Chapter 43.(39). Oxford Express Train
──────Whooooooo…
In the distance, a train blew its horn as it thundered down the tracks.
“Step back! Everyone step back!”
A station attendant rang his bell frantically as he rushed about, pushing back curious onlookers who yearned to witness the approaching train from as close as possible.
Two rings of the bell for every blast of the horn. They performed a well-rehearsed duet, as if they had practiced for years.
──────WHOOOOSH!
When the train entered the platform, everything changed. The station attendant’s efforts became unnecessary.
Passengers standing near the track scattered in alarm at the horn’s blast. Those who had only heard tales of steam locomotives stood slack-jawed in amazement, never having imagined such machines could be so massive, swift, and deafening.
A look of reverence appeared in the eyes of people who had attended cathedral their entire lives without ever feeling truly devout. Overwhelmed by the imposing black iron beast, they gazed with a mixture of fear and awe.