Game Of Thrones : Merchant of Two Worlds

Chapter 157: 157. Visiting the Carriage Factory



Chief Engineer Richard couldn't help but feel a bit conflicted. The quality of steel they were using for the carriages wasn't strictly necessary, but since Jason Liu—the client's "father figure"—had specifically requested the best materials, they followed through. After all, making the customer happy was what mattered most.

When Jason heard that the steel used for the four-wheeled carriages was automotive-grade, he was visibly pleased. Such durable steel would ensure incredible strength and safety.

"In Westeros, these carriages can handle rough terrain with ease. There's no worry about the axles breaking," Jason said, nodding in satisfaction.

Director Thomas, who accompanied them during the visit, smiled and eagerly agreed. "As long as our client is happy, that's what matters!"

After inspecting the carriage's structure and shock-absorption system, Chief Engineer Richard explained the steering mechanics. The two front wheels could turn, but the design limited how much the carriage could steer.

Jason understood immediately. "The simple design of these wheels means they can't turn like car tires, but they're still a huge improvement over the wooden carriages used in Westeros."

The carriages were painted a sleek black, with tempered glass windows fitted with interior curtains for privacy. At the corners of each carriage were decorative white, transparent LED horse lamps that resembled crystal lights, though they were actually made of plastic. The lamp switches were conveniently located beneath the driver's seat.

Two of the carriages featured the golden-crowned stag emblem of House Baratheon, with additional golden stag figurines leaping across the tops. Another pair of carriages bore the Stark family's direwolf emblem, accompanied by silver wolf statues in running poses.

Jason's personal carriage, however, showcased a custom design. On each side was the Starfire Flag, featuring six flaming golden stars arranged in a circle, with a fiery phoenix emblem in the center. A golden flame sculpture adorned the top, further emphasizing its uniqueness.

Walking around his carriage, Jason admired the craftsmanship. It exceeded his expectations.

He opened one of the doors, unfolding the steel steps attached to the carriage. However, instead of using the steps, he lifted his long legs and climbed directly into the 0.5-meter-high carriage. Chief Engineer Richard and Director Thomas followed closely behind him.

The interior was spacious, measuring 5 meters long, 3 meters wide, and 2.7 meters high, covering 15 square meters in total. At the back of the carriage, there was a sofa bed, 3 meters by 2 meters in size and 50 centimeters high. Beneath the bed were three large drawers, each capable of storing various items.

The front half of the space was arranged with a smooth, oval-shaped wooden table made of polished chestnut. Measuring 1.5 meters in length and 1 meter in width, the table was secured to the carriage floor to prevent movement while in transit. Surrounding the table were leather-cushioned bench seats, which were both comfortable and easy to clean.

Above, a crystal chandelier hung from the ceiling, adding a touch of elegance. The brightness of the chandelier could be adjusted using switches on either side of the carriage.

Both the exterior horse lamps and the interior lights were powered by a built-in battery system. As the wheels turned, a small generator stored energy in the batteries. Once fully charged, the system would automatically stop generating power. According to Chief Engineer Richard, a fully charged battery could keep the lights running for 20 continuous hours.

After inspecting the interior, Director Thomas suggested, "Mr. Liu, the horses are ready. Why don't we take the carriage for a test ride?"

Jason smiled and agreed. He sat comfortably on the sofa bed while Thomas and Richard took their seats on the benches.

Outside, factory workers led two horses to the carriage and guided them onto a smooth concrete road. Once the horses picked up speed, the carriage moved steadily.

The wheels made a low rumbling sound as they rolled over the concrete, but it wasn't too loud. Inside, Jason barely felt any bumps.

Peering out through the glass window, he suggested, "Director Thomas, have them try the carriage on a dirt road. Let's see how it handles rougher terrain."

Thomas immediately relayed the instruction.

When the carriage moved onto the uneven dirt road, it began to sway slightly. Jason and the others inside could feel the vibrations, but the ride wasn't uncomfortable. The shock-absorption system worked well, and the carriage maintained stability.

"This is perfect," Jason thought. The carriage met his expectations.

Meanwhile, Director Thomas and Chief Engineer Richard nervously observed Jason's reaction. They had done their best to ensure quality, but they still worried about his approval. When Jason showed no signs of dissatisfaction, they finally breathed a sigh of relief.

After stepping out of the carriage, Jason gave his verdict. "These carriages are excellent. I'd like them delivered to my storage yard today."

He provided the address of the yard he had rented , and Thomas quickly assured him, "Don't worry, Mr. Liu. We'll have everything delivered right away!"

As they finalized the arrangements, Thomas mentioned, "By the way, the smaller four-wheeled carriage you requested, with a 3-by-2-meter size, will be ready this afternoon. Shall we deliver it along with the others?"

Jason nodded. "That works. Bring everything together this afternoon."

Pleased with the smooth transaction, Director Thomas invited Jason to lunch at a local farmhouse restaurant. There, they enjoyed a meal featuring the area's famous pot-cooked chicken. The chicken, free-range and raised naturally, tasted far better than factory-farmed poultry.

Jason declined offers to drink alcohol, citing work in the afternoon, and kept the meeting professional. With the arrangements complete, the carriages were one step closer to their destination.

----------------------

For Advance chapters visit : patreon.com/Mythic_Muse


Tip: You can use left, right, A and D keyboard keys to browse between chapters.