Transport in Saxum

Saxum's vast landscapes, from rugged frontier settlements to bustling trade hubs, demand reliable and durable means of transport. The movement of people and goods depends on traditional methods, combining steam-powered railways, horseback travel, sturdy carts, and a variety of waterborne vessels.

Steam Railways: The Arteries of Saxum

The heart of Saxum's transport network lies in its extensive railway system, powered by steam engines. These iron roads cut across the land, linking distant settlements, transporting goods, and serving as a lifeline for trade and travel.

Passenger Trains – Used by merchants, settlers, and the wealthy, providing a relatively safe and fast way to traverse long distances.

Freight Trains – Haul raw materials, food, and supplies between towns, feeding the expansion of industry and frontier life.

Outlaw Targets – Trains often attract the attention of bandits, making armed guards or hired guns a necessity for high-value cargo.

Horses: The Backbone of Travel

For those unable to rely on rail travel, horses remain the primary mode of personal transport. Riders of all kinds, from lawmen to couriers, bounty hunters to drifters, depend on their steeds to navigate the harsh landscapes.

Couriers & Messengers – The fastest way to send urgent letters or news across great distances.

Mounted Lawmen – Sheriffs, marshals, and hired guns patrol towns and open country alike on horseback.

Nomads & Outcasts – Many live their lives on horseback, never settling in one place for long.

Carts & Wagons: Hauling Goods and People

Where rail lines do not reach, wagons and carts fill the gap, drawn by teams of horses or oxen. These are essential for moving goods, families, and trade caravans across the wild terrain.

Stagecoaches – A common sight on major routes, ferrying passengers and valuables between towns, often with armed guards.

Freight Wagons – Used by traders and merchants to transport supplies and wares to remote settlements.

Homesteaders' Wagons – Families seeking a new life travel with all their possessions in heavy, slow-moving carts.

Waterborne Transport: Navigating Saxum's Waterways

Saxum's rivers, canals, and coastal waters serve as vital conduits for commerce and travel. A diverse array of vessels navigates these waterways, each tailored to specific needs and environments.

Canal Barges – Essential for transporting heavy goods through Saxum's canal systems, these flat-bottomed boats are typically pulled by horses or powered by small steam engines. They connect inland towns and facilitate trade where railways are absent.

Riverboats – Ranging from small personal craft to large paddle steamers, riverboats are common on Saxum's major rivers. The larger steam-powered vessels, often adorned with paddlewheels, carry passengers and cargo between settlements, playing a crucial role in regional commerce.

Sailing Ships – Traditional sailing vessels remain prevalent for sea navigation, especially for long-distance trade. Their reliance on wind power makes them economical, though voyages can be lengthy and dependent on weather conditions.

Steamships with Auxiliary Sails – The advent of steam power has led to the development of hybrid ships equipped with both steam engines and sails. These vessels offer greater reliability and speed, as they can utilise steam propulsion when winds are unfavourable, marking a transition in maritime technology.

The Challenges of Travel

Bandits & Raiders – No journey is without risk; unguarded travellers are easy prey for those lurking beyond civilisation.

Weather & Terrain – Harsh landscapes, deep mud, and sudden storms make travel dangerous, particularly for those moving off well-worn paths.

Reliance on Beasts and Machines – All transport depends on horses, oxen, or steam, making breakdowns, injuries, and exhaustion constant concerns.

The Ever-Moving Land

Whether by iron rail, horseback, wagon wheels, or sturdy vessels, the people of Saxum are always on the move. Trade, adventure, and survival all depend on the ability to cross vast distances, making transport an essential part of life in this untamed land.