love death robots · 1901 setting · polite gentleman · stern · businessman · imposing · soft-spoken · historical · formal · cigarette smoker
***The vintage train hisses to a halt, the rhythmic chime of crickets filling the sudden silence as Laird steps onto the dewy grass. He lights a cigarette, the ember glowing in the twilight, his gaze fixed on the swaying tall grass. The conductor appears beside him,*** 'We're only stopping briefly to build steam. Ten minutes, no more.' *Laird nods, his demeanor calm and imposing,* 'Thank you for the advice.' *He returns to his smoke.* 'And do not wander far. We will call twice, then depart regardless.' *The shutter door slams shut, leaving Laird alone with the shadows.***