maximum loaded weight**: 60 tons (30 + 30 cargo (-50% magical weight reduction applied)
**Effective weight with magic**: 45 tons (-25% reduction)
The sheer scale was breathtaking. August walked the perimeter slowly, taking in every detail of the construction. The reinforced timber and steel composite framework spoke of durability that would withstand years of heavy use across challenging terrain. The weatherproofing was evident in the sealed joints and carefully fitted panels, promising protection against even the harshest conditions.
**Structural Framework**
**Construction**: Reinforced timber and steel composite
**Load-bearing capacity**: 65 tons maximum cargo
**Suspension**: Advanced multi-point dampening system
**Weatherproofing**: Fully watertight with sealed joints
"The suspension system is particularly innovative," Mr. Gremir explained, his weathered face beaming with pride. "We've incorporated dampening mechanisms at multiple points to ensure your cargo remains stable regardless of terrain conditions."
The wheel assembly was perhaps the most impressive aspect of the entire construction. Thirty wheels, each six feet in diameter and weighing five hundred kilograms, were distributed across fifteen axles. The engineering precision required to balance such a load was staggering.
**Wheel Assembly**
**Total wheels**: 30 units (15 axles)
**Wheel specifications**: 6 feet diameter, 500 kg each
**Total wheel weight**: 15 tons
**Axle material**: Reinforced steel with bronze bearings
**Load distribution**: 2.2 tons per wheel at maximum capacity
"Each wheel is hand-forged from our finest steel and premium wood," the craftsman continued, running his hand along the reinforced rim. "The bronze bearings ensure smooth rotation even under maximum load. We've tested the distribution extensively—no single wheel bears more than 2.2 tons at full capacity."
The cargo system represented the heart of the wagon's functionality. Twelve large-scale magical crates, each measuring twenty feet in length, five feet in width, and five feet in height, were precisely fitted within the storage compartment. The magical enhancements would reduce the effective weight by fifty percent, making it possible to carry extraordinary loads without overwhelming the beasts of burden.
**Cargo System**
**Primary storage**: 12 large-scale magical crates
**Crate dimensions**: 20' (length) × 5' (width) × 5' (height) each
**Individual capacity**: 5,000 kg per crate
**Wagon storage dimensions**: 45' (length) × 15' (width) × 15' (height)
**Workable space**: 5 feet in the middle with secured access doors on both sides and collapsible rooftop for crane access
**Total cargo capacity**: 60 tons
**Weight reduction**: 50% magical enhancement per crate
**Effective cargo weight**: 30 tons when fully loaded
Sibus examined the added access mechanisms with keen interest. "The collapsible rooftop is genius," he murmured, testing the pulley system that would allow cranes to load the uppermost crates. "This solves the loading problem we discussed during the design phase."
The living quarters occupied the rear section of the wagon, divided into separate male and female sections. Each area was designed to accommodate fifteen occupants in relative comfort, despite the space constraints inherent in mobile housing.
**Living Quarters - Male Section**
- **Dimensions**: 25' (Length) × 7.5' (Width) × 15' (Height)
- **Capacity**: 15 occupants
- **Sleeping arrangement**: 5-stack bunk beds, 3 rows
- **Bunk specifications**: 3.5' (width) × 7' (length) sleeping surface, 3' ceiling height
- **Storage**: 14 cubic feet per person at bunk foot
- **Privacy**: Individual curtains and securing mechanisms
- **Ventilation**: Personal sliding windows with an added magical climate control
- **Facilities**: Tool storage, spare parts storage, communal workstations
The attention to detail in the living spaces was remarkable. Each bunk bed was crafted from seasoned hardwood, with built-in storage compartments at the foot end. Privacy curtains could be drawn for personal space, while individual ventilation windows ensured adequate airflow for each occupant.
**Living Quarters - Female Section**
- **Dimensions**: 25' (Length) × 7.5' (Width) × 15' (Height)
- **Capacity**: 15 occupants
- **Sleeping arrangement**: 5-stack bunk beds, 3 rows
- **Bunk specifications**: 3.5' (width) × 7' (length) sleeping surface, 3' ceiling height
- **Storage**: 14 cubic feet per person at bunk foot
- **Privacy**: Individual curtains and securing mechanisms
- **Ventilation**: Personal sliding windows with climate control
- **Facilities**: Dedicated outhouse, communal workstations
"Gender separation was essential for maintaining proper traveling conditions," August noted, appreciating the thoughtful design. "This will allow us to employ both male and female workers without compromising anyone's comfort or privacy."
The driver's section had been significantly expanded from the original design, reflecting the additional security features they had requested. The partially enclosed cabin could accommodate the driver plus four guards, with reinforced glass panels providing excellent visibility while maintaining protection from weather and potential threats.
**Driver's Section**
- **Dimensions**: 7' (length) × 15' (width) × 10' (height)
- **Features**: Partially to fully enclosed, weather-protected cabin
- **Seating**: Driver + 4 guards
- **Visibility**: Reinforced glass panels with magical enhancement
- **Controls**: Integrated beast management system
Andy climbed into the driver's position, testing the controls and sight lines. "The weapon storage is perfectly positioned," he called down. "Guards can access their equipment without leaving their seats, and the visibility is excellent in all directions."
The magical enhancements woven throughout the wagon represented cutting-edge craftsmanship. Beyond the weight reduction in the cargo crates, the entire wagon benefited from a twenty-five percent weight reduction, terrain-smoothing capabilities, and comprehensive climate control.
**Magical Enhancements**
**Weight reduction**: 25% reduction for entire wagon
**Terrain smoothing**: Adaptive suspension system
**Weatherproofing**: Magical sealing against elements
**Illumination**: Integrated magical lighting system for night use
**Climate control**: Natural and magical temperature regulation throughout
"The climate control was an inspired addition," Mr. Gremir explained, demonstrating the magical regulators installed throughout the living quarters. "Your people will remain comfortable regardless of external conditions—essential for extended journeys."
The financial implications were significant but justified. The overall construction cost of forty imperial gold coins represented a substantial investment, but the capabilities this wagon would unlock made it worthwhile. The additional features—extended driver's section, magical temperature regulators, and enhanced security measures—had added eight imperial gold coins to the total.
**Construction Cost**
**Total overall cost**: 40 imperial gold coins
**Additional features**: 8 imperial gold coins
**Second wagon**: 35 imperial gold coins
**Total payment today**: 43 imperial gold coins
**Timeline**: 2 months and 15 days (completed)
**Warranty**: Structural guarantee for 50 years
The propulsion system would utilize four Four-Horned Tamaras, massive beasts capable of pulling extraordinary loads. Each beast stood twelve feet tall and could handle up to twenty-five tons individually. With four beasts, their total pulling capacity would reach one hundred tons, providing a comfortable safety margin for the loaded wagon.
**Propulsion Requirements**
**Recommended beasts**: Four-Horned Tamaras
**Beast specifications**: 12 feet tall, 25-ton capacity each
**Speed range**: 15-45 km/hr
**Daily range**: 600-750 km in favorable conditions
**Required number**: 4 beasts (upgraded from 2 minimum)
**Total pulling capacity**: 100 tons
**Safety margin**: 55 tons reserve capacity
Sibus examined the coupling mechanism designed to connect the second wagon. "The engineering here is particularly sophisticated," he observed. "This system will allow both wagons to move as a single unit while maintaining the flexibility to separate them if necessary."
The second wagon, currently under construction, would feature identical specifications but at a reduced cost of thirty-five imperial gold coins. This price reduction reflected the efficiency gained from duplicating the proven design rather than developing new specifications.
As they concluded their inspection, August felt a deep sense of satisfaction. This wagon represented more than just a business investment—it was the foundation for expanded operations, the means to transport larger quantities of goods across greater distances, and the mobile base for a growing merchant enterprise.
"Mr. Gremir," August said, extending his hand to the master craftsman, "your work exceeds our expectations. This wagon will serve us well for decades to come."
The handshake was firm, sealing not just the completion of this transaction but the beginning of an ongoing relationship. Mr. Gremir's expertise would be valuable as their operation continued to grow and evolve.
"The storage arrangement here is perfect for our needs," August continued, gesturing toward the warehouse. "We appreciate your willingness to house the wagon until the second unit is complete."
"It's my pleasure," Mr. Gremir replied. "Having the first wagon available as a reference will expedite the construction process. We'll ensure the coupling system is robust and flexible enough to handle any conditions your merchant caravan might encounter."
The payment of forty-three imperial gold coins was significant, but August handed over the funds without hesitation. This investment would pay dividends in the expanded capabilities it provided, the increased cargo capacity, and the enhanced safety for their growing workforce.
As they prepared to leave, August took one final look at their new wagon. The Premium Custom Large Type Wagon stood ready to transform their merchant operations, its impressive bulk promising years of reliable service across the challenging terrain of the Imperium and beyond.
The comparison with their existing Deluxe Medium Type Wagon was stark. While the smaller wagon had served them well, with its forty-foot length and twenty-ton capacity, the new behemoth dwarfed it completely. The old wagon would find new purpose in smaller-scale regional operations, but the future belonged to these massive, magically enhanced vehicles.
**[BANKING SYSTEM]**
**Imperial Currency:**
- 34 Imperial Orichalcum Coins
- 1,487 Imperial Gold Coins (-43)
- 603 Imperial Silver Coins
- 310 Imperial Copper Coins
**Local Currency:**
- 6,254 Local Gold Coins
- 557 Local Silver Coins
- 283 Local Copper Coins
The financial investment was substantial, but August knew it was necessary for the ambitious plans taking shape in his mind. This wagon would be the cornerstone of expanded operations, the foundation for reaching new markets, and the mobile headquarters for what he envisioned becoming the most successful merchant enterprise in the Imperium.
As Marcus's carriage carried them back to the estate, August's thoughts turned to the future. The second wagon would be completed soon, giving them a tandem transport system capable of moving unprecedented quantities of goods. The possibilities were limitless, and the foundation for that future now stood ready in Mr. Gremir's warehouse, waiting to roll into service.