The southern mines were still some distance from the coast, but Theus had equipped this train with extensive protective armor and firepower just in case.
Soldiers could fire down from the locomotive, and several firing ports had even been reserved for cannons.
It could hold its own even against a large number of enemies.
Though there was an even simpler method—just ram straight through them.
Theus had installed an extremely sharp ram on the front of the locomotive. It was exceptionally lethal against flesh and blood, and if it encountered a less sturdy obstruction, the steel crane arm on the roof could break it apart.
As for the tracks, Theus had deliberately laid several sections along the shore. As expected, the Fishmen showed little interest in them. A few occasionally tried striking them with pickaxes, but it was difficult for them to cause any damage.
The tracks to the mining area had not yet been fully laid. Theus intended to test-run the locomotive first. If there were no problems, it could follow behind the workers all the way. Even if Fishmen came to harass them, they could fight back with the locomotive's armor and weapons.
There had been far too many Fishmen lately, leaving the Faithguard Army somewhat overwhelmed. Their usual defenses were still manageable, but any nighttime battle stretched them thin. Theus was preparing to begin the next phase of recruitment.
"How are the preparations?"
"The announcement has been posted, and the workers along the route have been notified. Islanders whose work isn't too urgent have basically come over on their own to watch."
Connor replied from the side.
Although the islanders' safety had been ensured since the war began, their lives had become far more stifling. Many of their homes were clearly not far from here, yet they