ã€ŠCreating an Industrial Empire in 19th Century Parallel Worldã€‹


 Chapter 1 Transmigration

    ?Denmark Copenhagen.

    A fine drizzle washed over Denmark as the sky darkened above the city and the people below were already rushing to get cover from the rain, a thick fog had started rolling in about an hour ago and now it was beginning to settle down into a light mist. The street lights came on one by one, casting the whole area into a soft yellow glow. It was stillte in the afternoon yet the city looked as though it was already night.

    The storefronts shone brightly on the streets, making the passerby on the sidewalks stop momentarily and looked into it in awe. One of the stores is a coffee shop where people can be seen inside having their drinks and confectionaries.

    Among those people sat two men in expensive-looking suits. One of them is reading a document while the other one is fiddling with a small ck box.

    "What are you doing? Are you listening?" Jonathan said, looking up at the man sitting across him annoyingly.

    "Look pal, the reason why I called you here is not to discuss the project, it is to catch up. I haven''t seen you for like ten years, do you have any idea how I missed you?"

    Jonathan felt cringe at his words so much that he averted his gaze away from him.

    The man sitting across from him is Poul Nielsen. His self-proimed best friend. They''ve known each other since childhood as they grew up in the same neighborhood. They are schoolmates at the University of Aalborg where Poul took mechanical engineering while he took civil engineering.

    Both of them graduated at the same time and pursued master''s degrees in their respective field. After that, Poul left the country to pursue another master''s degree at Stanford University in electrical engineering. Poulpleted it with flying colors and started working at Lockheed Martin. But after four years, he hopped into AG Siemens and worked there for three years, and then hopped again in BMW and stayed for two years before returning to Denmark to work at Alstom as the current chief design engineer for future train projects.

    He is a man of inconsistency, a man who can''t be content with one thing, always seeking knowledge and experience. Despite working in another country, he is awarded by the Danish government as one of the best engineers of the century due to his aplishments and feats.

    On the other hand, Jonathan also has two masters. Structural and Civil Engineering. Instead of leaving the country, he used his knowledge to improve his country''s infrastructure. From power nts, bridges, tunnels, airports, sewage systems, and railways. Though there are times that he has been offered huge sums of money to work abroad, especially in developing countries, and epting it.

    Today they are working at the samepany that will rece the aging fleet of Danish trains as well as revamps its railway systems.

    Jonathan sighed. "You said to me on the phone that you want to discuss the project in person. Now that we are here you''re talking about catching up? We could''ve done this by the phone instead of you wasting my time."

    "Aww¡­that hurts you know," Poul said, cing his hand over his chest, feigning sadness. "Catching up on the phone is boring and destroys the very essence of it. Also, if I were to tell you that reason, you wouldn''t probably show up."

    "How can you be so certain of that?" Jonathan rebutted. "I would stille if it''s not work-rted. I only want you to be honest and straightforward."

    Poul was touched by those words, making him smile. "Really? Okay noted."

    Jonathan closed the file he was reading pointlessly for ten minutes and put it in his briefcase. After that, he spoke.

    "So, Poul, how are you?" Jonathan began.

    "Well, I''ve been doing great these past ten years, doing the things you love while earning handsomely from it. It was rewarding. How about you?" Poul regaled.

    "Things are doing great on my end too," Jonathan said simply.

    "Pfft¡­that was boring," Poul puffed.

    "I''m sorry but I don''t have any interesting stories that you''d like," Jonathan stated as he took a sip of his coffee.

    "Hmm¡­in that case, allow me to tell you about this great announcement. Jonathan, you know Sara right?"

    Jonathan replied with a hum, still sipping his coffee.

    "You know I''m head over heels for her right? So much so that I proposed that I''ll marry her once we grew up to which she agreed. Well, I''m going to do just that and I invited her to join us here."<novelnext></novelnext>

    "Shit¡­really?" Jonathan almost choked on his coffee.

    "Yes!" Poul confirmed.

    The girl that Poul mentioned is Sara. Just like him, she is a childhood friend and grew up in the same neighborhood. Memories of him flitted across his eyes and he remembers Poul and Sara leaving the school together and would often seat next to each other on the bus. She is soft-spoken, lovely, smart, and kind. Truly a perfect match for Poul. However, after graduating from college, the two separated. But even with all that, they still reach out to one another through emails and calls.

    Jonathan wonders if Sara is going to ept Poul''s proposal. It''s been ten years since theyst saw each other in person. Surely, feelings would change by the year as the two would meet new people. Even if Poul vowed to uphold his promise, there''s no certainty that Sara would reciprocate his feelings.

    Poul continued to fiddle his hands on a small ck box on the table. Jonathan noticed it and realized that it was a wedding box containing a wedding ring. He just realized it by now as he was focused on debriefing Poul about the project.

    "Well¡­what can I say other than good luck and go get her?" Jonathanughed.

    "Thank you for the support, I''ll tell it to her once she arrives¡­Ugh¡­I''m getting nervous, my heart is throbbing too fast under my chest. I think I''m going to pass out."

    "Please don''t be so overdramatic," Jonathan said and continued. "Oh yeah, I heard that she is a surgeon right?"

    "The best surgeon in Denmark," Poul smirked as if bragging about his future wife like a proud husband.

    "I can''t wait to see what will happen¡ª"

    *Boom.

    An ear-deafening popping sound erupted outside, causing the two to instinctively look out the window and saw a truck heading towards them at blinding speed.

    The two froze in their seats, shocked to their very core. Their eyes widened as the front of the truck got bigger and bigger.

    In a blink of an eye, the truck crashed into the storefront of the coffee shop where they are staying and rammed further into the building before grinding to a halt.

    Muffled screams and shouts can be heard outside as people rush in to check for survivors. Some pulled out their phones to contact paramedics while others stood, shocked at the gruesome sight in front of them. Blood sttered everywhere, covering their clothes and faces.

    Poul was one of the casualties. Blood streamed down from his temple, and his breathing ragged. He slowly turned his head to the side and saw Jonathan, lying on the floor lifelessly.

    "No¡­" Poul weakly uttered as he struggled to move away. He tried to lift himself up but failed to do so. He tried to reach him with his hand but his hand won''t obey his orders.

    His eyes shifted above and saw a beautiful diamond ring stained with blood. The ring must''ve been knocked off its box.

    Secondster, his vision started to get blurry and his hearing started fading in and out. He faintly sees the figure of someone moving near him but he couldn''t make out who it is.

    "Is this how I''m going to die?" He thought to himself while trying to hold his consciousness that is starting to drift away.

    He must be suffering from intracranial hematoma. It must be the case as the front of the truck crashed at him head-first.

    Using his remaining moments, Poul is starting to regret his choices. Of him inviting Jonathan for a coffee. If he hadn''t done so, they wouldn''t be here.

    "I''m sorry¡­I''m sorry¡­I''m sorry," Poul said repeatedly before his vision went dark¡ª

 Chapter 2 New World?

    ?"Huh?" Jonathan uttered as his eyesight slowly regained its focus. It was blurry for five seconds but after that everything became clear

    "Where am I?" Jonathan uttered another, he looked left and right and saw an unusual ce.

    He was in an alley and it was raining. The sound of the raindrops falling to the ground produced a pitter-pattering sound. He raised his both hands and noticed they were unusually small and thin, like that of a child.

    "Eh?" Jonathan for the third time processed the visual data before him. "What is going on?"

    Then he brought his hand to his face and he felt the chilling sensation seeping over it. The raindrop falling onto his head that forms a trickle of liquid, washing all over him, was cold. Also,  as he was running his hands over his face, he noticed that it was kind of small.

    "What the¡­" Jonathan muttered. Confusion is starting to get over him as the thoughts of unusualness wrap around every sensation.

    Then he recalled his recent memories up to this point. He was at a coffee shop meeting his best friend named Poul discussing their project that they''ll work on in six months. He remembered that Poul is nning to marry his longtime crush, Sara, who will be arriving in ten or twenty minutes. He doesn''t know the exact time but it''s probably within that time frame. And then, things change abruptly. The sound of the tire exploding startled him. He looked towards the source of the sounds and there he saw a truck approaching them at a speed of fifty, no, sixty kilometers per hour. It was elerating, as the driver must have mistakenly stamped the gas pedal instead of the break. Upon impact, he got knocked out and woke up in this ce, which is unusual.

    He is expecting to wake up in a brightly-lit hospital room. Instead, he woke up in a cold dark alley with a body he didn''t recognize.

    He tried to get up, but something was pressing on his right shoulder.

    Curious, he looked to his right. There, he saw a person''s head resting on his shoulder. This jolted Jonathan up straight, causing the boy''s head to fall to the ground.

    Now having a clear sight of the person''s figure, Jonathan can tell that it was a male from its ragged clothing alone. Is he a beggar of some sort? And what''s with the silver hair? Did he dye it or something? He doesn''t know. But he wondered why he was resting on his right shoulder¡ª

    Jonathan realized another thing, his height. It was short! That doesn''t look right, he is 186 centimeters tall. Based on his line of sight, and any other object present in the alley that he can use as a reference, he calcted and arrived at an answer.

    He''s somewhere 165 centimeters tall!

    This fact horrified him and he began touching his body here and there. His clothes were different from the ones he hadst worn, and his body was small like a literal 10 or 12-year-old boy.

    "What the fuck?!" Jonathan cursed, really unbefitting for someone who is casually reserved and silent.

    In front of him, the silver-haired boy that was resting on his shoulder started moving. He must have been awakened by his loud curse.

    The silver-haired boy lifted his upper body and wiped his eyes groggily.

    "Eh¡­where is this¡­"

    Jonathan stood there and watched as the silver-haired boy took in all the surroundings. Momentster, his gaze fell on him.

    "Who are you?" the silver-haired boy asked.

    "Who am I?" Jonathan repeated. How should he answer? He is in the body of a child that still bbergasts him up to this point. The strangeness of everything is clouding the rationality of his thoughts.

    Before Jonathan could utter a response, the silver-haired boy suddenly yelped.

    "Ehhh! What the fuck is this?! Why are my arms and legs small!"

    Jonathan''s eyes widened at his reaction, he reacted the same as him.

    "This can''t be¡­" the silver-haired boy stood up, paranoid. "What is this? Who am I¡­and who are you?"

    "Jonathan¡­" he blurted out a reply.

    "Jonathan?" the silver-haired boy''s brows raised, revealing his golden eyes that gleamed like gold. "Jonathan who?"

    "Jonathan Axelsen."

    "Jonathan Axelsen?!" the silver-haired boy eximed. "There''s no way you''re tripping¡­! You don''t even look like him."

    "I don''t look like him?" Jonathan tilted his head to the side. "What''s your name?"

    "I''m Poul¡­Poul Nielsen¡­"

    "Poul Nielsen?!" Jonathan eximed. "There''s no way, you didn''t even look like him!"

    It was only a natural reaction. iming that the brat in front of him was his best friend was beyond ridiculous. Like how is it even possible¡­

    Jonathan''s mind trailed off like he had realized his situation.

    "Jonathan¡­is that you?" Poul asked, walking up to him as his eyes scanned his appearance. A blonde-haired kid with clothes simr to his.

    "Uhm¡­yes? I''m Jonathan Axelsen¡­" Jonathan shrugged his shoulders.

    "Do a small introduction."<novelnext></novelnext>

    "I''m Jonathan Axelsen, born in Denmark. I''m 37 years old Uhm I graduated from Aalborg University with a master''s in civil¡ª"

    "Okay okay alright that''s enough," Poul interrupted. "I think it''s safe to assume that you are the man I knew since childhood."

    "How about you? Are you the real Poul Axelsen that I know?"

    "Yes¡­we grew up in the same neighborhood and graduated from the same university. After that, I went to the States to pursue a master''s degree in electrical engineering and then worked for severalpanies until I returned to Copenhagen¡­"

    "Okay I think that''s enough," Jonathan interrupted. "Well, it''s true that our story matches but how are you going to exin that body?"

    "I don''t know," Poul shrugged. "After the truck ran over us, I was conscious for about a minute and after that, it went dark, and a secondter, I woke up in this body. It''s strange."

    "Yeah me too," Jonathan rubbed his chin. Now that the puzzle is starting to piece itself out, they begin to feel the body''s reaction to its surroundings.

    "Lort...it''s cold," Poul swore as he crossed his arm over his shivering body.

    "It is," Jonathan agreed, breathing out a puff of white mist into the air. "So cold!"

    "We can try and figure out what happened to uster. We need to find a warm shelter first. The temperature is at approximately five degrees. We could¡­suffer¡­from hypothermia¡­if we stay outside for too long," Poul stammered, his teeth ttering uncontrobly.

    Jonathan nodded in affirmation and began running toward the end of the alley. There, they let out a sigh of awe.

    Instead of seeing four-wheeled vehicles, they saw horse-drawn carriages. The people''s attire was an assortment of Victorian casual and formal clothing, or at least, it''s giving off the vibe of it. The streets were filled with mud and horse poop, which strung their noses in disgust. And the ce was dim. There were no streetlights or any kind of electrical lighting around. Though there are stores that are lit, they can see that it was just a candle.

    "Get out of the way you filthy Albian," said a jerk passerby who kicked Poul to his side so hard that he tumbled.

    "HEY!!!" Jonathan shouted in indignation and stepped forward. "What the fuck is your problem?!"

    "Haah?!" said the adult male, turning around and menacingly looming over Jonathan. Based on his clothing, it seemed like he was a big shot. "Did you just raise your voice at me boy?"

    He sniggered, "Why are you standing up for that pig? Can''t you even see his shiny silver hair?"

    "What''s wrong with that?" Jonathan stared at the man''s eyes unwaveringly.

    "Surely you have some loose screws on your head. Don''t you know that their kind came from an uncivilized continent?"

    While all of that was happening, Poul lurched to his feet, groaning in pain. He just heard their conversation about him having silver hair. So he pulled a single strand and looked at it.

    "I do have silver hair¡­Eh? I have silver hair?"

    "What if his hair is silver? That is give you the right to hit a person, especially a child?"

    The manughed deridingly after hearing that. "I have every right to hit an inferior being. They are nothing but mere livestock who deserve to only look at the ground forever."

    "I don''t understand what you are talking about but what you just did is¡ª"

    A p echoed in the streets like a whip.

    "You? You just raised your voice at me¡­do you even know who I am? Brat?"

    A sharp pain ran over Jonathan''s face, reddening his left cheek.

    "It''s good that you are one of us because if not, a p is not the only thing you''ll get."

    "Jonathan¡­let''s go," Poul said as he pulled him by the arm. "Let''s get out of here."

    The man looked at them in disgust, spitting at the ground. "Why are you huddling with that trash, kid? Didn''t your parents teach you a lesson about their kind?"

    "Just ignore that simple-minded buffoon," Poul whispered as they silently walked away.

    "His p hurts," Jonathan remarked, rubbing his cheek.

    As they strode away in silence, the passerby they are passing by stepped aside and cast a contemptuous gaze on them.

    "Looks like having silver hair is frowned upon in whatever country this is¡­" Poul said.

    "It''s the least of our worries, for now," Jonathan said. "Our first priority is to look for a shelter, otherwise we would die from the cold."

    "How about that store over there?" Poul pointed at a bakery store across the street.

    "Let''s hope they''ll let us in," he scanned their appearance. They literally looked like beggars who were kicked out of their homes and had been scavenging for food in the garbage. Their chances of the clerk or store owner letting them in are close to zero. But still, they''ll give it a shot.

 Chapter 3 Prejudice And Kindness

    ?The bell chimed as the door of the bakery swung open.

    "Wee!" The female clerk weed the entering customers pleasingly.

    Her smile was kind and genuine but as soon as she saw it was just two homeless children dripping wet, her smile disappeared.

    "Haist¡­get out of our store! We have enough of you homeless children stealing our goods," said the female clerk, walking up to them and shooing them away.

    "Wait¡­wait! We only need a ce to stay until the rain settles," Jonathan pleaded to the clerk, but it had no effect.

    "No, get out!" The female clerk shoved Jonathan to the door, their smell repulsed her.

    Her eyes flickered to Poul, specifically, at his silver hair.  Her face contorted in disgust.

    "Albians¡­I have enough of you people stealing our bread! Get out before you spoil the food with your filth."

    "But we will only stay for¡ª"

    "I SAID GET OUT!" The female clerk snapped and pushed them out of the door.

    The twonded on their haunches, wincing in pain while the female clerk looked at them in disgust as she rubbed her hands on her long ck skirt.

    "Disgusting¡­" she said repulsively before closing the door behind her.

    The two were then again outside, exposed to the incessant rain falling over the town.

    "I guess we won''t be able to find a ce to stay due to my appearance," Poulmented. "Why are they so repulsive against silver-haired people¡­wait¡­is this not some sort of a dye? Is my hair that naturally silvers?" he bbered as he ruffled his hair.

    "At first, I thought your hair was dyed. But judging from their reactions, I''d say it is not," Jonathan said. "Well, there goes our shelter and possibly a chance to learn where we are."

    The two stood up and scanned around the surroundings. It was truly different from the ones they are familiar with.

    "Perhaps this is one of the shows where they drugged people and make them believe that they were sent back in time," Jonathan inferred.

    "I don''t think that''s possible," Poul shook his head. "The reasons are simple, how did we wake up in a child''s body? We haven''t reached that level of technology of transferring one''s own consciousness to the other. Also, if this is a prank or a show of some sort, then they wouldn''t hit us hard that could badly injure us," he exined.

    "You got a point," Jonathan agreed.

    "Now what are we going to do? Seeking shelter didn''t work and it was still raining. Our body is so small and frail that we would copse at any moment. Our body temperature is decreasing rapidly, I''m approximating around 37 degrees. If it falls below 35, hypothermia will set in. Not to mention the fact our body isbating the cold by regting our temperature, which burns calories. So without shelter, food, and a change of clothes, we would die within 24 hours."

    "We already died," Jonathan said tly. "If there is life after death and it was this, I won''t waste it. I''d say we won''t give up?"

    Poul chuckled. "Yeah¡­we will not give up brother."

    "Right. I''m going to change our n of approach. I''ll be the lead as they considered me as one of their people, hence a citizen of this country. Ask for crucial information like what this ce is and what year it is. Some money if they could give us some."

    "Sounds like a n," Poul nodded his head in agreement. "I''ll stand by and watch. I''m starting to understand the norms here. When you are with Albians, i,e, me, then you would receive harsh treatment."

    Jonathan hummed a reply. "Wait for me here¡­oh look, there''s a maning over, stay low."

    "Got it!"

    Jonathan walked up to the man with an umbre that was heading their way and stopped him.

    "Uhm, sir¡­can I borrow a minute of your time?"

    The man frowned. "Why are you outside? It''s raining, you''ll get sick."

    "I am aware of that. It''s just that I have something important to ask before I can go home," Jonathan reasoned.

    "What is it?"

    "Ah¡­what is the name of this country and what year is it?"

    "Hah?" the man eximed softly. "Howe you don''t know your country?"

    "I have a mild amnesia that made me forget it¡­"<novelnext></novelnext>

    The man gasped understandingly. "You''re in the United States of Avalonia in the state of Ohio. The year is July 875 in the continental calendar," the man answered.

    "United States of Avalonia¡­July 875?" Jonathan repeated, his feet faltering momentarily.

    "Ah¡­what''s the name of the continent this country''s in?" Jonathan asked.

    "North Columbia."

    "Oh¡­does a country named Denmark ring a bell?"

    The man shook his head.

    "Okay¡­"

    "Since I answered all your questions, I will take my leave¡­"

    "Wait! There''s one more thing kind sir," Jonathan blocked his way. "Ahh¡­ehh¡­you see¡­ahh this is embarrassing¡­Do you have some spare change? My brother and I are really hungry¡­"

    The man sighed, expecting that this would happen.

    "Do you and your brothers have a ce to stay?"

    "Huh?" Jonathan was surprised at the question, why would he want to know that? "We haven''t, we have been staying in the alley¡­"

    "That''s not good. Since I''m feeling lucky today I''ll lend you three dors. Two dors is enough to rent an inn for a day and the rest is two days'' worth of food."

    "Really?!" Jonathan''s eyes lit up. "Thank you, mister! I appreciate it¡­truly."

    The man pulled out three pieces of a dor bill and handed it to Jonathan. "You should know that I only helped you for the day, tomorrow will be your challenge. How old are you, kid?"

    "I''m¡­twelve¡­" Jonathan replied with a lie. He doesn''t know how old his new body is, so he came up with a number appropriate to his body figure.

    "You''re old enough to do some work. There''s a lot of job opportunities here, you just have to take it," the man advised.

    "I''ll apply for one tomorrow," Jonathan said gratefully. "Thank you, sir. May I know your name?"

    The man smiled and replied. "My name is Felix Sumpter. I ran a cafe house nearby. Though I''m not epting men below fifteen years old, if you are thinking you can apply for a job at my store. so I''m afraid I cannot take you."

    "No, I am not nning to, Sir Felix. Anyways, my name is Jonathan Axelsen. I''ll pay you back someday sir," Jonathan promised.

    "You don''t have to," Felix rejected and started walking away.

    "Wait!" Jonathan blocked his way again.

    "What is it this time?" he asked. Clearly, he is annoyed.

    "Is there a map that I can look at? I''m curious about what our country looks like, is there a ce that has one?"

    "You can try at the city hall. I''m sure they have a map there. Look I really need to leave, Jonathan so if you''ll excuse me."

    Jonathan knew that he was overstepping his bounds and decided to step aside and let him through.

    As he watched Felix get smaller from a distance, he smiled, thankful that there are good people in this world.

    ***

    "So what do you got?" Poul asked expectantly.

    Jonathan briefed him about their conversation with Felix. Itsted for three minutes and after that, Poul heaved a sigh of relief.

    "Thank god we are saved for the day!"

    "Let''s find somece to stay first before we eat," Jonathan proposed, his body shivering in the cold.

    "Let''s do that," Poul nodded before offering Jonathan a fist bump to which Jonathan responded.

 Chapter 4 Unexpected Bet

    ?"Look! There''s an apartment," Poul pointed at the signage of the three storey building on the pavement they were walking on.

    The two didn''t hesitate and entered the apartment building.

    "Wee," the receptionist behind the reception desk greeted the two but just like thedy from the bakeshop, his expression changed when he saw Poul.

    "Oh just two homeless brat huh? And what''s more, an Albian. This won''t look good to my business so leave before I kick you two in the ass¡­"

    Despite showing some bigoted attitude, the two didn''t wavered. Instead they walked up to the reception desk and asked.

    "Is there a room avable?" Jonathan asked.

    "Depends, do you have money?" the clerk asked back, his expression changing a little as the brat in front of him might be a potential customer who wouldn''t fool around.

    Jonathan showed him the dor bills that Felix gave to him.

    The receptionist''s eyes widened at the sight of the money. They really have money, and what''s more, in paper bills.

    "There''s a room on the second floor, on the right far corner. It has one bed and a toilet. It''ll be three dors."

    "One bed for three dors?" Jonathan repeated incredulously, then his gaze flickered at the chalkboard atop the counter that reads two dors for one bedroom.

    "But on the chalkboard it said two dors?"

    "Huh? What do you mean? It''s three dors, it''s written clearly on the board," the receptionist said, even moving his finger on the board as if to emphasize every word written on it.

    But that''s certainly two dors. Jonathan clicked his tongue, he noticed what''s happening now. The receptionist must have assumed that he can''t read due and thus taking advantage of it. Well, too bad they were not just some random kids, they are a unique type.

    "Sir, with all due respect, it''s written two dors for one room. I can read it clearly, don''t take me as a fool."

    The receptionist scoffed contemptuously, what a bad luck, a literate child. It would have been an easy dor for him. Well, if that didn''t work, then he can still use option number two.

    "You know we have this thing called bet. And in that bet, if I win, I get to keep your two dors but if you win, you get to keep your two dors and a room for one day. What do you think?"

    "No we aren''t looking for¡ª"

    "What are we ying?" Poul interrupted his words as he stepped forward.

    "It''s simple really, a coin flip," the receptionist replied. "Are you in or not¡­Albian?" he smirked.

    "Okay, I''ll take you on."

    "Oi¡­break for a second¡­what are you thinking Poul? If we lose this bet we will be sleeping outside."

    "Jonathan," Poul gently removed Jonathan''s hand off his shoulder. "Trust me on this one."

    Poul''s expression was serious, enough to make Jonathan agree with the idea.

    "You''re a courageousd, I''ll give you that. Well, let''s find out if you are going to sleep in a warm room or in a cold street, shall we?" the receptionist said intimidatingly.

    "Before we start, can I ask something?" Poul asked.

    "Spill it."

    "When do I get to choose the sides?"

    "Hmm¡­let''s make this more fun. How about while it''s in the air? While it is spinning in the air I''ll let you choose what side you think the coin is going tond. For example if you choose head I''ll go for tails," the receptionist exined.

    ? "Then how can we make sure that you''ll hold the end of your bargain? With all due respect, you''re a receptionist, a worker of this establishment. Does the owner even permit you to do this?"<novelnext></novelnext>

    "I''ll guarantee it as I''m the owner of this apartment," the receptionist dered.

    "You''re the owner? That''s good then. Let''s begin."

    "Yeah, let''s begin this game of luck," the owner smiled.

    "Luck¡­there''s no such thing as luck," Poul muttered under his breath and continued. "As long as you know all the variables acting on an object, you would be able to calcte how it behaves."

    "Huh? You''re saying something Albian?" the owner asked.

    "Sorry about that and my name is not Albian, it''s Poul."

    "Well whatever. Here''s the coin, I''ll let you be the one to flick it so that you won''t have any hard feelings towards me when you lose," the owner tossed the coin to Poul.

    "I could say the same thing to you," Poul said, weighing the coin in his hand.

    His mind started running wild as he began making calctions in his head. The mass of the coin and the impulse he''ll apply to the coin will allow him to find the initial vertical velocity of the coin. The time it takes for the coin tond as well as the air resistance would be the tricky part,  as he''ll have to calcte the maximum height the coin will reach and the time it takes tond. But everything is taken to ount. Lastly, the angr momentum velocity of the coins would give him the number of revolutions, which is what will give him the answer.

    So all in all, after 144 ? revolutions, it would hit the floor, and it would rebound two times and then spin for about 2.34 seconds¡­ande up as heads.

    "Oi! You''ve been looking for 20 seconds, are you going to y or not?" The owner asked impatiently.

    "Oh sorry for the wait. I''m ready now," Poul returned a smile. It took him 20 seconds to calcte all the variables and it yed out perfectly in his brain like a simtion.

    He''ll find out if it''s going to be the same in reality¡­and so he started. With a ting, the coin floated in the air. The three watched as the coin reached its maximum height.

    "Heads," Poul announced his side and the coin started falling to the stone flooring due to the force of gravity and rebound two times. It spun in the ground for about two seconds and¡ªcame up as heads.

    "What the¡­" the owner stared at the coin in disbelief.

    Jonathan lowered his head and smiled beneath, as expected of one of the best mathematicians in the world.

    "Looks like it''s my win," Poul said humbly. "No hard feelings, sir owner."

    "Yeah it is indeed your win. Okay I''ll honor my words. You can keep your money¡­this is the key to your room."

    "That easy?" Jonathan cocked his head to the side.

    "Not that I''m bragging but I have a twenty win streak in coin flips," the owner said.

    "I see."

    "Then we''ll be going to our room now," Poul announced and started walking down the hallway.

    "Enjoy your stay¡­" the owner said, his body shaking from the utter humiliation.

    ***

    Arriving at their room, the two walked around to have a look. It was small, about 7,5 meters. The room has a bed, a firece, and a toilet room, though the toilet is not the one often found in homes. There''s no faucet and flush toilet. It was just a box that stores waste that''ll be scooped up every day by a worker of the apartment. Despite all that, the room is tidy and clean, which makes them appreciate it.

    "I''ll go fire the firece," Poul ambled towards the firece and grabbed the flint and steel.

    "I''ll go buy us some food. Thanks to you, we still have three more bucks in our pocket."

    "Didn''t I tell you to trust me on that one?" Poul struck the flint and the firece ignited, the warm glow of the fire started settling around him. "Ah I love this."

    "I never doubted you for a second," Jonathan said with a straight face. "I''ll take my leave now. We''ll get some food to eat and then discuss how we are going to survive this new world."

 Chapter 5 19th Century Parallel World

    ?It''s been thirty minutes since Jonathan left their apartment room, leaving Poulpletely alone.

    He took this time to check the interior of the apartment once more, hoping to gain more information from it. He saw no modern appliances. Everything looks century old. There was no indoor plumbing or electrical outlets. The storefronts and the reception hall earlier used gasmps for the main source of light.

    It was as if they were sent back to the past and lived in it. Though they are working on finding out at what era this world is simr to their world''s history.

    "I''m back!" Jonathan announced his arrival, entering the door with a paper bag clutched in his arms. Poul kicked the door, closing it behind him.

    "I know I was kind ofte. I went to the city hall and asked if I could borrow a copy of the map, to which they said yes. I didn''t open the map yet as I figured it would be best if we looked at it together."

    "Really?" Poul rubbed his both hands and ced it over his face, warming it. "Let''s see where we really are."

    Inside the paper bag was a rolled map tied with a string in the middle. Jonathan pulled the string, unfurled the map, and ced it over the table.

    "The Felix guy said we are in Ohio right? That means in Ohio in the United States of America. But America was reced with Avalonia¡ª" Poul trailed off as soon as he set his eyes on the map. "This is¡­"

    "Very simr to our world," Jonathan finished his words. "The geography of the United States of America is very simr to the United States of Avalonia. As for where we are now specifically, we are in the city of Columbus, the capital of the Ohio State. Do you also notice any difference?"

    "Yeah¡­what happened to Canada? It was annexed?"

    "Yes," Jonathan confirmed. "It added four states to the United States of Avalonia. New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, East Canada, and West Canada. Making Avalonia thergest country in North Columbia. As for the government of the country, it is simr to America. A constitutional federal republic."

    "Did the civil war spark between the north and the south? I''m just assuming because this is a parallel world and there could be some simrities in the history."

    "The civil war of the United States of Avalonia has already concluded ten years ago," Jonathan answered and continued. "The country is basically reconstructing the ruined south. Enough with the history, let''s start analyzing the era of this world."

    "I see no modern appliances, electrical wiring, indoor plumbing. I can take a safe guess that we are in the early 19th century?"

    Jonathan shook his head. "No, we are probably in thete 19th century. I saw a poster on the bulletin board announcing the wide-scale construction of water and sewage pipelines. Telephone lines and tram engines. This apartment will be renovated soon ording to the owner. What''s more there are job posters requiringborers for construction of railways but 12 hours a day for 4 dors."

    "12 hours for 4 dors?" Poul eximed. "So the man who gave us three dors is equivalent to twelve-hour or more work."

    "Yeah, we are really lucky that we bumped into that man, otherwise we would be having this conversation out in the street," Jonathan chuckled stiffly.

    "So we are stuck in a rapidly industrializing world where childbor ismon. This is the worst ce to live. Life expectancy is low, you will literally work to death just to survive the day¡­"

    "Haphazard drainage and water systems, no building codes means there''s zero standards in construction and design. Diseases like cholera aremon¡­" Jonathan continued.

    "Some may have romanticized life in the Victorian Era but the reality is often disappointing," Poul finished. "Thinking all this makes me miss the modern world, specifically the hygiene. Ahh¡­I hope everything is just a dream."

    "I hope so too," Jonathan said solemnly.

    "Well¡­it can''t be helped, if this is our new life and world, I guess we just have to suck it. So how are we going to live this life out?"<novelnext></novelnext>

    "It''s simple¡­we work. It''s either coal mining or railroad construction. Oh yeah, there is also a job for digging up ditches for the pipelines."

    "That would kill us. How about something safe? Like newsboys or street sweepers."

    "That would do but the sry is low, not enough to pay for a day''s rent."

    "Well it''s either that or we die in the mines or faint in hardbor. We don''t even know the physical capabilities of our new body," Poul countered.

    "But what choices do we have? If we want to survive in this dark technological era, we have to work. We can''t be choosy because we live in the modern era. Haist¡­It''s really unfortunate that we can''t use our expertise in this world because of our new body," Jonathan said.

    Poul pondered at Jonathan''s words. He was right. There are cases that children at the age of 5 to 15 are working alongside their parents in factories to put food on the table, instead of going to school.

    They were the best engineers in their country and now it was reduced to something less. There''s no way he is going to ept it. Somehow they can utilize their knowledge and make a living out of it. An idea popped up in his head.

    "Well we can forget about working in the mines or digging ditches or scooping up turd on the streets. Jonathan, you are a civil engineer. In this world''s era, there would be a lot of construction projects that could use your skills. As for me, well I can work on steam engines, be it designing or improving it. Hmm, I could somehow introduce new technology here,"

    "I already considered that, but we are too young for the adults to take us seriously. They would wonder how we are knowing things beyond their understanding, what''s more, a modern concept."

    "Ahh¡­I know this is frustrating," Poul rubbed his head. He continued to scratch it until a new idea popped up again. "Jonathan, this might sound absurd but hear me out. Are you fine working 12 to 16 hours everyday just to survive?"

    "Well if it means surviving the day, why not?" Jonathan said. "We just have to recuperate to our new environment and work our way up to escape abject poverty."

    Poul sighed. He didn''t expect that it would be his answer. But nevertheless, he persisted.

    "Jonathan¡­I''m impressed that you can say those things with a straight face. You don''t see where I''m getting here. This iste 1880s parallel world America, thend of opportunity. Like I said earlier, we can use our modern knowledge to our advantage. Imagine any revolutionary technology that hasn''t been introduced yet in this world."

    "And like I said earlier, no one would take us seriously, especially with your appearance."

    "This hair of silver won''t get in the way of my vision in this new world," Poul said resolutely. Jonathan had never seen such unwavering determination from Poul before.

    "What are you going to introduce in this world if ever presented with an opportunity?" Jonathan seriously asked.

    Poul tilted his head upward. Ideas flowing into his mind like an avnche. There''s many to choose but there is one that stood out.

    "Hmm¡­in this world, there''s no light. It''s dark and everyone uses kerosene to light up their homes and streets. Why don''t we change that?"

    "You¡­don''t mean¡­" Jonathan uttered perplexedly. "Are you serious?"

    "Yeah. I''m going to introduce electricity to the world. The lifeblood of the 20th and 21st century," Poul announced confidently.

 Chapter 6 Finding A Job

    ?"Poul, that is such a huge undertaking. Do you even have the knowledge to execute that n of yours?" Jonathan asked. He knew very well about Poul''s expertise in electricity. After all, he has a master''s degree and has experience working in power nts. But designing a distribution system and infrastructure is another topic.

    "I don''t know, but it''s worth a try," Poul tittered and continued. "With enough manpower, money, and equipment. I can build a power nt in this world. Heck, generating electricity is a simple concept that I know this world''s denizens are already aware of. Sadly, it''ll have to wait."

    "Yeah¡­" Jonathan nodded his head. Poul''s enthusiasm towards introducing electricity into this world made him a little excited. If he actually built a power nt and lit up the country, imagine the money flowing into his pockets all the while venturing into another industry.

    He wants to be part of that.

    "Very well, I''ll participate in that vision of yours," Jonathan said as he stood up. "For now, I''m getting hungry. I bought some egg on bread across the streets."

    Jonathan picked up the paper bag from the table and set it down on the floor in front of Poul.

    Poul could smell the sweet aroma wafting inside the paper bag. His stomach growled and he started to drool. His body is sure is hungry. He put his hand inside to get one loaf of bread and pulled it out.

    Before eating it, he checked the appearance of the food. It''s literally an egg-on-bread. He took a small bite of it and instantly his mouth filled with the deliciousness of warm soft bread. He closed his eyes and moaned softly, his hands reached for his belly to enjoy the taste better. When he finally opened his eyes, Jonathan was grinning ear to ear andughing uncontrobly.

    "Why are youughing?"

    "Because I have never seen you react so childishly before," Jonathan said as he took a bite of his bread. "Hmm¡­I have low expectations when ites to the food of this era. But this one, it''s not bad."

    "Maybe this new body of ours doesn''t have a refined taste," Poul said. "If it tasted like shit when it was our original body who ate this bread."

    "You have a point but we have to be grateful that we have something to eat," Jonathan chided him lightly.

    "Sorry boss¡­let''s just enjoy our meal for the night."

    They silently ate their dinner for five minutes. After that, they swept the crumbs that littered the floor and prepared for sleep. However, before all that. Jonathan said something ridiculous.

    "Remove all your clothes."

    "Hah?!" Poul eximed as he looked at Jonathan wide-eyed.

    "We don''t have spare clothes so we have to dry them out," Jonathan exined as he started stripping off his clothes without looking back at Poul.

    Well, he was right, the clothes they are wearing right now are drenched with rainwater. They also have to work tomorrow morning so having wet clothes will be unforgiving. Still, he can''t believe that Jonathan can nonchntly ask him to remove his clothes. Nevertheless, he too started removing his clothes. His eyes drifted down and saw his new pet. His eyes drifted towards Jonathan''s and smirked.

    "Why are you smirking?" Jonathan asked annoyingly.

    "Mine is bigger," Poul stated calmly.

    "What nonsense are you talking about now."

    After saying that, Jonathan ignores him momentarily until they get to decide who will sleep on the bed and on the floor.

    "You can take the bed, Poul. I''ll sleep on the floor."

    "That''s generous of you, then I''ll sleep on the floor tomorrow. Good thing that this apartment has extra nkets," Poul tossed Jonathan a nket.

    Jonathan caught it and wrapped it around his naked body. There''s no mattress for him to sleep on so it''ll be cold for his body. Fortunately, there is a firece by which he can sleep.

    "Good night. I hope we wake up in our real world," Poul said in a hopeful tone.

    "We will find out tomorrow," Jonathan said before closing his eyes.

    ***

    "Poul! Poul! Wake up, it''s already morning," Jonathan said as he gently shook Poul''s body.

    Poul groaned in response and swatted the hand away from his shoulder. He raised his nket up to his face and continued sleeping.

    "Poul!" Jonathan''s voice became louder.

    Poul stirred, opening one eye slightly. "Mmm¡­what is your problem? Can''t you see that the person is sleeping?"<novelnext></novelnext>

    "Wake up! We have to apply for a job right now."

    "Job? What are you talking about? We already have a job," Poul said as he rose up from his bed. He rubbed his eyes groggily and blinked slowly several times as if trying to get rid of the remaining sleepiness in his brain. Then he nced around.

    "Where am I? This is not my bedroom...and why are you here¡­Ah¡­"

    Poul brought up his hands to his face and groaned. "This is not a dream¡­this is a new reality."

    "Yeah¡­unfortunately," Jonathan mumbled. "Anyways, here are your clothes. It dried overnight but it smells bad. Still, it''s better than having none at all," Jonathan said optimistically.

    Poul sighed reluctantly as he grabbed his clothes that he removed yesterday to dry. It took them five minutes to prepare themselves before leaving the apartment.

    Outside, the streets were muddy and stank. Street Sweepers were doing their best to remove it as quickly as possible. The street also bustled with people moving about their daily life.

    "So, where is this job you are talking about?" Poul asked.

    "Follow me," Jonathan started walking.

    Poul followed him and walked for about fifteen minutes. As they were walking by, Poul was taking in the scenery. There are indeed telephone lines, meaning the telephone is already invented in this world. A tram engine, and an oil refinery. He remembered that Ohio in the original world became the center of oil refineries spearheaded by Rockefeller, who would be the richest man in American history in two to three decades.

    "We''re here," Jonathan pointed to the long queue of people. Children and adults alike lined up tond a job at a new construction project.

    "Want to buy some breakfast before lining up?" Jonathan suggested.

    "Okay."

    The two took a quick breakfast at the nearby stall selling bread and coffee. It cost 25 cents per person, so half a dor.

    Then they joined the line.

    The kids in front of them were sneering at Poul.

    "What are you dorks sneering at? Is it because of my silver hair? What''s wrong with having a different hair color? Does it make you superior?"

    "Yeah¡­Albians are dirty humans who came from a dirty and barbard," the group of kids bursts out inughter.

    "Don''t mind them," Jonathan whispered.

    "No, let me¡­" Poul cleared his throat. "I think I understand the social hierarchy in this country. So silver-haired people are considered inferior and discriminated. If that is the case then why are you all here? And not in there?" he pointed at the wealthy-looking Avalonians walking on the streets.

    "There''s really not much of a difference between us other than our hair color. The only difference that can set us apart is the amount of money we have in our pockets. Well, I kind of understand because in order to make yourselves feel better, you''ll pick on someone that is below you."

    "Oy¡­are you looking down on us?" the leader growled, clenching his fist.

    "Hmm¡­no I am not¡­This is kind of tiring, why don''t we stop talking and just wait for our turn silently?"

    "This Albian is weird, let''s just leave him alone," said another kid.

    The leader scoffed. "You''re lucky."

    Poul sighed inwardly, d that they left him alone. They waited in line for about thirty minutes and once it was their turn, the person wearing a ck suit and top hat, asked them.

    "Do you have any experience digging ditches?"

    Jonathan and Poul nodded in affirmation.

    "Good, grab a shovel and start working. The work will start now until six p.m. There will be a lunch break at 12 p.m. As for your sries, the Albian will get a dor while you boy is getting 1.50 dors."

    That is something Poul had expected. Looking at the state of how Albians are treated, it''s certain that they''ll be paid less for any work. It''s just sad that the sries were not the same as advertised. Well, they have no choice, if they don''t work, they''ll die of starvation.

    "We''ll take it," Jonathan and Poul intoned. They grabbed shovels and set out to dig a ditch.

 Chapter 7 An Exhaustive Day

    ?As minutes turned to hours, Jonathan and Poul are now already feeling the heat of workingboriously digging ditches. After doing so, they would have to lift steel pipes that have the weight of an adult person to the dug ditches and install them there.

    There was no break, the watchers would remind them constantly to hurry through shouting. And if theborers weren''t cooperative, they''ll whip them out in the back to instill discipline in them.

    Jonathan and Poul wanted to avoid that at all costs as they believe their feeble-looking body won''t be able to take numerous hits. So they worked hard, for two hours, three hours, four hours, and until noon.

    "Okay! You may now have your fifteen-minute break!" the watcher announced as he rang the bell.

    Theborers stopped working and started leaving the site and congregated at a nearby food stall that sells eggs, bread, soup, and whiskey.

    Jonathan wiped the sweat off his forehead with the back of his arm as he walked over to Poul, who was sitting on the muddy ground staring ahead as if he was thinking.

    "You know, the rules are kind of strict here. They only gave us a fifteen-minute break. After that, we return to work for another six hours," Poul said as he sensed Jonathan''s approach behind his back.

    "You''re right. That''s why we should get moving or otherwise you won''t have the energy to continue doing the work," Jonathan said, propping his arm atop the handle grip of the shovel. His chin resting on his arms.

    "Yeah¡­you''re right," Poul said weakly as he rose to his feet.

    Jonathan noticed the fatigue washing over Poul''s body, prompting him to ask.

    "Are you feeling okay?"

    "My hands are kinda numb," Poul said as brought his hands up and showed them to Jonathan.

    Jonathan saw that his hands were shaking.

    "Well, it''s just the way your body tells you that it''s hungry. You might have low blood sugar, we should get some bread," Jonathan suggested.

    Poul simply nodded at the suggestion and started trudging toward the food stall. Jonathan trailed him and one minuteter, they arrived at the stall.

    It wasn''t the same stall that sells them bread and coffee, it was an entirely new stall, and what''s more, it has a different product that made everyone drool.

    "Get your donuts here! Sprinkled with sugars. Fifteen cents a piece," the vendor shouted loudly.

    Jonathan looked around the stall and saw a line of customers already gathered on the sidewalk.

    He nudged Poul. "Donuts, we are lucky,"

    The two didn''t hesitate to join the line. They waited for about twelve minutes and the moment they were next, they didn''t waste time and quickly bought 4 pieces of donuts for 60 cents.

    Then they rushed towards a nearby hand pump where they got themselves water.

    "Ah¡­the food so far in this world is great!" Poulmented,pletely invigorated at the soft and sweet taste of the donut. "You think this water is safe to drink Jonathan? Like you know a lot of people in the Victorian times died of cholera and dysentery?"

    "Assuming they dug deep, I''d say that the water is safe for consumption due to the purification properties of the soil. The soil around is not as contaminated as the ones in the streets," Jonathan sniffed the water for good measure. "Yup, it''s safe to drink."

    After getting an opinion from Jonathan, Poul didn''t hesitate to chug the water mug down.

    He wiped his mouth with the back of his hand and sighed in satisfaction. "That''s refreshing."

    "Okay back to work everyone!" the watcher tolled the bell, announcing that the break is over.

    Jonathan devoured thest donut and chug the water mug down before returning to work.<novelnext></novelnext>

    There, they worked for another six arduous hours. Jonathan can be seen panting heavily as he catches his breath after running back and forth to carry pipes while Poul was busy driving the tip of the shovel de into the ground and pushing up the soil.

    The sun started casting its orange shadow over the city of Columbus, signaling that the night ising.

    "Okay, that''s it! Everyone lined up for their pay," the watcher shouted at theborers.

    They did as they are told and lined up to get their sries for today''s work.

    There were hundreds ofborers working on the pipeline project of the city, so it will take time for Jonathan and Poul to receive their pay. It took thirty minutes.

    "What''s your name, boy?" the payroll clerk asked.

    "Jonathan, sir," Jonathan replied.

    "Jonathan, you did a fine job working your ass out there. For that, I''ll raise your sry for today to 1.70 dors."

    "Thank you very much, sir," Jonathan epted his pay dly.

    "And you, Albian¡­you get 1 dor," the payroll clerk handed him the money. "Now get out of my sight."

    After receiving their sries, they left the line and walked around the city.

    "Two dors and seventy cents for 12 hours of work, we are kind of underpaid don''t you think?" Poul noted.

    "Uh-huh. Two dors will be deducted from the rent. Good thing we still have extra thanks to the gentleman who gave us three dors out of pity," Jonathan chuckled.

    "You know the night is still young, we should work to increase our funds, like scooping up shit in the street," Poul proposed as he gazed at the streets filled with a mash of muddy dirt and horse dung.

    He would have retched at the sight but it seems as though the body that they were upying was used to the smell, hence the absence of the reaction.

    "Okay," Jonathan agreed and beckoned Poul to follow him. He seemed to know the ce where they''ll get the job. They were optimistic as every cent mattered in this world. Despite their aching and exhaustive bodies, they still want to work to earn additional funds for the day and tomorrow.

    ***

    "You two want to be street cleaners? Very well, I''ll give you eighty cents for the both of you. I need you to remove the dirt and the horse dung off the streets and fill it in these barrels here," the boss pointed at the five barrels on a push cart. "Simple right? Here''s some shovel and go get that waste."

    Without further ado, the two started working again under the veil of the night. The gas pole light illuminated the streets, allowing the two to see clearly what they were working on.

    The reason why they need to fill up the barrels is that dirt, horse dung, and other waste would be good fertilizers. It took them almost two hours to finish the task and once finished, they were rewarded.

    "I could really use a bath right now," Poul said. Their bodies were covered with dirt, their faces grime, and the smell was unbearable.

    "Me too, I believe there is a bathroom in the apartment. The problem is, where can we get soap?"

    "I don''t think soap is popr in this era. Just wiping our bodies with fresh towels would do the trick," Poul said and continued. "Also, I think we need to buy a new set of clothes. We can''t use these clothes every day or they will wear out quickly."

    "We will use the extra dors to buy two sets of clothes, of course, the cheap ones," Jonathan said.

    Poul let out a sigh. "Looks like we survived the day."

    "Let''s see if we can survive tomorrow," Jonathan said.

 Chapter 8 Opportunity Through Tragic Accident

    ?Five years have passed since Poul and Jonathan''s transmigration to the parallel world. Adapting to their new environment and surviving the hellish working ce of the 19th century.

    In those five years, their body spurted growth and became mid-teens. They''d work in many industries as workers in coal mining, railway construction, sewage construction, street cleaners, newsboys, and many more.

    Using the money they earned, they were able to afford essentials, such as food, clothing, and a ce to live. They still rent their current home. Furthermore, they put in the effort to make physical improvements in their bodies, due to the 12-hour days of hard work that requires physical exertion. To support those changes, they consumed high-protein foods.

    However, in those five years, the two felt stuck in their lives doingborious work from day to night. They wanted it to change, and believe that this is the right time for them to emerge.

    And so they went to a clothing store and browsed for suits.

    "What do you think?"

    Poul struck a pose, the billowing folds of his ck overcoat swaying around him as he spun around to face Jonathan. His three-piece ck suit was tailored to fit his muscr frame, the stark contrast of his white cored shirt drawing attention to his broad shoulders. His brown leather boots were polished until they shone, and his baker boy hat sat atop his head just so. The finishing touches were a pair of round-rimmed sses perched on the bridge of his nose and a leather briefcase in his hands.

    "You look like an actor from Peaky Blinders," Jonathanmented after scanning Poul''s appearance.

    "Not just from Peaky Blinders but every person living in thete 19th century. These dresses will help us climb the ranks. In order to attract an investor we must invest first in our appearance," Poul said. "This hat of mine would be enough to cover the shunned hair color of the Albian."

    "I think I''ll go in the same suit as yours, they look fashionable," Jonathan said and started asking the clerk for the same dress.

    "It cost 150 dors per suit," Poul informed.

    "I''m aware of the price, Poul, you don''t have to tell me if I can afford it or not. We saved a lot of money, even gambling it for quick cash," Jonathan responded before walking into the fitting room.

    After five minutes, he got out of the fitting room, wearing a simr fashion to Poul. He looked dashingly good in his outfit, enough to make Poul doubt if he is even the same person. The power of the right outfit is terrifying indeed.

    Jonathan paid the clerk to which the clerk epted gratefully.

    "Thank you for your patronage, sir," the clerk bowed his head to Jonathan but not to Poul.

    Poul was tired of the treatment he was getting over thest five years and so he developed immunity from it. After all, in his eyes, they are the ones who are inferior. They don''t know his true capability that would soon overturn the world.

    The two left the clothes store and headed towards the railway station. As both of them worked as newsboys in thest years, they were able to learn some big names that could probably invest in their venture. Some of them are in New York.

    Poul is serious about lighting up the country with electricity. Good thing that no one hasn''t done yet in this world. But, he can''t let his guard down. Even if electricity has not been introduced to light up houses or buildings, there is a possibility that there is a man in a basement working on it. Whoever they are, Poul and Jonathan have to beat them to it.

    The two waited at the station and from the right, they could hear the puffing sound of the steam lotive. It was moving at about 30 kilometers per hour.

    As time went by, Poul noticed something strange. The speed of the steam lotive is not decreasing. The brakeman from the top of the carriages was struggling to turn the handwheel to stop the train.

    "Those people above the carriages, what are they called?" Jonathan curiously asked.

    "They are brakemen, the ones responsible for applying brakes to the carriages. In this era, the train would require up to 3 kilometers of the track before being able to arrive at a full stop. The current system is inefficient and dangerous. The fact that they are men on top of the carriages means air brakes haven''t been invented."

    "Ah¡­air brakes," Jonathan let out an understanding sigh. Secondster, realization struck him. His gaze flickered at Poul, whose lips are curled into a smile with a devil expression.

    "We can make a fortune out of this¡­fufufu," Poul giggled at his own thoughts. It was as though they had achieved a small step towards their goal already.

    A few secondster, Poul was snapped back from his thoughts as Jonathan pulled him by the arm as the steam lotive derailed and rammed towards the station where they were standing.

    The people screamed as they dispersed from the station. Debris such as pieces of metal flying in the air struck several people, injuring them. Poul was lucky that Jonathan managed to drag him out of the way in time. The lotive came to aplete halt near them and two of its sides were bent inward. The passengers inside the cabin seemed to be dead, the heat radiating from the huge boiler was suffocating.

    "Shit¡­" Poul cursed and checked if he sustained injuries. There were none. "You okay, Jonathan?"

    "Yeah, I''m fine," Jonathan assured. "These idents happen often throughout the country due to brake failures."

    "Sadly, the technology to prevent those idents hasn''t been invented yet," Poul said, looking around the scene. People cried in anguish, others groaning in pain as theyy on the ground. "Let''s help the injured."

    "Yeah," Jonathan agreed and sprang into action. They ran towards the injured nearby and checked them.

    "This one broke his shoulder," Jonathan said.

    "Lift his upper body up," Poul ordered."

    "Arrrrggghhh," the man cried in agony as Jonathan lifted him up.

    "Broken shoulder huh¡­I''m no doctor but I believe we can relieve him of pain by applying the Kocher maneuver."

    "Do you even know how to do that?" Jonathan asked.

    "Well, when I was working at Lockheed, an engineer who was conducting maintenance on one of the engines identally lost his footing and fell down on the floor from a height.  I was there and performed the Kocher maneuver."

    "Where did you learn it?" Jonathan added.

    "On youtube," Poul replied.

    The passenger of the train looked at them strangely after hearing their brief exchange. It didn''t make sense to him. Lockheed, youtube? What are those things?

    "Anyways to perform that, I''ll have to lift his hand rtive to the direction of dislocation, then externally rotate it¡­" Poul exined the procedure as he performed the Kocher maneuver. "And¡­there."

    The man was surprised at Poul''s sudden rotation, the pain aching on his shoulder is starting to relieve.

    "Ah¡­thank you, sir," the man thanked.

    Poul was silent for a moment. It was his first time receiving such words from another person since his arrival in this world. Poul returned a smile and ced his hand on his shoulder gently.

    "You should stay down and get rest. We''ll go and help the others," Poul said as he grabbed the man''s coat and used it as a sling to support his arm. "Done, we will get going now."

    "Thank you¡­sir!"

    They left the man alone and headed to another person who sustained injuries.

    "So how does it feel?" Jonathan asked as they ran.

    "Hmm¡­despite seeing my silver hair, he thanked me genuinely. I''d say it felt good. Not all people in this country are bad, you know?"

    "Help!" a woman shouted nearby. "Help! My daughter¡­my daughter¡­she won''t wake up!"

    Poul and Jonathan dashed toward the crying mother and immediately checked the child.

    Poul checked the girl''s condition while Jonathan calmed the mother. There was shortness of breath, a hacking cough¡­her cheek turning bluish. This is also the time he first saw a person withvender hair. This could sum up that each race is categorized by their hair color.

    "Could this be¡­" Poul recognized the symptoms.

    "It hurts¡­" the girl said faintly as she brought her hand to her chest.

    The cause could be on her chest. He reached his hands toward the girl''s chest to remove the clothing¡ª

    "Remove your filthy hands off my daughter!" a man bellowed from behind and suddenly, someone grabbed the back of his cor and threw him away.

    Poul rolled on the floor, mbering his arms on his head, protecting it.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "Poul!" Jonathan shouted, his fiery gaze flickered at the man, whose head was bleeding. "What do you think you are doing?"

    "That Albian tried to touch my daughter!" he said.

    "He was helping your daughter!" Jonathan shouted in reply. "You all people are too hung up on prejudice, even in the face of disaster. How delusional can you be?"

    "How dare you speak to me that way?!" The father of the girl fired a punch at Jonathan but Jonathan evaded it by ducking. "Do you even know who I am?"

    "You are a man who is about to lose her daughter if you don''t let my friend do his job," Jonathan replied.

    "Are you telling me that Albian is a doctor?" the father said.

    "No, I''m not!" Poul chimed in, walking towards them. "I am not a doctor but I have an idea of what''s happening to your child. I need a clear view of her chest to confirm it."

    "If you touch her with your filthy hands, I will fucking kill you," he threatened.

    "And you''re going to let your daughter die?" Jonathan asked the father.

    "No, we have a family doctor along with us. You two should get moving before I do something that you won''t like."

    "Where is that doctor then huh?" Jonathan asked.

    The father looked around and there he saw their doctor who was lying unconscious on the floor next to his leather medical bag.

    "Oh no¡­" the father''s face turned pale.

    "Let them help her, Morgan!" Amelie pleaded. "Let them save our daughter."

    "I can''t...how can you expect an Albian to save our daughter? Who doesn''t even receive an education¡­an Albian who can''t read and write¡­how can you expect that man to save our daughter? Who isn''t even a doctor!" Morgan yelled at her.

    "Then are you going to let our daughter die? Look at her! Morgan, she''s suffocating¡­my dear daughter is suffocating¡­" Amelia whimpered.

    "We will wait for another doctor to arrive," Morgan stammered.

    "Your daughter doesn''t have much time," Poul urged. "If we don''t do something, your daughter is going to die within a minute."

    "Shut up¡­I will not take my chances to an Albian¡ª" Morgan trailed off as someone grabbed his shoulder. It was Jonathan, who released a punch directly to his face.

    Morgan was stunned as he reeled backward. Everyone around him gasped. Secondster, blood trickled down his nose.

    "You are fucking stupid. Your daughter is dying and yet you still cling to your prejudice? My friend here has a way to save your daughter and you reject it. What a wonderful father figure you are?"

    Morgan was speechless, his lips trembling at the sight of her daughter fighting to survive.

    "Look I''m not a doctor, I''m an engineer," Poul said. "But I have read some medical articles that could be probably affecting your daughter right now. There are instructions there on how to stabilize her condition but if we waste our time talking, it will be toote. So let me do my thing. Jonathan, get the doctor''s medical kit."

    "Okay!"

    "Sir Morgan, please remove her dress, only the top part. I need to see her chest."

    "I''ll do it," Amelie said and remove the top portion of her daughter''s dress. Poul took a look at it, her chest was swelling.

    "Jonathan, see if there''s a stethoscope in that bag,'' Poul said as soon as Jonathan arrived.

    Jonathan rummaged through the medical bag and he found a binaural stethoscope. It didn''t look like the modern models but it would do.

    Poul grabbed it and knelt to one knee. He ced the bell on her chest. He listened to the sound and from there, he confirmed his diagnostics.

    "Your daughter has tension pneumothorax," Poul revealed. "It means air is leaking into spaces between her lungs and chest wall, crushing it. We have to relieve the pressure. Jonathan! Bring me alcohol and a needle, the bigger the better."

    "How are you knowing this, Poul?" Jonathan asked as he rummaged again through the medical bag.

    "I''ll exin after, we don''t have time," Poul replied tly.

    "Here," Jonathan handed him the 14 gauge needle. "Is this good?"

    "Yeah that would do," Poul snatched it from Jonathan''s hand and started prepping up. To relieve the pressure on her chest, he has to perform a needle thoracostomy in the second intercostal space in the midvicr line. If this works, he would thank himself for asking how Sara performed a medical procedure on one of her patients.

    "Uhm¡­pneumothorax. I have never heard of that¡­is that dangerous?" Amelie asked, her expression grim.

    "She''s a child, ma''am, so I''d say it''s dangerous. I''m no doctor but it''s good that she only suffered broken ribs. Once I''m done piercing a needle on your daughter''s chest, I rmend that you have her checked by the best of the best doctor in the country," Poul answered.

    "Are you going to pierce my daughter''s chest with a needle? I have never seen such a medical procedure," Morgan asked, clearly apprehensive about the procedure.

    Poul ignored his question as he sanitized the area where he is going to pierce the needle. After that, he inserted the needle gently into the skin. Amelie averted her gaze away as she couldn''t bear the sight of her daughter suffering.

    Secondster, her chest started deting as the air escaped from the needle. Her daughter exhaled deeply, indicating the sess of the procedure.

    The girl opened her eyes and drifted towards her mother.

    "Mom?"

    "Oh, darling!" Amelie enveloped her hand in hers. "Thank god you are safe."

    ''Is my daughter¡­really safe?" Morgan asked.

    "You''re going to have her checked in the hospital to monitor her condition," Poul said, washing his hands with alcohol. "I''m going to dress her wounds to wrap things up."

    "I can''t believe that I''m saying this but¡­thank you," Morgan said genuinely.

    "You should get those wounds stitched up," Poul ignored his thanks as he rose to his feet.

    "If you don''t mind me asking, where do you live? I would like to pay you for your service."

    "We don''t have a ce in this state as we decided to move to New York," Jonathan interceded.

    "Why is that?"

    "We have a venture that can revolutionize the world, we are seeking potential investors who could turn it into reality," Jonathan exined and allowed Poul to finish.

    "But due to thismon urrence of train idents, we decided to set it aside. I believe we can build a device that can stop this ident from happening ever again."

    "Is that so?" Morgan mused. "Well do give me a call or send me a telegram once you havepleted the design, here is my card." he handed them a business card.

    "John Morgan?" Poul read the written text on the card.

    Poul and Jonathan had heard this name before. He''s the richest banker in the United States with huge shares in every growing industry. How lucky they were to stumble to the parallel J.P Morgan?

    "We will give you a call," Poul promised.

 Chapter 9 A Huge Blessing

    ?Ten days have passed since the train ident urred at the railway station. Paul and Jonathan''s trip to New York was dyed because of it. For that reason, they''ll have to return to their apartment and help with the reconstruction efforts of the railway station so that they can leave as soon as it''s fixed.

    "Poul, you read the newspapers?" Jonathan called, as he pushed a cart filled with metal debris while following Poul from behind.

    "Yeah, there are 80 deaths and 100 injuries. What a tragedy," Poul replied somberly. "This train ident happens a lot due to an inefficient braking system. Well, I hope that banker, John Morgan, will give us funds to make a prototype."

    "You already know how to build it?" Jonathan inquired.

    "Yes, in fact, I already drew the schematics in my head. I just need to write it down and make it into reality so that we can have a demonstration," Poul replied simply.

    "I''m really impressed with your confidence, Poul. Your line of work surely gives you an unfair advantage in this world," Jonathan let out a forced chuckle.

    "Well, you''ll have your moment. Sooner orter, there will be a new trend in construction, specifically the rise of skyscrapers. All thanks to the mass production of steel," Poul said.

    Someone coughed from behind them, getting both of their attention. They two turned around and saw a man wearing a three-piece ck suit and a top hat. A businessman perhaps?

    "Gentleman, may I borrow a moment of your time?" the man said, removing his top hat that revealed his brown hair. "I''m one of John Morgan''s secretaries, Julius is the name."

    Poul and Jonathan nced at one another first before looking back at the man.

    "One of John Morgan''s men? How can we help you?"

    "I have a personal message from John Morgan himself. But I''d like to share it with you somewhere decent. How about a cafe house two blocks from here? I heard the tea and confectioneries there are the best in town. Of course, it would be my treat."

    "So what do we do, Jonathan? Should we go along with him?" Poul whispered.

    "He''s a subordinate of one of the richest men in Avalonia. This could be an opportunity of a lifetime for us to start anew," Jonathan whispered back.

    "Then it''s settled. We will go with him," Poul whispered back, smiling at Julius.

    ***

    The three entered the cafe house and the aroma of freshly-brewed coffee greeted them with gusto as they took their seats at a table by the window. The waiter approached and asked for their order.

    "Anything that you''d like to eat?" Julius offered kindly.

    "Strawberry shortcakes are their best seller here, and pair that with their best tea, it would be a greatbination. So I will have that one. How about you?" Poul looked at Jonathan.

    "I''ll have the same," Jonathan said.

    "Just ck coffee for me," Julius said.

    "I have received your orders. Please wait as our staff prepares it," the waiter bowed before he left.

    "So, as we wait for our orders to arrive, let''s start to discuss why I approached the two of you," Julius twiddled his hands on the table.

    The two leaned forward, prepared to listen attentively.

    "Gentleman, I have good news for the two of you. Mister and Misis Morgan are grateful for your medical assistance. Thanks to your bold medical procedure, Miss Fiona''s health condition is stable. Even the doctors were in awe and impressed by your medical skills, even going so far as to point out that if you didn''t perform the needle dpression, she would''ve died. They just boarded an ocean liner bound for Ennd to see the best doctor andplete her treatment there."

    "That''s great, truly I am overwhelmed with joy after learning that I have saved their daughter," Poul struggled to suppress his emotions as he was overwhelmed with happiness. So this is how a doctor would feel when they sessfully treated their patients. It was rewarding.

    "For that, Mister and Misis Morgan decided to give you 50,000 dors aspensation," Julius announced.

    "Fifty thousand dors?!" Poul and Jonathan eximed simultaneously. Their voices were so loud that they gained the attention of their fellow customers inside the establishment.

    "Shhhh..." Julius hushed. "Keep your voice down."<novelnext></novelnext>

    ? "Sorry, we didn''t expect that we will receive a huge sum of money," Poul exined, his cheek flushed red in excitement.

    50,000 dors in this world is 1,400,000 dors in today''s currency. So it''s natural that the two would react in that way.

    "They said that their daughter is more important than money. They could''ve given you more, to be honest, but they decided 50,000 dors is good enough," Julius said honestly.

    "Well we are truly grateful for that, as that money would help us a lot," Poul said.

    "With this money, we can start our own business," Jonathan said.

    "You are using the money you received to start a business? In what industry?" Julius curiously asked.

    "Well, we want to make train transportation safe and prevent more idents like what happened ten days ago by introducing a device that will stop the train more conveniently," Poul answered.

    "I see. 50,000 dors is indeed a huge capital. Be sure to use it wisely and I wish you good luck with your future business," Julius said as he pulled out something from his breast pocket. It was a check that he promised to give them. "Here take this."

    Poul and Jonathan''s eyes widened. Fifty thousand dors is clearly written in the check.

    "You can withdraw it from the bank after you finish your meal here," Julius said.

    Just in time, the waiter arrived with their orders and ced them carefully on their table.

    ***

    Twenty minutester, they finished their dishes and left the cafe house.

    "Thank you for your patronage. Pleasee back again," said the waiter who served them earlier.

    Outside, Julius turned and faced the two.

    "This is a goodbye gentleman. I will take my leave now," Julius extended his hand, offering a handshake.

    Poul and Jonathan dly took it and shook his hand.

    "Take care, Sir Julius."

    Julius tipped his top hat before walking in the opposite direction.

    "So, now that we have the money, shall we get started?" Poul asked.

    "Yeah, let''s do this," Jonathan said resolutely. "But first, do you have a name for thepany?"

    Poul ced a hand on his chin as he thought of something. An idea popped up.

    "Since we are introducing air brakes, how about we name ourpany, Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company?"

    "Sounds fine to me," Jonathan smiled.

    "Let''s go and prepare for it. First, we need manpower, supplies, and a building. I''ll leave the factory design to you while I''ll scour data about our new venture."

    "Wait, you have an idea on how to run a business?" Jonathan asked.

    "We had a course subject called technopreneurship in college where it taught us marketing skills, business nning, and know-how of how to start a business using our invention. Don''t tell me you forgot about it."

    "It was a boring subject, to be honest, that''s why it was deep in my brain," Jonathan said.

 Chapter 10 Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company

    ?Using the money they received from John Morgan, the two immediately set off to build their ownpany that they believed would propel them up to greater heights.

    They set up theirpany in the city of Columbus in the state of Ohio. The name of theirpany is Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company. their very first product born out of tragedy. They don''t want train idents like the one they witnessed three months ago.

    They hired their first 100 workers, and almost all of them were their co-workers from various jobs in thest five years. Poul and Jonathan found them to be trustworthy and hardworking enough to get a job that pays 3 dors per day.

    In this era, the owners of factories and mines tended to treat their workers poorly. Industrial wages tended to be very low, which meant that only poor people worked there. Some workers were migrants from across the sea. Due to ethnic discrimination, many of these people were denied better-paying jobs. They worked long hours for little pay on the floors of the meatpacking nts and other factories. Industrial workers had no real opportunity to advance. Many of these workers paid exorbitant rent for apartments in the most downtrodden neighborhoods of cities. If they became injured on the job, their employers routinely fired them. The workers did not receive health insurance, worker''spensation, or retirement. If they could not work at the pace set by the employers, the bosses simply reced the slow workers with younger, more productive ones. Because wages were so low, often entire families worked in factories. With more than one wage earner, a family could meet its basic needs. Not all people could affordnd to be farmers, and industrial opportunities provided these people with the means to support themselves.

    As time goes by, Poul and Jonathan know that the workers will organize themselves to cope with their circumstances and push reforms to improve their working conditions. Which already happened in some factories. To prevent it from ever happening in their fledglingpany, they made a radical decision by implementing a six-day work week, eight hours shift, a standard in the modern era.

    In the factory of the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company, built by Jonathan, overhead cranes with the logo of theirpany hoisted the very first air brake device and set it down in front of Jonathan.

    "So this device stops trains?" one of the workers inquired curiously as he imagined the working process inside his head.

    "Yeah," Jonathan simply replied. "Ah¡­where is Poul? He should be here."

    "I''m here!" Poul raised his hand that carried a blueprint as he walked over through the crowd of workers.

    "Sir Poul!" The workers cheered their boss''s arrival. Most of the workers were Albians, meaning a native of his continent. The rests are migrants and locals.

    "I apologize for arrivingte. The process of applying for a patent in the United States Patent and Trademark Office took longer than I expected. But anyways, congrattions to us, we officially have a monopoly in air brake systems as well as the draft gear."

    Alongside the air brake systems, Poul realized that safety is not only the thing that can be marketed butfort as well.

    Whenever he rode trains, his experiences were not smooth as there was nothing to cushion the pushing, pulling, and stopping force of the train. Passengers would often vomit due to motion sickness, even he, was not spared from that sickness.

    "The only thing that we need is a demonstration," Jonathan said as he gave him a high-five.

    "We just have to contact John Morgan to ask for an audience with his industrialist friends who own railroadpanies, as they were our target," Poul said.

    Railroadpanies were one of the dominant industries in thete 19th century Avalonia. Not only that, they are the driving force of the economy. Trains are responsible for domestic trades across the country, delivering raw materials, foods, and machinery that helps drive the nation''s economy. More importantly, it helps connect people between states. Before the invention of steam lotives, people wouldn''t travel five miles away from their homes, making a state or even the country an insrmunity. Now, they can hop on trains and set out to a new city or state that they think will bring opportunities for them.

    All in all, the railroad industry is a lucrative business. And Poul and Jonathan''spany would earn from it with theirtest invention. As long as there are trains, they''ll earn money. Once they earn enough money, they''ll start a new venture, an electric distribution system. No one has yet done to light up the world with bulbs using electricity. Imagine the prospect of them bing the first with the means to provide and introduce it.

    "Then let''s schedule a demonstration. You should be the one to demonstrate it, Poul, as you know the technology that I do. I''ll stay here and manage our finances. To be honest, we have been losing money ever since we started thispany," Jonathan said somberly as he looked down.

    Poulughed and patted him on the back with a force that knocked Jonathan a bit off bnce. "Of course, it is to be expected! We don''t have any customers yet. But once we get this baby out in the field and see its potential and uses, trust me, orders will fill up faster than we can create one."

    "Ahh¡­fine fine. How many air brakes and draft gears would you need for the demonstration?" Jonathan asked.

    "I want you to manufacture eight of them, each. Then I''m going to need twenty workers who have experience working in trains to help me retrofit trains with air brakes and draft gears," Poul answered.

    "I''ll send you the list of workerster," Jonathan said, writing Poul''s orders in his pocketbook. "Anything else?"<novelnext></novelnext>

    "That would be all," Poul stretched his arms. "I''m gonna go upstairs and take a nap. My back hurts after that train ride,"

    "Don''t forget to contact Mister Morgan. He is our best shot into marketing this creation of yours," Jonathan said.

    "It''s not my original creation," Poul muttered softly as he stretched his neck and headed upstairs where his personal office is located.

    Opening the door in his office, the cramped space weed him. The office contained a desk with piles of documents set atop it neatly, a drawer, and a sofa big enough for him to sleep on.

    He ced the blueprints inside the drawer and locked it with a key before jumping on the sofa.

    Exhaustion and weariness seeped out of his body, making him feel sleepy. His eyelids wanted to close but he remembered Jonathan''s words.

    "Don''t forget to contact Mister Morgan."

    Poul jumped out off the sofa and used a telephone that had a design simr to Alexander Graham Bell''s telephone. It was quite a straightforward design. A cylindrical tube-shaped earpiece and a microphone for him to speak on. He dialed the number Morgan gave him and waited patiently to get his call.

    Three months have passed and he is sure that they have returned from Ennd after checking their daughter up with the best doctor there.

    Ten secondster, Morgan picked up the phone.

    "Who is this?"

    "Good afternoon, Mister Morgan. This is Poul Nielsen. I''m sure you know me as the one who helped your daughter Fiona during the train ident three months ago."

    "Ah¡­so you really called. The doctor there praised you for performing first-aid on my daughter. Are you sure you are not a doctor," Morgan said in a friendly tone. It seemed as though his prejudices towards him were gone.

    "As I said, I''m an engineer. I was just lucky back there. So, the reason I called is that we have a working prototype and we want to demonstrate it. I believe as one of the huge financiers in Avalonia, you have connections with railroadpany owners who will be thrilled to see a new braking system that can be fitted on their trains?"

    "Yeah, I do. You already have a working prototype huh? Does it have a patent?"

    "I just applied for it," Poul answered. "So could you help me?"

    "Let me talk to them, Poul. I''ll give you a call once they agree," Morgan said.

    "I appreciate your generosity, Mister Morgan," Poul smiled. "I believe that''s all."

    Poul hung up the phone and jumped back to the sofa again.

    "Luck has smiled upon us today," Poul giggled and he drifted to sleep.

 Chapter 11 An Important Call

    ?The sound of the hydraulics from the overhead cranes and the hissing sounds from the milling station in the factory, rouse Poul up from sleep. His eyelids fluttered as they cleared the visual rity in front of him.

    He rose up to a sitting position and nced to the far right corner of the office. Located there was a pendulum clock producing a ticking sound as the pendulum sways back and forth.

    He scrunched up his eyes, trying to see the hands of the clock to tell the time. It was already six o''clock in the evening. The office has a window that lets in natural light, so he noticed that it is getting dark.

    Sadly in this world, there''s no light bulb yet to light up the office with a single flick. So he had to get up and light up the gasmp. The warm orange glow of the fire inside themp illuminated the room bright orange. The smell of the gasoline began to fill his office, disorienting Poul a little.

    Poul grabbed his overcoat hanging on his chair and slipped it over himself before walking out of his office and into the railing. He ced his hand on the railing and peered below.

    His workers were working around the clock manufacturing and fabricating parts for the air brakes and friction draft gear. Though the demonstration of their product is not yet set, it''s prudent that they already have a surplus so that they won''t get overwhelmed by future orders. Not only that, the workers will gain experience just by working on it.

    "Good evening boss!" the workers called as they raised their hats up and waved them at Poul.

    They must have noticed him watching. Poul waved back at them before walking down the stairs.

    "Good evening boss!"

    "Good evening boss..!"

    The workers greeted him warmly as he approached them and took a look at the parts they manufactured.

    "Mind if I take a quick inspection?" Poul asked, even though he didn''t have to. Poul believed that effectivemunication between the boss and the workers is crucial for thepany.

    "Yes sir! It''s all built ording to your specifications," the worker said as he stepped aside from the workshop table.

    Poul scanned the airpressor, a crucial part of the air brake. He checked for warping, indentations, and dimensions.

    He nodded in satisfaction. "Great, there seems to be no problem with thepressor. Keep up the good work. Once wended a huge contract, drinks on me."

    The workers cheered and high-fived each other with joyous expressions on their faces. It''s also for him to motivate the workers so that their working products won''t be a defect.

    "Poul!"

    A familiar voice called. Poul nced over his shoulder and saw Jonathan jogging towards him.

    "Jonathan, what''s up," Poul said.

    "Good thing you are awake. So how did it go? Did Mister Morgan agree?" Jonathan asked.

    "Well, he said he''ll call us back," Poul replied simply and walked with him side by side around the factory.

    The factory is designed and built under the guidance of Jonathan himself. He is the mastermind of how things move around in the factory, improving the efficiency and productivity of thepany. Unlike otherpanies who haphazardly built sections of their factory nts, Jonathan was meticulous. The foundry, assembly lines, and storage depot, were built in a way of linearity. Raw materials enter, and the finished productes out.

    "Is that so? I just hope that he''ll call sometime soon, preferably tomorrow," Jonathan said. "If not, we won''t be able to sustain thispany. I told you earlier, right? That we are losing money from raw materials, workers'' sries, and kerosene for the lighting. Based on my calction, we''ll be out of business next month."

    "Put the negative out of your mind for once, Jonathan," Poul sighed. "Didn''t I tell you that it is part of the process? If Mister Morgan didn''t call within three days, then we will be the ones to personally approach railroadpanies and pitch our product."

    "I envy your optimism, Poul. You sound like everything is going to be fine even though you know it won''t be," Jonathan said.

    "Well, sometimes you just have to be. Otherwise, we will return back to our old life where we will have to scoop up poop, work twelve to sixteen hours digging ditches, and crawl in the deepest part of the coal mines," Poul said as the memories of them doing that flitted across his mind.

    Jonathan chuckled and smiled, amused.<novelnext></novelnext>

    Their conversation ended shortly after and they walked together towards arge wooden door leading outside. Poul breathed in the night air, savoring the pleasant coolness against his skin.

    Jonathan stared at the sky, noticing that the stars nketing the night sky weren''t simr to the constetion they have in their original world.

    "We could really use a drink," Poul suggested.

    "We do, but not during work hours. What if Mister Morgan called while we were out drinking? Are you sure you want to take that risk?" Jonathan said.

    Poul''s expression drooped and his lips turned downwards to an unpleasant frown. "Alright," he sighed. Then Poul perked up.

    "Then how are we going to spend the remaining two hours? Watch our workers perform their work? That would be boring."

    "You can use the remaining time to draw up the schematics you want to introduce in this world. For example, an automobile?"

    "I can probably do just that," Poul agreed to his suggestion. "But I want to focus on our first venture. Designing gadgets for railroadpanies."

    As they were having a brief conversation outside the factory. One of their workers walked up to them from behind and spoke in a careful tone.

    "Boss, the telephone in your office is ringing¡­"

    Poul and Jonathan jolted and whipped their heads around to the employee standing behind them.

    "Poul¡­"

    "I know Jonathan," Poul cracked his knuckles before dashing into the factory and to his office.

    He reached for the telephone that was currently ringing on the wall and answered it.

    "You have reached the Nielsen and Axelsen Air Brake Company. How may I help you?" Poul said, attempting to sound professional as he was trying hard to maintain a steady heartbeat.

    ''Please be Mister Morgan'' Poul muttered a prayer softly.

    "This is Morgan. I have been trying to reach you for like a minute and you won''t answer. Good thing you picked the telephone, otherwise you would have lost  a huge opportunity for yourpany."

    "I''m very sorry, Mister Morgan. I was doing an inspection downstairs so I was not present in the office. So, Mister Morgan, you mentioned a huge opportunity for ourpany. Does that mean¡­" Poul grinned goofily.

    "Yes, I have talked with my partners in the railroad industry. Including Wandervilt. They want to see the product next week. Can you do that?" Morgan asked.

    "We''re free next week, Mister Morgan. Thank you!" Poul couldn''t help but keep smiling happily.

    "See you next week then. Goodbye Mr. Nielsen" Morgan hung up the phone and Poul put the telephone back on the cradle.

    He giddily went outside his office and looked down where he saw workers looking up at him in anticipation.

    "Everyone! I have good news for all of you. We will have a product demonstration next week. This means we are going to retrofit a train with our air brakes and draft gears. If they liked it, then that means a huge contract to retrofit all of their trains. We are going to be big, very big, so I want you to keep working hard and you''ll be rewarded handsomely. That''s all!"

    Concluding his announcement, the workers erupted into cheers of joy and Poulughed heartily as they pped.

    Meanwhile, Jonathan was watching from below, giving Poul a thumbs up.

    Poul pumped his fist as he chortled.

 Chapter 12 Practicing The Pitch Before Demonstration

    ?Thanks to Mister Morgan, one of the richest financiers of the United States of Avalonia, the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company finallynded an opportunity to demonstrate and promote the air brake and the lotive draft gear.

    The day after they received the call, Poul didn''t waste any more time and immediately went to one of the steam lotive factories in Ohio to retrofit one of their trains with air brakes and the lotive draft gear. With the help of 20 workers he handpicked, they were able to finish retrofitting the train in less than three days. Poul also taught the lotive driver how to use the air brake and gave him a 15 dors reward for sessfully learning it.

    With that aside, Poul returned to the factory and discussed with Jonathan how he is going to pitch the product to potential investors and customers.

    "There are about forty steam lotive idents per year and ny percent of them were caused by ack of an efficient braking system. Now, you might be wondering, is there a way to reduce that ny percent to zero percent?" Poul asked, waving his hand dramatically as he practiced his pitch in front of Jonathan.

    Poul continued. "Yes. Introducing¡­the air brake!" he announced, pulling the string that pulled the curtain up, revealing the detailed schematics of the air brake. "So how does it work? We usepressed air. In this figure, we can show to you the simple mechanism of howpressed air is used to stop the train. There is a wheel, a brake shoe, a lever, and a piston rod. We putpressed air into the system, pushing the piston rod, which pivots the lever, and then pressed the brake shoe against the wheel. From there, it is simple physics, the mechanical energy of the wheel is converted to thermal energy due to friction, thus slowing the train down." Poul concluded, wiping the sweat forming on his forehead with the back of his arm.

    "So, what do you think?" Poul asked.

    Jonathan crossed his arms and hummed in thought. "Well, you perfectly exined the simple mechanism of the air brake. Yay, it''s impressive but you are going to present to a businessman here. They are not interested in science lessons, they are interested in how they are going to make money," Jonathan shared his opinion. "Now that I think about it, our technology does not provide them with extra ie, they are an added expense. In a society where there are noborws, andpany owners not caring about their workers. So, the ultimate question is, how are you going to sell a device to protect a worker from possible death where thepany owner doesn''t care about them in the first ce?"

    Poul was silent at Jonathan''s words. He looked down at his feet, shuffling his feet awkwardly. He had a point and he realized it just now. Thepany owners, or synonymously, Robber Barons, don''t care about the safety of their workers. They only care about the money going into their pockets. He pondered for a solution to answer Jonathan.

    "Damn¡­you are sounding like a businessman here, Jonathan. I thought you don''t like technopreneurship."

    "I don''t like it," Jonathan said in affirmation. "But it doesn''t mean I wouldn''t exert efforts into learning the concepts and lessons it has to offer," he coolly said.

    "Well, if they don''t care about their workers and prioritize profit. Then let''s take a look at the statistics here," Poul came up with an answer and borated on it. "Normally, a railroadpany would hire five to six brakemen for a steam lotive pulling ten to fifteen cars. Each day, they receive about a dor and a fifty for their work. That''s ten and fifty dors per week, 45 dors per month, and 546 dors per year. Remember, that''s only for a single train. A railroadpany is operating at least 100 to 200 steam lotives.

    "So in total, you will have to spend 109,200 dors paying brakemen per year. That''s a lot of money that can be used for research and development, funding new enterprises, and so on. Not only that, the brakeman''s job is dangerous where death is possible. A death under one''spany is not a good optic. Not to mention, it was only the lives of the brakemen we are talking about here, we are not including the passengers yet. They are the important ones because they are the primary customers. In addition, building a steam lotive is expensive, costing at least 270,000 dors. Losing one train because you can''t brake in time is a serious blow in the face," Poul finished and Jonathan was nodding his head, convinced by his words.

    "Good, if I were one of the owners of railroadpanies, I would surely consider installing air brakes in my trains. How about the lotive draft gear? Do you have any marketing strategy to pitch it?"

    "Well,fort is important in the train because it gives your passenger a better sense of safety and stability when they are riding the train. You have to provide that, at some point along the line. Also, not only they are carrying passengers but also goods that are fragile and sensitive to shocks."

    "Okay, I''ll let you be the one to think of that. Now moving on, to the important part. How much do an air brake and lotive draft gear cost?" Jonathan asked.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "The price for the air brake is 50 dors per car and for the draft gear, 35 dors per car."

    "50 dors per car. And normally, a passenger steam lotive has around 10 to 15 cars. So apany would cost 850 to 1275 dors to retrofit a single train with air brakes and draft gear. And assuming that a railroadpany operates 100 steam lotives, it would be 85,000 dors. Much cheaper than paying the five brakemen per year. What''s more important is that it''s only a one-time purchase," Jonathan said.

    "Now you are getting it, " Poul chuckled as his heart rate rose with excitement. Feeling that the pitch would work well in the actual demonstration. "Oh, did I mention that it will prevent unwanted idents? If I did, that''s another huge factor in helping them decide."

    "Okay, now you know how you are going to market our products. Thest challenge now is how are you going to keep up with the demands. If they like it, they would surely buy it. But we are a smallpany, so we need to up our game. How are we going to attract investors?"

    "I''m sure with the numbers we discussed, they can calcte how much thepany is going to profit from this. I''m approximating five to fifteen million dors. It''s only in the United States. We can expand our business in another country, particrly in Europe. So around twenty-five million to forty million dors?"

    Jonathan was feeling dizzy hearing Poul''s estimates. Is that how much this air brake industry works?

    "And once we get that money, we can expand to another venture. Electricity, oil drilling and refining, steel manufacturing, automotive, aviation, and heck, we can even start our railroadpany. Imagine it, Jonathan!"

    Jonathan was in a daze after hearing all those numbersing out of Poul''s mouth. His eyes lit up, while his mouth slightly opened. "Okay, you convinced me. Geez, you are an overpowered person in this world."

    "You too as well, Jonathan. In fact, you can start your own civil engineering firm if you want to," Poul said.

    "No, not yet," Jonathan replied, shaking his head as he started to pace around theb and stopped to look out at the window. "Let us focus on this one first.

    Poul walked over to him and sat beside him. He ced his arm around his shoulder and spoke.

    "We will brother. This new world provides us a great opportunity to start over again, we will not waste it, and leave a legacy before we die."

    Jonathan chuckled, feeling uplifted by Poul''s words. "Yeah. Get them, brother,"

    "Leave it to me."

 Chapter 13 The Legendary Air Brake Trial

    13 The Legendary Air Brake Trial The date was August 1st, 880 in the continental calendar. The beginning of the month is a make-or-break day for the two young visionary maverick duos who dreamed of creating an industrial empire using their modern knowledge by introducing modern concepts that are lucrative in the market.

    The first technology they introduced is an air brake system designed to prevent any more steam lotive idents causing hundreds of deaths.

    In the railway junction of Columbus, Poul was staring at the majestic steam lotive puffing steam out of the smokebox and growling softly like a predator taking its afternoon nap.

    It was the first train retrofitted with an air brake and a lotive draft gear. There were no passengers inside as it was reserved for the potential investors and customers of the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company.

    A young man approached Poul from behind and spoke. "Sir Poul."

    "Hmm?" Poul leaned backward, offering him his ears in order to hear the voice better.

    "The train will be arriving in three minutes," the young man informed him, referring to a train filled with the wealthy and powerful men of Avalonia.

    "Good, we''ll wait here," Poul said.

    As per the agreement of the two founders, Poul would be the one to meet Mister Morgan and the railroadpany owners while Jonathan will stay at the factory, managing things while he is away.

    The air brake trial or demonstration was quite simple. Once Mister Morgan and the railroadpany owners arrive at the junction, they''ll board the train fitted with air brakes and lotive draft gear, and then take a three-hour journey to Steubenville, Ohio.

    Momentster, Poul can now hear the whistling sound of the iing steam lotive, its speed slowly decreasing as four brakemen jump from one car to another, turning the wheel that activated the hand brakes until thest car. Poul flinched from watching the brakeman do their job, imagining what could happen if the brakeman fell off the car. No wonder a brakeman had the most dangerous job in history, ounting for 5,000 deaths per year.

    Not to mention the fact that they have to stay there from the top of the cars all day long, in the zing heat of summer and in the freezing cold of winter.

    After a jerky process of stopping the train, Poul cracked his knuckles and put on his ck barrette and ck gloves.

    "It''s showtime," Poul said walking over to the train to greet the passengers who were currently exiting the carriages.

    They were all wearing spiffy outfits, telling whoever saw them that they were rich and loaded.

    Poul greeted them with a smile, pushing his sses up with his couple of fingers, and bowing at them courteously.

    "Oh, there you are Poul," a familiar voice rang out from amongst the crowd.

    Poul promptly lifted his head up and saw Mister Morgan walking over to him with his wife and daughter.

    "Mister Morgan!" Poul extended his hand, offering a handshake. "It''s been three months since west saw each other."

    "Indeed it is," Morgan grabbed his hand and shook it.

    The behavior Morgan was disying was different from the one he showed when they first met each other at the station.

    "You must be Misis Morgan, a pleasure to see you again," Poul greeted with a smile, shaking her hand.

    "To see the man who saved my daughter''s life, how can I ever forget you," Amelie Morgan replied happily. "Oh, here''s my daughter, Fiona, introduce yourself to Mister Poul."

    Poul''s gaze flickered to their daughter. Their eyes locked and Poul is sensing something odd from the way Fiona is looking at him. It was like she was in awe, wide-eyed, cheeks blushing, and mouth ajar.

    "Fiona?" Amelie called, snapping Fiona out of her trance.

    Fiona fiddled with her fingers before introducing herself by lifting the side of her dress, curtsying.

    "Uhm¡­ehh¡­How do you do? I''m Fiona Morgan..!" she bashfully said.

    "May I?" Poul asked for permission from her mother, and she gave him a prompting nod.

    Poul got down to his one knee, leveling himself at her height, and ced his hands on his chest formally and began.

    "Nice to meet you, Miss Fiona. I am Poul Nielsen," he said with a dazzling smile.

    "Ahh..." Fiona brought up her hands to her mouth and mumbled. "My...sweet...prince."

    Sir Morgan clicked his tongue after noticing his daughter getting lovestruck at Poul and suddenly grabbed Fiona by the arm, pulling her away from Poul.

    "Okay, that''s enough. Let me introduce you to my friends," sir Morgan said.

    Poul rose to his feet and faced another group of people, greeting them politely.

    "These are Adam Wandervilt and Moses Corning. They are the owners of the New York Central Station," Sir Morgan said, introducing Adam and Moses who both wore an expensive-looking three-piece ck suit and were holding a cane.

    Both of them are old-looking men, probably above seventy or eighty.

    Poul extended his arms to offer a handshake but both of them only stared at it, with no intention of shaking it. Instead, Wandervilt spoke.

    "If I understand you, young fellow, you propose to stop a railroad train with wind? That''s probably the most nonsense thing I have heard in my entire life. But be grateful boy, as I entertain myself to see this demonstration."

    Poul simply disregarded hisments nonchntly as he put down his hand. It seemed they really have no intention to speak.

    "Well, if you see it, Mister Wandervilt, you are going to change your mind."

    Wandervilt scoffed and moved on.

    Sir Morgan introduced another group.

    "Representative of the Union Pacific Railroad, Sir Potter Huntington. From the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, Sir Jefferson Garrett. From the Pennsylvania Railroad, Sir Vaughan Merrick¡­"

    Morgan continued introducing the industrial magnates to Poul. It was the biggest honor for him and a great opportunity. He must definitely not fail in this pitch, or else theirpany''s reputation and their dignity will be ruined beyond saving.

    It took him fifteen minutes of greeting and introducing himself to the railroadpany owners and the moment it was concluded, Poul escorted them to another train.

    The crowds entered the steam lotive retrofitted with an air brake and lotive draft gear. Once everyone was inside, Poul hopped in and signaled the train to start moving.

    And the lotive started moving, slowly increasing speed as they started their three-hour journey.

    The railroadpany owners and financiers were in the first car while their families, friends, and colleagues were in the second to thest cars.

    The first cabin was filled with smoke produced by their cigars and Poul couldn''t help but bear with it.

    Along the way, Poul started pitching the product.

    "With our air brake, the train can now be stopped faster with a pull of a lever. You don''t have to hire a brakeman who jumps from one car to another just to manually apply brakes to each train. Also, may I ask for your opinion about the trip so far?"

    "Yes, It''s boring!" Wandervilt said and everyone broke intoughter.

    "I do," Merrick raised his hand. "The ride has been kind of smooth so far."

    Theirughter slowly whittled down as it turned into a mumbling.

    "It was also because of another device that we invented. The name of the device is called lotive draft gear. A device that cushions the pull, push, and stopping force of the train. Now, let''s get into the statistics¡­"

    Just as he practiced with Jonathan, Poul eloquently reported the data he gathered from the government and how much they can save from purchasing their product. The question that they raised was simr to Jonathan, so Poul easily answered it.

    One hour passed, and as Poul was discussing with the potential customers and investors, the train driver saw a carriage pulled by two horses. The horses panicked from the roaring metal beast. The horses jerked and the wheel of the wagon got stuck on the rails. The horse fell and the wagon overturned. The train driver applied the air brake for the first time since their departure. The wheels of the train skidded on the track, producing sparks and sending up smoke from under the axles.

    The wagon driver who sprained his ankle in the middle of the tracks closed his eyes, epting his fate. He knew that there was no way for a train to stop in time.

    Five seconds turned into ten seconds, and yet nothing happened to him. He opened his eyes slowly and saw the train stopped, four feet away from the tip of the cowcatcher.

    Meanwhile, inside the cabin.

    "What the hell was that? Poul?" Morgan raised his voice as the financiers and railroadpany owners staggered up to their feet.

    "I don''t know, I''m going to look at it," Poul wore his sses and stepped outside the cabin.

    Everyone followed him, curious as to what just happened. Everything happened too fast for them. Poul was just exining stuff to them until they felt a pushing force that propelled everyone forward. They were moving at around 25 miles per hour and they stopped in just three to four seconds.

    Poul ran towards the front. "What the hell just happened?" he demanded.

    "Uhm¡­sir, there was a wagon on the way and so I applied the brakes," the train driver exined.

    "What..?" Poul turned to his right and saw the culprit. Four feet away from the cowcatcher.

    The locals around the area gathered at the crossroad, chattering to one another as they witnessed something unexpected.

    The financiers and thepany workers, along with their families and friends saw it too.

    Secondster, the locals erupted into cheers.

    "Did you see that?!"

    "The train stopped in just four seconds! Unbelievable."

    And the cheering went on.

    Poul''s eyes brimmed with joy, his smile reaching the ends of his ears. He turned around and saw their fascinated faces.

    "Well, I hope you all brought your checkbooks," Poul giddily said.

 Chapter 14 Discussions And Deals Made

    ?The locals in the town helped the man who sprained his ankles up to his feet after the ident and Poul paid the other man dor who was willing to remove the debris of the wagons off the rail.

    While all of that was happening, Poul nced over his shoulder and saw the greatest financier, Mister Morgan, and the railroadpany owners scanned the wheelset of the lotive, probably wondering about the mechanism of the air brake. Though he already exined it to them in detail, there will be some people who would want to see it in action.

    Unfortunately, they don''t have the luxury to repeat it again as the lotives are scheduled to run at a specific time. They couldn''t afford any more dys and so Poul walked over to them.

    "Uhm, everyone! Please return to your respective cabin as we will depart at a moment''s notice," Poul announced loudly, cing his hands on someone''s back, and pushing them gently towards the cabin.

    It took all of them five minutes to board the cabin. And once everyone was inside, the train driver rotated the reverser, causing the steam lotive to move forward.

    In the first cabin, Poul winced slightly at the rowdiness of the railroadpanies who wished to inquire about the product.

    "I''m interested in your air brake system, Mister Poul! I would like to have it retrofitted on my passenger trains!" the representative of the Union Pacific Railroad, Huntington, raised his hand, trying to get Poul''s attention.

    "We would be delighted to have one of those air brakes in our trains too!" the representative of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, Jefferson, said.

    "We are interested too!" the representative of the Pennsylvania Railroad, Vaughan also joined in the hype.

    Poul grinned goofily as the giants of the railroad industries were wanting to buy the air brakes. But only air brakes? How about the lotive draft gear?

    "I''m delighted to hear that you loved the air brake but I''m sure you''ll also like the lotive draft gear for thefort of your passengers and to prevent unwanted damages on the goods you''re carrying because of shocks," Poul smiled warmly. He was a little embarrassed by their enthusiasm.

    But he''s d, very d that they took a liking to it. It''s all thanks to that unfortunate ident that made it the best marketing strategy for theirpany. Without it, they might get bored from riding the train to the point of wasting their time and leaving as soon as the train arrives at the junction.

    "We''ll take that too," Jefferson epted Poul''s suggestion.

    "Thank you, Mister Jefferson."

    As Poul was having a chat with the giants of the railroad industry, Mister Morgan can''t help but feel regretful for giving Paul and his partner fifty thousand dors as a remuneration, not as an investment.

    He was fascinated at the air brake system theirpany developed and the fact that he is seeing the giants wanting to get a piece of it means theirpany has the potential to be a million-dor industry.

    ording to his knowledge, there are over thirteen thousand steam lotives operating in Avalonia and twenty thousand more in Europe. 400 hundred steam lotives were being built every month based on thetest statistics. If Poul & Nielsen Company were able to retrofit all those trains with his air brakes and lotive draft gears. Theirpany valuation would be over twenty-five to forty million dors!

    This is a huge opportunity for Morgan to invest in theirpany, and they are going to ept his offer as they will need every penny that they can get to upgrade theirpanies, hire engineers andborers, and purchase equipment, andnd. There is no way they are going to decline it.

    "All of this ruckus for a gadget, what are you all thinking?" Wandervilt finally spoke and everyone went silent. "Eighty dors per car for a piece of gadget that will bring us no profit¡­it''s a stupid investment."

    Poul straightened his back, a bit offended by Wandervilt as he already exined to him the pros of having his systems.

    "But don''t you like your trains to be safer? Instead of paying hundreds of brakemen to stop your train, why not invest the money in our system?"<novelnext></novelnext>

    "It''s an unnecessary expense for me," Wanderbilt simply said. "I''m not interested in your technology, and for that reason, I''ll have to back out."

    Poul understood his reason and so he conceded. The man doesn''t like his technology because he thought of it as a waste of money. He believed that the current braking system they had on their trains is fine and doesn''t need recing. If a brakeman were to fall off the train or die in an ident, there are times that they''ll rece the brakeman with a new one. Not only that, most of the brakemen were immigrants, so they wouldn''t really care much if one were to die.

    "Fine, those are interested, once wee back to Columbus, we will go to our factory and discuss the contracts. Of course, it won''t take a single day but I do know of an apartment befitting of your status," Poul smiled.

    The railroadpany owners who were interested in the product nodded agreeably. With that, Poul was finished. He heaved a sigh of relief before taking a seat next to Morgan.

    "Mister Morgan, I appreciate you for gathering them here, and allowing me to show them the product that will revolutionize the railroad industry."

    "Well, I''m d that I bumped into you in the junction three months ago, albeit unpleasant."

    "I have no qualms towards you, Mister Morgan. Whatever happened between us, it''s all in the past now," Poul said. "It''s time that we look forward and see what the future has to offer."

    Morgan looked him in the face. "It seems to me that you are expecting something from me."

    "I could say the same thing to you," Poul nced back at him. "The way you were looking at me when I was making a pitch and then taking interest in the product, hmm¡­how should I put this? Tempted¡­you were tempted at the prospect of ourpany."

    "Then why don''t we stop beating around the bush and get on it," Morgan suggested. "How much money do you need?"

    "I already expected that this would happen so I did the math," Poul paused, rapping his fingers on the table as he pondered. "Three hundred thousand dors and you get five percent equity," Poul dered his offer.

    "You need a huge capital to keep up with future orders, so I also expected that you would start at a high value. So let me counter your offer. Three hundred dors for twenty percent equity."

    "Ahh¡­" Poul stretched his arms as he was about to engage in a battle with Morgan. "Can you be flexible? How does ten percent sound to you?"

    "Ridiculous," Morgan said without hesitation. "I will not go down any further. I''m the one taking a huge risk here. It''s either twenty percent or don''t take the offer at all."

    "You see, Morgan. When I was pitching my product, I had my eyes on you, and do you know what I saw in your eyes? The future of the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company growing at arge scale. We are the onlypany offering air brake systems. We also have other revolutionary technologies staying there on the drafting table stored in the drawers waiting to be turned into reality. You are not the type of man who is afraid of risk, otherwise, how did you get your fortune? If you are hesitating now, you are losing the opportunity to earn millions of dors from ourpany. Plus with you onboard, you can guarantee that thepany is going to profit a copious amount of money. If you are still not interested, there are other ways for us to get working capital. So what will it be?"

    Morgan sighed defeatedly. "Fine. three hundred thousand dors for ten percent equity."

    Poul smiled and offered a handshake. "We have a deal then."

    Morgan shook his hand vigorously.

    "I''ll prepare the papers once we get back to Columbus," Poul said and they silently enjoyed the rest of the trip.

 Chapter 15 Conducting Business

    ?Back at Columbus, the magnates of the railroad industry, who were interested in the product, followed Poul back to the factory, while those who weren''t interested, went straight to a luxurious hotel the city could offer, waiting for the next train.

    Poul amodated the railroad magnates by hiring the best coach in the city and used it as a means of transportation all the way back to the factory.

    As for the magnates'' families, they were also taken to an hotel where they''ll stay as their fathers and husbands do business.

    At the factory, the workers cheered Poul''s arrival. But that cheering was quickly quieted down when they saw men in cks and top hats exiting the carriages.

    "Uhm¡­boss, are those the customers?" one of the workers who were opening the gates asked.

    "Yes," Poul confirmed. "So tell everyone to be proper. Anyways, where is Jonathan?"

    "Sir Jonathan is at the office, sir," the worker Poul was speaking to answered.

    "Okay. One more thing, can you help me to tour them around the factory? I''m sure they''d love how the products are made."

    "Leave it to me, sir," the worker then joined Poul, guiding the businessman into the factory.

    Inside, the businessman took a look around the 50,000 square feet factory. The first thing they noticed was the sound of the hydraulics of the overhead cranes as they lifted heavy cargo from one ce to another. The second is the lighting. Despite the gloomy weather of Columbus, the factory is brightly lit thanks to the gasmps and natural lighting. And thest one is about the working process.

    They observed every movement of the workers, from welding metal parts of the lotive draft gear and connecting one end of the pipes to another in a coordinated manner.

    The more they watch, the more they realize that the workers are like ants, doing one job and passing it to another as they assemble the final product.

    "Wee to our humble factory. Everything that was fitted on the train was born here," Poul eximed, waving his hands. "Everything you see here is meticulously nned to increase efficiency and utilization of every space within the factory. Despite the sweltering heat of the sun above, the factory has natural venttion, as you can see from the roof where there is an opening for hot air to escape. We prioritize the safety of our workers by putting guard rails around hazardous ces¡­"

    It wasn''t long, however, for Jonathan to notice what was happening down the factory. He exited the office, looked down, and saw Poul and a group of men in ck trailing behind him.

    Morgan noticed Jonathan looking at them from the railings. He stopped in his tracks, prompting the rest of them to halt their steps and gaze up at Jonathan.

    "Ahh¡­that man standing there is my partner, a co-founder if you might say," Poul said before ncing up again to Jonathan. "Oy! Come back down here."

    Jonathan walked down the stairs and ran over to them. Once he was two meters away from the group, he stopped and straightened his posture.

    "Greetings! My name is Jonathan Axelsen, co-founder of the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company," he extended his hands, offering a handshake to each and one of them.

    The magnates shook his hand.

    "Uhm¡­sorry can I have a moment?" Jonathan said to the magnates before pulling Poul from the group.

    "What is it?" Poul whispered.

    "What are you thinking? Why did you bring all of them to the factory?" Jonathan whispered back.

    "They are our customers, Jonathan. Of course, it''s natural that I''d bring them here," Poul replied.

    "But we don''t have spaces to amodate them all in the factory. You should have consulted me first."

    "Wait what¡­why are you sounding disappointed? The pitch was a sess, they got interested and wanted to ce orders. Also, Mister Morgan invested in ourpany?"

    "Really? How much?"

    "Three hundred thousand for ten percent of thepany¡­"

    "Ahh¡­good job at that¡­"

    "Excuse me¡­are you going to stand there and talk while we wait?"

    Poul and Jonathan''s heads turned to face the man who spoke. It was Sir Potter Huntington.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "Just a couple more seconds..!" Jonathan let out a forced chuckle before facing Poul back. "Okay, here''s what we are going to do. We are going to take their orders and finalize them by tomorrow."

    "Got it," Poul nodded.

    Both of them faced the railroad magnates and Morgan and continued the tour. It took them ten minutes to finish the tour before they went up to the office.

    Jonathan sat behind the desk. Sitting across him was the representative of the Union Pacific Railroad. Potter Huntington.

    As they were discussing business, Poul spoke with the other two so that they wouldn''t get bored from waiting.

    Seven minutester, Jonathan and Potter shook hands. Jonathan beckoned him to take a seat as he will not entertain the next one, Jefferson Garett, from the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad.

    Eight minutester, Vaughan Merrick stood as he saw Jonathan and Jefferson finalize their business discussion with a handshake.

    Morgan observed the deals being made in the room. Seeing the eagerness of the railroad giants to purchase the products of the young duo is making him want to jump with joy. Although it is unfortunate that Wanderbilt didn''t join. He was thergest in the railroad industry and would surely bring profits to thepany.

    But, it''s fine. After all, three of the giants in the railroad industry jumped into the idea.

    "Thank you for your interest in our product, Mister Merrick. I will write the papers today so that we can finalize the orders tomorrow and sign the contracts."

    Merrick rose to his feet and nodded. They shook hands, sealing the deal.

    "I think thest one is Mister John Morgan," Jonathan said.

    "I already sealed a deal with Mister Morgan, Jonathan. He was only here to observe how we work. So technically, we are done here."

    "I know, Poul. But as a co-founder of thepany, I need to know the details clearly from Mister Morgan. You can escort these gentlemen to their hotels as I speak with Mister Morgan."

    Poul shrugged his shoulders and sighed. "Fine."

    As per Jonathan''s suggestion, Poul escorted the three out of the factory and to their hotels. Meanwhile, Jonathan and Morgan started a discussion.

    "The Union Pacific Railroad wants us to retrofit four hundred lotives. Three hundred from the Ohio and Baltimore Railroad and Pennsylvania Railroad. That represents like ten to twenty percent of their total lotives? I''m pretty sure, eachpany has over a thousand steam lotives. Imagine if we retrofitted all of their trains?"

    "So they ordered eleven hundred air brakes and half of it were the lotive draft gears?"

    Jonathan smiled as he shook his head. "No, eleven hundred trains. The cars are also included. So it''s a lot more than that. And the number of cars the steam lotive can pull varies. Specifically, five or tenst I saw," Jonathan corrected.

    "That''s a lot of air brakes and lotive draft gear to be built, huh?" Morgan remarked.

    "Yeah. They want their orders to bepleted at the end of the year. Unfortunately, we don''t have the capacity. Our factory right now can make five to ten air brakes and lotive draft gear per day. There''s no way we will meet that demand. So that''s where you wille in. The initial deal you made with Poul is quite low. We need double that money."

    "You are asking for six hundred thousand dors?"

    Jonathan nodded as he reached out at one of the drawers and pulled a file out from it.

    "If you think we are overestimating our value, check out this business n. It has everything you need to see, including the projected sales, data, and analysis of statistics. Poul underestimated the value of thepany. He may be good at making things but he is bad at business."

    "You are saying, you''re good at business?"

    "I''m involved in a lot of projects, so yes," is the thing he wanted to say to Morgan but can''t. Because it''s from when he was working in the original world. So he simply nodded his head in reply.

    "I''d say that''s a perfect dynamic duo," Morganmented as he sifted through the papers. "It''s very detailed and grounded. I''m sure you put a lot of thought into this. The projected sales are pretty good, backed by the earlier deals. It''s even a lot more than you expected. I like you, Jonathan. Let''s do it. Six hundred thousand dors for ten percent of yourpany," Morgan reached out his hand to Jonathan.

    Jonathan paused for a second as Morgan offered a handshake. Then a smirk appeared on his lips. His expression became serious as he extended his own hand. "We''ll sign the terms of the contract tomorrow."

 Chapter 16 Big Day For The Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company

    ?Poul returned to the factory and made his way up to the office. Upon opening the door, he saw Morgan and Jonathan shaking hands.

    Morgan and Jonathan were startled at his sudden entrance.

    "Oww¡­what did I miss? Why are you two shaking hands?" Poul tilted his head to the side.

    "Because Poul, we revised the deal you made with Mister Morgan," Jonathan began to exin.

    "What are the changes?" Poul added. "Because I''m pretty sure that three hundred thousand dors are a good deal."

    "It was a good deal, Poul," Morgan stepped in. "The problem is that you failed to see the greater potential of yourpany. If you were listening in on the discussion earlier with your customers, you would know what I mean."

    "We are to build ten thousand air brakes and lotive draft gear, Poul. Three hundred thousand dors is not enough to build the required facilities to match the demand," Jonathan added.

    "Okay," Poul raised both of his hands concededly. "I made a mistake and I acknowledge it. Well, I did see the potential of ourpany but who knew it would be so very great that I miscalcted it. So how much was changed?"

    "Six hundred thousand dors for ten percent of thepany," Jonathan answered.

    "So it''s doubled? Great," Poul pped his hands. "We can do more with that money. I will have to check that documentter."

    Poul shot a pointed nce at the document on the table. Jonathan looked at it and figured that Poul wanted to see the business n of thepany.

    Jonathan nodded.

    "I will meet you two again tomorrow for the contract signing," Morgan ced his top hat on top of his head.

    "Do you want me to escort you out, Mister Morgan?" Poul offered.

    "No. You have more important things to do than seeing me out. Like discussing with your partner the direction of yourpany. And also, this is a suggestion, don''t keep something out of your partner. Transparency andmunication is the key to a sessful business."

    After saying that, Morgan left the office, leaving the two alone.

    Hearing his footsteps gradually disappear, Poul began.

    "I got to say, he had a point. You shouldn''t keep something from me, especially if it''s rted to business."

    Jonathan grabbed the business n document and handed it to Poul apologetically.

    "I apologize, it''s just that I can''t bother you when I was working with that."

    "What do you mean?" Poul asked after receiving the document.

    "You were busy walking through the process of making air brakes and lotive draft gear with the workers. Also, most of the time, you are down there making it together. I can''t disturb you. I''m just making myself useful by doing this."

    Poulughed softly. "What are you talking about? Why are you making yourself sound like a burden even though you are not? Look, we have different skill sets and we are the best at it. I know you wanted to contribute but it''s not your specialty. However, I won''t be able to make those things without your help. For example, who designed the factory?"

    Poul ced a hand on Jonathan''s shoulder. "Look men, it''s us against the world here. The best we can do is to help each other up. How many times did I say that you''ll have your moment?"

    Jonathan removed Poul''s hand from his shoulder. "I''m not used to this dramatic kind of conversation. Let''s just move on and be happy that we got our orders."

    Poul smiled. "You''re right," and he proceeded to check the business n.

    "This is a really nice detailed business n¡­So I''d say that the pitch was a sess and received bulk orders. Why don''t we celebrate with our workers in the bar across the street?"

    "As much as we deserve to celebrate, we have to finalize their orders first into a formal paper. That means, we will have to stay all night writing documents and setting up terms of the contract," Jonathan said.

    "Ugh¡­what a pain in the ass¡­Let''s get it started then.

    ***

    A dayter, the three railroad magnates were signing off documents, officially finalizing their orders of retrofitting their trains with air brakes and lotive draft gears.

    Morgan was also there, and thest person to sign a contract with Poul and Jonathan. Once it was finished, a photographer carrying a daguerreotype camera, entered the office and set it up in the middle.

    While the photographer was prepping up the camera, Poul, Jonathan, Morgan, and the three railroad magnates arranged themselves at pleasure and waited for the signal of the photographer.

    "Okay, I want you all to stand still for twenty seconds and look at the camera."

    The men did as they were told. For twenty seconds, they stand still, looking at the camera. The moment the photographer knew that they were free of movement, he took a picture apanied by a sh of light.

    "Okay, it''s done. I will deliver a copy of your image to your household within two weeks. Thank you for your patronage."

    After saying that, the photographer left the office, leaving the group in the office. Jonathan and Poul shook the hands of their customers, and investors before seeing them out of the factory.<novelnext></novelnext>

    The magnates boarded their respective horse-drawn carriages, and they left as soon as everything was ready.

    Morgan was thest person to board the carriage, making Poul and Jonathan wonder why.

    "Is there something you would like to discuss with us, Mister Morgan, before you go?" Poul asked politely.

    "I''ll be keeping an eye on you two," Morgan said. "I invested six hundred thousand dors in yourpany so make sure you use it well."

    "Investing such arge amount of money means you''ll also help us with our venture, right? Because you don''t want it to go to waste." Jonathan said.

    "I will suggest your products to my associates who are working in the railroad industry. And if you need help with your finances, or want some tips. Feel free to reach out. We are partners after all," Morgan said.

    "We''ll keep that in mind, Mister Morgan. Thank you very much," the two bowed politely at him.

    Morgan struck a nod before boarding his carriage. The two watched as Mister Morgan''s carriage disappeared into the distance.

    "Jonathan?" Poul said.

    "Poul?" Jonathan replied.

    "Now that we sealed the deal with them, can we celebrate now?"

    "You may now call them," Jonathan permitted.

    ***

    Jonathan was on the piano, brushing his hands over the keys as he looked at the sheet music lying on top of the music desk. He nced over his shoulder and saw Poul huddled together with ten workers who were holding a mug of beer in their hands.

    Poul gave him a prompting nod, signaling him to start hitting the keys so they could sing.

    Those who weren''t huddled with Poul were sitting at a table, sipping their beers paid for by thepany itself. Not only that, but thepany also rented the ce exclusively for them to celebrate the initial sess of thepany.

    Jonathan nodded and began pressing keys and Poul and along with his workers started singing.

    "When Johnnyes marching home again, Hurrah! Hurrah!"

    "We''ll give him a hearty wee then, Hurrah! Hurrah!"

    "Oh, the men will cheer and the boys will shout. Thedies, they will all turn out!"

    "And we''ll all feel gay when Johnnyes marching home!"

    "And we''ll all feel gay when Johnnyes marching home!"

    Their hearty voices filled the bar with joy as they revel in the sess of their enterprise. They cheered, swaying their bodies along to the music, and waving mugs of alcohol while singing.

    Some people danced around and others were drinking away, tapping the tables toplement the tune. The atmosphere was boisterous and they were enjoying themselves.

    "And we''ll all drink stone wine when Johnnyes marching home!"

    "And we''ll all drink stone wine when Johnnyes marching hooooooooooome!"

    Ending the music with apuse, everyone stood up and began pping enthusiastically while cheering loudly.

    Poul broke off from the huddle and swirled lithely around as he faced the workers.

    "That was magnificent everyone! That''s a good song," Poul said, chugging his mug of beer before speaking again. "Well, drink to your heart''s content. The food is also covered by thepany so eat whatever you like."

    The workers roared in response, raising their mugs.

    "Tomorrow, the day after tomorrow, we will return to work again. So enjoy yourselves this day as there won''t be another one sometime in the future¡­unless wend another major contract!"

    The workers cheered in joy again.

    "Let''s sing another song again!" Poul shouted.

    They raised their mugs again, shouting, "Hurrah!"

    (A.N notes: If you are interested in the song, you can search for it on youtube. The title is when Johnnyes marching home. The meaning of gay in the lyrics is carefree, cheerful, or bright and showy. It is in no way rted to modern usage to define a person''s gender.)

 Chapter 17 Planning

    ?A week has passed since the celebration of the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company. Landing three huge contracts from the giants in the railroad industry, the two founders of thepany started working their asses off.

    To meet up the bulk orders, Poul and Jonathan outlined their n for the year. They listed how many workers they are going to hire, the equipment they are going to purchase, and the most crucial part, securing a continuous supply of raw materials from various manufacturers.

    After listing all of that, they set it aside and worked together on how they are going to upgrade the factory.

    As of now, the factory can produce five to ten air brakes and lotive draft gear per day. With that level of production, it would be impossible for them to fulfill the total orders from threepanies, which is an astonishing 11,230 air brakes and 5,612 lotive draft gear.

    To meet up the demand, an extensive upgrade of the factory would be needed. Fortunately, with the money they received from John Morgan, they''ll be able to refurbish their factories. However, there''s one problem. The city of Columbus is already saturated with various manufacturing factories, oil refineries, and office buildings. It''s impossible to expand if thend is limited. Hence, moving their factory to a new location is the only option.

    Jonathan, left two days ago to visit one potential site where they can build a new factory. He took notes of the topography, geology, climate, and location from the suppliers. After that, he returned to Columbus and shared his findings with Poul.

    "Poul, I just found a site that fitted our criteria," Jonathan shared as he posted a map on the chalkboard.

    Poul examined it and he nodded in affirmation. The spot was in the state of Phdelphia, specifically in the borough of Allegheny County.

    "That''s a nice spot. Away from the poption centers, and has everything we need to start. Did you inform Mister Morgan about this?" Poul nced to his right, looking at Jonathan.

    "I just got off the phone with Mister Morgan. He said he is going to help us acquire thend. His only question would be if we can meet up the orders by the end of the year. He was worried that the construction of a new factory would take up five to six months."

    "So, what did you tell him?" Poul followed up with a question.

    "I told him that we only need two months to build the necessary facilities," Jonathan said confidently before continuing. "As long as we have sufficient manpower, it can be done."

    Poul hummed. "So two months are spent on the construction of the factory alone. That means we only have ten months to make eleven thousand two hundred and thirty air brakes and five thousand six hundred twelve lotive draft gear. Looks like we''ll have to up our game."

    "What are you thinking?" Jonathan nced at him curiously.

    "I''m nning on speeding up the assembly process by making motorized tools and equipment."<novelnext></novelnext>

    Jonathan raised an eyebrow. "Hoh? What a coincidence. I had thought of that as well. Looks like we are going to be the firstpany to electrify factories."

    Jonathan grabbed something from under the desk and pulled out a rolled, cartolina size, vellum paper, and ced it over the map. Poul looked at it and saw a site development n for their new factory site.

    "That''s what I''ve drawn since yesterday. It has amenities for our workers who wille with us to Phdelphia such as housing, a clinic, restaurant. I also designed the gas, water, and sewage system. You''ll have to help me design the heating and electrical systems."

    "Heating systems are easy, the electricity would be the tricky one," Poul hummed as he pondered for a second. "We can generate electricity using direct current dynamo as most of our motorized equipment are run by dc shunt motors. However, I have a feeling that this dynamo already exists in this era. To save time, we can simply purchase it and improve it to our standards."

    "I''m going to contact Mister Morgan and see if there''s already a parallel Thomas Edison in this world," Jonathan chuckled.

    "Yes, please do. And if he exists in this world, make sure to ask for a light bulb. I would like to save us some money by using electricity as a source of light instead of gas," Poul said.

    "Hmm¡­if he exists in this world, are you going to sh with him using alternating current as a means of power distribution?" Jonathan inquired.

    "That was the n in the first ce, to make money introducing alternating current as a system for transmission. For now, we need to focus on this venture as this will be the one who will be providing the funds needed to start another venture," Poul responded.

    "You''re right. Now that we settled the site, let''s talk about manpower. We are going to hire an additional two hundred workers and twenty engineers, correct? How are we going to assess the knowledge and expertise of the engineers who will apply to ourpany?"

    Poul hummed as he thought. "I guess they''ll have to take a written exam where they''ll be asked to solveplex mathematical problems rted to the field of work. Of course. We will look into how they approach each question. So even if their answer is wrong, as long as their process of solving makes sense, we will hire them. If one of them were to achieve perfect marks then whoever it is, he or she is going to be hired in an instant. Experience is also a plus. So if a person scored low but has at least two years of experience working in a simr industry, they''ll be hired."

    "Let me guess, you''re the one who will be making the questions? Go easy on them. The topics and lessons that we learned in our original world are different here."

    "I am aware of that, Jonathan. But don''t underestimate the capabilities of the people of this world. They had it hard, we had it easy. We have modern tools and equipment that can help us understand concepts on a deeper level. While the people in the past era continue to theorize knowledge beyondprehension and conduct hundreds of trial-and-errors to learn the naturalw and order of the world. I have massive respect for them. Without those men, civilization won''t progress."

    Jonathan was speechless for a second. He regained hisposure and cleared his throat. "I am not looking down on them, I was simply advising you to go easy on the questions you are going to have them solve. This is a parallel world, there are major differences between this world and our own."

    "I''ll take that in mind, Jonathan. You don''t have to worry about it," Poul assured. "Now then, it looks like everything is set. Let''s prepare to move out and create a legacy this world will never forget."

 Chapter 18 New Site And Applicants

    ?Pittsburgh Phdelphia, December 12, 880.

    In the southwestern part of Phdelphia lies the county of Allegheny. There, a new factory was being built. Despite the snowy weather, the construction workers were busy moving about in the scaffolding, carrying buckets of wet concrete and tools as they currently build a four-story apartment where the workers of the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company will be staying. Adjacent to the apartment was the future cafeteria where workers can purchase food during break time. A clinic was also being built ten meters to the right of the cafeteria for emergency purposes.

    In the rutted streets, horse-drawn carriages carrying construction supplies such as concrete, steel beam, pipes, et cetera drove in a single line as the next line was being dug by fortyborers to make way for the water and sewage system of the town thepany is building for the workers.

    Next to the main street was the seventy thousand square feet factory that is nearingpletion. Engineers and construction workers coordinated with each other as they installed six overhead cranes and ced various factory equipment for the production of thepany product.

    Fifty meters north of the factory was the steel mill. Seven horses worked together to pull a fifteen-ton pearl-shaped Bessemer converter that would allow the mass production of steel, a raw material for the air brake, lotive draft gear, and for the future invention of thepany.

    Yes, despite the snowy weather, where everyone was shivering from the cold, they still continued working around the clock as they were meeting a deadline. A deadline that could decide the fate of the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company.

    Speaking of thepany, the founders were in their offices. Compared to thest site in Columbus where the office is located inside the factory, in this county, their offices were located outside. It was a two-story house, a two-minute walk away from the factory.

    This is to lessen the impact of the noises from the pneumatics and hydraulics of the equipment in the factory that was disturbing them.

    In the office space of the house, Poul was lying on the sofa, reading newspapers while having a bite of steamed corn on the cob. His mouth munching on the delicious kernels as his eyes are scanning the pages of the paper.

    "Hmm¡­" Poul hummed as one piece of news piqued his interest. He lifted his upper body up to take a better look at it. It seemed that he found a new article. The headline reads ''The Saint of London''.

    He took another bite of the corn and continued reading the article. "The daughter of the Prime Minister of the British Empire, Princess Penelope Ascart, was awarded the highest honor, the order of merit, after sessfully ending the cholera outbreak that gued the capital city, saving hundreds of thousands¡­Interesting."

    Poul took his third bite and resumed reading. From there, there was a brief introduction about the Princess. At the age of sixteen, she became a doctor in the Royal London Hospital and saved numerous lives which earned her the title, The Saint of Britain.

    "At the age of sixteen¡­this princess is sure to be impressive," Poul muttered while chewing.

    When he was about to turn to the next page, a door suddenly opened. Jonathan entered the room, looking at him with narrowed eyes.

    "What are you doing?" Jonathan asked calmly but it carried a tinge of irritation.

    "Nothing important. Just taking a leisurely break. Is something wrong?"

    "I was supervising the construction of the apartment for our workers. It was doing fine until one construction worker made the mistake of pouring the cement too early. How many times did I mention that they have to take into ount the temperature? It was thirty-five degrees Fahrenheit outside and the optimal temperature for pouring concrete is at least 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Now we have to set up a bonfire near it and maintain it until it hardens," Jonathan exined sternly.

    After some moments, he added, "How about you? How could you have a leisure break when we are working on a deadline? Do you know what''s at stake here? Ourpany."

    Jonathan chided in an almost scolding tone. Poul chuckled at his partner''s annoyance.

    "Okay okay, don''t get too fired up, Jonathan. Come on, cool your head a bit. Here, have some cold distilled water," Poul offered him a ss of water.

    Jonathan merely stared at it and spoke. "The applicants for an engineering position are already outside. You have to supervise the test."

    Poul brought the ss of water down on the table as he let out a sigh.

    "Fine, if that makes you feel better. Seriously, we are on schedule, there''s nothing to be stressed about."

    Poul walked out of the office and closed the door behind him, leaving Jonathan alone in the room.

    Outside, Poul took a peek and saw a line of nervous gentlemen preparing themselves for a test. ording to the application form that they passed a week ago, those gentlemen graduated from an esteemed university. Meaning they are taught by the best of the best engineering professors in the country and are equipped with the knowledge to contribute to society.<novelnext></novelnext>

    Poul stepped outside and the young ambitious group of men promptly stood.

    "I''m Poul Nielsen, founder of the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company. I see that there are forty of you. Sadly, we only ept twenty. So to sort that out, you are all going to take a test that will determine whether you will have a job or not. Think of it as your final exams. Now, before we proceed, does anyone have questions?"

    When Poul asked that, no one raised their hands. He''d take that as a no.

    "In that case, follow me."

    The engineers followed Poul as he headed towards a makeshift ssroom. Purposely built for the test only. Inside were forty sets of chairs and tables. On the table were pencils, erasers, and sheets of paper.

    "This is taking you back huh?" Poul nced behind him and saw them chuckling nervously. Although it frightened them a little, some applicants looked confident.

    "Okay, go take a seat. You can sit wherever you want unless taken first by someone else." Poul instructed and immediately, the applicants took a seat on vacant seats.

    Once everyone had seated themselves. Poul began.

    "As you can see, there''s a sheet of paper. It contains ten pure mathematical equations problems, ten multiple choices, and ten problem-solving. The passing score is twenty-two. Now, here''s the catch. If you answer them all correctly, you are instantly hired. You don''t have to show yourself in the interview, you go straight to the seminar. To those who pass, congrattions, you are in the second stage. If you pass the interview, you are hired, if not, you will have to go. Now to those who failed, don''t lose hope, I''ll check your papers and see how you approach the problem. If it''s unique and interesting and makes sense, you will pass, regardless of your score.

    "Here''s the fun part. If I see you copying, I''ll walk up in front of you, grab your paper, and tear it. And then, you will have to leave. See, just like your good ol'' exams. Now, if you have questions, raise your hand."

    One of them raised his hand. A good-looking man in his early twenties with short and curly gray hair and eyes stood.

    "Pardon me if this is going to sound rude, Sir. Based on what you have said thus far, in order to get hired, you have to be above the passing score and pass the interview, or get a perfect mark on the test, right?"

    "You literally repeated what I just said," Poul said.

    "I was making it clear for everyone," the man defended. "Now, for the reason why I said pardon, as what I will say might sound rude to you. How are we going to take you seriously? You are an Albian, and most of your kind didn''t have formal education. I looked at everything about you and your co-founder and nothing showed up, making you uneducated. Oh before I proceed, are the questions in this paper, are you the one who made them?"

    "I am," Poul confirmed.

    "I see¡­going back. You haven''t had a formal education and yet made mathematical questions that will test our knowledge in the field we have studied for four years. I''m sorry, is this going to be an addition or subtraction question? Because if it is, this will be a waste of our time."

    "I understand where you are getting with this, Sir?"

    "Timothy, Timothy Anderson."

    "Timothy. Why don''t you flip the paper and see for yourself?" Poul said.

    Timothy flipped the paper around and the moment he saw the questions, his eyes widened in shock. Calculus questions that involve differentiation, integration, and multivariate problems can be seen in the paper. Definitions and functions on multiple question parts. And the problem-solving part requires understanding and conceptualization.

    Timothy can tell, they are difficult questions. It was as if a professor made them, because of how professional it looked.

    The other applicants flipped their test sheets and started trembling all over and scratching their heads in puzzlement.

    "Oh by the way. I have the answers to all the questions there," Poul said and continued. "Now, we have wasted a lot of time. So we will begin the test now. You have three hours."

 Chapter 19 The Test Concludes

    ?An hour has passed since the examination started at a makeshift ssroom. Forty aspiring engineers are trying their hardest to solve mathematical problems Poul created himself.

    Speaking of Poul, he was reading a newspaper, picking up where he left off. His feet were on top of the table as he whistled a tune.

    The British princess piqued his interest. At the age of sixteen, she already made wonders. Stopped a cholera outbreak that could have resulted in a hundred thousand deaths, save patients upon patients through surgery, one of which is an influential member of the parliament by performing a liver resection, or hepatectomy. His knowledge of medicinal history is little but he knew such an operation is difficult to perform in this era.

    Could it be that this princess in the British Empire is like him and Jonathan? A soul from the modern age transmigrated into this world. Because it''s too good to be true. Princesses generally tend to have a purpose, like bing a wife of a prince of a nation of some sort. She would spend most of her time practicing etiquette.

    For Poul, this is worth investigating¡­

    Poul nced at the engineers, staring at him as if there was something in his face. Poul ran a hand over his face and spoke.

    "What are you staring at? Focus on your test and not on me."

    "Uhm¡­Sir Poul, if possible, could you please stop whistling? It''s distracting," one of the engineers asked politely.

    Poul stopped pursing his lips and nodded. The moment Poul stopped, they resumed answering the exam.

    Just as Poul is about to continue reading the newspaper, an unexpected thing happened.

    "I''m done!" one of the engineers raised his hand as he stood. Though even if he stood, Poul failed to see him.

    "Could you please move to the front? I can''t see you," Poul said as he pulled a pocket watch from his pocket and looked at the time.

    It''s only been an hour and the questions he made were difficult that would normally take an average person three hours toplete. But the man, walking over to him said he was done?

    When Poul''s gaze flickered at the approaching man, he now knew the answer as to why he didn''t see him in the first ce. The man was small, probably around 150 centimeters tall. He looked like a kid but his mature face said otherwise. He has dark salmon-red hair styled neatly, reddish-amber eyesplemented by silver-rimmed sses, and a ck cap adorning his head. Just like everyone else, he wears a three-piece ck suit.

    "Here," the man said in a deep tone. One that betrays his physical appearance of being a child.

    Poul lifted the bridge of his sses upward with his index finger before taking his answer sheet. As the man who created the test, he knew the answer to all the questions. He nced at this paper, checking if his answers were correct or not. One minuteter, he finished checking it. He answered them all correctly! Though some of the final answers weren''t the same as his, it was near the correct value.

    Poul''s gaze shifted to the man again. The man is smart, he''ll give him that. He is a potential asset. One that could keep up with his future invention.

    "What''s your name, sir?" Poul asked, his tone carrying respect.

    "I''m Walter Schneider," Walter answered politely.

    "Walter, I have to announce this to everyone, you nailed the exam wlessly."

    When Poul announced that, all the applicant engineers stopped scribbling on their papers and looked up to the front with shocked expressions.

    Then murmuring and chattering erupted among them. Some were amazed, and others were envious.

    "Okay settle down everyone. Time is still ticking. Focus on your test. If I ever see you taking advantage of the moment, I promise you, I will head over to your desk and tear it in front of you," Poul sternly warned and returned his attention to Walter.

    "Walter, I''m sure you were aware of the conditions earlier. Perfect the exam and you got the job, no question asked. I guess I''ll see you in the seminar."

    "Thank you. Am I free to leave now? Since I''m done with the exam?" Walter asked.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "Yes, you may."

    When Poul said that, a voice sounded from behind, getting the attention of the two.

    "I''m done too!"

    It was Timothy, rushing over to the desk and setting his answer sheet down. "Please, I want my answer," he said as he shot a nce at Walter.

    Walter''s brows furrowed, feeling a sense of rivalry exuding out of Timothy.

    Poul picked his paper up and started checking his answer sheet. A minuteter, Poul chuckled softly. "I can''t believe it, am I feeling lucky? Because you too got a perfect mark as well."

    "Yes¡­" Timothy pumped a fist as he grinned at Walter triumphantly.

    Walter furrowed his eyebrows, confused as to why Timothy was acting like that.  Needless to say, he scored the exam perfectly. Which means he gets the job and doesn''t have to attend the interview.

    "Well done you two. I''ll see you on Friday. You may now leave the premises as you''ll only distract the others."

    Poul stared at them, still standing in front of him despite giving them permission to leave.

    "Run along now," Poul shooed the two away, and they started making their way to the exit. Before Timothy could step outside, he made a quick nce at the engineers who were still taking the test and scoffed.

    ***

    Two hourster.

    "Okay, time''s up! Put your pencils and erasers down and form a line in the middle and submit your answer sheet."

    The majority of the applicants sighed defeatedly while the rest proudly stood and lined up in the middle.

    Thirty-eight applicants passed their papers to the front and Poul started checking them.

    The applicants waited patiently at their seats, tapping their fingers on the desk and feet on the floor. The silence was deafening as every single applicant''s gaze focused on Poul who was humming a tune while marking their papers with his pencil.

    Thirty minutester, the checking was done. Poul rose to his feet and raised the stack of papers vertically and jogged them down on the table to align them perfectly.

    "Okay, I''m done checking the papers. Sadly, thirty of you would have to go," Poul announced and the ssroom was filled with a collective sigh. The thought of them failing the exam was like their dreams crumbling in front of them. They nced at one another, fearful of the oue. Some mouthed a prayer while others put up a strong front.

    "I said that we need twenty engineers, but seeing that most of you failed a test that evaluates your understanding of the field you are applying to, I think ten would do for now. However, don''t lose hope, you can still apply for vacant positions like a mechanic, machine operator, et cetera. And once you think you have what it takes to pass the test,e personally to my office. If you pass it, I''ll promote you."

    Hearing that there is apromise, the applicants who already knew they are going to fail, heave a sigh of relief.

    Poul started calling out names. And the names that got called promptly left the ssroom. The rest remained inside, they were the ones who scored above the passing score.

    "All of you follow me to my office. I''ll interview you there one by one," Poul said. "I did say before the start of the exam that even if you pass the exam but fail in the interview, you won''t get the job. But that happening is so slim that I believe the eight of you can pass it. I mean, it''s just us getting to know each other."

 Chapter 20 Now It Begins

    ?"Ahhh¡­I''m so tired," Poul yawned and stretched his arms up.

    The interview took longer than he expected. Asking the same questions to a different applicant was a pain in the ass for Poul.

    But, on the good side of it, he finally met prominent engineers who will be working on theirpany starting Friday. He found nothing in their behavior or attitude that could affect the productivity of thepany, and so in the end, he hired them all.

    Staring up at the ceiling, Poul noticed that hispany is getting lucky and lucky at every moment. Bumping into thergest financier in the United States of Avalonia, met the railroad magnates in the country that ordered hundreds of their products, andstly, talented engineers applying for a job in hispany.

    Though seventy-five percent of the applicants failed the initial screening process, which is the exam, they can still apply for avable positions in the factory that are more on hand such as repairman, machinist, quality control inspector, assembler, manager, and so on and so forth. Thepany is offering the highest sry on the market so he''s sure that they''ll be tempted to apply even though they failed at the position they were after.

    Poul exhaled deeply before returning back to his work. He sorted the documents the applicants passed that contained their resumes and other important documents.

    Secondster, there was a knock on the door.

    Poul looked up to see who it was and there he saw Jonathan, lifting a tray of coffee

    "It seems that you are done with the interview," Jonathan said, looking around the office. "Want some coffee? I brewed you one."

    "That would be lovely," Poul epted his generous offer and Jonathan ced a coffee cup on a saucer on his table carefully.

    The plume of steam above the cup filled the air with its aroma. Tempted at the smell, Poul reached for the coffee and sipped on it gently. A bitter taste lingered on his tongue as he savored the first sip of the warm liquid.

    Poul sighed in satisfaction, contentment settling over him. If it wasn''t for the time constraints, he could stay here forever. But he has deadlines to meet.

    "This menial job is killing me, you know? All this clerical work like managing the worker''s sry, tabting data, receiving orders, and more¡­all of this is stealing me of valuable time which I could use to  work on designing our next project."

    "Then why don''t we hire a secretary? A secretary that is good on the job?" Jonathan suggested.

    Poul hummed as he thought. Now that Jonathan brought that up, he realized that thepany iscking clerical workers. A person whose job is this easy yet time-consuming job. They definitely need to hire a secretary, and not just any secretary, the best one in the industry.

    "Where are we going to find one?" Poul returned a question.

    "Well, we can ask Mister Morgan about that," Jonathan sat across from him. "Oh, speaking of Mister Morgan. Do you remember when I said I''ll call Mister Morgan and ask if we can have a direct current dynamo from parallel Thomas Edison? Assuming that he exists in this world."

    "Yes, I do remember you saying that," Poul said, looking at the papers and stamping them.

    "It turns out, the parallel Thomas Edison exists in this world as well. But his name is different. He goes by the name of James Russell. Inventor of the phonograph, mimeograph, gramophone, and get this, a carbon fment the light bulb that canst up to fourteen and a half hours," Jonathan eximed as he exined.

    "Hmm¡­so he does exist? How did you know all about this? Don''t tell me, you asked Mister Morgan?"

    "How else can I know?" Jonathan spread his arms wide and shrugged. "ording to Mister Morgan, Edi¡ªI mean Russell is nning on opening a power utility station in New York, lighting one square mile with his light bulbs and electric pole light using a direct current system."

    "Hoh?" Poul mused.

    "But don''t worry about it. We should focus on our venture first before jumping into the electric industry. James Russell is a celebrity, a wizard of Menlo Park, let him have his moment. Advertise the advantages of using electric light over gasmps, and its uses in the factories."

    "I know where you are heading Jonathan. You are saying Russell is a free advertisement for our alternating current distribution system, right?"

    "One thing I learned by working in thispany is that we provide better and cheap solutions to the customers," Jonathan said.

    "So what about the dynamos? Did you happen to get one of them?"

    "Mister Morgan said he''ll ask Russell if he can sell us the dynamo, along with the bulbs and the motors," Jonathan said.

    "Good," Poul stamped another piece of paper and set it aside.

    Jonathan came to the office to ask Poul something but he forgot it. But looking at what he is doing helped him remember it.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "How many engineers passed the selections?"

    "Ten," Poul answered.

    "Ten?" Jonathan repeated. "Poul we need as many engineers as we can get."

    "No, we don''t really need a lot of them, yet. Ten would be enough. And those ten that I hired, are the best of the best. Their job is to help us design and materialize our future inventions. Basically, they are the research and development guys. The thirty men that I rejected can still apply for a job in the factory," Poul exined.

    "And among those ten, is there someone who has your attention?"

    "Yeah, two of them. Timothy and Walter. Timothy graduated from Rensser Polytechnic Institute and Walter is an immigrant from the German Empire, graduating from the Technical University of Munich. Though Timothy has this prideful and cocky attitude, he has the brains to back it up."

    "Well, as long as he''s doing something meaningful, I''d say we keep him," Jonathan said.

    "Friday it is," Poul said.

    ***

    The day of Friday arrived. The venue of the seminar was the makeshift ssroom where the applicants took their tests.

    There are twenty-five people inside the ssroom, excluding Poul and Jonathan. Fifteen of them were the ones who failed the test but applied for another position, while the rest are the new engineers of the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company.

    Poul and Jonathan stood in the front and introduced themselves.

    "I''m Poul Nielsen, founder of the Axelsen and Nielsen Air Brake Company. My specialty is mechanical and electrical engineering, though electrical engineering is in its infancy, soon it will take over the world."

    "I''m Jonathan Axelsen, and my specialty is civil and structural engineering. Every building you see here, the foundry, the factory, the apartment, the cafeteria, even this one, is my design and creation."

    "The Axelsen and Nielsen Air Brake Company was founded out of tragedy. Hundreds of train idents are caused by brake malfunctions. The brake system was inefficient before our invention came out," Poul said and prompted Jonathan to continue.

    "Imagine our country as a human body. The manufacturingpanies are the heart, the trains are the red blood cells, the railwayworks as blood vessels, and the states or cities are organs. Manufacturingpanies pump out products to the whole nation. How is it delivered? Through blood cells, how do we make sure it goes to where it was intended? The railwaywork. Now imagine, if the blood cell breaks down in the middle of the journey, what do you think will happen?" Jonathan ended and Poul continued.

    "Well, the obvious reason is that the goods aren''t not going to arrive anymore, pissing off a lot of people."

    The room chuckled at Poul''s humor. Once it gradually settled, Poul resumed.

    "Not only are the goods destroyed, the lives of the people too. Not only that, but the train also damaged the blood vessel, which is thework of rails. So the goods were not delivered to the organ, and what do you think will happen when blood fails to deliver oxygen to the organ?"

    "The tissues and the muscles of the organ will die because it can''t function without oxygen," Timothy answered simply.

    "That''s correct. Organ failure represents a state suffering in an economic decline. Economic decline is bad for our country. Without trains to deliver goods around the country, the economy will halt, and worse plummet. So, the Axelsen & Nielsen Company invented a product that will stop that from happening. Air brakes, a simple device that can save goods, people, and the economy."

    "The railroad industry has been growing at an unprecedented rate," Jonathan chimed in. "The increase of steam lotives is an increase to our market size. The bigger the market size, the bigger the profit thepany will yield."

    "Remember, ourpany was not only founded to prevent a tragedy. We also sellfort. Infort, we already invented the draft, and for safety. But the biggest of them all is safety. And there is a bigger enemy out there that an air brake can''t beat," Poul said.

    "There are hundreds of railroadpanies in the United States of Avalonia. But theirworks get interconnected and jumbled up, leading to trains colliding at the same track. But that''ll be announced in the future," Jonathan said.

    "Remember again, ourpany''s goal is to make the train the most efficient, reliable, safe, and cost-effective means of transportation. After all, thepany''s existence depends on the trains. Without it, we are nothing," Poul pped his hand as he ended the introduction. "Now, as for what you are going to do, the engineers will be focused on the research and development, helping us.  The rest maintain the quality of our product going out of the factory."

    "If you have questions, raise your hand."

    Timothy raised his hand. "Are we going to start working today?"

    "Yes," Jonathan answered. "Okay, let''s move!"

 Chapter 21 A New Subsidiary?

    ?It took two weeks before the nt became operational and started producing air brake and lotive draft gear on arge scale. The engineers that were hired by Poul are now working alongside him as they design a new product that will take the safety of railway transportation to a whole nother level.

    Besides the main office house of the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company is ten thousand square feet of a building that will serve as the office and a home for the engineers. It has a natural heating system and water filtration system simr to the apartments of the five hundred workers.

    The building ran on gas, meaning the light source of the building is from gasmps. It was an expensivemodity but that''s only temporary. When the young industrialist duo got their hands on the direct current generator and light bulbs from James Russel, he''ll shift it to save cost.

    Inside the building was a drawing room. There, engineers have their own spaces where they can draft schematic and detailed designs of the existing product of thepany should they have something to add or improve on the design. And currently, the engineers were all there, listening to the words of Poul who was speaking in the front while pointing a stick on the ckboard.

    "Remember when I told you that there is a bigger enemy that an air brake can''t beat? Well, I''m going to reveal it to you right now. It''s the mess that the railroadpanies created," Poul revealed and continued. "There are over hundreds of railwaypanies building miles and miles of railway tracks haphazardly and without concern for public safety. As you can see in this map, you can''t even differentiate who owns who."

    The engineers looked at the map posted on the board. There, they saw railway trackspletely oveid the twelve states. They couldn''t even see the name of the cities in the states as a track that could''ve belonged to one of the hundred railroadpanies is on top of it. Not only that, the railway tracks are spreading to the west due to the westward expansion.

    The more they look at the map, the more they see the point Poul was making. It was a safety issue. Railroadpanies build railway tracks wherever they please. There''s no concern for public safety or for the passengers of the lotives.

    This made them curious as to what Poul had to offer to fix the given issue.

    "I have an idea, but it will take a huge capital to build and a lot of convincing talks. It will be a separate entity from the Air Brake Company¡ª"

    "Wait, may I interrupt?" Walter asked in his naturally deep voice.

    "Proceed," Poul permitted.

    "A separate entity? Are you nning on starting a new venture?"

    "Yes, and I have just the right name for it," Poul paused for a dramatic effect. "I call it the Axelsen & Nielsen Interlocking Switch and Signal Company. It''s going to be under the Air Brake Company, a subsidiary if you might call it. Its sole purpose is to manufacture railway signaling equipment, build new systems, and provide services. All of you here are going to help me design about one hundred to two hundred devices and patent them."

    "Can you provide a simple exnation as to how it works?" Timothy raised a hand as he spoke. The concept was new to everyone so it''s only natural to ask.

    "It''s easier if I start with the problem," Poul began. "Steam lotives often operate on the same tracks, and the driver of the train doesn''t have any idea that there is another train using the same track. To know that, there''ll be checkpoints of men waving signals that give the driver instructions, like, should they stop? Should they reduce speed? Or wait as the switchmen pull a lever to switch tracks? Whatever the point is it''s too manual and oftentimes there are human errors. Our niche is to make it automatic, using systems of pneumatics and electricity,"

    After he exined it to them, the engineers were a little bit unimpressed with the idea. Poul understood their reactions as they must have not yet conceptualized the idea in their head.

    "Come on guys, am I the only one getting excited here?" Poul said, feigning sadness.

    "Uhm¡­Sir Poul. Is there another easier exnation that can help us understand your idea better?" One of the engineers asked.

    Poul rubbed his chin and hummed as he thought.

    "Basically, the signals will indicate to the train when to stop, start, slow down, move forward under control, or move forward at full speed. The concept of interlocking was created as far back as thete 17th century. Interlocking simply is the operation of switches and signals so that trains move on certain sequences. Automatically of course."

    "So like the air brake system?" Walter spoke. "It''s like how you remove the need for a brakeman to stop the train manually at each car."<novelnext></novelnext>

    "Yes, yes!" Poul pped and pointed at Walter. "That''s exactly right. Automating the systems would save railroadpanies a lot of money."

    "I think I understand it now," Timothy chimed in. "It was a basic yet ingenious principle and I would love to work on that. So, Sir Poul, how about the air brake? Are we going to ignore it? Like you know there could be an improvement to be made?"

    "The air brake system that I develop is an automatic one. It''s a fairly advanced technology that offers safety to the passengers and to the train. It doesn''t need improvement, yet. Let''s focus on this one first."

    "Well, you are the boss. We are hired to do our job given to us," Timothy stated.

    "When are we going to start?" Walter asked.

    "We are going to start in the new year. Okay, that''s all everyone, dismissed."

    Poul ended the meeting and quickly left the engineer''s office and headed straight to the main office.

    Upon arriving there, he saw Jonathan, eating grilled steak and corn on the cob.

    Jonathan nced up and winked at him. "So you already informed them about the new venture?"

    "Yes, they were enthusiastic about it," Poul said as he grabbed one corn and took a bite of it.

    "Really?" Jonathan raised a brow, sensing a lie on Poul.

    "Okay, you can''t be excited at the thing you can''t understand. Give them time," Poul replied before taking another bite of his food.

    Jonathan chuckled at that answer. "Do you think they are going to get suspicious of us randomly introducing revolutionary technology?

    "That''s impossible. The neenth century is the era of miracles. Even a kid can invent revolutionary technology. Speaking of which, I read a newspaper about a certain princess in the British Empire performing medical miracles. Do you think she''s like us? Instead of an engineer¡­she''s a doctor? Hmm¡­now I wonder, could it be the same doctor who checked Morgan''s daughter? The more I talk about this, the more I get interested in this princess."

    "If it happens to us, then it can happen to others. For us, getting whisked into this world after death is already an impossibility. We cannot be certain anymore. Let''s focus on our business first. Now that our new and improved factory is operational we can start making forty air brakes and twenty lotive draft gear per day. Enough to meet the demand by the end of the deadline, which is ten months from now."

    "Yeah, and we can''t deny the possibility of government intervention in safety. It has been their concern and is looking for a way to prevent it. If our air brakes, signaling, and interlocking system proves to be effective. Then imagine a scenario where the government would mandate every railroadpany to retrofit all trains with air brakes and implement our system?"

    Jonathan sighed in glee. "More money I guess."

    "When that dayes, our operation will surely expand at an unprecedented rate. We are badly going to need a secretary? Do you have any luck with Mister Morgan?"

    Jonathan shook his head. "Unfortunately, no. He doesn''t have someone he can rmend to us at this moment. Don''t worry, we''ll find one soon."

    "I sure as hell hope so," Poul said.

 Chapter 22 Demonstrating The Idea Of Railway Signaling

    ?Two months have passed since the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company started its operation. And since then, they have been producing 40 air brakes and 20 lotive draft gear per day. Thepany implemented a six-day work week, so in total, that sums up to 2,080 air brakes and 1040 lotive draft gear.

    If the rate of production doesn''t change, or worse, decrease, due to a variety of reasons such as product defunct and supply chain issues, thepany won''t be able to make the remaining 9,190 air brakes and 4,572 lotive draft gear in time.

    Thepany only has eight months toplete the order, otherwise, it would be a breach of contract, and could have a devastating effect on thepany''s reputation. Even with all that risk, Poul and Jonathan weren''t slightly concerned, in fact, they were optimistic, believing that they''ll manage it as long as the thing they ordered from Mister Morgan arrived in time.

    Meanwhile, Poul is leading a group of engineers to make a miniature model design of their future product, the railway signaling, and interlocking systems, in the office space.

    On the floor were a detailed scale model of interconnected railway tracks, junctions, railway signals, and steam lotives, basically a train set that you''d often see in toy stores. A set of copper wires that are wound in the tracks and connected to a control panel located on Poul''s desk.

    The control panel simply consists of buttons and pins that can stop and control the flow of the current on the copper wires. Next to the control panel. Poul and the engineers have been working on making a model for five days, and now they are ready.

    Walter wiped the sweat off his forehead with the back of his arm and spoke.

    "Everything is clear, Sir Poul."

    "I''m done on my end too," Timothy said as he finished installing blocks on the side of the railway tracks. A block is basically three sets of light; red, yellow, and green.

    "I wonder where he is going with this," Timothy muttered under his breath as he looked at Poul.

    "Okay, step aside everyone. Let''s prepare for a demonstration," Poul announced and the engineers stepped backward from the model.

    Seeing that everyone was out of the way, Poul proceeded. "In this demonstration, we''ll test the effectiveness of an automatic railway signaling device on tracks. Walter, can you please ce our two lotives on the same track with a distance of three meters between them."

    "Understood," Walter acknowledged his order and began picking up two miniature steam lotives and ced them on the same track as instructed. "Should I get it to move now, Sir Poul?"

    Poul nodded, allowing him to start the lotive. The steam lotives began puffing out smoke from the funnel and the piston moving.

    "As you can see here, two lotives are on the same tracks moving at the same speed. If you would please look at the blocks, you can see the color changes depending on the distance of the train on the next blocks. But to understand it further, let me exin to you what it is. A block is just a set of rys and batteries causing the electricity to flow in a loop. Where does electricity flow? In the tracks. As you can see the light has turned green because there is no train moving on the track yet¡­"

    Poul paused as he waited for the steam lotive to pass through the block. Everyone watched in anticipation. As the train approached the block Poul is referring to, the light turned from green to yellow. Once it passed the block, it turned red.

    Everyone gasped in amazement.

    ? "So, why did it turn red? Simply, there is a train moving on the track where electricity is flowing. The electricity doesn''t flow through the ry anymore, it flows on the wheels of the train. But how did it turn red, mechanically? Well, an armature is what keeps the signal green. When there is no electricity supplying the armature, it''ll drop, causing the light to turn to red."

    "So by that principle, the driver of the train behind would know that there is a train ahead of him by just looking at those blocks? And by knowing that, he can either reduce the speed or go to aplete stop? Is that what this system is all about?" Timothy raised his hand as he asked.

    "That''s right," Poul confirmed. "But remember, those blocks are just models. In reality, it would look like a pole with three lights that a driver can see from a distance. Here it''s just like a box glued to the floor. The drivers won''t see it."

    "Normally, the railroadpanies would hire a person to inform drivers by waving a signal once they pass a certain distance," Walter added. "I think I''m understanding it now. Just like the air brake, you removed the brakeman in exchange for an automatic braking system. Here it''s just a signal."

    "Yeah, but this new system of ours operates on a wide scale near the junction. Basically a building with sets of levers that can be pushed or pulled depending on the traffic. Speaking of which, let''s go and discuss it. Walter, please stop the lotives and grab one of them and ce it there," Poul pointed at another set of railway tracks.

    Walter promptly picked up the two trains and moved them on another rail.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "Okay done," Walter said.

    "Good, I want you to take this train. This one has a built-in signaling system with metal brushes underneath."

    "Understood," Walter did as he was instructed and ced the modified steam lotive on the track. "Should I start it?"

    "Yes," Poul confirmed.

    Walter turned on the steam lotive and started moving.

    "In this scenario, two steam lotives are on the same tracks. The driver of the moving train doesn''t have any idea that there is a train ahead of him. Let''s assume that he''s facing an issue like there is a heavy fog, making him not able to see the light signals. Don''t worry, in the central control station, the people are aware. With a flick of a switch, a metal strip in the middle of the track is electrified. The moment the moving lotive passes along it, the metal brushes underneath will get a pulse of electricity, activating the onboard rm."

    After exining it to the engineers, they waited for the train to pass, watching closely at the track with a metal strip in the center.

    Two secondster, it passes, and a sudden burst of steam escapes from a narrow muzzle, producing an ear-piercing whistle that reflexively causes everyone inside to cover their ears.

    "Ah, shit¡­I didn''t check the resistance," Poul chuckled and ordered Walter to stop the moving train.

    Walter quickly picked it off the track.

    "There''s no way that a driver would miss that sound," Poul chuckled.

    "So if the driver hears the sound, he would activate the air brake system," Timothy said.

    "That''s it."

    "And thus prevent a collision," Walter added. "What an ingenious solution. And what''s thest one here? Trains that have diverging and converging tracks."

    "Oh, this is where the control paneles into y. You can see, if I push this lever, electricity travels along the rails and shunts the tracks to move it to the left or right side," Poul said and continued.  "Walter, please ce two steam lotives on this track. Have them face each other to simte a collision again."

    Walter did what he was told and then activated the two steam lotives.

    They started gaining speed and were on the path of collision. Poul waited for a second before pulling a small lever on the control panel, shunting the tracks to the right. At thest second, the lotive turned to the right, avoiding the collision.

    Everyone pped joyously. Poul made a new feat of changing tracks automatically.

    While they were celebrating, Jonathan entered the office.

    "Oh, I see that you made quite an achievement here?" Jonathanmented.

    "We just finished," Poul said. "So, what''s the matter?"

    "You''re going to love this. The dynamo has arrived," Jonathan announced.

 Chapter 23 Let There Be Light!

    ?Poul, Jonathan, and the rest of the engineers ran outside the office. There, they saw a row of horse-drawn carriages pulling cargo covered in a thick brown covering. In one of the horse-drawn carriages, whose exterior design is intricate and ornate, a young man in his twenties stepped outside and wore his ck top hat.

    The man noticed a group of people. Thinking that they may be the ones who ran this ce, he walked over to them and introduced himself while extending his hand forward, offering a handshake.

    "Hello, my name is Sam Insull. Mr. James Russel''s personal secretary. Whose one of you here is Jonathan Axelsen?"

    "That would be me," Jonathan stepped forward and shook his hand. "Took you two months huh?"

    "Well, we have to deliver this thing all the way from New York, you gotta give us some ck," Insull chuckled and released his hand from Jonathan''s.

    "So¡­that''s quite a lot of carriages you got us for here?" Jonathan noted as he nced over to the row of carriages parked on the side of the street.

    "Oh, those covered are just parts for the DC dynamo. I have brought a team of electrical and mechanical engineers who will assemble the parts, the copper wires, the boilers, everything. The bulbs are also there, prepared exclusively for yourpany''s use." Insull said.

    "Thank you," Jonathan said.

    "To be honest, Mr. Russel doesn''t want tounch the bulb yet but Mr. Morgan forced him, saying that you are business partners?" Insull asked, raising a brow.

    "Yeah, he invested a huge sum of money in our start-up. Did Mr. Morgan invest also in Mr. Russel''s venture?"

    "Oh yeah, Mr. Morgan provided funds for the research and development of the bulbs and the dynamo," Insull confirmed. "So, where would you like us to install the dynamos?"

    "Mr. Insull, let me introduce you to my partner here, Poul Nielsen. He is also an electrical engineer who will be designing the electrical systems of this town," Jonathan introduced Poul, who walked forward and extended his hand.

    "I''m Poul Nielsen, a pleasure to meet you, Mr. Insull. I''m excited to see the dynamo in action. Though may I ask if Mr. Russel already created practical DC motors for industrial applications?"

    Insull tilted his head to the side, surprised at Poul''s first question. He regained hisposure and answered.

    "Technically we have one but it needs a lot of improvements. For now, electricity can power light for now. When the timees, we''ll move on to motorized tools and equipment."

    Poul was kind of sad hearing that. Electric lights may save them the cost to light up theirpany town but he is after productivity. Well, if they don''t have a working electric motor, then he''ll make one himself.

    "I understand. Let me get the development n in my office and get everything started."

    After saying that, Poul rushed to his office and grabbed a blueprint. He quickly returned outside and showed it to Insull.

    "Here, I want the DC dynamos in this vacant space here in the factory. The other one is ced next to the apartment¡­" Poul pointed at the map and Insull listened attentively and nodded understandingly.

    "Understand, we''ll start right away,"

    Insull turned around and faced his men and waved a hand, signaling them to start moving.

    "Can we help, Mr. Insull," Poul asked. "You know, I have some experience dealing with electrical equipment."

    Insull turned and faced Poul, whose smile stered on his face reached his ears.

    "Fine by me," Insull agreed and started walking away and headed towards the factory to inspect the factory where they''ll be installing the dynamo.

    Watching as Insull''s figure disappeared into the distance, Poul faced his engineers and spoke.

    "Who''s here who has experience or technical knowledge about dynamos?"

    Four of them raised their hands.

    "So Walter, Timothy, Bryan, and Jake. You''ll help me assemble the parts, and study their dynamo. If there is an improvement to be made to increase its efficiency, we will modify it once they are gone, understood?"

    "Yes sir!" the four intoned.

    ***

    Inside the factory, a cacophony of noises can be heard. The pneumatics and hydraulics hissed as it moved above thepany, the nking of the hammers, the screeching of metal as the steel rods were pushed in between the gears, and the buzzing of welding guns powered by gas.

    Arge crowd of engineers and workers gathered in front in the middle as they watched the hoist of the crane lower a wooden box carefully that contained Russel''s dynamo.

    Ten secondster, it touched the ground. Insull''s men pried the box open with a crowbar. A secondter, the side of the wooden box fell to the ground, revealing a machine made of metals.<novelnext></novelnext>

    Poul removed his sses to get a closer look, and he blinked his eyes.

    "Oh it looks primitive," Poulmented. His words were heard by Jonathan, who leaned to the side and replied.

    "It indeed looked primitive but once assembled, they can generate six thousand watts."

    "How much money did we spend to get this thing?" Poul asked in a whisper.

    "Hmm¡­about fifteen thousand dors," Jonathan whispered back.

    "For both of the dynamos?"

    "No, each," Jonathan corrected.

    "You got to be fucking kidding me!?" Poul cursed nonchntly but quickly controlled his tone when everyone''s heads turned to look at him. He chuckled his way out before continuing. "So we spent thirty thousand on these things?"

    "What did you expect? You said you wanted electricity and now that we got it you areining about the price?"

    "I didn''t just expect it to be expensive."

    Jonathan chuckled. "It''s the first of its kind and a prototype on top of that. Of course, it will be expensive until Mr. Russel finds a way to mass produce them cheaply."

    "So, do you like it?" Insull asked the two.

    "Yeaaaah¡­it''s good," Poul nodded his head and shrugged.

    "Okay, we will start installing them now in your designated ce," Insull smiled. "You are going to help us right?"

    Poul faced his workers and engineers. "Those four I called earlier,e with me. The rest, the show is over, get back to work!"

    And the workers did just that, returning to their station and starting assembling parts of the air brake and lotive draft gear.

    Jonathan supervised the production while Poul and the four engineers helped Insull''s team to build the direct current electric system.

    But how does the dc generator work if you might ask? The dynamo or an electric generator converts mechanical energy to electrical energy. In Russel''s design, they used steam to generate mechanical energy by harnessing the power of coal that is burned in the boilers. Boilers create superheated steam that is then supplied to the pistons then rotates the shaft. And at the end of the shaft, a belt was connected which will then rotate the rotors of the generator.

    ording to Faraday''s firstw of electromaic induction. Whenever a conductor is ced in a varying maic field, an electromotive force is induced. What is this varying maic field? Imagine a ma entering a loop of copper wires, as it passes through, the maic field around the ma pushes electrons, causing it to flow. Why? Because voltage is induced. Moving it back and forth also induced voltage.

    The one that is pushed in one direction is called direct current, and the one that moves back and forth is the alternating current.

    But imagine a scenario where the ma is not moving. It won''t induce any voltage at the conductor, and hence no electricity is produced.

    Back to the generator. There is a rotor and stator. The rotor is a rotating ma and the stator is a stationary ma. The belt rotates the shaft connected to the rotor, which distorts and cuts through the maic lines of flux of the stator. And once maic flux is cut, electricity is generated. But what type of current will it produce? Simple, it produces alternating current.

    But you are now wondering, it''s a direct current generator, why does it produce an alternating current? It doesn''t make sense. Well, generators can produce dc or ac power, what sets them apart is how it is harnessed. As the rotor rotates, it produces a sinusoidal wave from positive to negative, which is basically an alternating current. But to turn that into a direct current,mutators are used.

    Commutators are simply mechanical rectifiers that turn ac into a pulsating direct current that flows in only in a positive direction. A generator can be differentiated easily if it has amutator. If it has one then it''s a dc generator, if not, it''s an alternator.

    Insull''s team and Poul''s team worked together to finish the dc generator. It took them two days to assemble it. The first light bulbs were installed in the factory, where everyone gathered inside.

    "So, Mr. Poul, please do the honors," Insull offered as he beckoned Poul to step forward to a podium. A switch rests atop it.

    Poul stepped forward and nced at his workers who were filling the factory at the moment.

    "In the bible, god said let there be light. Well, god, please forgive me as I will have to steal your line," Poul ced his hand on the handle. "Let there be light!"

    He pushed the switch and suddenly, the lightbulbs overhead glowed in bright yellow, illuminating the buildingpletely.

    The workers cheered and pped, mesmerized at the sight. They all looked up, amazed by the sudden brightness. It was brighter than the gasmps they have been using until now.

    "Thank you for your patronage, Sir Poul and Jonathan," Insull said.

    "Pleasure doing business with you," Jonathan and Poul intoned together as they shook Insull''s hand.

 Chapter 24 Discussion About Safety Standards And Six Year Plan

    ?It was twelve midnight in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The factory of the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company is still producing air brakes and lotive draft gear. Thepany''s workers work in three shifts to maximize production.

    The workers who are currently working until eight o''clock in the morning are suffering from one of the hazards that are found mostly in the factories. The noise. They could handle the noises of the pneumatic and hydraulic equipment. But the whirring sound of the direct current generator inside the factory was unbearable.

    Workers would get distracted by the noise. Despite their best efforts of reducing the sound by plugging something in their ears, the sound was still prating.

    Poul and Jonathan were aware of the issue that is affecting the performance of their workers right now. Even though the direct current gave them a new source of light, the catch was unpleasant.

    "Poul? Can you fix it?" Jonathan asked, looking at Poul who seemed to be contemting.

    "I can but not yet, I''m still designing the schematics that would work in this primitive dynamo. When I was helping Mr. Insull assemble the generator, I found some ws such as an inefficient cooling system. It''s air-cooled. I''m thinking of putting a fan on it. The windings were all over the ce, producing an eddy current that decreases the efficiency of the generator. There are no ball bearings, so wear and tear are inevitable. As for the noise, I''m afraid we''ll have to bear with it in the meantime. That''s just how loud a generator is in the neenth century, or rather, the ninth century," Poul replied.

    "So you can make it better but can''t do something with the sound? Okay, I got it," Jonathan said, his tone a bit disappointed. He was hoping Poul could fix it as he''s the one who has a degree in electrical engineering, hence has more expertise on it.

    Not that he is ming himpletely though. Maybe the fact that they are working on a neenth-century equivalent of direct current generator in this world is what is challenging Poul.

    He is more knowledgeable in modern electrical systems, not outdated ones. It goes the same for him too. His modern knowledge in civil engineering won''t get him far if the technology needed to build something out of the modern world is not discovered or invented yet.

    Their abilities in this world are their expertise. They knew what wascking as if it was obvious to them. The problem is how are they going to produce the material, the tools, or the equipment? Not only that, but they also have to introduce the manufacturing techniques for it. It''s a time-consuming process.

    "Look Jonathan, the people in the past had experience working in such horrible conditions, I''m sure we and these men can put up with it. After all, if not only for our dedication and determination to survive in this dark technological era, we wouldn''t be where we are right now."

    "You''re right. Well, I guess I won''t be able to get a good night''s sleep for this. Though thanks for the light anyways. Speaking of lights, how long does Mr. Russel''s incandescent bulbst?"

    "Thirteen hours," Poul quickly replied, as if the information was avable all the time in his brain. "After thirteen hours, the fment will burn and we have to rece the bulbs. Speaking of bulbs, how many bulbs did you order?" Poul asked, ncing at him.

    Jonathan hummed as he recalled the documents containing that information. "If my memory serves me right, there are five hundred incandescent bulbs."

    "That many?" Poul gasped lightly. "Did Mr. Russel already develop a manufacturing technique that makes them able to produce much?"

    "I think so, as it is the only logical exnation," Jonathan agreed and continued. "So aside from the noise, what should we do about the safety of our workers?"

    Jonathan and Poul looked down from the railing and observed their workers performing their respective tasks.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "To be honest, we haven''t implemented a standard on what they should wear during work hours. There is no personal protective equipment. They only wear what they wear. There aren''t also hard hats that would protect their heads from falling debris. Even though we have built a clinic with four doctors and ten nurses working in it, prevention is still better."

    "That concept of safety is not yet poprized in this world''s era. The workers don''t have protectionpared to the modern world. But I''m not saying we should conform to the norm, we must be the ones to break it. We have to take care of our workers and treat them like family so that they''ll bring prosperity to ourpany. I know I''m sounding too ambitious here but think about this."

    Poul paused as he pointed at one of the workers who is currently welding two pipes together. "That man, I believe his name is Raymond. He''s been working with us since our founding. He has four children, two of which are sick, and the other two are already dead. He is the sole provider for the family as his wife had to stay home to watch the two. Now, imagine if he got injured while doing his job? A career-ending injury. If we are the typicalpany owners, we would fire him, no question asked. With no source of ie, what are they going to do? Die in starvation?"

    "This is what I''m concerned about," Jonathan nodded sympathetically at one of his workers'' situations. "I would love to help him but I''ll have to do it secretly, otherwise the others would know and demand the same thing."

    "That''s the reason why I haven''t approached him yet," Poul said. "There are others in thispany who are having the same situation as Raymond. We can''t save everyone, but at least we can help."

    Jonathan yawned as he stretched his hand. "This has been a productive conversation. About safety. So, are we going to make metal hats now? Artificial stic is not yet invented in this world, so the metal would do."

    "We also need tough and durable clothes for the workers. Oh, now that I mentioned it, I think it''s time that we introduce white coats to the engineers to make them look more professional," Poul said.

    "So we are standardizing now?" Jonathan said.

    "Hell yeah, we do. Oh, I just remembered. I think it''s time that we utilize the power of electricity."

    "What do you mean?"

    "The direct current generator as of now can only power light. Efficient electric motors aren''t yet perfected in this world. How about we start making it? We have all the materials we need to make it."

    "You are making direct current motors? As far as I know, it has a wide industrial application. It is used on conveyor belts, winching systems, steel mills, rolling mills, andthes. Industrialists would love to have one in their factories should they find out about the wonders of dc motors. Sadly, we have to focus on the air brakes and the lotive draft gear first. Oh, about the interlocking switch and signaling system, are you going to push it forward?"

    "Yeah," Poul said. "In two years, if our sales are good, we can use the profit to start that venture, and then use the profit from that venture to invest in another one."

    "And that other one, are you talking about alternating current distribution systems?" Jonathan asked.

    "That''s correct," Poul confirmed. "It''s going to be a six-year n. So in eight hundred and eighty-seven, we will challenge Russel''s direct current electric distribution system."

 Chapter 25 Testing The Electric Motor

    ?There was something unique about the two industrialist duo. That when they decide to do something together, they''ll do it and finish it at the soonest possible time. For them, time is of the essence. Every second counts. A dy of a minute could result in the factory not meeting up its daily quota of production.

    With their newly-acquired technology from James Russel, which the two industrialist duo dubbed the parallel Edison, they started making direct current electric motors. The materials are quite simple, rubber for the instion, copper wires, and iron for the framework and body. Two of those materials are already found in the factory. Fortunately, they reached out to one of thergest rubber manufacturingpanies in Naugatuck, Connecticut, the Litchfield Rubber Company.

    It took them about three weeks to deliver the rubber and the moment they got it, Poul and his new engineers got to work.

    An electric motor is quite the opposite of a generator. In a generator, mechanical energy is converted to electrical energy. Whereas in an electric motor, electrical energy is converted to mechanical energy to do the work.

    Electric motors in this world are not new. ording to the history book that Poul purchased from a library in Pittsburgh, the first simple electric motor was built forty years ago, which is the year 840. Scientific approaches to further understanding electricity were already established including Kirchoff''s Law, Lenz Law, Faraday''s Law, Ohm''s Law, Coulomb''s Law, Gauss Law, and many more.

    Engineers like Walter and Timothy have a theoretical understanding of thosews, making it easier for Poul as he''ll simply demonstrate how they work.

    As thepany is producing air brakes and lotive draft gears, Timothy and Walter were helping Poul to build a motor. The remaining engineers are working on the new venture the young industrialist duo wanted to get in, the railway signaling and interlocking systems.

    "So this is about it?" Timothymented. "A winding of copper wires encased in this metal."

    "That''s pretty much about it," Walter said, rubbing his chin. "We are harnessing the power of electricity. I can already see a glimpse of the future by staring at it. Imagine, we haven''t found a way to capture electricity, the sky would be covered with a thick plume of ck smoke."

    "A steampunk is a word you are looking for," Poul said, looking at the direct current motor they created.

    "Steampunk?" the two intoned, unfamiliar with the word Poul just said.

    "Forget what I said. Anyways, let''s get started. Timothy, please turn on the switch."

    Timothy flipped the switch and suddenly, a buzzing and whirring noise was produced. The electric motor is hooked up from the dynamo that supplies electricity to the motor throughmutator brushes. Once themutators get their electricity from the brushes, it rotates the motor.

    Poul designed a two-horsepower direct current electric motor for demonstration purposes. Fascinating the two who had been at odds with one another on who was the best between them.

    "So instead of steam turning the shaft, it''s electricity?" Timothymented. "Not to mention, it''s kind of stronger than steam¡­"

    Timothy paused, humming in thought, contemting something. "Basically everything is powered by steam, is it possible that we rece steam with electricity?"

    "Notpletely, Poul said. "For power generation, we still need steam to produce electricity."

    "How about trains?" Walter voiced his thoughts. "You see, lotives are powered by steam. What if we can rece a huge boiler and rece it with this simple device? Ahh¡­no. We are going to still need steam and carry coal to power up the generator and produce electricity."

    Walter''s idea was close to the electric trains. What he was missing is the overhead lines and pantograph where the train draws its AC electrical power that will feed the induction motor, a technology not discovered yet, which is connected to the axle brushes that rotate the wheel. An electric propulsion system is not far from Poul''s hand, he can design one but he has priorities, like scaling up the production of hispany through the use of motorized tools and equipment.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "I understand your frustration when you thought of an idea but immediately found out if it was feasible or not," Poul said, subtly praising Walter. "Your job as engineers in thispany is to make miracles, wonders that would revolutionize the world."

    ? "But so far thepany is only producing safety gadgets for steam lotives. I''m not looking down on the air brakes, it worked impressively but not the type of miracle that the world is looking for," Timothy remarked.

    "Hmm, well if we factor out safety when we are designing prototypes, then the world is as good as dead," Poul rebutted. "Ourpany was founded out of tragedy, and its mission is to prevent that tragedy from ever happening again. But it doesn''t mean we are going to stick ourselves in air brakes or lotive draft gears forever. I have a vision that would surely amaze the two of you that would forget to breathe."

    "Honestly speaking, I can''t truly gauge your knowledge, Sir Poul," Walter said sincerely. "You thought of something, then you built it and it worked perfectly. It was as if you already knew what you were doing, like this direct current electric motor for example."

    "I concur," Timothy agreed to Walter''s observation. "All your products so far have been incredibly well-made. Pardon me if my next line is going to be rude. Sir Poul, you have no formal education, and yet why do I get the feeling that you are smarter than both of us?"

    Poul braced his hands on the desk, staring at the electric motor they built together.

    "I have this innate talent when ites to science and technology. I can design things in my head, and see them in an exploded view. Add bolts, nails, and any other materials, and check if they would work well or not. I can also simte if it''s going to work or not. You''re saying that I don''t have formal education right? You are wrong, I actually have one but I can''t tell you where. You will not find my record here as I didn''t study here."

    "Where did you study?" Walter asked, curious as to where he is getting all the knowledge.

    Timothy looked at Poul in anticipation.

    "Let''s just say, from very far away," Poul chuckled, dodging their questions. "Okay, I think that''s enough, you can turn it off now, Timothy."

    Timothy flipped the switch, cutting the flow of electricity into the electric motor.

    The electric motor slowly lost its momentum and whirring noises. Secondster, the motor stopped movingpletely.

    "So, what do you think?" Timothy asked. "Was it a sessful test or not?"

    "I wouldn''t say perfect. Earlier, when you flipped the switch, there was a surge of current into the motor. It''s called inrush current, that''s bad for the motor. It can be solved by flipping the switch on and off slowly but quickly until it reaches the desired rpm, but such a thing would be impractical should we do it manually. Second, when you flip the switch to turn off the motor, I''m sure there is a huge voltage drop. These two things can be solved easily but a device to fix it doesn''t exist."

    Poul sighed. The device that he is referring to is a transistor and a pulse width modtor. Both of which are too advanced for this world. Diodes are feasible as vacuum tubes aren''t that hard to create but the modtor? A device called a potentiometer would do.

    "Are you saying we can''t use the motor?" Walter inquired, worryingly.

    "Not technically, the motor can run without those things. But mechanical failures on the motor would be frequent and require maintenance. Looks like I''m going to go back on the drawing board again," Poul sighed. "Well, don''t worry, once I perfected the design, we will have a working motor in ourpany in three months. That I guarantee."

 Chapter 26 Morgans Visitation

    ?Year 881 in the continental calendar, the month was August, and the date is the sixteenth. Mister Morgan, a financier that invested in the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company, decided to visit the site of their factory in Pittsburgh with his daughter, Fiona.

    Morgan doesn''t know why she insisted oning with him the moment he announced to his family that he''ll be meeting with Poul and Jonathan. Could it be?

    He has been troubled by the idea that his daughter got infatuated with Poul Nielsen. It must have been due to Poul saving her life at the time of the train ident. Though he is grateful for Poul saving her, the idea of her daughter liking an Albian would be bad for his reputation. If his fellow financier and friends were to know about it, it would be definitely embarrassing. So he can''t let it happen.

    Yet despite all that, Morgan still agreed to let her go along with him. Fiona said she wanted to express her gratitude personally to Poul. After it, is done, he won''t let his daughter get near Poul Nielsen again.

    Looking out of the window, Morgan can see smoke billowing out from the funnels atop the factories. There were four-story buildings here and there, and people walking lively on the streets on their way to the factory or somewhere else.

    He can''t hide the surprise on his face, as he had an initial impression of what their site is going to look like. A disorganized mess. Most of the time, factory owners wouldn''t even give much effort to urban nning. They were haphazardly built in a pretty utilitarian design. A design that has no emphasis, is simply built because it needs to be built.

    But this factory is different, giving him a vibe of a harmonious and unitedmunity where everyone works together to achieve a certain goal.

    The carriage arrived at the main entrance of the factory. A man dressed in a police uniform approached their carriage and knocked on the window.

    Morgan opened the door and the man spoke.

    "Wee to the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company headquarters, how can we help you?"

    "I have an appointment with thepany owners. The name is John Morgan." Morgan said without batting an eye at the guard.

    "Ah¡­Mr. Morgan! I was informed about your visitation on this day and have been expecting you since morning. Very well, you may now proceed," the guard said pleasingly as he signaled his fellow guard to open the gate and let the carriage enter.

    The coachman of John Morgan''s carriage released the brake on the wheels and spurred the horse, prompting it to move forward. There was excitement in Fiona''s eyes like she was going to receive a gift on her birthday.

    After two minutes, the carriage stopped in front of a two-story house. Morgan nced at it for a second and immediately inferred that it was the main office.

    The coachman jumped off his seat and opened the door of the carriage, allowing Fiona and Morgan to step out of the carriage.

    The door of the house opened and a man walked out of it. Morgan recognized the man immediately, it was Jonathan Axelsen, the co-founder of thepany.

    "Mister Morgan, it is a pleasure to meet you again," Jonathan smiled pleasingly as he said that, and extended his hand forward, offering a handshake.

    "It''s been a while, Jonathan," Morgan grabbed Jonathan''s hand and shook it. "I''m sure you have already met my daughter, Fiona. She wanted me to bring her along here to express her gratitude to Poul."

    "Hello Mr. Jonathan, my name is Fiona Morgan, it''s nice to meet you," Fiona introduced herself politely with a curtsy.

    "Nice to meet you too," Jonathanughed softly as he found her introduction adorable. "You said you wanted to see Poul right? He''s at the next building busy working with the engineers¡­"

    ? "Is that so¡­" Fiona looked down at the ground somberly. Her cheerful expression that she has worn since has turned mncholic.

    Jonathan felt bad seeing her look like that, so he quickly tried to change the atmosphere with his words. "He might not be able to meet us now, but if you told him that you have arrived, I''m sure Poul would immediately stop what he was working on ande outside to greet you."

    Her mncholic expression brightened up instantly after hearing what Jonathan said.

    "Really?! Thanks, Mister Jonathan!" Fiona eximed with joy.

    "You''re wee," Jonathan smiled pleasantly. Then he motioned toward the building next to the house where Poul was working.

    "Please follow me inside this office where Poul and the engineers are working. He is expecting your arrival, Mister Morgan, so I''m sure he''lle out the moment I mention your name."

    "That would be great, thank you, Jonathan," Morgan said and continued. "I have a lot of questions that need answering, especially when there''s only one month left before the deadline."

    Jonathan''s lips curled into a smile.

    ***

    Inside the office, Jonathan knocked his hand on the door where Poul is working.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "Who is it?"

    Morgan heard Poul''s voiceing from inside.

    "It''s Jonathan, Morgan and his daughter are here to meet you. Come on out and greet them."

    "Wait?! Really! Give me a second," there was a mix of sounds going on inside the workshop.

    Momentster, they could hear the sound of footsteps approaching the door. It opened, revealing Poul.

    "I apologize, I had to fix myself up a bit to appear presentable in front of you," Poul chuckled nervously and nced behind Jonathan. There, he saw Morgan and Fiona staring at him.

    "Mister John Morgan¡­and Miss Fiona. I didn''t expect you to arrive for another hour. Regardless, I''m d that you arrived here safely," Poul stepped out of the door and closed it behind him.

    Fiona stepped forward nervously, her fingers fidgeting. "Uhm¡­Mr. Nielsen? We already met before¡­uhm¡­ehh¡­I believe I have never thanked you formally for saving my life and allowing me to live every passing day. So¡­I''m going to do it now...Thank you!"

    She ended her words bashfully. Poul couldn''t help but chuckle. "Thank you. Your words have made my day."

    "Ehem," Morgan coughed. "Now that it was settled, I''m sure you two know why I am here."

    "Of course, Mr. Morgan. I have read the letters you sent beforehand. You were asking about an update right?"

    "Should we discuss this in your office?" Morgan asked.

    "No, I think there''s something you need to see before that," Poul said. "If you would pleasee with me to the factory I can show you what we have done for thest eleven months. Jonathan, while I''m away, please watch over Fiona."

    "I can''te with you?" Fiona asked, surprised.

    Poul shook his head. "I''m sorry Fiona, I can''t allow you toe inside the factory. There are a lot of men and pieces of machinery working inside and you might get yourself caught in an ident. So you should stay here with Jonathan and wait for me."

    Fiona let out a depressed sigh and then nodded reluctantly. "Okay."

    ***

    Inside the factory, Morgan couldn''t help but gasp as he looked around the factory. There were beams of metal in the ceiling where cranes moved back and forth, carrying materials and parts. A long belt that runs from the steel mill to the factory delivered items at a constant speed. On one side, workers can be seen pouring a hot liquid into molds on the floor, processing it in casting machinery before putting it on the conveyor belt.

    It was as if they were working as one unit, like a soldier, given a task.

    "What you are seeing right now is only exclusive to ourpany. The electricity that James Russel provided using his dynamo allowed me to harness its power and turn it into a motion simr to how steam generates motion. But it''s smaller,pact, and cheap. The thing that is delivering the items, I call it conveyor belt. It runs on a direct current electric motor."

    "Electric motor?" Morgan tilted his head to the side, confused.

    "A device that converts electrical energy to mechanical energy. Simr to how generators work but in the opposite way. This electric motor has ramped up the production of air brakes and lotive draft gears. Nine months ago, we could only make forty air brakes and 20 lotive draft gears, but now it''s tripled. We already met the required amount of air brakes and draft gear and we are delivering it to them now as we speak. Now we focus on meeting future demands because I''m sure, railway idents are still a thing, and it''s only a matter of time before the government steps in and does something about it. Like mandating it for example."

    "I like what I''m hearing. So what''s this about you nning on starting a new venture? The railway signaling and interlocking systems?"

    "Yeah, the profit that we will be making from the air brakes and draft gear will be used as funds to initiate the start-up."

    "Another safety system product I assume," Morgan sighed.

    "Yeah, train idents are not only caused by brake failures but also due to the country''sck of signaling infrastructures."

    "Why not focus on the electric motors? I''m sure that will be more profitable than the signaling system youe up with."

    "Yeah but I haven''t designed a way to mass-produce them yet. I''ll notify you once it''s finished," Poul said.

    "Good, I guess this trip has been worth it."

 Chapter 27 Morgans Inspection

    ?Poul continued to tour Morgan around the factory. As Morgan spent more time in the factory, the more he noticed something. Aside from the wonderful machinery called the electric motor that fascinated him, the workers around were wearing the same clothes as if uniforms. A metal hat atop their head and gloves will protect them from the heat radiating from furnaces and molten metals.

    It seems that Poul and Jonathan are doing a great job taking care of their workers yet despite the goodwill they showed to the workers, he was a bit disappointed.

    "I invested six hundred thousand dors in yourpany and you spent like half of it in uniforms, metal hats, and houses?" Morgan said, ncing at Poul who didn''t even bat an eye at him.

    "Mister Morgan, it was a necessary investment to keep your workers safe and strong while they do their work. Machines can''t do things all by themselves, it needs men to operate. And to make the machine work continuously and produce products constantly, you have to ensure the safety of the men. Besides, we didn''t spend three hundred thousand dors, we only spent ten percent."

    "Even so, you could have used that money on improving electric motors. That motor you invented, I can see, will revolutionize the manufacturing industry."

    "The electric motor only needs minor changes, I don''t need a big capital to thoroughly study it as I know everything about it in the first ce," Poul said and continued. "I haven''t patented the electric motor yet but soon I will. If James Russel will light up one full mile of Manhattan, then I''m going to electrify the factories and make the manufacturing processes automatic."

    "Then make it," Morgan urged.

    "We can''t, we are too busy with the air brakes and the lotive draft gear. It has to wait," Poul exined. "And despite the amazing features of the electric motor and how it will transform industries I haven''te up with a way to mass produce them."

    "You could have used the money that you spent building apartments and protective equipment into researching a way of mass-producing the electric motors."

    "Mister Morgan," Poul finally snapped, stopped in his tracks, and faced Morgan. "What you are asking is not easy to achieve. Electric motors run on electricity and generating electricity is not cheap as you might think. The electric distribution system James Russel is developing uses a direct current that needs one hundred thousand feet of copper wires to power ny customers and it can only go as far as one mile."

    "What do you mean?" Morgan''s brows narrowed.

    "It means the system James Russel is developing would never be profitable. His current peters out due to the power loss. Yeah, electric motors do wonders but imagine you have to build a power nt for every square mile? The factory owners might as well turn to steam to automate their manufacturing process."

    "But you already think of a way to solve that problem right? I mean, by how you phrase your words earlier, it seems like you want to distribute it and make a profit from it, right?" Morgan guessed.

    Poul was silent for a moment, giving his answer a thought before speaking it out.

    "Yeah, you are right. I have a solution to the problem but I won''t be giving it yet. I''m using the fame of James Russel of using electricity as an alternative source of energy. And once people are loving electricity and are looking for industrial applications, that''s where we wille in. And as for the transmission? I''m going to reveal it to you soon."

    "I see," Morgan rubbed his chin as he nodded his head as he understood Poul''s intention by analyzing his words. "Well, if you need capital, you know where to find me."

    Poul smirked. "Looks like I don''t have to embarrass myself for calling you and asking for an investment. Sure thing, I will call you if we need money but based on the things going on in thepany so far, we won''t be needing it soon."

    Morgan scoffed softly. "You strike me as a confident person, Poul. Honestly, it''s the first time in my career that a person piqued my interest. You seem carefree but in your mind, you are nning something dark. A mysterious person indeed, and what''s more, an Albian."

    "I''m confident in my line of work, Mister Morgan. That''s all you have to know. Once I guarantee something it is ensured," A smile tugged at the corners of Poul''s lips. He had learned long ago that when dealing with the business world, there was no point telling Morgan anything more than needed to be told. So Morgan should be fine knowing the basics and let it be.

    "This is the end of our tour. In the next two years, it will undergo major renovations and improvements as the demand for our product rises dramatically. Let me walk you back to the office."

    ***

    At thepany''s office, Jonathan was engaged in a staring contest with Fiona, who had been sitting silently on the sofa since they arrived.

    Jonathan let out a cough, breaking the ice that is hanging between the two. "I guess kids do find it boring going along with their father''s business trip."

    Fiona looked away from Jonathan''s eyes, which she found strangely piercing, and answered him. "I''m not bored, I am just waiting for my father and Mister Poul to arrive. Does remaining silent count as boring to you?"

    Jonathan arched a brow. What''s with her sudden change of behavior? He strikes her as an innocent and adorable little kid but the way she spoke just kind of betrayed that fact. It sounded mature.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "I apologize for my presumptuous assumptions, Miss Fiona. I didn''t mean to be¡ª"

    "Why are you sounding formal now?" Fiona interrupted and stood up from the sofa. "Just call me Fiona. You are older and own apany, you should use that tone when speaking to someone that is equal to you or to your client."

    Jonathan blinked at this girl, is the girl in front of him right now really a child? He shook his head and sighed inwardly.

    "Okay then Fiona, do you want a doll or something that you''d like to y with to pass the time? A tour around the facility usually takes a long time."

    "Now you are treating me like a child," Fiona pouted.

    "With all due respect, Fiona, you are a child. Physically and mentally."

    Fiona rolled her eyes before returning to her seat, clearly annoyed with Jonathan.

    Jonathan was confused about her attitude. He couldn''t tell if she was being rude or just simply childish, however, Jonathan wasn''t about to argue with someone that was younger and less mature than him, not if he wanted to get a bad reputation from her father that could affect the rtionship of the business. So Jonathan decided to remain silent.

    Soon Poul and Morgan returned to the office. As Fiona''s gaze met Poul, it twinkled, and it made Jonathan who noticed it wonder if he was imagining things because Fiona seemed to look pleased, almost excited? Fiona is really infatuated with Poul. But he brushed off the thought, he wouldn''t allow himself to entertain such a ridiculous thought of a ten-year-old girl falling in love with a man whose mental age is forty.

    "I''ve seen the facilities and I must say I am amazed by the things you are doing. You are making huge progress that I believe would shock the world in the future. I''d say keep that up. Though I was slightly concerned about your use of funds, if it gets the jobs done, then I have no problem with it."

    "Is Poul''spany really that good father?" Fiona inquired but her eyes remained fixed on Poul, who now noticed her gaze

    and frowned.

    "Yes sweetie," Morgan replied and patted her on the head. "We are going now. Thank you for keeping an eye on my daughter while I''m away, Mister Jonathan."

    Jonathan bowed his head politely. "Your daughter is a very interesting individual. She is well-mannered and well-behaved. I''m sure she''ll grow to be an amazing woman in the future."

    "Thanks for thepliment, Mister Jonathan," Fiona said with a curtsy.

    Jonathan smiled warmly but deep inside, he was annoyed at the brat. She is acting more politelypared to the earlier exchanges.

    As Morgan and Fiona left the office, Poul flicked Jonathan''s head with a finger on his forehead, snapping him out of his daze.

    "Are you okay?"

    "It''s nothing. So, what did Mister Morgan say?"

    "He is interested in the motors and was disappointed by how we handle our money. Insinuating that investing for the well-being of your workers is a waste of money that can be used for research and development."

    "So that makes him a jerk. He is an investor, he should know better than us that taking care of your workers is important as they are the driving forces of thepany."

    "Well, there''s no point talking over that. Our job is to make him money, so let''s do that. The deadline ising soon, do you know what that means?"

    "It means money will being soon to our pockets," Jonathan grinned.

 Chapter 28 The Heyday Of The Company

    ?October 15th, 881 in the continental calendar was thest day of the contract deadline. It stated that the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company has to produce a certain number of air brakes and lotive draft gears that will be retrofitted on the trains of the three railroadpany giants in Avalonia.

    And the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company did just that. In ten months, thepany was able to produce 11,230 air brakes and 5,620 lotive draft gear. All of it was delivered to the railroadpany and thepany hired a lotive engineering firm that will help the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company retrofit the device on their trains.

    With that, thepany made its first sales.

    Poul and Jonathan were cooped up in their office, reading a statistic of their sales for this year.

    "So we made a total revenue of five hundred thousand and two hundred and sixty dors. Deducting all the expenses, our total profit would be four hundred and seventy-two thousand dors," Jonathan read the sales report in his hand. "I''d say this is not bad for a fledglingpany. After all, we only retrofitted eleven hundred trains. The United States of Avalonia has over twenty-five thousand and is increasing dramatically as new railroadpanies are emerging."

    "Yeah, we haven''t tapped all the markets yet so we can celebrate with this. Let''s hope that our invention will work as advertised. Because if it did then it would attract more customers."

    "It will work," Jonathan said as he set down the paper on his desk and continued. "Because you guaranteed it. Just have faith, and I''m sure this air brakepany will take the world by surprise."

    "I have faith in my creation, but you can''t always be certain about everything. There is always a minute chance of everything going wrong," Poul said somberly.

    Jonathan tilted his head to the side, this is the first time he had seen Poul like this. Usually, he is optimistic, backed with confidence and pride, yet now he looks at this time, there''s a small glimmer of doubt as if he didn''t fully believe his own words.

    After an awkward moment of silence between them, Jonathan broke the ice. He spoke quietly, "Look at this," he handed out another written report. "This is the projected sale in the business n I wrote. It''s higher than I estimated, this is a good sign that ourpany is doing well. And wearing a long face doesn''t suit you well Poul, to be honest. Come on, I thought you had faith in your creation?"

    "I do have faith," Poul repeated. He gave Jonathan his trademark smile that is supposed to make anyone feel better immediately. "We are a fledglingpany. If something goes wrong with our air brake when it assures the customer that it will make the roaring train stop in just a second and it fails, it will blow to our face and that''s it to ourpany. That''s what I''m worried about. Sometimes, you have to ount for that slim chance of failure and there''s nothing wrong with that."

    "Yeah, I understand your anxiety, given that this is our first business," Jonathan chuckled.

    Poul brought his both hands up and pped his face lightly. Gave him a yful shove, and rose to his feet. "Okay, I think I''m good now. I''ll go work on the railway signaling system, and then tomorrow on the electric motors. I want to see if the boys are making progress."

    "Okay, good luck with that. I''ll handle all business affairs for a moment," Jonathan said as he nced at the mountain of papers on the table. He slightly regretted his decision of volunteering to do the paperwork. "We could really use some secretary but why is it that it''s hard to find here?"

    "Now you are the one who is sulking," Poulughed at his partner after seeing the dismayed look on his face. "Well, there''s no turning back now. You handle all the paperwork while I stay with the engineers perfecting the design. Oh, if you think about it, we are saving money as we don''t have a secretary that we have to pay."

    "Yeah but the secretary gets the job done more efficiently. I''m not a clerical worker, I''m a civil engineer, I''m supposed to be in the field overseeing the construction of structures."

    "Well, it''s either that or we let those paperwork rot in the office. We don''t have a choice and it''s not like the papers can stamp themselves anyway. Look, I will go now."

    "Yeah, see you at dinner," Jonathan waved his hand at Poul and then picked up the stack of paperwork that had piled up beside the typewriter.

    ***

    Time passed like water through a sieve. The Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company has finished its first contracts with The Union Pacific Railroad Company, Ohio and Baltimore Railroad Company, and Pennsylvania Railroad Company. The invention of air brakes received recognition across the state, gaining traction as the performance of the new braking systems exceeded expectations.<novelnext></novelnext>

    Seeing the effectiveness of the product, thepanies startedying off brakemen whose sole purpose was to manually apply brakes on each car of the trains. This would save them from umting and opt for an air brake where its maintenance is cheaper than paying one dor and fifty to each brakeman.

    As for the lotive draft gear, the passengers of the trains gave positive remarks andments about its function. The way it absorbed the pulling, pushing, and stopping forces of the car gave afortable and pleasant ride for customers. Not only that, fragile goods that are often damaged upon arriving at their destination were saved from unwanted forces thanks to the draft gear. With that, the railroadpany decided to install more air brakes and lotive draft gears, resulting in arge influx of orders and profit to the Axelsen & Nielsen Company, purchasing hundreds, if not thousands of their inventions as fast as they could produce them.

    Not only the three giants of the railroadpanies were interested in the product but the others were as well. Though they don''t have the same amount of fleetpared to the giants, the fact that it was bing popr and being well-received by the masses prompted them to get one for themselves.

    It may cost eighty dors for the two devices but it will be worth it in the long run. After all, it will ensure that their lotives won''t suffer major idents such as derailments and brake failures.

    In the month of July in the year 882, the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company''s revenue tripled and the profit they made from it allowed thepany to establish a newpany, the Axelsen & Nielsen Union Switch & Signal Company. A subsidiary of the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company with the purpose of making railway signaling equipment, systems, and services.

    It was first demonstrated with the help of The Union Pacific Railroad Company which first adopted their systems. Thanks to that, the drivers of the lotive are now aware of the tracks they are running on.

    It was a heyday for the young industrialist duo but not enough to make them a millionaire just yet, but the positive remarks from the customers, thepany, and the public, sure made them popr.

    However, not every railroadpany joined the hype of the air brake or adopted the new signaling system of the industrialist duo.

    Adam Wandervilt was one of them. He is the owner of the biggest railway system in the United States of Avalonia. He owned the Hudson River Railroad, the New York Central Railroad, the Lake Shore and Michigan Southern Railway, and the whole of the Canadian Railway, and is even nning to construct the railway interstate system that will connect every state with his railroad. One of the huge projects that he wanted toe into reality before he died. Hispany had a fleet of over 110,000 lotives, an astonishing amount of lotives at the time.

    He is the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company''srgest market but he just won''t give in.

    Wandervilt was reading the newspaper about the roaring sess of the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company.

    "I didn''t expect them to grow so much in this short amount of time," he said.

    "Well, it offers safety, one that the transportation systemcked," his partner, Moses Corning said as he puffed on his tobo.

    "It''s just a waste of money. It won''t bring us profit if we install their air brakes and draft gear or adopt their signaling systems."

    "But don''t you think our customers'' satisfaction is important?" Moses asked, subtly pressing him to adopt the new system.

    "We gave them transportation, which we didn''t have back in our time. People these days keep demanding more and more than their pockets can afford. Anyways, as long as I am living, there''ll never be Axelsen and Nielsen air brakes in mypany."

    As they were having a conversation, one of the manservants entered the Wandervilt office and handed him a letter.

    "What''s this?" Wanderbilt asked as he unfold the letter. He perused the contents and after finishing it, his eyes widened in horror.

    "What is it?" Moses asked as soon as he noticed how pale Wanderbilt has be. He leaned forward to have a look at himself. And when he read it, his eyes widened as well.

 Chapter 29 A Tragic News That Shocked The Country

    ?A weekter. In Pittsburgh Pennsylvania.

    In the quality control center of the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company. Poul performed an inspection in the quality control, which is the most important part of every manufacturing process as it will determine if the product is defective or not.

    He watched as the quality control officer conducted a visual inspection, mechanical testing, and chemical analysis on the air brake and lotive draft gear device, which is mostly made of cast iron. So far, they are doing quite well until one of them earned his attention.

    "Check it again," Poul said as walked forward to one of the quality control officers who jolted in his seat as he heard his boss''s voice.

    "What''s the matter, sir?"

    "The one you performed a test on just now, has five millimeters of impression diameter. The passing number is two point five to four point seventy-five millimeters of impression diameter," Poul said as he checked the testing equipment for himself. "Yeah, I was correct. Above five millimeters is considered a defect, why did you mark it as passed?"

    "Eh?" the officer rubbed his eyes and took a look at the measurement again. Poul was right, it was five millimeters. A bead of sweat formed on his forehead as he feared that he might lose his job. "I''m sorry, Mister Poul¡­it won''t happen again."

    "Make sure you don''t" Poul chided him lightly. "Ourpany''s purpose is to create a device that would make trains safe. If the device we created is defective, then how are we going to live up to that purpose?"

    "I''m very sorry, boss! I swear I will thoroughly inspect the air brake before I mark it."

    "This is only yourst chance. I won''t allow defective products to leave mypany. Is that understood?" Poul raised his voice as he wanted everyone to hear his words.

    "Yes sir!" the quality control officers replied in unison.

    Poul nodded in satisfaction. "Good. Now carry on with your work."

    "Yes sir!" They replied in unison.

    As he resumed watching over their performance, one of the workers walked up to him.

    "Sir Poul. Sir Jonathan wants to see you in the office. He said it''s urgent."

    "Did he tell you what it is?" Poul arched his brow, wondering what type of urgency they are dealing with here.

    "No sir. He just said that you are needed in the office right now," the worker answered.

    "I see, so I guess it''s that serious huh?" Poul hummed. "Okay, I''ll go there."

    After saying that, Poul quickly exited the factory and jogged into the main office. Poul took a deep breath before going in. Inside, he saw Jonathan sitting behind a desk with his face covered with an unfolded newspaper.

    "Let me guess, another railroadpany got interested in the air brake and ordered thousands?" Poul said as he walked over to a chalkboard with papers posted on it. The papers contained graphical reports of the performance of the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company and the Axelsen & Nielsen Union Switch and Signal Company.

    "Oh look at these exponential curves¡­so sexy," Poul said in a seductive tone. "I wish that it continues growing that way."

    "You are partially correct. The Louisville and Nashville Railroad Company, Illinois Central Railroad Company, and the St. Louis Southwestern Railway Company granted us a contract of retrofitting fifty percent of their lotive fleet. Well, fifty percent may be a huge percentage but the number of their lotives is not. So I''d say we''ll take the job."

    "We just keep receiving and receiving orders from one railroadpany to another. Looks like we will have to upgrade our factory to increase our production capacity to meet the demand."

    "Oh it will take a lot more than that," Jonathan said as he continued reading the newspaper. "As I said, your guess was partially correct. Though there are some important deals made, it wasn''t the reason why I called you here."

    "So tell me what it is already," Poul demanded. He sat down in the other chair across Jonathan''s table and waited impatiently. "Could it be that one of the trains fitted with air brakes got into an ident?" Poul thought. "Shit¡­I knew this would happen."

    "No that''s not it. Have you read the news?" Jonathan asked.

    "I haven''t touched a newspaper for over ten days thanks to our demanding work. So are you going to keep me in suspense or are you going to tell me?"

    Jonathan sighed and tossed him the newspaper. "See it for yourself."

    Poul caught the newspaper and skimmed through the articles quickly. As he read, he saw a series of headlines stating: One of Wanderbilt Express Trains Caught in a Catastrophic ident. Poul read on as he wanted to learn more about the ident. It was stated that two of Wandervilt''s daughters and a Senator from New Brunswick were on that train. They died, along with thirty passengers. Five are in critical condition. It is dubbed as the worst train ident in the century.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "This is quite sad. I believe he is one of the owners who are slow to adopt our air brake systems right?" Poul asked.

    "Yes. This is going to be a bad optic for hispany. I just also read on the news that his stock is falling. I heard the news from Mister Morgan. He asked us if we could entertain journalists from the New York Times, Hartford Courant, and the Washington Post forment."

    "Wait, why would they like to hear ourments about this ident?"

    "Because just like every businessman out there, he saw an opportunity from tragedy. He wants us to me him for the ident for not adopting our air brake system while appearing sensitive and concerned for those who have passed away. Can you do it?"

    "You are asking me to face the journalist all by myself while subtly ndering Wanderbilt?"

    "Morgan said you''d say that so he wants you to be assured that every businessman does that on a regr basis."

    Poul scoffed. "Well, Wanderbilt owns thergest railroadpany in the United States of Avalonia, I''m sure this tragedy would be a wake-up call for him to adopt the air brake system."

    ***

    One dayter, in the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company Headquarters. Journalists from three major news agencies arrived. They congregated inside the office. They wore formal clothes just like everyone else. ck suit, top hats. Instead of a microphone or camera, they were holding notes and pencils.

    "Uhm¡­Poul Nielsen, are you ready?" one of the journalists asked. He is a ck man, appearing to be in his middle thirties. His name is Donovan Johnson from New York Times.

    Poul nodded.

    "So, Mister Nielsen. Can you exin to us briefly how your air brake systems work?"

    "Well, the air brake system is a type of braking system for lotives that usespressed air that pushes the piston, which in turn pushes the rod where the brake shoe is connected. And the brake shoe is pressed against the wheel where the resulting friction slows the train down through a principle of the firstw of thermodynamics," Poul exined.

    "Have any of the trains retrofitted with your systems got in an ident?" Donovan followed with another question.

    "No, because if the train fitted with our air brake system got in an ident, we would have been informed."

    "So you are saying that your air brake system works?"

    "I can guarantee wholeheartedly that my air brake system works. Because if not we would have been out of business."

    The journalist erupted into chuckles as they scribbled down notes, taking note of what Poul was saying.

    "Have you heard about the train ident of one of Wandervilt''s express trains? Where two of his daughters and a Senator from New Brunswick died, along with thirty passengers."

    "Yes, I was aware of the news."

    "Care to take ament about that."

    Poul sighed and thought of the words Jonathan said to him about defaming Wanderbilt. They are running a business here, and Wanderbiltpany is a huge untapped market for them. If they get him to adopt their air brake, that would mean a fortune for thepany. But it also carries risk, what if Wanderbilt got pissed about hisment. Instead of attracting him, they would only push him away.

    Well here goes nothing. Poul continued.

    "To be honest. I am filled with less grief than anger because none of this would have happened if Wanderbilt adopted our air brake system," Poul dered. "He was one of my potential clients but he showed no interest in the safety features our product brings on his lotive. Hear me now, everyone, as this is thest time you''ll hear it from me. Ourpany was born out of tragedy and we vowed to make a device so that it won''t happen again, and no lives are taken away from a mechanical failure that can be easily solved. But it turns out, Wanderbilt only cared about the money flowing into his pocket, not the lives that his lotive is carrying from one point to another."

    The journalist was taken aback at Poul''s statement but regainedposure quickly.

    "Just to be clear on that point, Mister Nielsen. You said Wanderbilt is one of your potential clients but refused to adopt the system under the pretense that he didn''t care for the lives of the passengers that his lotive is transporting. Are you saying that thepanies who didn''t adopt your air brake system don''t have an iota of concern for the lives of their passengers?"

    Poul scoffed softly and chuckled. "You know that I can''t say that, Mister Donovan. But I believe that you all can," he smiled.

 Chapter 30 Landing A Biggest Contract

    ?After Poul Nielsen gave a statement to the journalists of the biggest newspaperpanies in the United States of Avalonia, it spread throughout the country like wildfire. Branding Wanderbilt as a greedy businessman who only cared for money and not the safety of the people.

    Due to this, theirpany stock dropped to seventy percent as shareholders rushed to the New York Stock Exchange and sold their stocks in anticipation of thepany''s market crashing because of the ident.

    The train ident was branded as the most tragic lotive ident in the history of the United States. As a result, public opinion towards Wandebilt had risen from negative to hateful. Calling their business out.

    The government of the United States didn''t overlook the ident, sparking debate among Senators in Congress as one of them called for safer transportation of goods and people across the country. There''s no denying the fact that railroads expanded rapidly throughout the United States. However, the increased traffic was apanied by an increase in idents not only on the lotives but railroad personnel, especially brakemen, who have to stay atop the carriage to manually apply brakes on each car.

    Train idents have been a problem not only for the United States but for foreign countries as well. Due to ack of an efficient and safe method of stopping a colossal train to aplete stop, resulting in derailment and collisions with trains. There was also ack of signaling infrastructure in the United States, which prompted Axelsen & Nielsen Company to make one as they knew to themselves that brakes alone won''t stop train idents.

    As the country began to hate Wanderbilt and his associates for his slow adoption of avable safety measures for steam lotives, Morgan took an initiative and decided to visit Wanderbilt''s estate at 1 West 57th Street in Manhattan, New York City.

    In the office, Morgan walked over to Wanderbilt''s desk and sat across from him.

    He saw Wanderbilt lifeless expression on his face as he mourned for the deaths of his two daughters whom he loved fondly.

    "First of all, I want to express my sincerest condolences to you at this time. You have my deepest sympathy and unwavering support. I apologize that I was unable to attend the funeral."

    Wanderbilt sniffed and nodded in response. "Thank you. You know, I feel really terrible about what has happened to me and my family. But then again, how could I not? Ever since the ident, the newspaper headline is all about me, branded as a devil who has no sympathy for the people. They said that the ident could have been prevented if the train my daughters were riding in were fitted with an air brake system."

    He said with tears streaming down his cheek. But he quickly wiped it off before continuing. "I know why you are here, Mister Morgan. So why don''t you stop beating around the bush and tell me what it is."

    As expected of Mr. Wanderbilt, heposed himself despite the situation he is going through. He was named as the brutal businessman in the United States of Avalonia for no reason. With his ruthless business practices, he devoured railwaypanies one after another by undercutting every single one of them, which stole all their customers, pushing outpetitors as if he was only having them for breakfast. There was once a story about him when he was getting popr and richer where railroadpanies would pay him two hundred thousand dors to notpete with them on the same routes.

    For them, it was cheaper to Pay Wanderbilt off than try topete with his low prices. Naturally, every time Wandebilt got a huge payout like that, or used that by buying outpetitors at a discounted rate, his own fleet of trains just got bigger, thereafter increasing his power and wealth.

    To see such a ruthless man in front of him overwhelmed with grief was a surprise for Morgan. After hearing those words from his mouth, he decided to be honest with his intention to Wanderbilt.

    "Mr. Wanderbilt, the world is still spinning around. The media is not getting off your back and public opinion toward you is hostile. We can change their perception of you by refuting their charges. For that, you''ll have to make action."

    "Which is what?" Wanderbilt asked.

    "Adopt the air brake system and the signaling and interlocking systems of the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company. Show them that you care for your passengers and that it won''t happen again. With that, you''ll regain the trust of the public, and then your stocks will return to normal. Make a statement to the press."

    Wanderbilt scoffed softly at Morgan''s suggestion. "Before you even came here, I already knew your intention. As expected, you''d suggest that. After all, you invested in the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company. Signing a deal with them would mean more money flowing into your pocket."

    "Mister Wanderbilt, you are one of the best businessmen I have ever known in my life. Your story of rags to riches, I heard everything about you. And with your reputation and your way of handling your business, I am certain that you''d adopt the air brake system and their signal system. It''s the only option left for you to save yourpany. And I''m sure, your board of directors is suggesting the same thing too"

    Wanderbilt locked his gaze with Morgan for a few seconds before finally sighing and nodding reluctantly. "Alright, you won. Let''s do that."

    Morgan smiled. "I will inform the owners that you''d be visiting soon. So when are you free?"

    ***

    November 7th, 881 in the continental calendar. The fall color of the season brightened up Pittsburgh. The ethereal sunlight cast a shadow upon the buildings surrounding thepany town of Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company as dusk started settling down.

    Walter entered the office by pushing the door with his back. He was carrying a blueprint that was unrolled and set it down on Poul''s desk.

    "This is the detailed schematic of your direct current motors. I need you to sign them so we can proceed with the process of patenting. Also, I''m going to need you to sign the air brake, the lotive draft gear, and your signaling and interlocking systems for us to patent it in another country. You know, you can''t be too careful with pirates."

    Poul chuckled softly as he grabbed his pen. "You are indeed correct. Seeing that it''smon practice for inventors to steal stuff, it''s best that we protect our intellectual property."

    Poul signed the blueprints and after Walter received it, he bowed his head politely before leaving the office.

    Momentster, the telephone rang. Poul stood up from his chair and picked up the phone mounted on the wall.

    "What is it?" Poul asked.

    "Sir Poul, sorry for bothering you during your work hours but you have a guest here. Mr. Wanderbilt."

    Poul''s eyes beamed as he recognized the name of the visitor.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "Let him in," said Poul as he hung up the phone immediately afterward. He paced back and forth, unable to contain his excitement. If Jonathan was here, they''d be jumping up and down from joy right now. But Jonathan is overseeing the construction of a new factory to be built adjacent to the current factory.

    After a few minutes, the office doors opened and an old aged man dressed neatly entered the room. The man''s three-piece gray suit. He brought an associate with him. Poul recognized it. It was Moses Corning.

    "Good evening, gentleman. I''ve been expecting your arrival. Can I get you something to drink before we get started?" Poul offered.

    "No, we intended to leave as soon as possible. We are here to grant you a contract," Moses Corning interceded firmly while shaking his head.

    Poul looked puzzled, why are they in a hurry? But nevertheless, he nodded, epting whatever decision Moses Corning hade for.

    "Very well, take a seat, and let''s discuss what you''re offering." Poul beckoned them to take a seat.

    Wanderbilt and Corning sat on the chairs opposite Poul''s desk.

    Poul twiddled his hands as he ced them on the desk, projecting his aura of confidence.

    "I''m sure you have heard everything from Mr. Morgan about the purpose of our visit," Moses said.

    "Yes I have heard it from him but I want to hear it in person," Poul said.

    "So you are the one who gave a statement to the press. Explicitly saying that the ident won''t happen if we adopted your system," Wanderbilt calmly said in a low voice.

    "That''s correct, Mr. Wanderbilt. Our system works. That''s all the more reason why you should adopt it like everyone else."

    "I don''t know if it''s confidence or just an arrogant young fellow whose head got big from his recent sesses."

    "It''s true but I''m sure that you went through the same phase as me when yourpany started to receive great traction," Poul smiled, looking very smug.

    Wanderbilt sighed. "Moses, please continue."

    "So, Mr. Nielsen, as a result of the tragedy that happened in our express railway, the board of directors and Mr. Wanderbilt hase to a decision to adopt your air brakes and your signaling and interlocking systems. We would be happy to grant you the contract of retrofitting all our lotives and overhauling the design of our tracks."

    Poul''s hand quivered lightly. "All¡­of them?" he stammered.

    "Yes. We want it done in three years. Can you do that?"

    "I mean I can but not within the given timeframe. I''m sure you are aware that you''re not only our customers. We have pending orders from other railwaypanies."

    "Then I suggest that you find a way. Because we are talking about a twenty-five million dor contract here," Moses said.

    "Twenty-five¡­million dors?" Poul repeated slowly. This time, there wasn''t any trace of conceit in his tone or demeanor. Instead, there was confusion mixed with shock.

    He didn''t expect that kind of amount, and he couldn''t believe he had gone through such an event in order to achieve this. But somehow, in his mind Wanderbilt, pulling that kind of money for a desperate move of saving hispany is understandable.

    He is the richest man currently, possibly having more money than the U.S. Treasury itself. So twenty million dors is like a drop in the oceanpared to his billions.

    This is a huge opportunity for them. They have been trying to persuade Wanderbilt to get them to adopt their system with the help of Morgan and now it happened. There''s no way he is going to lose this opportunity and he is sure Jonathan wouldn''t hesitate.

    "Fine. The Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company would like to take you on with your offer. We will retrofit your trains with air brakes and lotive draft gears and overhaul your railway system design."

    "Great! Let''s sign and finish the contract," Mosen opened the folder that contains the file. Moses pointed to the ce where Poul should sign.

    Poul grabbed his pen and did exactly that. A few secondster, Wanderbilt signed as well, sealing the deal.

    The three gentlemen rose to their feet and exchanged hands.

    "Thank you, the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company would surely revamp your trains and rails."

    And just like that, in seven years since their transmigration, the young industrialist duonded their biggest contract.

 Chapter 31 Invitation To New York

    ?Another week has passed since Wanderbilt and Moses arrived at the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company headquarters. Theynded a contract worth twenty-five million dors to retrofit all their passenger and freight trains with an air brake system and lotive draft gear. Not only that, but thepany is also responsible for designing railway signaling and interlocking for their existing railways to make sure that no collision-rted idents ever happen on Wanderbilt tracks.

    In the main office, Poul and Jonathan were reading a newspaper while smoking their tobo. Wanderbilt released a statement about the ident and stated that he deeply regretted the incident and swore to the public that he''ll make his train transportation safe for everyone. Not only for everyone but for the goods it is carrying as well.

    "So we have two years to install air brakes and lotive draft gear and then design a new system," Jonathan repeated the terms they''d agreed with Mr. Wanderbilt''spany. "This is going to be challenging. I can now imagine that we will be working day and night to overhaul Wanderbilt''s railway system."

    "You are right about that," Poul nodded his head sympathetically. "Though we have experience in railway engineering and design, we are dealing with primitive systems here. I actually called Moses if we can have a blueprint of their railway system so that I can start working now."

    "What did they say?"

    "They say they are going to deliver it by the end of the month," Poul said and let out a long deep sigh.

    "You know if you sigh away like that. Happiness will drift away like clouds," Jonathan said as he folded his newspaper and nced at him. He took another puff on his cigarette before cing the cigarette in the ashtray.

    "The happiness has already drifted Jonathan." Poul corrected, shutting the newspaper close and driving the tip into the ashtray, putting it out.

    He continued. "But look on the bright side. Twenty-five million dors. That is a huge sum of money at this time. Well, it''s not like we are going to get the full amount of it. Still, we are earning enough money to the point we can invest the profit on another venture."

    "We have to slow down on adding a new venture, Poul," Jonathan advised. "The Union Switch and Signal Company just started. We have to focus on those two first. Once everything stabilizes, like we retrofitted most of the steam lotives in the United States, we can go on and start that electric distribution venture. The one we truly nned but were beaten to it by James Russel. The good thing is, just like Edison, he chose the wrong horse. Oh, I forgot to ask you about this. What do you n with the direct current electric motor?"

    "I''m thinking of licensing it to James Russel. As they say, he is a famous individual and his name is known throughout the country. If we got him to license our electric motors, more and more industrialists in the manufacturing sector would want to get into action. I''m going to make him pay two dors and fifty cents for every horsepower of direct current sold. Now it may seem little but if umted, it would be over a million dors."

    The way Poul''s n of licensing his electric motor to James Russel works is simple. If Russel sessfully sold an electric motor with five horsepower, Russel would pay Poul twelve dors and fifty cents in the form of royalties. The higher the horsepower of an electric motor, the higher the royalties Poul will receive. Now how would it turn into a million? Well, direct current electric motors have industrial applications. It can power tools and equipment. It''s cheaper too since it runs on electricity. Not only that, it is cost-effective. Making the electric motor an attractive device for all industrialists.  Imagine Russel sold 300,000 electric motors with five horsepower in two or three years. Then that would be around 3,750,000 dors in royalties alone.

    Jonathan chuckled. "I think that''s a good move, considering that we can''t shift on the electric distribution industry yet. Let James Russel do all the work of selling the idea of electrifying houses while we focus ourselves on making air brakes."

    "That''s right. Oh, since we have tons of orders to fulfill, I''m thinking of hiring new engineers and workers that could help us speed up our manufacturing processes. Five hundred workers and ten engineers who have the same caliber as Timothy and Walter would do."

    "Your standards for engineers are too high, Poul, maybe if you can lower them down a bit then we can get your engineers," Jonathan said.

    "Look, I don''t care about the quantity of engineers. I care about the quality. If it''s factory workers whose task is to do repetitive tasks again and again then we have no problem with the quality.  I need above-average engineers like Walter and Timothy who can keep up with my designs."

    Jonathan pulled out a pocketbook and pencil from his pocket. He opened it and wrote in it. "I''ll create a recruitment poster and post it in the cities. Is there anything else?"

    Poul shook his head, indicating that there is none for him to add. Jonathan nodded his head and rose to his feet.

    "If nothing else then I''ll go now. It is time that we have to pour concrete," Jonathan said while looking at the time from the pendulum clock. He grabbed his hat from the hatrack and left the office, leaving Poul alone.

    Poul remained silent for a moment, nning ahead as to how they''ll fulfill the orders from the giant railroadpanies. It won''t be easy but just like they always do, they''ll manage and ovee any obstacles they find along the way.

    ***<novelnext></novelnext>

    It was Friday midnight inte October when Poul returned home, which is the main office, ready to rest. His mind was busy mulling over what he needs to do for the next couple of days in order to meet his quota of business.  But just before he could go upstairs and jump to his bed and rx, a telephone rang from inside the office.

    "Ah, shit¡­" Poul cursed inwardly, he doesn''t want to deal with any business-rted matters so far as he is just starting to feel the pressure from it for the past few days. He''d love to ignore the person who is calling right now but if it turns out to be an important client or Mister Edison, then it would be a lost opportunity.

    What''s more, the call could be important as no one usually calls at midnight.

    So he reluctantly trudged towards the office. There was no one inside as Jonathan was at the City Hall, requesting permission from the Mayor of Pennsylvania to distribute recruitment posters in Harrisburg. He''ll be staying there for two to three days.

    Poul picked up the phone, stopping it from ringing, and wedged it between his ear and shoulder. "You have reached the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company, how may I help you?"

    "Polite as always," Morgan chuckled through the telephone.

    Poul heaved a sigh of relief. He almost ignored the call from Mister Morgan.

    "How can I help you, Mister Morgan?"

    "I see that the business is doing well. You two kept surprising me. In just a year of operation, the valuation of yourpany skyrocketed to forty million dors. I must say, I am impressed."

    "Well, none of that would happen if you hadn''t given us the fifty thousand dors, which totally changed the direction of our life," Poul thanked gratefully.

    "Hmm¡­it''s a fateful encounter," Morgan scoffed softly. "I''ll get down to business. James Russel wants to see your invention, the electric motor. You told me that you''d like to license it to him right? Well here''s your chance. Go to 257 Pearl Street in Manhattan, New York on December 17."

    "Why December?" Poul asked.

    "Because he is going to open the first central station in New York, it is a historic moment in the history of our country. He wants you to be there, I want you to be there."

    "Can I bring Jonathan with me?" Poul asked.

    "You can. Actually, it''s better that both of youe," Morgan said.

    "I''ll inform Jonathan," Poul said.

    "Good, see you in New York in December."

    After saying that, Morgan hung up the telephone.

    Poul put the receiver on its cradle, turned around, left the office, and headed upstairs.

    "I guess I can sleep now."

 Chapter 32 Leaving The Headquarters

    ?A month and a halfter, the month of December arrived. It was thete autumn season in the United States of Avalonia at Pittsburg. The temperature every day is gradually decreasing as the winter ising in.

    Poul and Jonathan could feel the chilling temperature permeating their bedroom. They share a room with each other to save space and reduce costs. It was no big deal for them to share a room as they have been doing it for seven years. But since thepany is growing rapidly, eventually, they''ll be forced to make a new building that will serve as their main office and home.

    Jonathan opened the window and the morning breeze greeted him with a gentle blow. He stood there and took a deep breath of the chilly air and sighed contentedly. "Poul, wake up now, we have a train to catch," Jonathan said from his spot while ncing over his shoulder.

    Poul was sleeping soundly, his limbs syed around the bed. His silver hair sprawled out on the pillow and his chest was moving up and down with each breath he let out.

    Jonathan rubbed the bridge of his nose as he sighed again. "I knew it. I should have told him to sleep early¡­Poul¡­Poul!" he called again but the only response he got was Poul turning onto his back and raising the quilt above his head. He then proceeded to roll away toward the opposite side of the bed. Jonathan groaned, exasperated. "Poul¡­" he muttered under his breath, annoyingly.

    "Well, looks like I''ll have to take drastic measures," Jonathan walked over to a drawer located by the bed. On top of it was a pitcher of water and poured himself a ss. The water was cold, with an approximate temperature of 38 degrees Fahrenheit. He then approached the sleeping Poul.

    "This is yourst warning, are you going to wake up or not?" Jonathan demanded as he shook Poul''s shoulders.

    Poul groaned. "Five¡­more¡­minutes¡­" he whispered as if he didn''t want to be disturbed.

    "Okay, you left me with no choice," Jonathan tilted the ss of water and the water poured out and fell on Poul''s head.

    Poul jerked awake. "AHH WHAT THE HELL!?" he shrieked loudly before he realized what was happening. Then he noticed how wet his face was. "WHAT THE HELL IS YOUR PROBLEM MAN? You know the person is sleeping right?" he berated but Jonathan was unfazed by his outburst.

    "You are aware that we have to leave early in the morning right? It''s December fifteen, eighteen hundred eighty-one. We have two days to get to New York. You promised me you are going to wake up in the morning, and you said that before midnight. But, looking at the droopiness of your eyes right now, I can tell that you sleptte."

    "That was because I was working on something important!" Poul shot back defensively. "You know that I had to draw fifty schematic diagrams of motorized tools and equipment that we will be presenting with Mister Morgan and Russel."

    Jonathan gave him an unamused look. "You had one and a half months toplete that. It''s your fault for working on itst week. Come on, we are adults, we should get procrastination out of our system."

    "Well, sorry because you can''t run thepany alone. You needed me for the clerical work," Poul sighed deeply. "We should really get a secretary to ease our burden of paperwork."

    "Get up now, Poul. We have a train to catch at eleven-thirty in the morning. It leaves strictly on schedule."

    "I''ll go take a shower then," Poul got up from his bed and headed towards the bathroom. "Make sure there''s breakfast."

    Jonathan nodded. "What am I, your maid?"

    "Oh give it a break, Jonathan. You have been cooking for us together for seven years, why are you still bothered about it?" Poul''s voice rang outside their bedroom, the sound decreased as Poul neared the bathroom.

    It took Poul ten minutes to take a bath. Jonathan wondered why he took long when usually you only need at least three minutes. Maybe he is doing something mysterious inside and he doesn''t want to know.

    He used that time to make a simple breakfast, a scrambled egg sandwich, and coffee. He made four scrambled egg sandwiches and two coffees, and After Poul got out of the bathroom, Jonathan went and told him that the breakfast was on the table.

    Twenty minutester, they are dressed in a spiffy yet sharp three-piece ck suit with aplementing burgundy tie. They both checked their reflection in the mirror several times to make sure everything was just right. It was good but it can be perfect by adding an overcoat and hat.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "This era''s style of fashion is sleek I must say," Poulmented. "I look handsome in this suit though."

    "Any man wearing a suit can look dashing," Jonathan remarked as hebed his hair to a side parting, giving him a simple yet dignified look. For the final touch, he ced a ck top hat on his head.

    They were ready to leave. Jonathan closed the door behind them. Then before leaving the headquarters, they made a quick detour to the main office where the engineers are working.

    "Mr. Axelsen and Nielsen. Are you going to leave now?" Walter asked politely as he ced his hand on his chest.

    "Yeah, we''ll be in New York for a week. While we are gone, I want you to watch over thepany for us. Don''t worry, we have done all the paperwork," Jonathan said.

    "If there is a special guest who came uninvited, tell them that we are away and give them this number," Poul handed Walter a calling card.

    Walter received it and took a quick nce at it. "Astoria hotel? You two are staying at the Astoria Hotel? Isn''t that the luxurious and exquisite hotel in New York?"

    "Morgan arranged it for us. He is a generous man. He even bought us a first-ss ticket to our trip to New Jersey."

    "New Jersey?" Walter tilted his head, confused. "I thought your destination was New York?"

    "Well, there is no direct line to New York Manhattan. We have to get to New Jersey first, and take a ferry that will take us to Manhattan," Poul exined and nced around. "Where is Timothy?"

    "I''m here!" Timothy said with a high voice as he entered the drawing room.

    "Perfect timing," Poul winked. "So did you already finish what I ordered you to do?"

    "The direct current electric motor is already packed and ready for shipping," Poul said. "I made sure that the parts were working properly before putting them into a wooden crate.

    "Good," Poul smiled in satisfaction and turned to every engineer in the room who was busy experimenting and working. "May I have your attention please!"

    The engineers paused what they were doing and looked over to their boss who was standing at the center of the room.

    "As you may all probably have learned, ourpany is growing at an unprecedented rate. From a smallpany to a big one. It''s a huge leap. And we couldn''t do it without you and the workers working their asses out day and night to make air brakes, draft gears, and signaling equipment. For that, we have decided that we will increase your sry. Your current sry was 100 dors per month correct? we will make it 150 dors."

    Hearing the announcement, the engineers erupted in cheers, ps, and whistles.

    "That''s all, everyone. We''ll see you at Christmas. We''ll announce the sry increase to the workers at the factory too when we return so keep quiet. That''s all for today, goodbye."

    "Take care sirs!" The engineers shouted as they exited the building.

 Chapter 33 At The Junction

    ?Poul and Jonathan boarded the carriage and sat next to each other. There are three horse-drawn carriagesing along with Poul and Jonathan. One carries the luggage and the direct current electric motor while the other one carries workers from the factory that will help them unload the luggage.

    Their destination is the Pennsylvania Station, a railroad under the control of Mr. Wanderbilt, themodore himself. The journey took three hours and the trip wasn''t a pleasant one.

    Just like the horse-drawn carriage in the neenth century, the concept of a suspension system hasn''t been developed yet. To make the trip less bumpy, the carriage features a long wheel that covers more area to lessen the up-and-down motion of the carriage. But the poor quality roads of the neenth century, or should they say, the ninth century.

    Nevertheless, the carriage arrived on schedule. The station was not as grand as the station in the modern age. It is simple, with erected tforms and ticket vendors where passengers buy tickets.

    The horse-drawn carriage stopped by the junction and immediately after its stopping, the factory workers Poul hired to help them move their things stepped out of the carriage.

    They lifted out three pieces of luggage from the horse-drawn carriage that was carrying the things and ced them carefully on the ground. The next one was the direct current electric motor. They handled it with care, as they are aware of the fragility of the device. They set it down on the ground carefully like the luggage.

    After doing that, one of the workers approached Poul.

    "Sir, it is done," the worker informed.

    Poul nced at the luggage and the wooden crate ced neatly on the ground. He smiled in satisfaction. "Good."

    Poul put his right hand in his pocket, fishing for a bill. He pulled out six pieces of one-dor bills and gave them to him. "That''s six dors¡­so two dors per each of you."

    "This is quite a lot, Sir Poul. Is it okay for us to receive this? To be honest, we weren''t expecting to be paid, a deed like this is no problem for us so I think I will return this¡ª"

    Poul ced a hand on his shoulder. "Being humble won''t get your family food on the table. ept it. What you did is work and it must be paid."

    "But sir¡­" the worker said hesitantly.

    Poul gave him a firm look. "Do you really not want the money? If you don''t then I''ll take it from you."

    "Eh?" the worker looked at Poul in surprise, wide-eyed. For a moment, he is starting to regret his humbleness and took back his word. "We''ll take it! Thank you for this. This is a huge help for us!"

    Poul chuckled softly. "As expected, you''ll concede when I bring that up. So I guess this is where we part. Have a safe trip back to thepany town. Don''t worry, the driver is not going to charge you as I already paid."

    "Thank you, Sir Poul, Sir Jonathan! Have a safe trip to both of you as well and may god bless you," the worker bowed politely before returning back to his co-workers.

    When the worker told them that they were given two dors for helping them, they grinned giddily. Two dors is equivalent to one day''s work, so it is a huge blessing for them.

    Poul and Jonathan watched as they boarded the carriage. With a "Hyah" from the driver, the horses started moving forward.

    Poul turned around and looked at Jonathan who still hadn''t said anything. Curious as to why it was, Poul looked in the direction where Jonathan was looking. It was a line of people lining up to buy their train tickets. Luckily for them, the two young industrialist duo don''t have to go through that as the train tickets are delivered to their headquarters. It was one of the perks of purchasing first-ss tickets.

    The porters in the station started carrying their luggage and cargo, along with other people''s cargo and luggage to the right end side of the station tform. Poul deduced that they''ll be picked upter and ced inside a special car of the train that would shortly arrive.

    Jonathan pulled the pocket watch out of his pocket and checked the time.

    "Hmm¡­the train is three minuteste," Jonathan said.

    "Oh really? What a shock. You poured cold water on me when I was sleeping so that we can leave early and now that we are here, the trains are nowhere to be found," Poul said in a sarcastic tone.

    "Well, what if the train arrived early and you woke upte? We won''t catch the train. Have you ever considered that thought before you speak, Poul?" Jonathan chided him lightly.

    "Man, I was just joking, why do you have to be so serious about everything?" Poul said, slightly annoyed. He looked away from Jonathan and stared at an empty spot. He sighed. "You are pissed, I get that. Well, I think I''m going to let you cool down there and take a seat¡­"

    Poul looked for a bench that wasn''t taken by anyone else. There was one and Poul went and sat on it. After a few moments, he heard a voice, but it didn''t belong to someone, but to a girl.

    "Uhm¡­ sir? is this seat taken?"

    Poul turned his head towards the source of the voice. His mouth opened to speak before he choked on every word, instead, he gasped for breath. The owner of the voice was a woman, her head tilted just so, standing a few inches away from him. Her long navy-blue hair trailed down her shoulder. She wore a blue ruffle neck Victorian blouse, ented with a velvet choker with a charm delicately lying amid the folds of the cor. The checkered style skirt with purple and pink side panels moved softly around her calves as she walked closer. The soft fabric hugged her womanly figure perfectly. The skirt was topped off with a red beret adorned with flowers that she tilted slightly in her hair and pinned down alluringly.

    "Yeah¡­yeah¡­it''s vacant," Poul stammered as he moved a little to the edge of the bench, offering her space to sit next to him. "Here. Sit here. Please."

    "Okay, thank you," the girl replied in a polite manner. She sat on the opposite end of the bench to Poul and rested her hands and purse gently on herp.

    Poul covered his mouth with his hand, hiding his reaction. But hiding it means admitting that the girl who just sat on the bench was a beautiful girl. To make sure it fits the description of the word, he stole a nce. The way she looked down with a smile and an eye closed in tranquil mesmerized Poul.

    It is the second time that he got charmed by the noble appearance of a girl. The first one is his first love, Sara. Even though he can''t see her now, he still has strong feelings for her. At least, that is what his heart says.

    While Poul''s eyes were fixed on the woman sitting beside him. A loud snark from a man snapped him out of a trance.

    "Where is the money?!" A huge man

    "I told you, I don''t have it!" A man who is shorter than the aggressor said in a scared tone.<novelnext></novelnext>

    The girl sitting beside Poul moved closer to him as she sensed a fight unfolding near her.

    "Don''t fuck with me!" The huge guy delivered a right hook directly to the shorter guy. The man tottered for a second before falling onto the floor. The tall guy who punched the short guy got seen by the railway officials. So he absconded quickly, pushing the man to the left that is blocking his way. The one that received the push also ran too, maybe to help the authorities chase him. The man the big guy pushed fell directly onto the girl who was sitting on the bench.

    Poul caught the girl that was about to fall over. The man that was pushed aside got up and left the premises.

    "Are you okay ma''am?" Poul asked the girl concernedly.

    "Yes, I''m fine," the girl answered while touching him on the shoulder, checking if she had hurt him in any way. "I''m so sorry about that, the man just fell on me."

    "It''s okay, I''m not hurt," Poul assured her and nced over behind her. "They are gone?"

    The girl turned her head around. Poul was right, the three men were gone. "That was the most frightful thing," she breathed a sigh of relief, knowing that she wasn''t hurt.

    Jonathan approached Poul. "Are you okay?"

    "I''m good," Poul raised his hand.

    Suddenly, a whistle of the train from afar sounded.

    "Everyone trains for Lansdale are approaching. Ready your tickets."

    Jonathan tapped him on the shoulder. "It''s six minuteste but at least it arrived. Let''s get ready now."

    Poul nodded. But before he could take a step, he noticed the girl looking around the bench as if she was looking for something.

    "My purse¡­my purse¡­" she said to herself.

    The train arrived at the station. This time, it wasn''t stopped by a brakeman but by a device they retrofitted to it, the air brake system. The first-ss passengers were the first to board so Jonathan joined the line. But when Poul wasn''t joining the line, he asked him.

    "What''s the matter?"

    "The girl," Poul said, watching the girl picking one luggage and briefcase and walking over to the ticket man. "She just got robbed by the men from earlier."

    "What do you mean?" Jonathan looked at the girl Poul was referring to.

    "Uhm¡­Excuse me¡­kind sir. My ticket was in my purse. There were two men fighting and somehow it must have been taken during themotion."

    "I''m sorry miss," the conductor said.

    The girl puffed and her face turned pale. "Please sir, I have to get to New York."

    "Not without a ticket," the conductor said indifferently.

    The girl conceded and returned back to the bench where she sat. She looked around it, hoping that her missing purse was there. But she stopped her search and walked over to Poul.

    "Sir. You haven''t seen a purse by any chance?" she asked, her voice breaking.

    "I have not, miss," Poul said.

    "It had my train and ferry tickets. And my money and I don''t know what I''m going to do. My superior is expecting me to arrive tomorrow morning for a presentation but without those tickets¡­" overwhelmed with emotion, she breaks into tears, burying her face into her hands.

    "Looks like she''s really desperate to go to New York," Jonathan whispered.

    "It''s a pity. Shame on those men who stole her purse," Poul whispered back.

    "So what are you going to do?" Jonathan asked.

    "It''s obvious," Poul said and walked over to the girl.

    "Uhm¡­miss, if you don''t mind, I can buy tickets for you. My partner and I are also headed to New York."

    The girl looked up and saw Poul.

    "Would that be okay?" The girl asked, wiping the tears off her face.

    Poul nodded.

 Chapter 34 A Pleasant Conversation With The Lady

    ?"Thank you for being kind enough to give me a ride, mister?" thedy asked Poul who was pouring a ss of water.

    Poul turned and offered her a ss of water, and spoke. "Poul Nielsen is the name. That man behind me is Jonathan Axelsen, my business partner since childhood."

    "Good day to you,dy?" Jonathan walked forward and extended his hand, offering a handshake.

    "Amelia Weiss," Amelia said, taking the ss of water with her left hand and the other shaking the hand of Jonathan. "Once again, I''d like to thank you for your kindness. Without you, I would get stuck in Pennsylvania penniless."

    "Well, I guess that you will have to be careful next time and be wary of your surroundings. You can''t differentiate good and bad people on the street," Poul advised.

    "Yeah¡­"

    The ss of water shook lightly as Amelia fiddled with her hands nervously. She looked around and couldn''t believe that she was in the first-ss car. Exquisite furnishings and intricately-woven carpets and curtains added a touch of elegance to an already ssy car. There is also a small bedroom and a water closet. Though the interior design was beautiful and overwhelming, it was not the reason why she was getting nervous. It was the fact that she had to stay with two gentlemen in the same car.

    The business ss tickets are sold out, and the spot that she herself reserved was taken by someone else due to the situation that was unfounded earlier.

    Would it really be okay to stay with two men here? Speaking of those men, it felt like she had heard their names before. It was from the newspaper, where she read the statement released by Mr. Wanderbilt about the tragic ident that urred on one of his express trains. If her memory serves right, Mr. Wanderbilt''spany sealed a deal with thepany that makes air brakes and lotive draft gears. The name of thepany was Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company.

    Her eyes widened in shock. "You both are owners of the air brakepany!?" Amelia eximed in disbelief.

    Poul and Jonathan nced at one another meaningfully after her sudden exmation, then faced her again with a nod.

    "Indeed we are. Our name gave the hint away," Poul said and continued. "I am sorry if we haven''t gotten you a seat in the business ss, as you know, it was fully booked, and your seat was quickly taken by someone. Seeing that this train trip is important to you, we bought you a first-ss ticket."

    "Ahh¡­you don''t have to apologize, Mr. Nielsen, you have been very kind to me."

    "I can sense that you are ufortable staying in the same car with two men you just met. If you want, you can have a bedroom for yourself. We are not really going to need it as the chair alone isfortable enough for us two, right Poul?" Jonathan said as he shot a cursory nce at Poul.

    "Right," Poul agreed while nodding.

    Amelia shook her head vigorously and fumbled her hands. "Oh no, Mr. Nielsen, that won''t do, I wouldn''t want to trouble you two more than necessary¡­"

    Poul and Jonathan chuckled softly at Amelia''s reaction.

    "Please, Lady Amelia, at least for once in our life, give us a chance of acting like gentlemen in front of a beautifuldy," Poul said smoothly, receiving a light smack on the head from Jonathan.

    "Oh please, forgive my associate for his inappropriate behavior, Mr. Nielsen. He gets carried away sometimes," Jonathan said as he smiled kindly at Amelia.

    "No...it''s okay...really," she stammered, her cheek blushing from the gentle tone of the two.

    And then an awkward silence fell upon them all.

    Jonathan broke the ice with, "So uh, the trip to Landsdale is about five hours. Perhaps we can pass the time by beginning a conversation," he proposed formally.

    "That would be a very good idea," Amelia bashfully giggled and started walking over to the vacant seat next to where Poul was standing.

    The moment she passed by Poul. Poul felt a good fragrance invading his nostrils, causing him to follow Amelia''s movement with his head and sniffed her fragrance that perfumed the air.

    "She smells sweet¡­.very sweet," he mumbled as he opened his eyes. There he noticed her glossy pristine hair.

    "You are being a creep again, Poul," Jonathan reminded him.

    "Uhm, Lady Amelia, do you, by any chance, use shampoo or perfume?" Poul asked.<novelnext></novelnext>

    Amelia was slightly surprised at his question but nevertheless answered him.

    "Yes, it''s a product made by thepany I have been working for. Have you heard of apany named Loreal?"

    "Loreal?" Poul heard that name from his original world. It is a personal carepany in France. He believed that thepany was founded in the early neen hundreds. How did he know? It popped up as one of the questions from the quiz bee he joined in high school.

    Could it be that the parallel Loreal in this world was founded way too early? It''s possible, given that this is a parallel world. But this is his first time hearing thepany name in this world so¡ª

    "I believe it''s the first time I heard that name," Poul said as she sat next to her and nced at Jonathan who sat across from them. "Have you heard of it, Jonathan?"

    Jonathan shook his head. "No."

    "What kind of products do they make?"

    "Uhm¡­shampoos, soaps, conditioner, fragrances, make-ups, skin care. Thepany also has subsidiaries in the clothing industry. A branch in New York just opened at sixth avenue a month ago."

    "So, thepany is not based in the United States?"

    "Thepany is based in Paris and was founded by a genius woman named Caroline Dupont. She was only ten years old at the time when she first made shampoo that is safe."

    "Seriously?" Poul and Jonathan gasped lightly. Poul continued. "Just how many young prodigies are living in this world? First, the young female doctor in Ennd is now a chemist from Paris? Wait, so if thepany is based in Paris, then how did you meet the founder?"

    "Well, she is my childhood friend. I work for her as a personal secretary. It means I handle everything ranging from managing diaries and organizing meetings and appointments to booking and arranging travel, transport, and amodation. organizing events and conferences, andstly reminding her of important tasks," Amelia said with prideced in her tone.

    "So you are not from the United States?" Jonathan asked.

    Amelia nodded her head, confirming it. "Yes. I was just visiting Pennsylvania to scout the location for the future expansion of thepany, and I had to present to her my findings tomorrow morning. Which is why I''m devastated when my purse got stolen. You were a lifesaver. I promise that I will pay you once I return to New York."

    "I see, it''s all starting to piece itself together now," Jonathan said.

    "You said you are a secretary right? How good are you at your job?"

    ''Uhm, very to the point Lady Caroline doesn''t intend to rece me," Amelia said confidently.

    "That''s sad, I was thinking about hiring you as our secretary because we are in dire need of one," Poul said.

    "Eh?" Amelia looked at Poul in surprise.

    "The paperwork is swamping us," Jonathan said and continued. "The correspondence keeps piling up to the point we are losing track of it. We are desperate to find a secretary that can sort those problems out so we can focus on research and design, and help us make executive decisions based on the summary of the correspondence."

    "I think I see now," Amelia covered her lips as she giggled. "Well, I wish you good luck in finding one because I have no intention of leaving Lady Caroline."

    "I admire the loyalty," Poul nodded respectfully.

    "Are you engineers by any chance?" Amelia asked.

    "Yes, I''m a mechanical engineer and Jonathan is a civil engineer. We are partners. The pipes filled with air that is running below, I''m the one who designed it. The facilities and buildings in the headquarters were from Jonathan."

    "You two are a great partner indeed," Amelia smiled proudly at the pair and the trip continued in silence after that.

 Chapter 35 Arriving At New York

    ?Seven hourster, the three arrived at the ferry station in Paulus Hook in amunity on the Hudson River waterfront in Jersey City, New Jersey. It is located one mile from Manhattan, New York.

    The three walked out of the dock where they waited for the ferry that would get them across the Hudson River.

    Amelia looked up and saw the darkened clouds and the sh of lightning streaking and arcing across the sky.

    "I don''t like the look of that cloud," Amelia said.

    "Let''s just hope that the ferry will arrive within fifteen minutes, otherwise there will be a huge chance of our schedule being dyed," Jonathan said.

    "You are right," Poul agreed.

    Four men approached Poul from behind. "Si, the luggage and the wooden crate are here, please check if there is something missing."

    Poul took a quick nce at the luggage and the wooden crate behind him and nodded. "They are all ounted for. Thank you for getting it out, may I ask to get them on the ferry the moment it arrives?"

    "No problem, Sir. It''s part of our job," the man said as he bowed courteously.

    Amelia nced at their things as well and asked. "If I may ask, what are you doing here in New York?"

    "We are on a business trip, mydy," Poul said. "Our primary investor wanted us toe here and witness the new opening of thepany which I am afraid I''ll have to omit as they asked us not to disclose anything about it. Though it didn''t say I can''t give a hint."

    "What''s the hint then?" Amelia asked.

    Poul smiled slyly before answering. "Humanity has been progressing unprecedentedly since the start of the industrial revolution. Thepany that will open in two days will revolutionize our way of living. It will be a huge announcement in New York and I''m sure you won''t miss it."

    "I am looking forward to it," Amelia said as she gazed at the distance, watching the ferries sail to and fro on the river. She hoped that one of the steamboats currently sailing along it was their ferry.

    "Uhm¡­before we part, can you tell me the address of the ce you are going to stay so that I can deliver the money?" Amelia said as she looked at Poul, who was still smiling.

    "Uhm¡­miss, I actually do not mind. Consider it as a gift from a stranger," Poul said.

    "Poul is right, Lady Amelia. You don''t have to pay us," Jonathan added.

    "I appreciate the kindness you are showing to me, kind sirs but I''m not ustomed to owing someone else, especially in money. So please, I insist, give me the address of the hotel you are staying at so that I can give it back."

    Jonathan looked at Poul as if asking if they should give up on this idea. Poul gave an almost imperceptible nod. Jonathan turned to Amelia.

    "Okay, we are staying at the Astoria Hotel on Fifth avenue. We don''t know what the room number is going to be but I believe you can ask the receptionist about that."

    "Thank you, Sir Poul, Jonathan. Without you, I wouldn''t be here. And I hope everything works out for both of you." Amelia said, giving them a warm smile.

    Poul returned her smile, then looked into her eyes and offered her his hand. "Lady Amelia, I have enjoyed meeting you. Oh¡­good luck with your presentation to your boss."

    After Poul shook her hand, Jonathan did the same thing.

    As they bid farewell to one another, the porter in the dock announced the arrival of the ferry with a loud voice.

    "Desbrosses Street ferrying in! Desbrosses Street ferrying in!"<novelnext></novelnext>

    The steamboat whistled, announcing its arrival to the passengers who were at the dock.

    "I think that''s us," Poul said. "Shall we go?"

    They boarded the ferry, sat next to each other, and waited for the ferry to disembark. They waited for thirty minutes as the passengers boarded the ship and their things were loaded. After that, the ferry left the dock as scheduled and made its way to the Desbrosses Street Ferry Station.

    On their way to the ferry station, the sky let out a thunderous roar, heralding to the passengers that the storm was indeed approaching. Two minutester, the rain started falling heavily.

    The drops pelted down on top of the ferry, producing a cacophony of noise. But it was rxing.

    Fifteen minutester, the ferry arrived at the Desbrosses Street Ferry Station. The passengers of the ferry got off the ferry one by one on the gangway carefully so as to not slip. The porters and other workers on the ferry raised an umbre above their heads to prevent the passengers from getting wet

    One of the porters came over to Amelia, Jonathan, and Poul "If you may, ma''am, sirs."

    Amelia went under the umbre and started walking along the gangway. Poul and Jonathan followed but due to the size of the umbre, they got their shoulders wet. They quickly reached the end of the gangway and waited in the station for the porters to get their things.

    It was a waiting game again. Due to the inclement weather, it was taking as long as usual. An hourter, the porters delivered their things to them and escorted them to the cab, or the horse-drawn carriages.

    Poul and Jonathan took the stagecoach-type horse-drawn carriage while Amelia took the Brougham-type horse-drawn carriage. But before they hopped into their respective carriages, they waved hands at one another, saying goodbye for onest time.

    Then, they hopped on their carriage.

    Inside the brougham-type carriage, Poul muttered. "Amelia¡­Amelia¡­have you ever seen a girl so beautiful before, Jonathan?"

    "Hearing you ask that question makes you unfaithful to your partner."

    "What do you mean?" Poul raised a brow.

    "I thought you only had one girl in your life, Sara? Don''t tell me you forgot about her."

    "I didn''t. Though I still have feelings for her, it is gradually fading. It''s just impossible for us to meet anymore if you know what I''m saying. She''s in our original world while we are here. After living in this world for about seven years, I can say that this life of ours is a restart. The past is already behind."

    "You are just saying that to make yourself good when you praise Amelia''s beauty."

    "It doesn''t always mean like that," Poul rebuked. "Well, you are partially right, I''m just a man who was charmed by her beauty. What''s wrong with that?"

    "Nothing?" Jonathan said and continued. "We should get going now," he knocked the ceiling of the carriage with a stick and the carriage started moving. Looking out of the window, they gaze at the streets and the buildings of New York. And one thing they notice is the huge difference between modern and Victorian-era New York. Their buildings on the street are just three to four stories tall while in the modern age, New York is filled with skyscrapers.

    "Fifth avenue, I believe is the ce where the Empire State Building was built. Yeah, I''m certain of it. After all, my dissertation was all about it."

    "Can you build it in this era?" Poul asked.

    "I know everything about the Empire State Building. It is possible but there are going to be challenges along the way, mostly from nature and foundation. New construction techniques and new technology are needed to build it."

    "Then once we have be a true millionaire, we should build that building as a symbol of our sess," Poul said.

    "I''m looking forward to it," Jonathan smiled.

 Chapter 36 At Astoria Hotel

    ?At Fifth Avenue and 34th Street, New York, the young industrialist duo arrived at the main entrance to the Astoria Hotel.

    The coachman jumped out from his seat and opened the door for the two young duos. Poul stepped out first before Jonathan. And once they set foot on the ground, they gaze up to see the full structure of the hotel. The building features a German renaissance style architecture. A height of 82 meters with sixteen stories. The building gave the two a nostalgic feeling as if they were taken back to the neenth century. Oh wait, they were literally taken back to the neenth century. The only difference is that it is different from the world they originally belonged to.

    "We should probably get inside, I don''t want to get myself wet more than this," Jonathan said, looking at his slightly wetted suit.

    It was raining heavily earlier but now it is just a drizzle.

    "Are they going to receive us? Morgan didn''t give us any bookings other than train and ferry tickets," John said, looking at Jonathan expectantly. He is the one who talked to Morgan so he should have answered his question.

    Jonathan sighed as he shook his head. "Unfortunately, they only gave us train and ferry tickets. But Morgan said that he already reserved a room for us and that we should only tell the receptionist our name and provide documentation to prove it."

    Poul looked at his briefcase. His documentation is inside it. He cleared his throat and then spoke. "Let''s go."

    The young industrialist duo walked forward and headed to the main entrance. The doorman opened the door for them with a bow, indicating their entrance into the luxurious lobby of the Astoria Hotel. White marble tiles lined the floor and reflected the light of a series of elegant gold chandeliers hanging from the ceiling. Men and women, far more elegantly dressed than the two of them, strolled in and out of the lobby. All of them wore light overcoats while others had on expensive gowns, enough to make the two of them feel as though they were in apletely different world as they stepped inside.

    "So this is New York huh?" Poul remarked. "Where the rich gathered and lived."

    "Not only that, if you were observant earlier, you''ll see opulent mansions along fifth avenue street."

    "This vibe I''m getting here, it feels like we don''t belong here. We belong to our house, which is just a two-story building structure," Poulmented as he looked around again at his surroundings. There he noticed the men and women giving him the inquisitive look. They whispered to one another as their gazes were fixed on him.

    Poul clicked his tongue. "It must have been a shock for them to see a white-haired handsome man entering the most expensive hotel in New York."

    "They are questioning how you were able to get in here," Jonathan leaned to his right as he whispered. "Maybe, they thought you were a pauper."

    "Just because I have silver hair means I''m penniless. What if I told them that I own apany with a current forty-five million valuation? And that I have way more money than them? Is the way they look at me change?"

    "First off, they''ll be shocked that you even have apany. And much more from having way more money than them. So, I think they are not going to receive you well. Oh, there are two distinctmunities here in New York. The old and the new."

    "Old and new?"

    "The old are the people that lived in New York before the revolution. The new are the ones who recently moved up to New York, which consisted of a monied elite, primarily the industrialist. The Rockefellers, Morgan, Carnegie, and Wanderbilt."

    "How did you do all that?" Poul asked.

    "I inquired," Jonathan simply replied before heading to the reception desk. Poul followed behind.

    "Good day to you sir, how may I help you?" The male receptionist greeted him pleasingly.

    "There is a reservation made here by John Morgan for us. My name is Jonathan Axelsen and the man behind me is Poul Nielsen. Perhaps you can confirm that in your records?"

    The receptionist nced at Poul in a rather strange way, then turned to the records he was holding in his hand, searching their names on the list.

    "Ahh¡­I found it. John Morgan booked a luxurious suite for Jonathan Axelsen and Poul Nielsen. Now I''ll only have to confirm your identity and have a Bell person escort you to your room."<novelnext></novelnext>

    Poul and Jonathan opened their briefcase and grabbed the papers. They handed it to the receptionist for him to peruse.

    "Poul Nielsen. Originally from Columbus, Ohio now moved to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. A founder of the Axelsen and Nielsen Air Brake Company and the Axelsen and Nielsen Union Switch and Signal Company."

    "Uhm¡­yes that''s me. Do you usually read a person''s identification out loud or is it just me?"

    "I apologize, sir, I''m just checking your credentials."

    "Oh well, now you have seen my name written on it with a city seal. So are you going to have us escorted to our room or not?"

    "Easy¡­Poul," Jonathan chimed in, trying to diffuse the situation before anything got ugly.

    "Look, we had a tiring and exhausting trip from Pittsburgh to New York, and we would like to get some rest."

    "I apologize, Sir," the receptionist said, still in the same pleasant tone of voice. "I have confirmed your identifications, and may now proceed."

    The receptionist grabbed the call bell resting on his desk and shook it to get the attention of a specific individual, the bellman.

    The bellman approached the reception desk.

    "Please escort these two gentlemen to their rooms on floor seven room in room seven five two."

    The bellman nodded his head and extended his hand out to the hallway, leading them in.

    "Thank you and have a wonderful stay in the Astoria Hotel. Your luggage will be delivered to your room shortly," the receptionist said.

    The bellman led them to the elevator hall. With just a nce, Poul can tell that the elevators are powered by a steam-powered hoisting engine underneath the floor. It must be the case as electric elevators are not yet introduced because electric motors are far from being ready in this world.

    There, an elevator operator opened the door of the elevator and they stepped inside. Poul and Jonathan nced at the usual ce for buttons where you can push a number and the elevator automatically gets a person there. However, this is a neenth-century style elevator. So instead of buttons, there is a lever that the elevator operator moves to control the speed.

    Jonathan leaned over to the side and whispered. "This is one of the many reasons why there are no high-rise buildings yet in this world."

    Poul nodded, agreeing to his statement. The steam-powered hoisting engine is a huge engine that can take up the space of a whole floor. Its power is directly proportional to the size so if one were to carry passengers from the ground floor to one hundred floors. The elevator would need bigger engines. That is expensive and not cost-effective to build. But that problem can be solved by using another type of propulsion, electricity.

    "Seventh floor," the elevator operator said, stopping the elevator. He opened the door and the three exited.

    The bellman led them to their room and once they got there, he inserted a key into the door knob and pushed it open. He gestured for them to enter.

    The two men entered the room.

    "If you have any questions, please press a button located there. It''ll notify the reception and call you immediately," the bellman said before leaving.

 Chapter 37 A Place To Live For The Whole Week

    ?Poul stepped forward and gazed around the room in awe. The chandelier that hung above illuminated the luxuriousness of the room. He was surrounded by an extravagant four-poster bed, silk curtains that hung from the ceiling, and portraits of important events from centuries past adorning the walls. A feeling of being transported back in time washed over him as he took in the Renaissance-style d¨¦cor.

    "So this is to be our room?" Poulmented as he sat down on the king-sized bed. He leaned back with his arms spread and he felt a sensation of sinking on his back. "The bed is soft, unlike the ones we have been sleeping on for ages in our office."

    Jonathan stepped forward inside their room too, and the sound of the embers crackling from the hearth caught his attention. "Yes it is, and I am d that we finally get to sleep infortable beds like that. Ah, if you look around, you can really appreciate simple things. No modern gadgets, everything is just a piece of art¡­Oh, there is also a bathroom here. Let me check."

    Jonathan opened the door towards the bathroom. There he saw the toilet and wash basin. The sight of it made him chuckle as he remembered the time when they rented a room in Columbus at the time they got transmigrated into this world.

    "They have indoor plumbing so that''s a plus. We don''t have to throw our poop out," Jonathan said before closing the door. He walked over to the window and swiped the curtain aside. He peeked outside. It was night but the streets were well-lit by a gasmp. The rooms of the buildings with candlelights. It was not bright so the outside gave an eerie yet calming feel about it all.

    Jonathan turned his head towards the door and looked at Poul who was lying on the bed, staring up at the ceiling as if he was thinking of something.

    "Looks like we''ll have to share a bed again. Why didn''t Morgan book us two rooms instead of one? Is he saving money? No, the price to stay in this hotel is just a speck of dustpared to his fortune."

    "I don''t really mind sharing a bed together," Poul said. "We have been sharing a room together since our reincarnation in this world. Well, if it bothers you that much, we can just rent another one for you. It''s not like we are a pauper or something."

    "No, that will be a waste of money. Let''s just do what we have been doing. And the bed isrge enough to amodate two people. Just don''t do anything funny."

    "What do you mean?" Poul nced in Jonathan''s direction.

    "Whenever I wake up, I always find your arms over me. Can''t you just sleep like a normal person?"

    "That''s how a normal person sleeps. What can I do? Anyways, we have to go through tomorrow''s meeting with Russel and Morgan. The electric motor. We have to sell the idea of electricity being the new force that will drive industrialization forward, farther than steam."

    "We have only brought an electric motor. If only you had built simple devices like portable drills or something."

    "I didn''t have the time. It''s why I only drew schematics. But I haven''t turned it into reality yet. Hence I can''t patent it. I''ll just show him a glimpse of what a functioning electric motor could do," Poul said and continued. "The lighting ceremony will be held in the New York Stock Exchange building the day after tomorrow right?"

    "Yeah, it''s going to be the first building to be lit up with electricity," Jonathan confirmed, crossing his arms and leaning his back against the wall. "It is going to be a momentous achievement for humankind, to capture what has been a sh across the night sky and tame it to work for humanity. Just saying that makes me excited. Aware that I''ll be part of the history when the parallel Edison turns the switch on."

    "But you know it''s going to fail, right?" Poul yawned as he said that. "Direct current transmission systems. Russel''s power can''t travel over one mile. It peters out. But with alternating current, we can step up the voltage and travel as far as the eyes can see, then it can be stepped down for residential use. The A.C. system is cheaper as it uses less copper."

    "I know and I thought you had a n right? You know, using Russel''s poprity to sell the idea that electricity is the future and that when the limitations of the direct current arise, we''ll step in and offer a better solution."

    "In the end, stealing his customers and possibly his investor out from him? I think I heard this story before in our world history," Jonathan rubbed his chin.

    "Inventing technology is a walk in the park for me. I can still remember everything that I have learned since I was born. The techniques that I developed on my own when I was working, and its theoretical aspects, " Poul said. "The problem is how are we going to market it. How to make people think that they need it and what can it do to them to make their life easier. If we can''t answer those questions, then it will be forever locked up somewhere in the depot. Especially in this world. The rich are fine to live a life without automobiles, private jets, and a yacht."

    "Then we can only impress them with that technology," Jonathan concluded as he stroked his chin. "Just the thought of it is making me fired up. Very well, let''s bring it on."

    ***

    New York 61st Street, Fifth Avenue. Nine o''clock in the evening.

    Amelia trudged down the hallway as the thought of her getting robbed in the broad daylight weighed down on her. It''s good that her purse was the only thing that they snatched from her. If it was her briefcase that contained important documents, then she would receive a harsh scolding from Caroline.

    Speaking of Caroline, she is heading now to her office. She stopped in front of the door and knocked on it.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "Lady Caroline, it''s me, Amelia."

    "Come in," a voice came from behind.

    "Excuse me," Amelia turned the doorknob and opened the door. She stood by the doorframe. Caroline was sitting on the chair behind her desk writing on a sheet of paper. On the other side of the desk were stacks upon piles of papers which Amelia assumed to be correspondence from business associates.

    "How was your trip to Phdelphia?" Caroline asked without ncing in her direction.

    "I have spoken with the mayor in Harrisburg about our prospect in the area. He is thrilled to have us there and is willing to sell us a plot ofnd where we can build our branch there."

    "Very good. And how is your trip back to New York?" She asked again.

    "It wasn''t a pleasant one, Lady Caroline. My purse was stolen while I was waiting for the train to Landsdale."

    Immediately after hearing Amelia''s words, Caroline stopped her hands from writing. She stood up and dashed over to Amelia. Then suddenly, braced both of her hands on the wall, cornering Amelia between herself and the wall. Her gaze was fixated on Amelia''s face.

    "What?! Who stole it? Were you hurt?! Did you alert the authorities?" Caroline interrogated her with great intensity as if she feared that Amelia might get hurt.

    Amelia raised her hand and gestured for Caroline to calm down.

    "No, I''m fine. I wasn''t hurt¡­" she let out a forced chuckle.

    "This is noughing matter. Tell me what happened exactly? I shouldn''t have sent you there all by yourself as it is dangerous," Caroline hissed. If something happened to Amelia, she wouldn''t forgive herself.

    "I was sitting on a bench, waiting for the train. Then a scuffle broke out. A man punched another man. The man who punched me fled the scene and pushed one gentleman in my direction and fell on me. I think at that moment, the gentleman snatched my purse. So the gentleman recovered himself and left the station too."

    "By the sound of it alone, it seemed like it was nned. Then how were you able to return to New York without your purse?" Caroline asked another question.

    "Fortunately, there are two gentlemen on the scene who loaned me train and ferry tickets. They were also heading to New York and are here currently for a business trip. I was thinking of repaying them tomorrow."

    Hearing that, Caroline heaved a huge sigh of relief. She ced her hand on her ample bosom, feeling the beat slowly decelerating from worry.

    "We should thank those men tomorrow. What''s their name? Did they ask for your address? I will pay them two times the money they lend you."

    "Uhm¡­they were insisting at first that I don''t have to pay but I insisted. As for their name, it''s Poul Nielsen and Jonathan Axelsen. Do you recognize those names?"

    "Poul Nielsen, Jonathan Axelsen¡­" Caroline repeated, she had indeed heard of those names before. "Aren''t they the founders of the Axelsen and Nielsen Air Brake Company?"

    "That''s correct, Lady Caroline¡­Uhh¡­" Amelia was startled as Caroline hugged her.

    "I''m sorry, Amelia, for sending you there alone. I shouldn''t have done that in the first ce. If something were to happen to you that time, I wouldn''t forgive myself¡­"

    Caroline let go and breathed heavily, her fingers traced Amelia''s soft cheek and cuffed it. "I WILL MAKE THOSE RUFFIANS PAY FOR WHAT THEY DID TO YOU," her expression turned grim and deadly.

 Chapter 38 Encounter

    ?December 16th, eight o''clock in the morning. The two industrialist duo dressed in a formal three-piece suit. Poul wore the gray one while Jonathan wore the ck one. Booking a luxurious suite in the Astoria Hoteles with a free breakfast. So instead of cooking their breakfast like they usually do all the time, they''ll just go down to the dining hall of the hotel and eat their breakfast there.

    "Are you ready?" Poul asked as he stood in front of the mirror, buttoning his suit and cing a fedora on top of his head.

    "We have a luncheon with Morgan and Russel at twelve o''clock, so there is no rush," Jonathan said as he ced a ck top hat on his head. "There is still time for us to roam around New York. I want to see how central park lookspared to the modern world."

    "I think it would be the same," Poul said, wearing his ck gloves. "Don''t forget the briefcase."

    "How about the electric motor?"

    "It is waiting for us in the lobby. I''ll hire a coachman and have it delivered at Pearl Street," Poul said, straightening his suit jacket. "It seems that we are done here, so let''s go."

    After preparations, they exited the room and down the lobby. As they stepped out of the elevator and walked down the marbled-floor hallway, Poul spoke.

    "I''ll take a seat and wait for you in the dining hall."

    "This won''t take long, I am just going to hand over our keys to the receptionist. You cane with me."

    "I have enough of the stares from the people, and I don''t want to see that receptionist as it might spoil my day," Poul insisted.

    "Well then suit yourself," Jonathan shrugged, and walked to the other end of the hall. He stopped in front of the receptionist''s desk and set the briefcase on the floor.

    "Good morning, Sir Jonathan. How can I help you?" The receptionist asked with a warm smile.

    "Me and my business partner are going out for a while. I''m leaving you the keys. And also, we have a cargo that was delivered here containing fragile devices. I was hoping you could arrange a footman or a coachman to have it delivered to 255 dash 257 Pearl Street Manhattan?"

    It was supposed to be Poul to do asking for delivery but since Jonathan is in the reception talking to the receptionist, he figured it might save them some time.

    "We can Sir Jonathan. But that will cost you fifty cents."

    "Fine by me," Jonathan pulled coins out of his pocket and ced them on top of the receptionist''s counter.

    The receptionist took the coins and opened a file. "I will have it prepared, Sir Jonathan. Is there anything that I can do for you?"

    "Yes, I believe there is free breakfast for guests that booked luxurious suites. I was wondering how long until it is avable?"

    "It''ll be avable until nine-thirty in the morning, Sir Jonathan."

    "Okay, thank you."

    "Is there anything?"

    "There is none."

    "Then enjoy your breakfast, Sir Jonathan," the receptionist gestured a bow.

    Jonathan lowered and grabbed the briefcase resting next to his right foot. While he was in that position, an aromatic fragrance struck his nostrils as another person approached the reception desk.

    He stood and gazed to his right and the moment his eyes fell on the person next to him, he was taken out of breath. Standing there was a beautiful girl with an aquiline nose and light-blonde hair that reached her shoulders. She wore a double-breasted white winter coat that goes all the way to her knee, hugging her hourss figure beautifully. Her lips were slightly tinted pink and she was adorned with diamond earrings and a ne.

    She tucked her hair behind her ears, which made his heart skip a beat, then smiled at Jonathan. Her smile seemed genuine yet charming like she genuinely enjoyed his presence. A gentleman never turns down ady''s smile. Jonathan smiled back politely and lifted his top hat.<novelnext></novelnext>

    But nothing happened beyond that, as Jonathan had to take his leave. Lifting his hat is a gesture enough to acknowledge her acknowledging him. As he was about to take his leave, Jonathan noticed another person that was walking up behind the girl that stunned him.

    "Sir Jonathan?"

    It was Amelia, pointing at him in recognition.

    "Wait, you are Jonathan Nielsen?" Caroline asked.

    "Indeed I am, miss," Jonathan confirmed.

    "What perfect timing! I was about to ask for an audience with you and Poul Nielsen," thedy said, smiling at him adorably.

    Jonathan blushed a little and let out a shied chuckle. "You know the name of my partner too? And why do you seek my presence?"

    "Well, it is because you are one of the gentlemen that lend hand to my precious secretary over here," thedy said, referring to Amelia who was waving her hand bashfully.

    "I see. I believe she said that she is going to repay us back with the money we lent her for the ferry and train tickets. Though unnecessary, she persisted," Jonathan said while looking at Amelia.

    Amelia giggled happily. "It won''t do, Mr. Jonathan. I have to repay you. Three dors is still arge amount of money despite you being a business owner."

    "My name is Caroline Dupont. I''m the founder and CEO of the Loreal Company."

    Jonathan raised his brows, this girl in front of him is the CEO? She''s young, probably around the age of seventeen or eighteen. Though Amelia mentioned that Caroline is a young geniusdy, it is still surprising to see it in person.

    "Uhm¡­good day to you, Miss Caroline, I''m Jonathan Axelsen co-founder of the Axelsen and Nielsen Air Brake Company. It''s a pleasure to you," he extended a hand, offering a handshake.

    Caroline briefly nced at it before looking into his eyes. The receptionist who witnessed the conversation sighed as he rubbed his nose. So he chimed in.

    "Uhm Sir Jonathan, when greeting ady, you are to grab her hand that she''ll offer and ce a kiss upon it. That should suffice," the receptionist exined.

    Jonathan chuckled a little, his cheeks flushed with redness and rubbed his temple embarrassingly. "I apologize, I wasn''t aware of the etiquette of this setting."

    "It''s fine," Caroline removed the glove from her right hand and offered it to Jonathan. "Here, you may do the formal honors."

    Jonathan wiped the palm of his hand on his clothes, not wanting to touch Caroline''s hand with sweaty hand. After that, he took her hand. Her hand was soft and smooth to the point he wanted to squeeze it. But he controlled himself. He leaned forward and pressed his lips against her hand and gently ced a kiss.

    Her hand smelled like roses. She is truly the most exquisitedy whom he has ever seen.

    He did the same thing to Amelia, whom she offered him gratefully.

    "Where is Poul Nielsen?" Caroline asked.

    "Oh, he is in the dining hall, waiting for me. Perhaps you could join us?" Jonathan offered.

    "That would be great, We were also about to invite you for breakfast."

    "Then please follow me," Jonathan took the lead.

 Chapter 39 Invitation

    ?Poul was adjusting to the stares of the patrons in the dining hall. They are giving him a repulsive look to the point some of them couldn''t hide their disgust. He could only click his tongue in annoyance. Those high-ranking elites are getting on his nerves. Like what''s so wrong about having silver hair? Does it make them less human? Ah, the issues of the parallel neenth century where discrimination and racism are ubiquitous.

    Not to mention, those elites probably have less money than him as they depended on the inheritance of their ancestors. With that, they''ll never have to work a day in their life.

    "Jonathan is taking long," Poul muttered as he tapped his feet on the floor impatiently. He wanted to get out of the dining hall as soon as possible as he couldn''t bear the stares he was receiving, making him ufortable.

    He nced over his shoulder to look over at the reception hall. And there he saw Jonathan, with twodies trailing behind him.

    When Jonathan neared Poul, Poul spoke.

    "What took you so long?" Poul asked.

    "I had an encounter with twodies behind me who were looking for us," Jonathan exined as he stepped aside, allowing Poul to see thedies he was referring to.

    Poul took a look. The first thing he noticed was Amelia, whose long and pristine navy-blue hair are tied in a ssic Chignon Bun style, and as for the girl standing beside her was a beautifuldy with shoulder-length hair wearing a white double-breasted coat, high heels, and ck leggings.

    He stood up and tilted the tip of his hat, and extended his hand offering a handshake.

    "Good day to you, I''m a close friend of Jonathan. Poul Nielsen," he smiled after introducing himself.

    However, his brows creased when thedy didn''t grab onto his hand. "What''s the matter?"

    "It was exined minutes ago that in order to introduce yourself to ady, you are to grab her hand and ce a gentle kiss upon the fingers," Jonathan exined.

    "Is that so? Sorry, I wasn''t aware of the etiquette of this setting," Poul exined bashfully.

    Amelia giggled, amused. "You sounded like Mr. Axelsen from earlier, Mr. Nielsen."

    Caroline offered him her hand and spoke. "Good day to you sir. I''m Caroline Dupont, I''m sure you have heard of me from Amelia''s stories."

    "Wait, you are the founder of Loreal?" Poul scanned her appearance for thest time before speaking again. "You look young."

    "I''ll take that as apliment. I could say the same thing to you as well. You are the founder of the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company, right?"

    Poul grabbed her hand and leaned forward to give her hand a kiss. And then he nodded in confirmation.

    After doing the formal gesture to Caroline, Poul walked over to Amelia and performed the same thing.

    "Let us take a seat," Jonathan offered as he pulled the chair for Caroline to sit. Poul did the same thing to Amelia''s chair. Once thedies were seated, the young industrialist duo returned to their seats.

    "It''s nice to see you again, Amelia. You really made an effort to see us today," Poul began.

    "I told you, I''m going to repay the money you loaned me for the train and ferry tickets," Amelia said.

    "You don''t have to really, but just as yesterday, I''m sure you are going to insist. So we are going to ept it," Poul said before looking at Caroline. "Though I didn''t expect Miss Caroline toe with you. I''m sure we could have arranged a better reception for the both of you."

    "You won''t have to, Sir Nielsen. We won''t take long anyway. I just want to see the gentleman who helped my precious secretary out of trouble," Caroline politely replied while waving her hands in an attempt to wave away the topic.

    Caroline continued. "In fact, I would have invited both of you for breakfast but seeing that you are already in the ce where the best breakfast is served, it had saved us both our time. For I am sure, you two have a schedule for today."

    "That''s correct," Jonathan chimed in. "We are here on a business trip and going to meet someone special."

    "I see. May I ask with whom?" Caroline asked curiously.

    Poul and Jonathan nced at one another as if doing a vote on whether they should tell or not. They agreed on a former. Nothing would be lost if they told them.

    "I''m sure you have heard of Mister John Morgan and James Russel?"

    "Ah, the financier and the popr inventor," Caroline recognized the name Jonathan mentioned. "I heard that tomorrow evening he will illuminate the New York Stock Exchange with his bulbs and direct current."

    "That''s quite correct. How did you know that?" Poul leaned forward as he asked.

    "I was invited, I''m also one of his contributors, a financier to Russel''s endeavor. Electricity would surely change and revolutionize the world, don''t you agree?" Caroline said.

    Poul and Jonathan nodded in agreement.

    "May I ask why are you meeting him?" Caroline added a question.

    "I''m afraid it''s a type of subject that we will have to omit," Poul said. Jonathan was slightly surprised at his words but immediately realized the reason why Poul did so. "Anyways, can we get you something to eat? Anything you want. We will pay, of course."

    "No, I should be the one paying," Caroline interjected. "We have taken your valuable time and we have topensate."

    "Miss Caroline, please let us look cool around our fellow patrons here," Poul said.<novelnext></novelnext>

    Caroline nced around and saw the patrons staring in their direction. Their gazes were piercing. She wondered why. She shifted her gaze to Poul and there she found her answer. Poul was an Albian. She didn''t notice that at first as she was focused on formting words on how to approach and thank the two gentlemen. No. In fact, Poul''s hair color wouldn''t have mattered at all.

    "Well, if you insist," Caroline conceded. "A light breakfast for both of us would do," she said.

    Jonathan flicked his hand, calling the attention of the waiter who had been standing by the wall, watching over the guests. The waiter approached and Jonathan ordered. It took him a minute to order. After that, they returned to their conversation.

    "I heard from Amelia that you two are engineers right? Mechanical and civil?"

    "That''s correct," Poul confirmed without much thought.

    "At what university did you two graduate?" Caroline asked again, this time the two were silent.

    They don''t know how to respond to her question as the two really didn''t graduate from any university in this world. Their credentials were in their original world, which in this case, doesn''t exist here.

    Caroline narrowed her eyes, looking at the two with a piercing gaze. Seeing their troubled look made her take back her question.

    "An advice for you two, when you are introducing yourself. Don''t tell me that you are an engineer. Because if you do, you''ll be questioned. And if you can''t provide them with what they need to know, they can use it to ruin the reputation of yourpany. Do you understand what I''m saying here?"

    "Yes ma''am," the two intoned formally.

    "Good. Just be careful. Your Air Brake Company is receiving traction here in the United States. Almost major railroadpanies implement it, including Wanderbilt, after the disaster in one of his express trains in New York Central. You wouldn''t want it to be ruined by a fake credential, do you?"

    Poul and Jonathan were slightly offended by her words. If only she knew about their credentials from their original world, she would be surprised. Though she got a point.

    "What was it that they said to you again, Amelia?" Caroline asked, looking at Amelia.

    "Uhm¡­they are looking for a secretary," Amelia said.

    "Is that true?" Caroline nced at the two.

    "That''s quite correct, miss. We are in need of secretaries to reduce our workload, especially on papers," Poul said.

    "And you offered my secretary to work with you, is that right?"

    "Wait¡­why is this sounding like an interrogation?" Jonathan observed. "To answer your question. Yes, we offered her but she tly refused."

    "I see," Caroline''s gaze flickered to Amelia. "Do you want to work with them?"

    "Eh?" Amelia was startled at the sudden question. "Uhm¡­no, I would only work for you, Miss Caroline."

    "I guess that''s a no for us?" Poul noted.

    "I''d say it is. Oh before I forgot, here is what I believe we owed you," Caroline said as she pulled out a small envelope from her purse, and handed it to Poul.

    Poul opened the envelope and peeked inside. "This is ten dors. Miss Amelia only owed us three dors."

    "And I tripled it," Caroline said. "You don''t want it?"

    "It''s too much but we will ept it. After all, you are going to insist, right?"

    Caroline chuckled. "You are starting to know me."

    The waiter arrived with their food, cing it on their table carefully.

    "Are you two freeter?" Caroline asked. "I would like to know both of you more."

    "Uhm¡­I don''t know how long our meeting with Morgan and Russel is going to take¡­" Jonathan said.

    "I''m sure it wouldn''t take hours right? How about five o''clock in the Bethesda fountain?"

    "We can arrange that," Poul epted her invitation.

    "Uhm¡­Miss Caroline, I think this would be a bother for them. They are in New York for a business trip. I''m sure they are busy, I hope you can reconsider," Amelia said.

    "They said they can go, Amelia. Aren''t you curious about them as well?" Caroline asked back.

    "I wouldn''t say that."

    "Then it''s settled. Five o''clock, in Bethesda fountain."

 Chapter 40 Impressions With One Another

    ?It took the four fifteen minutes to finish their breakfast. After that, they wiped the corners of their lips with a handkerchief, removing stains and greases from it. Then they stood up and the young industrialist duo escorted them outside.

    "This is where we part, Miss Caroline and Miss Amelia," Poul said. "We are going to take our leave here."

    "Thank you for the breakfast," Caroline said, bowing at them politely.

    "Uhm, do you want us to hail you a cab?" Jonathan offered, looking at Caroline.

    "That would be very kind of you, Sir Jonathan. If you don''t mind."

    Jonathan raised an arm forward in a wave. In the distance, a cab noticed the signal and came to stop before them. Poul opened the doors.

    "We will see you in the Bethesda fountain at five o''clock. If we are not there after thirty minutes, that could only mean there was an emergency or something urgent that we had to deal with. You may leave."

    "That would be very unbefitting for the both of you. A gentleman would never let ady wait," Caroline replied, smiling sweetly.

    When Poul was about to offer his hand to help her board the carriage, Jonathan pushed him away lightly.

    "Jonathan?" Poul spread his arm in confusion, looking between the two of them.

    "Let me be the one to help her," Jonathan said simply, offering his hand to Caroline to which thetter epted. She ced her hand over his and climbed up the carriage. When it was Amelia''s turn, Poul pulled Jonathan away and offered Amelia his hand.

    When Jonathan was about to demand an exnation for his sudden action, Poul spoke.

    "You had your chance, Jonathan. I can''t let you take all the spotlight."

    He flickered his gaze to thedies inside and smiled. "Is everything settled?"

    "Yes, thank you once again for helping my Amelia. I will meet both of youter," Caroline said.

    "Thank you, Sir Nielsen," Amelia said.

    "No problem," Poul said as he tipped his hat, and closed the door. The carriage began to move into the street and the two young industrialist duo watched as the carriage disappeared into the distance.

    "So we are going to meet them againter huh?" Poul said.

    "Yeah, I think that''s the case," Jonathan replied as he walked next to Poul. "You sure made your move to Miss Amelia huh?"

    "Well, just like how you didn''t let me hold Caroline''s hand, I didn''t let you grab Amelia."

    "So you like Amelia huh?" Jonathan said teasingly as he nudged Poul''s arm with an elbow. "Well Amelia is pretty so I can''t really me you for wanting to make a move on her. You know, if you were ever interested."

    Poul turned crimson and cleared his throat.

    "I¨CI suppose," Poul shrugged. "I am not certain yet but I would love to discover it for myself. I could say the same thing to you, the way you have been staring at Caroline when we were having our breakfast, do you think I wouldn''t notice?"

    "Well, you read me. It''s the first time I got charmed by a woman. You know me, Poul. I never had a girlfriend in the past and was alone for about thirty-six years. Maybe this would be different."

    "Be careful though. Caroline is a noblewoman from another country. She is rich, smart, and beautiful. She''s a top-tierdy. The same goes for her secretary. I don''t think it will be easy."

    "You won''t know if you don''t try, right?" Jonathan smiled, his voice taking on a mischievous tone.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "That''s a golden rule. Well, since we are going to meet themter. Might as well bring them some flowers. You ask the locals for the nearest flower shop as you know."

    "Why me?"

    "Do you really want me to answer that question?" Poul said, looking him in the eye.

    Jonathan realized. "Ah, the silver hair. How could I have forgotten? Don''t worry about the color of your hair, in the next one hundred years, people will look at it differently."

    "I hope they will. Let''s prepare ourselves. We have a meeting to attend."

    ***

    Inside the hansom cab-type horse-drawn carriage. Amelia and Caroline were silently staring out the window. Caroline broke the ice and spoke.

    "So those two are the ones you were talking about when you told me the story."

    "Yes, it is them."

    "I sense something odd going on between those two," Caroline observed. "Like, they don''t belong here."

    "What do you mean by that, Miss Caroline?" Amelia curiously asked. "Are you saying that those outsiders don''t belong in New York?"

    "No, not that one, it''s hard to exin," Caroline said and then went into pondering mode. When she asked her about where they graduated, the two were silent. That was an easy question and yet they froze.

    They im themselves to be an engineer in a specific field but couldn''t provide evidence to back it up. But they have the skills, enough to invent the air brakes that made lotive transportation safe.

    Could it be that they are in the same case as her? A person that died in their original world and was reborn in this world? If that were the case, then she would love them to work under her. But before that, she must know them. Like what did they do before they got here? Where are they from, and how did they get into this world? Good thing that she had asked them to meet her in Bethesda fountain. There, she''ll find her answer.

    Of course, Caroline isn''t sure if they are reborn souls. She is just assuming. After all, they are doing the same thing she was doing when she got reborn in this world. Profit from the knowledge they obtained from their past life. Only this time in the field of mechanical and civil engineering. And if they turned out to be transmigrators, then she would do everything it takes to get them under her.

    "Miss Caroline," Amelia tugged her sleeves gently. "Miss Caroline,"

    Caroline snapped out of her reverie. "What is it, Amelia?"

    "You seemed to be in deep thought. Are you okay?" Amelia asked concernedly.

    "I''m fine, Amelia," Caroline held her hand reassuringly. "I was just thinking about the two gentlemen who helped you. They wanted you to be their secretary."

    "Ah¡­is that the cause of your worry? I told you, Miss Caroline, I would never work for them. I''m satisfied working with you."

    "It''s good to hear that, Amelia," Caroline smiled. "But what if I told you that you can work for them?"

    "You don''t need me anymore, Miss Caroline?" Amelia''s face turned pale as a sheet. She lowered her head and folded her hands together tightly in herp.

    "Oh no, Amelia dear, I''m just asking. What if I ordered you to be their secretary? Would you agree?"

    "Well, if it''s an order, then I would do it," Amelia said.

    "Thank you for letting me know, Amelia," Caroline said, stroking her cheek affectionately.

 Chapter 41 Meeting Russel And Morgan In Pearl Street

    ?55-57 Pearl Street, the two young industrialist duo arrived at the would-be the first street to have a power station in New York Manhattan.

    Poul hefted the wooden crate out of the horse-drawn carriage with a grunt. It carried the electric motor which they''ll demonstrate to Mister Russelter.

    Jonathan scanned the building. The appearance is like every other building in New York only the difference of having a funnel on top of it where ck smoke would being out from, and a sign that said: Russel Illuminating Company.

    Poul stood next to Jonathan, taking in the sight of the building.

    "So this is where electricity would be introduced to New York and to the world huh?" Poulmented.

    "We should get inside," Jonathan suggested. "I''m sure Mister Russel and Morgan are waiting for us."

    The young industrialist duo walked forward and entered the building. Inside, they were approached by a young man whom they have already met.

    "Good day to you Sir Axelsen, Sir Nielsen. Wee to the Russel Illuminating Company Pearl Street Station," the man weed.

    "Sam Insull, was it?" Poul recognized his face and voice. "You are Russel''s personal secretary. Nice to see you again."

    "The box you are lifting must be heavy, why don''t you let our guys carry it for you?" Sam offered.

    Poul nodded to his offer. The wooden crate weighs about thirty kilograms, and though he is used to carrying such weight, moving it from one ce to another is sure to hurt his arm and wrist.

    Two workers of thepany stepped forward and took the crate from his grip.

    "Please follow me," Sam led the way upstairs with two workers trailing behind him. The two industrialist duo followed Sam up and a minuteter, they arrived at an office.

    Inside, he saw Mr. Morgan who was sitting on the armchair and reading a newspaper.

    "You two are ten minutes early," Morgan folded the newspaper and set it on the armrest. He stood and extended his hand, offering them a handshake.

    "Mister Morgan," Poul shook his hand.

    "Mister Nielsen, Mister Axelsen, d to see both of you in fine condition," Morgan shook Jonathan''s hand.

    "Where is Mister Russel?" Poul looked around and saw an empty chair behind the desk.

    "He will be here soon. Why don''t you two take a seat and have some coffee?" Morgan gestured to a couple of armchairs nearby. "Sam, could you please serve them some coffee."

    "Of course, Mister Morgan," Sam acknowledged the order before exiting the room to carry out his duty.

    After the young industrialist duo had seated themselves, Morgan asked them, "So, how is business?"

    "Well Mister Morgan, business doing good as usual. We are filled with orders from major railroadpanies and are working twenty-four hours to churn out air brakes, lotive draft gear, and signaling equipment. Thanks to you, we have been busy a lottely," Poul exined. Jonathan hummed in agreement.

    Morgan smiled. "Oh well, you must understand that I have to make out the most of my investment in yourpany. The more profit that you earn, the more money that I will have."

    Poul nodded. "Well without you, we wouldn''tnd a twenty-five million dor contract from Mr. Wanderbilt. By the way, how is he doing?"

    "He is not doing well," Morgan said and continued. "Despite announcing to the public that he will implement all of his lotives with air brakes, he still faces an inevitable suit of indirect manughter. Company stocks are still dropping and the people are still wary of hopping on their trains."

    "How was the investigation? What is the cause of the ident?" Jonathan inquired.

    "The train was moving ten miles above the speed limit and as they were about to reach the curve, the brakes failed in spite of the efforts of the brakeman. It derailed,

    "So speeding and brake malfunction?" Poul said, scoffing softly. "I think the driver is to me here."

    "Even if the trains speed a little, the brakeman can still slow it down. However, as I said, there was a brake malfunction. Have you two been in the stock markettely? This is the perfect opportunity for you to buy shares while the prices are still low."

    Poul pondered for a moment, giving Morgan''s suggestion a thought.

    "Well, I think we will in the future."

    "Why?" Jonathan demanded an exnation. "Wanderbilt''s stocks are falling, aren''t we going to lose money from it?"

    "Well Jonathan, that drop is only temporary. Once everything is cleared, it''ll rise up again as the confidence returns to thepany. Wanderbilt''s trainpany indeed had a tragic ident in the railway history of the United States, but you can''t deny the fact of the importance of hispany''s rails in moving the economy forward."

    "Wise words from Mister Nielsen," Morgan praised. "I see that you grasp the fundamentals."

    "Mister Russel is sure it is taking too long," Jonathan noted.

    "He''ll arrive soon," Morgan assured them.

    At that moment, the door opened revealing another young industrialist, this time, dressed in a gray business suit. He was tall and broad-shouldered. Dark blond hair framed his handsome face, contrasting his fair skin tone. His brown eyes shone under a dark pair of horn-rimmed sses. And just like any gentleman in New York, he wears a ck top hat.

    The new arrival took off his shades to reveal a piercing gaze. He gave everyone a weing smile and extended his hand toward them. "You must be?"

    "Poul Nielsen, founder of the Axelsen and Nielsen Air Brake Company and the Union Switch and Signal Company. The man standing next to me is Jonathan Axelsen, the co-founder of thepany."

    "Good day to you, Sir Russel," Jonathan greeted Russel with a handshake.

    After shaking their hands, Russel moved to Morgan.

    "Mister Morgan, I appreciate youing here," Russel said as he shook Morgan''s hand. "Let us take a seat. I''m sure you have been waiting for me for so long so why don''t we get started?"

    Russel took his seat behind the desk, and the others did the same.

    "So, Mister Nielsen and Axelsen. Mister Morgan here said to me that you have something to show me?"

    "Yes, Mister Russel. With your permission, I would love to show you one of our inventions that can make electricity even more important to the industry than bringing light."<novelnext></novelnext>

    "My electricity not only brings light but heat, Mister Nielsen," Russel corrected.

    "Ah¡­you have a cogeneration power nt here? You use the byproduct of the steam engine and transport it via a series of connecting pipes, providing the block with a steam heating system. An ingenious idea."

    "You know your stuff huh?" Russelplimented.

    As they were having a pleasant discussion, the door swung open and one gentleman entered with a tray of coffee.

    "Sorry if I took too long making you coffee," Sam said apologetically as he handed them a coffee in a saucer.

    "No problem. Sir Insull. Can you get the wooden crate inside? It contains something that we''d want to show Mister Russel," Poul said.

    Insull flicked his hand and the two men promptly brought the wooden crate inside the office.

    "Where would you like us to ce it?" one of the men carrying the wooden crate asked.

    "Mister Russel, can we ce it on your desk?"

    "Fine," Russel epted and the men ced it on the desk.

    They pried it open using a crowbar, causing the sides to fall, revealing a cylinder-shaped metal cage.

    "What is this?" Russel examined the metal cylinder in front of him.

    "That is a brushed direct current electric motor, Mister Russel. That is going to be the driving force of the industry henceforth," Poul introduced. "Do you have a battery here that we can use to hook them up?"

    Russel looked at Insull meaningfully. Insull nodded.

    Five minutester, Insull returned with a battery.

    As Poul was setting up the electric motor and the battery, Russel spoke to Jonathan.

    "We are also working on an electric motor. How did the two of them learn the knowledge to build one?"

    "Well, we have been studying the forces of electricity, Mister Russel. Our inspirationes from the steam engine. If we can harness the power of steam, is it possible to harness the power of electricity to do work? From that principle, my partner here who has knowledge of electricity built a working prototype."

    "He is speaking the truth, Mister Russel," Morgan chimed in. "I have seen one myself in their factories."

    "Really?" Russel arched his brow. Two minutester, Poul was finished.

    "Now, with a flip of the switch, we are going to convert electrical energy to mechanical energy," after saying that, Poul flipped the switch.

    The motor came to life, whirring and humming intimidatingly and the table started vibrating.

    "This is kind of scaring me," Russel chuckled nervously. "Is this going to blow up?"

    "Direct current has a high initial torque. By the way, the power of this electric motor is one horsepower. One horsepower is equivalent to five hundred fifty pounds per second or thirty-three thousand pounds per minute," Poul exined and continued. "You see the rotating shaft at the end? That is where we are going to connect the things we would want to move."

    "Only one horsepower?" Russel asked.

    "We can also build an electric motor with fifty horsepower. You can imagine the applications right in your head?"

    "I do."

    "It seems like we beat you to it, Russel," Poul said.

    "What do you mean?"

    "You said you are building a working electric motor. But we already made one and are already applying it to our factory."

    "I see, and let me guess, you are going to give me the schematics?"

    Poul flipped the switch off, causing the motor to stop running. Its noise is making for the people to understand one another.

    "Unfortunately we can''t show you the full schematics of it yet. We haven''t patented it but we will in theing weeks."

    "So why did you show it to me?"

    "I''d want to license you the technology, Mr. Russel. We will give you the technical know-how on how to mass produce and maintain them."

    "And what do you get in return?" Russel asked.

    "For every horsepower of direct current motors sold, you are going to pay us two dors and fifty cents. For example, if you sell an electric motor with ten horsepower, you will pay us twenty-five dors."

    "How much does one electric motor usually cost?" Russel asked again.

    "About sixty to eighty dors. And to make one of them, you only need ten dors. Naturally, the higher the power of the motor, the higher the price. So what do you say? Not only can you provide your customers with heat and electricity, but you can also give them the productivity, convenience, andfort that the customers are after. You see, steam engines are expensive but electricity is cheaper. You''d see what they''d prefer if they discovered the electric motor right?" Poul smiled.

    "I will help you market it," Morgan interjected.

    "So, what''s it going to be, Mister Russel? Are you in or out?" Poul asked.

    "This electric motor of yours can power tools and appliances right?"

    "Yes they do," Poul guaranteed.

    "Then let us proceed to the contract," Russel decided.

 Chapter 42 Signing A Contract With Russel

    ?As Russel''s secretary, Sam Insull, was preparing the contract. The four were finding a way to pass the time.

    There are temtes in a contract such as this deal, and the deal was informed by Morgan Russel beforehand. So instead of having to wait three to four days for the parties to write the terms of the contract, they only have to wait one or two hours. And once it is ready, they''ll only have to vet it with theirwyers and they are good to go.

    Unfortunately, the two young industrialist duo don''t have awyer yet. The Axelsen and Nielsen Air Brake Company hasn''t established a legal department as they were preupied with fulfilling the orders. But after seeing them sign contracts on contracts, the realization of needing a legal team dawned in their mind.

    "Can we trust yourwyers, Mister Morgan?" Poul broke the silence. His eyes fixed on Morgan who was sitting across from him, sipping his coffee.

    "If you are that worried, you can check the contents of the contract by yourself," Morgan said flippantly.

    "Let''s just make sure that there will be no loopholes," Jonathan added.

    "There will be no loopholes," Morgan assured. "Russel''spany and yours are my valuable enterprises. Why would I start discord among you? In fact, yourpanies should act like a team. Russel is electrifying the world while both of you are making devices to harness the power of lighting¡­Is it true Russel that you patented your direct current system electrical transmission?"

    "That''s right, Mister Morgan. I just got it two months ago," Russel confirmed.

    Poul sighed inwardly. So Russel already patented the direct current transmission system huh? That will give Russel the power to monopolize the electric distribution in the United States. If someone wants topete with his system, they either have to receive a license from Russel or build a new system different from the direct current system, which is the alternating current.

    But in this period, the world deemed alternating current as useless because it has no practical uses, at least not yet. Poul he is going to prove them wrong once his enterprises stabilized to the point of self-sufficiency.

    "Mister Nielsen and Mister Axelsen," Russel called, prompting the industrialist duo to look over him. "You are attending the lighting ceremony of the New York Stock Exchange tomorrow evening right?"

    "Well, we have been informed and invited by Mister Morgan over the telephone," Poul said and continued. "And we are interested to be part of history. Right, Jonathan?"

    Poul nced at his partner who was sitting next to him. Jonathan nodded in affirmation.

    "Great," Russel smiled. "Then I guess I''ll see both of you gentlemen there."

    When the topic of lighting the New York Stock Exchange was brought up, Poul recalled something.

    "Have you heard of a person named Caroline Dupont? The founder of Loreal?" Poul inquired.

    "How did you know her?" Morgan''s brows furrowed slightly.

    "On our way to New York, there was thisdy in the station whose purse was stolen by a thief. We helped her by loaning her train and ferry tickets. Turns out thedy was Caroline''s secretary, who then gave us a visit in the Astoria Hotel hoping to thank us and pay the money thedy owed us," Jonathan interceded and continued. "She also said that she is invited to the lighting ceremony tomorrow evening. Poul asked because we are curious about thedy."

    "Well, Miss Caroline Dupont is indeed the founder of the Loreal Corporation, thergest cosmetic, consumer goods, and apparelpany in the world. One of the investors of the Russel Illuminating Company and the soon-to-be first customer to be installed with electric power," Russel said and continued. "About her attendance tomorrow, yes I have invited her toe to the ceremony."

    "I heard that she has a branch here in New York? Do you know where it is?" Poul asked.

    "I believe it''s on Broadway," Russel answered.

    "Broadway? Isn''t that six miles away from here? How is your electricity going to reach that distance?" Poul inquired curiously.

    "We are going to build a power nt in Broadway street," Russel answered tly.

    "I see," Poul sighed. One of the weaknesses of the direct current is rearing its ugly head.

    "Why are you sighing?" Russel arched his brow.

    "Nothing," Poul shook his head and waved his hand in front of him dismissively. But Russel got a hint from what he was disappointed about by reading his facial expression alone.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "I know, the direct current can''t travel beyond one mile but with enough time we will be able to solve that problem and make electricity so cheap that only the rich burn candles," Russel averred confidently.

    "No, you won''t, Mister Russel. You won''t be able to build such a system with direct current," is what the words Poul wanted to say to Russel but he kept to himself. Instead, he smiled, showing support for his endeavor.

    Two hourster, Sam Insull returned with a contract.

    "Here it is, Mister Russel. Already vetted by our legal team," Insull said.

    "Good, show it to them," Russel ordered. Insull handed the papers to Poul and immediately perused the content.

    Jonathan leaned over to peruse it also. Together, they spent thirty minutes reading through terms and obligations which they found reasonable.

    "We will provide the detailed schematics of the electric motor and give you rights to produce, manufacture, and distribute it for ten years. Once the term of the contract ends, both parties have the right to decide whether to renew the contract or not. In return for the rights, you''ll pay us royalties. Two dors and fifty cents for every horsepower of direct current electric motor sold. I''m sure I have exined to you how it was calcted earlier, didn''t I? Mister Russel?" Poul said.

    "It was made clear to me earlier, Mister Nielsen. You don''t have to repeat it for me," Russel cleared his throat.

    "Alright then, let''s get this done. I apologize, Mister Morgan. The terms in the contract are very clear to us and we won''t need awyer to interpret it."

    "Well, you are the boss," Morgan said, smiling.

    "Ohh¡­good thing that you included it here. If yourpany failed to pay royalties ordingly, we will have the right to take legal action which would cost you more than the royalties," Poul read the section that described the term.

    "And if the schematics and the manufacturing process you gave us didn''t work as intended, we will also have the right to take legal action and force you topensate for every dor it cost us to build the facilities, acquire raw materials, and others," Russel said.

    "That''s fair. If there''s nothing, we can sign the contract," Poul suggested as Jonathan handed him the fountain pen. "I''ll sign first."

    Poul signed the document, followed by Jonathan. Russel grabbed his own fountain pen and signed the contract as well.

    After that, Morgan pped his hand in joy.

    "Good. I love it when the two of you are working for the greater good of your enterprises. We will meet each other again tomorrow in the lighting ceremony."

    "We will see you tomorrow, Mister Nielsen and Mister Axelsen," Russel said as he nced at the two.

    "Of course, you can expect our attendance," Poul nodded in response. He pulled the pocket watch out of his pocket and checked the time. "Oh boy. Jonathan, we have to go, we will bete for our meeting."

    "What meeting?" Morgan raised a brow.

    "A meeting with Caroline Dupont. She said she wanted to talk about something to which we agreed."

    "Where?"

    "In Bethesda fountain in Central Park. By the way, do you know where we can buy flowers?" Poul asked.

    "At seventy-ninth street first avenue. There''s a flower shop there," Morgan told him.

    "Alright, thanks. See you tomorrow evening," Poul and Jonathan waved goodbye to them and proceeded towards the exit.

 Chapter 43 Heading To Bethesda Fountain

    ?The meeting with Mister Morgan and Mister Russel concluded with another score for the two young industrialist duo. They had sessfully licensed their invention, a functioning and working direct current electric motor to Mister Russel. Giving him the rights to produce, manufacture, and distribute the electric motor in exchange for royalties.

    This is just a step forward to their ns of possibly bing the greatest industrialist in this neenth-century parallel world. As they have promised themselves they will build a huge memento, glorifying their climb to the summit using the knowledge they had gained from their original world.

    It may take years or decades but they''ll eventually get there, they know it. Their minds are overflowing with ideas that can revolutionize the world and take it by storm. The electric motor and the air brake are just a start.

    There''s only one thing they have to do in New York, and that is to attend the lighting ceremony of the New York Stock Exchange, the very first building in New York to be lit by an electric bulb. There''s no way the young industrialist duo is going to miss it.

    However, before that, there was an addition to the schedule. The beautifuldy that they met in the Pennsylvania Station happened to be the secretary of the richest woman in the world, Caroline Dupont. A woman who brought personal care products to men and women.

    She must be a prodigy, to be able to concoct such products at a young age.

    They are scheduled to meet them in Bethesda fountain, and the young industrialist duo is heading there now in their horse-drawn buggy. It is an open-type carriage, meaning it has no roof, allowing the two to take in the sight of the neenth-century parallel New York. It was awe-inspiring, making them appreciate the arts and crafts of the people who had lived in the past. However, the gloomy dark sky is seemingly going to ruin the sight.

    It has been raining frequently in New York, and the young industrialist duo had forgotten to bring their umbres with them. But with their meteorological knowledge, they can predict when it''s going to rain through humidity, which is the moisture in the air, and the wind speed, whose direction changes due to the pressure in the air.

    "The humidity is at seventy-nine percent," Poul said, rubbing his thumb and middle finger together while scanning the surroundings, specifically the plumes from the chimneys. "The smoke is spiraling back down, which means the air pressure is low, an indication of bad weathering. If this continues, the rain is going to drop in one hour and two minutes."

    "I''m really impressed at your calcting speed and observation, Poul. Well, there''s nothing to worry about. We can buy an umbre in the shop if needed. Besides, there are still thirty minutes left before the clock strikes five o''clock." Jonathan said as he checked his timepiece. "Hmm, let me retract what I said, we won''t be needing it."

    "Sometimes, I want to shut off my brain and not think for a minute," Poul grumbled. "I can''t me myself for it. I have been thirsty for knowledge since I was a kid."

    "Arriving at the seventy-ninth street," the driver of the buggy informed the industrialist duo.

    "Oh yeah, we are buying thedies some flowers huh?" Poul said as he jumped out of the buggy.

    "Yeah. I want our meeting with Miss Caroline and Amelia to be formal."

    "And bringing flowers is one way of making it formal," Poul said as he ced a finger on his chin. "Or perhaps, you are making a move to Caroline."

    "Gulp," Jonathan froze in ce. He then looked over his shoulder.

    Poul chuckled in a teasing manner. "Well, you said so yourself. That it was your first time getting charmed by a woman. Caroline Dupont, not only is she beautifully perfect but a genius chemist and businesswoman. I just assumed that she is a chemist due to the nature of her business. Nheless, an impressive and amazing woman. Not to mention, she''s way out of your league."

    "There''s no such thing as ''out of your league''," Jonathan said with a determined look on his face. "As long as you invest a lot of effort, you''ll get anything that you want, be it an object or the girl you like."

    After hearing such enlightenment words from Jonathan, Poul chortled. "I can''t believe that I''m hearing it from you. Normally, you''d said that you don''t have time to have a girlfriend back in college and now you are here, love-stricken. It''s amusing, to say the least."

    "Shut up and get off me," Jonathan said as he started browsing the bouquet of flowers disyed on the storefront. "What''s the best flower to give to a woman?"

    "How should I know that information?" Poul shrugged his shoulders. "Just pick those that look eye-catching."

    "Even though you are the one who suggested this," Jonathan grumbled and picked one that looked beautiful. "Uhm, how much for those pink tulips?" he inquired with the florist."

    "Eighty-six cents," the florist responded.

    Jonathan nced over his shoulder and called Poul. "Aren''t you going to buy one for Amelia?"

    "Get me a bouquet of roses," Poul said. "I''ll pay youter back in the hotel. I''m feelingzy to pull money out from my pocket."

    "You don''t have to. I know you are not going to pay," Jonathan said as he paid the florist the money. The florist handed the bouquet of flowers with care to him. Then he walked over to Poul and gave him the bouquet of roses.

    "Thank you," Poul grinned as he hopped back to the buggy. "Take us to the Bethesda fountain."

    The coachman waited for Jonathan to board the buggy. Once he was seated, the buggy started moving.

    ***

    Bethesda fountain. One of the many attractions in New York City with an astonishing view of the ramble and theke. The fountain, which is also called the Angel of the Waters, is located at the center of the terrace. Trees sprouted along the thoroughfare, and their sweet scent perfumed the air.<novelnext></novelnext>

    Poul looked at this pocket watch and checked the time. "It''s five o''clock now. Where are they?"

    Jonathan looked around, looking for Caroline and Amelia. "I don''t see them. Something must have happened on their way here."

    "It''s better that way. If we are the ones who arete, then it will be embarrassing. Either way, we can''t wait for them forever. Let''s give them a thirty-minute grace period. If they still hadn''t arrived before that time, we have no choice but to lea¡­" Poul wasn''t able to finish his words when he saw the twodies walking into the entrance to the park. "It''s them!"

    Jonathan hid his flowers behind his back, Poul did the same. As Caroline and Amelia neared their direction, the two industrialist duo pressed their lips into a fine line, excited and nervous at the same time.

    "I apologize if we are a minutete, Mister Axelsen, Mister Nielsen. There was traffic," Caroline exined with an apologetic look.

    "It''s okay, we two just arrived anyway," Jonathan said, smiling. "Anyways, here, I bought this for you. I hope you like it,"

    "Wow¡­" Caroline eximed softly the moment Jonathan presented her with the bouquet of tulips. She gratefully epted them and sniffed the petals with her eyes closed. The wind blew, causing her shoulder-length hair to flutter lightly, revealing her face that is perfect in proportions, her skin so light that it almost seemed white as snow.

    Jonathan was once again stunned. She''s too bad for his heart. Poul was grinning next to him, amused at the sight of his best friend''s face. While Jonathan was in trance, Poul took this chance and gave the bouquet of roses to Amelia.

    Amelia startled at the flower before her. "Uhm¡­you are giving me this?"

    Poul nodded. "I bought it for you."

    "Uhm¡­"

    Poul frowned. "You don''t like it?"

    "No, it''s not that¡­It''s just that it is my first time receiving flowers from a man," she said bashfully, her cheek reddening.

    "Is that so? Then would you let me be the first? Lady Amelia?" Poul said with an inviting smile, hoping that he could persuade thedy with his charming smile and charm.

    "Hmm¡­" Amelia replied in a hum, epting the flowers, and brought it close to her chest, staring at it fondly.

    A fleeting moment of silence passed between them. It was Caroline who broke the silence first.

    "Thank you for the flowers, we didn''t expect it but we are grateful nheless. You were kind enough to buy something for us, even though you don''t have to."

    Jonathan waved his hand dismissively. "No, it''s no bother really. In fact, we liked purchasing flowers for a beautifuldy such as you¡­"

    Caroline giggled, "Are you perhaps hitting on me, Sir Axelsen?"

    "What if I told you I am?" Jonathan smoothly said with a wink.

    "Then do your hardest. And if you do, I might fall for you," Caroline smiled coyly.

    "Very well," Jonathan said, epting her challenge.

    "Well, gentleman, the reason why I wanted to meet you here is that I have something to ask. But I can only speak about it with only one of you," Caroline said.

    "Take Jonathan," Poul suggested without much thought.

    "Are you sure?" Caroline asked, her gaze remaining fixed on Jonathan.

    "Amelia and I are going to walk around the park while you two speak whatever is it that you need to talk about. Would that be okay for you, mydy?"

    "Yes," Amelia nodded.

    "Then it''s settled," Poul said.

    With that, the two parted ways temporarily.

 Chapter 44 Revelation

    ?"To be honest, I''m quite curious about the topic we are going to discuss, Miss Caroline," Jonathan chuckled nervously as they walked side-by-side with her around the park.

    "Drop the formalities, Sir Jonathan, we are about the same age," Caroline said, looking around and taking all the sight into her eyes. "Caroline would do."

    "Then I would also ask you to do the same. Call me Jonathan."

    "Okay then, Jonathan. As you are already curious, I will stop beating around the bush and tell it straight to you."

    "I''m all ears."

    "Jonathan, where are you from?"

    Jonathan raised a brow after hearing her question. He was expecting an unexpected question. Though the question itself is unexpected, not this kind of question. Nevertheless, he still answered.

    "We are from Ohio. Didn''t Miss Amelia tell you that?"

    "Oh she did, but that''s not the answer I''m looking for," Caroline said, stopping in her tracks. The gentle and sweet aura around her disappeared and turned into a foreboding and serious one. "I did say that I was going to be direct, so I''m going to rephrase my question."

    Jonathan halted as well and is slightly feeling nervous about the sudden change of demeanor. He hasn''t done anything to her yet but why is she being serious?

    "You and Poul, you are not from this world, are you?" Amelia''s gaze flickered at Jonathan''s, gleaming coldly.

    Jonathan''s eyes widened, and his face turned pale. "Miss Caroline¡­"

    "I can see it through your veneer, the answer that I''m looking for. You two aren''t really from this world."

    Jonathan impulsively grabbed her by the arm, his grip was tight, making Caroline wince in slight pain.

    "How did you know?" Jonathan uttered.

    "It''s obvious," Caroline answered simply, they stared at one another as if they were in a staring contest. "Please, remove your hand, Jonathan. You are hurting me¡­"

    Jonathan released his grip and promptly apologized. "Sorry. I was shocked by your question, making me do just that."

    Caroline''s demeanor returned to a gentle one again. "It''s fine, the question was too direct. Anyone would have acted irrationally especially when someone found out your secrets, am I right?"

    "Still, how did you know?" Jonathan asked.

    "So you are admitting to it easily huh?" Caroline said, raising a brow.

    Jonathan nodded, confirming her suspicion.

    "As expected," Caroline smirked inwardly. "Now that we are on the topic I intended for us to talk about, let''s keep walking. Otherwise, the other two might get too wary."

    With that, Jonathan and Caroline resumed walking, this time, tensed.

    "So, how did you know?"

    "Normally, people in this era would tell their profession if they have documents and certifications supporting it. You two have none. I have made some investigation prior to meeting you here. I was surprised to hear it by myself, you saying that you are a civil engineer, even though there are no records about you graduating from any university. The same goes for Poul Nielsen, especially in that silver hair of his. In this country, discrimination is rampant towards albians and colored people, making it hard for them to be admitted in a formal university offering those courses¡­"

    "So, you have deduced our origin based on that? What if you are wrong? What if we are just talented. After all, not all inventors in this world went to university."

    "I know, that''s presumptuous for me to say. It is possible, but not for the two of you. In two years, you and your partner have invented an automatic air brake system, a lotive draft gear, switch and signaling systems. All of which are revolutionary in railway technology. All of them are working perfectly without much having to improve it. I''m sure you have many. You met the parallel Thomas Edison of this world. Are you getting into the electric industry as well?"

    "Honestly, I could say the same thing to you. There''s no way a kid started a business that is now one of the richest in the world. Are we, by any chance, experiencing the same case?"

    "Good, you''re pretty quick to catch on. Yes, I''m also not from this world. I came from the 21st, but not in the same world as this. A parallel, if you might say. I''m a chemical engineer. In the past, I have used my knowledge to develop a wide range of personal care products because I loathe personal care products that areced with mercury, arsenic, and other toxins. Has this be fair to you, telling me that I''m not from this world?"

    Jonathan nodded a response. So there are like them in this world. Poul had suspicions about it when he read certain newspapers about the British duchess performing miracles in Ennd, even going as far as to assume that she was like them, not from this world. The possibility existed, and now it just turned into a fact.

    "Tell me about yourself, Jonathan. The real you, before you took the new persona," Caroline said.

    "Hmm¡­My name is the same as the ones I had from my world. I''m a civil and structural engineer from Denmark."

    "Tell me, Jonathan. Are you the best civil engineer there is in your country?"

    "I have two master''s degrees, which are civil and structural, and I have been involved in many projects, from building bridges, roads, skyscrapers, tunnels, and even railways, which was the project we are working on before we die."

    "Hoh," Caroline mused. "I must say, you are amazing. What about Poul?"<novelnext></novelnext>

    "Poul is a mechanical and electrical engineer. Just like me, he has two master''s and is a renowned engineer in our world. His name is the same as from our original world."

    "A civil and structural engineer, and a mechanical and electrical engineer working together. You make a good pair," Caroline observed.

    "Well, you can say that," Jonathan sighed. "This is kind of getting unusual, two of us speaking about this subject if you know what I mean."

    "Yeah, it''s quite out of ce and out of this world," Caroline chuckled. "Well, I''m d that I''m not the only one."

    "Not the only one?" Jonathan tilted his head to the side. "Are you saying that this is your first encounter?"

    "Yes. That''s why I''m d that I have found somebody who experienced a phenomenon such as this."

    "So Amelia is¡­"

    "She''s a denizen of this world. Amelia has been working for me since childhood. She must have been amazed by me to the point she wanted to follow me along my journey in this world. It''s best that we keep this matter a secret from her. You can tell what you have discovered to Poulter. For now, we act as if nothing happened, and enjoy our walk."

    "Alright, but under the condition that you tell me about yourself. It''s only fair don''t you think?"

    "Well, my name was not Caroline but Lena. I''m from Germany. Before I ended up here, I used to work at BASF as a chemical engineer."

    "Masters?"

    "Ph.D.," Caroline corrected.

    "You are an impressive individual as well."

    "Thank you for thepliment. Though there is a reason why I''m saying this all to you, Jonathan. I wanted to offer the two of you something."

    "Which is what?"

    "Why don''t you two work for me? Together we can bring more to this world using our modern knowledge and my treasuries. Are you satisfied with only building air brakes for the rest of your life?"

    Jonathan scoffed softly. "This is not something I can decide alone. And I don''t think Poul is going to ept working under someone either. He''d prefer to work only with me, as we have promised, we will be the top of this world."

    "Did I just get rejected?" Caroline asked.

    "Yes, you are but thank you for the offer. We can pretty much take care of ourselves."

    "That''s sad. I would prefer to work with you as I think we can achieve a lot more. But I can''t just force it right? Just be careful who you are working with, especially Morgan. He might be undermining and subverting both of you without you realizing it. Keep an eye on him. You don''t know the true nature of the financiers of this world."

    "Thank you for the heads-up," Jonathan said.

    "We should get back now. I have brought us something to eat together," Caroline suggested. "Remember, keep it a secret. Don''t mention anything about our true story with her around. Do you understand?"

    "I understand," Jonathan assured her.

    Caroline giggled. "I''m sure our conversation has changed your impression of me. So if you were charmed back then, you won''t now."

    "I don''t think my impression of you has changed," Jonathan said daringly. "After hearing the truth, you just made me like you even more. Even with our modern knowledge, it''s no easy feat to apply our knowledge in real-life, especially when we are making it from scratch without the aid of modern technology. Not everyone can do that, you know? Where you have to recall everything you have learned as you concoct lotions step by step. It''s simply amazing."

    Caroline''s cheek reddened slightly, and she smiled subtly.

    "Thank...you," Caroline said bashfully.

    Jonathan nced in her direction and noticed her cheek and ears were red. It seems like his words are working.

    And then, minutester, they arrived at the fountain. Poul and Amelia were sitting on a bench, waving their hands at the pair.

    "Hoh? What is this I''m sensing?" Poul asked teasingly as he looked at the pair.

    "It''s your imagination," Jonathan said, dismissing the topic. "Anyways, Caroline said that she brought food, might as well eat it here before the raines."

    "I''m going to get it," Amelia said as she stood.

    "I''lle with you," Poul offered as he rose to his feet. "Let me help you."

    "Thank you. Please follow me."

 Chapter 45 Picnic

    ?Poul and Amelia returned to the park with a wooden basket in their hand. It must be where the food they bought is stored. A carpet hangs over Poul''s shoulders. Jonathan and Caroline were looking for a pic spot on therge field of grass, which was upied by many people.

    It took them about two minutes before they found a spot and upied it. Jonathan raised and waved a hand at Poul, signaling him toe over.

    "Oh, there they are," Poul said, prompting Amelia to look to her right and saw Caroline standing next to Jonathan.

    They walked over to their location and Poul promptlyid the carpet down. Amelia set the basket down and took a seat on the floor. Poul sat beside her and watched as Jonathan and Caroline took their seats on the ground. It was giving a vibe of a double date, which is not a bad thing to imagine.

    Amelia opened the basket, revealing an assortment of sandwiches. There are sandwiches with ham, cheese, jam, and peanut butter. A simple food like sandwich is enough to serve as an appetizer for their empty stomach.

    "While we were out there walking, what did the two of you talk about?" Poul began, as Amelia handed him a sandwich, which he received gratefully.

    "That''s a secret," Jonathan said.

    "Jonathan, if it''s business-rted, I don''t think it''s a good idea to keep me out of it," Poul reminded.

    "It''s not a business-rted matter. It''s more a personal one," Jonathan replied, not wanting to exin further as to uphold his promise to Caroline.

    "I was just curious about Jonathan so I asked him personal questions," Caroline stepped in as she sensed a little bit of tension between Poul and Jonathan, "He seemed reluctant to answer my questions, but that didn''t deter me much."

    "So¡­ what did he tell you?"

    "Well, he told me something interesting¡­I''m sure Jonathan will exin it to youter when the time is right," Caroline said, taking a bite of her sandwich. "Hmm¡­" she moaned in satisfaction. "As always, your handmade sandwich is the best, Amelia."

    Amelia smiled. "Thanks,"

    "Wait, you are the one who made this?!" Poul eximed in surprise as he looked at her, surprised. "And why didn''t you tell me?"

    "I don''t think there is anything worth nothing on the sandwich," Amelia exined. "Besides, I didn''t do much on making it. It''s just bread with a spread."

    "Regardless, you making it makes a huge difference," Poulmented.

    "How so?"

    "Darling, are you really not getting it," Caroline interjected. "Poul is saying that the sandwich is delicious because you are the one who made it."

    "Ehh?" Amelia''s face slightly reddened at those remarks. "But I believe anyone else''s sandwiches would taste about the same¡­"

    "Nope, this is the most delicious bread I have eaten my entire life," Poul insisted. "Not even the most expensive bread could possiblypare to this."

    Caroline sighed. "Sir Poul, you are overdoing it. Instead of making her like you with your praises, you are cringing her out. That''s not a proper way topliment ady."

    "Uhm¡­Miss Caroline..! Stop~!" Amelia bashfully spoke up, blushing from embarrassment.

    "I will take note of that," Poul said in a serious tone.

    "So, what will you do after this?" Caroline asked Poul.

    "Well, we are probably going to return to the hotel and pass the time by ying games in the casino inside the hotel."

    "By ying games, you mean gambling, right?" Caroline inquired, knowing that''s exactly what he meant.

    "Yes,"

    "Well, I bid you good luck on your games, and don''t overdo it. I''m sure you know better than I that gambling is addictive right?"

    "I''ll make sure to y it in moderation, if I lose three times, I will simply leave, no question asked," Poul said.

    "Oh by the way, since you are attending the lighting ceremony of the New York Stock Exchange, why don''t you join us in our carriage and have our dinner there."

    "Dinner on the carriage?" Poul repeated. "Is there such a thing?"

    "Surely, youck knowledge about how things are done in this period," Caroline said, sighing inwardly. "Anyways, join us. It''s not like you have to join Russel and Morgan on the tform, right? You were just invited."

    "Won''t that inconvenience them, Miss Caroline?" Amelia chimed in, concerned that her boss is taking too much of their time, and is probably bothering them.

    "I don''t think it would be a bother, right Poul? In fact, they''ll be d."

    Poul scoffed softly. "You sure know how to read us, Miss Caroline. Very well, we shall join you on your dinner for tomorrow in the carriage, and watch as electricity runs through the New York Stock Exchange, and light all the bulbs up."

    "Great!" Caroline pped her hands together cheerfully. "Oh, before I forgot. You two should visit my shop on Broadway. I''ll show you what we are offering to the men anddies of New York. You decide the time."

    Jonathan and Poul looked at one another, deciding whether to visit her ce or not. Jonathan nodded, giving Poul his approval.

    "Fine, the day before we leave New York. We will visit your shop," Poul said.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "When is the day before you leave New York?"

    "On December twenty-two."

    "Great, we will prepare a warm reception just for the both of you," Caroline said.

    The dark clouds rumbled above and a drizzle started dropping down to New York.

    "Oh, looks like we have to go," Caroline said. "It''ll rain soon. You two should get going as well."

    "We will do that," Jonathan said, and the four rose to their feet and packed up their things.

    "Do you have an umbre with you, Sir Poul?" Amelia asked.

    "Unfortunately, we didn''t carry one. But it''s okay, as we are just going to take a cab. The valet in the hotel will fetch us one when we arrive."

    "In that case, you two should hurry."

    "No, we will escort you to your carriage, make sure you two get home safe."

    Amelia sighed in defeat, she knew that if she kept rejecting his genuine offer of help, he wouldn''t stop. "Okay."

    And the two industrialist duo escorted thedies to their carriage. Thedies boarded the carriage, and before closing the door, Amelia looked at Poul and gave her the most beautiful smile she could offer.

    "Thank you," she said in an angelic voice.

    Poul''s heart fluttered for a brief moment, his lips being tugged at the corners as he couldn''t contain his excitement, he averted his face.

    "Of course," he uttered softly before closing the door.

    The carriage started moving and the two industrialist duo watched as it disappeared into the distance.

    "Geez, she''s really too bad for my heart," Poul chuckled to himself, turning his gaze toward Jonathan, "What say you, Jonathan. Shall we head back to the hotel now?"

    "Before that, I have something to tell you, Poul," Jonathan said, his expression stern.

    "That sounds serious. What is it? Is it about the thing earlier, the one you said was a secret?" Poul guessed.

    "You''re right. I have learned something, Poul and I''m sure you will be shocked."

    "What is it?" Poul asked.

    "Miss Caroline is not a denizen of this world. She came from another world just like ours."

    Poul sighed. "I see, so my suspicion about us not being alone in this world is indeed true. There are others out there."

    "Wait? That''s you react to that information?"

    "How should I react?" Poul shrugged his hands. "The fact that we are here means that there is a possibility that there are others¡­Is Amelia also a reincarnator?"

    Jonathan shook his head. "No."

    Poul heaved a sigh of relief. "So, what is she?"

    "She''s a chemical engineer from Germany. I don''t know if she came from the same world as ours."

    "Chemical engineer," Poul hummed as he thought. "So just like ours, she is using her modern knowledge to invent things and profit from it."

    "She already knows about us as well. I told her. She even offered us a job to work for her which I tly refused."

    "I see¡­Well, does Amelia know about this?"

    "ording to Caroline, no," Jonathan said. "And she wants to keep it that way."

    "Okay, did she tell you more aside from that?"

    "She told us to be careful who we work with, especially Morgan."

    "That''s understandable," Poul smiled. "Okay, is there nothing more?"

    "That''s it," Jonathan said.

    "Okay."

 Chapter 46 Lighting Ceremony Part 1

    ?December 17th, 881. The night shrouded the city of Lower Manhattan. At the New York Stock Exchange, thousands of people gathered and flocked to Eleven Wall Street, visiting to see the lighting ceremony of the New York Stock Exchange. There are food stalls set up along the side of the streets for people to buy food and pastries as they wait for the clock to strike eleven at midnight.

    Peopleing from different social sses attended the lighting ceremony and it was hard to differentiate who is who as they wore neat formal dresses. Poul and Jonathan were having a hard time wading through the crowd, not only there is a small space to go forward, but they also have to watch out for their surroundings so as to not identally push people.

    Well, even with all those hurdles, the young industrialist duo managed to arrive in front of the New York Stock Exchange. In this specific street, there are hundreds of open-top carriages where the high-ranking society congregates. Caroline said it was true, they were eating dinner on the carriage. There was a table in between two seats where food was served. Their personal chefs prepare the food down the carriage, offering wine and delicacies.

    The street for now was illuminated with candlelights and a gasmp post, but Jonathan and Poul knew it was going to be reced by an electricmp post in theing months.

    "Now, how are we going to possibly find Miss Caroline and Amelia in this ce? Did she mention the color of the carriage? Or the ce where it could be parked?" Jonathan asked as he looked around the surroundings while Poul was buying a hotdog sandwich for the two of them.

    "She didn''t mention any specifics," Poul said as he paid the vendor the exact pennies for the two hotdog sandwiches. The vendor handed the hotdog sandwich to him and Poul nodded thankfully.

    Poul handed the hotdog sandwich to Jonathan while he ate his own. "Here you go,"

    "Thanks," Jonathan said after receiving the hotdog and taking a bite of the bread. He hummed in delight, "Mmm¡­this is amazing~"

    "It is pretty good, isn''t it?" Poul replied. He took another bite of his hotdog, "Well¡­we''re here. Let''s find them," he gestured over his shoulder with his head. "We still got about half an hour before the event starts. We can try asking people of high status if they have seen them."

    Jonathan nodded and followed behind Poul, "Fine by me."

    Their eyes scanned around the surroundings, looking for Caroline and Amelia. A minute passed, and another, and then another, and ten minutester. They haven''t found them.

    This is where they start regretting. If only they had asked where to meet one another yesterday before parting ways, this wouldn''t happen.

    There are only seventeen minutes before the lighting ceremony starts.

    "This is bad, Jonathan. We still haven''t found them," Poul said, his shoulders drooping slightly with disappointment. Jonathan looked at him with concerned eyes. "They can''t be that far¡­Caroline said that she was invited to the lighting ceremony, so she''s here, we just got to find them¡­" Jonathan let out a startled gasp. "Oh, there they are."

    "Where?" Poul turned and looked where Jonathan was indicating. Sure enough, they spotted two people seated in the carriage. Caroline and Amelia are waving their hands at them to catch their attention. Poul raised his hand and waved at them in response, indicating that he saw them.

    Poul and Jonathan walked over to their carriage and hopped onto it. They sat on the vacant seats opposite them.

    "Would you like some wine," Caroline offered, holding up the bottle of wine. Poul nodded, and Caroline started pouring wine into their sses. They each drank a ss of wine, and once again Caroline spoke, "So, how long have you been finding us?"

    "About ten minutes," Jonathan replied as he wiped his mouth with a napkin.

    "I apologize for not giving you additional details that could help you find us easily, it slipped my mind."

    "No need to apologize, we are at fault as we haven''t asked for more information. But since we are all here, let''s just forget about it and enjoy the rest of the evening," Jonathan suggested, giving Caroline a reassuring smile and she returned it with a gentle smile of her own. Poul and Amelia nodded in agreement.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "The people around here give me vibes, their presence is intimidating I must say."

    "That''s understandable. After all, those men and women you are seeing are some of the most powerful families in the United States. The Astors, Van Leers, Whitneys, Harrisons, Lowells, Du Ponts, Cartons, Randolphs, and Roosevelts. You might think that the Du Ponts are rted to me but they are not. We only happen to have the same surname," Caroline exined.

    "Are they the old money families?" Poul asked.

    "Most of them are," Caroline said. "Wait, why is it that I am more well-informed about those families instead of you two? You are the ones who are living in this country and we just moved," Caroline said, chuckling.

    "Well, it must be because we don''t care?" Poul replied flippantly and shifted his gaze to Amelia, who had been silent ever since they arrived.

    "Miss Amelia, is something troubling you? It feels off when you are silent," Poul said.

    "Uhm¡­I don''t want to disrupt your conversation so I remained silent. You two are the founders of the Air Brake Company, with the prospect of bing a multi-million dor industry. It would be out of ce if I speak along with the three of you."

    Poul pressed his lips into a fine line and frowned slightly, "You didn''t care about that when we were in Astoria Hotel and Bethesda Park. Why now?"

    "Because you see, Mister Nielsen, there is something that I would like to tell the two of you, about Amelia''s future," Caroline interceded, hoping to exin. "The truth is, I have decided to let her work for yourpany as your secretary."

    The young industrialist duo widened their eyes. "What?" they intoned.

    "You said you needed a secretary right? I can let you borrow her for the time being."

    "I thought she would never work with anyone other than you, Miss Caroline? What happened now?" Poul asked, still processing what was happening.

    "This is to increase her experience. But it doesn''t mean I''m firing her. I''m just giving her an opportunity to work with you. Amelia is persistent and determined that only I can tell her what to do. I was hoping you''d hire her, I guarantee you, you won''t have to spend a lot of hours going through your paperwork."

    Poul and Jonathan looked at one another, voting whether they should take Amelia or not. It''s true that they needed a secretary, and they would be d to have Amelia on their side. But, if they find out that Amelia is just being forced to work with them because Caroline said she should, then they would promptly decline.

    "Miss Amelia, if it''s okay for you, we can take you in as our secretary. Don''t force yourself, if you don''t want to be separated from Miss Caroline, that''s fine. There are a lot of potential candidates for a secretarial position in ourpany, so no pressure."

    "Miss Caroline and I have talked about this," Amelia began. "And I have epted her decision. This is to increase my experience by working in anotherpany that works in a different industry. I will surely learn a lot by working with you and expanding my knowledge which I can use to help Miss Caroline''s future endeavors. Please, take me as your secretary," she bowed her head respectfully and waited for their response.

    Jonathan and Poul both let out sighs of relief, good thing that they were wrong in their expectations. They shared a look of understanding with one another. Then, both Jonathan and Poul smiled, "Of course, Miss Amelia. We will be d to have you on our team."

    "Thank you," Amelia said as she raised her head back to look at Poul and Jonathan.

 Chapter 47 Lighting Ceremony Part 2

    ?"Uhm¡­Mister Axelsen and Nielsen," a man called from down the carriage.

    Poul and Jonathan got startled at the sudden call. They looked down and saw Mister Sam Insull. James Russel''s personal secretary.

    "Oh, Sam. Fancy meeting you here as well. What do you need?"

    "Mister Russels wants you to join him on the tform for the lighting ceremony."

    "You should go," Caroline told them, smiling warmly.

    "You two are going to be fine on your own?" Posked.

    "Yes, don''t worry," Caroline assured him. "We''ll be sure to watch you from here."

    "Well, if you say so, Miss Caroline," Poul said, and then looked at Amelia. "Wait for me, okay?" he said, standing up. Amelia nodded and watched as Poul and Jonathan climbed down the carriage and followed Mister Insull towards the steps of the New York Stock Exchange.

    In a temporary tform in front of the New York Stock Exchange, Poul and Jonathan stood among industrialists of the United States of Avalonia, John Morgan, Rockefeller, and Carnegie. Wanderbilt was not present as hispany is preparing for a trial. ording to the ssifications of status, the three are considered new money people, people who havee from nothing but be stupendously rich.

    "So you two are the emerging industrialists that would join us in the future huh?" Rockefeller asked as he approached them.

    "I could say with full confidence that not only we are emerging, but will be one of the pirs of the United States of Avalonia''s growth," Poul said.

    "For an Albian saying such things, well I don''t mind. What we mind as businessmen is money. We don''t care where you were born, what color your hair has, or the color of your skin. As long as one proves useful, I will treat them equally."

    "It''s quite good hearing that, Mister Rockefeller. You were the first to not care about my appearance."

    "Why would I? We too could be partners in the future, why would I look down on you?" Rockefeller said.

    Poul chuckled. "True, we are going to be great partners when we start our automobile industry."

    "Automobile?" Rockefeller tilted his head to the side. "What is that?"

    "You''ll see in the future," Poul said. "And the ck gold you are refining, it''ll be the blood of that automobile."

    While Poul and Rockefeller are having a brief conversation with one another, Jonathan is also having one for himself with Russel.

    "I''m d that you coulde here and join us, Mister Jonathan. How does it feel to be part of history?" Russel asked.

    "I''m ted and excited. To think that I''ll be written in the history books as the one who stood alongside you is a great honor," Jonathan humbly replied.<novelnext></novelnext>

    Russel shook Jonathan''s hand firmly and gave a smile before speaking once again. "Now let''s start writing history. The United States of Avalonia became the first to light up the world with electricity."

    "Let''s do it," Jonathan agreed.

    The musical ensemble hired to y music in this ceremony started drumming their drums and blowing their trumpets. It signaled the start of the ceremony and served as the attention caller.

    The people who were having a fun time talking to one another stopped as they looked at the tform.

    Caroline and Amelia''s attention was also on the tform. They saw Poul and Jonathan standing next to Rockefeller and Morgan.

    Poul noticed their stares and lifted his hat.

    Caroline and Amelia smiled, waving at him.

    The speaker on the tform spoke.

    "Ladies and gentlemen. May I introduce, Mister James Russel!"

    Russel raised his hand and waved it as the people cheered with apuse. Suddenly, the light in themp post started dimming, as if it was being blown off by the wind. The street became dark and the only source of light remained were the candles from the carriages of the rich people.

    "Today, we have captured and tamed what has been a sh across the dark sky. It has been feared by many and thought to be a symbol of the wrath of gods. Now humanity has it under control. To use it for our convenience and development. Everyone, I want you to be silent as we watch and feel the essence of this ceremony. In the count of ten, the way we light up the world will change," Russel announced, and then started counting. "Ten, nine, eight."

    The people joined him and counted in unison, "Seven, six, five, four, three, two, one."

    Russel pushed the switch and the New York Stock Exchange front facade started glowing orange. The people let out an awed gasp as the light illuminated their faces. It was bright, brighter than the gasmps and candles could provide. They were stunned to speak as they gaze at the magical scenario unfolding before them. Regardless of their social status, all of them felt their hearts begin to flutter and excitement spread throughout their body.

    As the glow continued, and the light continued to grow, the people began to murmur amongst themselves. The lights grew stronger and stronger until finally, it was impossible to make out anything in the darkness of the night. They started covering their mouths as they couldn''t help but feel just awe. Some even break into tears, while others'' mouths gaped at the uplifting moment.

    What had been so innocuous and taken for granted in the modern world was an actual marvel of their era. Poul and Jonathan wonder in their past life if they will ever be in such awe at humanity''s own ingenuity again. And they did. It may have been a simple device but it changed the world and how humanity looks at night. No longer should they fear darkness as humanity conquered it with light.

    When the New York Stock Exchange and the surrounding buildings lit up, the crowd cheered and whistled, pping their hands.

    "This is amazing," Poul said as he couldn''t help but smile at the building. His eyes were beaming with admiration and appreciation as he looked at the magnificent sight before him. "The people in this era are truly built differently," he added.

    "Indeed," Jonathan said as he was still looking at the sight. "And we shall make them feel that way with our future inventions."

    "You are right."

 Chapter 48 Carolines Store

    ?Four days have passed since the lighting ceremony of the New York Stock Exchange. News about it spread like wildfire in the eastern parts of the United States. The ceremony was hyped up, attracting each state of the country to have one in their districts. One even considered it to be a turning point in history, but one question hung up in their head, is history heading in the right direction?

    Jonathan and Poul are on theirst day in New York. They''ll have a train and a ferry to catch up in the morning to get back to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. But before they returned to their base of operations, they made a promise to visit Caroline''spany branch in Broadway New York.

    The two industrialist duo exited the carriage and struck their heads up to take in the appearance of the building.

    "This is her shop?" Poul uttered, he had to take a step back to see the full view of the building.

    "And a long line of people," Jonathan said, ncing at the long queue on the sidewalk, waiting patiently for the establishment to open.

    "It must be popr with the locals," Poul observed. "Well, we should probably get in line. It''s getting filled up by the minute.

    Jonathan nodded in agreement and joined the line. Ten minutester, the shop opened and it started amodating customers. There was a limit to how many people the shop could take. In this instance, Forty people are allowed inside the shop every thirty minutes and it''s very strict. The customers have to grab what they want from the shelves and have it checked out on the counter. If not, they will be asked to leave respectfully, making it fair to those waiting outside. Also, the faster the customers shopped, the faster for the next customer to enter the shop.

    Poul and Jonathan waited for about one hour and twelve minutes. And the moment they entered the establishment, they were dumbstruck.

    "This is¡­" Poul uttered and was unable toplete his sentence.

    "A shopping mall," Jonathan finished, looking around at the store.

    It was a well-decorated store, with a dash of modern interior design. There are sections for cosmetics, apparel, and personal care products such as shampoo, hair conditioner, body wash, soap, liquid hand-wash, deodorants, toothbrushes, and toothpaste which have a sweet smell that perfumes the air. The interior was bright thanks to huge windows on the wall, allowing natural lights to enter.

    All in all, it was a decent store. And as they were scanning the surroundings, someone approached them and tapped Poul''s shoulder with a finger.

    Poul turned around and met eyes with a woman. She had a friendly smile on her face. And she seemed to know who he was immediate.

    "I see you found our shop, Sir Poul and Jonathan."

    "Caroline?" Poul eximed, surprised. "I didn''t expect you to walk up behind us and personally wee us."

    "I concur," Jonathan added.

    "Well, you two are an important guest. You didn''t tell me what time you n on visiting my store. I could have pulled you out of the line and given you two exclusive ess."

    "That won''t do, Miss Caroline. As much as it would have saved us some time, it would take away the experience. Something that we value more over convenience," Jonathan said coolly.

    Caroline giggled, amused at Jonathan''s remark.

    "Where is Amelia?" Poul asked.

    "She is busy packing her things up," Caroline somberly said. "I can''t believe she''s leaving tomorrow morning. We have been together for eleven years, working together."

    "You are making us feel guilty for hiring her as our secretary," Jonathan let out a chuckle. "If you are feeling that bad, we can retract it."

    "No no, that would be an unwise thing to do. She had steeled herself, and I must do the same. Anyways, before our conversation turned depressing, at least for me, let me show you around the shop."

    Caroline led the way and the two industrialist duo followed behind. The first section they visited was the apparel section. They have nced at it earlier, and they saw dresses and suits for men and women, but the moment they explored deeper, Jonathan and Poul''s eyes widened when they saw an unexpected product.

    Briefs, boxers, all kinds of panties, pantyhose, tights, and a lot more. They were worn by mannequins posing in an alluring fashion.

    "Oh, my," Poul wiped the sweat beading on his forehead with the back of his arm. "Are those natural fibers?"

    "So far yes, I''m still in the process of developing synthetic fibers such as nylons and polyesters but the technology of this world is primitive. It''s why I''m investing a lot of money into developing equipment and materials that will allow me to synthesize those synthetic fibers."

    "I see. And the mannequins, it seems that they are not made of wood. Are those stic?" Poul asked.

    "Yes," Caroline confirmed. "It''s made of bakelite."

    "I must say, I''m interested in buying briefs and boxers. Wearing loose pants as underwear is something that I''m finding hard to adapt to," Jonathan said.

    "Well, you can choose the colors and sizes and we will deliver it to you in your hotel," Caroline said.

    "Are they selling well?" Poul asked. "This underwear, I am not good with the history of underwear but I''m sure these things are not popr in this era."

    "You are quite correct, Sir Poul. Men are wearing shorts as undergarments while women wear chemise, which is a type of shirt women wear to protect their dresses from body oils and sweats. They were fine with it but with the power of marketing, I was able to convince a lot of people that wearing underwear made by ourpany is morefortable and fashionable, and so it grew and became popr. It cost us a lot of money to get to where we are but it was worth it."

    "Uhm¡­Miss Caroline, if I may ask, are you wearing one now?" Jonathan said, his eyes slowly wandering downwards.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "I admire your boldness for asking me that question directly, I may find it impolite but I''ll let you off," Caroline grinned. "I am indeed wearing one, do you want to see it?" She asked teasingly.

    "No, that would be improper. I was just asking because I was curious. I''ll leave things to my imagination."

    Caroline scoffed softly. "I was not being serious anyways, so even if you answered yes, I''m not going to show it."

    "Okay let''s end this talk about panties and check the other sections," Poul interjected.

    The next section they visited is where the personal care products are disyed. Poul and Jonathan were sniffing the packaging of shampoos and deodorants.

    "Everything you see here is organic. Aloe vera, coconut oil, essential oils, fruit and nt extracts," Caroline introduced to them her products.

    "I guess that these will cost a ton, knowing that those extracts and oils arebor-intensive to extract," Poul said.

    "Yeah, I had to set up apany all over the world to do the extraction. The logistics were a huge challenge and that''s why the products that you are seeing right now will be expensive that only the rich can afford. Though I''m making efforts to reduce the cost so that ordinary people can get it too. After all, they''ll be my future market."

    "If only you had the technology to make synthetic chemicals. Unfortunately, you don''t," Poul said.

    "Yes, which is why I will ask for your help. Follow me to my office."

    She led the two industrialist duo to her office. Poul and Jonathan let out a sigh of admiration. The difference between her office and theirs is like heaven and earth. Compared to their measly office, Caroline''s features arge chamber with luxurious furnishings, carpeted flooring, a shelf filled with books and files, and arge desk.

    "Wee to my office, please sit," Caroline gestured to the empty chairs.

    "This looks more like a lounge instead of an office," Jonathanmented. "Our office pales inparison to this."

    "Oh my, is your office small?" Caroline asked.

    "Yes."

    "Well, Amelia would be in shock if she were to see it. She is used to this kind of setting."

    "You heard that Poul?" Jonathan said as he nced at Poul, who was taking his seat.

    "Yeah, we didn''t really bother on building a proper building as we were on schedule. But I''ll do my best to make her workce look convenient like this."

    "I''m sure Jonathan had already shared with you the contents of our conversationst time in Bethesda Park."

    "Yes and thanks to you we find out that we are not unique in this world. You said you are from Germany? I used to work in Siemens and BMW."

    "Really? Tell me more about your background as it was one of the questions I''d like to ask you," Caroline said.

    "I also worked at Lockheed Martin developing a sixth-generation fighter. I''m sure you have heard of thatpany right? If it exists in your world."

    "Yes, so that means you have a vast knowledge of aircraft and automobiles, right?"

    "I do."

    "The more I hear about you two the more I see your value skyrocketing. You think you can make the first aircraft or automobile in this world?"

    "I can, but we are busy with our current venture," Poul said and nced back at Jonathan. "Right, partner?"

    Jonathan nodded.

    "Then please let me know when you decide to make one. I want to see it for myself. But for now, let''s return to the main topic. I need your help, Poul. You are good on paper, and I believe you can make the equipment I need to increase the efficiency of production of my business."

    Poul hummed as he thought. "Miss Caroline, as much as I would love to help you with that, I can''t at this moment. We had a contract signed with Russels about electric motors so I''ll be busy making direct current motorized tools, and then we have hundreds of orders of air brakes and lotive draft gears from every major railroadpany in the United States¡­and¡­"

    "You may stop there, Poul," Caroline raised a hand, stopping him from speaking. "I understand the situation."

    "I''m sorry, Miss Caroline, I do," Poul said.

    "I''m also sorry, as my partner and I have different expertise. I would have helped you."

    "Thank you for thepassionate words, Mister Jonathan. Well, it can''t be helped then. You are interested in purchasing some of my products, let''s go focus on that instead."

 Chapter 49 Leaving New York

    ?December 22nd, 881, in the Desbrosses Street Ferry Station. It was six o''clock in the morning and the morning breeze coupled with the approaching winter season made the air so frigid that Jonathan and Poul had to wear thick trench coats and gloves to protect themselves from the cold.

    It was not only them that were leaving New York. Amelia and Caroline were also in the ferry station, talking to one another from a distance that the young industrialist duo couldn''t hear.

    "What do you think they are talking about?" Jonathan asked, leaning towards Poul who was rubbing his hand together, and mbering it up on his face.

    "It''s obvious. She wants Amelia to look over us, tell what''s happening in our headquarters, and report her findings," Poul said.

    "And you are not concerned about it?"

    "I don''t know why you are bothering about her reason to work with us. We needed a secretary and now we have one. Maybe Caroline just wants to know us more, just like we want to know more about her. Her revtion of being not a denizen of this world voided the possibility of us being alone in this world. I don''t know if she''s telling the truth that she hasn''t found another until she found us."

    "Well, it''s not like we have a secretary on our own that could work for Caroline as a recement for Amelia."

    "What I''m trying to say to Jonathan is that I don''t care what she has nned for us. We continue doing business as usual. As long as she doesn''t interfere with our business operations. Amelia is a good secretary and we will know her worth once she starts working."

    Jonathan sighed. "If you say so, I''ll still watch over her just in case she does something we wouldn''t like."

    "Fine by me, but don''t be a creep around her. We want her to trust us not to make her feel she''s being watched, leading to her avoiding us," Poul advised.

    After their brief conversation, Amelia and Caroline walked over to them with a smile across their faces.

    "So, my precious secretary is going to work for you. She is like a little sister to me and it''s making me sad to see her go with you. So watch over her for me. Should you dare try to make a move on her, well, you have been warned."

    There was a cold glint in Caroline''s eyes when she said that.

    "You have nothing to worry about, Miss Caroline. She''s in good hands and we won''t do anything to her, you can trust us on that," Poul said reassuringly as his gaze flickered between the two.

    Poul noticed Amelia''s cheek blushing. She must have been embarrassed by the insinuation that they would take advantage of Amelia. He gave her an understanding nce before turning back at Caroline.

    Caroline smiled a little before continuing with a slightly lighter tone. "Okay, now that that''s settled. If you have questions or want to reach me, please, ask Amelia, she knows my contact details."<novelnext></novelnext>

    "I''ll take that in mind," Poul noted.

    "Ahh, this is weird. We just met only two times and yet it feels like I''m saying goodbye to a long-time friend," Caroline said as she rubbed the nape of her neck. She looked at both of her newfound acquaintances with a bittersweet expression. "Have a safe journey and good luck with your business. May we meet again sometime in the future."

    "We will. Thank you, Miss Caroline," Jonathan said, tipping his hat.

    Caroline nced at the scene behind them. She saw the steamboat with ck smoke puffing out from its smokestack.

    "I believe that''s your ship."

    Poul and Jonathan nced over their shoulder and saw the approaching steamboat. It blew the whistle, informing everyone in the docks that the ship had arrived.

    "Miss Caroline, if ever, I would love to take you to dinner the moment I return to New York for business purposes," Jonathan said, taking her hand to kiss it. Caroline blushed and gave him a curt nod.

    "Farewell, Miss Caroline," Jonathan turned to his heels, catching up to Poul and Amelia who were boarding the ship.

    Amelia stood there for a moment, watching them get into the boat. The stevedores of the ferry station were loading luggage and wooden crates. Most of the crates came from herpany containing her products. Poul and Jonathan made a huge transaction with herpany to provide them and their workers with personal hygiene kits. They bought a lot of it, and it won''t fit the cargo hold. It will take about three ships, which will then be delivered on another day to Pittsburgh.

    The three sessfully boarded the ship, Amelia was waving her hand at her, mouthing a goodbye. Caroline waved back and she felt a sting in her heart. It was painful for her to see her closest friend since childhood goes with a man who came from another world. If not only for their origins, she wouldn''t let her have Amelia. But since it''s not the case, she''ll think of this as an investment.

    The two industrialist duo have great prospects in this world with their knowledge. They possessed more skills as their work is more hands-onpared to hers. Amelia will inform her if Poul and Jonathan decide to invent revolutionary technologies. And when that timees, she''ll be there, ready to provide.

    However, that won''t be possible if they have a financier backing them. John Morgan. His richestpared to hers is not that significant. She can provide the two young industrialist duo the funds to start new ventures. But, in terms of connection in Avalonia, she was far down the bottom. There''d be no surprises if they picked him over her.

    But she won''t give up. She knows more than any people in this world how groundbreaking the two-industrialist duo is going to be. Together, they can build an empire, unlike anything the world had seen before.

    Thus, she''ll be ying a long game. She''ll wait until the two industrialist duo grew popr in the United States and in the world. And when that timees, she will strike.

 Chapter 50 Back To Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

    ?Eight hourster, the three arrived in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Poul and Jonathan exited the carriage and breathed in the air.

    "It''s good to be back," Jonathan said, as he nced around at the lively town of theirpany.

    Poul offered his hand to Amelia, which thetter took as she stepped down the steps carefully. Amelia looked around, taking in all the sights of her new workce.

    "It looked like a town," Ameliamented as she walked forward while her head was on a swivel.

    "It doesn''t look like a town, this is a town," Poul corrected. "Instead of having the workers work for hours to get to their workce, why not just build them a ce to stay?"

    "That would indeed be efficient. Time is of the essence, and having your workers near the workce saves a lot of time," Amelia said.

    "Sir Nielsen!"

    A man called out from afar, prompting the three to turn their heads toward the source. It was Timothy. He came to a screeching halt in front of Poul and Jonathan, who reflexively took a tiny step backward.

    "Woah hold your horses down. What''s the matter?"

    "I have been waiting for your arrival, Sir Nielsen, Sir Axelsen. I have something that I''d like to show you. It''s a device I have been working on, which could be a fine addition to the air brakes and the draft gear¡­"

    As he was excitedly telling that to the industrialist duo, he noticed a sweet smell perfuming the air. He sniffed it.

    "Uhm¡­are you two using some sort of perfume?" Timothy asked, looking questioningly between Poul and Jonathan.

    Both men nodded their heads yes.

    "I see, so that''s why you two smelled good. Your hair is also glossy, what did you do to make it like that?"

    "Timothy, you surely jest. Did we smell bad before?"

    "No sirs," Timothy said with an awkward bow.

    "Well, we can check that thing you want to show to us. For now, I would like to introduce to you our new secretary," Poul extended his hand to the right side of him, where Amelia stood with her hands behind her back. She curtsied politely to Timothy, who gaped open-mouthed, his eyes widening as if he just saw an angel.

    "How do you do, Sir Timothy. I''m Amelia Weiss. I''ll be working in thispany as its secretary. I''m looking forward to working with you."

    Without realizing it, Timothy''s legs moved forward and were now standing in front of her. He took her hand and ced a gentle kiss on it.

    "How do you do as well, Miss Weiss. I''m looking forward to working with you as well."

    "And I''m also looking forward to working with everyone here," Poul ced a hand on Timothy''s shoulder. "You may remove your hand off her now, Timothy."

    "Yes sir," Timothy said as he withdrew his hands. He smiled brightly, his gaze fixed only on Amelia.

    Seeing the two smiling at one another made Poul feel uneasy. "Don''t you have work to do, Timothy?"

    He said, his tone was stern but he was trying to keep his cool. It was quite unlike him, though he couldn''t help it, seeing those two looking at one another smiling.

    "Ah yes, of course," Timothy replied quickly as he turned to Poul. "I''ll visit the main office at five o''clock, Miss Weiss," he tipped his hand before turning to his heels and leaving.

    "He seemed to be a pretty nice guy," Amelia remarked.

    "Hmph, is he?" Poul merely sniffed as he folded his hand.

    Jonathan was controlling hisugh from behind. He leaned forward and whispered to Poul''s ears.

    "Easy there, you are getting obvious here."<novelnext></novelnext>

    "Get off my back, Jonathan," Poul hissed back from the corner of his lips.

    "Uhm¡­Sir Nielsen. May I ask where I''ll be working?" Amelia asked, snapping the two men away from each other. Poul straightened up, clearing his throat.

    "Right, of course. Please follow me, I''ll lead you to the main office."

    Poul led the way and Amelia followed behind him. Jonathan on the other hand didn''t join as he had recalled something that slipped into his mind a while ago. He had to visit the construction site.

    Amelia was led to a two-story house. She frowned lightly, as it didn''t look like much of an office to her. Nevertheless, she still followed Poul inside the house and into a room.

    "Okay, this is it. Wee to our humble office," Poul said, gesturing to the room.

    Amelia stepped inside the room and took a look around. After a while, she let out a giggle.

    "Wow, Mister Nielsen, your office is indeed humble."

    Poul rubbed the back of his head in embarrassment. "Is it not to your expectations? We haven''t talked about constructing an office building as we were on a deadline while relocating our business here. Don''t worry, it''s only temporary."

    "No, I liked it very much. It reminds me of my early days when Miss Caroline''s business was just starting," Amelia said ruefully.

    "Hmm, there are two desks here. One''s mine and the other from Jonathan. This is where we do the paperwork and talk business with clients. You can use my desk for now until I buy a new one. It will probably be in a day or two."

    "I understand."

    "Okay, let''s head upstairs. I''m going to show you your room," Poul said, leading the way upstairs.

    They climbed two flights and ended up in front of a door. Poul opened it, revealing a in bedroom.

    "A little bit of history here. This was our room. This is where Jonathan and I sleep. You can use this room once we build you one adjacent to this."

    "But where will you two sleep?" Amelia asked. Poul shrugged.

    "There is one sofa outside and an armchair huge enough for one man to sleep in. We can sleep there," Poul said.

    "That won''t do. Mister Nielsen. If I may be honest, this treatment is making me embarrassed. First, you are letting me use your table and now your bedroom? At the expense of yourfort? I can understand the table but the bedroom is too much."

    "Well I think it''s not proper for two men to sleep in the room together with one woman," Poul said.

    "It doesn''t concern me," Amelia waved his concerns away.

    "It doesn''t concern you?" Poul repeated, slightly confused at her response. Was she not aware of the dangers of having two men sleeping in the same room as her? "Well, what if I did something to you."

    "Are you going to do something weird to me?" Amelia locked her gaze with Poul.

    "N-No," Poul stammered a response, averting his face as he felt shameful of saying that to her.

    "Then there''s no problem, is there? I''ll unpack my things here. Are there any ces that you''d like to show me around?"

    "We can do thatter," Poul said. "Once you finish unpacking, you may proceed to my office. I''ll give you a brief discussion of your work."

    "I understand," Amelia said.

    "Then, I''ll excuse myself."

 Chapter 51 Secretary Acquired

    ?Poul reviewed papers on the desk as he waited for Amelia toe down to his office. It''s been ten minutes now, and he is beginning to wonder what''s taking her so long.

    Finally, there was a knock on the door. Jonathan doesn''t knock often, meaning it can only be one person behind it. It was Amelia.

    "Come in," Poul said and the door was promptly opened. He was correct, it was Amelia who was knocking on the door, and is now entering the office.

    "I''m done unpacking, Sir Nielsen," Amelia announced as she stood in front of Poul''s desk.

    "Umu¡­Please take a seat, we will begin shortly," Poul said, shutting down the folder in his hand and stowing it in the drawer down the desk.

    Amelia sat on the chair and watched her boss preparing for the briefing.

    "Okay, now that''s aside, we can begin by formally introducing ourselves. I''m Poul Nielsen, the founder of the Axelsen and Nielsen Air Brake Company. We have one affiliatepany, which is the Axelsen and Nielsen Union Switch and Signal Company. As you can infer from this, we work mostly on train safety devices. So far we are hailed as one of the fastest-growingpanies in the United States and my partner and I intended to keep it that way. The only problem is that we are swamped with paperwork, hindering us from working on another project. The paper is not going to read itself so we are hiring someone who would do the job for us. So, Amelia Weiss, tell me about yourself."

    "Well, I''m Amelia Weiss, I was born in France, and have been working with Caroline Dupont, the Founder of Loreal formally for six years. Ten years if you include the training."

    ''Loreal was a sessfulpany with products reaching all around the world, and transforming how people take care of themselves. Knowing that you worked for thatpany who have reached great heights is making me and my partner want to hire you."

    "I am honored, Sir Nielsen."

    "Then, Miss Weiss, how much does your former employer pay you a month? Honestly, I have no idea about the sry range of a renowned secretary such as you."

    "When I was working with Loreal, I was earning about two hundred fifty to three hundred dors per month," Amelia said.

    "What?" Poul''s eyes widened in shock. "Two hundred fifty? You make a hundred dors more than I''m paying my engineers."

    (A/N. I made a slight change to the engineer''s sry. It was an honest mistake. 250 dors was too high so I scaled it down to a reasonable 150 dors.)

    "The sry doesn''t concern me, Sir Nielsen. I am fine if I learn a lot less than your engineers. After all, the reason why my sry was high was because of my personal rtionship with Miss Caroline. I shouldn''t be earning that much."

    "Don''t think low about yourself. Thepany won''t be where it is now without you helping her," Poul said. He then paused as he pondered an eptable range of sry he can pay for her service.

    "How about I start you on with one hundred dors per month and increase it based on your performance?" Poul suggested.

    "That''s fine by me," Amelia agreed to his suggestion.

    "Then, Miss Amelia Weiss, wee to the Axelsen and Nielsen Air Brake Company. Now if you have any questions, please don''t hesitate to ask me or Jonathan, if I''m not around."

    "Uhm¡­first question, Sir Nielsen."

    "Oh?" Poul mused. "You are eager to work now, aren''t you? Well, what is it?"

    "Yes, there''s a lot of time before the day ends so I''d like to do work now. May I ask how many departments yourpany has currently?"<novelnext></novelnext>

    "Departments?" Poul tilted his head to the side.

    "Departments, such as marketing department, finance department, production department, and human resource department. The ones that keep thepany running smoothly."

    "Ahh¡­that, we pretty much do the marketing, finance, production, and human resources by ourselves," Poul answered the moment he understood her question.

    "And by that you mean, you and Jonathan? Doing all those things?" Amelia asked in disbelief.

    "Yes," Poul confirmed.

    Amelia sighed. "No wonder you are swamped with papers because you have no people to work on that. You are understaffed and it''s affecting your efficiency as both the minds of thepany. This is going to be a rough start, I wonder how you manage to stay afloat while all of thepany operations are done by the two of you."

    "Is it really that bad?" Poul chuckled nervously.

    "Very bad, Sir Nielsen," Amelia said, deadpanning. "In addition to the financial reports you have to write, you also need to peruse every document going in and out of thepany. You have to tackle the problems of thepany by yourself instead of having someone do that. All of it is time-consuming. What could have been a time you can use on innovating, improving, and developing products has been consumed by the paperwork alone."

    "I see¡­I kind of agree with your observations. Yes, we have to deal with those things personally. Well, now that we have you onboard, I was hoping you can arrange and fix it for us."

    "Don''t worry, Sir Nielsen. This is my specialty. I will make thepany run smoothly to the point you only have to sit back and rx," Amelia said with a determined expression.

    "I love the confidence," Poul responded, smiling at the young woman''s confidence and determination. "So, where do we start?"

    Amelia leaned forward in her chair and began. "We start by hiring more staff for every department. Finance manager, product manager, marketing manager, human resources manager, marketing specialist, business analyst, ountant, sales representative, administrative assistant, and a lot more. They will be the ones directly reporting to me,piling it, and reporting it directly to you."

    "Do we really need a lot of those staffers?" Poul queried.

    "Yes, we do. As I said, yourpany is way too understaffed. You are limiting yourpany''s efficiency and productivity by not hiring enough manpower. It may not be the case for a smallpany but yourpany is growing so fast that it can''t keep up with the daily demands. Worst, yourpany may grind to a halt if there was mismanagement. So they are not a need, they are a must-have. I''ll go and draft a job poster in the evening. Do you have a printing press here?"

    "We have one," Poul said.

    "Good. I''m also going to need the paperwork yourpany has had since birth. I will organize it for our future personnel to study and read."

    "I will prepare it, but it has thousands of pages. Just by talking with you, I can see that you will push yourself too hard. Are you going to be okay?"

    "It''s my job, Sir Nielsen. There''s nothing I can do about it. Don''t worry, I''m used to that kind of workload."

    "Okay. Is there anything you need?"

    "I think that''s all for now, Sir Nielsen. Thank you for giving me this job. I won''t disappoint you. I''d like to start working now."

    "Very well," Poul agreed and started taking out files and working together with Amelia.

 Chapter 52 A Workers Hard Work Must Be Credited

    ?Two hours had passed and the main office was quite busy as Poul and Amelia worked together reading documents on a file thepany had stored for two years, including the new one.

    Poul hated reading long texts, especially when he had read them before. But he has no other choice, he has to help Amelia to cross-reference every file, which would take a considerablyrge amount of time. He took a quick look at Amelia and saw how she was engrossed in doing her work. There were no signs of exhaustion on her face, no there weren''t any signs at all. It was expressionless, he couldn''t tell whether she liked her job or not.

    "Pass me that file," Amelia ordered without batting an eye off the file.

    "Here you go," Poul handed her the file, and she took it.

    "So this is the financial report you have been doing for Mister Morgan. I must say, the numbers are good, indicating good signs of great development. But as I stated earlier, your inexperience in handling apany could halt it. Where do you see your business five years from now, Mister Nielsen."

    "What''s with that question all of a sudden?" Poul asked.

    "Just answer the question," Amelia replied as her gaze passed by across the page.

    "Uh¡­" Poul pondered over it. "I see that this business bing one of the richestpanies in the world. Supplying domestic and international railroads with our air brakes, lotive draft gear, our signaling equipment, and our interlocking systems. We would be the main manufacturer and distributor, and then expand to another venture."

    "That''s quite ambitious," Ameliamented.

    "Isn''t that how vision is supposed to be?"

    "I know, but with your current system, you two won''t get anywhere near it," Amelia said. "But now that you have me, we can make your vision into a reality."

    ''She''s so cool,'' Poul thought, admiring the way how she ismitted to making theirpany seed despite having ulterior motives. Though the motives are innocuous, surely she was ordered by Caroline to watch them over but that''s only it. He may have a general idea of what their aim is. Since she knew that he and Jonathan came from a modern era with skills and knowledge, she must be waiting for a moment when he decided to build other things than air brakes. Technology that she may think is profitable. Partnering with her would be a good move but Caroline wanted them to work under her, which is not in their vision.

    A chemical engineer, and a great one of that, would be a fine addition to the team. After all, most of the technology he had nned to introduce in the future requires her expertise. They can partner but working under someone is off-limits. Poul and Jonathan wanted to create a legacy in this new world, that''s their dream, and is what is making them move forward.

    A momentter, there was a knock on the door.

    "Come in," Poul answered. The door slowly opened revealing Timothy who entered.

    "Oh, I see that you are quite busy," Timothy remarked the moment he saw the office almost filled with a stack of files. "Miss Weiss, it''s nice to see you again."

    Amelia only nodded at his polite gesture, her gaze still fixed on the documents.

    "What do you need, Timothy?"

    "Oh, I havee for the thing I wanted to show you about, Sir Nielsen."

    "Ah, I do remember you saying you''ll visit the office at five o''clock. Well, as you can see, the office is quite busy, but it doesn''t mean that I will not entertain you. Let''s talk about this outside. Let''s meet in the drawing room."

    "Understood," Timothy said before leaving the room.

    "Miss Amelia, I''m going out for a moment. Are you going to be fine here alone?" Poul inquired. Amelia gave him a brief nod without looking away from the papers. Poul left and went to another building to meet Timothy in the drawing room.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "So, what do we have here?" Poul asked as he nced at the blueprint being unfolded in front of him.

    Poul perused it, and he saw detailed schematics of a train''s wheelset. "What am I looking at?"

    "I redesigned the bogie, Sir Nielsen. I''m sure you would notice the difference between the mainstream bogie design and mine," Timothy said.

    Poul scanned the schematics and he noticed one thing."It has springs, are you nning on building a suspension system?"

    "Oh, you figured that out easily?"

    "What do you take me for?" Poul looked at him hotly.

    "I meant no disrespect, Sir Nielsen. Well, you are right, I have just designed a suspension system. I got inspired by the inner workings of the lotive draft gear. It functions by absorbing the pull, push, and stopping force in between carriages. An idea sparked in my mind, what if we can also absorb the up-and-down shock? Making the ride a bit smoother. You are aware that the rail tracks are mostly constructed on the uneven ground right? And on a winding path."

    "I am aware of that," Poul said.

    "So what do you say? Sir Nielsen? Do you think it''s worth a try?"

    "It may have slipped out of my mind but I too have thought of inventing a suspension system. I can help you make a prototype, and if it works, then you will have all the credit."

    "Credit? I''m sorry, what do you mean by that, Sir Nielsen?" Timothy asked.

    "You are the first one who hase up with an idea. If it works you can patent it under your name and you can license it to thepany," Poul exined.

    "But isn''t the employee''s invention credited to thepany?"

    "That is not part of the policy here in mypany. Here, if an employee hase up with a technology of their own design, the name of the patent must be that of the employee. I appreciate the sophisticated craftsmanship, and I believe that they deserve to be recognized for their creation."

    Timothy couldn''t help but smile. "There was so muchpassion in those words, Sir Nielsen."

    "There will be a lot of adjustments to your design though. For example, the springs should be here, not there," Poul said, his finger moving across the schematics.

    "Oh¡­I see what you are pointing at," Timothy said. "By the way, Sir Nielsen. I''m not the only one who came up with an idea. Walter too."

    "Where is he?" Poul asked.

    "He was probably presenting it to Sir Axelsen at the construction site," Timothy said. "Sir, there''s only three days before Christmas and I looked around the ce and it looked dreary. The town has been working day and night, I figured if we can liven up the mood?"

    "You are right. Fine, I''ll convene a meeting with Jonathan about this matter."

    "Thank you Sir Nielsen."

 Chapter 53 Sensing A Vibe From Jonathan

    ?At the construction site, Jonathan oversaw the construction of the extension of the factory. He has been keeping a watchful eye on the development as he had seen workers making erroneous decisions while working on it. As the one who designed the facilities in thepany town, he knew more than anyone else how everything should be done.

    And as he was watching the workers delivering concrete from one ce to another, cranes lifting construction materials from the ground to the top, a man approached him from the side.

    "Sir Axelsen, may I borrow some of your time?"

    Jonathan recognized the voice, it was from Walter, their top engineer in thepany. He nced down at Walter, still couldn''t get over his short height, and spoke.

    "How can I help you?"

    "I''d like you to check my design, I believe we can offer the trains more than air brakes and draft gears."

    "If it''s about the trains, then better consult with Poul," Jonathan said, his tone somewhat mncholic. "He''s the expert when ites to lotives and the parts."

    "But Sir Nielsen is busy at the moment as he was checking Timothy''s design. You see, we have drawn a device that you could add to thepany. Please, a nce would do."

    Jonathan sighed. "Fine," and took the blueprint from Walter.

    Jonathan unfolded the blueprint and scanned the detailed schematics of the drawing.

    "This is a piping diagram of the lotive¡­so the steam travels from the boiler to the pipes that run along the carriage, and then transferred to air using radiators. Could it be that you are using steam as a form of heating for the train carriages?"

    "You spot on that quick, Sir Axelsen," Walter smiled, genuinely impressed. "Well, I have been wondering to myself how we can provide heat to the carriage. During the winter season when the temperature decreases below thirty degrees Fahrenheit, it would be an ufortable experience for the passengers. Though there are some solutions provided such as burning wood or coal in the stove those who were seated near it find it ufortably hot while those who are seated afar from the stove face a cold ride."

    "So you designed this heating system to provide equal heat to each car of the train, am I right?"

    "That''s right," Walter nodded in confirmation. "What do you think?"

    "I think this is a great idea," Jonathan gave Walter a warm smile before handing back the paper. "Let''s go ask Poul for his opinions, shall we?"

    The two walked together as they headed back to building office B. Building office A is where the two industrialist duo worked and slept while building office B, which is located next to office building A, was where the engineers worked and slept.

    The two arrived in office building A, believing that Poul was in this building. They entered the house and into the office room. There, instead of seeing Poul, they saw a girl, surrounded by a stack while reading a file in her hand.

    It was Amelia.

    Out of the corner of her eyes, she saw two gentlemen stepping inside the office. She recognized one of them, Jonathan Axelsen.

    "Sir Axelsen, are you perhaps looking for Sir Nielsen?"

    "Uhm¡­yeah, do you know where he went? I have something to discuss with him," Jonathan said.

    "Ah, he was with Sir Timothy, I believe they are in the drawing room? I just heard it from Sir Nielsen."

    "I see¡­oh by the way, I would like to introduce you to Walter Schneider, one of our engineers working here in thepany," Jonathan introduced the man standing next to him.<novelnext></novelnext>

    Walter stepped forward and bowed his head. "Good day to you, Miss?"

    "Amelia. Amelia Weiss," Amelia replied and returned the bow. The first thing she noticed about him is his height. He was short and had the face of a cute child. Though his deep voice betrayed the fact that he is actually older than his looks.

    "I see that you have a lot of work to do, Miss Amelia," Jonathan said, ncing at the piles of documents. "We won''t be taking your time, so we''ll leave you be¡­"

    "Take care," Amelia waved goodbye. The two men left her office, leaving her alone in the office again.

    In the drawing room of office building B, Jonathan, and Walter saw Poul and Jonathan talking to one another.

    "Oh, speaking of the devil," Poul said the moment he saw Jonathan stepping inside the drawing room with Walter.

    "Poul, Walter just proposed a steam heating design, and I want to know the feasibility of it."

    "I just heard that from Timothy, though I didn''t know what it was until you mentioned it," Poul said. "Steam heating you say? Is it drawing steam from the boiler of the steam lotive and transferring it through awork of pipes under the cars?"

    "How did you know?" Walter asked, surprised when Poul guessed correctly about his designs.

    "Logically speaking, that''s the only way you can draw heat from the boilers, through a pipe," Poul replied and continued. "So Timothy came up with a suspension system and Walter a heating system. You two are really a gift to thispany. Very well, I''ll take both of your designs into consideration, and we will polish your design and build a prototype. If it''s satisfactory, we can roll it out among others."

    "Thank you, Sir Nielsen," Timothy and Walter intoned together.

    "Ohstly, Jonathan. I think I''m going to need your help."

    "About what?"

    "You see, thepany town is missing the spirit of Christmas. Why don''t we decorate? There''s still three days before Christmas."

    "That''s a good idea," Jonathan agreed to his proposal. "I will contact apany that grows pines and see if it can be delivered tomorrow."

    "Well you better contact them now," Poul suggested. "After all, it''s quarter past five."

    "Right, I''ll see youter," Jonathan said. "Walter, since you are the one who came up with the idea of steam heating, you should discuss more it with Poul. As you all may know, I''m not the expert you should consult about those things."

    Poul pressed his lips, his face frowning. Why is Jonathan saying that? What''s making him have a low opinion of himself? He knew the reason, maybe after all the years they have been working together, Jonathan has never done something significant. He must be longing for something that would awaken his passion for working in his field. Just like him inventing air brakes, draft gears, and signaling equipment. He too wanted to create a thing that he could call his.

    Poul pondered for an idea that could somehow do just that. And he came up with one.

    But before he can tell him the details, Jonathan already left.

    "I guess I''ll tell him about itter," Poul muttered under his breath.

 Chapter 54 Jonathans First Client

    ?Eleven o''clock in the evening, Poul and Jonathan returned to their home. As they were walking towards the office, Poul spoke.

    "Jonathan, I have a favor to ask you."

    "What is it?"

    "I''ll tell you inside the office," Poul said as he reached for the doorknob and rotated it. The door slowly opened, revealing a messy in office with stacks of files everywhere.

    The two jumped out, startled as they found another person in the room. Amelia looked at them, dumbstruck.

    "Oh¡­I have almost forgotten that we have a new secretary," Poul let out a chuckle as he rubbed his hair.

    "Sir Axelsen, Sir Nielsen. Good evening. Have you two eaten?" Amelia simply asked, before shifting her gaze back to the document she was reading in her hand.

    "We haven''t really. Jonathan is probably going to boil us some eggs, and take our sleep. Wait, how about you? Have you ever taken a break? Ever since I left you, you still haven''t moved from your chair."

    "I could say the same thing," Jonathan added.

    "I''m fine, I already ate at the cafeteria," Amelia said. "Though there was some confusion earlier about me being there, everything settled when I exined to them that I''m the new secretary that thispany hired."

    "I see¡­" Poul mumbled.

    "Anyways, Amelia. That''s enough. You have done a lot of work today. You may continue tomorrow."

    "No, I''m fine, Mister Axelsen. I can still work," Amelia insisted.

    Jonathan nced at Poul, hoping that he can persuade her to take a rest. Poul sighed and spoke.

    "Aren''t you pushing yourself too hard on your first day?"

    "Don''t worry, I understand your worries, Mister Nielsen. But there''s still a lot of work to be done. The more Iplete, the earlier we can overhaul the entire system," Amelia asserted, looking at them with determination.

    Faced with that look, Poul and Jonathan conceded. Well, it''s her choice. They gave her an opportunity to take a rest but she didn''t ept it. However, this is just for today. They can''t have her working around the clock as it is detrimental to one''s health. Tomorrow, they''ll inform her of her new working schedule that she has to strictly abide by.

    Their ns of discussing something in the office were thwarted. They excused themselves and headed to the porch.

    The industrialist duo took a seat and gazed at the sky, watching the stars twinkle through the clouds.

    "So what favor did you want to ask me?" Jonathan began.

    "I was wondering if maybe this is the time that we construct a formal office building. Ourpany is growing fast and is getting popr in the country. Future clients would visit us and I don''t think they''ll be pleased with us weing them in this house, or should I say office."

    "You want me to build an office building?" Jonathan turned his face and looked at Poul, whose gaze is still fixed on the sky.

    "You know better than I that we can''t have this house serve as the main office forever. I was wondering if six to eight-story buildings would do. That way, you can apply the skills you have learned from our original world."<novelnext></novelnext>

    "Ah, I think I know why we are having this conversation," Jonathan said, pursing his lips. "Are you taking pity on me?"

    "What makes you say that?"

    "The way you phrase your words at the end, it felt to me as if constructing buildings is just for me. And you are right. I have been working with you in thispany and ever since its inception, all I did was finish paperwork and construct facilities while you are out there in the drawing room inventing lucrative technologies. I also want to do miracles in this world, I want to build something that would make the people gape, awe, and impress."

    "Which is why I''m giving you the opportunity to build one," Poul said. "Last I saw is that the office building concept is not popr yet in this country. Imagine if you build one, people will flock and surround you, offering you a stupendous amount of money begging you to build one for them. And then, you can start your own firm and partner it with ourpany."

    "But we would be separated," Jonathan said, concern etched on his face. "Look, it''s not that I don''t like working with you, I just want to build miracles. I don''t want to be on the sideline anymore, I want to be on the mainstage. If you are going to invent automobiles or aircraft, then I''ll build buildings, bridges, and metros."

    "No one is stopping you, Jonathan. If you want to do it, do it," Poul said. "Besides I would prefer that we''d do just that. So? Are you going to construct an office building? Thispany of ours will be your first client."

    "I''ll be d to have thispany as my first client. I''lle up with a design next week. What would the office building look like?"

    "I don''t know, something modern and sleek I guess?" Poul shrugged his shoulders.

    "Well, constructing a modern-style eight-story building is not going to be an easy feat. I will have you create the technologies needed to make it possible."

    "I''d be more than happy to help. In fact, it''s making me excited. I can''t wait to see what you are going to offer me next week," Poul said, chuckling.

    "Prepare yourself as you are going to spend a lot of time helping me construct that building. Good thing that you already hired a secretary."

    "Yeah. Amelia wants me to hire a hundred more staff for the departments she is going to create for thepany. She said that if we hired the talents we arecking, it will help thepany run smoothly. As expected from the secretary who worked in Loreal."

    And then the two went on with their conversation,sting for about three hours.

    One o''clock in the morning, the two industrialist duo decided to call it a day and head back inside their house. They went upstairs and arrived in front of the bedroom door.

    Poul opened the door and entered. There are two beds in the room, one is for Jonathan, and the other one is for Poul. And on Jonathan''s bed, they saw a person lying on the bed. Amelia. What''s more is that she is wearing a white thin fabric of apron dress, revealing her slender arms, legs, and corbone that is gently rising up and down each time she breathes.

    "I did mention that Amelia is going to sleep in our bedroom," Poul whispered.

    "All the more reason to build that office building," Jonathan whispered back. "But isn''t she feeling cold?"

    Poul slowly approached the bed and ced the quilt over the sleeping figure.

    "We should also go to sleep," Poul suggested. "We can sleep together in my bed, it can fit two people."

    "Well, it''s not like I have a choice here," Jonathan muttered, following Poul''s path toward his bed.

    The twoy on their backs, staring at the ceiling. The two thought it would feel awkward now when someone other than them is sleeping in the same room, especially when it was a girl. But no such thoughts appeared in either mind. The industrialist duo drifted into deep and pleasant sleep without another word shared between them.

 Chapter 55 Amelias Impression To The Company Town

    ?A yawn escaped from Amelia''s lips as she woke up and looked around the room that was not her own. The familiar sight of the in furnishings around her caused her to let out another sigh. She just remembered taking a job as a secretary at Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company.

    Speaking of thepany, Amelia saw the two founders sleeping on the same bed with their limbs sprawled over them while snoring loudly. She found it cute and innocent, to think that the owner of a risingpany would sleep in such a position. Not that she''s making fun of them or anything. She knew that she was the reason why they are sharing the same bed. If not for her existence in thispany, they would have slept on their respective beds.

    She rose from the bed she was sitting on and went to the door while rubbing her eyes groggily. The first thing to do as secretary is to prepare for the day, which means taking care of the needs of her superior.

    Normally, when she was working with Caroline, she would wake up early and prepare breakfast for the two. It was a habit that she couldn''t easily let go so she stepped down two flights of stairs and went to the kitchen.

    Once she was inside, Amelia only saw kitchen utensils. tes, spoon, and fork. There was no food to be seen, making her sigh. If there was no food in the kitchen, then how can she prepare breakfast? Fortunately, there is a cafeteria where she purchased food.

    Yesterday, when the founders of thepany are away doing their respective duties and leaving her alone in their office, she took a thirty-minute break which she used to explore thepany.

    Her impression of thepany is that it looked like a town, a town where workers of thepany lived. It has all the amenities the workers need to get through the day, one of them was a cafeteria, where workers eat and take their breaks.

    But before going there, she realized that her current outfit won''t do as it is revealing. She wondered if Poul or Jonathan touched her or anything. No, that seems impossible as they don''t look like the type of guy who would take advantage of a defenseless girl.

    So she took a bath, donned her outfit, and headed to the cafeteria. The male workers donned their coveralls and tipped their hard hats at her, greeting her warmly. Amelia shoots them down with her beautiful smile, making them blush. They were still young men, making their reactions understandable. But those who are older only return her smile.

    The workers were friendly towards her, making her feelfortable in the town. Usually, at her workce in Loreal, she wouldn''t even have the chance to interact with theborers of thepany. She often stayed at Caroline''s side, when she was needed, she would promptly walk forward and ask what Caroline wanted her to do.

    Arriving at the cafeteria, Amelia was met with a long line of workers. She joined the line and waited patiently for her turn. The men around looked at her inquisitively. Some already knew that she was working in thepany while others did not. A minuteter, she is getting all the attention and is starting to get embarrassed.

    "Uhm, Lady? You are the new secretary of our boss right?" said the young man in front of her.

    "Yes," Amelia bashfully replied with a shy tone. "That I am¡­"

    "Oi! May I have your attention please!" the young man suddenly called.

    Amelia''s facial expression turned nk. What''s his problem?

    "Our boss has hired a new secretary! How can everyone be so ungentlemanly to make ady wait in a line?"

    Suddenly, a murmur and chatter sparkled in the cafeteria.

    "Eh? That''s the secretary?"

    "She''s beautiful..!"

    "Does she already have a man in her life?"

    Amelia chuckled nervously and fumbled her hands as everyone''s attention in the cafeteria was on her.

    "Why are you making her wait in line? Let her go first."

    One of the workers spoke, and with that, everyone in line made way for her to the counter.

    "Ahh..you don''t have to everyone, it will be unfair to you," Amelia tried to say politely but ended up stuttering instead.

    "Nonsensedy, it won''t be unfair to us. Please ept our warm wee to you as thispany''s new secretary by letting you go first. They won''t mind, right everyone?"

    "Hurrah!" the workers shouted, waving their arms in the air with excitement.

    The people working in thepany were truly nice to her. Well, it will be hard to deny them now so she epted the offer gratefully. She thanked them profusely and was escorted to her desk. As she walked, all kinds of positive and admiringments were exchanged about her. She blushed a little but tried to hide it from the others'' view, although the tips of her ears were redder than tomatoes.

    When she reached the counter, ady in her mid-forties smiled at her warmly and spoke.

    "What will you have for breakfast, youngdy?"

    "Uhm¡­the breakfast that Sir Nielsen and Axelsen usually order? I was about to prepare them breakfast but there were no ingredients in the kitchen so I went here and asked if maybe they sometimes get their food here?"

    "Ah¡­I see. Well, sometimes they make their own breakfast and sometimes they get their breakfast here. They usually have an egg in a hole paired with coffee."

    "Ehh in a hole huh? Okay, I''ll have those," Amelia said.

    "Great, what about you ma''am? Do you have anything you like in particr? We make pretty much everything here," the olddy said.

    "Pancake," Amelia uttered without hesitation.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "Pancake, I see. Would you like honey and butter for that?"

    "I love honey and butter," Amelia responded immediately.

    "Okay then. Please wait to the side as we prepare your orders,"

    "Sure."

    And her orders were now being prepared by the cooks. Those who are behind her ordered their own breakfast at the counter. While observing the people around her, she remembered something. The food here, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are paid for by thepany, and the funds for that are collected from the worker''s sry, so they don''t have to spend a single penny to buy food. However, that''s only for the workers, if they are going to feed their families, they''ll have to buy them.

    "Uhm¡­Lady, we will have it delivered to the main office. You can wait for the food there," the olddy said.

    "Oh, really? Thanks, I''ll get going now," Amelia smiled and left the cafeteria. She returned to the main office, which is basically a house.

    Once she was two inches away from the door, Amelia heard a noiseing from the inside. She opened the door and right across her, the door to the office was opened. There, she saw Poul and Jonathan having a talk with one another while brushing their teeth.

    The two turned their heads toward her.

    "Oh Amelia, good morning. Where have you been?" Jonathan asked.

    "I bought us some breakfast in the cafeteria. I searched around your kitchen as I was thinking of making you one. But there were no ingredients for me to use so I ended up buying it from the cafeteria. They''ll have it delivered here soon."

    ? Poul chuckled and said, "Ahh¡­that''s nice, you didn''t have to do that."

    "It''s my job as your secretary," Amelia simply stated.

    "So, how''s the reception so far? Are you feeling weed?" Jonathan asked.

    "Uhm¡­the people here are great and they are nice toward me," Amelia said as she twirled a single strand of her hair.

    "That''s good to hear. You''ll be working alongside them after all, it''s best that you are received warmly," Jonathan said.

    "Once we have our breakfast, we will start working. Amelia, I''m sure you have a lot of reading to do, am I right?"

    "That''s right," Amelia confirmed, her eyes sparkling with eagerness. "I''ll finish it by this week and start hiring staff."

    "We must take into consideration the quality of the applicants. We are not desperate, if we can manage thepany for two years without them, then we can manage for another two," Jonathan advised.

    "That''s one best way to put it Sir Axelsen, but that was in your starting days and the time when yourpany was not bigpared to today. You are a growing enterprise, the two of you won''t be enough from now on. You will miss a lot of opportunities and worst, it might even affect the efficiency of yourpany, leading to a decrease in clientsing in," Amelia pointed out.

    Jonathan let out a sigh, "But my point still stands. If we are hiring staff, I want them to be above average."

    "Consider it done, Sir Axelsen."

    "Have you alreadye up with names that fit our standards?" Poul asked.

    "I know a lot of acquaintances from different well-establishedpanies. I can entice them with an offer," Amelia said.

    "Oh," Poul sang. "This is going to be exciting."

    As the three were having their pleasant conversation, a knock on the door sounded from behind.

    "It must be the food," Amelia turned to her heels and hurried to open the door.

    There were three men outside, each carrying a food tray.

    "Uhm¡­this was the food you ordered, ma''am." one of the men said.

    "Okay thank you."

    "I''ll pay itter," Jonathan voiced from behind.

    "Thank you sir, and good luck on today''s work," the man bowed his head politely before heading out with his fellow workers.

 Chapter 56 Christmas Eve

    ?December 24th, year 881 in the continental calendar.

    It was a chilly December evening in the small town of Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company, and the citizens were bustling with excitement as they prepared for the most wonderful time of the year - Christmas. Thepany town square was aglow with vibrant lights and festive decorations, and the sweet scent of gingerbread cookies wafted through the air.

    As the townspeople bustled about, finalizing their preparations, children giggled and yed in the snow, building snowmen and tossing snowballs at each other. Meanwhile, the town merchants were busy stocking their shelves with holiday treats, and the sound of cheerful carols filled the air.

    A group of volunteers made up of workers was busy setting up for the annual Christmas party. Tables were being covered with red and green tablecloths, and strings of twinkling light bulbs were being hung from the rafters by the engineers. The cooks in the cafeteria were busy whipping up batches of famous sugar cookies, and the smell of fresh-baked goodies filled the kitchen.

    At thepany town''s main street, the employees of Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company were also getting into the holiday spirit. They had transformed their factory into a winter wondend, with glittering light bulbs and towering Christmas trees that they ordered from a Christmas tree farm in Pennsylvania. The workers were busy putting the finishing touches on the borate decorations, and the factory was buzzing with excitement as they looked forward to the big Christmas party they were nning.

    As night fell and the town was bathed in the warm glow of holiday lights, families gathered in the town square to sing carols and watch the first tree lighting ceremony. Poul and Jonathan took the stage, and with a flick of a switch, the towering tree was alight with a brilliant disy of colorful lights. The crowd erupted in apuse, and the children cheered with delight.

    "I must say, this is one of the best annual Christmas parties thepany has had since its inception," Jonathanmented, pping his hand gently and smiling at the townspeople before him.

    "It''s important to have this holiday every year, to fill our workers with motivation to work for a brighter future for thepany," Poul replied, waving his hand at the townspeople.

    "You do this every year, Sir Axelsen, Sir Nielsen?" Amelia asked, holding a ss of wine in her hand.

    "Yes, do you not do this in yourpany?"

    "Well, Christmas in ourpany seems like any other day for us, so they don''t bother celebrating it."

    "That''s kind of depressing," Poul mumbled. "Well, if it''s your way then who are we to judge? Every one of us has our own way of doing things. We just take life as ites."

    Amelia smiled, taking another sip of wine and watching the townspeople reveling in the form of dancing and singing carols. She nced over behind her and noticed how beautiful the Christmas tree is when adorned with light bulbs. It was as if the tree itself had be alive and glowing. With each branch lit from beneath.

    And if she''s going, to be honest, this year''s Christmas season is probably the best one she had in her life. The industrialist duo took it to a whole other level. No wonder why Caroline persuaded her to work with Mister Axelsen and Nielsen. The two were indeed interesting.

    "Okay, why don''t we join the rest huh?" Poul said before walking down the tform and frolicking among thepany workers and theirpany and dancing around the bonfire. The orange glow reflected off the man''s face, making him look almost ethereal. After he danced for several minutes, the townspeople began apuding and cheering him on.

    Jonathan couldn''t help but jump in. Their workers cheered loudly as the others yed their musical instruments. They continued for another minute until one of the employees shouted.

    "Sir Nielsen! Sing for us!"

    Poul stopped dancing abruptly and turned around with a surprised expression on his face. "Eh? Me?"

    "Your voice back in Columbus Sir Nielsen was great, we''d like to hear it again. Right everyone?"

    "Yes!" all the workers around raised their cups of beer in agreement. "Sing some song for us, Sir Nielsen!"

    "Sir Nielsen!"

    "Sir Nielsen!"

    The workers chanted and chanted again. Poul gave in andughed. "All right, all right, I''ll sing a song, okay?"

    "Woooh!" the workers roared with delight and one of the workers handed him the guitar.

    Poul tried strumming it to see if it was tuned properly.

    "Okay, you wanted this everyone. I''m going to sing for all of you on this special asion. But under one condition, I can''t do this alone," Poul''s gaze flickered at Jonathan. "Partner, join me here."

    "Wooh! Sir Axelsen is also singing!"

    "Sir Axelsen! Sir Axelsen!" they chanted.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "Fine," Jonathan agreed, chuckling as he raised his hand. He joined Poul in the middle.

    "So, what are we going to sing?" Jonathan asked. A simple question but hard to answer.

    "I don''t know what''s the popr music genre of this era," Poul replied back in a whisper. "Maybe we can sing anything we know?"

    "I am not sure if they are going to like it or not," Jonathan shrugged.

    "Well, they only told us to sing, so we sing and get on with it," Poul muttered under his breath. "Come on partner, pick a good Christmas song, and let''s get started."

    Jonathan pondered for a moment, thinking of a song. He''s not an avid music listener but whenever he''s on break, he would wear his earphones and listen to what Youtube has to offer. It was Christmas at that time, and he hade across a song that got stuck in his mind. He wondered if Poul knew how to y it on the guitar.

    Jonathan leaned over to his side and whispered the song he hade up with. Poul hummed a reply, nodding in agreement.

    "Do you know how to y that song?"

    "It''s easy for me, after all, it was one of the songs I learned from a colleague, who even taught me how to y it on guitar. Oh, how reminiscing. To think that we would have the same taste. Okay, say when you are ready."

    "Everyone! May I have your attention please," Jonathan called. "The song that we are going to sing is not mainstream. It''s a song that we havee up with in the spur of the moment. You may love it, or you may hate it. Anyways, here we go."

    "This is the most beautiful time of the year¡­" Poul sang, strumming the strings of the guitar.

    "Lights fill the streets, spreading so much cheer¡­" Jonathan followed and continued. "I should be ying in the winter snow,"

    And together. "But I''m going to be under the mistletoe¡­"

    The first notes of the song filled the air, and the audience was immediately captivated by the beauty of the music. Poul''s soft voice and Jonathan''s rich baritone blended together in perfect harmony.

    As the song continued, the audience around was transported to a ce of warmth andfort, and it was as if all the worries and troubles of the world simply melted away. The ce was filled with a magical feeling, and everyone waspletely entranced by the music.

    When the final notes of the song faded away, there was silence for a moment. And then, as if on cue, the entire audience erupted into thunderous apuse. The workers and their wives and children were cheering, whistling, and pping, and Poul and Jonathan were grinning from ear to ear, basking in the glow of their sess.

    "I didn''t mess it up, right?" Poul asked, feeling a little bit worried that he might have made a mistake along with the song.

    "You didn''t," Jonathan said.

    The song that they just sang right now was a song that became popr in the 2010s. They were worried at first as the genre of the music was different in this era, but it turned out quite well. When they were singing it, they had to change some contemporary words to fit the era they were in right now.

    "Wow, bravo," Amelia pped her hand as she approached the two. "I didn''t know that you two could sing well. I must say, it was a song that I didn''t expect."

    "Well, we gave you a heads-up before singing it," Jonathan said, grinning.

    "Let''s enjoy the rest of Christmas eve. Tomorrow will be a non-working holiday, and the day after that, well, you know what it is."

    "We return to work," Amelia said. "I''ll be finished reading all the files by that day so I think we are a go."

    "For the future of the Axelsen and Nielsen Air Brake Company," Poul raised his ss of wine.

    Jonathan and Amelia raised their own and clinked their sses together.

    "Expect some major changes in the next preceding year. The Axelsen and Nielsen Air Brake Company will revolutionize the world," Poul said.

 Chapter 57 Overworking Is Bad

    ?January 2, 882 in the continental calendar. The day after the new year, the workers of the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company resumed operations. The factory workers were busy churning out air brakes, lotive draft gears, and signaling equipment. While the seasoned engineers of thepany are working on a prototype, specifically the train suspension and the piping diagram for the heating system.

    Poul was in the drawing room along with the engineers, doing the final touches for schematics of the direct current electric motor and the files that contain its manufacturing processes. He had to finish it by today, double-check itter, and then go to New York next week to personally teach the technical know-how to James Russel''s engineers.

    Jonathan was also in the drawing room, but instead of working along with the engineers, he was busy making designs for the new office building of thepany on his own drawing table.

    Every person in the room was upied and can''t be bothered, but there is one who can.

    Amelia entered the drawing room and walked over to Poul''s side. She took a nce at what he was doing and the moment she saw it, she got dizzy from the engineering drawings. So she gave up and simply stated her reason foring in.

    "The applicants for all the new departments have arrived and have been waiting for you in the main office to interview them one by one. The line is getting big so I suggest that you take care of it as soon as possible."

    Poul''s eyes didn''t even move from the blueprint he was working on, but he responded.

    "Aren''t those applicants handpicked by you? If that is the case then there''s no need to interview them because you already vouch for them."

    "That may be right, but thepany owners must see them in person to figure out whether he or she will be worth more or less based on your standard line of questioning," Amelia said while crossing her arms and continuing. "Also, I informed you about their arrival yesterday, so you should be expecting this."

    "If you see what I''m doing, you can see that I''m quite busy."

    "So, should I inform them that thepany workers are busy entertaining applicants and they are to return next week?" Amelia asked, her voice growing stern.

    "I have a business trip to New York next week and I will not be avable for the whole month. You can have Jonathan take care of it," Poul replied, not an iota of concern was expressed.

    "I''m sorry but this won''t do. Forgive me for the things I am about to do to you."

    When she said that, Poul''s eyes raised. His gaze flickered to her. Before he could utter a word to exin herself, she suddenly grabbed him by the arm and dragged him out of the room.

    The sudden action of the secretary made the engineers inside the drawing room look up at them and let out a startled gasp. It was a bold move from Amelia, pulling thepany owners, her superior, without notice. Even when all that was happening, Jonathan couldn''t care less as he was engrossed in drawing the diagrams of the new office building.

    In the hallway, Poul was still being dragged by Amelia by the arm.

    "Oi¡­What are you doing?" Poul grunted as he demanded an answer from Amelia.

    "Honestly, I don''t know if you are doing this on purpose or not. I informed you that the applicants areing today and yet you are busying yourself with drawing? You may be a smart man when ites to mechanical devices but without a department in yourpany, whatever your great mind cane up with will be useless. Please take this seriously, if you want to go to the top then stop fooling around and act like a proper business owner."

    Poul was speechless about that. Well, she was right, she did inform him yesterday about the applicants. But, he got too excited working on the electric motor, making him divert all of his focus and attention to it. It''s probably one of his bad traits, when something was decided and then suddenly there was a thing that interested him, he would literally forget the thing he agreed upon and turn to the new one.

    "I''m sorry," Poul uttered an apology. For now, Amelia was in control of the situation and she had every right to tell him what to do. She has been expending a lot of effort to fix thepany''s potential drawbacks. She worked day and night reading files and searching for potential candidates for the job opening. And then at the end of the day, she''ll find the twopany owners not taking their job seriously?

    What is she doing here in the first ce? The industrialist duo needed a secretary and she applied, and now that they have one, they aren''t listening to her? It''s making her disappointed.

    Amelia gave him a cold shoulder, not even giving him a nce as she dragged him out to the exit of building B.

    "Are you perhaps mad about me?" Poul asked in a careful tone.

    "I''m just disappointed at the way you talked earlier. It''s sounding like you are not taking me seriously," Amelia confessed. She stopped walking and turned to face Poul, looking straight into his soul. Her expression was serious enough to scare the hell out of him, as this was quite the opposite of her innocent look.

    "Fine, I admit, I kind of messed it up earlier. I''m sorry if I''m not acknowledging your efforts to help thispany to change for the better. It was neglect on my part and I hope that I receive your apology. I will talk to Jonathan, change the way we act, and work seriously as if our life depended on it."

    "Mister Nielsen, you should know that I''m not doing this for both of you, but for yourpany. Like Lady Caroline, I saw a huge prospect in yourpany. I want to see your visions for thepanye to reality, I really do. But if you continue to behave in the way you showed me earlier, then I will have no choice but to resign."

    "No..!" Poul''s words came out naturally. When she said that, he felt his heart getting crushed, making him sad should Amelia do that.

    "Anything but that," Poul pleaded subtly.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "Fine, you have my apology, but only after you interviewed the applicants," Amelia said in a soft tone.

    Poul sighed a relief inwardly, relieved that she wouldn''t leave thepany. She was an asset that he couldn''t bear to lose as it would surely negatively impact them in the long run. Yet despite knowing it, he was still acting aloof. He hated himself when he did that.

    "Okay, I''ll interview the applicants just as we agreed upon yesterday," Poul said in a genuine voice.

    A beautiful smile spread across her lips. "Great, then let''s get moving."

    With that, Poul interviewed about eighty applicants. It took him seven hours toplete interviewing all of them. Of those eighty applicants, fifty of them were hired and filled the vacant positions in five major departments. Sales, marketing, finance, production, and human resource.

    Poul rubbed the temple of his forehead with his fingers, feeling tired from all the talking. He wanted to remain silent for a while as Amelia processed the applications of the applicants so that they may start working at the soonest time possible.

    "Great work, Sir Nielsen," Amelia said to which Poul looked at her with a slight nod. "You may have your rest now, I''ll do everything from here."

    "No," Poul replied, grabbing Amelia by her elbow, but gently. "You should take some rest, you''ve been with me for seven hours listening to the mundane and repetitive questions and answers. You, working hard for thepany is admirable but doing it too hard could result in your body copsing."

    "Thanks for your concern, Sir Nielsen. But I can handle myself," she said as she stood up.

    But the moment she got on her feet, she started swaying from left to right as dizziness struck her head. She almost lost her footing and tipped forward.

    Poul''s mind red in alert, he got up to his feet and caught her in his arms before she could fall onto the ground. Holding her close against his chest, his heart raced in concern.

    "This is what I''m scared about. You are pushing yourself too hard," Poul whispered worriedly, keeping hold of her tightly.

    "I''m fine, I promise. Just exhausted," Amelia murmured back weakly and tried to get up. But there was no strength in her limbs.

    "I don''t understand, I gave you reasonable work hours and why do you feel weak? Are you eating properly?"

    Amelia''s silence made her guilty.

    Poul sighed. "You dummy, why are you doing that to yourself? This won''t do, I''ll carry you to your bed and take your rest there."

    Poul lifted her up like a princess and carried her upstairs. Amelia was feeling embarrassed by the entire affair, she didn''t expect to be so vulnerable so quickly. She was never the type to show emotion in front of others and certainly didn''t allow anyone to see her weak side. She kept everything bottled up inside her and refused to let anybody else inside.

    Arriving at the bedroom, Poul sat Amelia carefully on the bed.

    "Uhm¡­Sir Nielsen¡­"

    "Don''t speak. For now, I am ordering you to take a rest for two days. That means no work, just regain your strength. And once your strength returns, I want you to promise me that you will take care of yourself from that day onwards. Am I clear?"

    "But¡­who would be your secretary?"

    "Jonathan can fill up that role. Don''t worry, he has the skills to do it, and I''m sure he is going to understand."

    "I''m¡­sorry¡­" Amelia muttered apologetically.

    "Don''t be. This is my fault for not looking after my workers properly. Now that I know the consequences, I will be careful from now on. I will take care of you while you are resting. I''ll go get you some food before you can sleep."

    After saying that, Poul left the bedroom, leaving her alone in the room for a while.

    At that moment, Amelia''s expression softened, her heart thumped fast, and her cheeks flushed. Then after a few seconds, she uttered.

    "Poul..."

 Chapter 58 Smooth Recovery

    ?It''s been two days following Amelia''s copse, and Poul assumed care for her temporarily. Early in the morning, he requested Jonathan to prepare her morning meal. Seated on the bed, Amelia, now free of dizziness, timidly wrung her hands as Poul ced the bed tray before her.

    "It''s all right, Sir Nielsen," she said. "The rest has done me well, and I am ready to return to my duties."

    Poul gazed at Amelia with a concerned expression. He had been at her bedside since she copsed, worrying about her health and well-being. "Are you certain, Amelia? Perhaps it would be best if you take a few more days to rest and recover fully," he suggested.

    Amelia shook her head, her eyes were determined. "I appreciate your concern, Sir Nielsen, but I cannot remain idle for much longer. There is much work to be done, and I cannot afford to fall behind."

    Poul sighed, understanding her resolve. He knew that Amelia was a diligent and hardworking individual, always striving to do her best. "Very well," he said. "But promise me that you will not push yourself too hard. If you begin to feel unwell, you must take a break immediately."

    Amelia nodded, a small smile appearing on her face. "I promise, Sir Nielsen. Thank you for your care and concern."

    As she began to eat her breakfast, Poul watched over her, ensuring that she was well andfortable. Despite her insistence on returning to work, he would keep a close eye on her, making sure that she did not overexert herself. It was his duty, not only as her employer but also as a friend, to ensure her well-being and health.

    Looking at her again, Poul noticed that she is indeed recovering well. As much as he wanted her to go back to work, if her body still can''t recuperate, then he won''t force her to return to her duties.

    Having finished her meal, Amelia set the bed tray aside. "The breakfast was delicious, Sir Nielsen. Thank you," she said, her warmest smile directed toward Poul.

    A faint blush tinted Poul''s cheeks as he responded, "Don''t thank me, it was Jonathan who prepared it, not me."

    "I know," Amelia replied, "but it is you who I hold in the highest regard. You took care of me for these past two days, and I am truly grateful."

    "But that was because Jonathan is busy doing work. If not for that case, he would have watched over you as well," Poul stated.

    Amelia chuckled, "I will certainly express my gratitude to Mr. Axelsen when I see him at the office."

    Poul chuckled as well, his eyes sparkling with amusement. "I''m sure he will appreciate it," he said. "But now, it''s time for you to get ready. I will leave you be so you can take your bath and get dressed. Jonathan and I will be in the drawing room."

    "Very well, Sir Nielsen," Amelia noted. "See youter."

    ***

    With that, Poul left the room, closing the door softly behind him. He made his way to the drawing room in office building B, where Jonathan was waiting for him. "How is she, Poul?" Jonathan asked, his expression concerned.

    "She''s doing much better," Poul replied. "She''s still determined to return to work, but I''ve made her promise to take it easy if she starts to feel unwell."

    Jonathan nodded, a small smile appearing on his face. "That''s good to hear. I was worried about her."

    As was I," Poul said, taking a seat in one of the armchairs. "But she''s a strong young woman, and I have faith that she will recover fully.

    "So, what was it again that you wanted me to see?" Poul asked.

    "Oh, I just finished drafting the design of our new office building," Jonathan said, pulling out a blueprint and unfurling it over the table. "Take a look at this. This eight-story structure will epass a total of over 114,000 square feet and be situated 2,296 feet away from the factory to mitigate the effects of noise and smoke pollution, thus creating a more hospitable work environment. While the modern aesthetic may prove to be a challenge, I am confident in our ability to sessfully navigate it."

    Poul perused the blueprint, musing, "I presume that I am to design the heating, cooling, and electrical systems?"

    Jonathan replied, "That would be ideal, given your proficiency in those areas. I shall provide you with a copy of the blueprint for your reference, and kindly submit your designs to me whenpleted."

    Poul queried, "As for the physical construction of the building, I presume that won''t be under your purview, correct? You don''t have the manpower for it."

    Jonathan stated, "Indeed, I will be procuring the services of a construction firm to take on the project. I will be soliciting bids, and the firm that offers the mostpetitive price will have the privilege of constructing the first modern office building in Pittsburgh."

    Poul expressed, "I feel that I amgging behind inparison. I have justpleted the schematics for direct current electric motors and have devised a design for their application. I am scheduled to depart for New York in five days to have the prototype built."

    Jonathan nodded in agreement, "That seems like a solid n. Do pass along my greetings to Caroline. Let her know I will be seeing her soon, once Imence the search for construction firms in New York."<novelnext></novelnext>

    Poul nodded in affirmation, "Will do."

    Then they spent about thirty minutes discussing the day''s schedule and tasks, making sure that everything was in order. After thirty minutes, Amelia arrived in the drawing room.

    She was dressed and ready for the day ahead. She looked much better, herplexion having regained its natural color and her eyes bright and alert. And there, she was greeted by the familiar faces of her colleagues. They weed her back with warm smiles, happy to see that she was feeling better. She made her way to her two, bowing courteously.

    "Sir Axelsen, I am deeply grateful for your generosity in providing me with the nourishment essential for my convalescence."

    "It''s good to see you getting better," Jonathan said. "However, kindly exercise prudence and refrain from overexerting yourself."

    "I will, Sir Axelsen," Amelia bowed her head once more. "I''ll be leaving the two of you here as I have to return to the main office building. You know, the papers are not going to sort themselves out."

    "Yeah, we''ll see you thereter," Poul said.

    "Then, Sir Axelsen and Sir Nielsen," Amelia said, before pivoting on her heels and departing the room. The two men watched her leave before turning their attention back to each other.

    "Is it just me who noticed that she got cuter?" Poul asked, breaking the silence.

    "Nah, Caroline is still better," Jonathan replied.

    "Oh, even after knowing that she''s a different person?" Poul probed.

    "So? We are also different," Jonathan said.

    "What I mean is, Caroline exudes a sadistic aura, wouldn''t you agree?" Poul stated.

    "That''s simply one aspect of her charisma," Jonathan stated nonchntly. "And I got to say, I love it."

    "Oh, so you were into that type huh?" Poul raised an eyebrow, intrigued by his friend''s preference.

    "Well, I can''t deny that it adds a certain thrill to the rtionship," Jonathan replied with a smirk. "But what about you? I thought you only had feelings for Sara, yet here you are, showing affection for someone we just met in New York?"

    "I''ve already told you, I''ve moved on. I did love her in our previous world, but now we find ourselves in a new one, a new life where we have the opportunity to meet new people, then it''s only natural that people would change."

    "But what if she''s here in this world?" Jonathan asked. "What if you were to meet her in this new world?"

    "That''s impossible, she''s not dead," Poul replied.

    "Imagine if you were to meet her in this world and also imagine that you and Amelia were together. How would your feelings for Amelia change if you were to learn that the love of your life was also present in this world?"

    Poul was silent for a moment, grappling with inner conflict.

    "I really don''t know," Poul said.

    "Well, that''s just a hypothetical scenario. Don''t take it too seriously," Jonathan said.

    "But if that hypothetical scenario turned into reality. Then I would be a fool to leave Amelia for someone that I loved in the new world. I mean, if Amelia and I got together, that means I have made a vow, a promise that I''ll take care of her for life. It would be very stupid of me."

    "I see," Jonathan sighed. "Well, as I said, that''s a hypothetical scenario. As you said, it''s impossible as she was not dead. She might be living her life there in the other world with a man loving her fondly."

    "That would be great. It would have been me but I wish that the man she''s with now will love and protect her like I would do to her if we didn''t get ourselves killed in that coffee shop," Poul said.

 Chapter 59 An Unexpected Visitor And Offer

    ?January 9, 882 in the continental calendar. A horse-drawn carriage was in the main gate of the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company. Inside the carriage was John Morgan and the other was a famous military general that participated in the United States of Avalonia Civil War, William Sherman.

    "Morgan, are you sure that these two can provide me what I need for my army?" Sherman asked as he puffed a cigar.

    "You can trust me with this. The two gentlemen that we are about to meet are genius in their own right. In just two years theirpany became one of the fastest-risingpanies in Avalonia. Invented a mechanical device that allows trains to stop in an instant usingpressed air, cushion the forces of the train, andstly, devised a signaling system that would allow for safe lotive transportation."

    "Yeah I know, I have read it myself. What I want to know is if they can make firearms. I didn''te here for an air brake," Sherman said.

    "I''m not sure myself but it''s worth a try. If they can build those mechanical devices, I''m sure they can make firearms."

    "I just hope that they are not as pacifist as James Russel. To think that he would turn down a seven-million-dor contract because he thought that inventing a weapon that takes the life of another man is inhumane. He''s soft."

    "I can assure you, these two aren''t," Morgan said.

    Finally, they arrived in front of the office of the two inventors. The building was small and modest, hardly the grand edifice that Sherman might have expected from apany that had achieved such sess. Sherman took a moment to survey the structure, disappointment creasing his features.

    "This is more like a house than an office," he observed, his voiceced with disappointment. "They''re earning a lot of money, I''m sure they have the finances tomission the building of a proper office."

    Despite Sherman''s criticism, Morgan led him inside the building. The air inside was cool and still, a stark contrast to the noisy chaos outside. As they entered the modest office, the sound of whirring machinery faded into the background, reced by the soft rustle of papers and the asional squeak of a chair.

    A young woman was working behind a desk, her eyes fixed on a stack of papers. As the men entered, she looked up, surprised, registering in her features.

    "Mister Morgan?" she said, her eyes widening in recognition. "You didn''t inform me that you wereing."

    Morgan nodded in greeting, his face serious. "I''m sorry, who might you be?"

    The young woman stood, smoothing her skirt and performing a graceful curtsy. "Greetings, sirs. My name is Amelia Weiss, and I work as the executive secretary in thispany."

    Sherman''s eyes roamed over the young woman, taking in her lithe figure and delicate features. She stood tall, her height easily surpassing that of most women, and her slender form was entuated by the curve of her ample bosom. Her skin was like porcin, unblemished and smooth, while her hair shimmered in the light, a deep navy-blue shade pulled back in a neat bun.

    But it wasn''t just her physical beauty that caught Sherman''s attention. As she stood there, poised and confident, he could sense a subtle power emanating from her. Despite her youth, there was a quiet authority in her demeanor that suggested she was more than just a simple secretary.

    "Where are Poul and Jonathan?" Morgan asked.

    "They are in the drawing room, working. Would you like me to go and get them here?" Amelia asked.

    "Yes please, tell him that they have a very important visitor."

    Amelia''s eyes darted towards Sherman, and lingered on him, taking in every detail of his imposing figure. He stood tall at six feet, his broad shoulders and muscr build emanating power and control. His piercing blue eyes glinted with intensity,manding respect and attention from anyone in his vicinity. His chiseled jawline and high cheekbones were entuated by a square face, giving him a rugged and unyielding demeanor. Short, light brown hair was cropped in a military style, and a thick mustachepleted his no-nonsense appearance. The crisp blue military uniform he wore added to his distinguished bearing and made him all the more impressive.

    "My name is William Sherman, youngdy," he spoke in a resonant, deep voice that demanded attention.

    "William Sherman...the famous general during the civil war? I have heard a lot about you. It is an honor to meet you in person," Amelia replied, her voice soft and respectful.

    "The honor is mine, youngdy. Now please go and call the two inventors here."

    With a polite bow, Amelia excused herself and made her way to the drawing room in office building B. There, Poul and Jonathan were engrossed in a conversation, but her arrival caught their attention.

    "Sir Nielsen, Sir Axelsen, you have a visitor," she announced.

    "A visitor? I don''t recall having an appointment today. If they''re a walk-in, they''ll have toe back tomorrow. Jonathan can handle them. I have a trip to New York tonight," Poul responded, brushing off the interruption.

    "But, it''s not just any visitor, Sir Nielsen," Amelia insisted, her voice growing more urgent.

    "Who is it then? Another big client? I''ll take care of them if that''s the case," Poul asked.

    Shaking her head, Amelia replied, "No, it''s Mister Morgan and Sherman. They''re waiting for both of you at the office right now."<novelnext></novelnext>

    Poul and Jonathan''s eyes widened in surprise, disbelief etched on their faces. "Wait, did you just say, Morgan and Sherman? The richest financier and one of the greatest generals in the United States of Avalonia?" Jonathan eximed, his voice filled with amazement.

    Amelia simply nodded, the gravity of the situation not lost on her. The presence of such important figures could mean only one thing. Business opportunity. Poul and Jonathan exchanged a look, both understanding the importance of this meeting.

    Without further ado, they made their way to the office, their steps quickening with every passing moment. As they entered, their eyes were immediately drawn to the two men sitting in front of them. John Morgan, the renowned financier, sat with a calm and collected expression, his sharp gaze taking in every detail of their surroundings. General Sherman, on the other hand, exuded a more imposing presence, his features set in a stern and serious expression.

    "Mister Morgan, Mister Sherman. It''s an honor to have both of you in our office. Could we offer you something to drink?"

    "A tea would do," Morgan said.

    Jonathan shot a nce at Amelia. Amelia understood what those eyes meant. She excused herself, leaving the office to brew tea for the visitors.

    Jonathan and Poul straightened their jackets before taking their seats in their respective chairs.

    "Mister Morgan, it is fortuitous that you have graced ourpany with your presence at this hour. Had it been dyed by a day, I would not have had the pleasure of meeting you," Poul remarked.

    "Why is that?" Morgan inquired.

    "I am departing for New York this evening, but I am certain that Jonathan shall attend to your needs," Poul replied.

    "I understand. As a matter of fact, I havee to meet with both of you on a matter of some importance," Morgan stated.

    "We are most intrigued," Jonathan interjected. "We are curious to know why a general of the United States Army has sought our audience."

    "Mister Sherman and I paid a visit to the White House some two days ago. We had an audience with the President to discuss the seven-million-dor contract that James Russel declined," Morgan disclosed.

    Poul was intrigued by the mention of the deal. "What contract did James Russel refuse?"

    "We had hoped that Mr. Russel would manufacture a weapon for us," Morgan revealed.

    "We are here to request your assistance, hoping that you would ept this offer," Sherman added.

    Poul was taken aback by the proposal. "Do I understand correctly? You are asking us to construct a weapon? I regret to inform you that ourpany specializes in air brakes, lotive draft gears, and signaling equipment for steam lotives, not arms manufacture."

    "We are well aware of that fact," Morgan replied.

    "So, you are fully cognizant of our expertise and capabilities. But, have you considered the possibility that we are ill-equipped to construct firearms?" Poul asked in disbelief.

    "That is precisely what we are hoping is not the case," Sherman replied.

    Poul let out a sigh. "I am sorry to disappoint you, but we do not manufacture guns."

    "On the contrary, we do," Jonathan interjected. "I am an expert in the field of gun manufacturing, and I believe we can fulfill your request. Seven million dors is an offer that one cannot refuse."

    Morgan and Sherman''s interest was piqued by Jonathan''s words, and they turned their attention to him.

    "I beg your pardon, but may I have a moment with my colleague?" Poul requested, turning to Jonathan. "What are you doing?" he whispered.

    "I am epting their offer," Jonathan simply replied, shifting his gaze to the two gentlemen. "So, do we have a deal?"

    The corners of Morgan''s lips curled upward. "That is precisely what I hoped to hear."

    "I would like to request that you construct a prototype of the weapon. We will provide you with fifty thousand dors in advance to acquire the necessary materials. Once the gun ispleted, we will evaluate it, and if it meets our requirements, the United States Army will be honored to grant you the seven-million-dor contract," Sherman offered.

    "Agreed," Jonathan dered, standing up and extending his hand to shake hands with Morgan and Sherman.

 Chapter 60 That Weapon?! In This Era?

    ?Morgan and Sherman sat across from each other, sipping the hot tea that Amelia had prepared for them. The fragrant aroma of the steaming beverage filled the room, and they both savored theforting warmth of the cups in their hands. Without Amelia''s timely intervention, the tea would have gone to waste as they had been on the verge of leaving before she managed to prepare it.

    As the meeting between Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company and the two gentlemen drew to a close, Jonathan''s eptance of a lucrative seven-million-dor contract to design and build a new weapon brought it to an abrupt end. Morgan and Sherman quickly made their exit, leaving Poul and Jonathan to exchange wary nces.

    Poul appeared to be trying to process Jonathan''s sudden move, and he voiced his concerns. "I think we should look into this thoroughly, Jonathan. Why did you ept their offer when we''re not an arms manufacturingpany in the first ce?"

    Jonathan''s response was quick and firm. "Because it''s a seven-million-dor offer, Poul. It''s hard to turn down when an opportunityes knocking at the door."

    Poul''s unease was palpable as he said, "I thought we had a n. That we would take things slowly and hop from one industry to another."

    Jonathan''s rebuttal was equally swift. "Yes, but would you be okay if that offer goes to someone else? If we''re going to jump into the world of arms manufacturing, then why not jump now when there is a huge sum of money being offered?"

    Poul hesitated before saying, "I think the problem would be that no one will be able to handle it. As you can see, we are fully booked. I have to work on the motors and fulfill orders from every major railroadpany."

    But Jonathan was undeterred. "Well, that''s your problem, Poul, because I''m pretty much free myself. I don''t have anything to work on other than building thispany an eight-story building. You may not know this, but I''m a weapon enthusiast. I can do this¡­we can do this!"

    The tension between the two men was palpable as they locked horns in a heated discussion until Amelia spoke up. She was their executive secretary, and her voice broke the tension that had been building up. "Uhm, Sir Nielsen, Sir Axelsen."

    The two industrialists turned their heads towards her, and she offered a tentative suggestion. "May I give some advice?"

    "What is it?" Poul and Jonathan intoned.

    Amelia cleared her throat, her eyes bouncing between the two industrialists as she spoke. "What I suggest, sirs is that you take a closer look at the opportunity presented to you. Sir Axelsen mentioned his passion for weaponry, and while he may not have as much experience in the field as Sir Nielsen, his enthusiasm may prove to be a valuable asset. Furthermore, as you already have hired staff, this wouldn''t negatively impact thepany''s current workload. In fact, it could bring in a substantial amount of revenue. So why not let Sir Axelsen take on the task of working with Mister Morgan and Sherman?"

    Jonathan''s eyes lit up at the suggestion, and he turned to face Poul, a wide grin spreading across his face. "Amelia, that''s brilliant!" he eximed. "Why didn''t I think of that? You''re right, we have a golden opportunity here, and we''d be foolish to let it slip through our fingers."

    Poul was still hesitant, but he could see the glint of excitement in Jonathan''s eyes. With a heavy sigh, he relented. "Alright, alright," he said, "I suppose we can give it a try. But we''ll need to work out the details and make sure everything is above board."

    "Of course, sir," Amelia said with a small nod. "I''ll arrange for a meeting with Mister Morgan and Sherman to discuss the project in more detail. And we can work out the specifics from there."

    "But have you already thought of one, Jonathan? What rifles are you going to introduce to Sherman?" Poul''s brow furrowed in concern as he turned to Jonathan, waiting for an answer.

    "Before that," Jonathan cleared his throat and looked at Amelia. "Uhm, Miss Weiss, would you please give us a moment?"

    Amelia hesitated for a moment before nodding her head and making her way out of the room. The door shut behind her, and silence descended over the two men.

    Poul raised an eyebrow, ncing between the closed door and Jonathan. "What''s going on?"

    Jonathan leaned in close to Poul, his voice a hushed whisper. "Well, we can''t have her listening to what we are about to discuss," he said, indicating Amelia''s presence. Poul understood what Jonathan meant; the topic was too sensitive for uninvolved ears. Jonathan was about to introduce a modern concept of firearms, the M1 Garand, in thete neenth-century era, and the conversation had to be held privately.<novelnext></novelnext>

    Poul was skeptical. "Okay, what do you have in mind?" he asked.

    "A weapon that will dominate the field and bring us a lot of profit. I''m talking about the M1 Garand."

    Poul''s eyes widened in disbelief. "M1 Garand?! Are you serious? In this era?"

    "That''s right," Jonathan replied. "I know what you are going to say. You will say it''s impossible to build that gun in this era, right?"

    "Well, if you already know that, then why do you still want to do it?"

    "Because I think the M1 Garand fits the United States Army of this era very well. And besides, it''s not as impossible as you say it is. If we can make ten guns for demonstration, we can ask for more money to create a system that will mass-produce those weapons."

    Jonathan was right. Building the M1 Garand in thete-neenth century was possible, provided they could develop the necessary manufacturing processes and key technologies. These processes included precision machining, steel production, heat treatment, mass production techniques, and standardized parts.

    In precision machining, they would need a high degree of skill from the machinists. The production of the M1 Garand involved abination of machine tools, such asthes, milling machines, and drilling machines, as well as hand-finishing techniques to achieve the required tolerances and surface finishes. These parts need to fit together with extremely tight tolerances to ensure that the rifle fires reliably and urately.

    The M1 Garand rifle was made primarily from high-quality carbon steel, a specific type known as "chrome-molybdenum" or "chrome-moly" steel. This type of steel is amon alloy that contains chromium and molybdenum as the primary alloying elements. The production of high-quality steel requires aplex set of processes and specialized knowledge, including the addition of ferrochromium and ferromolybdenum alloys to the molten steel, which is then stirred in to ensure even distribution.

    After the steel has been refined and alloyed, it is cast intorge ingots or billets, which are then rolled or forged into the desired shapes and sizes. This process involves heating the steel to high temperatures and then shaping it usingrge hydraulic presses or rolling mills.

    Once the steel has been shaped, it undergoes a series of heat treatments to achieve the desired properties, such as annealing, quenching, and tempering, which are used to control the hardness, strength, and toughness of the steel.

    The M1 Garand required abination of advanced manufacturing technologies, specialized knowledge, and precision machining that would not have been avable in thete neenth century. If the industrialist duo could solve all these problems using their modern knowledge, then it would be possible to create one. This would revolutionize warfare, providing a significant advantage inbat situations where an urate, rapid fire was the difference between sess and failure.

    The Garand was designed to be highly urate and effective at long range, with an effective range of up to 500 yards. This would have provided a significant advantage over many firearms of the time, which were often only urate at much shorter ranges. It is also highly reliable and durable, with a robust gas-operated system that was resistant and would make the Garand an ideal weapon for soldiers operating in harsh and challenging conditions.

    Poul was deep in thought, considering the feasibility and implications of this n. "It''s a risky undertaking," he finally said, "but if we can pull it off, it would bring us unimaginable wealth and power in the arms industry."

    Jonathan nodded, his expression serious. "We have the knowledge and resources to make this happen. We just need to be careful and keep this project a secret until it''s ready to be unveiled."

    Poul agreed, and the two men began to discuss the details of the n, mapping out the steps they would need to take to make the M1 Garand a reality. They talkedte into the afternoon, fueled by the excitement of their bold new venture.

    As Poul was about to leave the office to prepare for his trip to New York, Jonathan leaned in once again, his voice low and urgent. "Remember, Poul, we can''t let anyone else find out about this. The M1 Garand must be our secret weapon, and ours alone."

    Poul nodded, his mind already racing with the possibilities. He couldn''t wait to see what the future held for him and Jonathan, and for their revolutionary new weapon.

 Chapter 61 Poul Is Leaving But There Is One Problem

    ?As the night descended on the Company town of Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company, the sound of machinery continued to hum and whir, as the workersbored tirelessly in the factory buildings.

    The orange glow of light bulbs illuminated the streets and buildings, casting a warm and inviting hue over the town. The factory buildings were thergest structures in the town, their tall smokestacks reaching up into the night sky. The air was thick with the smell of smoke and the sound of machinery, punctuated by the asional whistle or shout from the workers.

    As the night wore on, the windows of the apartments and houses glowed brighter, indicating that the some of the workers were finally returning home after a long day''s work.

    Despite thete hour, the town still buzzed with activity. Groups of workers gathered on street corners, smoking and chatting, while others hurried home to their families. The night was alive with the sound of life, a testament to the hard work and perseverance of the people who called the Company town of Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company their home.

    Poul stood on the porch of the office, overlooking the streets of the town. The morning workers who had finished their shifts were now gathered on the streets,ughing and chatting with one another. It was a touching scene, and Poul couldn''t help but feel a sense of pride in themunity he had helped to build.

    He wanted to take onest look around the town before leaving for New York, where he would stay for a month. The thought of leaving made him feel a pang of sadness, but he knew he had important work to do.

    Poul had just finished discussing the details of the seven-million-dor contract with Jonathan. It was a huge undertaking, and Poul knew that building a gun simr to the M1 Garand from their original world would be a slow process, but he was confident that they could eventually get it done.

    As he stared up at the night sky, the stars twinkling like diamonds in the darkness, Poul felt a sense of peace wash over him. The ethereal beauty of the night sky was both rxing and uplifting, and he couldn''t help but smile.

    Suddenly, a soft voice called out to him from behind. Poul turned to see Amelia, the secretary of thepany.

    "Sir Nielsen, I have prepared your luggage and briefcase," Amelia said, her voice like music to his ears.

    Poul thanked her, smiling warmly. He couldn''t help but feel a sense of gratitude for the hard work and dedication of his employees, especially Amelia. She was a valuable member of his team and had contributed a lot to the development of thepany since she got hired.

    Poul turned to take onest look at the Company town of Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company. The familiar streets and buildings were etched into his memory, and he knew he would miss the ce dearly. But the thought of returning in just one month''s time brought a small sense offort, easing the weight of his sadness.

    "So, you are leaving now?" Amelia''s voice broke Poul''s reverie, and he turned to face her again. She looked up at him with eyes full of concern and regret.

    "Yes, I am just waiting for my carriage to arrive," Poul replied, his voiceced with emotion. He could see the sadness in her eyes and couldn''t help but feel a sense of guilt for leaving her and the rest of the staff behind.

    "I see...although it''s not been a month since I began working for yourpany, I am feeling sad at the thought of you going away," Amelia said softly, her voice tinged with disappointment.

    "So you are going to miss me?" Poul asked teasingly.

    "Eh?" Amelia let out a soft gasp. "Uhm¡­I don''t know, maybe I guess," she said bashfully, her face reddening.

    Poul couldn''t help but feel a sense of satisfaction at Amelia''s bashful response. He had always been drawn to her but waspletely aware that it was just an infatuation. He doesn''t know if his feelings right now are true but he doesn''t have the courage yet to find it out, as he couldn''t risk making Amelia feel ufortable or putting their professional rtionship in jeopardy. For now, he would have to be content with the small moments of connection they shared.

    "I''ll miss you too, Amelia," Poul said, his voice imbued with a warmth that reflected his reassuring nature. "I have faith that you will be an invaluable asset to Jonathan in running the business while I am away. I trust in your abilitiespletely."

    "I will do my best, Sir Nielsen," Amelia replied, her tone respectful.

    But as Poul spoke those words, he came to a sudden realization. With his departure, Jonathan and Amelia would have to share a room together. Ever since her arrival, the three of them had been sharing a room, as the construction of a new bedroom was yet to bepleted. But now, with only the two of them in the same room, Poul''s mind started to conjure up images that crushed his heart with jealousy.

    Though he had no right to feel jealous, as he and Amelia were not in a rtionship, the thought of his crush being intimate with another man was unbearable to him.

    Speaking of the devil, Jonathan arrived at the porch.<novelnext></novelnext>

    Poul couldn''t help but feel a tinge of unease. He had just made a decision that would undoubtedly affect the dynamic of their living arrangement. Gathering his resolve, Poul cleared his throat and addressed Jonathan in a serious tone.

    "Jonathan, from today until I return, I want you to sleep in the office instead of the bedroom," Poul said, his gaze fixed on Jonathan.

    Jonathan, his curiosity piqued, raised a brow and asked, "What do you mean?"

    "Well, because Amelia is sleeping in the bedroom. It''s justmon sense," Poul exined, trying to keep his tone as neutral as possible.

    As the meaning of Poul''s words dawned on him, Jonathan let out a low murmur of understanding. "I see what''s going on here," he said. "You''re jealous because if you leave, I''ll be alone with Amelia, right? And since her bedroom is not yet finished, we have no choice but to sleep together in the same room."

    Poul''s eyes widened in surprise, as he hadn''t intended to reveal the true reason for his decision. But it was toote now.

    "I''m just worried about her safety," Poul said, trying to steer the conversation back to a more professional tone.

    "Worried? Bro, I won''t do anything to her," Jonathan scoffed, shaking his head.

    Poul frowned, his doubts still unresolved. "I can''t be so certain of that. What if it were Caroline, and I got to sleep in the same room as her? Wouldn''t you feel jealous?"

    Jonathan''s expression softened, as he finally realized the gravity of Poul''s concerns. "I understand," he said, nodding in agreement. "I''ll sleep in the office from now on."

    As Amelia heard Poul and Jonathan''s conversation, she couldn''t help but feel a mix of emotions. She was touched by Poul''s concern for her safety but was also hurt by the implication that her presence in the bedroom could be a cause for concern. She stepped forward, determined to ease their worries and lighten the mood.

    "Excuse me," Amelia said, her voice soft but determined. "I appreciate your concern, Sir Nielsen, but I don''t want to be the cause of any difort. Perhaps it would be best if I slept in the office, and Sir Axelsen can have the bedroom. After all, he is the co-founder of thepany, and I am just a mere secretary."

    "You, Amelia, are not simply a secretary to me," Poul said, his voice firm and decisive. "We havee to a joint decision: you shall sleep in the bedroom while Jonathan takes the office. There is no need for you to sacrifice your ownfort any longer."

    Jonathan''s thoughtful expression conveyed his agreement. "I insist, Amelia. Poul is right. It''s settled. I will sleep in the office so that you can have the privacy you deserve."

    Poul nodded in appreciation of Jonathan''s support. "Thank you, my friend."

    "If that''s what you both want, then I ept your decision," Amelia said with a grateful smile.

    The tter of hooves announced Poul''s departure, and he stood to gather his luggage. Jonathan ced a hand on Poul''s shoulder. "Good luck, my friend."

    "Good luck to you too," Poul said before shifting his gaze to Amelia. "Farewell, Amelia. I will be back in a month."

    "Please extend my warmest regards to Miss Caroline, should you find an asion to visit her," Amelia said, her voice gentle and sincere.

    Poul acknowledged her request with a nod, and then turned on his heel and boarded the carriage.

    With a wistful sigh, Poul drew the curtain blocking the window and cast a final, longing gaze at the office. He extended his hand, his fingers tracing the air with a silent farewell as he waved goodbye to Amelia and Jonathan.

    As the carriage began to move, Poul''s hand slowly dropped to hisp, and he settled back into his seat, lost in thought. The sound of the wheels on the gravel path merged with the rhythmic clip-clop of the horses'' hooves, echoing in the carriage and adding to the somber atmosphere.

 Chapter 62 Back At New York Again

    ?Poul Nielsen stepped off the ferry and onto the wooden nks of the Desbrosses Street ferry station. The salty, briny air of the harbor filled his lungs, as he looked around, taking in his surroundings.

    The sun had just begun to set, casting a warm, golden glow over the bustling streets of Lower Manhattan. The sounds of horse-drawn carriages and the nging of metal filled the air, as workers hurried to load and unload cargo from the nearby piers.

    He scanned the bustling crowds, searching for Sam Insull, Russel''s secretary. He spotted him across the street, waving his arm in the air. Poul smiled and quickened his pace, approaching him.

    "Good day, Sir Nielsen. How was your journey to New York?" Sam inquired, his voice polite, though tinged with a hint of curiosity.

    Poul''s smile was wry as he replied, "It was much the same, though the sensation of traveling to New York alone felt quite different."

    Sam hummed in understanding. "I see. Allow me to escort you to our ride. Mister Russel is eager to hear what you have promised him."

    Together, Poul and Sam navigated the crowded streets, deftly weaving through the throngs of merchants, sailors, immigrants, and businessmen, as Sam led him to a waiting carriage. As they approached, the footman sprang to attention, smoothing down his suit and tugging at the brim of his top hat. With a courteous nod, he opened the door to the carriage, inviting Poul and Sam to board while deftly assisting Poul with his luggage.

    Once settled inside, Poul and Sam sank into the plush seats. Sam tapped the ceiling of the carriage, signaling the coachman to depart, and the carriage rumbled through the busy streets of Lower Manhattan.

    Poul remained silent, lost in thought as he propped his chin up with his hand, his eyes glued to the window as the city passed by in a blur of colors and motion. The buildings and streetscapes shifted and changed, a never-ending parade of sights and sounds that was both exhrating and overwhelming.

    Twenty minutester, the carriage arrived at Pearl Street, the site of the first power nt in the world. The footman, who had been standing at the back of the carriage, jumped down from the footboard and opened the door for Poul and Sam.

    Poul and Sam descended the carriage steps carefully and made their way to the ground, the excitement of the day ahead pulsing through their veins.

    They strode towards the Pearl Street Station, the ck of their footsteps echoing through the cavernous space. The acrid scent of ozone filled the air, mixed with the tang of tobo smoke.

    As they passed by rows of humming generators, Poul saw engineers working on bulbs and electrical circuits, sparks flying as they skillfully manipted the wires and fuses.

    They soon reached a set of stairs, which they ascended, eventually arriving at a door marked "James Russel - Office". Poul paused for a moment, taking a deep breath, and Sam started knocking on the door.

    "Enter," came a gruff voice from within.

    Poul and Sam stepped inside, and Poul''s gazended on the figure of James Russel, who was seated behind a desk, a cloud of smoke curling up from his cigar. The inventor''s eyes flicked up and met Poul''s, and for a moment, the room was silent.

    "Well, well, well," Russel said finally, a grin spreading across his weathered face. "Poul Nielsen. I have been expecting your arrival. So, do you already have the blueprints and the processes for making an electric motor?" He paused for a moment and then continued. "I hope you do because some of my customers are already expecting it. The motor that you showed me piques their interest. Oh, take a seat first."

    Poul sat in the chair that Russel indicated, Poul''s heart pounding with nervous excitement. He pulled out a small leather folio from his briefcase, the blueprints, and technical details for the electric motor neatly arranged within.

    "I have everything here, Mr. Russel," Poul said, his voice clear and confident. "Our engineers and I have been working tirelessly to perfect the design and the manufacturing process. I believe that with this form, you''ll be able to put the electric motor into production with lesser cost."<novelnext></novelnext>

    Russel''s eyes narrowed as he studied the blueprints, his cigar clenched between his teeth. Poul watched his every movement, the silence stretching out between them until it became almost unbearable.

    "Although I can read blueprints and understand what it entails, I want boration. Exin to me how the electric motor will be manufactured from start to finish."

    Poul cleared his throat, preparing himself to exin the manufacturing processes of a direct current electric motor.

    "To make a direct current electric motor, the first step is to construct the frame using cast iron, which provides a strong foundation. The frame is molded using sand casting. The next step is to create the shaft using steel and the bearings using brass. The third step involves making themutator, which is a copper bar insted with mica that is connected to the armature windings. The fourth step is making the armature winding by hand using copper wire that is coated with insting material to prevent short-circuiting. The fifth step is creating the brush and brush holder assembly, which is made of graphite and holds the brushes in ce. The individualponents are then assembled into aplete motor using screws and connections that are either soldered or brazed. Finally, the motor is tested for defects, such as overheating or excessive vibration, before being shipped to customers. If any issues are found, they should be addressed before shipping. Failed motors can be recycled to make a new one to save the cost of course. Well, that''s about it. Any questions?"

    Russell hummed thoughtfully after listening to Poul''s brief boration. "I have none because you already provided detailed exnations on each step," he said, feeling confident in his grasp of the process.

    "I see," Poul replied with a small smile, "well if you have any further questions, feel free to ask. We are partners, after all, and the sess of the electric motor means the sess of electricity."

    Russell nodded and considered Poul''s offer for a moment before speaking. "Okay, I do have one question," he said, his tone eager. "Would you be on-site to oversee the production of the electric motors?"

    "Of course," Poul replied without hesitation. "I must ensure that your workers are following the manufacturing processes strictly to prevent any unwanted idents that may ur during production. I will be their guide for the entire month, and I believe that by the end of that time, your workers will be adept enough to build motors by themselves as a team."

    Russell smiled, feeling reassured by Poul''s confidence. "Your invention of a functioning electric motor is impressive," he said, his voice tinged with admiration. "To be able to produce work that is as strong as steam engines despite having smaller sizes is worth noting."

    Poul''s cheeks flushed with pride and humility as he listened to Russell''s kind words. "Thank you, Russell. Well, you also deserve some praise. You are the first person to build the first functioning electric distribution system in the world. You built infrastructures such as power lines, sockets, and instions, which is, you know, very umon at this time."

    "I know, it''s an expensive undertaking," Russel admitted, his voice low and earnest. "But I believe it will be worth it, as my vision for this country is to deliver electricity to every home in Avalonia using a direct current system."

    Poul''s brows furrowed with concern. "That''s inspiring," he replied, his tone hesitant, "but don''t you think direct current has limitations? Like how it can''t go over a mile because of the power loss. Most parts of our country right now are empty spaces. Only alternating current can reach that distance thanks to its voltage being able to be stepped up and down."

    Russel sighed, his expression thoughtful. "Yes, direct current does have limitations," he agreed. "But an alternating system is more dangerous than direct current due to its high voltages. In direct current, you can touch any part of the line and you''ll be safe, but in alternating current, you will be the circuit and die instantly. Additionally, power is easier to control than AC because DC has a constant voltage level, making it well-suited for many electrical applications, such as lighting and small motors. Lastly, it is better suited for urban areas because buildings are close together."

    Poul shook his head, still unconvinced. "But what about those who are in the rural areas? Don''t they get to enjoy the wonders of electricity?"

    "Of course, they will," Russel replied, his voice firm. "But not yet. I am still improving my system so that my electricity can reach long distances."

    "With direct current?" Poul pressed, his skepticism palpable. "I don''t think it will be possible, no matter how hard you try. Alternating current is the only solution for that."

    Russel''s expression hardened at Poul''s words. "Well, if it were the only solution, then I would have done it a long time ago," he said, his tone biting. "Hmm... I think this concludes our meeting, Sir Nielsen. Thank you foring all the way here."

    Poul stood and shook Russel''s hand, his mind whirring with thoughts. As he grasped Russel''s hand, Poul couldn''t help but think to himself, "I''ll prove you wrong, Mister Russel. Just like your counterpart in my world, you chose the wrong horse."

 Chapter 63 Meanwhile In Pittsburgh Pennsylvania

    ?Two weeks had passed since Poul Nielsen left Pittsburgh for New York to oversee James Russel''s fledgling electric motor manufacturingpany. Since then, Jonathan Axelsen, the COO of Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company, had thrown himself into their next project, the M1 Garand. Meanwhile, Amelia Weiss had been continuing her role aspany secretary, managing departments that reported directly to her and then on to the founders. Buttely, she had noticed a change in Jonathan''s habits. He was returning to the office past midnight and waking up early in the morning to begin his day.

    In the morning, Jonathan would make breakfast for the two of them before heading to the drawing room, where he would work on a project to build an office building for thepany for six hours. After that, he would take his lunch and continue working, but this time in the foundry. Amelia couldn''t enter the foundry easily, as it was among the most perilous sites within thepany. Even if she could, she wouldn''t have been given permission by her superiors. So, she could only guess what he was doing there.

    But, as it turned out, Jonathan had already begun constructing new weapons for the United States Army. Two weeks ago, Mister Morgan and Sherman hade to theirpany, offering the founders a contract of seven million dors to develop a gun that the United States Military would adopt. After some initial exchanges, they epted it.

    What kind of gun were they building? Amelia could only guess. She had been sent to this ce to observe the industrialist duo and report anything significant to Amelia. With Jonathan unavable until dinner, she knew it was the perfect time to call Amelia and ry what she knew.

    Amelia grabbed the telephone''s mouthpiece and receiver. Turning the crank, Amelia requested a call to the Dupont residence, located on Broadway in New York.

    "Hello, how may I assist you?" the operator answered.

    "Yes, I''d like to make a call to the Dupont residence. Can you connect me?" Amelia responded.

    "Certainly, what is the location of the Dupont residence?" the operator asked.

    "They are located on Broadway in New York."

    "I see. Please hold while I connect your call."

    Amelia waited patiently as the operator did her thing. After a brief pause, the operator spoke again. "Your call is now connected. Please go ahead."

    "Good afternoon, this is Caroline Dupont speaking. May I know who I have the pleasure of speaking with?" Caroline''s voice was measured, and business-like, a reflection of her no-nonsense approach to work.

    "Good afternoon, Miss Dupont. It''s Amelia," replied the voice on the other end of the line.

    "Amelia, it''s wonderful to hear from you. How may I assist you today?" Caroline inquired, her tone friendly yet professional.

    "I''m here to report to you, Miss Dupont," Amelia said, her voice slightly hesitant.

    "What is it?" Caroline replied, her curiosity piqued.

    Amelia took a deep breath before continuing. "Mister Axelsen and Mister Nielsen have epted a contract from the United States Army. It was proposed by none other than General William Sherman himself."

    Caroline''s brows furrowed as she processed this information. "I see. And what kind of contract is it exactly?" she asked, her tone urgent.

    "It''s a contract for building a new weapon for the United States Military," Amelia revealed, and she heard a gasp from Caroline in response.

    "A weapon?! What kind of weapon?" Caroline asked.

    "I''m afraid I don''t have that information, Miss Dupont. I was told to leave the office before they could discuss it further," Amelia exined.

    "I see," Caroline said, her voice thoughtful. "And why is that?"

    "Confidentiality issues I suppose, and I believe Mister Axelsen is working on it already in the foundry, a ce where only trained personnel are allowed to enter," Amelia said.

    Caroline nodded, understanding the situation. "I see. Very well, I will reach out to Mister Nielsen himself. Is he currently in New York?" she asked, already thinking about how she could get in touch with him.

    "Yes, Miss Dupont. He is in New York," Amelia confirmed.

    "Thank you for informing me about this, Amelia. I appreciate it," Caroline said, her voice warm. "Before we end the call, I have one more question for you."

    "Yes, Miss Dupont?" Amelia replied, her tone polite.

    "Are you being treated well? If you ever feel ufortable or unsafe, please do not hesitate to reach out to me. Your safety is my utmost priority," Caroline said, her tone firm and reassuring.

    Amelia was taken aback by Caroline''s concern, and her eyes widened with surprise. "Thank you, Miss Dupont. But there''s no need to worry. Mister Axelsen and Mister Nielsen have been nothing but kind to me," she said, her voice sincere.

    "I''m d to hear that, Amelia. Please take care of yourself, and don''t hesitate to reach out if you need anything," Caroline said, her tone warm.

    "Thank you, Miss Dupont. Take care as well," Amelia said, and then they bid their goodbyes and ended the call.

    Amelia exhaled and turned around, only to see Jonathan standing by the door, his gaze fixed upon her. She was taken aback, her heart racing at the sudden sight of him.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "Oh, Sir Axelsen! Since when were you standing there?" Amelia eximed, flustered.

    "For about two minutes," Jonathan replied calmly, biting into an apple. "I''m surprised you didn''t notice meing in. Who were you speaking with?"

    Amelia hesitated for a moment, debating whether to tell the truth or not. She knew that if he had been there for two minutes, he had probably overheard her conversation with Caroline. She decided that lying would only make the situation worse.

    "I was speaking with Miss Dupont," Amelia admitted, her expression sinking as her heart pounded in her chest. She closed her eyes and sped her hands together, bracing for a reprimand from Jonathan. She knew little about himpared to Poul and wasn''t sure how he would react.

    As she waited for his response, she heard the sound of his footsteps drawing closer. As Jonathan approached, Amelia braced herself for his reaction. Would he be angry that she had been speaking to Caroline about their new project? Or perhaps he had heard something else that she didn''t want him to know?

    "Miss Weiss," Jonathan said, his tone cool and collected. "I trust that you have been doing your job diligently?"

    Amelia nodded, her palms growing sweaty as she sped them together. "Yes, sir. I was just on the phone with Miss Dupont."

    Jonathan''s eyebrows rose in feigned surprise. "Ah, Miss Dupont. What did she have to say?"

    Amelia hesitated for a moment, then decided to be truthful. "She was asking about the new contract we received from the United States Army. The one proposed by General William Sherman himself."

    Jonathan''s countenance remained stoic, but Amelia sensed that he was intrigued by her words. "And what did you tell her?"

    "I told her that you and Mister Nielsen had epted the contract, but I didn''t know what kind of weapon you were nning to build," Amelia''s voice grew faint as she spoke.

    "I see," Jonathan said, taking another bite of his apple. "Well, that''s all she needs to know for now. You may return to your duties."

    Amelia was taken aback by Jonathan''s words. What did he mean by "for now"? Did he n on telling her in the future? "Excuse me, Sir Axelsen, may I ask?" Amelia inquired.

    "You are already asking," Jonathan replied casually.

    Amelia took a deep breath before continuing. "So, you n on telling her about the gun you are developing?"

    "Yes, we will need her expertise in the technical aspect of gunpowder. She may have valuable insights, being a chemist," Jonathan exined.

    "So, if you are going to tell her, why keep it from me?" Amelia asked.

    "Because that''s what secrets are for, Miss Weiss. We know that you are here to observe us for Miss Dupont. The project we are working on is sensitive, it must be kept a secret until it ispleted," Jonathan replied, his tone calm and collected.

    "I understand, so I still don''t have your trust?" Amelia asked a hint of disappointment in her voice.

    "It''s not that we don''t trust you, Miss Weiss. We just have to keep this project confidential. You know there are many unscrupulous people in this world, and we need to keep them away," Jonathan exined.

    "It still sounded to me that you don''t trust me," she murmured barely above a whisper.

    "Well, Miss Weiss, I couldn''t care less about how I sound," Jonathan responded with a dismissive tone, seemingly unaffected by Amelia''s subtle remark. "I will go back to the foundry, you return to your work¡­hmm?"

    He trailed off as he noticed Amelia''s expression. "What''s with that expression?" he inquired, looking at her with a raised eyebrow.

    "Nothing," Amelia replied quickly, her face betraying her feelings of insecurity and uncertainty.

    "Do not tell me that you are feeling disheartened because we have withheld information from you," Jonathan said with a hint of sarcasm in his voice.

    Amelia let out a deep sigh and replied, "I believe that as your executive secretary, I have the right to be kept in the loop regarding any actions or decisions you make so I can n my work ordingly."

    In a contemtive tone, Jonathan inquired, "And that''s how it worked when you were working for Miss Dupont?"

    Amelia affirmed with a nod. Jonathan mused over it, taking a moment to gather his thoughts. "Well, if I carefully consider it, there''s no real need for you to know the technical details of the weapon. You already know that we epted a contract to develop a weapon, so that isn''t a secret. Or perhaps you were interested in seeing the schematics or the design of the weapon?"

    Amelia remained quiet, feeling exposed as Jonathan saw through her intentions.

    Sensing the conversation wasing to an end, Jonathan gave a dismissive statement.

    "If there''s nothing more, please proceed with your work." He then left, leaving Amelia alone with her thoughts.

 Chapter 64 A Pain In The Ass Society

    ?On January 25th, 882, Poul strode through the Astoria Hotel lobby in New York, his eyes scanning the room. The patrons inside stared back at him with inquisitive gazes that seemed to question his presence among them. The men and women looked at him with contempt, as if to say he didn''t belong to treat upon the ground they were standing on.

    But Poul paid them no mind. He knew he had the means to pay for a room, and the hotel owner had a connection with John Morgan, a powerful man who could open doors for Poul that others couldn''t.

    As he made his way toward the exit, he overheard a group of people whispering about him. "They keeping anding, huh?" a man said, his tone dripping with disdain.

    "So even an Albian can earn as much money as us, huh? How far society has fallen," a girl chimed in.

    Poul couldn''t help but smirk. He spoke audibly enough for them to hear. "At least I''m not living on inheritance."

    The girl who had spoken turned to him, her expression contorted with anger. "Excuse me, what did you just say to me?" she demanded, her voice sharp.

    "I said, at least I''m not living on inheritance," Poul repeated.

    She retorted with a scoff, "And how did you assume that I''m living on inherited wealth? Do you even know who I am? No, probably not, because you are an Albian. You may have the money, but youck the ss, and if you aspire to gain entry into high society, you should abandon that notion. We shall never acknowledge your kind."

    Poulughed, seemingly amused by her caustic words. "Why did you assume that I would even aspire to join the high society? Those norms are fading, particrly in a rapidly advancing country like this."

    This only exacerbated the situation. "Oi! You better watch your tone when speaking to her," one of the men warned.

    Poul remained nonchnt, "Why? Who is she, anyway?" he asked, disying ack of interest.

    The man''s expression revealed his incredulity, "She''s Fiora Whitney, of the illustrious Whitney Family," he answered.

    Poul remained unimpressed, "The Whitneys? Who are they? I am unfamiliar."

    "That is unsurprising, given your station," Fiora responded, lifting her fan to conceal her contemptuous smile.

    The speaker''s words were dripping with malice as they said, "Your social life is finished, Albian. You''ll be seen all over the newspaper for speaking so rudely to her." In thete neenth century, social ss held a critical ce in society, and it was seen as impolite and uncivilized to speak disrespectfully to someone of a higher ss. Poul''s behavior was not just imprudent, but also uneptable, but he remained indifferent to the implications.

    "Social life? As if I am ever going to need one," Poul said, his tone cool and collected. "You said you are from the Whitneys, right? Well, that only proves my point that you live off your family''s wealth. Without yourst name, you would be just like any other woman out there."

    The impact of his words was palpable as Fiora walked up to him. The moment she was inches away, she swung her arm, delivering a p. But Poul caught her arm, stopping it mid-air.

    "Ouch¡­get your filthy hands off me," Fiora growled, trying to free her arm. The atmosphere was tense as the two individuals engaged in a power struggle, with Poul remaining stoic despite the gravity of the situation.

    "Fiora was it? I must admit, you are beautiful but you are ugly on the inside," Poul said before removing her arm from his grasp.

    "What''s going on here?" A man dressed in a bespoke suit stepped in, his polished demeanor and genteel manner immediately grabbing the attention of those present. As he nced at the individuals, he recognized one of them. "Miss Whitney?" he inquired.

    "Oh, Sir Astor, this Albian is harassing me with his words and I feel disrespected. I demand that you expel him from your establishment, or I shall lodge aint," Fiora said, her voiceced with indignation and contempt.

    Sir Astor''s gaze flickered to Poul as he asked, "Is that true, Sir Nielsen?"

    Poul''s response was immediate, "They were the ones harassing me, spouting words of hatred for my Albian background."

    Sir Astor''s expression conveyed his confusion as he tried to understand the situation. In thete neenth century, social ss and decorum were of the utmost importance, and incidents of incivility were taken very seriously. It was his responsibility to ensure that his establishment upheld the highest standards of conduct and decorum.

    "I regret to inform you, Sir Nielsen, that I must take Miss Whitney''sints seriously. Therefore, we shall refund the money you paid to stay at our hotel," Sir Astor said, his tone firm but conciliatory.

    Poul was taken aback by the announcement, "Wait? You are kicking me out?" he asked incredulously. "This is outrageous."

    Sir Astor let out a long, weary sigh, and addressed Poul in a measured tone. "I am afraid you have made a grievous error, Sir Nielsen, by speaking so harshly to Miss Whitney. As a hospitality establishment, it is our responsibility to ensure that all of our guests are treated with the utmost respect and decorum. I regret to say that your behavior has been in vition of these standards, and it has forced me to take the necessary action."<novelnext></novelnext>

    Poul bristled at Sir Astor''s words, his pride wounded by the usation. "But I don''t understand. Surely, I have the right to express my opinions? How am I being treated differently from the other guests?" he demanded.

    Sir Astor remained silent for a moment, his eyes conveying a sense of disappointment and regret. Poul could feel the weight of his gaze... Finally, Sir Astor spoke.

    "I assure you, Sir Nielsen, that we hold all our guests to the same standards of conduct and civility. However, in this particr instance, your actions have fallen short of these expectations. As a result, I must ask you to leave the premises immediately."

    Poul scoffed, his frustration mounting. "Ah, this is all bullcrap. I don''t care if I have vited the rules of society. What matters is that I have heard what I needed to hear. It is clear to me now that you hold the same prejudices as those in the upper ss," he said, his voice tinged with bitterness.

    Sir Astor regarded Poul with a mixture of regret and disappointment. He knew that Poul''s actions were a reflection of arger societal issue, and he wished that he could have done more to bridge the gap between the sses. However, he also knew that he had a duty to maintain the integrity and reputation of his establishment.

    "Very well, Sir Nielsen. I shall have your luggage delivered to your new hotel. Please provide us with the necessary details, and we shall make the arrangements," he said in a calm and professional manner.

    Fiora smirked her eyes following Poul''s retreating form. She had enjoyed the momentary power she had exerted over him, relishing in the knowledge that she had put him in his ce.

    "Men like him never learn," she said with a derisive chuckle "They think they can just waltz into our world and pretend to be something they''re not. It''sughable, really."

    The other men and women in the room nodded in agreement, their expressions a mixture of amusement and disdain. They had all grown up in the upper echelons of society, and they knew that the divide between the sses was unbridgeable.

    ***

    Outside, Poul strode towards one of the horse-drawn carriages that were lined up in front of the hotel.

    "I need to get to Pearl Street. Are you avable?" he asked the coachman, who looked him up and down with an expression of disdain.

    "I''m not taking you," the coachman dered, his voice thick with contempt.

    Poul''s eyebrows shot up in surprise. "Excuse me?"

    "I said, I''m not going to take Albian and colored people," the coachman reiterated, his annoyance palpable. "I have standards, and I''m not going to lower them for the likes of you."

    Poul regarded the coachman with a mixture of anger and disbelief. "You speak so haughtily for someone who earns a mere pittance each day," he said, his voice tinged with sarcasm.

    The coachman scowled at Poul, his face contorted with rage. "How dare you speak to me like that? I won''t stand for it!" he bellowed, his hand reaching for his whip.

    Poul stood his ground, his expression firm and unyielding. "If you won''t take me, then I''ll find someone who will."

    With that, he turned on his heel and walked away from the carriage, his mind already racing with thoughts of how he would ovee the obstacles thaty ahead. Despite the challenges that he faced, Poul refused to be cowed or intimidated, knowing that he had the strength and determination to seed in whatever he set his mind to.

    As Poul walked along the sidewalk, he noticed a horse-drawn carriage pulled up beside him on the street. A footman hopped down from the back of the carriage and opened the door, revealing a familiar face inside.

    "Miss Dupont?" Poul said, his voiceced with surprise.

    "I figured I would run into you here, Mister Nielsen," Caroline said with a smile.

    Poul regarded her curiously. "What brings you to this part of town?"

    "To invite you to lunch, of course," Caroline replied, gesturing for him to join her in the carriage. "I thought it would be a pleasant change of scenery for us both."

    Without a second thought, Poul climbed into the carriage and settled into the plush seat beside Caroline, eager to see where this unexpected invitation would lead.

 Chapter 65 Society In The Nineteenth Century Parallel World

    ?Caroline and Poul found themselves seated next to each other inside thefortable confines of the carriage. They were apanied by the monotonous ttering of hooves and the asional rattle of the carriage. Caroline was eager to break the silence, so she started a conversation.

    "If our paths had not crossed today, where would you be heading?" she inquired politely.

    "I would be overseeing the production of the direct current electric motors at the Pearl Street Station," Poul responded.

    "For Mister Russell, I assume? I''ve purchased a multitude of them to power an array of machinery, ranging from pumps andpressors to fans and blowers, mixers and agitators, conveyors, cranes, hoists, and centrifuges. Your invention has allowed mypany to produce a vast quantity of goods, although I prefer induction motors as they are quieter and require less maintenance. Nevertheless, it''s been beneficial," Caroline divulged.

    Poul chuckled. "You need not be so specific, Caroline. Rest assured, we will eventually move on to induction motors. The direct current motors serve as a necessary foundation."

    "I prefer to be specific, and I eagerly anticipate the development of induction motors. Please notify me when they be avable," Caroline requested.

    "You have my word, Caroline. You''ll be the first to know," Poul affirmed. The conversation soon faded into an awkward silence once again.

    Caroline noticed the change in Poul''s mood and asked, "Do you not enjoy my presence, Sir Nielsen?"

    Poul was quick to deny it. "Of course not, why would you say that?"

    "Because you are unusually quiet today. Did something happen?" Caroline pressed.

    "Well, there was an incident that put me in a sour mood. I encountered a youngdy named Fiora Whitney, from the Whitneys, who was very derogatory towards me. I confronted her, which ended up with me getting kicked out of the hotel. It seems they take hierarchy very seriously in this era," Poul exined.

    Caroline frowned at the revtion. "I am sorry to hear that, Poul. Fiora can be a rather difficult person to deal with, especially when she feels slighted. However, I must remind you that speaking ill of someone from the upper echelons of society can result in severe consequences. It is crucial to exercise caution when interacting with such individuals, especially when you are apany owner, it''s bad optics," she advised.

    Poul inquired, "You know her? And what do you mean by that? Is mypany going to be affected?"

    Caroline responded, "The girl you ran into, Fiora Whitney, is one of my regrs. Her family is extremely wealthy and has investments in various industries, including railroads, shipbuilding, and textiles. They hold significant influence in Avalonia and any criticism from them may lead to a boycott by their supporters. It''s possible that yourpany could be impacted."

    Poul expressed, "I understand, but Fiora was rude to me. I don''t believe our customers would stop purchasing our products, such as air brakes and lotive draft gears, due to that particr family telling them not to."

    "Sir Nielsen, I implore you not to underestimate the far-reaching influence of high society. If you desire the prosperity and advancement of yourpany, it would be unwise to offend their sensibilities. Instead, it is best to curry favor with them and align your interests with theirs. For they hold the key to unlocking the gates of sess for yourpany."

    Poul sat in silence, absorbing her words, his mind churning with the weight of her advice. He realized the gravity of the situation and the delicate bnce of power that existed in this society. It was not just about the products or the innovations, but about navigating the social and economdscape that could make or break a business.

    "You make a valid point, Caroline. I appreciate your insight and will take it into consideration moving forward," Poul said, breaking the silence.

    Caroline acknowledged his concern, and a small smile yed on her lips. "The first step would be to issue a formal statement. A sincere apology, despite its simplicity, could go a long way in high-society circles," she advised.

    Poul sighed heavily in response, his expression turning glum. "It''s difficult to pen an apology for someone who has insulted me. What is wrong with the working ss rising to the upper echelons of society by virtue of their hard work and dedication?" he wondered aloud.

    Caroline raised an eyebrow, intrigued by Poul''s statement. "The elite society is not merely based on wealth, Mister Nielsen. It''s a system that is deeply ingrained with values, principles, and history. These people believe in the traditions and the way things have been done for centuries. To them, social ss is not only a measure of wealth, but it''s also a measure of education, culture, and ancestry. It''s about being born into the right family, attending the right schools, and associating with the right people."

    Poul frowned, "So, it''s all about being born into privilege? What about the people who weren''t born into the right family, or didn''t have the opportunity to attend the right schools? They don''t have a chance to seed?"

    Caroline sighed, "It''s not fair, I know. But that''s just the way things are in the world, or in this era rather. And it''s not just in this country, it''s a universal truth. The world is not a fair ce, but we can always strive to make it a little bit better. And that''s what your invention is doing, Mister Nielsen. It''s making the world a little bit better, one revolutionary invention at a time. And just because you are not born into a privileged family mean you can''t seed. There are a lot of people who seed in their own way."

    "And they are the first ones who are going to use it? How ironic that the people they looked down on was the one who createdfort for them. And you are right, people can be sessful in their own way," Poul let out a forced chuckle.

    Caroline let out augh. "Well, that''s the beauty of innovation, isn''t it? It provides equal opportunities for everyone regardless of their social status."

    Poul let out a small smile in response. "That''s true. I just find it ironic that the high society who looked down on us was the first one who benefited from our inventions. But I suppose that''s just how the world works."

    Ten minutester.

    Poul and Caroline arrived at the grandiose entrance of Delmonico''s restaurant ten minutester. They were stopped by the wait staff at the entrance.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "I''m sorry, but Albian is not allowed to dine inside," the staff informed them.

    Poul, visibly irritated by the unjust treatment, clenched his fist. However, he maintained hisposure, knowing that arguing would only lead to further problems. Caroline, on the other hand, quickly intervened.

    "This gentleman here is my chaperone," Caroline exined. "I''m under strict rules that require me to be apanied by him wherever I go."

    "I''m sorry ma''am, but I''m just following the rules," the wait staff said, holding firm.

    But then, a chubby gentleman in a fine suit emerged from the store, catching Caroline''s eye.

    "Mister Lorenzo!" she eximed.

    Caroline immediately recognized the man. "Mister Lorenzo!" she eximed.

    "Lovely Miss Dupont, it is a pleasure to have you once again in our fine establishment," Lorenzo greeted her with a gant bow, taking her hand and nting a chaste kiss on her knuckles.

    "But Mister Lorenzo, isn''t it against the rules?" the wait staff tried to argue.

    "The rules have changed," Lorenzo announced. "Chaperones, regardless of their descent, should be allowed to enter the establishment to conduct their duty. So please, show them to a table."

    "Of course, sir," the wait staff obedientlyplied, escorting Poul and Caroline inside the restaurant.

    As they were escorted to their designated table, Poul was met with a series of disdainful res from the diners around them. However, this time, he remained unfazed.

    "Your seat, mdy," the waitstaff said, offering Caroline a chair. She sat, and Poul took his ce across from her.

    "I nowprehend why," Caroline remarked, taking note of the attention they were receiving. "It''s best not to pay them any mind."

    "Lady Caroline, I am certain you have a matter you wish to discuss with me. Shall we address it before we begin our meal?" Poul suggested.

    "Quite right, Mr. Nielsen. In that case, I shall disclose the issue at hand. Amelia informed me that you epted General Sherman''s seven million dor offer," Caroline began.

    "Yes, and what of it?" Poul inquired.

    "I was curious as to what kind of weapon it would be," Caroline queried.

    "It is a weapon that has seen the bloodiest and most destructive war in history: an M1 Garand," Poul divulged.

    "A Garand? You are quick to divulge information regarding the weapon you and your partner intend to introduce. Why is that?" Caroline probed.

    "Because we require your assistance. Jonathan sent me a letter suggesting that I ask for your professional consultation regarding the smokeless powder," Poul exined.

    "Smokeless powder is already avable in this world. Why not purchase it from existingpanies?" Caroline inquired.

    "Because it has ws, such as its instability, sensitivity to temperature and humidity, and an inconsistent burn rate. Jonathan believes that you can remedy these issues, and I concur," Poul stated.

    Caroline''s face lit up with a smile, her cheeks tinted with a subtle blush. "Fortunately for you, I am well-versed in smokeless powder and can fix these ws. However, on one condition."

    "What is it?" Poul asked.

    "I wish to be a part of your future ventures. To do so, I will invest. I cannot simply allow Morgan to have all the fun," Caroline proposed.

 Chapter 66 A Productive Discussion With Caroline

    ?Poul repeated the offer Caroline had earlier presented to him. "So, let me get this straight. You are willing to aid us in addressing the inadequacies of the prior smokeless gunpowder so long as we grant you the opportunity to invest in ourpany?"

    Caroline corrected him, "Allow me to amend that, Poul. This deal is a mutually beneficial arrangement. I will provide you with the form for the finest smokeless gunpowder that any chemicalpany in the world can manufacture, and I will invest in yourpany, whose value will skyrocket in the future."

    "I see why you want to invest in ourpany," Poul nodded, understanding her intentions.

    "I believe you and Mr. Axelsen are far more intelligent than I am, and you have a lot more to offer in this world. I desire to partake in your sess. However, I am not just an investor who invests her money and expects it to grow. I will aid yourpany in establishing connections with my acquaintances in high society," Caroline added.

    As Caroline spoke, a waiter arrived at their table with a menu and a bottle of wine. He ced the menu on the table and poured their sses of wine. "Excuse me, madam and sir, may I take your order?" he asked.

    Poul picked up the menu and scanned the dishes listed. "I would like to try your signature Delmonico''s steak," he said.

    "Um...Sir, the dish costs about seven dors, it is expensive," the waiter cautioned.

    "Yes, I am aware of that," Poul replied.

    "But wouldn''t it be improper for you to order such a pricey dish since thedy you are apanying is going to pay for your meal?" the waiter inquired.

    "What on earth? Do you think I am incapable of paying for my meal?" Poul asked incredulously.

    "Based on your position as her chaperone, I do not believe you can," the waiter responded. "Why don''t you order something less costly?"

    Poul rubbed his forehead in disbelief and nced at Caroline, who was trying to suppress a chuckle. "Your role as a waiter is to take our order and nothing more," Poul retorted.

    "Please take his order," Caroline intervened. "Believe me, he can pay for his own meal. And for me, I''ll have your lobster newburg."

    "Understood. One Delmonico''s steak and lobster newburging right up," the waiter said with a slight bow before turning around to head back to the kitchen.

    Caroline leaned back in her chair, smiling at Poul. "I do hope you enjoy your steak, even if it is a bit expensive," she said teasingly.

    Poul chuckled, shaking his head. "I can assure you, Miss Dupont, that I am more than capable of paying for my own meal. The waiter''s assumptions were quite unwarranted. Just because I have this stupid silver hair I can''t get what I want?"

    "As I have mentioned earlier, despite one''s wealth and power, social status remains a significant factor in this world," Caroline said, her tone tinged with a hint of regret. "It''s a sad reality that those in the upper echelons of society often look down on those whoe from humble beginnings. Nheless, your financial capabilities are not in question, Mister Nielsen. We both know that you are more than capable of paying for your own meal, regardless of what others may assume."

    "If I may be honest, Lady Dupont, I''m beginning to notice your choice of words. You spoke eloquently and elegantly. Is that how people from high society speak?"

    Caroline let out a smallugh. "Why, Mister Nielsen, are you implying that I didn''t speak eloquently before?"

    "No, no, not at all. I just couldn''t help but notice the difference in the way you speakpared to themon folks."

    Caroline smiled. "To answer your question, Sir Nielsen, yes, speaking eloquently and elegantly is expected from the members of high society. It is a reflection of our upbringing and education. The way we speak is just as important as the way we present ourselves in public. It is a way for us to demonstrate our superiority and refinement, and it is an essential part of our social status."

    "I see," Poul said, nodding his head slowly. "It''s fascinating how one''s speech can define their social status in this world."

    "Yes, it is," Caroline agreed. "But it''s not just about the way we speak. It''s also about the way we carry ourselves, our manners, and our etiquette. All of these things are crucial in maintaining our position in society."

    "But you are sharing a table with an Albian, won''t that affect your position in high society?" Poul asked curiously.

    Caroline smiled serenely, her eyes glimmering with amusement. "There''s no need to fret, Mister Nielsen. As long as you are seen in their eyes as my chaperone and not as a social equal, then there should be no issue at all."

    Poul leaned back in his chair, his eyes fixed on Caroline. "It''s a different world, Lady Dupont. A world I am still trying to understand. I''m impressed that you adapted to it easily."

    "Don''t worry, Poul. You''ll get the hang of it soon enough."

    And then, they returned to the awkward silence again, which stifled both of them. They wanted to continue talking with one another but they were running out of topics. Fortunately, Poul came up with one.

    "I must admit, Lady Dupont, your proposition is quite attractive. If I were to present it to Mister Axelsen and Morgan, I''m certain they would ept. Speaking of which, in the event they do, how much do you intend to invest in our enterprise?"<novelnext></novelnext>

    Caroline posed a question in return, "How much did Mister Morgan contribute to starting yourpany?"

    "Six hundred thousand dors for a ten percent stake," Poul replied matter-of-factly.

    Caroline inquired further, "And what is the current valuation of yourpany?"

    "Approximately forty five million dors," Poul replied.

    Caroline let out an astonished gasp at the staggering figures. "That''s a six hundred and fifty percent growth in his investment?"

    "Indeed, your calctions are urate," Poul confirmed.

    "And so, to answer your inquiry," Caroline paused for emphasis. "My investment will amount to fifteen million dors."

    Poul was taken aback by the staggering amount Caroline offered. He was impressed but also somewhat skeptical. "Fifteen million dors? That''s an enormous sum, Lady Dupont. Are you sure you want to invest that much in ourpany?"

    Caroline smiled, radiating confidence. "Absolutely, Mr. Nielsen. I have great faith in your capabilities and your future prospects. And besides, I have more than enough wealth to spare."

    "Is that a flex?" Poul chuckled.

    "Indeed, I am flexing my financial capability. You may use my investment to expand your business in other countries. After all, the United States of Avalonia is not the only nation that should benefit from the revolutionary invention of yourpany," Caroline responded.

    Poul nodded thoughtfully. "Your investment would certainly enable us to explore new opportunities abroad. I shall carefully consider your offer and discuss it with Mr. Axelsen and Morgan when I return to Pittsburgh."

    Caroline smiled warmly. "It would be my pleasure to contribute to the sess of your future endeavors. But for now, let us savor this moment of sharing a delightful lunch together."

    Speaking of lunch, The tes arrived.

    The waiter approached their table with the grace of a seasoned professional. With a swift and practiced movement, he set down the dishes in front of them, and the aroma of the sulent steak and rich lobster filled the air. Poul picked up his utensils and began to cut into the tender meat, savoring every bite. Caroline followed suit, her fork gently piercing the creamy sauce of her lobster newburg.

    As they savored the food, the silence between them was contented, afortable reprieve from the earlier tension. Poul couldn''t help but admire the graceful way Caroline carried herself while eating, a testament to her upbringing and refinement. He took in every subtle movement, from the gentle curve of her wrist as she brought the fork to her mouth to the slight raise of her eyebrow as she savored the taste.

    From that moment, he deduced that noblewoman or women of this era are high ss. Of course, this does not apply to everyone given that he had encountered one in the Astoria Hotel. There are those who have a vile attitude toward the working ss, and that''s what he hated the most.

    After they finished their food, Caroline signaled for the waiter to bring them the check. As they waited, he spoke up. "Lady Caroline, I must say that I had a delightful time with you today. Thank you for your offer and for apanying me to lunch."

    "The pleasure is mine, Mister Nielsen," Caroline replied with a warm smile. "I hope that our future ventures will be as sessful as this lunch."

    "I have no doubt about that," Poul said, returning her smile. "I will be in touch with you soon regarding your investment in ourpany. Until then, take care and have a safe trip back to Broadway."

    "I am actually bound for Newport," Caroline replied, her voice carrying an air of sophistication.

    "Newport?" Poul repeated, his interest piqued.

    "Yes, I havemissioned the construction of a pce there. It is a favored destination for the elite ss of society, a ce of refuge from the hustle and bustle of city life." Caroline''s eyes sparkled as she spoke, revealing her fondness for the ce." start from here with Poul showing his ignorance of Newport.

    "I must admit, I have not heard much about Newport," Poul admitted, his brows furrowing slightly in confusion.

    "Newport is a charming seaside city located on the coast of Rhode Ind," Caroline exined, her gaze fixed intently on Poul. "It is the go-to destination for the elite ss of society, a ce where they can rx and enjoy the pleasures of life. The town is famous for its beautiful mansions and pristine beaches, and has been a preferred location for summer homes since the Gilded Age."

    Poul''s eyes widened in surprise as Caroline spoke. He had heard of the Gilded Age from his original world, a time of immense prosperity and growth in the United States, but had never imagined that people could live in such luxury. "It sounds like a wonderful ce," he said, his tone filled with admiration.

    "It most certainly is," Caroline agreed, a smile ying at the corners of her lips. "I am looking forward to thepletion of my pce, and to spending many happy days there in thepany of friends and family."

    Poul inwardly sighed after hearing. He is sure that only those who were born in the high-ss can enjoy that luxury. Him, as an Albian, could never get along with them as it was a written rule in this era. But it doesn''t matter. He wouldn''t bother with them. If society won''t ept him, then he''ll find a society that will ept him.

 Chapter 67 Returning To Pittsburgh, But A Problem Arises.

    ?The afternoon sun cast a warm glow as it streamed through the windows of Poul''s room, where he had taken up residence for the past month of January and the first week of February. Having been unceremoniously kicked out of the Astoria Hotel, he had found a temporary home in this ce. As he packed his belongings into his luggage, preparing to leave, he reflected on the past month of his life.

    Havingpleted his one-month contract as a supervisor of a factory that produces direct current electric motors, Poul had trained the workers to manufacture an electric motor in a mere month. Now that they had the necessary skills, he was ready to leave them to their work. As he was packing, he heard a knock on the door, and a voice called out to him.

    "Mr. Nielsen, Mr. Russell wanted to speak with you."

    Recognizing the voice as that of James Russel''s secretary, Sam Insull, Poul set aside his luggage and briefcase, then followed the man to Russel''s office. Upon entering, he greeted Russell and took a seat as requested.

    "It seems that you are already leaving, Sir Nielsen," Russell observed, eyeing him critically.

    Poul acknowledged his words with a nod, replying, "Well, I have a business to attend to back in Pittsburgh. My partner is waiting for me."

    "In that case, I will not take much of your time. Please have a seat, this will only take five minutes," Russell said as he motioned toward the empty chair in front of his desk.

    As Poul took his seat, Russell leaned forward, his elbows resting on the desk as he looked directly at Poul.

    "I would like to express my gratitude for the contribution you have made to this business. The electric motor that you have supervised is highly efficient and has significantly impacted the sess of ourpany. Thanks to your invention, we have attracted a substantial number of customers who are interested in electricity," Russell stated, with a tone of appreciation and admiration.

    Poul acknowledged his words with a nod and replied, "It was my pleasure to have been of assistance. I am pleased to hear that your business is flourishing."

    Russell continued to borate on their business developments and said, "We are expanding our operations to fifteen cities, constructing direct current systems. Initially, we only provided light, but with your electric motor, we are now able to offer productivity as well. However, I must express my concerns regarding the royalties we have agreed upon in our contract."

    Poul asked, "What do you mean?"

    Russell exined, "Building a direct current electric motor is aborious and costly process. The original agreement of two dors and fifty cents per horsepower is bing a burden on my business. I was hoping that we could revise the agreement to one dor and fifty cents per horsepower."

    Poul contemted the proposal and responded, "I understand your predicament, Mr. Russell. However, the agreement we made cannot be changed arbitrarily. I will have to discuss this with my partner in Pittsburgh before making any decision. If he disagrees, I''m afraid we will have to stick to the original contract."

    Russell frowned at Poul''s response, a glint of disappointment shing in his eyes. "I see," he said, his voice tinged with frustration. "Well, if that''s the case, then we may have to consider purchasing the patent outright."

    Poul raised an eyebrow, intrigued by the sudden change in the conversation. "Are you proposing to buy the patent from me?"

    Russell nodded. "Yes. If we can''te to an agreement about the royalties, then it''s best if we purchase the patent outright. We are willing to pay a fair price for it, of course. You will receive stocks, andter, if the business thrives, you can sell those stocks for a fortune."

    "I understand, Mr. Russell. However, I will have to consult with my partner first before making any decisions," Poul replied.

    Russell replied, "Take all the time you need. But please keep in mind that we are very interested in your invention, and we don''t want to miss the opportunity to continue using it in our business."

    Poul asked, "Should my partner and I decide to sell the patent of a direct current electric motor, how much are you willing to pay us?"

    "What do you think of fifty thousand dors?" Russell proposed.

    Poul''s mind raced as he considered Russell''s offer. Fifty thousand dors was a significant sum, especially in this era. The money would go a long way toward funding their other projects, but he couldn''t make a decision on his own. He needed to consult with his partner first.

    "I appreciate the offer, Mr. Russell, and it''s certainly tempting," Poul said thoughtfully. "But as I mentioned earlier, I need to discuss this with my partner before making any decisions. The patent is not solely mine, and I cannot sell it without his agreement."

    "Of course, I understand," Russell replied, nodding his head. "Your partner''s approval is necessary for this transaction, and I appreciate your professionalism in this matter."

    Poul nodded in agreement. "I assure you that we will get back to you as soon as possible with our decision."

    "Very well," Russell said, standing up from his desk. "It has been a pleasure working with you, Mr. Nielsen. I hope that we can continue our business rtionship in the future, whether it''s through this patent or other ventures."

    Poul smiled politely and stood up as well. "Thank you, Mr. Russell. It has been an honor to work with you as well. I will keep you informed about our decision."

    Poul stepped out of Russell''s office with a sense of relief, d to have concluded the meeting without any major issues. Outside the office, he saw Sam Insull standing just outside there, waiting for him.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "Good day, Mr. Nielsen," Sam greeted him with a polite bow. "I trust that your meeting with Mr. Russell went well."

    Poul nodded in response. "Yes, thank you, Mr. Insull. It was a productive meeting, and I''m d we were able toe to an understanding."

    "I''m pleased to hear that," Sam replied, a small smile on his face. "I also wanted to let you know that your luggage has already been taken care of by our men. They''re waiting for you in your carriage downstairs."

    "Thank you, Mr. Insull. I appreciate the assistance."

    "It''s our pleasure to assist you in any way we can," Sam said with a nod. "Please don''t hesitate to reach out to us if you need anything else in the future."

    Poul expressed his gratitude to Sam once again and bid him farewell with a nod. He descended the stairs, reaching the ground floor, where his carriage was already waiting for him outside the building. He felt relieved to leave the bustling city behind and return to Pittsburgh, where his partner was eagerly anticipating his arrival.

    Poul settled into thefortable seat of the carriage, closing his eyes for a moment to let the memories of his time in New York City wash over him. It had been an eventful month, full of new experiences and learnings about society.

    As the carriage made its way towards the ferry station, Poul opened his eyes and looked out the window, taking in the sights and sounds of the city. The tter of horse-drawn carriages, the hum of machinery from the factories, and the chatter of people on the streets blended together into a cacophony of noise that somehow felt like music to Poul''s ears.

    The carriage pulled up to the ferry station, and Poul got out, taking a deep breath of the fresh air. He looked out across the water at the distant outline of the city skyline. Soon, New York will have skyscrapers with towering heights that can touch the sky.

    As Poul stood on the street, taking in the sights and sounds of the city, a young boy approached him holding a stack of newspapers.

    "Extra! Extra! Read all about it!" the boy called out, waving a newspaper in Poul''s direction.

    "How much is it?" Poul asked.

    "It''s a penny, sir," the boy replied eagerly.

    Poul dug into his pocket and handed the boy a penny, which the boy eagerly pocketed. "Thank you, sir! Have a nice day!" the boy called out as he scampered away.

    Unfolding the newspaper, Poul read thetest news. There he saw advertisements of the direct current electric motor and its significance to the development of the country. As he read on, he came across an article that made his eyes widen.

    The article reads: "Poul Nielsen, Founder of Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company, Challenges Social Norms with Confrontation of Prominent Noblewoman at Astoria Hotel"

    On January 25th 882, an unexpected scene urred at the Astoria Hotel when Poul Nielsen, the founder of Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company, had a heated argument with prominent noblewoman Fiora Whitney. The confrontation challenged social norms as an Albian like Nielsen confronted a member of the upper ss.

    Witnesses reported that the argument between Nielsen and Whitney was intense, with both parties exchanging heated words. ording to sources, the confrontation began when Whitney made a derogatory remark about Poul who was just walking by which prompted Nielsen to speak up and confront her.

    The Astoria Hotel, where the argument urred, is known to be a gathering ce for New York''s elite. As a prominent figure in the businessmunity, Nielsen''s confrontation with Whitney has garnered widespread attention.

    Poul Nielsen along with this partner, Jonathan Axelsen founded Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and has since expanded the business throughout the United States. Thepany is known for its innovations in the railway industry and has be a major yer in the transportation sector.

    The confrontation at the Astoria Hotel has sparked conversations about social norms and ss differences in New York society. Some havemended Nielsen for his bravery in challenging Whitney''s views, while others have criticized his behavior as inappropriate.

    The incident has also shed light on the treatment of Albian and other people of color, highlighting the challenges they face in society. Nielsen''s actions have sparked arger discussion about the importance of recognizing the contributions of workers from all backgrounds.

    As of now, both Nielsen and Whitney have notmented on the incident. However, the confrontation at the Astoria Hotel is sure to havesting effects on the discourse around social norms and ss differences in New York society."

    After reading the article, his face grew stern as he absorbed the words. He clenched his hands tightly around the paper, crumpling it in his grip

    "This is bad," he muttered under his breath.

 Chapter 68 Catching Up

    At midnight, Poul arrived at the headquarters of theirpany. Workers on the night shift were busy in the factories, producing goods, while those on the morning shift were sound asleep in their homes. Poul stood in front of the door of the house which also served as their main office and knocked. He heard footsteps from inside and the door opened, revealing Jonathan.

    Poul performed a casual salute and said, "What''s up?"

    Jonathan returned the gesture and opened the door widely, allowing him to enter. Poul stepped inside and looked around the in living room.

    "I''ve missed this ce," Poul said. "Why are you still awake?"

    "I''m waiting for you," Jonathan replied. "I figured you''d arrive at midnight because of your train and ferry schedule. So, are you going to share some stories you had in New York? We can talk about it all night if you want."

    Poul nodded in agreement. "Yeah, we''ll do that. But first, I need to address some issues and share a business proposal that I''m sure you''ll be interested in."

    Jonathan realized what Poul was referring to and spoke up, "A quarrel with Fiora Whitney, right? I read about it in the newspaper. Morgan called and he was furious, demanding that you issue a statement to the papers."

    Poul sighed, "Yes, I figured he would call. Although she was in the wrong, Fiora is a prominent figure in high society. This would affect our business in the future should I ignore it. Still, I kind of hate it, you know, writing an apology to those kinds of people."

    "Well, you have to let go of that feeling, bro, the reputation of ourpany is at stake. I will have Amelia write a formal statement for the papers. For now, we will talk about your trip to New York."

    "Yeah sorry about that," Poul said apologetically. "Oh wait...Amelia? Where is she? I was expecting that she would wee me but it turns out I was wrong."

    "She is sleeping in her bedroom. I finished building her one, this means we can sleep in our bedroom."

    Poul chuckled at Jonathan''sment, "I see, and how is the new bedroom?"

    "It''s cozy and warm," Jonathan replied with a smile. "I''m sure Amelia will be happy with it. But let''s talk about your trip now. How was New York?"

    Poul sank into the couch, lost in thought, reflecting on his recent business trip. "It was a typical trip to New York, although this time it was a bit worse than our previous visits. I ended up being thrown out of the Astoria Hotel for confronting Fiora, but there were some promising developments during my stay. Take Caroline Dupont, for example. After my unfortunate run-in with Whitney, she extended an invitation for lunch, and we discussed business. Remember how we''ve been searching for a smokeless powder that''s efficient? Well, Dupont agreed to assist us in exchange for something in return."

    Jonathan''s interest was piqued. "What did she want in return?" he asked.

    "Investing fifteen million dors into our enterprise," Poul revealed, a sly grin spreading across his face.

    "Fifteen million dors?!" Jonathan eximed, clearly taken aback by the staggering amount.

    Poul nodded. "Yes, it''s an incredible offer. It''s probably the second-best deal we''ve ever received, after Vanderbilt''s twenty-five million dor contract."

    "So, not only will we have ess to a smokeless powder, but fifteen million dors as well?"

    "That is right," Poul confirmed. "So are you in or not?"

    Jonathan''s face broke into a wide grin. "Of course, I''m in! One hundred percent. We''d be fools not to take her up on that offer."

    Poul reclined back on the couch. "I knew you would be on board, but we cannot ignore the implications of this deal. It is imperative that we consult Mr. Morgan. Caroline''s investment will inevitably lead to the dilution of our shares, and we cannot make a decision without his approval," he exined to Jonathan.

    "Indeed, your point is valid. It is crucial that we bring Mr. Morgan up to speed on this matter," Jonathan affirmed, his head nodding in agreement. "Now, what was the other offer that you received?"

    "This particr offer was extended by James Russell, who is currently struggling with the payment of two dors and fifty cents as royalties for each horsepower of electric motor sold. His intention is to decrease the amount paid. Nevertheless, he offered us an alternative, that is to purchase the patents of the direct current electric motor for a total of fifty thousand dors. In addition, we will receive stocks of theirpany, which, in my opinion, is a favorable proposal."

    "In exchange, however, we will be forfeiting our rights over the direct current electric motor. Are you willing to ept such conditions?" Jonathan inquired.

    "Indeed, I am. It is only a direct current electric motor, and we still possess the technology of the induction motor. Once we decide to introduce it to the public, we will be the ones to manufacture it, which means the only ones profiting from it," Poul responded with confidence.

    "If you are fine with it, then I''m fine with it. You may inform us that we have epted his deal, but don''t do it yet."

    "Why''s that?" Poul inquired.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "Because the current contract still stands, which means he''s obliged to pay us royalties until the contract is terminated," Jonathan replied, a sly grin creeping up his face.

    "You sly devil," Poul chuckled, shaking his head in amusement.

    "He didn''t set a deadline, did he?" Jonathan probed.

    "No, he didn''t," Poul confirmed.

    "Then that''s Russell''s blunder," Jonathan chuckled.

    "What urred while I was away?" Poul inquired upon his return to theirpany headquarters.

    "Things have remained the same, to be frank," Jonathan began. "There have not been any significant developments. However, if you are interested in learning about a new project, I am currently constructing a model for an M1 Garand."

    "Interesting. How long will it take to create a working model?" Poul inquired.

    "Another month and the M1 Garand will be ready for testing. However, I will require Caroline''s smokeless powder form," Jonathan replied.

    "You shall have it," Poul assured. "Is there anything else?"

    "Indeed, your assistant, Amelia, was dismayed when we asked her to leave before our discussion of the M1 Garand began. She believed that we should not keep secrets from her, as she is our secretary. I exined that we were not hiding anything from her and that we had epted Mr. Sherman''s deal to develop a weapon. That being said, I surmised that she was interested in the model. Although I am uncertain as to why," Jonathan ryed.

    "She wanted to know about the model so that she could inform Caroline," Poul exined. "I have already provided her with the details, and to my surprise, she appeared enthusiastic about the project."

    Jonathan arched an eyebrow at Poul. "She seemed excited, you say?" he inquired with a tinge of amusement in his voice.

    "Indeed. She''s probably aware of the lucrative opportunities of the arms industry in this era. I can already envision orders pouring in from military organizations around the world. In that regard, we should establish a subsidiary solely dedicated to the production of firearms," Poul proposed.

    "I concur with your notion. Why don''t we name it the Axelsen and Nielsen Arms Manufacturing Company?" Jonathan suggested.

    "I believe that''s a suitable name," Poul responded, nodding in agreement. "I''m seeing a pattern here. Whenever we establish a subsidiary, the name Axelsen and Nielsen must be in it."

    "But the question is, who will manage it?" Jonathan asked.

    Poul pondered for a moment before answering. "You will manage it until we can find a suitable recement."

    Jonathan nodded thoughtfully, considering Poul''s proposal. "I ept the responsibility, but I must say that it will require a great deal of time and effort to establish and manage a subsidiarypany," he remarked.

    "I understand," Poul responded. "That''s why we need to take it step by step, and not rush things. Just like we did in Union Switch and Signal Company. We will have to put in the work and dedication to make it a sess, but the rewards will be worth it."

    "Agreed," Jonathan said firmly. "I will make sure that the subsidiary is established on a solid foundation and runs efficiently before my recement takes over."

    Poul expressed, "I could really use some beer right about now."

    "Let me check if we still have a bottle," Jonathan replied as he rose from the sofa and proceeded to the kitchen. He searched through the icebox and obtained two beer bottles, feeling the frigidness run through his fingers.

    Returning to the living room, Jonathan tossed a beer bottle to Poul, which he deftly opened.

    The two clinked their bottles and savored the coldness of the drink, an invigorating treat after a long exhaustive day. As they sipped and rxed, the duo conversed on various topics until the early hours of the morning.

 Chapter 69 Mission And Vision Statement Of The Industrial Duos Company

    At eight o''clock in the morning, Poul and Jonathan were yawning intermittently, showing that they hadn''t had enough sleep. Despite already drinking coffee, its intended effect had yet to be felt by the industrialist duo.

    "Uhm, Sir Nielsen. This is the formal statement you requested for Fiora Whitney. Please take a look at it," Amelia said, handing Poul the document.

    "Thank you, Miss Weiss," Poul said after receiving the document. "I apologize if I was not able to say hi to Caroline for you. My mind was racing back then due to the incident with Fiora Whitney."

    "You don''t have to apologize, Sir Nielsen. In fact, I shouldn''t be giving orders like that, as you are my superior," Amelia said in her usual soft voice. She continued, "I already contacted her, so there''s nothing to worry about."

    "If you say so," Poul said before reading the document. "To whom it may concern, I would like to express my sincerest apologies to Ms. Fiora Whitney for my behavior during our recent confrontation at the Astoria Hotel. My actions were inappropriate and unprofessional, and I regret any distress or difort that I may have caused Ms. Whitney.

    As the founder of Axelsen and Nielsen Air Brake Company and the Union Switch and Signal Company, I hold myself and mypany to the highest ethical and moral standards. My behavior during the incident fell short of these standards, and for that, I am deeply sorry.

    I ammitted to ensuring that such incidents do not ur in the future. I will be taking steps to review and improve my behavior and decision-making, and to ensure that my actions align with the values and principles of ourpany.

    Once again, I apologize for my actions and any harm that they may have caused. I hope that Ms. Whitney can ept my sincere apologies and that we can move forward positively and respectfully. Sincerely, Poul Nielsen."

    When Poul finished reading the statement that she wrote for him, Amelia asked, "So, how is it?"

    "It''s well-written and good. Although, I must say, why does it seem like I am the only one to me here?" Poul questioned.

    "Because you are appealing to the public and high society, Sir Nielsen," Amelia exined. She continued, "Even though you are not the only one at fault, which I believe you are not, you still have to take full responsibility so that this matter concludes and vanishes from the people''s minds."

    "Just as I said eight hours ago, let go of that feeling of being treated unfairly," Jonathan interjected with a yawn.

    "I know," Poul said with a yawn.

    "At what time did you two sleep?" Amelia asked in a concerned voice.

    "Four o''clock in the morning," Jonathan answered, suppressing another yawn.

    Amelia Weiss shook her head, disapproval etched on her face. "Sir Nielsen, Mr. Axelsen, you really need to take care of yourselves," she admonished. "You both know that you need at least eight hours of sleep to function properly. And coffee can only do so much."

    "Don''t worry, it''s just for this day," Jonathan replied.

    "Having a well-rested mind is crucial for work, Sir Nielsen, Sir Axelsen," Amelia insisted.

    "We know, Miss Weiss, but as Jonathan said, it''s only for today. Speaking of today, what''s our schedule?" Poul inquired.

    "Well, Mister Morgan is going to arriveter this evening to discuss the investors who wish to invest in thepany. I can''t believe that Lady Caroline is going to invest in yourpany," Amelia said, her voiceced with amazement. "Next, there will be a departmental meeting where you''ll listen to the reports of each department. Andstly...wait, that''s it."

    "I gave you a taskst week, Miss Weiss, regarding thepany''s vision and mission, and values statement, right? Have you finished all of those?" Poul queried.

    "Yes, I have already finished it, Sir Axelsen. Would you like to see it now?" Amelia offered.

    Jonathan''s gaze flickered to Poul. "Poul, do you want to see Miss Weiss''s work for ourpany''s vision and mission?"

    "Ah, do we really need to?" Poul grumbled.

    "Of course, this is to make ourpany look more professional," Jonathan asserted.

    "Indeed, it is essential to have a clear and well-definedpany vision and mission," Amelia said, nodding in agreement. "It will provide a sense of direction for thepany and ensure that everyone is working towards the same goals and objectives."

    Poul sighed and nodded in resignation. "Alright, let''s see it then."<novelnext></novelnext>

    Amelia handed them a thick document, and as they read through it, they could see the effort and time that was put into it. The document was well-structured andprehensive, outlining thepany''s long-term goals, objectives, and values.

    Mission:

    At Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company, our mission is to provide high-quality and reliable air brake and lotive draft gear products for steam lotives that meet and exceed the needs and expectations of our customers. We aremitted to continuously improving our products and services while maintaining our focus on safety and environmental sustainability. We strive to be a reliable and trusted partner to our customers and to contribute to the growth and development of the railroad industry.

    Vision:

    Our vision at Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company is to be the leading provider of air brake and lotive draft gear products for steam lotives in the United States and around the world. We aim to achieve this by consistently delivering high-quality products and services, and by building strong andsting rtionships with our customers. We aremitted to investing in research and development, and to staying ahead of industry trends and innovations. We also strive to be a responsible corporate citizens by promoting sustainability, supporting our localmunity, and fostering a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion.

    As for the Values Statement.

    Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company has always held a deepmitment to excellence in all that we do. Our core values are an essentialponent of thismitment, and we are dedicated to upholding them in every aspect of our business.

    Quality is at the forefront of our values. We believe in delivering the highest quality products and services to our customers. We strive for excellence in everything we do, and we are always looking for ways to improve.

    Safety is a top priority for us. We understand that our customers rely on our products to keep them safe, and we take that responsibility very seriously. We prioritize safety in all aspects of our business, from design and production to the way we operate our facilities and interact with our customers and partners.

    Integrity is a fundamental part of who we are. We are honest, ethical, and transparent in all of our dealings with customers, suppliers, employees, and other stakeholders. We believe in building trust and fostering long-term rtionships based on mutual respect and professionalism.

    Innovation is what drives us forward. We embrace creativity and new ideas as drivers of progress and growth. We encourage experimentation and aremitted to staying ahead of industry trends and technologies.

    Sustainability is a crucial aspect of our business. We aremitted to minimizing our environmental impact and promoting sustainability in all areas of our business. We seek to be responsible stewards of the and to contribute to the health and well-being of ourmunities.

    Teamwork is what allows us to achieve our goals. We believe in the power of coboration and teamwork. We value diversity, respect different perspectives and ideas, and work together to achievemon goals.

    We believe that by upholding these values, we can create a culture of excellence, trust, and ountability. We aremitted to achieving our mission and vision for the benefit of all our stakeholders, and we will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that these values remain at the forefront of everything we do.

    After reading the mission and vision statement, and the values statement that Amelia wrote, silence filled the room. Then, as if on cue, Poul pped.

    "This is excellent work, Miss Weiss," Poul praised. "I''m impressed with the level of detail and thought put into this document."

    "I agree with Poul," Jonathan added, looking up from the document. "You''ve done an outstanding job, Miss Weiss. Thank you for your hard work and dedication to ourpany."

    A small smile formed on Amelia''s lips, pleased with their positive feedback. "Thank you. Sir Axelsen and Sir Nielsen. It was my pleasure to work on this document for ourpany. If there''s anything you want me to do, please don''t hesitate to ask."

    "Well, since you said that, why don''t you write a mission and vision statement and values statement for Axelsen & Nielsen Union Switch and Signal, and Axelsen & Nielsen Arms Manufacturing Company?" Poul said.

    "Sure, when will you need it?"

    "Wait, are you serious?" Poul asked, surprised that she is taking it seriously.

    "I take my work very seriously, Sir Nielsen. Isn''t that my purpose?"

    "How about in two months?" Poul asked.

    "Very well, I shall work on that andplete it before the deadline," Amelia said and continued. "Now please prepare yourself for the departmental meetingter. These are the documents that you need to read for your reference."

    Amelia whipped out a stack of documents out of nowhere.

 Chapter 70 Departmental Meeting

    The conference room in building B was brimming with the heads of departments of the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company. Poul Nielsen and Jonathan Axelsen, thepany''s co-founders, were seated at the head of the table, keenly listening to each department head as they shared their observations and suggestions.

    Timothy Anderson, the head of the Research and Development department, was the first to present. "We have been working on developing innovative technologies to enhance the efficiency of our air brakes. We have made remarkable progress in reducing the time required to activate the brakes and are working to improve the braking power. We believe that these improvements will make our brakes more desirable to railroads. Furthermore, Mr. Walter Schneider and I have devised a new technology, and we have already created a prototype. Please take a look at it in your spare time."

    Poul Nielsen nodded in agreement, marveling at the rapid progress made by their engineers. "That''s wonderful news. Thank you for your efforts to improve our air brakes. We will examine the prototypes that you have worked on."

    The next department to present was Marketing. Erik Johansen, the head of Marketing, stood up and began his presentation. "We have been working on expanding our customer base, and we have been sessful in securing new contracts with railroadpanies in the United States. However, we must enhance our marketing strategies to attract more customers, especially overseas."

    Jonathan Axelsen replied, "We acknowledge the significance of marketing, Erik. We will allocate more resources to our marketing endeavors. What strategies have youe up with so far?"

    "There are four approaches, Sir Axelsen. The first is print advertising. We can ce ads in popr magazines, newspapers, and other print media in the countries we are targeting. For instance, in the German Empire, there is Kreuzzeitung, Le Figaro in France, the Novoe Vremia in the Russian Empire, and The Times in the British Empire. The second is participating in trade shows where we showcase our products and meet potential customers face-to-face. The third is direct mail, where we send information about the product directly to railroadpanies. The fourth is simply establishing a branch in those countries. It''s more direct than mail, but it would require significant capital."

    "We''ve been contemting expanding our business overseas," Poul said. "One of the options we''ve considered is establishing a branch in those countries."

    "Establishing a branch in those countries is a wise move, Sir Nielsen. With a local presence, we can better understand the market and the needs of our customers there. We can also hire local staff who have knowledge of the localnguage, culture, and business practices, which would help us to build stronger rtionships with potential customers. Moreover, having a physical presence in these countries would enable us to provide better customer service and support to our existing customers."

    "I will have my secretary and you work it out and draft a n," Poul said.

    The Production Department was next to present. Soren Petersen, the head of the Production Department, stood up and said, "We have been working on improving the efficiency of our manufacturing processes. We have made significant improvements and believe that we can reduce our production costs without sacrificing quality."

    Poul Nielsen inquired, "How did you do that?"

    "Since thepany had already adopted mass production techniques and new technologies, standardization, and automation, it already reduced production costs. To reduce the cost even further, we have implemented a lean manufacturing method, cost-saving measures, and optimized our supply chains."

    Poul Nielsen smiled, "That''s excellent news, Petersen. We want to keep our costs down to remainpetitive in the market."

    The next department to present was Finance. Terrence Metoyer, the head of the Finance Department, stood up and presented thepany''s financial performance for the past quarter.

    "We have seen steady growth in revenue, and we have also been able to reduce our operating costs thanks to the efforts of the production department. We are in a strong financial position, and we believe that we can continue to grow thepany by supporting its initiatives like establishing a branch abroad."

    Jonathan nodded, "That''s great to hear, Metoyer. Keep up the good work."

    Finally, it was the Human Resources department''s turn. Brian Owens, the head of HR, stood up and said, "We have been working on improving the working conditions for our employees. We have made significant progress in reducing idents in the factory, and we have also been providing training programs to help our employees develop new skills. Not only that, but we have also been sessful in increasing our workforce as one thousand more have applied for a job in thepany."

    Poul smiled, "That''s exactly what I want to hear from the Human Resources Department. Now, I want to ensure that the benefits that our workers are receiving should be extended also to the new workers."

    "Don''t worry, Sir Nielsen. We will do our best to ensure that," Brian said.

    The meeting continued for another hour as Poul and Jonathan listened to their department heads'' suggestions and made ns to further improve thepany.

    As the meeting was about to conclude, Poul and Jonathan rose to their feet and nced at every head of the departments.

    "So, should I say it?" Poul whispered to Jonathan.

    "No, I will do this," Jonathan whispered back. He cleared his throat, preparing himself to speak to the people present in the meeting.

    "I wanted to take a moment to thank each and every one of you for your hard work and dedication to the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company. Though our heads of departments may have been with us for a short time, their contributions have been invaluable, and they have helped us to move forward as apany.

    In this fast-paced business world, it''s easy to forget the importance of building strong rtionships with those we work with. But it''s those rtionships that make all the difference in the world. And so, I wanted to extend my sincerest gratitude to each and every one of you for your continuedmitment to ourpany''s sess.<novelnext></novelnext>

    We have achieved great things so far, but there is still much work to be done. I know that with your expertise and dedication, we will continue to make great strides in the future.

    Thank you all for your hard work, and I look forward to continuing to work together to make ourpany the best it can be."

    As Jonathan finished his speech, the department heads sat with a sense of gratitude and appreciation for their work being recognized by thepany''s founder.

    The head of the Production Department, Soren Petersen, was nodding his head in approval as Jonathan thanked him for his team''s contribution to thepany. He felt proud and fulfilled knowing that his department''s hard work did not go unnoticed.

    Erik Johansen, the head of the marketing department, sat with a smile on his face, feeling proud of his team''s aplishments. He felt that his department was making a difference in thepany''s growth and expansion.

    Brian Owens, the head of the Human Resources Department, felt inspired by Jonathan''s words and felt motivated to continue his work in building a strong and dedicated workforce.

    And after that, the meeting concluded, and the department heads left the conference room. Poul and Jonathan were satisfied with the reports they received.

    "I must say, they exceeded my expectations. You sure do know a lot of people, Miss Weiss," Poul said.

    "I''m honored, Sir Nielsen. Just as I assure you, I''ll get the best staff in the world to work with yourpany."

    "And you have done just that," Jonathan stepped in. "I think with this, I will forgive you for trying to get the specific details about the gun."

    Amelia gulped, feeling a lump in her throat.

    "Stop it, Jonathan. She''s just a curious individual. I mean this country loves guns, who wouldn''t be so curious?"

    "I want you to stop simping on her, Poul. It''s bad for you."

    "Uhm¡­what is simping?" Amelia asked with a nervous voice. She had never heard that word before. Was it an Avalonian lingo?

    "Trust me, you wouldn''t want to know," Jonathan said, saving his partner from the embarrassment he is going to face should he tell her the meaning.

    "Don''t mind him, Amelia. Jonathan can be a bit of a joker sometimes," Poul said casually.

    "Uhm¡­okay."

    Amelia smiled, grateful for the friendly gesture. "It''s okay, Sir Nielsen. If you don''t want to tell me, it''s fine. Being too familiar with the two of you could result in misunderstanding from other employees."

    "Enough of that, let''s return to business," Jonathan stepped in. "Now that the departmental meeting ended, what is the next line of business?"

    "We have a meeting with John Morgan scheduled forter this evening. You can use the time before that to work on your respective duties. As for me, I will return to the office and continue my work."

    "Okay, I will see the prototype that Mr. Anderson and Schneider created. How about you Jonathan?"

    "I''ll finalize the documents for the construction of the new office building and then to the foundry," Jonathan said.

    "Great, we''ll reconver."

 Chapter 71 Morgan Decision

    71 Morgan Decision

    The night had descended over thepany town of Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company, casting long shadows over the electrically lit streets. The air was thick with the smell of coal smoke and the nging of machinery echoed in the distance. As the workers made their way home from a long day at the factory, the streets were alive with the sounds ofughter and chatter. The electric lights flickered and hummed, casting a warm glow on the brick buildings and cobblestone streets.

    In the center of town, the imposing factory loomed like a giant, its towering smokestacks belching out thick plumes of smoke. The factory was the lifeblood of the town, providing employment for hundreds of workers and fueling the economy of the entire region.

    A horse-drawn carriage stopped in front of the main office. The footman, stationed behind the carriage, jumped down and opened the door for the person inside.

    John Morgan stepped out of the sleek ck carriage, his three-piece ck suit hugging his form perfectly. His ck top hat sat firmly on his head, adding a touch of old-world elegance to his already impable outfit. With polished ck leather dress shoes, he made his way up to the main office that looked like a stately manor. As he approached the building, heposed himself by clearing his throat before knocking.

    The door swung open, revealing a beautiful woman standing before him. It was Amelia Weiss, thepany''s executive secretary, and he recognized her immediately. "Good evening, Mr. John Morgan," Amelia said with a smile. "Pleasee in, Mr. Axelsen and Nielsen are waiting for you in the office."

    John stepped inside, taking in the simplicity of the room around him. The walls were painted a muted beige color, and a few small, framed paintings hung on them. A modest wooden desk dominated the center of the room, with a few scattered papers and a single pen atop it. The electricmps cast a warm, golden glow over everything, adding a sense of coziness and warmth to the space. A vase of wildflowers stood on a small table by the window, their bright colors standing out against the subdued background of the room.

    Jonathan offered him a seat in front of him while Poul was seated behind the desk. Amelia brought tea before disappearing from the room.

    Morgan began, "I was informed about the content of the meeting. This is about an investor wanting to invest in yourpany. But the investment that person is going to make would result in our shares being diluted, am I right?"

    "That''s correct, Mr. Morgan. We want to ask you a simple question. Are you fine with your shares being diluted?" Poul asked.

    Before Morgan could answer, Poul broke down the numbers, emphasizing the percentage increase in John''s investment.

    "Let me break it down for you," Poul began, with a tone of authority. "At the moment, thepany''s valuation is sitting at an impressive forty-five million dors. Jonathan and I hold forty-five percent stakes, which trantes to a staggering twenty million and two hundred fifty thousand dors. On the other hand, your ten percent stake is currently valued at four million and five hundred thousand dors. That is about a six hundred and fifty percent increase in your investment."

    "I know, I already calcted that," Morgan said, seemingly unperturbed at the increase of his investment. "But before we get into those investment talks, have you already apologized to Lady Fiora Whitney?"

    "Ah, the noblewoman? Yeah, I already had Amelia send the formal statements to the press. Don''t worry, I made it sincere and heartfelt enough where her heart will be swayed," Poul said nonchntly.

    Morgan probed, "Really? Why is it sounding to me like you don''t care?"

    "Maybe because I actually don''t care at all, and the letter was just a formality so that thepany wouldn''t face repercussions," Poul replied with a shrug.

    "That isn''t funny, Nielsen," Morgan chided lightly.

    "Look, Mr. Morgan. I don''t really get why you bother with high society when you yourself came from a humble background. I mean it''s not like they are the source of our ie."

    "Because having connections with high society would yield more profit," Morgan asserted, "As they are my main clients. They borrow money from me and return it with interest on a specified date. Not only that, it allows us to make connections, making it advantageous for any businesses."

    "I am aware that having connections to high-society is important but if they aren''t going to respect me, then they wouldn''t be worthy of my time. If they are your main clients, then for me it''s the railroadpany. They are the ones who are generating ourpany profit. And who do you think owns most of the railroad in Avalonia? That''s right, it''s themodore Wandervilt!" Poul countered

    "I understand your frustration, Mr. Nielsen," John said, "and I agree that it''s important to be respected by high society connections. However, I also believe that it''s a two-way street. While we may not necessarily agree with their ways, high society connections have the potential to provide us with new investment opportunities, as well as ess to a broader range of clients. In addition, they can help us create brand awareness and increase our overall reputation, which could lead to business growth beyond expectations.

    "Furthermore, just because someonees from a humble background doesn''t necessarily mean that they will not see value in high society connections. Wanderbilt may havee from humble beginnings, but he is now a powerful figure in the railroad industry, and he likely has connections in high society that he leverages to his advantage."

    "Gentleman!" Jonathan stepped in as he felt that the argument it''s'' getting heated. "Why don''t we proceed to business? My partner issued a statement so that''s done. We are convened here to talk about the new investor, not to quarrel among ourselves."

    There was silence in the room as Morgan and Poul reflected on their actions.

    As Jonathan interjected, the atmosphere in the room seemed to lighten, with both Poul and Morgan appearing to take a deep breath and gather theirposure. As they settled back into their chairs, their gazes met, and it was evident that the tension in the room had somewhat abated.

    "Let''s talk business," Morgan said. "I want to know who the investor is and how much he is going to invest."

    "Well, it''s not a he, Mr. Morgan, it''s a she. Caroline Dupont is her name, and she is the founder of Loreal. She is offering a whopping fifteen million dors," Poul informed him.

    "Caroline Dupont? That French woman? Why is she interested in the railroad business?"

    "Well, it''s part of the deal," Poul responded, as he leaned forward.

    "Deal? What kind of deal? Be specific, Mr. Nielsen," Morgan queried.

    "We know that Caroline Dupont is a brilliant chemist, responsible for the invention of the majority of modern cosmetics. Furthermore, she is well-versed in smokeless gunpowder technology, which will be utilized to fill cartridges for the weapon we are designing for the United States Army. She will help us ovee the limitations of the current smokeless gunpowder, enhancing its effectiveness, and making it more appealing to the military," Poul borated. "In exchange for her assistance with the gunpowder, she will be permitted to invest in ourpany."

    "The fifteen million dors that she is offering will finance our expansion into Europe. It''s like hitting two birds with one stone. We get the much-needed capital, and we also get ess to the form for the smokeless gunpowder," Jonathan added, emphasizing the importance of the deal.

    "In that case, I am willing to dilute my shares," Morgan announced. "Caroline''s investment would provide us with the necessary funds to expand our business in Europe, generating more profits for ourpany."

    "Are you absolutely certain that you don''t mind diluting your shares?" Poul inquired once more, wanting to ensure that Morgan was aware of the consequences.

    "That''s correct, Mr. Nielsen. If Caroline''s investment helps you create a weapon that the military is satisfied with, and they ce thousands of orders, then it is worth it," Morgan replied confidently.

    "Fantastic, I''ll inform Miss Dupont about the oue of our discussion. Thank you, Mr. Morgan, for being flexible," Poul said appreciatively.

    "What do you mean flexible? That''s the most practical course of action," Morgan responded, shaking his head.

    Indeed, Morgan had made the right decision by agreeing to dilute his shares. This would allow thepany to receive additional funding, which could be used to expand and grow the business. This would ultimately result in higher profits and dividends in the future, offsetting any losses that Morgan might incur in the short term.

    By not diluting his shares, Morgan may have missed out on the potential benefits of additional investments in thepany, such as increased profitability, growth, and new business opportunities.

    "Let''s finalize this by signing the contract," Jonathan suggested, handing Morgan the document.

    Morgan opened the document and scrutinized it thoroughly, carefully examining the terms and conditions. After reading through it, he nodded his approval.

    "May I have a pen?" he asked.

    Poul handed him a beautiful fountain pen, and Morgan signed the document.

 Chapter 72 Sealing The Deal

    Upon closing the deal with John Morgan over his shares, Poul promptly contacted Caroline the following day, informing her of Morgan''s eptance. As a result, Caroline scheduled a visit to the headquarters of the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on February 16th, 882.

    Like any other day, it was a typical day for the workers of thepany, working in perfect harmony to manufacture air brakes and lotive draft gears for steam lotives. However, for the founders of thepany, it was a momentous day, as they were to receive an investment worth fifteen million dors from Caroline.

    To ensure that their main office, which also doubled as their residence, was as weing and presentable as possible, the founders took great care in preparing the interior for Caroline''s visit. Despite its hasty construction and in interior, the decorations served to conceal any imperfections.

    Finally, the long-awaited moment arrived. Poul and Jonathan waited patiently on the porch, eagerly anticipating the arrival of Caroline in a horse-drawn carriage. As the carriage drew closer, they knew that this was the moment they had been working towards. The deal was about to be cemented.

    The carriage came to a graceful stop in front of the grandiose main office, its wheels crunching over the pristine gravel pathway with a genteel sound. The footman, d in a ck suit, alighted from the carriage and hastened to open the door for the eagerly anticipated guest. The door creaked as it swung open, revealing Caroline''s angelic face, framed by light-blonde short hair that reached her shoulders. Her brown eyes shone like warm honey, and her cheeks were adorned with a subtle pink hue, like the delicate blush of a rose.

    Caroline stepped out of the carriage, her every movement graceful and fluid, like that of a swan gliding across a tranquil pond. She was dressed in a stunningvender gown, the fabric of which swayed gently in the wind, reflecting the radiance of the sun. Her slim figure was entuated by the corset, and her gloved hands held a small purse, dainty and delicate.

    As she approached Poul and Jonathan, her delicate hand lifted her skirt to avoid tripping over the fabric, her eyes sparkling with excitement and anticipation. Poul greeted her with a warm smile, his eyes gleaming with admiration. Meanwhile, Jonathan was stunned, awed by her beauty. In his eyes, she was just as beautiful as the day he met her, with a charm and elegance that could leave anyone spellbound.

    Seeing Jonathan''s petrified state, Poul stepped forward and greeted her.

    Caroline lifted her delicate hand, adorned with a white glove, and offered it to Poul, who had stepped forward to greet her. He took her hand in his, admiring its softness and the finecework of the glove covering it.

    Poul leaned in and ced a gentle kiss on the back of Caroline''s hand. "Good afternoon, Miss Caroline. It''s a pleasure to see you again."

    Caroline blushed at the chivalrous gesture and smiled in return. "The pleasure is all mine, Sir Nielsen. Thank you for inviting me to your office."

    Poul released her hand and stepped back, allowing Caroline to greet Jonathan, who had recovered from his initial shock.

    "Are you going to greet her or not?" Poul said teasingly.

    "I am...! Wait," Jonathan stuttered. He cleared his throat and approached Caroline.

    "Good afternoon, Lady Dupont," Jonathan said with a courteous tone as he sped her hand. He kissed it gantly, discreetly inhaling the sweet scent emanating from her hand. It was a delightful fragrance, akin to the one he recalled when he first kissed her hand in New York.

    "Good afternoon, Sir Axelsen. It''s a pleasure to see you again," Caroline said, her voice velvety and refined. She withdrew her hand and adjusted the folds of her dress, regaining herposure.

    "Allow me to escort you inside our modest office," Jonathan said, extending his arm to Caroline in a gant manner.

    "Very well, Sir Axelsen," Caroline replied, epting his offer and interlocking her arm with his. Together, they walked towards the building, their steps in sync.

    Caroline gazed around the modest office, her brow furrowing in puzzlement.

    "I must say, it is quite in here. Why are you being so frugal with yourselves? With your funds, you could easilymission an office building," she remarked.

    Jonathan smiled. "Indeed, we already have ns for an eight-story building with a modern look. Once we find a construction firm, we can start the construction process."

    Caroline mused as her interest in their office building was piqued. "An eight-story building huh? You are a civil engineer, right? Perhaps you can build me a building that has 102 floors."

    Jonathan''s head tilted to the side, his mind racing toprehend her request. Momentster, he realized what she meant. She was asking him to build a skyscraper simr to the ones from their original world, such as the Empire State Building because it has 102 floors. The mere thought of Caroline''s desire to see such a creation in her lifetime only made him desire her more.

    Without hesitation, Jonathan replied, "I can do that, but it will be an expensive undertaking."

    "Money is no issue to me, Mister Axelsen. As much as I would love to talk to you more about it, we have to settle business first," Caroline reminded him.

    "You are right, Miss Dupont," Jonathan agreed, his formal tone surfacing.

    Caroline quickly interjected, "Don''t be so formal, Mister Axelsen. Caroline would do. It would be unfair if I addressed you as Mister Axelsen, so I''m going to call you by your first name."

    A hint of a smile appeared on Jonathan''s face, "Well, if you insist, Caroline."

    "Can I call you by your first name as well?" Poul chimed between their moments. He was standing by the door that leads to the office.

    "Of course, Poul. You can address me by my first name as well," Caroline permitted.

    "That''s good. Now, Caroline, there is someone inside who is eager to see you. I''m sure you know who it is."

    "I''m excited to see her as well," Caroline said.

    "Okay then," Poul opened the door, and the three of them walked into the room. As soon as Caroline caught sight of thedy standing by the desk, she was ecstatic.

    "Amelia?"

    "Caroline!" Amelia eximed as she rushed towards her, and they embraced each other in a warm hug.

    Jonathan and Poul exchanged a nce of approval, observing the evident enjoyment the two women had in each other''spany. While they waited for Caroline and Amelia to finish catching up, they took the opportunity to retrieve the files containing the terms and agreements of the contract.

    The voices of Amelia and Caroline floated over to the industrialist duo. "Are they treating you well? Did they touch you?" Caroline inquired, her concern palpable.

    "No, Lady Caroline. I can honestly say that they have treated me well ever since I joined theirpany," Amelia replied.<novelnext></novelnext>

    Caroline persisted, "Perhaps they are coercing you to report that everything is fine, even if it''s not. If that''s the case, you can tell me. You have nothing to fear."

    Poul interjected, "Ouch, that hurts. We are good guys, we haven''t done anything to her."

    Jonathan added, "Yes, we assure you that Amelia has been treated well under our care."

    "I''m simply making sure that Amelia is being well taken care of," Caroline responded.

    "Geez¡­Lady Caroline, you are too overprotective of me. I''m telling the truth, they didn''t do anything to me."

    Caroline let out a sigh, "Well, if you say so."

    "Caroline, please take a seat. We will begin shortly," Poul interjected.

    Caroline took her seat, and the industrialist duo began.

    "So, Caroline, this is the contract. Feel free to look at the terms and agreements before signing them."

    Terms and Agreement

    This agreement is made and entered into on February 16, 882 by and between Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company, and Caroline Dupont.

    WHEREAS, the Investor desires to invest fifteen million dors in the Company, and the Company is willing to ept such investment, subject to the terms and conditions set forth herein.

    NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and mutual covenants contained herein, the parties agree as follows:

    Investment. The Investor shall invest fifteen million dors in the Company in exchange for a twenty-five percent (25%) ownership interest in the Company.

    Use of Funds.

    The total investment of $15,000,000 will be used for the following purposes:

    Research and development of the air brakes and lotive draft gears to improve the safety and efficiency of thepany''s products.

    Expansion of the business abroad to attract more customers, to increase thepany''s revenue, and to establish a physical presence in foreign markets.

    Hiring additional staff members for the purpose of the above-mentioned research and development and expansion.

    Any other business-rted expenses and investments necessary to increase thepany''s value and growth.

    It is agreed that the funds will not be used for any illegal or hical purposes. All expenses and investments made using the funds will be recorded in thepany''s financial records and will be avable for inspection by Caroline Dupont or her representative upon request.

    Confidentiality. The Company shall maintain the confidentiality of any and all information provided by the Investor, including but not limited to the form for smokeless gunpowder, and shall not disclose such information to any third party without the prior written consent of the Investor.

    Representations and Warranties. The Company and the Investor each represents and warrants to the other that: (a) it is duly organized, validly existing, and in good standing under thews of its jurisdiction of incorporation; (b) it has the power and authority to enter into this Agreement and to carry out the transactions contemted hereby; and (c) the execution and delivery of this Agreement and the performance of its obligations hereunder do not vite any applicablew or regtion or any agreement to which it is a party.

    Termination. This Agreement may be terminated by mutual written agreement of the parties at any time prior to the closing of the transaction contemted hereby.

    Governing Law. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in ordance with thews of the state where the Company is incorporated, without regard to its conflicts ofws principles.

    Entire Agreement. This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersedes all prior and contemporaneous agreements and understandings, whether written or oral.

    IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Agreement as of the date first above written.

    Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company

    By: Poul Nielsen, CEO of the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company

    By: Jonathan Axelsen, COO of the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company

    Caroline Dupont

    By: Caroline Dupont, CEO of Loreal

    With a look of approval, Caroline''s head nodded after reading through the terms of the contract. She reached for her pen from her purse and proceeded to sign her signature over her printed name.

    "Let''s finalize the agreement," she said to the industrialist duo. Poul and Jonathan followed suit, signing the contract before shaking hands with Caroline.

    "I would love to see the weapon in action," Amelia chimed in.

    "We''ll send you an invitation," Jonathan promised.

 Chapter 73 The Plan For New Office Building

    Two monthster, the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company and its subsidiary, the Axelsen & Nielsen Union Switch & Signal Company continued flourishing. With the fifteen million dor investment from Caroline Dupont, Poul, and Jonathan started seeking opportunities to expand abroad.

    Their main target countries are the British Empire, the German Empire, and the Republic of France. With a total steam lotive of four hundred thousand, the prospect of high revenue is making them excited.

    However, before jumping into that, Poul and Jonathan were settling matters in their headquarters. Particrly, the construction of the new office building.

    In the main office, Jonathan was seated across from Charles McKim, one of the founders of the famous architectural firm in the United States of Avalonia, the Mckim Mead and White.

    Charles Mckim was looking at the schematics andyouts of the building Jonathan wanted hispany to build. There was a frown on his face, his eyes widening as he scanned every detail on the blueprint.

    "I have never seen such a design like this before," Charles said. "In my ten years in the industry, this is the first time seeing this design. Most often, our clients would want us to build a museum, two to four-story buildings, but you, you want us to build you an eight-story building? This has never been done in this world."

    "I know, that''s why I''m giving you the honor to build it first," Jonathan said. "The building you are seeing right now will not be built with stones, but with high-strength steel. As an architect, I''m sure you know that building a skyscraper made of stones would not be cost-efficient, practical, and faces structural challenges."

    "Of course, I knew. If this building were to be built with stones, the foundation must be thick to support its enormous weight. Otherwise, the building won''t pass three floors. Though I must ask, there are materials here and there that I haven''t seen before¡­"

    "Yeah about that, we will be the ones making it," Jonathan said.

    "About these wall windows? They are so thin. I don''t understand. If the building were to be exposed to the sun during summer, you would get all the heat inside, making it ufortable for those who are staying in. And in the winter, you will lose all the heat. ss is a great conductor of heat and cold."

    "I understand your point, Mr. Mckim, and you are correct about the ss is a great conductor. However, my partner and I want to see the view of the factory from afar. Only thin ss could do that. And it''s not just a thin ss, it''s an insted ss."

    "Insted ss?" Charles repeated, clearly surprised by the term he had not heard before.

    "Yes, it''s a new technology we are developing," Jonathan exined. "It has two panes of ss with a vacuum or gas-filled space in between, which helps to reduce the transfer of heat or cold. This makes the building more energy-efficient and helps to maintain afortable temperature. Speaking of temperature, have you heard of HVAC before?" Jonathan asked.

    "HVAC?" Charles raised a brow, another term that he hadn''t heard before. "No, I haven''t."

    "It stands for heating, venttion, and air conditioning," Jonathan said. "With that system, we can control the temperature, humidity, and air quality levels inside the building. Think of it this way, in cold weather, an HVAC system uses a furnace or heat pump to heat the air, which is then distributed through the building using ductwork and vents. The furnace or heat pump may be fueled by natural gas, electricity, or other sources."

    Charles looked intrigued. "What about in warm weather?"

    "In warm weather, an HVAC system uses an air conditioner or heat pump to cool the air. The air is passed over an evaporator coil, which absorbs heat from the air, and then is circted back into the building. The heat is released outside through the condenser coil. The HVAC system also provides venttion, which is the process of bringing in the fresh air and removing stale air. This is important for maintaining good air quality, and it also helps to regte temperature and humidity levels. Venttion may be achieved through natural venttion like opening windows or doors or through mechanical venttion using fans or air handlers."

    Charles nodded thoughtfully, impressed by theplexity of the HVAC system. "That''s interesting. Although I still can''t quite grasp how it all works together, I''m beginning to understand the concept. Where did you learn all this, Mr. Axelsen?"

    "You could say I''m a self-taught civil engineer," Jonathan replied with a confident smile. "I never attended university, but I can assure you that I''m just as skilled as anyone who has. Or perhaps even better."

    Charles''s eyebrows furrowed at Jonathan''s bold im. A man who had never attended university, yet imed to be better than those who had? It seemed far-fetched. But the designs Jonathan had drawn himself spoke volumes. He and his partner, Poul, were mysterious individuals who had emerged seemingly out of nowhere, producing revolutionary inventions in the railroad industry.

    As Charles mulled over Jonathan''s identity, Jonathan continued. "The HVAC system was actually designed by my partner. If you want more information about it, it''s best that you consult him. Anyway, ourpany is willing to offer you the contract to build our office building. As you can see, we can''t stay in this house forever," he said, looking around the room.

    "I''ll have to discuss this with my partners first, Mr. Axelsen," Charles said thoughtfully. "This is an entirely new concept, and we haven''t had any experience building this kind of structure. But I''m sure they''d be up for the challenge. And just to rify, this building will be electrified, correct?"

    Jonathan nodded. "That''s right. And if you have any further questions, please don''t hesitate to ask."

    "Onest question," Charles said, "I noticed that the elevators that will be used in this building are not steam-powered. Have you discovered an alternative means of powering them?"

    Jonathan hummed in confirmation. "Yes, we''ll be using electricity to power the elevators. It''s a new technology, but we''re confident it will work well."<novelnext></novelnext>

    Charles, intrigued by the new technology, inquired, "Could you enlighten me on how these electric elevators operate?"

    "Of course," Jonathan replied. "Electric elevators utilize an electric motor to power aplexwork of cables and pulleys that enable the elevator car to move up and down. The motor is integrated with a control system that regtes the elevator''s velocity and direction of movement. This control system ensures that the elevator halts at the proper floor, and the doors open and close at the correct time."

    "Overall, this building will contain a plethora of new technologies. I must say, this is bing more exciting." Charles remarked, expressing his excitement about the innovative features of the building

    "I am pleased to hear that," Jonathan responded, grinning. "I suppose I will hear from you next week regarding your decision?"

    "Absolutely," Charles confirmed.

    Jonathan rose to his feet, extending his hand to Charles, stating, "Then, Mr. Mckim, it has been a pleasure to have this meeting with you."

    Charles reciprocated the handshake, saying, "The pleasure is mine, Mr. Axelsen. We will give you a call next week."

    As the meeting concluded, Jonathan escorted Charles outside the office, leading him to his awaiting carriage. After Charles boarded, Jonathan waved farewell.

    Returning to the office, Jonathan resumed his duties as thepany''s Chief Operations Officer for an hour. During that time, Poul arrived with Amelia in tow.

    "So, Jonathan? How did the meeting go? Was the proposal well-received?" Poul inquired.

    Jonathan shook his head. "He showed interest, but he has yet to make a decision. He said he will discuss the proposal with his partners and give us their answer next week."

    "And what are the chances of sess?" Poul pressed further.

    "I''m not entirely certain. It''s a challenging undertaking to construct a skyscraper, especially for apany that hasn''t previously built one," Jonathan responded with uncertainty. "I would give it a forty percent chance of being epted."

    "In the event of rejection, what is the n?" Poul asked.

    "It''s simple, I will undertake the project myself," Jonathan replied with confidence.

    "I figured," Poul chuckled, his eyes sparkling with amusement, as he turned to Amelia, "Miss Weiss, have you already informed Miss Dupont about the uing firearms demonstration on Friday?"

    "Indeed, Mr. Nielsen, Lady Dupont is eagerly anticipating the disy of the new rifle," Amelia responded in a respectful tone.

    "Her form has been pivotal in the creation of the high-quality smokeless gunpowder," Jonathan said, acknowledging Caroline''s crucial contribution.

    Poul raised an eyebrow in curiosity. "How many rifles have you been able to produce, Jonathan? I recall you previously estimated that it would take just a month."

    Jonathan''s expression turned serious as he replied, "My initial calctions were wed, I must admit. However, we have managed to produce fifteen of them thus far."

    "Fifteen? That''s a start, but it''s not enough," Poulmented.

    "I had to work within a limited budget of fifty thousand dors, which is barely enough to produce ten rifles. Fortunately, I was able to produce fifteen of them. However, without the necessary factories and technologies, the production process would be expensive. If the military takes a liking to the rifle, we may receive a seven-million-dor contract. This could help us build the necessary infrastructure and produce the rifle at a cheaper cost. However, even with the contract, we''ll still need additional funds. ording to my calctions, we would require ten million dors to build the factories and technologies necessary to mass-produce the rifle."

    "We can worry about that on Friday," Poul said.

 Chapter 74 AN-M1

    April 18, 882.

    The day of Friday has arrived, meaning the industrialist duo will demonstrate the new rifle they have developed for the United States Military. It took Jonathan two months to build fifteen working rifles, an incredible feat.

    At Pittsburgh North Park, military officials from the United States of Avalonia arrived, shaking hands with their fellow servicemen before taking their respective seats on a row of empty chairs. Prominent individuals such as John Morgan, General William Sherman, and Caroline Dupont are in the scene, waiting for the two industrialist duo to begin.

    Speaking of the industrialist duo, Jonathan and Poul were in a tent, preparing themselves for the demonstration. Though, that should be what''s happening.

    Jonathan paced back and forth nervously. Poul, who was reading the manual for the M1 Garand couldn''t help but get distracted from Jonathan''s uneasiness.

    "Jonathan, how long are you going to keep doing that?" Poul said, slightly irritated at his partner''s uneasiness.

    "Well, what if the gun didn''t work? We will lose the contract!" Jonathan expressed.

    "That''s bullcrap, we already tested the weapon, it fired, it worked," Poul said.

    "I know, but there are uncertain times when things happen unexpectedly," Jonathan said.

    "You are overthinking it, Jonathan. Please, put doubt out of your mind for a moment and tell me. If the military liked the rifle, think of the money we are going to receive from them."

    Jonathan paused as he imagined a scenario where General Sherman offered them lucrative proposals which amounted to millions of dors.

    "Damn¡­it''s a lot."

    "I know right? So, man up, we can''t afford to show them that we are gullible, especially at this moment," Poul said, patting him on the back.

    "Okay, let''s go," Jonathan breathed out, pumping himself up.

    As they were manning themselves up, Amelia revealed herself at the entrance of the tent.

    "Mr. Nielsen, Mr. Axelsen. Everything is ready for the demonstration," Amelia informed.

    "Thank you, Miss Weiss. Please see to it that they are being taken care of while we get ready."

    "Of course, Mr. Axelsen," Amelia politely bowed before walking away to carry out her duties.

    Meanwhile, on the outside. Caroline and Morgan were engaged in a conversation as they waited for the industrialist duo,

    "So, I was told that it was you that made their rifles possible," Morgan said.

    "That is correct," Caroline affirmed. "As per our agreement, I agreed to provide the necessary technical support for the development of the most effective propent specifically designed for their weapons, and I have fulfilled that obligation."

    "Exclusively huh? That means only your smokeless gunpowder would work on their weapons? Not the current ones?" Morgan inquired.

    "Indeed, Mr. Morgan. The weapons that the industrialist duo has developed are conceptually and mechanically superior to any existing rifles in the world, even surpassing those of the French and Germans," Caroline asserted. "Once the generals or military officialsy their eyes upon them, their passion for weaponry will be greatly intensified."

    "Surely you are not exaggerating, right?" Morgan chuckled, unable to conceal his skepticism.

    "I am not, Mr. Morgan," Caroline replied firmly. "You''ll see it for yourself."

    Caroline''s eyes glinted with conviction as she spoke. She had poured all her expertise and resources into the development of the industrialist duo''s rifle. Her confidence in the weapon''s capabilities was unshakeable.

    As if on cue, Jonathan and Poul emerged from the tent, rifles in hand. The military officials rose to their feet, eager to witness the demonstration. The atmosphere was thick with anticipation as the industrialist duo took their positions in front of them.

    The military generals, including Sherman, carefully scrutinized the appearance of the rifle Poul and Jonathan were holding. A glint of sunlight yed off the sleek metal of the M1 Garand replica, which Jonathan held at a crisp and respectful angle. The stock was made of polished wood with a smooth surface, and its rich brown hue gleamed in the light. As they squinted to get a closer look, they noticed its streamlined design, the clean and precise lines. In stark contrast to the ornate designs of the existing rifles, with their intricate engravings, carvings, or scrollwork, this rifle was simple and elegant. It was also rtively long, measuring about forty-three inches.

    Now, everyone wondered how it would work. Would it defy their expectations or fall short?

    "Gentleman anddy, thank you foring all the way here to Pittsburg where we can show you a new piece of art that you''ll surely love," Poul began. "We present to you this rifle, made with great precision and craftsmanship, designed to bring death to the enemy of the United States of Avalonia. Now, without further ado, I will let my partner demonstrate the capability of the rifle."<novelnext></novelnext>

    Jonathan stepped forward, holding the rifle aloft, allowing the spectators to appreciate its features more closely.

    "First, I will load it with rounds," Jonathan began, extracting an en-bloc clip from the pouch fastened to his waist. General Sherman and the military officials were left awestruck, taken aback by his demonstration of skill. He inserted the clip into the rifle, and the unmistakable sound of the clip snapping into ce reverberated throughout the park. General Sherman and his staff watched with rapt attention as Jonathan continued to showcase his innovative invention.

    "Did you witness that?" one of the military officials whispered to the officer beside him.

    "He inserted eight rounds at once," the officer replied. "Normally, we would be inserting one round manually. Let us observe further."

    "Now, I will demonstrate the rifle''s rapid firing capability. Watch closely," Jonathan said, aiming towards a series of targets ced at 100 yards, 300 yards, and 600 yards.

    The spectators shielded their ears from the uing deafening st of the rifle.

    With a flick of the safety, he squeezed the trigger, and the rifle fired, the sound of the gunshot echoing loudly in the park. The targets were struck dead center, causing them to jump slightly with each impact.

    Jonathan repeated this process numerous times, firing the rifle in quick session and striking each target with remarkable uracy. The moment thest bullet exited the muzzle, the signature ping sound of the Garand was heard as the clip was automatically ejected. General Sherman and the military staff watched in amazement, visibly impressed by the speed and precision of the rifle.

    "Did it just?!¡­"

    "Yes, it fired eight consecutive shots¡­without even having to cycle a bolt or lever?"

    "It even reached six hundred yards. Our rifles can only travel up to three hundred yards, and they require a marksman to shoot it at that distance," one of the military officials eximed.

    The faces of the military staffers, including General Sherman, were grinning from ear to ear. It was evident from their expressions alone that they were enthralled by the demonstration.

    Jonathan reloaded and fired the rifle until thest bullet had been discharged. After firing thest shot, he turned around to face the spectators, bowing gracefully before them as if he had concluded a symphony. Raising his head, he spoke.

    "Gentleman anddy, the rifle we just presented is a semi-automatic action rifle, meaning it can fire a round with each trigger pull without requiring the shooter to manually cycle the bolt or lever. It uses the .30-06 cartridge, a powerful and precise cartridge designed exclusively for military rifles. The rifle''s sight system is highly sophisticated and adjustable, allowing for urate targeting at long distances. It is also easy to use, enabling soldiers of our great nation to be proficient in a short amount of time," Jonathan exined.

    "And with that, we conclude the demonstration. Let us get down to business," Poul said. "General Sherman, you are offering us seven million dors to design a new service weapon for the military, am I correct?"

    "That is correct, Mr. Nielsen," Sherman replied. "After witnessing the firepower of your rifles, we are more than willing to do that. Truly, it is remarkable, and I am thrilled to equip our soldiers with such a weapon."

    "Well, my partner has performed some calctions, and he has determined that we will require ten million dors to mass-produce this rifle. Will the government be willing to add three million dors?" Poul inquired.

    Sherman paused for a moment, carefully considering the offer. "If we provide you with ten million dors, you will be able to mass-produce this rifle. Is that correct?"

    "Yes," Poul replied "we will need ten million dors to mass-produce this rifle. Is the government willing to add three million dors?" Poul asked.

    Sherman was silent for a moment, pondering the offer. "If we give you ten million dors, you will be able to mass-produce that rifle. Is that what you are saying?"

    "Yes," Poul replied confidently.

    "How many rifles can you produce if you already have the infrastructure needed to mass produce them?"

    "We can churn out thousands of them in a single month," Jonathan stepped in and answered.

    "That''s a good number¡­" Sherman muttered under his breath.

    "See what I told you," Morgan, who was standing next to Sherman, spoke. "They are good."

    "You are right, Mr. Morgan. Thank you for introducing them to me," Sherman said before flickering his gaze back to the industrialist duo. "The United States Army is happy to award you with ten million dors to mass produce the rifle. Before we end, does it have a name?"

    Poul and Jonathan''s lips curled upward and intoned together. "The AN-M1."

    The industrialist duo smiled broadly, exchanging nces of satisfaction and relief.

    The AN-M1. A simple and straightforward name that incorporates thepany''s initials and the name of the original M1 Garand. The industrialist duo smiled broadly, exchanging nces of satisfaction and relief.

 Chapter 75 The Formal Evening

    Poul Nielsen and Jonathan Axelsen approached the grand entrance of the Hotel Schenley, their eyes widening in awe as they took in the magnificent sight before them. The magnificent structure loomed before them, its towering pirs and ornate detailing a testament to the opulence of the era. As they made their way towards the entrance, they noticed men and women in fine dresses and suits strolling together, theirughter and chatter filling the air with jovial energy.

    Upon entering the hotel, the two men found themselves in the grand foyer, where a sparkling chandelier hung from the ceiling, casting a warm and inviting glow over the space. The plush carpets underfoot were a deep crimson, and the walls were adorned with intricate wallpaper and elegant artwork. The air was filled with the sweet fragrance of fresh flowers, which had been artfully arranged inrge vases, throughout the space.

    As they made their way towards the ballroom, Poul and Jonathan were still basking in the afterglow of their sessful rifle demonstration earlier that morning. They had spent months tirelessly developing and perfecting the revolutionary new rifle, and now they were ready to celebrate their sess ofnding a huge contract with the United States Army with the military staffers who attended the demonstration.

    Approaching the doors to the ballroom, they could hear the hum of voices and the sound of music filtering through the crack in the door, the energy in the room palpable. Jonathan turned to Poul with a wide grin, the excitement of the moment written all over his face. "Can you feel it, Jonathan?" he asked, gesturing towards the doors. "Tonight, things will change for both of us."

    "I know, the rifle is just the first step towards our goal," Jonathan said.

    "We still have a long way to go," Poul said. "We should get inside, they are probably waiting for us."

    With a nod of mutual agreement, the two men pushed open the grand doors to the ballroom and were greeted with a sight of pure extravagance. The air was filled with the sounds of music,ughter, and the clinking of sses, as elegantly-dressed guests mingled and conversed. Poul and Jonathan were weed with congrattions andpliments as they made their way to the center of the room, already holding champagne sses.

    Approaching the duo were two distinguished gentlemen, recognized instantly by Poul and Jonathan as General William Sherman from the United States Military and John Morgan, a prominent financier.

    "I must say, I''m still impressed by the weapons you showed me earlier. It was worth the journey from Washington," Shermanplimented.

    "Thank you, General Sherman. We were delighted to have the opportunity to create a new rifle for our soldiers," Jonathan responded.

    "It''s fortunate that James Russell declined our offer. If he had epted, it would have resulted in rifles simr to what the world already possesses," Morgan added.

    "James Russell is an esteemed inventor with a plethora of patents to his name. I''m sure he could create an impressive weapon like ours," Poul humbly stated.

    "Don''t sell yourselves short, Mr. Nielsen and Mr. Axelsen. I can see your potential rivaling that of James Russell," Morgan praised.

    "What are your ns now that you have received ten million dors?" Sherman inquired.

    "Well, we intend to use the funds to acquire a failing armspany. We will refurbish their factories and retain their employees," Jonathan exined.

    "I understand. Do you have a particrpany in mind?" Morgan asked.

    "We are still searching, but we won''t take long," Jonathan responded.

    "Mr. Morgan can assist you with that. He has invested heavily in arms manufacturers and can identifypanies that are struggling. Isn''t that correct, Mr. Morgan?" Sherman inquired.

    "Absolutely. I could buy theirpany now and offer it to you at a reduced price," Morgan proposed to the industrious duo.

    "That would be greatly appreciated, Mr. Morgan. It will save us a lot of time," Jonathan acknowledged.

    "No problem. Just allow me to invest in the subsidiary you create for arms manufacturing. Speaking of which, have you decided on a name?" Morgan inquired.

    Jonathan and Poul exchanged nces and nodded in agreement.

    "We have. It''s called the Axelsen & Nielsen Arms Manufacturing Company," Jonathan dered.

    "I see what you did there," Morgan chuckled, recognizing the name''s simrity to their current enterprises.

    "With that, you will each have three affiliatedpanies. What are your thoughts?" Morgan asked again.

    "For us, it''s still not enough," Poul dered. "We will seize any opportunity that arises, whether it be in electricity, oil mining, or steel manufacturing. We will diversify our portfolio, as you know, Mr. Morgan. You cannot rely on one enterprise because if it fails, so does your fortune."<novelnext></novelnext>

    Morgan smiled. "You two are certainly ambitious individuals. I heard that Miss Dupont assisted you with the rifle''s development, particrly with the propents. Is that urate?"

    "Yes, she yed a significant role in that aspect. Without her form, the weapon would not have been viable. Speaking of which," Jonathan searched the ballroom for a specific person. "Where is she?"

    "She is dressing with Miss Weiss, Jonathan," Poul informed him.

    "Ah, I cannot wait to express my gratitude to her properly," Jonathan responded.

    And as they were speaking Caroline, the doors opened. Poul and Jonathan turned their heads towards the door, and they saw who they were looking for.

    As Caroline Dupont and Amelia Weiss entered the grand ballroom, a sudden hush fell over the room. Caroline, Adorned in a beautiful ck dress with a bob hairstyle that framed her angelic face. Even with her shorter hair, she looked like a vision from a dream. She moved with the elegance of a swan, her slender form envied by every woman in the room.

    Amelia, Caroline''s former secretary, was equally striking. She wore a flowing white dress thatplimented her navy-blue hair, which was tied in a half-up half-down style. Her features were equally beautiful, yet possessed a subtle touch of sophistication that was uniquely hers. Together, the two women made an unforgettable impression that left the entire room entranced.

    The guests couldn''t help but stare in awe as Caroline and Amelia walked through the ballroom. It was as though the air around them shimmered with their beauty, their mere presence lighting up the room. Everyone''s eyes were on them, from the most distinguished guests to the lowliest servants. Even Poul and Jonathan, the primary guests of the evening, were struck speechless by the women''s beauty.

    As they moved through the room, gracefully navigating the crowd of guests Caroline and Amelia left a trail of gasps and whispers in their wake. It was as if they had brought a touch of magic with them, bewitching everyone who caught a glimpse of them. Their grace was unmatched, their beauty iparable, and they seemed to glow with a radiance that was both natural and otherworldly.

    And then, they arrived in front of Poul and Jonathan, whose eyes were still widened in amazement,pletely lost in the beauty of the women before them. Caroline, noticing their expressions, giggled softly, finding it endearing.

    ? "When are you going to stare at me, Mr. Axelsen?" she teased, breaking the spell that had fallen over the men.

    Jonathan shook his head, snapping out of his trance. "I apologize, Caroline. It''s just that you are so incredibly beautiful. Your face is like a work of art, and I could stare at it for a lifetime and never get bored."

    Caroline''s cheeks flushed at Jonathan''s words, and she returned hispliment with a warm smile. "Thank you. You, too, are dashingly handsome," she said, scanning Jonathan''s appearance from head to toe.

    His finely tailored three-piece ck suit hugged his toned and muscr physique in all the right ces. The tailored garment emphasized his broad shoulders, trim waist, and long legs, while his golden hair was styled to perfection. His sapphire eyes sparkled in the warm glow of the chandeliers, and his full lips were turned up in a small, but confident smile.

    Amidst the swirling music and chatter, Poul and Amelia finally noticed each other and exchanged greetings. Poul couldn''t help butpliment Amelia on her stunning outfit, his eyes lingering on her with admiration.

    "Miss Weiss, you look absolutely stunning in that outfit," he said, a warm smile spreading across his face.

    Amelia, blushing slightly, thanked him for thepliment. "Thank you, Mr. Nielsen. That''s very kind of you to say."

    Morgan, who had been observing their exchange, interjected with ament of his own. "You two look like polished gems, if I may say so. Any man would be lucky to have such radiant and aplished women in his life."

    The groupughed and chatted for a while, but Jonathan and Caroline were lost in their own world. They gazed deeply into each other''s eyes, the rest of the room fading away into nothingness.

    Finally, Caroline spoke, her voice filled with teasing mischief. "Well, Mr. Morgan, I''m afraid I''m not an easy woman to win over. Any man who wants to have me as his wife will have to work harder than most."

    Jonathan couldn''t help but smile at her words, his heart beating a little faster with each passing moment. "I''ll keep that in mind," he said, his eyes fixed on hers.

    Sherman, who had been listening intently to the conversation, finally interjected as he noticed the tone of the music changing. "Excuse me, but perhaps the four of you would like to take a turn on the dance floor?" he suggested, his eyes glinting with amusement.

    He then turned to Poul and Jonathan, addressing them with a serious tone. "Mr. Axelsen, I must remind you that we will be signing the contract tomorrow. But for tonight, please enjoy yourselves and make the most of your time here tonight."

 Chapter 76 Shared Dreams

    The industrialist duo walked into the center of the dance floor with their partners. Jonathan is with Caroline while Poul is with Amelia. Both took their positions, cing their hands on their respective partners'' waists, and began to move gracefully to the beat of the music. As they danced, the two men exchanged knowing nces, each one silentlymunicating to the other their confidence and excitement of dancing with the beautiful women in the party.

    As they twirled and dipped around the dance floor, the couples'' movements became more fluid and graceful with each passing moment, their bodies swaying in perfect unison. Jonathan''s eyes never left Caroline''s as he led her through each step of the dance, while Poul and Amelia seemed to be lost in their own world, their bodies swaying.

    "Your prowess in this dance is quite impressive, Jonathan," Caroline remarked with a hint of admiration in her voice. "Might I inquire whether you have had the pleasure of attending a simr affair before?"

    "Yes, when thepany we were working withnded a big contract with the Danish government to overhaul the railwayworks. Our boss said it was a formal event and there would be a waltz so Poul and I practiced for seven days to perfect it," Jonathan said and then suddenly pulled her close, startling her.

    "Oh¡­feisty, Caroline let out a surprised giggle as Jonathan suddenly spun her around, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "It seems you have some hidden talents, Mr. Axelsen," she added, a hint of flirtation in her voice.

    Jonathan chuckled, and Caroline felt his grip tighten around her waist as they continued to dance.

    "Perhaps, Lady Caroline, but I assure you, my only talent is in making things run smoothly," he said with a yful smile, his movements bing more fluid and graceful as if to demonstrate his point.

    Caroline''s eyes sparkled with amusement as they continued to dance, both of them swept up in the enchanting melody of the music. As they moved across the dance floor, Jonathan couldn''t help but feel a sense of exhration and contentment, knowing that he was in thepany of such a beautiful and captivating woman.

    "Pray tell, Jonathan, what do you make of those two?" Caroline inquired, casting a subtle gaze towards Poul and Amelia who were elegantly moving across the dance floor a mere five yards from where they stood.

    "Poul is smitten with Amelia, mydy," Jonathan revealed with a small smile. "He''s admitted to me his feelings for her, but he is gued with uncertainty. There are times when he''s quite conflicted."

    "Uncertain and conflicted?" Caroline repeated. "What do you mean, Jonathan?"

    "Well, in our world before we arrived here, Poul was in love with a girl named Sara. She lived in the same neighborhood as us and was a talented surgeon. They shared a tonic rtionship until Poul asked her to marry him. Unfortunately, our ns were disrupted when a truck crashed into the coffee shop where we were in."

    "Ah, I see," nodded Caroline,prehending.

    "I once asked him what he would do if Sara were here in this world," continued Jonathan. "Would his feelings for Amelia change? Of course, it''s a fanciful notion as Sara is not here, but we assumed it was the case."

    "And what was his reply?" Caroline inquired, her curiosity piqued.

    "He said his feelings for Amelia would not falter, mydy," replied Jonathan. "Once he had fallen for her, he would not abandon her for anyone else, even if it was Sara. To do so would be foolish and unkind."

    "I see, well it is indeed impossible for a living person to be sent into this world," Caroline softly said.

    "How did you get here, Caroline? Were you struck by a truck just like us?"

    "No, from overwork," Caroline revealed. "I was working on this project that must bepleted in three days. I didn''t take care of myself back then and as a result, died. I will not make the same mistake again."

    "My condolences, Lady Caroline. You did not deserve to die so young," Jonathan said with a sympathetic nod. "But at least you have learned from your mistake, and that is something to be grateful for. It is not often that we are given a second chance at life, and it is up to us to make the most of it."

    Caroline smiled, touched by Jonathan''s kind words. "You are right, Jonathan And I intend to make the most of it," Caroline paused for a moment and then spoke. "Say, Jonathan, pull me out of this party."

    Jonathan raised a brow. "What do you mean Caroline?"

    "Let''s go outside, where the two of us can be alone. Just for five minutes," Caroline said.

    Jonathan doesn''t seem to understand what has gotten into her but nevertheless, heplied. Grabbing her by the arm gently, they left the ballroom, leaving Poul, Amelia, Morgan, and Sherman surprised.

    "Where are those two going?" Amelia muttered.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "Probably they want to have some time alone," Poul guessed and thought to himself. ''Seriously? Is Jonathan starting to make a move on her? That''s some guts he got there!''

    Jonathan and Caroline exited the hotel and settled at the grounds which are surrounded by floras.

    Caroline looked up to the sky and saw thousands of stars and the milky way. It was an ethereal sight, making her feel at ease.

    "Uhm, Caroline what''s going on?"

    "Do you see the skies?" Caroline asked.

    Jonathan gazed up and let out a sigh of admiration. "They are beautiful¡­but why did you ask to pull you out there?"

    "Jonathan, what is your n in this world?" Caroline asked, her gaze fixed on the sky.

    "What''s gotten into you?"

    "Answer my question, please."

    "My n? Poul and I have ns in this world. We want to be the top of this world using the skills and knowledge we had gained from our previous world."

    Caroline giggled. "That''s a shared dream. My ns for this world are the same as yours. That''s why I founded mypany. You might think my sess was easy, but the road to get where I am now was full of thorns. In this era, women didn''t have the same privileges as men. Society viewed women who owned apany as unfeminine or improper and they faced significant social stigma and discrimination. Women were expected to focus on domestic duties and motherhood rather than pursuing careers or running businesses. But I proved them wrong. I faced challenges from people who tried to undermine me or backstab me," Caroline paused, taking a deep breath. "But I didn''t let that stop me. I persevered and worked hard, and now mypany is one of the biggest in the country."

    Jonathan nodded, impressed by Caroline''s determination and strength. "I had no idea, Caroline. I can only imagine how hard it must have been, but I have to say, I admire your resilience."

    Caroline smiled, grateful for Jonathan''s words. "Thank you, Jonathan. It hasn''t been easy, but I''m proud of what I''ve achieved. And I''m not going to stop now. I want to continue to push boundaries and break down barriers for women in this society. I want to leave a legacy that will inspire future generations of women."

    Jonathan felt a sense of kinship with Caroline, despite their different backgrounds and experiences. He too wanted to leave a mark on this world and make a difference. "I share your ambition, Caroline. And I have no doubt that we can achieve great things together."

    Caroline''s smile widened. "I''m pleased to hear that, Jonathan. Let''s make it happen." Looking up at the sky, they were both united in their shared vision for the future, the stars shining brightly above them.

    Momentster, Jonathan couldn''t help but steal a nce at Caroline''s face. Her eyes were closed, her chin lifted, and her hair fell behind her like a veil. She looked so beautiful that he was drawn in, his heart beating faster as he took in the sight before him. He was about to ask if she wanted to return to the ballroom when Caroline spoke up.

    "Jonathan, do you have feelings for me?" she asked, her voice soft and low.

    He was taken aback by her question, but he knew the answer without a doubt. "I am infatuated, Caroline. Who wouldn''t be? You are beautiful, smart, and strong. I admire you wholeheartedly. Why did you ask that?"

    Caroline smiled at his answer. "Do you have a girl you loved so deeply in your previous world?" she asked.

    "No, I don''t," Jonathan replied.

    Caroline''s smile widened. "I''m d to hear that," she said.

    He couldn''t help but notice the flirtatious remarks she had been throwing his way. "I have noticed that you have been giving me signals, Caroline. As if you were encouraging me to make a move."

    "It''s good that you''re not oblivious," Caroline chuckled. "So, what will you do?"

    "I suppose I should do what any man in my position would do - try to win your heart," Jonathan said with a smile.

 Chapter 77 The Evening And The Morning

    Jonathan and Caroline returned to the ballroom after their intimate conversation. As they walked, he linked arms with her, conveying a sense of closeness that surprised even him. Upon entering, they saw Poul and Amelia engrossed in conversation with Morgan and Sherman. The group appeared to be in high spirits, their faces alight with smiles andughter.

    Jonathan and Caroline joined in, eager to be part of the good vibes. However, Poul''sment about Jonathan''s feelings for Caroline soured the moment.

    "My, my, did my partner confess his feelings to you, Miss Dupont?" Poul quipped, his tone teasing. Jonathan''s cheeks reddened in embarrassment.

    "Poul, that''s not an appropriatement to make in front of Caroline," Jonathan chided.

    "I don''t think that''s inappropriate. Miss Dupont is already aware that you have feelings for her, right?" Poul countered, his gaze flickering to Caroline.

    Caroline interjected before Jonathan could respond. "Yes, Poul, that''s true. But that doesn''t mean you have to make it awkward for him."

    Poul relented, chuckling. "Fine, fine. Let''s change the topic. What about you and Ms. Weiss? Did you two have a remarkable development when you were dancing earlier?"

    Jonathan was grateful for the change in topic. "Well, I did have a good dance with her. But after months of working with her, I realized that we''re better off as colleagues."

    Amelia''s expression fell, her gaze flickering to Poul. "What do you mean, Mr. Nielsen?"

    Poul answered in a measured tone. "I''m saying that we should keep our rtionship professional."

    An awkward silence descended upon the group, and Jonathan sighed inwardly. Poul''s sudden change of heart had disrupted the easy camaraderie they had shared just moments before. Morgan broke the silence by asking about the topic they''d discussed earlier.

    "So, Jonathan. I heard that Mr. Russell offered fifty thousand dors for the patents of the direct current electric motor?"

    "That was indeed true, Mr. Morgan but we declined his offer. My partner and I believed that by keeping the same contract, we would generate more money. I know it''s burden for Mr. Russell but he signed the contract."

    "That''s a wise move there," Morgan chuckled.

    The silence descended upon them again. As the night wore on, Jonathan couldn''t shake off the feeling of unease that Poul''s behavior had caused him.

    The following day General Sherman, Mr. Morgan, and Ms. Dupont arrived in the industrialist duo''s office and are waiting for them to arrive. The industrialist duo are upstairs, discussing something about the evening.

    "Poul, correct me if I''m wrong. You don''t have feelings for Amelia anymore?" Jonathan asked, searching for rity.

    Poul shifted in his seat, his expression guarded. "It''s not that I don''t have feelings for her at all. It''s just that something''s missing. She''s a great secretary, and I want her to work with us indefinitely if possible."

    Jonathan nodded, his expression thoughtful. "It seemed like you hurt her feelingsst night."

    Poul shook his head, his tone dismissive. "No way. Amelia''s made it clear that our rtionship is strictly professional."

    "What if she had feelings for you?" Jonathan pressed.

    Poul''s eyes flicked to the clock on the wall. "Can we talk about thister? We can''t keep our clients waiting."

    Jonathan sighed, his eyes lingering on Poul for a moment longer before nodding. "You''re right. Let''s go."

    As they entered the conference room, Amelia stood at the desk, holding a file. She approached Poul and handed him the document.

    "This is the contract that Mr. Sherman and you are going to sign. The terms and conditions are already included," Amelia said, her tone businesslike.

    "Thank you, Ms. Weiss, for preparing the files," Poul replied, nodding in approval.

    "I''m just doing my job as your secretary, Mr. Nielsen. If there is nothing else, I will stand by and watch the signing process," Amelia said, her voice cool.

    Poul was taken aback by Amelia''s sudden shift in behavior towards him, but there was work to be done. He gave her permission to stay and took his seat alongside Jonathan to begin the signing process.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "Mr. Sherman, Morgan, and Ms. Dupont, I''m excited to announce that my partner and I have started a subsidiary that specializes in building weapons. We call it the Axelsen & Nielsen Arms Manufacturing Company. It will be responsible for producing the AN-M1 rifle and other types of weapons, such as pistols, rifles, snipers, and machine guns," Poul announced.

    Morgan was intrigued. "You''ll need a proper factory, I imagine. I can give you a list of arms manufacturingpanies that you could buy at a reduced cost," he suggested.

    "Thank you, Mr. Morgan," Poul replied before turning his attention to Caroline. "As for Ms. Dupont, she will be our main supplier of smokeless gunpowder. If we want to get the rifle into production right away, it''s best that we partner with Ms. Dupont here. She already has the infrastructure and personnel to mass-produce the gunpowder."

    Caroline smiled. "It''ll be a pleasure to partner with Axelsen & Nielsen Arms Manufacturing Company."

    "Mr. Axelsen, Mr. Nielsen, the rifle you''ve created is both beautiful and powerful. The President of the United States asked me to convey his gratitude for epting our offer. The rifles that you''ve created will be the standard-issue rifles of the United States Army and Marines," General Sherman announced.

    Poul and Jonathan exchanged pleased nces. "We''re honored to hear that," they said in unison.

    "Well, we are going to start signing the contract with the United States Military first and then with Ms. Dupont," Poul opened the files and perused the contents.

    There will be two contracts that Poul Nielsen and Jonathan Axelsen are going to sign. The contract for the military and the partnership contract with Caroline Dupont.

    The room grew quiet as everyone carefully reviewed the document before signing. It took them about thirty minutes to analyze the contract, and once everyone was satisfied, they signed the contract.

    After the signing waspleted, Poul and Jonathan bid farewell to their clients, with Jonathan escorting them out, leaving Amelia and Poul alone in the office.

    Realizing that Jonathan had given Poul an opportunity to clear things out with Amelia, he approached her.

    "Amelia, I know there was something that I said that made you feel bad, and for that, I want to apologize."

    Amelia looked up, her expression guarded. "What are you talking about, Mr. Nielsen?"

    Poul shifted uneasily. "You see, when Ms. Dupont asked if there was something developing between us, I responded no and said that our rtionship is professional."

    Amelia nodded slowly, her eyes narrowed. "I see. And why would that upset me?"

    Poul''s cheeks flushed with embarrassment. "I just assumed that it might have. I''m sorry if I said something that upset you."

    Amelia studied him for a moment before offering a tight smile. "It''s all right, Mr. Nielsen. There''s nothing to apologize for."

    Poul breathed a sigh of relief. "Well, I''m d we''re on good terms then. Let''s keep it that way, shall we?" He extended his hand for a handshake.

    Amelia hesitated for a moment before taking his hand. "Of course, Mr. Nielsen."

    After Poul left, Amelia sank into her chair, feeling a sense of dejection wash over her. She ced her hand over her heart, feeling the weight of Poul''s words crushing her. "Poul, you stupid..." she muttered under her breath.

    Meanwhile, Jonathan and Caroline walked side by side on their way to her car, both in high spirits.

    "That was a sessful meeting, wasn''t it?" Jonathan said.

    "Indeed, Jonathan, that was a sessful meeting. You havended another significant contract, this time with the military. I am not surprised. If you so wish, Jonathan, I would be honored to support your next venture in any way possible. If you require capital, I am ready to provide it to you."

    "I appreciate your offer, Caroline. We are nning to enter the electric industry, specifically the alternating current, which I believe you are familiar with," Jonathan replied.

    "Indeed, I do have extensive knowledge of the potential of the alternating current as the main system of electric distribution, which surpasses the direct current. If you require assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me instead of Mr. Morgan," Caroline said.

    "Thank you, Caroline. I will discuss it with Poul, and once we have decided, I will let you know over dinner," Jonathan said.

    "I shall eagerly await your decision and our meeting in New York," Caroline replied.

 Chapter 78 Good News And Bad News

    Six monthster.

    The Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company and the Union Switch & Signal Company were thriving, with new contracts pouring in from well-established and up-anding railroadpanies. It was evident that they had aplete monopoly on the market, being the only ones producing the air brake, lotive draft gears, and signaling equipment. Their patents were irond, making it nearly impossible for any neer topete with the young industrialist duo''s technical prowess.

    Despite their sess, Jonathan and Poul knew that it wouldn''tst forever. They were constantly vignt for potentialpetitors who might challenge their dominance.

    In thepany town of the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company, the construction of the new office building was a bustling hive of activity. Workers flocked around the construction site, busy with their duties of hammering, welding, mixing, digging, jackhammering, and carrying buckets of concrete and rebars. The crane lifted heavy loads, while horse-drawn carriages came and went, delivering construction supplies and picking up waste.

    Jonathan and Poul were hands-on, overseeing every aspect of their business. They knew that theirpany''s sess relied on the quality of their products and the efficiency of their operations. Despite their busy schedules, they took the time to connect with their employees and made sure that everyone was well taken care of.

    As they watched the construction of their new office building take shape, they marveled at how far they hade in such a short time. They knew that there were still many challenges ahead, but they were determined to stay ahead of the game and maintain their position as leaders in the industry.

    Returning back to their office, Poul and Jonathan took their seats at their respective desks. Each of them works on their own projects. Jonathan was with the construction of the new office building and managing their arms manufacturingpany, while Poul is focusing on improving the air brake system, the lotive draft gear, and signaling equipment.

    While doing so, they were ncing at the newspaper on their desk, reading it.

    "Oh, it seems like Princess Fiora is apologizing to you," Jonathan informed.

    "Yeah, I''m reading her statement right now," Poul said as he scanned every line of the article.

    [To the esteemed members of themunity,

    I would like to extend my sincere apologies for my behavior towards Mr. Poul Nielsen during our encounter at the Astoria Hotel on January 25th, 882. My words and actions towards Mr. Nielsen were insensitive and inappropriate, and I regret the pain and humiliation that I caused him.

    At that moment, I allowed my pride and prejudices to cloud my judgment, and I made hurtful remarks that are not a reflection of my true character. I understand that my behavior was uneptable, and I take full responsibility for my actions.

    I would like to assure Mr. Nielsen and the widermunity that I have learned from this experience and I ammitted to bing a better person. I pledge to treat everyone with the respect and dignity that they deserve, regardless of their background or social status.

    Once again, I apologize for any offense that I have caused, and I hope that we can all move forward with mutual understanding and respect.

    Sincerely,

    Fiora Whitney]

    ? "She sounded like a decent person in this statement, though is she really the one who wrote it?" Jonathan chuckled.

    "Of course not," Poul said. "Even I was not sincerely apologizing to her. This is just for formalities. She ruined my character and it bit her back in the end. Still, I''m d that this matter is settled, for that, Morgan wouldn''t be angry with us anymore, despite us making him a lot of money."

    As they were chatting with one another, a person entered the office. It was Amelia, carrying a tray of coffee.

    "Here''s a coffee for two of you, Mr. Nielsen, Mr. Axelsen," Amelia set the coffee down on their table and bowed politely.

    "Amelia''s, what''s our schedule for today?" Poul asked.

    "Today, you''ll meet with the representatives from the Union Pacific Railroad, Potter Huntington, Jefferson Garett, from the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, Vaughan Pennsylvania Railroad, and Moses Corning from New York Central and Hudson River Railroad.

    "Oh, I believe those three are our first clients, Wandebilt being our biggest customer," Jonathan said. "What are the purposes of their visit?"

    "The first three want to partner with the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company, awarding us the contract of retrofitting their steam lotives with air brakes, as for thest, he didn''t mention. Oh, Mr. Nielsen, have you read? There is an article that might interest you in today''s paper."

    "What do you mean?" Poul nced at her.

    "You''ll see," Amelia said, grinning.

    Poul checked the newspaper and saw an article.

    [Washington D.C. - In a move to improve safety for railroad workers and passengers, the United States Congress has introduced the Railroad Safety Appliance Bill, which will require all railroadpanies to retrofit their steam lotives with an air brake, automatic coupler, and draft gear.

    The bill, which was introduced by Congressman Lorenzo Coffin, has gained bipartisan support fromwmakers who have long pushed for improved safety measures in the railroad industry. The new safety regtions will require all steam lotives to be equipped with air brakes, which will help reduce the risk of idents by allowing trains to stop more quickly and efficiently.<novelnext></novelnext>

    Additionally, the automatic coupler will help prevent idents caused by improperly coupled cars, while the draft gear will help absorb the shock caused by the ck action between cars during starting and stopping.

    "Railroad safety has been a major concern for years, and the introduction of this bill is a step in the right direction," said Congressman Coffin. "The addition of these safety features will help reduce the risk of idents and injuries for workers and passengers alike."

    The bill has been met with support from railroadpanies as well, who recognize the importance of ensuring the safety of their employees and passengers. While the cost of retrofitting the lotives may be significant,panies recognize the long-term benefits of improved safety measures.

    If the bill is passed intow, all railroadpanies will be required to retrofit their steam lotives within a specified timeframe. Failure toply with the new regtions could result in significant penalties and fines.

    The introduction of the Railroad Safety Appliance Bill has been praised as a major step forward for the railroad industry, and it is hoped that the new safety regtions will help reduce the number of idents and injuries that ur on America''s railroads.]

    A wide grin stered across Poul''s face after reading the article. This article meant a lot for theirpany. If the bill was passed and became aw, then the contracts will flood into their doorsteps. This means they''ll yield a lot of money. And when there is a lot of moneying in, that means they can fund their next ventures.

    "This is probably the greatest news I have ever read," Poul eximed.

    "What was it?" Jonathan inquired, his curiosity piqued.

    "A congressman passed a bill mandating railroadpanies to adopt air brake systems, automatic couplers, and draft gears. Do you know what this means right?"

    "It means we are going to be rich!" Jonathan eximed, raising his arms high.

    "The train is not stopping boys! Honk! Honk!" Poul eximed joyously while imitating the whistling sound of the steam lotive.

    Amelia giggled, amused at the industrialist''s duo enthusiasm about the bill. Of course, as their executive secretary, she is happy for the future prospects of thepany. It was her purpose after all aside from observing them under the orders of Lady Caroline.

    As much as she would like to remind them that nothing yet is final, she couldn''t stop them from celebrating early.

    As the representatives from the three railroadpanies arrived in their office, the tension in the air was palpable. Poul took them into a separate room while Jonathan amodated Mr. Corning. He had been informed of the visit but not the purpose, and as he awaited the reason for the meeting, his anxiety began to mount.

    "Mr. Corning, it''s a pleasure to meet you again," Jonathan said, trying to mask the apprehension in his voice. "My secretary told me that you wereing, but you didn''t state the purpose of your visit. May I know why?"

    Mr. Corning''s expression was stoic as he replied, "Well, it''s simple, Mr. Axelsen. We are pulling out of the agreement."

    Jonathan''s heart raced at the sudden termination. "I don''t understand. We are on a schedule. We delivered the air brakes in time and in good condition, and they worked as we promised. Why are you terminating it?"

    "Because, Mr. Axelsen, your air brake is expensive. At first, we were forced to choose you as our contractor because there''s nopany in this country that sells air brakes. But now, there is one, and at a cheaper price."

    Jonathan was taken aback. "There is apany that sells air brakes?"

    Mr. Corning paused for a moment before revealing, "The Watertown Air Brake Company."

    The name struck Jonathan like a bolt of lightning. It was a directpetitor, and its sudden appearance in the market was unexpected. He turned to face the three representatives from the railroadpanies who had emerged from the adjacent room. They avoided his gaze and shook their heads in a gesture of apology.

    "What''s happening?" Jonathan asked them.

    "It seems that they are also terminating the agreement, Mr. Axelsen," Corning said. "As you can see, we are your customers, but if someone offers the same service at a lower cost, it''s only natural that we would turn to them, right?"

    "We signed a contract," Jonathan said, his voice rising with anger. "You can''t just terminate it."

    Mr. Corning remainedposed. "You have retrofitted sixty percent of our steam lotives with air brake systems, and they are functioning properly. We can pay you fifteen million dors for that."

    Jonathan couldn''t believe his ears. "They are working properly, so why are you still terminating it? I don''t understand."

    "Mr. Axelsen, I already told you, it''s expensive," Mr. Corning replied. "The Watertown Air Brake Company is willing to retrofit the rest of our steam lotives with their air brakes for five million dors. So, if you are still sad about it, we can offer you stocks. Call our office when you two have decided."

    "You are making a mistake, Mr. Corning. We are the only legitimatepany that sells and manufactures air brakes. If there is anotherpany, it''s likely stolen from us."

    "Prove it, then," Mr. Corning challenged.

 Chapter 79 Emergence Of A Competitor

    The drawing room was silent save for the sound of Poul Nielsen''s agitated footsteps as he paced back and forth, his face twisted in anger. The assembled engineers exchanged uneasy nces, each wondering what had caused their boss''s furious state.

    "Our first three clients said to me earlier that they won''t pursue a partnership with us, and Wandebilt''s secretary informed me that they are pulling out of the agreement," Poul roared, his voice rumbling like a volcano about to erupt. "I have a simple question for each and every one of you: How did they get the air brakes!"

    The engineers remained silent, processing the unexpected turn of events. The tension in the room was palpable as Poul''s anger continued to rise.

    "What a roaring silence from the brightest minds of Avalonia," Poul sneered. "The New York Air Brake Company came out of nowhere and started stealing our clients with their cheap air brakes. Do you realize the hard work we poured into thispany? Years of effort andbor have been filched right under our noses. I have done my best to keep our technology a secret so that nopetitors may ever arise, but one did. So I''m asking you, who leaked it? It''s possible that one of you revealed the detailed schematics and the manufacturing process of the air brakes. After all, you have been working with it for almost two years."

    The engineers looked at each other with usatory gazes, shrugging their shoulders and muttering indistinctly. Poul''s rage grew even more intense.

    Amelia, sensing that Poul was about to take action that could potentially harm his rtionship with his employees, stepped in. "Mr. Nielsen, a word please," she said firmly.

    Poul paused and turned to face her, his face contorted with anger. "What do you want, Ms. Weiss?" he spat.

    "Mr. Nielsen, you and Mr. Axelsen have treated your employees very well, providing for them and keeping them fed. There''s no way that they would turn their backs on you. It''s possible that no one in thispany leaked the design," Amelia pointed out.

    Jonathan, one of the engineers, was curious. "What are you suggesting?"

    "Look, Mr. Nielsen. You filed for a patent, correct?" Amelia asked.

    "Yes, the air brake, the lotive draft gear, every product under my name and my partner''s is in order," Poul replied.

    "Then are you aware that once you file for a patent and it''s processed, the details and schematics will be publicly avable? That means they could have copied the air brake and made their own," Amelia exined.

    Jonathan mused on this. "If you put it that way, it makes sense."

    "Then, that is simply infringing. Do they not know the consequences of stealing someone''s invention? I could sue them," Poul dered.

    "You can, Mr. Nielsen. But before that, we need to know everything about the New York Air Brake Company: their operations and the product itself. If the air brake is the same as yours, then we can file awsuit. I''m not awyer, but we can seek legal counsel about this," Amelia suggested.

    Poul''s anger dissipated, and his fists unclenched. "Return to work, everyone. As you can see, we are in deep trouble. Amelia,e with me to my office. Let''s discuss this together," he said, leading the way to his office with Jonathan close behind.

    ***<novelnext></novelnext>

    The air in the office was heavy with tension as the three of them exchanged worried nces. They had worked hard to develop their technology, putting in long hours and sacrificing time with their families to bring their invention to life. It was disheartening to think that all their effort might have been for nothing.

    "We were on a constant lookout forpetitors, and one of them managed to sneak in," Jonathan said, his voiceced with fear and frustration.

    Poul''s eyes narrowed, his mind racing as he tried to understand how this had happened. "I haven''t heard of the New York Air Brake Company until today. Howe they have an operation in New York? We just started two and a half years ago, and there is already apany that canpete with us in production?"

    Amelia had an idea and shared it with them. "We can try and call Ms. Dupont about this, to see if she is aware of its existence. She''s in New York, she can check it out for you."

    Poul was skeptical. "What makes you so sure about that?"

    "Because Ms. Dupont invested fifteen million dors in yourpany. There''s no way she''s epting this. She will confront thatpany for you, I''m sure of that. After all, she had done so when I was working for her. Filingwsuits atpanies who tried to copy her products," Amelia exined.

    Jonathan also had a suggestion. "We can also put Mr. Morgan up to speed. Inform him that there is a newpany, and have him investigate it. Another thing, he''s a close friend of Wanderbilt, perhaps we can get him to reconsider their decision of pulling out of the contract."

    Poul nodded, the beginnings of a n forming in his mind. "Yeah, let''s do that. In the meantime, let''s see if we can gather information about this New York Air Brake Company. I want to know who the founder is and meet them personally."

    Amelia had another idea. "We can go to the patent office in New York and see if the New York Air Brake Company filed for a patent for their air brakes. There we can see if our air brakes and their air brakes are different or the same."

    "Of course, it''ll be the same," Poul said, his frustration evident in his voice. "It is using the same principle of utilizingpressed air to stop the lotive. That principle alone is strong evidence that they are infringing."

    Jonathan raised a valid point. "And if we file awsuit, we are going to need awyer. We need the best, and the best are expensive."

    Poul was undeterred. "I don''t care, as long as he gets the job done."

    "So, what should we do to our main clients? They are considering teaming up with thatpany. We can''t afford to lose them, because if we do, we will lose a lot."

    "We can schedule a meeting with them, Mr. Nielsen," Amelia proposed. "See what enticing offer the New York Air Brake Company proposed to them. Then, once we find it out, we can do an adjustment, like giving them incentives or discounts."

    "That''s a good idea, Amelia. I''ll put that into consideration," Poul said.

    As the meeting drew to a close, they each left the room with a renewed sense of purpose. They would not let this setback defeat them. They would fight back, with all the resources at their disposal.

 Chapter 80 Visiting New York Air Brake Company

    Caroline carefully adjusted her dress before setting off on her mission. Apanying her was Mr. Morgan, engrossed in the pages of his newspaper. Caroline couldn''t help but feel frustrated, still reeling from the news of the New York Air Brake Company''s emergence. The two were headed to Watertown, where thepany''s headquarters were located.

    "I can''t believe there''s another Air Brake Company in New York," Caroline mused, her voice betraying a sense of irritation. "Wanderbilt is pulling out of the agreement, and their three major clients have abandoned us too."

    "Yes, Mr. Nielsen informed me of that. I''ve already spoken with Mr. Vanderbilt about it. He mentioned that their decision is not final, but if Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake doesn''t offer them a better price than the New York Air Brake Company, it soon will be," Mr. Morgan replied.

    "Why is he suddenly asking for a lower price? They signed a contract, didn''t they?" Caroline inquired.

    "To save money, obviously. But don''t worry, this is just a temporary setback. We''ll know everything there is to know about the new Air Brake Company once we arrive," Mr. Morgan reassured her.

    Thirty minutester, they arrived at Watertown, New York. Upon stepping off the carriage, they saw a huge factory looming in the distance, towering over the surrounding buildings. Its sprawlingplex of warehouses and manufacturing facilities dominated thendscape, with smoke billowing from its chimneys and the constant hum of machines filling the air. Caroline couldn''t help but feel intimidated as they approached the factory gates.

    As they walked towards the entrance, a stern-looking security guard approached them, blocking their way. "State your business," he demanded, his voice gruff and authoritative.

    "We''re here to see the management of the New York Air Brake Company," Caroline replied confidently, holding out a letter of introduction from the founder of the New York Air Brake Company himself.

    The guard scrutinized the letter for a few moments before nodding and stepping aside. "Very well. You may proceed, but stay within the designated visitor area."

    Caroline and Mr. Morgan followed the guard''s instructions and made their way to the visitor center, where they were greeted by a receptionist who led them to a conference room to wait for their appointment with thepany''s founders.

    As they waited, Caroline couldn''t help but wonder what kind of information they would be able to gather from this visit. Would they be able to find out how the New York Air Brake Company had managed to develop a simr product to theirs so quickly?

    After what seemed like an eternity, they were finally greeted by the founder of the New York Air Brake Company. The man who greeted them was in his fifties, dressed in a three-piece ck suit that struggled to contain hisrge frame. His face was round and florid, with deep-set eyes that seemed to peer at them over puffy cheeks. He was balding on top but had a thick, bushy mustache that covered most of his upper lip. Despite his rotund appearance, he moved with surprising grace and confidence, as if he owned the very ground beneath their feet.

    "Good day, Ms. Dupont and Mr. Morgan," he said, extending a hand to each of them in turn. "I am Augustus Simmons, the founder, and CEO of the New York Air Brake Company. I trust your journey was pleasant?"

    Caroline and Mr. Morgan shook his hand and exchanged pleasantries, still taken aback by the imposing figure before them. They took their seats as Simmons settled himself into a high-backed leather chair at the head of the conference table.

    "Now, how may I assist you?" he asked, his voice smooth and measured.

    Caroline delicately cleared her throat and leveled her gaze upon Mr. Simmons. "If I may, Mr. Simmons, we would be most obliged to hear the ount of yourpany''s origin and establishment."

    "I founded the New York Air Brake Company a year ago," replied Simmons, adjusting his tie. "But we weren''t operational for another six months. I started this business because of the opportunities I saw after witnessing numerous steam lotive idents."

    Caroline lifted her head from her notepad and furrowed her brow slightly. "Pardon me, Mr. Simmons, but there is already apany producing a simr product. Have you heard of the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company?"

    Simmons nodded slowly. "Of course, I have heard about thatpany. They were the first to offer steam lotives an air brake system."

    Caroline leaned in, her gaze trained on Simmons. "Pray tell, Mr. Simmons, in what manner does yourpany distinguish itself from thepetition? As it appears to me, you employ a strikingly simr methodology in utilizingpressed air to effectuate braking power on the brake pads."<novelnext></novelnext>

    Simmons leaned back in his chair, his eyes narrowing. "Well, it is true that both our braking systems usepressed air, but I wouldn''t say we are simr. Our air brake system has different designs, especially in the piping diagram. If you are thinking that I copied it from the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company, then you would be wrong, which I assume is the reason why you came here in the first ce. I mean, you two are the biggest investors of the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company, right?"

    "We are indeed," Morgan interjected, his voice taut. "This is why we are upset that you are stealing our clients and offering them cheaper prices. How much was it again?"

    Simmons leaned forward, his voice rising. "It''s thirty-five dors, Mr. Morgan. And I didn''t steal your clients, they are the ones who approached me. It seems to me that they are not getting a better deal from the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company. Otherwise, why would they switch?"

    Caroline and Morgan exchanged a skeptical nce, unconvinced by Simmons'' exnation.

    Caroline''s tone was firm yet refined as she spoke, "We are not here to engage in any argument or dispute, Mr. Simmons. However, we are here to acquire a thorough understanding of your air brake system, particrly how it differs from that of Axelsen & Nielsen. As you may already be aware, we have made a significant investment in thatpany, and it is only right that we ensure our investment is adequately protected."

    Simmons nodded, his expression moreposed. "I understand your concerns, and I am willing to share with you the technical details of our air brake system. However, I must insist that the information remains confidential and is used solely for your own knowledge."

    Caroline and Morgan exchanged another look, then nodded in agreement. "That''s fair," Caroline said. "We appreciate your cooperation, Mr. Simmons."

    Simmons stood up, extending his hand. "It was a pleasure meeting with you. I hope that our discussion has cleared up any misconceptions you may have had about ourpany."

    Caroline and Morgan stood up as well, returning the handshake. "Thank you, Mr. Simmons," Caroline said with a small smile. "We will be in touch."

    ***

    Caroline and Morgan departed from Watertown, returning to their carriage in silence. The weight of their discovery sat heavily on their minds, and the reality of the situation was beginning to sink in.

    Caroline broke the silence, her tone serious. "It seems that the New York Air Brake Company is iming that their design is different from Axelsen & Nielsen''s, but the principle is the same. I''m confident that they copied Mr. Nielsen and Axelsen''s air brake system, and as investors, we have a right to protect our investment by taking legal action against them."

    Morgan shook his head. "Proving it in court will be a challenge. I have dealt with many patent infringement cases, and sometimes, even if the principle is the same but the schematic diagram is different, the judge will deem it original."

    Caroline''s brow furrowed as she voiced her confusion. "I beg your pardon, Mr. Morgan, but that doesn''t make any sense. Ifpanies can make small alterations to a patented invention and then sell it as their own original product, what is the point of having a patent in the first ce?"

    Morgan nodded in agreement. "You are right, Ms. Dupont. That is why they will need a skilledwyer to represent them should they decide to file awsuit."

    "Do you have someone in mind?" Caroline asked, hoping for a lead.

    "I do, but only after Mr. Axelsen and Nielsen determine that the New York Air Brake Company''s air brake has indeed infringed on their invention," Morgan replied.

    Caroline sighed, feeling the weight of the situation.

 Chapter 81 Taking Action

    A weekter, the New York Air Brake Company delivered the blueprint to the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company.

    In the office, Jonathan and Amelia anxiously waited for Poul to unfold the blueprint delivered by theirpetitors. With bated breath, Poul scanned the contents of the blueprint - the schematic diagram, dimensions, and specifications - until a scoff escaped from his mouth.

    "Ms. Weiss, what did Mr. Simmons say about his air brake again?" Poul demanded.

    "Uhm¡­that the piping diagram is different from ours? Why? Is something the matter?" Amelia replied, sensing the tension in the room.

    "Oh, there is clearly something the matter here, Amelia," Poul snapped, cing the blueprint down on his desk. "The New York Air Brake Company literally changed theyout of the piping."

    Jonathan, taken aback, blinked and looked at the blueprint in disbelief. "What do you mean?"

    "This is the schematics of our air brake," Poul pulled out a blueprint from the drawer and unfurled it on the table. "See for yourselves, what did you notice?"

    As Jonathan and Amelia scrutinized the blueprint, Poul''s suspicions were confirmed. The specifications and dimensions were identical, but the piping diagram was unmistakably different.

    "This could only mean one thing," Jonathan mumbled, his voice barely above a whisper.

    "Yeah, the New York Air Brake Company infringed on our patent, made a slight alteration, and called it their own. I''m not letting them get away with this so easily," Poul seethed, his eyes aze with fury.

    "We can finally inform Mr. Morgan and tell him about our findings," Jonathan suggested. "As promised, he will refer us to awyer who is best at handling patent infringement cases."

    "How shameless of them," Amelia said, her voice betraying her anger. "To tantly copy our air brake design and im it as their own. It''s hical and dishonorable."

    "Indeed, it is," Poul agreed. "But let us not dwell on our indignation. We must focus on our course of action. Mr. Morgan will be able to rmend us a skilledwyer, but it won''t be an easy fight."

    "We''ve invested a significant amount of money in our air brake system," Jonathan said. "We can''t let the New York Air Brake Company get away with this infringement. We owe it to our clients and ourselves to protect our invention."

    Amelia nodded in agreement. "I''m with you all the way, Mr. Axelsen. We can''t let this injustice stand. It''s time to fight back."

    Poul stood up from his desk, his expression resolute. "Then let us begin."

    "That''s what I want to hear," Jonathan said and continued. "I actually read a certain topic about infringement in thete neenth century. That this was amon practice in the early days of any industry when the legal status of patents was not always clear and it was difficult to prove infringement. Somepanies may have calcted that the potential profits from selling products outweighed the risks of being sued by the inventors."

    "Just because it was amon practice doesn''t mean we will have to turn a blind eye to it," Poul said, flickering his gaze to Amelia. "Ms. Weiss, I want you to contact Morgan''s office now."

    "Yes, Mr. Nielsen," Amelia bowed, turned around, and walked over to the telephone.

    Jonathan and Poul fell into a deep conversation, discussing their next steps in the legal battle they were about to face against the New York Air Brake Company. They knew it would be a long and arduous process, and they had to ensure that they had a strong case against theirpetitor.

    A few minutester, Amelia hung up the phone, a satisfied smile on her face. "Mr. Morgan will send thewyer as soon as possible. He gave me the name of thewyer, do you want me to share it with you?"

    "Of course, what''s his name?" Poul asked.

    "George Harding," Amelia revealed.

    ***

    August 31st, 882. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

    George Harding arrived at the headquarters of the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company, a small office room in a modest two-story house. As he entered the building, he was greeted by Amelia, thepany''s executive secretary, dressed in a simple blouse and skirt.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "Good day, Mr. Harding," she said with a nod. "Mr. Nielsen is expecting you. Please follow me."

    Amelia led Harding to a small office room on the first floor, where Mr. Nielsen was waiting for him. The room was sparsely furnished, with a desk, a few chairs, and a shelf of books. Looking at Nielsen, he noticed that thepany founder is young, probably in his eighteen years. He has silver hair, an Albian. Though Morgan already informed him about Poul Nielsen, seeing it personally was surprising.

    When George Harding entered the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company, Poul Nielsen couldn''t help but size him up. The tall, lean man sported a top hat, a tailcoat, and long ck hair that flowed down to his shoulders. He carried a ck briefcase, which seemed to contrast with his elegant appearance.

    "Good day to you, Mr. Harding," Poul said, rising from his chair and extending his hand. "Wee to the headquarters of the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company."

    "Thank you, Mr. Nielsen, good day to you as well," George replied, taking Poul''s hand.

    "Please take a seat," Poul gestured to the chair across his desk.

    George sat down, his posture straight and professional. Poul picked up a file and opened it, scanning the information about George''s education and qualifications.

    "George Harding. Born in 844 in Phdelphia. Attended the University of Pennsylvania where you earned a degree in mechanical engineering. And then you went to studyw at Harvard University and was admitted to the bar in 873," Poul read aloud and continued. "It''s good that you have a degree in mechanical engineering. With that, it''ll be easy for you to understand what we are fighting here."

    "I know," George replied, "Mr. Morgan already informed me. Is the issue about the air brakes of the New York Air Brake Company being strikingly simr to yours?"

    "Yes," Poul confirmed. "The New York Air Brake Company infringed on our patent, changed the piping diagrams, and then called it their own. I was hoping we could stop them via legal means."

    "So you want to file an injunction?" George inquired.

    "Yes, I want him to stop manufacturing air brakes," Poul exined. "You see, he is stealing our clients, offering them air brakes that are fifteen dors cheaper than us. Without our clients, we will suffer financially, and the investors may pull out their investments. Hearing this, I''m sure you understand the gravity of our situation."

    "I do, Mr. Nielsen," George agreed. "And I would love to take your case. But first, we need to discuss the specifics of your patent and the infringement itself. Do you have any evidence that the New York Air Brake Company has indeed copied your design?"

    Poul nodded and produced several documents from his desk drawer,ying them out for George to inspect. Blueprints of the Axelsen & Nielsen air brake system,plete with detailed technical drawings, were ced alongside a set of corresponding blueprints from the New York Air Brake Company.

    "As you can see, the specifications and dimensions are the same, but the piping diagrams are different," Poul exined, pointing to the two sets of blueprints. "Our patent covers not just the design of the air brake itself, but also the specific pipingyout that we developed to make it work. The fact that the New York Air Brake Company changed the pipingyout shows that they knowingly infringed on our patent."

    George studied the blueprints carefully, nodding asionally as Poul spoke. After a few minutes, he looked up and met Poul''s eyes.

    "I believe you have a strong case here, Mr. Nielsen," George said. "The evidence you''ve presented ispelling, and it''s clear that your patent has been infringed upon. We can file for an injunction and ask the court to order the New York Air Brake Company to stop manufacturing air brakes immediately."

    Poul felt a sense of relief wash over him. He had been worried that the legal process would be long and difficult, but with George on their side, he felt confident that justice would be served.

    "Thank you, Mr. Harding," Poul said, shaking George''s hand once more. "I appreciate your help in this matter. Please let us know what further information you need from us to proceed with the case."

    "Of course, I need to know more about your air brakes."

    "Very well."

    Poul began and George Harding listened attentively as Poul exined the intricate workings of their air brake system. He asked insightful questions, and before long, he had a clear understanding of the patent and the infringement.

    With all the necessary information at hand, George excused himself and promised to work on the injunction papers immediately. "I''ll keep you posted on the progress," he said as he shook their hands and made his way out of the office.

    Poul and Amelia watched him go with a sense of relief, knowing that they were now one step closer to stopping the New York Air Brake Company from infringing on their patent.

 Chapter 82 Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Co. V New York Air Brake Co.

    The atmosphere in Mr. Simmons'' office was tense, as he sat at his desk poring over the legalint submitted by the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company. Hiswyer, Mr. Thompson sat opposite him, looking concerned as he exined the situation to his client.

    "As you can see in that document, the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company has filed for an injunction. They believe that you infringed their patents, producing and manufacturing it without their permission."

    Simmons sighed and ced the file down on his desk. "This is ridiculous, I knew this would happen."

    "Happen what?" Mr. Thompson asked.

    "That they are going to do this. I didn''t copy their air brake technology. The air brake that we are manufacturing is new and different from theirs."

    "Not ording to theirwyer who said that you simply changed the piping diagram, isn''t it, Mr. Simmons?"

    Simmons leaned back in his chair, looking exasperated. "No, as I have mentioned to you earlier, I didn''t copy their technology. It was mine, the designs are mine, although it worked in the same principle still the design is not that simr to theirs."

    "Mr. Simmons, I''m warning you, this is serious. You don''t know who the backer of the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company is. It''s Lady Caroline Dupont and Mr. John Morgan. If the court ruled in their favor, your fledglingpany will end before you can even start shipping out air brakes to your clients."

    Simmons clenched his jaw, feeling a surge of defiance. "Then let them have it proved in court, that my design is new and different from the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company. I won''t let them bully me into submission. I''ll fight this until the end."

    Mr. Thompson shook his head, looking worried. He knew that Simmons was ying a dangerous game, but there was nothing he could do to stop him. Only time would tell who woulde out on top in this battle of patents and rival air brakepanies.

    ***

    Four weeks had passed since Poul and Jonathan hired George Harding to file an injunction against the New York Air Brake Company for infringing on their patent. Now, they sat in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York, staring across the aisle at Mr. Simmons, the man responsible for copying their invention and selling it to their clients at a reduced cost.

    Poul''s eyes narrowed at the sight of Simmons. "So that''s the guy, huh? He thinks he can make easy money by copying our invention. That''s where he''s wrong."

    Jonathan nodded. "But who knows, Poul. He showed up in court, which means he''s confident that he didn''t infringe on our patent. Well, be that as it may, we already confirmed it from the blueprint alone."

    Poul smirked in agreement, then nced over his shoulder at Ms. Weiss, Lady Caroline Dupont, and Mr. Morgan, who were seated behind them. Ms. Weiss waved a hand at them and raised a thumbs up. Poul ced his hand over his chest and courteously bowed.

    The judge entered the courtroom, and the room hushed in anticipation. He settled into his chair, peered down at the papers in front of him, and then looked up to address the courtroom.

    The case at hand was the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Co. v. New York Air Brake Co. The question before the court was whether the New York Air Brake Company had infringed on Axelsen & Nielsen''s patent for the air brake system for steam lotives.

    "This is a case regarding patent infringement," he began. "The intiff, the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company, ims that the defendant, the New York Air Brake Company, has infringed upon their patent by manufacturing and selling a product that is strikingly simr to theirs."

    Poul and Jonathan leaned forward in their seats, listening intently.

    "Mr. Harding, you may proceed with your opening statement."

    "Yes, Your Honor," George rose to his feet and began. "Your honor, we are here today on behalf of the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company, which is the rightful inventor and patent holder of the automatic air brake. The New York Air Brake Company has willfully and deliberately infringed on our client''s patent by copying our patented technology and making only minor alterations to the piping diagram. This infringement has caused our clients'' significant financial harm and irreparable damage to their business. We are here today to seek justice for our clients and to protect their patent rights."

    "Mr. Thomson, you may begin your opening statement."

    "Yes, Your Honor," Thompson rose to his feet and began. ""Your honor, we are here today to defend the New York Air Brake Company against allegations of patent infringement. While it is true that our client''s air brake system may bear some resemnce to the patented technology of the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company, there are significant differences between the two designs. The changes made to the piping diagram are not merely cosmetic but represent significant improvements to the functionality of the system. Therefore, we do not believe that the defendant''s air brake system is infringing on the intiff''s patent. We ask that you carefully consider the evidence presented by both parties and render a fair and just decision."

    "Thank you, Mr. Harding and Mr. Thomson. Now, let me ask a few questions to rify some of the issues before us," the judge said.

    He turned his attention to George Harding, who stood up straight, ready to answer any questions the judge had.

    "Mr. Harding, your client ims that the New York Air Brake Company has willfully and deliberately infringed on their patent by copying their patented technology. Can you please provide more evidence to support this im?" the judge asked.

    "Certainly, Your Honor. We have found that the defendant''s air brake system is almost identical to the patented technology of the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company. The only differences are some minor alterations to the piping diagram. However, these changes do not change the fundamental principles of the air brake system, which our client has patented," George responded.<novelnext></novelnext>

    The judge then turned to Mr. Thompson, "Mr. Thompson, what is your defense for the New York Air Brake Company?"

    "We believe that there are significant differences between the air brake system of our client and that of the intiff. The changes we made to the piping diagram are not merely cosmetic but are essential improvements to the functionality of the system. We do not believe that the defendant''s air brake system is infringing on the intiff''s patent," Thompson said.

    The judge then asked, "Can you provide more specific evidence to support your im, Mr. Thompson?"

    "Your Honor, the improvements that we have made to the air brake system are significant and go beyond mere cosmetic changes to the piping diagram. Our changes represent an innovative approach to the technology that improves its functionality and overall efficiency," Thompson exined.

    He continued, "For example, we have added a pressure reducing valve to the main reservoir, which reduces the pressure of the air supplied to the brake system. This feature is not found in the intiff''s patent and has been instrumental in improving the reliability and safety of our air brake system. Additionally, we have made changes to the brake cylinder design, which has resulted in a more efficient and responsive braking system. Our changes have been tested and proven to be effective in real-world applications."

    Thompson paused and looked at the judge. "Your Honor, we believe that these improvements are a significant departure from the intiff''s patent and that our air brake system does not infringe on their patent."

    The judge listened intently and nodded, making notes on his pad. "Thank you. Mr. Thompson, now Mr. Harding, please state your defense."

    George Harding rose to his feet, ready to counter Thompson''s argument. "Your Honor, while Mr. Thompson makes apelling case for the differences in the piping diagram, the fundamental principles and concepts of the air brake system remain the same. The New York Air Brake Company may have made some changes to the piping diagram, but the essence of the system is still the same as the one patented by my clients, Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company. These changes do not represent significant improvements to the functionality of the system, as Mr. Thompson suggests, but rather a deliberate attempt to copy and profit from my client''s invention. It is clear that the New York Air Brake Company has infringed on Axelsen & Nielsen''s patent, and we ask for a ruling in our client''s favor."

    The judge nodded and scribbled some notes. "Thank you, Mr. Harding. Mr. Thompson, do you have anything further to add to your argument?"

    Thompson stood up and adjusted his jacket. "Your Honor, while my client acknowledges that the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company was the original inventor of the air brake system, the fact remains that they made only minor alterations to the design to create a more functional and efficient system. These improvements are significant, and they cannot be ignored. It is also important to note that my client has not copied any patented technology or vited any patent rights. The differences in the air brake system are clear and significant, and we ask that you rule in favor of the New York Air Brake Company."

    The judge nodded, his expression thoughtful. "Thank you, Mr. Thompson. Mr. Harding, do you have any further arguments to make?"

    George Harding rose to his feet once again. "Yes, Your Honor. I would like to remind the court that the patent system exists to protect the rights of inventors, like my clients. The New York Air Brake Company has willfully and deliberately infringed on the patent rights of Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company, causing significant financial harm to our client''s business. We ask that you rule in favor of our client and award damages topensate for this harm."

    The judge leaned forward, his gaze intent as he considered the arguments put forward by both parties. He then muttered under his breath. "This is going to be aplex one."

    After three hours of deliberation, the judge made his ruling. He cleared his throat and addressed the courtroom.

    "After careful consideration of the evidence presented by both parties, I have reached a decision. It is my ruling that the New York Air Brake Company has infringed upon the patent rights of the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company. The changes made to the piping diagram are not significant enough to be considered a new invention, and the fundamental principles and concepts of the air brake system remain the same. The intiff''s patent is valid and has been infringed upon by the defendant''s air brake system."

    Poul and Jonathan looked at each other, ted that justice had been served.

    The judge continued, "I hereby order the New York Air Brake Company to cease the manufacture and sale of their infringing air brake system immediately. They are also ordered to pay damages to the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company topensate for the financial harm caused by their infringement."

    Simmons looked stunned, realizing that hispany was going to suffer a significant financial setback. Thompson hung his head, feeling disappointed that they lost the case.

    The judge concluded with a strike of a gavel, "This court is adjourned."

    Poul and Jonathan, along with Ms. Weiss, Lady Caroline Dupont, and Mr. Morgan, walked out of the courtroom, smiling and shaking hands. They had won a significant victory for theirpany, and justice had been served.

    As they emerged from the courthouse, the warm glow of victory suffused the group. Poul turned to Jonathan and remarked, "Well, that sends a message to others who would dare and try to copy our invention."

    "Indeed it does," Lady Caroline Dupont replied with a regal nod, her eyes fixed on Poul. "With this resolution, your clients will undoubtedly return to you, and yourpany can continue to flourish. The New York Air Brake Company will no longer pose a threat."

    "Be ever watchful," Morgan advised. "You never know when someone may try to copy your designs."

    "Thank you for your advice, Mr. Morgan," Jonathan replied gratefully.

    "Although, let this be a warning to us. We must keep innovating to ensure that ourpetitors remain far behind," Poul dered. "I''ve alreadye up with a new design,pletely different from our first."

    "Then, let''s get started," Jonathan said, eager to take on the next challenge.

 Chapter 83 Be One Step Ahead

    A week had passed since the verdict was delivered in favor of the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company. Poul Nielsen was seated in his office, surrounded by his clients whom they had almost lost to the New York Air Brake Company. He addressed them, holding their attention with his words.

    "As you can see from the news, we are the legitimate inventors of the air brake system and the ones from the New York Air Brake Company are nothing more than an imitation. Of course, I have no hard feelings for all of you, in fact, it was an eye-opener for us that we had not been flexible with our deals," Poul said, waving his hand. "And for that, we have decided to give you all fifteen percent discounts on our product. Of course, the contracts that we signed are still in effect, but should you need more air brakes, especially when the government started mandating it, you''ll get the air brake with the same quality at a cheaper cost."

    "Thank you for that, Mr. Nielsen," the representative from the Pennsylvania Railroad said. "And congrattions on winning your case. We take patent infringement very seriously. We know what it feels like when others copied the invention you poured your hard work on."

    "I hope we can push forward on the partnership that we have already agreed upon," Poul said.

    With that, The Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company signed partnership contracts with the Pennsylvania Railroad, Baltimore, and Ohio Railroad, the Union Pacific Railroad, and the New York Central Railroad. Where they''ll exclusively supply these railroads with air brakes.

    After signing the contract, the representatives from those railroads left, except for Moses Corning, who stayed behind.

    "Is there something I can help you with, Mr. Corning?" Pou asked, curious as to why he hasn''t left yet.

    "You know, there are a lot of vultures preying on yourpany if you are not being careful. The best thing to do is to look out for them and make them go away. You proved that the New York Air Brake Company is infringing on your patents, and with that, we will not terminate our contract with you."

    "I''m so d that we kept it that way," Poul said. "Don''t worry, we will be on a constant lookout for now. We know that this is just a start, there are still more of them lurking."

    Corning smiled as he nodded his head in affirmation. "Very well, I shall take my leave, Mr. Nielsen. Good luck with your venture."

    Corning rose to his feet and left the office. Poul remained silent for about a minute, relieved that they didn''t lose their clients. However, he knew that they can''t becent. There is fiercepetition outside and the only way to not get devoured is to innovate.

    Poul pulled out the blueprint he had been drawing for months. A new design for the air brake system, and superior to the first. He unfurled it and set it down on the table.

    The current air brake system they have is a single-valve system. It operates on a simple principle: a single valve releases air from the brake pipe and applies the brakes. The brake cylinder on each car is connected to the brake pipe, and when the valve is opened, air flows into the brake cylinder, forcing the brake shoes against the wheels to slow the train.

    However, it has several disadvantages. Regting the amount of braking force applied to each car is difficult, which can result in uneven stopping of the cars. Additionally, the braking force may not be strong enough to stop a heavy train quickly.

    But his new design can solve the shoring, he''ll call it the triple valve brake system. The triple valve system consists of three valves: the triple valve, the ry valve, and the brake cylinder.

    When the train driver applies the brakes, the air is released from the brake pipe, which activates the triple valve. The triple valve applies the air pressure to the brake cylinder, which in turn applies the brakes to the wheels. The ry valve ensures that the brake force is distributed evenly among all of the cars, while the triple valve allows for precise control of the brake force.

    It''ll be more efficient and reliable than the first design, and he can''t wait to adopt it. Mr. Simmons may have been stopped but that doesn''t guarantee no one willpete with them. So he has to get ahead of them, so ahead that they''ll give up the moment they realize just how far behind they are.

    Rolling the blueprint close, Poul rose to his feet and made his way towards the drawing room where he''ll brief his engineers on his new design.

    Poul made his way to the drawing-room, where he found his top engineers, Walter Schneider, and Timothy Anderson, waiting for him.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "Gentlemen," Poul began, unfurling the blueprint andying it on the table. "This is going to be our new design for the air brake system, the triple valve brake system."

    Walter and Timothy exchanged nces, clearly impressed.

    "This is quite a breakthrough, Mr. Niesen," Walter said, studying the blueprint closely. "But I must ask, why the triple valve system? What makes it superior to our current design?"

    "Well, the current single valve system has some significant shorings," Poul exined. "It''s difficult to regte the amount of braking force applied to each car, and the braking force may not be strong enough to stop a heavy train quickly. The triple valve system solves these problems by ensuring even distribution of brake force among all the cars, and allowing for precise control of the brake force."

    "I see," Timothy nodded thoughtfully. "This is indeed a significant improvement. But I wonder, what will the cost of implementing this new system be?"

    "It will require some initial investment," Poul admitted. "However, in the long run, the benefits of the triple valve system will far outweigh the costs. We''ll have a more efficient and reliable system, which will make us morepetitive in the market."

    Walter and Timothy nodded in agreement, clearly convinced. "What do you need from us, Mr. Nielsen?" Walter asked.

    "I need you both to oversee the implementation of this system," Poul replied. "I want this to be our top priority. We need to get ahead of thepetition even when there is still no one, and this is the way to do it."

    Walter and Timothy nodded in agreement, clearly excited about the project. "We''ll get right on it, Mr. Nielsen," Timothy said.

    Poul smiled. "You two are my best engineers in thepany, I believe that you can make this a reality. If you have any questions about the technicalities of the triple valve system, please do not hesitate to ask."

    "Understood, Mr. Nielsen," Walter said. "By the way, sir, are these already patented?"

    "Not yet, I still need to fill out the application form," Poul replied. "Also, the heating system and the suspension system that you two invented were a great addition to thepany."

    "Thank you, Mr. Nielsen," Timothy and Walter intoned together.

    "Do either of you have any questions?"

    "Is this going to be more expensive than our current system?" Timothy asked.

    "About five dors more expensive but that will be fine as I made the designpatible with our current system, making it easier for us to implement it on the trains we already retrofitted."

    "I see, in that case, we will work on this project together, along with our teams," Jonathan said.

    "Thank you, I''ll be back at my office," Poul said.

 Chapter 84 Business Opportunity Abroad

    September 15th, 882.

    Two people gazed out of the carriage window, taking in the scenery as they made their way toward the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company headquarters. They noticed the apartment buildings lining the street, each one with its own style and character. As they approached their destination, they could see the pale blue two-story house that served as thepany''s headquarters. Its design was not grand or ornate, but rather simple and unassuming. Despite itsck of mor, they knew that this building held great importance for their business, and they stepped out of the carriage to begin their meeting.

    The two men straightened their suits, adjusted their top hats, and brushed off the dust from their canes. They exchanged a quick nod, silently acknowledging the significance of the meeting they were about to have. They approached the door and were greeted by a female clerk who weed them with a polite smile. Her sharp gaze took in their attire, noting their formal wear and well-kept appearance.

    "Good afternoon, sirs. My name is Amelia Weiss, the executive secretary for the CEO and the COO of the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company. You must be the gentleman from the German Empire who scheduled an appointment with us?" she said fluently in German.

    "Yes, that''s correct," the taller of the two replied, impressed by her fluency in German. "We are here to meet with Herr Axelsen and Herr Nielsen."

    Amelia nodded, then gestured for them to follow her. "Right this way, please," she said, leading them to the living room.

    The two Germans looked around and were astonished that the house was already electrified, with light bulbs illuminating the room. They had heard about this new technology, but it was still rare in their own country. They were even more surprised to see a phonograph in the corner, ying music that they had never heard before.

    As they took in the furnishings and d¨¦cor of the living room, Amelia informed the industrialist duo inside.

    "The Germans are already here," Amelia informed, and immediately after, Poul and Jonathan straightened their postures and set what they were doing aside.

    Poul rapped his finger on the table and smiled. "So, they havee huh? Our first clients from overseas."

    "That is correct, would you like me to serve as an interpreter?" Amelia asked, her eyes lit up with excitement.

    Poul and Jonathan exchanged a quick nce. They can speak German fluently but they have a cover to follow. They are Avalonian orphans. If they spoke German, that''d betray the fact that they are orphans, because thenguage taught there was English. Though there are instances where the Germannguage may have been taught there, it''s a rare case. So, they agreed.

    "That would be most helpful, thank you, Amelia," Poul said. "You may tell them toe now."

    "Understood, Mr. Nielsen," Amelia bowed politely before turning to her heels and exiting the office.

    Poul and Jonathan hummed a tune to themselves as they waited for the Germans to arrive. Last week, they received a call from the Germans who are interested in their air brakes. Seeing that it was a business opportunity, the industrialist duo epted.

    Momentster, the Germans entered the room, and Poul and Jonathan stood up to greet them.

    "Guten Tag! My name is Poul Nielsen, the CEO of the Axelsen and Nielsen Air Brake Company."

    "And I''m Jonathan Axelsen, the COO of the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company," Jonathan spoke in English, shaking the German''s hand.

    "I''m Peter Mueller, a safetymittee member from the Reichseisenbahnamt."

    "He said they were from the Imperial Railway Office," Amelia tranted.

    "I''m Markus Braun, a safetymittee member of the Reichseisenbahnamt."

    "A pleasure to meet the two of you, wee to Avalonia. Please take a seat," Poul gestured to the chairs in front of them.

    Markus and Peter sat down in the chairs arranged in the tastefully decorated living room. As they settled in, Poul and Jonathan followed suit, taking their respective seats across the table. The air was charged with a sense of anticipation and excitement, as they awaited themencement of the business discussion.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "So, Mr. Nielsen and Mr. Axelsen, we are interested in your air brakes," Markus began, his thick German ent filling the room. He looked around curiously, taking in the surroundings.

    Amelia, the executive secretary, tranted Markus''s words to Poul and Jonathan, who nodded in response. Poul replied, "Of course, we are d to hear that. Our air brakes have been proven to be highly effective in ensuring the safety of trains, and we have already installed them on several railways in Avalonia. We would be happy to provide you with more information about our product and discuss the possibility of implementing them in your railway system."

    Markus leaned forward, a concerned expression on his face. "That would be much appreciated, Mr. Nielsen. You see, our government is getting worried about the steam lotive idents in our country because of an ineffective braking system our trains have. Have you heard of the Eschede train disaster that urred on October 12th, 882?"

    Poul and Jonathan exchanged a nce. "I''m sorry, but we haven''t. Have you, Jonathan?" Poul asked, turning to his partner.

    Jonathan shook his head. "Unfortunately, no. But since it was brought up, we would like to know what happened."

    "An express train traveling from Berlin to Cologne derailed near the town of Eschede in Lower Saxony, killing 25 people and injuring many more," Markus said somberly. "The cause of the ident was attributed to a broken axle on one of the lotive''s wheels, which caused the train to veer off the tracks and crash. It was a disaster. The investigation into the train disaster revealed that the lotive involved in the ident was an older design thatcked some of the safety features of newer lotives, such as the ability to automatically apply the brakes in the event of an emergency."

    "What braking system does the train involved in the ident have?" Jonathan asked.

    "Vacuum brake," Peter answered.

    Poul rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "It was an express train, right? Well, vacuum brakes are not as efficient as our air brakes, especially at higher speeds."

    Peter looked intrigued. "How so?"

    Poul began to exin, "The vacuum brake system is less reliable and less efficient at higher speeds because it relies on maintaining a vacuum in the train pipe. As the train travels faster, the air resistance on the train bes greater, which makes it harder to maintain the vacuum. If the vacuum is lost, the brakes will apply automatically, which can lead to inconsistent braking and longer stopping distances. Additionally, if the vacuum pump on the lotive fails, there will be no vacuum, and the brakes will apply automatically, which can be dangerous, especially at higher speeds. In contrast, our air brake system usespressed air to apply the brakes, which is more reliable and efficient at higher speeds. Since the air brake system relies onpressed air, there is no risk of losing the vacuum, and the brakes can be applied more consistently and quickly, which results in shorter stopping distances."

    "I see¡­so that''s how it works, huh?" Peter said, looking impressed. "We tried studying it from the magazine to learn more about it. I also looked at the statistics of steam lotives in your country, and I have seen a decline, especially after the railroadpanies started using your system."

    "Well, what did we say?" Poul said, grinning. "Our system is effective, we are constantly improving it so that it can continue to stop trains and save lives."

    "Indeed," Markus nodded. "But we would like to know more about the instation process, and how much it would cost."

    Poul leaned back in his chair, considering the question. "The cost of instation would depend on the size and type of lotives you have, as well as the specific needs of your railway system. However, we can provide you with a detailed estimate after a thorough assessment of your system. Rest assured that our instation process is efficient and streamlined, and we aremitted to ensuring minimal disruption to your operations during the instation process."

    Markus nodded. "Very well. We will need to discuss this further with the higher-ups in our organization."

    "Oh, by the way, we are thinking of expanding our business abroad. This is a great opportunity for us, don''t you agree?"

    "You intend to build a facility in our country to produce the air brakes? Is that what you are saying?" Markus asked.

    "Yes," Poul confirmed.

    "In that case, we can help you with that," Peter interjected. "But you are going to visit Berlin first."

    "No problem," Poul said, ncing at his partner. Jonathan nodded, it was their n after all.

 Chapter 85 The Arms Manufacturing Companies Position

    The executives of the popr gun manufacturingpany, Smith and Wesson sat in stunned silence as they read thetest news reports, their faces contorted with worry and disbelief. The long-standing dominance that they had held in the arms manufacturing industry was now under threat, and they were struggling toe to terms with the implications of this new development.

    As the silence stretched on, the CEO, Horace Smith, cleared his throat and addressed the group. "Gentlemen, we are facing a formidable adversary," he said, his voice heavy with concern. "This new rifle that Axelsen & Nielsen has developed is being hailed as the future of our industry, and if we don''t act quickly, we will be left behind."

    The other executives nodded grimly, their faces etched with worry. They knew that the industry was rapidly changing and that they would need to adapt quickly if they were going to staypetitive.

    "That''s true, one of the officers who attended the demonstration was astonished at the capability of their rifles. The rifle that you don''t have to cycle can fire instantaneously until all bullets are spent," one of the executives of thepany, Daniel Wesson, said and continued. "They secured a ten-million-dor contract from the United States Military and if they were satisfied, they would order more, which, I assume be the case."

    "So, what should we do? Should we focus on this new type of weapon? The semi-automatic," one of the executives asked.

    "We don''t know the technical details of it but I already have men in the patent office securing a copy of it. But don''t expect some significant results out of that, we are simply looking at how it was assembled. I''m sure the inventors have omitted crucial details about the gun," Daniel said.

    "That is right, as soon as we discovered the concept behind the rifle, we can start working on our prototype," Horace Smith. "Everyone, the battlefield has just changed, from revolvers to the semi-automatic rifle. The threat to our enterprise is no longer the Colt Manufacturing Company, but the Axelsen & Nielsen Arms Manufacturing Company."

    The executives knew that the challenge ahead of them was a significant one. They would need to invest heavily in new technology, research and development, and marketing efforts if they were going to keep up with Axelsen & Nielsen''s innovative products. They knew that they couldn''t afford to fall behind and that they would need to take bold steps to staypetitive in the rapidly changing industry.

    As the meeting came to a close, the executives exchanged nods and handshakes, their expressions resolute and determined.

    Meanwhile, in another famous arms manufacturingpany in Paterson, New Jersey.

    The atmosphere in the boardroom was heavy with tension and worry as the Colt Manufacturing Company executives pored over the report about the AN-M1 rifle. They had long been proud of their position as a leader in the firearms industry, and now they were facing the very real possibility of losing it all.

    "We have to do something," said one of the executive. "We can''t let Axelsen & Nielsen beat us at our own game."

    "But how do we catch up to them?" another executive asked, his expression troubled. "Their new rifle is leagues ahead of anything we have right now."

    "We have to invest in research and development," said Samuel, his voice steady and determined. "We need to explore new technologies and manufacturing processes that can give us an edge over thepetition."

    The other executives nodded in agreement, their expressions more determined now. They knew that they had to act quickly and decisively if they were going to catch up with Axelsen & Nielsen''s groundbreaking rifle.

    "We also need to make sure that we''re marketing our products effectively," said the head of sales. "We need to make sure that our customers know that we''re still a top contender in the industry and that we''re constantly working to improve our products."

    Samuel continued to address the group of executives. "But we can''t just stop at research and development and marketing. We also need to focus on our production efficiency and cut down on costs wherever we can. We can''t afford to be losing market share to Axelsen & Nielsen while also wasting resources on inefficient manufacturing processes."

    The room fell silent as everyone contemted Samuel''s words. They knew that they couldn''t just rely on their past sesses to carry them forward. They needed to adapt and change if they were going to staypetitive in this rapidly evolving industry.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "I agree," said one of the executives, breaking the silence. "We need to streamline our manufacturing processes and find ways to cut costs without sacrificing quality. We also need to explore new partnerships and alliances to help us stay ahead of the curve."

    The other executives nodded in agreement, their expressions resolute and determined. They knew that they had a tough road ahead, but they were ready to do whatever it takes to catch up with Axelsen & Nielsen''s AN-M1 rifle.

    The meeting continued for several hours as the executives debated and strategized, their minds racing with the urgency of the situation.

    In the weeks and months that followed, the Colt Manufacturing Company and Smith & Wessonunched an all-out effort to catch up with the AN-M1 rifle. They poured resources into new research and development projects, exploring cutting-edge technologies and manufacturing processes in an effort to stay ahead of thepetition.

    But despite their best efforts, they simply could not match the AN-M1''s advanced technology. The rifle''s unprecedented performance and uracy had captured the attention of customers and enthusiasts alike, leaving the once-proud Colt Manufacturing Company and Smith & Wesson struggling to keep up. CEOs of respectivepanies watched helplessly as their market share dwindled, and their position as a leader in the industry was threatened.

    ***

    It was a hot summer day, the kind of day that makes the air thick and hard to breathe. August 20, 883, three thousands of AN-M1 rifles being delivered to the armory of the United States Military.

    The top executives of bothpanies, rivals in business and in life, gathered together in the backyard of Smith''s residence to inspect the weapons. They checked the sleek gun from top to bottom, examining its features and capabilities.

    "This is the rifle that is threatening our livelihood and business," Samuel said, a hint of frustration in his voice. "In the demonstration, it can fire eight rounds. But the Axelsen & Nielsen Arms Manufacturing Company improved that, making it ten rounds."

    "The cartridge is also bigpared to our existing ones," Wesson said, holding one of the 30.06 cartridges that are used on AN-M1.

    "I haven''t heard of a concept of using gas to repeat a cycle," Smith said, his brow furrowed in concentration. "But I''ve already grasped the mechanism. You see, gentlemen, as the bullet is fired, a small amount of high-pressure gas is tapped from the barrel and redirected into a small cylinder below the barrel. This pushes a piston back against a spring. This movement of the piston unlocks the bolt, allowing it to move back and eject the spent cartridge case. The movement of the bolt alsopresses a spring that is located in the stock of the rifle, which then forces the bolt forward, picking up a new round from the top of the clip and chambering it in the barrel."

    "But I wonder what steel they used to handle the thermal stresses made by the expanding gas. I''m sure it''ll warp over time but I''m not seeing signs showing that, despite us firing hundreds," Wesson said, with a thoughtful expression.

    "We know what we always do, we find ways," Smith said, with a hint of determination in his voice.

    "Kind of ironic to see twopetitors working together," Colt said, with a smirk on his face.

    "The current state of our business is precarious, Mr. Colt," Smith spoke with a solemn tone. "We must coborate and act in concert if we hope to withstand thepetitive pressure of Axelsen & Nielsen. Since their entry to the market, we have experienced a gradual loss of market share, and our revolver and cartridge offerings have lost favor with the public."

    "Agreed," replied Smith. "We''re both facing a formidable opponent and it''s clear that we need to take action to staypetitive in this rapidly changing market. Let''s stay in touch and explore opportunities to work together to improve our products and processes."

    Colt nodded in agreement.

 Chapter 86 The Gift

    September 18th, 883.

    Poul stood at the front of the room, a chalkboard behind him covered in equations and diagrams. A group of new workers sat in front of him, listening attentively as he exined the process of heat-treating chromoly.

    "Now, the first step in the process is to heat the chromoly to a specific temperature," Poul said, gesturing to a chart on the chalkboard. "This is called the austenitizing temperature, and it''s the point at which the chromoly begins to transform into an austenite crystal structure."

    The workers scribbled notes furiously, trying to keep up with Poul''s detailed exnation. He knew that the process of heat-treating chromoly wasplex, and he was determined to teach them everything they needed to know before they set out to the field.

    For him, it is important that the workers have a conceptual understanding of their work so that if an unexpected resultes in, they can still analyze it.

    "Once the chromoly has been heated to the austenitizing temperature, it''s held there for a specific amount of time," Poul continued. "This allows the carbon atoms to diffuse evenly throughout the material, which is crucial for achieving the desired mechanical properties."

    He went on to exin the various cooling rates and holding times that were necessary for different types of chromoly, using detailed diagrams and real-world examples to illustrate his points.

    The workers listened intently, their faces focused and serious as they absorbed every word of Poul''s instruction. He knew that their sess in the factory would depend on their ability to understand and apply the principles of heat-treating chromoly, and he was determined to give them the knowledge and tools they needed to seed.

    One hourter, the workers were filled with a newfound understanding and appreciation for the art of heat-treating chromoly. They had learned about the different stages of the process, the importance of precise temperature control, and the potential pitfalls that could arise if the chromoly was not treated properly.

    Before wrapping up, Poul nced at the workers.

    "Any questions before we proceed to the foundry tomorrow?"

    One worker raised his hand tentatively. "Sir, you mentioned that different types of chromoly require different cooling rates and holding times. How do we know which ones to use for each type of chromoly?"

    Poul smiled at the question. "Excellent question. Each batch of chromoly wille with a set of instructions that specifies the appropriate cooling rate and holding time for that particr type. We''ll make sure to provide those instructions to you before you start working with the chromoly."

    Another worker raised his hand. "Sir, what happens if we overheat the chromoly? Will that ruin it?"

    Poul nodded. "Yes, if the chromoly is overheated, it can cause it to lose its desirable properties. That''s why it''s so important to carefully control the temperature throughout the heat treatment process. We don''t want to riskpromising the material and producing an inferior product."

    The workers nodded, taking notes and absorbing every word of Poul''s response. They were grateful for the opportunity to learn from the founders of the Axelsen & Nielsen Arms Manufacturing Company, and they knew that they had a lot of hard work ahead of them as they embarked on their new roles in the factory. But with Poul''s guidance, they felt confident and prepared to take on the challenges ahead.

    Poul dismissed the workers, satisfied that he had answered all of their queries. As they filed out of the room, he began packing his documents and notebooks into his briefcase. When he finished, he turned to the chalkboard and began wiping it clean. Jonathan had asked for his help in teaching the new workers about the material science behind heat treating, so he had been preparing for that during his free time. Chrome Moly was an essentialponent of the AN-M1, and he felt a responsibility to pass on that knowledge.

    As he wiped the board, there came a soft knock at the door. "Come in," he said, without turning his head.

    A soft voice spoke up from behind the door. "Excuse me, Mr. Nielsen."

    He recognized the voice immediately - it was Amelia. Poul set the eraser down and turned to face her. "Amelia, do you need something from me?"

    "Uhm, Mr. Nielsen," she began, holding out a small stack of files. "I went to your office, but you weren''t there. These are the production records for August. There''s been a significant increase in air brakes, draft gears, and railway signaling equipment."<novelnext></novelnext>

    Poul smiled in satisfaction. "That''s excellent news. At this rate, we''ll be finished with the Vanderbilts'' contract in two months."

    Amelia hesitated for a moment, her eyes darting away from Poul''s. "How about the Arms Manufacturing Company?" she asked. "Have you received the report?"

    Poul shook his head. "I passed it on to Mr. Axelsen. He''s overseeing the construction of the new office building at the moment."

    Amelia fidgeted with her hands for a moment before summoning the courage to speak again. "I actually have something to give you, Mr. Axelsen," she said.

    Poul raised an eyebrow. "What is it?"

    "I left it outside. I''ll go get it," she said before scurrying out of the room.

    A few momentster, she returned, holding a small rectangr box with a ribbon tied around it. "Your birthday is tomorrow, right?" she asked, holding out the box.

    Poul took the box and opened it carefully. Inside was a pocket watch. "Ever since I started working at thispany, I noticed that the pocket watch you use has cracked ss. I figured you''d need a new one to keep track of time," she exined, her cheeks reddening with embarrassment. "So, how do you like it?"

    Poul''s eyes widened with surprise, taking in the sight of the beautifully crafted watch. He lifted it delicately from its case, admiring its sleek design and the way it glinted in the light.

    "Amelia, this is very thoughtful of you," Poul said, turning the watch over in his hands. "I appreciate it. Thank you."

    "It was nothing, really," Amelia said, her face flushing with pleasure. "I just wanted to give you something to mark the asion."

    "Well, I''m d you did," Poul said with a smile. "It''s nice to know that my birthday hasn''t gone unnoticed."

    "Of course not, Mr. Nielsen," Amelia said, her smile widening. "We all value the work you do here."

    Poul''s smile broadened, touched by the sincerity in Amelia''s words. "Thank you, Amelia. That means a lot to me."

    Amelia nodded, her expression earnest. "Is there anything else you need from me, sir?"

    Poul shook his head. "No, you can go ahead and take the rest of the day off. I have some work to attend to."

    "Thank you, Mr. Axelsen," Amelia said, her smile still in ce. "I hope you have a good birthday tomorrow."

    "I''m sure I will," Poul said, still turning the watch over in his hands. "Thanks to you."

    When Amelia left the door, Poul stood there alone in silence, understanding the meaning behind this gesture. Could it be that she liked him? No, that''s foolish thinking, any person he''s close with would give him a present for his birthday. Oh, before it confuses anyone, his birthdate is made up. Without prior information about the body that they upied since their arrival in this world, they are the ones who filled in the nks. September 19th, 1988 was his birthday from the original world but in this world. It''s September 19th, 877.

    "Perhaps I should give her a present as well on her birthday," Poul muttered before leaving the room.

 Chapter 87 Jonathan, The Expert Machinist

    September 19th, 883.

    Jonathan stood at thethe, a long metal cylinder mped firmly in ce. A group of new workers crowded around him, eager to learn the trade. The factory hummed with the steady thrum of machinery, powered by arge belt-driven motor that pulsed with each rotation.

    "Now, the first step in creating the bore of the barrel is to mount it in thethe and turn it down to the correct diameter," Jonathan exined, his voice rising above the din of the factory. "You have to take your time with this step, making sure that you remove just enough material without going too far and ruining the barrel."

    The workers nodded, their eyes fixed on thethe as Jonathan deftly moved the cutting tool across the surface of the metal. He paused every so often to check the dimensions, adjusting thethe as needed to ensure a perfect fit.

    "Once the bore has been created, the next step is to cut the rifling," Jonathan continued. "This is a bit trickier, as you have to make sure that the grooves are cut at the correct angle and depth."

    He carefully positioned the cutting tool and set thethe in motion once again. The workers watched in awe as the metal barrel slowly transformed under Jonathan''s skilled hands.

    As thethe hummed and the cutting tool spun, Jonathan spoke of the intricacies of the process, sharing his years of experience and wisdom with the eager apprentices.

    "The key to the rifling is consistency," he said, his voice soft but firm. "You have to make sure that each groove is cut to the exact same depth and angle, or the uracy of the barrel will suffer."

    The workers hung on his every word, their faces alight with interest and curiosity. Jonathan knew that he was passing on a valuable skill, one that would serve these young men well for years toe.

    He continued his work, thethe spinning at a steady pace as he carefully cut the grooves into the metal. He showed the workers how to use a micrometer to measure the depth of the grooves, exining that even the slightest variation could mean the difference between a good and a bad barrel.

    As he worked, Jonathan shared stories of his own journey to bing a master machinist. He talked about his early days as an apprentice, struggling to grasp theplexities of the trade. He spoke of the mentors who had guided him along the way, and the mistakes he had made that had ultimately helped him improve. Though this was from his original world, he paraphrased his stories to make them more believing.

    The workers listened intently, soaking up every word of Jonathan''s wisdom. They watched as the barrel took shape under his careful guidance, marveling at the precision and skill required to create such a masterpiece.

    Jonathan paused and picked up a small tool from the table beside him. It was a vernier caliper, a precise instrument used to measure small distances and diameters.

    "Now, once you''ve turned down the barrel to the right diameter, you need to make sure that it''s exactly the right size," he exined, holding up the caliper for the workers to see.

    He positioned the caliper carefully, using the precision instrument to measure the diameter of the barrel with a steady hand. The workers leaned in closer, their eyes fixed on the delicate tool.

    "See how the caliper slides in smoothly, with just the slightest bit of resistance?" Jonathan asked, his voice soft but firm. "That''s what you want. If it''s too loose or too tight, the barrel won''t fit properly and you''ll have to start all over again."

    The workers nodded, their expressions serious and focused. They could see the importance of this step, the attention to detail that went into each and every barrel.

    Jonathan continued, his hands steady and sure as he measured the diameter of the barrel in several ces, checking for any deviations or irregrities. He made sure that each groove was cut to the exact depth and angle, checking them with a micrometer and a thread pitch gauge. The workers watched in amazement as Jonathan worked, taking note of every step he made and every tool he used.

    "Precision is key," Jonathan repeated, a firmness in his voice. "One wrong measurement and the whole barrel can be ruined. That''s why we use tools like the vernier caliper and the micrometer. They help us get as close to perfect as possible."<novelnext></novelnext>

    The workers nodded in agreement, realizing the importance of the tools and the techniques used in the trade. They saw the pride in Jonathan''s eyes as he finished his work and stepped back to examine the finished product.

    "That''s it, gentlemen," he said, a smile spreading across his face. "That''s how you create a perfect bore and rifling."

    The workers cheered, their enthusiasm echoing through the factory. They knew that they had much to learn, but with Jonathan''s guidance, they were ready to take on the challenge.

    The workers looked at each other for a moment before one of them raised his hand tentatively.

    "What happens if we make a mistake?" he asked, his brow furrowed with concern.

    Jonathan nodded thoughtfully, his mind racing with the various scenarios that could y out.

    "Well, mistakes do happen," he said, his voice gentle but firm. "But it''s important to catch them early on so you can fix them before they be bigger problems. That''s why it''s so important to be precise and careful with each step of the process."

    Another worker spoke up, his tone curious.

    "How do you know when the barrel is finished?" he asked, his eyes fixed on Jonathan.

    Jonathan smiled, pleased with the question.

    "Well, there are a few different things to look for," he exined. "First, you want to make sure that the dimensions are correct and that the bore and rifling are perfect. Then, you''ll want to inspect it for any defects or imperfections, and make sure that it''s properly polished and finished."

    The workers nodded, taking in Jonathan''s words with a newfound appreciation for theplexity and precision of their craft.

    For the next few minutes, the group asked question after question, seeking rification and guidance from him. Jonathan answered each one with patience and care, taking the time to exin even the most intricate details of the process.

    "Now onest thing before we dismiss, it''s important to note that thethe can be a dangerous tool if not used properly," he said, his voice grave. "You need to be extremely careful when working with it, making sure that you''re not wearing any loose clothing or jewelry that could get caught in the moving parts. Otherwise, it''ll get caught and suck you in. The electric motor powering thisthe is powerful enough that it can pull 37 people. Yes, I''m not joking. It''s a five-horsepower motor. Thethe is a killer, a murderer, it is waiting for you to make a mistake. And if you do, it will kill you."

    The expressions of the workers turned grim, scared, and paled. Jonathan was satisfied that they are having that kind of reaction.

    "That''s it, I want you to get scared of thethe so that you''ll respect it," Jonathan said. "Okay, now that you have learned everything you needed to know, shall we see each other tomorrow for your first day?"

    Jonathan furrowed his brows, noticing that their enthusiasm was gone. "Are you that scared of thethe? I know, you are the fifth batch to whom I have exined the dangers of thethe. I want you to be scared, not to be traumatized that you won''t be able to get the job done because you are too afraid of touching it. Okay, that''s it, dismiss everyone."

    After spending five hours teaching the new workers about the principles and uses of thethes, Jonathan returned to their main office. Today was an important day for thepany as it is the birthday of one of the executives. He''ll be there to celebrate it. But first, he''ll have to go somewhere first.

 Chapter 88 A Cheerful Day

    Jonathan arrived at the main office. He went upstairs to get changed, removing his coveralls and wiping off the sweat that he had umted from working in the factory for five hours.

    But that was enough to remove the metallic off his body so he went to take a bath. After that, he donned his formal suit and went downstairs, and into the office room where Poul and Amelia were discussing things.

    "Oh, Jonathan! You finally arrived. So how did the teaching go?" Poul asked as he stood, and gave him a fistbump.

    "Well if you ask me, it was fulfilling," Jonathan said, chuckling. "I didn''t know that I would use the lessons that I learned in the machine shop subject."

    As he said that, Amelia''s brows raised. "Do you perhaps go into a university or school or applied for an apprenticeship to learn how to use athe, Mr. Axelsen?" Amelia asked.

    "You can call that an apprenticeship, Ms. Weiss," Jonathan said, sighing inwardly as he managed to mislead her. He got carried away and ended up speaking things that would otherwise result in confusion.

    "I see," Amelia nodded understandingly.

    "I heard that you gave my partner here some gift?" Jonathan asked.

    "Uhm¡­yeah I did, it was a pocket watch and Mr. Nielsen liked it," Amelia said.

    Poul pulled the pocket watch out from his pocket purse and held it up to show it to Jonathan.

    "That''s some intricate and expensive-looking pocket watch," Jonathanmented. "Where did you buy that?"

    "From Tiffany and Company, the delivery man mailed itst week."

    "Tiffany and Company?" Jonathan''s mouth gaped after hearing the name.

    "What''s the matter, Jonathan? You looked as if you knew about thepany," Poul said.

    "Well, Tiffany and Company is a retailer of luxury goods established in New York. They are known for selling high-end luxury items, including pocket watches."

    "How are you knowing all of that?" Poul asked.

    "I''m reading magazines, Poul. You should try it," Jonathan replied, his gaze flickering back to Amelia. "So Amelia, how much was it?"

    Amelia fiddled with her hand nervously and then revealed. "Two hundred dors."

    "Two hundred dors?!" Poul and Jonathan intoned together.

    "That''s like a month of your sry!" Poul eximed. "I ept gifts but not if they are super expensive. I''ll pay for this¡­"

    Amelia''s initial sry was one hundred dors. But as years passed by, her performance at thepany brought significant changes and thus her ie increased to two hundred dors. Which is like the modern equivalent of five thousand and nine hundred twenty-four dors.

    "No, please don''t! Mr. Nielsen. It was my gift to you, returning it to me will make me feel bad," Amelia said somberly.

    "But Amelia," Poul called her casually. "You don''t have to spend a lot of money on a gift. Ie from a humble background, and I''ll ept whatever it is, even if it has no mary value as I value its sentimentality. But this¡­"<novelnext></novelnext>

    "It''s really okay, Mr. Nielsen. I save my money every time I get paid, so it''s okay," Amelia said, fumbling her hand.

    Poul''s expression softened as he looked at Amelia. "Amelia, I appreciate the thought, but I can''t ept this. It''s too expensive, and I don''t want you to spend your hard-earned money on something like this."

    Amelia shook her head. "Mr. Nielsen, please don''t worry about it. I wanted to give you something special, and I saved up for it."

    Jonathan spoke up, sensing the tension in the room. "Perhaps we canpromise. How about we ept the gift, but Amelia, you don''t have to spend so much money next time. We don''t want you to go spend one hundred to two hundred bucks,"

    Amelia''s face brightened at the suggestion. "Thank you, Mr. Axelsen. I appreciate your understanding."

    Poul nodded in agreement. "Yes, that''s a goodpromise. With that, allow me to thank you again for this gift. I''ll cherish this pocket watch and remember your kindness every time I use it."

    Amelia blushed and smiled gratefully at Poul. "You''re wee, Mr. Nielsen. I''m d you like it."

    ""Hey, Poul, before I go, I just wanted to say something," Jonathan said, his tone suddenly serious. "I know we don''t always say it, but I want you to know how much I appreciate you. You''ve been more than just a partner to me, you''re like a brother. And today, on your birthday, I want to wish you all the happiness and love in the world. You deserve it, man."

    "Awwe on man, we know I''m vulnerable to that," Poul chuckled and punched Jonathan''s arm lightly. "Thanks, man. I appreciate it. It means a loting from you."

    Amelia smiled warmly at the exchange. "That''s so sweet, Jonathan. You guys have a great friendship."

    Jonathan grinned. "Yeah, we do. And I hope it stays that way for a long time."

    Poul nodded in agreement. "Me too, man. Me too. Well, next month is Jonathan''s birthday. Perhaps you''d want something?"

    "I haven''t given you a gift yet, but if you are asking for it, then here it goes. Poul, I want a heat pump. You know how hot it gets during summer and cold during winter."

    "Heat pump?" Amelia propped her chin up, musing on that thought.

    "A heat pump Ms. Weiss is a mechanical device that can cool or heat the room depending on your needs. You''ll see it once the office building is fullypleted but if my partner badly needed one earlier, I can make it for him."

    Amelia was curious and asked, "Excuse me, Mr. Axelsen, but what exactly is a heat pump? I''m not quite familiar with that term."

    Poul smiled kindly at her and replied, "Ah, I see. Well, a heat pump is a device that can regte the temperature of a room or building. It can cool the air in hot weather and warm it up during colder seasons."

    Amelia''s eyes widened in amazement. "Really? It would be amazing to have that kind of technology."

    "Okay, the year has been great for thepany and the subsidiaries. I want to make sure that everything is in order. So, what is our agenda for today?"

    "Well, we are going to visit Berlin next month, Mr. Axelsen, Mr. Nielsen. Where we can look for a spot in our first overseas branch for the Air Brake Company."

    Jonathan pped. "Germany, here we go."

 Chapter 89 Port Of New York In Lower Manhattan,

    September 25th, 883.

    Poul Nielsen and Jonathan Axelsen stepped out of the horse-drawn carriage and onto the cobblestone streets of the Port of New York. They hade to the city from their hometown of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, eager to explore new business opportunities and expand their enterprise, the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company

    Beside them walked Amelia Weiss, their trusted secretary, and confidante. She had traveled with them to New York to help with the negotiations and to ensure that their journey went smoothly.

    Together, the three travelers made their way through the crowds, their senses overwhelmed by the sights, sounds, and smells of the bustling port. They dodged cartsden with cargo and shouted to be heard over the din of the steam whistles and the nging of metal against metal.

    As they approached the entrance to the port, Poul paused and turned to hispanions.

    "Well,dy and gentlemen, who are excited to see Berlin for the first time?"

    Jonathan raised his hand, grinning broadly. Amelia, on the other hand, didn''t raise her hand.

    Poul wondered. "Oh, you are not excited Ms. Weiss?"

    "It''s not that I am excited, Mr. Nielsen, it''s just that I have already been to Berlin six years ago with Lady Caroline," Amelia said.

    "That makes sense," Jonathan chimed in. "If herpany is based in Paris, Germany it''s like a hundred or thousand miles away. It would be easy for her to expand her enterprise there since basically every country in the continent is close to one another,pared here in the United States where you have to cross the Antic."

    "That''s true," Poul concurred.

    "Speaking of Ms. Dupont, I heard that she''ll be seeing us here before we depart, any news on how we will rendezvous with her?" Jonathan asked, his eyes lit up with excitement and his heart racing.

    "She should be in here right now, Mr. Axelsen," Amelia said, looking over at her pocket watch.

    "Where?" Jonathan swiveled his head, looking for Caroline.

    As they searched the bustling port, their eyesnded on a familiar figure. It was Caroline Dupont, a noblewoman, and entrepreneur, dressed in a stylish gown that reflected the fashion of thete neenth century. The gown was made of a deep blue fabric, adorned with delicatece around the cor and sleeves. Her light blonde hair was pulled back into a neat bun, held in ce by a silver hairpin. In her hand, she carried a small, ornate purse, the intricate beading, and embroidery on it matching the elegance of her attire. Despite thete hour, she exuded an aura of grace and sophistication, catching the attention of passersby.

    "There she is," Amelia said, pointing to Caroline. "Over by the customs office."

    Poul and Jonathan made their way toward Caroline, their faces breaking into broad smiles at the sight of her. She greeted them warmly, exchanging pleasantries and small talk.

    "I''m sorry I couldn''t meet you at the hotel, but I''m d we caught each other before you departed," Caroline said, her eyes twinkling with warmth. "I wanted to wish you a safe journey and a sessful trip."

    "We appreciate that, Caroline," Jonathan said, taking her hand in his, and nting a kiss on it. "And we''re grateful that you could spare the time toe and see us off."

    Poul nodded in agreement. "Yes, thank you for the thoughts."

    Caroline smiled at them both. "Of course, gentlemen. You''re embarking on an exciting venture, and I have no doubt that you''ll seed. Well, if you ever need help, I do have a branch in Berlin¡­" she paused as she pulled out something from her purse. "Here, take this card, that''s the address to my Berlin branch. Ask them anything and they will provide you, free of service."

    Jonathan eagerly took the card.

    "Thank you, Caroline," Jonathan said, tucking the card safely into his pocket.

    Caroline turned her attention to Amelia, giving her a warm embrace. "And how are you, my dear?" she asked, stepping back and smiling at her.

    "I''m well, thank you, Lady Caroline," Amelia replied, returning the smile.

    Caroline turned to Poul and Jonathan. "Well, I don''t want to keep you any longer. I''m sure you have a ship to catch and a long journey ahead of you."

    "Yes, we do," Poul said. "But thank you foring to see us off."

    "It was my pleasure," Caroline said with a smile. "Take care, gentlemen. And you too, Amelia."<novelnext></novelnext>

    Jonathan looked around the bustling port, his eyes catching sight of a photographer who was approaching them, offering his services.

    "Excuse me, sir," the photographer said, tipping his hat. "Would you like to take a photograph before you depart?"

    Jonathan turned to hispanions, his face breaking into a grin. "Hey, guys, do you want to take a photo together before we leave?" he asked.

    Poul, Caroline, and Amelia exchanged a smile, nodding in agreement.

    "That''s a great idea, Jonathan," Poul said, patting him on the back. "Let''s do it."

    The photographer positioned them in front of arge stack of wooden crates, gesturing for them to stand close together. Poul and Jonathan nked the twodies, putting their arms around their shoulders, while they smiled for the camera.

    The photographer adjusted his camera, checking the settings before taking the shot. The camera clicked, and the three of them held their pose, waiting for the photographer to finish.

    After a few moments, the photographer pulled out a small ss te, examining it closely before showing it to them. "There you are, sirs and madams," he said, handing them the photograph. "A fine memory of your time in the Port of New York."

    The four thanked the photographer, admiring the photograph.

    "Thank you, it''s a beautiful photo. Can you have that delivered to Pennsylvania? We will give you a tip," Jonathan asked.

    "Of course sir, just give me the address and I will deliver the photo there," the photographer said.

    "How much for your service?" Caroline asked as she opened her purse.

    The photographer smiled, revealing a missing tooth. "My fee is one dor for the photograph and delivery, madam," he replied, extending his hand to receive the payment.

    Caroline handed him a dor bill, her expression one of satisfaction.

    "Thank you, finedy," the photographer said, tipping his hat to Caroline. "And safe travels to you all."

    With that, Caroline bid farewell to the group once more before she left. As Caroline made her way back through the crowded port, Amelia turned to Poul and Jonathan.

    "That was kind of her toe and see us off," Amelia said, her voice soft and thoughtful. "As expected of Lady Caroline."

    "Yes, it was," Jonathan agreed, his eyes fixed on Caroline whose figure had already disappeared.

    "Well, shall we go and board our ship?" Poul asked.

    "Yes, let''s go," Jonathan said, and the three head towards the ocean liner that will take them to Hamburg. As they walked through the entrance, they gazed up at the four-masted barque-rigged steamships. The ship was a majestic sight, towering over the port with its four towering masts and steam pipes puffing clouds of smoke into the air. The deck was bustling with activity as sailors scrambled to load the cargo onto the ship. The trio weaved their way through themotion and were greeted by the captain, a grizzled man with a salt-and-pepper beard and piercing blue eyes.

    "Wee aboard, gentlemen anddy," the captain greeted them with a nod. "I''m Captain Wilhelm, and I''ll be your captain for this voyage. We''re due to depart in a few hours, so please make yourselvesfortable."

    "Thank you, Captain," Jonathan replied, shaking the captain''s hand. "We''re looking forward to the voyage."

    Poul, Jonathan, and Amelia boarded the ship and made their way to their first-ss cabin. Each of them had their own room,plete with afortable bed, a writing desk, and a small closet. The cabin was elegantly decorated, with plush carpeting and intricate woodwork. Large windows offered a breathtaking view of the port as the ship pulled away from the dock.

    "Poul settled into his room, unpacking his belongings and stowing them away in the closet. He surveyed the tastefully furnished space, appreciating thefortable bed and the warm lighting that bathed the room. Outside, the sounds of the bustling port drifted in, but Poul found the gentle rocking of the ship to be a calming presence. He closed his eyes, letting out a deep breath and relishing the anticipation of the journey ahead."

    Jonathan, on the other hand, was exploring the ship, taking in every detail of its grandeur. He marveled at the opulence of the dining room, with its crystal chandeliers and fine china. He strolled through the ballroom, admiring the intricate murals and gold leaf decorations.

    Meanwhile, Amelia sat at her writing desk, meticulously going through their itinerary and making notes for their meetings in Berlin. She had always been a diligent worker, and she wanted to make sure that everything was in order before they arrived.

 Chapter 90 A Minor Problem During Voyage

    As the ship sailed further out to sea, the three travelers settled into the rhythm of life on board. They enjoyed delicious meals in the dining room, attended elegant balls and concerts, and rxed on deck chairs, watching the endless expanse of ocean stretching out before them.

    It had been five days since they left the port and the sun had set, casting a serene glow over the ocean. The three looked up at the night sky, the ethereal scene of stars nketing the night mesmerizing them.

    Poul spoke up, breaking the peaceful silence, "It''s kind of odd that I''m not being treated differently here due to my background as an Albian. Normally, I would be segregated, but it doesn''t seem to be the case."

    Jonathan shook his head, "They might be lenient towards Albians as you are white, but towards colored people, they are segregated."

    "It''s truly heartbreaking how society can be so unfair to people just because of something as inherent and unchangeable as their physical appearance," Amelia said with a heavy heart.

    Poul and Jonathan nodded in agreement, their expressions serious. "Yes, it''s a terrible thing," Poul said. "But I''m hopeful that things will change someday."

    Meanwhile, as the vessel traversed the vast expanse of the ocean, the intricate electricalworks that enabled its operation buzzed with a relentless stream of energy. However, without warning, the luminosity within one of the cabins began to falter, until eventually, it expiredpletely. And then, in an rming turn of events, the entire luminous infrastructure of the ship was abruptly extinguished, plunging it into darkness.

    The passengers of the ship gasped in horror as the darknesspletely enveloped the entire vessel. Poul remained calm, unfazed by the sudden events. Amelia''s heart pounded as she gazed around the pitch-ck cabin, her eyes darting back and forth in a desperate search for light. The sudden loss of power had left her disoriented and vulnerable, her breaths shallow and rapid. Without even realizing it, she had instinctively clung to Poul''s arm, seeking a sense of safety and reassurance in his solid presence. Her fingers trembled as they dug into the fabric of his shirt, her body trembling with a mix of anxiety and anticipation.

    "What''s happening?" she whispered, her voice barely above a quiver as she tried to steady herself. Every nerve in her body was on edge, alert for any sign of danger or chaos that might be lurking in the darkness.

    Poul took hold of Amelia''s hand, giving it a reassuring squeeze. "It''s alright, Amelia. It''s probably just a minor electrical issue. Let''s make our way to the deck and see what''s happening."

    Jonathan nodded in agreement, and the three of them slowly made their way through the darkened corridors of the ship, guided by the dim glow of candlelights. As they emerged onto the deck, they were met with a chaotic scene. The crew members were scrambling to fix the issues while passengers huddled together in groups, their expressions a mix of confusion and fear. Poul, Jonathan, and Amelia made their way to the captain''s quarters, hoping to get some answers, but the crew blocked their way.

    "Sorry sirs, but this is as far as you can go," said the crew.

    "I''m looking for the captain. We would like to know what happened?" Poul asked.

    The crew member hesitated, his eyes flickering uncertainly before he finally spoke. "As you can see, the power went out, and we are investigating the cause," he replied, his tone clipped and professional.

    "How long would it take?" Jonathan interjected, his voiceced with concern.

    "We don''t know," the crew member replied. "But we will update you once we know more."

    Poul exchanged a worried nce with Jonathan and Amelia. The uncertainty of the situation weighed heavily on them, and they felt the chill of the ocean air seeping into their bones. As they retreated, they noticed that the darkness seemed to be spreading, affecting more and more areas of the ship. It was an eerie feeling, surrounded byplete darkness. The three of them huddled together on the deck, watching as the crew worked feverishly to restore the ship''s power. But as time ticked by, their anxiety only grew, and they couldn''t help but wonder if they would ever make it to their destination.

    One hourter, Poul, Amelia, and Jonathan heard disgruntled murmurs growing louder around them. The passengers were growing increasingly frustrated at theck of information and the extended ckout.

    "I demand to know what''s happening!" shouted a man, his voiceced with anger.

    "We paid good money for this trip, and we deserve to be informed!" added a woman, her arms crossed tightly across her chest.

    "I can''t take this anymore," said another passenger, his tone desperate. "We''re stuck out here in the middle of nowhere with no power and no answers. This is uneptable!"

    Theints continued to mount, and the three travelers could feel the tension in the air thickening. They exchanged concerned nces, realizing that the situation was growing more precarious by the minute.

    "We need to do something," Jonathan whispered urgently. "If this is an electrical issue, I''m sure Poul can fix it."

    Poul nodded in agreement, his expression grim. "Yeah, I can probably find the cause but I don''t think I''m the right person to ask the issue. So Jonathan, go ask them."

    "Okay, stay here," Jonathan nodded, before making his way toward the crew members. He could hear the angry murmurs of the passengers behind him, but he focused on the task at hand. When he reached the crew, he cleared his throat and spoke up.

    "Excuse me, we understand that there is an electrical issue on the ship. Is there anything we can do to help? We have someone on board who may be able to assist," Jonathan said, hoping that his words would be well received.

    The captain of the ship was with the crew and looked at Jonathan skeptically. But after a moment of consideration, he nodded.

    "Very well, who is the person you are referring to?" Wilheim asked.

    "He is my business partner, and he is a mechanic and an electrician. Perhaps he can ascertain the situation and hopefully fix it," Jonathan said.

    "What''s your name sir?"

    "Jonathan Axelsen."

    "Uhm¡­Mr. Axelsen, we thank you for the offer. To be honest we don''t have an electrician or a mechanic on onboard with us. We didn''t know that this could happen. If we can have that man here right now, it would be extremely helpful," the captain said with a hint of desperation in his voice.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "I''ll get him," Jonathan said firmly. He turned to Poul, who was waiting with Amelia. "Poul, they need you. There''s an electrical issue on the ship, and they need your help to fix it."

    Poul nodded, his expression determined. "Alright, let''s go."

    Together, Jonathan and Poul made their way back to the crews, and upon arriving. The captain scanned Poul''s appearance.

    "Is this the person?" Wilheim asked

    "I am. Just like you captain, we would very much like to arrive at our destination. We can''t miss our appointment," Poul said.

    "Very well, , follow me," Wilheim led Poul to the engine room, where the crew had been trying to fix the problem for hours. The room was filled with the low hum of the ship''s engines, and the sound of various tools and machines being used to try to diagnose the issue.

    Poul took a deep breath, surveying the room and analyzing the situation. He quickly got to work, examining the wiring and the machinery with practiced ease. After a few moments of intense concentration, he finally spoke up.

    "I think I found the problem," he said, pointing to a blown fuse on the fuse holder. "This fuse is blown. We need to rece it. Do you have a spare fuse in your inventories?"

    "Yes, we have," Wilheim confirmed while his crew was holding out a gasmp to light out the electric panels. "What else do you need?"

    "I need needle-nose pliers, a multimeter, and some friction tape," Poul replied.

    The crew members quickly gathered the requested tools, and Poul got to work recing the fuse.

    Poul carefully extracted the blown fuse from its holder with the needle-nose pliers, taking care not to damage any of the surrounding wirings. He then used the multimeter to check the circuit for any other faults before recing the fuse with a new one. With the fuse in ce, he used friction tape to securely fasten it to the holder, ensuring that it wouldn''te loose or cause any issues in the future.

    As Poul worked, the crew members watched in amazement, their eyes widening with each deft movement of his hands. They had never seen someone with such expertise and skill in their field, and they knew that they were in the presence of a skilled electrician. Even the captain himself was impressed, his stern expression softening as he watched Poul work.

    After a few moments of intense focus, Poul finally stood up, dusting off his hands with a sense of satisfaction. He then turned to the crew members and the captain, a smile spreading across his face.

    "Alright, I think we''re good to go. The fuse has been reced, and the electrical system should be fully functional now," he announced.

    "Let''s turn on the light," the captain ordered.

    With a flick of a switch, the lights on the ship suddenly burst to life, illuminating the previously darkened corridors and cabins. The passengers erupted into cheers and apuse, their relief palpable as they realized that their nightmare was finally over.

    Poul smiled triumphantly and muttered under his breath. "I still got it."

    "Thank you for your service, Mr?"

    "Poul Nielsen," Poul introduced himself.

    "Mr. Nielsen, thanks to you we will be able to continue our journey. Is there something that you would like in return?"

    "No need for any rewards, Captain. I''m just d to have been able to help," Poul replied, his voice humble but grateful. "I''m just happy that we can all continue our journey safely."

    The captain nodded, a look of appreciation in his eyes. "I understand. But please, if you need anything during the rest of the voyage, don''t hesitate to let us know."

    Poul thanked the captain and returned to Jonathan and Amelia who were waiting for him on the deck.

    "You fixed it! Thank you!" Amelia jumped out to her and embraced him. "I was scared¡­"

    She then realized her mistake, and immediately released him from her embrace.

    "Ahh¡­I''m so sorry Mr. Nielsen, I got carried away," Amelia said, her voice soft with a hint of embarrassment. She took a step back from Poul, her cheeks flushing with color. The relief of having the power restored mixed with the rush of emotions had caused her to forget herself for a moment.

    Poul smiled reassuringly at her, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "It''s alright, Amelia. I understand. It was a stressful situation for all of us. I''m just d that everything is back to normal now."

    Jonathan chimed in, his tone light with humor. "Don''t worry, Poul is used to women throwing themselves at him. He''s just that good at fixing things."

    Poul rolled his eyes good-naturedly, a smile ying at the corner of his lips. "Oh, stop it. You''ll give her the wrong impression again."

    Amelia chuckled, feeling the tension and fear of earlier dissipate as they shared a lighthearted moment. The ship continued on its journey, the passengers chatting and mingling as they enjoyed the rest of the voyage.

 Chapter 91 Setting Foot On Germany

    Poul Nielsen stepped off the gangway and onto the pier, his eyes squinting in the bright sunlight. After twelve long days at sea, the port of Hamburg was a wee sight. He turned to hispanions, Jonathan Axelsen and Amelia Weiss, who was standing beside him, taking in the bustling port with wide eyes.

    The trio had departed from New York''s Lower Manhattan, aboard the luxurious line, which promised to take them on a journey of a lifetime. Twelve days had passed in a blur of deck games, decadent meals, and breathtaking ocean views. But now, as they set foot on the docks of Hamburg, they were greeted with a new adventure and unknown territory.

    The port was alive with activity, with merchants hawking their wares and passengers disembarking from various ships. The air was thick with the smell of salt water and the sounds of sailors shouting and whistles blowing. Poul led the way, his hand on his valise as they made their way through the throngs of people.

    Poul looked around the bustling port, trying to get his bearings. He spotted a sign for the train station and gestured for Jonathan and Amelia to follow him as they made their way through the crowd of people and carts. The air was filled with the sounds of vendors calling out their wares, the tter of horses'' hooves on cobblestone, and the murmur of people speaking in variousnguages.

    As they reached the train station, Poul let out a sigh of relief. He had been worried they might miss the train to Berlin, but they had arrived with enough time to spare. They purchased their tickets from the bustling ticket counter and made their way to the tform, their suitcases rolling behind them.

    As they waited for the train to arrive, Poul took the opportunity to observe his surroundings. The station was a grand structure, made of red brick with arches and domes, andrge ss windows that allowed the sunlight to flood the space. The train tracks stretched out before them, disappearing into the distance, and he could see steam rising from the lotives.

    ? The sound of a whistle blew, and the train pulled into the station with a loud screeching noise. Poul led hispanions to their assigned seats in the first-ss carriage, which was elegantly appointed with plush seats and wood paneling. They settled in and watched as the train began to move, the scenery outside the window changing from the bustling city to the rolling countryside.

    He turned to Jonathan and Amelia, who were both engrossed in the passing scenery outside. "Once we arrive in Berlin, we are going to check in to our hotel right? What was the name of the hotel?"

    Amelia turned her face and looked at Poul. "I have made reservations with Hotel Adlon, it''s one of the high-end hotels in Berlin."

    Ah, Hotel Adlon," Poul said, nodding in approval. "I''ve heard it''s quite a luxurious establishment. It will be a wee change from the cramped quarters of our office."

    Jonathan leaned forward, his curiosity piqued. "What can we expect from this hotel, Ms. Weiss?"

    Amelia smiled. "Well, it''s known for its opulent d¨¦cor and high-end amenities. They offer exquisite dining experiences, and the service is said to be impable. It''s also located in a prime location, right next to the Brandenburg Gate."

    Poul leaned back in his seat, his mind already wandering to the prospect of afortable bed and a good meal. "Sounds perfect, though I wonder if they''ll take in my kind. As you can see, I have silver hair."

    "Don''t worry, Mr. Nielsen. I already informed them about your background, and they were fine with it," Amelia said reassuringly.

    "Are you sure about that?" Poul asked.

    "Absolutely," Amelia replied with a reassuring smile. "The Hotel Adlon is known for its discretion and respect for privacy. Besides, Berlin is a modern city, and people from all backgrounds are weed there."

    Poul nodded, feeling relieved. He knew that even in thete 19th century, prejudice and discrimination were still rampant in some parts of the world. He was d to know that they would be weed at the hotel.

    As the train chugged along, the scenery outside the window continued to change. They passed through picturesque viges and lush forests, with asional glimpses of farnd and small towns. Poul watched the passing scenery with interest, noting the differences between thendscapes of America and Europe.

    After several hours, the train began to slow down, and they could see the outline of buildings in the distance. They stood up and gathered their belongings, and they made their way to the exit. As they stepped onto the tform, the noise and bustle of the city hit them like a wave.<novelnext></novelnext>

    They looked around, taking in the sights and sounds of Berlin. The city was alive with activity, with people bustling about their daily lives. The streets were lined with elegant buildings and shops, and the air was filled with the sound of horses'' hooves on cobblestones and the chatter of people speaking in variousnguages.

    Amelia hailed a carriage, and they climbed aboard, the driver whisking them away to the Hotel Adlon. As they pulled up to the hotel, Poul and Jonathan''s eyes widened in amazement. The building was a grand structure, with towering columns and borate stonework. He could see peopleing and going, dressed in their finest clothing, and they knew that they were in for a truly luxurious experience.

    As they entered the lobby, Poul and Jonathan were struck by the opulence of the surroundings. The floors were made of polished marble, and the walls were adorned with ornate tapestries and paintings. The reception desk was staffed by impably dressed clerks, who greeted them warmly.

    Amelia approached the desk and gave her name, and the clerk nodded, checking his ledger. "Ah, yes, Ms. Weiss. Your rooms are ready, and your luggage has been brought up. If you would follow me, I will show you all to your quarters."

    Poul and Jonathan followed Amelia, their eyes wide with wonder. They climbed the grand staircase, which led to a corridor lined with doors. Amelia''s room was the first one they came to, and the clerk opened the door, revealing a spacious and elegantly furnished suite.

    Poul let out a low whistle of appreciation. "At least this one is better than Hotel Astoria."

    "You are right about that," Jonathan added, looking around the room.

    The interior of the room was styled with great attention to detail, with soft and sumptuous carpets underfoot, and furnishings that exuded a refined and sophisticated ambiance. Therge windows boasted a magnificent vista of the lively city streets below, and the distant hum of carriage wheels and the bustle of city life carried up to the room, providing a sense of immersion in the urban energy of Berlin.

    "I like the room," Amelia said as she stepped inside and looked around.

    "I''m d that you liked it, ma''am. Why don''t we escort these two gentlemen to their room as well?" the clerk suggested, gesturing towards the door at the end of the hallway. Poul and Jonathan followed the clerk down the hall, their eyes taking in the beautiful d¨¦cor of the hotel.

    As they reached their room, the clerk opened the door, revealing a simrly luxurious space. The room was furnished with tasteful and sophisticated pieces, from the intricately carved wooden bed frame to thefortable armchairs and the elegant writing desk. The curtains were drawn back, allowing sunlight to stream into the room, and the view outside was just as breathtaking as the one from Amelia''s room.

    Poul and Jonathan looked around in awe, impressed by the level of luxury that the hotel had to offer.

    "This is incredible," Jonathan said, grinning from ear to ear.

    Poul nodded in agreement. "It certainly is. Thank you for arranging this, Ms. Weiss."

    Amelia smiled. "Of course, gentlemen. I always aim to make sure that my superiors are well taken care of."

    "Well, let''s take a rest first and in the afternoon, we explore the city, shall we?" Poul said before jumping on the bed. He could feel a sinking sensation as he settled into the soft mattress, and he let out a contented sigh.

    "Fine by me," Jonathan agreed.

    "Very well, Mr. Nielsen."

 Chapter 92 Strolling Around Berlin

    As the sun began to dip toward the horizon, the streets of Berlin took on a different character. The hustle and bustle of the daytime rush were reced by a slower, more rxed pace. The glow of the streemps and the faint hum of distant music lent an air of romance to the city, and Poul, Jonathan, and Amelia strolled through the streets, taking in the sights.

    The city was a curious blend of old-world elegance and modernity. The buildings ranged from towering stone structures, reminiscent of an earlier era, to sleek and modernist edifices that spoke of the cutting edge of contemporary design. The streets were alive with the sound of footsteps and the hum of conversation, punctuated by the asional burst ofughter or the strains of music from a nearby caf¨¦.

    Poul paused in front of a storefront, peering into the window. Inside, he could see a disy of intricate clockwork devices, ticking away in perfect synchronicity. He turned to hispanions, his eyes sparkling with interest. "Shall we go inside? I''ve always been fascinated by clockwork."

    Amelia smiled. "Of course, Mr. Nielsen. Lead the way."

    Poul pushed open the door, and the trio stepped into the shop, the tinkling of a small bell announcing their arrival. The air was heavy with the scent of oil and metal, and the walls were lined with shelves, each filled with an array of intricate mechanisms and gears.

    A middle-aged man, dressed in a long apron and sporting a bushy mustache, looked up from his workbench and smiled. "Good evening, sirs and madam. How can I assist you?"

    Amelia stepped forward, his eyes alight with curiosity. "My superiors are fascinated by clockwork. Do you have anything you can show us?"

    The shopkeeper nodded, his mustache twitching. "Indeed, ma''am. We have a wide array of timepieces, from the simplest pocket watches to the mostplex automata. Is there anything in particr that interests you?"

    Amelia turned around and faced Poul and tranted. "He is asking if you have something that interests you?"

    Poul gestured towards a disy case, and the shopkeeper unlocked it, carefully removing a small brass pocket watch. He wound the mechanism, and the watch sprang to life, ticking away with a soft, precise rhythm.

    Poul and Jonathan leaned in, marveling at the intricate design and the precision of the movements. Amelia stood back, her eyes taking in the entire scene, her lips curving up in a slight smile.

    "I think I''m going to buy this, Jonathan. What do you think?"

    "But didn''t you just receive a pocket watch from Amelia as a gift?"

    Poul looked at Jonathan, a thoughtful expression on his face. "Yes, but this one is quite different. Look at the craftsmanship and the attention to detail. It''s a thing of beauty."

    Jonathan nodded, his eyes fixed on the pocket watch. "You''re right, Poul. It''s a work of art."

    "Ms. Weiss, ask how much is this pocket watch," Poul said.

    Amelia turned to the shopkeeper and asked him in German, "Excuse me, sir, may I know how much this pocket watch costs?"

    "The price for this pocket watch is 84 Goldmark," the shopkeeper responded.

    Amelia nodded and tranted the price for Poul and Jonathan.

    "84 Goldmark? How much is that in dors?" Jonathan asked.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "It''s about 20 dors, Mr. Axelsen," Amelia answered.

    "Okay, we''ll take it," Poul epted.

    The shopkeeper nodded and carefully wrapped the pocket watch in a soft cloth before cing it in a small box.

    "Excellent choice, sir," he said, handing the box to Poul. "It''s a piece that will serve you well for many years toe."

    Poul thanked the shopkeeper and paid for the pocket watch, carefully tucking the box into his coat pocket. As they stepped back out into the cool evening air, Amelia pointed to a nearby caf¨¦, the warm glow of its interior inviting them in.

    "Shall we stop for a drink?" she asked, her eyes sparkling.

    Poul and Jonathan agreed, and the trio made their way to the caf¨¦. Inside, the air was thick with the aroma of coffee and baked goods, and the murmur of conversation filled the room.

    They settled into a cozy corner booth, and a waiter approached them, taking their orders for coffee and pastries. As they waited for their drinks to arrive, they chatted amiably.

    "So, tomorrow, we will meet the officials from the Imperial Railway Office who had visited us from Pittsburgh," Poul said. "I don''t know the contents of the meeting as it was not stated in the letter. But it is most likely an offer."

    "You are right," Jonathan nodded agreeably. "The Imperial Railway Office has been endorsing our technology to their railwaypanies, and thanks to that, we are getting flooded with orders."

    "Whatever would be the agenda for tomorrow, I believe it will be a fruitful discussion," Amelia added, "Our work has been gaining recognition, and I have no doubt that we will continue to make great strides in the field of railway technology."

    Poul smiled, feeling a sense of pride in their aplishments. "Yes, we''vee a long way since we first started working together."

    As they were having a discussion, the waiter arrived with their drinks and pastries. Poul took a sip of his coffee and savored the rich, velvety vor. The pastries were ky and buttery, and the trio enjoyed them in silence.

    After that, they left the caf¨¦.

    The night was still young, and they decided to take a leisurely walk through the city. They strolled through the historic Brandenburg Gate, marveling at the grandeur of the monument. The night sky was clear, and the stars twinkled overhead, casting a soft glow over the city.

    As they walked, they came across a group of street performers, their lively music filling the air. The trio stopped to watch and soon found themselves swaying to the rhythm of the music. They pped along with the crowd and even joined in a traditional German folk dance.

    As the night wore on, they made their way back to their hotel, tired but content. Poul and Jonathan bid their secretary goodnight and retired to their room. As they settled into their bed, their mind was abuzz with thoughts of the uing meeting with the Imperial Railway Office.

    Would they receive another contract again and finally set up a branch in Germany? Who knows? They can only find out about it tomorrow.

 Chapter 93 At The Imperial Railway Office

    It was a chilly morning in the capital of the German Empire. The trio was on their way to the main headquarters of the Imperial Railway Office, where they will meet an important official that could decide whether this trip is worth it or not.

    The carriage stopped in front of the building. Poul and Jonathan looked out of the window and scanned the structure. It was an imposing building made of red bricks, adorned with intricate carvings and embellishments. The windows were tall and thin, giving the building a somewhat stern appearance. Poul and Jonathan exchanged a quick nod.

    They stepped out of the carriage, feeling the cold breeze of the morning air brushing against their faces. They straightened their suits and adjusted their top hats before making their way toward the entrance of the building.

    Amelia followed behind as the industrialist duo approached the door, they were greeted by a uniformed guard who stopped them.

    "Good morning, sirs. May I ask your business here?" the guard asked in a formal tone.

    Amelia stepped forward and gestured a polite bow. "Guten Morgen, I''m Amelia Weiss, executive secretary of these gentlemen who also serves as their interpreter. We came from the United States and have an appointment with Herr Heinrich von Stephan, Director of the Imperial Railways."

    After saying that, Amelia handed a letter to the guard, proving their appointment with the Director of the Imperial Railways.

    The guard inspected the letter carefully before nodding his head. "Very well, you may now enter."

    Poul, Jonathan, and Amelia stepped inside the building and were immediately struck by the grandeur of the interior. The walls were adorned with borate paintings and ornate decorations, while the floors were made of polished marble. They followed a uniformed attendant who led them to a spacious conference room where they were to wait for Herr von Stephan.

    As they waited, Poul and Jonathan looked around the room, taking in the luxurious furnishings and the artwork that adorned the walls.

    "We are also going to meet the gentlemen who visited us in Pittsburgh right?" Poul asked, looking at Poul.

    "Of course, they are associates of the Director of the Imperial Railways."

    "Good," Poul leaned back in his seat and closed his eyes, waiting patiently for the person that they hade here for.

    After a few minutes, the door creaked open. The trio straightened their postures, preparing for the entrance of the man they were about to meet. A tall figure appeared, filling the doorway, and slowly walked towards them. It was Herr Heinrich von Stephan, the Director of the Imperial Railways. He was a towering figure, standing well over six feet tall, and his broad shoulders and imposing presence filled the room with an air of authority. His face was graced with a thick beard, which was trimmed neatly, and his dark eyes seemed to bore into the souls of those he looked upon. He wore a dark suit that fit him perfectly, with a red tie that added a pop of color to his otherwise somber attire.

    Behind him trailed two gentlemen whom they immediately recognized. It was Peter Mueller and Markus Braun.

    Poul and Jonathan approached them and extended a hand.

    "Good day to you, my name is Poul Nielsen, the CEO of the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company."

    Stephan looked down at Poul''s extended hand.

    "You are young," he spoke in English, his tone rumbling. "You are the founder of the air brakepany?"

    "There are two of us, Herr Stephan," Poul said, tilting his head to the side where Jonathan stood.

    "He''s also young," Stephan said, scanning Jonathan''s appearance. "I didn''t expect my guest to be this young. Peter, Markus, are you sure that these are the gentlemen that we are supposed to meet?"

    "Yes, Herr Stephan, they are the ones I talked to you about after my visit to the air brakepany."<novelnext></novelnext>

    "Well, in that case, we should get this meeting started. Take your seats, gentlemen," Stephan said.

    Poul and Jonathan took their seats, nked by Amelia on one side and Peter and Markus on the other. Stephan took his seat at the head of the table, while the others settled in around him. He pulled out a folder from his briefcase and began to leaf through it, asionally ncing up at the visitors across from him.

    "Mr. Nielsen, Mr. Axelsen, we are pleased to wee you to the Imperial Railway Office," Stephan said, setting the folder aside. "As you may already know, the German Empire is currently facing a crisis in its railway industry. idents and derailments are on the rise, and many of them are attributed to faulty brake systems. We believe that your air brake technology may be the solution we are looking for."

    Poul and Jonathan exchanged a quick nce, trying to hide their excitement at the prospect of a potential business deal.

    "We are honored to be considered as a possible solution to your railway crisis, Herr Stephan," Poul said, keeping his tone respectful and formal. "Our air brake system has been proven to be effective in ensuring the safety of trains, and we have already installed them on several railways in the United States. I''m sure you already know that a number of railwaypanies in this country are already using our brake system."

    "That is indeed correct, Mr. Nielsen. When the select railroadpanies adopted your air brake systems, there hasn''t been any news of derailment caused by brake failure ever since," Stephan said, nodding his head. "We are willing to work with you and invest in your technology to improve the safety of our railway industry. However, we have certain concerns regarding the feasibility and costs of implementing your air brake system in our railways."

    Poul and Jonathan nodded, understanding the importance of addressing the concerns of potential investors.

    Jonathan spoke this time. "We are aware of the challenges thate with implementing a new technology, Herr Stephan. But we assure you that our team of experts will work closely with your engineers to ensure a smooth and efficient instation process. In terms of costs, we believe that the benefits of our air brake system in terms of safety and efficiency will outweigh the initial investment in the long run."

    Stephan nodded thoughtfully, stroking his beard. "Very well, Mr. Axelsen We will take your proposal into consideration and conduct further discussions with our team."

    "We are d that you are interested, Herr Stephan," Jonathan added and continued. "We believe that our air brake system will revolutionize the railway industry and improve the safety of passengers and workers alike. We look forward to the opportunity to work with you and your team."

    Stephan nodded once again, his expression serious. "Before we conclude this meeting, I have one final question for you, Mr. Nielsen and Mr. Axelsen," he said, leaning forward. "I was told that you are thinking of opening a branch here in Berlin, is that true?"

    Poul and Jonathan exchanged a surprised look. They hadn''t expected this question, but they had been considering the possibility of expanding their business into Europe.

    "Yes, Herr Stephan, that is something we have been considering," Poul replied, trying to gauge the Director''s reaction.

    Stephan leaned back in his chair, a thoughtful expression on his face. "I see. In that case, If you do decide to open a branch here in Berlin, we would be happy to help. As you can see, our government is taking safety very seriously."

    Poul and Jonathan exchanged another quick nce, this time with a hint of excitement. Opening a branch in Berlin would mean expanding their business into a whole new market, and with the help of Imperial Railways, it could potentially be a huge sess.

    "Thank you, Herr Stephan, we appreciate your support," Poul said, his tone grateful. "We will definitely take your offer into consideration."

    Stephan nodded. "Excellent. Now, if there are no further questions, I think we can conclude this meeting," he said, standing up from his seat. "It was a pleasure to meet you, Mr. Nielsen, Mr. Axelsen, and I hope that we can continue this discussion in the near future."

    Poul and Jonathan stood up, followed by Amelia. They exchanged handshakes with Stephan, Peter, and Markus before making their way out of the conference room and back into the grand foyer of the Imperial Railway Office.

    As they walked towards the entrance, Poul turned to Amelia. "Please make a note to start looking for a suitable location for our branch," he said, his tone filled with excitement.

    Amelia nodded and pulled out a notepad from her bag. "Consider it done, Mr. Nielsen," she said, jotting down the note.

 Chapter 94 Axelsen & Nielsen Bremsen-Gesellschaft

    Days turned to weeks as Poul and Jonathan were in constant meetings with the director of the Imperial Railway Office of the German Empire. The industrialist duo took this opportunity to explore the cities of the Empire, looking for a spot where they could erect their first-ever overseas branch.

    Then they saw one in Hanover, the capital of the state of Lower Saxony. They were gazing up at the brick building before them.

    Poul turned to Jonathan and said, "What do you think, Jonathan? Do you think this building could serve as the branch for our air brakepany in the German Empire?"

    Jonathan hummed in thought before responding, "With a few refurbishments and renovations, this building would be perfect to be the headquarters of our air brakepany in the German Empire. It''s in the perfect location, near the railway station, making it easy for us to transport our products across the country."

    Poul nodded, "Yes, you''re right. The railway station is just a stone''s throw away, and there are several tracks connected to it. It will be convenient for us to transport our air brakes to other cities in the German Empire."

    Jonathan added, "Plus, the building itself has a solid structure, and we can easily turn it into a modern and functional workspace."

    Poul smiled, "That settles it then. We''ll take this building and turn it into the headquarters of our air brakepany in the German Empire."

    "Ms. Weiss, did you hear that?" Jonathan nced over his shoulder, looking at Amelia who had been silently watching the two stare at the building.

    "I do, Mr. Axelsen. I''m taking notes. So, would that be your final decision? Because if it is, we can forward your decision to the Imperial Railway Office and start working on the necessary licenses and documents."

    Poul and Jonathan looked at the building again, pondering their decision.

    The location of the building in Hanover was ideal for their air brakepany because it was situated near the railway station. This made it convenient for them to transport their products across the country as well as receive raw materials for production. The railway was the primary mode of transportation in the German Empire, and having their branch near the railway station meant that they could easily reach their customers and clients throughout the region.

    Additionally, being located near the railway station meant that the air brakepany could easily tap into the existingwork of railway lines that crisscrossed the German Empire. They could work closely with the railway authorities and provide them with their air brake systems, ensuring safer and more efficient travel for passengers and cargo alike.

    The building itself was also suitable for the air brakepany''s needs, with ample space for manufacturing, storage, and administrative functions. Poul and Jonathan envisioned transforming the brick building into a state-of-the-art production facility that would showcase thetest advancements in air brake technology.

    Jonathan then shared a meaningful nce and smiled.

    "That''s our final decision," Poul and Jonathan said in unison.

    "Great, have you already thought of a name for your first overseaspany?" Amelia asked another.

    "We did, Ms. Weiss," Jonathan replied. "We had to look up a German dictionary to trante English to words," he said but it was a lie. They have been hiding the fact that they can speak German fluently due to them having to cover their background.

    "Really Mr. Axelsen? May I know the name of thepany?"

    "Poul, you tell it to her," Jonathan gave the floor to Poul, who then cleared his throat and spoke.

    "Axelsen & Nielsen Bremsen-Gesellschaft," Poul revealed.

    "Axelsen & Nielsen Bremsen-Gesellschaft," she repeated, trying out the name. "It has a nice ring to it."

    Poul and Jonathan smiled at Amelia''s reaction.

    "Thispany will not only serve the German Empire but also other European countries. France, Austria, Russia, the United Kingdom of Great Britain, and Irnd," Poul said,

    "But you are also going to n on setting up a branch there as well, right?" Amelia asked.

    "The n is to expand into as many countries as possible," Jonathan said, imagining the future where theirpanies have expanded to the whole of Europe, Japan, and China.

    "Indeed, Ms. Weiss. Our goal is to provide our air brake systems to as many countries as possible, to ensure the safety of railway transportation globally," Poul said, his eyes shining with ambition. After all, it was the reason why they started thepany in the first ce.<novelnext></novelnext>

    If they haven''t witnessed such an ident, where men, women, and children are crying in anguish, they wouldn''t have started the air brakepany and instead pursue an electricpany, which they are already nning.

    "That''s touching," Amelia nodded, impressed by their vision. "I have no doubt that with your expertise and determination, Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company will be a renowned name in the railway industry not just in Germany, but worldwide."

    Poul and Jonathan thanked her for her kind words, and they all headed back to the Imperial Railway Office in Berlin to settle thest meeting.

    In the office, Stephan handed the industrialist duo a document. Poul opened it and Jonathan leaned over to see the contents.

    "That is the list of railwaypanies that are willing to adopt your air brake and signaling system," Stephan announced.

    Poul and Jonathan read the names.

    Prussian State Railways (Preu?ische Staatseisenbahnen).

    Royal Saxon State Railways (K?niglich S?chsische Staatseisenbahnen).

    Grand Ducal Baden State Railways (Gro?herzoglich Badische Staatseisenbahnen).

    Royal Bavarian State Railways (K?niglich Bayerische Staatseisenbahnen).

    Grand Ducal Hessian State Railways (Gro?herzoglich Hessische Staatseisenbahnen).

    Imperial Railways in Alsace-Lorraine (Reichseisenbahnen in Elsa?-Lothringen).

    Royal W¨¹rttemberg State Railways (K?niglich W¨¹rttembergische Staats-Eisenbahnen).

    Grand Duchy of Mecklenburg State Railways (Gro?herzoglich Mecklenburgische Friedrich-Franz-Eisenbahn).

    Royal Hanoverian State Railways (K?niglich Hann?versche Staatseisenbahnen).

    Grand Ducal Oldenburg State Railways (Gro?herzoglich Oldenburgische Staatseisenbahnen).

    "Ever since the Reichstag has mandated that all steam lotives must be equipped with air brake systems and other safety devices to make lotive transportation safe, they were the first ten to have filed an order in yourpany."

    "This is huge," Jonathan said. "I mean this is amazing, Herr Stephan. But as you can see we also have a huge market in the United States. It will be hard for us to keep up with the sudden increase in demand."

    "So you are not going to ept the orders?" Stephan asked.

    "You are misunderstanding, Herr Stephan," Jonathan chuckled. "Of course, we want to ept these orders but as you all know, the United States is far from Germany. So instead of having us ship all the air brakes and signaling equipment out to this country, why not help us establish a branch here so that we can domestically produce it? We already found a location."

    "Oh? Where is that?" Stephan asked.

    "In Hanover," Jonathan answered.

    "Hanover huh? Very well, I''ll have my team look into it and inform you of its progress."

    "That would be helpful, thank you, Herr Stephan," Stephan stood and offered a handshake. Poul and Amelia followed.

 Chapter 95 Prospect In The Axelsen & Nielsen Arms Manufacturing Company

    The train rumbled along the tracks, the wheels grinding against the metal rails. Inside the first-ss car, the plush seats were a deep burgundy, the velvet cushions soft to the touch. The cabin was adorned with elegantmps that cast a warm, inviting glow throughout the space.

    Jonathan sat in one of the seats, his eyes scanning the newspaper in front of him. He wore a sharp ck suit thatplemented his blonde hair and angr features. Despite the calm expression on his face, he was deep in thought, contemting the uing agenda once he returned to Pittsburgh.

    Amelia, on the other hand, was slouched in her seat, her head tilted to the side as she tried to catch some sleep. Her navy blue hair was tied back in a neat bun, and her blue eyes were closed in peaceful slumber. Poul Nielsen, sat next to her, his gaze fixed on the passing scenery outside the window.

    Amelia stirred, her eyes opening wide as she realized that she had fallen asleep on Poul''s shoulder. "I''m sorry, Mr. Nielsen, I didn''t mean to," she whispered softly.

    "It''s quite alright, Ms. Weiss," Poul replied with a gentle smile. "You may rest your head on my shoulder if you like."

    Amelia felt her cheeks flush with embarrassment. She had always found Poul to be an attractive and charismatic boss, but she never imagined that he would offer her such a kind and intimate gesture. She hesitated for a moment, unsure of what to do.

    But as she looked into Poul''s warm golden eyes, she found herself nodding in agreement. Slowly, she leaned her head back onto his shoulder, feeling the soft fabric of his suit jacket against her cheek.

    Meanwhile, Jonathan peeked over the newspaper he was reading, watching as the two had their intimate moments. He sighed, rolling his eyes. The fact that Poul told Ameliast year that their rtionship was only a professional one kind of betrays what he was seeing in front of him.

    "You know that you could have misled her by offering that kind of gesture," Jonathan said.

    "Misled?" Poul repeated and tilted his head to the side. "What are you talking about Jonathan?"

    "I''m saying that kind of gesture was exclusive only for couples right? And you two are not a couple."

    Poul''s expression turned serious as he listened to Jonathan''s words.

    "I understand your concern, Jonathan," he said. "But I assure you that my intentions were purely tonic. Amelia was exhausted, and I simply wanted to offer her somefort on the journey."

    Jonathan raised an eyebrow skeptically. "I don''t know about that Poul," he said. "You confessed to me that you had a crush on her."

    "Jonathan you idiot," Poul hissed back in the corner of his lips and continued in a whisper. "You do realize that she''s in front of you right?"

    "If you really don''t have feelings for her, then why are you reacting so defensively?" Jonathan asked.

    Poul nced to his right and looked at Amelia''s face who was sleeping soundly on his shoulder. It seems like she is an easy sleeper, he hoped that she hadn''t heard their conversation just now.

    "Can we talk about something more rted to work?" Poul suggested, trying to change the topic of the conversation.

    "Well we have discussed pretty much everything rted to work while we are in Berlin, but I do have one interesting topic I read in the newspaper," Jonathan said.

    Poul heaved a sigh of relief inwardly, knowing that they wouldn''t talk about personal matters from this point onward.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "Okay, what is it?" Poul asked.

    "There is this article in the East about a possible war that might erupt between the Russian Empire and the Ottoman Empire, do you want me to read it?"

    "Go on," Poul prompted him to continue.

    "The threat of a new war looms over Europe as tensions rise between the Russian Empire and the Ottoman Empire. Rumors of impending conflict have been circting for months, and now it appears that the situation may being to a head.

    The roots of this conflict can be traced back to a long-standing rivalry between the two empires, as well as the desire of the Russian Empire to expand its influence in the region. The Ottoman Empire, meanwhile, seeks to maintain its own territorial integrity and to protect the interests of its people.

    The spark that ignited this potential conflict was a dispute over control of the holy ces in Jerusalem, which are sacred to both Christians and Muslims. The Ottoman Empire, which controlled the city, had granted certain rights to the Russian Orthodox Church, but tensions began to rise when the Russian Empire sought to expand these rights.

    The situation worsened when Russian troops began to mass on the Ottoman border, causing concern and rm among the Ottoman leadership. Diplomatic efforts to resolve the crisis have so far been unsessful, and now there is a real possibility that war may break out.

    The internationalmunity has been closely watching the situation, with many expressing concern about the potential consequences of a new conflict. Some fear that a wider war could erupt, drawing in other powers and plunging Europe into chaos and turmoil.

    For now, the situation remains tense and uncertain. The leaders of both empires must navigate carefully to avoid a conflict that could have devastating consequences for all involved. The world watches and waits to see how events will unfold in thistest chapter of the long-standing rivalry between the Russian Empire and the Ottoman Empire," Jonathan finished reading the newspaper.

    Poul propped up his chin as he hummed in thought. Based on the article Jonathan just read, he remembered something familiar from it. In his original world. The Crimean War. It was a conflict that urred in the mid-neenth century between the Russian Empire and an alliance of the Ottoman Empire, France, Great Britain, and Sardinia.

    He learned it from his history ss when he was in elementary school. But it''s odd, this world is already in thete neenth centurypared to their original world. Is there something that had happened before that could have dyed the start of the war? Or maybe, the history of this new world and his former world were not exactly the same.

    "Is there any more in the article?" Poul asked, intrigued by the possibility of learning more about this potential conflict.

    Jonathan scanned the article again. "Not much else, just spection about what might happen if war does break out," he replied. "But it''s clear that tensions are high, and the situation is vtile."

    Poul nodded thoughtfully. "It''s certainly a concerning development," he said. "We''ll need to keep a close eye on how things unfold in theing weeks and months."

    Amelia stirred again, her eyes fluttering open. "What are you two talking about?" she asked sleepily.

    Jonathan and Poul exchanged a quick nce before Jonathan replied, "Just discussing some current events in the news, Ms. Weiss."

    Amelia nodded, still groggy from her nap. "I see," she said, before settling back into her seat.

    As the train continued on its journey, the three of them fell into afortable silence, each lost in their own thoughts. Momentster, the two locked gaze, realizing the prospect of this war on their business, especially in their Arms Manufacturing Company.

    The corners of their lips curled into a smile. If a war breaks out, it means contracts will flood into their armspany.

 Chapter 96 Taking Every Opportunity That Comes In The Way

    The train eventually arrived at the Hamburg Port, and the trio made their way to the dock to board their ship. As they walked towards the vessel, the salty sea air filled their nostrils, and the sound of seagulls crying overhead added to the cacophony of the port.

    The ship was a majestic sight, with its towering masts and billowing sails. The crew was busy preparing the ship for its journey, their calls and shouts echoing across the dock. Passengers were milling about, some with excited expressions, while others looked anxious about the impending voyage.

    The wooden deck creaked beneath their feet as they boarded the ship, and the wind whipped through their hair as they made their way to their cabins.

    As they entered their cabin, they were greeted with a luxurious and spacious interior. The walls were adorned with elegant wallpaper and oil paintings of majestic ships, and the furniture was made of fine polished wood. The beds were covered with crisp white sheets and plush pillows, inviting them to sink into afortable slumber.

    "This is quite the amodation," Jonathan remarked, running his hand over the smooth surface of the wooden dresser.

    "It certainly is," Poul agreed, taking a seat in one of the velvet armchairs. "Just like the ship that took us here from New York."

    Poul''s gaze flickered to Amelia. "Ms. Weiss, could you please give us the room for a minute? I have something to discuss with my partner."

    "Of course, Mr. Nielsen, if you need anything, please reach out to me in my room," she said, curtsying. She turned around and left the cabin.

    As Amelia closed the door behind her, Poul and Jonathan began.

    "This waring to Europe in theing months or year would result in a greater impact on one of our enterprises," Poul said.

    "Yeah, our arms manufacturingpany. The war will be a stage of introduction for our rifles. The United States Military was buying them but if this war broke out and saw the effectiveness and advantages of it, they''ll surely buy hundreds of thousands more."

    "It''s true what they say, there''s always money in guns in this era," Poul said. "And if that''s the case, we can''t just settle in our rifles. Let''s expand to pistols and machine guns."

    "What type of pistol? Semi-automatic pistols or Revolvers," Jonathan asked.

    "What do you think is more popr in this era?"

    Jonathan hummed in thought and spoke. "I think it''s the revolvers. Semi-automatic rifles in thete-neenth century were not yet widely used, so I assume the same goes for pistols."

    "But there''s fiercepetition between arms manufacturingpanies to develop the most efficient and powerful revolvers. If we want to stand out, we must offer something different. If we can build the M1 Garand, I''m sure we can already build it."

    "What weapon do you have in mind?"

    "How about an M1911 Colt Pistol?" Poul proposed.

    Jonathan stroked his chin, pondering the idea. "Yes, the Colt pistol is a ssic design that has stood the test of time. Its semi-automatic action is revolutionary, allowing for faster shooting and increased uracy. We can definitely build upon its foundation and make improvements based on our experience with the M1 Garand."<novelnext></novelnext>

    He leaned in closer, his eyes glinting with excitement. "We could experiment with different barrel lengths and calibers, perhaps even incorporate a new type of rifling that we''ve developed. And the trigger mechanism, we could refine it to make it even smoother and more responsive."

    Poul''s eyes gleamed with enthusiasm. "I like where you''re going with this. What about the grip? Can we change it to make it more ergonomic?"

    The M1911 pistol, like many firearms of its time, had a design that some modern shooters might consider less ergonomic than contemporary designs. For example, the grip angle of the M1911 is steeper than most modern pistols, which can make it feel less natural in the hand for some shooters.

    Jonathan nodded, smiling. "Absolutely. We can design a grip that fits the hand morefortably, reducing recoil and increasing uracy.

    Jonathan nodded, smiling. "This is taking me back to a time when we were discussing the M1 Garand. Well, I think it''s already decided. Semi-automatic pistol it is."

    "Oh, in this period, this world already has machine guns and artillery," Jonathan said.

    "The Hiram machine gun? I read about it in the newspaper some time ago. Invented by a man named Hiram Maxim, which is basically the parallel Hiram Maxim in our world. But this one is earlier. So, should wepete with machine guns as well?"

    "As much as I would love to, we must not diversify our production into creating different products. A pistol would do, and once we expanded, we can start designing our own machine gun," Jonathan said and continued. "Am I the only one who is feeling kind of odd talking about this?"

    "What do you mean?" Poul inquired.

    Jonathan''s smile faded, reced by a pensive look. "It just feels like a deviation from our original n," he said. "We set out to revolutionize the world of electricity, and now we''re delving into the world of weapons and steam lotive devices."

    Poul leaned back in his chair, steepling his fingers in thought. "I understand your concerns, Jonathan," he said. "But sometimes, our ns and goals can shift and evolve as we move forward. We must be adaptable and willing to seize opportunities when they present themselves."

    "Not that I''m against it, Poul. Don''t misunderstand me," Jonathan said.

    I know, Jonathan," Poul replied, offering a reassuring smile. "We''re just taking advantage of the circumstances and making the best out of it. Our business is expanding, and we''re making a name for ourselves in different industries. We can always go back to our original n of revolutionizing electricity when the time is right. And speaking of which, you told me that Caroline is ready to invest money in case we want to start right?"

    "That is right," Jonathan confirmed.

    "Well, she''s in luck, because in a year or two, we might start our electric distribution and manufacturing enterprise. Electricity is taking the world by storm, with our electric motors that are making work, and James Russel''s light bulbs that are lighting up the night. No doubt, there will be an increased demand for electricity, and the direct current distribution wouldn''t be able to keep up with that demand. That''s where wee in."

    "But first, let''s take each and every opportunity thates our way right?" Jonathan asked, his smile returning.

    "Damn right," Poul said.

 Chapter 97 Completing The Biggest Contract

    It was a typical autumn day in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The trees outside were changing colors, their leaves turning into shades of orange, yellow, and red.

    Inside the office of Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company, Poul and Jonathan were working diligently on their daily tasks, sifting through files and stamping documents. The air was filled with the sounds of rustling papers and the asional hum of the machines.

    Suddenly, the door to the office burst open, and in walked Amelia, holding a file tightly against her chest. Her bright smile lit up the room as she greeted the two men.

    "Good afternoon, Mr. Axelsen, Mr. Nielsen. I just arrived from the bank to check if Mr. Wanderbilt already made the transfer," she said.

    Poul and Jonathan looked up at her with anticipation in their eyes. The transfer from Mr. Wanderbilt had been the talk of the town for days, and they had been anxiously awaiting the news.

    "Well, has he already made the transfer?" Poul asked eagerly.

    Amelia couldn''t hold back her excitement any longer. She grinned from ear to ear and nodded her head vigorously.

    "Twelve million and five hundred thousand dors are already reflected on thepany''s bank statement," she announced triumphantly.

    Poul and Jonathan let out a whoop of joy, their smiles spreading across their faces. They exchanged a look of sheer happiness.

    "Yes!" Jonathan eximed, jumping out of his seat and throwing the documents up in the air. He quickly retrieved them,ughing at his own mistake. "Oh no, I am working on one of the documents there¡­"

    The Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company justpleted their twenty-five million dor contract from Mr. Wanderbilt, not only that, they secured a partnership from his railroads where theirpany will be the one to retrofit their future steam lotives with air brakes, heating systems, automatic couplers, lotive draft gear, and suspension system.

    "We are going to keep iting," Poul eximed, waving his hand.

    "Well we might as well take it easy, Poul," Jonathan said. "Even though I''m happy that we are getting orders left and right if we can''t keep up with the demand, we might end up losing our reputation and customers," Jonathan said, his tone serious.

    Poul nodded in agreement, realizing the importance of keeping up with demand while maintaining quality.

    "You''re right, Jonathan. We need to make sure we have the resources and manpower to handle all these orders."

    He then flickered his gaze back to their executive secretary, Amelia.

    "So Amelia, that''s the line of business, has your team alreadye up with a way to deal with those challenges?"

    Amelia nodded, her expression determined. "Yes, Mr. Nielsen. We''ve been working on a new n to streamline our production processes and increase efficiency. We''re also looking into hiring more workers to meet the demand," she said confidently.

    Poul and Jonathan were impressed by her initiative and determination.

    "That''s excellent work, Amelia. Keep us updated on the progress," Poul said with a smile.

    Amelia nodded and turned to leave the room, but just as she reached the door, she paused and turned back around. "Oh, and Mr. Nielsen, Ms. Dupont would like to have a conversation with you over the phone at three o''clock in the afternoon. Please see to it that you''re avable at that time," she said, her voice professional and efficient.

    "Did she tell you what we are going to talk about?" Poul asked, curious as to why Caroline would want to talk with them.

    Amelia shook her head. "No, she didn''t mention anything specific, just that it''s important and urgent," she replied.

    Jonathan frowned slightly, wondering what could be so urgent that Caroline would want to speak with them directly. "Alright, thank you for letting us know, Amelia. We''ll make sure to be avable at three o''clock," he said, dismissing her with a nod.

    As soon as Amelia had left the room, Poul turned to Jonathan, a look of concern on his face. "What do you think could be the cause as to why Caroline wanted to talk to us?"<novelnext></novelnext>

    Jonathan shrugged his shoulders as he read the document in his hand. "I have no idea, Poul. But whatever that is, I''m sure it''s rted to the business."

    "Jonathan, if you want, you can be the one to talk to her. I''m busy at three o''clock anyway as I have a meeting with the engineers in the drawing room."

    "Really?" Jonathan looked at Poul in surprise.

    "Do you not want to talk to her? I mean, you two haven''t seen each other for so long, you might use this opportunity to catch up to one another," Poul exined.

    "I see," Jonathan nodded slowly. "Well, I guess that makes sense. It has been a while since west spoke," he said, his tone thoughtful.

    The rest of the day passed by in a blur of meetings and paperwork. Poul and Jonathan were both preupied with their own tasks, but their minds kept drifting back to the impending call from Caroline.

    Finally, three o''clock rolled around. Poul already excused himself and is now on his way to the drawing room. Jonathan, on the other hand, waited patiently for the ck rotary telephone sitting on his desk to ring.

    Finally, the telephone rang. He quicklyposed himself and answered the call, "Hello, this is Jonathan Axelsen speaking."

    "Good afternoon, Mr. Axelsen. This is Caroline Dupont speaking. I appreciate you taking my call," Caroline spoke with aposed and refined voice. "But let us not dwell on formalities, I believe you are curious as to the purpose of my call?"

    "To be honest, Poul and I were guessing what it would be."

    "Oh, really?" Caroline mused. "Well then, what is your spection?"

    "Business?" Jonathan disclosed.

    "Indeed, Mr. Axelsen, we are here to discuss business," Caroline responded with a refined tone. "I was informed by Amelia that you are working on developing a new type of pistol for the military?"

    "Yes, we asked Ms. Weiss to inform you about it. With the situation in Europe, the prospect of war is imminent, and at any moment, it could escte into a full-blown conflict," Jonathan exined.

    "I presume you intend to capitalize on this opportunity?" Caroline inquired.

    "That is correct, Caroline. The arms industry is lucrative in this era and we want to make the most out of it. The pistol would serve as another great product from the Axelsen & Nielsen Arms Manufacturing Company."

    "Why limit yourself to developing pistols when you could create a machine gun like Hiram''s invention? I am certain that the military generals would be more interested in acquiring machine guns than pistols," Caroline suggested.

    "Well, maybe but the production line so far is focused on AN-M1 to meet the orders from the United States Military. At this moment, we can only make pistols," Jonathan exined.

    "I see, well, I''m sure you are going to need a continued supply of smokeless gunpowder right?"

    "Yes, we are going to need tons of it," Jonathan said, chuckling.

    "Very well, I shall see what I can do. But before we end this call, Jonathan, I must inquire, when do you intend to establish an electricpany? James Russel has been receiving contracts from the states, and if you do not want to be left behind, I suggest you start your venture in electricity next year," Caroline rmended.

    "There''s no rush, Caroline. Let James Russell have his streak of contracts."

    "I''m just saying," Caroline said. "Well, I have nothing more to discuss, we can end this call. Goodbye Jonathan."

    "Goodbye, Caroline."

 Chapter 98 A Rather Technical Meeting

    The engineers of the Axelsen & Nielsen Companies were gathered in the drawing room, intently watching a demonstration being conducted by Poul.

    Poul had set up two sets of primary and secondary wires, each connected to voltmeters, with one set powered by a direct current source and the other by an alternating current source. The engineers were examining the apparatus closely, trying to spot any differences between the two.

    It was Walter who noticed something unique about the readings on the voltmeters. He raised his hand and spoke up.

    "I believe the voltmeter reading that is connected to the alternate current source moves left and right, while the voltmeter connected to the direct current source only moves once, when the switch is first turned on, and then stays at zero," Walter observed.

    Poul nodded, impressed by Walter''s sharp observation. "Excellent, Mr. Schneider. Can you exin why that is?"

    Walter stood up, feeling a sense of pride at being given the opportunity to demonstrate his knowledge to his colleagues.

    "The principle of electromaic induction is at y here," he exined. "The alternating current source generates an osciting maic field that induces a current in the secondary coil, causing the voltmeter to move back and forth. On the other hand, the direct current source generates a static maic field, which does not induce a current in the secondary coil."

    Poul smiled approvingly, nodding at Walter''s exnation. The other engineers were equally impressed, nodding in agreement and murmuring amongst themselves.

    "Why are we having this demonstration, Mr. Nielsen?" Timothy asked, raising his hand.

    "Electric transmission has be increasingly popr in recent times, Mr. Anderson, and this is due to the pioneering work of James Russell, who electrified the states one by one," Poul exined in a measured and professional tone. "However, direct current, or DC, which is the technology that Russell used, has a significant drawback. As the electricity travels over longer distances, more power is lost due to resistance. This is why Russell''s electricity could only travel a maximum of one mile without significant loss. In essence, it''s like a hose with a knot in it, restricting the flow of electricity."

    He continued, "Moreover, to power the homes of 90 customers, Russell would need to sell one generator per mile and make a staggering ny thousand feet of copper wiring, which is both inefficient and costly."

    "So you are implying that you want to build an alternating current system?" Timothy inquired, raising a brow. "It will only be able to power lights but not the motors because it is too powerful. The clients James Russell had are after productivity."

    "We will get to that, but first, let''s return to the demonstration and see the transmission of both currents. In the first circuit, we are to transfer ten volts to the other end. It is connected to a direct current power source. What do you see?"

    Timothy nced at the voltmeter and answered.

    "Eight volts. The two volts were lost during the transmission." He then flickered his gaze to another circuit that is connected to an alternating current source and there he spotted the difference. "It''s ten volts."

    "By now, you should be able to appreciate the key differences between alternating current and direct current ," Poul began, his voice steady and measured. "AC power can be stepped up and down in voltage, allowing us to adjust the voltage and current for different applications. By stepping up the voltage, we can reduce the current and minimize power loss during transmission. Conversely, by stepping down the voltage, we can increase the current and provide the appropriate voltage for end-users."

    He continued, "In contrast, DC power generates a static maic field, which cannot induce electricity. Power loss is proportional to the square of the current times the resistance. If we reduce the current to prevent power loss, we would also be reducing the amount of power that can be transmitted. This would require us to generate more power, which is not a sustainable solution."

    Poul paused, allowing his words to sink in before continuing. "Alternatively, we can increase the resistance in a DC system, typically by using thicker wires. However, this can be expensive and impractical in many cases. This is why AC power is the future of electrical transmission as it is cheaperpared to DC."<novelnext></novelnext>

    "Is there already a device that allows for the principle of stepping up and down the voltage?" Walter asked.

    "There it is, it''s called a transformer," Poul revealed. "It''s a simple device really, just two separate coils that are wrapped around an iron bar. The concept is also simple. If the primary wire has less coils than the secondary, that''s a step-up transformer, conversely, if the primary wire has more wires than the secondary, that is a step-down transformer."

    "So, Mr. Nielsen. May I assume that you n to start an electricpany sometime soon andpete with Russell?" he asked, his voiceced with curiosity.

    Poul didn''t hesitate to confirm Timothy''s suspicions. "That''s correct, Mr. Anderson. We might start it in the next year or two," he said, a determined glint in his eye.

    Walter, ever the practical thinker, raised his hand, eager to discuss the technicalities of the proposed venture.

    "What about the motors that will work in the AC systems?" he asked, his brow furrowed with concern.

    Poul smiled, his confidence unshaken. "As for the motors, I have alreadye up with a design for it. It''s called an induction motor," he replied.

    "How does that work? Do you already have the schematic drawn?" Walter asked again.

    Poul pulled out a blueprint and unfurled it on the table. The engineers stood close to the table to see it.

    "An induction motor is a type of AC motor that works on the principle of electromaic induction," he began. "It consists of a stator, which is the stationary part of the motor, and a rotor, which is the rotating part of the motor. The stator contains a series of copper windings that produce a rotating maic field when AC power is applied to them."

    He paused, allowing his words to sink in before continuing. "The rotor, on the other hand, is made up of a series of conductive bars or short-circuited coils that are mounted on an iron core. When the rotating maic field produced by the stator passes over the conductive bars, it induces a current in them, which creates another maic field that interacts with the stator''s maic field, causing the rotor to spin."

    The engineers listened intently, nodding in understanding as Poul exined the workings of the induction motor. They were impressed by his expertise and knowledge of electrical engineering.

    Poul continued, "Induction motors are more efficient and reliable than DC motors, and they don''t require brushes ormutators, which can wear out over time. They''re also less expensive to manufacture and maintain, which makes them ideal for a wide range of applications, from powering small appliances to driving heavy machinery."

    The engineers crowded around the blueprint, examining it closely and asking questions as Poul patiently exined eachponent and how it worked.

    The motor that is drawn in the blueprint is a three-phase induction motor, which is the mostmon type of induction motor used in industrial settings. It requires three separate AC power sources that are out of phase with each other, which creates a rotating maic field that drives the rotor.

    As the meeting drew to a close, Poul looked around at his colleagues, a sense of satisfaction filling him.

    "So that''s about it, everyone. It''s best that we n ahead," Poul said, smiling.

 Chapter 99 The News Across Europe

    Poul left the drawing room, his mind abuzz with satisfaction. He had just introduced his engineers to the wonders of the alternating current system, a feat that had been three years in the making. It had not been an easy road, not after the unfortunate ident in the train station that had imed so many lives. But now, they had crossed a threshold, and there was no going back.

    Their electricpany would be up and running soon, and they would finally be able topete with James Russel for electrical distribution. As Poul strode down the hallway toward the entrance, his thoughts were interrupted by the sight of someone approaching him. He squinted his eyes to get a better look and saw that it was Jonathan.

    "Jonathan, did you just finish talking to Caroline?" Poul asked as they drew closer to each other.

    "Yeah, she called me about the pistol we are going to develop for the military," Jonathan replied before continuing. "She also suggested that we start an electricpany soon if we don''t want to fall behind James Russel."

    Poul''s brows rose in surprise. "She really said that? Because what a coincidence, I just finished debriefing our engineers back there in the drawing room about the AC system we are going to develop in the near future."

    "Really? That''s great news," Jonathan said, clearly pleased. "I was about to tell you when we were going to start it. So, next year?"

    "Probably by mid-season," Poul replied, his mind already racing ahead to the next steps. "But we still have to apply for a patent for electrical distribution, such as the alternator and the transformer."

    "Aren''t those electrical devices already invented at this time of year?" Jonathan asked curiously.

    "They might have been, but we have to ensure that we don''t infringe on any existing patents. If someone has already invented a transformer and an AC dynamo, then I''ll just have to design a superior and modern one to get around any potential infringement."

    Jonathan nodded thoughtfully as they continued walking toward the entrance. "It''s a smart move to make sure we don''t run into any legal issues. I''ll talk to Caroline about expediting the patent application process."

    Poul smiled in appreciation. "Thanks, Jonathan. I''m sure Caroline has connections to the officers of the patent office. I''m going back to the office to write a patent application. Are youing with me?"

    "I''m going to oversee the production of the AN-M1," Jonathan said, shaking his head. "I have to make sure that we are not producing any defects."

    "Very well," Poul nodded understandingly. "We can''t afford any mistakes, especially with the military contract."

    Jonathan gave a wry smile. "Not to mention, Morgan will have my head if we don''t deliver on time. Oh speaking of Morgan, should we inform him about our electric venture?"

    "Nah, he is already backing James Russell. We will go with Caroline this time, I heard that she is willing to provide, right?"

    "Damn right."

    ***

    November 5 883,

    It was a chilly autumn day in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and Poul was busy at work. The industrious inventor was hunched over his notebook, scribbling away with his pen as he worked on designs for the electrical transformer. He paused momentarily, taking a bite of the juicy apple in his hand and pondering the problem at hand. Suddenly, the door to his workshop swung open, and he looked up to see Jonathan walking in, a newspaper in hand and a serious expression on his face.

    Without wasting any time, Jonathan cut straight to the chase. "There are two things you need to know," he said urgently. "One is less serious, and the other is urgent. Where do you want me to start?"

    Poul furrowed his brow, sensing that something significant was afoot. "Let''s start with the less serious one first," he replied, steeling himself for whatever news was toe.

    Jonathan took a deep breath and began to speak. "The AC dynamo and electrical transformer have already been patented in Europe," he said. "The electrical transformer by Gard and Gibbs, and the AC dynamo by Siemens."

    Poul raised an eyebrow in surprise. "Is that so?" he mused. "Well, we''ll just have to proceed as nned. We''ll apply for our own patent for a dynamo and transformer."<novelnext></novelnext>

    "How?" Jonathan asked. Poul took a deep breath, clearly excited about the prospect of delving into the technical details of his design. "Well, Gard and Gibbs'' transformer uses a single iron core with two separate windings, which are connected in series," he began, gesturing animatedly with his hands. "This results in a step-up transformer, where the output voltage is higher than the input voltage. However, it also means that the transformer is not very efficient, as the maic field generated by one winding will induce a current in the other winding, leading to energy losses in the form of heat."

    Jonathan nodded thoughtfully, clearly impressed with Poul''s knowledge of the subject. "So what''s your solution?" he asked.

    Poul grinned. "My design uses two separate iron cores, each with its own winding. This allows for a more efficient transformer, as the two maic fields do not interfere with each other. Additionally, I''m using a core made fromminated sheets of iron, which reduces the energy losses even further."

    Jonathan whistled appreciatively. "That''s quite an improvement," he said. "What about the dynamo?"

    Poul''s grin widened. "Ah, the dynamo. Well, Siemens'' design uses a single loop of wire rotating inside a maic field to generate an AC current. It''s a clever design, but it has its limitations. For one, it only generates AC current in one direction, which means it can''t power devices that require a DC current. Additionally, it requires a lot of maintenance, as the brushes that transfer the current from the rotating wire to the external circuit wear out quickly."

    Jonathan leaned in, clearly fascinated. "And your design?" he prompted.

    Poul leaned back, clearly relishing the chance to show off his ingenuity. "My design uses a system of multiple loops of wire, arranged in a circr pattern around the central axle," he exined. "Each loop generates its own AC current, but they are all synchronized so that they are in phase with each other. This allows for a more stable and reliable output current, and it can easily be converted to DC current if needed. Plus, it requires much less maintenance than Siemens'' design, as it doesn''t rely on brushes."

    "Well, that''s good to know. Now that it is settled, do you want me to reveal to you the next urgent matter?"

    "What is it?" Poul asked.

    Jonathan handed a newspaper to Poul. "Read it yourself, the Russian Empire just dered war on the Ottoman Empire."

    "Huh?" Poul raised a brow as he received the newspaper. He unfolded it and read the article.

    [St. Petersburg, November 5, 883

    In a stunning development, the Russian Empire dered war on the Ottoman Empire, citing years of conflict over control of the Crimean penins. The announcement, made by Emperor Alexander III in a public address today, marks a significant esction of hostilities between the two powers.

    The roots of the conflict date back to the 8th century, when Russia began expanding into the ck Sea region, which had traditionally been dominated by the Ottoman Empire. In the years since, tensions between the two nations have grown, with Russia seeking to expand its influence and the Ottoman Empire seeking to maintain its territorial integrity.

    In recent years, the situation has grown increasingly vtile, with skirmishes and incidents of violence urring along the border between the two nations. Russia has used the Ottoman Empire of mistreating its Christian minority poptions, while the Ottomans have used Russia of meddling in their internal affairs.

    In his address, Emperor Alexander III cited these ongoing tensions as the reason for the deration of war. He emphasized that the conflict was not a rash decision, but rather the result of years of careful consideration and diplomatic efforts to resolve the situation peacefully.

    "The Ottoman Empire has shown time and time again that it is unwilling to negotiate in good faith," the Emperor said. "We have exhausted all diplomatic avenues and have no choice but to take action to protect our sovereignty and the safety of our people."

    The deration of war has sent shockwaves throughout Europe, with neighboring powers such as Britain and France expressing concern about the potential for a wider conflict. The Ottoman Empire, for its part, has vowed to defend itself and its territories against what it called "aggressive Russian expansionism."

    As the world watches and waits, the fate of the region hangs in the bnce. The conflict between Russia and the Ottoman Empire entered a dangerous new phase, and the stakes could not be higher. The war has the potential to reshape the bnce of power in Europe and the Middle East, with far-reaching consequences that couldst for generations.]

    After reading the article, Jonathan spoke. "You know what this means to us right?"

    "Yeah," Poul nodded. "Expect that there''ll be orders from the foreign market soon."

 Chapter 100 Foreign Customer

    November 12th, 883.

    It''s been a week since the Russian Empire dered war on the Ottoman Empire. The industrialist duo was reading the newspaper, reading the article about the British and France reaction.

    [In a swift response to the news of Russia''s deration of war on the Ottoman Empire, the British Empire and France announced their intention to support the Ottoman Empire in the conflict. The move marks a significant esction of the hostilities in the region and sets the stage for a wider conflict.

    Both the British and French governments have long been concerned about Russia''s expanding influence in the ck Sea region, and the deration of war has raised fears of Russian aggression. The Ottoman Empire has been a key ally of both nations for centuries, and they have pledged to defend their friend and ally against what they see as an act of aggression by Russia.

    "The British Empire stands firmly behind the Ottoman Empire in this time of crisis," said Prime Minister Lord Aberdeen in a statement. "We will not stand idly by while Russia seeks to expand its influence and threaten the stability of the region."

    French Emperor Napoleon III echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the need for a united front against Russian aggression. "France will not hesitate to stand with our allies in defense of our shared interests and values," he said.

    The decision to support the Ottoman Empire has not been without controversy, however. Some critics have questioned the wisdom of entering into a potentially costly conflict on behalf of a foreign power, while others have expressed concern about the potential for the conflict to escte further.

    Despite these concerns, the British Empire and France have pledged to support the Ottoman Empire in the conflict, and the world waits to see what the oue of this tense and dangerous situation will be.]

    Folding the newspaper, Jonathan could only sigh. "So this war is unfolding like it was in our world huh?"

    "Yeah, good thing that we didn''t sleep in our history ss," Poul let out a chuckle. "The Russian Empire will lose against the allied forces. But given that this is an alternate world, they may win, if they are equipped with our weapons."

    In the following days of the Russian deration of war, the industrialist duo received a call from the Russian legation in Washington D.C., asking if they could meet them in the headquarters.

    The two sensed immediately the purposes of the visit, it would be them inquiring about the AN-M1 Garand that they are selling to the United States Military. For the industrialist duo, they don''t care who they are selling their products to, as long as they are making money and using it as intended, then there''s no problem.

    For them, this is not a moral question but rather a self-interest. If they care about the weapons being used to take lives, then they wouldn''t introduce them.

    As they waited patiently in their office, a knock on the door was heard.

    "Enter," Jonathan called and the door opened, revealing their executive secretary, Amelia.

    "Mr. Axelsen, Mr. Nielsen, the ambassador of the Russian Empire, has just arrived. Should I show him in?" Amelia asked, looking between the two of them.

    Jonathan and Poul shared a quick nce before nodding in unison. "Yes, please show him in," Poul replied, standing up from his desk and smoothing down his suit jacket.

    A few momentster, the Russian ambassador was shown into their office by Amelia. He was a tall, imposing man with a stern expression written on his face.

    As the ambassador entered the room, his eyes darted around, taking in the simplicity of the industrialist duo''s office.

    The ambassador took a seat in one of the plush armchairs opposite the industrialist duo, his expression still stern and unyielding. His eyes locked onto theirs, and for a moment, the room was filled with tense silence.<novelnext></novelnext>

    Then, the ambassador spoke. "Gentlemen, I havee to discuss a matter of great importance with you."

    Jonathan and Poul exchanged another look, both sensing that this conversation would not be an easy one.

    "We are listening," Jonathan said, his voice calm and measured.

    The ambassador took a deep breath before continuing. "As you are likely aware, my country is currently at war with the Ottoman Empire. We are in need of advanced weaponry to properly equip our troops and defend our country."

    Jonathan and Poul nodded, already knowing where this conversation was headed.

    "We have received word that your esteemed establishment is currently providing the United States Military with a most impressive firearm, the AN-M1. My officers have spoken of it in glowing terms, convinced that it may grant the Russian Empire the triumph we so desperately require. It is with great interest that we seek to acquire a number of these rifles for our own use."

    The industrialist duo exchanged a nce, both knowing the implications of this request.

    "How many do you need?" Poul asked.

    "Poul, we require one hundred and fifty thousand rifles. We''ll pay sixty percent of the total cost in gold, and the rest in dors," the ambassador stated, before adding, "My apologies for not introducing myself earlier. I am Anatoly Alexandrovich de Witz, the ambassador representing our nation."

    "It''s fine. I''m Poul Nielsen and this man right here is Jonathan Axelsen. We are the founders of the Axelsen & Nielsen Arms Manufacturing Company. And our reply to your request is that we ept it. One hundred fifty thousand rifles, but we will need those sixty percent to put your orders into production."

    "How much would it cost us?" Anatoly asked.

    Poul performs mathematical calctions in his head, calcting the total cost for the order of one hundred and fifty thousand AN-M1 rifles.

    "Well, we are selling the AN-M1 rifles for forty dors per unit. If you''d want to order one hundred and fifty thousand rifles, it will cost you six million dors. Since it is a bulk order, we can give you a ten percent discount. However, since you are a foreign market, there will be logistical and shipping costs."

    Anatoly''s eyes widened at the mention of the price, but he remainedposed. "That is a substantial sum, Mr. Nielsen. However, we are willing to pay the price for the quality of your products. We agree to the terms you have proposed, and will provide the necessary funds to start production as soon as possible."

    "Excellent," Poul said, smiling. "We will send you the necessary contracts and agreements for the order, and we can start production immediately upon receiving the deposit. We assure you that the rifles will be of the highest quality, and we will work tirelessly to ensure timely delivery."

    Anatoly nodded, a sense of relief evident on his face. "Thank you, I hope you will deliver the rifles in time. I appreciate your cooperation in this matter, and I am sure that these rifles will prove to be a valuable asset to our military."

    "When are you going to need the rifles?" Jonathan chimed in.

    "The sooner the better," Anatoly replied.

    "Very well."

 Chapter 101 Prelude To The AN-M1 Debut In The War

    Jonathan and Poul spent the rest of the day finalizing the details of the order with their team. They were both excited and nervous about the prospect of fulfilling such arge order for a foreign government, especially considering the current state of war in the region. However, they were confident in their abilities to deliver quality products on time.

    As they sat in their office, surrounded by piles of paperwork and contracts, they couldn''t help but reflect on the gravity of their situation. They were no longer just businessmen, concerned only with profits and market share. They were now yers in a global conflict, with the power to shape the course of history.

    The war between the Russian Empire and the Ottoman Empire had been brewing for years, with tensions running high in the region. The involvement of the British Empire and France had only added fuel to the fire, with both sides now fighting for control of the ck Sea and the surrounding territories.

    Jonathan and Poul knew that the rifles they were producing would y a crucial role in the conflict. They knew that their products would be used to take lives, defend borders, and shape the future of entire nations. It was a responsibility that weighed heavily on them, but it was also a challenge that they were eager to take on.

    Over the next few weeks, the industrialist duo worked tirelessly to ramp up production and ensure that the rifles would be ready for shipment as soon as possible. They hired additional workers and invested in new machinery, working around the clock to meet the demand.

    As they worked, news of the war continued to reach them. The conflict was escting, with both sides suffering heavy losses. But the lead was on the Russian Empire who just won in the Battle of Sinop, which took ce on December 30, 883. It was a decisive victory for the Russian Empire, causing significant damage to the Ottoman Navy. However, the victory had unintended consequences. The European allies of the Ottoman Empire, Britain, and France were rmed by the Russian aggression and the defeat of the Ottoman Navy. This led them to take a more active role in the conflict. In early 884, the allies sent naval fleets to the ck Sea to establish a blockade of the Russian coastline, effectively isting the Russian army in the region and limiting their ability to receive reinforcements and supplies.

    Despite the turmoil, Jonathan and Poul remained focused on their work. Actively looking up the news to check the development of the war.

    Finally, after weeks of hard work, the first batch of orders was ready for shipment. Ten thousand AN-M1 rifles, carefully packaged andbeled, were loaded onto a cargo ship bound for Russia.

    As the cargo ship sailed away from the port, Jonathan and Poul watched it disappear into the horizon with a mix of relief and trepidation.

    "Phew," Poul sighed. "At least we were able to produce ten thousand rifles. I hope their introduction in the war would increase our market share in the region."

    "Well, they''ll know soon enough that our rifles will prove superior to the ones they are currently using. I wonder what faces the allied forces are going to make when they meet Russian forces equipped with AN-M1 rifles."

    ***

    March 10th 884.

    Meanwhile, in one of the towns in Crimea, General Gorbachev was in the tent, debriefing strategies and tactics with other generals and officers. He pointed at the map, moving his finger across the terrain as he spoke. The atmosphere in the tent was tense, with everyone acutely aware of the gravity of the situation.

    "We need to establish a strong defense line here," Gorbachev said, pointing to a spot on the map. "If we can hold this position, we can prevent the allied forces from advancing further. Our priority now is to secure our supply lines and hold our ground until reinforcements arrive."

    The other officers nodded in agreement, but there was an underlying sense of unease. They were facing a formidable enemy, and their resources were dwindling. The blockade of the ck Sea had made it difficult for them to receive supplies and reinforcements, and they were outnumbered by the allied forces.

    The ck Sea was an essential waterway that connected Russia to the Mediterranean and beyond, providing a critical link in their trade and supply chain. As the only warm-water port that Russia had ess to, it yed a pivotal role in the empire''s logistics and transportation. Without it, the Russian Empire would face severe challenges in importing and exporting goods, as well as in supplying its military forces, which they are facing right now.

    Though there had been strategies employed to counter the naval blockade imposed by the allies in the ck Sea such as using smaller and faster ships to evade the blockade and transport goods and troops and strengthening their coastal defenses. But it was an uphill battle. The allies had a significant advantage in terms of naval power and were determined to keep the Russian Empire contained.

    As he was scanning the map and speaking to his officers and generals, a thought suddenly struck him, causing him to pause mid-sentence.

    "Wait a minute," he said, turning to the group. "Aren''t we supposed to receive a shipment of new weapons from the United States?"

    Just as the words left his mouth, a messenger burst into the tent, his breathsing in ragged gasps as he saluted the General.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "Sir, a row of carriages carrying crates has just arrived in our position," the messenger reported, his voice filled with urgency.

    "What does the crate contain?" Gorbachev asked.

    The messenger paused for a moment to catch his breath before answering. "I''m not sure, sir. But they bear markings that suggest they are weapons crates from the United States."

    Gorbachev''s heart raced with excitement. The timing couldn''t have been more perfect. With the blockade in ce, the Russian army was in desperate need of supplies, and the arrival of the new weapons would give them a much-needed advantage in the conflict.

    "Get those crates open immediately," Gorbachev ordered, his voice ringing with authority. "I want to see what we''ve got."

    The officers and generals moved quickly, gathering around the crates as they were pried open. Inside, they found rows upon rows of brand-new rifles, still gleaming from their packing grease. The soldiers carefully lifted the weapons out of their crates, inspecting them with a mix of curiosity and awe.

    "These are AN-M1 rifles," one of the officers who delivered the rifles said, his eyes widening with excitement. "They are thetest weapons that were developed in the United States by the Axelsen & Nielsen Arms Manufacturing Company. ording to its manuals, it is a semi-automatic rifle that can fire ten rounds in quick session without cycling a lever. Aspared to our rifles, the Mosin-Nagant 878, the AN-M1 rifles are far superior in terms of uracy and rate of fire. They are also lighter and morepact, making them easier to handle and transport."

    General Gorbachev examined the rifles closely, nodding in approval. "You said that it can fire in quick session without cycling? I want to see it."

    "Very well, General. Allow me to demonstrate."

    The officer quickly loaded the rifle and took aim at a nearby tree. With a steady hand, he pulled the trigger, and the rifle let out a series of rapid-fire shots, each one hitting its mark with precision. The soldiers around him cheered, impressed by the weapon''s speed and uracy.

    Gorbachev nodded in satisfaction. "So this is what you are talking about huh? It can indeed fire without cycling."

    Gorbachev''s mind raced with thoughts of a potential encounter between his troops and the allied forces. He imagined his soldiers marching forward, trampling over the opposition with the aid of their AN-M1 rifles. With their superior fire rate and simplified reloading process, the AN-M1s would give their troops a distinct advantage over their enemies.

    He can''t wait to test it out on the actual battlefield.

    "How many AN-M1 rifles are delivered to us?" Gorbachev asked.

    "About ten thousand rifles, General."

    "Distribute the weapons to our trained men," Gorbachev ordered. "Let them have a feel of the new weapon, fire a couple of rounds if needed but without wasting it too much. I''m sure we have a limited supply of bullets."

    The officers and generals quickly set to work, distributing the new rifles to their trained soldiers. As each soldier held the weapon in their hands and tested its weight and bnce, they could feel the difference from their old rifles. They marveled at the AN-M1''s sleek design and impressive firepower, and the excitement was palpable among the troops.

    Gorbachev watched with satisfaction as his men quickly adapted to the new weapons. Now, they just have to wait for the allied forces toe at them in Crimea.

    Three monthster, the allied forces made a surprisending in Crimea on June 14th, 884, and marched towards Sevastopol. General Gorbachev was informed about that and marched towards the defensive position in Alma Heights.

    There, the AN-M1 rifle will make its debut.

 Chapter 102 AN-M1 Debut

    The morning sun cast a warm glow over the in as the allied army assembled. The British troops were stationed on the left of the Sevastopol Road, with the French and Turks positioned on the right, stretching out towards the coast. The n was for the two armies to advance simultaneously on a broad front and try to turn the enemy''s nk on the left further ind.

    "Hold your ground, men! Don''t let them take an inch!" the Frenchmander shouted to his soldiers, the strength of his shout was gradually losing as he found something odd.

    As the French troops advanced toward the Russian lines, the sound of gunfire erupted, filling the air with a deafening roar. The Frenchmander shouted at his men to hold their ground, but his voice wavered as he sensed something amiss.

    "What''s happening?"

    The Russian soldiers were equipped with AN-M1 rifles purchased from the Axelsen & Nielsen Arms Manufacturing Company. Their semi-automatic firing mechanism allowed them to take down their opponents with speed and uracy.

    "We can''t keep up with their firing speed," one French soldier shouted to hisrades.

    Another replied, "Their rifles can fire instantaneously without cocking!"

    In the midst of the chaos, a group of Russian soldiers led by Captain Gorbachev emerged from the smoke and debris, their rifles zing.

    "Push forward, men! Take control of the battlefield!" Captain Gorbachev shouted to his soldiers.

    They managed to take out several French officers, causing confusion and panic among the enemy ranks.

    "We need to fall back," one French officer said to hisrades. "They''ve got us outnumbered and outgunned."

    As the French soldiers began to retreat, Captain Gorbachev and his men pursued them, firing their rifles and shouting battle cries.

    "Don''t let them get away!" Captain Gorbachev yelled to his troops.

    The cacophony of the rifles tearing through the air and the artillery booming was deafening. The ground trembled under the constant bombardment, and smoke filled the air, obscuring the soldiers'' vision. The screams of the wounded and dying could be heard above the din, as theyy scattered across the battlefield, their bodies broken and torn.

    The sound of bullets ricocheting off metal and stone mixed with the screams of horses as they fell, shot by the enemy''s artillery. The acrid smell of gunpowder filled the air, making it hard to breathe.

    Captain Gorbachev and his men pushed forward, their eyes scanning the battlefield for any sign of the retreating French soldiers. The noise was overwhelming, and it was hard to hear anything over the roar of the battle.

    In the distance, they could see the French troops retreating, trying to escape the relentless onught of Russian fire. Captain Gorbachev and his men pursued them, dodging the artillery fire and taking cover behind rocks and trees.

    The smoke was thick, and it was hard to see through it. Captain Gorbachev could feel the heat of the burning buildings nearby. His heart was racing as he took aim and fired his rifle, the recoil jarring his shoulder.

    Through the haze, he could see the retreating French soldiers, their uniforms torn and bloodied, their faces etched with fear. They stumbled and fell, trying to outrun the Russian soldiers, but to no avail.

    Captain Gorbachev and his men continued their pursuit, their battle cries ringing out across the battlefield. They were a force to be reckoned with, and the French soldiers knew it.

    As the battle began to die down, Captain Gorbachev took a moment to catch his breath. He looked out over the battlefield, taking in the devastation around him. Bodies littered the ground, their once proud uniforms now torn and covered in blood. The ground was pockmarked with craters, the remains of the artillery shells that had rained down on the battlefield. Smoke still rose from burning buildings nearby, casting an eerie glow over the scene.

    Captain Gorbachev felt a mix of emotions. He was proud of his men for their bravery and determination in the face of the enemy. But he was also saddened by the loss of life and the destruction of thendscape.

    He knelt down beside a fallenrade, a young soldier whose life had been cut short by the violence of war. Captain Gorbachev said a prayer for the fallen soldier, hoping that his sacrifice would not be in vain.

    Captain Gorbachev and his lieutenant walked through the aftermath of the conflict.<novelnext></novelnext>

    As they walked, they came across a wounded French soldier, lying on the ground and clutching his leg. Captain Gorbachev hesitated for a moment, his finger tightening around the trigger of his rifle. But then he remembered the code of honor that he had sworn to uphold. He approached the soldier cautiously, keeping his rifle trained on him.

    "Who are you?" Captain Gorbachev asked, eyeing the soldier warily.

    The soldier groaned in pain. "Please, don''t kill me¡­I have a wife and children," he said weakly in French. "Please, have mercy on me."

    Captain Gorbachev studied him for a moment, his finger still on the trigger. He may not understand French but he can see through his eyes that he is genuinely pleading for his life. He lowered his rifle and knelt down beside the wounded man.

    "I will not harm you," he said. "We will take you back to our camp to have your wounds tended, and after that, you be our prisoner of war."

    He motioned to one of his men, who came over and helped the wounded soldier to his feet.

    "Take him back to our camp," Captain Gorbachev instructed. "We will see that he gets medical attention."

    As the soldier was carried away, Captain Gorbachev couldn''t help but feel a sense of empathy for him. War was a brutal and unforgiving thing, and it took a toll on everyone involved. But, they invaded their homnd, so his job as a soldier is to protect his country from invaders.

    As he made his way back to camp, Captain Gorbachev reflected on the events of the day. The AN-M1 rifles had given them a significant advantage over their opponents, but he knew that they could not becent. The French and their allies would undoubtedly regroup ande back stronger.

    But for now, he allowed himself a moment of satisfaction. They had won an important victory, and he was proud of his men. They had fought bravely and honorably, and they had emerged victorious.

    As he approached the camp, Captain Gorbachev saw that his men were already beginning to clean their rifles and tend to their wounds.

    He nodded to them in acknowledgment, and they returned the gesture, their faces weary but proud.

    As he entered his tent, Captain Gorbachev removed his uniform and copsed onto his cot. He was exhausted, both physically and emotionally. He closed his eyes and tried to shut out the images of the battlefield, the sounds of the gunfire, and the cries of the wounded.

    But they would not leave him, haunting him like ghosts in the night. He knew that he would carry the memories of this battle with him for the rest of his life.

    He sighed heavily and sat up, reaching for a piece of paper and a pen. Just before he can write something, his adjutant rushed into the tent, panting.

    "General!" The lieutenant called, his voice hoarse. "We have received news from General Ivanov''s forces, he said that the British were repelled."

    Gorbachev''s eyes lit up as relief and excitement washed over him. He felt a weight lift off his shoulders, knowing that the British forces had been repelled. The thought of losing another battle was almost too much to bear, but now, with this news, he could breathe a little easier.

    He stood up, his fatigue momentarily forgotten, and turned to his adjutant. "This is excellent news," he said, his voice full of excitement. "With the British, Turks, and French forces repelled, we will squeeze them out in Sevastopol. I''m going to write a letter to the General Staff Building and inform them of this news. Tell the other Generals and officers to reconvene here in two hours."

    "Understood, General," the lieutenant saluted before turning around and leaving the tent.

    Alone in his tent, Gorbachev wrote the news of the battle. The contents of the letter were about their performance in the war, the addition of the AN-M1 semi-automatic rifles, and the morale of the troops increasing as they won the battle. He is certain that the higher-ups would be delighted to read the news. And at thest part of the letter, he wrote.

    [The AN-M1 rifles'' semi-automatic firing mechanism has bestowed upon us a remarkable edge against our adversaries on the battlefield. I am of belief that this weapon holds immense potential to alter the trajectory of the war and secure our triumph.

    Hence, I humbly request a provision of more AN-M1 rifles. It is crucial that we persist in innovating and adapting if we intend to preserve our superiority over the enemy.]

 Chapter 103 The British Discovery

    Two weekster.

    The Battle of Alma was a devastating loss for the Allied forces. Despite their superior numbers, the Russians were able to defend the port and force the Allies out, leaving them to set up fortifications in anticipation of another attack. Themanding officers of the British forces were left exasperated and bewildered by the oue.

    "How could we have lost to the Russians?" one of the generals questioned, wiping his forehead with the back of his arm. "We had every advantage."

    "It''s a surprising turn of events, to say the least," the other general conceded. "I didn''t anticipate the Russians would be so formidable."

    Another officer spoke up, his voice hushed with concern. "Reports suggest the Russians are using a new type of rifle that can fire instantaneously without the need for cycling. One soldier recounted that, as they were cocking their rifles, the Russians were simply pulling the trigger multiple times."

    The room fell silent as all eyes turned to the officer, who continued to exin the details of the new weapon. The news was met with mixed reactions of disbelief and concern, for if it was true, it meant the Russian forces had a significant advantage on the battlefield.

    "How did they get those weapons?" One of the generals stammered as he asked, still in disbelief of the capability of the Russian rifles.

    "We are still looking into it, but I''m sure that they are not made in Russia,"

    "It is not made in Russia," a voice chimed in their conversation.

    The room fell silent as themanding officers turned to face the source of the interruption. The figure that entered the room was none other than the Crown Prince of Wales of the British Empire, Prince Alexander Edward James Windsor is known for his impable charm and unmatched intelligence.

    As he strode confidently into the room, the officers couldn''t help but feel a sense of awe at his presence. He was tall and strikingly handsome, with sharp, chiseled features and piercing dark purple eyes that seemed to gaze straight into the soul.

    His hair was as dark as the night sky, styled impably to perfection. His demeanor exuded an air of sophistication and ss, and he moved with a grace that could only be described as regal.

    As he approached the group, he extended his hand in a warm greeting.

    "Gentlemen, it is a pleasure to see you all," he said, his voice smooth and cultured.

    Themanding officers were instantly put at ease by his presence as if all their worries and concerns had suddenly vanished in the presence of such a remarkable individual.

    They stood in silent reverence, unable to speak as the Crown Prince surveyed the room with his piercing gaze. It was as if he held the weight of the world on his shoulders, yet still managed to maintain an air of effortless confidence.

    "We have obtained one of the rifles used by the Russian forces during the battlest week," upon saying that, another officer entered the room carrying the AN-M1 rifles in his hand.

    Themanding officers and generals scanned the appearance of the rifle, it was sleek and deadly-looking, with a matte ck finish and a scope that seemed to glint in the dim light of the room.

    After a moment of silence, he spoke.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "Gentlemen, this weapon is unlike anything we''ve seen before. It is clear that the Russians have obtained technology far beyond our own," he stated, his tone measured yetmanding.

    The officers nodded in agreement, their expressions grim. The implications of this new development were significant, as it could be the cause of the defeat of their war against the Russians.

    "Luckily, we have found its origins after a long week of investigation. It turned out that it was produced in the United States, by the Axelsen & Nielsen Arms Manufacturing Company. Its main client before the war was the United States Military but when the war erupted, the Russians approached them to acquire thousands of it to be used in their war efforts."

    "So it was not the Russians, does that mean that we can purchase them for our own use as well?" One of the generals asked.

    "That is certainly that wise move that we must take in order to match the Russians'' capabilities in terms of thend battle. But I would like the British Empire to not be independent of foreign-made weapons. This weapon posed a threat to the security of the British Empire. we must invest in our own research and development to create weapons that can rival and surpass those of other nations," the Crown Prince replied firmly.

    The officers nodded in agreement, recognizing the wisdom in the Crown Prince''s words.

    "Your Highness, what would be our next move?" one of the officers asked, eager to hear the Crown Prince''s n.

    "We will procure these rifles from the United States, but we will also initiate our own research and development program to create weapons that are superior to anything else in the world. We will not be left behind in this arms race," the Crown Prince dered, his voice ringing with determination.

    The Crown Prince continued. "For that, I will personally visit thepany that is making those weapons."

    Themanding officers and generals were stunned after the Crown Prince said that.

    "What do you mean by that, Your Highness?"

    "It means what it means, gentlemen. I will visit the Axelsen & Nielsen Arms Manufacturing Company and see for myself the capabilities of their weapons and learn more about their production process," the Crown Prince replied.

    "But, Your Majesty, if I may be candid, why should you be the one to negotiate a deal with that arms manufacturingpany? Why not send a team there?"

    "Well¡­that''s," The Crown Prince trailed off, not wanting to reveal his personal reasons for wanting to visit the arms manufacturingpany.

    "Your Highness, forgive me for my frankness, but there must be a reason why you want to go there yourself," one of the officers pressed, sensing that there was more to the Crown Prince''s n than met the eye.

    "I can''t tell you that¡­"

    The Crown Prince''s mind was in turmoil as he pondered the uing trip to the United States. As he stood there in silence, he couldn''t help but feel a tinge of guilt gnawing at him.

    "Penelope...what''s gotten into you?" he muttered under his breath. "Why must you go to the United States to see thepany owners?"

 Chapter 104 The Angel Of The British Empire

    One week ago, in the city of Sinop of the Ottoman Empire. The wounded soldiers who fought in the battle of Alma were being tended by the nurses and doctors in the hospital. The one who was managing the hospital is none other than the daughter of the Prime Minister of the British Empire, Penelope Ascart.

    Despite heavy opposition from her father, she still managed to convince him, saying that she''ll only stay in the backline tending the soldiers.

    She is currently in the surgery room, extracting bullets from one of the soldiers that got hit in his belly.

    She stood over the wounded soldier, her hands steady and precise as she prepared for the delicate surgery ahead. She had spent years training as a surgeon, and now, as she looked down at the man lying on the table before her, she felt a sense of calm settle over her.

    "Alright, let''s get started," she said, her voice firm and professional as she signaled for her assistants to begin prepping the patient.

    As her team worked to clean and sterilize the wound, Penelope carefully examined the bullet lodged in the soldier''s abdomen. It had entered at an angle, tearing through the soft tissue and causing extensive damage.

    "This is going to be tricky," she murmured to herself as she prepared her tools.

    With a deep breath, she made the first incision, cutting through the skin and muscle to reveal the bullet''s location. The soldier groaned in pain, his body twitching as she probed deeper into the wound. But Penelope remained focused, her hands deftly maneuvering the instruments as she worked to remove the bullet.

    It was slow going, and Penelope knew that one wrong move could mean the difference between life and death for her patient. But she didn''t let the pressure get to her. She simply focused on the task at hand, moving with purpose and precision as she carefully dislodged the bullet from its hiding ce.

    As she worked, she called out instructions to her assistants, directing them to hand her the necessary tools or to adjust the patient''s position as needed. It was a well-oiled machine, with everyone working in perfect harmony to ensure that the surgery went smoothly.

    Finally, after what seemed like hours, Penelope extracted the bullet from the soldier''s body, holding it up triumphantly for all to see. The room erupted in apuse, and Penelope allowed herself a small smile of satisfaction before turning her attention back to the patient.

    The wound was still open, and Penelope knew that there was still much work to be done. But she was up to the task. With steady hands and a sharp mind, she worked to repair the damage, suturing the torn tissue and carefully closing the incision.

    When she was finished, she stepped back to admire her handiwork. The wound was clean and neat, and Penelope knew that with time and proper care, the soldier would make a full recovery and return to fight another day.

    "Excellent work, Lady Ascart," said one of her assistants, a young nurse who had been observing the surgery.

    Penelope smiled, "Thank you Irene, and to all of you, you are a great help."

    She was used to receivingpliments from her staff and in all honesty, she can''t think of any better response other than thank you. In fact, this is not the first time she conducted surgery on a soldier who fought in the war against the Russians. At first, she noticed something odd about the bullet she was extracting from the patient''s body.

    They were not the same caliber as the Mosin Nagant, it has a slightlyrger diameter than the 7.62x54mmR cartridge used in Mosin Nagant. It also has more pration power than the cartridge used in Mosin Nagant. And at that point, she noticed that the Russians are using a different kind of rifle. The question is what.

    As she stepped out of the surgery room, she removed her facemask, gloves, and gown, revealing her stunning appearance. Her face was angelic, with high cheekbones and full lips that curved into a gentle smile. Her strawberry-blonde hair cascaded in soft waves around her face, framing her delicate features.

    Despite her curvy figure and ample bosom, she was slender, with a graceful neck and long, toned limbs. Her blue eyes were bright and clear, sparkling with intelligence and kindness. As she walked down the hallway, her steps were light and confident, exuding a quiet strength and poise that drew admiring nces from those around her.

    The wounded soldiers, covered in bandages and confined to their beds, couldn''t help but heave a sigh of admiration as they caught a glimpse of Lady Ascart, daughter of the Duke of Wessex, tending to their wounds. In their eyes, she was a true angel of mercy, a beacon of hope in a time of war and uncertainty.

    Penelope approached one of the soldiers, her steps light and confident as she moved through the hospital ward. As she drew closer to his bed, she could see the pain etched on his face, the sweat beading on his forehead.

    "Hello there," she said softly, her voice gentle and soothing as she took his hand in hers. "How are you feeling?"

    The soldier looked up at her, his eyes widening in surprise as he took in her stunning appearance

    "Better now that you''re here, mdy," he said, his voice rough with pain.

    Penelope gave him a small smile, her blue eyes bright and clear as she assessed his condition. She could see that he was still in a lot of pain, and she made a mental note to check on him againter.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "I''m d to hear that," she said, her voice warm and caring. "We''re doing everything we can to make sure you make a full recovery."

    The soldier nodded gratefully.

    As she stood up, she could hear the nurses behind her squealing as a man approached Penelope from behind.

    "Hello, Penelope,"

    Penelope turned around and saw the Crown Prince of the British Empire, Prince Alexander Edward James Windsor.

    Penelope''s expression remained neutral as she greeted the prince back, her voice calm and polite. "Your highness, it''s a pleasure to see you," she said, curtsying respectfully.

    Alexander gave her a warm smile, his eyes crinkling at the corners as he took in her appearance. "You look as lovely as ever, Penelope," he said, his voice smooth and charming. "I trust everything is running smoothly here?"

    Penelope nodded, her gaze steady as she met his eyes. "Yes, your highness. We''re doing everything we can for the wounded soldiers."

    Alexander''s smile widened, and he reached out to take her hand, his touch warm and familiar. "I know you are, Penelope. Your staff has spoken highly of your work here."

    Penelope withdrew her hand from the prince''s grasp, a flicker of difort crossing her features. While she had known Alexander for many years, she had always found his attentions a bit too familiar for her liking.

    "Thank you, your highness," she said politely, trying to keep her tone neutral. "I appreciate your concern for the soldiers."

    Alexander''s smile faltered slightly, but he quickly regained hisposure. "Of course, of course," he said smoothly. "I just wanted to see how things were going here, and to check on you, of course."

    Penelope gave him a small nod, her gaze flickering toward the soldier she had just treated. "As you can see, we''re doing everything we can to help those who have been injured," she said, her voice firm and professional.

    Alexander''s eyes followed hers, and for a moment, there was a flicker of something in his expression - perhaps admiration or respect for the work that Penelope was doing. But it quickly disappeared, and he turned back to her with a smile.

    "So, about the thing, you asked about the Russian Rifles, we found out that they are using rifles made in the United States, manufactured by Axelsen and Nielsen Arms Manufacturing Company."

    The moment she heard the name of the manufacturer, Penelope''s world slowed to a halt. What did he just say? Axelsen and Nielsen? She recognized those names and she couldn''t help her tears from escaping her eyes.

    She quickly blinked them away, not wanting anyone to see her emotional reaction.

    "Are you sure? That the name is Axelsen and Nielsen?" she asked, her voice low and strained.

    Alexander looked at her with concern. "Yes, I''m sure. Why? Is everything alright?"

    Penelope quickly took his hands and looked up at him with pleading eyes.

    "Take me there!"

    Alexander looked at Penelope with confusion. "Take you where?" he asked, his brow furrowing in confusion.

    "To the United States, " Penelope said urgently.

 Chapter 105 The Guest Arrived

    Back at Pittsburgh, Poul paced toward the office and entered. There, he saw Jonathan drawing a diagram in the blueprints. He promptly looked up upon Poul''s entrance and spoke.

    "What''s gotten into you, Poul? Entering the office so suddenly?"

    "Well, get this Jonathan," Poul approached Jonathan''s table and set the note down.

    "What''s this?" Jonathan picked up the note on the table and perused the contents.

    "An invitation from the President of the United States himself, Garfield," Poul announced.

    Jonathan carefully read the note, his eyes scanning the elegant handwriting on the high-quality parchment paper. He cleared his throat before speaking.

    "To the esteemed founders of the Axelsen & Nielsen Arms Manufacturing Company, it is with great honor that you are cordially invited to attend a special gathering at the White House, hosted by the British Empire. Your presence is requested as a special guest, as His Royal Highness, the Crown Prince of Wales, wishes to meet with you personally."

    Jonathan paused for a moment, taking a deep breath before continuing, "This invitation is extended to you in recognition of your exceptional contributions to the development of modern warfare technology, and yourpany''s unwaveringmitment to the advancement of the art of war. Your attendance at this gathering will undoubtedly be a significant moment in the ongoing partnership between our two great nations."

    At the end of the note, he saw the signature of the President himself, making the note look all the more legitimate.

    Jonathan looked up from the note, his eyes meeting Poul. "Is this real? The President and the Crown Prince of the British Empire wanted to see us?"

    "That''s right. They must have taken notice of the weapons used in the Crimean War, on how the Allied forces were defeated by the Russians because the Russians used our AN-M1 rifles? You know what I think."

    "What?"

    "I think that the Crown Prince is going to purchase some rifles from us," Poul said, rubbing his chin. "Because why else would he be here and address us as the founder of the Axelsen & Nielsen Arms Manufacturing Company?"

    "So they realized the capabilities of the rifles and that their own is so far behind that in order to catch up, they will buy the same rifle used by the Russians?"

    "Exactly!" Poul confirmed.

    Jonathan shifted his eyes back to the note once again, looking at the date. "So, we are toe to the White House, where the president lives, on April the 1st?"

    Poul nodded eagerly, excitement written all over his face. "Yes, can you believe it? We''re going to meet the Crown Prince of Wales and the President of the United States! This is a huge opportunity for ourpany, free advertising at its finest."

    "Well, in that case, we should buy a new suit. The ones that we have been using are not suitable for such a formal event," Jonathan said, standing up from his chair.

    Poul nodded in agreement, "I was thinking the same thing. We need to make a good impression on the Crown Prince and the President."

    Jonathan grabbed his coat and headed towards the door, motioning for Poul to follow him.<novelnext></novelnext>

    "Let''s go shopping then. We can''t afford to look like amateurs in front of such esteemed guests."

    "I''m going to inform Amelia about this trip, and tell her to prepare anything necessary for the meeting."

    ***

    March 30th, 884. In one of the many rooms of the transantic ship, the Crown Prince of the British Empire, Prince Alexander, and Lady Ascart were in the same room, waiting as the ship was about to dock in the Port of New York.

    March 30th, 1884. The air in the room was thick with anticipation as the Crown Prince of the British Empire, Prince Alexander, and Lady Ascart stood side by side, waiting for the transantic ship to dock in the Port of New York. The room was elegantly furnished with plush chairs and a mahogany table, adorned with a vase of fresh flowers in the center. The walls were decorated with intricate paintings, and a crystal chandelier hung from the ceiling, casting a warm glow across the room.

    The Crown Prince was dressed in a perfectly tailored navy blue suit, his dark hair styled impably. He exuded an air of regal sophistication, and his piercing dark purple eyes seemed to take in everything around him with a keen interest. Lady Ascart, on the other hand, was dressed in a stunning emerald green gown thatplemented her blonde curls perfectly. Her hazel eyes were bright with excitement as she fidgeted with thece on her sleeves.

    As the ship approached the harbor, the gentlepping of the waves against the hull could be heard from the room. The Crown Prince and Lady Ascart exchanged a look, both feeling a sense of nervousness and excitement. This was the first time the Crown Prince had ever set foot on American soil, and the anticipation was palpable.

    A knock on the door interrupted their thoughts, and a member of the ship''s crew entered the room. "Your Highness, Lady Ascart, we have arrived at the Port of New York. If you follow me, we''ll escort you to the disembarkation point."

    The Crown Prince nodded, and the three of them made their way out of the room and onto the deck of the ship. The fresh sea breeze hit them as they stepped out, and the Crown Prince took a deep breath, relishing the scent of salt in the air. The ship was met by a crowd of people eagerly waiting to catch a glimpse of the Crown Prince and Lady Ascart, and they were ushered onto a carriage waiting for them on the dock.

    As they rode through the bustling streets of New York in a horse-drawn carriage, the Crown Prince and Lady Ascart marveled at the sights and sounds around them. The energy of the city was a stark contrast to the more reserved atmosphere of London.

    Meanwhile, Prince Alexander was feeling a sense of unease about Penelope''s wanting to visit the United States in the middle of the war upon the mention of the arms manufacturingpany.

    "Lady Ascart, now that we are here, may I know why you want to see the founders of the arms manufacturingpany in person? Are they rted to you?"

    "Probably¡­" Penelope said, her voice barely above a whisper.

    Alexander let out a forced chuckle. "That can''t be possible, Lady Ascart. How can you have rtives in the United States? Also, I already made investigations into the identity of the founders. One of them is an Albian, I believe his name is Poul Nielsen."

    "Poul¡­" Penelope repeated, that name is really familiar to her. She smiled.

    She turned to the Crown Prince, her smile still ying at the corners of her lips. "Oh, it''s nothing, Your Highness. I just have a feeling that this meeting will be quite interesting."

    Alexander narrowed his eyes at her, sensing that there was more to her words than she was letting on. He couldn''t help but feel a twinge of jealousy at the thought of Penelope having a connection to one of the founders of the arms manufacturingpany. He quickly tried to suppress the feeling of possessiveness that arose within him, knowing that he had no legitimate im over her and should not act on such emotions.

    As the carriage made its way towards its destination, the Crown Prince couldn''t help but notice Penelope''s smile and how it seemed to light up her entire face. He couldn''t shake off the feeling of jealousy that had crept up on him earlier, and he found himself studying her every move. The way she smiled, the way she fidgeted with thece on her sleeves, the way her eyes sparkled with excitement at the thought of meeting the founders of the arms manufacturingpany.

 Chapter 106 In The White House

    Days before the meeting, the Axelsen & Nielsen Arms Manufacturing Company was receiving messages from the Kingdom of Sardinia, the Ottoman Empire, and the Republic of France about an acquisition of AN-M1 rifles. Those countries are the allied forces determined to stop the expansion of the Russian Empire and to protect their interest in the region.

    Now they can''t do that if the Russians wield a superior rifle than them. So, not only does this present a huge opportunity for their arms enterprises to grow, but it is making their name in the arms industry known around the world.

    And at this rate, the Axelsen & Nielsen Arms Manufacturing Company may soon take over the top spot in their enterprises, which right now is being held by the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company.

    ***

    April 1st, 884.

    As the carriage carrying Poul Nielsen and Jonathan Axelsen approached the White House, the grandeur of the building left them awestruck. The iconic neossical architecture of thete 19th century White House stood tall and proud, with its stately columns and intricate details that spoke of a time of elegance and refinement. The surrounding gardens were immactely kept, with blooming flowers and perfectly manicured hedges lining the pathway to the entrance.

    As they stepped out of the carriage, they were greeted by the sight of the Avalonian g fluttering in the wind, proudly hoisted atop the White House. The sound of their shoes echoed through the empty courtyard as they made their way toward the entrance, their hearts racing with anticipation.

    As they entered the building, they were greeted by avish foyer, with polished marble floors and ornate chandeliers casting a warm glow over the space. The walls were adorned with paintings of Avalonian presidents and other notable figures, each one a testament to the rich history of the United States.

    Poul and Jonathan exchanged a nervous nce as they were led deeper into the building, their footsteps echoing through the halls. They couldn''t help but feel a sense of trepidation at the thought of meeting the Crown Prince of Wales and the President of the United States, but they knew that this was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for theirpany.

    As they were ushered into the room where the meeting was to take ce, they couldn''t help but feel a sense of awe at the sight before them. The room was grand and spacious, with high ceilings and tall windows that let in the soft glow of the afternoon sun. The walls were decorated with rich tapestries and gilded mirrors, and a massive crystal chandelier hung from the ceiling, casting a dazzling array of light across the space.

    In the center of the room stood arge, ornate table, surrounded by chairs of polished wood and velvet upholstery. At the head of the table sat the President of the United States, a distinguished-looking man with graying hair and sharp features. Seated beside him was the Crown Prince of Wales, dressed impably in a navy blue suit and sporting a small smile on his face. Next to the Crown Prince sat ady, looking elegant in an emerald green gown that caught the light of the room. Her strawberry-blonde hair was styled in an updo, entuating the delicate features of her face. Her blue eyes sparkled as she looked up at the industrialist duo.

    President Garfield stood up. "Mr. Axelsen, Mr. Nielsen. Please take your seat so that we may begin."

    Poul and Jonathan made their way to their seats, feeling a mixture of excitement and nervousness. As they took their ces, they couldn''t help but nce at thedy sitting next to the Crown Prince, who smiled warmly at them before turning her attention back to the President and the Crown Prince.

    "Firstly, I would like to wee you all to the White House," President Garfield began, his voice carrying a tone of authority and confidence. "It is an honor to have the founders of the Axelsen & Nielsen Arms Manufacturing Company here with us today."

    He paused for a moment before continuing. "We have gathered here to discuss the acquisition of AN-M1 rifles by the allied forces in Europe, and to explore the possibility of a partnership between our two great nations."

    The Crown Prince leaned forward in his seat, his eyes fixed on Poul and Jonathan. "The rifles that you are selling to the Russians prove to be effective in battle. Its ability to fire instantaneously without cocking is without a doubt impressive," he said, his tone measured and deliberate. "But as you may be aware, the acquisition of these rifles by the allied forces is crucial to maintaining the bnce of power in Europe. We cannot allow the Russians to have the upper hand."

    Jonathan cleared his throat and spoke up. "Your Highness, I understand the importance of maintaining the bnce of power in Europe. However, as a neutral party, the Axelsen & Nielsen Arms Manufacturing Company cannot side with any one nation or alliance. We are apany that provides arms to our clients, regardless of their affiliations or interests."<novelnext></novelnext>

    The Crown Prince raised an eyebrow, his expression questioning. "And what of the Russians? Will you continue to sell them the AN-M1 rifles?"

    Poul interjected, "We have already made an agreement with the Russian government for the purchase of the AN-M1 rifles. We cannot simply back out of a legal contract."

    President Garfield nodded, understanding the dilemma. "I see your point. However, the acquisition of these rifles by the allied forces is of utmost importance. Is there anything that can be done to ensure that the Russians do not have an unfair advantage?"

    Poul sighed heavily before speaking. "It is unfortunate that this situation has arisen. We at the Axelsen & Nielsen Arms Manufacturing Company do not involve ourselves in politics. We simply provide arms to our clients, and it is up to them to use them in whichever way they see fit. We do not wish to break the trust of our clients by reneging on a legal contract with the Russians."

    "Even if the rifles you are selling are being used to take the lives of innocent people?"

    Poul leaned forward, his voice firm but respectful. "Your Highness, we understand and share yourmitment to protecting innocent lives. However, we must ask: do you have concrete proof that our rifles are being used to harm civilians? As apany, we take great care to ensure that our weapons are only used for legitimate military purposes, and we have strict controls in ce to prevent misuse."

    He paused, giving the Crown Prince a chance to respond. "We are not in the business of selling weapons to rogue nations or extremist groups. We take our responsibility as a global supplier of arms very seriously. If you have any evidence to suggest that our rifles are being used improperly, we would be willing to cooperate fully in any investigation and take appropriate action to address the situation."

    The room was silent for a moment as Poul just spoke to the Crown Prince and addressed him so directly.

    "And if I may inquire, Your Highness, could you kindly inform us of the identity of thedy sitting beside you? Her presence here, from the beginning of this meeting, suggests to us that she ys a significant role in these discussions and that it is not just for ornamental purposes," Poul asked, breaking the silence with a formal tone.

    The Crown Prince smiled at Poul''s curiosity. "Ah, allow me to introduce to you Lady Penelope Ascart, daughter of the Duke of Wessex."

    "Penelope Ascart?" Poul repeated the name. He recognized the name "Wait, isn''t she a princess who is also a doctor who has done a lot of miracles in Ennd?"

    "That is correct, Mr. Nielsen," The Crown Prince confirmed.

    "So that''s thedy you are talking about," Jonathan chimed in, remembering thest time they spoke about her, about the possibility of her being in the same circumstances as them.

    "Uhm¡­Mr. Nielsen, Mr. Axelsen," Penelope finally spoke. "Is your name really Poul Nielsen and Jonathan Axelsen?"

    "That is quite correct, mdy," Poul confirmed.

    "Ah¡­Remember our promise under the old oak tree?" She spoke in a differentnguage that the Crown Prince and the President of the United States couldn''t understand but the industrialist duo knew it, and their eyes widened.

 Chapter 107 Another Revelation

    Remember our promise under the old oak tree?

    It was said by Princess Penelope Ascart in the Danishnguage. It was a phrase that Poul was very familiar with as she spoke it in the same elocution and tone. Could it be perhaps¡­

    "I''m sorry but what did you just say right now, Lady Ascart?" Prince Alexander asked, his brows furrowing at the sudden words that Penelope just spoke right now.

    "Nothing, I just read it in books and I spoke it identally. Please, don''t mind me and continue your business," Penelope said, letting out a forced chuckle as she waved her hand dismissively.

    Meanwhile, Poul and Jonathan were still stunned to speak.

    "Uhm¡­Mr. Nielsen, Mr. Axelsen. We can proceed with the dealings now. The point being, the British Empire wants to acquire the AN-M1 rifles, simr to the ones you are selling to the Russians."

    Poul and Jonathan snapped out of their stupor.

    Of course, Your Highness. We have several AN-M1 rifles in our inventory that we can offer to the British Empire," Poul said, regaining hisposure.

    Jonathan nodded in agreement.

    Prince Alexander nodded in satisfaction. "That sounds good. We will need to review the details of the deal before finalizing it, but I believe we cane to a mutually beneficial agreement."

    Penelope remained silent throughout the rest of the meeting, lost in her thoughts. She couldn''t shake off the feeling that the phrase she had spoken earlier was somehow connected to Poul and her past. But she didn''t want to bring it up in front of the prince or the others, especially not without concrete evidence.

    As the meeting came to a close, Poul and Penelope''s eyes were still trained on one another, as if scrutinizing each other for any hints or clues. They both knew that something was amiss, but neither of them knew exactly what it was.

    Prince Alexander noticed them staring at each other, that fact is making him somewhat uneasy. He cleared his throat to break the tension.

    "Thank you for your time, Mr. Nielsen and Mr. Axelsen. Mr. President, thank you for facilitating this meeting and giving me the opportunity to meet the founders of the Axelsen & Nielsen Arms Manufacturing Company."

    "Don''t mind it, Your Highness," President Garfield replied with a smile. "It is our pleasure to host you here in the United States. If there''s anything that we can do to further strengthen the rtionship between our two countries, please do not hesitate to let us know."

    Prince Alexander nodded appreciatively. "Thank you, Mr. President. I will certainly keep that in mind. Now, if you''ll excuse me, we have some matters to attend to. Lady Ascart?"

    With that, he offered a hand to Penelope. She hesitated for a moment, but then took Prince Alexander''s hand and rose from her seat.

    Just before they can leave the stateroom, Poul rose to his feet and spoke.

    "Uhm¡­If I may, Your Highness can speak privately with Lady Ascart for a minute."

    Prince Alexander scoffed inwardly. He is starting to get irritated at the presence of Poul Nielsen, the person that forced him toe to the United States because Penelope wanted to see him and his partner, the person whose eyes fixed on her during the discussion.

    He tightened his grasp on Penelope''s hand and spoke. "I''m sorry but you can''t just speak to her without my presence, Mr. Nielsen. Lady Ascart is under my protection and I cannot allow any unwarranted conversation or behavior towards her."

    Pou was quite surprised at how defensive the prince''s reaction was, but he remainedposed. "My apologies, Your Highness. I didn''t mean to cause any offense. I simply wanted to ask Lady Ascart why she was here in the meeting. I mean she is a doctor, so she shouldn''t be in the meeting right? There must be something else about why she is here. Was it perhaps to talk to us?"<novelnext></novelnext>

    Penelope felt her heart skip a beat. She was about to speak up when Prince Alexander stepped in front of her, blocking her from Poul''s view.

    "Lady Ascart''s presence in this meeting is none of your concern, Mr. Nielsen. We were here to discuss business, and that''s exactly what we did. Now if you''ll excuse us, we have to leave," the prince said sternly.

    "Actually, we can talk," Penelope finally spoke. "Prince Alexander, while I appreciate you being protective of me, Mr. Nielsen is right. There is something else that I wanted to discuss with him and Mr. Axelsen. It''s about a personal matter, and I believe it would be best if we could talk in private."

    Prince Alexander frowned, but then he released his grip on Penelope''s hand. "Fine, but I''ll be waiting outside. If anything happens, just call for me."

    With that, he left the stateroom, leaving Penelope alone with Poul, Jonathan, and President Garfield.

    "Uhm. Mr. President, can we have the room for a moment?" Jonathan asked.

    President Garfield nodded and gave them a reassuring smile. "Of course, take all the time you need. I''ll be just outside if you need anything."

    Once they were alone, Penelope took a deep breath before speaking.

    "Poul Nielsen, Jonathan Axelsen, is that your true name?"

    "We have told you earlier, mdy, that was our real name," Poul reiterated and continued. "The phrase that you spoke earlier was Danish, and to be honest, it reminded me of something in the past. So, who are you?" Poul asked softly, to the point that only the person inside the stateroom can hear it.

    "You better answer it, mdy," Jonathan spoke. "You are not from here aren''t you?"

    "...I have been looking for both of you¡­" Penelope muttered, her voice breaking.

    Poul and Jonathan noticed her tears trickling down her face. "I know that this is hard to believe but¡­I''m¡­I''m¡­I''m Sara," she revealed.

    Upon the mention of the name, Poul''s mind went nk.

    "Wait¡­how is that possible¡­" Jonathan stammered, can''t formte a sentence. "Sara¡­Sara Olsen?"

    She nodded her head vigorously. "That''s me!" and then she suddenly rushed to them and embraced Poul and Jonathan in a tight hug.

    "But¡­how?" Poul spoke, still processing the sudden turn of events. "How can you be here?"

    She released them from her embrace and took a step back, wiping away her tears. "It''s a long story," she said, taking a deep breath.

    "Still¡­we died in our real world¡­got reincarnated in this world¡­how did you get here? Don''t tell me¡­"

    "Unfortunately, I died as well, Poul, Jonathan."

 Chapter 108 Prior To Transmigration

    Denmark''s capital city, Copenhagen, was bustling with life as the sun shone down on the city''s streets. The Aarhus University Hospital''s emergency room was no exception. Sara Olsen, a skilled surgeon, had just finished performing a sessful operation on one of her patients. She was dressed in hospital scrubs and her hair was tied back into a neat bun.

    After finishing her shift, she made her way back to her apartment to prepare for a meeting with someone special. It was a man she had known since childhood, someone whom she had been eagerly waiting to see again for the past decade. She took a long, rxing bath to ease the tension that came with her work. As the water enveloped her, she could feel herself slowly unwind and rx.

    After drying herself off, she slipped into a pair offortable jeans and a simple top. As she stood in front of the mirror, she took a deep breath and reminded herself to stay calm. This was a moment she had been looking forward to for so long, and she didn''t want to mess it up.

    As she checked her phone, she saw that she had received a message from Poul Nielsen, the man she was going to meet.

    "Sara, Jonathan, and I are already here at the coffee shop. We are waiting for you." It was a message sent only a couple of minutes ago.

    Sara felt her heart swell with excitement as she made her way out of her apartment and into the busy streets of Copenhagen.

    As she waited for the taxi, her phone rang, vibrating inside her purse. Sara quickly fished it out and saw that it was her assistant calling. She furrowed her brows, curious as to why they were calling her suddenly.

    "Hello?" Sara answered, trying to keep her tone as professional as possible.

    "Dr. Olsen, I''m so sorry to bother you. But we have an emergency patient at the hospital and they need you toe in," her assistant said, a hint of urgency in their voice.

    Sara''s heart sank. She had been looking forward to this meeting with Poul and Jonathan for so long, and now it seemed like she might have to cancel.

    "What kind of emergency?" she asked, trying to keep the disappointment out of her voice.

    "It''s a forty-year-old man who identally drank an insecticide as he was drunk,"

    "Did you check the bottle?"

    "ording to the responders, the bottle contained an organophosphate."

    Sara''s mind raced as she thought about the implications of the patient ingesting an organophosphate insecticide. She knew that organophosphates are a ss of chemicals that inhibit the activity of acetylcholinesterase, an enzyme responsible for breaking down acetylcholine in the body. Without a proper breakdown of acetylcholine, the body can experience a range of symptoms including muscle twitching, sweating, nausea, vomiting, and difficulty breathing. In severe cases, the patient could experience seizures,a, and even death.

    "Alright, I''m on my way to the hospital. And start preparing activated charcoal and check if we still have vials of atropine."

    "Yes, Doctor," her assistant replied, grateful for Sara''s clear instructions.

    Sara''s mind continued to work quickly as she hailed a taxi and made her way to the hospital. She knew that time was of the essence and that every minute counted in cases like this.

    Once she arrived at the hospital, Sara quickly made her way to the emergency room and examined the patient. After that, she performed an immediate gastricvage, which is a medical procedure where a tube is inserted into the stomach through the mouth to empty its contents. She also ordered a series of tests to be performed to determine the extent of the damage caused by the insecticide ingestion.

    "Doctor, this is the result of the Arterial blood gas test," the nurse handed her the results, and Sara quickly scanned through them.

    "What the¡­it''s 6.7 pH? Bring me four ampules of sodium bicarbonate stat."

    The normal range for blood pH is between 7.35 to 7.45. If the pH level drops below this range, a condition known as acidosis urs, which can lead to a range of serious healthplications, such as organ failure and even death. This is because a drop in pH can disrupt the body''s normal metabolic processes, causing enzymes to malfunction and proteins to denature.<novelnext></novelnext>

    To correct this, she only needs to inject the patient with a sodium bicarbonate solution. Sodium bicarbonate works by neutralizing the excess acid in the body and helping to restore the normal pH range.

    The nurse quickly fetched the sodium bicarbonate and handed it to Sara. She carefully injected the ampules into the patient''s intravenous line and watched as his pH levels began to rise.

    "Okay, good. Let''s start administering the atropine now," Sara said to the nurses, her voice calm and steady despite the urgency of the situation.

    The nurses quickly prepared the vials of atropine, and Sara carefully injected them into the patient''s bloodstream. She watched as the patient''s symptoms began to subside and his breathing became more regr.

    Sara let out a sigh of relief, knowing that they had caught the ingestion early enough to prevent any long-term damage. She knew that the patient would still need to be monitored closely for any signs ofplications, but for now, she was satisfied with the progress they had made.

    "Keep monitoring his vitals and make sure he stays stable. And let me know if there are any changes," Sara instructed the nurses before turning to leave.

    All in all, the process took almost an hour. Sara fished out her phone and checked if Poul had sent her a message, asking why she was taking too long. But upon opening her phone, her brows furrowed. There was no message at all.

    "Isn''t he even curious why I''m one hour behind the schedule?" Sara sighed, disappointment etching her face. He might not be excited to see her.

    But then, a notification popped up. It was from a page belonging to a huge broadcastingpany in Denmark. She double-tapped the screen and the article opened. The headline read Truck Crashes into Coffee Shop in Denmark, Casualties Unknown. It contained the name of the coffee shop and the moment she read the name of the coffee shop, her eyes widened. It was the coffee shop where she is supposed to meet Poul and Jonathan.

    She quickly rushed out of the emergency room and hailed a taxi.

    Sara got into the taxi, her heart racing with worry and fear. She couldn''t believe what she had just read on the news. The coffee shop where she was supposed to meet Poul and Jonathan had been hit by a truck. Her mind was racing with questions. Were they okay? Had they been inside the coffee shop when the truck hit? She tried calling Poul, but the call went straight to voicemail. She tried again, and again, but still no answer.

    As the taxi drove through the busy streets of Copenhagen, Sara''s worry grew. She tried calling Jonathan too, but he didn''t answer either. She couldn''t shake the feeling that something terrible had happened. Her thoughts were interrupted as the taxi suddenly swerved to avoid a pedestrian who had stepped out into the road.

    Sara''s heart raced as the taxi swerved, barely avoiding the pedestrian. She took a deep breath, trying to calm herself down, but her worries about Poul and Jonathan were still at the forefront of her mind. She checked her phone once more, hoping for a message or a missed call, but still nothing.

    As the taxi approached the intersection, Sara could see the traffic light turning red. The taxi driver hit the gas, trying to cross in time, but it was toote. Arge truck barreled towards them, mming into the side of the taxi with a deafening crash.

    Sara felt a jolt of pain shoot through her body as the impact threw her against the side of the taxi. She heard the sound of breaking ss and metal twisting and bending around her. Her vision blurred, and she felt herself slipping away.

    Thest thing she saw was the truck driver jumping out of the cab, looking shocked and panicked. Then everything went ck.

    When Sara opened her eyes again, instead of seeing a hospital room, she saw a Victorian-style parlor with richly embroidered furniture and gilded frames on the wall. She sat up slowly, her head spinning from the impact of the ident. She looked around, confused and disoriented. The room was unfamiliar to her, and she had no idea how she had gotten there.

    Suddenly, the door opened, and a woman dressed in a long flowing dress entered the room. The woman had long curly hair that cascaded down her back and a warm smile on her face.

    "Penelope, are you feeling well now?" The woman asked.

    "Penelope?" Sara tilted her head to the side and looked down. There she noticed something odd, her arms were small like it belonged to a child. "What is happening?"

 Chapter 109 Learning The Truth

    Poul stared at Penelope, trying to make sense of their words. The air was thick with tension, and he could feel his heart racing as he struggled to keep up with the conversation.

    Poul leaned forward, his eyes fixed on Penelope and Sara as they spoke. "Wait, let me get this straight," he said in a hushed tone,. "You saw the news on your phone and rushed there?"

    He could feel his heart racing as he spoke, and he knew that the others could sense his unease. Despite his efforts to remain calm, he was struggling toe to terms with the news.

    Sara nodded, her eyes fixed on the ground. Poul could see the worry etched into her features, and he felt a pang of sympathy for her.

    "Why did you do that?!" he snapped, unable to contain his frustration any longer. He ced his hands on her shoulders and squeezed, trying to make her understand the gravity of the situation.

    As he spoke, Poul couldn''t help but notice the way Sara''s hair fell in loose waves around her face, the way her eyes shone with unshed tears. He felt a strange flutter in his chest, and he wondered if he was starting to see her in a different light.

    "What can I do, I was worried for you, for both of you," Sara replied, her voice barely above a whisper. Poul could hear the fear in her words, and he knew that she was telling the truth.

    For a moment, they stood there in silence, the only sound the pounding of their hearts in their chests.

    Poul broke the silence after a few moments. "So after that, you were transmigrated to the body of a young girl whose father is the Duke of Wessex?"

    Penelope nodded again, confirming it.

    "This is quite an unexpected turn of events if I must say," Jonathan finally spoke, and stepped forward. "We didn''t expect you to be here because we are under the impression that a person must die in order to get into this world. After knowing your side of the story, it is starting to make sense."

    "I tried searching for you, Poul¡­Jonathan. I knew that you would be here¡­but this era is simr to thete-neenth century so finding you won''t be that easy, until the war. The moment I heard thepany producing superior rifles for the Russians, I immediately booked a trip to the United States, to see it for myself. And now that I''m standing in front of you, I am relieved¡­"

    As the conversation was taking ce, a knock on the door was heard by the trio.

    "Lady Ascart, it has been five minutes, are you done talking to them?"

    The voice belonged to the Crown Prince of the British Empire, Prince Alexander. Penelope wiped the unshed tears from her eyes andposed herself.

    "As much as I would love to have a long conversation with you, sadly we have to end this for now. We are staying in New York for one week, I''ll try visiting you in your headquarters."

    After saying that, Penelope stepped forward with a delicate grace, her slender frame moving with fluid ease. She stood on the tips of her toes, her lips poised to brush against Poul''s cheek. The soft warmth of her breath caressed his skin, sending shivers down his spine. For a moment, time seemed to stand still as he savored the sensation of her touch. He caught a fleeting scent ofvender in the air, and it only added to the allure of the moment. As she pulled back, her gaze met him, and he could see the unspoken words in her eyes. And then those eyes flickered to Jonathan, whom she also pecked on the cheek before heading out of the stateroom.<novelnext></novelnext>

    When the door opened, Crown Prince Alexander stepped into the room. "May I ask what you three were talking about?"

    "I''m sorry, Your Highness, but that was a private matter and you know we can''t disclose it to you," Poul replied, his tone firm and respectful. He held his head high, meeting the prince''s gaze without flinching.

    "Well I''m just curious because she is to be my Queen," Alexander said.

    Poul''s eyes widened in surprise at the Crown Prince''s revtion. He exchanged a quick nce with Jonathan, who also seemed taken aback by the news

    "Is this official, Your Highness?" Jonathan asked.

    "Not yet but I would love to speak with my father soon enough to make it official. You see, Lady Ascart is the most perfect girl that I have met in my entire life. She is smart, beautiful, aplished, and loved by the people, and of course, loved by me. I believe she would make an excellent partner for me and for the future of our nation," Alexander exined, his voice filled with admiration and respect."

    As Poul heard those words, he felt a sharp pain in his chest, as though his heart was being squeezed by an invisible hand. He couldn''t believe what he was hearing - Penelope, who had been his girlfriend in the real world, was now going to be the wife of the Crown Prince of the British Empire? The thought filled him with a mix of emotions - sadness, anger, and a deep sense of loss.

    "I will see the two of you in two days, Mr. Axelsen, Mr. Nielsen. For we have a business deal toplete with. We are done for today so goodbye."

    Jonathan was the first to break the silence. "Did you just hear that?" he asked, his voiceced with disbelief. "He is going to marry Penelope..."

    Poul''s heart ached at the words. Penelope, his girlfriend in the real world, was to be the wife of the Crown Prince of the British Empire. He felt a sense of betrayal, a gnawing ache in the pit of his stomach.

    "Yeah," he replied, his voice barely above a whisper.

    Jonathan''s eyes bore into his, searching for answers. "So what are you going to do? Let it happen?"

    Poul hesitated before answering. "Ah Jonathan, the hypothesis that we have discussed where Sara might be here in this world just became a reality...I feel bad for myself after recalling my answers...and I feel like I''m a douche," he said, deflecting the question.

    But Jonathan was not deterred. "Sara became a duke''s daughter and is to be wed to the Crown Prince of the British Empire. Even if she is not the Sara you know in terms of appearance, deep inside she is still Sara. Do you still have feelings for her? Is the excitement before we died returning when you said to me that you are going to marry her?"

    Poul took a deep breath, trying to sort out his thoughts.

    "I can feel it gradually returning," he said, his voice barely above a whisper. "My heart said not to give her up to that Crown Prince, but I have to confirm one thing first. If Sara has feelings for him first."

 Chapter 110 Feeling Unusual

    As the days passed since Poul and Jonathan''s return to their office in Washington, the atmosphere had be increasingly stagnant. Mundane tasks had taken precedence over their usual lively discussions, leaving the two executives feeling uncharacteristically unmotivated. It didn''t take long for Amelia, their executive secretary of almost two years, to notice the change in their demeanor.

    Amelia decided to check on them during their break. "Mr. Axelsen and Mr. Nielsen, may I ask what happened in your meeting with the Crown Prince of the British Empire and the President of the United States in the White House, Washington?"

    Poul and Jonathan looked up from their paperwork, surprised by the sudden interruption. They shared a quick nce before Poul spoke up. "Ah, it was nothing much, just business dealings."

    Amelia furrowed her brows. She knew that Poul was not telling the whole truth, but she didn''t want to pry. She respected their privacy and decided to change the topic by asking about business-rted matters.

    "So what happened in the meeting? Did the Crown Prince of the British Empire decide to purchase rifles from us?"

    "Yeah, we are expecting to meet him soon to finalize the deal," Poul said, shifting his attention back to the paper he was working on.

    Amelia watched as Poul scribbled down some notes, but she couldn''t shake off the feeling that something was off. Poul''s usual enthusiasm for work was missing, and it worried her.

    "Is everything okay, Mr. Nielsen?" she asked, her voice soft and concerned.

    Poul looked up at her, and she could see the exhaustion etched on his face. He seemed lost in thought for a moment before finally replying. "I''m fine, thank you for asking, Amelia."

    But Amelia wasn''t convinced. She had known Poul and Jonathan for almost two years, and she could tell when something was bothering them. She decided to press on, even though it will contradict the decision she made earlier for not prying up as this case could affect thepany''s performance if not settled quickly.

    "Are you sure, Mr. Axelsen? You and Mr. Nielsen have been acting strangely since your return from the meeting."

    Jonathan shot Poul a meaningful nce, silently asking him to be honest. Poul sighed and rubbed his eyes tiredly.

    "It''s nothing, Amelia. We just had some unexpected things happen during the meeting, and it''s been weighing on our minds."

    Amelia could sense that Poul wasn''t going to divulge more information, so she decided to drop the subject. "If you say so, Mr. Nielsen. Just know that I''m here to help if you need anything."

    Poul managed a small smile in gratitude before turning his attention back to his work. But the weight of the secret he was keeping was bing heavier by the day, and he wasn''t sure how much longer he could bear it.

    After a moment, there was a heavy silence in the office and the only sound that they could hear inside was the pen scratching on paper, and the rustling of the documents they were working on.

    Suddenly, the telephone on Poul''s desk rang, startling all three of them. Poul quickly picked up the phone and answered, "This is Nielsen speaking."

    "Good afternoon, Mr. Nielsen. This is the British embassy calling. We would like to schedule a meeting with you and Mr. Nielsen regarding the business dealings with the Crown Prince."

    Poul''s heart skipped a beat. He had been expecting this call, knowing that the meeting with the Crown Prince was going to happen soon.

    "Of course, when would be a suitable time?"

    "The Crown Prince is avable tomorrow at 2 pm. The Crown Prince himself is going to visit your headquarters. Can you confirm that this time would work for you and Mr. Axelsen?"

    Poul looked at Jonathan, who nodded in agreement. "Yes, that works for us. We will prepare a warm reception for the Crown Prince."<novelnext></novelnext>

    "Excellent, I''ll inform the Crown Prince of this appointment."

    Poul hung up the phone and let out a heavy sigh. He looked up at Amelia and spoke.

    "Ms. Weiss, I want to ensure that we make asting impression on our important client who is visiting tomorrow. I urge you to take charge and make sure our headquarters is presented in the most professional and formal manner possible. I need you tomunicate this with the heads of every department and ensure that all workers are aware of the significance of this visit. Let''s show our client why we are the best in the business."

    Amelia listened intently to Poul''s instructions and nodded in understanding. "Consider it done, Mr. Nielsen," she replied confidently. "I will coordinate with the heads of departments and ensure that our headquarters is prepared to receive the Crown Prince in the best possible way."

    Poul smiled, relieved to have such apetent executive secretary. "Thank you, Ms. Weiss. Jonathan and I haveplete faith in your abilities."

    ***

    And tomorrow arrives. Redcoats of the British Empire lined up the streets of the Axelsen & Nielsen Company town. The spectators, which are primarilyposed of workers, watched from the side of the streets as they watched the royal carriage slowly make its way toward thepany''s headquarters. Poul and Jonathan stood at the entrance, waiting to greet their important guest.

    As the carriage pulled up, the Crown Prince stepped out and then turned to offer a hand to Penelope, to which Penelope took it, and made her way down to the ground.

    When Poul saw that gesture, he couldn''t help but feel a twinge of jealousy. To see that there is another man who is doing that to his girlfriend from the original world makes him feel insecure. He knew it was irrational, but he couldn''t help but feel a bit threatened by the Crown Prince''s presence.

    But he quickly shook off those feelings as he and Jonathan greeted their important guest.

    "Your Highness, Lady Ascart, wee to the headquarters of the Axelsen & Nielsen Arms Manufacturing Company. Which also serves as the headquarters to our other enterprises," Jonathan weed.

    Prince Alexander and Penelope looked up to see their headquarters. A frown expression etched their faces.

    Jonathan smiled. "I know, we get that all the time. Why does our main office look like an ordinary house that you would see on the streets? Well, we are already building one and it''s going to be finished in a year. Let''s get inside¡­"

    As Jonathan and Alexander were talking, Poul and Penelope were looking at one another, as if they were trying to read each other''s thoughts. They only snapped when Prince Alexander made his way inside the main office and they followed.

    Inside the office, each party took their respective seats. Amelia prepared the documents beforehand that needed a signature from both parties, and handed them to them.

    And then, the meeting began.

    "The British Empire has already expressed its interest in acquiring the AN-M1 rifles and we are granting the Axelsen & Nielsen Arms Manufacturing Company a contract to supply our troops with AN-M1 rifles. In total, we will be purchasing two hundred thousand and five million bullets," Prince Alexander announced, looking directly at Poul and Jonathan.

    Poul and Jonathan exchanged a quick nce before Poul spoke up. "Your Highness, we are honored to have been chosen as your supplier of weapons. We are confident that our products meet your expectations and will serve your troops well."

    Penelope watched as Poul spoke, and she could see the tension in his eyes. She knew that something was bothering him, but she couldn''t figure out what it was. She made a mental note to talk to him after the meeting.

    The meeting continued, and Poul and Jonathan answered all the questions Prince Alexander had regarding the rifles, bullets, and the process of acquisition. After everything had been discussed, the two parties shook hands and agreed to the terms of the contract.

 Chapter 111 Heartful Moment

    After signing the contract, both parties shook hands. The British Empire and the Axelsen & Nielsen Arms Manufacturing Company had just sealed a deal.

    "Expect the first batch of shipments within four months, as you can see, we have a lot of orders from a lot of clients to meet," Jonathan said.

    "Just make it quick," Prince Alexander said. "As both of you are aware, the British Empire is in the middle of the war against the Russian Empire, which is currently armed with your weapons, and making it hard for our troops to advance."

    "We understand the urgency of the situation but you must know, Prince Alexander, that the clients who came first are the ones we must prioritize. However, we assure you that we will do our utmost to expedite the process and deliver the AN-M1 rifles to your forces as soon as possible," Poul responded diplomatically, conscious of the delicate bnce they needed to maintain between their clients.

    Prince Alexander nodded in understanding, knowing that the arms manufacturing business was apetitive one, and the British Empire was not their sole client. "Very well," he conceded. "I trust that you will honor your word and work diligently to supply our forces with the AN-M1 rifles. The sooner we can arm our troops with these superior weapons, the better our chances of securing victory against the Russian Empire."

    Poul nced at Penelope after saying those words to Prince Alexander, his announcement to them of making Penelope the Queen of the British Empire still hung in his mind. He wanted to talk deeper about it with Penelope but there is a possibility that the Prince might not give them permission.

    Jonathan, who had been noticing Poul''s behavior and concern, quickly understood the situation from the signs he was giving. As Prince Alexander was about to leave, Jonathan walked forward.

    "Uhm, Your Highness."

    Prince Alexander nced over his shoulder and asked.

    "What is it?"

    "Actually this is the first time we are doing it but I was just asking if you would give me a moment of your time to explore how the AN-M1 rifles are being manufactured and built."

    Prince Alexander hummed. "You are offering a tour around your facility?"

    "That is quite correct, Your Highness," Jonathan confirmed.

    "That seems like a good idea," Alexander said, turning his nce to Penelope. "Penelope, do you want toe along?"

    Penelope shook her head. "I''m sorry, Your Highness but I know nothing about guns. I will just stay here and wait for you¡­"

    "Are you sure?" Prince Alexander asked, his concern evident in his voice. "Are you going to be fine alone?"

    "He will not be alone, Your Highness as my partner here would look for her while we are away," Jonathan assured the prince, gesturing towards Poul.

    Prince Alexander studied Poul for a moment before nodding in agreement. "Very well. Take good care of her, Mr. Nielsen. Now, let us proceed with the tour."

    As the prince and Jonathan embarked on the tour, Poul seized the opportunity to speak with Penelope privately.

    "Penelope," Poul began hesitantly. "I just want to ask you about something personal if it''s okay for you."

    Penelope nodded, sensing the seriousness in his tone. "Of course, Poul. What''s on your mind?"

    Poul took a deep breath, gathering his thoughts. "After you left the stateroom four days ago, the Crown Prince of the British Empire made an announcement about him making you his Queen, I am asking if that is true."<novelnext></novelnext>

    Penelope''s eyes widened. "He told you that?"

    Poul nodded, confirming it. "Why are you shocked? Are you perhaps not expecting it?"

    "No, I already expected it," Penelope answered. "You see, when I was just eight years old, my father and the king of the British had alreadye to an agreement to make me the future Queen. Of course, I protested to my father, saying that I don''t want to be forced to marry someone that I don''t like, but in this era, my opinion as a woman held little weight in such matters, and that being a Queen is a great honor a noblewoman can receive."

    "Wait¡­so you are saying, you are simply going to ept your fate? You will marry Prince Alexander."

    "No," Penelope shook her head. "As I said before, my opinion as a woman held little weight in such matters so I tried to prove to my father that being the Queen is not only the greatest honor a noblewoman can have. And in that, I became a doctor, treating those who are in need using the medical knowledge that I had acquired from the past. My medical prowess shook the medical society of the British Empire and the neighboring country and as years went by, my aplishment as a doctor continued to grow. I hoped that through my work, I could demonstrate that I was more than just a potential queen and that I had other options."

    Poul listened intently, impressed by Penelope''s determination and courage. "So, what happened? Did your father change his mind?"

    Penelope sighed. "Not exactly. He still believes that bing the queen is the best path for me, and he continues to push for it. But, he has given me the freedom to continue my medical work until the timees for me to marry Prince Alexander."

    "What about your own feelings?" Poul asked gently. "Do you think you can ever love Prince Alexander? Or is there someone else you care for?"

    A faint blush colored Penelope''s cheeks as she hesitated before answering. "I... I don''t know. I never had feelings for him from the start. Despite me giving clues and hints that suggested that he still keepsing, courting, and serenading. Why are you asking me this anyway?"

    "Uhm¡­I was wondering if the feeling is mutual," Poul said, rubbing his hair. "You know, even though we are in this world now with a new life, we still have to respect our own decision. And despite our rtionship in the past, there is a possibility that it might change under the circumstances."

    A soft gasp escaped Penelope''s mouth. "Are you perhaps asking me this to confirm if I have feelings for Prince Alexander?"

    "That''s right."

    "Then I already gave you my answer. It''s a no. But how about you? You know, Poul, If I got to be honest, my feelings for you in our past world didn''t change at all. In fact, they might have grown stronger after seeing you here."

    "Throughout these nine years in this world, I have to admit, there were moments when I felt like I had to let go of my feelings for you. Our worlds were so separate, you in the original world and me here. I even came to terms with the possibility that someone else might be there for you, caring for you in my stead. But now, knowing that you''re here, everything has changed. I can''t help but feel guilty for ever having allowed my heart to waver, even for a moment, towards another when you''ve always been the one who held it."

    As Poul confessed his feelings to Penelope, a wave of relief washed over him. He really didn''t expect this from happening, where Sara exists in the same world as theirs. Who would have expected it? In order to cross the world one must die. He didn''t expect her to die in that world.

    "So, you already have a girl that you like in this world?" Penelope asked, her voice trembling slightly as she tried to mask her disappointment.

    Poul hesitated before answering, understanding the weight of his words. "No, it''s not like that. There were times when I thought I might need to move on, but my feelings for you never truly faded. In fact, every time I tried to imagine a future with someone else, my heart would always find its way back to you. In fact, I am d that you are here. Do you want to give this a go?"

    "I want to, Poul. More than anything," Penelope admitted, her voice barely above a whisper.

    "But as you can see from my appearance, I''m an Albian, a discriminated race whom my country sees inferior and you are the daughter of a powerful duke of the British Empire. Our differences here are like heaven and earth. Society might not even ept us."

    "We can''t let society dictate our lives and our happiness," Penelope dered, her eyes filled with determination. "I''ve already fought against conventions and expectations by bing a doctor, and I''ll continue to do so for our love. I refuse to let our past lives go to waste, and I won''t allow my happiness to be controlled by society''s whims. I don''t care if I get stripped of my title. As long as I have you, Poul, I''ll be content."

    Poul''s heart swelled with admiration for Penelope''s strength and conviction. He reached out to take her hand, his gaze locked onto hers. "Then let''s do this together, Penelope. We''ll find a way to make this work, no matter the obstacles we face."

 Chapter 112 Possessiveness

    Thirty minutester, Prince Alexander returned to the main office along with Jonathan Axelsen.

    Inside, they saw Poul and Penelope sitting silently in their respective seats. Poul was the first one to speak.

    "So, how was the tour? Did His Highness find it enjoyable?"

    "Well, I must say, I''m impressed with the tools and equipment that you are using in your factories, especially the electric-poweredthe and milling machine. The workers are working in order as if they were ants, and the overall environment is very organized," Prince Alexander replied, his eyes scanning the room with genuine admiration. "I can see that much effort has been put into making this ce efficient and productive."

    Jonathan Axelsen chimed in, his enthusiasm is evident. "Indeed, Your Highness. We take pride in our innovations and the quality of our work. It''s our goal to provide the best for the people, and we''re constantly striving to improve."

    Penelope, feeling somewhat uneasy in the presence of the prince, forced a polite smile. "I''m d you enjoyed the tour, Your Highness. We certainly believe that our work here can make a difference in people''s lives."

    Prince Alexander turned his gaze to Penelope, a warm smile ying on his lips. "Penelope, I must admit, I didn''t expect that you would be interested in visiting such an industrial setting. But then again, you''ve always had a penchant for defying expectations."

    Penelope felt her cheeks flush slightly but maintained herposure. "Indeed, Your Highness. I believe in learning as much as possible about the world around me, and this seemed like an excellent opportunity."

    The prince nodded in approval. "That''s an admirable attitude. It''s a quality I find most attractive in my future queen," he added, his eyes lingering on Penelope for a moment longer than necessary.

    Poul, unable to ignore the prince''s subtle advances toward Penelope, clenched his fists under the table, fighting to keep his emotions in check.

    "Well, I guess this concludes our visit to yourpany, Mr. Axelsen. Mr. Nielsen, we will be leaving now to prepare for our departure to Istanbul. As you can see, our country is in the middle of the war," Prince Alexander said as he reluctantly tore his gaze away from Penelope.

    Of course, Your Highness," Jonathan responded, showing his respect. "We appreciate your visit and hope that our coboration will benefit both our nations."

    Poul also rose from his seat, doing his best to maintain a cordial demeanor despite the tumultuous emotions swirling within him. "Safe travels, Your Highness. We look forward to working together in the future."

    ***

    Inside the royal carriage, Alexander and Penelope sat in silence.

    As the horses trotted along the cobblestone streets, the tension in the air between them was palpable. Penelope could feel Alexander''s eyes on her, but she kept her gaze fixed on the passing scenery outside the window.

    Finally, Prince Alexander broke the silence. "Penelope, I am sure that you weren''t silent for thest thirty minutes with Mr. Poul Nielsen while I was away. I''m sure that you two talked about something."

    "Why are you so curious about our conversation, Your Highness?" Penelope inquired, her tone carefully neutral. She felt her heart rate pick up, knowing full well that Prince Alexander''s question carried an unspoken weight.

    The prince hesitated, clearly weighing his words. "I suppose it''s because I sense a certain¡­ chemistry between you and Mr. Nielsen. I just want to be sure that there''s nothing I should be concerned about."<novelnext></novelnext>

    Penelope''s cheeks flushed a deeper shade of red, but she met his gaze squarely. "Your Highness, Poul and I are acquaintances, and we share a mutual respect for each other''s work. Our conversation was strictly professional, and I assure you that there is no cause for concern."

    Prince Alexander nodded, appearing satisfied with her response. "Very well. I trust your word, Penelope. Forgive me for prying; I just wanted to ensure that there were no misunderstandings between us."

    Penelope cleared her throat. "Your Highness, the status between us is not yet official, and I don''t like you prying into my personal affairs. And what did you have to tell them that you are going to make me your Queen? Don''t you think it''s quite rude and presumptuous of you?"

    Prince Alexander was taken aback by Penelope''s sudden boldness, but he managed to keep hisposure. "You''re right, Penelope. It was inappropriate of me to make such a statement, especially without discussing it with you first. I apologize for my impulsive behavior."

    "Also, there is something that you must know. Even if your father and my father agreed to the marriage, I don''t."

    "What do you mean?" Alexander asked.

    "I mean," Penelope began, taking a deep breath and mustering her courage, "that I don''t want to be forced into a marriage based on political alliances and old-fashioned expectations. I believe that a union as significant as marriage should be built on love, trust, and mutual respect, not on the whims of our fathers and their desire for power. Tell me, Your Highness, you really don''t love me right? You just wanted me because of my influence and poprity with the masses."

    "That is not true¡­" Alexander stammered, taken aback by Penelope''s directness. "While it''s true that our initial meeting was orchestrated by our fathers, I''vee to genuinely admire and respect you, Penelope. Yes, your influence and poprity are undeniable assets, but I believe there''s much more to you than that."

    "See, you even admitted it yourself," Penelope scoffed softly. "I''m going, to be honest with you, I don''t like you. I have no feelings for you. Would you rather be with a woman that doesn''t love you? You don''t, right? So let''s end this. Once we return back to London, let''s tell our fathers that we are calling this marriage off."

    "Is this about that man?" Alexander asked, his tone like a growl.

    "No," Penelope replied firmly, her eyes narrowing. "This is about me and my own happiness. It''s about having the freedom to choose my own path in life, rather than being forced into a marriage I never wanted."

    "No, that''s definitely because of that man," Alexander insisted. "When I mentioned the name of thepany, you have changedpletely. You may not love me but I love you more than anything, Penelope. I will never let you go, we will not call off this marriage¡­"

    Penelope''s eyes shed with defiance. "Your Highness, you may be a prince, but you do not have the right to control my life or dictate my feelings. My reasons for wanting to end this engagement have nothing to do with Poul. It''s about my own autonomy and happiness."

    "No, I will not let you go, Penelope. You are mine¡­mine alone," Alexander''s voice wavered, his desperation clear. Penelope''s eyes widened at his sudden possessiveness.

    Suddenly, he grabbed Penelope''s arms and pulled her closer to him, causing her to gasp in shock and difort. "You will see, Penelope. In time, you wille to love me as I love you," he said, his voice low and determined.

    "Alex¡­.you are hurting me," Penelope whispered, her voice trembling with pain and fear. She could feel the pressure from his fingers digging into her skin, leaving marks that would surely turn into bruises.

    Prince Alexander, realizing what he was doing, quickly let go of her arms and stared at her in horror. "Penelope, I''m so sorry. I didn''t mean to hurt you. I just... I can''t bear the thought of losing you," he admitted, his voice breaking with emotion.

    Tears filled Penelope''s eyes as she rubbed her sore arms. And then, she averted her gaze away from him, not wanting to see his face.

 Chapter 113 Jonathan In New York

    Three months into the escting conflict in Europe, the formidable industrialist pair continued their work with unyielding determination. Despite their usual close coboration, Poul managed operations from Pittsburgh, while Jonathan journeyed to New York for a crucial client meeting.

    Seated in the renowned Delmonico''s restaurant in New York, Jonathan found himself across from the elegant Caroline, who dined on her steak with poise and grace.

    As the soft glow of the chandeliers cast a warm ambiance over their table, Jonathan couldn''t help but be captivated by Caroline''s presence. Her intelligent eyes sparkled with curiosity as she listened intently to Jonathan''s story, clearly intrigued by the events that urred three months ago.

    "Pray tell, are you suggesting that Poul''s girlfriend from the real world has arrived, and she is none other than the daughter of the Duke of Wessex?" Caroline inquired delicately, taking a measured sip of her wine. "I must confess, this revtion does not entirely surprise me."

    Jonathan furrowed his brow, curiosity piqued. "What do you mean by that?"

    Caroline''s eyes gleamed with intrigue. "It has long been apparent to me that there is an air of mystery surrounding Lady Penelope Ascart. Consider the improbability of a sheltered youngdy possessing such extensive medical knowledge, even to the extent of saving the British Empire from a devastating cholera outbreak. I mean, it ispletely obvious that she''s from this world. Though I didn''t expect that it would be Poul''s girl from the original world."

    "No one expected it," Jonathan said. "We didn''t expect Sara to die in a car ident while she was on her way to the coffee shop where we got killed."

    "So, what''s going to happen between them now?" Caroline asked.

    "Well, Poul told me that they want to stay together, but given their circumstances where Poul is an Albian and Penelope is a princess herself and is engaged with the Crown Prince of the British Empire, it will not be easy."

    "I assume that it is a mutual decision by the two?" Carolinemented. "I must say, it is going to be a difficult case, I wonder how it will unfold. Let''s set that topic of discussion aside and let''s get to business. So, I was told on the telephone that you are going to start your electric distributionpany soon and you want me to invest."

    "We could have gone to John Morgan, but he is already backing James Russell. It will be hard for us to convince him and besides, he already invested in our enterprises."

    "How much are you asking?" Caroline asked, her brows raised inquisitively as she awaited Jonathan''s response.

    Jonathan leaned in, adopting a more businesslike demeanor. "We''re looking for an investment of $2 million tounch our electric distributionpany. Your support would not only provide us with the necessary capital but also lend credibility to our venture."

    Caroline considered his proposal thoughtfully, swirling the wine in her ss. "I must say, I''m intrigued by the potential of yourpany and I know it is going to rece the current system, which is the direct current. However, I''ll need to examine the business n and financial projections in greater detail before making amitment."

    "Of course," Jonathan agreed, understanding the importance of due diligence. "I have prepared all the necessary documents for your perusal, and I''m confident that you''ll find our ns both ambitious and feasible."

    As their discussion continued, Jonathan and Caroline delved into the intricacies of the electric distribution market.

    Jonathan cleared his throat, this conversation would be a formality, and he began outlining their strategy.

    "Our primary goal is to build aprehensive electric distributionwork that serves both urban and rural areas. We n to focus on our alternating current technology, which we believe has significant advantages over the direct current systems employed by the likes of James Russell Electric Company."

    Caroline nodded thoughtfully. "The prospect of more efficient and versatile power transmission is certainly appealing. However, I foresee regtory hurdles and potential resistance from existing power providers who have invested in direct current systems. How do you n to address these challenges?"

    "You raise valid concerns," Jonathan acknowledged. "To mitigate these risks, we intend to work closely with regtors and demonstrate the benefits of our alternating current technology. Additionally, we aim to create mutually beneficial arrangements with existing utilities to ensure a smooth transition."

    Caroline furrowed her brow, probing further. "What about thepetition? As you mentioned earlier, James Russell''s venture has substantial backing, and his direct current system is already being implemented. How will yourpany differentiate itself?"

    Jonathan leaned in confidently. "While Russell''s operation is formidable, we believe our emphasis on innovation and our advanced alternating current system will set us apart. Poul and I have already invented induction motors, transformers, and other technologies that make alternating current transmission not only feasible but also more efficient and cost-effective."<novelnext></novelnext>

    Intrigued, Caroline continued her inquiry. "I''ve heard about the potential benefits of alternating current, including its ability to transmit power over greater distances with reduced power loss. However, there are concerns about safety and public perception. How do you n to address these issues?"

    Jonathan nodded, understanding the importance of addressing safety concerns. "We are fully aware of these concerns, and our priority is to ensure the safety and reliability of our system. We will invest in thorough testing, research, and development to refine our technologies, and we''ll coborate with leading experts to certify the safety of our infrastructure. Furthermore, we will engage in public education campaigns to address misconceptions and build trust in our system."

    Caroline seemed satisfied with his response. "I must say, your vision ispelling, and your dedication to innovation ismendable."

    "Caroline, do you truly believe this conversation is necessary?" Jonathan inquired gently. "Surely you recognize the potential of alternating current to revolutionize the electric industry."

    Caroline''s gaze was unwavering as she responded, "Jonathan, there is no doubt that you and your partner possess remarkable ingenuity, creating technologies that are beyond this world''sprehension. However, I must ensure that you are equally adept at navigating theplexities of the businessndscape. Many inventors excel in their craft but falter when ites to marketing their creations. Do you understand my concerns?"

    "Yes we do," Jonathan mumbled.

    Caroline smiled and looked over at the documents Jonathan handed to her.

    I will look over these documents and give you my decision within a week," Caroline promised. "In the meantime, I have some news to share with you, and I''m sure you are going to like it."

    "Oh?" Jonathan mused. "What might that be?"

    "New York City is experiencing a massive poption growth due to immigration and rapid urbanization," Caroline exined. "The city''s infrastructure is struggling to keep up with the increasing demands, and the Board of Transportation is desperately seeking solutions to improve the city''s transportwork."

    Jonathan listened intently, curious about where this might be leading.

    Caroline continued, "Given your expertise in civil engineering and your partner''s expertise in electrical engineering, you two are well-equipped to create aprehensive solution to the city''s transportation needs. I suggest that you explore the possibility of designing and constructing an electric metro system for New York City."

    Jonathan''s eyes widened as he considered the implications of Caroline''s suggestion. Not only would such a project be an incredible opportunity to showcase their skills and innovations, but it would also demonstrate the practical applications of their alternating current technology.

    "That''s an intriguing proposition, Caroline," Jonathan admitted. "It would certainly be a groundbreaking endeavor and could revolutionize urban transportation. I''ll discuss this idea with Poul, and we''ll explore the feasibility of such a project."

    Caroline nodded, satisfied with his response. "I believe this venture has the potential to significantly benefit both yourpany and the city of New York. If you decide to pursue this idea, I''m confident that the Board of Transportation would be eager to work with you."

    "Yeah, and I''m getting filled with ideas right now. This world still uses steam lotives as the primary way of transportation. That won''t work on Metro as it will choke the passengers with its smoke and fumes. That means we will have to design a lotive that runs on electricity."

    "That''s why I called it an electric metro system," Caroline reiterated. "I''m sure you know how to build an electric lotive, right?"

    "Indeed, do you know, before we got here, we were working on a railway project? Poul was to design a new electric lotive and I was to design the infrastructure. We can do it, but building such a system is a huge undertaking. Not to mention we are busy in our enterprises, especially the Arms Manufacturing Company."

    "So I heard," Caroline chuckled. "Countries who were participating in the Crimean War are ordering rifles from yourpanies and the United States, seeing its effectiveness in warfare is ordering more. It is true what they say, that there is always money in guns."

    "That''s right," Jonathan smiled. "Well, what do you want to do after this? Can I take you outter? No business talks or anything, just you and I, knowing each other?"

    Caroline smiled warmly, her eyes sparkling with genuine interest. "I would be delighted, Jonathan. It''s been far too long since we''ve had a chance to catch up on a personal level. I look forward to it."

 Chapter 114 The Moment Between Civil And Chemical Engineers

    The New York Broadway of thete neenth century or nine hundredth century was a symphony of gaslights, street sounds, and the thrum of life. The cobblestone streets glistened with recent rainfall, and the tter of horse-drawn carriagespeted with the chatter of the bustling crowd. The air hung heavy with the scents of roasting chestnuts and perfumeddies, as the city embraced the twilight and prepared for another night of splendor.

    Jonathan stood in front of a store named Loreal, a boutique that catered to the city''s most fashionable women. A beacon of light amidst the gathering dusk, the shop''s window disyed thetest Parisian styles, the exotic silks and delicate perfumes a testament to its owner''s impable taste. Inside, the store buzzed with activity asdies eagerly sought the perfect adornments for their evening engagements. The warm glow of the newly invented light bulbs illuminated their animated faces and cast a cheery glow upon the sidewalk.

    Clutching a single flower, Jonathan shifted nervously from one foot to the other as he awaited the arrival of his date, the enchanting and enterprising Caroline. The owner of Loreal, she was a woman of unparalleled beauty and grace, her intelligence and determination matched only by her kindness. For years, Jonathan had admired her from afar, his heart leaping each time they met. Finally, he had mustered the courage to ask for an evening in herpany earlier during their business deal, and to his delight and astonishment, she had agreed.

    He nced at the pocket watch nestled in the folds of his waistcoat. The intricate golden hands ticked steadily onward, marking the approach of the appointed hour. Jonathan''s heart raced in time with the seconds, each beat an affirmation of his desire to make the night unforgettable for both of them.

    A hush fell over the crowd as Caroline emerged from the store, her lovely form framed by the golden light that spilled from the doorway. She was resplendent in a gown of midnight blue, the rich fabric setting off the delicate curves of her figure. Her blonde hair, cropped just above her shoulders, framed her beautiful face like a graceful halo, giving her an air of sophistication and elegance. Her eyes sparkled with the secrets of the city, and the faintest of smiles yed at the corners of her lips, hinting at the anticipation that swirled within her heart.

    She glided gracefully toward Jonathan, her gaze lifting to meet his as she came to a stop before him.

    "I apologize for keeping you waiting," she said, her voice as soft and enchanting as the rustle of silk. "I hadn''t anticipated such a rush of customers at this hour."

    Jonathan smiled warmly, his eyes dancing with amusement. "No need to apologize, Caroline," he said, his tone rxed and sincere. "I can understand why your store would be so popr. You have a remarkable talent for making women feel beautiful and elegant."

    He gestured toward the bustling street, inviting her to join him as they began their evening adventure. "Besides, I''d happily wait an eternity for the pleasure of yourpany. Now, shall we explore the wonders of New York together?"

    As they strolled arm in arm along the gas-lit streets, the magic ofte neenth-century New York enveloped them. The city''s charm seemed to defy the boundaries of time, inviting Caroline and Jonathan to immerse themselves in its enchanting atmosphere.

    Their first stop was a cozy little bistro tucked away in a quaint corner of the city. The warm glow of the candles, the murmur of conversations, and the tantalizing aroma of fine food and wine filled the air, creating an intimate ambiance. They sharedughter and stories, their eyes locked on each other, the connection between them growing stronger with each passing moment.

    After their meal, they wandered toward the promenade, where the spectacr view of the East River opened up before them. They stood at the railing, side by side, the moonlit water shimmering with a million tiny reflections. Jonathan wrapped his arm around Caroline''s waist, pulling her close as they watched the boats glide gracefully through the dark water. The city seemed toe alive around them, its countless lights shimmering like stars in the night sky.

    Next, they found themselves at a lively music hall, where a talented ensemble yed lively tunes that set the crowd dancing. With a mischievous grin, Jonathan took Caroline''s hand and led her to the dance floor. They swayed and twirled, their movements in perfect harmony as they lost themselves in the rhythm of the music. The world outside the music hall seemed to fade away, leaving only the two of them and the maic connection that pulled them closer together.

    As the evening wore on, Caroline and Jonathan explored more of the city''s romantic spots, each new experience adding anotheryer to the tapestry of their shared memories. From the hushed beauty of a secret garden to the exuberant energy of a bustling marketce, they reveled in the unique charm of each location, the joy of their blossoming rtionship deepening with every step they took.

    Atst, the hour grewte, and the city began to quiet down as it prepared for the gentle embrace of the night. With a tender smile, Jonathan escorted Caroline back to her store, his heart brimming with the memories of their unforgettable evening. As they paused before the door, the golden light from within casting a warm glow around them, they shared a lingering look that spoke volumes of the love that had begun to blossom between them.

    "So I guess this is it," Jonathan said, chuckling nervously. "It was a lot of fun. Thank you Caroline for giving me an opportunity to show you the

    Caroline''s eyes sparkled with gratitude as she gently touched his arm. "Thank you, Jonathan. Tonight was truly lovely, and I will treasure these memories forever," she replied, her voice filled with genuine emotion.

    As they stood there, bathed in the soft glow from the store, it was evident that the connection between them had only grown stronger throughout the evening. The world around them seemed to pause for a moment, allowing them to bask in the warmth of their newfound bond.<novelnext></novelnext>

    As they lingered in the warm embrace of the golden light, Jonathan felt an inexplicable force drawing him closer to Caroline. It was as if the very air around them had conspired to push them together, urging him to surrender to the maic pull of their connection. The soft murmur of the city faded into the background, leaving only the sound of their synchronized breaths, a gentle melody that filled the space between them.

    He couldn''t tear his gaze away from her face, her eyes like glittering pools of mystery and warmth, her cheeks flushed with the excitement of their shared evening. It was her lips, though, that truly captivated him. The delicate curve, the subtle hint of a smile that lingered at the edges, seemed to beckon him, promising a taste of the sweetest nectar he could ever imagine.

    Jonathan''s heart pounded in his chest, its rapid rhythm echoing the intensity of the desire that surged through him. He could sense the same longing mirrored in Caroline''s eyes, the unspoken yearning that shimmered between them like the heat of a thousand suns.

    The space between them dwindled, their breaths mingling as they were drawn inexorably closer. The anticipation was almost unbearable, a delicious agony that made their hearts flutter and their souls ache with longing.

    Finally, with their eyes locked in a passionate embrace, Jonathan closed the distance between them. His hand cradled her face, his thumb gently brushing her cheek as if to confirm the reality of the moment. The world seemed to hold its breath, time itself pausing in reverence for the love that had bloomed between them.

    And then, their lips met.

    The kiss was tender at first, a delicate exploration of the unfamiliar terrain of each other''s mouths. It was a dance of discovery, their breaths and heartbeats intertwining as they sought to map the contours of their newfound connection. With each gentle press of their lips, the intensity grew, the mes of desire fanned by the intimacy of their embrace.

    As the kiss deepened, Jonathan felt as if his entire being had been set alight, a wildfire of passion that consumed himpletely. The barriers between them seemed to dissolve, their souls merging in the heat of their love, creating a bond that was as strong and enduring as the very fabric of the universe.

    When they finally broke apart, their eyes shimmered with the shared knowledge of the profound love that had been kindled between them. The world around them resumed its rhythm, the city''s symphony of life filling the air once more. But for Caroline and Jonathan, their hearts had been irrevocably altered, the spark of their love igniting a ze that would illuminate their lives for eternity.

    "Your lips tasted like strawberries," Jonathan whispered, his voice tender and filled with wonder.

    Caroline blushed, a soft smile gracing her lips as she gazed at him, "Is it just me, or are you being too straightforward?"

    Jonathan chuckled, a hint of embarrassment coloring his cheeks. "Apologies, Caroline. I didn''t mean to be so bold. It''s just that... well, tonight has been truly magical, and I couldn''t help but express how I felt."

    Caroline''s smile widened, her eyes twinkling with affection. "No need to apologize, Jonathan. I appreciate your honesty, and I must admit that I feel the same way."

    They stood there for a moment, their hearts swelling with the emotions that surged between them, their hands intertwined as if to cement the moment they are having right now.

    "May I see you again?" Jonathan asked, his voice filled with hope and vulnerability.

    Caroline squeezed his hand gently, her eyes locked with his as she whispered her answer. "Yes, Jonathan. I would like that very much."

 Chapter 115 Investment With Pleasure

    Jonathan awoke with the first light of dawn, the pale golden rays filtering through the curtains of his luxurious suite at the Fifth Avenue Hotel. A feeling of contentment and anticipation washed over him, the memories of the previous evening with Caroline still fresh in his mind. The connection they had forged, the sharedughter and tender moments, had left him feeling a warmth that seemed to radiate from his very core.

    With a newfound spring in his step, he rose from the plush bed and prepared for the day ahead. The marble bathroom beckoned, offering the promise of a refreshing bath that would chase away any lingering traces of sleep. He filled the ornate wfoot tub with steaming hot water, the scent of rosemary andvender wafting through the air as he added a few drops of fragrant oil. Immersing himself in the soothing embrace of the water, he closed his eyes and allowed himself to drift, his thoughts consumed by the enchanting woman who had captured his heart.

    After a leisurely soak, Jonathan donned a crisp white shirt, a charcoal-gray waistcoat, and a pair of impably tailored trousers. Hebed his dark hair back, the fine strands obediently falling into ce, giving him a polished and sophisticated appearance.

    Descending the grand staircase, Jonathan entered the hotel''s opulent dining room, where the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and warm croissants filled the air. He settled into a plush velvet chair and indulged in a sumptuous breakfast, savoring the delicate vors of smoked salmon, ripe fruit, and buttery pastries. Each bite seemed to fortify him, providing sustenance not just for his body but also for the whirlwind of emotions that swirled within him.

    With his appetite sated, Jonathan retreated to the privacy of his suite. He picked up the ornate brass telephone that sat atop the polished mahogany desk, his fingers deftly dialing the number he had memorized in anticipation of this moment. The soft trill of the ringing line echoed through the room, each tone heightening the anticipation that coursed through him.

    As the line clicked and a familiar voice answered on the other end, Jonathan drew a deep breath, steadying himself for the conversation that was about to unfold.

    "Hey Poul, I knew you''d answer. I have two pieces of good news," Jonathan began.

    "Ah, Jonathan! It''s been a while," Poul replied, a note of genuine warmth in his tone. "I could sense the energy in your voice the moment I answered the call. Do tell, what''s the good news?"

    Jonathan hesitated for a moment, a smile ying at the corners of his lips. "First," he said, his voice brimming with excitement, "I had the most incredible evening with Carolinest night. We spent the entire night exploring the city, sharingughter, and making unforgettable memories. You know, the usual when you go on a date. And the best part is, I get to kiss her lips. Oh boy, she tasted delicious, oh I wish I could have savored her lips more."

    Poul chuckled heartily, clearly delighted by his friend''s enthusiasm. "Well, Jonathan, it sounds like you had quite the evening. I''m so d to hear that things went well between you and Caroline. I know how much she means to you. And what''s the second piece of good news?"

    "The second piece of good news is that Caroline is going to invest two million dors in another venture, the electricpany. Just as I assure you, she will invest as always. I have already handed her the necessary files and documents for her to peruse, and in just six days, we will get the money."

    "Well, that one is not surprising at all," Poul said, chuckling. "We know that Caroline is going to invest, she gave us her words. The meeting there was just a formality. So was that all? You kissed Caroline and got a two-million-dor investment?"

    "Oh, there is actually a third one," Jonathan said as he recalled his discussion with Caroline yesterday at Delmonicos. "ording to Caroline, the New York Board of Transportation is looking for a solution to fix gridlocks in New York. One of the solutions is building a metro station along New York, that way people from Upper Manhattan canmute to Lower Manhattan efficiently and swiftly. Caroline believes that we could y a significant role in the project. Providing the necessary infrastructure and technology to make it a reality."

    Poul''s interest was immediately piqued. "That''s an incredible opportunity, but we have to discuss it once you are back here in Pittsburgh. As you can see, we are still getting flooded with orders from Europe in our Arms Manufacturing enterprise. The Crimean War is still ongoing with no signs of ending anytime soon."

    "Well isn''t that good? The longer the war the merrier the money we make," Jonathan replied, his tone shifting to a more serious one. "But you''re right, Poul. We need to make sure we''re keeping our current businesses running smoothly while exploring new opportunities. I''ll be back in Pittsburgh soon, and we can discuss the New York metro project in detail."

    "Sounds like a n, Jonathan," Poul agreed. "And congrattions again on your evening with Caroline. I''m d to see you so happy."

    "Thank you, Poul. I appreciate your support," Jonathan said, smiling. "I''ll see you soon. Take care."

    With that, Jonathan hung up the phone.

    ***

    Six dayster, Jonathan arrived at the Loreal store and browsed the items disyed on the shelves. There were new assortments of shampoos and tubes of toothpaste, and soaps of every color and fragrance imaginable.

    "I guess we''ll have to order a bulk soon," he muttered under his breath. A thought came to mind as the stocks of their personal care products. It was truly a gift from God that Caroline descended into this world with her modern chemical engineering knowledge and expertise. Without her, people would smell like crap.

    Speaking of Caroline, Jonathan received a call that she is making her final decision about the two million dor investment. He knows she will invest, there''s no way she will not as she will lose a copious amount of money if she did.

    Despite their millions, Poul and Jonathan''s funds weren''t enough to fund an electricpany. The money they earned from their enterprises is reinvested back into the enterprises that made them ensure high-quality products and fund its research and development program.

    While browsing the store, Jonathan suddenly felt someone''s hands gently covering his eyes.

    "Guess who?" a female voice yfully whispered from behind him.

    Jonathan''s heart leaped in his chest, instantly recognizing the voice that had captured his heart.

    "Caroline, is that you?" he asked with a yful grin, already knowing the answer.

    Caroline removed her hands from his eyes, and Jonathan turned around to face her, his smile broadening as he took in her radiant beauty.

    "You know me too well," she teased, her eyes twinkling with amusement.

    Jonathan couldn''t help but admire her stunning beauty. As his eyes scanned her face, they lingered on her lips for a moment, causing him to blush as memories of their passionate kiss from six days ago flooded his mind.

    Caroline let out an amused grin, seeing how Jonathan is affected by her presence.

    "Well, Mr. Jonathan, it seems you''re quite smitten," she said yfully, her eyes dancing with mischief.

    Jonathan chuckled, regaining hisposure. "Guilty as charged," he admitted. "So, have you made your decision regarding the investment?"

    Caroline''s expression turned serious as she nodded.

    "Yes, I have. After carefully reviewing the documents and considering the potential benefits, I''ve decided to invest two million dors in the electricpany. I believe it''s a worthy venture, and I have confidence in our ability to make it a sess. I also came up with a list of clients from different states who might be interested in cost-effective electric distribution systems."

    "Really? That''s great, I would love to see it soon. Oh, and about the metro station, Poul is leaning towards taking on the project," Jonathan informed.

    "Well, I will give you the contact details of the New York Board of Transportation if you two have fully made your decision," Caroline said, then an awkward silence fell between the two.

    "What''s wrong, Caroline?" Jonathan asked.

    "Can youe with me, for a moment?" Caroline asked, before suddenly grabbing his arm and pulling him toward the fitting room at the back of the store.

    Jonathan''s heart raced as he allowed her to lead him through the store, curiosity and excitement coursing through him. Once inside the fitting room, Caroline took a bold initiative, gently pressing him against the wall. She then rose up onto her toes, her lips tenderly meeting him in a deep and passionate kiss that enveloped them both.

    Caught off guard by the intensity of the moment, Jonathan hesitated for a second before he wrapped his arms around her waist, pulling her closer as he returned the kiss with equal fervor. Their lips moved in harmony as if drawn together by an irresistible force that neither of them could deny. As they finally broke apart, both breathless from the intensity of their shared passion, Jonathan looked into Caroline''s eyes, searching for an exnation.

    "Why, Caroline?" he asked.

    Caroline gazed back at him, her eyes filled with a mixture of vulnerability and determination. "I just couldn''t contain it any longer," she admitted, her voice trembling slightly. "Every time I''m near you, I feel this overwhelming desire to be close to you, to feel your touch, to share these moments with you. I couldn''t hold back any longer."

    Jonathan grinned and teased. "Now who is the bold one?"

    Caroline blushed, a yful smile gracing her lips. "I guess we both have our moments of boldness," she conceded, her eyes never leaving his.

    Jonathan''s heart swelled with emotion, and he tenderly cupped her face in his hands and stared at it for a moment.

    "Jonathan..?" Caroline uttered but was ignored.

    "This is your fault, Caroline," Jonathan said before making another move. Instead of the lips, he went for the neck, sucking it and gently nibbling on her soft skin. Caroline gasped at the unexpected sensation, her breath hitching as a shiver ran down her spine.

    "Jonathan," she whispered, her voice shaky with desire. Her hands found their way to his shoulders, gripping them tightly as she tried to steady herself.

    He paused for a moment, pulling back just enough to gauge her reaction.

    "Is this okay?" he asked, concern evident in his eyes.

    Caroline nodded, her eyes filled with longing. "Yes," she breathed, "please, don''t stop."

    Emboldened by her affirmation, Jonathan continued to shower her neck with tender kisses, feeling her body respond to his touch. The desire that had been building between them for so long now threatened to consume them both.

    Feeling the intensity of the moment, Jonathan''s hand made its way down its way down to the hem of Caroline''s blouse, his fingers trailing along her smooth skin. Without breaking their kiss, he began to slowly unbutton her blouse, revealing thecy bra underneath. Caroline moaned softly as his hands roamed over her curves, sending waves of pleasure through her body.

    Jonathan''s lips left her neck and traveled down to her chest, his tongue teasing and flicking over her nipples through the fabric of her bra. Caroline arched her back, pressing herself closer to him as she gasped for breath.

    They were lost in a haze of desire, and the world around them disappeared as they gave in to their passionpletely. It wasn''t until they heard a knock on the door of the fitting room that they broke apart, their hearts pounding with excitement and fear.

    "Excuse me, is everything okay in there?" a store employee inquired.

    "Michelle, is that you?" Caroline asked.

    "Lady Dupont? Yes it is me, is everything alright inside? I heard noises."

    "Everything is alright, why don''t you go now?" Caroline asked.

    "Yes, mdy."

    Inside the fitting room, Caroline buttoned her blouse and heaved a sigh.

    "That was close," Caroline said.

    Jonathan clicked his tongue. "Just when we are getting to the exciting part,"

    Caroline rolled her eyes yfully, a mischievous smile on her lips.

    "Well, I suppose we''ll just have to find a more appropriate time and ce for our... explorations," she teased,

    Jonathan grinned, his eyes filled with warmth and affection.

    "I couldn''t agree more," he said, as he adjusted his own clothing and took a deep breath, still reeling from their passionate encounter.

 Chapter 116 Formation Of Axelsen & Nielsen Electric Manufacturing Company Part 1

    In the bustling city of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Poul found himself carefully overseeing the packaging processes for the newly minted AN-M1 rifles. The factory floor buzzed with energy as dedicated workers diligently inspected each gleaming firearm, ensuring they met the highest standards of quality and performance.

    Poul''s keen eyes followed the rhythmic motions of the assembly line, taking note of the precision and skill demonstrated by each worker. They moved with well-practiced ease, their hands expertly assembling, checking, and packaging the rifles into sturdy wooden crates, ready for shipment to various destinations.

    The atmosphere in the factory was a harmonious blend of focus and camaraderie. Workers shared nods of appreciation and encouraging smiles, knowing they were part of a team producing cutting-edge weaponry that would make a difference in the hands of those who wielded them.

    As Poul observed the seamless operation, he felt a sense of pride swell within him. He knew that his diligent supervision and the tireless efforts of his team yed a crucial role in maintaining the exceptional quality and reputation of the AN-M1 rifle. But when he approached one of the workers, his satisfaction fell into disappointment.

    He suddenly grabbed three AN-M1 rifles andid them on the table. After that, he looked up to the workers who were working on them.

    "One of these rifles is not up to Axelsen & Nielsen standards. You choose what you think is the defective one, and tell me why," Poul said, his tone firm yet calm.

    The workers exchanged nervous nces, each hoping they hadn''t been responsible for thepse in quality. One by one, they approached the table and carefully examined the three riflesid out before them.

    After several tense moments, a young worker named Sam stepped forward, pointing to the middle rifle.

    "Sir, I believe this one is not up to our standards," he said, his voice wavering slightly. "The alignment of the barrel appears to be slightly off, which could affect the uracy of the firearm."

    Poul nodded, appreciating Sam''s keen eye for detail. "Well spotted," he said, before turning to address the entire team. "This serves as a reminder that we must always be vignt in maintaining our high standards. A single oversight could mean the difference between life and death for those who rely on our craftsmanship."

    Determined to prevent further slip-ups, Poul took note of the decision he made just now by implementing additional quality checks and training sessions for his team.

    This was supposed to be Jonathan''s work as he is the one managing this enterprise of theirs. But, given the fact that he is in New York and is to return to Pittsburgh tomorrow means that he has to take charge first.

    ***

    A dayter, in the main office of the Axelsen & Nielsen Companies, Poul was sifting through the paperwork that had umted over time.

    He signed and stamped the papers before setting them aside to work on another. Momentster, the door opened, and Jonathan stepped inside the office.

    Poul nced up, acknowledging his arrival, before looking down at the documents again.

    "Jonathan, good to see you back," Poul said.

    "It''s good to be back," Jonathan sighed and stepped forward. He opened his briefcase, pulled a file out, and set it on Poul''s table.

    "What is this?" Poul asked.

    "That is the contract that Caroline and I signed, securing a two-million dor investment in our electric distributionpany enterprises. She was hoping that with this, we may be able to start it up andpete with James Russell''s direct electric distribution system," Jonathan exined and looked around the office. He noticed something. "Is Ms. Weiss here about?"

    "Ms. Weiss is at City Hall to file our taxes. She should be back soon," Poul replied, keeping his eyes on the contract before him.

    Jonathan nodded, satisfied with the update. "Well, in that case, let''s go over this contract together. We need to make sure we''re on the same page with this investment."

    Poul set aside the documents he was working on, focusing his attention on the new file. The two men poured over the details, discussing the implications of the investment and the potential challenges they might face in the electric distribution market.

    As they reviewed the contract, Poul couldn''t help but feel a sense of excitement at the prospect of expanding theirpany into new territory. In the past four years, they have been hopping from one industry to another, making the best out of every opportunity that came their way.

    Later that afternoon, Ms. Weiss returned to the office, her face flushed with a mix of exhaustion and aplishment. "The taxes have been filed," she announced, handing Poul a receipt as proof.

    "Excellent, thank you, Ms. Weiss," Poul said, cing the receipt in a folder for safekeeping.

    With their business matters in order, the three of them sat down to strategize their next steps.

    Poul took the helm, standing in front of the chalkboard. Written on the chalkboard are the steps that they are going to take to officially open their new venture, the Axelsen & Nielsen Electric Manufacturing Company.

    "First, we have to discuss what our business is going to be. Are we going to be a utilitypany that provides electricity to homes and buildings? Or are we going to manufacture electrical equipment, parts, and tools for our clients? Well, why not both?"

    "We are going to set up a power nt and then manufacture electrical equipment that we can sell to the other utilitypanies from different states and countries."

    Jonathan raised his hand. "You are going to build a power nt, where are you going to set it up?"

    "Good question," Poul grabbed a map and disyed it on the chalkboard. It was a map of the state of Pennsylvania. "The location I chose is here, in Scranton, which is situated in the Anthracite Coal Region. This area is known for its high-quality anthracite coal, which has a higher carbon content, lower sulfur levels, and burns more efficientlypared to bituminous coal."

    "Aside from the reason, what factors did you consider in choosing that?" Jonathan asked again.

    "Well, there are four factors that I considered before making my decision. They are proximity to coal mines, ess to transportation infrastructure, avability of water in the region, and avability ofbor. Scranton is located near the coal mines, it also has ess to transportation such as rails. The power nt needs a lot of water for steam and cooling purposes, Scranton being near the Lackawanna River would provide us a stable water source. Lastly, Scranton has a huge poption which we can hire as workers andborers."

 Chapter 117 Formation Of Axelsen & Nielsen Electric Manufacturing Company Part 2

    "Okay moving on, after we have the ce, let''s move on to the power nt itself. As it is located in the coal-rich regions, the power nt would be coal-fired and can produce up to 20 megawatts, and can power an entire city. For context, James Russell''s Pearl Street Station in New York City had an initial capacity of about 700 kilowatts and served about 85 customers in a one-mile radius. But as the years go on, they are increasing their capacity to meet up the demands."

    "Twenty megawatts, that''s quite a lot, given the fact that the primary use of electricity was for street lighting, some industrial applications, and limited residential use only."

    "We will have to take ount of the future demands as well," Poul said. "And didn''t I tell you before? We are not only going to produce electricity but make technology that uses electricity as well such as home appliances and the likes."

    Amelia, who has been listening at the meeting the whole time couldn''t help but feel left out. She can''tprehend what the two are talking about as the topic focuses primarily on electricity. Wanting to feel more involved, Amelia raised her hand.

    "Uhm¡­Mr. Nielsen, howe your designed power nt can produce 28 times more than James Russell?"

    "Ah, I see your point. The reason our power nt can produce 28 times more power than Russell''s Pearl Street Station is primarily due to the use of steam turbines instead of reciprocating steam engines. Steam turbines are more efficient and can generate more power than reciprocating steam engines of the same size.

    "Steam turbines work by directing high-pressure steam through a series of des mounted on a shaft, causing the shaft to rotate at high speeds. This rotary motion is then converted into electricity by a generator.

    "Using steam turbines allows us to generate arger amount of electricity with fewer machines and in a morepact spacepared to a nt that uses reciprocating steam engines. This technology enables our power nt to produce 20 megawatts, which is significantly more than Russel''s Pearl Street Station."

    "Is that so?" Amelia hummed, despite Poul exining it to her simply, she couldn''t still understand it. Science is beyond her. "I still don''t understand it. Howe that steam turbine produces more electricity than reciprocating engines? I''m sorry, Mr. Nielsen, as a secretary of yourpany, I want to at least understand the basic principles of the technology."

    "Of course, Amelia. I''ll be happy to provide a simpler exnation of how steam turbines produce more electricity than reciprocating steam engines," Mr. Nielsen replied patiently.

    "Think of a reciprocating steam engine as a series of back-and-forth movements, like a piston. The steam pushes the piston in one direction, and then it moves back as the steam pressure drops. This back-and-forth motion is then converted into rotary motion to drive a generator, which produces electricity. Now, the back-and-forth motion of reciprocating steam engines contribute to energy losses, making it less efficient, because of factors like friction and heat losses that ur during the piston''s movement.

    "Every time the piston changes direction, it has to ovee the inertia of theponents and friction between moving parts, which results in some energy being lost as heat. This reduces the overall efficiency of the reciprocating engine in converting the steam''s energy into mechanical energy and, ultimately, electricity.

    "On the other hand, steam turbines have fewer moving parts, and their continuous rotary motion reduces energy losses due to friction and heat. Imagine a steam turbine as a spinning top. In this case, the steam flows continuously over a set of des mounted on a rotating shaft. As the steam passes over the des, it transfers its energy to the shaft, causing it to spin at high speeds. The spinning shaft is connected to a generator that produces electricity.

    "So, in simple terms, steam turbines are like spinning tops that can efficiently convert the energy from steam into electricity, while reciprocating steam engines are like back-and-forth pistons that are less efficient at converting the steam''s energy."

    Amelia nodded, appreciating Mr. Nielsen''s effort to simplify the concept for her. "Thank you, Mr. Nielsen. That helps me understand it a lot better."

    "No problem, if you have a question, just ask," Poul said with a reassuring smile.

    "Oh, I do, Mr. Nielsen, the steam turbine that you are talking about, is it already avable?"

    "No, we are going to be the ones who will make steam turbines," Poul said.

    Jonathan nodded, chuckling. "I knew this would lead to this."

    Steam turbines have not yet been invented in this world, so that means, they will be the ones to invent them.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "Assume that we have the power nt built, how do you n on transmitting that electricity to the city?"

    "Of course with power lines," Poul replied the obvious. "Of course, I''m kidding, in order to transmit electricity to our customers, we have to build a series of transmission lines and substations. More importantly, the transformers. Looks like we are going to need Caroline''s expertise."

    "Ah, I see where this is going," Jonathan hummed in realization. "You want her to build a cont for the transformers right?"

    "Exactly," Poul nodded. "Transformers are essential for efficient transmission of electricity over long distances, but they generate a considerable amount of heat. Caroline''s expertise in chemical engineering will be invaluable. Though let''s wonder if she can do it, after all, that substance is dangerous."

    "Uhm¡­what substance are you talking about, Mr. Nielsen?" Amelia asked again.

    "Polychlorinated biphenyl," Poul revealed.

    "Polychlori¡­what?" Amelia repeated.

    "Polychlorinated biphenyl, or PCB for short," Poul repeated, noticing Amelia''s confusion. "It''s a toxic chemical but has excellent insting and heat-resistant properties. However, they are toxic and environmentally persistent, which means they don''t break down easily and can umte in the environment."

    Amelia''s eyes widened in concern. "That sounds dangerous. Are we sure we want to use something like that?"

    Jonathan stepped in, "That''s where Caroline''s expertisees into y. She will be working on developing a safer alternative to PCBs for use as a cont in our transformers, and other systems. We want to ensure that our operations are not only efficient but also environmentally responsible."

    Amelia nodded, feeling reassured by Jonathan''s exnation. "I understand now. Thank you for rifying that."

    "Though I wonder what Caroline is going to make?" Poul hummed in thought. "Ester-based fluids or fluorinated fluids? He mumbled to himself.

    "Are you saying something, Mr. Nielsen?" Amelia asked.

    "No, Ms. Weiss, let''s move on."

    "Let''s assume that we have built the power nts and the electrical equipment thates with it. It''ll attract the attention of other utility providers who use James Russell''s system. As we all know, direct current can only serve a few people over a shorter distance. It is also expensive to maintain as it requires a lot of maintenance work. Thosepanies wille to us and implement our system in theirs. That''s where we will sell them the electrical equipment. The generators, transformers, motors, turbines, lighting, switchgear, and transmission and distribution equipment. And I think that''s it."

    "I''ll work on the necessary papers and permits for the construction of the power nt and the establishment of the Axelsen & Nielsen Electric Manufacturing Company," Amelia said, jotting down notes as she spoke. I''ll also start reaching out to potential clients and business partners. We need to establish strong connections in the industry to ensure a sessfulunch of our new venture."

    "And I will help you Poul on building the power nt," Jonathan said. "You are going to need my expertise."

    Poul smiled, satisfied with the n they had outlined. "Excellent. Let''s get to work, shall we?"

 Chapter 118 Meanwhile, In The British Empire

    July 20th, 884.

    In the early morning hours of a brisk London day, the city awoke to the sounds of bustlingmerce and the creaking of wooden carriages rolling across cobblestone streets. It was the dawn of a new era, as the British Empire stood on the cusp of its zenith, poised to leave an indelible mark on the world.

    Thete nine hundredth century was a time of unprecedented growth and prosperity for the empire. Its roots extended back to the Age of Discovery, when intrepid explorers and merchants set sail for distant shores in search of untold riches and opportunities. As these pioneers established trade routes and settlements, Britain''s sphere of influence began to expand, fueled by an insatiable thirst for resources, knowledge, and power.

    Over the centuries, the empire''s reach stretched across the globe, epassing vast swaths of territory in the Americas, Africa, Asia, and the Pacific. By the 1880s, the sun never set on the British Empire, as its dominions and colonies encircled the Earth. The empire''s wealth and influence were built on the foundations of naval supremacy, technological advancements, and aplex web of trade and diplomacy.

    With each new conquest and acquisition, Britain''s global footprint grew, forging an empire that would shape the course of history and leave asting legacy on the world. As the people of London went about their daily lives, they were living witnesses to the extraordinary rise of a world power¡ªor maybe not.

    The Crimean war was not going favorable to the Allied forces as the Russians continued to push them out of their shores. The introduction of the AN-M1 rifles manufactured by the Axelsen & Nielsen Arms Manufacturing Company proved to be a game-changer. Tactics and strategy that worked well with muskets doesn''t seem to work anymore against the semi-automatic action of the AN-M1 rifles. If one were to gain an upper hand over its belligerents, one must adapt to the new warfare ande up with new tactics and strategies.

    Within the ornate walls of Buckingham Pce, the air was thick with tension as King George surveyed the situation unfolding before him. The throne hall, adorned with gold leaf and intricate tapestries depicting the glorious victories of the empire, felt cold and uninviting. Sunlight streamed through the towering stained-ss windows, casting an array of colors across the polished marble floor, which only served to highlight the somber atmosphere.

    King George, a tall, imposing figure draped in regal finery, sat heavily upon his throne¡ªa masterpiece of craftsmanship, with carved lion heads serving as armrests and the crest of the royal family emzoned on the high backrest. His deep-set eyes, once alight with confidence and pride, now bore the weight of disappointment and concern as he looked down at Prince Alexander and Lady Penelope Ascart, both kneeling before him with their heads bowed.

    The king''s disappointment was evident in the tightness of his jaw and the barely audible sigh that escaped his lips. News of the British Empire''s setbacks in the Crimean War had reached him, and the once-unwavering belief in victory now appeared to be wavering.

    "Rise, both of you," King Georgemanded, his voice echoing through the hall. As Prince Alexander and Lady Penelope stood, the king continued, "Alexander, may I ask what''s going on in Crimea? It has been eight months and there''s barely any progress at all?"

    Prince Alexander, straightened his posture and locked eyes with the king. "Your Majesty, there are several factors contributing to our setbacks in Crimea," he began, his voice steady and clear. "Although our men are also armed with the AN-M1 rifles, we have not been able to utilize them as effectively as the Russian forces. The Russians have quickly adapted to the new weapons and have developed tactics that make the most of their capabilities, outpacing our own forces in the process."

    "Moreover," he continued, "theck ofmunication among the allied forces has resulted in disorganized assaults and sieges. Without a unifiedmand structure and efficient coordination, ourbined efforts have been insufficient to counter the well-prepared and rapidly advancing Russian army."

    As Prince Alexander finished his exnation, the silence in the throne hall grew heavier. King George''s brow furrowed as he considered the grave implications of what he had just heard. After a long moment, the king spoke.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "So, what you are saying is, the Russian forces are good and we are bad? Is that what you want to tell your father? Alexander!"

    Prince Alexander hesitated, his face revealing a mix of determination and humility. "No, Your Majesty," he replied with conviction. "What I mean to say is that we have encountered unexpected challenges that we must ovee. The Russian forces have shown themselves to be formidable adversaries, but we have the strength and resources to adapt and outmaneuver them."

    A fire ignited in Prince Alexander''s eyes as he continued, "We must learn from our mistakes and devise new strategies to exploit the weaknesses of the enemy. We should invest in the training of our soldiers to better wield the AN-M1 rifles and establish a more effectivemunicationwork among the allied forces."

    King George, though still troubled by the situation, couldn''t help but feel a spark of hope as he listened to his son''s passionate words. "Very well, Alexander," he said, his voice imbued with the authority of a king and the warmth of a father. "I trust in your ability to lead our forces and bring us the victory we so desperately need. After all, we are fighting to protect the integrity and dignity of the British Empire."

    "Thank you, Your Majesty," Prince Alexander bowed reverently. A momentter, he looked up again. "Your Majesty, if I may ask, why did you summon us here from the frontline? The war is far from over."

    "Because, I want to talk to you about something, between you and Lady Ascart over there," King George said, looking at the beautifuldy standing next to Prince Alexander.

    "Lady Ascart, I have been informed of your remarkable achievements in this war. Your medical expertise has proven invaluable, reducing our soldiers'' fatality rate to a mere ten percent. This exceptional aplishment has allowed our brave men to return to the frontlines and continue fighting for the glory of the British Empire."

    "Thank you for your kind words, Your Majesty," Penelope bowed her head.

    "Though I''m sure you are eager to return back to the front line and tend the wounds of our injured soldiers there."

    "That''s quite correct, Your Majesty. The soldiers who are under my care are waiting for me toe back."

    "In that case, I''ll make this brief. Lady Penelope, my son, has expressed his interest in you bing his wife. And based on your recents achievements you have made to the British Empire, where the people have taken a liking to you, makes you a very good candidate as the Crown Princess of the British Empire. There is also a rumor of you two going out, so I will announce to the public of your engagement and the impending royal wedding. I believe that a union between you two will not only strengthen the bond within the royal family but also inspire the people of the British Empire."

    Both Prince Alexander and Lady Penelope exchanged nces, their faces flushing with surprise.

 Chapter 119 The Throne Hall Drama

    "Your Majesty, what do you mean by those words? You are telling the public that we are engaged?" Penelope asked, her face etched with concern.

    The king was quick to notice her facial expression. He furrowed his brows and asked. "Why? Is there something the matter?"

    As soon as he asked that, the grand door of the throne hall opened. Penelope and Alexander nced over their shoulder and saw a person that is familiar to the two.

    "Father?" Penelope uttered.

    "My dear Penelope, good to see you back here at home." Penelope''s father said coolly as he walked forward. Once he was at a certain distance from King George, he gracefully bowed his head down. "Your Majesty, I''m sorry if I waste, there was an argument that broke down in the parliament and it took time to settle the dispute."

    "No, you are right in time, Benjamin, I just told them about the engagement."

    "Is that so, Your Majesty? Then I''m delighted to hear that. I always knew that my daughter is up to the standard of the royal family. Her beauty,passion, skills, everything about her is unrivaled. She will make a good queen of the British Empire, don''t you agree, Your Highness?" Benjamin said as his gaze flickered to Alexander.

    "Lady Ascart is a treasure to me, Sir Benjamin. She is the most beautiful, wise, and talented girl that I have ever known in my life."

    As Penelope was hearing the conversation, she couldn''t help but feel cornered, like a fish in a barrel. What is this? They are all mutually agreeing to make her the Crown Princess, a title that she doesn''t like.

    "Father, Your Majesty, if I may protest, there is something that I want to confess to the two of you," Penelope said, her voice grim.

    A heavy silence fell upon the throne room as Penelope took a deep breath, gathering her thoughts before she spoke. Her eyes glistened with unshed tears, a testament to the emotional turmoil brewing within her.

    "Your Majesty, Father, I must be honest with you both," she began, her voice wavering slightly. "I cannot ept this engagement, for my heart does not belong to Prince Alexander. I cannot, in good conscience, be the future Queen of the British Empire when my love does not lie with the man who would be my husband."

    As her words reverberated through the hall, the King''s face registered shock, his eyes widening in disbelief. Benjamin, too, appeared taken aback, his mouth agape as he stared at his daughter. Alexander, however, remainedposed, his countenance a mask of cool detachment.

    Penelope pressed on, her voice nowced with urgency. "Your Majesty, Father, I have already shared my feelings with Prince Alexander. I told him that I could not reciprocate his affection and that I could not bear the thought of being coerced into a loveless marriage."

    The King leaned forward on his throne, his brow furrowing as he tried toprehend the revtion. "Lady Penelope, are you certain of your feelings? You must understand the gravity of your words, and the impact they will have on the future of the empire."

    "Yes, Your Majesty, I understand the consequences," Penelope replied, her voice resolute. "But I cannot deceive myself, the prince, or the people of this great nation. It would be a disservice to all, and I believe that our empire deserves a queen who truly loves her king."

    Benjamin, still reeling from his daughter''s confession, turned to face Alexander. "Your Highness, if I may ask, what are your thoughts on my daughter''s revtion?"

    Prince Alexander, his stoic expression unchanging, took a moment before responding. "Sir Benjamin, it is true that Lady Penelope has shared her feelings with me. I am deeply saddened by her decision. To think that she would rece me with an Albian."

    Both Benjamin and George''s eyes widened in shock and disbelief.

    "An Albian, you say?" King George uttered, his voice tinged with a mixture of curiosity and concern.

    "Your Highness¡­ what do you mean?" Penelope stammered, caught off guard by Alexander''s sudden revtion.

    "It''s true," Alexander began, his voice steady yetced with a hint of betrayal. "It was during our time at the hospital in the Ottoman Empire. Lady Penelope showed a keen interest in the manufacturer behind the AN-M1 rifles. Once I shared that information with her, her demeanor shifted quite unexpectedly. Later, we visited Avalonia, and after I struck a deal with Mr. Nielsen, the Albian in question, Penelope confessed to me that she did not harbor any romantic feelings for me. I cannot help but suspect that her heart has been stolen by that Albian."

    The atmosphere in the throne room grew tense as Alexander''s words hung in the air. Penelope''s face flushed with a mix of embarrassment and indignation, while King George and Benjamin exchanged uneasy nces.

    King George cleared his throat and leaned forward, his eyes narrowing. "Lady Penelope, is it true that your affections lie with this Albian man? Have you allowed your heart to be swayed by someone from a group so often subjected to discrimination?"

    "That is just mere spection, Your Majesty," Penelope lied, deep inside, she always loved Poul, even beyond death. He was the man who stole her heart in her past world. And now that he is here, she will do whatever it takes to reunite with him. But for now, she must lie, as this will be confusing to King George and her father.

    They don''t know that Poul is her boyfriend from her original world that died and transmigrated here. So it won''t make sense if she confesses the truth to them.

    Penelope''s eyes darted back and forth between the king and her father, knowing that the truth would be difficult, if not impossible, to exin. She swallowed hard and continued with her lie, her voice barely audible.

    "Your Majesty, my feelings for Mr. Nielsen are based on friendship and mutual respect, nothing more. I understand the difficulties that the Albian people face, and I have always believed in fighting for justice and equality. However, my reluctance to marry Prince Alexander is not due to any romantic entanglement with Mr. Nielsen. My heart simply does not belong to the prince, and I cannot ept a life where I am forced to pretend otherwise."

    As Penelope spoke, she felt the weight of her words and the secret she carried about Poul. She knew that she would do anything to be with him, but the path she had chosen was fraught with obstacles and potential heartache.

    "Penelope, even if what you said was true, I will never ept your decision to not marry the Crown Prince. You were born to do just that!" Benjamin said sternly,

    Father, please understand," Penelope implored, her voice filled with desperation. "I cannot live a life of lies, pretending to love someone I do not. If I were to marry Prince Alexander under these circumstances, I would bring nothing but unhappiness to both of us, and that would not serve our nation well. Please, consider my feelings."

    Hearing thating out from Penelope''s mouth made Alexander''s cool mask shatter gradually, his heart ached as he listened to her earnest pleas. The woman he loved was rejecting him repeatedly, and the pain he felt was almost too much to bear.

    But he did not let his sorrow show, he contained it within him.

    "What more do you want from me to consider, Penelope? I agree to let you practice medicine even though that is not a suitable job for a noblewoman, and now you are asking me not to marry the Crown whom I have been working on my whole life to ensure your future? Is this how you repay me for my sacrifices?" Benjamin''s voice was filled with disappointment and anger, as he struggled to ept his daughter''s decision.

    Penelope''s eyes filled with tears, her heart breaking at her father''s words. "Father, I am truly sorry for the pain I have caused you. But I cannot live a life that is not true to my heart. I want to find my own happiness and not just fulfill the expectations ced upon me. Please, try to understand."

    King George, having observed the exchange, sighed deeply. "Sir Benjamin, I can see the sincerity in your daughter''s eyes. As a father myself, I understand how difficult it must be for you to ept her decision. But perhaps it is time for us to consider the possibility that the happiness of our children is more important than the traditions and expectations we have ced upon them."

    The king turned to Alexander, his eyes filled with empathy. "My son, I know this must be difficult for you as well. But if Lady Penelope''s heart is not with you, then it would be best for both of you to part ways. We will find another suitable match for you, one who will truly love and support you."

    "There''s no other woman out there like Penelope¡­" Alexander murmured under his breath.

    "What did you just say, my son?" George inquired.

    "I said there''s no other woman out there like Penelope!" Alexander raised his voice, his face betraying his anguish. Realizing he had lost control of his emotions, he bolted from the throne hall.

    "Alexander!" George called out, but it was to no avail; Alexander had already disappeared from the room.

    Outside, Alexander staggered forward, clutching his chest with trembling hands. "I cannot ept this. I refuse to ept it. Penelope is mine and mine alone! I will never allow another man to be with her."

 Chapter 120 The Future Of The New York Transportation Part 1

    In the heart of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the relentless hum of industry echoed through the air. Within the confines of a dimly lit office adorned with maps and blueprints, Poul and Jonathan hunched over a table, deeply engrossed in conversation about the intriguing proposition Caroline Dupont hadid before them.

    "Regarding the metro station, has it been confirmed that New York''s Board of Transportation is seeking a solution for the gridlock guing their streets?" Poul inquired, his eyes reflecting the intensity of his thoughts.

    Jonathan ran a weary hand through his disheveled hair, his voiceden with fatigue from his tireless efforts. "I had to contact Caroline twice to make sure, but she''s adamant: they''re desperate for a proposal, and architects and engineers are already jockeying to submit their bids."

    Poul''s brow furrowed, creasing his forehead as he contemted their predicament. "Although our hands are full of numerous ventures, I can''t ignore this golden opportunity in the transportation sector."

    Jonathan nodded emphatically, his eyes alight with determination. "Agreed. So, shall we journey to New York and present our own proposal for a metro station?"

    A sly grin spread across Poul''s face, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "We''re alreadyunching an electricpany; why not venture into transportation as well?" He chuckled, the weight of their aplishments settling upon him. "After all, we''ve been leaping from one enterprise to another, capitalizing on every profitable industry this alternate neenth-century world has to offer."

    "Then it''s decided," Jonathan dered resolutely, his voice filled with conviction. "I''ll have Amelia arrange a meeting with the New York Board of Transportation''s council members."

    With their course of action determined, Poul and Jonathan wasted no time in preparing for their journey to New York. The following day, they found themselves on board a steam lotive, the colossal iron beast bound for the bustling metropolis. As the train chugged along the iron tracks, the rhythmic tter of wheels on rails providing a steady backdrop, the pair revisited their proposal, refining their ideas and discussing the most persuasive ways to present them.

    Upon arriving in New York, they were immediately engulfed by the cacophony of sounds and the whirlwind of activity that defined the city. Horse-drawn carriages ttered down cobblestone streets, the hooves of the horses striking the stones with rhythmic precision. Street vendors hawked their wares, their voices merging into a symphony of persuasion, while the masses hurried to and fro, each individual intent on their own pursuits.

    As they navigated the congested avenues, the very issue they aimed to solve became abundantly clear: the city''s transportation infrastructure was woefully inadequate for the burgeoning poption. Poul and Jonathan exchanged knowing nces, their resolve to revolutionize urban transit only strengthened by the chaos they witnessed.

    The New York Board of Transportation''s headquarters loomed before them, an imposing edifice of brick and mortar that hinted at the gravitas of the institution. Drawing in a deep breath, Poul pushed open the heavy oak doors, their hinges groaning in protest, and the two engineers stepped inside.

    The council members, an eclectic mix of esteemed architects, city nners, and transportation experts, awaited them in a grand meeting room adorned with ornate wood paneling and plush velvet curtains. As Poul and Jonathan took their ces at the head of the table, the air was thick with anticipation. With a confident nod at hispanion, Poul began.

    "Good afternoon, gentlemen, and thank you for granting us the opportunity to present a solution that could transform New York''s pressing transportation challenges," Poul began, his voice steady andmanding.

    As he spoke, the council members of the New York Board of Transportation exchanged knowing nces, murmuring among themselves about Poul''s Albian heritage. The discrimination Poul faced in this parallel world was no secret to him, and he was acutely aware of the prejudices that apanied his origins.

    However, the credentials Poul and Jonathan had provided were indisputable. As founders of the rapidly growing Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company, Arms Manufacturing Company, Switch & Signal Company, and a foreign branch of the Air Brake Company in the German Empire, they had already made their mark on the industrialndscape. In short, they were a force to be reckoned with and had much to offer.

    Though some councilors may have wanted to raise concerns about Poul''s background, his aplishments, and reputation spoke louder.

    Poul cleared his throat, signaling the beginning of their proposal. "Gentlemen, we stand before you today to introduce a groundbreaking innovation in transportation: the electric lotive. We believe that this technology,bined with a carefully designed metro system, will revolutionize urban transit in New York City."

    Jonathan unveiled a series of blueprints and diagrams on the table, revealing intricate designs of the electric lotive and the metro system they envisioned. He continued, "Unlike the steam-powered engines you''re familiar with, electric lotives produce no smoke or steam, making them the ideal choice for an underground metro system. Passengers will no longer suffer the choking fumes that would inevitably apany steam engines in enclosed spaces."

    Poul chimed in, "To create the necessary tunnels for this metro system, we''ll employ another groundbreaking innovation of ours: the tunnel boring machine. This advanced piece of equipment will allow us to efficiently excavate the underground passages needed for our electric lotives to traverse."

    Jonathan borated on the mechanics of the tunnel boring machine. "This machine is specifically designed to excavate through various types of soil and rock. Its cutting head is equipped with robust teeth that can break through even the toughest geological formations. As the cutting head rotates, it grinds away the material, which is then transported to the surface via a conveyor belt system. Simultaneously, the tunnel walls are reinforced with precast concrete segments, ensuring structural integrity and safety."

    Poul then provided a simplified exnation of the electric lotive''s mechanism. "Our electric lotive utilizes a series of powerful electric motors that receive energy from an overhead catenary system. The catenary is awork of wires suspended above the train tracks, supplying a continuous flow of electricity to the lotive. This electric power drives the motors, propelling the train forward with remarkable efficiency and minimal pollution."

    The council members exchanged nces, their expressions a mixture of curiosity, skepticism, and awe. One of the councilors, an older gentleman with a distinguished air, raised his hand. "Gentlemen, this all sounds incredibly impressive, but I must admit, I''ve never heard of such technology. How can you assure us that this electric lotive will function as you describe?"

 Chapter 121 The Future Of The New York Transportation Part 2

    Jonathan addressed the concern confidently. "We understand that this concept may be unfamiliar to many of you, as it represents a significant departure from existing transportation technology. However, we have conducted extensive research and testing, and we''re confident in the functionality and reliability of our design. We''re prepared to demonstrate a working prototype to further assuage any doubts you may have."

    Another councilor chimed in, "But what about the cost of implementing such a system? How do you propose we finance the construction and maintenance of the metro, as well as the development of the electric lotive itself?"

    Poul offered a reassuring smile. "We''ve taken the financial aspect into careful consideration. While the initial investment required for the metro system and the electric lotive may be significant, we believe that the long-term benefits far outweigh these costs. The efficiency, reduced pollution, and increased capacity of the electric metro system will ultimately lead to a more sustainable and profitable transitwork. We propose abination of public and private funding to support this project, with a portion of the revenue generated by the metro system being used to repay the initial investment and maintain the infrastructure."

    "In addition," Jonathan added, "we have a number of potential investors who have expressed interest in supporting the development of the electric lotive and the metro system. They recognize the potential of this innovation and the transformative impact it could have on urban transportation."

    The council members murmured among themselves, weighing the merits of the proposal. The room was filled with a tense silence as they contemted the implications of Poul and Jonathan''s presentation.

    Again, one of the councilors raised a hand.

    "If you don''t mind me asking, what is the difference between a steam lotive and your electric lotive? Who is more powerful and cheap? And I want you to exin to us in detail why we shouldn''t use the steam lotives in the metro station?"

    Poul nodded, acknowledging the councilor''s concerns. "That''s an excellent question. While steam lotives have served us well for many years, there are several key differences and advantages to using electric lotives for the metro system."

    "Firstly, the efficiency of electric lotives is significantly higher than that of steam engines. Steam lotives require a considerable amount of energy to heat the water and produce steam, which in turn powers the engine. Electric lotives, on the other hand, receive a direct supply of electricity from the overhead catenary system, which drives the motors with minimal energy loss. This results in more efficient use of energy and reduced operational costs in the long run."

    "Secondly, electric lotives are cleaner and more environmentally friendly. Steam engines emitrge amounts of smoke, steam, and ash, which not only pollute the air but also create a choking environment in enclosed spaces, such as an underground metro. Electric lotives, conversely, produce no harmful emissions, making them ideal for an underground system where air quality is a critical concern."

    "In terms of power, electric lotives are capable of producingparable, if not greater, amounts of force than steam engines. The electric motors used in our design are powerful and reliable, delivering the necessary traction to move heavy passenger cars through the metro tunnels."

    "Lastly, the maintenance requirements for electric lotives are lower than those of steam engines. Steam lotives require regr inspections, cleaning, and maintenance to ensure their safe and efficient operation. Electric lotives, with fewer moving parts and no need for boiler maintenance, resulting in reduced downtime and lower maintenance costs."

    Poul paused, allowing the council members to digest the information. "To summarize, we believe that electric lotives are a superior choice for the metro system due to their efficiency, cleanliness, power, and lower maintenance requirements. While the initial investment may be higher than that of steam engines, the long-term benefits and cost savings make electric lotives the more economical and sustainable option."

    The council members exchanged thoughtful looks, absorbing the points Poul had raised. It was clear that Poul and Jonathan''s proposal was challenging their preconceived notions about transportation, presenting them with a bold vision for the future of New York City. The weight of their decision hung in the air, as the potential impact of their choice stretched far beyond the walls of the meeting room.

    Finally, the council chairman, a stern-faced man with bushy eyebrows, spoke up. "Gentlemen, I must admit that your proposal is among the most unique and interesting we have encountered. You''ve certainly given us a lot to consider. I have one more question: where do you propose we ce the metro stations?"

    Jonathan, who had designed the metro stations himself, took the lead in answering the chairman''s question.

    He unrolled arge map of New York City on the table, revealing a series of marked locations that represented the proposed metro stations.

    "We''ve strategically ced the stations in key locations throughout the city to maximize convenience and essibility for the residents of New York. We have studied the city''syout and identified the areas with the highest demand for public transportation."

    "These locations include major intersections,mercial and residential hubs, and areas with significant foot traffic. Additionally, we''ve taken into ount the existing transportation infrastructure to ensure seamless integration with other modes of transit, such as horse-drawn carriages and ferries."

    Jonathan continued, "We''ve also considered potential future expansions of the metro system, making provisions for additional stations and lines as the city continues to grow and develop. Our design is meant to be flexible and adaptable, allowing for the system to evolve with the needs of the city."

    The council members studied the map, nodding in agreement as they examined the strategic cement of the proposed metro stations. They murmured among themselves, expressing their admiration for the well-thought-out n and its potential to transform the city''s transportationndscape.

    Poul and Jonathan couldn''t help but feel delighted at their expressions, by looking at their faces, they can tell that the councilors might ept their proposal.

    "How much are you bidding?" One of the councilors asked.

    Poul took a deep breath, understanding that the cost of their proposal could be a deciding factor for the council members. "We have conducted a detailed analysis of the costs associated with the construction of the metro system, including tunnel excavation, track instation, station construction, and the development of the electric lotive itself. Our estimated budget for the initial phase of the project, which includes the construction of the main metro lines and stations, is approximately $50 million."

    He continued, "We understand that this may seem like a significant investment. However, we firmly believe that the long-term benefits of the metro system will outweigh the initial costs. Reduced traffic congestion, improved air quality, and a more efficient transportationwork will all contribute to a better quality of life for the residents of New York City. Additionally, the increased capacity of the metro system will support the city''s growing poption and facilitate economic growth."

    Jonathan added, "It''s important to note that our estimate is based on the current state of technology and construction methods. As we continue to develop and refine our tunnel boring machine and electric lotive, we anticipate that the costs may decrease, making the project even more viable from a financial standpoint."

    The council members looked at one another, considering the figures that Poul and Jonathan had presented. They whispered among themselves, weighing the pros and cons of the proposed budget.

    After a few moments of discussion, the council chairman spoke up. "Gentlemen, we appreciate the thoroughness of your presentation and the innovative nature of your proposal. We will need some time to review your bid and the information you''ve provided, as well as to evaluate the other proposals we have received. Rest assured that we will give your proposal the serious consideration it deserves."

    Poul and Jonathan exchanged a hopeful nce. They had made a strong case for their vision of the future of New York City''s transportation, and now it was in the hands of the council members to decide. With a respectful nod to the chairman and the other councilors, Poul and Jonathan took their leave, both eager and anxious to learn the oue of their ambitious venture.

 Chapter 122 After The Proposal

    As Poul and Jonathan left the New York Board of Transportation Building, the day''s fading light painted the city in warm hues. The sun was setting, signaling the approach of twilight.

    Walking down the grand staircase together, the two exchanged confident nces and smirked. Jonathan, eager to know what Poul thought, asked, "What do you think our odds are that the councilors will choose our proposal?"

    Poul replied. "Our idea is definitely innovative, and they seemed interested. I think we''re the only ones who presented aplete n, from start to finish."

    Jonathan nodded, his excitement tempered by reality. "That''s true, but there are many factors they''ll consider before making a decision. The most important is the cost. Fifty million dors is a lot of money. But if they really want to improve New York''s transportation system, then... they''ll see the value in our proposal."

    As they reached the bottom of the stairs, Jonathan raised his hand to hail a carriage. Poul quickly lowered it, saying, "I''ll call the cab. You know they won''t take us if they see you with an Albian." He raised his own hand, adding, "If the carriage stops, that means they''ll take us."

    Jonathan hummed in agreement, fully aware of Poul''s new body background in this world. Seriously, whoever came up with the ranking system where silver-haired are an inferior race must have had some serious issues. Like their families must have not loved them.

    As they waited for the cab, Jonathan couldn''t help but think about the injustice of it all. Poul without a doubt, is one of the smartest men in the United States of Avalonia. Even if his invention were a copy of the original world, the fact that he can replicate it was a huge feat enough. But in this world and era, people were judged based on their appearance and background, not their skills. Though there are some people who weren''t on board with the idea, there are just a few of them, and most of them are businessmen who only see the money.

    The cab pulled up, and Poul quickly ushered Jonathan inside before climbing in himself. The driver didn''t say anything about Poul''s appearance, but Jonathan could sense the tension in the air. It was as if the driver was ufortable with the idea of an Albian riding in his cab.

    "So, the electric lotive, I already contacted John Morgan about the list of a lotive manufacturingpany that is about to fall. If we want to demonstrate the feasibility of the electric lotive, we must acquire some assets soon. I already have one in mind, its name is Avonside Engine Company. They are a struggling business due to the fiercepetition and coupled with bad decisions, the fate of theirpany is simply sealed. What do you say? Should we get it?"

    "How much is thepany?"

    "Seven million dors," Jonathan answered.

    "Very well,plete the acquisition."

    "I''ll have Amelia prepare the necessary documents for the acquisition," Jonathan replied, a smile spreading across his face. It was clear that Poul was excited about the prospect of acquiring the Avonside Engine Company. This would be a crucial step towards making their electric lotive a reality.

    As the cab pulled up to the Fifth Avenue Hotel, Jonathan and Poul stepped out, ready to continue their work. They walked into the lobby and as they were about to get their keys to the reception desk, Jonathan felt a finger lightly tapping on his right shoulder.

    Jonathan nced over to his right shoulder but found no one.

    "Here!" a feminine voice called teasingly, and Jonathan nced over to his left shoulder. He gasped softly at the recognition.

    "Caroline?"

    "Caroline?" Poul heard Jonathan calling out a familiar name and turned to look at the person. There, he saw Caroline.

    "Caroline? I didn''t expect to see you here," Jonathan said.

    "Are you following us?" Poul asked.

    "No I''m not," Caroline shook her head. "The truth is, I knew that you areing to New York, thanks to my former secretary telling me about it¡­" she trailed off, her tone somewhat mncholic. "Jonathan¡­why didn''t you tell me that you areing?"

    She asked, pouting.

    Jonathan felt a pang of guilt. He had been so focused on the proposal and the acquisition that he had forgotten about everything else.

    "It slipped out of my mind, to be honest," Jonathan said, letting out a forced chuckle. "We were excited to propose our idea to the New York Board of Transportation."

    "If you told me earlier, I could have helped you with the proposal. I know personally, some of the gentlemen there and I could have lobbied for your proposal," Caroline said, her expression serious. "But it''s okay. We can catch up now. So how did it go?"

    "It was amicable, Caroline," Poul interceded. "By looking at their eyes, there is a high percent chance that we might get the contract."

    "You two are not really taking it slow huh?" Caroline chuckled.

    "Well, you suggested such a huge opportunity to us, how can we ever ignore it?" Jonathan replied, a yful glint in his eye. "But we are still taking it one step at a time. We are thinking of acquiring a lotive manufacturingpany, the Avonside Engine Company, so that we can demonstrate the feasibility of the electric lotive. And if all goes well, we can expand from there."

    Caroline nodded, impressed. "That''s ambitious, but it sounds like you guys have everything under control."

    Poul smiled, "We''re doing our best."

    "Jonathan, Poul, I would love to continue this discussion over dinner," Caroline suggested. "The hotel has a lovely dining room, and I heard that they have a new chef who creates the most amazing dishes. Shall we?"

    Jonathan and Poul exchanged a nce before nodding their agreement. "That sounds wonderful," Jonathan said, a smile spreading across his face.

    Caroline led the way to the dining room, which was elegantly decorated with chandeliers and plush furnishings. They were escorted to a table by a waiter in a crisp white shirt and ck pants, who handed them menus.

    As they perused the menu, Caroline asked, "So, what are your ns for the future, besides the metro station and electricpany business?"

    "There is actually a lot and we have already mapped it out. For the electricpany, we might start to dive into the business of coal mining, because you know, we are starting a coal-fired power nt and it requires a huge quantity of coal," Poul said.

    "Also, we might start a steel manufacturingpany to support the construction of the metro station. And as we all know, automobiles will soon make their debut somewhere in the world, so the value of oil is going to skyrocket, so we might as well start an oilpany." Jonathan added.

    "But that means going face-to-face with the robber barons, Carnegie and Rockefeller. Both of them are ruthless when ites to business, do you think we can handle it?" Caroline asked, concern etched on her face.

    "We''re not afraid of a challenge," Poul replied, a determined look in his eye. "Besides, we have some tricks up our sleeves that will give us an edge over them."

    Jonathan nodded in agreement. "They better watch out, as after getting into business for four years, we are finally understanding how the business world works."

 Chapter 123 The Amicable Discussion

    "Interesting, so you two finally getting the feel of it, though I am curious, have you already made your first million?" Caroline asked as she swirled the wine ss she was holding.

    "We have done it a long time ago, but we didn''t celebrate it because you know, a million dors was small, we are aiming higher, like a hundred million dors," Poul answered.

    "Oh, Caroline, we have been intending on asking you this but, can you help us out in our electric enterprise?" Jonathan chimed in.

    Poul nced at Jonathan and instantly realized what he just meant. "Ah the cont," he murmured.

    "Cont?" Caroline tilted her head to the side curiously.

    "Yeah, particrly in our electrical equipment such as transformers. I''m sure you have heard about polychlorinated biphenyl."

    "That is quite¡­" Caroline paused, biting her lower lip, and continued. "A quite dangerous chemical you are asking, Jonathan. You know it was banned in the 1970s due to its harmful effects on humans and the environment. Why would you need it for your electrical equipment when there is a safer alternative?" Caroline asked, concern etched on her face.

    "That is why we are asking you. You are a chemical engineer, I''m sure you can synthesize ester-based oil conts¡­" Jonathan said.

    "In thiste-neenth-century era?" Caroline raised an eyebrow skeptically, but after a moment of consideration, her expression softened. "Well, it might be possible to create an ester-based oil cont with the technology and resources avable in our time. However, I would need some equipment that I don''t currently have ess to."

    Poul and Jonathan exchanged a nce, their interest piqued. "What kind of equipment are we talking about?" Poul inquired.

    "First, we would need a device capable of urately measuring temperature and pressure, as the synthesis process requires precise control of these variables. Second, we would need a reliable method for purifying the raw materials and the final product. Finally, we would need a well-ventted workspace with fume extraction capabilities, as the process can generate some potentially harmful byproducts," Caroline exined.

    "We know, but what is the specific equipment you are referring to?" Jonathan asked.

    Caroline took a deep breath and began listing the specific equipment. "We would need a mercury thermometer and a manometer for measuring temperature and pressure. For purification, we would require a ss distition apparatus, along with a series of filters and condensers. As for the workspace, a fume hood or a well-designed venttion system would be crucial to ensuring our safety."Poul and Jonathan exchanged another nce before Poul spoke up. "We can manage to build or acquire most of these items. It may take some time and effort, but you''ll get it."

    "Very well," Caroline agreed, her eyes lighting up with excitement. "Once you have gathered the necessary equipment, I can start synthesizing the ester-based oil cont."

    "I''m curious, how would you do that?" Jonathan asked, as a civil engineer, he is not as versed in chemistry as Caroline.

    Caroline smiled, understanding Jonathan''s curiosity. "I''ll break it down into simple terms for you. Essentially, we will synthesize the ester-based oil cont through a chemical reaction known as esterification. This process involves reacting an alcohol with a carboxylic acid in the presence of a catalyst, usually a strong acid like sulfuric acid. The result is an ester, which has excellent dielectric properties, making it ideal for use as a cont in electrical equipment."

    She continued, "First, we''ll heat the carboxylic acid and alcohol in a sk, carefully controlling the temperature and pressure. As the reaction progresses, water is produced as a byproduct. We''ll use the distition apparatus to separate the water from the ester, ensuring a high-purity product. It''s essential to maintain the proper conditions throughout the process, as any deviations can lead to undesirable side reactions or impurities."

    Jonathan listened intently, trying to absorb the information. "And once we have the ester-based oil, how do we test its performance as a cont?"

    Caroline nodded. "We''ll have to perform a series of tests to ensure the ester-based oil meets the necessary requirements for use in electrical equipment. These tests will include assessing its thermal stability, dielectric properties, andpatibility with transformer materials. If our synthesized oil passes these tests, then we can confidently say that we have a viable and safer alternative to polychlorinated biphenyls."

    Jonathan scoffed softly, impressed at Caroline''s knowledge. "You know when you are exining that to me, I can''t help but fall for you more."

    Caroline smiled at Jonathan''sment, her cheeks reddening slightly.

    "Well, I''m d my knowledge of chemistry can have such an effect on you," she replied yfully, taking a sip of her wine.

    Poul, who was feeling a little bit left out, chuckled slightly. "Oh, I remember Jonathan telling me about you two doing the thing¡­Ouch, that hurts¡­"

    Jonathan, having just nudged Poul''s arm, shot him a re. "Hey, Poul, what are you going on about?"

    "You were all smiles when you told me about kissing Caroline," Poul retorted, ncing at Caroline, whose face was now flushed.

    "Why did you tell him that?" Caroline murmured, her voice barely audible due to embarrassment.

    "It''s an aplishment," Jonathan replied, rubbing his head whileughing awkwardly.

    "It''s nice to see your rtionship progressing. Has Jonathan won your heart, Caroline?"

    "Hey, Poul, quit asking things like that!"

    Despite her embarrassment, Caroline couldn''t help but smile at the yful exchange between Poul and Jonathan. She took another sip of her wine, attempting to regain herposure.

    "What about you, Poul? I''ve heard about your own situation, concerning the woman you cherished in your past life."

    Poul''s jovial expression faded into a solemn one as the topic shifted. "Yeah, can you believe it? Who would''ve thought she''d be in the same world as us, let alone a duke''s daughter? I haven''t heard from her since Ist saw her. I''ve tried sending letters, but I never get any responses. It''s as if they''re being intercepted."

    "What do you n to do?" Caroline inquired.

    "I haven''t decided yet."

    "In that case, why not pay her a visit?" Caroline suggested.

    Poul furrowed his brow at Caroline''s suggestion, unsure of how to approach the situation. "But how would I even go about that? Sure, I may be a rising businessman in the United States of Avalonia, but Penelope Ascart is a duke''s daughter. There''s no way her father would agree to let us meet. I mean, she''s so important that even the crown prince himself would have trouble getting an audience."

    Jonathan nodded in agreement. "Poul''s got a point. Penelope''s status and her father''s protectiveness make this a tricky situation."

    Caroline considered their predicament for a moment before an idea struck her. "What if you were to approach her under the guise of a business matter? If you could propose a mutually beneficial partnership between her family and yourpany, her father might be more willing to arrange a meeting."

    "But the duke is a Prime Minister of the British Empire, I don''t think there would be business to talk to."

    Caroline''s eyes lit up as another idea came to her. "Has the British Empire already adopted your automatic air brake system for their trains?"

    Poul shook his head. "No, not yet. We''ve only made a deal with the German Empire so far."

    Caroline''s smile widened. "Then why not propose that the British Empire adopt your automatic air brake system for their steam lotives? Since it hasn''t been implemented there yet, it could be a great opportunity to expand your business and get a chance to meet her."

    Poul considered the suggestion for a moment before nodding. "It''s worth a shot if I came to him with a legitimate business offer."

    "We shall wait for your updates," Caroline said.

 Chapter 124 The Inspection And Departure

    One monthter, back in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania.

    Jonathan Axelsen strode confidently across the muddy construction site, the soft ground giving way beneath his polished leather boots as he approached the towering office building. Poul Nielsen, his partner, walked beside him, gripping a bundle of blueprints under his arm. A gust of wind swept through the site, lifting a cloud of dust and forcing Poul to shield his eyes.

    "Jonathan," Poul said, squinting against the gritty air, "I must say, the progress on this building is astounding. It''s hard to believe we started just two years ago."

    Jonathan nodded, his gaze taking in the strong brick facade, the sturdy iron girders, and the intricate wooden scaffolding enveloping the structure.

    "You''re right, Poul. This project truly showcases our engineering expertise. Now, let''s get on with the inspection, shall we?"

    As they entered the building, Jonathan nced at his pocket watch.

    "We''ll start by assessing the structural integrity, then move on to the HVAC systems. We have to make sure everything is operating smoothly and efficiently."

    He then spread the blueprints out on a makeshift table, revealing the intricate design of the building.

    "These are the most crucial points for our inspection," he said, indicating specific areas on the ns.

    Following Jonathan''s lead, Jonathan guided him to the first checkpoint. They ascended a series of concrete stairs, the sound of their footsteps echoing through the partially built structure. Reaching the designated spot, Jonathan crouched down to inspect the brickwork, his fingers tracing the mortar lines.

    "The masonry is exceptional," he remarked, "The bricks are perfectly aligned, and the mortar is applied evenly. This should offer a solid foundation for the floors above."

    Poul, in the meantime, studied the iron girders supporting the structure. He may not be the best as Jonathan in structural engineering but he can still give his insights.

    "The beams are spaced just right and show no signs of warping or stress. The rivets are secure, and the metalwork is top-notch. Surely our contractors This building will certainly withstand the test of time."

    Together, they continued their inspection, assessing the walls, ceilings, and floor supports. With each area they examined, the engineers became increasingly impressed with the craftsmanship and attention to detail demonstrated by the construction crew.

    Eventually, they shifted their focus to the HVAC systems. Since Poul was the one who designed it, he led Jonathan to the basement, where the furnaces and ductwork were being installed.

    "These furnaces," he exined, "are designed to heat the entire building efficiently, ensuring afortable temperature in every room during cold seasons."

    Jonathan inspected the coal-fired furnaces, admiring their robust construction and the ingenious arrangement of the ducts.

    "The design of these systems is quite advanced for the time, Poul. And the insted ductwork will guarantee minimal heat loss."

    Poul nodded, visibly proud of his contributions to the project. "That''s right, Jonathan. And with proper maintenance, these systems will keep the buildingfortable for many years toe."

    "Well, that is the goal anyway."

    Feeling satisfied with their inspection, Jonathan and Poul climbed the stairs back to the ground floor. As they stepped out of the building and took in the bustling construction site once more, a sense of aplishment washed over them. They had ovee the odds and achieved the seemingly impossible, blending their knowledge and skills to craft a modern marvel in an era far removed from their own.

    "We''ve done it, Poul," Jonathan eximed, patting his colleague on the back. "This building, oncepleted, will be an icon of Avalonian modern architecture. I expect a lot of architects and engineers from different states and countries to visit the building. Just like what happened in the Beaver Building."

    Poul smiled, chuckling, as his eyes fixed on the towering edifice that represented their shared achievements.

    "I heard about the story, Jonathan. It was amusing if I must say."

    As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows across the construction site, Jonathan Axelsen and Poul Nielsen stood side by side, taking pride in their aplishments. With a sessful inspection behind them, they knew thepletion of the building was within reach, for probably about six months.

    As they were about to leave the building, Jonathan asked Poul.

    "So, have you received any news from the British Legation? Have they epted your purpose of visitation with the Duke of Wessex?"

    "Ah¡­yeah, about that. I just received their letter earlier. I was about to tell you about that when we are back in the office but since you brought that up, I figured I can say it here."

    "So, you are really going huh? To meet Sara."

    "Well, I want to check on her if she is doing fine," Poul replied. "I''m genuinely concerned about her well-being. Especially when she was deployed on the frontlines to tend the wounded soldiers in the war."

    "That is understandable, you really should go, I''ll handle the business here, just like you did while I was away in New York," Jonathan said, patting Poul''s shoulder.

    ***

    The following day, in the main office, Poul descended the staircase, clutching a leather suitcase in each hand. His footsteps resonated against the polished wooden steps.

    At the foot of the stairs, Amelia stood waiting, her delicate features illuminated by the warm glow of sunlight streaming through the floor-to-ceiling windows. She caught Poul''s eye, her smile both weing and tinged with mncholy as she waved a slender hand in greeting.

    "You''re leaving now, Mr. Nielsen?" Amelia inquired, her voice quavering slightly as she tried to mask the sadness etched upon her face.

    "Yes, I have urgent business to attend to in Ennd," Poul replied, adjusting his grip on the luggage. "While I''m away, I trust you to look after thepany and keep an eye on Jonathan. Can you manage that?"

    "I understand, Mr. Nielsen," Amelia replied, her eyes downcast.

    Poul studied her for a moment, concern furrowing his brow. "Amelia, what''s the matter? You''ve seemed unusually paletely, and your demeanor is more subdued. Is something troubling you?"

    She hesitated before answering, her fingers fidgeting with the hem of her dress. "No, not at all, Mr. Nielsen. It''s just that I''ve noticed your approach towards me has be more professional than before."

    Poul tilted his head to the side. "I''m sorry but I don''t understand. Shouldn''t it be the case?"

    Amelia sighed. "Forget about that, Mr. Nielsen. If I may at least escort you out."

    "Yeah, that would be appreciated," Poul said as they exited the main office. Outside was a horse-drawn carriage parked in front, waiting for Poul.

    As she watched him board the carriage, Amelia couldn''t help but feel torn inside. She remembered the days when Poul treated her kindly, and special, but now, it changed. She wondered what changed him.

 Chapter 125 Poul In England

    The steamship glided gracefully through the misty waters, its smokestacks billowing dark plumes into the overcast sky. Poul Nielsen, standing at the ship''s railing, gazed pensively at the horizon as the shores of Ennd gradually materialized before him. The salty sea breeze whipped through his hair, bringing with it the faint scent of coal smoke and the anticipation of new beginnings.

    As the vessel drew closer to the bustling port, Poul marveled at the hive of activity that awaited him. Dockworkers shoutedmands to one another as they hauled crates and barrels onto wooden carts, while a cacophony of ship''s bells, steam whistles, and ttering hooves filled the air. It was a testament to the industrious spirit of thete-neenth century, and Poul could not help but feel a sense of exhration at the prospect of exploring this foreignnd.

    The ship came to a halt at the quayside, its massive hull groaning against the wooden pilings. Poul gathered his belongings and disembarked, stepping onto the worn cobblestones that lined the bustling harbor. Seagulls wheeled overhead, their raucous cries adding to the symphony of sound that enveloped him.

    As he made his way through the throngs of people, Poul took in the sights that surrounded him. Tall, soot-streaked buildings loomed above the narrow streets, their ornate facades hinting at the wealth and prosperity of the city. Horse-drawn carriages rumbled by, their drivers expertly navigating thebyrinthinenes, while vendors hawked their wares from makeshift stalls, their voices rising above the din.

    Poul marveled at the intricate architecture, the myriad hues of brick and stone that adorned the buildings, and the delicate wrought-iron railings that framed each window and balcony. He could not help butpare the aesthetic to that of his own work in Pittsburgh, finding inspiration in the distinct character of the English cityscape.

    As he continued his journey through the city, Poul noticed the subtle shift in atmosphere as he ventured further from the harbor. The mor of the docks gave way to the genteel sounds of a bustling urban center ¨C the clip-clop of hooves on cobblestone, the gentle murmur of conversation, and the asionalughter of children ying in the streets.

    "Excuse me, sir," a middle-aged man approached him. "Are you looking for a ride?"

    Poul turned to the man, a kindly-looking fellow with a thick ent that Poul couldn''t quite ce. "Yes, I am in need of transportation to Norfolk. Can you assist me?"

    "I can take you to the train station, for a reasonable fare," the man replied.

    Poul was relieved to hear this and followed the man to a waiting carriage. They set off towards the train station, chatting amicably along the way. Poul asked the man about the city and the surrounding area, and the man provided him with helpful tips and rmendations.

    As they arrived at the train station, the man named his price for the ride.

    "That will be two pounds, sir."

    Poul hesitated for a moment, realizing that the price was exorbitant.

    "That seems rather steep for such a short distance," he replied.

    The man shrugged. "I''m just trying to make a living, sir. You look like a man who can afford it," he said, eyeing Poul''s fine suit.

    Poul felt a sh of irritation at the man''s assumption. "Where I got my suit is not your concern," he said firmly. "I am willing to pay a fair price, but not an inted one."

    The man scowled, clearly unhappy at being challenged. "Fine, fifty cents then. Take it or leave it," he said gruffly.

    "Deal," Poul said, handing over the money. Although the fare was still expensive, he is not going to risk beingte for his appointment with the Prime Minister of the British Empire.

    He made his way to the train tform and boarded the train.

    As the train chugged along towards Norfolk, Poul gazed out the window, taking in the stunning English countryside that passed by. Rolling green hills dotted with sheep, quaint viges with thatched-roof cottages, and ancient stone walls snaking across thendscape.

    Poul''s mind wandered as he thought about the reason for his journey. He had been summoned to Sandringham House, the residence of the Duke of Wessex, and Sara under the guise of a business trip. But in reality, he just wanted to see if Sara is doing fine.

    The train pulled into the station at King''s Lynn, and Poul disembarked, ready to make the final leg of his journey. He hailed a horse-drawn carriage and gave the driver the address of Sandringham House. As they made their way down the narrow country roads, Poul took in the beauty of the English countryside. The air was crisp and fresh, and the colors of autumn were just starting to peek through the trees.

    As they approached the gates of Sandringham House, Poul''s nerves began to kick in. He is about to meet Sara and her father in this world. He stepped down from the carriage and straightened his tie and adjusted his top hat

    As he stepped forward to the gate, he was blocked by a guard stationed at the gate.

    "Who are you? Do you have an appointment here?" asked the guard.

    Poul pulled out the invitation letter from his coat pocket and handed it to the guard.

    "I have an appointment with the Duke of Wessex. You can check it here," he replied, trying to keep his nerves in check.

    The guard scrutinized the letter for a moment before nodding curtly and stepping aside to let Poul pass.

    "Very well, sir. Follow me," he said, gesturing towards the grand entrance of Sandringham House.

    Poul followed the guard through the meticulously manicured gardens.

    As they entered the grand foyer, Poul took in the opulence of the decor with a sense of admiration. The crystal chandeliers hung elegantly from the high ceiling, casting a warm glow over the marble floors and gilded furnishings. The walls were adorned with portraits of the Duke''s ancestors, each one more regal than thest.

    A footman approached Poul and took his coat and hat, and the guard led him down a grand hallway lined with doors on either side. They stopped in front of a set of double doors, and the guard turned to face him.

    "The Duke will see you now, sir. Please enter," he said with a small nod, before opening the doors and gesturing for Poul to step inside.

    Poul took a deep breath and stepped forward with confidence, ready to face whatevery ahead.

 Chapter 126 Meeting The Prime Minister Of The British Empire

    With a mixture of anticipation and trepidation, Poul Nielsen crossed the threshold into the drawing room of the Prime Minister of the British Empire. The grand chamber was a testament to the might and majesty of the nation. Floor-to-ceiling windows framed by heavy velvet curtains allowed streams of sunlight to pour in, casting a golden glow on the sumptuous furnishings. Intricate tapestries and priceless paintings adorned the walls, while a grand firece dominated one end of the room. The scent of polished wood and fresh flowers hung in the air, and the ticking of an ornate grandfather clock served as a subtle reminder of the passage of time.

    At the far end of the room, behind an imposing mahogany desk, sat the Prime Minister. His stern eyes bored into Poul as he entered, and his chin was propped up by one hand in a posture that exuded authority and dominance. His golden blonde hair was neatlybed back, and his impably tailored suit left no doubt as to his station in life.

    Poul instinctively straightened his posture as he approached the desk, acutely aware of the scrutiny he was under. The Prime Minister''s gaze seemed to pierce through him as if attempting to divine his innermost thoughts and intentions. Despite the weight of the man''s stare, Poul maintained hisposure, determined to project confidence and self-assurance.

    As he reached the desk, the Prime Minister rose from his seat and extended a hand to Poul.

    "Mr. Nielsen, wee," he said, his voice resonant andmanding.

    Poul grasped the offered hand firmly, taking care to maintain eye contact.

    "Thank you for receiving me, sir," he replied, his voice steady.

    The Prime Minister gestured to a chair positioned before the desk. "Please, have a seat," he said, his tone cordial yet authoritative. Poul obliged, carefully arranging himself in the plush seat,

    As the Prime Minister resumed his seat, his stern eyes never left Poul''s face. "Now, Mr. Nielsen," he began, his voice measured. "Before we start our discussion, may I offer you some tea?"

    "Sure, that would be great." Poul nodded in appreciation, epting the offer of tea.

    The Prime Minister carefully poured the steaming liquid into a delicate porcin cup. The rich aroma of the brew filled the air, mingling with the scent of polished wood and fresh flowers.

    As the Prime Minister handed him the cup and saucer, he spoke again. "So you are indeed an Albian." The statement seemed to carry an air of intrigue as if there was a hidden significance behind the term.

    Poul took a slow, measured sip of the tea, allowing the warmth to spread through him before he answered. "Yes, sir, I am an Albian, as you can see from the color of my hair. Why bring that up?"

    "Nothing, I was just curious as to who might be the person that has caused discord in the royal family."

    "Pardon?" Poul tilted his head to the side, puzzledly.

    "Nothing, forget that I said that. Let''s get down to business. So you havee here for a proposal huh? Where the railwaypanies in the British Empire adopt your automatic air brake system."

    "Yes, your country is still using vacuum brakes and manual braking systems, which is not only safe but inefficient. Our air brake system has been adopted by many railwaypanies in the United States of Avalonia and the German Empire. And ever since they retrofitted their steam lotives with our braking system, there haven''t been any reports of idents ever since," Poul replied reluctantly as his curiosity was still on the mention of the royal family.

    "Hmm¡­how does your automatic air brake system differ from the vacuum brake?" The Prime Minister leaned forward, his stern eyes never leaving him.

    Poul took another sip of tea, gathering his thoughts before responding.

    "The primary difference between the air brake and the vacuum brake systems lies in their operating principles and efficiency. The air brake system usespressed air as a means of applying the brakes, whereas the vacuum brake system relies on the creation of a vacuum in a cylinder to apply the brakes.

    In the air brake system, the brake pipe runs throughout the length of the train, connecting each car''s braking system. When the engineer applies the brakes,pressed air is released into the brake pipe, causing the brake shoes to press against the wheels. This application of pressure results in a rapid, even, and controlled braking action, ensuring the traines to a stop safely and efficiently.

    On the other hand, the vacuum brake system uses a vacuum in a brake cylinder to apply the brakes. When the engineer applies the brakes, the vacuum is released, causing the brake shoes to press against the wheels. However, this system is less efficient than the air brake system, as the vacuum must be created and maintained throughout the train, resulting in slower response times and less consistent braking action.

    Moreover, the air brake system is superior to the vacuum brake system in terms of safety and reliability. The air brake system has built-in fail-safes that automatically apply the brakes in case of a loss of air pressure, making it far less susceptible to idents. Additionally, the air brake system allows for more precise control over the braking action, enabling smoother and safer stops."

    The Prime Minister listened intently, his eyes narrowing as he considered the information Poul had just presented. It was clear that the potential benefits of adopting the air brake system for the British Empire''s railwaywork were significant, but the matter of the royal family''s discord still lingered in the air, piquing both Poul''s and the Prime Minister''s attention.

    "So, what you are after is me presenting a bill to the parliament, mandating the British railwaypanies to adopt your air brake system? Is that right?"

    "That is quite correct, Mr. Prime Minister," Poul confirmed.

    The Prime Minister leaned back in his chair, his fingers steepled in front of him as he contemted Poul''s proposal. After a few moments of silence, he spoke, his voice firm and decisive.

    "Very well, Mr. Nielsen, I will consider your proposal and its potential benefits for the British Empire. I will consult with my advisors and discuss the matter with the relevant authorities. You will be informed of our decision in due course."

    Poul nodded, satisfied that he had at least gotten the Prime Minister to entertain the idea of adopting the air brake system. "Thank you, sir. I appreciate your consideration."

    The Prime Minister''s eyes narrowed slightly as if sensing there was something more on Poul''s mind.

    "Is there anything else you wish to discuss, Mr. Nielsen?"

    Poul hesitated, debating whether he should ask about the royal discord that the Prime Minister had mentioned earlier. Taking a deep breath, he decided to voice his curiosity.

    "Actually, sir, there is one more thing. Earlier, you mentioned something about discord in the royal family. I couldn''t help but wonder what you were referring to."

    The Prime Minister''s expression turned guarded, and he studied Poul for a moment before responding. "It is not a matter of public knowledge, Mr. Nielsen, but since you havee this far, I suppose I can tell you. My daughter, Penelope Ascart is to be wed to the Crown Prince of the British Empire, Prince Alexander. I suppose that you met the two of them when they visited your headquarters in the United States."

    "Yes, that is correct, sir. I have met them."

    "The King then decided to make it official, by announcing it to the public, but my daughter foolishly rejected the idea, saying that she didn''t want to be with the Crown Prince because she didn''t love him. And then the Crown Prince brought up your name, stating that you are the reason why she is acting like that. And now that you are here, I might ask you for some exnation. Starting from, how did the two of you meet?"

 Chapter 127 Explanation

    Poul swallowed hard, his heart was suddenly heavy with the realization of the turmoil he and Sara had unwittingly be entangled in. Though the depth of their feelings for one another was undeniable, he couldn''t ignore the consequences their love had brought upon them. Despite the challenges they faced, however, Poul was determined to honor the promise they had made to one another: to be together, no matter the cost. For now, though, he intended to keep their true identities concealed.

    "I find it difficult to believe that Lady Ascart and I could have met before, as I have never left Avalonia since my birth," Poul said thoughtfully. "I presume the same is true for Lady Ascart, as her recent trip to Avalonia was her first?"

    The Prime Minister nodded, his stern eyes watching Poul closely. "Indeed, that was her first time setting foot in your country."

    Poul furrowed his brow, genuinely perplexed by the Crown Prince''s usations. "In that case, I struggle to understand the logic behind the Crown Prince''s assertion that I am the reason Lady Ascart has refused his hand in marriage. I harbor no ill will towards the Crown Prince, and I have no personal stake in whether or not he and Lady Ascart be betrothed. After all, who am I to hold such an opinion?"

    Though Poul''s words rang true, a small part of him recoiled at the very thought of Penelope - or Sara, as he knew her - bing romantically involved with Prince Alexander. He quickly pushed the thought aside, focusing on the matter at hand.

    The Prime Minister leaned forward, a hint of suspicion in his eyes. "So you maintain that the Crown Prince is mistaken?"

    Poul met the Prime Minister''s gaze unflinchingly. "There is no doubt in my mind, sir. It is most peculiar, as during our negotiations for the acquisition of the AN-M1 rifles, the Crown Prince demonstrated a keen intellect and a sound capacity for logical reasoning. I cannot fathom why he would implicate me in such a matter, particrly on the very day the King intended to formalize their engagement," Poul exined, his voice steady and resolute.

    The Prime Minister leaned back in his chair, his fingers steepled before him as he considered Poul''s words. Secondster, he spoke.

    "Very well, Mr. Nielsen, I shall take your exnation into ount. It is quite possible that the Crown Prince has made an error in judgment. However, I must admit that this situation has created quite a stir within the royal family and the nation as a whole."

    Poul nodded solemnly, understanding the weight of the situation. "I apologize for any inconvenience my presence may have caused, sir. I assure you, my only intention ining here was to discuss the implementation of the air brake system within the British Empire''s railwaywork."

    That is another lie as well, Poul wanted to see Sara badly.

    The Prime Minister regarded Poul for a moment, his gaze searching, before finally nodding. "I understand, Mr. Nielsen. I trust that you will be avable for further discussions if necessary?"

    "Of course, sir. I am at your disposal," Poul replied with a respectful nod.

    "Excellent. Then, unless you have any other matters to discuss, I believe we have covered everything for now," the Prime Minister said, his tone implying that their meeting was drawing to a close.

    As they were about to formally end the meeting, there was a voice and a knock on the door.

    "Father, may Ie in?"

    The voice was feminine, Poul and the Prime Minister knew who it belonged to. It was from Penelope.

    "I''m currently talking to a guest here, Penelope. I''ll talk to youter."

    "Sir, is it possible for me to talk to Lady Ascart?" Poul asked.

    And the moment he did so, the Prime Minister red at Poul.

    "To what purpose? There''s nothing for you to talk about."

    "I apologize if my request seems inappropriate, sir," Poul said, attempting to maintain hisposure under the Prime Minister''s intense gaze. "However, given the current situation and the usations made by the Crown Prince, I believe it may be beneficial for Lady Ascart and me to clear up any misunderstandings directly. It is my hope that such a conversation may help to resolve the discord within the royal family and ease the concerns of the nation."

    The Prime Minister''s eyes narrowed as he considered Poul''s request. A tense silence filled the room, the crackling of the firece and the ticking of the grandfather clock the only sounds punctuating the heavy atmosphere.

    Finally, the Prime Minister sighed, his stern expression softening ever so slightly. "Very well, Mr. Nielsen," he acquiesced. "I will allow you to speak with Lady Ascart. But please, remember that she is a member of the royal family, and you are to treat her with the utmost respect."

    "Of course, sir," Poul replied, grateful for the opportunity, his heart pounding in anticipation.

    The Prime Minister called out to his daughter. "Penelope, you may enter."

    The door to the drawing room opened slowly, and there she stood: Lady Penelope Ascart, or Sara, as Poul knew her. Her eyes locked onto Poul''s, and he could see a mixture of relief and trepidation in her gaze. She crossed the room with grace and poise, stopping just a few feet away from him."

    "Sir Nielsen, I didn''t expect to see you here," Penelope said.

    "Lady Ascart,"

    Poul replied, bowing his head slightly. "I apologize for the unexpected visit. I thought it was important for us to discuss the recent usations made by the Crown Prince."

    Penelope nodded in agreement. "Yes, it seems our situation has be moreplicated than we initially thought."

    As they spoke, Poul could see the worry in Sara''s eyes, but he couldn''t help but feel a spark of joy in seeing her again. It had been too long since theirst encounter, and his heart ached for her.

    "I must admit, I find it difficult to understand the Crown Prince''s ims," Poul continued, trying to focus on the matter at hand. "As I exined to your father, I have never left Avalonia, and your recent trip was your first time visiting my country. It seems impossible that we could have met under the circumstances the Crown Prince has described."

    Sara sighed, her delicate brow furrowing in concern. "Indeed, it is puzzling. I can only assume that there has been some sort of misunderstanding. Perhaps the Crown Prince has been misled by someone, or he is simply mistaken."

    Poul nodded,"Regardless of the cause, we must find a way to resolve this situation, for both our sakes and the well-being of our respective countries. Uhm. Sir, if I may ask, can I talk to her in private?"

    "You have five minutes," the Prime Minister said as he left.

    And the moment they were alone in the room, the facade that they had been showing to the Prime Minister vanished. Poul and Sara immediately embraced each other, the warmth of their connection providing them with a brief respite from the stress and uncertainty that surrounded them.

 Chapter 128 Smooth Conversation

    "Now, please exin to me what you just did to the Crown Prince?" Poul demanded, his voice heavy with concern and curiosity. Sara sat on a plush velvet chair, her hands nervously twisting the fabric of her dress, as Poul stood before her, his expression grave.

    "I heard from your father that you rejected the engagement, is it right?" he pressed on, his piercing gaze fixated on her.

    "That''s correct, Poul," Sara replied, her voice soft yet resolute. "We were recalled from the Ottoman where we were stationed as the King of the British Empire wanted to hear an update. Of course, if you are following the development of the Crimean War, it isn''t going too well for the allied forces."

    Sara''s eyes darted around the room as if searching for an escape. Poul''s intense scrutiny made her feel uneasy, and she could feel her palms growing mmy with sweat.

    "After His Highness, Alexander reported the situation to His Majesty, that''s when the King decided to tell us that he will announce our engagement to the public. And from there¡­I protested, telling the king and the crown prince themselves that I can''t marry someone for politics. That I''d rather marry for love¡­"

    Poul''s eyes widened in surprise and admiration as he listened to Sara''s words. He knew how difficult it was for a woman of her social standing to go against tradition and speak her mind. But he also knew that her decision came with consequences, and he couldn''t help but worry for her safety.

    "As much as we''d want to be together, we have to keep things discreet, for now. I don''t want you to endanger yourself because of me. I may not know the Crown Prince himself but I am sensing a bad vibe from him," Poul said, cing a hand on Sara''s shoulder.

    Sara nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. She knew that their love was forbidden and that the consequences of their actions could be dire. But she couldn''t help the way she felt, and she knew that Poul felt the same way.

    "Don''t worry, he won''t do anything to me," Sara said, a small smile ying on her lips as she held her arm, where Prince Alexander had grabbed her tightly.

    Poul noticed the gesture and furrowed his brows. "He had done something to you, didn''t he?"

    Sara hesitated for a moment, before shaking her head. "No...he didn''t..."

    "You''re lying¡­tell me what he did to you," Poul insisted, his voice firm andmanding.

    Sara''s heart raced as she felt Poul''s scrutiny intensify. She knew that she couldn''t hide the truth from him, but she also knew that revealing it would put them both in danger. Taking a deep breath, she looked Poul in the eye and spoke the words that she had been dreading.

    "He just grabbed onto my arm tightly while saying that he loved me, that''s all."

    Poul''s expression darkened as he heard Sara''s words. Without hesitation, he gently took her arm and examined it for any signs of bruises or injury. After a few moments of searching, he breathed a sigh of relief as he found nothing.

    "Thank goodness," he murmured, his voice heavy with concern. "It''s a relief that there are no bruises. But we cannot assume that it won''t happen again. I''m worried about your safety, Sara. If I''m not around, what''s to stop Prince Alexander from hurting you?"

    Sara felt a pang of fear in her chest as she heard Poul''s words. She knew that he was right to worry, but she didn''t want to believe that Prince Alexander was capable of hurting her.

    "Don''t worry, Poul. Prince Alexander is not that kind of man," she said, trying to reassure him. "Yes, he may be going through a difficult time because of my rejection, but we all know that time heals all wounds."

    Poul looked at her with concern in his eyes.

    "I hope you''re right, Sara. But you can never be too careful during this era. There are no cell phones yet in this world, so we can''t be just one call away from each other," he paused and sighed. "I wish I could stay here in London and watch over you, but we have a business to run in Avalonia. There are a lot of people there who depend on me."

    Sara nodded, understanding the weight of Poul''s responsibilities.

    "I understand, Poul. You have a lot on your te, and I don''t want to be a burden to you," she said, smiling. "But just know that I''m always thinking of you and that I''ll do my best not to make you worry."

    Poul returned a smile before looking at his timepiece. He looked at the time.

    "Our five minutes are almost up," he said. "Remember, behave as if we''re mere acquaintances. I don''t want your father to get suspicious."

    Sara nodded.

    "I understand, Poul," she said, a determined glint in her eye. "I''ll do my best to keep up appearances."

    Poul offered his hand, helping Sara to her feet. As the clock ticked down to the five-minute mark, the door swung open, and Benjamin, the Prime Minister of the British Empire, entered the room.

    "So, is it done?" Benjamin asked, his eyes flickering between Sara and Poul.

    "Yes, Father. I apologized to him for getting him involved in our family''s ordeal," Sara said, her voice steady.

    Poul nodded, stepping forward to address the Prime Minister. "After hearing the exnation from your daughter, Mr. Prime Minister, I understand the situation better. Please assure the Crown Prince that he has nothing to worry about. I am just a simple businessman, trying to make my way in the world."

    Benjamin studied Poul for a moment, before nodding in eptance. "Very well. I''ll let the Crown Prince know that the matter has been resolved. Thank you for your cooperation, Mr.Nielsen. Also, may I ask where you are staying while you are here in Ennd?"

    Poul smiled politely at the Prime Minister. "Of course, Mr. Prime Minister. I''ll be staying at The Ritz in London," he replied, his tone calm and collected.

    Benjamin nodded in acknowledgment. "Ah, The Ritz. An excellent choice. I''m sure you''ll find the amodations to your liking."

    Poul returned the nod, hiding his relief at the smooth conversation.

    "Thank you, Mr. Prime Minister. I think we are done here. I''ll be heading out now as I have a train to catch. We''ll see each other then?" Poul asked.

    "Yes, expect the news to arrive in one week," Benjamin said.

 Chapter 129 A Brief Meeting With The Prince

    One week had passed since Poul''s meeting with the Prime Minister at Sara''s father''s house. Poul was now in his hotel room at The Ritz in London, wearing a jacquard bathrobe as he sat on a plush armchair. He was reading a letter from the Prime Minister, Benjamin, which contained good news.

    [Dear Mr. Nielsen,

    I am pleased to inform you that our engineers have examined your automatic air brake system, and we have approved its use on British railways. We will also rmend a list of railwaypanies that will test your product in theing weeks.

    We believe that your innovation will greatly improve the safety and efficiency of our railway system.

    p¦Á§ád¦Á-¨¾?¦Í¨º|¡¤§ã¨®§® In addition, I must apologize for the circumstances under which we metst week. It was not my intention to involve you in the affairs of the Crown Prince, and I hope that our meeting did not cause you any undue stress or inconvenience.

    If you ever find yourself in need of assistance while in London, please do not hesitate to contact me. I would be happy to offer any aid that I can.

    Sincerely,

    Benjamin Ascart, Prime Minister of the British Empire]

    After reading the letter, Poul couldn''t help but smile in satisfaction. Not only he was able to meet Sara again but was able to make the Prime Minister alongside the parliaments approve of the air brake system.

    Though this is to be expected, as there has been a rising number of steam lotive idents across the British Empire in thest couple of years, and they have been drafting bills andws to prevent it from happening. Him, presenting a new opportunity not only benefit himself but also for the safety of the public.

    Poul stood up from the armchair and walked to the window, looking out at the bustling city below. He couldn''t believe how much his life had changed in such a short amount of time.

    From an orphan boy to a sessful businessman with connections to the Prime Minister of the British Empire and possibly the President of the United States of Avalonia.

    Of course, this wouldn''t be possible without the aid of his partner, Jonathan Axelsen, who is currently in Pittsburg, overseeing the business. He guessed that being reincarnated in a world that is a century behind their original world with memories intact isn''t so bad after all.

    Poul started thinking of what to do while he was in Ennd. Should he tour around London, visiting icondmarks such as the Tower of London and Buckingham Pce, or should he focus on his business and visit the railwaypanies rmended by the Prime Minister?

    Poul was lost in thought when a sudden knock on his hotel room door interrupted him. He made his way over to answer it, wondering who could be visiting him at this hour. As he opened the door, he saw a man dressed in a fine three-piece ck suit standing before him.

    "May I help you?" Poul asked, curious about the man''s presence.

    "I am one of His Highness Prince Alexander''s entourage, and he wishes to have an audience with you. He is currently waiting for you in the lobby," the man replied.

    Poul was taken aback by the unexpected request. The Crown Prince himself wanted to see him? It seemed quite out of the blue, but Poul couldn''t help but feel a sense of intrigue. What could the Prince possibly want to discuss with him?

    "Thank you for letting me know. I will be down shortly," Poul replied, still a bit bewildered by the situation.

    The man nodded and left, leaving Poul to ponder over what the Prince''s motives could be. Perhaps he wanted to clear up any misunderstandings between them, or maybe he had heard about Poul''s recent meeting with the Prime Minister and wanted to confirm it by himself.

    Poul quickly made his way to the bathroom and changed into his finest suit, making sure to check himself in the mirror before heading down to the lobby.

    Upon reaching the lobby, Poul spotted the Prince''s entourage standing by the entrance, and he made his way over to them.

    "Good afternoon, Mr. Nielsen," the Prince''s advisor greeted him with a smile. "The Prince is waiting for you in the private lounge."

    Poul followed the advisor through the elegant corridors of the hotel until they reached a small, luxurious room. Inside, he saw Prince Alexander sitting on a plush armchair, dressed in a ck suit and a royal blue tie. He looked up as Poul entered the room, and a smile appeared on his face.

    "Mr. Nielsen, thank you foring," Alexander said, standing up and extending his hand.

    Poul shook the Prince''s hand, his eyes never leaving his as he studied his intention.

    "Please take a seat, Mr. Nielsen," Alexander gestured to a nearby armchair. Poul took a seat and waited for the Prince to speak.

    "I wanted to personally apologize for the implications that I have made against you. I was not thinking logically at that time."

    "So the Prime Minister has discussed this with you?" Poul asked.

    "Yes, he also told me about you proposing railwaypanies adopt your automatic air brake system, which I believe is beneficial to our transportation to prevent safety. Of course, this is not ttering, I was simply stating the fact that your automatic air brake system works."

    "I appreciate your apology, Your Highness," Poul said, nodding his head respectfully. "And thank you for recognizing the potential of my air brake system. I hope that it will make a positive impact on the safety of the railways."

    "I have no doubt that it will," Alexander replied, a small smile on his lips. "In fact, I was hoping that you would be able to demonstrate your system to me. I am very interested in seeing it in action."

    "Of course, Your Highness," Poul said, "I would be more than happy to demonstrate my system for you. I''ll schedule it."

    "Very well. That''s pretty much everything, Mr. Nielsen, you can go now."

    Poul stood up and bowed respectfully before making his way to the door. Once he was out of the door, Prince Alexander leaned back in his chair and steepled his hands.

    "Do you honestly believe it would be that simple?" Alexander muttered under his breath, then snapped his fingers to get the attention of one of his attendants.

    The man stepped forward, bowing slightly. "What is yourmand, Your Highness?" he asked respectfully.

    "I want you to keep a close watch on Mr. Nielsen," Alexander said, his voice low and serious. "Document his every move, every word spoken, and report back to me with anything of note."

    "Understood, Your Highness."

 Chapter 130 Demonstration

    After his meeting with the Crown Prince of the British Empire, Poul returned to his suite and flung himself onto the bed. As he stared nkly at the ceiling, his mind raced with thoughts of the prince''s true motives for calling the meeting. Though the official reason given was to reconcile past misunderstandings, Poul couldn''t shake off the feeling that there was more to it than that.

    The Crown Prince''s intense gaze had hinted at deeper scrutiny, one that Poul could ill afford to ignore. To avoid arousing any further suspicion, he decided to cut off all contact with Penelope, his heart heavy with longing.

    In the weeks that followed, Poul went about his business as usual, but with a newfound sense of caution. He was certain that the Crown Prince was keeping an eye on him, and he couldn''t risk giving him any reason to suspect him further.

    One monthter, Poul found himself at the London Railway Station, surrounded by top executives, politicians, and the Crown Prince himself, all waiting for a train equipped with an automatic air brake system to pass by. As they waited, Poul struck up a conversation with the Crown Prince, hoping to ease the tension between them.

    "The steam lotive will be here soon, Your Highness," Poul said politely.

    "I am well aware of the schedule, Mr. Nielsen," the Crown Prince replied coldly. "If you think that entertaining me with small talk will ease my boredom, you are mistaken. I prefer to observe things in silence."

    "Does that mean you don''t want to talk to me?" Poul asked, his expression unfazed.

    The Crown Prince gave him a curt nod, and Poul fell silent. He noticed the Crown Prince''s behavior towards him was colder than usual, though not that he cared about it or anything.

    As he waited for the train to arrive, Poul couldn''t help but wonder how long he would have to endure the Crown Prince''s scrutiny and whether he would ever be able to deceive him that he and Penelope are not rted.

    Poul''s attention was drawn back to the tracks as the chugging sound of the train grew louder. He felt a slight rumble under his feet, and he knew that the train was finally arriving. He looked around at the officials on the tform, all of whom were eagerly awaiting the demonstration.

    The steam lotive appeared in the distance, a majestic beast of iron and steel, barreling towards them at an impressive speed. The observers began to murmur in anticipation, their eyes fixed on the approaching train. Poul stood confidently, a proud smile on his face as he watched the train, knowing that his invention would perform wlessly.

    As the lotive neared the tform, Poul''s confidence never wavered. The train seemed to be approaching at an rming speed, causing a few officials to take a step back in uncertainty. Poul, however, stood firm and steadfast, certain that his automatic air brake system would work as intended.

    In the final seconds before the train reached the tform, Poul raised his hand slightly, signaling the engineer to activate the automatic air brake system. The engineer nodded, pulling the lever. Instantly, the train began to decelerate at a remarkable rate, leaving the onlookers in awe.

    Within a few seconds, the train came to a smooth andplete stop at the tform, just as Poul had promised. The sound of the train''s brakes hissing as they released the air filled the air.

    The officials and the Crown Prince himself were visibly impressed. The Crown Prince raised an eyebrow and turned to Poul, his demeanor softening ever so slightly.

    "That was quite the demonstration, Mr. Nielsen. Just as you have advertised, your air brake system can stop a hundred-ton steam lotive in a matter of seconds."

    "Well, I have never lied about the capabilities of my invention, Your Highness," Poul said. "So, I believe that this demonstration would help the officials decide whether or not to adopt my air brake system?"

    The Crown Prince hummed in thought. Secondster, he spoke. "Stopping a train has always been an issue to the safety aspect of the lotive. I''m sure that the parliament would consider adopting your air brake system since it has performed what it was promised."

    Poul nced over his shoulder and saw British officials whispering among themselves, who were possibly discussing the possibility of adopting the air brake system over the existing vacuum brakes. He even saw Benjamin there, chatting among the ranks.

    "I''m curious, Mr. Nielsen," Prince Alexander suddenly spoke, snapping his attention back to him. "You have no educational background, and for a kind that is frowned upon in your country, you possess a great intellect in engineering. From air brakes to firearms."

    So now he is suspicious about his background as well huh? Well, that''s understandable, he and his partner might have done things a little bit too fast but what''s done is done.

    "You can say that I''m a gifted person, Your Highness. Even if I don''t have an educational background, as long as one is dedicated and passionate about their craft, they can achieve great things," Poul replied, choosing his words carefully.

    Alexander scoffed softly. "Well, if that''s what you say."

    Alexander stood up and fixed his suit. "I think that concludes it. I came here because I want to see your automatic air brake system in action and it impressed me. For sure, the members of parliament would consider adopting it. You can take my word for it because if they didn''t, that would be an unwise move."

    "Thank you for thosepassionate words, Your Highness," Poul bowed his head respectfully. "Oh, if I may ask, are things between you and Penelope going well?"

    The moment Poul said that Alexander''s cool expression suddenly turned icy.

    "Don''t act too casual in front of me. You have no business in my personal life, Mr. Nielsen," Prince Alexander replied sharply, his eyes narrowing in anger."

    Poul''s face remained neutral at the prince''s outburst.

    "My apologies, Your Highness. I didn''t mean to overstep my bounds," he said calmly.

    The Crown Prince''s anger dissipated as quickly as it had appeared, and he gave Poul a measured look. "I suggest you focus on your work, Mr. Nielsen," and then he took off.

    The British Prime Minister, Benjamin, walked over to him.

    "Some of the members of the parliament wanted to ask how many air brakes can you produce and deliver in theing months?"

    "If the price is right, we can deliver up to thousands, as we have already expanded our facility in Pittsburg," Poul replied.

    "Very well, someone will get in touch with you soon, discussing that."

    With that, Poul smiled. "I will wait for him."

 Chapter 131 Prelude: Power Plant

    On the 28th of September, 884, Poul found himself aboard a train bound for Pittsburgh. Seated by the window, he gazed out at the picturesquendscape whisking past, an ever-changing tapestry of colors and shapes. After a contemtive moment, he turned his attention to a letter he had received a week prior. Carefully, he unfolded the parchment, revealing the words penned by his friend, Jonathan.

    [We have a lot of business to deal with and I can''t do it alone. I need you to be back here as soon as possible and help me out.

    Sincerely yours

    Jonathan.]

    Poul chuckled as he read the letter from Jonathan. It was so typical of his partner to be short and to the point. He knew that Jonathan must be in a real bind if he was asking for his help, but Poul couldn''t help feeling a bit amused at the urgency of the letter.

    As the train rumbled on toward Pittsburgh, Poul''s thoughts turned to the business they had been dealing withtely. The Air Brake and the Union Switch & Signal Company were doing just fine, receiving orders from the fastest-growing industry in the United States of Avalonia, the railwaypanies. As for the Arms Manufacturing Company, they continue to dabble from government contracts as the war in Crimea still continues up to this day, and is showing no sign of stopping.

    With the Russian forces winning overnd battles, it only fueled the spirit and motivations of the Russians, thus making it hard for the allied forces to subdue the Russian Empire.

    But, whoever wins the war doesn''t concern them. After all, there''s only one winner in this conflict. And that is them, swimming in the money that they have earned from selling weapons from both parties.

    And since the hype of the AN-M1 rifles, arms manufacturingpanies such as Colt and Smith & Wesson have tried developing their semi-automatic rifles. And they failed, as they don''t know the technicalities that made the semi-automatic action rifle possible.

    But they knew that there will be a time when they''ll make underhanded tactics to get the recipe for the semi-automatic rifle. One of the possibilities he could think of is that they might bribe the workers who were working on the manufacturing of the AN-M1 rifles.

    There are tactics that they already implemented to prevent the workers from leaving theirpany and not epting bribes from rivalpanies.

    One tactic that they had considered was offeringpetitive wages and benefits to their employees, ensuring that they felt valued and fairlypensated for their work. By providing a work environment that was supportive and rewarding, Poul hoped to foster loyalty among his workforce, making it difficult forpetitors to lure them away with bribes.

    Another tactic was to invest in employee training and development, providing workers with opportunities to advance their skills and careers within thepany. This would not only make them more valuable to their enterprise but also create a sense of personal investment and pride in the work they were doing.

    To further protect the secrets of the AN-M1 rifle, Poul contemted implementing tight security measures within thepany. These could include strict ess controls, regr security audits, and even the use of nondisclosure agreements for employees working on sensitive projects.

    In addition to these preventive measures, they knew that it was essential to maintain a strong presence in the market and continue innovating. He believed that staying ahead ofpetitors by constantly improving their products and developing new technologies would deter rivals from attempting to steal their designs. And they are doing good in that aspect.

    But, even though they implemented such strategies, it still doesn''t guarantee their workers to leave thepany and still get bribes. After all, if a person were to be shed with ten thousand dors, there''s no doubt they''ll ept it.

    Moving on. Their new enterprise. The Axelsen & Nielsen Electric Manufacturing & Distribution Company is in the making. He received news from Jonathan while he was in London that he had hired three hundred workers and ten engineers who are formerly James''s Russel employees and contracted a construction firm that will make them the power nt. ording to Jonathan, they are studying the schematics Poul has drawn for them to build. Such as steam turbines, water-tube boilers, fire-tube boilers, deaerators, flue gas desulfurization, and electrostatic precipitators, all designed to maximize efficiency while minimizing environmental impact. The power nt would not only supply energy to their various manufacturing facilities but would also provide electricity to the city of Pittsburgh, revolutionizing the way people lived and worked. But there''s one problem, they don''t know how to build it, since it''s a new technology, especially the steam turbines.

    As Poul thought about the progress being made on theirtest venture, he couldn''t help but feel a surge of pride. He and Jonathan hade a long way since their humble beginnings, and their dedication and ingenuity had led to the creation of numerous sessful enterprises that were shaping the future of their country.

    The train''s rhythmic motion and the soothing hum of its machinery lulled Poul into a state of rxation as he continued to mull over the challenges and opportunities thaty ahead. He knew that their sess had drawn the attention ofpetitors, who would stop at nothing to steal their ideas and sabotage their efforts.

    They were determined to stay one step ahead, anticipating their moves and countering them with innovative strategies.

    p¦Á§ád¦Á §«?¦Í¨º|,§ã¨°§® As the train pulled into the Pittsburgh station, he collected his belongings and stepped onto the tform, eager to reunite with Jonathan and tackle the challenges thaty ahead. The air was thick with the scent of industry, and the city''s skyline was dominated by factories and smokestacks. It has grown unprecedentedly over thest few years.

    The first order of business would be meeting the engineers and the workers who will be working on the power nt.

    Upon arriving at their headquarters, Poul was greeted by Jonathan, who looked relieved to see his trusted partner back in town. They exchanged pleasantries and quickly got down to business, eager to make progress on their ambitious ns.

    "The engineers wanted to know how they are going to manufacture the steam turbines of your specifications?"

    "Really? In that case, gather them," Poul rose to his feet confidently.

    "You are going to give them a lecture, don''t you?" Jonathan chuckled softly.

    "Well, it''s best that they know what they are doing to prevent mistakes that could have been avoided, right?"

 Chapter 132 The Creation Of Steam Turbines

    Poul traversed the hallways, making his way to the opulent drawing room as Jonathan assembled the newly recruited engineers brought in by James Russel. Within moments, Jonathan''s voice echoed through the corridors, beckoning the engineers into the elegantly furnished chamber. As they filed in, their eyes fell upon Poul, who was meticulously sketching schematic diagrams that had be all too familiar to them during their countless hours of contemtion.

    "So that''s Poul Nielsen, huh?" whispered one engineer to his colleague, the awe in his voice barely contained.

    "Indeed," came the hushed reply, the engineer''s gaze lingering on Poul''s distinguished silver locks.

    "Settle down, gentlemen," Poulmanded, his focus unwavering from the chalkboard as his hand deftly continued its work. "We shallmence shortly."

    The engineers found their designated seats, cing their notebooks upon the antique arm tables as they waited with bated breath for Poul toplete his intricate rendering of what appeared to be a steam turbine. After a few more minutes, Poul''s chalk made its final stroke, and he pivoted to face his attentive audience. Jonathan leaned against a corner of the room, his keen eyes observing the forting lecture.

    "Now, before we delve into the intricacies of steam turbines and theirponents, I must ensure everyone is present," Poul announced, surveying the room with a discerning eye.

    "All are ounted for, Poul," Jonathan confirmed. "You may proceed."

    "Thank you, Jonathan," Poul replied. Just as he was poised to begin, the stato rhythm of footsteps resounded in the hallway, culminating in the abrupt opening of the drawing-room door. Poul and Jonathan instantly recognized the two breathless engineers standing before them.

    "Walter, Timothy?" Poul inquired, surprise flickering across his face. "What brings you here?"

    "We couldn''t miss this," Walter panted, a determined glint in his eye.

    "Would you mind if we sat in?" Timothy implored, his gaze pleading.

    Poul could see that the two were driven by an insatiable curiosity and a thirst for knowledge in their respective fields. Given that steam turbines were indeed pertinent to their work, he saw no reason to deny them the opportunity.

    "Very well," Poul acquiesced. "Take your seats."

    With the unexpected guests settled, Poul cleared his throat and began his lecture.

    "Today, we shall discuss steam turbines, their variousponents, and the concepts underlying their operation," Poul announced, his voice resonating with authority. "Furthermore, I shall provide insights into the manufacturing techniques that will make this schematic diagram a reality. I know that the technology and concept are new but I will do my best to make you understand it."

    A murmur of excitement rippled through the audience, and Poul proceeded to outline the basics of the steam turbine. He described its core principle: the conversion of steam''s kic energy into mechanical energy, achieved through the interaction between the steam and the turbine''s moving des.

    Poul then delved into the intricacies of the steam turbine''s operation. "You see," he exined, "there are two main types of steam turbines: impulse turbines and reaction turbines. In an impulse turbine, steam is expanded in a nozzle, creating a high-velocity jet that strikes the turbine des, causing the rotor to spin. In contrast, a reaction turbine relies on the pressure drop across the moving des, generating force and causing the rotor to rotate."

    The engineers listened intently, their eyes fixed on Poul as he continued to demystify theplex inner workings of steam turbines. He discussed the various stages of a multi-stage turbine, exining how the steam''s pressure and temperature decreased as it progressed through each stage, and how the efficiency of the turbine could be improved throughpounding methods.

    "Now, let us discuss how steam turbines can be manufactured using the resources and methods avable to us," Poul said, his voice resonating with the passion of a true expert.

    "To create the turbine des, we must first choose the appropriate material. Brass and cast iron aremon materials in our time; however, we can also explore the use of steel alloys for increased strength and durability."

    Poul continued, exining the process of casting turbine des.

    "Casting involves creating a mold of the desired de shape, then pouring molten metal into the mold and allowing it to solidify. Once cooled, the des are extracted and then carefully finished to achieve the precise dimensions and aerodynamic profile required."

    The engineers listened attentively, scribbling notes as Poul provided an overview of the forging process.

    "Forging, on the other hand, involves shaping the metal through abination of heat and pressure. The metal is heated until it bes malleable, then hammered or pressed into the desired shape. This process often results in a more robust and durable de."

    Poul went on to discuss the assembly of the variousponents into aplete steam turbine.

    "The des must be securely attached to the rotor, which is the central rotatingponent of the turbine. This requires precision and care, as any misalignment or imbnce can lead to reduced efficiency or even catastrophic failure."

    He emphasized the importance of proper sealing and lubrication, exining how steam leakage could decrease performance and increase wear on the moving parts.

    p¦Á§ád¦Á §«?¦Í¨º|,§ã¨°§® "The bearings, which support the rotor and allow it to rotate freely, must be carefully machined and lubricated to minimize friction and ensure smooth operation. Any questions?"

    One of the engineers raised a hand.

    "Uhm, sir, since you said steel alloys are going to be used? What steel alloys specifically?"

    "Ah, an excellent question," Poul replied and continued. "Carbon steel is a good option for steam turbineponents because carbon steel possesses high tensile strength and hardness, which are essential qualities for withstanding the intense forces and high temperatures generated within a steam turbine. These properties enable carbon steel to resist deformation and wear, ensuring a longer service life for the turbineponents.

    Secondly, carbon steel exhibits good ductility and malleability, allowing it to be shaped and formed into the intricate contours of turbine des and otherponents. This is especially important when considering the forging process, as the metal must be capable of being worked and shaped while maintaining its structural integrity. Lastly, it is more readily avable and affordable than many other steel alloys."

    As Poul expounded on the merits of carbon steel, the engineers listened attentively, absorbing every detail with keen interest. It was evident that Poul, who designed the turbine, is knowledgeable about it.

    "Well, if there is no question, we will begin making the steam turbines."

    Days turned into weeks, and the engineers worked tirelessly under Poul and Jonathan''s guidance to bring the steam turbine from a mere concept to a tangible reality. Each step of the process was met with new challenges and obstacles, but the team''s determination and coborative spirit remained unshakable.

    The workshop was a cacophony of noise as hammers struck metal, machines whirred, and the engineers engaged in passionate discussion. The air was heavy with the scent of molten metal, lubricating oil, and sweat. Despite the grueling conditions, the team pushed forward, driven by the promise of a revolutionary breakthrough.

    Under Poul and Jonathan''s watchful eye, the team refined their techniques, improving both the precision and efficiency of the turbineponents. des were cast and forged, rotors were machined, and bearings were lubricated, each part meticulously crafted and assembled. The turbine began to take shape, its once-dormantponents now poised to harness the power of steam.

    Finally, after countless hours ofbor, the moment of truth arrived. The engineers gathered in the testing area, anticipation etched on their faces as the steam turbine loomed before them. Poul and Jonathan exchanged a nce, their confidence in the team''s efforts unwavering.

    "We are going to test this tomorrow morning, so I want everyone to take some rest first," Poul said.

 Chapter 133 Testing The Steam Turbine

    A soft hum filled the air as the first light of dawn broke through the workshop''s windows. The engineers, still in their soot-streaked clothes from the previous day''s work, held their breath, their gaze fixed on the massive steam turbine before them. The room seemed to vibrate with anticipation, charged with the energy of countless hours ofbor, determination, and coboration.

    Poul Nielsen, his silver hair slightly disheveled from weeks of tireless work, stood confidently before the control panel, his fingers hovering over the switches and dials. Beside him, Jonathan observed the scene with keen eyes, his arms crossed over his chest as he mentally reviewed every step of the assembly process. The workshop was silent, save for the rhythmic ticking of a nearby clock.

    "Mr. Nielsen," Amelia approached from behind, carrying a tray of coffee. "Would you like some coffee?"

    "Thank you, Ms. Weiss," Poul said, taking one cup of coffee off the tray and sipping it carefully.

    "Do you also want one? Mr. Axelsen?" Amelia''s gaze flickered to Jonathan.

    "Yeah," Jonathan took one cup of coffee and returned his gaze back to the steam turbine that is being prepared by the engineers.

    "So, that''s the steam turbine that you two have been working on huh?" Ameliamented.

    "Yeah," Poul nodded. "Once we are finished with this steam turbine, we are going to proceed with the light bulb, motorized tools, and appliances."

    "Light bulbs?" Amelia tilted her head to the side, she pondered why Poul would need to build a light bulb. Suddenly, the answer came to her mind.

    Poul read her expression and smiled, pleased that she realized it quickly.

    "We need to be different from Mr. Russell. We know we have a system but we don''t have lights of our own that we can distribute. So to avoidwsuits, we will create a light bulb that is different from James Russell''s incandescent design."

    Amelia rubbed her chin and spoke. "Oh, I have read a paper about this technology called arc lighting. Is it going to be our light, Mr. Nielsen?"

    Poul shook his head. "No, arc lighting is inefficient, we willpete for incandescent lighting."

    Amelia''s eyes widened in surprise, intrigued by Poul''s ambition topete with James Russell''s incandescent lighting.

    "That''s quite an undertaking, Mr. Nielsen. What makes you so confident in your ability to create a different type of incandescent light bulb?"

    Poul smiled, his eyes twinkling with excitement. "We''ve been researching alternative materials and designs that would set our light bulb apart from Mr. Russell''s. And, Ms. Weiss, we believe we have discovered a viable solution."

    Jonathan chimed in, his voice filled with enthusiasm. "Our preliminary tests have shown promising results. We''re developing a fment made from tungsten, which is more durable and energy-efficient than the carbon fment used in Mr. Russell''s bulbs. Furthermore, we''re implementing a stopper design to reduce gas leakage and experimenting with various bulb shapes to enhance the light quality and lifespan of our bulbs."

    As they were discussing the light bulbs, the engineers who were working on the steam turbines raised a thumbs up at them, signaling that they just finished.

    "Okay stand back everyone," Jonathan began. "You don''t want to be near the steam turbine once it starts running."

    Upon saying that, the engineers on the ground retreated from the steam turbine assembly.

    "If you want to know more about the light bulbs, we can continue discussing it with the office," Poul said.

    Amelia nodded with a smile.

    Once everyone was settled down, Poul began.<novelsnext>please visit </novelsnext>

    "Alright, team, today is a crucial day for our steam turbine project. We''ll be conducting a series of tests to ensure its performance, safety, and reliability," Poul announced, his voice echoing through the workshop.

    The engineers gathered around, listening intently as Poul detailed each test that would be conducted.

    "First, we''ll conduct aponent inspection, meticulously examining each part of the steam turbine for any signs of wear, cracks, or manufacturing defects."

    As Poul spoke, teams of engineers dispersed throughout the workshop, armed with clipboards and inspection tools, ready to evaluate every inch of the massive steam turbine.

    "Next, we''ll perform a leak test," Poul continued. "We''ll pressurize the steam turbine with air or inert gas, then use soapy water or specialized equipment to detect any leaks in the seals, joints, and connections."

    A few engineers nodded in understanding, already preparing the necessary equipment for the leak test.

    "Following that, we''ll conduct a bnce and alignment test, ensuring that the rotor assembly is correctly bnced and aligned, minimizing vibrations and improving the turbine''s overall efficiency."

    Jonathan, who was supervising a group of engineers, carefully measured and checked the alignment of the rotor assembly, making minor adjustments as needed.

    "Once we''ve verified the rotor assembly, we''ll perform a steam flow test to evaluate the effectiveness of the steam path, validate the performance of the turbine stages, and verify that the specified pressure and temperature drops are achieved."

    The engineers watched intently as steam flowed through the turbine, carefully observing its performance and noting any deviations from their calctions.

    "Next up, we''ll test the control systems, such as the governor and valve controls, ensuring they function correctly and respond appropriately to changes in load and operating conditions."

    Poul and Jonathan worked together to simte various operating conditions, testing the responsiveness and uracy of the control systems.

    "Subsequently, we''ll conduct a vibration and noise test, monitoring the vibrations and noise generated during operation to identify any issues with the bearings, rotor assembly, or otherponents that could lead to premature wear or failure."

    Engineers armed with monitoring equipment stood by, ready to capture and analyze data from the steam turbine as it operated under various conditions.

    "Finally, we''ll measure the steam turbine''s performance with an efficiency test, including its power output, efficiency, and steam consumption, to confirm that it meets or exceeds our design specifications."

    As the engineers carried out each test, Poul, Jonathan, and Amelia observed the results, discussing their findings and making necessary adjustments along the way.

    By the end of the day, the workshop buzzed with excitement as the final test results confirmed that the steam turbine had met all its performance goals. Poul addressed the team, his voice filled with pride and satisfaction.

    "Congrattions, everyone! Our steam turbine has passed all tests with flying colors. This is a testament to your hard work, dedication, and expertise. Now, we''ll just have to build the deaerators, flue gas desulfurization, and electrostatic precipitators. By the time we finished building it, the power nt that will house that heavy equipment will be ready, is that right, Jonathan?"

    Poul nced at Jonathan, who was the head of the project of building the power nt in Scranton.

    "The construction of the power nt will end in six months," Jonathan announced to the engineers. "So, there''s still time for you guys to build those necessary and crucial engineering equipment for our coal-fired power nt."

    "Six months huh?" Poul hummed in thought. "I wonder if we can build those things in time."

 Chapter 134 The Test

    December 31st, 884. A mere three hours remained before the dawn of a new year, and Poul and Jonathan were bustling about, attending to the power nt''s final preparations. Over the course of three arduous months, the industrious pair, along with their dedicated teams of engineers and construction workers, had sessfullyid the foundation for the power nt.

    Although the nt required another six months forpletion, Poul and Jonathan devised a n. Why not conduct a test run of the AC generation and distribution in the town of Scranton? Driven by this ambitious idea, the duo spent countless days and nights over the past month, tirelessly constructing the essential makeshift infrastructure required for electrical distribution.

    They erected power lines throughout Scranton, distributed informative pamphlets to its residents, and extended a warm invitation to their sole investor, Caroline, to witness the fruits of her investment. Undeterred by the biting cold, the determined duo and their hardworking crew pressed on to make progress. And now, after three relentless months, the test for alternating current generation was ready tomence.

    In the heart of Scranton, curious townspeople gathered in the dimly lit streets, as the gasmps that usually illuminated their paths were temporarily extinguished to make way for the demonstration of alternating current distribution. The same held true for homes and buildings throughout the town. In the deepening night, the only sources of light were the flickering candles andmps carried by the expectant residents of Scranton.

    The anticipation in the air was palpable, as murmurs and whispers spread among the crowd.

    Meanwhile, somewhere in the far corner of the town is the power nt. Inside it was Poul, Jonathan, and Caroline looking at the control panel for the power nt. In the control panel is a lever, waiting to be pulled by one of them.

    "So, Caroline, this is what we have been working for. We figured that we call you here to witness this momentous asion. The debut of an alternating current distribution system," Poul eximed, waving his hand.

    Caroline simply smiled, as she had expected that they could pull off a stunt like this.

    "Do we really have to wait before midnight to pull the lever?" Caroline asked.

    "Of course, this is to make the event more impactful to the residents. It''s symbolic, if you think about it, the light turns on on the first day of the year 885. It could mean a lot to them, and it would forever etch in their hearts," Jonathan said. "Of course, this is just a demonstration, we are months away from operational status. We just like to show the people what we have been cooking."

    "I see, but why didn''t you invite John Morgan here?" Caroline inquired again.

    "We reached out to him," Poul said and continued. "But he said that he has important matters to attend to."

    "Does he know that you are starting an electric distributionpany?"

    "In a way," Poul replied, nodding his head.

    "What do you mean in a way?"

    "Well we did tell him our intention to start an electricpany, but we haven''t informed him about its development and progress. And why would he be? He is already backing James Russell and is a firm believer that direct current is the best system, even after knowing the operational cost it is costing him and Russell a year."

    And the trio waited for the clock to strike the designated hour. Poul and Jonathan were looking at their pocket watch intermittently, to check the time. As the clock struck the designated hour, the trio in the power nt nced at one another and exchanged a meaningful nod. Poul stepped forward, ced a hand on the lever, and pulled it up.

    The generator hummed, indicating that it ising to life.<novelsnext>please visit </novelsnext>

    Outside, a hushed silence fell over the gathered crowd. With bated breath, they watched as the dazzling array of electric lights burst into life. The once-dark streets of Scranton were now bathed in the warm, bright glow of alternating current.

    Gasps of awe and amazement rippled through the onlookers, as the magic of electricity unfolded before their eyes. The flicker of candles andmps paled inparison to the steady, radiant light emanating from the power nt. The sess of the test run was undeniable, and it marked the beginning of a new era for the town of Scranton.

    Now that the power nt is generating electricity and lighting up the city. Jonathan cleared his throat and spoke.

    "So, why don''t we go for a ride?" Jonathan suggested.

    And then, the three exited the power nt and boarded the horse-drawn carriage that is waiting for them to take them into the city.

    The carriage was warm and cozy, a stark contrast to the biting cold outside. Caroline sat in the middle, nked by Poul and Jonathan, as they gazed out of the window at the dazzling disy of electricity illuminating the town.

    The carriage made its way through the bustling streets, passing by throngs of people who were now out on the streets, marveling at the spectacle of electricity.

    "Well, this only means that we are nowpeting against James Russell," Carolinemented.

    "Yeah, this is where our battle begins, alternating current versus direct current. Whoever currently gets the most clients in the United States of Avalonia, would win the current war. But I believe the deciding factor in history was the world''s fair in Ohio. I don''t know what year it will take ce, is it going to be on the same date in the original world, or will it be earlier orter?"

    "No matter what world it is," Caroline interjected. "The alternating current will win as the best in the electric distribution system. You just have to solidify your position by inventing appliances and electric tools and machines."

    "Not only that, the steam turbine that we just built can be used in other applications, such as ship propulsion systems," Jonathan added.

    "Oh? Are you getting into the shipbuilding industry as well?" Caroline asked, her curiosity piqued.

    "Too bad, none of us actually have first-hand experience in designing a ship," Jonathan said, ncing at Poul who nodded in agreement.

    "But we can learn about shipbuilding by attending a university," Poul said. "What do you think Jonathan? Because I think shipbuilding is also fun."

    As they discussed, they didn''t realize that the carriage had already made it to the center of the city. The trio stepped down from the carriage and they were instantly surrounded by the townspeople, who were eager to see who had brought them the electricity.

    Not only townspeople but journalists from mass mediapanies such as New York Times and Associated Press. The journalist is appointed to interview them about the lighting of Scranton and the industrialist duo couldn''t be more delighted.

 Chapter 135 The Interview

    The journalist from the New York Times stepped forward with a note in his hand.

    "Mr. Nielsen, Mr. Axelsen, may I have some questions about this lighting ceremony you conducted in Scranton?" he asked.

    Poul walked forward and nodded. "Anything."

    "Okay," the journalist breathed deeply before starting. "So, Mr. Nielsen, this lighting ceremony was a momentous event for the townspeople of the city of Scranton. How are you feeling?"

    Poul smiled at the journalist, his eyes shining with excitement. "I feel incredibly proud, to be honest. This lighting ceremony represents a new era of progress and innovation for the people of Scranton, and we''re honored to have been a part of it."

    The journalist nodded, scribbling down notes as Poul spoke. "And what inspired you to pursue this project?"

    Jonathan stepped forward, joining the conversation. "We recognized the need for a more efficient and reliable source of electricity, and we saw the potential for alternating current to revolutionize the way we live and work. It wasn''t an easy journey, but we were determined to see it through."

    The journalist nodded, taking in their words. "And what do you hope to achieve with this project?"

    "Our ultimate goal is to bring electricity to every corner of Avalonia, and eventually, the world. We believe that electricity is the key to unlocking a new age of progress and innovation, and we''re excited to be at the forefront of this movement."

    The journalist nodded, impressed by Poul''s enthusiasm. "And what challenges do you foresee in achieving this goal?"

    Poul spoke up, his tone serious. "There will be challenges, no doubt about it. We''ll be facing stiffpetition in the electric market, where direct current is currently being used as a standard. However, we believe that our alternating current system offers significant advantages over the direct current system. Alternating current is more efficient, easier to distribute over long distances, and can handlerger loads than DC. We''re confident that as people begin to see the benefits of AC, they''ll be more willing to make the switch."

    Jonathan nodded in agreement, adding, "We''re also working on developing new technologies that will make AC even more versatile and efficient. We''re constantly pushing the boundaries of what''s possible, and we''re excited to see where this journey takes us."

    The journalist listened intently, scribbling down notes as Poul spoke.

    "It certainly sounds like you have a lot of exciting things on the horizon. What do you see as the future of electricity?"

    Poul took a deep breath, his eyes scanning the crowd.

    "We see a future where electricity is essible to everyone, regardless of where they live or their socio-economic status. We see a future where electricity powers everything from homes and businesses to transportation andmunication. We believe that the possibilities are endless, and we''re excited to see ite to fruition."

    "Thank you, Mr. Nielsen, and Mr. Axelsen for both of your time," the New York Times journalist shook their hands before leaving them.

    Momentster, the journalist from the Associated Press stepped forward.

    "Uhm, Mr. Nielsen, Mr. Axelsen. There have been papers published about the dangers of the alternating current, what is your take on that?"

    Poul nced at Jonathan, believing he could answer that question.<novelsnext>please visit </novelsnext>

    Jonathan stepped forward once again, his expression was serious.

    "Electricity is dangerous, be it direct current or alternating current. However, the risks can be minimized if proper safety measures are taken. Our team is constantly working to ensure the safety of our electrical systems, and we aremitted to educating the public on safe electrical practices. We believe that with the right precautions, the benefits of electricity far outweigh the potential risks. As with any new technology, there will always be skeptics and naysayers, but we stand by our system and are confident in its safety and efficiency."

    The journalist nodded, scribbling down Jonathan''s words. "Thank you for your insight. One final question, what would be the name of your electricpany?"

    Poul and Jonathan nced again at one another and exchanged meaningful nods. Then, they turned their heads at the same time to the journalist and intoned the name.

    "Axelsen and Nielsen Electric Manufacturing and Distribution Company,"

    "Fantastic, thank you for your time, gentlemen. It''s been a pleasure speaking with you both," the journalist said before walking away, noting down the name of thepany in his notepad.

    "Well, I think that was it," Poul said. "Should we head back home now? Caroline, you are staying with us for a week right?"

    "Yeah, that would be right," Caroline said.

    "In that case, you''d be able to see the building we are constructing," Jonathan said, eager to show her around the new office building that is nearingpletion.

    And with that, the trio returned to their carriage that will take them back to Pittsburgh. The journey from Scranton to Pittsburgh was long, so one of them fell asleep, specifically Caroline, whose head is now resting on Jonathan''s shoulder.

    The night was peaceful, and the only sound that they could hear was the gentle ttering of the carriage wheels against the road. Poul looked out of the window, lost in thought as he gazed at the passing scenery.

    The stars sparkled in the sky, their brightness illuminating the darkness of the night. Jonathan looked down at Caroline, a small smile ying on his lips as he watched her sleep peacefully.

    He adjusted himself so that he can stroke her hair gently, feeling a sense of contentment wash over him. After that, he tried wrapping his arm around her shoulder, pulling her closer to him. Caroline stirred slightly in her sleep, snuggling even closer to him. Jonathan felt a warmth spread through his chest.

    The journey felt much shorter than it actually was, and before they knew it, they had arrived back in Pittsburgh.

    Jonathan had to carry Caroline out as she was already in her deep sleep. Poul opened the door and in the living room, he saw Amelia, who fell asleep on a couch. She must have been waiting for their arrival.

    Poul sighed and lifted her up like a princess, carrying her to her bedroom. Meanwhile, Jonathan gentlyid Caroline on the bed next to Amelia and covered her with a nket.

    The industrialist duo stepped back and gaze at the two sleeping beauties for a moment.

    "We should return to sleep as well," Jonathan said. "We have a long day ahead of us."

    "True," Poul smiled as he nodded.

 Chapter 136 Surprise In The First Week Of The New Year

    January 7th, 885.

    Jonathan and Caroline just returned to the office from the office building that was under construction. They jovially sat at the chairs in front of Jonathan''s desk and chatted with one another.

    "I can''t believe that you are building an office building in modern architecture. Normally, people would prefer heavily ornate facades and luxurious and opulent interiors."

    "First, they are expensive, second, we are in quite a rush," Jonathan exined, chuckling at her remarks. "It takes a long time to build a building of the neossical or renaissance-style pce and we needed a proper office fast because we couldn''t just stay here, in this current office for too long once our operations in our different ventures expanded."

    "I understand that, I''m just saying this so you are aware of the mainstream of the decade," Caroline chuckled. "I''m sure that the office building that we saw earlier wouldn''t serve as your house right? You need a proper house. For that, you can get one in Newport."

    Jonathan let out an exmation of recognition as he realized what she was talking about.

    "Newport, I remembered that you weremissioned to build a house there was it not? How is it going?"

    "I''m ready to move in at any time I like, but I don''t want to yet. It feels lonely to live in a pce if you are alone," Caroline yed a smile on her lips as if hinting something to Jonathan.

    Jonathan raised an eyebrow at her remark, a small smile forming on his lips. "Are you saying that you want me to move in with you?" he teased, leaning back in his chair.

    Caroline''s cheeks turned slightly pink as she looked away. "I-I didn''t say that! It''s just... it would be nice to have someone else around, you know."

    Jonathan chuckled. "Well, you wouldn''t be lonely because you would have your servants with you."

    "I didn''t mean them," Caroline said, crossing her arms in front of her chest.

    "You guys, it''s early in the afternoon, can you get a room please?" Poul, who had been listening to their conversation from his desk, finally spoke. He lowered the newspaper he was reading and nced at them. "The bedroom upstairs is free just don''t get too loud," he added with a smirk.

    Jonathan and Caroline both blushed.

    "Oi, Poul? What are you doing?"

    "A friendly suggestion I suppose," Poul grinned.

    "Coffee!"

    Suddenly, Amelia entered the office carrying a tray with cups of coffee. She handed a cup of coffee to each of them before standing in front of Poul''s desk.

    "Good morning, Mr. Axelsen, Mr. Nielsen, Lady Dupont," she greeted respectfully, bowing. "I will now give my weekly report. We have received inquiries from the Nippon Railway, Japan Railway, and Tokyo Railway Construction Company regarding the acquisition of air brakes and switch and signal devices. The Shanghai-Nanjing Railway in the Qing Dynasty and the Joseon Kingdom Gyeongin Railway have also expressed interest."

    Poulmented, "Ah, finally, we have customers in Asia. Very well, please set up appointments with their representatives. We''ll discuss the matter with each of them. Is there any other report?"

    Amelia hesitated before replying, "Um, sir, the New York Board of Transportation is requesting your presence in New York."

    Jonathan eximed, "Finally! We''ve been waiting for their invitation for months!"<novelsnext>please visit </novelsnext>

    Caroline interjected, "Is it about the proposal you made to construct a metro station in New York?"

    Jonathan confirmed her assumption, "Yes, that''s correct. I hope they picked our proposal."

    Caroline reassured him, "I think they did. If they called you, that means they are considering your proposal. If not, then you wouldn''t hear from them."

    "So we are going back to New York again huh?" Poul let out a weary sigh. Though the steam lotives paved the way for faster transportation, for people who came from the modern world and enjoyed the luxury of air travel, having to go to destinations that can only take an hour by ne is still quite a hassle.

    "We have no choice," Jonathan said. "If we want to secure this contract and not waste our money on the acquisition of the Avonside Engine Company, we have to go."

    "I''m not saying we shouldn''t go, I''m just saying it for the sake of saying it," Poul spoke in riddles. "Any other report that you might have, Ms. Weiss?"

    "The next report is about the sess of the demonstration of the alternating current distribution system in Scranton. The news of it spread like wildfire. Your statement that it is going to be cheaper, and more reliable than direct current attracted some attention."

    "Oh, there are some who are already inquiring huh?" Jonathan huffed. "Good, how about some negatives? Like someone saying that alternating current is dangerous?"

    "There''s nothing that states that in the newspaper I read, is it also the case in the newspaper you are reading, Mr. Nielsen?" Amelia''s gaze flickered to Poul.

    "No, I haven''t seen a single article in the newspaper saying that. After all, it was just a demonstration, it is not like we are making a huge impact right now. For now, James Russell''s direct current system is still popr and the go-to by the factory and business owners. I wonder what reaction Russell''s would have in this case?"

    As Poul hummed in thought, the telephone on his table rang. Poul picked it up and wedged himself between the receiver and his ear.

    "Yes, this is Poul Axelsen speaking," he answered.

    "What?!" Poul eximed. "What is he doing here?" he demanded.

    Concerned looks from the three were trained on Poul as he spoke to the caller.

    "He wants to see me urgently? Doesn''t he know about making appointments?"

    Poul''s expression turned to one of disbelief as he spoke on the phone. The others in the room watched him, curious about what was happening. Finally, Poul relented.

    "Fine, let him enter, but only after he behaves himself."

    After saying that, Poul hung up the phone and turned to the others in the room. "It was James Russell. He is demanding to see me."

    "What? For what purpose?" Jonathan asked.

    "I don''t know, but he''ll tell us soon," Poul said.

 Chapter 137 Looming Threat

    Poul, Jonathan, and Caroline readied themselves for the arrival of the unexpected visitor from New York. Amelia left the office to make some tea for the guest.

    The horse-drawn carriage carrying James Russell and Sam Insull pulled up in front of the office. They stepped off the carriage and hurriedly entered the office without even asking for permission.

    They glided across the living room with heavy footsteps and into the office room, where Poul, Jonathan, and Caroline sat, waiting for them to arrive.

    "Good morning, Mr. Russell, and Mr. Insull, we are not expecting both of you toe into our office. Normally, you would need an appointment but seeing that the matter looked urgent, we will overlook it," Poul. "So gentleman, what is the purpose of your sudden visit?"

    Russell looked at his personal secretary, Insull, and signaled him with a nod. Sam acknowledged the order and pulled out a newspaper from inside his suit. Then, he threw it on Poul''s desk, as if emphasizing something.

    "Have you seen this?!" Insull demanded, pointing at the article on the front page. "You opened an electricpany business with my light bulbs? Are you serious?!" Russell began.

    Jonathan and Caroline exchanged a look of confusion. Poul raised an eyebrow as he picked up the newspaper and read the article. His eyes widened in surprise as he scanned through the contents.

    He put the newspaper down and looked at Russell and Insull with a calm expression. "Yes, we did," he replied firmly. "But it is not your light bulb that we used. It is a light bulb that is different from yours."

    "Even still, you stole from me. How dare you backstab me?! After all the agreement we have made, for licensing me your patents for the direct current electric motor, and now this? This I cannot forgive!"

    Poul spoke up, his voice measured but firm, as he tried to quell the rising tension in the room.

    "Mr. Russell, your usation is unwarranted. We did not steal anything from you. We have our own patents, and we have developed our own electric bulbs. While there may be simrities in how we light them up, the designs of our light bulbs are entirely different from yours. I understand your frustration, but I will not tolerate baseless allegations."

    "I will sue you for infringement," Russell dered, his voice

    "Your threat of legal action is misguided, Mr. Russell. We have done nothing wrong, and our business practices are sound," Poul said calmly, maintaining hisposure. "If you choose to pursue this matter, we will defend ourselves vigorously in court."

    Russell''s face flushed with anger as he red at Poul. "You will regret this," he seethed, before turning on his heel and storming out of the office, with Insull following closely behind.

    Jonathan and Caroline watched them leave in silence, both feeling uneasy about the encounter. Poul let out a deep sigh and ran a hand through his hair.

    "Well, that was unexpected," he said, breaking the silence. "I didn''t think Russell would react so strongly to our business endeavors."

    Caroline spoke up, concern etched on her face. "Do you think he will follow through with his threat of awsuit?"

    Poul nodded his head. "With those expressions, I think he will. But if ites to that, we can only act ordingly. He is suing us for using his light bulbs?"

    "The tea is here!" Amelia entered the office but noticed that the unexpected visitors were already gone. "Was I toote? What happened Mr. Nielsen?"<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "Well¡­Ms. Weiss, James Russell came to our establishment to announce that he is going to sue us for infringing his light bulb."

    Amelia let out a soft gasp. "But I thought you said that the light bulb you build is different from Russell. If that was the case then howe he is suing us?"

    "I think I know where the problem lies," Caroline interjected. "He is not suing you because of your light bulb design but because of the bulb itself. The incandescent."

    "Wait?" Jonathan scoffed. "Isn''t just saying that they invented the incandescent? That''s foolish, the technology has been studied for decades."

    "You''re right, Jonathan," Poul agreed. "Incandescent technology has been around for a long time, and many inventors from the past have contributed to its development. Russell cannoty im to the entire concept. However, he may feel threatened by our prospect and thepetition we bring to the market."

    Caroline added, "Russell''spany has dominated the electric lighting industry for years. Our new venture might be seen as a direct challenge to his dominance, and he''s likely worried about losing his grip on the market."

    Poul nodded thoughtfully. "We must be prepared to defend our business and our innovations in court if necessary. I have confidence in our patents and our technology, and I believe we can sessfully challenge Russell''s ims."

    Amelia, still holding the tray of tea, looked worried. "What can we do to help, Mr. Nielsen?"

    "Thank you for your concern, Ms. Weiss," Poul replied. "For now, I''d like you to continue your regr duties. We will keep you updated on any developments in this matter. As for the rest of us, we must continue to focus on our work and strive to make our electricpany sessful. Oh, just in case, please contact George Harding."

    "Thewyer that we hired years ago?" Jonathan asked.

    "Yes, him," Poul confirmed. "He specializes in infringement cases and we have to get him to our side before Russell does."

    "Understood."

    In the following weeks, Poul and Jonathan worked as if nothing happened. Undeterred by the looming threat of awsuit from Russell. They looked for potential clients who are interested in their alternating current system.

    Fortunately, the industrialist duo managed to hire George Harding as theirwyer for their case, and are discussing it with them.

    "Russell has filed awsuit against yourpany for infringing your patent. The New York Court has epted the case and we''re expected to appear in court within a few months," George informed Poul and Jonathan, his expression serious. "We''ll need to gather all the documentation rted to your patents, your light bulb designs, and any evidence demonstrating the uniqueness of your technology," George said.

    "So it is really bing a reality huh?" Poul huffed.

    "Well, let''s see where this will lead us," Jonathan added.

 Chapter 138 The News

    Jonathan and Poul''s work at the Axelsen & Nielsen Company remained unchanged despite the loomingwsuit. They continued to deal with clients and oversee the production of their products, unfazed by the legal battle ahead. To them, thewsuit was nothing but a frivolous im made by James Russell, who believed he was the sole inventor of the incandescent light bulb, disregarding the contributions of countless scientists, engineers, and other professionals.

    However, they knew that the uing court battle would soon prove Russell wrong. For the time being, though, they had a business to run and a counselor to meet.

    Jonathan was en route to New York to meet with the councilors from the New York Board of Transportation to discuss a matter that had not yet been revealed to him. As he sat on the train, heading towards the ferry station that would take him to New York, he felt Caroline''s head resting on his shoulder. She yfully traced her fingers on his tie, distracting him from his thoughts.

    "Hey, Caroline," Jonathan said, turning to look at her. "You said you were going to sleep?"

    Caroline chuckled softly. "Do you mind?"

    "No I don''t," Jonathan said. "In fact, you can continue doing that."

    Caroline smiled and continued to y with Jonathan''s tie, her eyes slowly closing as she drifted off to sleep, lulled by the gentle sway of the steam lotive.

    Jonathan let out an awed sigh as he gazed at Caroline''s face. It was just as beautiful as the day they met back in the Astoria Hotel, if not more so. He could stare at her for days on end and never tire of her stunning features. Jonathan felt incredibly lucky that the woman he was attracted to was slowly but surely falling for him. He wasn''t oblivious to the possibility that the feeling could be mutual, but he was waiting for Caroline to say it herself and reveal her true feelings. When she did, Jonathan knew he would answer ordingly.

    As the train pulled into the station, Jonathan gently shook Caroline awake. "Caroline, we are here, let''s go now."

    Caroline groggily rubbed her eyes and sat up straight, giving Jonathan a sleepy smile.

    "We are already here?" she asked, looking out of the window and saw that the steam lotive is stationary and the view out there disyed the station tform.

    "Yes, on your feet now, we have a ferry to catch," Jonathan said.

    "Okay¡­" Caroline quickly got up, feeling a bit disoriented from her nap.

    As they disembarked the train and made their way toward the ferry station, they were greeted by the hustle and bustle of the city. The streets were crowded with people going about their daily business, and the sound of carriages and street vendors filled the air.

    As they boarded the ferry, Jonathan took Caroline''s hand and they found a quiet spot on the upper deck where they could admire the view of the city skyline. Caroline leaned her head on Jonathan''s shoulder as they watched the icondmarks pass by. She felt a sense offort and happiness being with him.

    Finally, they arrived at the dock and hailed a carriage, taking them to the building of the New York Board of Transportation. Upon arriving at the building, they were greeted by a group of councilors who shook their hands.

    "Mr. Axelsen, it''s a pleasure to see you again," the Councilor said.

    "Thank you, sir, oh, by the way, thisdy beside me is Caroline Dupont. I''m sure you know her."

    Caroline curtsied and spoke. "Greetings, Councilor."

    "Oh yeah, the founder of the Loreal Company, It''s a pleasure to have you here, Lady Dupont. Though I must ask, where is Mr. Nielsen?"

    "He is in Pittsburg, managing the business while I''m here. So, Councilor, we have received your letter, summoning us here. And now that I am here, may I ask why you summoned us?"<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "Let''s talk about that inside the conference room," said the Councilor before turning around and walking away.

    Jonathan and Caroline followed the Councilor into the conference room, taking a seat at the long wooden table. The room was dimly lit, with only a few electricmps scattered around, casting a warm glow on the walls.

    The Councilor cleared his throat and began to speak.

    "Mr. Axelsen, we have reviewed the proposal and the documents you passed to us after your presentation. And after a lengthy debate with my colleagues, we have decided that your proposal is one that we have selected to improve the transportation system here in New York by building what you coined, ''metro station''."

    "Thank you, sir," a smile spread over Jonathan''s face as he thanked the Councilor for their decision.

    Caroline looked at Jonathan with admiration, knowing how much effort he and Poul had put into this project. She knew that this was a big win for thepany and for Jonathan personally.

    he Councilor continued, "However, there is a catch. You see, yourpany is facing awsuit against James Russell, we feared that this decision of ours could potentially harm the reputation of our board if we were to be associated with apany that loses such a high-profile case. Therefore, we cannot proceed with the project until thewsuit is resolved and the oue is favorable to yourpany."

    Jonathan''s face fell as he processed the news. Caroline reached out and gave his hand a reassuring squeeze.

    "Councilor, I don''t understand," Caroline began. "Why are you dying a project over somewsuit by one of Mr. Axelsen''s enterprises whose industry is wholly not rted to this?"

    The Councilor sighed and leaned back in his chair. "Lady Dupont, I understand your frustration, but the reputation of our board is of utmost importance. We cannot risk being associated with apany that may potentially lose such a high-profilewsuit. It is unfortunate, but our hands are tied."

    Jonathan spoke up, "Councilor, I understand your concerns. We just have to win the case in order to push forward on the project right? Then so be it."

    A smile appeared on the Councilor''s face after hearing his confident reply.

    "Very well, Mr. Axelsen. We will monitor the progress of thewsuit, and if the oue is favorable to yourpany, we will proceed with the project."

    With that, they stood and shook hands with each other before leaving the conference room.

    While climbing down the marbled stairs towards their carriage, Jonathan hissed.

    "Shit, why is there always bad news to every good news?"

    Caroline chuckled softly at Jonathan''s rant.

    "Don''t mind it. Just as you said, you are going to win the case. Where did your confidence go all of a sudden?"

    "I know, but Russell, that man is bing a pain in the ass. We''ll definitely crush him in court."

    "That''s more like it," Caroline giggled.

 Chapter 139 Tasting

    Jonathan stood at the window of his luxurious suite in the Fifth Avenue Hotel, gazing out at the magnificent New York skyline. The electric streetlights that lined the streets below cast a bright, steady glow on the city''s brick buildings, and the asional horse-drawn carriage ttered past, its hooves echoing on the cobblestone street.

    Jonathan breathed in the cool night air, tinged with the faint scent of coal smoke from the nearby factories. He could hear the distant murmur of the city''s energy, punctuated by the asional call of a hawker selling roasted peanuts on the corner.

    As he took in the sights and sounds of the bustling city below, Jonathan felt a sense of rxation, something that he needed more than ever. The meeting with the Councilor of the New York Board of Transportation gave him slight stress. Even though the Board of Transportation has selected its proposal to build a metro station in New York, it won''t go forward until the legal battle against James Russell is concluded.

    Jonathan sighed exasperatedly, remembering it again. The session will be held next month, or the month after that. Meaning, the project will be dyed for one to three months.

    "We really have to settle this legal matter as soon as possible," Jonathan murmured.

    As he continued staring out the window, the telephone behind him rang. Jonathan turned around and walked towards it. He picked up the telephone and answered it.

    "This is Jonathan."

    "Jonathan, this is Poul. So what''s the problem?"

    "The Board of Transportation selected our proposal but it won''t be pushed through if we don''t settle thewsuit James Russell filed against us."

    He could hear Poul sighing at the other end of the line.

    "I was expecting good news but not the bad news." Poul clicked his tongue. "So you are saying that if we finish thiswsuit and are favored towards us, we can start the project."

    "That is right, Poul," Jonathan confirmed.

    "But if it''s the other way around, we are going to lose the project. Is that what you are implying?" Poul asked, his tone serious.

    "Yeah, that''s pretty much the case in our hands, Poul. We really have to settle thiswsuit as soon as possible. Get it out of our way before it can badly affect our reputation."

    "I am well aware of that Jonathan, don''t worry. We have all the necessary documents that will support us in court. We just have to hang in there and wait. So how long are you going to stay there?"

    "Probably until tomorrow, Caroline and I decided to go out for lunch before I leave New York. Take care of things down there,"

    "Okay, good luck and have fun."

    With that, Jonathan hung up the phone and heaved a sigh. Two months it''s quite a long time. If only James Russell didn''t file awsuit, he would be one of the happiest men alive today.

    Speaking of Caroline, she was not with Jonathan today due to unforeseen circumstances. She had to return to her main branch on Broadway, leaving Jonathan on his own in the Fifth Avenue Hotel. As he looked out the window, he couldn''t help but miss her already. He longed to feel her warm embrace, to have her rest her head on his shoulder and wrap her hands around his arm. Now that those sensations were temporarily gone, he realized how much he craved thefort and warmth she provided.

    That woman must be scared to know what men need. Now that he is understanding her just now is making him more and more fall in love with her.

    While he was in the middle of thinking about her, there was a knock on the door.

    The knocks snapped him out of his reverie. Jonathan walked towards the door, wondering who it could be. He wasn''t expecting anyone, but perhaps it was a hotel staff member with a message or a package for him.

    He opened the door to find Caroline standing there, looking as beautiful as ever. She was wearing a simple yet elegant ck dress that hugged her curves in all the right ces, and her long hair was pulled back in a sleek ponytail. Jonathan''s heart skipped a beat at the sight of her.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "Caroline, what are you doing here?" Jonathan asked, surprised to see her.

    "I finished my work early, so I decided to surprise you," Caroline replied with a smile.

    Jonathan couldn''t help but smile back, feeling his stress melt away at the sight of her.

    "Well, you certainly did surprise me. Come in," he said, stepping aside to let her enter.

    Caroline stepped into the room and looked around, taking in the luxurious furnishings and the breathtaking view of the city outside.

    "Now I know the reason why you chose this room, it offers a good view of New York."

    "Sometimes, you have to pick the best environment for you to stay in in order for your mind to function properly," Jonathan said with a grin before continuing. "So, can I get you something to drink? I have some wine, whiskey, and water here."

    "Then, can I have some wine?" Caroline asked.

    "Coming right up," Jonathan picked up the wine bottle from the table and walked towards Caroline.

    "Thank you," Caroline said as she gazed at his face.

    While he was doing that, he coolly introduced to her the origins of the wine.

    "This wine right here is an 850 Chateau Lafite Rothschild from Bordeaux, France. It''s a wine that has been aged for over a decade, and it''s considered to be one of the finest wines in the world."

    He carefully uncorked the bottle and poured a small amount into a ss, holding it up to the light for her to see.

    "Look at that deep red color, almost ga in appearance. The aroma is rich andplex, with hints of ckcurrant, tobo, leather, and spices. And the taste? Oh, my dear, it''s simply divine. Silky smooth with a long, lingering finish. This wine is truly a work of art."

    He handed her the ss, watching as she took a sip and savored the taste.

    "Do you taste the ck fruit vors? Or the subtle notes of vani and oak from the barrel aging?"

    Caroline giggled. "You know a lot about wine huh?"

    "Well, I did some research."

    Caroline hummed as she savored the vor of the wine, and gave herment.

    "The wine is indeed exquisite, and I can detect the notes of ckcurrant and vani. It''s fascinating to think about the chemistry behind it all - the molecules that give this wine its unique vor and aroma. The ckcurrant vor, for example, is likely due to the presence of certain organicpounds, such as anthocyanins and vonoids, while the vani notes may be attributed to the presence of vanillin or other aromaticpounds from the oak barrels used in aging the wine. But I didn''te here for a wine tasting, Jonathan."

    "Yeah, speaking of which? You didn''t tell me why you specifically went here," Jonathan said.

    "Well, Jonathan, that''s because¡­I want to taste you."

 Chapter 140 [R18] Having Dinner

    Jonathan chuckled at Caroline''s unexpected remark, his cheeks flushing with a tinge of pink. Caroline''s yful demeanor and sultry smile made him feel both excited and nervous at the same time.

    "I said I want to taste you," Caroline repeated, her fingers trailing over her lower lip in a teasing manner. Jonathan''s heart raced as he considered her proposition. He couldn''t deny the attraction he felt for her, but he was hesitant to act on it.

    Sitting across from Caroline, Jonathan nervously chuckled and cleared his throat. "Uhm... Caroline, are we doing this right now?"

    Caroline''s expression grew more serious, her eyes searching his face. "You don''t want it?" she asked, her toneced with a hint of disappointment.

    "Of course, I like it," Jonathan responded quickly but then hesitated. "But... something''s stopping me."

    Caroline raised a perfectly sculpted brow, her gaze was unwavering. "Are you perhaps not in the mood?" she asked, her voice low and sensual.

    Jonathan''s eyes flickered away from her intense gaze as he twiddled his hands.

    "Kind of like that. You see, Caroline, as much as I want to do it with you right now, something is stopping me. I just... jerked, an hour ago, so my sexual drive is...not at its peak," he finished, feeling a bit embarrassed. He knew that his admission could make him appear weak or uninterested in Caroline, but he hoped that she would understand.

    Caroline leaned back in her chair, crossing her arms over her chest. "I see," she said, her voice cool and detached. "Who were you thinking when you were doing that?"

    "You," Jonathan answered without hesitation.

    Caroline let out a giggle and leaned forward, her eyes twinkling mischievously.

    "Well, isn''t that something," she said, her hand reaching out to touch Jonathan''s cheek. "I think we can work with that."

    Jonathan''s heart skipped a beat at Caroline''s touch, and he felt a surge of desire coursing through his veins. He had been fantasizing about Caroline for weeks, and the thought of finally being with her was almost too much to bear.

    Caroline stood up from her chair and walked over to where Jonathan was sitting. She straddled hisp, her hands sliding down his chest anding to rest on his thighs.

    "Let me take care of you," she whispered in his ear, her breath hot against his skin.

    Jonathan moaned softly, his hands moving to grip her hips. He couldn''t believe that this was actually happening - that he was about to be with the woman he had been lusting after for so long.

    He looked side to side, there would be no one stopping there. So he is free of reigns.

    "There''s no need to think about anything else," Caroline whispered again, this time with an angelic and sensual voice. Just ept me wholeheartedly and be pampered¡­"

    Her voice was charming, and Jonathan couldn''t help but sigh in satisfaction at what is happening to him right now. Caroline continued touching him here and there, stimting him.

    "Come on¡­feel my hand on your skin. My finger¡­stroking your cheek¡­your chin¡­and your chest¡­Slowly¡­stimting¡­you," she whispered again, coupled with breaths so hot that they sent shivers down Jonathan''s spine.

    Jonathan''s body responded to Caroline''s touch, and he felt himself growing harder by the second. He wanted her desperately, and he knew that he couldn''t resist her for much longer.

    Caroline grinned, seeing Jonathan''s face who is slowly sumbing to his instincts.

    "So, have I convinced you yet?" Caroline asked, her voice dripping with seduction.

    Jonathan''s breath caught in his throat as he looked into Caroline''s eyes. He could see the hunger there, the same hunger that he felt burning inside him.

    Without a word, he leaned in and captured Caroline''s lips in a fierce kiss. Their tongues tangled together as they explored each other''s mouths, and Jonathan felt his desire grow even stronger.

    Caroline moaned softly against his lips, her hands running through his hair as she pulled him closer. Jonathan''s hands roamed over her body, exploring every curve and dip as he drank in the sensation of her touch.

    They broke apart, gasping for breath as they stared at each other in amazement.

    Looking down at Jonathan with a wicked glint in her eye, Caroline spoke.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "Do you want me to taste you now?" she asked, her voice low and sultry.

    Jonathan nodded eagerly, his heart racing with anticipation. He couldn''t wait to feel her mouth on him, to experience the pleasure that only Caroline could give him.

    Caroline grinned and leaned down, taking him into her mouth and beginning to suck him in earnest. Jonathan moaned loudly, his hands gripping the armrests of the chair as he surrendered to the pleasure.

    For what seemed like an eternity, Caroline worked her magic on him, bringing him closer and closer to the edge. Finally, with a loud cry, Jonathan came, his body shaking with the force of his release.

    Caroline pulled away, wiping her mouth with the back of her hand and looking up at Jonathan with a satisfied smile.

    "How was that?" she asked, her voice filled with triumph.

    Jonathan could only nod, his body still buzzing with pleasure. He knew that he had just experienced something incredible, something that he would never forget as long as he lived.

    And he knew that he wanted more.

    Caroline stood up from Jonathan''sp, straightening her dress and looking at him with a smug expression.

    "I think you owe me one now," she said, her voice teasing.

    Jonathan grinned, feeling more alive and exhrated than he had in a long time.

    "I think you''re right," he replied, standing up from the chair and taking Caroline''s hand in his.

    Together, they made their way to the bed, their bodies entwined as Jonathan sucked and touched Caroline''s neck and breast.

    As they reached the bed, Jonathan took control, flipping Caroline onto her back and climbing on top of her. He kissed her passionately, his hands never leaving her breast and squeezing it.

    Caroline moaned beneath him, her body arching up to meet his touch. She was everything he had ever wanted, and he was determined to give her the pleasure she deserved.

    With each kiss and touch, they grew closer and closer, their desire building until it was almost too much to bear. And then, finally, they were consumed by each other, their bodies moving together in a frenzied dance of passion.

    "I''ming," Jonathan said, his thrust getting faster and faster.

    "No, don''t pull out. Fill me up¡­" Caroline moaned, her body shaking. She felt herself being filled with Jonathan, his cock pushed to the hilt inside of her. It was a mind-blowing sensation, and her orgasm hit her immediately. She moaned loudly, her body quivering as waves of pleasure washed over her.

    Caroline groaned in pleasure as Jonathan continued to thrust in and out of her, her body still pulsating with pleasure. Finally, Jonathan let out a loud cry, his body shuddering as he came deep inside Caroline.

    They copsed on the bed together, their bodies intertwined as they fought to catch their breath. Jonathan smiled, his eyes focused on Caroline''s face as she returned the gesture.

    "So how was it?" Jonathan asked, caressing her cheek.

    "You did good," Caroline said, her voice exhausted. "I don''t think I''d be able to walk normally for a couple of days. You were so rough."

    "I''ll be gentle next time," Jonathan said.

    "You are going to take responsibility for this. You just nted your seeds on me," Caroline said, a grin forming on her lips.

    "Well, in that case, you''ll have to marry me then," Jonathan said.

    Caroline smiled and pursed her lips. "Propose to me properly."

 Chapter 141 James Russell Interview

    A dayter, in Pearl Street Station New York. James Russell''s office was filled with journalists from different mediapanies. They stood in front of his desk, with notes and pencils ready to scribble down his words for publications.

    "So, Mr. Russell. May I ask why you filed awsuit against the Axelsen & Nielsen Electric Manufacturing and Distribution Company?"

    "The reason why I filed awsuit against them is simple, gentlemen. They copied my ideas, the electric distribution system, and the light bulbs. They made a slight change to the design and called it their own. It''s a shameless move."

    "But, ording to our reports in Pittsburg, the Axelsen & Nielsen Electric Company said that they are not using direct current, which is the system you are using. They are using alternating currents. So to help us understand the issue, may we ask what is the difference between your direct current and their alternating current?"

    "Direct current is akin to water flowing through a pipe while alternating current is like water flowing back and forth in a pipe. Direct current moves in one direction, whereas alternating current shifts direction periodically. The issue here is not the type of current that Axelsen & Nielsen Electric Manufacturing and Distribution Company uses; rather, it''s that they are employing my original design for electric distribution and light bulbs without my consent."

    The journalists nodded, jotting down notes as James Russell spoke.

    "Mr. Russell, if I may ask, what do you intend to gain from thiswsuit?"

    "I intend to protect my intellectual property and ensure thatpanies like Axelsen & Nielsen Electric Company cannot simply steal my ideas for their own gain. If they want to use my design, they must pay for it, and I will not hesitate to take legal action to enforce that."

    Another journalist raised his hand, "Mr. Russell, how do you n to prove that they copied your design?"

    "I have documentation and patents that prove my ownership of the design. In fact, I have filed patents for my electric distribution system and light bulbs in multiple countries. It''s clear that Axelsen & Nielsen Electric Company has infringed on my intellectual property rights, and I will use all legal means to protect them," James replied confidently.

    Another journalist chimed in, "Mr. Russell if the court rules in your favor, do you think this will set a precedent for future cases involving intellectual property rights?"

    "Absolutely. This case is not just about me and mypany, but about protecting the rights of all inventors and creators. Intellectual property is crucial for innovation and progress, and it''s essential that it''s respected and protected," James answered, with a firm tone in his voice.

    "Mr. Russell, if I may interject, I have visited Scranton to see in person what their light bulbs look like. And I must say, they are different in design. They glow brighter than yours, longer than yours, and cheaper than yours. This is a huge improvement on the design so howe you are iming that they copied your design?" another journalist interrupted, with a skeptical tone in his voice.

    James took a deep breath and leaned forward in his chair, ready to address the question.

    "I appreciate your interest in the matter, and I have said this before. I must rify that Axelsen & Nielsen Electric Company did not create a new design. They may have made some improvements to the bulbs, but the basic concept and structure of the bulb are the same as my patented design. They have essentially taken my idea and made minor adjustments to it. That''s why I am taking legal action, to protect my intellectual property rights. We are going back in circles, everyone,e on and ask some new questions."

    "Actually there was a case between Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake Company and New York Air Brake Company. The case was about infringement and it ys out exactly like yours. The New York Air Brake Company proved to be infringing their intellectual property and won."<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "Then that means the conclusion will be the same here, the judge is going to rule in my favor because they made slight improvements," James said confidently.

    "Well, that would be all, Mr. Russell. And thank you for the presents you gave to us," the journalist said, holding up the light bulb with a ribbon tied on the corkscrew.

    James smiled politely as the journalists began to file out of his office. But as they were about to leave the office, a thought popped up inside his head.

    "Have I told you already that the alternating current system they are using is lethal?"

    His words piqued the curiosity of the journalist and began turning around and filling the room again.

    "If you touch a wire connected to the alternating current, well, you be current."

    "What do you mean by that, Mr. Russell?"

    "Well, you die," Russell announced and the expression of the journalist turned grim.

    James observed the stunned and horrified expressions on the faces of the journalists seated before him, and he knew that he had their undivided attention. He cleared his throat and proceeded.

    "As you can see, alternating current involves the voltage alternating between positive and negative at a high frequency of approximately 30 to 40 times per second. This characteristic makes it far more hazardous than direct current, which flows in one direction and at a lower voltage. If a persones into contact with an alternating current source, the current can pass through the body, causing involuntary muscle contractions, and leading to death. In my direct current system, even if you touch the wire the muscles in your hand won''t contract, therefore it will be repelled. Also, it bears the name of Russell so it''s safe."

    The journalist chuckled at his remark about the safety of his direct current system. James continued.

    "But all joking aside, this is a serious matter. You know, I don''t think I have told you yet but the United States Government has been trying to make me build a weapon. But I will never use this brain to hurt people. And how ironic it is when the Axelsen and Nielsen Company took the offer of the governments and is now making weapons that are being used in the war raging in Europe. So, you can see from there that they are never keen about safety, they prioritize profits."

    "So you are saying that the Axelsen and Nielsen Company like to hurt people for profit?"

    "You know I can''t say that," James scoffed softly. "But you can. And that gentleman, you have a narrative. I think that''s all for today, thank you foring here."

 Chapter 142 The Companys Statement

    A weekter, in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania. Poul was reading the newspaper that was delivered to him hours ago. The headline of the newspaper read, "The Pittsburgh Current." With a cartoon depicting Poul Nielsen and Jonathan Axelsen holding a thunderbolt striking the town with lightning.

    He shut the newspaper and set it aside on his table. Amelia, who was standing in front of him, looked at Poul with concern.

    "Mr. Nielsen..." Amelia uttered.

    "I know," Poul straightened his tie, and leaned back in his chair. "James Russell is beginning to run a smear campaign on us. Well, that''s understandable, given that he is threatened by our system."

    "But his statements towards you and Mr. Axelsen are wrong," Amelia said. "Please, to protect your reputation, you must issue a statement to the press, and prove him wrong."

    "I don''t have time to deal with the press and neither does Jonathan," Poul declined her suggestion. He continued. "Our electric distribution is the best in the world and that speaks the loudest. His fear tactic could only get him far but when ites to the realpetition, we are the ones that are going to prevail."

    Amelia furrowed her brows. Despite the odds, Poul looked seemingly calm, as if he knew how the events were going to unfold in the future. If only she also had that confidence and belief in the future. She had been working for Poul and Jonathan for a few years now, and she had never seen them back down from a challenge. But the stakes were higher now, and the attacks from theirpetitors were more vicious than ever.

    Amelia knew that Poul and Jonathan were right. ording to their estimates, their electric distribution system was revolutionary, and they had poured months of hard work into it. It was only a matter of time before the world recognized their system''s potential and adopted it.

    But the smear campaign was affecting their business. Such as the project from the New York Board of Transportation, and clients from the air brakes and signal systems showing signs of apprehensiveness.

    Amelia cleared her throat. "If I may, Mr. Nielsen. I could draft a statement for you. All you have to do is approve it."

    "Didn''t you just hear what I said? I said we are not going to issue a statement."

    Amelia sighed and stepped closer to Poul''s desk.

    "With all due respect, Mr. Nielsen, I must insist that you reconsider. The longer we stay silent, the more damage Russell''s campaign will do to our reputation and business." She paused, trying to emphasize her point. "We need to show the public that we are not afraid to defend ourselves and that we stand behind the quality of our work."

    Poul leaned forward, his expression stern. "And I''m telling you, Amelia, that I do not want to waste any more time on this. Our electric distribution system speaks for itself, and we have more important things to do than to engage in a media war with James Russell."

    Amelia took a deep breath and mustered all her courage. "I understand your position, Mr. Nielsen. But as your secretary, it is my duty to make sure that ourpany''s image stays intact. We cannot afford to let ourpetitors tarnish our reputation with false usations."

    Poul looked at Amelia, his expression softening. He realized that she was right. As much as he hated to admit it, he couldn''t ignore the fact that their business was being affected by Russell''s smear campaign. And he couldn''t let their hard work go to waste just because he didn''t want to deal with the press.

    "You''re right, Amelia," he said finally. "I''ve been so focused on the technology and thepetition that I forgot about the importance of our image. Very well, please draft a statement and I will review it before we release it to the press."

    Amelia felt a sense of relief wash over her. "Thank you, Mr. Nielsen. I believe this is the best course of action for ourpany."

    Poul nodded again. "Let''s get to work, then." He pulled out a piece of paper and a pen from his desk and handed them to Amelia. "Show me what you''ve got."

    ***

    Dayster, in the same location, Amelia stood in front of a journalist from a different mediapany. Their notes and pencils were ready to take note of what she was about to say.

    She cleared her throat and began.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "To the esteemed members of the press and the public.

    It hase to our attention that ourpany, Axelsen & Nielsen Electric Manufacturing & Distribution Company, has been the target of a smear campaign by James Russell, the founder of the Russell Illuminating Company. We understand that our system is a threat to his business, but we would like to rify some of the false usations made against us.

    Firstly, our alternating current electric distribution system is not dangerous, as Russell has imed. Our system has been tested and proven safe by multiple tests. In fact, our system is much more efficient and cost-effective than Russell''s system.

    Secondly, Russell has imed that ourpany does not care about the well-being of the public. This is simply not true. We have always put the safety and satisfaction of our stakeholders as our top priority. Our team of engineers and technicians work tirelessly to ensure that our systems are reliable and safe.

    Lastly, we would like to remind the public that ourpany ismitted to innovation and progress. We believe that our electric distribution system is the future of electricity distribution and we are excited to share its benefits with the world.

    We hope that this statement clears up any misconceptions about ourpany and our alternating current distribution system. We are proud of our work and we stand behind it. Thank you for your attention."

    After saying that, one of the journalists who listened to her statement raised a hand.

    "So you are saying that alternating current is not as dangerous as James Russell imed?"

    "Yes, if the alternating current is dangerous, there would be idents by now. But looking around, there isn''t."

    "But what about his other ims where yourpany is stealing his designs, particrly in the light bulbs," the journalist asked again.

    "That is simply not true," Amelia replied. "The design of our incandescent light bulbs is far too different from what Russell''s has been using, therefore it is new and not a copy of his bulbs. Anything else."

    "So, yourpany is going to face James Russell in court?"

    "To show our confidence to the public and to this country, we will show up to the court and face James Russell''s allegation. If there are no more questions, we can now end this press."

    As Amelia finished releasing the statement. She sighed and walked away, leaving the journalist to their work, who was scribbling down notes.

    Poul walked up to Amelia with a smile on his face. "Great job, Amelia. You did a great job out there," he said, patting her on the back.

    Amelia smiled, feeling proud of herself. "Thank you, Mr. Nielsen."

    "James Russell is indeed a pain in the ass. We will definitely see him in court."

    "We can win the case, right?" Amelia asked.

    "Of course, there''s nothing for you to be concerned about the oue as it has already been decided," Poul said confidently.

 Chapter 143 Prelude: Legal Battle

    February 25th, 885. The carriage carrying the representatives of Axelsen & Nielsen Company rattled down the cobbled streets of New York. Mr. Axelsen, Mr. Nielsen, Poul, theirwyer George, and secretary Caroline were headed to the courthouse for an important case. George was briefing them on the technicalities they may face in court.

    "Don''t worry, gentlemen. There''s no reason for us to be concerned about this case. I can assure you that we will win. James Russell''s allegation is too broad," George said.

    "I''m not concerned about anything," Poul said, looking out the window. "Just focus on making this all go away so that we can continue doing business as usual."

    Caroline, sitting across from Poul, was quietly reading a newspaper. Jonathan leaned in to see what had caught her attention. "What is it?" he asked.

    "It seems like Russia is losing the war," Caroline said, raising a brow. "ording to this, the allied forces have broken through the fortifications and have sessfullynded in Crimea."

    Jonathan grabbed the newspaper from her and quickly scanned the article. "It looks like the Royal Navy has deployed their advanced warships to the ck Sea. The Russian Empire is on the brink of falling at the hands of the allied forces," he said.

    Poul was surprised. "I had lost track of what was happening in the war. Is it true that the Russian Empire is losing?"

    George interrupted their discussion. "Gentlemen, we have a case on our hands today. Please focus on the matter at hand. We can discuss the warter," he said, redirecting their attention back to the case they were about to face.

    The group fell into a momentary silence, their thoughts lingering on the news of the war. Their enterprise which focuses on manufacturing weapons and supplying them to the allied forces and Russian Empire has been ramping up sales thanks to their bulk orders. But seeing that the war is going to end, so does the supply chain.

    The war gave them a boost in profit, allowing the industrialist duo to use that profit to introduce another weapon that is, as of right now, in development. Truly, there''s money in war.

    Five minutester, they arrived at the courthouse. Outside the courthouse, journalists from across the nation gathered. This is the most anticipated case in the history of Avalonia as it deals with the new industry that is emerging in the world. Electricity.

    As they stepped down the carriage, the journalist suddenly rushed in their direction, eager to get a statement. But the police deployed in the courthouse were quick to react, pushing them out while making way for the representatives to enter the building.

    Inside the courthouse, the atmosphere was tense, with people bustling around andwyers scurrying to their respective courtrooms. The sound of chatter filled the air as reporters from various newspapers tried to gather as much information as they could before the proceedings began.

    Axelsen & Nielsen Company''s representatives walked through the corridors of the courthouse with an air of confidence. They were met with curious stares and whispers from onlookers who recognized them as wealthy industrialists.

    George led the group into the courtroom, where they took their seats at the front, facing the judge''s bench. James Russell, the intiff, was already present, looking equally confident as he awaited the arrival of his opponents.

    Amelia and Caroline found themselves seated at the gallery, a space filled with a sea of faces waiting to witness the legal proceedings. In front of them was John Morgan, who was d in a fine suit and a ck top hat. He looked over in their direction and scoffed in their direction. Caroline couldn''t help but wonder what had put him in such a foul mood.

    A few minutes before the session began, Caroline took the opportunity to strike up a conversation with Morgan, hoping to ease the tension.

    "Good afternoon, Mr. Morgan," she said.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "Miss Dupont," Morgan responded curtly, his gaze fixed on the front of the room. "What do you want?"

    "Why so serious? We were allies, weren''t we?" Caroline prodded, trying to break the ice.

    Morgan turned to face her, his expression hardening.

    "I''m disappointed," he said. "Poul and Jonathan didn''t inform me about their ns to start an electricpany. It feels like they''ve turned their backs on me."

    Caroline was taken aback by the sudden change in tone. "But you have shares in their growing enterprises and receive a fair share from it," she pointed out.

    Morgan shook his head. "It''s not about the money," he said. "I just can''t believe they approached you instead of me."

    Caroline couldn''t help but feel uneasy as John Morgan continued to stare at her with his e eyes. She shifted in her seat, trying to maintain herposure.

    "I understand your frustration, Mr. Morgan, but the decision was not mine to make. Poul and Jonathan personally approached me and asked for investments. And knowing that you have invested arge amount of money in direct current systems, there''s no need for you to invest in itspetitor right? Because that would be a conflict of interest," Caroline finished for him, hoping to ease the tension in the air.

    "Miss Dupont, I am not that stupid. There are circumstances where you can invest in two opposingpanies, you know that," Morgan replied, his voice rising slightly. "And I would have appreciated being given the option to invest or not. It''s a matter of respect."

    Caroline could sense the tension between them rising, and she knew that it was best to end the conversation.

    "I understand your perspective, Mr. Morgan. But let''s not forget that we are here to witness the legal proceedings, not to discuss our personal investments," she said firmly.

    Morgan nodded, but the re in his eyes lingered as he turned his attention back to the front of the room.

    As Caroline turned her attention back to the front of the room as well, the judge walked in, and the noise in the courtroom began to settle down. He was a middle-aged man with a stern, no-nonsense look on his face. He wore a ck robe with a white cor and had a thick, graying beard. His eyes were a piercing blue that seemed to stare right through you.

    The judge took his seat at the bench and scanned the room, making eye contact with each person in the courtroom. He then began to speak, his voice booming through the room.

    "Good afternoon, gentlemen anddies. We are gathered here today to hear the case of James Russell versus Axelsen & Nielsen Electric Manufacturing and Distribution Company. Mr. Russell has alleged that the defendant''s incandescent bulbs and electric distribution system are causing harm to his property and is seeking damages. Mr. Axelsen, Mr. Nielsen, and their legal team will have the opportunity to present their defense. Is everyone ready to proceed?"

    "Yes your honor," thewyers from both sides intoned.

    "Very well, let''s begin."

 Chapter 146 Developments

    Meanwhile, in the British Empire. One week after the legal battle between the Axelsen & Nielsen Electric Manufacturing and Distribution Company and Russell Illuminating Company concluded and favor the side of the industrialist duo, Prince Alexander was in his office.

    He propped one leg over the other and flipped through the report of the spy he had sent to watch over Poul Nielsen.

    "That was it?" he asked timidly, disappointment etched on his face. "There''s nothing that you can connect him to Lady Ascart?"

    "Unfortunately, Your Highness, there is none," the spy, standing before his desk, replied while lowering his head. "It seems like Mr. Poul Nielsen is aw-abiding citizen and a businessman. I have also tapped into his letters and telegrams, but all of them turned out to be ordinary."

    Prince Alexander sighed in frustration. He had hoped to find something that would link Poul Nielsen to Lady Ascart, the woman who had refused his marriage proposal. But it seemed like his efforts were in vain.

    "How about Lady Ascart?" he asked, a hint of desperation creeping into his voice. "Did she try to contact him in any way?"

    The spy shook his head. "No, Your Highness. My men who were watching over Lady Ascart said she hasn''t written any letters outside the British Empire and that she is always busy in the hospital. If I may be candid, Your Highness, I think it''s time we rule out Poul Nielsen as the primary reason why Lady Ascart didn''t ept your marriage."

    Hearing those words, Prince Alexander remembered the bitter memories of being rejected by Penelope. He clenched his fist and gritted his teeth, irked by the memories.

    "That makes no sense," he said, his voice rising with frustration. "Lady Ascart and I have always been together. There''s no man in this country that has approached her and asked for her hand in marriage except for me. Penelope...just why don''t you want to marry me?"

    The spy listened to his rumblings cautiously before speaking up. "Your Highness, should I continue investigating? Perhaps I might find something in due time."

    Prince Alexander leaned back in his chair and thought for a moment. He knew he couldn''t let this go. Not until he found out the truth about why Lady Ascart refused his proposal.

    "Yes," he said finally, his determination showing in his voice. "Continue your investigation. I want to know everything about Poul Nielsen and Lady Ascart. And make sure to keep me informed of any developments."

    The spy bowed respectfully before leaving the room, leaving Prince Alexander alone with his thoughts. He let out a heavy sigh, running a hand through his neatly styled hair, still processing the information he had just received.

    He couldn''t believe that after all this time, he was still no closer to understanding why Lady Penelope Ascart had refused his proposal of marriage. As the heir to the British throne, Alexander had never encountered a challenge that he couldn''t ovee, but this rejection had left him feeling frustrated and helpless.

    He nced down at the report once again, scanning through it for any possible leads. But there was nothing. Poul Nielsen was clean, and Lady Ascart seemed to have no connection to him whatsoever.

    Alexander slumped back in his chair, his mind racing with possible scenarios. Perhaps Lady Ascart was in love with someone else? Or maybe she had other reasons for rejecting him that had nothing to do with Poul Nielsen or any other man? He can''t still ept her reason for rejection where

    He shook his head, trying to clear his thoughts. This wasn''t getting him anywhere. He needed to take a different approach. Maybe it was time to confront Lady Ascart directly and ask her for an exnation.

    But then again, that was easier said than done. Lady Ascart was a highly respected member of society, known for her charity work, achievements, and her dedication to the hospital. Any scandal involving her would reflect badly on the royal family, and Alexander couldn''t risk that, not when he is about to ascend the throne.

    He sighed once again, feeling defeated. It seemed like there was no easy way out of this mess. But he refused to give up. He was determined to find out the truth, no matter what it took.

    ***

    Meanwhile, in New York, Poul, Jonathan, Amelia, and Caroline arrived at the headquarters of the New York Board of Transportation for an important meeting.

    As they entered the conference room, they were greeted by a group of Councilors who were eagerly waiting for them.

    "Good afternoon, Mr. Nielsen, Mr. Axelsen," the Councilor said, extending his hand in greeting. "I have heard about the circumstances you were facing. It''s good that you won in court."

    "Thank you, sir," Poul replied, shaking the Councilor''s hand.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    Jonathan was quick to ask, "Does that mean we can move forward with our project?"

    "Absolutely," the Councilor confirmed with a smile, then turned his attention to the twodies standing behind the men. "Good afternoon, Lady Dupont and... I''m sorry, what was your name again?"

    Amelia stepped forward and ced a hand over her ample bosom as she introduced herself.

    "My name is Amelia Weiss, sir. I serve as the executive secretary for Mr. Nielsen and Mr. Axelsen. It''s a pleasure to meet you."

    The Councilors nodded in acknowledgment before taking their seats at therge conference table, and the meeting began.

    Poul Nielsen stood up and addressed the Councilors.

    "Thank you for having us today, Councilors. We are excited to present our ns for the New York metro station. As you know, the poption of New York City has been growing rapidly, and the current transportation system cannot keep up with the demand. Our proposed metro station will alleviate the congestion and provide a reliable and efficient mode of transportation for the people of New York."

    Jonathan Axelsen nodded in agreement before chiming in, "We are also in the process of securing financing for the project. The New York Board of Transportation has pledged a significant portion of the funds, and we are currently in talks with potential private investors, including wealthy individuals and corporations. We are also nning to apply for federal grants to help cover the costs of constructing the subway tunnels and stations."

    "How long will the construction take?" one of them asked.

    Poul replied confidently, "We estimate that the construction will take approximately five years toplete. However, we will be working tirelessly to ensure that we finish the project before the deadline."

    "Environmental impact of this construction to New York?"

    Poul nced at Jonathan, signaling him to answer the question.

    Jonathan nodded and spoke.

    "We understand the environmental concerns associated with such arge-scale project, and we have taken steps to minimize its impact. We have conducted extensive research and will be implementing environmentally friendly practices throughout the construction process."

    The Councilors listened attentively and were impressed with the team''s preparedness and dedication. They nodded in agreement, and one of them said.

    "It seems like you have covered all the bases. We are excited to see this projecte to fruition, and we look forward to working with you."

    "We have tried our best to anticipate any potential issues that may arise. And we aremitted to working closely with the Board of Transportation and other stakeholders throughout the entire process to ensure that everything runs smoothly."

    "Excellent," the councilor said, smiling. "It is clear that you have put a great deal of thought and effort into this project. We are confident that with your expertise and dedication, this project will be a sess."

    The meeting continued for another hour, during which the team presented detailed ns and projections for the construction and operation of the metro station. The councilors asked numerous questions, all of which were answered confidently and thoroughly.

    As the meeting drew to a close, the councilors congratted the team on their hard work and dedication to the project. Poul, Jonathan, Amelia, and Caroline thanked them for their time and support before leaving the conference room.

    Once outside, Poul breathed a sigh of relief. "That went better than I expected," he said. "I think we''re on track to make this project a reality."

    Jonathan smiled. "I agree. Now, let''s go celebrate."

 Chapter 147 Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony

    The date is March 25th, 885. In Pittsburgh Pennsylvania. A scene was unfolding in the headquarters of the Axelsen & Nielsen Companies. A grand opening of their new office building.

    As Poul Nielsen and Jonathan Axelsen stood in front of their newly built eight-story office building, they couldn''t help but feel a sense of pride and aplishment. The modernism style structure towered over them, a testament to their vision and hard work.

    The ribbon-cutting ceremony was set to begin in just a few moments, and visitors from around the country and the world had gathered to witness the event. Architects, painters, and other prominent figures in the art world mingled with investors, businesspeople, and local residents, all eager to see the grand opening of this impressive new building.

    Poul and Jonathan stepped forward to address the crowd, their voices echoing through the sound system.

    "Good afternoon, esteemed guests," Poul began, his voice ringing through the air, "On behalf of Axelsen & Nielsen Companies, it is our great pleasure to wee you all to the grand opening of our new office building. Today marks a milestone achievement for ourpany, and we are honored to share this momentous asion with all of you."

    Jonathan stepped forward, his eyes gleaming with pride. "This building is more than just bricks and steel. It represents the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and perseverance. When we first started this project, many doubted us. But we refused to be deterred. We believed in our vision and we never gave up."

    Poul nodded in agreement. "It has been a long and challenging journey, but we are proud to say that we have sessfullypleted this project. This building is a testament to ourmitment to excellence and innovation."

    Jonathan continued, "And as we stand here today, we remember our humble beginnings. Our office was once a modest two-story house, nothingpared to the grand mansions and pces of other industrialists. But we refused to be content with mediocrity. We knew we could do better, and we did. We grew from nothing to apany that is making a mark in history."

    Poul and Jonathan exchanged a proud smile.

    "Thank you for being a part of this special moment," Poul concluded, "We hope you enjoy exploring our new building."

    As the two men finished speaking, the crowd burst into apuse. Poul and Jonathan exchanged smiles again and then stepped forward to cut the ribbon, officially opening the building to the public.

    The visitors made their way inside, admiring the sleek lines and innovative design of the interior spaces. Some of them took photos with their daguerreotype, while others simply marveled at the beauty of the building.

    Throughout the day, Poul and Jonathan gave tours of the building, exining the design choices and construction techniques that had been used. They answered questions from curious visitors and epted congrattions from well-wishers.

    After the tour, the visitors were ushered into a spacious hall on the ground floor where tables had been set up with an array of delectable food and drinks. The smell of fresh bread, roasted meats, and sweet desserts wafted through the air, making their mouths water.

    Poul and Jonathan made their way around the room, greeting guests and making small talk. They were thrilled to see so many people enjoying the fruits of theirbor. The room was abuzz with conversation, and the clinking of sses could be heard as people toasted to the sess of the new building and Axelsen & Nielsen Companies.

    The guests filled their tes with food and found their way to tables, chatting andughing as they savored the delicious dishes. There were tters of smoked salmon, roasted chicken, and grilled vegetables, along with bowls of fresh fruit, cheeses, and artisan bread. The desserts were equally impressive, with cakes, pastries, and tarts that looked almost too beautiful to eat.

    As they ate, Poul and Jonathan made their way around the room, stopping to chat with different groups of guests. One of the guests was John Morgan, one of the first investors and a person part of their sess.

    "Mr. Morgan, I am so d that you cane."<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "Well, you two are making me huge money from air brakes, of course it''s only natural that I''de," Morgan said.

    "I see that you didn''t bring your family with you," Jonathan asked.

    "Well, they are staying at Newport, mingling with the high ss. My daughter would love toe but her mother insisted that she stay with her," Morgan exined.

    "I hope there is no hard feeling between us, Mr. Morgan. You know, the result of the court."

    Morgan waved his hand dismissively. "Don''t worry about it. Russell filed awsuit and he lost. That''s just what it is. Though I''m a bit disappointed as to why you didn''t approach me for funding."

    "Well, I think that''s our bad back then," Poul chuckled.

    "Can I still invest?" Morgan asked. "I see that your system is better than Russell. Your maintenance and cost of operations are cheaperpared to him. Your bulb glows brighter and your electricity can travel farther than his. Not to mention the fact that you have a working electric motor, which is being sought-after by factory owners across and around the world."

    Poul and Jonathan hummed as he pondered his proposal.

    "We are expanding to twelve states and your investment would surely help us achieve that goal," Poul finally replied.

    Morgan nodded. "Just tell me how much money you need and I will have my people draw up the paperwork and send it to you."

    "Wouldn''t Mr. Russell be upset that you are investing your money in hispetitor? What''s more, you also invested a huge sum of money to hispany, wouldn''t that be a conflict of interest?" Jonathan asked.

    Morgan chuckled. "I''m a businessman, and I invest inpanies that I believe will make me money. And right now, it looks like yourpany is the one that''s going to bring in the most returns. As for the money I invested in hispany, I see it as diversifying my investments. It''s always good to have options," Morgan replied with a smirk.

    Poul and Jonathan chuckled at the response, knowing that Morgan was a shrewd businessman who always looked out for his own interests.

    "Can you do 1.5 million?" Jonathan asked, looking at Poul for confirmation.

    Poul nodded in agreement. "Yes, that would be a great help. With that amount, we can increase our production and marketing efforts in the new states we''re nning to expand to."

    "Consider it done," Morgan said, raising his ss of wine.

 Chapter 148 The Events After

    As Poul and Jonathan delved into investment deals with John Morgan, the elegantdies of the Axelsen & Nielsen Company, Amelia and Caroline, made their approach. Draped in gorgeous formal dresses, they sauntered over to the trio, their eyes fixed on Morgan''s every move as they sipped their drinks.

    "Look who we have here," Poul eximed, gesturing to the twodies.

    The women gracefully obliged and stood beside them, radiating poise and sophistication.

    "So, what were you gentlemen discussing?" Caroline inquired, wrapping her arm around Jonathan''s, her eyes flickering with curiosity.

    "Morgan was expressing his interest in investing in our electric enterprise. We believe that we would require an investment for our expansion," Jonathan answered.

    Caroline pursed her lips, nodding inprehension. "Ah, I see. Mr. Morgan, you are leaping onto the sess train of these illustrious industrialists."

    "Absolutely, Lady Dupont. When I see an opportunity to make more money, I don''t hesitate to seize it, even if it means going against the interest of the other party," Morgan responded, his eyes glinting with ambition.

    "And the other party you mean is James Russell?" Caroline asked with a knowing smile.

    Morgan simply nodded, and Caroline understood. After all, business is business and personal interest always reigns supreme.

    Meanwhile, Poul and Amelia caught up.

    "How are you doing today?" Poul inquired, his eyes twinkling with warmth.

    "I''m doing quite well, Mr. Nielsen. I''ve been greeting a lot of people who''ve asked many questions about this building," Amelia chuckled.

    "Do let me know if you''re exhausted or need anything," Poul offered kindly.

    "Even if I were Mr. Nielsen, I wouldn''t tell you. I know you take care of your workers well," Amelia replied, a hint of admiration in her voice.

    Amelia smiled politely and took a sip of her drink before responding in a formal tone, "Thank you for asking, Mr. Nielsen. I am doing well, albeit busy with work these past few weeks."

    "You know, you have been working with us for three years, why don''t you drop the formalities of calling me by my surname and go with Poul, just like Caroline here," Poul suggested, his eyes flickering to Caroline, then back to her.

    When Poul suggested that, there was a subtle sparkle in Amelia''s eyes. It was like, it rekindled with life.

    "Truly? May I drop the formalities?" Amelia queried, her voice shedding its usual stiffness.

    Poul''s smile broadened. "Absolutely. Of course, this is applicable only outside of business settings, such as meetings with new investors or clients. Morgan is an exception since he''s been with us for so long. Would you agree, Mr. Morgan?"

    "I couldn''t care less how you address each other, as long as our investments yield profits," Morgan interjected with a chuckle.

    As the conversation between the four of them continued, the music shifted to a lively tune, and the couples on the dance floor beckoned them to join.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "Come on, let''s have some fun!" Caroline eximed, tugging at Jonathan''s arm as she led him to the dance floor.

    Poul followed suit, extending his hand towards Amelia. "May I have this dance?"

    Amelia hesitated for a moment, but then her eyes flickered with excitement as she ced her hand in his. Poul twirled her around, and the two of them swayed to the rhythm of the music.

    Jonathan and Caroline were already in full swing, twirling and spinning around each other in perfect harmony. The dance floor was now filled with other couples, all of them lost in the music and their own movements.

    As the night wore on, the four of them danced,ughed, and chatted, enjoying each other''spany. It was a much-needed break from the pressures of work, and they savored every moment of it.

    Eventually, the music slowed, and the couples began to disperse. Poul and Amelia found themselves alone on the dance floor, looking into each other''s eyes.

    "Thank you for the dance," Poul said softly.

    Amelia smiled, her eyes still twinkling with joy. "Thank you for asking me."

    They walked back to the rest of the group, all of them feeling refreshed and energized after the dance. As they said their goodbyes, Poul made a mental note to organize morepany events like this, events that could bring them all closer together and allow them to unwind.

    Outside the building, they watched as the guests who attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony got into their carriage. One by one, they left, the hooves of the horses making pleasant noises as they made contact with the ground.

    Morgan was one of them. He shook the hands of the industrialist duo and thedies that are with them for thest time

    "Thank you for this evening, Mr. Nielsen and Mr. Axelsen," Morgan spoke with a professional tone. "I must say, it has been a delightful night, and I am thoroughly impressed with the buildings. Rest assured, I will dispatch my team to finalize the investment deal we discussed earlier. I look forward to continuing this rtionship and cultivating a mutually beneficial partnership."

    "Thank you for your kind words, Mr. Morgan. It''s been a pleasure discussing business with you," Poul responded in a confident, professional tone. "We look forward to working with you and your team to finalize the investment deal and move forward with our expansion ns."

    "Indeed, we are excited to have you on board again, Mr. Morgan," Jonathan added, his tone serious but friendly. "We are confident that this partnership will benefit both ourpanies, and we aremitted to making it a sess."

    Morgan nodded, a satisfied expression on his face. "I appreciate your enthusiasm, and I have no doubt that this will be a fruitful partnership for both ourpanies. Thank you again for the wonderful evening and for your hospitality. I look forward to seeing you all soon." With that, he turned and hopped into his carriage.

    As the carriage pulled away, Poul turned to Jonathan and Caroline, a look of satisfaction on his face. "That went well," he said with a nod. "Morgan seems interested and enthusiastic about our electric enterprise."

    "Well, there goes my monopoly over you," Caroline said. "It''s hard to decline when he offers a huge sum of money right?"

    "Don''t feel bad about it, it''s just business," Jonathan said. "With your connections and his, the expansion of our electric enterprise would be so easy than a piece of a cake."

    "This concludes the evening, everyone," Poul said. "Perhaps we can rest now tonight. There are bedrooms on the eighth floor, would you like me to show you around?"

    "That would be great," Caroline said.

 Chapter 149 The Bedroom Dilemma

    As they walked through the dimly lit corridors of the eighth floor, Poul and Jonathan led Caroline and Amelia toward the bedrooms. The gentle glow of the chandeliers above them cast a warm light on the plush carpets and ornate walls.

    "The bedrooms on this floor are some of the most luxurious in the building," Poul said, a hint of pride in his voice. "Each room has been carefully designed to offer the utmostfort and elegance."

    As they approached the first bedroom, Jonathan opened the door, revealing a spacious and opulent space. The room was bathed in a soft golden light, emanating from the bedsidemps that cast shadows on the silk wallpaper.

    "Here we have our first bedroom," Jonathan announced, gesturing towards therge four-poster bed. "The mattress is made of the finest materials, and the sheets are made from Egyptian cotton. The room also features an en suite bathroom with marble finishes."

    Caroline and Amelia looked around the room in awe, admiring the intricate details of the antique furniture and the plush velvet armchairs ced near the firece.

    Moving on to the next room, Poul opened the door, revealing a spacious balcony that overlooked the headquarters. The room was painted in a soothing blue hue, with delicatece curtains hanging from the windows. The king-size bed was positioned facing the balcony, allowing the guests to take in the breathtaking views of the city while rxing in bed.

    "This is one of our personal favorites," Poul said, smiling at the twodies. "It''s a perfect view for us. You know, waking up early in the morning and taking a nce at thepany that is constantly churning out goods."

    Caroline and Amelia stood in silence, taking in the breathtaking views of the factory lights twinkling in the distance.

    As they moved on to the final bedroom, Jonathan opened the door, revealing a sleek and modern space. The room was decorated in shades of gray and ck, with clean lines and a minimalistic design.

    "Andst but not least, we have our guest bedroom," Jonathan said, his voice low and measured. "This room is perfect for our client who will be staying for days in thepany and allow them to appreciate contemporary design and sleek finishes."

    As Caroline and Amelia walked into the room, their eyes were drawn to the towering ceilings and the expansive windows that revealed the breathtaking view of thepany town. The walls were adorned with elegant paintings and antique decorations, evoking a sense of sophistication and luxury.

    As they made their way out of thest bedroom, Caroline turned to Poul and Jonathan, a smile on her face.

    "Thank you for showing us around," Caroline said, her voice filled with gratitude. "The bedrooms are simply breathtaking. I am now feeling the urge to move over here. It is more exciting than the one that I have in Newport."

    "Oh, this. Truth be told, we won''t want to live the rest of our lives here. This is an office building, so we will move to a proper house sometime soon," Jonathan said, gazing at Caroline while saying all that.

    Caroline''s heart skipped a beat. "I see¡­"

    "So, Amelia, what do you think of our new office building? Is it better than our first office?" Poul asked.

    "Well, Mr. Nielsen¡­I meant, Poul. Nothing beats the first, but this one is simply spectacr. The attention to detail and the luxurious touches make it a truly remarkable building," Amelia replied, a smile on her face.

    "The question is now, where do we sleep? There are two bedrooms and one for the guest. I guess that I''ll sleep in the guest room," she said, breaking the silence.

    "That won''t do, Lady Caroline," Amelia spoke up. "I will sleep in the guest room and you will be sleeping in one of the master bedrooms. I''m sure Poul and Mr. Axelsen wouldn''t mind sleeping together in the same room."

    "I''m about to say that, Amelia, thank you for trying to be polite to me even though you can just simply call me by my first name. Nevertheless, I will make some minor adjustments to that suggestion," Jonathan said and then held Caroline''s hand with his. "We''ll sleep in the same bedroom."

    Caroline''s eyes widened slightly at his proposal, but she didn''t pull her hand away. "Are you sure about that, Jonathan?"

    "Absolutely," he replied with a grin. "I wouldn''t want to be too far away from you."

    Hearing that, Poul and Amelia''s eyes widened in surprise.

    "No way¡­" Poul was the first one to react. "Are you serious right now bro? You two are going out? Since when?"<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "Well, not technically, I haven''t received an answer from her yet," Jonathan rubbed his head with his free hand as he chuckled. "But we are going in that direction, right, Caroline?"

    "He can say that," Caroline replied, blushing slightly.

    "Lady Caroline¡­you and Jonathan together? But shouldn''t you get married first before sleeping in the same room?"

    "Who said that?" Caroline said, amused at Amelia''s words. "No one said that one has to marry a person that you slept with. It''s the tales of the old. We are living in a progressive world."

    "Nothing¡­I won''t go against your wishes, Lady Caroline, especially if you are happy with it. I just can''t wrap my head around that you and Mr. Axelsen were this close enough to sleep together."

    "Well, someday sweetheart, you''ll get to experience this with the man you love," Caroline said softly, a teasing glint in her eye.

    When she said that, Amelia subconsciously turned towards Poul, looking at him.

    Poul, who noticed her eyes locking onto his, smiled. "What?"

    She averted her face away and spoke. "No¨Cnothing!"

    Poul''s eyes flickered to Jonathan once more. "I''m getting envious, Jonathan. You get to sleep with Caroline while I get to sleep alone."

    "You can sleep with Amelia if you like."

    Poul blushed at Jonathan''s suggestion. "That is not a good joke, Jonathan. Amelia is our secretary."

    "I''m just joking," Jonathan said with a chuckle.

    "Amelia, please forgive Mr. Axelsen."

    "I don''t mind at all, Mr. Niel¡ªI mean Sir Poul. But would you be so kind as to escort me to the guest room?"

    "''I don''t see why not," Poul epted and then looked again at the couple. "You two, be careful on the bed, that one is brand new."

    "Yeah, I''ll be gentle¡­ouch," Jonathan said, and then felt a nudge from Caroline''s elbow.

    Poul walked away with Amelia and headed towards the guest room. The moment they were inside, he spoke.

    "I''ll be leaving you alone now, Amelia. If you need anything, you know where to find me. See you tomorrow at work."

    But just as he was about to leave, Amelia rushed to him and pressed her hand on the door, shutting it close.

    Startled, Poul asked. "What are you doing?"

    Amelia, whose face is bright red, spoke bashfully. "Stay with me for a while¡­"

 Chapter 150 Clearing Things Up

    Poul''s heart pounded as Amelia''s hands pressed against the door, trapping him in the room with her. He looked into her eyes, searching for an exnation for her unusual behavior.

    "I want you to stay with me for a while," Amelia repeated, her gaze intense and unwavering.

    Poul tried to push past her, but she grabbed his arm with unexpected strength, pulling him deeper into the room. Before he could react, she pushed him onto the bed, her hands moving to the zipper of her dress.

    Poul''s mind raced as he tried to make sense of what was happening. He had always been drawn to Amelia''s confidence and independence, but this sudden turn of events left him feeling uneasy.

    "Amelia, please," he managed to say, his voice shaking. "What''s going on?"

    Amelia hesitated for a moment, her hands still on her dress. For the first time, Poul saw a flicker of vulnerability in her eyes. "I just...needed someone to be here with me," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. "I didn''t mean to make you ufortable."

    Poul''s mind was still reeling from Amelia''s sudden shift in behavior. He couldn''t shake off the feeling that there was more to her request than just a simple desire forpany. As he looked at her, he realized that there was a certain desperation in her eyes that he had never seen before.

    "Amelia," he said gently, taking her hands in his. "I don''t understand where you are going with this, what do you mean by you needing someone to be with you?"

    "It''s just that, I have been noticing you are distancing yourself away from me," Amelia finally let out what she wanted to say to him.

    Poul''s heart sank as he heard Amelia''s words. He had been trying to keep his distance, thinking it was for the best, but he never thought it would have such an impact on her.

    Amelia''s voice was filled with frustration and confusion as she spoke. "It started at the ball when we were celebrating the sessful demonstration of the AN-M1 rifles and the new contracts we had secured. And then the princess arrived from the British Empire. But even before that, Poul, you were kind to me. You never let any man get too close to me, and you always treated me special. But something changed. What happened to you?"

    Her words hung heavily in the air, charged with emotion. Poul could feel her eyes on him, searching for an answer. He knew he had to exin himself, but the words caught in his throat. He had been struggling with his feelings for Amelia for some time now, and it had been tearing him apart inside. Ever since the hypothesis of Sara being in this world and it bing a reality caused confusion of feelings within him.

    Taking a deep breath, he finally found his voice. "Amelia, I have to be honest with you. I''ve been struggling with my feelings for you. I didn''t know how to act around you anymore. I didn''t want to overstep my boundaries, but at the same time, I couldn''t bear the thought of losing you. So I distanced myself, hoping that it would make things easier."

    "Easier for what?" Amelia asked as she stopped moving her hands.

    Poul hesitated, unsure of how to continue. He knew he had to be careful with his words, but he also didn''t want to lead Amelia on. "Easier for both of us," he finally said, his voice barely above a whisper. "I didn''t want to blur the lines between our professional rtionship and anything else. I didn''t want to risk losing what we have."

    Amelia looked at him, her expression unreadable. "And what do we have, Poul?" she asked, her voiceced with uncertainty.

    Poul sighed, running a hand through his hair. "We have a good working rtionship," he said carefully. "We work well together, and I value your expertise and your contribution to ourpany. But beyond that, I don''t want toplicate things. I don''t want to ruin what we have."<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    Amelia sighed. "All I''m hearing is excuses, searching for closure. There''s only one reason why you are acting like that, Poul. It''s because you already found a woman."

    Poul''s eyes widened.

    Amelia took note of his reaction. "So I was right, huh? You have found someone that you care for more than me," she said, her voice barely concealing her disappointment.

    Poul finally gave in and spoke the truth. "Yes, Amelia. There is someone else."

    "So after all this time, making me so special, leading me onto something that could never be, you finally admit that you have moved on," Amelia said, her voice filled with bitterness.

    "I''m sorry if I made you think that, Amelia. I''m to me here. After all, why did I act in such a way in front of you? I''m such a careless man."

    "Can I at least know who that person is?" Amelia asked.

    "I''m sorry but I can''t tell you that," Poul replied.

    "I see," Amelia said as she zipped up her dress. She found no point in continuing the conversation since she had already discovered what she wanted. "You may leave now, Mr. Nielsen. I apologize for my behavior, and I am willing to ept any consequences for it."

    Poul tilted his head to the side at the mention of his surname. She just addressed him formally, meaning he really had messed up.

    "I will forget that this has ever happened. If this moment between us now cleared things up, then it''s for the best," Poul said, feeling a weight lift off his shoulders. He knew it was not the best way to handle the situation, but he was relieved that it was over.

    Amelia nodded silently, her eyes cast down. She was disappointed and hurt, but she knew she had to move on. She had always suspected that Poul had feelings for her, but now that it was confirmed that he had someone else, she realized that she had been foolish to entertain any hopes.

    As Poul walked towards the door, he turned back and said, "Amelia, I truly am sorry. If I could turn back time, I would have acted neutral towards you."

    Amelia gave him a small smile, trying to mask the sadness in her eyes. "Thank you for your apology, Poul. I appreciate it," she said softly.

    Poul nodded and left the room, closing the door behind him. As he walked towards his bedroom. He cursed inwardly.

    "Shit!"

 Chapter 151 The First Morning In The New Office

    The first morning in their new office building was a momentous asion for the industrialist duo. As they woke up to the warm glow of the rising sun, they couldn''t help but feel a sense of pride and aplishment. The opulent building had been a long-awaited dream, and they had spared no expense in its construction and design.

    As they made their way through the spacious, modern offices, they marveled at the state-of-the-art technology at the time and luxurious furnishings. Everything had been meticulously nned and executed, from the sleek conference rooms to the gourmet kitchen.

    In the main office, a massive wall-sized window offered a breathtaking view of the bustlingpany town below. Plumes of smoke rose steadily from the towering smokestack, and horse-drawn carriages ttered along the cobblestone streets. The workers, tiny from this height, scurried about like ants in their quest to keep the industrial machine running smoothly.

    Poul watched them for a moment until a person entered the room. It was Jonathan and Caroline.

    "Good morning, to you two," Poul greeted. "How was your evening, was it good?"

    "Well, we enjoyed every moment," Jonathan said as he wrapped his arm around Caroline''s shoulder.

    "You two should get married already," Poul joked with a chuckle. "You''ve been acting like a real couple for some time and perhaps this is the perfect time to make it a reality. I will give you my blessing of course."

    "Pray thee, there be no haste," spoke Jonathan, "For all shalle in its due course."

    "Oh please drop those ssic English words," Poul said, cringing.

    Caroline giggled and added. "We have plenty to focus on right now. The electricpany is just starting, we haven''t expanded to other states yet. So that means a lot of work to do. Once I get back to New York, I will reach out to my contacts and endorse your system to them. Of course with the help of Morgan."

    Jonathan hummed as he looked around the office, feeling something was missing. "Where is Amelia? She is supposed to be up at this hour."

    Upon the mention of her name, Poul remembered the events that had transpired in the evening. Their discussion of closure is still weighing on his shoulder.

    "Amelia was always punctual, even during the time she worked for me."

    "Just give it a break, she must have overslept. You know, the ribbon-cutting ceremony yesterday endedte in the evening so it is understandable that one might not wake up in time," Poul said.

    Just as he told them about that, a person came rushing inside the main office. It was Amelia.

    "Sorry for myteness," she panted. "My rm didn''t go off."

    "That''s fine, now that you are here, none of it matters," Poul said in a reassuring tone.

    Amelia averted her gaze from Poul. "Thank you, but it won''t happen again."

    Jonathan and Caroline noticed right off the bat that something was off between the two. They hummed in thought, wondering what it could be.

    "What''s our order of business for today?" Poul asked.

    Amelia, whose eyes still not meeting Poul, spoke. "We have a visitor from Japan, inquiring about the acquisition of the AN-M1 rifles. They''ll arrive in an hour, I''ll go prepare the drawing room."

    Poul nodded in approval. "Very well, please also prepare the necessary documents for them to peruse."<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "Consider it done," Amelia said then left the office.

    Momentster, Jonathan and Caroline''s eyes flickered at Poul.

    Poul, having received such stares, tilted his head to the side. "Why are you looking at me like that?"

    Jonathan cleared his throat before speaking. "Poul, is everything okay between you and Amelia? It seemed like there was some tension there."

    Poul sighed, knowing he couldn''t keep it from his partners. "I had a difficult conversation with Ameliast night."

    "About what?" Caroline asked.

    "It''s personal, I don''t want to talk about it," Poul trailed off, clearly ufortable with the topic.

    Jonathan and Caroline exchanged a concerned look. They knew Poul could be private about his personal matters, but they also knew how important it was for them to work together as a team.

    "Poul, whatever it is that''s bothering you, feel free to reach out to both of us. We are creating an empire here, I don''t want it copsing because your head is preupied with personal issues," Jonathan said firmly but with kindness.

    Poul nodded in understanding. "Thank you, Jonathan. I''ll keep that in mind."

    "Never mind about that, since when did we tap the Japanese market?" Caroline asked. "And they are approaching us for weapons."

    There is a rebellion brewing in Imperial Japan," Poul continued, "it seems that the samurai are losing their rights as the country continues to industrialize and westernize."

    Caroline''s eyebrows furrowed. "What do you mean by losing their rights?"

    Poul let out a sigh. "Well, the samurai ss has been a prominent social group in Japan for centuries, but with the Meiji Restoration and the subsequent industrialization of the country, their traditional way of life is being threatened. They are being stripped of their power and privileges, and many of them are unhappy with the changes."

    Jonathan chimed in, "That sounds like a serious issue. Do you think it could escte into a full-blown rebellion?"

    Poul nodded. "It''s definitely a possibility. The samurai have a strong sense of honor and duty, and they won''t back down without a fight. And with the tensions between the traditionalists and modernizers in Japan, the situation could easily spiral out of control. But who cares what happens? The only thing that we should care about is selling weapons and making a profit out of their war."

    "The samurais are surely going to lose in this fight," Jonathan said.

    "Who knows? I also heard that the army of the Imperial Japanese is made up of conscripts, and farmers who haven''t even seen a gun. And they''re up against highly trained samurais. So in this case, even if you are equipped with the best weapon in the world if you don''t know how to use it. It''s useless. Well, the good thing is that we made our rifles so easy to use that even a child can use them."

    As they were discussing with each other, the telephone on the desk rang.

    Poul promptly picked that up and answered. He hummed as he agreed with whoever was calling him on the phone. Secondster, he put the phone back on its cradle and turned to Jonathan and Caroline.

    "It was Amelia. The Japanese have arrived."

 Chapter 152 Omura And Sanada

    As the two Japanese men in ck three-piece suits arrived at the main entrance of the towering office building, they craned their necks to look up at the imposing structure. Though they had traveled extensively throughout Europe and Avalonia, they had never encountered a building of such magnitude and grandeur before. The sheer size of the edifice was enough to make them feel small and insignificant in its shadow.

    One of the men took a deep breath and straightened his tie, attempting to gather hisposure before entering. The other man seemed more at ease, but even he couldn''t help feeling a sense of trepidation. They were here for an important meeting, one that could potentially make or break their careers, and the sheer scale of the building only added to the weight of their responsibility.

    As they stepped through the door and into the vast lobby, they couldn''t help but feel a sense of awe at the sheer opulence of the ce. Crystal chandeliers sparkled overhead, and marble floors gleamed beneath their feet. The air was scented with a faint whiff of expensive perfume, and the gentle hum of activity filled the space.

    A beautifuldy approached them gracefully and bowed.

    "Good morning to the Axelsen & Nielsen Headquarters. May I ask who is Mr. Omura here?" Amelia asked, flickering her gaze between them.

    "That would be me," the taller of the two men replied, introducing himself as Omura. He was a middle-aged man with a round, jovial face and a rotund figure. His dark hair was slicked back neatly, and his eyes were warm and twinkling with good humor.

    Omura''s suit was strained at the seams by his ample girth, and his tie was loosened slightly around his neck. Despite his physical appearance, however, he exuded an air of confidence and geniality that was infectious.

    Omura continued. "This man standing next to me is my personal secretary, Mr. Sanada."

    Amelia bowed politely to Omura and Sanada. "I''ll inform your arrival to the executives, please make yourselffortable by taking a seat there," she gestured to a luxurious waiting area furnished with plush chairs and coffee tables.

    Omura and Sanada thanked Amelia and made their way to the waiting area. As they sat down, Omura leaned over to his secretary and whispered, "They got a quite of an office building here, Sanada. I have never seen something like this."

    Sanada nodded in agreement. "True, normally, we would see pces but this one, has a height that can pierce through the sky."

    Omura sighed, feeling a tinge of regret. "It''s a shame that our country is so far behind in these fields. We have much to learn from the West if we ever hope to catch up."

    Sanada nodded solemnly, knowing all too well the struggles of their home country in modernizing and keeping up with the rapidly changing world.

    "Yeah, if we don''t want the Western powers exerting their influence in our country as they did to the Qing Dynasty and Joseon, we must put in the effort to develop ourselves," Sanada replied.

    Omura nodded in agreement. "Exactly. We cannot allow ourselves to be left behind, or we risk bing vulnerable to external forces."

    Their conversation was interrupted by the sound of footsteps approaching. Omura and Sanada looked up to see Amelia.

    "Mr. Nielsen and Mr. Axelsen are going to see you now. Please follow me,"

    Omura and Sanada rose to their feet and followed Amelia behind. They were led to the elevator, a technology they are already aware of but different from the one they knew.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "This elevator, if I may ask, is powered by a steam engine?" Omura asked.

    "No, Mr. Omura, this elevator is run by electric motors. Specifically AC motors," Amelia answered.

    "AC motors?" Omura raised an eyebrow, unfamiliar with the term. He heard of DC motors but not AC motors.

    The door of the elevator opened and they stepped inside. Amelia pushed a button in the panel and they started to feel the elevator ascending smoothly and swiftly. Omura and Sanada were impressed by the speed and efficiency of the elevator, which seemed to effortlessly glide upwards.

    "How about AC motors? I have heard of DC motors but not AC."

    "I''m not actually well-versed in the engineering concept of the elevator but I can exin to you the basic idea of AC motors. AC stands for alternating current, which means the electric current periodically reverses direction. AC motors use this alternating current to produce a rotating maic field that drives the motor shaft. This makes them more efficient than DC motors and they can be used in a wide range of applications," Amelia exined.

    Omura nodded thoughtfully, impressed by the exnation. He made a mental note to inform his countryman about this new motor.

    The elevator doors opened to reveal a spacious and tastefully decorated office. It has wall-sized windows that can see through the entirepany town, giving an impressive view. In the center of the room sat two men behind arge mahogany desk. They were impably dressed in sharp suits and wore stern expressions on their faces.

    "Mr. Omura and Mr. Sanada, wee to Axelsen & Nielsen. I''m Mr. Nielsen, and this is my partner, Mr. Axelsen," the man on the left said as he rose to greet them.

    "Allow me to introduce myself formally, Mr. Nielsen," Omura said and began. "I''m Takeshi Omura from Imperial Japan. Minister of Industry, Commerce, and Labor."

    Poul and Jonathan nodded upon his introduction. Hearing his title made him an all the more important client as he is not only a businessman but a Cab Minister in the Japanese Government.

    "Please take a seat, gentleman," Jonathan gestured to the plush seats in front of their desk. "So that we can begin our negotiations."

    Omura and Sanada promptly took their seats as Jonathan and Poul sat back down.

    "I assume you are here to discuss an acquisition deal of AN-M1 rifles? Because if that was the case, then you havee to the right ce. Our enterprise in weapons manufacturing has been gathering a lot of attention from the rest of the world due to its effectiveness in the war that is happening in Europe."

    "You assumed correctly, Mr. Nielsen. We havee for those weapons as we believe that those rifles could help us achieve what our Imperial Majesty wants," Omura said.

    "Very well, let''s start this," Poul said.

 Chapter 153 Another Huge Deal

    "Before we begin the proceedings, why don''t you tell us how you found us?" Poul asked. "Please answer the question honestly as we will use this information to better understand your needs and provide you with the best possible service."

    Omura and Sanada exchanged a brief look before Omura spoke up. "We were referred to yourpany by a mutual acquaintance, Mr. Sherman. He speaks highly of yourpany''s expertise in the field of weapons manufacturing."

    "Ah. Mr. Sherman. He is our biggest contractor, he works for the United States Military and we have been supplying them with our rifles since our inception. Well, aside from an acquaintance, have you heard of us from others?"

    "Well, we were observing the war happening in Europe as we speak, and we noticed that the Russians and the allied forces are using a new kind of gun that can fire simultaneously without having to cycle. This is after we were referred to yourpany of course, and we got interested. Having to cycle for a second is a game-changer on the battlefield. Enemy rushing at you all at once and you are in the middle of cocking your gun? That''s a death sentence," Omura added.

    "I see. Well, truth be told, a lot of countries have begun cing orders for our rifles because of their effectiveness and efficiencypared to the existing weapons that we have now. Because of that, we only prioritize orders with the best deal so based on this, I think Japan would do the same right?"

    "I was sent here by the Emperor to hire the best of the best in the Western world. German Engineers, Dutch Architects, French Lawyers, andstly," he paused, and extended his hand towards Poul. "Avalonian weapons manufacturers."

    Poul smiled at thepliment they got from the Omura. "You havee to the right ce, Mr. Omura. So may I ask, how many rifles do you intend to purchase from us?"

    Omura pulled out a note from his breast pocket. He opened it and read the note.

    "We intend to purchase 15,000 AN-M1 rifles. And if our military found it satisfactory, we will offer you an exclusive contract of the right to supply arms for our fledgling modern military."

    A broad smile spread across Poul and Jonathan''s faces.

    "That is a significant order, Mr. Omura. We are honored to be given this opportunity to work with Japan''s military. Rest assured, our rifles are reliable, durable, and effective in anybat situation. We will do everything we can to meet your expectations and deliver the best possible service," Jonathan said.

    Omura nodded in agreement. "Excellent. We will also need your help in training our soldiers on how to use these rifles effectively."

    "Of course, Mr. Omura. We will provideprehensive training for your soldiers to ensure that they can use our rifles with maximum efficiency and effectiveness."

    "Thank you for that. The samurais in our country are bing a hindrance to the growth and development of our country. You may not know it but the samurai have been sabotaging key infrastructures to make our country modern, the power lines, railroads, and telegraph lines have all been targeted by them."

    Poul and Jonathan understood their situation, after all, the economic and social reforms made by the Emperor of Japan has caused tensions among the traditional samurai ss. The samurai were finding it hard to adapt to the changes brought about by the modernization of Japan.

    "We understand the challenges thate with modernization, Mr. Omura. But we believe that our rifles will greatly help in ensuring the safety and security of your country, especially in dealing with those who oppose the modernization efforts of the Emperor," Poul said.

    Omura nodded in agreement. "Yes, the safety and security of our country are of utmost importance. That is why we are willing to pay a premium for the best weapons that money can buy."

    "We appreciate your trust and confidence in ourpany, Mr. Omura. We will make sure that your order will be delivered on time and with the highest quality," Jonathan assured.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "Thank you, Mr. Nielsen and Mr. Axelsen. We look forward to working with yourpany," Omura said.

    "Let''s sign the contract then, shall we?" Poul said, gesturing for Amelia toe forward and hand them the document.

    Amelia obliged, handing the document to Omura.

    Omura opened the cover of the document and scanned through the pages, making sure that everything was in order. He then took out a fountain pen and signed his name on the designated line, followed by Poul and Jonathan.

    With the contract signed, the meeting came to a close. Omura and Sanada rose to their feet and shook hands with Poul and Jonathan.

    "It''s a pleasure doing business with you," Omura said.

    Poul and Jonathan nodded and returned the gesture.

    "Likewise, Mr. Omura. We will keep in touch and update you on the progress of your order," Poul said.

    Omura and Sanada made their way out of the office, leaving Poul and Jonathan feeling pleased with the sessful meeting. They had just secured a significant order from Japan''s military, and they were excited about the prospect of working with them.

    As the elevator door closed before them, Amelia let out a sigh of relief. "That went well," she said.

    "It is to be expected, Amelia," Poul said nonchntly as if something like this is obvious. "Imagine the prospect where we are the only arms manufacturingpany that can supply the Japanese military."

    "I''m sure ourpetitors would be frustrated by this," Jonathan said and continued. "Well, speaking of ourpetitors, have they made any progress in designing their own semi-automatic rifles?"

    Amelia shook her head. "Not yet, but they are iming that they are nearingpletion. We can only wait and see."

    "They are persistent huh? Well, if they designed one we can only upgrade our rifles to a whole new level," Jonathan said.

    ***

    Meanwhile, in the elevator. Omura and Sanada exchanged a brief discussion with one another.

    "So it was true huh? That Mr. Nielsen is an Albian. I can''t believe that a person so discriminated against in their country can rise through the ranks and be rich. That goes to show that the United States of Avalonia is a country of opportunity."

 Chapter 154 A Casual Discussion Between Industrialist

    Poul and Jonathan had been working in the same old, drab office for years. Every day, they would walk into the cramped space with its low ceilings, dim lighting, and dull walls, feeling uninspired and unmotivated. But that all changed when thepany moved into a brand-new main office.

    One month had passed since the big move, and Poul and Jonathan were still getting used to their new workce. Gone were the gloomy surroundings that had gued them before. Instead, they were greeted with a space that was both grand and luxurious.

    With its high ceilings and wall-sized windows, the new office was flooded with natural light, making it a joy to work in. The interior design was sleek and modern, with every detail carefully crafted to inspire creativity and productivity.

    As Poul and Jonathan settled into their new surroundings, they couldn''t help but feel grateful for the change. They knew that this new office would not only improve their working lives but also the quality of work that they produced.

    Speaking of their work produced, the industrialist duo are working on something.

    Jonathan stood up from his desk and approached Poul''s desk.

    "Take a look at this," Jonathan said, handing over a blueprint that he had been working on for a month.

    Poul set aside the letter he was reading and grabbed the blueprint.

    Poul perused the schematic diagram of the technology Jonathan has been drawing. Based on the drawing and the diagrams drawn in the blueprint, he can tell that it was a tunnel boring machine, the equipment they''ll need to build tunnels along New York.

    With his trained eyes quickly analyzed the technical aspects of the tunnel-boring machine.

    "So this is the tunnel boring machine that we are going to use huh?"

    "Yep, that''s it," Jonathan confirmed. "So, what do you think?"

    "What type of cutting teeth did you choose for the cutting wheel?" Poul asked.

    Jonathan furrowed his brow, surprised by Poul''s question. "Uh, I went with abination of disc cutters and roller cutters, to maximize the machine''s ability to dig through different types of soil and rock."

    Poul nodded, "Interesting. And what about the venttion system? I know that can be a major challenge in tunneling projects."

    Poul''sment about the venttion system in tunneling projects struck a chord with Jonathan. He knew that it was indeed a major challenge in tunneling. In thete neenth century, tunneling projects were halted due to theck of proper venttion systems resulting in several workers falling ill and even dying due to poor air quality. Poul knew that they had to get this aspect of the tunnel-boring machine right.

    He leaned over Poul''s desk, studying the blueprint with renewed interest. "You''re right," he said. "Venttion is a critical aspect of this project. Without proper venttion, we could be putting the workers'' health and safety at risk."

    Poul nodded in agreement, his own experience as a mechanical engineer telling him just how important it was to ensure that the tunneling operation was safe and efficient. He doesn''t want to repeat the same mistake their ancestors did in the past.

    "Exactly," he said. "So, what have you got nned for the venttion system?"

    Jonathan grinned, happy to share his ideas with Poul. "Well, I''ve been looking into a few different options. One idea is to use abination of fans and ducts to circte the air throughout the tunnel. We could also install air locks at regr intervals to prevent the spread of contaminants."<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    Poul listened intently, impressed by Jonathan''s forward-thinking approach. "That sounds like a solid n," he said. "Have you considered any other options, though? I know that there are some cutting-edge venttion concepts out there that we could look into."

    Jonathan leaned back, considering Poul''s question. "No, I haven''t," he admitted. "But I''m always open to exploring new ideas. Do you have anything specific in mind?"

    Poul pondered for a moment, and then momentster, he spoke.

    "Well, there''s this technology called the Venturi Effect," he began. "It''s a type of venttion system that uses high-pressure air to draw in fresh air from outside while expelling stale air from the tunnel. It''s been used sessfully in a few tunneling projects back in our world, and it could be worth exploring for our project as well. I''m sure of your experience in civil engineering, you''d know how to apply it in this world right?"

    "We are going to need a high-pressure air supply, a series of ducts or tubes, and a constriction or nozzle to force the air through. A mechanism for controlling the flow of air would also be necessary, such as a valve or damper, to regte the amount of fresh airing in and stale air going out. Additionally, sensors and control systems could be incorporated to monitor and adjust the venttion system as needed to maintain air quality and prevent the buildup of contaminants. But since we are in thete neenth-century era, I think we''ll have to make our own custom sensors."

    Poul clicked his tongue in agreement. "Yes, we''ll have to improvise and use the resources avable to us. Well, if it makes the construction process safer, it''s worth an investment. We can''t afford to have a backsh while we are doing the project, this is tens of millions of dors worth of a project."

    "I know. I''ll debrief Timothy about the tunneling project. We are going to need his expertise and eventually lead a team focused on building that machine," Jonathan said and continued. "Now what about the electric lotive, have you already designed one?"

    "I already did, it''s going to be based on R62A, a subway train that was used in New York City in the 1980s," Poul replied. "It''s perfect for our project since we won''t have to deal with emissions or fumes. I''ve made some modifications to the design to fit the narrower dimensions of the tunnel, and I''ve also made it lighter to reduce the load on the track."

    "But it''s made of aluminum, Poul. I heard that aluminum in this era is expensive because there''s not been an efficient method to produce it yet," Jonathan interrupted.

    "Well, we are going to produce our own aluminum," Poul said as if stating the obvious.

    He continued. "You know what we always do right? When something is unavable because of the time era, we will just have to make it. There''s already an existing process here in this world that produces aluminum, it''s called the Heroult process. But the process in this time period is inefficient because of its reliance on electricity, which is not yet widely avable. The Heroult process relies on arge amount of electric current passing through a molten mixture of aluminum oxide and cryolite to separate the aluminum from the oxygen.

    "The solution is simple: instead of direct current, we will use alternating current, which will reduce energy consumption and increase the efficiency of the process. Not only that, we can make some modifications to the reactor design to improve the heat transfer and to ensure uniform mixing of the molten mixture.

    "With these modifications, we should be able to produce high-quality aluminum at a lower cost and with less energy consumption than the current process we have right now."

    "Okay, if that''s what you say, then we''ll go for that. Does that mean we will have to build our own aluminum production nt?"

    "Of course, and steel also. The metro station that we are going to build for New York and for the future skyscraper projects."

    "That means going against Carnegie, you heard stories about him, right? He once put one steelpany out of business by buying out all theirpetitors and undercutting their prices," Jonathan said.

    "And he is going to fail miserably shall he ever try to do the same tactic to us," Poul said, smirking. "Okay, let''s stop this discussion for today as we will have to visit the enginepany factory that we acquired."

    "Oh, it''s this day huh? I''ll inform Amelia to prepare the carriage."

 Chapter 155 Getting Started On The Locomotive

    Later, the same day, at the main entrance of the main office building. Poul and Jonathan climbed down the stairs towards the carriage waiting for them. Amelia followed behind with a graceful walk.

    Jonathan quickly hopped into the carriage as soon as it arrived, but Poul paused and turned to Amelia.

    "If any important clients arrive today without an appointment, handle it. If they ask for us, just tell them we''re out and stress the importance of scheduling appointments in advance."

    "Understood, Mr. Nielsen," Amelia replied with a nod.

    Poul hesitated for a moment before speaking again. "You know, Amelia, I''ve been calling you by your first name. You can do the same with me. No need to be so formal all the time."

    Amelia''s eyes flickered briefly with uncertainty. "I appreciate your offer, Mr. Nielsen, but I should address you politely since you''re my superior."

    Poul frowned, feeling a familiar tension building between them. "Alright, suit yourself. We''ll be back this evening, and there''s no need to prepare dinner for us."

    Amelia gave a curt nod, and Poul boarded the carriage with a sigh. As they rode off, Jonathan could sense the awkwardness between his twopanions and decided to break the silence.

    "Hey, Poul, have you managed to resolve that issue with Amelia yet?"

    Poul shook his head wearily. "No, it doesn''t seem like she''s interested in resolving it either. I think it''s best we just keep things professional for now."

    Jonathan nodded in agreement, but his thoughts soon turned to a more pressing matter. "Speaking of rtionships, have you heard back from Sara? I heard the war in Europe is still raging, and shows no signs of stopping as the Russian morale is at an all-time high."

    Poul''s expression grew somber as he replied. "No, I haven''t heard from her since I left London. I had to cut offmunication for our safety, and I''m growing more anxious by the day. I hope she''s taking care of herself and staying safe."

    "She''ll be safe," Jonathan ced a hand over his friend''s shoulder. "She is deployed as a doctor, right? Tending the wounded soldiers from a safe location. There''s nothing to worry about at all."

    "But the Crown Prince," Poul stressed. "That Crown Prince, I''m getting a bad vibe from him. Like he''ll do something bad to Sara."

    "So what are you nning to do?" Jonathan asked.

    "I might try to take her here in Avalonia where she can stay with us. That way, I can look over her."

    "How on earth are you going to n on doing that?" Jonathan raised a brow. "I don''t think you forgot that she is a duke''s daughter, and quite popr to the masses."

    "I actually have an idea about it," Poul said. "I have a feeling that she won''t like it. But if she really wants to be with me, she''ll agree to it."

    "What might that n be?"

    "You''ll know soon eno¡ª"

    Poul was interrupted by the sudden lurch of the carriage as it passed on a bumpy road. He gripped the seat to steady himself and looked out the window, noticing that they were passing through a poorer section of the road.

    "Before we try introducing automobiles, we might have to improve the road first," Poulmented.

    Jonathan nodded in agreement, but his mind was still on Poul''s n. He couldn''t help but wonder what it could be and why it would be something Sara wouldn''t like. However, he knew better than to pry, so he decided to let it go for now.

    Two hourster, as the carriage pulled up to their destination, Poul and Jonathan stepped out and headed towards the entrance of the Avonside Engine Company factory where they were to have their meeting. Poul straightened his tie and adjusted his jacket, making sure he looked presentable. Jonathan did the same and they stepped inside.

    Inside the factory, the noise of machinery filled the air. Workers in blue overalls moved around, adjusting and inspecting the machines. Poul and Jonathan navigated through the maze of workers, toward the meeting room. As they entered, they saw thepany''s former executive waiting for them.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "Good afternoon, Mr. Nielsen. Mr. Axelsen. How was the trip?" Chapman asked, shaking their hands.

    "Good afternoon, Mr. Chapman," Poul replied. "Well, if I have to be honest, it''s quite a bumpy ride, but we made it here safely."

    They sat down at the meeting table, and Jonathan began to exin their reason for being there.

    "So, Mr. Chapman. We acquired yourpany that specializes in building steam lotives. But yourpany couldn''t keep up with the fiercepetition. We stepped in, and purchased yourpany, keeping you as its executive and your workers. Now, we havee here because my partner wants you to do something for him."

    Chapman''s eyes flickered to Poul after hearing Jonathan''s words, curious about what they wanted.

    "What might that be, Mr. Nielsen?" he asked.

    "We are going to want your team to build a new type of lotive, the one that runs on electricity," Poul said, bringing up his briefcase over the table, and opening it. He pulled out a blueprint and showed it to him.

    Chapman put on his reading sses and carefully scanned the blueprints. "You said lotives that ran on electricity right?" he confirmed.

    "Yeah, that is right," Poul confirmed.

    "To be honest, Mr. Nielsen, this concept is new to me," Chapman said, frowning slightly. "Like how is it going to run?"

    Poul patiently exined the concept of the electric lotive to Chapman, using simplenguage to help him understand.

    "The lotive will have an electric motor, which will be powered by batteries. These batteries will be recharged through an overhead wire, simr to how streetcars are powered. Have you heard of electric trams in Germany? It''s a simr concept."

    "Yeah, I have heard about the electric tram in Germany, but how will this one differ?" Chapman asked.

    "Well, it''s bigger, more powerful, can carry a lot of passengers, and to top it all, it''s faster," Poul replied confidently.

    Chapman, however, was still uncertain. "But our equipment and machines here are built specifically for steam lotives, can we really build it with that avable equipment?" he asked.

    "No need to worry about the equipment, they''ll do just fine," Poul said reassuringly. "Also, I''m going to oversee the production of the electric lotive so there will be no mishaps. We are on a tight schedule here, so I suggest that you debrief your men about the new project."

    "Very well, Mr. Nielsen," Chapman said, nodding in agreement. "I''ll inform them."

    "You will start once we have gathered the materials for the first batch, which is going to be the prototype. Once built, we are going to conduct a test run on it where it''ll be attended by the New York Board of Transportation, the Mayor of New York, and private investors who will be investing in the Metro Station that is going to be built in New York."

    "So, this is a huge project huh?" Chapman realized the magnitude of the project and couldn''t help feeling excited about it.

    "Yes, it is," Poul confirmed. "And it''s going to be revolutionary. Think about it, Mr. Chapman, a train that doesn''t rely on coal or oil to run, but instead runs on electricity. It''s going to be a game-changer in the transportation industry."

    Chapman''s eyes gleamed with anticipation as he thought about the potential impact this new type of lotive could have on the world. He couldn''t help but feel proud that his team was going to be a part of it.

    "I''ll get my team ready for the project," Chapman said, determination in his voice. "We''ll do everything in our power to make this project a sess."

    Poul smiled at Chapman''s enthusiasm and offered his hand for a shake. "I''m d to hear that, Mr. Chapman. We''ll be in touch soon."

    Chapman shook the hands of the industrialist duo firmly, feeling a sense of partnership and camaraderie with his new superiors.

 Chapter 156 Normal Day Of Work

    As they stepped out of the elevator, the industrialist duo was greeted by the hum of activity emanating from the engineering department. The sound of nging metal and the asional burst ofughter filled the air, a testament to the hard work and camaraderie of the team. From their vantage point, they could see rows of drafting tables, each manned by a dedicated engineer pouring over schematics and calctions.

    They walked up to one of the engineers working in the area, Timothy, who is currently discussing something with other engineers.

    Timothy caught a nce of the industrialist duo, and the moment he realized that they are heading over to his location, he immediately straightened up and motioned for the other engineers to take a step back.

    "Good morning, Mr. Nielsen, Mr. Axelsen," Timothy greeted politely, and so did the rest of the engineers, who bowed curtly at them.

    "Good morning, it seems like you are having quite a discussion here," Poul remarked.

    "Well, Mr. Nielsen, we are discussing the technical details of the tunnel boring machine that we are beginning to build tomorrow."

    "What kind of technical details?" Poul asked as if challenging Timothy that he knew what he was talking about.

    Timothy took a deep breath before beginning his exnation. "So, the tunnel boring machine will have a diameter of 7.6 meters, which isrge enough to amodate a train track. The machine will be equipped with a cutter head that is 9 meters in diameter. This cutter head will have 57 disc cutters arranged in a specific pattern that will rotate at a speed of 5 revolutions per minute."

    Poul furrowed his brow. "How will the machine be powered?"

    "We will be using an electric motor to power the cutter head and the conveyor belt that will transport the excavated material," Timothy replied. "The machine will also have a hydraulic system to provide additional power and control the cutting process."

    Jonathan nodded, impressed. "And what materials will the machine be made of?"

    "The cutter head will be made of hardened steel, while the body of the machine will be made of a high-strength alloy," Timothy exined. "We''ve tested these materials extensively and believe that they will provide the durability and strength necessary for the project."

    Poul and Jonathan exchanged a look, both impressed by Timothy''s answer.

    "See, he is the right man for the job," Jonathan said. "Good job Timothy. I hope that the tunnel boring machine will be built before the deadline."

    "Of course, sir, we won''t fail you."

    "Good, now Poul has some questions about the whereabouts of Walter, did you see him?" Jonathan asked.

    "He is in his office, Mr. Axelsen," Jonathan answered.

    Jonathan nced back to Poul who flickered his gaze at one corner where Walter''s office is situated.

    "There''s your boy," Jonathan said. "I''ll go add something with the technical discussion they are having, Poul. Do what you have to do."

    "I''ll leave you be," Poul nodded, turning to head towards Walter''s office.

    As he approached Walter''s office, Poul could hear the sound of typinging from inside. He knocked on the door before opening it and stepping inside.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "Walter, good to see you," Poul said, walking towards his desk.

    Walter looked up from his typewriter upon hearing the voice of his superior.

    "Mr. Nielsen!" Walter eximed, standing up from his feet and rushing to shake Poul''s hand.

    "What brings you here today sir."

    "I have another design that I want you to make," Poul said, opening the briefcase he was carrying and handing him over a bunch of blueprints. It was a tool he nned tomercialize. These included machine tools such as grinders, milling machines, shapers, andthes, as well as food processing machines such as mixers and blenders. Additionally, they had ns for power tools such as circr saws, table saws, miter saws, drill presses, and bench grinders, as well as appliances like refrigerators, air conditioners, washing machines, dryers, and dishwashers.

    "What is this?" Walter scanned the blueprint one by one, studying it.

    "That''s a blueprint for motorized tools and appliances that works well with the alternating current motor. I figured that if we want to stay ahead of Russell, we must build something that works with our system, otherwise the people we are trying to win over won''t see benefit from switching to our system," Poul exined.

    "I see, well, I''ll try my best, Mr. Nielsen," Walter said.

    "I don''t want you to try, I want you to seed," Poul interrupted firmly. "I have high hopes for this project, Walter. Russell hasn''t been doing much of a smear campaign ever since we won a legal battle against him and I have no doubts that he''ll try sometime in the future."

    "Of course, Mr. Nielsen, if we need this badly, I''ll start working on this. Though I might ask some questions regarding this as I have no idea how these things work conceptually."

    "My office is open for inquiries and I''ll be expecting you soon, Walter," Poul said before looking over his desk which has a typewriter and piles of documents. "What are you working on?"

    Walter nced at his table and answered. "Ah, I am writing maintenance and repair reports of our air brakes of the New York Central Railroad, that I will be passing to you next week."

    "Ah, I see," Poul nodded as he grabbed the paper and read the first few paragraphs from it.

    "Upon inspection of the Axelsen & Nielsen Air Brake System on Lotive 555, we found that the brake cylinder was leaking air. The cause of the leak was determined to be a damaged gasket within the cylinder. We removed the brake cylinder and reced the gasket with a new one. We then reinstalled the brake cylinder and tested the air brake system. The system is now functioning properly."

    After reading the report, he furrowed his brows. "Wait, how did this happen?"

    Walter looked at Poul with a puzzled expression. "I''m sorry, sir, how did what happen?"

    "This issue with the brake cylinder, how did it happen?" Poul repeated his question.

    "Oh, it''s just wear and tear, sir," Walter exined. "These air brake systems go through a lot of stress on a daily basis, especially on trains that go through hilly terrain like the New York Central Railroad. Sometimes, the gaskets wear out or get damaged and need to be reced."

    "Yeah, I know but I have designed the air brakes to be resilient and durable. I thought we had solved this issue with the previous upgrades we made," Poul said, deep in thought. "Looks like I''ll have to do a surprise visit to our factory. I''ll leave you be, Walter."

    "Of course, sir, be careful on your way there," Walter said.

 Chapter 157 Termination

    As Poul sauntered out of Walter''s office, he noticed his executive secretary, Amelia, walking towards him with a pale expression.

    "Mr. Nielsen," Amelia uttered. "There''s someone who would like to see you."

    Poul raised an eyebrow. "What''s wrong? And why do you look so pale?"

    Amelia took a deep breath before responding. "It was Mr. Russell."

    "Russell? What is he doing here?" Poul asked, his tone reflecting his irritation.

    "He didn''t say, he just demanded to see you. I told him you were busy working on a project, but he insisted."

    Poul sighed. "Since he didn''t arrange for an appointment, tell him he can wait in the lobby until five o''clock this afternoon."

    "But won''t that infuriate him?" Amelia asked, concerned.

    Poul shrugged. "It might, but I won''t be dictated to by someone who can''t follow basic protocol. I''ll attend to my business ording to my schedule. He should be d I''m giving him any of my precious time."

    "Very well, Mr. Nielsen," Amelia said, making a note on her tablet. "I''ll inform Mr. Russell he can meet you at five o''clock in the afternoon. Perhaps I can get him something to drink and eat while he waits?"

    "Do whatever you like," Poul said, ncing at his watch. "I was about to visit our air brakepany, but now that Russell is in the lobby, I can''t leave. I''ll have to visit them tomorrow instead."

    With that, Poul turned on his heel and headed back to his office, leaving Amelia to deal with Mr. Russell''s displeasure.

    ***

    Seven hourster, in Poul''s office. The elevator chimed as its metal door opened, revealing Mr. Russell and Amelia stepping out.

    Poul looked up to see the two walking towards his desk, he was wearing the same face he had worn when they were facing in the court, a face of displeasure. The man, who was hailed as the wizard of Menlo Park, used him of stealing his ideas even though he wasn''t.

    That event surely turned their rtionship into bitterness, and Poul could feel the tension in the air as Mr. Russell approached him.

    "Mr. Nielsen," Russell greeted him curtly.

    "Mr. Russell," Poul acknowledged, keeping his expression neutral. "I''m sorry if you have to wait for me for seven hours. You know, we have things in order and there is no free schedule in between where I can entertain you."

    "It doesn''t matter, as long as I get to talk to you," Russell said.

    "If that is so, what are you doing here then?" Poul propped up his elbows on the desk, looking at Russell expectantly.

    "I''m here to terminate our license agreement. Your direct current motor is bing a burden to us financially as the raw materials needed to make one is getting expensive, add the low sales of it, and I determined that it is no longer profitable for us to continue our partnership," Russell said, his voice cold and calcted.

    Poul raised an eyebrow, surprised by the sudden termination of their agreement.

    "Is that really what''s happening, Mr. Russell. Because based on thest royalty payment you made to us, it was around three hundred thousand dors, that''s thousands of horsepower of electric motors sold. I don''t think it''s not profitable. Why don''t you be honest with me and tell me what you really want."

    "Well, if it''s what you want then my team and I have improved the design of your direct current electric motor and we n to market it under our own brand name," Russell said, his eyes narrowing with a hint of challenge. "We believe that our design improvements will make it even more attractive to customers, and we''re confident that we can make a profit on our own."

    Poul leaned back in his chair, feeling a mix of anger and disappointment at Russell''s betrayal. "I see. So you want to steal my intellectual property and profit from it yourself?"

    "Not steal, Mr. Nielsen," Russell said with a smile that Poul found unsettling. "I believe the license agreement we had only covered the original design of the motor. My team and I have made significant improvements, which means we have a new design that we can patent and market under our own name."<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    Poul shook his head in disbelief. "You''re twisting words to justify your actions. You know very well that your improvements were based on my original design. I won''t stand for this, Mr. Russell. You''re not only breaking our agreement, but you''re also stealing from me."

    Russell''s smile faded, reced by a scowl. "I think you''re mistaken, Mr. Nielsen. We have followed the terms of our agreement and we have every right to develop and market our own improved version of the motor. If you choose to take legal action, we''re ready to defend ourselves in court."

    At this point, Poul sighed. "You know, going to a court is a hassle, so I don''t want us going there again. Not to mention the cost of it was steep enough that it can make any industrialist widen their eyes."

    "So does that mean that we have an agreement?" Russell asked.

    "No but I will add some conditions," Poul said, twiddling his pen thoughtfully. "I''ll agree to terminate our partnership, but under the condition that you purchase the patent from us in a fair amount."

    Russell''s eyebrows shot up in surprise. "Purchase the patent? That''s quite a demand, Mr. Nielsen."

    "It''s not a demand, it''s a negotiation," Poul countered. "If you want to use my intellectual property, then you have to pay for it. I won''t let you profit from my hard work withoutpensating me for it."

    Russell hummed in thought, considering Poul''s offer. "And what would be a fair amount, in your opinion?"

    "I''m going to discuss it with my partner first, he''s one call away so you won''t wait for long. Do you mind if I take a call?"

    Russell shook his head, gesturing for Poul to go ahead with his call. Poul quickly dialed the number of the telephone on the fifth floor and it rang.

    "Hello, this is Nielsen speaking. Get me, Axelsen, on the telephone."

    The voice on the other end of the line responded, "One moment please, Mr. Nielsen." Poul tapped his foot impatiently as he waited for Axelsen to pick up the phone.

    Finally, after what felt like an eternity, Axelsen''s voice could be heard on the line. "Hello Poul, what can I do for you?"

    "Axelsen, we have a bit of a situation down here. Russell and I are in the middle of a disagreement over our motor design. I''ve proposed that we terminate our partnership and that he purchases the patent from us at a fair amount. What do you think?"

    "Wait, Russell is there? Why didn''t you inform me?"

    Of course, Poul couldn''t answer that question when the person they are talking about is in front of him. "I''m thinking one hundred thousand dors. That seems like a reasonable price right?"

    "I mean that''s short but you are the one who did all of the work designing and building the motor, so what your decision will be, I''ll back it up."

    "Fine, one hundred thousand it is then," Poul said before hanging up the phone.

    He looked up to Russell once more and spoke. "So, my partner agreed to one hundred thousand dors. Are you going to bite?"

    Russell raised an eyebrow, considering Poul''s offer once more. He knew that paying such a high amount for the patent was not ideal, but he also understood the value of Poul''s design.

    After a few moments of silence, Russell let out a sigh. "Alright, I''ll agree to your terms. One hundred thousand dors it is."

    Poul nodded, satisfied with the oue. "Great, I''ll have ourwyers draw up the necessary paperwork for the termination of our partnership and the purchase of the patent."

    Russell nodded in agreement. "I''ll have my legal team review the documents and we''ll get everything settled as soon as possible."

    With that, the two men shook hands, signaling the end of their partnership. For Poul, it''s best that they cut ties with Russell as the rtionship is no longer beneficial to theirpany.

 Chapter 158 Amends

    After the termination agreement meeting with James Russell, Amelia escorted him out of the building. When she returned five minutester, Poul Nielsen, the CEO of thepany, noticed the puzzled expression on her face.

    "Mr. Nielsen, if I may ask, why did you agree to sell your patent to James Russell for one hundred thousand dors? You know it''s worth more than that," Amelia asked.

    "Because Amelia, since our rtionship with Mr. Russell is not good at the moment, I figured that it would be best to cut ties with him. He has the capability to ruin our business because we are associated with the direct current motor he is distributing. I don''t want to take that chance and regret it knowing that I could have prevented it sooner," Poul exined. "I''m sure, Jonathan woulde to the same conclusion as mine."

    Amelia was taken aback by Poul''s decision. "But, Mr. Nielsen, you are losing a lot of money once that royalty payment is gone."

    Poul nodded in agreement. "Yeah, it is true that we are losing money from that agreement, but it''s not like we depend on his royalties to run our operations. It''s merely a one percent deduction to our total worth, so it''s not as significant as you might think. Also, it''s not like the direct current motor he is selling is going to sell in high numbers all the time because most of the factory owners have bought it. Not to mention the fact that we have a superior motor that will bemercialized soon."

    Amelia was impressed by Poul''s insights. "It sounds to me that you have anticipated this, Mr. Nielsen."

    "Well, I have been expecting that it would kind of happen when Mr. Russell decided to file awsuit against us," Poul said.

    Amelia then asked, "Do you think Mr. Russell is going to stop now?"

    Poul shook his head. "I don''t think so. We are stillpeting for the best electric distribution system, so I doubt our rivalry is going to end anytime soon."

    Amelia nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation.

    "What is our next move then, Mr. Nielsen?"

    "Our next move I guess is to continue to do the work the same way we always do," Poul said simply.

    "Very well then, Mr. Nielsen," Amelia said.

    And then silence befell upon the two. The silence was suffocating to the point, Poul wanted to break the ice. But what kind of conversation topic should he bring up? How about their dispute with one another? Well, he can try that.

    "Amelia, it''s been like a month since you are avoiding me by not calling me by my first name. When are we going to settle our differences and move on?"

    "Mr. Nielsen, I have no problem with you, to be honest. I''m just acting the way I am to you when I start working in thispany," Amelia exined.

    "Yeah I know that, but you might call me selfish for this but I kind of got ustomed to our casual rtionship and I hope that we can keep it that way, despite the problems that we had just now."

    Amelia smiled slightly. "I understand, Mr. Nielsen. And I have no problem with that either. We can continue our casual rtionship as long as it doesn''t interfere with our work."

    Poul nodded, relieved. "Thank you, Amelia. I appreciate it."

    "No problem, Poul," Amelia said.

    Poul was relieved that they were able to make amends, but he can sense that Amelia is merely agreeing to his terms because she wanted him to stop. He was stupid back then, making her feel special by not letting any man approach her and saying sweet words that could have led her to believe that he was interested in her romantically. This was true at first but that was all infatuation, a feeling that had subsided in time. Now, he just wanted to be friends with Amelia, a professional working rtionship that could be maintained without any personal attachment.

    He also hoped that she wouldn''t leave thepany due to this, Amelia has been an integral part of thepany, making it the way it is now. If they lose her, that would be a significant loss to thepany.

    Now that he is all realizing it, the more he is realizing his stupidity. If only he can turn back time, he would make sure that it won''t lead to this.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    But knowing that Amelia is a logical and professional person, Poul knew that she wouldn''t let personal matters affect her work performance. He made a mental note to make it up to her somehow, maybe by offering her a promotion or a bonus. But for now, he needed to focus on thepany''s next move.

    "Poul, we have a meeting scheduled with the electrical engineering team in an hour. Do you want me to prepare the documents?" Amelia asked, breaking Poul''s train of thought.

    "Yes, please do," Poul replied, grateful for the distraction. "Let''s go over them together before the meeting."

    Amelia nodded and went back to her desk to retrieve the documents for the electrical engineering team meeting. She returned to Poul''s office ten minutester. Handing him the document, Poul pored over it, perusing the contents.

    As Poul analyzed the contents, his brows furrowed. "So, we are to discusster in the meeting about substation huh? Very well."

    ***

    An hourter, Poul and Amelia arrived in the meeting room on the third floor. The electrical engineering team, which isposed of James Russell''s former electrical engineers, sat around a mahogany desk, facing Poul writing something on the chalkboard while Amelia handed over a copy of documents they''ll discuss.

    "So, about the substation, it is a criticalponent for our alternating current distribution system, it is what allows us to transmit electricity over a long distance and at the same time make it safe for our consumer to use it. Without it, our system''s efficiency would bepromised as we would need to generate and distribute electricity at much higher voltages to cover long distances, which is not safe for consumers. Moreover, the substation enables us to regte voltage levels, which is crucial for ensuring that appliances and equipment operate safely and efficiently. Therefore, the substation is an essentialponent that we cannot afford to neglect." Poul further borated on the team.

    "What is the optimum range for the substation away from the power nt? Should we start constructing one?"

    "Great question," Poul responded. "The optimal distance of the substation from the power nt depends on a variety of factors, such as the voltage level, load demand, and transmission line length. As a rule of thumb, a substation should be located within 50 miles of the power nt to minimize transmission losses and ensure efficient power delivery. However, we can conduct a feasibility study to determine the most suitable location for the substation based on our specific requirements."

    Amelia chimed in, "Regarding the construction, we already have a n in ce, and the necessary permits are underway. We''ll need to procure the equipment and hire contractors for the construction, and we expect to begin the groundwork in the next few months."

    Another engineer asked, "What about the safety measures we need to consider for the substation? Do we need any additional safety equipment or procedures?"

    Poul replied, "Absolutely. Safety is a top priority, and we need to ensure that the substation is designed, constructed, and maintained to the highest safety standards. We''ll need to incorporate safety equipment such as fences, warning signs, and grounding systems to prevent electrical hazards. Additionally, we''ll conduct regr safety inspections and training for our personnel to maintain a safe working environment."

    The engineers hummed in agreement. Until one of them raised a hand and asked a question.

    "Uhm, Mr. Nielsen. About the substation, do we really need to build it? James Russell doesn''t have a substation of his own, and I see that the construction of one of these facilities costs a lot of money."

    Poul paused for a moment, considering the question. "While it''s true that James Russell''s direct current system doesn''t require a substation, we''re operating on an alternating current system, which is different. Without a substation, we won''t be able to regte the voltage levels, which could lead to fluctuations and inconsistencies in the power supply. This could result in power outages, equipment damage, and even safety hazards for consumers."

    He added, "Moreover, as our system expands and we connect to more transmission lines, the need for a substation bes even more critical. It''s an investment in the long-term stability and efficiency of our electrical grid."

    The engineer nodded, seeming satisfied with the answer. "Okay, that makes sense. Thank you for rifying."

    "Now, are there any further questions?"

    Poul nced over at the engineers but no one raised a hand, indicating that there were no more questions.

    "Since there are no more questions, we can now conclude the meeting. Be sure to study the documents that we have handed to you."

 Chapter 159 New Personnel

    Two weekster.

    "Atst, the day hase!"

    After two long weeks of anticipation, the day of her interview had finally arrived. With a hopeful smile on her face, a young woman dressed in a tailored forest green bodice and sleek ck skirt strode confidently towards the grand entrance of the Axelsen & Nielsen Main Office Building. Her long blonde hair was neatly styled into a chignon, and she carried a leather portfolio of her carefully prepared documents in one hand, ready to showcase her qualifications and experience. Despite the nerves fluttering in her stomach, she couldn''t help feeling a sense of excitement and determination as she stepped inside, eager to prove herself andnd the job.

    As she arrived at the main entrance, a uniformed guard stepped forward and raised a hand in greeting.

    "Good day, madam," he said with a stern expression. "May I inquire as to the purpose of your visit?"

    "I have an appointment for a job interview today," she replied calmly, reaching into her leather satchel and producing a neatly folded letter. "As a receptionist."

    The guard took the letter and scrutinized it carefully before nodding in approval.

    "Very well," he said, returning the document to her. "You may proceed inside."

    With a grateful smile, thedy stepped through the ornate entrance and into thevish lobby of the building. Her eyes widened in awe at the sight of the glittering chandeliers, marble floors, and intricately carved woodwork that adorned the space. It was clear that this was no ordinary office building, and she felt a thrill of excitement at the prospect of working in such a prestigious environment.

    As she made her way further into the lobby, the young woman couldn''t help but notice that the air inside was noticeably cooler than it had been outside. She shivered slightly, her breath visible in the chilly atmosphere.

    Curious, she looked around for a source of the cool air but saw nothing that could exin it. The grand interior was opulent, with no visible cracks or openings through which the breeze could be entering.

    As she approached the reception desk, she couldn''t help but wonder how the building was able to maintain such a cool temperature in the midst of a warm day. The thought of such luxury never crossed her mind before.

    Despite her difort, she tried to ignore the chill and focus on her job interview.

    Momentster, a stunning woman with navy blue hair glided toward Beatrice. She wore a smart suit that entuated her curves, and her makeup was impable.

    "Hello, are you Beatrice Summers?" she asked, her voice silky smooth.

    Beatrice nodded nervously. "Yes, that''s me."

    The woman extended her hand, offering a handshake. "Nice to meet you, Beatrice. My name is Amelia Weiss, and I''m the executive secretary to the founders of thepany. I''ll be conducting your interview today. Please, follow me to the elevator. My office is located on the eighth floor."

    As they walked, Beatrice''s eyes widened in amazement at the grandeur of the building. The marble floors shone under the sparkling chandeliers that hung from the high ceiling, and the walls were adorned with paintings and intricate carvings.

    As they stepped into the elevator, Beatrice looked around in awe. She had never been in an elevator before, and the smooth ascent made her feel as though she was flying. She couldn''t help but gasp in amazement.

    Amelia nced at her and chuckled. "First time in an elevator, I take it?"

    Beatrice nodded, still awestruck. "Yes, it''s incredible!"

    "Well, your reaction is not unique," Amelia said, ncing at Beatrice with amusement.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "Everyone who has taken their first ride in the elevator has the same reaction as yours."

    "Really?" Beatrice asked, still marveling at the experience. "I couldn''t me them. It''s amazing to think how far humanity hase. We used to climb stairs before, but now we''re able to travel up and down buildings with ease."

    Amelia nodded in agreement. "Indeed. Technology hase a long way in recent years, and Axelsen & Nielsen is at the forefront of it all."

    Beatrice smiled, feeling even more grateful for the opportunity to work at such a progressivepany.

    "I''m honored to be given a chance to be a part of it all."

    After forty-five seconds, the elevator door slid open with a gentle ding, and Beatrice followed Amelia out. As they walked down the hallway towards Amelia''s office, Beatrice couldn''t help but nce around at the sleek, modern surroundings.

    Just like the opulent lobby, this floor was adorned with ornate furnishings and polished marble floors. Sunlight filtered in through tall windows, casting a warm glow over the entire floor. Beatrice couldn''t help but feel impressed by the grandeur of it all.

    As they approached Amelia''s office, she paused and turned towards Beatrice with a warm smile.

    "Here we are. Are you ready for your interview?"

    "I do, Ms. Weiss," Beatrice said, chuckling nervously.

    Amelia opened a file that contains her personal information.

    "So, ording to your resume, you graduated from Pennsylvania College for Women in 884 with a degree in Secretarial Science. Your academic records indicate that you performed well above average, so it''s safe to say you have an impressive educational background. We''d certainly be interested in having someone of your caliber join our team. Before we move forward, I''d like to ask you a few questions. Have you had any prior experience working as a receptionist or in a simr role?"

    "I''m afraid I don''t have any direct experience in reception work. However, during my time at college, I was given the opportunity to participate in various events where I was responsible for coordinating with different organizations and managing schedules. I believe that these experiences have honed my organizational andmunication skills, which I think are important for a receptionist role. Although I have no direct experience in reception work, I am willing to learn and do my best to adapt to the job requirements."

    Amelia jotted down notes in her notebook before proceeding. "Can you operate a typewriter or a telegraph, Ms. Summers?"

    "I have some experience with both, Ms. Weiss, but I wouldn''t im to be an expert."

    "That''s alright, you''ll have plenty of opportunities to refine your skills. How about etiquette? Can you speak appropriately to someone of higher rank inquiring about our business?"

    "We received instruction in proper etiquette for addressing those of higher rank, Ms. Weiss."

    Amelia nodded in satisfaction. "Excellent, as we frequently work with high-ranking clients such as politicians, military generals, and prominent businessmen. We''d be delighted to have you join our team. Your starting sry will be $50 per month."

    "That''s more than enough, Ms. Weiss," Beatrice replied with a smile and continued. "I would like to take that offer."

    Amelia smiled at Beatrice''s response. "Well then, wee aboard, Ms. Summers. We''re happy to have you join our team."

    The twodies stood up and shook hands.

 Chapter 160 A Man From The Past

    An hour after Amelia''s interview with Beatrice, Poul, and Jonathan returned to their office, feeling a sense of relief as their day spent helping the engineers hade to an end. As they walked towards their desks, they noticed a woman standing by Poul''s desk, her smile greeting them.

    "Good evening, Mr. Axelsen, Mr. Nielsen. How was your work today?" Amelia asked warmly.

    Poul replied, "It was the usual, Amelia. Did you have any updates on the new receptionist you interviewed earlier today?"

    Amelia nodded, "Yes, she meets all of the qualifications required for the position. I have a good feeling that she''ll excel as a receptionist here."

    Jonathan added, "That''s fantastic news. When will she start?"

    "Tomorrow," Amelia replied. "Her workday will begin at 8 AM and end at 5 PM, as per ourpany''s policy."

    Poul inquired, "Do we have any appointments scheduled for tomorrow, Amelia?"

    "Not to my knowledge, Poul," Amelia answered.

    "That means we''re free tomorrow," Poul said, looking at Jonathan.

    But Amelia interjected, "I''m afraid not, Poul. You still have a significant amount of paperwork that requires your attention, including stamping and signatures."

    Poul groaned, "Oh, Ipletely forgot about that."

    Jonathan chuckled, "Looks like it''s going to be a long night for you, Poul."

    Poul sighed, "I suppose so."

    Amelia noticed Poul''s weary expression and offered, "Would you like me to help you with some of the paperwork, Poul?"

    Poul looked up at Amelia with a grateful smile. "I appreciate the offer, Amelia but I got this. I don''t want you working on something that is beyond your scope of work, not to mention, beyond your time."

    "I can do overtime," Amelia suggested, hoping to alleviate Poul''s workload.

    Poul shook his head firmly. "No, Amelia, that''s not necessary. You''ve already done so much today, and it wouldn''t be fair to ask you to stay longer than you already have."

    Amelia nodded understandingly, "I see. Well, if you need any help, don''t hesitate to ask."

    Poul smiled appreciatively, "Thank you, Amelia. I''ll keep that in mind."

    With that settled, Poul and Jonathan settled into their desks, preparing to tackle the mountain of paperwork ahead of them.

    ***

    Eight o''clock in the morning, Beatrice sat at the reception desk, poised and ready to start her first day of work. She imagined herself weing clients and answering inquiries with grace and confidence, eager to make a positive impression on her new employers.

    As she was lost in thought, a gruff voice interrupted her reverie. "Excuse me, miss. Are Mr. Nielsen and Mr. Axelsen in the office yet?"

    Startled, Beatrice looked up to see a blonde-haired man in his thirties wearing a ck suit and a top hat standing in front of her desk.

    "Yes, they are both in their office at the moment. May I ask if you have an appointment scheduled with them?" Beatrice inquired politely.

    "I have none. I was just referred to them yesterday by Lady Dupont. She said that you''ll let me see them if I mention her name," the man exined.

    Beatrice looked puzzled. "I''m sorry, sir, but I''m new here and I don''t know who Lady Dupont is. Would you mind if I contact Mr. Nielsen and Axelsen''s executive secretary for confirmation?"

    "I will wait here," the man said with a nod.

    Beatrice quickly picked up the phone and dialed the executive secretary''s number to confirm the man''s visit. After a brief conversation, she hung up the phone and turned back to the man.

    "Mr. Nielsen and Mr. Axelsen are expecting you. Please, follow me," Beatrice said, leading the way toward the elevator.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    As they got into the elevator, the man let out a soft gasp. Beatrice found it amusing as the words spoken by Amelia yesterday were proven to be true.

    With a dinging sound, the two stepped out of the elevator and she escorted the man to the office. It will be her first time seeing the founders of thepany so she is as just as eager to see Mr. Axelsen and Nielsen in their office.

    Moments after, they arrived at the office. Beatrice knocked twice before speaking.

    "Good morning, my name is Beatrice Summers, the new receptionist. I have the gentleman who wants to see you."

    "Let him in," a voice sounded from behind.

    With that signal, Beatrice opened the door and let the man into the founder''s office. Inside, she saw a silver-haired and blonde-haired man. Of course, before applying for a position in theirpany, she made sure to conduct research about their backgrounds. Mr. Nielsen is said to be an Albian, the first sessful Albian businessman in the United States of Avalonia. He is said to be a genius in the field of mechanical engineering as most of their products were an idea and inventions of his. The blonde-haired must be Mr. Axelsen, the man who is said to be the architect of the building she is treading upon.

    She had imagined them to be in their middle ages but it appears that they are young, a prodigy perhaps?

    "You must be Mr. Summers," Poul spoke. "Thank you for seeing him here, you may now return to your post."

    "Thank you, Mr. Nielsen," Beatrice said as she excused her way out of the office.

    In the office, Poul and Jonathan looked at the man standing before them.

    "You said that you were referred to here by Lady Dupont, may I ask for your name?" Jonathan asked.

    "You two have grown huh?" The man said.

    Poul and Jonathan exchanged a quick nce before returning their gaze to him.

    "I''m sorry but do we know you?" Poul asked.

    "My name is Felix Sumpter, I guess you will remember me from twelve years ago back in Columbus. You were the kids back there who were asking for a spare change."

    Poul and Jonathan''s eyes widened in shock. The man who appeared before them was indeed the man who saved them from that night. Felix Sumpter, there is no way that they are going to forget that name.

    "Wait, you are Mr. Sumpter? The one who runs a cafe house?"

    "Yes, that would be me," he confirmed. I didn''t expect that you would have a business empire here in Avalonia."

    "Shit¡­" Poul was still surprised at this encounter.

    "Would you like to have a seat, sir?" Jonathan asked politely.

    "Of course," Felix said, removing the top hat off his head before taking a seat. "So, allow me to introduce myself again. My name is Felix Sumpter, and I''m a council member of the State of Ohio. I approached yourpany today because Lady Dupont said that you have a system of electric distribution that is far cheaper than Russell''s."

    "Well, we do offer that kind of service, Mr. Sumpter, and Lady Dupont are indeed right. That we are cheaper?"

    "I see. I approached Russell first for the electricity but he wanted me to buy a generator for one mile. And for every generator, we also had to buy a hundred thousand feet of copper wires. Well, not that our city can''t afford it but we found it to be impractical to be implemented to light up Columbus, and possibly every city in Ohio."

    "I see," Poul nodded understandingly.

    "I visited the city that you lit up with your electricity, the Scranton. It was a wonderful experience and I wanted that experience to be felt by the people of Columbus, and possibly every person in Ohio."

    "It would be an honor, Mr. Sumpter," Jonathan said. "Say no more. Do you want an ac system in your state? Very well, we will provide it to you."

    "Thank you, it''ll just make more sense to the taxpayers of Ohio to go with Axelsen and Nielsen Electric Manufacturing and Distribution Company."

 Chapter 161 Securing The Deal

    "Good day, Mr. Sumpter. Thank you for choosing ourpany. We are truly honored to have the opportunity to bring the same level of magic and sess we have achieved in the city of Scranton to the state of Ohio," Poul greeted warmly.

    Felix nodded in agreement. "Thank you, Mr. Nielsen. I have a few questions if you don''t mind."

    "Not at all, Mr. Sumpter. Please feel free to ask," replied Poul.

    Felix leaned in, his curiosity piqued. "Is it possible to electrify the entire state of Ohio within the next three months? We are eager to see the benefits of electricity, from lighting to powering equipment."

    Poul and Jonathan exchanged a nce, fully understanding the urgency of the matter.

    "Unfortunately, Mr. Sumpter, building a power nt of that scale takes time, typically a year or two. However, we do have some alternatives we can offer," Poul exined.

    Felix''s smile faded slightly. "What alternatives do you have in mind?"

    "We can provide temporary power solutions for each city in Ohio using an alternator," Poul suggested.

    "An alternator? Isn''t that the same as what Mr. Russell is offering?" Felix asked, slightly confused.

    Poul shook his head. "No, Mr. Sumpter. An alternator is a type of dynamo that produces alternating current, which is much more efficient than the direct current produced by Mr. Russell''s dynamo."

    Felix''s face lit up with understanding. "I see. That sounds like a viable option. How soon can we expect the construction of the power nt to begin?"

    Poul checked his notes. "We estimate that construction will begin in approximately six months. In the meantime, we will provide each city with temporary power solutions powered by alternators."

    "Six months? Isn''t that quite long?" Felix eximed.

    "No, Mr. Sumpter, that is a reasonable time frame that we can promise to you. You see, building a power nt takes time and nning. We want to ensure that everything is done properly to avoid any future problems or dys," Poul exined, trying to reassure Felix. "Also, we will have paperwork and permits that we have to settle beforeying the foundation. Of course, with your help, we can speed things up."

    Felix nodded slowly, taking in the information.

    "I understand. I appreciate your honesty, Mr. Nielsen."

    "Do you have anything more to ask? If you do, please don''t hesitate to speak it out," Poul said.

    "There''s none actually. I will inform the other council about what decisions were made in your office. I''m sure they''ll understand if I exin to them like how you exined to me why electricity won''t be avable in the time they are expecting."

    "Yes, even though the construction of the power nt in the city of Scranton is not yet finished, it''ll take months for it to bepleted. And when they do, it can''t not only power one city but multiple cities."

    "Multiple cities with one power nt?" Felix asked in disbelief.

    "Yes," Poul confirmed. "Unlike Mr. Russell''s system where you have to buy one generator per mile, we only need one power nt to bring electricity to multiple cities."

    "That''s impressive, and what''s more, at a cheaper cost."

    Felix''s face fell as he considered the cost. "I see. Perhaps we should consider Mr. Russell''s offer instead. It may be more affordable."<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    Poul leaned forward in his seat. "I understand that cost is a concern, Mr. Sumpter. But please consider the long-term benefits of using alternating current as the distribution system for Ohio. It is more efficient, has lower energy losses during transmission, and can powerrger areas than direct current. It will save you money in the long run."

    Felix looked thoughtful for a moment before nodding slowly. "I understand. So you are saying that once we have built the power nt, which is an expensive undertaking, we can generate profit from it in the long run because it has a cheap operating expense?"

    "That is right, Mr. Sumpter."

    "Well, in that case, the decision won''t be changed."

    Poul and Jonathan heave a sigh of relief, d that they were able to pull him back. But, to ensure that the deal is made, they have to do something.

    Poul and Jonathan stood from their seats and extended their hands.

    "That''s a deal then. Mr. Sumpter. Please let us shake hands and we will prepare the necessary documents for you to sign," Poul said.

    Felix stood up and shook hands with Poul and Jonathan.

    After that, Poul nced at Jonathan.

    "Jonathan, please bring Amelia here, I have a task for her."

    Jonathan nodded and excused himself. Momentster, he returned with Amelia.

    "Mr. Nielsen, do you want anything from me?" Amelia asked politely.

    "Amelia, I want you to meet. Mr. Sumpter is a district councilor of the state of Ohio. He will be our major client in our electric enterprise where we are tasked to electrify the state with our alternating current systems. I want you to draft the contracts and agreements for this project. Can you do that?" Poul asked.

    Amelia looked surprised but she quickly regained herposure. "Yes, of course, Mr. Nielsen. I can draft the necessary documents for the project," she replied confidently.

    "Good. I knew I could count on you," Poul said with a smile. "Please start working on it right away. We need to have everything ready for Mr. Sumpter to sign within a week."

    Amelia nodded and quickly made her way to her office to begin working on the project.

    Upon Amelia''s leave, Felix spoke.

    "Still, I can''t believe that you two have grown to be powerful men in this country. To think that you were once a beggar back then, asking for spare change, and now you must have a lot of money. I think I can get the dors that I gave to you that night."

    "For you, Mr. Sumpter, we would be happy to quadruple it. If not for you back then, we would have starved and slept on the streets," Jonathan said genuinely.

    "Actually, I was just joking, I don''t need the money, but if I can ask you anything, is it possible for me to invite you to my cafe shop in Columbus?" Felix asked.

    "We can''t reason why not."

    The industrialist duo, without hesitation, epted it.

 Chapter 162 Back In Columbus, Ohio

    A weekter, the industrialist duo stepped off the train and onto the bustling tform of Columbus, Ohio. The city was alive with activity, the hum of machinery, and the sound of voices filling the air. Poul took a deep breath and closed his eyes, savoring the familiar scent of industry and progress that permeated the city.

    "It''s been four years since west visited this ce," Jonathan remarked, still feeling a sense of nostalgia.

    Poul nodded in agreement, looking around at the bustling streets and the towering factory buildings with smokestacks billowing ck smoke.

    "Yes, it''s been four years," he said, his mind drifting back to theirst visit. At that time, they were just starting out, full of hope and ambition, eager to make their mark on the world. But now, they were seasoned veterans of the industry, with a string of sessful projects behind them and many more toe.

    "Let''s go then, Poul. We have an important person to meet," Jonathan said, and they began to walk through the crowds.

    As Poul and Jonathan navigated through the streets, they were struck by the remarkable transformation that had taken ce in Columbus in just four years. The roads were now wider, the buildings taller, and the machinery more advanced. It was a clear indication that Columbus was experiencing rapid growth and development, especially on the side of oil refining, as they saw many refineries dotting the city.

    After a minute of walking, Poul hailed a horse-drawn carriage. The carriage pulled up beside them, and the driver tipped his hat respectfully as he spoke.

    "Where to, gentleman?" he asked politely.

    Poul was somehow taken aback at the politeness of the coachman. Normally, he would receive scornful stares from them due to their prejudices towards Albian, but seeing that it wasn''t the case, he felt d.

    "Do you know where the Sumpter''s Cafe Shop is?"

    The driver nodded and gestured for them to climb aboard. "Yes, sir. I know the ce. It''s just a few blocks down the road."

    Poul and Jonathan climbed into the carriage, settling onto the plush seats. The horse began to trot down the street, and they watched as the buildings passed by in a blur. Poul couldn''t help but feel a sense of excitement building within him as they neared their destination.

    Sumpter''s Cafe Shop was a popr gathering spot for the city''s elite. It was known for its excellent coffee and pastries, as well as for being a hub for business discussions and deal-making. It was owned by Felix Sumpter, a district councilor, the man who helped them in their time of need.

    Poul and Jonathan stepped out of the carriage and made their way to the entrance of the cafe. The cafe was situated in a two-story brick building withrge windows that allowed natural light to flood in. The signboard on the front read "Sumpter''s Cafe Shop" in bold letters, and the smell of freshly brewed coffee and warm pastries wafted out, enticing them inside.

    As they stepped into the cafe, they were greeted by the sight of a bustling establishment. The ground floor had several small tables arranged in rows, each one upied by a person engrossed in conversation or lost in thought while sipping on coffee. The walls were adorned with paintings of localndmarks and arge clock hung over the counter. The aroma of roasted coffee beans and freshly baked croissants filled the air, making them feel warm and wee.

    They spotted Felix sitting at a corner table, talking to one of his crews. It didn''t take long for Felix to notice that the industrialist duo already entered his establishment.

    He quickly stood up and made his way over to them, a wide smile on his face. "Gentlemen! It''s good to see you both again," he said, shaking their hands warmly.

    "Pleasure to see you too, Felix," Jonathan replied, his own smile mirroring Felix''s.

    Felix motioned for them to follow him to a private room at the back of the cafe. The room was cozy, withfortable chairs and a small table, perfect for private discussions.

    As they settled in, Felix poured them each a cup of coffee and offered them a tray of pastries. Poul and Jonathan epted gratefully, and for a few moments, they sipped their coffee in silence, enjoying the warm and weing atmosphere of the cafe.

    "So gentleman, how was the trip?" Felix asked.

    "Well, Mr. Sumpter¡­"

    "Please, let''s drop the formalities and just call me Felix," Felix interrupted

    Poul smiled at Felix''s words. "Alright, Felix. The trip was smooth and uneventful, thank you for asking. Columbus has certainly changed a lot since ourst visit, the growth is remarkable."

    Felix nodded in agreement. "Yes, the city is expanding rapidly, especially in the oil refining sector. It''s a great time for industrialists like you two to be here. Speaking of which, I assume you have the documents that I need to sign?"

    "Yes, you just have to sign this paper," Jonathan lifted his briefcase and pulled out a file. He handed it to Felix who perused it.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "That''s the contract for the deal, we will build the state of Ohio the power nt that will power its major cities. Columbus, Zanesville, Clevnd, Toledo, you name it," Poul said, a hint of excitement in his voice.

    "Are you sure you have the authority to sign that paper? Don''t you have to call your fellow councilor for this signing?" Jonathan asked, concern shing across his face.

    Felix chuckled. "Rx, Jonathan. I have the authority to sign this contract on behalf of the council. Besides, I''m the one who proposed that we electrify the state simr to how Mr. Russell electrified New York."

    After saying that, Felix signed the contract, sealing the deal. Jonathan grabbed the document that he just signed and stowed it in his briefcase.

    "I think that settles it," Jonathan said. "Expect the state of Ohio to be transformed in theing years, Felix."

    "I''ll be expecting that," Felix said and continued. "If nothing changed after your power nt, we might demand a refund."

    "Of course, that won''t be possible," Poul chuckled, knowing that Felix was simply joking. "So, I have been meaning to ask, how did you be a councilor?"

    Felix leaned back in his chair and took a sip of his coffee before answering.

    "Well, it''s a long story. I came to Ohio from New York City about nine years ago to start a business. I started out with a small cafe and slowly expanded it to include a printing shop. As the business grew, I became more involved in themunity, and eventually, I was elected to the city council."

    Poul and Jonathan listened intently as Felix continued.

    "I was initially reluctant to get involved in politics, but I realized that if I wanted to make a real difference in themunity, I needed to be a part of the decision-making process. So, I ran for council, and to my surprise, I won."

    Felix paused for a moment and looked at his guests.

    "It''s been a challenging but rewarding experience. I''ve been able to make a difference in the lives of the people in this city, and I''m proud of what we''ve aplished so far."

    "That''s great," Jonathanmented. "Another question, how did you and Caroline meet? She was the one who referred you to us right?"

    "I met her in New York," Felix began, his eyes distant as he recalled the memory. "I was immediately drawn to her products, especially her personal care line. It was unlike anything I had ever seen before."

    Jonathan leaned forward, intrigued. "And then?"

    "Over time, we discussed business," Felix continued. "She saw potential in my cafe and offered me an investment. It was an opportunity I couldn''t pass up, so we became partners

    "Ah¡­is that so?" Jonathan hummed.

    "What about you two?" Felix asked.

    "Well, we started our air brakepany right with the money we got from Mr. Morgan, who is now our investor to, if not some, most of our enterprises. We relocated to Pittsburgh because Columbus was overcrowded and then things started to move favorably for us since that," Poul recounted. "We received a lot of contracts from railwaypanies, we started a signalingpany, an armspany, and electricity. We are thinking of hopping on to another industry like steel and oil production."

    "I see," Felix couldn''t help but feel proud of their achievement. "You two are quite ambitious individuals."

    "Not only that, we received a contract from the New York Board of Transportation to build a metro station along Manhattan," Jonathan added. "So we are big dogs now."

    Felixughed. "Yeah, it seems like it. Well, gentleman, enjoy your stay in Columbus, and don''t be shy about eating all the pastries, it''s all in the house."

    "Thank you, Felix."

 Chapter 163 Planning

    After having their fill in the cafe house from Felix Sumpter, Poul and Jonathan prepared to leave.

    As they stood from their seats, Felix entered the room.

    "Are you leaving, gentlemen?" Felix asked.

    "Yeah, we have a train to catch by nine o''clock and we wouldn''t want to bete. Thank you for the hospitality and before I forgot," Poul paused, fishing something out from his breast pocket.

    Felix watched as Poul continued fishing his hand on his breast pocket until his hands revealed a small envelope.

    Poul offered it to him.

    "Here, Mr. Sumpter. Inside it is a check for ten thousand dors. Consider it as our gesture of appreciation when you help us when we have nothing," said Poul genuinely.

    "That is a lot of money, Poul. I''m sorry but I can''t take it. What I did back there was not because of the money. I helped you because it was the right thing to do," replied Felix, shaking his head.

    Poul insisted, "Please, Mr. Sumpter. We want you to have it. It''s the least we can do to repay you for your kindness."

    Felix sighed and looked down at the envelope in his hands. He knew that Poul and Jonathan had been through a lot and that they wanted to show their gratitude in any way they could. But he also knew that he couldn''t ept such arge sum of money for simply doing what he believed was right.

    "Listen, Poul. I appreciate the gesture, but I can''t ept this. You don''t owe me anything. I helped you because I wanted to, not because I expected anything in return," said Felix, as he handed the envelope back to Poul.

    Poul hesitated for a moment before reluctantly taking the envelope back. "Are you sure, Mr. Sumpter? We really want to repay you for your kindness."

    Felix smiled warmly at Poul and Jonathan. "I''m sure, gentlemen. The satisfaction of knowing that I was able to help you is all the reward I need."

    Poul and Jonathan looked at each other, then back at Felix. "Thank you, Mr. Sumpter. You''re a good man," said Poul, his eyes shining with gratitude.

    "Well, if you won''t ept it, perhaps we can give this check as a tip to your establishment?" Jonathan suggested. "That way, the money can be used to make more renovations and probably rewards the crew who are deserving."

    Felix''s face lit up at Jonathan''s suggestion. "That''s a great idea, Jonathan. Thank you." He took the envelope from Poul and opened it, taking out the check. "I''ll make sure it goes straight to the employees who deserve it. They work hard here, and I''m sure they''ll appreciate it."

    Poul and Jonathan nodded, pleased with the oue. They shook hands with Felix and made their way out of the caf¨¦.

    As they stepped outside, Poul and Jonathan were greeted by the warm glow of the setting sun. They paused for a moment, taking in the beautiful view.

    "It''s gettingte. We better hurry if we want to catch our train," said Poul, breaking the silence.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    Jonathan nodded, and they both started walking. As they walked, they couldn''t help but feel grateful for the kindness that Felix had shown them.

    "Felix is sure is kind Jonathan. Truly one of a kind person in this world."

    "I agree," Jonathan concurred. "Despite us offering ten thousand dors, he declined it. I mean, any person would have taken it without a second thought, but Felix is different. He genuinely cares about helping people, not for personal gain."

    A minuteter, Poul hailed a carriage. Poul and Jonathan boarded the carriage and sat on the plush seats, feeling the soft cushions enveloping their bodies. The driver, a burly man with a thick beard, took the reins and urged the horses forward with a gentle flick of his whip.

    The carriage rumbled down the cobblestone streets, the wheels ttering against the uneven surface. Poul and Jonathan watched as the scenery outside the window flew by in a blur of colors and shapes. The sun had set, and the sky was a deep shade of blue, dotted with stars that twinkled like diamonds.

    As they rode along, Poul and Jonathan chatted about their ns for the future.

    "So, you mentioned to Felix that we will be starting a steel manufacturing and oil miningpany right?" Jonathan asked.

    "Isn''t that the n?" Poul nced at him. "Thosepanies will be the provider of our raw materials. Steel has a lot of applications but oil will dominate the market in the future. Today its only use is to light upmps, lubrication for machineries, heat, and for industrial processes. If we started our own automobilepany, the demand for oil will skyrocket, and who do you think would benefit from it all if we didn''t start our own oilpany?"

    Jonathan thought for a second and then answered. "That would be Rockefeller."

    "Exactly," Poul replied, nodding his head. "Rockefeller''s Standard Oil Company already has a monopoly on the oil industry. We need to have control over our own raw materials if we want to be sessful in the future."

    "What is your n? We can''t simply start an oilpany andpete with the giant if you know what I mean," Jonathan said.

    "Of course not. We need to approach this strategically. First, we will start by acquiringnd in Texas. As you know, Texas is rich in oil reserves. We can purchase thend at a low price and start drilling for oil ourselves. It will be a risky investment, but the potential rewards are enormous. Don''t forget about our advantages here in this world. We have the skills and knowledge to create innovative solutions that can revolutionize the industry. We can develop new drilling technologies that can extract oil more efficiently and with less environmental impact. We can also create new refining processes that can produce higher quality oil products at a lower cost."

    Jonathan''s eyes widened in realization. "I see where you''re going with this. By improving the efficiency of oil extraction and refining, we can reduce the cost of production and offer our products at a lower price point, making us morepetitive withrger oilpanies. This will make us the go-to source for oil, and we''ll quickly be a major yer in the industry."

    Jonathan continued. "For steel manufacturing, we are up against Carnegie, who dominates the industry. For manufacturing steel, they are using a Bessemer converter. How about we introduce the basic oxygen converter. We have all the tools we need, electricity, capital, and expertise to develop and perfect the basic oxygen converter. With this technology, we can produce steel more efficiently, faster, and with fewer impurities than the Bessemer converter. This will give us an advantage over Carnegie, and we can offer our products at a lower price point while maintaining high quality as we n in our oil."

    "You know, the funny thing about history is that these industrialists in the past crushed theirpetitors by lowering their prices. Cargenie did it, Rockefeller did it, Vanderbilt did it."

    "How fitting it would be that their end would be brought about by us doing the same thing to them," finished Jonathan, a sly grin spreading across his face.

    "Well, it''s a dog-eat-dog world here. The reason we don''t have a majorpetitor in the market is due to our technology. Colt and Smith and Wesson tried but they are losing their market shares by the day as people switch to our semi-automatic rifles. As for Russell, well give it a year or two and every state in the United States of Avalonia would opt to have their own ac system."

 Chapter 164 Hopping Into Oil Business?

    Not long after, the industrialist duo returned to their main office at Pittsburg. It was four o''clock in the morning and the sky was still dark. They had juste back from a meeting in Columbus Ohio with Felix Sumpter.

    As they walked towards the main entrance of the building, they were greeted by a night shift security guard stationed there.

    "Good morning, Mr. Nielsen, Mr. Axelsen," the security guard said before opening the door for them.

    Poul and Jonathan nodded at the gesture made by the security guard as they entered the building. Inside, the lobby was deserted, there were no people to be seen. Well, that''spletely normal as the operating hours of the building are from eight o''clock to twelve o''clock midnight.

    They made their way to the elevators and pressed the button to go up to the eighth floor. As they rode up, Poul turned to Jonathan.

    "Looks like we''ll have to acquirend not only in Texas but in other parts of the country," Poulmented. "Do you have any idea of a ce where there could be a lot of oil deposits aside from Texas? That is not yet being mined by others?"

    Jonathan hummed in thought, "Actually, I was doing some research on this recently. There are a few ces thate to mind. One is the Appchian Basin, which includes parts of Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Ohio. There are some oil deposits there that haven''t been fully tapped into yet. And there''s also the Powder River Basin in Wyoming, which has a lot of potentials."

    "But isn''t the northeastern part of the country being controlled by Rockefeller? Are you saying that there are parts in the basin that haven''t been mined?"

    "Yes, that''s correct," Jonathan nodded. "While Rockefeller may have a strong hold on the oil industry in the northeast, there are still areas in the Appchian Basin that haven''t been fully explored. And even if there are some wells already in operation, we can still acquire morend and increase our production there."

    Poul nodded thoughtfully, "I see, so should we act quick and buy thend?"

    "Absolutely," Jonathan replied. "We shouldn''t waste any time if we want to get ahead of ourpetitors. I suggest we start by sending out ournd scouts to the areas we''ve identified and see if there are any opportunities to acquirend with oil deposits. Then we can make our move and purchase thend before anyone else does."

    Poul nodded, "That sounds like a solid n. I''ll make sure to get the ball rolling on that."

    As the elevator dinged to a stop, they stepped out onto the eighth floor and walked towards their respective bedroom, where they''ll take their rest. They have been awake for thest eighteen hours and their body could barely keep up with the demands of their busy schedule. They knew they needed to rest before the start of another busy day.

    As they entered their respective rooms, they jumped quickly onto the bed and fell into a deep slumber. The exhaustion from their long day caught up to them quickly and they were asleep before their heads even hit the pillows.

    However, their rest was short-lived as the sound of a knock on Poul''s bedroom door jolted him awake. He groggily sat up in bed, rubbing his eyes. When he looked at the clock, he saw that it was only eight in the morning.

    "Who is it?" Poul said.

    Amelia''s voice came from the other side of the door, "Poul, it''s me. Sorry to wake you up, but it is time for work."

    "Do we have any matters that require my presence for the next two hours?" Poul asked.

    "Not ording to your schedule sir, but you have a lot of paperwork to sift through."<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "Well, I''ll take care of thatter," Poul replied. "I''m quite sleepy at the moment and would like to sleep more. How about Jonathan? Is he awake?"

    "Not yet, he gave me the same reason as you," Amelia said.

    Poul sighed, "Alright, let him rest for a bit longer then. We''ll start the day a littleter than usual."

    "Understood, sir," Amelia said. "I''ll let the rest of the team know."

    Poul settled back into his bed, closing his eyes and hoping to get a few more hours of sleep. But his mind was too active to let him doze off. He couldn''t stop thinking about the potential oil deposits in the Appchian Basin and the Powder River Basin.

    If they could secure thosends, it could mean a huge boost to theirpany''s production and profits. But he knew it wouldn''t be easy. They would have to act fast and outmaneuver theirpetitors.

    Poul finally got out of bed, feeling slightly more rested. He quickly got ready for the day and headed to the office, ready to tackle the challenges thaty ahead.

    "Here is your breakfast Poul," Amelia set a te down on Poul''s desk. It''s a continental breakfast, with an assortment of pastries, fruits, and yogurt.

    "Thank you, Amelia," Poul said, grabbing a croissant from the te. He took a sip of his coffee and started to sift through his mails and paperwork, trying to prioritize the most urgent matters.

    Ten minutester, he called Amelia back to his office.

    "What is it, Poul?" Amelia asked politely.

    "Amelia, I have another task for you. We are looking to expand our enterprise in oil production and I want you to start searching for potentialnd acquisitions in the Appchian Mountain and the Powder River Basin. Hire somend scouts and oil prospectors to get the job done."

    Amelia nodded, "I understand, sir. I''ll get started right away. Do you have any specific criteria for thend we should be looking for?"

    Poul thought for a moment before answering, "Yes, I want you to focus onnd that has not been fully explored yet. Look for areas where there are signs of oil deposits but no one has started drilling yet. We need to be the first ones to get there."

    "Understood, sir," Amelia said, taking notes. "And how soon do you want to acquire thend?"

    "As soon as possible," Poul replied. "I don''t want Rockefeller to be chiming into thend we just found oil in, and iming it as his¡­" Poul paused and grabbed a map of the United States of Avalonia. "I suggest that you start looking here, at The Clinton Sands formation in western New York and Pennsylvania, The ck River Valley in northern Ohio, The Big Injun Sandstone formation in West Virginia and western Pennsylvania, and The Berea Sandstone formation in eastern Kentucky and southern Ohio."

    "Understood, sir," Amelia said, jotting down notes on a pad of paper. "Would that be all?"

    "Yes," Poul confirmed.

 Chapter 165 Interesting Development

    February 1, 886, in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania. The two industrialist duo, Poul Nielsen and Jonathan Axelsen were engrossed in their work at the Axelsen & Nielsen Arms Manufacturing Company. They were juggling multiple projects, including air brakes, AN-M1 rifles, signaling equipment, and the development of the alternating current system. Jonathan in the meantime was in New York, settling matters there as they prepared toy the foundation for the metro station. However, there was a slight drawback in one of their enterprises that was causing concern.

    Amelia interrupted Poul''s work by handing him thetest report about the war in Europe. Poul set aside the files that he was working on and took the newspaper. After unfolding it, he read the headline.

    "The war in Europe is over. For almost three years, a war between the allied forces, Great Britain, the Republic of France, the Ottoman Empire, and the Kingdom of Sardinia against the Russian Empire hase to an end. Both parties have signed an armistice, signaling an end to the war."

    Poul scowled after reading the newspaper. "What the¡­ it''s quite sooner than I anticipated."

    Amelia, who just heard him utter those words, frowned. "Did you expect the war tost longer?"

    "That was what I was hoping for, to be honest," Poul replied. "You see, I was expecting the war wouldst for a year or two, given the fact that the participating countries are fighting for prestige and dignity. But¡­to think the war would end over¡­"

    Curious about the reason behind the abrupt end of the war, Poul checked the newspaper again. He found out that the war ended because both sides were losing thousands of men, the economy of the participating countries was crumbling, and there were protests in the homnd demanding that they end the war. It was a disappointing end to a war that he thought wouldst longer.

    Poul looked at Amelia and said, "The Crimean War started because of a disagreement between Russia and the Ottoman Empire over the rights of Christian minorities in the Holy Land. It''s ironic that the war ended without either side achieving their objectives."

    "Yeah, it''s a bit more anticlimactic than we anticipated," Amelia agreed, looking at Poul sympathetically. "But maybe this will be a chance for us to shift our focus and work on other projects."

    "No, I don''t think so," Poul shook his head in denial. "Now that the war ended, the orders from the allied forces and the Russian Empire would be canceled. That''s a million-dor loss if they cancel the deal outright. Speaking of which, did we receive any calls or letters proving that the orders have been canceled?"

    "Not that I am aware of but if they call, I''ll do my best to let them keep the deal by giving them some perks."

    "Perks?" Poul tilted his head to the side. "How?"

    "Well, for starters, we can give them some discounts," Amelia suggested. "But if they didn''t ept that, we could offer them some upgrades to their orders or even develop new products to entice them to continue doing business with us. That is if you have any upgrades or innovations that you did to the AN-M1 rifles?"

    Poul leaned forward to his desk and propped up his chin as he thought about Amelia''s suggestion. He and Jonathan had been working on some improvements to the AN-M1 rifles, specifically on its sights, materials, operation, and trigger mechanism but they were still in the testing phase.

    Not only that, their arms manufacturing enterprises are exploring new designs that they want to adopt, which is basically based on the future. So, he could say to Amelia that they would be improvements but they won''t be ready. But he didn''t want to voice it out so he shook his head.

    "So you are saying there are no upgrades?" Amelia raised a brow as she asked.

    "Our rifles are the most advanced weapon in the world currently, and no arms manufacturer, despite its inception in thest three years, has managed to make their own design. Others tried but failed and even if there were no wars, the orders for it just kept stacking. Besides, I''m overthinking this. Those countries wouldn''t probably cancel their orders simply because the war ended. Sure they can cut their orders down but to cancel them all out? That would be stupid, given the fact that the arm manufacturingpanies in their countries couldn''t create a semi-automatic rifle. So they''ll buy it for the purpose of reverse engineering it."

    "You sound so confident, Poul," Amelia sighed. "I wonder if you can keep that smirk on your face if they manage to reverse-engineer your technology."

    Poul scoffed. "They can try, but by the time they are finished reverse engineering it, we would have another product that would be more advanced than the semi-automatic rifle, for example, an automatic rifle that a soldier can carry."

    Amelia chuckled. "Always thinking ahead, aren''t you?"

    Poul grinned. "Well, that''s what makes us sessful, right?"

    Just as Poul said that they heard a gentle knock on his office door. Beatrice, the receptionist from the ground floor, entered with a concerned look on her face.

    "Excuse me, Mr. Nielsen. There''s a prospector here to see you," she said hesitantly.

    Amelia raised an eyebrow. "Couldn''t you just use the telephone and inform us about this? Why do you have to go through the trouble of getting up here?"

    "Well, I did, Ms. Weiss but you see, there must have been some sort of technical issues with the telephone. I couldn''t contact your office or Mr. Nielsen."

    "Is that so?" Poul''s brows narrowed. "That''s bad, I''ll have someone to go check for it. In the meantime, you can call them up here, Ms. Summers,"

    Beatrice nodded and turned to leave the room. While waiting for her toe up, Poul looked up at Amelia.

    "Prospectors? Surely it must be the guys you hired to locate oil fields in Texas, Wyoming, and in the other ces I told you to look."

    Amelia nodded. "Yes, that''s right. They were supposed to give us an update next week, but it seems like they wanted to discuss something with us earlier."

    Poul leaned back on his chair and crossed his arms. "Well, let''s hear what they have to say then."<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    A few minutester, Beatrice entered the room again with two men in tow. They were dressed in ragged clothing, with boots and hats on their heads. They looked like they had juste back from a long day''s work.

    "Mr. Nielsen, this is Mr. Williams and Mr. Thompson," Beatrice introduced the two men.

    "Nice to meet you," Poul greeted them with a smile.

    The two men nodded in return and took a seat in front of Poul''s desk.

    "So, what brings you here today, gentleman?" Poul asked.

    Mr. Williams cleared his throat. "Well, sir, we wanted to discuss something important with you regarding the oil fields we''ve been surveying."

    Poul raised an eyebrow. "Go on."

    "We''ve found something," Thompson said, pulling out a map from his bag.

    He continued. "We''ve located several promising sites in Texas and Wyoming, as you instructed us to search there. We also found some other potential sites in North Dakota and Montana."

    Poul nodded thoughtfully. "And what''s the estimated yield?"

    "We estimate that the fields could produce up to 20,000 barrels a day," the prospector said confidently.

    "Hoh? How did you estimate that? I mean, what methods did the two of you use?"

    Mr. Williams and Mr. Thompson exchanged a nce before turning back to Poul.

    "We''ve been using abination of methods, sir," Williams exined. "First, we looked for signs of oil seeping up from the ground. Then, we surveyed the surrounding terrain for geological formations that are known to trap oil. We also took measurements of the underground formations using a variety of instruments, including a gravity meter, a maometer, and a seismograph."

    Thompson chimed in. "Based on our findings, we''ve made estimates of the volume of oil present in the fields and the likely rate of production."

    Poul nodded, impressed. "Interesting. How urate are your estimates?"

    Williams shrugged. "It''s hard to say for sure, sir. We''re dealing with a lot of unknown variables here, so there''s always some degree of uncertainty. But based on our experience and the data we''ve gathered, we''re confident that our estimates are at least in the right ballpark."

    With that answered, Amelia smirked. "You see, Mr. Nielsen. I have never been wrong when choosing people for the job."

    "Yeah, I''m amazed by your abilities in selecting people for the job. Now that aside, in the Appchian Basin, did the two of you find a potential site there that is not under the control of Rockefeller or other entities?"

    Mr. Williams and Mr. Thompson exchanged a nce before turning back to Poul.

    "We did find a potential site in the Appchian Basin, sir," Thompson said. "It''s not currently under the control of Rockefeller or any other major entity."

    Poul leaned forward in his chair, interested. "Tell me more about it."

    "Well, sir, it''s located in southern Pennsylvania, near the town of Bradford," Williams said, unfolding a map on Poul''s desk. "The site is situated on the Allegheny teau, which is known to contain oil deposits. We''ve also found evidence of oil seepage and other geological indicators that suggest the presence of a significant oil reservoir."

    Thompson nodded in agreement. "Based on our estimates, we believe that the site could produce up to 5,000 barrels a day, possibly more with further exploration and development."

    Poul rubbed his chin, thinking. "And you''re sure it''s not already imed by anyone?"

    "We''ve checked the records, sir," Williams said. "As far as we can tell, thend is currently owned by a small group of farmers and hasn''t been leased to any oilpanies yet."

    Amelia grinned. "That''s good news. We should act on this opportunity quickly."

    Poul nodded, looking pleased. "Agreed. I''ll have my legal team look into acquiring thend and securing the necessary drilling permits."

    With that, Poul and Amelia get to work.

 Chapter 166 The Development Of The Metro Station In New York

    Meanwhile, as Poul Nielsen was having his luck on finding oil, Jonathan was in New York, supervising the construction of the metro station in New York.

    He was in the makeshift tent, just beside the streets whose underneath are being bored by a tunnel boring machine. From his seat, he can feel the table he was working on rattling lightly from the vibrations produced by the machine.

    The tunnel boring machine can drill a tunnel 30 meters per day, and they started drillingst month, making it 930 meters of tunnel already drilled.

    Jonathan had been working on this project for almost three months now, and he was proud of the progress they had made so far. The metro station was going to be one of the biggest and most modern in the city, and Jonathan had been appointed as the chief supervisor of the project since he was the one who nned it all. Under him was a variety

    He looked at his watch and realized it was almost lunchtime. He decided to take a break and go outside to get some fresh air. As he stepped out of the tent, he saw a group of reporters from the New York Times and the Globe waiting for him.

    "Mr. Axelsen Mr. Axelsen! A moment of your time," one of the reporters called out.

    Jonathan approached the reporters, recognizing some of them had already visited theirpany headquarters in Pittsburgh for interviews.

    "Hello, how can I help you?" Jonathan asked, trying to keep his tone professional.

    "Some of the citizens were concerned about the constant rumbling of the earth beneath, can you exin what is happening? For the peace of mind of the residents living in New York?" the journalist said, his eyes fixed on him.

    "The rumbling that the citizens of New York living nearby the construction site experienced is due to the tunnel boring machine boring through the earth and creating a tunnel for the metro station. The machine is drilling through the rock, and as it moves forward, the soil and rock are removed by the machine''s cutting head, which creates a void. The void is then filled with grout, which supports the surrounding rock and soil. This process causes some vibrations, which can be felt by the residents nearby. However, we have taken measures to minimize the impact, such as hiring workers to manually monitor the ground vibrations and adjusting the machine''s speed and direction ordingly. We also work closely with the local authorities to ensure the safety and well-being of the residents living in the area, as it is our duty to take care of themunity in which we operate."

    "Okay, so there is nothing to be concerned about?"

    Jonathan smiled reassuringly at the journalist. "As long as we continue to monitor the vibrations and take appropriate measures, there is no need for concern. We understand that this construction project may cause some inconvenience, but we aremitted to minimizing its impact on the residents and ensuring the safety of everyone involved."

    The journalists nodded, scribbling down notes as Jonathan spoke. "Can you tell us more about the project and its timeline?"

    "Of course," Jonathan replied. "The construction of this metro station is a part of the city''s n to modernize its transportation system. Oncepleted, this station will be one of the busiest and most modern in the city, transporting hundreds of thousands of people within Manhattan. We expect to finish the drilling process in a few months and then move on to the next phase of the construction."

    "Is that so, thank you, Mr. Axelsen," the journalist said before leaving the site. As he watched them leave, one of the workers approached him.

    "Mr. Axelsen," he called and Jonathan turned to face him.

    "What is it?"

    "Sir, a councilor from the New York Board of Transportation wishes to speak with you regarding the construction progress," the worker said.

    "Alright, I''ll be there in a minute," Jonathan replied before turning back to the tent to grab his coat.

    Jonathan made his way to the meeting spot where the councilor was waiting for him. The councilor, a middle-aged man with a stern expression, looked up as Jonathan approached.

    "Mr. Axelsen, good to see you," the councilor said, extending his hand for a handshake.

    "Likewise, Councilor. How can I help you?" Jonathan replied, shaking the councilor''s hand.

    "I''m here to discuss the progress of the construction and any issues or concerns that might havee up," the councilor said, gesturing for Jonathan to follow him.

    As they walked towards the construction site, the councilor asked Jonathan several questions about the project.

    "So, how many kilometers has your team drilled as of now?"

    "930 meters, councilor, there''s 13,760 meters left to drill," Jonathan replied.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "That is quite fast," the councilor looked at him with a stunned expression.

    "Well, what did I tell you in the proposal, we have the technology to drill the earth faster than what was currently avable " Jonathan replied with a hint of pride in his voice.

    The councilor nodded thoughtfully. "Yes, I remember that. And how is the budget holding up? Are we staying within our means?"

    "Yes, we are. We''ve taken steps to ensure that we stay within the budget while still maintaining a high level of quality and safety. We have a team of financial experts monitoring our spending and making sure that we''re not overspending in any area. However, seeing the prospect of the project, I advise that we move forward to the n of public financing, like issuing public stock offerings," Jonathan suggested. "It would be a way to raise additional funds for the project and also give the public an opportunity to invest in the future of New York''s transportation system."

    "But I thought we were within budget?"

    "Yes, we are, but we also want to ensure that we have enough funds to cover any unexpected costs that may arise during the construction process, especially in this huge kind of construction. If a problem urs and we don''t have a budget, there''s a great chance that the project will be dyed. And I don''t want it happening." Jonathan exined.

    "That''s a good point, Mr. Axelsen. I will bring this up with the board and see what they think. Thank you for your suggestion."

    They reached the end of the tunnel where the workers were busy with the tunnel boring machine. It was rotating, gnawing its way through the rock with an ear-piercing screech. Jonathan and the councilor stood there for a moment, watching the machine in action.

    The councilor stood there and watched the process. Steel reinforcements were being installed on the walls to support the weight of the tunnel. The workers were also spraying fast-drying cement on the top and sides of the tunnel walls to prevent any potential copse.

    "I have never seen such a construction process such as this," the councilor mumbled under his breath.

    "Well, councilor, we should leave the men at it. Although we have ced security measures to prevent unwanted idents, idents can still happen, so let''s leave."

    "Very well," the councilor said, and they turned to leave the construction site.

    As they walked back towards the entrance, the councilor turned to Jonathan and said.

    "After looking around the construction site, I''d say that the tax paid by the people of New York has never been wasted. We are looking forward to itspletion and hope that it will be a significant change to the city."

    Jonathan bowed his head politely and smiled. "Rest assured, councilor, we will do everything in our power to ensure that this project ispleted on time, within budget, and to the highest standards of quality and safety."

    The councilor nodded in agreement. "I have no doubt about that, Mr. Axelsen. Your team has shown great dedication and expertise in this project so far, and I am confident that you will continue to do so until the end."

    And after that, the councilor left the construction site, prompting Jonathan to return back to his office.

    At his office, he sat on his chair and reclined for a moment, taking a deep breath to clear his head.

    During the construction stage of the metro station, Jonathan will stay for about a year or two in New York to oversee its development. That means, he would seldom return to Pittsburgh and do his job as the Chief Operations Officer of the Axelsen & Nielsen Companies.

    Of course, he would also oversee the construction projects for the power nts in Ohio and Pennsylvania but that''s all about it.

    "I should have men working for this, not me," Jonathan uttered to himself. For once in his life, he wanted to escape the responsibility of being in a higher position and enjoy life.

    In his past life, he has been involved in a lot of projects and although all of it generated a lot of money, there was never an opportunity to use it for his rxation. But once he was done with all of the grand projects, there was no doubt that there''ll be someone who will take over for him.

    For Jonathan, time is the most important thing because no one can buy time despite being a millionaire. So he intended to make the most of his second life in a decade.

    Jonathan sighed. "That''s still long."

 Chapter 167 Visiting A Small Enterprise

    While Jonathan was busy with his affairs in New York, Amelia, and Poul were hard at work on important tasks of their own. Amelia was meticulously preparing the necessary documents for the acquisition ofnds in the Appchian Basin, Texas, and Wyoming, while Poul was overseeing the manufacturing of an electric lotive for the local metro station.

    Meanwhile, inside the bustling Avonside Engine Factory, workers donned their coveralls and diligently went about their duties. The sounds of nking metal and hissing steam filled the air as the skilledborers expertly crafted intricate machinery. The factory floor was a symphony of motion, with workers hustling back and forth, delivering parts and pieces to their respective stations.

    There were people welding, hammering, and drilling, and each worker was lost in their own world of precise movements and focused attention. The machines they were building were works of art, their gleaming surfaces and intricate designs reflecting the care and skill that had gone into their creation. Poul oversaw it all with a watchful eye, asionally pausing to offer guidance or encouragement to the workers.

    "So, what do you think, Mr. Nielsen? Does it meet your expectations?" Chapman asked with a grin on his face.

    Poul stroked his chin as he nced over at the pre-fabricated parts of the electric lotive being hoisted by a crane and fitted onto the chassis.

    "It''s looking good, Chapman. Keep up the good work," Poul replied, a smile forming on his lips. "Are we within schedule? You know, my partner in New York said that they already drilled one thousand meters."

    "ording to the progress we have made so far, I can say with full confidence that we are on schedule," Chapman replied and continued. "To think that they have already drilled a one thousand meters long tunnel is impressive."

    "I concur," Poul said, nodding thoughtfully. "My partner said that he got interviewed for it due to the constant rumbling of the ground," he chuckled.

    "Well, as long as we supply you with aluminum and other materials that we need for the lotive, we will make sure to meet our deadlines," Chapman said.

    Poul smiled. "I will leave the rest to you, Mr. Chapman. I will return in six months. Have the lotive ready by that time for the test."

    "Understood, Mr. Nielsen. I will notify you as soon as we finish the first prototype," Chapman said with a confident nod.

    Poul nodded in return before turning to leave the factory floor. As he stepped outside, he took a deep breath of fresh air, feeling the sun on his face. He hopped onto his carriage and signaled the coachman to move forward.

    Poul''s carriage made its way through the busy streets of the city, dodging pedestrians and other carriages along the way. His next destination would be the aluminum smelter just 50 kilometers away from the Engine Avonside Factory.

    For his itinerary today, Poul was to visit the factories that produce raw materials for his major enterprises. The air brakes, the arms manufacturing, the signaling equipment, andstly the electricpany. The aluminum smelter was one of the most important stops on his list, as the lightweight metal was a crucialponent in the electric lotive being built at the Avonside Engine Factory.

    Two hourster.

    As the carriage approached the smelter, Poul could see plumes of smoke rising from the towering chimneys. The smell of burning coal filled the air, and the ng of metal echoed across the yard. Poul stepped out of the carriage and was greeted by the factory manager.

    "Mr. Nielsen! A pleasure to meet you, my name is Jensen and I am the one responsible for overseeing the production of aluminum," the manager greeted him with a polite bow.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "Good day to you too, Mr. Jensen," Poul replied with a smile.

    "Shall I give you a tour of the facility, Mr. Nielsen?" Jensen offered.

    "Yes, please. I''d like to see if you are following the production process by the book," Poul said.

    Jensen nodded and led Poul through the bustling factory. They walked past huge vats of molten metal, where workers in protective suits carefully poured the liquid metal into molds.

    "Here, Mr. Nielsen is where we melt the aluminum," Jensen exined, gesturing to the vats. "We heat it to over 1,200 degrees Celsius before pouring it into the molds."

    Poul watched in awe as the workers expertly handled the molten metal, their movements swift and precise. He could feel the intense heat emanating from the vats like a wall hitting him in the face.

    As they continued the tour, Poul saw the workers shaping the aluminum into various forms, including sheets, rods, and pipes.

    He observed the different stages of the production process and they seemed to be following everything he wrote in the manual.

    The production of aluminum, even in the modern world, used the Heroult Process, but in thete neenth century, the method was not as efficient as in the modern world due to its shorings, specifically in the technology being used at the time.

    Poul observed that the main problem with the Heroult Process was the inefficiency of the electric arc furnace. The furnace consumed a lot of energy, and a lot of heat was lost through the furnace walls and the g. Poul realized that if he could improve the design of the furnace and the electrodes, he could reduce energy consumption and increase the efficiency of the process.

    So he redesigned the furnace, making it more efficient and reducing heat loss. He used a refractory material to line the walls of the furnace and insted it to prevent heat loss. He also modified the shape of the furnace to reduce the surface area, which helped to retain heat.

    Next, Poul changed the electrodes. He noticed that the electrodes used in the Heroult Process were made of carbon, which was inefficient and led to a lot of waste. Poul reced the carbon electrodes with graphite electrodes, which were more efficient and had a longer lifespan. He also developed a new electrode design that increased the contact area between the electrodes and the metal, which improved the efficiency of the melting process.

    His improvements to the Heroult Process were significant and resulted in a substantial reduction in energy consumption and waste, something that other aluminum smelters are struggling to solve. As a result, the production process became more efficient and cost-effective. And in the nexting years, Poul believes that his aluminum smelterpany will be the major producer of aluminum.

    But all of thosee with a major cost, a million-dor cost. Aluminum smelting is not popr in the current era as it was expensive to produce and there was no efficient way to produce it as efficiently as his smeltingpany. Also, there were no obvious applications for it as the people in the era hadn''t realized their full potential yet.

    Despite that, he remained confident, knowing that the future would soon be dominated by aluminum, especially in the technology that he is going to introduce next.

 Chapter 168 Threatening Moves

    "I''m deeply satisfied that all that I have seen in this factory were all within my expectation, good work to you, Mr. Jensen," Poul praised as Jensen escorted him out of the factory floor.

    "It is great pleasure that we were able to delight you with our work, Mr. Nielsen. Should I expect you to return anytime soon? You know, to make this smelter an officialpany of yours?" Jensen asked.

    "Once my partner returns to Pittsburgh, we will make that decision, for the meantime, it will stay as a steelpany under its former name."

    That''s right, the aluminum smelter was once a steel manufacturingpany, but it suffered under thepetition primarily from Carnegie, the biggest steel magnate of the country and the era. Cargenie was known for his ruthless business tactics, including undercutting hispetitors'' prices, buying out smaller steelpanies, and driving them out of business. He also had a reputation for treating his workers poorly, paying them low wages and subjecting them to long working hours in dangerous conditions.

    Thispany was one of the victims and was on the brink of bankruptcy until Poul came along with his idea of smelting aluminum. Where he renovated the factory for equipment infrastructures suitable for smelting aluminum.

    But Poul knew that aluminum wouldn''t be able topete with steel, as steel is still the mostmonly used metal in construction and manufacturing, and still would be in the future. So there''s no doubt that Poul and Jonathan would face Carnegie in the field of steel manufacturing if they started a steel business.

    Poul looked at Mr. Jensen''s face and saw a mncholic expression etched on it. It must have hurt his heart that thepany he built was crushed utterly in thepetition to see it belonging to someone else. Well, his feelings are understandable and so Poul decided to extend a gesture of goodwill to Mr. Jensen, who had been kind enough to assist him throughout the renovation process.

    "Mr. Jensen, I would like to offer you a position in the newpany we n to establish. Your expertise in the steel industry would be invaluable to us, and I believe we could benefit greatly from your knowledge and experience," Poul said.

    Mr. Jensen was surprised by Poul''s offer, but he couldn''t help feeling a glimmer of hope. The steel industry was his passion, and he dedicated his life to it. To be given the chance to work in it again would be a dreame true.

    "Thank you, Mr. Nielsen. That is a generous offer, and I appreciate it. I would be honored to work with you and your partner," he replied and continued. "Though may I ask what would be the name of thepany?"

    "Well, the same format we always do in our enterprise, me and my partner''s surnames and the industry. So it will be Axelsen and Nielsen Aluminum Manufacturing Company, but as it grows and expands to other metals, like steel, we will rename thepany name."

    Mr. Jensen nodded in agreement, feeling a sense of excitement at the prospect of working for apany with such potential for growth and sess. He could already envision himself back in the steel industry, using his knowledge and experience to help thepanypete with the likes of Carnegie.

    "So you are going up against the steel magnate. I assume you have some ns on how you willpete with him?"

    Poul paused from his walk and faced Jensen. "Innovation triumphs over thepetition, Mr. Jensen. We will focus on developing new technologies and processes to make our products more efficient and cost-effective. We will also prioritize the safety and well-being of our workers, unlike some of ourpetitors. We believe that if we can offer superior products and working conditions, we can gain a significant advantage in the market andpete with even the biggest yers."

    Mr. Jensen smiled, feeling inspired by Poul''s words. He knew that with Poul''s vision and leadership, the newpany had a bright future ahead of it.

    As they walked out of the factory, Poul turned to Mr. Jensen and said, "I''ll be in touch, Mr. Jensen."

    "And I''ll endeavor to make sure the factory is ready for your return, Mr. Nielsen," Mr. Jensen replied with a smile.

    Poul nodded in appreciation before turning to head back to the carriage waiting for him.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    ***

    Meanwhile, in New York, 26th street Broadway stood an office building of the Standard Oil Company

    The door to one of the top-floor offices opened, and a man stepped out. He was tall, with amanding presence that demanded attention. He wore a dark suit, and his perfectly slicked-back hair glistened in the light. His eyes were cold and calcting, and his mouth was set in a thin, tight line. It was John D. Rockefeller, the founder, and owner of the Standard Oil Company.

    Rockefeller had be a prominent figure in the oil industry with his sharp business skills and aggressive strategies. He had a history of acquiring smaller oilpanies and using his influence to dominate the market. His reputation as a calcting and profit-driven businessman preceded him, and his actions were often criticized for theirck of consideration for the well-being of his workers.

    As he walked down the hall, his eyes scanned the offices and the workers at their desks. He seemed to take pleasure in the power he held over them, knowing that they were all dependent on him for their livelihoods.

    Rockefeller''s appearance struck fear into the hearts of those who crossed his path. He was a viin in the eyes of many, a man who had built his fortune on the backs of others. But to him, it was simply business as usual. He had no qualms about using whatever means necessary to achieve his goals, and he would stop at nothing to maintain his position as the king of the oil industry.

    Arriving in the main lobby, his assistant approached him and handed him the newspaper.

    Rockefeller grabbed the newspaper and unfolded it to read the contents.

    "Hmm¡­so this metro station is really being built by those young industrialists huh?" Rockefeller muttered under his breath.

    "Not only that Mr. Rockefeller," his assistant said. "It seems like the industrialist duo is expanding their enterprise in the oil industry."

    "Hoh? What makes you say that?" Rockefeller raised a brow.

    "Well, they are looking into buying somends in the Appchian Basin, Texas, and in Wyoming. Thosends are situated in areas rich in oil reserves, and you probably knew what it meant for us."

    Rockefeller''s expression darkened at the news. He had always been wary ofpetition, and the thought of these young upstarts encroaching on his territory made him uneasy.

    "Looks like we are going to pay him a visit? Mr. Axelsen is in New York, right?"

    "That''s right, Mr. Rockefeller, I believe he is the supervisor of the metro station project."

    "Good, set up a meeting with him."

 Chapter 169 Invitation

    The night had descended upon New York, and the city was alive with vibrant lights that illuminated the bustling streets and storefronts. Laughter spilled out of nearby cafes, and the sound of street performers filled the air with music.

    The scent of freshly baked pretzels mixed with the cool evening breeze, and the neon lights flickered overhead, casting a rainbow of colors onto the pavement. Amidst the hustle and bustle, a man in a dark suit strode purposefully down the street, heading towards Delmonico''s for a dinner appointment with Caroline.

    Jonathan arrived at Delmonico''s, a high-end restaurant for the city''s wealthiest patrons. The exterior was adorned with ornate sculptures and intricate ironwork, and the towering entrance was nked by doormen in crisp ck uniforms.

    As he stepped inside, the opulence of the restaurant took his breath away. The walls were adorned with gilded mirrors and sparkling chandeliers that cast a warm glow over the plush velvet seats and polished marble floors. The air was thick with the aroma of rich spices and the clinking of silverware on porcin tes.

    Jonathan was greeted by a maitre d'' in a sharply tailored suit.

    "Good evening, sir. Wee to Delmonico''s," said the maitre d'', his voice smooth as silk. "Do you have a reservation?"

    "Yes, under Axelsen," replied Jonathan, smiling.

    "Ah, yes, Mr. Axelsen. Right this way, please," said the maitre d'', gesturing towards the elegant dining room.

    Jonathan followed the maitre d'' through the opulent dining room, As they approached the table, Jonathan''s heart quickened when he saw Caroline sitting there. She was dressed in a stunning ck gown that showed off her delicate figure, with a matching feathered hat perched atop her upswept hair. Her expression was neutral, giving no hint of her thoughts or feelings. Despite this, Jonathan still felt a surge of admiration for her beauty.

    The maitre d'' pulled out a chair for him and said, "Please make yourselffortable sir. If you are ready to order, please do not hesitate to call me."

    "Thank you," Jonathan said before sitting down and gazing at Caroline for a moment, her expression still remained impassive, making him frown slightly.

    "Is there something wrong?" Jonathan asked.

    Caroline shook her head. "No, it''s just that I noticed you first."

    "What do you mean?" Jonathan tilted his head to the side.

    "Well, I would want you to notice me first and then embrace me from behind and ce a kiss on my cheek," Caroline smiled coyly.

    Jonathan chuckled, feeling a sense of relief wash over him. "Ah, I thought it was something bad. How silly of you."

    Caroline chuckled in response, feeling embarrassed that she brought that up.

    "Well, I can still do it, you know?" Jonathan said, grinning mischievously. He got up from his seat and walked around the table, pulling Caroline''s chair back slightly. He leaned in and wrapped his arms around her from behind, pressing a soft kiss to her cheek.

    Caroline closed her eyes and leaned into his embrace, savoring the warmth of his body against hers. For a moment, the world outside of Delmonico''s faded away, leaving only the two of them in their own private bubble of happiness.

    "Ehem¡­"

    A man coughed in front of them, snapping the two out of their embrace. They turned to see a man standing there wearing avish suit.

    "Who might you be?" Jonathan asked as he stood straight and faced the man who just disturbed their moment.

    "I''m Mr. Rockefeller''s assistant, and I came here to extend an invitation."

    Jonathan raised an eyebrow, intrigued by the mention of Mr. Rockefeller.

    "An invitation? What kind of invitation?"

    The man cleared his throat and handed Jonathan a small envelope.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "Mr. Rockefeller would like to invite you and yourdy to his private party tomorrow evening. It''s an exclusive event, and he would be honored if you could attend."

    Jonathan took the envelope and opened it, finding an ornate invitation with gold lettering. He read it over and then looked back up at the man.

    "What does an oil magnate like Mr. Rockefeller want with me and Caroline?" Jonathan asked.

    The man smiled thinly. "I''m not at liberty to say, Mr. Axelsen. But I can assure you, it will be a simple business discussion."

    "Business discussion?" Jonathan repeated.

    "I think we shoulde, Jonathan," Caroline said, looking up at him. "It''s Mr. Rockefeller, who knows what kind of opportunity awaits us at his doorsteps?"

    Jonathan nodded, considering the invitation. He had heard of John D. Rockefeller before and knew he was one of the wealthiest men in Avalonia, making a connection with him would be worth it for theirpany.

    "All right, we''lle," Jonathan said, tucking the invitation into his jacket pocket.

    The man nodded. "Very good, Mr. Axelsen. The party begins at 8 pm sharp, and the dress code is formal. I will send a carriage to pick you up tomorrow evening."

    With that, the man left, leaving Jonathan and Caroline alone once again. They exchanged a nce, both feeling a mix of excitement and uncertainty at the prospect of meeting such a powerful figure.

    "Mr. Rockefeller approached us personally, I wonder what his purpose is," Caroline said.

    "Well, it is certain that we have got his attention. Although I can''t still guess what he wanted to discuss."

    "For sure, we are going to find that out tomorrow," Jonathan said. "In the meantime, we should have our dinner first," Jonathan said and took the menu. And from there, they selected their orders and started to eat their food.

    Three hourster, in the Fifth Avenue Hotel. Jonathan grabbed the telephone and dialed a number.

    "There''s only one person in this world that would call this officete at night, and I am sure it is you, Jonathan." Poul''s words echoed from the other end of the line.

    Jonathan chuckled. "You know me too well, Poul. How are things at the office?"

    "Everything is running smoothly. How about your dinner with Caroline? Did you enjoy it?"

    "Very much so. We got invited to a party tomorrow evening, and you won''t believe who the host is."

    "Who?"

    "John D. Rockefeller."

    Poul let out a low whistle. "Now that''s quite an invitation. What do you think he wants?"

    "That''s what we''re wondering. His assistant said it was a business discussion, but he wouldn''t give us any more details."

    "I see," Poul clicked his tongue. "Now speaking of Rockefeller, I think I might have a general idea about what your discussion is going to be."

    "What is it?" Jonathan asked.

 Chapter 170 The Intentions

    Poul briefed Jonathan about his decision of acquiringnds in Texas, Wyoming, and the Appchian Basin. As soon as he finished briefing, Jonathan eximed softly.

    "So that was it huh? He is threatened because he sees that acquiringnds over those regions that we are going topete against him."

    "That''s the only logical exnation I cane up with," Poul concurred. "Though I must say, how the hell did he learn about the acquisition? Was there some sort of a leak?"

    "Who knows, maybe Rockefeller has some spies or prospectors in the area reporting under him. He is an oil magnate, and they have been on a constant lookout for the regions that have oil," Jonathan said.

    "It is possible, if I''m an oil magnate in thete neenth century with no modern instruments to find oil, I would hire hundreds of men to scour the earth to look for that precious ck gold," Poul said. "Well, that''s just about it. I''m getting sleepy. Do inform me about the contents of the meeting."

    "You will," Jonathan said before hanging up the phone.

    A day passed and the time was seven thirty in the evening. Jonathan and Caroline stepped down from the carriage that Mr. Rockefeller had sent for them. They were both dressed in their finest attire, with Jonathan wearing his tailored suit and Caroline in her stunning red gown. The carriage stopped in front of a grand mansion, and a doorman greeted them, opening the door and weing them inside.

    The party was already in full swing, with dozens of guests mingling and chatting with each other. Jonathan and Caroline were guided by a butler to the main ballroom, where they saw Mr. Rockefeller standing by the firece, chatting with some other guests. When he noticed them, he excused himself and made his way over to them.

    "Wee, Mr. Axelsen and Ms. Dupont. Thank you foring," he said, extending a hand to each of them.

    "It''s an honor to be here, Mr. Rockefeller," Jonathan replied, shaking his hand.

    The three of them sat down on a nearby sofa, and Mr. Rockefeller gestured for a waiter to bring them some wine. After a few sips, Mr. Rockefeller cleared his throat and began to speak.

    "I''m sure you''re both wondering why I invited you here tonight," he said, looking at them intently.

    "We are," Caroline replied, smiling politely.

    "Well, I''ll cut right to the chase. I received information where I was told that yourpany is buyingnds in Texas, Wyoming, and the Appchian basin. Now, I don''t think you are buying them for no reason because based on the information we have on thosends, they are situated over oil-rich fields," Rockefeller exined.

    "Yeah, my partner informed me about the acquisition of thends. But I fail to understand why this concerns you," Jonathan sipped his wine, allowing his words to sink into Rockefeller.

    Rockefeller leaned back on the sofa, looking thoughtful. ""As you may already know, mypany, Standard Oil, has been dominating the oil industry for quite some time now. And we have been looking for oil fields around those regions. So, buying thosends means that you already found oil there. Now that concerns me. Because it means you and your partner are going to start an oil miningpany, which will make you mypetitor."

    "Mr. Rockefeller, you must be overthinking it. Why are you assuming that because we bought thosends means we are going to start an oil miningpany?" Jonathan challenged.

    "That''s a well-thought question Mr. Axelsen but I got some good ones for you. Why are you buying thosends? Don''t tell me it''s not about oil."

    "Why do you care?" Jonathan asked, sounding aggressive.

    "Because I have a proposition for you and your partner," Rockefeller said. "So I''m interested in thends that you found, and I will offer you a price double that of the money you paid for thosends."<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "You are asking me that really? On the spot?" Jonathan asked, surprised by the sudden offer.

    "Of course, I will give you time to decide but if I were to give you advice, I''d say that you take the offer," Rockefeller said, a hint of smugness in his voice.

    Jonathan exchanged a nce with Caroline before turning back to Rockefeller.

    "What if I don''t?" Jonathan asked, challenging Rockefeller''s proposal.

    Rockefeller''s expression grew serious. "Then we''ll have ourselves apetition, Mr. Axelsen. And I assure you, Standard Oil always wins. Have you heard stories about oilpaniespeting against me? They are either absorbed into mypany or went out of business."

    "So you are implying that if we go against you, that may happen to us?" Jonathan asked, sneering subtly.

    "I''ll let you specte," Rockefeller said and continued. "But it is in our best interest that we don''t go against each other. Because I like you both, we are the same. We grew up from nothing and now we have so much money that we couldn''t even bother to count. It will be disappointing to me if that happens to you."

    "You are quite confident, Mr. Rockefeller," Jonathan set down his wine and leaned forward. "You know it could happen to you too right?"

    "Standard Oil doesn''t fail, Mr. Axelsen. And it will be very unwise if you go against me. So either ept my offer and face your inevitable downfall," Rockefeller said.

    Jonathan and Rockefeller were engaged in a staring contest until Caroline interjected.

    "Before you two gentlemen erupt into an unnecessary argument, can we take a moment to think about this proposal, Mr. Rockefeller?" Caroline suggested.

    Rockefeller leaned back and nodded. "Of course, take all the time you need."

    Caroline turned to Jonathan and whispered, "Yield for now, Jonathan, and enjoy the evening. You now know the intentions of Mr. Rockefeller, which is what you came here for. There''s no need to heat things up."

    Jonathan nodded and whispered back. "You are right."

    He turned to Rockefeller and then spoke. "It seems like you have delivered what you intended, we are going to enjoy the party you are hosting tonight so if you will excuse us."

    With that, Poul and Caroline stood from their seats and left.

    Rockefeller watched their figure disappear among the attendees and pondered.

    "Jonathan Axelsen, you have some guts," he muttered under his breath.

 Chapter 171 Morgans Return

    Back in Pittsburgh, the day after Jonathan''s meeting with Rockefeller, Poul found himself buried in piles of business documents that Amelia had asked him to sort. As he worked, the telephone on his desk suddenly rang, interrupting his concentration. With a quick swipe, he picked up the receiver and ced it between his ear and shoulder.

    "Nielsen speaking," he answered.

    "It''s Jonathan. Do you want to know what happened at my meeting with Rockefeller yesterday?" Jonathan''s voice crackled through the line.

    Poul''s interest was piqued. "Yes, of course. Is it about the oil?"

    Jonathan''s voice held a note of frustration. "Yes, it is about the oil. Rockefeller found out about thends we were buying, and he demanded that we sell them to him at double the price. He even had the audacity to tell us not topete with him or we''ll be defeated like the others."

    Poul let out a scoff. "And he thinks we''ll just give in to his demands?"

    "That''s what he seemed to be implying," Jonathan replied.

    Poul''s voice took on a firm tone. "Well, as our partners, we both know that it has to be a unanimous decision. And my decision is that we reject his offer and move forward with our n to im thatnd."

    Jonathan agreed. "I couldn''t agree more. Rockefeller has an inted ego and thinks he can bully anyone who dares topete with him. But we''re not like the others, and we won''t back down."

    Poul continued, "Amelia has already finalized the deal for thosends, and I''ll be setting up a board meeting with John Morgan and Caroline Dupont to discuss the creation of an oilpany. They are our strongest backers, and I believe they are the only ones who can put up a good fight against Rockefeller."

    "That''s a good n," Jonathan acknowledged. "I''ll be meeting with Caroler to inform her about this."

    "And I''ll speak with John when he visits the officeter today," Poul said before ending the call, feeling confident in their decision to stand up to Rockefeller''s demands.

    ***

    Five hourster. A horse-drawn carriage trotted down the cobblestone streets of Pittsburgh, carrying a familiar figure. John Morgan had arrived at the office, dressed in his usual three-piece suit, a top hat perched on his head.

    Seated next to John Morgan was ady withvender-colored hair. She had tied a ribbon of the same shade in her hair, and her matching coat was a soft lc color. She gazed out of the window, taking in the sights of thepany town that they were about to visit. Her eyes sparkled with excitement as she imagined herself meeting the savior of her life.

    She had been asking her father to take her to Pittsburgh but every time she asked for that, it was rejected. Like her father doesn''t want her to be here. Now she wondered what changed his mind. But the prospect of meeting Poul again made her forget about her father''s reluctance.

    "We are here," the coachman announced from outside the carriage, interrupting her thoughts.

    John Morgan turned to his daughter with a smile. "Are you ready, Fiona?"

    Fiona smiled back at her father, her eyes shining with anticipation. "Yes, Father."

    As they stepped out of the carriage, Fiona noticed first the looming building before her.

    "It''s big¡­" she eximed under her breath. "Father, is this really their office?"

    "Yes," Morgan confirmed. "And it''s the first of its kind. I was also thinking that I should have Jonathan, the man who designed the building, build my new office building in New York. But given the circumstances, they are having, I''d say that he is busy taking on another project. Anyways, shall we go inside?"

    The two entered the building and were greeted by the receptionist by the name of Beatrice.

    "Good afternoon, Mr. Morgan and¡­" Beatrice paused, looking at thedy standing beside Morgan. "Is she affiliated with you, Mr. Morgan?"

    "Yeah, biologically. She is my daughter and I believe that Mr. Nielsen wouldn''t mind me bringing her along with me for this meeting," Morgan replied, chuckling at Beatrice''s confusion.

    "Of course, sir," Beatrice nodded, scribbling something down on a notepad. "Mr. Nielsen is expecting you in the conference room on the 8th floor. I''ll escort you to the elevator."

    John Morgan and Fiona followed the receptionist, Beatrice, into the elevator and were whisked up to the eighth floor. As the elevator doors opened, they were greeted by a long, brightly lit corridor lined with sleek ss offices. The floor-to-ceiling windows offered stunning views of the Pittsburgh skyline.

    As they walked down the corridor, the sound of their footsteps echoed off the polished marble floors, adding to the grandeur of the building. The air smelled of fresh flowers, and the temperature was perfectly regted. The whole atmosphere of the building oozed elegance and sophistication, leaving Fiona in awe.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    Finally, they arrived at a spacious, modern conference room. The mahogany table that dominated the center of the room was polished to a gleaming shine. Surrounding it were plush leather chairs that looked morefortable than any Fiona had ever seen. The room was tastefully decorated, with modern art pieces adorning the walls, and ambient lighting that created a warm, inviting atmosphere.

    But what caught Fiona''s attention the most was the man sitting at the far center of the table. He was dressed in a perfectly tailored suit, and his silver hair wasbed back neatly. His golden eyes flickered at Morgan as he stood up in his chair, giving him a scrutinizing look.

    Fiona recognized the man, after all, he was easy to recognize due to his distinct hair color. Poul Nielsen.

    "Mr. Morgan," Poul began. "I have been expecting you."

    John Morgan stepped forward, extending his hand towards Poul. "It''s good to see you again, Poul. This is my daughter, Fiona."

    Poul smiled at Fiona, his golden eyes scanning her up and down. "Fiona huh, you have grown up since thest time I saw you. It''s a pleasure to meet you."

    Fiona''s heart fluttered at the sound of his voice. She tried to remainposed and returned his smile, but her cheeks betrayed her as they flushed with color.

    "Yeah, it''s nice to see you again¡­Mr. Nielsen¡­" Fiona said bashfully.

    Poul''s eyes lingered on Fiona for a moment longer before turning his attention back to John Morgan.

    "Shall we get down to business?"

    Morgan nodded and took a seat at the table, motioning for Fiona to sit beside him. Poul took his own seat, and the two of them began to discuss business matters.

    As the meeting progressed, Fiona found herself lost in thought, her mind wandering to Poul. She couldn''t believe that she was actually sitting here, in the same room as the man who had saved her life. She had been dreaming of this moment for years, but now that it was happening, she didn''t know what to do or say.

    She stole nces at Poul whenever she could, marveling at the way the light caught in his silver hair and the way his golden eyes sparkled when he spoke. She felt a strange warmth spreading through her chest, and she couldn''t help but smile to herself.

    Their meeting went on for ten minutes, with Poul discussing a partnership for starting an oilpany.

    "So if I''m hearing this right, Rockefeller approached Jonathan with an offer and you rejected it because you want to start an oilpany?"

    "That is right, just like our other sessful enterprise, this one will be as well."

    "Well, the reason that your enterprise was sessful was that there were nopanies at the time offering the same products. Except for the arms manufacturing enterprise of course where you outshined them with your revolutionary rifle. But this time, I think you are getting ahead of yourself. Oil is already an established market and there are many established yers in the industry. It would be a huge risk to invest in a new oilpany."

    "Mr. Morgan, there you go again with your negative attitude towards risk-taking. That is what separates sessful businessmen from the rest. We must take risks, calcted risks of course, in order to achieve greatness. Of course, we wouldn''t enter a business without offering uniqueness to the market. Just like we did in our arms enterprise, we have something that Rockefeller doesn''t."

    Fiona listened intently as the two men debated the merits and drawbacks of starting an oilpany. She could see the determination in Poul''s eyes, and the conviction in his voice, and she couldn''t help but feel drawn to him even more.

    Suddenly, Poul turned to Fiona and addressed her directly. "What do you think, Fiona? Do you think it''s worth taking the risk?"

    Fiona was taken aback by the question, but she didn''t hesitate to answer. "I am not in a position to answer that question¡­Mr. Nielsen, but if you are allowing me, then I think that if you have a unique approach to the oil industry and can offer something that otherpanies cannot, then it may be worth taking the risk."

    Poul hummed in thought and Fiona was screaming internally. Did she give him the wrong answer? No, she was only giving him her opinion, but she just basically agreed with him. So¡­

    "Mr. Nielsen, please don''t involve my daughter in this. She is just here to observe," Morgan reminded.

    "Sorry about that," Poul said. "So, what would it be? Has there been a time when I didn''t meet your expectations? The arms business, the electric venture, the air brakes. All of them were sessful."

    Morgan was silent for a moment, contemting Poul''s words. He knew that Poul had a point. Every business they had started together had been sessful, and Poul had always been the driving force behind them. Morgan admired Poul''s tenacity and his ability to see opportunities where others saw only obstacles.

    Finally, Morgan spoke up. "Fine, I''ll back you on this. But you better have a damn good n in ce, and you better make sure that it''s unique enough to stand out in the market."

    Poul smiled, his eyes sparkling with excitement. "Thank you, Mr. Morgan. I promise you won''t regret this."

 Chapter 172 Before Leaving

    The meeting between Poul Nielsen and Morgan concluded in the agreement of Morgan investing in the oilpany they''d want to establish.

    "Oh, Mr. Morgan. I wonder how this will affect your rtionship with Mr. Rockefeller knows the fact that you also invested in his oilpany?" Poul asked.

    "Well, it is indeed true that I invested millions of dors into Rockefeller''s oil business and he might get disappointed in me but I couldn''t care about his feelings. You see, I''m also a businessman, a popr saying in the business world is quote ''Don''t put all your eggs in a basket, and I believe that investing in multiple oilpanies would diversify my portfolio and increase my potential for profit," Morgan replied with a smirk.

    Poul chuckled at Morgan''s response. "You are a shrewd businessman indeed, Mr. Morgan. I admire your strategy."

    Morgan leaned back in his chair, a smug expression on his face. "Well, I didn''t be one of the wealthiest men in the world by being foolish, Mr. Nielsen. Now, let''s get down to business. I will invest in your oilpany on the condition that I have a say in the management and decision-making process. I want to ensure that my investment is being used wisely and that thepany is being run efficiently."

    Poul nodded in agreement. "Of course, Mr. Morgan. We would be honored to have you as a partner in our venture. Your expertise and experience in the business world will be invaluable to our sess."

    "Excellent," Morgan replied, extending his hand for Poul to shake. "I look forward to working with you, Mr. Nielsen."

    With the deal sealed, the two men discussed the details of the investment, including the amount of capital Morgan would provide and the percentage of ownership he would have in thepany. As they finalized the agreement, Morgan couldn''t help but feel a sense of satisfaction. He knew that by investing in this new oilpany, he was expanding his reach and securing his ce as one of the most powerful businessmen in Avalonia, or even in the world.

    For him, thepanies that rival one another are just a tool that generates profits, and he was always on the lookout for the next big opportunity. The industrialist duo, who have been dominating the new industry has been not a disappointment for him so far, and he believed that it''ll be the same in the next few decades.

    Morgan stood up and beckoned his daughter who was sitting across from him and silently staring at Poul.

    "Come on, Fiona, my business here is done."

    "Eh? We are going to leave already?" Fiona stood up, a hint of disappointment on her face. She had been hoping to learn more about Poul and his stories about how they came to be today. But this is an agreement that she agreed between her and his father so that she can join this visit.

    "Oh my, you don''t have to leave so early, Mr. Morgan. You can explore thepany town, it has changed a lot," Poul said.

    "That won''t be necessary, Poul," Morgan said. "I have other business to attend to."

    "Is that so? That''s a shame then. Have a safe journey back to New York then, and please do say hi to Jonathan for me."

    Morgan nodded and smiled, "I will, Poul. Thank you for the hospitality."

    As Morgan was about to step out of the conference room, Fiona spoke up.

    "Father, can I speak with Mr. Nielsen for five minutes?"

    Morgan turned around to face his daughter, his eyebrows raised in surprise. He pondered for a moment before replying.

    "Well, there''s no harm in speaking with the man that saved your life six years ago, so you have my permission. You have five minutes," he said before leaving the two alone in the conference room.

    "Thank you, father," Fiona walked towards Poul with a smile. "Mr. Nielsen, I apologize for my father''s abruptness. He can be a bit stern sometimes."

    Poul chuckled. "No need to apologize, Fiona. Your father is a busy man and his time is valuable."

    "Still, I''m sorry if he seemed dismissive of your offer to show us around the town. I would love to see what''s changed since Ist visited."

    Poul nodded. "I understand. But given the circumstances, I''m afraid I can''t show you around. Perhaps next time."<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "Well, that would be a problem as my father is quite strict when ites to my safety," Fiona said with a hint of annoyance. "He worries too much."

    Poul nodded understandingly. "I can imagine. You are his only daughter after all. And he almost lost you in that train ident."

    "Yeah," Fiona nodded somberly. "It was a godsend that you were there at that time. You have my eternal gratitude for saving my life."

    Poul smiled warmly at her. "It was nothing, really. Just helping out those who are in need."

    "Is there any way that I can thank you properly? Of course, it would be hard since you are already an established businessman here in our country and you probably have a lot of money by now¡­"

    Poul chuckled. "Well, your words are enough Lady Fiona. I don''t really need anything else at this point."

    Fiona smiled gratefully. "Thank you, Mr. Nielsen. But if there''s ever anything I can do to repay you, please don''t hesitate to ask."

    "I will keep that in mind," Poul said, and it seemed like he wanted to end the conversation.

    Fiona couldn''t just let it end like that. She wanted to learn more about him and she was not getting out of the conversation. So she asked directly.

    "Uhm. Mr. Nielsen, this question might sound too personal but can I ask it anyway?"

    Poul tilted his head to the side and wondered what it could be. "What is it?"

    "Do you already have a-a¡ªgirlfriend?"

    Poul was taken aback by the question. He wasn''t expecting that from Fiona, and he didn''t know how to respond. He shifted in his seat and cleared his throat.

    "Uh, technically speaking, I don''t have one but there is already a woman who captured my heart."

    Hearing that, Fiona felt something stir in her chest. She wasn''t sure why, but she suddenly felt a twinge of jealousy.

    "Really?" she asked, trying to hide her feelings. "Who is she?"

    "I''m afraid I can''t tell you that," Poul said.

    "Is that so¡­" Fiona uttered, her voice barely above a whisper.

    Secondster, Fiona stood up from her seat. "I have taken too much of your time. Mr. Nielsen, I will leave now."

    Poul noticed the sudden change in Fiona''s demeanor and felt a twinge of guilt. He didn''t want to make her feel ufortable, but he couldn''t reveal the identity of the woman he loved. It was too personal and he didn''t want to risk it.

    "Please don''t feel like you have to leave, Lady Fiona. It was a pleasure talking with you," Poul said, trying to ease the tension in the room.

    Fiona forced a smile. "Thank you for your time, Mr. Nielsen. I hope we can talk again soon."

 Chapter 173 Rockefellers Plan

    Meanwhile on the same day at the same time, 370 kilometers away from Pittsburg.

    On 26th street Broadway New York. Rockefeller rapped his fingers against the table as he waited for his assistant to arrive in his office. He was told that he carries information that is vital for Rockefeller''s dominance in the oil industry and he can''t wait to hear from him.

    After several minutes, his assistant arrived in the office with a file of documents clutched in his hands. Rockefeller motioned for him to take a seat as he flipped through the files.

    "What''s the status of the Avalonian Oil Company?" Rockefeller asked, cutting straight to the chase.

    "They''re still struggling to keep up with the demand, sir," his assistant replied. "But I''ve gathered some intel on their next move."

    Rockefeller leaned forward, his interest piqued. "Go on."

    "They''re nning to expand their drilling operations in the Gulf of Mexico," his assistant continued. "They''ve been granted a license by the Mexican government to drill in the region, and they''re set to start operations in the next few months."

    Rockefeller''s expression darkened further. He knew that obtaining a license to drill in the Gulf of Mexico was no easy feat, and it was clear that Avalonian had been making some strategic moves to gain apetitive edge.

    "Get me in touch with our legal team," Rockefeller said, his voice steely. "We need to explore every possible avenue for challenging their license and blocking their operations."

    His assistant nodded, scribbling down notes furiously. "I''ll get on it right away, sir. Oh aside from them, the industrialist duo, Mr. Nielsen and Axelsen have rejected your offer."

    Rockefeller''s brows narrowed upon hearing that. "Really? So they chose topete with us huh?"

    "That seems to be the case, Mr. Rockefeller. So what should we do? At any given time, they''ll have a im over thend as they are nearingpleting the necessary documents."

    "Well, I''m sure those regions that they are wanting to acquire have some oil reserves. Since they rejected our offer, let''s make it hard for them. I want you to consult our legal team, and see if there''s any way we can block the industrialist duo from getting thosends."

    His assistant nodded, making a note of the instructions. "Understood, sir. I''ll also see if we can gather any intel on their drilling¡­"

    Rockefeller interrupted with a shake of the head. "No, just bar them from getting thosends first. If it fails, then we can move forward with that."

    "Very well, sir," his assistant said, jotting down the new instructions. "I''ll get right on it."

    Rockefeller leaned back in his chair, deep in thought. He knew that the oil industry was a cut-throat business, and he had to do everything in his power to maintain his dominance. He couldn''t afford to let anypetitors gain an advantage over him.

    As his assistant left the room, Rockefeller''s mind raced with possibilities. He knew that he had to act quickly and decisively if he wanted to stay ahead of the game.

    He picked up the phone and dialed a number. "Hello, this is John D. Rockefeller. I need to speak with Senator Johnson right away."

    The operator connected him to the senator''s office, and Rockefeller soon found himself on the phone with one of his closest political allies.

    "Hello, Senator Johnson," Rockefeller said, his tone formal but urgent. "I hope you''re doing well. I need to discuss a matter of great importance with you."

    "Of course, Mr. Rockefeller," the senator replied, his voice warm and weing. "What can I do for you?"<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    Rockefeller took a deep breath beforeunching into his exnation. "As you know, I am deeply invested in the oil industry, and I have reason to believe that mypetitors, Avalonian Oil Company, are attempting to gain an unfair advantage over me."

    "I see," Senator Johnson said, his voice serious. "What is it that you need from me?"

    "I am hoping that you can use your political connections to help me block their operations. I need to make sure that they are unable to obtain the necessary permits and licenses to drill in certain regions."

    "I can do that, Mr. Rockefeller, but you know, this sort of thing doesn''te cheap. It''ll take a lot of lobbying and my reputation is at stake," Johnson said.

    Rockefeller knew that Senator Johnson was a shrewd politician, and he was not surprised by the request forpensation.

    "I understand that, Senator, and I am willing to provide whatever financial support is necessary to ensure that my interests are protected."

    "I appreciate your understanding, Mr. Rockefeller," the senator replied. "I will do everything in my power to make sure that the necessary permits and licenses are withheld from yourpetitors. And Mr. Rockefeller, this would be thest, you got it? I don''t want to be caught in a scandal just like what happened to our good old friend Joe Rockefeller nodded. "I understandpletely, Senator. I appreciate your help in this matter."

    The two men exchanged a few more pleasantries before ending the call.

    Rockefeller hung up the phone with a sense of relief. He knew that Senator Johnson was a powerful ally, and he was confident that he could rely on him to help protect his interests.

    Hourster, the legal team of hispany arrived at his office.

    "Mr. Rockefeller, it''s nice to meet you again," hispany''swyer, Bernard, walked forward and extended a hand, offering a handshake.

    Rockefeller stood up and shook his hand. "Likewise, Mr. Bernard. So has my assistant informed you of the circumstances that we are facing?"

    "You want me to block the industrialist duo from getting the licenses and permits to operate on thends in the Appchian Basin, Texas, and Wyoming, right?" Bernard asked and Rockefeller nodded his head in confirmation.

    "Well, there are legal ways to go about it, and I have reviewed thews and regtions regarding those aforementioned regions. One thing we can do is to file an injunction against their applications, citing environmental concerns."

    "And?" Rockefeller uttered, prompting him to continue.

    "We can argue that their drilling operations would pose a significant threat to the environment, particrly to the local water supply, and that theirck of experience in the industry raises concerns about their ability toply with regtions and ensure the safety of their operations. With this, it''ll be easy to convince the local and federal authorities to not hand them the permits and licenses. And then you can move in and purchase thend yourself."

    Rockefeller leaned back in his chair, considering the n. It seemed like a solid strategy, and he trusted his legal team to execute it effectively.

    "So when can we do it?" Rockefeller asked.

    "Well first, you can let them buy thend first and once they announce an oil mining operation, that is where we wille in with the injunction. Of course with the help of the locals living there, who will be protesting."

    Rockefeller nodded, impressed with the level of detail and nning that his legal team had put into the strategy.

    "Very well, Mr. Bernard. Let''s proceed with that n," he said. "Let''s teach those young folks a lesson."

 Chapter 174 Finding Out

    After a brief conversation with Poul, Fiona walked out of the conference room. Outside, she saw her father standing there, waiting patiently for her toe out.

    "So, is it done?" Morgan asked.

    "Yes Father," Fiona said, her voice mncholic.

    "What''s wrong my dear? Did Mr. Nielsen say something that displeased you? If so I will talk to him personally¡­"

    As Morgan was about to enter the conference room where Poul was, Fiona quickly grabbed her father by the arm, stopping him.

    "You are mistaken father, I just found out something that I can''t ept¡­We should head out now. You said that you have a business to attend to right?"

    "Fiona¡­" Morgan looked at his daughter with concern. He could tell that something was bothering her, but he didn''t want to push her to talk about it if she wasn''t ready.

    "Alright, let''s go," Morgan said, putting aforting hand on Fiona''s shoulder. "We can talk about itter if you want."

    As they walked out of the office, they came across Amelia, who was heading toward the conference room. She greeted them.

    "Did the meeting just finish?" Amelia asked.

    "It was a productive meeting, Ms. Weiss and we are on our way out," Morgan smiled and nodded politely.

    Fiona, however, barely acknowledged Amelia''s presence. She was lost in her own thoughts and couldn''t bring herself to make small talk with someone she barely knew.

    "Is that so? In that case, please have a safe journey to wherever your destination will be," Amelia said with a polite smile, before continuing on her way.

    ***

    Amelia entered the conference room and saw Poul propping his chin with his hand, deep in thought. She cleared her throat to get his attention.

    "Everything okay?" Amelia asked.

    Poul looked up and gave her a half-smile. "Yeah, just thinking. That was an intense meeting."

    Amelia took a seat across from him. "What happened here? I saw Morgan and Fiona leave looking quite serious."

    "Well, we just secured another investment from Morgan for our oil enterprise. As for his daughter, well¡­you know what, I don''t even want to talk about it."

    Poul was aware that Fiona has a crush on him. After he saved her life, she developed a feeling toward him. Though that is normal in a sense, he just wished she would stop pursuing him romantically. It was a distraction that he didn''t need right now and he already has a woman in his heart so there''s that.

    "Ah, I see," Amelia replied, sensing the tension in Poul''s voice. "Well, congrattions on the investment. That''s a huge win for us."

    "Yeah, now we are ying the waiting game," Poul said. "The moment we have the necessary permits, licenses, andnds, we will start our operations¡­"<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    ***

    A monthter, news arrived in Pittsburgh. Poul was clutching his hands into a fist as he read the report passed by Amelia, who was standing in front of her.

    "What the heck is this?" Poul growled. "Why are they not giving us the permits?"

    "I have inquired about that matter, Poul but the state said that they can''t hand you the rights to mine oil over those regions citing that it could cause environmental concerns¡­" Amelia exined.

    Poul mmed his fist on the table in frustration. "This is ridiculous! We''ve done everything by the book, and now they''re holding us back because of some hypothetical concerns?"

    Amelia nodded sympathetically. "I know, and there are farmers there protesting about us mining oil in that region, stating that it''ll ruin theirnds."

    Poul frowned as he heard those words. "Wait, howe they are reacting too quickly? I did mention that we are going to start an oil mining enterprise but I didn''t go public with it."

    "Are you saying that there is something contrived going on?" Amelia asked, her eyebrows furrowing in concern.

    "Think about it for a second, Amelia. Who do you think would benefit if we were stopped by this?"

    Amelia pondered for a moment, thinking of a person who could be responsible for this. And a name popped up in her mind.

    "I''m not quite sure about this man but I believe it''s Mr. Rockefeller. He is an oil magnate who controls oil in the northeastern part of the country. They owned a lot ofnd in the north of the Appchian Basin and when he learned that we were buyingnds in the south, we somehow caught his attention."

    "And then he offered us money to buy thends that we bought right and we rejected his offer and now have resorted to some underhanded tactics," Poul continued. "Who would have thought that Rockefeller wouldn''t do something like this. I expected this but not this early."

    Amelia nodded in agreement, understanding the gravity of the situation. "I see. So, what''s our next move, Poul?"

    Poul read the reports further, looking for additional information. "Oh, this one, it was stated in this article that since we are new yers in the industry, we might be ignorant on the environmental issues of mining oil in the region¡­"

    He scoffed. "This is ridiculous, isn''t his Standard Oil Company the one causing damage? Polluting water sources, releasing toxic gasses into the air, destroying forests and wildlife habitats?" Poul shook his head in disbelief.

    "Yes, I have heard of that news, Poul. One example thates to mind is the 872 oil spill in Titusville, Pennsylvania, which was caused by the Standard Oil Company. It resulted in a massive oil slick that covered the surface of Oil Creek and polluted the water source for the people and wildlife in the area. Up to this day, the effect of that negligence is still being felt by the people living in the area."

    Poul nodded grimly. "That is right, I have also heard that news. Well, we can''t back down now. We have to get those permits and licenses. Morgan will be pissed if his investments are wasted."

    Amelia nodded in agreement. "I''ll do some research and try to find a way to appeal to the state. We can also reach out to the farmers andmunities in the area and see if we can address their concerns and work together towards a solution that benefits everyone."

    "I''ll talk to Morgan, and find out what he knows in our current predicament."

    With that, the two started working.

 Chapter 175 Suggestions

    Poul started to make a move, grabbing the telephone and dialing the number of Mr. Morgan''s residence.

    As the telephone trilled, Poul nervously tapped his foot on the ground, waiting for the call to connect. After a few rings, the call was finally answered by an operator, who then connected him to Mr. Morgan.

    "Hello?" a gruff voice answered.

    "Mr. Morgan? It''s Poul here," Poul said, trying to keep his voice steady.

    "Oh. Mr. Nielsen¡­or rather, Poul. I have been expecting your call since the time I received news about the permits and licenses. Care to exin?"

    "Well, Mr. Morgan, there has been a problem with getting it. You see, the state is not giving us the permits and licenses because of the prospect of environmental damage, which I found ridiculous because if that was the case, then they should have given the Standard Oil Company a closure order since they are the ones destroying the environment as we speak."

    "This is what I''m warning you about, Mr. Nielsen. This is what it likes topete with Mr. Rockefeller. He will do everything in his power to stop you from ever starting it. You may be new but he deemed you as a threat to his business¡­"

    "Yet despite knowing that, you still invested in my oil enterprise right?" Poul asked, trying to keep his frustration at bay. "So that means you expected this also to happen and have some sort of a n to circumvent this problem, right?"

    "n? No, I don''t have a n. You are the owner of thepany, along with your partner. You two figure it out because if not, I''ll pull out my investments in your oil enterprise," Morgan warned and continued. "Consider this as a lesson."

    "Mr. Morgan, though I appreciate you investing in our oil enterprise, pulling out your investment just so you can teach me a lesson was never a wise move. Don''t forget, we have Caroline Dupont, if you pull out, then she''ll be filling in your shoes and our only sole investor who will get all the benefits."

    "Before you can get all the benefits, you have to have an oil refinery. How can she get all of that without it? Before making a statement, Mr. Nielsen, you must know what you are dealing with," Morgan retorted.

    "Oh we will get those permits and licenses, that is certain, Mr. Morgan¡­" Poul replied.

    "Good, you have one month to sort those things out, if not, well I''ll be pulling out."

    Poul''s heart sank as he heard the dial tone. He had one month to figure out how to get the permits and licenses or risk losing Morgan''s investment.

    He sat down on his desk, deep in thought. He couldn''t let Mr. Rockefeller win. He had to find a way to convince the state to give them the permits and licenses they needed. He picked up his pen and began to scribble down ideas.

    Since the state is the one he was dealing with here in this issue, he has to be creative. Since their concerns are about environmental damage, then he''ll give them a presentation about their oil miningpany being environmentally friendly.

    Poul spent the next few hours drafting a n that would address the state''s concerns about environmental damage. As an engineer in the 21st century, and having experience in overseeing oil mining operations off the coast of Pnd. He came up with innovative methods that can be implemented in this era to minimize the impact on the environment during the oil extraction process.

    But there is a huge possibility that it might get rejected at the possibility of the officials being bribed by Rockefeller. What''s more, his Standard Oil Company has been already made public, meaning people can buy stocks and there is also a possibility that the officials in the state have stocks, and therefore won''t risk the value of Standard Oil decreasing over some new miningpany that could rival it.

    All of this possibility is making Poul''s head spin. He knew that if he wanted to seed, he needed to be strategic and find a way to counteract Rockefeller''s influence.

    If Morgan isn''t going to help them, then there''s only one person in the world that they can turn into.

    Poul grabbed his telephone and contacted an associate of his in New York.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "To whom can I connect you?" the operator asked.

    "Connect me to Ms. Dupont''s Residence¡­"

    "Understood¡­" the operator acknowledged the order and immediately connected Poul to Caroline.

    After a few seconds, he heard a voice at the other end of the line.

    "This is Dupont speaking."

    "Caroline, this is Poul," Poul said, trying to sound as confident as possible.

    "Oh my¡­Poul. How may I assist you?" Caroline asked politely.

    "I need your help. We''re having trouble getting the permits and licenses we need for our oil enterprise, and Mr. Morgan is threatening to pull out his investment if we don''t get them within a month," Poul exined.

    "I see. What can I do to help?" Caroline asked.

    "I was hoping you could use your influence to help us convince the state to give us the permits and licenses we need. We have the n to address their concerns about environmental damage, but we''re afraid that Mr. Rockefeller''s influence may be too strong," Poul said.

    "Oh, Mr. Nielsen, or Poul rather. You are kind of underestimating the state. If Rockefeller told them to not hand over the necessary permits they need to start an oil miningpany, then that''s basically it. You cannot fight an industrialist here in this world with legal means. If he is ying dirty, then you should too." Caroline replied.

    "Then what do you suggest we do?" Poul asked. A tinge of desperationced his voice.

    "It''s easy really," Caroline replied flippantly. "You can hire a private investigator that would look into Mr. Rockefeller and his associate in the government. Find evidence that they have been engaged in corrupt practices, and use that as leverage to get the permits and licenses you need."

    Poul was taken aback by Caroline''s suggestion. He had always yed by the rules and never thought about breaking them. But he knew that time was running out and he needed to act fast.

    "Do you know anyone who could help us with this?" Poul asked cautiously.

    Caroline chuckled. "My dear Poul, I know just the person. His name is Jack Davis, and he''s one of the best investigators in the business. He''s discreet, thorough, and most importantly, he gets the job done."

    Poul breathed a sigh of relief. "Thank you so much, Caroline. You have no idea how much this means to me."

    "Don''t mention it, Poul. I''m always happy to help a friend in need. I''ll send you Jack''s contact information right away. Good luck, and keep me posted," Caroline said before hanging up.

    Poul sat at his desk for a few minutes, lost in thought. He knew that he was stepping into uncharted territory and that the consequences could be severe if he got caught. But he also knew that he had no other choice if he wanted his oil enterprise to seed.

    He took a deep breath and picked up the phone to call Jack Davis, hoping that he could help him uncover the truth about Rockefeller and his associates.

 Chapter 176 Private Investigator

    A weekter, the person that Caroline rmended to be their private investigator arrived at the headquarters of thepany.

    Amelia was leading the man to the conference room, where Poul was waiting for him.

    "I must say, this is the first time I saw such a unique building," Jack said as he looked around the interior of the building. "I wonder how much it cost yourpany to construct this."

    "The amount of money to construct this building is cheaperpared to building a pce, Mr. Davis," Amelia replied. "If you are looking for an exact amount, then I''m afraid that I can''t help you with that. Thepany founders, Mr. Nielsen, and Mr. Axelsen didn''t disclose any information regarding the cost of constructing this building to anyone, not even to the employees."

    "I see," Jack said with a nod. "I understand the need for confidentiality in business matters.

    A momentter, they arrived at the conference room.

    Jack looked around for a moment, taking in the surroundings before flickering his gaze to the person sitting at the far center of the long mahogany table.

    "You must be Jack Davis."

    "And you must be the founder, Poul Nielsen. I can tell because of your distinct silver hair¡­" Jack said.

    "It''s great that nearly everyone that I have met is beginning to notice who I am just by looking at my hair¡­"

    "Well, you are getting popr, Mr. Nielsen, along with your partner who was in New York, correct?"

    "That is right," Poul concurred. "So, as the person referred to by Ms. Dupont, I''m sure you were briefed by her before you got here. That we are facing a situation that we have to settle."

    Jack''s expression turned serious upon the mention of the issue. He took his seat opposite his and started speaking.

    "Yes. It''s about you believing that Mr. Rockefeller has something to do with the state barring you from getting the licenses and permits for your oil miningpany, am I right?" Jack said.

    "That is correct," Poul confirmed. "With you knowing that we can make this meeting short. I want you to find out if there is corruption or foul y behind this. And if there is, I want you to report it to me along with concrete evidence."

    "So you want me to infiltrate their residences, am I right?" Jack asked.

    "I don''t know. Is that how private investigators work?" Poul returned a question.

    Jack shook his head. "No, that''s not how I work. I will conduct a thorough investigation, gather evidence, and analyze any possible connections or motives. It''s my job to uncover the truth, and I''ll do it within the confines of thew."

    "Then why bring that up?" Poul inquired.

    "Because if you are desperate and willing to pay a premium, then I can do just that. It''s faster and more efficientpared to the conventional process. I''m sure you know that Ms. Dupont rmended me because I was suitable for that kind of job."

    "So you are advertising huh?" Poul sighed. "Very well, mypany is willing to pay a premium so long as you deliver as promised¡­"

    "But this is always not a guarantee that you are going to see what you are looking for," Jack interrupted. "You are suspecting Mr. Rockefeller of something and if he turns out that he has done nothing, well, don''t go chasing after me. Oh, speaking of terms, I want you to pay me upfront¡­"

    Poul raised an eyebrow at Jack''s request. "Upfront payment?" he repeated, a hint of suspicion in his tone.

    "Yes. It''s part of my terms," Jack replied firmly. "I need to know that you are serious about this investigation and that you have the means to pay me for my services. And if it turns out that there is no evidence of foul y on Mr. Rockefeller''s part, I still get to keep the payment for my time and effort."

    "Yeah, that''s a good term that protects your interest of yours but what about us? What if you run away after we pay you?" Poul asked.

    "You trust Ms. Dupont right? Then that means I''m legit," Jack paused for a moment, allowing Poul to process his words.

    "Plus, I have a reputation to uphold, Mr. Nielsen. I''m not some low-life scam artist that runs away with the money. You can trust that I will deliver what I promised. And if I don''t, you can take legal action against me," Jack assured him.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    Poul nodded slowly, still seeming unsure. "Very well. We''ll pay you upfront. I haven''t asked Ms. Dupont about the price so how much are you asking?"

    "Five hundred dors," Davis named the price.

    "Deal," Poul epted his price without hesitation.

    "Wait¡­really? You are agreeing to pay five hundred dors for my service?" Jack asked, a bit befuddled at Poul''s eptance.

    "Is there a problem?" Poul tilted his head to the side.

    "No, it''s not that. I''m feeling a bit regretful. I should have asked for one thousand dors. Is the table still open?"

    "If you did, then I would. But unfortunately, the deal has already been made," Poul replied, a small smile on his face. "But I''ll keep that in mind for any future dealings with you."

    Jack chuckled at Poul''s response. "Fair enough. So, when do you want me to start?"

    "As soon as possible," Poul answered. "We want to resolve this issue quickly and get back to business as usual."

    "Understood. I''ll get to work right away," Jack said as he stood up from his seat. "I''ll keep you updated on any progress I make."

    "Thank you, Mr. Davis. We appreciate your help," Poul said, also standing up to shake Jack''s hand.

    Poul flickered his gaze to Amelia. "Please escort him out."

    Amelia nodded, standing up from her seat as well. "Right this way, Mr. Davis."

    Jack followed Amelia out of the room, leaving Poul alone in the conference room.

    As they walked down the hallway, Jack couldn''t help but notice Amelia''s beauty. She had striking features that were his type.

    "Amelia was it?" Jack asked.

    "Amelia Weiss."

    "Ms. Weiss, after this investigation, can I take you out to dinner?"

    Amelia stopped walking, turning to face Jack. She gave him a polite smile. "Thank you for the offer, Mr. Davis, but I''m going to have to decline."

    Jack''s face fell a bit, but he tried to hide his disappointment. "Oh, I see. Well, no harm in asking, right?"

    Amelia shook her head. "None at all. But I don''t mix business with pleasure."

    "Ah, I understandpletely. It was worth a shot though," Jack said, giving her a charming grin.

    Amelia smiled back, her eyes meeting his. "I appreciate the gesture, Mr. Davis. I have work to attend to so if you can kindly follow me¡­"

    "Oh yes."

    The two resumed and made their way out of the office.

 Chapter 177 Morgan And Rockefeller.

    A week had passed since Morgan arrived in New York, and as he sat aboard his carriage, he gazed out the window, taking in the rapidly transforming city. The introduction of electricity had sparked a revolution, and the once-dim streets of New York were now aze with light. The flickering oilmps of the past were being phased out, reced by the bright glow of electric light bulbs. The air was alive with the hum of industry, and Morgan couldn''t help but marvel at the possibilities this new source of energy would bring.

    Though he has already been introduced to some, Morgan still believes that there is more than meets the eye.

    Momentster, the carriage stopped.

    "Mr. Morgan, we have arrived at the destination," the coachman informed him.

    Morgan stepped out of the carriage and was greeted by a man in a dark suit. He recognized the guy in an instant, it was the personal assistant of Mr. Rockefeller.

    "Good evening, Mr. Morgan. It''s a pleasure to have you back in our offices," the man said with a small smile. "Mr. Rockefeller is looking forward to speaking with you."

    Morgan nodded in acknowledgment and followed him inside the building.

    The interior of Rockefeller''s offices was just as opulent as Morgan remembered it. Rich wood paneling lined the walls, and plush carpets cushioned his steps.

    Finally, they arrived at arge wooden door, and the assistant knocked twice before opening it. Inside, Rockefeller was seated at a massive mahogany desk, surrounded by piles of papers and books.

    "Ah, Morgan, good to see you," Rockefeller said with a smile as he stood to greet his guest. "Please, have a seat."

    Morgan took the offered chair, noticing that Rockefeller seemed more rxed and jovial than usual. He wondered what could have caused this change in demeanor, but decided to focus on the matter at hand.

    "Thank you, Mr. Rockefeller," Morgan said as he settled into the chair. "It''s good to see you as well. What brings me here today?"

    Rockefeller leaned back in his chair, steepling his fingers in front of him. "Well, Morgan, I just want to ask about your rtionship with the industrialist duo."

    "You mean Nielsen and Axelsen?" Morgan asked.

    "Yeah, those two¡­Considering that you invested in most of his enterprise, I assume that you have a good working rtionship with them," Rockefeller said, his tone neutral. "I just want to make sure that their business interests won''t conflict with ours."

    "Wait, you summoned me here for that?" Morgan asked, a bit irritated. "You could have done so on the phone instead of you wasting my time¡­"

    "Oh¡­stop there, Mr. Morgan, why so agitated? I just want to ensure that our interests are aligned," Rockefeller replied, a hint of amusement in his voice.

    "You see, investing in their oil mining venture kind of hurts me if you know what I''m talking about¡­because you are going against our interest."

    Morgan''s expression hardened as he realized what Rockefeller was getting at. "I understand your concerns, Mr. Rockefeller, but I assure you that my investments with Nielsen and Axelsen do not conflict with our interests."

    He continued. "Their oil mining venture maypete with some of our operations, but it also provides us with new opportunities and potential partnerships."

    Rockefeller raised an eyebrow skeptically. "You see, I don''t like partnerships. I want to be synonymous when oil is mentioned if you know what I''m saying. I rather devour mypetitors instead of work with them. So I suggest that you pull off that investment of yours to their enterprise and instead use that money to reinvest in mypany. You see, we have found a lot of oil deposits that are waiting for me to capitalize on. It would be in your best interest to be a part of that."

    "I''m afraid I can''t do that," Morgan said firmly.

    "Why is that?"

    "Because we made a bet, that if they get their permits and licenses to operate an oil miningpany, I won''t pull off my investments. That bet is still in effect."<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "Hoh?" Rockefeller mused. "So you are implying that if they fail, you will pull out your investments?"

    "That''s right," Morgan confirmed.

    "I see¡­" Rockefeller smiled slyly. "You should have told me that from the start Morgan."

    "Speaking of licenses, do you have something to do with that?" Morgan asked.

    "You know that is some serious allegation that you''re making, Morgan," Rockefeller replied, his expression turning cold. "I don''t appreciate being used of such things without evidence."

    "I''m just asking, I''m not indicting you of anything Mr. Rockefeller so I don''t quite understand why you are being defensive," Morgan said calmly, holding Rockefeller''s gaze. "But I do find it curious that Nielsen and Axelsen''s permits and licenses weren''t, given that they have passed the necessary requirements to start an oil miningpany."

    "I''m not the person you should ask about that Morgan," Rockefeller replied tersely. "I have nothing to do with their permits and licenses. You should direct your inquiries to the appropriate authorities."

    Morgan raised an eyebrow. He knew Rockefeller was lying, but he couldn''t prove it. He had a hunch that Rockefeller had used his influence and connections to dy Nielsen and Axelsen''s permits and licenses. Morgan had always known that the oil industry was cutthroat, but he didn''t think that Rockefeller would stoop so low as to stop a smallpany from operating.

    "Well, I''m not nning on doing anything. I''ll let the industrialist duo you mention take care of it, which I''m sure they will."

    "What makes you certain about that?" Rockefeller raised a brow as he asked that.

    "Because they are men of focus,mitment, and sheer will," Morgan said, a small smirk on his lips.

    Rockefeller''s eyes narrowed, but he said nothing. Morgan knew that he had hit a nerve.

    "Is that all, Mr. Rockefeller?" Morgan asked, standing up.

    Rockefeller nodded curtly. "That''s all for now, Morgan. Consider this meeting as a friendly catch-up."

    Morgan smiled thinly. "I will."

    As Morgan walked out of the room, Rockefeller''s assistant entered the room.

    "What do you think, Mr. Rockefeller?"

    "Well, I''d say that we have to be wary of Mr. Morgan as well," Rockefeller confessed. "He may be our ally but we can''t trust himpletely. He''s too curious for his own good."

    The assistant nodded in agreement. "Shall I keep tabs on him?"

    Rockefeller nodded. "Yes, keep an eye on him. And what about the industrialist duo?"

    "There''s nothing to worry about them, Mr. Rockefeller. Their destiny to fail is set to stone."

    "Very well."

 Chapter 178 Infiltration

    As Jack Davis strolled down the bustling streets of New York''s Broadway, the city lights illuminated the evening sky in a mesmerizing disy. With a newspaper tucked under his arm, he took a long drag of his cigarette, the smoke billowing from his mouth like ethereal tendrils, adding to the ambiance of the vibrant city.

    The cacophony of sounds and the hustle and bustle of the city never seemed to quiet down, but Jack found sce in the familiarity of the chaos. His eyes scanned the headlines in the newspaper, but his mind was not focused on the contents of the newspaper but rather on his mission.

    Tasked to gather evidence that suggests foul y between Mr. Rockefeller and a state of Pennsylvania, Marnd, Ohio, and three other states that epassed the Appchian Basin.

    His client, Mr. Nielsen needed permits and licenses to start drilling oil in the region but the requirements not being fulfilled means he can''t start.

    After a minute of walking, he finally arrived at the building of his target. The Rockefeller Building. He stood there for a moment, checking his timepiece and checking the time.

    It was eleven thirty in the evening, a perfect time to infiltrate a building.

    Folding the newspaper and throwing it on the street, he cracked his knuckles and started.

    The office building was closed, and the workers there already left, making it easy for him to do the job. He knelt down and pulled out a small wooden case that contained his lockpicking tools.

    With a quick nce around to ensure no one was watching, he began to work on the lock.

    The clicks and cks of his tools filled the air as he expertly manipted the lock, finally hearing a satisfying click as it opened. Jack pushed the door open and slipped inside, closing the door behind him.

    The interior of the building was dark and silent, the only sound being the faint hum of the city.

    Jack moved with precision, making his way to the stairs.

    As he ascended the staircase, he couldn''t help but feel a sense of excitement. This was what he was trained to do, to gather information and uncover secrets that others wanted to keep hidden.

    Finally reaching the top floor, Jack opened the door and stepped out into the dimly lit hallway. He took a moment to catch his breath, then began to make his way down the corridor, checking each door as he went.

    "That''s not it¡­That''s not it¡­" Jack muttered as he read the que disyed on the door. He was looking for Mr. Rockefeller''s office

    After a few minutes of searching, Jack finally found the door he was looking for. He checked the lock and saw that it was a standard deadbolt. He quickly took out his lockpicking tools and got to work.

    Within moments, the lock clicked open and Jack silently pushed the door open. The room was dark, except for a faint lighting from the windows.

    Jack crept towards the desk and reached for the drawers beneath it. He tried pulling it to open but to no avail.

    Jack sighed, this is to be expected so he had to grab his lockpick tools again. With a few deft movements, Jack expertly picked the lock of the drawer and pulled it open. Inside were a bunch of documents. He sifted through them one by one until he found a particr document.

    A ledger.

    He opened the file and perused the pages, scanning each line for any information that could implicate Mr. Rockefeller in foul y with the states in the Appchian Basin.

    As he read through the ledger, Jack''s heart raced with excitement. The information he was uncovering was priceless, and he knew it would be worth a fortune to Mr. Nielsen.

    But as he continued to flip through the pages, Jack''s excitement turned to horror as he realized the true nature of the ledger. It wasn''t a record of business transactions, as he had assumed. It was a log of illegal dealings, bribes, and payoffs to various politicians and officials in the states surrounding the Appchian Basin.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    One of which is a payment to the states for barring Mr. Nielsen and hispany from getting permits.

    This ledger was the evidence his client needed to take down Mr. Rockefeller and his corrupt dealings.

    He stowed the ledger in his breast pocket and closed the drawer. As he was doing that, he heard a faint sound from outside the door. It was the sound of footsteps, and they were getting closer.

    "Shit¡­there''s still people?" Jack cursed under his breath.

    "You know I am always expecting an uninvited guest toe to my master''s office," a voice reverberated in the hall. It belonged to a man.

    Jack quickly looked around the room for a ce to hide, but there was nowhere to go.

    Momentster, the man who spoke in the hallway arrived at Mr. Rockefeller''s office. He was wearing a butler suit, carrying himself with elegance.

    "A trespasser huh?" The man spoke and continued. "And what''s more, a private investigator. You must be after something important to risk breaking into this office." The butler fixed his gaze on Jack, his eyes narrowing as he scrutinized him.

    Jack knew he had to think fast. He couldn''t let this butler catch him and jeopardize his mission.

    "Seeing that you are already standing up means you have found what you came for," the man said. "In that case, I can''t let you leave this office alive. The information that you just saw is a matter of great importance to my employer."

    The butler reached into his pocket and pulled out a small handgun, pointing it directly at Jack.

    Jack raised his hands in surrender, trying toe up with a n to escape.

    "There''s no need to resort to violence, sir. I am not paid enough to sacrifice my life for this¡­" Jack said as he formted a n to get out of the office alive. He nced at the table and saw the paperweight.

    "I''m sorry, but you have to die¡­"

    Just as the butler was about to pull the trigger, Jack grabbed a nearby paperweight and threw it at the butler''s hand, causing him to drop the gun. Taking advantage of the momentary distraction, Jack lunged at the butler, tackling him to the ground.

    The two men grappled on the floor, each trying to gain the upper hand. The butler was surprisingly strong, and Jack knew he couldn''t keep this up for long.

    Just as he was about to get pinned down, Jack spotted a letter opener lying on the floor. With a quick movement, he grabbed it and plunged it into the butler''s side.

    The butler let out a blood-curdling scream, and Jack quickly burst through the door and ran down the hallway, and down the stairs.

    Finally, he made it to the front door, threw it open, and ran out into the night, breathing heavily.

    Meanwhile, the butler, which is the assistant of Mr. Rockefeller staggered to his feet, clutching his bleeding side. He knew he had to act fast. If the intruder got away with that ledger, it would mean the end of everything Mr. Rockefeller had worked for.

    He stumbled over to his desk and picked up the phone, dialing a number from memory.

    "Mr. Rockefeller, we have a problem," the butler said when the call connected. "Someone broke into your office and stole the ledger."

 Chapter 179 Chase

    His assistant''s words echoed in the room, and for a moment, there was silence. Mr. Rockefeller looked at his assistant with a mixture of shock and disbelief.

    "What did you just say?" he asked, his voice cold and menacing.

    The assistant was writhing in pain, his face contorted with agony. "I''m sorry, sir. He got the best of me," he managed to gasp out between breaths.

    Rockefeller''s eyes narrowed as he realized what had happened. "Who was it?" he demanded.

    The assistant hesitated for a moment before answering. "It was a private investigator, sir. He was snooping around in your office."

    Rockefeller''s face twisted into a scowl. "A private investigator? Who could have hired him?"

    "You have a lot of enemies in the business, Mr. Rockefeller so it will be difficult to track it down. Sir, what should we do? I should have pulled the trigger when I had the chance."

    Rockefeller''s scowl deepened as he considered his options. The situation was dangerous, and he knew he couldn''t let this investigator live. Because if he does, then all of his words would be done for.

    "We have to take care of that private investigator. Considering that you just called means that he got away, meaning he is still in New York. I want you to task your crew and find that private investigator."

    "How many would you wish to deploy, Mr. Rockefeller?"

    Rockefeller paused for a moment, considering the question. "I want all avable resources at our disposal. Spare no expense," he said finally. "This is a matter of utmost importance, and I will not tolerate failure."

    The assistant nodded, wincing in pain as he tried to sit up. "Understood, sir. I''ll get right on it."

    Hanging up the phone, the assistant breathed raggedly as he tried to fight the pain that was racking his body. He knew that failure was not an option, especially not when it came to Mr. Rockefeller''s orders. He grabbed the telephone again and dialed a number.

    The assistant told the operator the details of the person he wanted to get in touch with and waited for a while. A few momentster, his call got connected.

    "This is Mr. Rockefeller''s assistant, we have a situation on our hands. A private investigator just stole something important and I want you to task your crew to find him. He just left the office for about five minutes so he is still nearby."

    "Rules of engagement?" a gruff voice asked on the other end of the line.

    "Do whatever it takes to get that information back. Mr. Rockefeller wants this taken care of discreetly and swiftly, and he is not concerned with coteral damage." The assistant said firmly.

    There was a pause before the voice on the other end responded. "Understood. We''ll get right on it. But it won''t be cheap, you know that, right?"

    "I don''t care about the cost," the assistant replied, "just get it done."

    The line went dead, and the assistant slumped back in his chair, exhausted.

    "Looks like I have to go to the hospital."

    ***<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    Meanwhile, in the streets of New York, Jack Davis was still running through alleys, getting as far as possible from Rockefeller''s Office. He stopped momentarily and looked back over his shoulder to see if someone was following him. There was none, and so he resumed running.

    Now that he has a ledger in his possession, he just has to deliver it to Pittsburgh. But there are no ferries operating at this hour that can get him to New Jersey and the first train to Pittsburgh is four o''clock in the morning.

    This means he will be stuck in New York for about five hours.

    "Wait¡­" he muttered under his breath. He realized something crucial just now.

    "Mr. Nielsen''s partner is in New York, right? That means I just have to deliver it to him."

    And if he can give it to Mr. Axelsen, then that means he doesn''t have to go all the way to Pittsburgh.

    The problem is, where can he find him? Before epting the job, Jack conducted research on his client. Mr. Axelsen was in charge of constructing a metro station in New York but it wasn''t mentioned where he was staying. It could be in one of the luxurious hotels in New York but going through them one by one is going to be a hassle and takes a lot of time making the decision of waiting for five hours a more feasible idea.

    Jack pondered again, this time, he thought of another one. Ms. Caroline Dupont. Now that he thought about it, Ms. Caroline Dupont was business partners with Mr. Axelsen and Mr. Nielsen. And the good thing is, he knows where to find Ms. Dupont. If he can get to her and ask for Mr. Axelsen''s address, then that means the work is done. What''s more, her store is simply down the street as it is situated on Broadway.

    Jack prepared himself for another run, getting out of the alley and into the main street. Upon arriving there, he saw two individuals across the street pointing at him.

    Jack''s eyes narrowed as the two individuals reached for their holsters. He didn''t need to be a genius to figure out that they were after him. Quickly, he turned around and started running in the opposite direction.

    The sound of footsteps echoed behind him as he raced through the streets, zigzagging between horse-drawn carriages and people. The men chasing him were closing in, and Jack knew that he had to find a ce to hide.

    He spotted an open door and darted inside, mming it shut behind him. He found himself in a dark hallway, and he could hear the sound of his pursuers'' footsteps getting closer.

    Jack looked around frantically, trying to find a ce to hide. There was a door on his left, and he pushed it open. It led to a small room with a window, and Jack quickly crawled under a desk. He held his breath as he heard the door open, and the men entered the room.

    They searched the room where he was hiding and Jack kept his mouth shut.

    "Shit¡­" he cursed under his breath. Rockefeller''s goons were too fast to track him down.

    "He is hiding somewhere," one of the men said. "Locate him."

    "This is going to be a huge cashout for us," his partner said back as they walked around the room Jack was hiding.

    His heart pounded as he heard the heavy footsteps getting nearer and nearer. A momentter, he saw a revolver glinting in the dim light.

    And then, the man holding the revolver peeked under the desk where he was hiding.

    "There you are," the goon said.

 Chapter 180 Run

    "Cool it cool it cool it," Jack repeated, his voice shaking slightly as he stood up from under the desk with his hands raised. The goon''s gun was trained on him, and Jack knew that his life hung in the bnce. "I have the ledger," he said, trying to keep his voice steady. "But I need your word that you''ll let me go if I hand it over to you."

    The goon scanned Jack up and down, his expression inscrutable. He nced over at his partner, who was also aiming his pistol at Jack. For a moment, there was silence.

    Finally, the goon spoke. "We got orders that we take him out, right?" he said, his voice low. "He might have seen the contents of the ledger, and you know that we can''t let this man get away."

    Jack felt a cold sweat break out on his forehead. He knew that he was in serious trouble. He had stumbled onto something big, something that had put his life in danger.

    "Look guys," Jack said, his voice shaking slightly. "I don''t even care what''s in this ledger. I''m not paid enough to die for it, so please, let me go and I''ll hand it over to you."

    The goon hesitated, his finger tightening on the trigger. Jack held his breath, waiting for the worst.

    "Unfortunately, we have strict orders," the goon said, pulling the firing pin.

    Jack braced for the worst, there was no getting out of this situation. But he doesn''t want to die. So he went for n b. Which is fighting his way out of here.

    Jack immediately grabbed the goon''s arms and pulled him forward. He then pivoted his body and used the goon''s momentum to swing him into his partner, causing them both to stumble backward.

    Jack seized the opportunity and made a run for it.

    The two goons recovered and got up to their feet and started pulling the trigger. Bits of concrete and debris exploded around Jack''s feet as he sprinted towards the exit. He heard the bullets whizzing past him.

    As he rounded a corner, he spotted a door and rammed through it, and burst out onto the street. He looked around frantically, searching for a ce to run.

    He spotted a nearby alleyway and sprinted toward it. He ran and ran until he was several blocks away. Only then did he slow down, his chest heaving with exertion.

    "There he is!" One of the goons yelled and fired another round of bullets in Jack''s direction, causing him to jump over to the side.

    "Those goons don''t know when to give up huh?" Jack exhaled, as he caught his breath and leaned against the wall.

    He had to keep moving, or they would catch him.

    "This isn''t worth five hundred dors," Jack resumed running. Even though his heart was beating too fast, he endured the pain and kept going. He couldn''t afford to stop now. He had to find a way to shake off the goons and hand over the ledger to his client.

    After five minutes of running, Jack stopped at a nearby alleyway and nced over his shoulder. There was no one chasing him, could it be that he finally had managed to lose them? He couldn''t take any chances though. He had to be sure. He ducked into the alleyway and leaned against a wall, panting heavily. He took a moment to catch his breath and tried to think of a n.

    Suddenly, he heard a noiseing from a nearby dumpster. He froze, thinking it might be the goons. But then he heard a faint whimpering sound. Curiosity got the better of him, and he walked cautiously toward the dumpster.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    As he got closer, he could hear the sound more clearly. It was a kitten. A small, gray kitten was trapped inside the dumpster, meowing pitifully.

    "Shit, just a cat huh?" Jack cursed under his breath. He looked around again for good measure to see if the goons wereing or not. Fortunately, he didn''t see or hear theming.

    In that case, he can go to Caroline Dupont''s store.

    Since he had run a considerable amount of distance, getting there would take time. But if that''s the only way for this to end, he had no choice but to make the journey.

    As he walked, he thought about the danger he was in. Upon breaking and entering Mr. Rockefeller''s office, and sessfully managed to escape from it. Rockefeller''s men were quick to react. Rockefeller is sure to be serious about silencing him. After all, the contents of the ledger were explosive, and Jack knew that it contained evidence of illegal activities. He had stumbled onto something big, something that could bring down Rockefeller, and along with other politicians.

    The value of the ledger is incalcble, but Jack knew that it was worth his life. He had to get it to his client and let them do whatever the hell they wanted from it.

    Twenty minutester, Jack arrived at the storefront of Loreal. He knocked on the door, hoping that someone would answer.

    "Who is it?" The person behind the doors asked, it belonged to the voice of a man. Security perhaps?

    "I need to speak with Ms. Caroline Dupont. Is she here?" Jack asked.

    There was silence for a moment. After a few moments, the door creaked open, revealing the security guard.

    "Ms. Caroline Dupont is not here in the store. What do you need from her?" The security guard asked.

    "I have something to deliver to her in person, it''s too important that I have to see her now. Do you have an idea of where she might be?" Jack asked.

    "Look, I can''t tell you that information so carelessly. I have no way of confirming your identity so why not return tomorrow?"

    "It can''t wait!" Jack pleaded, desperation creeping into his voice. "It''s a matter of life and death, I swear."

    The security guard studied Jack''s face for a moment before nodding. "Fine, she is staying in the Fifth Avenue Hotel. Though I''m not sure if the hotel is going to let you in or not since it''s almost one o''clock in the morning."

    "Thank you!"

    Jack quickly turned on his heels and ran towards the hotel, hoping that he would make it in time. He arrived at the Fifth Avenue Hotel in twenty minutes and rushed inside, ignoring the curious stares of the night staff. He made his way to the reception and approached the desk, trying to catch his breath.

    "Is Ms. Caroline Dupont here?"

 Chapter 181 Exchange

    Meanwhile, in one of the luxurious rooms of the Fifth Avenue Hotel, Jonathan found himself abruptly waking up from the incessant ringing of the telephone. He rubbed his eyes, trying to shake off the grogginess from his slumber. As he attempted to sit up, he realized that Caroline''s arms were wrapped tightly around him, making it difficult for him to move without waking her.

    Jonathan gently tried to extricate himself from Caroline''s embrace, but she stirred in her sleep and held on tighter, mumbling something unintelligible. He paused for a moment, admiring her peaceful expression and the way her tousled hair fell across her face.

    But he couldn''t ignore the persistent ringing of the telephone. So he gently pried Caroline''s arms away from him, trying not to disturb her sleep. He stood and walked over to the telephone and answered it.

    "Uhm¡­may I know why you are callingte at night?" Jonathan asked, a hint of irritation creeping into his voice.

    "I''m sorry for disturbing your pleasant sleep, Mr. Axelsen but there is someone in the lobby who wishes to talk to you. He said that it is urgent," the receptionist said apologetically.

    "Important you say?" Jonathan repeated. "Who might that person be?"

    "His name is Jack Davis," the receptionist answered.

    "Jack Davis?" Jonathan repeated the name and secondster, he recognized the name. It was the private investigator his partner hired to find if Rockefeller had connections with the blocking of permits and licenses to start their mining oilpany. If Jack is herete at night, then that means it must be something important.

    "I understand. Tell him that I''ll be down in a few minutes," Jonathan said, cutting off the receptionist before she could finish her sentence.

    "Who is that?" Caroline purred, Jonathan turned around to see Caroline sitting up in bed, rubbing her eyes sleepily.

    "Just someone who needs to speak with me urgently," he replied, grabbing his robe from the chair and slipping it on.

    "Is everything alright?" Caroline asked, looking concerned.

    "I don''t know yet, but I''ll find out soon enough," Jonathan said with a reassuring smile. "Go back to sleep, I''ll be back soon."

    "You pwamise?"

    Jonathan chuckled at Caroline''s adorable pronunciation of "promise" and walked back over to the bed, leaning down to give her a soft kiss on the forehead.

    "I promise," he whispered, tucking the covers around her.

    "Okaaay¡­" Caroline nodded and settled back down onto the pillows, her eyes already starting to drift shut. Jonathan watched her for a moment, feeling a warmth in his chest at how cute she looked when she was half asleep. He couldn''t resist nting another kiss on her forehead before finally tearing himself away and heading out of the room.

    As he made his way down to the lobby, Jonathan couldn''t help but wonder what Jack Davis could possibly want at this hour. His thoughts were interrupted as he saw the private investigator waiting for him in the lobby, sitting on the sofa.

    "Mr. Axelsen?" Jack tilted his head to the side. "What are you doing here? And I asked for Ms. Dupont."

    "Well you can say that Ms. Dupont and I are in a rtionship," Jonathan exined as he approached Jack. "Now, what''s so urgent that you had toe over here at this hour?"

    Jack''s face grew serious as he stood up to face Jonathan. "I''ve got some information that you need to hear, and it couldn''t wait until morning."

    Jonathan''s curiosity was piqued. "What kind of information?"

    "Something that you and Mr. Nielsen are going to be delighted with," Jack paused, looking around to make sure no one was eavesdropping. "I managed to dig up some dirt on Rockefeller''s connections to the blocking of yourpany''s permits and licenses."<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    He continued. "But it''s not something we should discuss here. Can we go somewhere more private?"

    Jonathan nodded and led Jack to the hotel''s conference room. Once they were inside, Jack pulled out a ledger from his breast pocket and slid it across the table to Jonathan.

    "That is Mr. Rockefeller''s ledger. It contains a log of illegal dealings, bribes, and payoffs to various politicians and officials. This ledger is all you need to take down Mr. Rockefeller and force him and his associates to hand you the permits and licenses."

    Jonathan gulped at the weight of the information in front of him. This could be the breakthrough they needed to finally start their mining oilpany. He opened the ledger and quickly scanned through the pages, his eyes widening at the names and amounts listed.

    "This is incredible," Jonathan said, still unable to believe what he was seeing. "How did you manage to get your hands on this?"

    "Let''s just say I have my ways," Jack said with a smirk. "But you need to be careful with this information. It''s powerful enough to ruin Rockefeller''s career and he won''t take kindly to it being exposed."

    "I understand," Jonathan said, nodding. "Thank you, Jack. This is exactly what we needed."

    As Jonathan was about to stow it in his breast pocket, Jack suddenly snatched the ledger back, his expression turning grave.

    "What do you mean?" Jonathan''s eyes narrowed. "I thought you and my partner had a deal and he already paid you?"

    "Well, things change, Mr. Axelsen. You see, getting this ledger wasn''t as easy as I thought it would be," Jack said, his tone growing more serious. "There were some..plications."

    "What kind ofplications?" Jonathan asked, feeling a sinking feeling in his stomach.

    "Let''s just say that some people are willing to do whatever it takes to keep this ledger from seeing the light of day," Jack said cryptically.

    "I see where this is going¡­So you are being chased huh?"

    Jack hesitated, his eyes shifting around the room as if he was afraid of being overheard. "Well, I am being chased by Rockefeller''s goons. So I''m running for my life here and I think that our initial deal of five hundred dors isn''t going to cut it anymore."

    Jonathan leaned back in his chair, rubbing his chin as he considered the situation. He had a feeling that Jack was telling the truth about the danger he was in, and he couldn''t me him for wanting more money for his efforts.

    "How much do you need?" Jonathan asked, hoping he could still salvage the situation.

    "Considering that I have to run for the rest of my life, I''m asking for ten thousand dors."

    "Ten thousand dors huh?" Jonathan repeated the price, it was quite a high amount of money he was asking.

    "That''s the only amount of money you have to pay me for that information. What''s more, they don''t know who I am giving it to."

    Jonathan pondered for a moment. Momentster, he spoke.

    "Alright. You have a deal."

 Chapter 182 The Morning Delight

    The morning light seeped into Jonathan''s suite, casting a warm glow on the cozy room. Caroline stirred from her slumber, rubbing her eyes and taking a moment to adjust to her surroundings. As she nced over at her bed, confusion crept over her. "Jonathan?" she mumbled, tilting her head inquisitively.

    "I''m here," came Jonathan''s calm reply. Caroline''s gaze followed the sound of his voice,nding on him hunched over a book, scribbling notes on a piece of paper.

    Curiosity piqued, Caroline propped herself up on the bed, her vision clearing as she watched Jonathan engrossed in his work. "What are you doing?" she asked, still a bit groggy.

    "I''m working," Jonathan responded, a hint of a smile ying at the corners of his lips. "Sorry if I wasn''t beside you when you woke up."

    Caroline shook her head, dismissing his apology. "No, no, it''s okay," she said, stretching her limbs and rubbing the sleep from her eyes. "I just didn''t expect you to be up so early."

    Jonathan chuckled softly. "I''m always up early. You know that."

    Caroline smiled, nodding in agreement. "Yeah, I do." She paused for a moment, taking in the peaceful atmosphere of the room. "So, what are you working on?"

    Jonathan looked up from his book, meeting Caroline''s gaze. "It is a ledger, from a certain individual who thwarted our ns."

    Caroline furrowed her brows in confusion. "What do you mean ''thwarted our ns''?"

    "Remember the telephone call early in the morning? A private investigator that you rmended to us went to this hotel to hand over the ledger. That ledger contains Mr. Rockefeller''s transactions, mostly illegal."

    "Ah¡­you mean Jack Davis? So he got the job done huh? As expected of him, he is the best when ites to that kind of job¡­What?"

    Caroline noticed a neutral expression on Jonathan''s face.

    "Nothing¡­anyways I have to deliver this ledger to Poul and work his way from there. I can''t deal with this for a moment as I''m busy supervising the construction of the metro station¡­"

    "Heh¡­" Caroline mused, grinning. "Jonathan¡­are you perhaps jealous when I praised Jack Davis?"

    "Wha¡­" Jonathan was taken aback at the sudden question. He shook his head, trying to hide the hint of embarrassment on his face. "No, of course not. Where did thate from??

    Carolineughed, knowing Jonathan too well. "You''re cute when you''re jealous, you know that?"

    She stood up and walked forward to him.

    "What are you doing?" Jonathan asked, watching Caroline approach him.

    Caroline leaned down and nted a soft kiss on Jonathan''s forehead. "Just saying good morning," she whispered with a smile. "And to assure you that you are the only man worthy of my love and admiration, Jonathan."

    Jonathan''s cheeks reddened at Caroline''s words. "Thank you," he said, his voice barely above a whisper.

    Caroline sat down on Jonathan''sp and snuggled close to him, resting her head on his shoulder. Jonathan wrapped his arms around her waist, holding her close. They sat infortable silence for a few moments, enjoying each other''spany.

    Caroline broke the silence. "What do you think Poul would n to do with this information?"

    Jonathan''s expression turned serious as he spoke. "I think Poul would use this ledger as leverage to get permits and licenses, or he can even bribe them. I don''t really know. Why don''t we stop discussing this and focus on us instead?"

    "On us?"

    "Like we should get married or something. We have done a lot of things and I figured that it''s time to step it up?"<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "But that would make me look easy," Caroline said somberly.

    Jonathan interrupted, looking at Caroline with concern. "What do you mean by ''look easy''? Why would getting married make you look easy?"

    Caroline looked down, fidgeting with her fingers. "Well, we haven''t been together that long and it might seem like we''re rushing into things."

    Jonathan took Caroline''s hands in his, his eyes softening as he looked at her.

    "Caroline, I love you. I know we haven''t been together for a long time, but I know in my heart that you are the one for me. I don''t want to spend another day without you by my side. And getting married isn''t about rushing into things. It''s about making amitment to each other, to love and support each other through thick and thin. I want to spend the rest of my life with you. Do you love me too?"

    "Of course I love you," Caroline responded.

    "Then there''s no problem right?" Jonathan leaned in and nted a kiss on her navel.

    Caroline moaned and wrapped her arms around Jonathan''s neck, deepening the kiss.

    "You like this?" Jonathan continued, pulling back slightly to look at Caroline.

    "Stop teasing me~!" Carolineughed, yfully swatting Jonathan''s arm. "

    "So what is your answer? Will you marry me?"

    "If I said yes, would that make you stop?"

    Jonathan chuckled at Caroline''s yful response. "I can''t promise I''ll stoppletely," he said with a mischievous grin, "but I''ll definitely tone it down a bit."

    Caroline rolled her eyes, but the corners of her mouth turned up in a smile. "Okay, okay, I''ll give you an answer," she said, her eyes locking with Jonathan''s. "Yes, Jonathan, I will marry you."

    Jonathan''s face broke into a wide grin and he pulled Caroline in for a tight embrace. "You''ve made me the happiest man in the world," he said, his voice full of emotion. "I can''t wait to spend the rest of my life with you."

    "Now that I gave you my answer, you should prepare for work. You have a meeting with the engineerster right?" Caroline asked.

    "Well, it''s still early, perhaps we can do one round."

    "One round of what?" Caroline asked.

    Jonathan leaned in close to Caroline and whispered in her ear, "You know what it is, and I know you want it too."

    He then began peppering her face with sweet, lingering kisses, making Caroline giggle and squirm with delight.

    ***

    One weekter, the ledger was delivered to Poul, who was checking on it.

    "This is great. With this, we can finally start our mining operations. Amelia. Schedule an appointment with Mr. Rockefeller. Tell him we have the thing."

    "Understood, Mr. Nielsen."

 Chapter 183 An Agreement Made

    Poul paced back and forth in his office, the anxiety and anticipation of the impending call causing his heart to race. His eyes darted to the clock on his desk every few seconds, watching the minutes tick by with growing impatience.

    "Where is he?" he muttered under his breath. "He knows we have a meeting at three o''clock sharp."

    Amelia, sitting calmly in a nearby armchair, observed Poul''s frenzied movements with a faint smile on her lips. She had worked with him for years and had grown ustomed to his restlessness before important meetings.

    "Poul, rx," she said soothingly. "I''m sure Mr. Rockefeller will call any minute now. Besides, it has only been two minutes."

    "I know, Amelia, it''s just that I don''t get why he iste. I mean did you stress the importance of this call?" Poul asked.

    Amelia nodded. "Of course I did. I made it clear that this meeting would affect him greatly."

    As if on cue, the phone rang, startling both Poul and Amelia.

    "I think that''s him," Amelia said, gesturing towards the phone on Poul''s desk.

    Poul rushed over to answer the call. "Hello, is this Mr. Rockefeller?"

    "Indeed I am, Mr. Nielsen," Rockefeller answered from the other end of the line. "The fact that you assumed that it was me means that you have been waiting for my call. Sorry, due to an unforeseen exigency, I was unable to reach you in a timely manner."

    "Well, it doesn''t matter now, Mr. Rockefeller as you already called," Poul said chuckling.

    "So? What is it that you want? Please tell me immediately as I don''t have any time to spare on unnecessary pleasantries." Rockefeller''s voice was curt and to the point, leaving no room for small talk.

    Poul cleared his throat, trying topose himself. "Yes, of course. We have an urgent matter to discuss regarding yourpany."

    There was a brief pause on the other end of the line before Rockefeller spoke again. "Mypany? Go on."

    "Well, an unknown individual went to our office and handed this ledger that I think belongs to yours."

    "Are you sure?! It''s in your hands?!" Rockefeller eximed, his voice rising in surprise and concern.

    "Yes, that''s correct. It''s here in our possession, and I took a peek at it and it seems like you have been involved in something about us not getting the necessary permits and licenses to start our oil mining operation. It''s better that youe out clean here, Mr. Rockefeller if you don''t want this ledger to be revealed in public."

    "Are you threatening me, Mr. Nielsen?"

    Poul hesitated for a moment, trying to choose his words carefully. "No, I''m not threatening you, Mr. Rockefeller. I''m just stating the facts. This ledger could potentially cause a lot of trouble for yourpany, and anyone that is affiliated with this transaction. I''m simply concerned. Really, I never expected that you would stoop so low as to stop us from rivaling you in the oil industry."

    Rockefeller scoffed. "You must be the one who hired that rat to steal my ledger..."<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "Now you are using me of doing such things?" Poul cut in, his tone growing defensive. "That''s so really low of you, Mr. Rockefeller and I think it''s best that we resolve this matter peacefully if you don''t want yourpany and your friends to suffer the consequences of your actions."

    There was a moment of silence on the other end of the line before Rockefeller finally spoke. "I see. Well, I suppose we have reached an impasse, Mr. Nielsen. It seems that we have no choice but to negotiate a deal. What do you want?"

    "I want you to get off our backs, Mr. Rockefeller, and tell your associates of yours in the States to grant us the licenses and permits for our oil mining operation. Also, thends where we are going to find oil reserves, and rights will belong to us. Simple right?"

    "In exchange, you''d hand over that ledger?" Rockefeller considered the proposal for a moment before responding.

    "You have my word. Mr. Rockefeller. You do what I told you then I will return this ledger. I mean what could a small mining oilpany do to your Standard Oil? Which I believe is the top oil mining and refiningpany in the United States. This is our only term."

    "You could have taken a lot more than license and permit, Mr. Nielsen. You sure are a mysterious one," Rockefeller remarked.

    Poul chuckled, feeling relieved that he had managed to negotiate a deal with one of the most powerful men in the oil industry. "I''m just a businessman trying to make a living, Mr. Rockefeller. I don''t want any trouble, and I believe that this deal is fair for both of us."

    Rockefeller let out a sigh. "Very well. I''ll make sure that my associates grant you the necessary licenses and permits, and I''ll also give you the rights to thends where you''re going to find oil reserves. "

    "That''s great, Mr. Rockefeller. You see,petition in business is only natural. It forced both parties to develop a better product than the other to prevent going out of business. Monopoly on the other hand is cancer that eats away at innovation and progress," Poul said, d that he had managed to get his point across.

    Rockefeller chuckled. "You''re a smart man, Mr. Nielsen. I can see why you''re a threat to my business. But don''t worry, I won''t bother with you again."

    "We both know that it is a lie, Mr. Rockefeller cut the crap," Poul responded, his voice bing stern once more. "But I appreciate your willingness to negotiate. Now, let''s stick to our agreement and get things settled."

    Rockefeller sighed again. "You''re right, Mr. Nielsen. I can''t promise that we won''t cross paths again in the future, but for now, I''ll keep my word and make sure that my associates grant you the necessary licenses and permits. As for the ledger, I''ll have someone get it for me as soon as possible. Speaking of which, you didn''t disclose any details about the ledger..."

    "Nope, but I believe that the man who handed the ledger to mypany will, so I suggest that you deal with him. I don''t know his name but I''m sure you have his face. After all, I read the news in New York where there were gunshots near your building."

    "Really? Do I have your word on this, Mr. Nielsen? If you dare and try to go public with this..."

    "Rest assured, Mr. Rockefeller, as I will reiterate, I won''t snitch you out. And besides, as long as you don''t interfere in my business, we won''t do anything."

    "Okay, good luck on your oil miningpany then," Rockefeller said.

    "Thank you," Poul said before hanging up the phone. He turned to Amelia who was looking at him expectantly.

    "So? What will happen?"

    "It''s a sess, Amelia."

 Chapter 184 Success

    Back in New York, Rockefeller seethed with anger as he clenched his fist and smashed the table in front of him. He had just spoken to Poul Nielsen, and the revtion that the industrialist duo was behind the theft of his ledger came as a shock to him. Despite the fact that they had managed to infiltrate his office and steal his most valuable possession, he couldn''t help but feel impressed by their cunning tactics.

    Rockefeller knew that he had to act fast. He picked up the phone and dialed one of his associates, Senator Johnson, who had helped him in the past. Johnson answered the call, his voiceced with fury.

    "What''s the news, Rockefeller? Did you find who stole the ledger?" Johnson demanded.

    "Calm down, Senator Johnson," Rockefeller replied. "We have located the ledger and we are retrieving it as soon as possible. You don''t have to fear getting exposed in public."

    "I nearly lost my career because of your carelessness! You need to be more careful with your sensitive information, Rockefeller. This is thest time I''m going to help you," Johnson said, his voice shaking with anger.

    "No, Mr. Johnson, you are mistaken. You will continue to help me," Rockefeller said firmly. "I know how to persuade you with the right amount of money, so don''t act like a child. Also, I am not in possession of the ledger as they demanded ransom for it."

    "Ransom? Are they asking for money?"

    "No, they are not asking for money, rather they are asking for something that only you and your friends can give. Which is granting licenses and permits to the Axelsen and Nielsen Oil Mining and Refining Company."

    "Axelsen and Nielsen?" Are you saying that they are the ones behind the stolen ledger?"

    "Yup, they are the ones, there''s no mistaking it," Rockefeller confirmed. "However, we can''t mess with them right now so I suggest that you give them whatever they want and this issue would be resolved without any furtherplications."

    Johnson was silent for a moment, contemting Rockefeller''s proposal. Finally, he let out a deep sigh.

    "Fine, as long as this matter won''t blow up in our faces. I''ll contact the officials responsible for distributing the licenses and permits."

    Rockefeller hung up the phone, feeling relieved that he had managed to persuade Senator Johnson to help him once again. However, he knew that he couldn''t let his guard down just yet. The Axelsen and Nielsen Oil Mining and Refining Company is going to interrupt his monopoly over oil mining¡­wait, a threat? He must have been joking when he thought of that.

    He is Rockefeller, he had forcedpetitors out of business, and there''s no way that a puny small oil miningpany couldpete with him.

    He sneered, his hands clenching into a fist once more. "You industrialist duo really want topete with me huh? Very well, I shall make you realize the error of your ways."

    ***

    Back in Pittsburgh.

    "Congrattions, Poul, that was great of you. Now that we will have the permits, we can start our operations in Texas, Wyoming, and in the Appchian Mountains soon."

    "Yeah, you are correct, Amelia but this is not the end of the fight. It is true that we got the permits and licenses but we will have topete with the toppanies when ites to oil. The Standard Oil Company. It will involve a lot of marketing strategies and tactics to get the people of Avalonia to believe that the oil is synonymous with our name. As our executive secretary, I want you Amelia toe up with ways on how we are going to implement our strategy. Of course, Jonathan and I are going to help."

    "I will go and brief the marketing department about it, Poul. In the meantime, I''ll leave you to be in your office as I have more things to do. If you ever need me, please don''t hesitate to call me."

    Poul nodded. "Very well. Thank you, Amelia."<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "Why are you thanking me, Mr. Nielsen? I''m simply doing my job."

    "Is it illegal to say thank you to a colleague?" Poul chuckled, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "Besides, it''s always good to express gratitude for a job well done. I appreciate your hard work, Amelia. Keep it up."

    Amelia smiled, feeling grateful for Poul''s kind words. "There you go again with your sweet words."

    "Don''t worry, my intentions are pure. Expressing my gratitude is not me hitting on you, I thought we were clear on that¡­why are you bringing it up again?"

    Amelia blushed slightly, feeling embarrassed. "I''m sorry, Poul. I didn''t mean to bring it up again. I just wanted to make sure that we''re on the same page. I value our professional rtionship and I don''t want to give off the wrong impression."

    Poul smiled understandingly. "No need to apologize, Amelia. I appreciate your honesty and professionalism. You''re a valuable member of our team and I wouldn''t want anything to jeopardize that. Now, go ahead and take care of your tasks for the day. We have a lot of work to do if we''re going topete with the big yers in the oil industry."

    Amelia nodded and made her way out of Poul''s office, feeling a sense of relief that the awkward moment had passed. As she walked down the hallway, she couldn''t help but feel a twinge of disappointment. She had harbored a secret crush on Poul, but it seemed that he only saw her as a colleague and nothing more. She knew that she couldn''t let her personal feelings get in the way of their professional rtionship, but it was easier said than done.

    "Oh? Ms. Weiss, fancy seeing you here?" A voice echoed to her ears like a bolt from the blue.

    Amelia looked up and found herself face to face with Timothy, one of the first engineers working for the Axelsen and Nielsen Company.

    "Mr. Anderson, a pleasure to see you," Amelia curtly bowed her head in respect. "Are you going to visit Mr. Nielsen?"

    "Yes. I am consulting him for his expertise on the rectifiers that are going to be installed on an electric lotive he was building. We have faced rather challenging technical issues that needed to be resolved to prevent dys. So is he there?"

    Amelia nodded. "Yes, he is in his office as usual¡­You are free to visit him as he has nothing to do at the moment."

    "Really? Perfect timing then. Well, I guess I''ll see you soon Ms. Weiss. And maybe, just maybe I can take you out to dinner."

    Amelia just looked at Jonathan.

    "I figured, you will turn it down. You are thepany''s executive secretary so I assume your schedule isn''t often avable for such things. Forget what I said."

    "No, we can have dinner if you want. On what day would you like to have dinner?"

    "Really? I don''t have a date yet as I didn''t expect that you would agree to the idea. I will write you a letter Amelia smiled. "Sure, I''ll be looking forward to it. Just let me know when you have a date in mind."

    Timothy nodded, looking pleased. "I will, Ms. Weiss. Thank you for agreeing to go out with me. I''ll see you soon." With that, he turned and walked away, leaving Amelia to continue on her way to the marketing department.

    "Maybe this is the way for me to forget my feelings for Mr. Nielsen¡­"

 Chapter 185 Assurance

    Later that day, Poul Nielsen finished talking with Timothy Anderson about the technical difficulties in the rectifiers. It was a brief discussion on a problem that seemedplicated but simple in Poul''s eyes.

    After that discussion, he made a telephone call with someone important to their business.

    As the telephone trilled, Poul rapped his fingers on the desk impatiently, waiting for the person on the other end to pick up.

    As the phone finally clicked, Poul straightened up and cleared his throat. "Mr. Morgan, this is Nielsen. I have some news that you might want to hear about."

    "A news you say," Morgan repeated. "Go on."

    "Do you remember our deal, about us getting the licenses and permits within a month?" Poul asked.

    "Yeah, I remember that clearly. What about it?" Morgan replied.

    "Well, we have sessfully received word from someone that we will get the permits and licenses soon. So I think the bet is off, Mr. Morgan and there is no need for you to pull out your investments in our oil enterprise."

    "Hmm¡­soon you say?" Morgan hummed. "I think you are misunderstanding something here, Mr. Nielsen, I want concrete proof, like you are already in possession of the permits, not a guarantee."

    "Mr. Morgan, believe in me, we will get the permits, because we have done something that would force them to do so. Because if they don''t, well, you know what will happen."

    "Ahh¡­you mean to say that you finally figured out why your permits and licenses weren''t given to you even though you passed the requirements?"

    "Not only did I figure out, Mr. Morgan, but also found out their dirty little secrets. For the sake of secrecy, I won''t disclose to you the information of their identity¡­"

    "No need for that omission, Mr. Nielsen. I already knew who was behind it. Was it Mr. Rockefeller?"

    Poul felt a shiver run down his spine at the mention of the name. So, Morgan already knew who was behind it but didn''t share it with him? Is this part of his test or is he bluffing? Well, whatever the case, he has to uphold his promise to Rockefeller.

    "What makes you say that, Mr. Morgan?" Poul asked, trying to hide the uneasiness in his voice.

    "Well, let''s just say that I have my own ways," Morgan replied cryptically.

    Poul took a deep breath and decided to change the topic. "Anyway, I wanted to let you know that the oil mining operation would soon start the moment we get the permit. We already have the contractors and men to do so. Which is basicallyposed of defunct oil miningpanies who were forced out of business due to Mr. Rockefeller."

    "I see, so that''s where most of the budgets were going," Morgan remarked. "Since you are feeling confident that you''ll get those permits, I will not pull out my investment. However, in the condition that you help me understand the future market for oil."<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "Market for oil?"

    "That''s right, I know some of its uses. It''s for lighting, heating, and roads, and I couldn''t think of anything else. What other uses can you explore?" Morgan exined.

    Poul furrowed his brows and thought for a moment. "Just like electricity, oil is the future. It can be used for the creation of synthetic stics, lubricants, and even pharmaceuticals. Currently, our transportation is based on steam engines, but with oil, we can make something even better and more efficient, but that is for another day, Mr. Morgan. I want to save it for thest, think of it as a grand reveal."

    "So, you are making oil amodity," Morgan asked.

    "Oil is already amodity, Mr. Morgan but its potential is not yet fully realized. Ourpany aims to tap into its full potential, making it not only amodity but a necessity in various industries." Poul replied confidently and continued. "And that would mean more money to us."

    "Okay, okay, I understand. I just want to know that my investments are going somewhere because if you don''t have any uniqueness, I would have used the money I invested in Mr. Rockefeller instead."

    "I believe we have talked about this, Mr. Morgan. Have you forgotten?"

    "I''m getting old for remembering discussions such as this, Mr. Nielsen but when ites to money, I''m sure you can understand why I have to be cautious." Morgan chuckled. "But don''t worry, I will trust your judgment on this matter. Just make sure to keep me updated on your progress."

    "Of course, Mr. Morgan. You can count on us to make the most out of your investments," Poul assured him.

    "Good, good. Now, I have to attend to other matters. Keep up the good work, Mr. Nielsen," Morgan said before hanging up.

    Poul let out a sigh of relief as he ced the phone back on its cradle. He let his thoughts drift for a while as he contemted.

    Now with the licenses and permits issue being solved, there''s no one stopping them from starting an oil miningpany. This means, there is nothing to be done at this point other than overseeing their current enterprises which are in full swing. And those enterprises are taking most of their time. He wants to take a break, like a full week off. But doing so while Jonathan is breaking his back in New York to build a metro station felt like a betrayal. He needs to find a way to bnce work and rest, for the sake of his own sanity and well-being, and for the good of thepany.

    He''ll talk to him first before doing something. Speaking of which, what does he want to do? Poul pondered on the idea and one popped up in his mind.

    Visiting Sara!

    That''s right, he hasn''t been in contact with Sara for like¡­he doesn''t even remember thest time he spoke with her through letters. He cut offmunication with her when believed that they were under the scrutiny of the Crown Prince of the British Empire. However, not being in contact with her makes him a bit anxious and worried. He wanted to get in touch with her and know about her hardships.

    That is settled then! He will go to Ennd.

 Chapter 186 Visiting London Again

    As Poul stepped off the ship, he was greeted by the bustling activity of the port of London. The salty sea air mingled with the pungent scents of fish and coal, filling his nostrils as he gazed upon the sprawling dds. Cranes and steam-powered machines chugged away, lifting and hauling cargo from the ships that lined the quayside. Men shouted and whistled, directing the flow of goods as carts and wagons rumbled past.

    Poul walked along the cobbled streets, passing by merchants and sailors haggling over prices and loading and unloading crates and barrels. He marveled at the sheer volume and variety of goods being exchanged, from exotic spices and silks to raw materials like iron and timber. He could see the towering chimneys of factories belching out smoke in the distance, a testament to the industrial might of the city.

    The cacophony of sounds filled Poul''s ears as he made his way through the port. The nging of metal against metal, the hissing of steam engines, and the incessant chatter of people from all corners of the world created a symphony of noise that seemed to pulse through the air. The sky was overcast, and a light drizzle had begun to fall, but the activity in the port showed no signs of slowing down.

    "Just like the first," Poul muttered under his breath. Hisst visit to the British Empire was to meet Sara. He did so by pretending he hade here for business with his father, who was the Prime Minister of the country.

    Now he has returned to London, to see her again, but the visit has to be discreet.

    Poul knew that the Crown Prince of the British Empire, albeit for a long time, was watching his movements. The Crown believes that the reason why Penelope or Sara broke off the engagement was because of him. So he hase in disguise.

    Poul''s brown overcoat was well-fitted, hugging his form in a way that didn''t impede his movement but also didn''t draw attention to himself. The fabric was new and of high quality, its rich brown color reflecting the muted light of the overcast sky.

    The wide-brimmed hat that Poul wore was also new, its shape and style in line with thetest fashion trends. It satfortably on his head, casting a stylish shadow over his angr features. The hatband was a simple ck ribbon, unadorned but elegant in its simplicity.

    With that settled, Poul made his way to one of the passenger carriages. He approached one of the coachmen who were shouting out destinations and prices to potential passengers.

    "Excuse me, sir," Poul said, trying to keep his voice low and unremarkable. "Can you take me to The Royal London Hospital?"

    The Royal London Hospital was a ce where Sara worked before and after the war. She served there for years and was known for her great achievement in treating medical illnesses that are impossible in this era.

    The coachman, a gruff-looking man with a thick Cockney ent, eyed Poul suspiciously. "Yes I can, sir,"

    "How much is the fare there?"

    "Two shillings, sir," the coachman replied.

    Poul nodded and handed the man the fare, taking a seat in the carriage. As they made their way through the busy streets of London, Poul couldn''t help but feel a sense of nostalgia wash over him. The sights and sounds of the city were so familiar, yet it had been so long since he hadst been here.

    As they approached The Royal London Hospital, Poul felt his heart rate quicken. He couldn''t wait to see Sara again, to catch up on all that had happened since theyst saw each other. But he also couldn''t shake off the feeling of unease that had been gnawing at him since he arrived in London.

    He knew that he was taking a risk bying here, that the Crown Prince was watching his every move. But he couldn''t let that stop him from seeing Sara. After all, what kind of boyfriend would let his girlfriend live in another country in a dark technological era alone and in constant danger of the Crown Prince''s obsession?<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    As the carriage came to a stop outside the hospital, Poul stepped out and made his way inside. The smell of disinfectant and antiseptic hit him as soon as he entered, and he couldn''t help but smile. It was aforting smell, one that reminded him of Sara and the time they spent together.

    "Good afternoon sir!" The receptionist asked, scanning down his appearance.

    "I heard that there is a great doctor working here, I believe that she is the daughter of the Prime Minister of the British Empire. I would like to be checked up by her as I''m suffering from odd healthplications."

    "You are requesting specifically for Ms. Ascart sir? I''m sorry but we can''t do that. Our policy here is to assign patients to doctors based on their avability and expertise. However, we have a team of highly skilled and experienced doctors who can assist you with your health concerns. Would you like me to arrange an appointment for you?" The receptionist said with a polite smile.

    "No, I want her. I went here from the United States hoping that I could be checked up by her," Poul insisted.

    "I''m sorry sir but that is really against our policy," the receptionist reasoned.

    Poul sighed, realizing that he had hit a dead end. He knew that Sara''s position as the daughter of the Prime Minister of the British Empire would make it difficult for him to see her without raising any suspicions. He had to think of another way to approach her.

    "Fine, I understand," Poul said, trying to keep his disappointment in check. "Can you at least tell me when I might be able to see her here today? Is she on duty?"

    The receptionist nced at her schedule and replied, "I''m sorry, sir, but Dr. Ascart isn''t on duty today. She''s on personal leave for a week."

    "No, I''m not," a feminine voice sounded from behind. Poul''s eyes widened as she realized those voices. His nose also acted up as he whiffed the familiar scent of Penelope''s perfume. He turned around to see Sara standing there, wearing a whiteb coat with a stethoscope around her neck.

    ''Damn, my girlfriend is too beautiful!'' Poul thought to himself as he looked at Sara, feeling his heart race even faster than before.

    "Your grace..!" The receptionist promptly bowed her head and curtsied. "I didn''t expect your arrival."

    Penelope ignored her gesture and instead looked at the man in front of him. "You are looking for me?"

    "Yes," Poul replied and Penelope''s expression changed from confused to surprised.

    "Poul?"

 Chapter 187 A Dark Suggestion

    "Do you know her, Your Grace?" the receptionist immediately asked upon hearing the man''s name from Penelope.

    Penelope paused for a moment before responding, "Yes, he was a patient of mine from Avalonia a few years ago. What brings you here, Poul?"

    Penelope''s heart sank at the thought of Poul risking so much to see her. She knew the Crown Prince would not take kindly to Poul being in London, especially if he found out about their rtionship. But she couldn''t turn him away, not when he made a great effort on seeing her.

    "I''m sorry, Poul, but I''m actually on personal leave at the moment," Penelope said, trying to sound convincing.

    The receptionist interjected, "Your Grace since your patient hase all this way, could we at least provide him with a room to rest in while he waits for a doctor to be avable?"

    "Thank you, Mary," Penelope nodded gratefully, relieved that Mary hade up with a solution that didn''t involve her breaking her cover. She led Poul to a private room, where he settled onto the bed with a sigh of relief.

    "I''m sorry to have put you in this position, Penelope," Poul said, looking up at her with sad eyes.

    "It''s alright," Penelope replied softly, "But you must be careful. If anyone finds out that you''re here, it could be disastrous for both of us."

    Poul nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. "I know, but I had to see you. I needed to make sure you were alright and...I had to tell you something."

    Penelope sat down on the edge of the bed, feeling a flutter of nervousness in her stomach. She had a feeling she knew what Poul was going to say, and she wasn''t sure if she was ready to hear it. But she had to be strong, for both their sakes.

    "What is it, Poul?" she asked, holding her breath.

    "That I love you," Poul revealed and Penelope''s expression fell t.

    "Eh? Did youe all the way here just to say that in front of me? I thought this was going to be something serious."

    "For you, I would even travel to the ends of the earth," Poul said, grinning.

    "Geez you are too silly," Penelope hit him here and there Poulughed, enjoying the yful banter between them. "I''m sorry if it seems like I made a big deal out of nothing. I just had to tell you how I feel, Penelope."

    Penelope smiled softly, feeling a warmth in her chest at Poul''s words. "Are you sure that this is what you came for? Poul? You really don''t feel ill right?"

    "No, I''m not. I have been taking care of myself despite my busy schedule," Poul said, smiling.

    "Well, that''s good then. How is Jonathan?"

    "Well, you wouldn''t believe this. Jonathan told me before I left that she is going to marry an industrialist. Her name is Caroline Dupont. I''m sure you know her."

    "Ah, that woman who was the founder of Loreal? I know her. I buy my clothes and personal care products from her," Penelope nodded, surprised to hear about Jonathan''s engagement.

    "But believe me, you are more beautiful than her," Poul said while cing a hand on her cheek and stroking it.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    Penelope''s heart raced as Poul''s hand lingered on her cheek. She felt a warmth spread through her body, and she couldn''t help but lean into his touch.

    "You are just saying it because I''m your girlfriend, but if I wasn''t, you wouldn''t say those words."

    Poul looked into Penelope''s eyes and smiled softly. "No, that''s not true. Even if you weren''t my girlfriend, I would still think you''re beautiful and amazing. You have a kind heart and a brilliant mind that I admire so much. I''m sure every other guy would think of that."

    "Really?"

    "Really!" Poul confirmed and continued. "So, how are you doing? Is the Crown Prince still bothering you?"

    Penelope was silent for a moment. "Well, he still keeps sending me flowers, gifts, and letters whenever there''s a chance¡­Eh? Poul? What''s with that face?"

    "Isn''t it obvious, of course I''m jealous. I should be the only one doing that to you." Penelope couldn''t help butugh at Poul''s possessiveness. "Oh, Poul. You know there''s nothing between the Crown Prince and me. He''s just persistent in his pursuit."

    "But it still bothers me," Poul replied, looking serious again. "I don''t like the idea of someone else trying to win your heart."

    Penelope reached out and took Poul''s hand. "You don''t have to worry about that, Poul. My heart already belongs to you¡­"

    "Well¡­if that is really the case, Penelope. I have a suggestion where we can be together. Though this is going to be a hard decision to make, will you hear me out?" Poul said, his voice turning serious.

    "What is it?"

    "You know, your new father and the Crown Prince wouldn''t let you be with me. Your father isn''t going to ept it so I came up with an idea¡­This is going to be a selfish request. Do you still want to hear it?"

    Penelope''s heart sank as she listened to Poul''s words. "What is it, Poul? What do you have in mind?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

    Poul took a deep breath before speaking. "I want you toe with me, Penelope. To the United States. We can start a new life there, away from all of this. Away from the Crown Prince. And to do that, I will have to kill you."

    Penelope''s eyes widened in shock. "Kill me?"

    "Not literally, Penelope. I just want you to pretend that you are dead. That way, it''ll be easy for you to escape this country and we can start a new life together. It''s the only way we can be together without facing any obstacles or opposition. What do you say, Penelope? Will you take this risk with me?"

    Penelope was speechless. She couldn''t believe what she had just heard. Poul wanted her to fake her own death and leave everything behind just to be with him. It was a crazy idea, but she couldn''t deny the temptation of starting a new life with the man she loved.

    As she looked into Poul''s eyes, she saw the sincerity in his gaze. She knew he meant every word he said and that he was willing to do anything to be with her.

    But could she really go through with this? Could she leave everything behind, including her family and friends, and start a new life in a foreign country with a man she loved.

    "You don''t have to decide now, Penelope. I''ll give you time," Poul said, enveloping her hand in his.

 Chapter 188 Hard Decision

    "I can only stay here for a week, Penelope," Poul replied. "After that, I''ll have to return to the United States and get back to work. I''m sorry if my suggestions were a shock to you, but I believe this is the only way that we can be together."

    Penelope''s expression softened as she listened. "I understand," she said. "It''s just that... I am shocked¡­to think that you would suggest such a thing."

    For Poul,ing out and telling the public the truth about the rtionship is a no-go. One is that it could cause a huge scandal that can affect the image of thepany and hers, and two is that the obsessive Crown Prince might do something that Poul might not like. Death is the only way where he can bring Penelope back to the States.

    Of course, he is not going to force her as she still has a life here in London. She has her own life and family in this country, and taking that away from her simply because he wanted her to be with him is not an option. Poul knew that he had to find apromise that would allow them to continue their rtionship without causing any harm to Penelope''s life.

    As he was lost in thought, Penelope spoke.

    "How do you n it? How are you going to make my death believable?"

    Poul rubbed his chin as he contemted an answer. But seeing her eyes filled with anticipation, he came up with one easy option.

    "Well I haven''t gotten to that point yet Penelope but if I were toe up with one. I''m thinking of stabbing you with a knife in a safe spot. Somewhere between the lower abdomen or upper part of your belly. You will bleed but the wound wouldn''t be serious enough to endanger your life. And then as you fall to the ground, I will take you with me to the carriage, tend to your wounds, and head over to the port where the ship is waiting for us to take you to the United States. There you will have to assume a new name and identity."

    "You haven''t gotten to the point and yet you already nned it out. You have been thinking of this idea, Poul for a while haven''t you?" Penelope asked, her expression neutral.

    "Yes. Trust me, if there''s another way, I would take it. But if you are thinking of making our rtionship public, that''s a no-go. As I said before, you don''t have to decide now. This decision is hard and I know it. I''ll see you in a week."

    As Poul stood up from the chair and headed over to the door to leave, Penelope spoke.

    "I''ll do it!"

    Poul stopped in his tracks and turned around to face Penelope. His eyes widened in surprise.

    "What?" he asked, almost unable to believe what he had just heard.

    "I said I''ll do it," Penelope repeated, her voice firm. "I''ll go with you to the United States and assume a new identity. It''s not like I have much to lose here anyway."

    Poul shook his head. "I can''t ask you to give up your life here, Penelope. This is a huge decision, and it''s not one that you should make lightly."

    Poul said it to make her reconsider her decision. There are times when a person would make a decision out of a whim and this is one of them. He wanted to make sure that both of them are in mutual understanding, aware of the consequences and the risk.

    "I know what I''m getting into," Penelope said, standing up from the chair. "I''ve thought about this a lot, and I''vee to the conclusion that I want to be with you. I''m willing to take the risk."

    Poul walked over to Penelope and took her hands in his. "I love you, Penelope," he said. "And I promise you that I will do everything in my power to keep you safe."

    Penelope smiled. "I love you too, Poul," she said. "And I trust you."<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    Poul leaned in and kissed Penelope, and for a moment, everything else faded away. They were lost in each other, and the world outside didn''t matter.

    But Poul knew that he had a lot of work to do. He had to make sure that everything was nned out perfectly so that they could leave London without anyone suspecting a thing.

    As he pulled away from Penelope, Poul tenderly stroked her cheek for onest time before leaving. "I suggest that you see your family here onest time as I prepare for the n."

    ***

    A dayter, in the Ascart residence. Penelope was walking down the gilded hallway and into the kitchen hall where her family was waiting for her.

    Upon arriving at the kitchen hall, she was met with a question that she hated to hear every day.

    "Penelope, is there really no way for us to change your mind? The offer still stands for you to be the future Queen of the British Empire. You really don''t want to take it?"

    "Father, I thought we have finished discussing it? It''s been almost three years," Penelope said as she leaned for a kiss on his father''s cheek. She did the same gesture to her mother before taking her seat.

    "Penelope, we just want what''s best for you," her mother said, taking her hand. "Are you sure that you''re making the right decision?"

    Penelope took a deep breath and looked at her parents. "I know it''s hard for you to understand, but I won''t marry a man that I don''t love. Please, Mother, Father, let''s stop talking about this and enjoy our breakfast."

    Her family nodded in agreement, and they continued with their breakfast, but there was a sense of sadness and tension in the air. Penelope knew that her decision was not an easy one, but she couldn''t imagine living her life with anyone other than Poul.

    After breakfast, Penelope stood up and kissed her parent''s cheek for onest time.

    Her parents found Penelope''s behavior to be odd.

    "Penelope, is there a problem? You have kissed us on the cheek two times. You rarely do that."

    "No, everything is fine," she said, forcing a smile. "I just wanted to show you both some extra affection today."

    Her parents seemed to buy her exnation, and they hugged her tightly.

    "Be safe on your way to the hospital," her mother said. "We''ll see youter tonight."

    Penelope felt a lump form in her throat as she hugged her parents. She knew that this might be thest time she would see them for a while. But she couldn''t let her emotions show, not now, not when she had to be strong.

    As she left the house, she felt a sense of freedom and excitement mixed with fear and uncertainty. She was leaving everything she had ever known behind to be with the man she loved.

 Chapter 189 Executing The Plan

    Poul sat anxiously in the horse-drawn carriage, his heart pounding in his chest. He couldn''t believe what he was about to do - take Penelope away from everything she had ever known. But he couldn''t bear the thought of living without her. He had nned everything meticulously, from hiring the coachman to arranging their passage on the ship to the United States. He had even contacted someone to create fake credentials for Penelope, so they could start a new life together.

    But the most difficult part of the n was still ahead of him. He had to stab Penelope in the abdomen which would mimic death, without harming her in any way. He had considered asking Caroline to synthesize the drug, but he knew it was a risky proposition. Caroline was a brilliant chemist, but she might not agree with his n, and even if she did, creating such a drug was an arduous and time-consuming process.

    Poul took a deep breath and tried to calm his nerves. He couldn''t let his doubts and fears get in the way of his love for Penelope. He was willing to do whatever it took to be with her, even if it meant risking everything. As the carriage pulled up in front of the hospital, Poul steeled himself for the task ahead. He had to be strong for Penelope, no matter what.

    In order to protect his identity, Poul disguised himself, wearing thick clothing and a mask.

    There, he waited patiently for Penelope to arrive at the hospital. Normally, Penelope would arrive at the hospital in her personal carriage And that carriage doesn''t have guards. A perfect opportunity.

    Five minutester, Penelope''s carriage arrived.

    Poul watched intently as Penelope stepped out of the carriage, her eyes scanning the area. He could see the concern etched on her face, and it broke his heart. He knew that what he was about to do would hurt her, but he had no other choice.

    He quickly made his way toward her, his heart racing with every step. As he approached her, he reached over to the knife hidden beneath his thick coat.

    Penelope, who was anticipating the next events, shuddered in ce, but she quicklyposed herself and faced him.

    "What can I do to you, kind sir?"

    Poul didn''t reply, instead, he pulled out a knife and stabbed Penelope. This action horrified the onlookers and her personal coachman.

    As the knife pierced Penelope''s skin, Poul felt a pang of guilt and fear wash over him. He had never hurt anyone before, let alone the woman he loved. But he had to keep his focus, he couldn''t let his emotions get in the way of the n.

    Penelope gasped in pain, her eyes widening in shock and confusion. She stumbled back, her hand clutching at her abdomen where the knife had struck. Poul knew he had to act quickly before anyone could intervene.

    He scooped her up in his arms and rushed towards the waiting carriage. The coachman was already at the reins, ready to take off at a moment''s notice. Poul gently ced Penelope inside the carriage, cradling her head in hisp as she moaned in pain.

    "Drive quickly!" Poul barked at the coachman, who whipped the horses into a gallop. They sped away from the hospital, leaving behind a trail of dust and confusion.

    As the carriage rattled along the cobblestone streets, Poul tried to calm his nerves and focus on the next part of the n. Tending the wounds.

    He already prepared a medical kit filled with medical supplies. He took a scissor and cut and snipped through her clothes, allowing him to see the wound clearer.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "I will pull out the knife, Penelope. So that I can stitch your wounds. Don''t worry, I have some medical experience."

    Poul carefully removed the knife from Penelope''s abdomen, wincing at the sight of the blood that gushed forth. He quickly reached for the medical kit, pulling out a sterilized needle and thread.

    He knew that time was of the essence. Penelope''s wound was deep, and if left untreated, it could prove fatal. He focused all his attention on the task at hand, his hands steady as he threaded the needle and began to stitch up the wound.

    Penelopey still, her eyes closed in pain. Poul could feel her trembling slightly in his arms, and he knew that she was in shock. He tried to keep his voice calm and soothing as he worked, reassuring her that everything would be alright.

    "Almost done, my love," he whispered, his voice barely above a whisper. "Just a few more stitches."

    After what felt like an eternity, Poul finally finished stitching up the wound. He carefully bandaged it and checked for any signs of infection. Penelope''s breathing had slowed down, and she seemed to have calmed.

    Poul breathed a sigh of relief, knowing that they were one step closer to their new life together. He gently stroked Penelope''s hair, watching her chest rise and fall with each breath. He knew that they still had a long way to go, but he was willing to face any obstacle as long as he had Penelope by his side.

    "Penelope, are you alright? Aside from the wounds, is there a part that hurts more than the others?" Poul asked, his voice full of concern.

    Penelope opened her eyes slowly, looking up at Poul with a weak smile. "I''m fine, my love," she whispered.

    He leaned down and pressed a gentle kiss to her forehead. "We are getting near the port now. I have prepared some dresses here for you to wear. I want you to wear one as your dress is currently covered with blood."

    Penelope nodded weakly and allowed Poul to help her change into one of the dresses he had brought.

    Five minutester, the carriage finally came to a stop, jolting Poul out of his reverie. He looked out the window and saw that they had arrived at the docks.

    Poul helped Penelope out of the carriage and onto the dock. He could see the ship that would take them to their new life waiting in the harbor, its sails billowing in the wind.

    Poul looked around, scanning the crowd for any sign of trouble.

    He took Penelope''s hand and squeezed it reassuringly. "Are you ready for this, my love?" he asked, his voice soft.

    Penelope looked up at him with determination in her eyes. "I''m ready," she said firmly.

 Chapter 190 The Events That Followed

    The mug slipped from Alexander''s trembling hand, shattering as it hit the marble floor with a sharp ng. His eyes zed with fury, his face contorted with disbelief.

    "No, no, no!" he spat, his voice echoing through the room.

    The officials standing before him recoiled, their faces pale with fear. They had never seen the prince so incensed before.

    "How could this have happened?" Alexander demanded, his voice rising with each word. "Where were her guards?"

    "Your Royal Highness," one of the officials spoke up, his voice trembling. "Her Highness does not employ guards when traveling to the Royal Hospital. ording to eyewitness ounts, a man in a thick overcoat and top hat stepped out of the carriage and attacked her. He then took her and fled in the carriage."

    Alexander''s fists clenched at his sides, his jaw tight with anger.

    "Is that all of it?! Did you find the carriage?"

    The officials exchanged uneasy nces, unsure of how to answer the prince''s question. Finally, one of them spoke up.

    "Your Royal Highness, we have not yet found the carriage. The witness only saw it driving away in the distance, and we have not been able to locate it since."

    Alexander let out a growl of frustration, pacing back and forth across the room. He couldn''t believe this had happened to Penelope. She never had enemies, the people of the British Empire loved her, and even if Penelope rejected him, he still cared for her.

    "Get me every avable man in the Scond Yard," he barked at the officials. "I want a search party organized immediately. We must find her¡­" he paused, as he realized something was off. ording to his official report, Penelope was stabbed and was taken away. That was odd, why would the attacker stab and take her away? That makes no sense. If the attacker simply wanted to kill her, he would have left her body on the ground but he didn''t.

    So this means one thing. That Penelope could still be alive and the attacker is connected to her.

    "Your Royal Highness? What was your order?" one of the officials asked carefully, not wanting to distract the prince from his thoughts.

    Alexander snapped out of his reverie and turned to face the officials.

    "Sorry, I got lost in my thoughts," he said. "Get me every avable man in Scond Yard. We need to find Penelope and figure out who did this to her. And make sure we bring her back alive."

    The officials nodded and quickly left the room to carry out the prince''s orders. Alexander was left alone with his thoughts, trying to piece together the events of the day.

    While he was at it, he flickered his finger and the door opened, revealing a man donned in a robe. That man was his attendant, the one he ordered to look after a specific man who he had thought to be the reason why Penelope is not epting his proposal.

    "You were not on the day of the event right?" Alexander asked.

    "Yes, Your Highness. I was thirty minuteste for my shift at the Royal Hospital that day," the man replied.

    Alexander clicked his tongue. His attendant was the only one he had ordered to look after Penelope and to do so, he had made him apply for a position in the Royal Hospital as a nurse where he can look after her for him. But the fact that he was not at the time of the attack infuriated him.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "I need you to go to the hospital and gather any information you can about Penelope''s condition before she was taken. Talk to the doctors, nurses, and anyone who was there. And bring back anything you find to me."

    The attendant nodded and quickly left the room to carry out the prince''s orders. Alexander was left alone again, pacing back and forth across the room, his mind racing with different possibilities of what could have happened to Penelope.

    Two hourster, one of the officials returned to the prince''s office.

    "Your Royal Highness, the carriage that took Penelope and the attacker away from the Royal Hospital has been found."

    Alexander''s eyes gleamed with hope as he turned to face the official.

    "Where was it found? Is Penelope with it?" he asked, his voice tinged with urgency.

    The official hesitated for a moment before answering. "I''m afraid not, Your Royal Highness. The carriage was abandoned in an alleyway in the East End. It had been set on fire, and there was no sign of either Her Highness or the attacker."

    Alexander''s heart sank at the news. He had hoped that they would find Penelope alive and well with the carriage, but it seemed like they were back to square one.

    He couldn''t imagine what Penelope must be going through, being kidnapped and possibly injured. And if being kidnapped is one of the possibilities, then why the heck they are not receiving ransom? But is it truly their intention? Why did they stab her in the first ce?

    Alexander wrapped his hair around his fingers, deep in thought. All of this is making him insane, everything is not making sense to him.

    "Your Royal Highness, we should look around the East End and find the coachman of the carriage. We already have eyewitnesses in the scene who saw where the man fled."

    Alexander nodded in agreement with the official''s suggestion. They needed to follow any leads they could get, no matter how small they may seem.

    "Agreed," he said, his voice firm. "I want every avable man searching the East End for any clues about Penelope''s whereabouts¡­."

    Just as he was giving out other orders, a man entered his office. Alexander looked up at the man and immediately recognized him. It was Penelope''s father, the Prime Minister of the British Empire.

    "Alexander¡­have you found any clues? I already have all our agents to look out for Penelope but there''s still no luck¡­"

    "Mr. Prime Minister¡­we did find the carriage used by the attacker to kidnap Penelope but she was not there. But rest assured, we are doing everything we can to find her."

    "I still can''t believe this¡­" The Prime Minister uttered, his voice breaking. "We were just having breakfast this morning and now this. My daughter...my little girl..."

    Alexander could see the pain and worry etched on the Prime Minister''s face. He stood up from his seat and walked over to the Prime Minister, and pressed his hand gently on his shoulder.

 Chapter 191 Plan Going Smoothly?

    Meanwhile, aboard the steamship headed to the United States of Avalonia, Poul carefully examined Penelope''s wound, making sure to clean it with antiseptic before re-dressing it. He knew that infections were amon risk with stab wounds, especially when they were inflicted with a dirty or rusted weapon.

    As he worked, Penelopey still on the bed, her eyes closed in pain. Poul couldn''t help but feel a deep sense of sadness and worry for her. He just stabbed the person he loved the most and seeing them in pain add salt to that wound.

    Penelope''s eyes suddenly fluttered open, and she looked up at Poul. Her face was pale, and she looked weak, but her eyes held a spark of determination.

    "Poul," she whispered, her voice barely above a whisper. "I think you have done well enough on dressing my wounds. Don''t worry, I''ll take care of it once we are in the United States."

    Poul felt relieved hearing her usual calm and reassuring voice, but he couldn''t help but feel guilty for what he had done to her.

    "Well, you are a doctor after all, I''m sure you can look after yourself better than I," he chuckled as he said that.

    Penelope shook her head. "Mhmm¡­I think being tended by someone feels a little better than taking care of yourself. But I''ll manage, don''t worry. But still, do you think everyone in London is going to buy it? That I got stabbed and disappeared?"

    "Given the fact that you are a popr doctor, I don''t think the people of the British Empire would simply ept what happened to you. They will find you, they''ll use any means necessary to get you back. But since I stabbed you, I already gave them false information that you were killed. Yet, there will be someone who can piece the puzzle together and see through our lies."

    Penelope nodded understandingly. "I wonder if the coachman that you hired is going to remain silent¡­"

    "I gave him one year''s worth of his sry and money to buy another carriage. I don''t think he''ll sell us out," Poul reassured her.

    Penelope smiled weakly, grateful for Poul''s quick thinking. "You always know how to handle things," she said softly.

    Poul''s expression softened. "I just wish I didn''t have to handle this. I wish we could have just left London and started a new life together without all this mess. But you knew better than I that it is easier said than done."

    Penelope was silent for a moment, then she squeezed Poul''s hand.

    "What are you doing?" Poul asked.

    "Nothing, I just want to squeeze your hand¡­" Penelope replied and continued. "So this is freedom huh? My life as a daughter of a princess was a suffocating one. There is this etiquette that you mustply with or else you''ll get punished. But now, even though we are on the run, I feel free. Free from those suffocating rules and expectations. Free to be with you, Poul."

    "Even in this world, the United States is still a free country huh? Though there are expectations from those who were born from the upper ss, your new life in the United States should be an easy one."

    "Speaking of new life. Have you already arranged my new identity?" Penelope asked.

    Poul hummed in thought. He had prepared all of the things she needed for her new life in the country.

    "You are going to be an immigrant from Great Britain, a nurse working for the hospital of the poor in London with medical expertise.

    Penelope raised her eyebrows in surprise. "A nurse? I never thought I''d be working as a nurse. But I suppose it''s a good cover, especially in this era, where women having a career is still not widely epted."

    Poul nodded in agreement. "Yes, and besides, it will also give you the chance to use your medical knowledge to help those in need. That''s what you''ve always wanted, right?"<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    Penelope smiled. "Yes, it is. So I guess I''ll be looking for a job once we arrive in the United States?"

    "Oh no...no, you will be working for me, my lovely wife," Poul grinned. "As you are aware, ourpany focuses on technology, and the factory churning out our products has a lot of hazards. So I figured, why not be our head doctor in the clinic that we are renovating?"

    Penelope''s eyes widened in surprise. "Head doctor? Poul, are you sure? I mean, how about the doctor who is working in the position? Am I going to rece him just like that?"

    "Ah¡­I see where you are getting. If you are worried about his job then rest assured, he won''t. He will still be able to continue working for mypany¡­oh well, I guess you can start as his assistant."

    Penelope couldn''t help but feel grateful and overwhelmed by Poul''s thoughtfulness. Despite the danger and uncertainty of their current situation, he had already prepared everything they needed for their new life in the United States.

    "Thank you, Poul," she said softly and continued. "Once we get to the United States, I would like to speak with you about your lives, you and Jonathan. It must have been hard for the both of you considering that you were reincarnated in a pauper''s body."

    ***

    Back in Great Britain, at the Royal Hospital of London. Alexander''s assistant, Reid, was walking towards the receptionist.

    "Oh. Mr. Reid, good evening. So you have heard the news about the stabbing and the disappearance of Her Highness, Penelope? What a pitiful situation," the receptionist said as Reid approached her desk.

    "Yes, it''s quite shocking. But I trust that His Majesty and the authorities are doing everything they can to find Her Highness," Reid replied. "Do you mind if I ask you some questions about Her Highness at this event? I''m curious about something."

    "What is it?"

    "Well, did Her Highness speak with anyone here while she was working?"

    "Uhm¡­that''s a broad question, Mr. Reid. You know that Her Highness is speaking to a lot of people, especially with her patients. Oh¡­speaking of patients, there is this man who. He said that he came from the United States of Avalonia and wanted to be checked up by her."

    "Hoh?" Reid mused, his brows narrowing. "Do you happen to remember his name?"

    The receptionist thought loudly. "I believe his name is Poul?"

    "Poul?" Reid repeated the name. "What was his surname?"

    "He didn''t say, Mr. Reid. But I''m sure his name is Poul. Why?" The receptionist asked.

    There''s no mistaking it. A man who was from the United States of Avalonia, and a name starting from Poul. Could it be?

    "Oh, I remembered that I have a scheduled appointment today. Looks like I would not be able to work today, so look for someone who can fill in for me."

    After saying that, Reid dashed out of the hospital and headed straight to the pce. He needed to speak with Alexander immediately.

 Chapter 192 The New Life

    Four dayster, the steamship that Poul and Penelope used to get to the United States docked in the Port of New York. They walked down the gangway, leading them to the busy and bustling streets of the city that never sleeps.

    As they made their way through the crowds, Penelope clutched onto Poul''s arm tightly. She was still recovering from the stab wounds she incurred from Great Britain, which made the noise andmotion overwhelming and exhausting for her.

    Poul, who sensed her difort, guided her towards a nearby park bench to rest for a moment. As they sat down, Poul took Penelope''s hand in his,forting her with a gentle squeeze.

    "Are you okay?" he asked, his concern evident in his voice.

    Penelope looked up at him with a small smile, grateful for his support. "Yes, I''m alright. It''s just a bit overwhelming, that''s all," she replied softly.

    Poul nodded understandingly, his eyes scanning the bustling city around them. "I know it can be a lot to take in, but we''ll take things slow and explore at our own pace. We have all the time in the world," he reassured her.

    "Poul, if you don''t mind me asking, I have been thinking of your n to get me out of Great Britain. So you stabbed me, kidnapped me, which made the people of the British Empire believe that I was killed. But if they don''t find my body, they won''t stop investigating. I don''t think burning the carriage we used is enough¡­"

    "Oh? That''s troubling you?" Poul tilted his head to the side. "In that case, burning the carriage wasn''t the end of the n. Of course, getting you out there was one thing, but making them believe that you were dead is another."

    "So what was the end of your n?" Penelope asked, her eyes gleaming curiously.

    "In order to get you out of Great Britain, I have to get my hands dirty. Hence I hired people who can procure a body from the morgue that closely matches your appearance, and throw it in the River Thames where the authorities can find it. Of course, they''ll investigate the body to make sure it was you. After we left the carriage, the coachman met up with the men I hired to get the dress you were wearing that day and donned it to the dead body that they bought. If things go ording to n, the British authorities will believe that you perished, and they''ll eventually stop their investigation," Poul exined calmly.

    Penelope''s eyes widened in shock as she listened to Poul''s n. "That''s quite an borate n, Poul. I never would have thought of it myself," she admitted, her voice filled with both admiration and unease.

    "Does that make you ufortable?" Poul paused, looking at her with concern.

    Penelope hesitated for a moment before answering. "A little, yes. It''s just that it''s¡­I don''t even know how to describe it."

    Poul chuckled. "Well, the n is to dump your fake body on the River Thames three days from now to make it more believable to the people and to the authorities. Let''s not worry about it anymore and focus on our life here in Avalonia," he suggested, trying to lighten the mood.

    "So what now, Poul? Now that we are here in Avalonia, should we go to Pittsburgh or do we have to go somewhere else first?"

    Upon asking Poul, a man in a ck suit approached the couple.

    "Are you, Mr. Nielsen?"

    Poul looked up to the man, he was an old man with gray hair and a stern expression.

    "Yes, I am. And you are?"

    The man in the ck suit handed Poul a file.

    "I am your contact, Mr. Nielsen. I havepleted your order. It contains information about a woman you wanted to get in this country."

    Poul took the file from Edward and opened it. Penelope leaned over to read the file as well. It contains personal information about Penelope''s new identity.

    "So your name will be Sara Olsen, age, 23 years old. A nurse immigrant from Great Britain who wanted to search for a new life here in Avalonia¡­" Poul nodded in satisfaction. "This is all good, my dors are not wasted on you, sir."<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "Well, if you require my services in the future, you know where to find me. Mr. Nielsen. But I have to remind you that the path you walk is dangerous and that it''ll blow to your face sooner orter."

    "I am aware of that, you may leave now."

    The old man tipped his top hat and left, leaving Poul and Penelope alone again.

    Penelope looked at Poul. "Sara Olsen? I never could have thought I would get to use that name again in this world."

    "Do you like it?" Poul asked, smiling.

    Penelope nodded. "Yes, it sounds like a fresh start."

    Poul stood up from his seat and offered his hand to Penelope. "Then let''s begin our new life, shall we?"

    Penelope took his hand and stood up as well.

    ***

    Three dayster, in Great Britain.

    The authorities of Great Britain were shocked when a body was found in the River Thames, which waster identified as Penelope''s. The news spread like wildfire, causing sadness and confusion among the people. Her parents were devastated and couldn''t stop crying.

    The police continued investigating the case for weeks but they couldn''t find any evidence or leads as to who was responsible for her death.

    A monthter after the body was discovered, the British Empire held a state funeral to pay respects for her deeds and achievements. The first woman doctor in the history of Great Britain, the one who has done a lot of miracles, and saved London from the threat of a Cholera outbreak. She is also the woman who reduced the mortality rate of the soldiers during the Crimean War, making her death even more heartbreaking for the nation.

    She waster buried in the Kensal Green cemetery, where many other notable figures of the time wereid to rest. Her funeral was attended by dignitaries, government officials, andmon people who were touched by her contributions to society. It was a solemn asion, with many tears shed and heartfelt eulogies given.

    After the funeral, Poul approached the tomb. In front of the tomb was Crown Prince Alexander.

    "My condolences, Your Highness," Poul said somberly. "When I received the word from the States about her passing, I was devastated. She was a great woman who could have contributed a lot more to this nation or to the world."

    "What are you doing here, Poul?" Alexander red at him.

    "I''m here to give my respect, Your Highness. Is that illegal?"

    "No, it isn''t," Alexander shook his head. "Do you mind if I ask you some questions?"

    "What is it?" Poul asked.

    "What are you doing a week before Penelope''s disappearance?"

 Chapter 193 Almost!

    "What?"

    "I''m asking you, Poul. What are you doing a week before Penelope''s disappearance in the Royal Hospital where she works?"

    Upon asking that question twice, Alexander stared daggers at Poul who were unfazed at the re. But deep inside, every cell on his body is ring an rm, that the prince might have uncovered the truth. But how much truth did he learn? Did he just learn that he visited Penelope in the hospital or did he find out the whole n?

    Poul has to gamble on whether to answer Alexander, as one wrong answer could indict him. Well, he could have avoided this from happening if he never attended the state funeral, but he had done this to make this visit to make sure that their suspicion won''t be directed to him.

    Looking back, Sara mentioned his name to the receptionist at the hospital, could it be that the Prince interrogated the hospital staff prior to Penelope''s disappearance. In that case, he can still do some maneuvering. Lying to the Crown Prince is a death sentence, so he has to choose his words very carefully.

    "Well, I did visit the Royal Hospital of London a week before Penelope''s disappearance. I came to her because I want to get checked up by her, given her status as the best doctor in the British Empire."

    "Is that so?" Alexander narrowed his brows. "Then what about Penelope saying that you were her patient a year ago? That doesn''t make sense, you never came to London at that time. Meaning, either one of you is lying or not."

    "Excuse me, Your Highness, but am I being interrogated here? Because your line of questioning suggests otherwise," Poul replied, maintaining a calm andposed demeanor.

    Alexander''s lips curled into a faint smile as he regarded Poul. "I must say, Mr. Nielsen, your attempts to dance around our main point are quite clever. Unfortunately for you, such tactics won''t bear fruit. Given that you were in contact with Penelope during the time in question, we have no choice but to bring you in for questioning."

    Poul''s eyes glinted with a hint of amusement, his cool demeanor never faltering. "Your Highness, I assure you that my intentions were never to deceive or manipte. I simply wished to rify any misunderstandings and offer an exnation for my presence at the hospital. Speaking of which, why would Lady Ascart lie in the first ce? It must be a form of courtesy as I came to her hospital suddenly and she had to admit me immediately."

    "Hmm¡­you are good at your words, Mr. Nielsen. But we still have to take you in for questioning. This death brings a cmity to the British Empire and the people living under it demand an answer to this mysterious murder."

    With a flick of the finger, armed guards suddenly appeared behind Poul and Alexander, ready to take Poul away for questioning. Poul remained calm, which irked Alexander a little. What kind of a man who can remain calm despite the situation?

    "Your Highness, you are making a huge mistake. Let me remind you that I''m an Avalonian visiting the British Empire. I have no intentions of causing any trouble, let alone being involved in any criminal activity. I am more than willing to cooperate and clear my name, but I demand to know my rights as a foreigner in this country," Poul stated firmly, his eyes not leaving Alexander''s.

    Alexander paused for a moment, considering Poul''s words. He couldn''t deny that the man had a point. Taking an Avalonian citizen for questioning is a clear vition of internationalw. However.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "This murder case is important to the British Empire. We are willing to bend thew a little in order to solve this mystery. So your immunity won''t apply here. But rest assured, you will have your rights. Just cooperate, Mr. Nielsen. And after that, you can walk away."

    "I don''t want to, Your Highness. This is a clear vition of internationalw and you know that. You can''t just bend thew as it suits you. I won''t be intimidated or coerced. If you really want me badly, why not write a letter to the Judiciary and request my extradition? That is the proper and legal way to do it," Poul said firmly, not backing down.

    Alexander sighed heavily, he was not getting anywhere at this point. Poul cleverly used thew against him, stopping him from getting what he wanted out of him. This infuriates and humiliates him.

    "Your Highness, should we round him up or not?" One of the armed guards asked.

    Alexander clenched his teeth. "Poul Nielsen, I''ll be watching you. Stand down, everyone."

    Poul gave a small nod of acknowledgment before turning on his heel and walking away, leaving Alexander seething with anger and frustration.

    Momentster, Poul stopped in his tracks and turned around. "Your Highness, I say this onest time. I share my deepest condolences to Penelope. I understand your feelings, you are devastated but it doesn''t mean you can just¡­use anyone without proper evidence. And if I may add, you should be more careful about who you trust. Lady Ascart was a remarkable doctor, but she had enemies as well. And I''m not just talking about the murderer. Good day, Your Highness."

    With that, Poul resumed his steady pace and left the cemetery. He hopped onto the carriage waiting for him and was driven away.

    As the carriage drove through the busy streets of London, Poul tried to calm his beating heart. Alexander nearly got him there. If not for Saraing up with the lies about their encounter, this wouldn''t happen. But he can''t take any chances here, he has to leave London before they find out what truly happened.

    Meanwhile, at the cemetery, Alexander was still standing in front of the grave of Penelope.

    "Your Highness, what should we do? Should I spy on him?" Reid asked.

    "There''s more than meets the eye," Alexander replied cryptically. "That man is truly a mysterious one. To think that an Albian is capable of making me feel like this is¡­I don''t even know what to say. You spied on him for me years ago, so there''s no need to waste your time there. What I want you is to look for Penelope''s enemies, within the British Empire. She was a threat to the conservative faction in the Parliament, one of them might be behind her murder."

    "Understood, Your Highness."

 Chapter 194 New Identity

    A mere month after Sara''s arrival in the city of New York, she was almost unrecognizable. Her once luscious locks of strawberry-blonde hair had been transformed into a rich, chestnut brown hue, framing her heart-shaped face in a way that made her features pop. The striking ruby color of her eyes had now taken on a sapphire tint, making them appear even more alluring and enigmatic. It was as if she had shed her old skin and emerged as a new, more confident version of herself.

    This is crucial for her transition to the state and to stay true to the identity given to her by Poul Nielsen. She looked at the mirror onest time before she stepped out of her hotel.

    She walked down the street, taking in the sights and sounds of the city. People rushed past her, going about their business, and Sara felt a sense of anonymity that she had never experienced before.

    In her previous life as Penelope Ascart, the daughter of the Prime Minister of the British Empire, Sara was used to being in the public eye. Her striking features and regal bearing drew attention wherever she went, but now as Sara, she was just another face in the crowd. It was a strange and unfamiliar feeling, both exhrating and isting.

    As she walked towards the small caf¨¦ in the corner, Sara couldn''t help but think about the life thaty ahead of her. She had left everything she knew behind, including her family and her country, to start a new life in America. She was to be a doctor in the prestigious Axelsen & Nielsen Company''s clinic, where she could put her medical expertise to good use. It was a new beginning, but it also meant leaving everything she had ever known behind.

    Sara stepped into the cozy caf¨¦ and made her way to a small table near the window. She ordered a coffee and sat down, lost in thought. She was so deep in contemtion that she didn''t even notice the man who had walked in and was now making his way toward her table.

    He was tall and well-built, with blonde hair and a chiseled jawline. His deep blue eyes were framed by thickshes, and a small scar on his left cheek only added to his rugged good looks. He wore a tailored suit that entuated his broad shoulders.

    Sara recognized the man instantly. It was Poul''s partner and bestfriend. Jonathan.

    "Sara, did you just arrive? Sorry for beingte for¡­" Jonathan looked at this wristwatch to check the time. "One minute."

    Sara smiled warmly at Jonathan, feeling grateful for his presence. "No worries at all, Jonathan. I just got here myself," she replied, taking a sip of her coffee.

    Jonathan took a seat across from Sara and leaned back in his chair. "So, how are you adjusting to life in New York?" he asked, a genuine concern in his voice.

    Sara thought for a moment before responding. "It''s been a whirlwind, to say the least. Everything is so different from what I''m used to, but I''m trying my best to adapt."

    Jonathan nodded understandingly. "I can imagine it''s not easy, but you''re doing a great job. Poul and I are both really proud of you."

    A small smile tugged at the corners of Sara''s mouth. She felt a sense of validation at Jonathan''s words, knowing that she had worked hard to get to where she was now.

    "So, are you ready for our job interview?" Jonathan grinned. "You see, this is just a formality, so no need to be nervous."

    Sara chuckled. "Why would I be nervous about having an interview with an old friend?"

    Jonathanughed, his blue eyes sparkling. "That''s the spirit, Sara. But still, it''s better to conduct this interview to avoid suspicion¡­"

    "So, what do you want to know about me, Mr. Axelsen?" Sara asked a yful glint in her sapphire eyes.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    Jonathan leaned forward, his expression serious. "Well, first of all, was it true that you have done miracles while serving in the Royal Hospital of London, and that you stopped a potential cholera outbreak by narrowing down the source of the infection to a contaminated water supply?"

    Sara''s eyes lit up at the mention of her work. "Yes, that''s true. I was part of a team that identified the source of the outbreak and worked to contain it. It was a challenging but rewarding experience."

    Jonathan nodded, impressed. "Well, no need to drag this down. You are hired, Ms. Sara Olsen, or should I say, Sara Nielsen," he teased.

    Sara hit him lightly in the arm andughed. "Geez stop that."

    Jonathan smiled warmly at her. "We''re honored to have you, Sara. You''re going to be a great addition to our clinic."

    "I am d that I would be able to use my expertise to contribute to yourpany. Speaking of which, I heard that you are building a metro station in New York, which I believe is under construction. Impressive, to think that the two of you would be able to drastically change this era. From steam engines to electricity."

    Jonathan leaned back in his chair, a look of pride evident on his face. "Yes, that''s right. And we are not going to stop there. We have jumped to the oil industry andter the steel industry, two of which are the most lucrative industries of the era."

    "How envious, as a doctor, there''s barely anything I could do aside from giving care to patients. I may be a doctor from the modern age but without modern tools and medicines, it feels like I''m back in the dark ages," Sara mused, a hint of disappointment in her voice.

    "I''d suggest that you soften your voice when mentioning the modern age, Sara. You don''t want someone hearing that."

    Both of themughed, feeling a sense of camaraderie between them. But as theirughter died down, Sara''s expression turned serious. "Jonathan, when can I move to Pittsburgh?"

    "Give it a month, Sara," Jonathan said. "As you are aware, the news of your passing in London is still hot. We want you toy low for a while, as there is a chance that the Crown Prince might suspect us of being connected to your fake murder."

    "I understand," Sara said.

    "Well, if you need something, you can visit me at Fifth Avenue Hotel, where my future wife and I are staying."

    "Caroline Dupont¡­was it? You really are lucky to have a beautiful girl on your side."

    "That''s subjective, Sara," Jonathan corrected. "For Poul, you are the most beautiful, and consider himself lucky for having you. Though I feel bad for this one girl who was infatuated with him."

    "Infatuated? At Poul? Who is it?" Sara''s tone suddenly changed, intrigued by the mention of someone having feelings for Poul.

    Jonathan chuckled. "You''ll see her soon."

 Chapter 195 Progress

    ?

    A weekter, Poul Nielsen''s ship pulled into the bustling Port of New York. As he stepped off the gangnk, he was relieved to see his partner and best friend, Jonathan, waiting for him at the docks.

    "Wee back, my friend! How was your trip to London?" Jonathan asked, giving Poul a hearty pat on the back.

    Poul let out a sigh, his eyes betraying a hint of nervousness. "To be honest, it was a bit harrowing. I nearly got caught by the Crown Prince, but I managed to pull through. He''s a bit gullible, thankfully."

    As they made their way towards the carriage, Poul couldn''t help but feel a sense of relief wash over him. His risky mission to London had been a sess, and now he could finally rx.

    With a swift leap, the two men hopped into the carriage, settling in for the ride ahead. The horse neighed and began to trot forward, leaving the busy port behind them as they rode off towards the city.

    As they settled into the carriage, Poul and Jonathan resumed their conversation, catching up on thetest developments since Poul''s departure for London.

    "So, what''s new?" Poul asked, his curiosity piqued.

    Jonathan grinned. "Well, Sara has been keeping busy. She''s already changed her appearance, you''ll barely recognize her."

    Poul''s eyebrows shot up in surprise. "Really? I can''t wait to see her! Speaking of which, where is she now?"

    "She''s at the construction site, actually," Jonathan replied, his tone growing more serious. "She''s been really interested in the project I''ve been working on and wanted to get a closer look."

    Poul nodded, impressed.

    "Well, we are heading there anyway, so I''m looking forward to seeing what you two have been up to," Jonathan added with a smile.

    As the carriage made its way through the city streets, Poul couldn''t help but notice the changes that had taken ce in the city during his absence. The roads were in disarray, with construction sites visible in every direction. Some streets were blocked off due to the excavation of the new metro station, which promised to revolutionize the way people moved around the city.

    As they approached the construction site, Poul could hear the sounds of heavy machinery and workers shouting at each other over the noise. The sight that greeted him was a sprawlingndscape of cranes, steam engines, and scaffolding, with hundreds of workers scurrying around like ants.

    But amidst the chaos, there was a sense of order and purpose. Jonathan had always been a meticulous nner, and it showed in the organization of the construction site.

    As they stepped out of the carriage and made their way toward the site, Poul couldn''t help but feel a sense of admiration for his best friend''s work. The project was ambitious, but Jonathan had a clear vision for what he wanted to achieve.

    And then he saw her.

    Sara emerged from the crowd of workers, looking almost unrecognizable. Her once long, strawberry-blonde hair was now dyed brown and straight, cascading down her back. She wore an elegant dress made of fine material that hugged her curves perfectly, and her jewelry sparkled in the sunlight.

    Poul''s heart skipped a beat as he took in Sara''s stunning appearance. He had never seen her look so regal and refined before. The workers around her were clearly taken aback as well, stealing nces at her from time to time as they continued their work.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "Wow," Poul muttered under his breath, his eyes still fixed on Sara.

    Jonathan chuckled beside him. "Told you she changed her appearance. I didn''t expect her to go all out like this, though."

    "Poul! You''re back!" she eximed, rushing over to embrace him.

    Poul hugged her back and got a whiff of her perfume. She smelled sweet and floral, a stark contrast to the industrial smells of the construction site.

    "Uhm, I wouldn''t suggest that you do a public disy around here, Poul," Jonathan said, ncing at the construction workers who sighed as they saw the woman they were admiring was already in a rtionship.

    What''s more, some of the workers were disgusted and jealous at the sight. An Albian having to be with a beautiful woman is an insult.

    Well, who cares if they are jealous or spiteful of him? He gets to hug his beautiful girlfriend and they can only watch as they break their backs in the construction site that he and his partner designed.

    "What are they gonna do? File aint?" Poul chuckled at Jonathan''sment.

    "Well, Poul, you just took her out from London, and everyone is still not over with the passing of their popr princess. And there are some people in the British Empire that suspect you are connected to the incident. Not only that, there were rumors sparking at the time where Penelope and you were the reason why the Crown Prince was rejected. And even if she changed her appearance, there''s no doubt that they''ll look into her. And that is bad for you and for her," Jonathan exined.

    Poul realized the gravity of the situation. He had been so caught up in his own world that he had forgotten about the rumors and suspicions that surrounded him and Penelope.

    "You''re right, Jonathan. I need to be more careful. I don''t want Sara to get caught up in all of this. That''s why we can''t take her to Pittsburgh yet."

    "I don''t me you, Poul. Sometimes you would do stupid things in front of someone you love," Jonathan chuckled and continued. "Even I would be lost in my world as well if Caroline was in front of me. Ahh¡­shit, I can''t wait for our wedding."

    "Time flies so fast huh?" Poul remarked and flickered his gaze to Sara. "Sara, Jonathan is right, we have toy low for now. So no hugging or kissing okay? We''ll just exin to the crowd who saw us that we were childhood friends who haven''t seen each other for years. That would convince them that we are not lovers¡­though it pains my heart."

    "It''s okay, for the sake of our cover," Sara nodded with a smile, understanding the need to keep their rtionship a secret for the time being. She knew that Poul had a lot on his te, and thest thing he needed was more unwanted attention and suspicion.

    "Oh, by the way, Poul," Jonathan called. "We are doing great on our end, I was thinking about your progress in the electric lotive."

    Poul nced at the construction of the metro station and spoke.

    "In a month, my team in the Avonside Engine Company is going to test the electric lotive that they have built. I''ll be there."

    "Great," Jonathan nodded in satisfaction. "We''lle too."

 Chapter 196 Prelude To Electric Locomotive Demonstration

    ?

    One and half monthster, twenty kilometers north of the Axelsen & Nielsen Headquarters, a crowd of people was looking at the lotive made of shiny steel. They chattered among themselves, asking questions to their fellow attendees.

    The lotive in question was a sight to behold. Its body was sleek and shiny, reflecting the bright sunlight that streamed down on it. It was a stark contrast to the older lotives that the people were ustomed to seeing, which were mostly made of wood and steam-powered. This new lotive, however, was said to be powered by electricity, and its body was made entirely of steel.

    As the crowd gathered around it, they couldn''t help but marvel at the intricate details of the lotive. The steel body was polished to a high shine, and every curve and line was carefully crafted to create a sense of elegance and power. But there were whispers among the onlookers, with some expressing doubt about the use of steel as the body of the car.

    There was a belief at the time that using steel as the body of a lotive would make it heavier and slower. After all, wood was a lightweight and flexible material that allowed for better maneuverability and speed. Some of the older engineers scoffed at the idea of an electric lotive made entirely of steel, believing it to be a passing fad that would never catch on.

    But there were those who were more forward-thinking, who saw the potential in this new technology. They believed that steel could be used to create a stronger, more durable lotive, capable of carrying heavier loads and traveling greater distances. They argued that the benefits of using steel far outweighed the supposed drawbacks and that it was time to embrace this new era of transportation.

    As the crowd continued to marvel at the lotive, a sense of excitement and anticipation began to build. One of the people in the crowd wondered about the overhead lines above the lotive.

    He turned to his friend and asked, "Do you think those overhead lines are for powering the lotive? I''ve heard about electric trams that use simr lines for power."

    His friend nodded in agreement. "It''s quite possible. This is a new technology, after all. It wouldn''t be surprising if they had toe up with a new way to power the lotive."

    As they continued to specte, a group of engineers emerged from the building nearby, carrying blueprints and tools. They made their way towards the lotive, which had been set up on a track in front of the crowd. The engineers began to inspect the lotive, checking every part andponent to ensure that it was in working order.

    As the engineers inspected the lotive, the crowd buzzed with excitement and curiosity. Among them was Poul Nielsen, the lead designer of the electric lotive. He had drawn inspiration from the R62A New York City Subway car but had made several modifications to the design of the lotive due to the limitations of technology at the time, where he had to exclude any modern electronics that are far beyond the current era.

    Contrary to what some in the crowd had believed, the body of the lotive was not made of steel. Instead, it was made of lightweight aluminum, which had been carefully shaped into an aerodynamic design to minimize air resistance and improve efficiency. The aluminum body was supported by attice framework, which provided structural integrity and allowed for the expansion of the interior space.

    Nielsen and his team of engineers continued their inspections, checking everyponent and connection to ensure that everything was in working order before the demonstration. They can''t afford to fail as this lotive would be the one running on the tracks of the under-construction Metro Station in New York. If they fail here, the confidence in the Metro Station Project would plummet, hurting their reputation and theirpany.

    "I assure you, Mr. Nielsen," Chapman spoke as Poul was checking boxes on the checklist in his hand. "This lotive is as ready as we can make it."

    Nielsen nodded, his eyes scanning the blueprint once more. "I have no doubts about our preparations, Mr. Chapman. But I can''t help feeling a bit nervous. This is a new technology, after all."

    "Well, Mr. Nielsen. You were a pioneer of some of the new technology made in the United States of Avalonia, and all of them worked as you described. I''m sure this one would work too, because I trust your judgment and skills. And this is not a ttery, Mr. Nielsen, I''m stating facts based on the previous records you had with your inventions."

    "Thank you for the praise, Mr. Chapman," Poul smiled warmly at him.

    As they chatted, a person boarded the electric lotive and approached them. Poul turned his head around to face the iing person, it was Jonathan.

    "Are they here?" Poul simply asked. <novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "Yes, Poul. There are a lot of big shots waiting for you to greet them. Should I call them here now?" Jonathan replied.

    "Very well, we are almost done with the preparations. Let''s get them here," Poul said, putting away the checklist and blueprints.

    Jonathan nodded and made his way toward the group of VIPs waiting nearby. Poul took a deep breath and steadied his nerves as he prepared to showcase histest creation to the world.

    The VIPs were a mix of government officials, investors, and members of the press. Morgan, Wanderbilt, Dupont, and the councilors from the New York Board of Transportation to name a few.

    Jonathan led the group of important visitors toward the electric lotive, giving them a brief introduction as they walked.

    "Ladies and gentlemen, I''d like to introduce you to the future of transportation - the electric lotive," Jonathan said, gesturing towards the sleek aluminum body.

    The visitors murmured in approval, their eyes scanning every inch of the lotive with great interest.

    "And now, I invite you all to take a closer look," Jonathan continued, stepping aside to let them approach the lotive.

    As the VIPs stepped into the electric lotive, they couldn''t help but gasp in amazement. The spacious interior was a stark contrast to the cramped and ufortable train cars they were ustomed to. The cushioned seats lookedfortable and promised a pleasant ride, a far cry from the hard benches they were used to. The cool air circting inside was a wee relief from the sweltering heat outside.

    As they looked around, the VIPs marveled at the bright and steady electric lights that illuminated the interior, unlike the dim and flickering gasmps they were used to. The sleek and polished surfaces gave the lotive a modern and elegant appearance. It was clear to them that this electric lotive was a true marvel of modern technology.

    While they took in the interior design, Poul Nielsen stepped forward, offering a warm greeting to the group.

    "Wee, everyone. I''m Poul Nielsen. I''m sure we have already met countless times. We will start the demonstration in a few minutes so why don''t you make yourselffortable by sitting?"

    While saying that, he couldn''t help but notice that there was someone missing among the VIPs. Sara.

    Caroline, who sensed that he was looking for someone, spoke.

    "She''s outside, Poul. Do you want me to call her over?"

    Poul smiled. "That would be appreciated, Ms. Dupont."

 Chapter 197 Demonstration Of Electric Locomotive

    ?

    A few minutester, Sara entered the electric lotive along with Caroline. She led her to Poul, who was having a chat with his engineers.

    "Poul¡­" Caroline called softly. "Your girl¡­I mean, Sara is here."

    Poul turned to face the two beautifuldies and smiled. "Sara, I''m sorry if you were not on the VIP list, I was not the one handling the papers, it was my executive secretary."

    Sara fumbled her hands bashfully. "No, you don''t have to apologize. I''m not a person you should consider as a VIP as I contributed nothing to the project."

    "Why are you saying that? You contributed to a project in another way."

    "What do you mean?" Sara asked.

    "By another way, I meant you being here is enough. Like you are my motivation and strength. Your presence is making me confident that I can pull this demonstration off smoothly."

    Caroline watched the two of them with a soft smile. She can''t believe that Poul has the guts to flirt with Sara before the demonstration. But nevertheless, she found it cute and excused herself to give the two some privacy.

    "You are so silly, Poul," Sara said, her cheeks blushing a light pink. "But thank you. I''m d I could be here to support you."

    Poul chuckled, taking Sara''s hand in his. "You always know how to make me smile, Sara. Now why don''t you join the others? We will start in a minute."

    Sara nodded her head and retreated.

    Jonathan, who was watching the two from afar, approached Poul.

    "Poul, they are settled now. We can now start the demonstration."

    "Very well," Poul straightened his tie. "Let''s go and meet them."

    The two of them walked down the aisle, heading to the VIP who was seated in the third passenger car. There, he saw prominent figures in the industry and the councilors from the New York Board of Transportation.

    "Good afternoon esteemed guests, it is my pleasure to wee you to witness our demonstration of electric lotives, the future of rail transport. As you have undoubtedly observed, this lotive is a marvel of modern engineering, incorporating a multitude of cutting-edge features. In order to provide you with an optimal riding experience, the cabin is sealed to prevent any difort from external factors, while a heat pump guarantees afortable temperature regardless of the weather conditions outside.

    "The spacious interior is capable of amodating up to sixty passengers per car, ensuring ample room for all. Furthermore, this electric lotive boasts a state-of-the-art regenerative braking system, which recovers energy during braking, as well as draft gears to provide a smooth and efficient ride. We are proud to present to you the epitome of modern rail technology¡­"

    As Poul was speaking facts about the electric lotive, Morgan, Wanderbilt, Caroline, and the Councilors were nodding in agreement, impressed with the technical details of the electric lotive. Meanwhile, Sara, who was sitting with them, listened intently to Poul''s presentation with a smile spreading across her face.

    She couldn''t help but feel proud of the coolness Poul was disying to the VIPs, as expected from her boyfriend.

    Poul continued. "It is important to note that our electric lotive is distinct from the traditional steam lotive, in that it does not have an engine car containing a boiler to generate steam, which was traditionally used for propulsion. Instead, our lotive employs electricity as its propulsion system, with a single overhead line above the train carrying electrical power. To tap into this power source, we utilize a specialized apparatus known as a pantograph, which is mounted on the roof of the lotive. This pantograph enables the transfer of electricity to the electric motor, which is responsible for driving the lotive''s wheels."

    "We will drive this lotive, covering a distance of five kilometers on a rail track that we have built solely for this. As for the speed of the electric lotive, it can reach up to 50 miles per hour, a lot faster than the steam lotive, which in order to get to that speed would need a lot of coal and steam. Any questions before we start?"

    Wanderbilt raised his hand. "I have a question. Well, it sounded like you were aiming to rece the steam lotives with your electric lotive. In your words, you always mention its advantages over the steam lotive. The question is, are you going to rece it?"

    Poul understood the nature of Wanderbilt''s question. After all, he is a railway magnate whose business empire was built on steam lotives. He hade here to see whether the electric lotive is a threat to his railway business, and judging from the technical details, it seems that his worries were confirmed. <novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "Just like in lighting, electricity is the future of transportation. But it doesn''t mean that traditional transportation is going to be reced overnight. The railway infrastructure of the steam lotives in the United States of Avalonia is massive and recing them with electric lotives would require a huge amount of money. So, I''d say that it won''t be reced as of now but in the proceeding decades, it might," Poul exined.

    "That doesn''t make me feel better, to be honest," Wanderbilt chuckled.

    "Well, it does if you adapt Mr. Wanderbilt. You see, the reason why somepanies were forced out of business is because they are afraid of the inevitable phenomenon called progress. The world is constantly evolving and our choice is to adapt to it."

    Caroline interjected, "And the ones who adapt, they thrive and stay ahead of the game. You have a strong business empire, Mr. Wanderbilt, and I am sure you can adapt to the changes in the industry. Who knows, you might even be at the forefront of the electric lotive revolution."

    Wanderbilt smiled at Caroline''s words.

    "Any more questions?" Poul asked.

    "Why not use your air brake technology in this electric lotive?" The Councilor asked.

    "Ah, great question Mr. Councilor," Poul replied. "While our air brake technology is one of the most efficient braking systems out there, it is not suitable for this particr lotive. As I mentioned earlier, our electric lotive has a regenerative braking system, which recovers energy during braking. This means that when the lotive brakes, it converts the kic energy into electrical energy, which is then stored in the lotive''s battery or fed back into the overhead electrical line. This makes our lotives more energy-efficient and cheaper."

    The Councilor nodded in understanding. "That makes sense. Thanks for exining."

    Poul smiled. "No problem. Any more questions before we get started?"

    The group shook their heads, and Poul gave the signal to start the lotive. The electric motor whirred to life, and the pantograph rose up to connect with the overhead electrical line. With a gentle lurch, the lotive began to move forward, its wheels rolling smoothly along the tracks. As they picked up speed, the onlookers outside cheered, waving their hands and whistling.

    As they traveled along the five-kilometer track, Poul continued chatting with the Councilors.

    "So, I assume that you are liking the demonstration of the electric lotive? One that would be used in the New York Metro Station?"

    The Councilor nodded. "We are impressed, Mr. Nielsen. You have delivered what you have promised. Therefore, we will continue to support the construction project by going public where the people can buy stocks."

    Poul smiled, pleased with the Councilor''s response. "Thank you, Councilor, gentleman. There''d be no doubt that there will be a rush in the stock market in New York once this project is made public."

    "Are you going to invest as well, Mr. Nielsen?"

    "I don''t see the reason why not. We are confident in the project, therefore expect a considerable investment from ourpany," Poul replied.

    As they reached the end of the track, the lotive came to a smooth stop. The Councilors and the VIPs disembarked, their faces still filled with excitement from the demonstration.

    Wanderbilt turned to Poul and said, "I must say, Mr. Nielsen, you have truly impressed me. I might consider overhauling my Central Station with your electric lotive."

    "It will cost you a ton, Mr. Wanderbilt," Poul said.

    Wanderbilt smirked. "That ton you are talking about is just a gram to me. I''ll see you and your partner at the partyter?"

    "Yes."

 Chapter 198 The Celebration

    ?

    Five hours had passed since the triumphant demonstration of the Axelsen & Nielsen electric lotive, and now the industrialist duo was hosting a grand banquet in its honor. The event was attended by a prestigious group of high-ranking officials, including members of the New York Board of Transportation Council, as well as distinguished individuals such as Morgan, Dupont, and Wanderbilt.

    The banquet was held in a magnificent ballroom located within the impressive office building that Axelsen & Nielsen had constructed. The space was grand in scale, with towering ceilings and ornate moldings that spoke to the duo''smitment to luxury and grandeur. The walls were adorned with borate tapestries depicting scenes of historic importance, and crystal chandeliers hung from the ceiling, casting a soft and ethereal glow over the room.

    The ballroom was filled with elegant furnishings, including plush velvet chairs and tables adorned with fragrant floral arrangements. The guests were greeted with sses of champagne and hors d''oeuvres passed on silver tters by wait staff dressed in impable uniforms. The air was alive with a sense of excitement and achievement as the guests mingled and shared in the sess of the demonstration that had taken ce just hours earlier.

    As the guests mingled and enjoyed their champagne, the sound of lively music suddenly filled the grand ballroom. The musicians, dressed in smart suits and bow ties, had taken their ces on a raised tform at the far end of the room. A violinist struck up a merry tune, and the other musicians fell in behind him, their instruments filling the air with lively melodies.

    The mood of the room shifted from one of polite conversation to one of gaiety and revelry as the guests took to the dance floor, twirling and spinning in time to the music. The couples moved gracefully around the room, theirughter and chatter echoing off the towering walls.

    Axelsen & Nielsen watched from the edge of the dance floor, their faces alight with pride and satisfaction.

    "Damn, we should do this often, Poul," Jonathanmented as he sipped his wine. "I wonder why we didn''t do this when we struck a contract with the New York Board of Transportation a year ago?"

    "You know the answer to that, Jonathan," Poul replied, sipping his ss of champagne. "We may have struck a contract but we don''t have a working prototype of electric lotive and the construction equipment required to build a tunnel for the metros. But now that we have those in ce, we can celebrate."

    Jonathan nodded, his eyes scanning the room as he took in the scene of jubtion and merriment.

    As they watched the scene unfolding before them, their executive secretary approached them from behind, wearing an elegantvender gown thatplemented her navy blue hair.

    "Mr. Axelsen, Mr. Nielsen, congrattions on the sessful demonstration you had earlier," Amelia said gracefully.

    "Thank you, Amelia," Poul replied with a warm smile. "It''s been a long timeing, but we''re thrilled with how it all turned out."

    Amelia nodded, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "The guests are thoroughly enjoying themselves, and I have already received numerous inquiries about when we will be releasing the electric lotive to the market. I think we have a hit on our hands."

    Jonathan chuckled. "It certainly seems that way. But we still have a lot of work to do before we can mass-produce these machines."

    "I understand, Mr. Axelsen," Amelia said. "But I have a feeling that with your ingenuity and determination, we''ll get there sooner thanter."

    Suddenly, a man called from a distance.

    "Ms. Weiss! I have been looking for you," the man rushed towards their location. Poul and Jonathan looked at the man who was called Amelia. It was Timothy Anderson.

    "Timothy?" Poul tilted his head to the side curiously. "Why do you want to see Amelia so urgently?"

    "Well, Mr. Nielsen, I actually asked Ms. Weiss if I can be her partner for this asion and she epted."

    "Really?" Poul flickered his gaze to Amelia. "Well, you two have a lovely time then."

    Amelia smiled at Poul and Jonathan before turning to Timothy. "Shall we?" she said, extending her arm towards him. Timothy beamed and took her arm, leading her to the dance floor.

    As they disappeared into the crowd of dancers, Jonathan leaned to Poul. "Do you think there''s something between Amelia and Timothy?" he asked quietly.

    Poul shrugged. "I don''t know, I couldn''t care less about their rtionship."

    "Why are you sounding bitter?" Jonathan teased.

    Poul gave Jonathan a sidelong nce before turning his attention back to the dancers. "I''m not bitter, Jonathan. All I''m saying is that I shouldn''t interfere with their personal life. That is all."

    "Really? Then why did you act so overprotective of her when she first arrived in Pittsburgh? Also, you had a crush on her right? Why are you not acting like it?" <novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "That''s way past us, Jonathan. I had a crush on her, yes, but that was years ago. We''ve all moved on since then. Even made our rtionship clear so there won''t be a misunderstanding. Whoever Amelia ends up with, I will simply wish for her happiness."

    "Heh?" Jonathan mused.

    Poul rolled his eyes at Jonathan''s teasing. "I''m serious, Jonathan."

    Jonathan nodded, understanding Poul''s point. "You''re right. I apologize for bringing it up. Let''s just enjoy the rest of the evening. Speaking of which, where is your girl?"

    Upon asking him that, the girl he was referring to entered the ballroom and walked down on the red carpet.

    Sara glided into the ballroom, her brown hair elegantly styled in a half-up, half-down hairdo that framed her delicate features. Her porcin skin, as pale as snow, contrasted perfectly with her white dress, which hugged her curves in all the right ces. The dress flowed down to her ankles in a gentle wave, adorned with intricatece and delicate beading that shimmered in the light.

    Poul was captivated by her beauty, unable to take his eyes off of her. It was as if the world around her was fading as his vision focused solely on her.

    As Sara approached them, Poul felt a sudden rush of nerves. He had known Sara for years, but he still felt like he was seeing her for the first time. She was stunning, and even though her appearance is not the same as the one she had in her previous life, the resemnce is close.

    "Hey," Sara said, smiling at Poul and Jonathan.

    "Hey," Poul replied, his voice barely above a whisper.

    Jonathan smirked at Poul''s reaction. "Well, you look absolutely beautiful tonight, Sara," he said, taking her hand and kissing it.

    Sara giggled at Jonathan''s flirtatiousness. "Thank you, Jonathan. You don''t look too bad yourself."

    Jonathan grinned, but his attention was soon drawn to a group of people he knew across the room. "Excuse me, I''ll be right back," he said before disappearing into the crowd.

    Poul and Sara were left alone, standing in the middle of the ballroom.

    "You look amazing, Sara," Poul said.

    Sara smiled at him. "Thank you, Poul. You look pretty good yourself."

    They stood there for a moment, not sure what to say next. The music was still ying, and the two of them wanted Poul clear his throat, trying to break the awkward silence. "Would you like to dance, Sara?" he asked, extending his hand towards her.

    Sara''s eyes widened with excitement, and she took his hand. "I''d love to," she replied, and they made their way towards the dance floor.

    Meanwhile, Jonathan arrived at the group of men.

    "Mr. Axelsen, a pleasure to see you again," one of the councilors of the New York Board of Transportation extended his hand, offering a handshake. "You have a magnificent skyscraper here."

    "Thank you, what can I do for you?"

    "Well, Mr. Axelsen, we have heard about your ac system and the power nt that you are constructing in Ohio. I must say, the prospect of an alternating current system is high and it would be my honor to refer you to a friend of mine in Washington, who is looking interested. In fact, I have brought him here."

    Jonathan shook his hand and chuckled. "I see, where is he?"

    "Here."

 Chapter 199 Deals In The Middle Of The Celebration

    ?

    As soon as the councilor signaled, a towering man, standing at six feet and five inches, confidently strode forward. Jonathan looked up and extended his hand in greeting.

    "Good evening, sir. I''m Jonathan Axelsen, COO of the Axelsen & Nielsen Electric Manufacturing and Distribution Company. I understand that you''re interested in our alternating current system, is that correct?" Jonathan asked with a friendly smile.

    The man took a moment to inspect Jonathan''s hand before firmly shaking it. His deep voice boomed, "Yes, that''s correct. Mr. Russell suggested we purchase one generator per mile to address the issue of dark streets and homes."

    "Ah, I think I''ve had a simr conversation before," he said, recalling the encounter.

    Jonathan couldn''t help but chuckle at the man''s statement. It reminded him of a simr conversation with Felix Sumpter in the past.

    The man raised his eyebrows in confusion at Jonathan''s muttering. "Excuse me?" he asked.

    "Apologies," Jonathan quickly corrected himself. "That was inappropriate of me. Please continue."

    The man nodded, his stern expression softening slightly. "Of course," he said. "We''re interested in exploring this option further. We want to make sure that we''re investing in a reliable and efficient system."

    "Absolutely," Jonathan replied, nodding in agreement. "We pride ourselves on our top-quality products and services. We are already constructing a power nt in Ohio that will power several cities. There, you won''t see a generator per mile as one power nt with alternating current system can reach distance as far as the eyes can see."

    "Yeah, I have already talked to the man who discussed it with you, his name is Felix Sumpter. I''m sure you know him."

    "Ah, Felix? Yeah, my partner and I knew a lot about him. So, since the councilor and Mr. Sumpter have referred you to us, may I assume that you are considering having an alternating current system in Washington?"

    "Indeed we are, in fact, the City Council, and the President is desperate to have the magic the electricity brings New York," the man said.

    "Good, but as much as I would like to discuss this more with you, I''m afraid we will have to continue it tomorrow. As you can see, we are in the middle of the celebration, and pulling out in the middle of it would look rude to our guests. How about we schedule a meeting for tomorrow afternoon? Our office is located here in this building, on the eighth floor. We can discuss the details of our alternating current system there," Jonathan suggested.

    The man nodded in agreement. "That sounds reasonable. We''ll see you then, Mr. Axelsen," he said before turning to leave.

    As the man walked away, Jonathan turned to the councilor and smiled. "Thank you, Councilor for that. You have secured us with another client."

    "It''s my pleasure, Mr. Axelsen. I believe yourpany has a lot to offer Washington," the councilor replied with a smile. I will enjoy the evening now. Sorry for pulling you out from your friends."

    Jonathan shook his head. "No need to apologize, Councilor. I''m happy to meet with potential clients at any time, even during a celebration," he said with a smile.

    The councilor chuckled. "Well, I appreciate your dedication, Mr. Axelsen. But don''t forget to enjoy yourself too. It''s not often that we get to celebrate such an important asion."

    Jonathan nodded in agreement. "Of course, Councilor. I''ll make sure to enjoy the rest of the evening. Thank you again for introducing me to your colleague."

    With that, the councilor bid Jonathan farewell and made his way back to the other guests. Jonathan watched him go before turning to rejoin his friends¡­but they were not there.

    Jonathan looked around and saw Poul and Sara still dancing on the dance floor. Amelia and Timothy too. The music doesn''t seem like it will end at any moment. So he grabbed another ss of champagne and waited for them.

    While he was lost in thought, Jonathan felt a gentle tap on his shoulder, causing him to turn around to see Caroline standing behind him. Without warning, she poked his cheek yfully with her finger, making him chuckle at her yful gesture.

    "Feeling alone? Want me to apany you?"

    "I would like you tofort me," Jonathan said, grinning.

    Caroline smiled back at him, her eyes sparkling mischievously. "Oh, I see how it is. Using me for myforting abilities," she teased.

    Jonathan chuckled. "Hey, a little bit offort never hurt anyone," he replied.

    "Though sadly business first," Caroline said. "While I was preparing to make an entrance to this ball, I bumped into someone whom you might be interested in talking to." <novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "Who is it?" Jonathan asked, his tone growing serious.

    "It''s Sherman."

    "Sherman? He is not invited to this party. What is he doing here?" Jonathan said.

    "That''s kind of a hurtful word to hear from your mouth, Mr. Axelsen."

    Jonathan jolted up upon hearing Sherman''s voice from behind.

    "Mr. Sherman?! You scared me there," Jonathan chuckled nervously.

    Sherman grinned, his eyes twinkling mischievously. "Sorry about that, Jonathan. Didn''t mean to startle you," he said, his voiceced with amusement.

    Jonathan shook his head, still slightly startled. "It''s fine, Sherman. I just didn''t expect to see you here."

    Sherman shrugged nonchntly. "I''m a man of many talents and interests, my friend. I like to keep my options open," he replied with a smirk.

    Jonathan raised an eyebrow skeptically. "So, what brings you here tonight, Sherman?"

    Sherman''s smirk grew wider. "I was informed by a friend of mine, which I''m sure you know who I am referring to. He said that I can use this celebration as an opportunity to strike another deal with you regarding the firearms you sell."

    "Okay, I''m listening," Jonathan said promptly.

    "Mr. Axelsen, though I do understand the need of exporting your rifles to the European market but that is putting the United States of Avalonia national security at risk. If our potential enemies have the same weapons as ours, they can use them against us," Sherman said, his tone growing serious.

    Jonathan raised an eyebrow in confusion. "What are you suggesting?"

    "I''m suggesting that you sell exclusively to the Avalonian government, the weapons you are going to introduce that are superior against AN-M1 rifles. I heard that you are not only building semi-automatic rifles."

    "So you are talking about partnerships, simr to the ones that we had years ago?" Jonathan asked, his mind racing as he tried to weigh the pros and cons of such an agreement.

    Sherman nodded. "Yes, exactly. We could work together to develop advanced weaponry that only the Avalonian military would have ess to. It would not only benefit us economically but also protect our national security," he exined.

    "Yeah, but we are losing a lot of market shares here, Mr. Sherman. Oh, do not misunderstand me, I love my country but we are running a business here. If you want this partnership to work, we don''t want you ordering a hundred thousand weapons, we want you to buy millions of them."

    Sherman smiled wryly. "Of course, Mr. Axelsen, I understand your concerns. But let me assure you, the Avalonian government is willing to pay a premium price for exclusive ess to your advanced weaponry. We are not just asking for a few rifles, we want to build a long-term partnership with you, with both parties benefiting from the deal," he said.

    Jonathan grinned subtly. "That''s more reassuring. We''ll discuss this tomorrow with my partner. For now, please enjoy the party."

    Sherman nodded and walked away.

    While watching Sherman disappear into the distance, Caroline spoke.

    "The United States of Avalonia''s position must be threatened as they desperately want to secure another deal from yourpany. I must say, you make the most out of it, Jonathan."

    Jonathan nodded. "Yeah, we will do just that but for now, I''m feeling left alone here by myrades. Why don''t we dance along with them?" He offered a hand.

    Caroline smiled and took his hand. "Sounds like a n," she said as they made their way to the dance floor.

 Chapter 200 After The Celebration

    ?

    The industrialist duo took their time enjoying the party that they hosted. Dancing with their beautiful partner and having a drink with esteemed guests. The cheery and lively atmosphere in the ballroom is seemingly not ending anytime soon. But eventually, it will.

    Two hourster, the party is starting to die down as guests from all across the United States of Avalonia are starting to bid farewell to the industrialist duo, thanking them for their hospitality, and making their way to their own carriage waiting outside of the main office building.

    The industrialist duo also thanked them for attending their party as they see them out of the ballroom.

    The ballroom filled with many people earlier was now mostly empty, with only a handful of people left behind cleaning up the remaining sses and decorations. The industrialist duo decided to retire to their private office to discuss the sess of the party and their ns for the future.

    "Not only have we sessfully demonstrated the possibility of electric lotives for mass transportation but secured a deal from our electric and arm manufacturing enterprise," Jonathan said.

    "So I have heard," Poul said, washing his hands with alcohol. The strong scent of the alcohol filled the room, and Jonathan wrinkled his nose.

    Poul noticed his expression and chuckled. "Don''t worry, my friend. It''s just a precautionary measure. We can''t be too careful in these uncertain times."

    Jonathan nodded, understanding the need for caution. "So, what are our next steps?"

    Poul leaned back in his chair, steepling his fingers in front of him. "Well, we have a contract with the government for electric lotives and arms manufacturing. But we need to expand our operations if we want to continue growing our business. But before that, what did Sherman tell you earlier?"

    Jonathan rubbed his chin, remembering the conversation he had with Sherman. "He wants us to sign an exclusive contract where we supply the United States Army with ourtest and advanced rifles. Also, they might be looking into interfering in our business as they see us exporting rifles to Europe as a threat to national security."

    Poul''s expression turned serious. "Interfering in our business? That''s a serious matter. We cannot afford to lose our market in Europe, and we certainly cannot afford to have the US Army as our enemy."

    Jonathan nodded in agreement. "Exactly. But at the same time, we cannot afford to turn down such a lucrative deal with the Army. It could be a huge boost to ourpany. We are talking about millions here."

    "Really?" Poul widened his eyes. "Well, perhaps I might overthink such things. Let the United States have ourtest prototype while we supply Europe with AN-M1 rifles."

    "We''ll discuss it with Sherman tomorrow," Jonathan said and continued. "As for our electric enterprise, Washington is looking interested in our alternating current system."

    Poul raised an eyebrow. "Interesting. What are they proposing?"

    Jonathan leaned forward, excitement in his voice. "They want to install our alternating current system in the capital city, and if it proves sessful, there is a possibility that the President may refer it to other states, allowing us to expand our operations across the country."

    "It is really a big deal huh?" Poul mused. "They are going to see us tomorrow right? I''ll have Amelia work on some documents. But since we just had a celebration earlier, I don''t think she is at capacity to do anything tonight. We can have her start on it first thing in the morning."

    Jonathan nodded in agreement. "Yes, that would be best. We don''t want to overwhelm her with work after such a festive event."

    Poul stood up from his chair and stretched his arms. "Well, it''s gettingte. I think it''s time for us to call it a night."

    Jonathan nodded and stood up as well. "Agreed. I told Caroline that I''ll be in the room in five minutes but I''m already a minutete."

    Poul chuckled. "You better hurry then. Don''t want to keep her waiting."

    Jonathan smiled and made his way to the door. "Good night, my friend. See you tomorrow."

    "Good night, Jonathan," Poul replied as he turned off the lights and closed the door behind him.

    As Jonathan heads towards his bedroom, Poul heads straight to the guest room, where Sara was staying. <novelsnext></novelsnext>

    He opened the door and looked inside the room, there he froze upon seeing Sara in the middle of changing.

    Poul whistled at the sight of her wless body. Embarrassed, Sara quickly grabbed a nearby robe to cover herself.

    "Poul! You should have knocked first," she scolded, trying to hide her blush.

    Poul couldn''t help but chuckle at her reaction. "My apologies, Sara. I didn''t mean to startle you. I just wanted to check if you needed anything before retiring for the night."

    Sara took a deep breath, trying to calm herself down. "No, thank you. I''m all set for the night," she replied, adjusting the robe.

    Poul nodded, still grinning. "Alright then. Do you want me to sleep with you? Though unofficially most people think that we are not a couple but that''s not a reason for me to fulfill my obligation as your boyfriend."

    Sara let out a smallugh. "Well Poul, if for a moment I really wanted to be alone for a while."

    Poul''s brows creased. "Why? What''s the matter? Is something troubling you?"

    He entered her bedroom and walked towards her. "Sara, we can talk about it today if you''d like. I''m here for you, always." He put aforting hand on her shoulder.

    "It''s just that if my decision is right, Poul," Sara confessed. "You know, I feel bad for my family back in London. They are grieving their daughter whom they thought dead. I may not have the best rtionship with my father in this world but he is still my father and I know he must be in pain. And my mother, I can''t even imagine what she must be going through. It feels wrong to not let them know that I''m alive."

    Poul listened to her with a sad expression, feeling guilty for forcing Sara to make such a decision. "I was selfish and I admit, I was a douchebag for making you do things that you might hate. But it''s done, returning to a ce where everyone thinks you are dead won''t be a good idea. Now looking back, you say that you are ready to take the decision of leaving everything behind feels like you are making me feel better."

    The atmosphere in the room turned awkward, suffocating the two from the weight of the conversation. Sara looked down at her feet, unsure of how to respond.

    Poul sighed heavily, breaking the silence. "I understand your dilemma, Sara. And I''m sorry for putting you in this position. Before our chat bes too ufortable for the both of us to continue, I will leave."

    As Poul began to turn to his heel, he felt a tugging force in his sleeves.

    "Don''t go," Sara whispered. "I was wrong, I don''t think I want to be alone¡­so you can sleep beside me."

    Poul turned back towards Sara with a small smile, relieved that she wanted him to stay. "Are you sure?" he asked.

    Sara nodded, her eyes meeting his. "Yes, I''m sure. I don''t want to be alone tonight."

    Poul nodded, then moved over to the bed and sat down, taking off his shoes. He watched as Sara climbed into bed, then hey down beside her. Theyy there in silence until he decided to wrap his arm over her shoulder, pulling her closer to him.

    Sara rested her head on his chest, feeling the warmth of his body and the gentle rhythm of his breathing. Poul stroked her hair softly, trying to soothe her worries.

    After a while, Sara spoke up. "Do you think I''m doing the right thing, Poul?

    Poul hesitated for a moment, thinking about his own conflicted feelings about the situation. But no words came out of his mouth as he didn''t know how to answer her.

    Sara sighed and closed her eyes. "Goodnight, Poul."

    Poul kissed Sara on the forehead. "Goodnight."

 Chapter 201 A New Addition

    ?

    Poul groaned as the light streaming through the windows hit his eyes. He lifted a hand to shield them, but the warmth of the sun beckoned him to wake up. He sighed, realizing that his sleep was over. Slowly, he rose up from his bed, feeling a bit disoriented.

    As he sat up, he suddenly felt something soft and warm on his chest. Looking down, he saw Sara''s head resting on him. Memories of the previous night came rushing back to him, and he couldn''t help but smile at the thought of sharing the bed with her.

    He gently brushed a strand of hair away from Sara''s face, admiring how peaceful she looked when she slept. He remembered the conversation they had before they went to bed, and it pained him a little.

    Poul didn''t want to disturb Sara''s peaceful slumber, so he slowly and carefully lifted her head off his chest and ced it gently on the pillow. He paused for a moment, watching her breathe before turning his attention to getting out of bed.

    As he swung his legs over the side of the bed, Sara groaned and Poul froze his heart racing. He had tried to be so careful not to wake Sara, but it seemed his efforts had been in vain. He turned to look at her, expecting to see her stirring, but to his relief, she had simply shifted in her sleep.

    Poul let out a small sigh of relief and stood up, making his way to the bathroom to freshen up. As he washed his face, he thought of the agenda for today. He will have two business meetings, one with the man Jonathan talked to and the other is Mr. Sherman. One thing inmon in them is that they are hotshots from the federal government. Meaning, this day is important for him and his partner.

    As he finished washing his face, he took a bath

    and got dressed in his best suit. He wanted to make a good impression on these important people. He walked back to the bedroom and saw that Sara was still sleeping peacefully. He didn''t want to wake her up just yet, so he decided to leave her alone and head to his office.

    On his way to the office, he greeted the staff who were working on the same floor and exchanged pleasantries with them.

    Poul and Jonathan had always been friendly bosses, and they made it a point to know each of their employees personally. It was one of the reasons why theirpany had a low employee turnover rate, as his staff felt valued and appreciated.

    As he entered his office, his partner Jonathan was already there, going over some papers. "Good morning, Poul," Jonathan greeted him.

    "Good morning, Jonathan. Are you ready for today''s meetings?" Poul asked as he took a seat behind his desk.

    "As ready as I''ll ever be," Jonathan replied with a smile. "I''ve gone over the proposal we''re going to present, and I think it''s solid."

    Poul nodded in agreement. "Good. Let''s hope the federal hotshots see it the same way."

    Just then, their executive secretary buzzed in. "Mr. Nielsen, Mr. Axelsen. I have scheduled an appointment with Mr. Stevens and Mr. Sherman for today. They''ll arrive in the afternoon."

    "Good morning, Amelia, and thank you for informing us," Poul said as he turned his face to Jonathan. "Afternoon huh? That means we still have time to prepare and go over our proposal again. Let''s make sure everything is in order."

    Jonathan nodded and they both got to work, reviewing their proposal and making any necessary changes. They wanted to make sure that they presented the best possible case for theirpany and its services.

    Amelia, on the other hand, has ordered breakfast for them to fill their empty stomachs.

    It took them two hours, to do some minor revisions on the presentation. After looking over it again, the industrialist duo nodded in satisfaction.

    Amelia entered the office again, handing the industrialist duo a file needed for their proposalter.

    "Thank you, Amelia," Poul said as he received the file.

    "Uhm, Poul. I heard that we will have a new worker for ourpany? I heard that she is a nurse from Ennd applying for a position in the clinic?"

    "Ah, yes, you''ll see her soon," Poul replied, his eyes fixed on the file.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "Great, can''t wait to see her. Though may I ask where she will arrive from? I need to know so that I can prepare something for her arrival."

    "There''s no need, Amelia. The applicant is already in the building," Poul said.

    "In the building?" Amelia tilted her head to the side, confused.

    "Yup, in fact, you have already seen her at the celebration yesterday," Poul said.

    Amelia recalled her memories from yesterday, specifically the memories of Poul interacting with people. Since it was a woman, it was easy for her to narrow it down. A few secondster, she found it. Though unsure. The woman that Poul danced with on the dancefloor. It might be her.

    Amelia shook her head, denying the possibility. The girl that Poul danced with looked like a noblewoman. She was dressed elegantly and she carried herself with grace and poise. It couldn''t possibly be the same person who applied for a job in their clinic. But then again, she didn''t know much about the woman who had applied. She decided to ask Poul for confirmation.

    "Excuse me, Poul. Can you confirm if the nurse applicant is the same woman you danced with at the celebration?" Amelia asked.

    Jonathan, who was listening to their conversation,ughed. "You really are an observant fellow, Amelia."

    "Eh?"

    Poul smiled, amused by Jonathan''sment. "Yes, Amelia, it''s her."

    Poul looked at his wristwatch to check the time. "Speaking of which, she is a bitte. I will go to her room and wake her up so that you two can meet each other."

    Upon saying that, Poul stood up from his seat, picked up the file Amelia had given him, and made his way out of the office.

    Fifteen minutester, Poul returned to the office with Sara who was dressed formally.

    Amelia looked at the woman beside Poul. There''s no mistaking it, it was the girl whom Poul danced with yesterday. Though why she was in the building and slept in the guest room is still a mystery to her. Amelia stood up from her seat and greeted Sara with a warm smile.

    "You must be Sara Olsen. A pleasure to meet you, I''m Amelia Weiss, the executive secretary of thispany."

    Sara smiled back at Amelia and shook her hand. "Thank you, it''s a pleasure to meet you too, Ms. Weiss."

    "Mr. Nielsen, do we have to prepare for her interview?" Amelia asked.

    "Nope," Jonathan chimed in. "I have already interviewed her since when we were in New York. She will be a fine addition to our clinic."

    "Really?" Amelia flickered her gaze at Sara.

    She is sensing something among them, that Poul and Jonathan must have some sort of rtionship with Sara. The reason she can tell is that they rarely give special treatment to their applicants. They only did it to her and that was it. But this girl received it.

    "I will find out what''s going on here," Amelia thought to herself.

 Chapter 202 Saras New Workplace

    ?

    As the two industrious business partners worked feverishly on their uing client proposal, Amelia was tasked with showing their newest hire, Sara, around the bustling office. With a friendly smile, Amelia led Sara through each department, taking care to exin their respective functions and how they contributed to the overall sess of thepany.

    As they journeyed from the lofty heights of the eighth floor down to the bustling first floor, Amelia regaled Sara with anecdotes about the office culture and its many quirks. Sara listened intently, taking mental notes as she absorbed the wealth of knowledge that Amelia had to offer.

    Despite the hectic pace of the office, Amelia''s enthusiasm was infectious, and Sara found herself energized by the sights and sounds of the busy workspace. By the time their tour came to an end, Sara was eager to start her new role and make a meaningful contribution to thepany.

    Amelia led Sara to the hospital where she would be working as a nurse. Although the workers preferred to call it a clinic, it was no less impressive than a hospital, with state-of-the-art medical equipment, highly trained doctors and nurses, and a fully equipped operating room. But the standards of it are in thete-neenth century, so from the perspective of a doctor who lived in the 21st century, she considered it a bit primitive but functional.

    "Do you have any questions before I introduce you to the head doctor?" Amelia asked, looking at Sara who was scanning around the hallway.

    "I have none, Ms. Weiss. You have been great at exining everything so far," Sara replied, still in awe of the impressive facilities around her.

    Amelia smiled warmly at Sara''s response, pleased to have made a positive impression on the new hire. "Well, let''s not keep Dr. Williams waiting then," she said, leading Sara down the hallway toward the head doctor''s office.

    As they entered the office, Sara noticed that Dr. Williams was a stern-looking man, with a serious expression and a no-nonsense demeanor. But despite his stern appearance, Sara could tell that he was a dedicated and experienced physician.

    "So, you are the new nurse that I have been waiting for huh?" Dr. Williams said, extending his hand for a handshake.

    Sara took Dr. Williams'' hand and shook it firmly, returning his gaze with a confident smile.

    "Indeed, sir. I am most thrilled to be in this establishment and eager to exert myself diligently," the noblewoman replied with a graceful inclination of her head.

    Dr. Williams nodded, his stern expression softening just a bit. "Good to hear. We have a lot of patients to attend to¡­wait," he paused and leaned forward to have a closer look at Sara''s appearance. "You seem rather young, Ms. Olsen, and pardon me for saying this but you are quite beautiful. How old are you?"

    Sara tucked her hair behind her ears, blushing at thepliment she received from Williams.

    "I''m only twenty-two years old, doctor."

    "Still young," Williams remarked. "ording to your file, you are a nurse from London who immigrated here, correct? What made you decide to leave your home country ande work here?"

    Sara''s expression fell down and spoke. "Uhm, Doctor Williams, I''d rather not speak about my past if that''s alright."

    Dr. Williams nodded, sensing that Sara didn''t want to delve into her personal life. "Very well sorry about that. I figured I would ask because there is this great female doctor there whom I have idolized. She is the daughter of a Duke and a Prime Minister. Sadly, she was murdered. What a great loss to the medicalmunity."

    Sara''s heart sank as she listened to Dr. Williams'' words. So not only the people of the British Empire were sad at her disappearance but doctors from around the world too. Her influence on the medicalmunity by doing miracles has earned her a reputation among well-respected doctors. It is also sad that she can''t tell that the doctor he looked up to is standing right in front of him. <novelsnext></novelsnext>

    Amelia cleared her throat, getting their attention. "Uhm, Ms. Weiss, I believe I have shown you around the office. I''ll be taking my leave now and returning to the main office to help Mr. Nielsen and Mr. Axelsen with their business meetingter."

    Sara snapped out of her stupor and quickly bid farewell to Amelia before turning back to Dr. Williams.

    "So, Dr. Williams, where should I start?"

    "Follow me, we''ll visit the emergency room first."

    Sara followed Dr. Williams as he led the way to the emergency room.

    When they reached the emergency room, Dr. Williams introduced Sara to the other nurses and doctors who were working there. They were all busy attending to patients, and Sara was impressed by their professionalism and efficiency.

    Dr. Williams gave Sara a brief overview of her duties, exining that she would be assisting the nurses and doctors with various tasks, including taking vital signs, administering medication, and assisting with procedures.

    "Most of our patients here are workers in factories. Injuries are caused mostly by the work hazards they face on a daily basis. So, you need to be quick and attentive in treating them," Dr. Williams said and pointed at one of the patients lying on a bed. "That man identally burned his arm while using an acetylene torch."

    "Is that so?" Sara looked at the man''s face who was groaning and wincing from pain. She then looked at his arm and saw that it was badly burned and blistered.

    "Sara, I forgot to ask you about this, why did you be a nurse?" Williams asked.

    Sara was taken aback at the sudden question from Dr. Williams but she answered him.

    "That is because I believe nursing is a noble profession where I can provide valuable assistance to those who are in need," Sara replied. However, she acknowledged that she had initially intended to apply for a doctor''s position. Unfortunately, the era she was living in was not as liberal as she had hoped, especially for a woman. Pursuing a career in medicine or any other male-dominated field was frowned upon, making it difficult for women to achieve their professional goals. Even when she was in London, it took her a lot of arguments with her father and mother about her bing a doctor.

    "Is that the truth, Sara?" Williams nced at her. "Because it sounds to me that you are not speaking from your heart."

    Sara felt a pang of guilt in her chest. Dr. Williams had seen through her words. She took a deep breath and spoke with a twist of lies in it. "You''re right, Dr. Williams. While I do believe in the nobility of nursing, my true passion lies in bing a doctor. But I''ve faced a lot of opposition, especially as a woman in this era."

    Dr. Williams nodded sympathetically. "I understand, Sara. It''s not easy for women in our field, but don''t let that discourage you."

    As they were having a conversation, someone shouted from the door.

    "Emergency!"

 Chapter 203 The Accident

    ?

    Fifteen minutes earlier, inside one of the bustling factories owned by the Axelsen & Nielsen Companies, the air brake assembly lines were in full swing. Each worker was diligently carrying out their assigned roles and responsibilities, ensuring that thepany delivered only the highest quality products to its clients.

    Amidst the rhythmic sound of the assembly line, two workers - Malcolm and Jaden - walked down the factory floor, their eyes scanning the scene around them. As they walked, their conversation drifted towards the impressive work ethic of their colleagues, and how thepany''s dedication to excellence had earned it a sterling reputation in the industry.

    "We should get something to eat first before we return to duty," Malcolm said.

    "Yeah, I get headaches whenever my stomach is empty," Jaden agreed.

    Malcolm and Jaden paused in their conversation as they watched the overhead crane approach. They couldn''t help but wonder what kind of heavy equipment was being transported in those crates.

    As the crane lowered the crates onto the factory floor, Malcolm noticed the cables hoisting them down is under immense tension and is seemingly about to tear apart.

    "Hey, you notice those cables?" Malcolm pointed his hand at the cable.

    Jaden followed Malcolm''s gaze and immediately noticed the tension in the cables. "That doesn''t look good," he said, furrowing his brows in concern.

    As the crane continued to lower the crates, the tension in the cables became more and more pronounced. Malcolm and Jaden could hear the strained groans and creaksing from the machinery.

    Suddenly, with a loud snap, one of the cables gave way, sending the crate it was holding tumbling to the ground. The impact caused a thunderous noise to reverberate throughout the factory floor.

    Malcolm and Jaden quickly ran toward the fallen crate, hoping that nobody had been injured in the ident. But what they were hoping for was shattered as they heard a scream of agony. One of their co-workers, Sam, had been caught underneath the crate and was writhing in pain. Malcolm and Jaden rushed to his side, trying to assess the damage and provide any aid they could.

    "Call the clinic!" Malcolm shouted to a nearby worker, who quickly ran to make the call.

    Jaden tried tofort Sam, who was in shock from the pain. "Hang in there, buddy, help is on the way," he said, trying to keep him conscious.

    Malcolm looked around, trying to find something to lift the heavy crate off Sam. He spotted another overhead crane that was operational earlier but stopped when the ident happened.

    "Shit¡­I''m so sorry¡­I''m so sorry," the overhead operator whose cable snapped was apologizing profusely to his co-workers, who had rushed to the scene.

    "Hey, you in the overhead crane!" Malcolm shouted at the guy. "I want you to position your crane above us so we can pull this thing up!"

    The overhead crane operator shook his head. "I can''t, Niel''s crane is already above you. Move it first!"

    Malcolm flickered his gaze to Niel who was shaking from the shock of the ident.

    "Niel, move your crane now!" Malcolm shouted.

    Niel snapped out of his daze and quickly moved his crane away. Once his crane was away, the overhead crane operator moved his crane to the left and stopped right above the ident site.

    As the news of the ident spread across the factory, more workers rushed to the scene, offering their help.

    "I need cables that can lift this thing up!"

    The workers collectively began to gather any cables and equipment they could find that would be strong enough to lift the heavy crate off of Sam. With theirbined effort, they were able to attach the cables to the crate and slowly lift it off of him.

    "Okay, slowly lift it up," Malcolm directed the crane operator.

    The crate lifted off Sam, and Jaden rushed to his side to assess the damage. <novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "Ugh," Jaden was in disgust, his left leg was crushed, blood pooling around his ankle.

    The factory manager arrived on the scene, his face pale with shock. "What happened here?" he asked, looking around at the chaos, and fell upon the legs of the injured worker. "Ugh¡­what the¡­"

    "The cable snapped," Jaden exined as he applied a tourniquet. "He is losing too much blood, we need to get him to the clinic as soon as possible. I''m trying to stop the bleeding but it can only do little."

    "The emergency staff from the clinic is on its way," the worker who made the run to call the clinic informed them.

    "I want you all to cease operation now! Move away from your stations and turn off the equipment and machines," The factory manager barked his orders as he ran a hand over his face. This is going to blow over his face.

    Five minutester, the horse-drawn carriage that acts as an ambnce arrived at the exit of the assembly line, the clinic staff carrying a stretcher.

    As they arrived at the scene of the ident, Jaden and Malcolm stood and stepped away, letting the clinic staff do their work, moving Sam to the stretcher and

    quickly loading him into the carriage. The horse was already hitched and ready to go, and the driver cracked his whip to get the animal moving as soon as the clinic staff was safely aboard.

    Malcolm sighed heavily as he watched the carriage disappear from sight. "I hope he''s going to be alright," he muttered to himself, before turning to face the factory manager. "We need to figure out what went wrong with that cable."

    The factory manager nodded, looking grim. "I''ll get my engineers on it right away," he said. "We''ll shut down the assembly line until we can determine what happened and fix the problem. Safety is our top priority."

    ***

    Back in the current time, Sara and Williams rushed and quickly assessed the worker''s condition. His left femur was seemingly crushed by a heavy object. Blood oozed out from it but thanks to the tourniquet that was applied on the scene, the bleeding was under control.

    "What happened?" Sara asked the personnel who carried Sam to the emergency room.

    "There seems to be an ident in the assembly line," the clinic staff exined. "But we didn''t bother to ask more as we were in the rush."

    "Let''s get him prepped for surgery," he instructed. "We''ll need to stem the bleeding¡­prepare for surgery."

    "Also, doctor, prepare a blood transfusion," Sara added. "He seemed to have lost a lot of blood."

    "Prepare for blood transfusion as well," Williams added an order to the nurse who then scurried away to carry out his task.

    "Doctor Williams, can I participate in the surgery?" Sara asked.

    "I''ll need all the help I can get so you can join me," Williams said.

    "I will do my best doctor," Sara said before turning to the orderly. "Please get me a new set of clean gloves, a surgical gown, and a mask."

    As the orderly fetched the items, Sara mentally prepared herself for the uing surgery. Normally, an osteologist would perform such an operation but there''s no one nearby. She had experience performing surgery on bones though but this one is worse than her first.

    Williams and Sara scrubbed in and donned their surgical gear before entering the operating room. The patient was already prepped and lying on the operating table, his vitals being monitored closely.

    "Let''s begin."

 Chapter 204 Hearing The News

    ?

    Meanwhile, in the main office, Caroline arrived, wearing a modest gray dress that flowed down to her ankles, matched with a pearl ne and a simple hat toplete her ensemble. She approached Poul and Jonathan, who were busy flipping through piles of papers and jotting down notes on their notepads, in preparation for the important business meeting with their investorster that afternoon.

    "Good afternoon, gentlemen," Caroline greeted them with a curtsey. "How are the preparationsing along?"

    Poul and Jonathan looked up from their work and exchanged nces. They were both pleasantly surprised to see Caroline, who was usually preupied with her own work in the bedroom.

    "We are doing fine, just one final preparation and we are ready to go," Poul replied.

    "So, you are leaving now?" Jonathan asked as he noticed her appearance. "I will escort you out and take you personally to the carriage."

    "That won''t be necessary Jonathan," Caroline shook her hand dismissively. "You two still have work to do and I''ll only bother you."

    "No I insist," Jonathan said, standing up from his chair. "Besides we are done for the most part and Poul could handle the rest, right Poul?"

    Poul, whose eyes remained fixed on the papers in front of him, nodded his head in agreement.

    "Of course, I can manage the rest. You should see Caroline safely to her carriage, Jonathan."

    "See? What did I tell you?" Jonathan flickered his gaze back to Caroline, who smiled back at him warmly.

    "Well, it can''t be helped then."

    Just as the two were about to leave the office, Amelia suddenly burst into the room, panting and out of breath. Her hair was disheveled and her blouse was untucked. Poul, Caroline, and Jonathan turned to look at her, surprised.

    "What''s the matter, Amelia?" Caroline asked, her brow furrowed with concern.

    "Yeah, you are messed up," Poul added.

    "There has been an ident!" Amelia gasped, steadying her breathing. "There was an ident in the assembly line of air brakes where a worker got crushed by a wooden crate that was being hoisted by the overhead crane."

    Poul''s hand froze, and the pen that he was using to write slipped from his grasp.

    "What the¡­"

    "As for why I am looking like this, the elevator wasn''t working so I used the stairs and rushed all the way up here," Amelia exined.

    "What happened to the worker? Is he alright?" Jonathan inquired, ace of concern in his voice.

    Amelia shook her head, "No, he''s not. He''s in critical condition. Doctor Williams and the newly hired nurse are performing surgery on him as we speak."

    "What a worst day to have an ident," Poul grumbled. "What happened to the assembly, did they shut down the operation as per the protocol?"

    "Yes, the factory manager issued an immediate shutdown of the assembly line and ordered an investigation into the incident," Amelia replied. "It''s going to take some time before we can resume production."

    Caroline frowned, "This is terrible news and terrible timing. If this got out, your two biggest clients might back down. You have branded yourpany as apany that prioritizes safety and quality. This incident will surely damage that reputation."<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "No need to overreact, this is just an ident," Jonathan chimed in. "But we must iste the case, so Amelia, you are tasked with keeping the information inside the factory, tell every factory manager in every enterprise to shut their mouth on disclosing information about the ident."

    "I''ll see what I can do, Mr. Axelsen," Amelia bowed her head in acknowledgment.

    "I''ll go visit the assembly line to see it for myself," Poul grabbed his coat and headed for the door.

    "As much as I would love to help but I have a train to catch, Jonathan. I''ll see you in New York," Caroline said before shifting her gaze to Amelia. "And you Amelia, make sure to help these two, this is a delicate situation and you need to handle it carefully."

    "Of course, Lady Dupont, I will help Mr. Nielsen and Mr. Axelsen. Have a safe trip back to New York," Amelia replied, nodding her head respectfully.

    "Let''s go," Jonathan ced a hand on Caroline''s back and led her out of the office, leaving Amelia alone in the office.

    Once everyone left the office, Amelia let out a sigh. What was supposed to be a big day for thepany had turned into a nightmare. She knew that the ident could have serious consequences for thepany, and she needed to act quickly to minimize the damage. She decided to start by informing the other factory managers of the incident and instructing them to keep it confidential.

    Amelia picked up the phone and started making calls, hoping to contain the situation before it spiraled out of control. She knew that the longer it took for them to get a handle on the situation, the worse it would be for thepany''s reputation.

    ***

    While Amelia was doing her part, Poul was about to do his role. He arrived at the assembly line for air brakes that had been shut down earlier. Walking beside him was the factory manager, who oversees the production of the air brake.

    "Where is the overhead crane whose cable snapped?" Poul asked the factory manager who was rubbing his hand nervously.

    "Uhm, it''s over there, Mr. Nielsen," the factory manager replied.

    "And its operator?" Poul added.

    "The operator is in the break room and is being held there for a moment. Overhead operators are responsible for doing preliminary inspections of the crane before an operation, but it seems that this operator neglected to do so," the factory manager exined with a hint of frustration in his voice.

    Poul walked over to the crane and inspected it carefully, noting down every detail. He saw that the cable had snapped due to wear and tear, which is damage that can be easily detected.

    "Can I see the pre-operation checklist for this crane?" Poul asked and the factory manager handed it to him.

    Poul perused the checklist and was disappointed when he found out that the part regarding the cable inspection was not properly filled out. It was clear that the operator did not conduct a thorough inspection before operating the crane.

    "This is pure negligence," Poul sighed. "Well since you already issued a cease of operation and was justified, just make sure that all the operators of overhead cranes are retrained on safety protocols before resuming operations."

    The factory manager nodded, understanding the severity of the situation.

    "Is there anything else sir?" The factory manager asked.

    "Yes, I want to see the operator."

 Chapter 205 Seeing For Oneself

    ?

    Poul and the factory manager hurried towards the break room where the overhead crane operator was being held. As they walked, Poul couldn''t shake off the feeling of disappointment that someone could be so careless with safety protocols.

    Finally, they arrived at the break room, where the operator was waiting nervously. Poul observed the operator, a young man in his early twenties, with a scruffy beard and tired eyes.

    "Can you exin to me why the cable on the crane snapped?" Poul asked, trying to keep his tone calm and collected.

    The operator looked down at his shoes and muttered, "I''m sorry, sir. I forgot to check the cable before operating the crane. It won''t happen again, I swear."

    Poul sighed deeply, feeling a sense of frustration building up inside him.

    "You forgot to check? That is what you are saying. But why does this pre-operation checklist say otherwise? You checked it, marking it as inspected and in good condition," Poul said, holding up the checklist in front of the operator.

    The operator looked up, realizing that he had been caught in a lie. He shuffled his feet nervously and avoided eye contact.

    Poul took a deep breath, trying to remain calm. "Negligence like this can cause serious harm or even death. You have a responsibility to your colleagues and to yourself to take safety protocols seriously," he said sternly.

    The operator nodded, his expression contrite. "I understand, sir. I won''t let it happen again. I promise and I''m sorry¡­please don''t fire me. I have a family to support."

    "That man that got crushed by the wooden crate your crane is lifting up is fighting for his life in the operating room. What if the injury was too severe and he could have died there? What would happen to the family he was supporting? Do you think your apology can return a person''s life? And due to your negligence, we had to stop the production of air brakes which would cost hundreds of thousands of dors per day. That''s a lot of money being lost here."

    Poul''s words hung heavy in the air, and the operator hung his head in shame. The gravity of the situation had finally sunk in.

    "I''m sorry, sir," he said, his voice barely above a whisper. "I thought the cable could take it for another day, that''s why I marked it as in good condition. But I realize now that it was a foolish and dangerous decision. I should have followed the safety protocols and checked the cable thoroughly before operating the crane."

    "Now I don''t know if I should feel sorry for you after hearing that. That''s pure negligence and I don''t allow it to mypany. But I''m not going to fire you, I''m going to suspend you and dock your pay for three months. Your pay for those months would be given to the worker that got injured instead."

    "But sir..!" The crane operator tried to protest but he backed down.

    "What is it? Say it."

    "I have four children and a wife that is relying on me, docking my pay means I won''t be able to buy food for them, the monthly payment for the lodging, and other basic necessities," the operator exined, desperation evident in his voice.

    Poul''s expression softened slightly as he considered the man''s situation. He knew how important it was for his employees to support their families, but he also couldn''t let the operator''s negligence go unpunished. After a few moments of silence, Poul spoke up.

    "I understand your predicament, but your actions have consequences. I hope this serves as a lesson to you and to the rest of the team that safety protocols are not to be taken lightly. However, I am willing to offer you a solution," Poul said, his tone measured.

    The operator looked up at him, hope in his eyes.

    "I will provide you with a loan that will cover your basic needs for the next three months, but it will have to be repaid with interest. In addition, you will have to undergo additional safety training before you can return to work," Poul continued.

    The operator''s eyes widened in surprise and gratitude. "Thank you, sir. I won''t let you down," he said, his voice shaking with emotion.

    Poul nodded, satisfied with the oue. "I hope you learn from this experience and make sure that safety is your top priority from now on. I want all of my employees to return home safe and sound to their families every day," he said firmly.

    The operator nodded earnestly, and Poul turned to leave the factory floor. As he walked, he contemted. If he was any other industrialist in thete neenth century, the crane operator would have been fired, no question asked. But he is not heartless like the others, he cares for his employees, if they make a mistake, it is the owner''s responsibility to teach and guide them to do better. He knew that investing in his employees'' well-being and training was not only the right thing to do, but it was also good for business in the long run.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    As Poul stepped out of the factory, he was greeted by the sight of thepany''s sprawling industrial empire. It''s been almost seven years since they started this business. And it has been growing exponentially since its inception. All of it was the culmination of his and his partner''s hard work, dedication, and innovation. But with the growth came the responsibility of ensuring that their employees were safe and well taken care of.

    Now that he visited the assembly line and talked to the operator responsible, he decided to see the clinic where the injured worker is being operated.

    There''s still time for him to visit the worker before the client arrives at the office. So he went there.

    Inside, Poul saw Jonathan who was patiently waiting outside the operating room.

    "How long has it been?" Poul asked, startling Jonathan who was fixated on the closed door.

    Jonathan turned to face Poul. "You scared me there, Poul. Well, the operation started forty-five minutes ago, so that''s the time you are looking for."

    "I just met the operator responsible for this ident, and I have to say, I had to be lenient towards him."

    "You didn''t fire him?" Jonathan asked.

    "Well considering that he has mouths to feed and a family to take care of, I decided to give him a chance to redeem himself. I offered him a loan to cover his basic needs for the next three months."

    "You are too kind for this world, Poul. You know if the workers see you act like that, they might take advantage of you."

    Poul scoffed. "Jonathan, we have been in the industry for seven years and we have been sessful. I can read people by just looking them in the eye. That operator was sure to be negligent but his apology and concern were genuine. The people who deserve mercy shall be given it, and those who take advantage of kindness will be dealt with ordingly."

    The industrialist duo stood there for another fifteen minutes until one of the staff participating in the surgery exited. Poul and Jonathan recognized the person immediately, it was Sara.

    "So what happened, Sara? Is he going to be alright?" Poul asked.

    Sara somberly shook her head. "He has lost a lot of blood and we had to cauterize every bleeding artery we could find. It was touch and go for a while, but we managed to stabilize him. His femur was also squashed beyond saving so the only option avable is to amputate it."

    Poul and Jonathan both felt a pang of sorrow for the injured worker. Losing a limb was a life-altering event, meaning he wouldn''t be able to work and provide for his family.

    "Is there another option that he could take?" Poul asked.

    "If his femur was not badly damaged, we can graft some bones from his hip and rebuild the damaged era, but as I have said earlier, it was beyond saving. Not to mention that it is aplicated procedure that I won''t be able to perform, even in the modern period."

    "Is that so?" Poul hummed. "Okay, thank you, Sara, for informing us. We''ll do everything we can to help the worker. Do inform us of the development of his condition."

    "Of course," Sara nodded and continued. "Are you going to report back to the office? You two have an important meetingter right?"

    "Yeah, we are going back," Jonathan said.

    "Okay then, good luck," Sara said before returning to the operating room.

 Chapter 206 The Big Deal Part 1

    ?

    At five o''clock in the afternoon, Morgan, Sherman, and Winston arrived at the main office of Axelsen & Nielsen, with Amelia leading the way. Winston, the man referred to by the New York Board of Transportation for the alternating system to be built in Washington D.C., was also with them. As they made their way through the office, Morgan noticed that Amelia''s expression was unusually guarded, despite her neutral facade. He couldn''t shake the feeling that something was off - it was unlike her to be so distant.

    As they made their way through the office, Morgan couldn''t help but wonder what had happened. Had there been an ident? Had productione to a halt? He knew that thepany relied heavily on its assembly lines, and any disruption could spell disaster.

    Morgan decided to break the silence and asked Amelia directly, "Is everything okay?"

    Amelia maintained her neutral expression and responded calmly, "Everything is fine, Mr. Morgan. I''m just feeling a bit tense because of this uing meeting. It''s yet another huge opportunity for ourpany, and I want to make sure everything goes smoothly."

    Morgan furrowed his brows, unconvinced. "Yourpany has been getting a lot of big contracts, Ms. Weiss. So I thinknding another big deal should have no effect on you. Is there something else that''s bothering you?"

    Amelia gulped, Morgan was scary and that''s for sure. He could see through her. No wonder why he is the biggest financier in the United States of Avalonia. Nevertheless, she persevered.

    "Uhm, Mr. Morgan there are times when I look like this, please don''t overthink it. There is really nothing wrong with our operation. Please simply follow me towards the boardroom, Mr. Axelsen and Mr. Nielsen are waiting for you."

    Morgan relented. "Well, if you don''t want to disclose it, then okay."

    "Mr. Morgan, I think you should stop nagging at Ms. Weiss here," Sherman chided him lightly.

    "Yeah. I apologize for that, Mr. Sherman," Morgan apologized, though he couldn''t shake off the feeling that there was more to Amelia''s guarded demeanor than she was letting on. He followed her and the rest of the group towards the boardroom, his mind still racing with possible scenarios.

    As they entered the boardroom, Morgan''s attention was drawn to the two men standing at the head of the long table. They were Mr. Axelsen and Mr. Nielsen.

    "Wee, gentlemen," Mr. Axelsen greeted them warmly. "We''re honored to have you here today."

    Morgan shook both men''s hands, trying to put his unease aside.

    "So Jonathan will be the one to discuss business with you and as for me, I will speak with Mr. Winston. Mr. Winston, we are going to another room."

    Morgan nodded and watched as Mr. Axelsen and Mr. Nielsen left the boardroom with Winston in tow. Once they were alone, Jonathan began his presentation, detailing the new product they are eager to present to the United States Army.

    "As you can see from the paper we handed over to you, they are catalogs for rifles, shotguns, pistols, and machine guns. Since you are demanding the best weapons avable that would outmatch the Germans and the British, we have designed these firearms to have superior uracy, power, and durability. We have also incorporated advanced technology into these weapons, such as a new recoil reduction system and a more efficient magazine loading mechanism."

    Morgan listened intently, impressed with the innovation and attention to detail that Axelsen & Nielsen had put into their new product. He knew that the military was always on the lookout for the best weapons avable, and if these firearms lived up to their promise, they would undoubtedly be a game-changer which would trante to a military contract.

    Meanwhile, Sherman nced over the files, scanning the schematics of the guns and nodding in satisfaction.

    "Have you already made a prototype for each type of this weapon?" Sherman asked.

    "Unfortunately, we haven''t had a prototype yet as we were focused on producing the AN-M1 rifles to meet up the global demand. As you all know, the United States Armed Forces are not our only customers, but the Germans, British, Russians, Japanese, French, and Austrians. So we can''t really divert our resources into new kind without sacrificing the quality of our current products," Jonathan replied.

    Morgan understood the dilemma but couldn''t help but feel disappointed. He knew that the military would need tangible proof of the new weapons'' capabilities before they couldmit to a contract. But he also knew that Axelsen & Nielsen had a reputation for delivering quality products on time, and he had faith that they would find a way to make it work.

    "I see your point, Jonathan. However, we need to provide the military with a working prototype before they can make a decision," Morgan said, trying to sound as diplomatic as possible.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    Jonathan nodded in agreement. "Well, the good thing though is that we have a prototype of the pistol. Ms. Weiss, if you would be so kind as to hand over that briefcase over there."

    Jonathan pointed at the briefcase lying on one of the vacant chairs. Amelia grabbed the briefcase and handed it over to Jonathan, who opened it and revealed a sleek, ck pistol.

    "As we have mentioned earlier, we understand the importance of providing tangible proof of our product''s capabilities. Therefore, we are pleased to present to you our prototype for the AN887 pistol," Jonathan stated and continued. "This pistol has undergone a series of rigorous tests to ensure its reliability, uracy, and power. We are confident that it will meet and exceed your expectations.

    "Additionally, this prototype is a testament to ourmitment to incorporating thetest technology into our products. It boasts advanced features, such as enhanced grip texture for better control and uracy, an improved trigger mechanism for faster firing, and an optimized barrel for increased power and precision."

    As he handed the pistol over to Sherman for inspection, Jonathan added, "We believe that this prototype, along with the detailed schematics and specifications we have provided, will demonstrate the quality and innovation that Axelsen & Nielsen Arms Manufacturing Company stands for."

    Sherman examined the pistol closely, admiring its design and craftsmanship. He then turned to Morgan and said. "So this is a pistol you say? I got to be honest with you, Mr. Axelsen, when you mentioned pistol, I thought you were referring to a revolver."

    Jonathan smiled. "Yes, Mr. Sherman, this is indeed a pistol. And we believe it is superior to any revolver currently on the market."

    Morgan chimed in, "The military has been looking for a reliable, high-capacity pistol for some time now. And this prototype seems to fit the bill."

    Sherman nodded, still inspecting the pistol. "I can see that. The grip texture is excellent, and the trigger feels smooth. The barrel looks like it has been optimized for uracy. I would love to see a demonstration of it now, and by now, I mean as of this moment."

    "Excuse me¡­General, are you suggesting that I fire the pistol right here in the meeting room?" Jonathan let out a forced chuckle.

    "Yes, I''m sure you can shoot the floor right? I can''t wait for another day or two to see its performance," Sherman said.

    Morgan could see the hesitation in Jonathan''s eyes, but he knew that the general had a point. Seeing the pistol in action would be the ultimate proof of its capabilities, and it would give the military representative, Sherman, a chance to evaluate its performance firsthand.

    "Very well," Jonathan agreed. "Amelia, please cover your ears. This is going to be loud."

    Amelia quickly covered her ears as Jonathan loaded a magazine into the pistol and aimed it at the floor. He took a deep breath, steadied his hand, and pulled the trigger. The sound of the gunshot echoed through the room, causing Morgan to flinch.

    The three of them watched as the bullet hit the floor, leaving a small crater in its wake. Jonathan then proceeded to fire several more rounds, each one hitting its mark with pinpoint uracy. The recoil was minimal, and the pistol''s grip texture provided a secure hold.

    Sherman was impressed. "Well, I''ll be damned. This is quite the piece of machinery you''ve got here, Mr. Axelsen. I think the military would be very interested in acquiring this pistol for our troops."

    "If you sign a contract right now, General, not only this pistol is going to the United States Armed Forces but the other designs that we havee up with."

    "This is a good deal, General," Morgan added. "As you see, these duo of mine are always defying expectations. They are the genius of the United States of Avalonia, they are the ones who havee up with revolutionary designs not only in the military but in transportation as well."

    Sherman raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Yeah, the electric lotive. I heard a lot of great things from this industrialist duo, and we would be honored to work with them."

    "Amelia, prepare the contract," Jonathan ordered.

    "Understood," Amelia quickly replied as she hurried to a nearby table to retrieve the contract.

 Chapter 207 The Big Deal Part 2

    ?

    Meanwhile, on the same floor, at another conference room, Poul was detailing the proposal of a power nt that would be built in Washington D.C to Mr. Winston. But in the middle of the proposal, something unexpected happened.

    *Bang¡­Bang¡­bang bang bang bang!

    A sound of gunshot fired rang consecutively outside the conference room. Poul and Winston were startled, jolting in their seats as they whipped their heads to the source of the sound.

    "What was that?!" Winston demanded, standing up from his seat. It was clearly evident on his face that he was shaken and confused. Poul, too, was visibly concerned and was already getting up from his chair.

    "I''ll check it. Please remain seated, Mr. Winston, there is nothing to worry about," Poul assured.

    "Nothing to worry about?! Mr. Nielsen, are you out of your mind? That sounded like a gunshot and you are telling me not to worry? I''m going to leave¡­"

    "I''m telling you to remain calm, Mr. Winston," Poul raised his voice, stopping Winston from moving. He continued. "Exiting this conference room without having to ascertain the situation would be dangerous for you. So let me check it, and once I have identified what was going on, I''ll inform you."

    "But what if your office was filled with¡­I don''t know, armed robbers."

    "There is no such thing, Mr. Winstons, this office is guarded by professional security guards who are stationed in the entrance," Poul said. "Look, just stay here for me will you?"

    After saying that, Poul exited the door and headed towards the source of the gunshot sound. He had determined it already from the start that it came from where Jonathan was having a meeting.

    "Don''t tell me¡­that man fired the pistol," Poul muttered under his breath. As he arrived in front of the door of the conference room, he opened it up and saw Sherman signing a contract, overseen by Sherman, Amelia, and Jonathan.

    Poul nced at Jonathan''s hand and saw the pistol. He rubbed the back of his head and spoke.

    "What the heck happened here?" Poul demanded.

    "I knew you woulde after hearing the gunshot," Jonathan said, raising a hand seemingly trying to calm him down. "Mr. Sherman asked for a demonstration and said that he can''t wait to see it. So I did what he said and fired the pistol to the floor. No one was hurt so you can rest assured."

    "And you didn''t even consider the fact that I''m also having a meeting in the opposite room? Really Jonathan? Mr. Winston was terrified by the sound that he thought that armed robbers had entered the building," Poul reprimanded.

    "Mr. Nielsen," Sherman put the pen aside and stood. "I would like to apologize in his stead. I requested a demonstration because I wanted to see the capabilities of the pistol that yourpany created. I was pleased by the result and therefore have signed a contract with yourpany."

    "Is that so?" Poul sighed. "Mr. Sherman, as much as I was pleased to hear that you are doing business with us but your request is way out of line. You have scared my client and now his impressions towards mypany will be affected."

    "I will talk to Mr. Winstons and asked for an apology," Sherman said. "I understand that what happened was inappropriate, and I take full responsibility for it."

    Poul took a deep breath and looked at Jonathan, who was now avoiding his gaze. "Jonathan, I was this little into getting Mr. Winston signed an agreement with us and you almost ruined it¡­Almost ruined it? I don''t know because we haven''t gotten to that part. Nevertheless, that was a bad move. If Sherman is our only client of this day, I would have overlooked it."

    "Look, Poul. I get your point but can you stop with the condescending attitude. I don''t know but you speak so haughty as if you are the only one who is the boss of thispany¡­"<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "Okay, gentlemen!" Morgan stepped in, trying to avoid a fight between two founders. "Before we get into a fight, why don''t we settle the problem on your end, Mr. Nielsen? Sherman and I will go with you and speak with Mr. Winston," he suggested.

    Poul nodded in agreement.

    The three of them walked towards the room where Mr. Winston was waiting, hoping to smooth over the situation and salvage the business deal. As they approached the door and entered it, they saw Mr. Winston who was still frightened. But as soon as Winston saw Morgan and Sherman, it disappeared.

    "Mr. Morgan. Mr. Sherman. You two are okay? What happened earlier? I heard gunshots."

    Sherman walked forward and ced a hand gently on Winston''s shoulder. "Mr. Axelsen, Mr. Nielsen''s partner, performed a demonstration of their pistol product. The result was remarkable but I have heard that it disrupted your meeting. For that, I would like to apologize and ensure that nothing serious happened," he exined.

    "Ah¡­I see, so that was it huh?" Winston nodded, seeming relieved that it wasn''t something more serious.

    Poul stepped forward, "Mr. Winston, I would also like to apologize on behalf of ourpany. We take your safety andfort seriously and what happened earlier was uneptable. We hope you can forgive us and still consider doing business with us."

    Winston thought for a moment before nodding his head. "As long as it won''t happen again during our meeting."

    Poul smiled. "Of course, I can guarantee it. So, returning back to our meeting, what do you say? Do you want to sign an agreement with us where we, the Axelsen & Nielsen Electric Manufacturing and Distributing Company, exclusively build a power nt and electrify the whole of Washington D.C and its nearby cities?"

    Mr. Winston hummed, deep in thought. The offer was certainly tempting, but he needed to consider it carefully. After a few moments, he spoke up.

    "I must say, that is a very ambitious proposal, Mr. Nielsen. But before I agree to anything, I have some questions."

    "Please, feel free to ask," Poul replied, eager to address any concerns.

    "Well, first and foremost, how long will it take toplete the project? And what kind of budget are we looking at?" Winston asked.

    Poul leaned forward, ready to exin. "We estimate that it will take approximately two years toplete the power nt and infrastructure, with a budget of around two million dors."

    Winston raised an eyebrow at the figure. "That''s quite a substantial investment. How can you guarantee a return on that investment, especially considering the current economic climate?"

    "Well, the rising demand of electricity from domestic and factory uses is soaring every year. If you are thinking short-term, that two million dors might sound a lot but in the long term, that two million dors would be a small fraction of the profits that this project can generate. With the power nt providing reliable and affordable electricity to the entire region, businesses and households will be able to expand and thrive. So you can be assured that your investment will be well worth it," Poul exined confidently.

    "In that case I think it''s best for Washington to select your system."

    Poul smiled. "Thank you, you won''t regret your decision."

 Chapter 208 Reconciliation

    ?

    The deal went sessful for the industrialist duo, getting another huge contract from the United States Army and the state of Washington. Though this usually calls for celebration, the industrialist duo is experiencing tension with one another.

    Ever since that day, the industrialist duo has been distant, notmunicating with anyone even if it''s a business deal. It felt as though their cooperation had broken in an instant.

    Amelia was noticing it and couldn''t help but feel saddened about the situation. Having the two founders not on good terms is bad for thepany, so she took action.

    Two days after the deal, Poul was in thepany clinic, visiting the worker that got injured from the ident by a falling wooden crate. As she approached, he saw Poul, discussing something with Sara. From her position, she could hear that their conversation was rather technical as Sara spoke a lot of medical terminologies that she can''t understand. Surprisingly, Poul was able to hold a conversation with her as if Poul was a doctor.

    She always knew that Poul was an amazing person when it came to knowledge and expertise, but not to this extent. For her, it felt unrealistic that a person can hold a vast amount of information and utilize it efficiently.

    As she was staring at the two, the two finally noticed her presence.

    "Amelia, what are you doing? Do you need something from me?" Poul asked, beckoning her toe closer.

    "Uhm¡­Poul," Amelia walked forward and stopped in front of him. "If possible, I would like to have a private conversation with you if that is okay? It''s business rted."

    "Really?" Poul raised a brow before turning to Sara, who nodded her head.

    "It''s fine, Mr. Nielsen," Sara said formally ."I''ll inform you once his condition has improved."

    Poul nodded before turning his attention back to Amelia. "Lead the way, Miss Weiss."

    Amelia led Poul to the conference room where she sat on one side of the table and Poul sat on the other. Poul looked at Amelia with his piercing golden eyes, waiting for her to speak.

    "Poul, I''m sure you have noticed it too. You and Mr. Axelsen are not on good termstely," Amelia said, getting straight to the point.

    Poul let out a deep sigh. "Yes. Does he really have to say that in front of my face? Like I''m just exining to him that I am meeting with a client who got terrified because of his actions. We almost lost the deal if Morgan and Sherman didn''t intervene."

    "I know, but you and Mr. Axelsen are the founders of thispany, the core pirs. If one were to copse, so will the other, and the pedestal will crumble," Amelia said, trying to make Poul understand the gravity of the situation.

    "I understand your point, Ms. Weiss, and I am prepared to address the matter with him at the earliest opportunity. However, Mr. Axelsen is presently upied in New York, attending to his duties concerning the metro station project. Simply calling him would be unprofessional and inappropriate given the circumstances," Poul said formally.

    "Uhm, that is just you being scared of confrontation, Poul. You have to face the problem head-on andmunicate with him. Ignoring it will only make things worse," Amelia said, trying to encourage Poul to take action.

    Poul frowned. "I am not scared, Ms. Weiss. I simply understand that there is a time and ce for everything, and this matter deserves a proper and formal discussion. I will talk to Mr. Axelsen in person when he returns, and we will work things out."

    "But Mr. Axelsen is not due to arrive in Pittsburgh for about another six months, that long?" Amelia asked, surprised by the long wait.

    "Yes, he has a lot on his te, and the metro station project is of utmost importance," Poul exined calmly.

    Amelia sighed, knowing that waiting for six months is not a viable option. "I understand, Poul. But waiting for that long is not feasible. Thepany needs both of you to be in sync for it to function correctly¡­"

    "Look, Amelia¡­" Poul interrupted. "I get it okay? You want us to reconcile at the soonest possible time because you felt responsible as our executive secretary to ensure the smooth functioning of thepany. Because if you don''t, you will think that you failed as our secretary."

    "You are seeing the point Mr. Nielsen, very clear," Amelia replied, her expression stoic. "I''m also sure that you are seeing that it''s not just for my benefit, Mr. Nielsen. It''s for the benefit of thepany and all the employees who work hard to make it sessful. We need a strong and cohesive leadership team to steer us in the right direction and ensure that we continue to thrive in apetitive market. You and Mr. Axelsen have built thispany from the ground up, and I know that you both care deeply about its sess. That''s why I urge you to find a way to resolve your differences and work together again," Amelia said, her voice firm and confident.

    Poul gulped, surprised at Amelia''s determination and conviction to make his rtionship with Jonathan right.

    "Fine, I''ll give him a callter after my business here," Poul relented and continued. "But if he doesn''t pick up my call, that''s on him."

    Amelia breathed a sigh of relief, happy that Poul had finally agreed to take action. "Thank you, Poul. I appreciate your willingness to talk to Mr. Axelsen and resolve this issue. I''m sure everything will work out in the end," she said with a smile. <novelsnext></novelsnext>

    With that, Poul stood and left. Now that Poul has been settled, it''s time for her former employer to convince Jonathan.

    ***

    Same day in New York, Poul just returned from his room at the Fifth Avenue Hotel. Caroline, who has been staying with him for a while in the same room, weed him back.

    "Wee home!"

    Jonathan looked up and down at Caroline, seeing that she was wearing an apron.

    "How''s your day?" Caroline said, her eyes beaming with joy.

    Jonathan let out a sigh and sat down on the sofa, feeling drained after his meeting earlier. "It was a long day, Caroline. I had to deal with some issues with the construction."

    Caroline noticed Jonathan''s exhaustion and walked over to him. "Is that so?" she asked, as she approached him. She could see the exhaustion in his eyes, so she walked around the sofa and began massaging his temples, hoping to relieve some of his tension. "You look exhausted, love. Let me help you rx," she said softly.

    Jonathan closed his eyes as Caroline''s fingers worked their magic on his temples. He let out a deep breath, feeling the tension in his body slowly dissipate. "Thank you, Caroline," he said, his voice soft and grateful.

    Caroline smiled, d that she could help him unwind after a long day. She continued to massage his temples, moving her fingers in circr motions. "You work too hard, Jonathan. You need to take a break sometimes," she said, her voice gentle.

    "Well, being the project manager of the metro station doesn''t allow me to," Jonathan chuckled.

    "So, Jonathan, I received a call from Pittsburgh. It was Poul, he was hoping that he could talk with you. He didn''t tell me more details but I''m sure it''s about thepany."

    "Yeah right," Jonathan chuckled. "So someone has knocked some sense into him huh?"

    "Did something happen between you two?" Caroline asked, stopping her hands from moving.

    ¦Ñ¦Á§ád¦Á---n?¦Ía| §ãom "Just a small disagreement, nothing serious," Jonathan said, trying to brush off the topic. He didn''t want to burden Caroline with his work issues. "But I''ll give him a callter. Thanks for letting me know."

    "Okay, if you say so. Oh, by the way, I cooked you beef stew. We have been eating outside quite a lot and I figured as your future wife, I should

    know how to cook for you," Caroline said, changing the topic. She walked over to the kitchen area and brought back a bowl of beef stew. "Here, try it and tell me what you think," she said, cing the bowl in front of him.

    Jonathan took a spoonful of the stew and savored the taste. "Wow, Caroline. This is delicious!" he eximed, his taste buds tingling with pleasure. "You''re an amazing cook!"

    Caroline blushed, pleased with his reaction. "I''m d you like it," she said, taking a seat next to him. They ate infortable silence, enjoying the warmth of the food and each other''spany.

    After dinner, Jonathan called Poul, curious to know what he wanted to talk about. "Hey Poul, Caroline told me you wanted to speak with me. What''s up?" he asked, his tone friendly.

    "Jonathan, I wanted to apologize for our disagreement the other day. I realize now that I was being too strict and shortsighted," Poul said, sounding sincere.

    "No, I have a fault on my end too, so I apologize," Jonathan said.

    "So that means we are good right?" Poul asked.

    "Yes, of course. We''re good," Jonathan replied, relieved that their disagreement had been resolved.

    "Oh, very good then."

 Chapter 209 Russell And Morgan

    ?

    Two monthster, in Pearl Street Station New York. James Russell was reading the newspaper which caused him to crumple its sides.

    "Axelsen and Nielsen provide power to all of Washington with their alternating current power¡­Are the people in this country so dumb that I have reiterated many times that alternating current is dangerous!"

    Russell couldn''t bear the frustration building up inside him, so he got up from his chair and paced around the room. He had been warning people about the dangers of alternating current for years, but it seemed like no one was listening. Now, with Axelsen and Nielsen''s sess, he was afraid that his warnings would fall on even deafer ears.

    As he walked, he heard the sound of footsteps outside his door. He turned to face it and saw his assistant, Sam, enter the room. "Good morning, Mr. Russell," Sam said, his tone respectful.

    "Morning, Robert. What brings you here?" Russell asked, trying to hide the frustration in his voice.

    "Mr. Morgan wanted to see you."

    "Morgan?" Russell repeated. "I don''t have an appointment with him now, send him away, tell him I''m busy or something."

    "Mr. Russell, I don''t think Morgan will take kindly to being turned away. He demanded to see you right now."

    "Can''t he tell that I''m busy?" Russell let out an exasperated sigh, unable to hide his frustration any longer. "Okay, tell him that I''ll see him, but make sure it''s quick. I don''t have much time for distractions today."

    Sam nodded and left the room. Russell sat back down at his desk and tried to calm himself. He knew Morgan could be difficult to deal with, but he had no choice but to meet with him.

    A few minutester, Morgan burst into the room and sat across from him.

    eaglesnov?1,§ão§® "What a passive-aggressive entrance that you make, Mr. Morgan. To what do I owe the pleasure of your visit?" Russell asked his tone not hiding his annoyance.

    Morgan ignored the jibe and got straight to the point. "The Axelsen and Nielsen Electric Manufacturing and Distribution Company has signed a deal with Washington and Ohio if you are not so informed. Those are major cities falling over their hands. What are you doing? What happened to your expansion projects? We are losing money."

    "Mr. Morgan, if I may be so candid, you are pissing me off with that fake emotion of yours. Aren''t you supposed to be happy since you invested in mypetitor? Drop the act, tell me what you came here for, Mr. Morgan. I don''t have all day," Russell said, cutting him off.

    Morgan''s face turned red with anger. "I came here to discuss business, Russell. The fact that you''re too blind to see the potential of alternating current is not my problem. If you want to keep up with thepetition, you need to start taking risks and innovating, instead of sticking with outdated technology."

    Russell clenched his jaw, trying to control his temper. "I am well aware of the potential of alternating current, Mr. Morgan. I just don''t believe in putting people''s lives at risk for the sake of profit. And as for my expansion projects, they are still in the works. I am not interested in rushing them just to keep up with the likes of Axelsen and Nielsen."<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    Morgan scoffed. "Putting lives at risk you say? Where are those risks? Where are the deaths? Huh?! Tell me, Russell!"

    "So you came here and demanded that I switch to ac system? Okay, I see where this is going. Let''s say I did switch, how are you going to deal with the inevitablewsuit of manughter?"

    "I think people are not dying because they are not as dangerous as you wished they were," Morgan said and continued. "Your outdated, expensive direct current technology is holding us back. And mark my words, if you don''t adapt, you will be left behind. Yourpany will be nothing more than a footnote in the history of electricity."

    Russell''s fists clenched as he struggled to keep his temper in check. "You can spout all the rhetoric you want, Morgan, but I will notpromise on safety. Direct current may not be as shy or profitable as your alternating current, but it has a proven track record of reliability. I refuse to put people''s lives at risk for the sake of your profits."

    "You are so stubborn huh?" Morgan bit his lip. "Fine, since I''m the major shareholder of thispany of yours I''d order that you keep up the pace because Axelsen and Nielsen electricity are winning over the country. Should you leave so far behind, I will take over and merge your business with theirs."

    "What?!"

    Russell''s eyes widened in shock and anger. "You can''t do that, Morgan! You can''t juste in here and threaten to take over mypany!" he eximed, his voice rising with each word.

    Morgan just smirked. "Oh, but I can, Russell. As the major shareholder, I have the power to do whatever I want. And if you don''t start making changes soon, that''s exactly what I''ll do. You''ll be out on the street, and Axelsen and Nielsen will be the new kings of the electricity industry."

    Russell was speechless, unable to form coherent thoughts as the possibility of losing hispany haunted him.

    Morgan saw this and added. "Look. Mr. Russell, I''m not only your investor, I''m also your customer. Now if there is someone out there offering the same services as yours, at a cheaper price, and better than yours. Then I''d be a fool to not invite them for tea¡­do you understand what I''m saying here?"

    Russell gritted his teeth and took a deep breath, trying to calm himself down.

    "You want me to defeat the Axelsen and Nielsen Company right? Well if I did that, would mypany still belong to me?" Russell asked.

    "Of course, should that happen, instead of you getting devoured, it would be them," Morgan said, his voice softening.

    "Then, I''ll do just that, Mr. Morgan. I''ll give you the proof that you are looking for," Russell said.

 Chapter 210 The Dangers Of AC System

    ?

    After a meeting with John Morgan, Russell called his secretary to his office who promptly made an appearance.

    "What is it, Sir?" Sam asked.

    "Mr. Morgan is looking for proof that the alternating current is dangerous, and I just have a n to show him that," Russell said. "I want you to get me a horse that is about to be ughtered from the nearby ranches and bring it to my office."

    Sam''s eyes widened in surprise. "A horse, Sir? Why do you need a horse?"

    "Just do as I say, Sam. And make sure it''s a strong and healthy one," Russell replied with a hint of urgency in his voice.

    Sam hesitated for a moment, wondering why his boss needed a horse for his n. But he knew better than to question Russell''s methods, so he quickly left the room to carry out his instructions.

    After making a few phone calls, Sam was able to locate a nearby ranch that was willing to sell a horse. He drove to the ranch and carefully selected a strong and healthy stallion. He paid the owner and made his way back.

    When he returned to the office with the horse, Russell was waiting for him at the door. He greeted Sam and led the horse inside the building, where the research team was already setting up the AC generator.

    "Now, my friend," Russell said, patting the horse''s neck. "We''re going to do something that may seem a little scary, but I promise you''ll be fine."

    "Mr. Russell, I don''t think this is a good idea," Sammented.

    "Sam, Axelsen, and Nielsen are defeating us on cost, the only advantage we have over them is that our system is safer. Of course, this horse is going to be ughtered anyway, why not put it to good use?"

    Sam nodded reluctantly, understanding the logic behind his boss''s n. He watched as the research team continued to set up the equipment, feeling a sense of unease about what was going to happen.

    Russell, on the other hand, appeared confident and determined. He knew that this demonstration would be the key to winning the ongoing battle with theirpetitors.

    "Okay, we need exposure. Sam, I want you to invite the press for a demonstration, they have to publish an article about this."

    Sam looked at Russell in disbelief. "Are you sure that''s a good idea? What if something goes wrong?"

    "Trust me, Sam. Everything will be fine. We just need to show the world that our system is safer than the others," Russell replied, still patting the horse''s neck.

    Sam nodded, feeling nervous about the demonstration but knowing that he had to carry out his boss''s instructions. He quickly made the necessary calls and within a few hours, several reporters and photographers arrived at the office.

    They stood there, with their notepad and pen ready to jot down notes about the event that is to unfold. <novelsnext></novelsnext>

    e¦Áglesn?¦Íel "Mr. Russell, do you mind exining to us why you invited us here?" One of the reporters said, looking at the horse that are currently being tied into something.

    "Good question. You see this horse is named Gus, and Gus is being connected to the same current the Axelsen and Nielsen uses for the generator, but there is no word to define death by electricity, so while waiting for you, I asked the men who write the dictionaries and I heard back, that the term for death by electricity is ''electrocution.'' That was a very standard name but nevertheless carries the idea of living things getting killed by electricity. For that, I''m going to demonstrate."

    "You mean you are going to execute the horse with electricity? Is that what you are saying, Mr. Russell? This is for rification."

    Russell looked at the reporter and nodded. "Yes, that''s correct. We''re going to electrocute the horse with an alternating current to show the world that alternating current is dangerous and shouldn''t be implemented as a distribution system of electricity. Now you might want to stand back a little."

    The reporters did what they were told, they stepped back a few steps, not wanting to get caught by a dangerous current.

    Sam felt uneasy as he watched the team connect the electrodes to Gus, who was now tied up and unable to move. He could feel the tension in the air, as everyone waited for Russell''s signal to begin the demonstration.

    "Are you ready, gentlemen?" Russell asked, turning to the team.

    They all nodded in unison, their eyes fixed on the horse.

    Russell then turned to the reporters. "Ladies and gentlemen, what you are about to witness is a demonstration of the dangers of alternating current. We will now proceed to electrocute this horse to show you the lethal effects of this type of current."

    He then signaled to the team to start the generator, and immediately, the sound of electricity crackling filled the room. Gus began to convulse, his body jerking back and forth violently. Sam could hear the horse''s screams, and he felt sick to his stomach.

    The reporters gasped in horror as they watched the scene unfold before them, some of them taking photos, while others recorded the event on their notes. Sam felt ashamed of himself for being part of this, and he could see that some of the team members were also feeling ufortable.

    But Russell remained steadfast, his eyes fixed on the horse as it struggled to survive. Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, Gus fell to the ground, motionless.

    The room fell silent, and the reporters stared at the lifeless body of the horse in shock and horror. Sam felt like he couldn''t breathe as he watched Russell walk over to the horse and stroke its mane.

    "Gentlemen, I hope you have all seen what I wanted to show you. Alternating current is dangerous and deadly. We cannot allow it to be used as a distribution system for electricity. Thank you foring," Russell said, his voice shaking with emotion.

    The reporters quickly gathered their things and left the building, some of them looking pale and shaken. Sam stood there, feeling sick and disgusted. He knew that what they had just witnessed was wrong, and he couldn''t understand why Russell had gone through with it.

    But as he looked at his boss, he saw a man who was now lost in his own thoughts, his eyes fixed on the lifeless body of the horse. Sam knew that this demonstration had changed something in Russell, and he could only hope that it was for the better.

 Chapter 211 The Reaction

    ?

    Three weeks after the demonstration of the dangers of the alternating current, the news spread like wildfire. Poul and Jonathan were reading the newspaper from their respective locations, each having their own reaction. Poul was visibly pissed and Jonathan was deep in thought.

    As Poul mmed down his newspaper, startling Amelia who gave him the newspaper.

    "That fucking Russell, he really has done it! Spreading lies about alternating current being dangerous even though both systems are dangerous if above 20 milliamps."

    "This is the worst timing ever, next to the ident that happened in the factory. I mean seriously."

    "You couldn''t have worded it better, Poul. We have an uing meeting with representatives from Iowa and Texas for a possible acquisition of the alternating current system," Amelia said, her voice low.

    "I''m sure Jonathan has received the news and will act ordingly, like confronting Russell."

    Poul breathed deeply, calming himself down. "Well, there''s nothing to be worried about, as long as there is no human casualty, Russell''s ims are just baseless. We just need to continue to prove the effectiveness and safety of AC to the public and potential investors. But even though I''m saying this again and again, things can still happen in unexpecting ways."

    "Should we issue a statement to the press? Like we did at Russell where he told everyone that your alternating current is dangerous?"

    Poul pondered for a moment. "No, I don''t think that''s a good move. Let Russell bark, we have the best system, and that speaks the loudest. What I want you to do is to make some contingency should we face any idents or safety concerns with AC. We need to be prepared to address them in a timely and effective manner."

    "Understood," Amelia acknowledged the order, jotting it down on her notes.

    eaglesnov?1,§ão§® Suddenly, the telephone on his desk rang. Poul promptly picked it up and answered the call. It was Beatrice, informing him that a representative from the state of Texas and Iowa had arrived and was in the lobby.

    "Okay, escort them to my office, I''ll wait for them," Poul said before hanging up the phone. He nced at Amelia and beckoned her to prepare the presentation materials.

    Jonathan, on the other hand, was deep in thought. He was in New York, still in the middle of his work. He got the news from one of his co-workers who gave him the newspaper revealing that James Russell has demonstrated the dangers of alternating current by killing a horse.

    "That damn bastard," Jonathan cursed under his breath.

    Since receiving the news from one of his coworkers, Jonathan has asked for an immediate meeting with James Russell. The good thing is that James Russell''s office is near his workce.

    Jonathan arrived at James Russell''s office building, his mind still reeling with anger over the false ims made by Russell about alternating current. He made his way up to the second floor and approached the reception desk.

    "I''m here to see James Russell," Jonathan said to the receptionist.

    "I''m sorry, Mr. Russell is currently in a meeting and cannot be disturbed," the receptionist replied.

    "But I have scheduled an appointment with him," Jonathan replied and continued. "I don''t have a letter but we had a verbal agreement."

    "I''m sorry sir but without a letter, I can''t confirm your appointment, with Mr. Russell?"

    "That''s ridiculous, didn''t he even inform you?" Jonathan

    paused, trying to think of a way to convince the receptionist to let him in.

    Just then, he noticed a familiar face walking towards him. It was James Russell himself, apanied by two other men.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "Jonathan, what a surprise to see you here," James said, his tone polite but guarded.

    But just as Jonathan could reply, the two men walking alongside him offer a handshake. "It was a pleasure doing business with you, Mr. Russell. We are excited to have our own direct current system in our state."

    "The pleasure is mine," Russell replied with a smile, before turning his attention back to Jonathan. "Oh, I nearly forgot that we have an appointment. Sorry if I was not avable the moment you arrive due to¡­" he paused, extending his hand to the men standing beside him. "Business."

    "I can see that," Jonathan replied, his eyes narrowing. He watched the two men shake hands again and leave.

    "Please,e inside my office. I''m sure you are eager to discuss something with me," Russell opened the door, beckoning him with a

    nod.

    Jonathan followed Russell into his office, his anger simmering just below the surface. Once inside, Russell motioned for him to take a seat. Jonathan sat down, his eyes fixed on Russell.

    "I assume you''ve seen the news?" Jonathan asked, his voice low.

    Russell nodded. "Yes, I have. I assume you''re here to confront me about it?"

    "You''re damn right I am," Jonathan replied, his tone harsh. "How could you do something like that? I never knew that you would stoop so low as to kill a horse to prove your pathetic point."

    Russell leaned back in his chair, his expression unreadable. "I''m just spreading awareness."

    "Spreading awareness? More like spreading lies and misinformation," Jonathan rebutted. "You knew more than I that any electricity above twenty milliamperes regardless of current type can be fatal to a human being, let alone an innocent animal."

    "Then why don''t you prove it? Buy a horse and have it strapped in direct current and see if it will die."

    Jonathan stood up abruptly, his face turning red with anger. "I will not stoop to your level andmit such cruelty. Your actions are hical. You care for the lives of human beings but for animals, you don''t seem to care at all. What is life to you?"

    "Look I don''t have time to discuss with you the philosophical meaning of life, and based on our exchanges from now you have confirmed it for yourself that I demonstrated the dangers of your system to the masses. Now you get out of my sight."

    Jonathan stared at Russell in disbelief. This man has lost it, he doesn''t really care about it anymore as long as he wins. But the fight he is fighting for is futile as the alternating current will emerge victorious, that''s a guarantee. He can''t stop the inevitable problems of the limitation of direct current.

    Without another word, Jonathan turned and walked towards the door. As he reached for the handle, Russell spoke again.

    "Jonathan, I hope you understand that this is not personal. It''s just business."

    Jonathan paused, his hand still on the door handle. He turned to face Russell.

    "Okay then, put it in a way that you see fit."

    Russell said nothing, his expression remaining impassive. Jonathan shook his head in disgust before turning and walking out of the office.

 Chapter 212 Unwanted Effects

    As the aftermath of James Russell''s smear campaign unfolded, the public became even more appalled. Russell had not stopped at the electrocution of a horse but had gone further by purchasing a variety of animals, ranging from cats and dogs to monkeys and even elephants, to be executed by alternating current. This disturbing disy only served to underscore the dangers of this type of electricity. If suchrge and powerful creatures could be killed so easily, what chance would humans have if they were subjected to the same treatment?

    The outcry from the public was swift and immediate, and demand for the direct current system, which had once been overshadowed by its rival, skyrocketed. States from Canada to the Pacific States were now moring to get their hands on Russell''s dynamo. Meanwhile, the Axelsen & Nielsen Electric Manufacturing and Distribution Company was left to face the repercussions of the smear campaign.

    However, the effects of Russell''s tactics were only temporary. As the states began to weigh the costs of maintaining the direct current system, they soon realized that it was exorbitantly expensive. This put a significant strain on the clients who had chosen Russell''s system over Axelsen & Nielsen''s, and many soon regretted their decision.

    In just six months, Axelsen & Nielsen Electric Manufacturing & Distribution Company is attracting Russell''s former clients one by one, offering them a better alternative to the direct current, the alternating current. Since no one actually died from electricity aside from the animals Russell had executed, the public opinion shifted towards the alternating current.

    In New York, Russell has his hand over his face, his once-promising career in shambles. His smear campaign has failed spectacrly, and one by one, his clients are starting to change their electric distributor.

    "What should we do?" Sam asked somberly, sympathizing with his boss.

    "Why can''t the people of this country couldn''t understand what I''m trying to say? You saw yourself that alternating current is deadly."

    "Well, Mr. Russell, despite you iming that no human really died from alternating current. Not only that, if we look at things logically, Axelsen and Nielsen Electric have better products than us. They have their own motor, generators, motorized tools, and appliances that work with their current. Mr. Russell, if you want to survive andpete with them. Why don''t you switch?"

    Russell looked up at his assistant after he suggested something ridiculous.

    "What did you just say?" Russell growled. "You want me to switch my system? That will be just me admitting my defeat and the superiority of their system,"

    "Look, Mr. Russell, I didn''t mean to offend you, I''m just giving you the best possible option you can take. Even you have acknowledged the limitations of the direct current. Maybe direct current is not the best system for electric distribution¡­"

    "Enough!" Russell shouted, his voice cracking like a whip.

    Sam flinched at the outburst, but he knew he had to stand his ground. "I''m sorry, Mr. Russell, but it''s the truth. The public is turning against us, and if we don''t act fast, we''ll be left behind. Axelsen & Nielsen Electric are the future, and if we want to stay in the game, we need to switch to their system."

    Russell stared at his assistant, his eyes narrowed. Sam had a point, but he couldn''t bring himself to admit it. He had invested so much time and money into the direct current system, and the thought of giving up now was unbearable.

    "Sam, I don''t think you understand, I cannot start again," Russell paused, his voice trembling. "I have put everything I have into this system. It''s my legacy, my life''s work. I cannot just abandon it."

    Sam nodded sympathetically. "I understand how you feel, Mr. Russell. But sometimes, we have to make tough choices if we want to survive. Also, if this continues, John Morgan might fire you. He has the biggest share of yourpany, and if he sees that thepany is not going well under your leadership," Sam paused, not wanting to finish his sentence as Russell himself knew what it meant.

    "I used to believe that John Morgan was the man who could lead our country into a prosperous and advanced future on the world stage. But now, I see him for what he truly is: a selfish and greedy man who only works in his own interest, without regard for the greater good of humankind."

    The room went silent after that, only the tick of the clock could be heard in the room. The silence however ended with the ringing of the telephone. They both shifted their gaze at it, and Russell picked it up.

    "Hello?" <novelsnext></novelsnext>

    There was a brief moment of silence before the voice on the other end spoke.

    "James Russell figured that you might pick up this call."

    It was John Morgan.

    "What do you want, Mr. Morgan?" Russell asked.

    "So how are things going on your end?" Morgan returned a question. "Your tactic of fear has failed utterly, now I wonder what to do with you if you can''t beat the Axelsen and Nielsen Electric Company?"

    "I''m working on it, Mr. Russell."

    "You mean you are working for another smear campaign of yours? If that''s what you are going to do, I implore you to stop it. It doesn''t work. You are leaving me with no choice here."

    "Mr. Morgan, I am asking you to give me some time. I admit that Axelsen and Nielsen are beating us in cost but if you give me time, I swear, I''ll make our direct current so cheap that only the rich can burn candles."

    "But if I give you more time, you''ll bleed cities and states to Axelsen and Nielsen Electric Company, I''m not a bank."

    "With all due respect, Mr. Morgan, that is exactly what you are. I will continue to build miracles while you give me all the money I need to make it."

    "No, that won''t be necessary, Mr. Russell," Morgan said in a cold and formal tone. "The only people thus far who can make actual miracles are the industrialist duo, and I think I''m liking them. So I''m giving you another chance, Mr. Russell. There will be a world''s fair in six years which will be held in Chicago. Thirty million people are going to attend that fair, from all over the world, and the state of Chicago state is looking for apany that could light their fair''s up."

    "You want me to ce a bid?" Russell asked.

    "Yes, I want you to ce a bid. But let me be clear, Mr. Russell. If you fail to win that bid, I''ll have no other choice but to cut all ties with you and yourpany," Morgan threatened and continued. "And have it merged with the Axelsen and Nielsen Electric Company."

    Russell''s heart sank at the thought of losing everything he had worked so hard to build. But he couldn''t let hispany go down without a fight. He had to win this bid no matter what.

    "I understand, Mr. Morgan. I won''t let you down," Russell replied with determination in his voice.

    "Good. I''ll be waiting for your bid, Mr. Russell. And I hope for your sake that it''s a good one," Morgan said before hanging up.

    Russell let out a deep sigh and looked at Sam. "We have six years toe up with the best bid and prove to everyone that direct current is the best system out there."

    Sam nodded. "We''ll work day and night if we have to, Mr. Russell. We''ll make sure that our bid is unbeatable out there."

 Chapter 213 New Exciting Prototype

    ?

    Meanwhile, in the state of Pittsburgh. Morgan dropped the call and faced Poul who was sitting across from him.

    "As you have heard, I have forced Mr. Russell to change his tactic. From there, I don''t think he will do any smear campaigns on you anymore, Mr. Nielsen."

    "I appreciate that, Mr. Morgan," Poul smiled as he propped up his chin with his hand. "But I must say, do you really have to threaten him like that?"

    "Mr. Russell has been overconfident all over the years, believing that he is still the wizard of Menlo Park, the one who brings miracles. But everything muste to an end don''t you think? I believe that you and your partner deserved that title."

    "Oh enough with the ttery, Mr. Morgan," Poul waved his hand dismissively.

    "So? Why did you call me here?" Morgan asked, he has been summoned by Poul due to an announcement that he can''t tell over the phone.

    "Mr. Morgan, I think you are going to love our next project," Poul smirked as he pulled out a blueprint. He unrolled it and set it over the table.

    Morgan leaned forward and perused the schematic drawing.

    "What is this?" Morgan scanned every detail of the blueprint but still didn''t know what he was looking at.

    "There was a groundbreaking technology in the German Empire, a type of self-propelled car powered by gasoline. Have you heard of Carl Benz?"

    Morgan nodded slowly, "Yes, I believe I have. He''s the inventor of that motorcar you are referring to."

    "Indeed he is," Poul replied. "And we n to bring that technology to Avalonia and take it to the next level."

    Morgan raised an eyebrow, "And how do you n to do that?"

    "We have been working on a prototype of our own," Poul said with a grin. "It''s faster, more efficient, and most importantly, it''s affordable. We are going to revolutionize the way people travel in this country."

    Morgan looked intrigued, "I like where this is going. What do you need from me?"

    "Well, the way ourpany is right now, we can pretty much fund this enterprise on our own," Poul said. "But, since you have been leading us to sess, allowing us to connect with your associates, my partner and I have decided to give you five percent equity for one million dors."

    Morgan sat back in his chair, considering Poul''s offer. It was a tempting proposition, but he knew there were risks involved in investing in new technology. Still, he had a good feeling about this one.

    "I''ll have to think about it," Morgan said finally. "But I''m definitely interested. You see, I have been investing in a lot ofpanies, knowing their products and their mechanisms. This motorcar that you drew in your blueprint is significantly different from the ones Carl Benz invented. Care to differentiate it."

    "As much as I want to dive into the technical details of our automobile design, I''m afraid that you wouldn''t be able to grasp it. But rest assured, that the car we designed is superior to Carl Benz, like a heaven and earth difference," Poul said confidently.

    "Well, if that''s how you think that is, then why don''t you build the first prototype then?"

    "There''s no need for that, Mr. Morgan, as I have already made the first prototype of our automobile, do you want to see it?" Poul said, grinning.

    "Hoh?" Morgan mused. "Can I see it?"

    "Of course, Mr. Morgan," Poul said as he stood up. "Amelia, I want you to inform the team that Mr. Morgan and I are going to pay a visit."

    "Yes, Mr. Nielsen," Amelia bowed her head and made her way out of the office to make a call.

    "Though seriously, Mr. Nielsen, you already have one?" Morgan asked, still in a state of disbelief.

    "My partner and I have been nning about this, us making a machine that runs without a horse. We thought that it is revolutionary, as you don''t have to bear the foul smell of the street because of horse dung littered on it."

    "I see, I can understand you with that. After all, who wouldn''t be?"

    Poul chuckled as he led Morgan.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    Along their way, they saw Amelia who just finished a call.

    "Mr. Nielsen, they have been informed and are waiting for you," Amelia said.

    "Good, do you want toe to, Ms. Weiss? I''m sure you would love to see it."

    Amelia''s eyes widened in excitement, "Really? Can I? Thank you, Mr. Nielsen!" She followed Poul and Morgan as they made their way to the workshop where the prototype was being kept.

    As they entered, Poul gestured to a covered object in the center of the room. "Behold, gentleman anddy, the future of transportation."

    He pulled off the cover, revealing an automobile that had a long, aerodynamic body, with smooth, curved lines that gave it a sense of speed and agility. The silver paint glimmered in the light, making the car look like a work of art. The design was futuristic, with a pointed hood and rounded edges that made it stand out from any other vehicle on the road. The wheels wererge and sturdy, with shiny rims that caught the light. The front of the car was adorned with a prominent grill, which gave the vehicle a sense of power and authority. The interior was just as impressive, withfortable leather seats and a state-of-the-art dashboard with all sorts of gauges and dials.

    Morgan walked around it, examining every inch of the vehicle. "This is impressive, more different than a Carl Benz motorcar. How many people can it carry?"

    "Around four people," Poul replied a hint of pride in his voice.

    "Now, how is it going to run?" Morgan asked again.

    "It''s hand-cranked," Poul said as he walked forward to the front of the vehicle. "Let me demonstrate."

    Poul reached into the car''s frontpartment and pulled out a long metal crank. He ced it in a hole at the front of the car and began to turn it. The engine roared to life, and the sound echoed through the workshop.

    Morgan''s eyes widened. The sound of the vehicle waspletely foreign to him, and he felt a sense of unease as he listened to the rumbling noise.

    "What is that sound?" he asked, raising his voice to be heard over the noise.

    "That, Mr. Morgan, is the sound of the internalbustion engine, a recent invention from Europe but more powerful and efficient."

    Poul opened the door and beckoned the two to hop on.

    Morgan and Amelia looked at each other hesitantly, unsure of what to do. This waspletely new territory for them, and they weren''t sure if they were ready for it. But Poul seemed so confident, so sure of himself and his creation, that they couldn''t help but be intrigued.

    "Come on, don''t be shy," Poul said, grinning from ear to ear. "I promise you, it''s perfectly safe."

    With a deep breath, Morgan took a step forward and climbed into the front passenger seat. The leather was soft and supple beneath him, and he couldn''t help but be impressed by the attention to detail in the car''s design. Amelia followed suit, climbing into the back seat and settling in with a sense of trepidation.

    Poul hopped into the driver''s seat. He held the wheel and shifted the gear stick from neutral to first gear. With a foot on the pedal, the car began moving forward.

    Morgan and Amelia were pulled back by the force of the car''s eleration as it picked up speed. The wind rushed past them, whipping their hair back and making their cheeks flush with excitement. Morgan couldn''t believe how smooth the ride was, and how effortlessly Poul maneuvered the car around the workshop. The brakes were responsive, and the steering was precise, allowing Poul to weave in and out of obstacles with ease.

    Amelia let out a whoop of delight as they rounded a corner, the car tilting slightly as it leaned into the turn. Morgan couldn''t help butugh, the thrill of the ride coursing through his veins. This was a whole new world of transportation, one that he never even knew existed.

    As they came to a stop, Morgan and Amelia were breathless with excitement. They stumbled out of the car, still buzzing with adrenaline. Poul beamed at them, clearly pleased with their reaction.

    "Well, what do you think?" he asked, his eyes twinkling with excitement.

    "I don''t know what to say really," Morgan said. "This is the one you n to market right?"

    "Yup, along with the other design," Poul replied.

    "You can have my one million dors," Morgan said without hesitation.

 Chapter 214 Invitation From A Major World Event

    ?

    "Dear Jonathan Axelsen and Poul Nielsen,

    It is with great pleasure that we extend to you an invitation to participate in the World''s Fair, which is being hosted by the Government of France in the year 889. We understand that you are two of the most innovative inventors of our time, and we are excited to showcase your inventions to the world.

    The Government of France has expressed a keen interest in your groundbreaking invention, and we believe that it would be an excellent addition to the exhibits that we will be presenting at the World''s Fair. We believe that your invention has the potential to revolutionize the way that we live, and we are eager to share it with the world.

    We understand that you may have some questions about the logistics of participating in the World''s Fair, and we would be more than happy to provide you with any information that you need. We can assist you with travel arrangements, amodations, and any other logistical concerns that you may have.

    We believe that your presence at the World''s Fair will be of immense value, not only to the people of France but to people all over the world. We look forward to hearing from you soon and hope that you will ept our invitation to participate in this historic event.

    Sincerely, Marie Fran?ois Sadi Carnot, President of the Republic of France."

    Amelia finished reading the letter that was delivered to them by a footman hired by the French Embassy.

    e¦Áglesn?¦Íel Poul leaned back into his chair and gazed up at the ceiling, his mind racing with the possibilities thaty ahead. The World''s Fair was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that they simply could not afford to miss. As the two of them had been working tirelessly on their groundbreaking invention for years, this event provided them with a chance to showcase their creation on a global stage and gain recognition for their innovation.

    The World''s Fair was not just an opportunity for them to gain exposure; it was also a tform for them to expand their market share overseas. They knew that the fair would attract businessmen and investors from all over the world who would be eager to make connections and seek out new opportunities. Attending such an event would provide them with a unique chance towork and build rtionships that could prove invaluable in the long run.

    Furthermore, the fair was a chance for them to showcase their inventions to the world and increase their reputation as some of the most innovative inventors of their time. They had poured countless hours into their work and knew that they had something truly remarkable to share with the world. The World''s Fair would give them the chance to present their invention to a global audience and receive feedback from experts and enthusiasts alike.

    As Poul pondered the significance of the opportunity before them, his mind was filled with a sense of excitement and anticipation. He knew that the fair would be a challenging event to navigate, with logistics and nning to be considered, but he was confident that they could make it work.

    He turned to Amelia and shared his thoughts. "This is a chance we simply cannot miss, Amelia. Have you informed my partner about this news?"

    "I have not yet, Poul. But would you like me to give him a call and inform him of this news?"

    Poul paused for a moment before responding, "No, let me do it myself. Jonathan has been working just as hard as I have on this invention, and I think he deserves to hear the news directly from me."

    Amelia nodded in agreement, "Of course, Poul. I will leave you to it then."

    Poul reached for the letter and read it over once more before picking up the phone to call Jonathan.

    When Jonathan answered the phone, Poul wasted no time in delivering the exciting news. "Jonathan, you won''t believe it. We''ve been invited to showcase our invention at the World''s Fair in Paris."

    Jonathan''s silence on the other end of the line was deafening, and for a moment, Poul worried that he might not be as excited as he was.

    But then Jonathan spoke, "Is it? Well, that''s good news for us then."

    "Really? Being invited by the President of France himself that''s your reaction?" Poul said dully. <novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "Wait, the President of France himself? Why didn''t you tell me that in the first ce? If you did, you would get your expected reaction from me," Jonathan chuckled.

    Poul couldn''t help butugh at Jonathan''s reaction. "Yes, the President of France himself. I think it''s time to show the world the thing."

    "You mean the car? Well, you are the one who designed and invented it, that''s your call, Poul. I''m going to tell this news to Caroline, we might do something sudden but I''ll keep you informed of our decisions."

    "What do you mean?" Poul''s brows furrowed.

    "Well, we could go to Paris with you to help present the car at the fair. I think Caroline would love to see Paris again, meet her family there and perhaps¡­Hmm¡­I''d rather not tell it to you right now."

    "What are you nning, Jonathan?" Poul asked.

    Jonathan hesitated for a moment, considering his words carefully. He knew that what he was about to say woulde as a surprise to Poul, but he also knew that it was important to keep it a secret for now.

    "I have a surprise for you, Poul. Caroline and I have been working on something for a while now, and we were hoping to unveil it at the fair as well. Just wait for it."

    Poul sighed. "Fine, if you don''t want to tell me then so be it."

    "When is the world fair anyway? Is it mentioned in the letter?" Jonathan asked.

    Poul looked up to Amelia who then brought up another letter and handed it to him. He opened the letter and perused the contents.

    "ording to the letter, the world''s fair will be held in Paris from April to November of next year. That gives us plenty of time to prepare and perfect our presentation." Poul said as he scanned the letter.

    Jonathan nodded, "That''s a relief. We have enough time to fine-tune our inventions and make sure everything is ready for the big day. I can''t wait to see the look on people''s faces when they see what we''ve created, especially the car that you just showed to Morgan."

    "I''m nning on making different variations," Poul added. "I might introduce the motorcycle, given that it is easy to build and manufacture, we will also showcase the electric appliances that the households would surely love. Just the thought of it is making me excited."

    "Yeah¡­I have to go now, Poul. The councilors from the Board of Transportation are waiting for my quarterly report."

    "Alright, Jonathan. Keep me posted on any updates about the construction," Poul said as he ended the call.

    After hanging up, Poul sat back in his chair and let out a deep breath.

    "Uhm¡­Poul¡­what is a motorcycle?"

    "You''ll see soon."

 Chapter 215 The Contemplation

    ?

    Poul who was inplete charge of the operation of thepany while Jonathan was handling affairs in New York continued to churn out innovations and inventions that will get them ahead of thepetition. In all lucrative industries, steel, oil, electricity, and technology, thepany has been excelling in those fields, casting a huge shadow over itspetitors who are struggling to keep up the pace.

    Though not officially introduced to the public, Poul has been nning on releasing the automobile as soon as Carl Benz invented the first practical motorcar. It was a huge sensation to the whole of Europe upon its introduction and they knew that with improvements and increased efficiency and functionality, the automobile will rece horse-drawn carriages in the not-too-distant future. Poul was excited about the prospect of being one of the firstpanies to produce and market automobiles to the masses.

    However, the introduction of automobiles would prove to be a challenge to the railwaypanies whose market shares plummeted when Henry Ford from his original world made his Ford Model T amodity by making it affordable to the masses. How did he do it? It was simple, the assembly line. A technique that has been implemented in their factories, churning out hundreds of products in a day. Poul and his team knew that theirpetitors needed to innovate once again if they were topete with this new paradigm shift in manufacturing.

    In almost eight years, the industrialist duo has been diversifying their portfolio, expanding in new industries that they knew would be significant in the future. Electricity and oil for example were essential resources for the modern world so even if the market crash affected some of their other businesses, they were still able to remain profitable.

    A market crash is the only threat to theirpany, which they believed would happen in five or ten years, that is what they are preparing for. The market in thete neenth century is simply unstablepared to the 21st century. There is no Federal Reserve System to regte the money supply, and banks were not as regted as they are today. Companies had to rely solely on their own resources and strategic nning to survive a market crash.

    Poul has seen this in the history of the United States, and though not very popr, he still saw it on Youtube. It was the Panic of 1893, it was the result of the copse of railroad overbuilding and subsequent bank failures, resulting in a nationwide economic depression.

    The railroad has always been the dominant force in the market, transporting goods and people across the nation, basically making the economy of a country run. So if the railroad is so important, then howe overbuilding railroads lead to a depression? Well, overbuilding railroads means that there are too many railroads being constructed, beyond what the economy can support. This creates an oversupply of railroad services, causing the prices to drop. As prices drop, it bes harder for railroads to make profits, which in turn affects their ability to pay back their loans and invest in new infrastructure. Eventually, the overbuilt railroads fail, and the banks that lent them money also fail. This leads to a chain reaction of bank failures and economic depression.

    Though this has given them a profit boost from the railroadpanies buying their air brakes and other steam lotive devices, that doesn''t mean it would keep up forever. There are still many railroads under construction across Avalonia, meaning the panic of 1893 could also happen in this world.

    But what about the electric lotive Jonathan is building in New York? Would that be also affected? Technically the electric lotive wouldn''t be affected in the same way as steam lotives since it doesn''t rely on coal or oil for fuel. Instead, it uses electricity, which can be generated from a variety of sources such as hydroelectric power nts or wind turbines. However, the economic depression resulting from the overbuilding of railroads could still have a ripple effect on the demand for transportation services and the ability ofpanies to invest in new technologies, including electric lotives.

    Still electric lotives are in their infancy so nothing much to be worried about on that side.

    Nevertheless, Poul wrote aprehensive and highly detailed n should there be a market crash in the near future. He stopped typing on the typewriter and took a deep breath.

    "Oh, you are done, Poul?" Amelia walked forward, carrying a tray of confectionaries and coffee.

    "Yes, I just finished. Thank you, Amelia," Poul said, taking a cup of coffee from the tray.

    "Is everything alright? You look a bit worried," Amelia said, noticing the serious expression on Poul''s face.

    "Nothing really, I''m just thinking ahead, it should cause no problem. Anyways, have the men in the workshop finished what I asked for?" Poul asked.

    "I was about to report that," Amelia cleared her throat and began. "The motorcycle, ording to the engineers who are working on it, said that it is ready, are you going to pay them a visit?"

    "Of course," Poul stood up from his desk, cing his coffee cup on the saucer. "I want to make sure that everything is in order before I take it for a test drive."<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "You are going to drive it yourself again, Poul?" Amelia inquired.

    "Of course, I''m the one who designed it so obviously I am the only one who can drive it. It''s a bit easierpared to automobiles. Would you like to see me do it?"

    "I have no idea what a motorcycle is, Poul so I won''t let this opportunity pass by me," Amelia said, smiling.

    "Then follow me to the workshop," Poul walked out of his office with Amelia following closely behind him.

    Five minutester, they arrived at the workshop the sound of metal nging and machinery humming filled the air. Amelia gazed at the sleek-looking bike.

    Amelia had never seen anything like it before. It was a beautiful machine, with a shiny metal frame that looked like it had been carefully crafted by a skilled artisan. The motorcycle had tworge wheels, one in the front and one in the back, and a small seat perched between them. The seat was covered in leather, and there were handles on either side of it.

    Poul approached the motorcycle and ran his hand along the smooth surface of the metal frame. "This is it," he said, a hint of pride in his voice.

    "It has a gasoline engine with a capacity of 15," Poul said, pointing to the motor at the center of the bike. "It has a single-cylinder design and can generate up to 2.5 horsepower. The engine is air-cooled, which means it doesn''t need a radiator like a car or a steam engine. It also has a chain drive that connects the engine to the rear wheel, which allows for a smoother ride."

    Amelia could only hum along Poul''s technical words as if feigning that she understood it when in reality, she doesn''t.

    eaglesnov?1,§ão§® "Is everything in order?"

    "Yes, Mr. Nielsen," one of the engineers replied. "We''ve triple-checked everything, and it''s good to go."

    Poul nodded, then climbed onto the motorcycle, turned the key, and began to kick the kick starter. Within seconds, the engine roared to life, and he throttled it, causing the machine to emit an intimidating growl.

    Poul hummed in satisfaction. "Okay let''s do a brief test run."

    Poul revved the engine, and the bike lurched forward, smoothly gliding across the concrete floor. Amelia watched in amazement as Poul navigated the motorcycle through the workshop, deftly maneuvering around the machines and tools.

    He then returned to his starting position and climbed out of the motorcycle. "Okay, this is ready for the world''s fair."

 Chapter 216 Prelude: Worlds Fair

    ?

    Almost a year has passed and the Axelsen & Nielsen Company continued to thrive in the United States of Avalonia, not much of a significant event had happened for thest months aside from building prototypes and keeping up the production of their current products.

    But in two weeks, the industrialist duo is going to visit the biggest event the world has ever seen, the World''s Fair. The world''s fair will showcase each country''stest inventions and technologies, as well as their cultural and artistic achievements. This event was the perfect opportunity for Axelsen & Nielsen to showcase theirtest products and establish new business connections.

    Outside the main office were horse-drawn ornate carriages lining up. Poul, Jonathan, Amelia, Sara, Morgan, and Caroline boarded their respective carriages. Poul is with Amelia and Sara while Jonathan is with Morgan and Caroline.

    "Why are we not using the automobiles that your partner invented?" Morgan asked with a frown.

    "Because there''s one thing that is keeping the automobile out from the street," Jonathan paused for suspense and continued. "And that is the road itself,"

    "The road?" Morgan raised a brow. "What do you mean by that, Mr. Axelsen?"

    "Mr. Morgan, the road that we currently have is not friendly to the automobile tires, they are rough, uneven, and full of potholes. It''s not safe for us to use automobiles just yet."

    "So you are saying that the automobile that Mr. Nielsen invented is useless because it can''t go on a road? I thought that automobiles are going to revolutionize transportation. Have I been caught in a hype again?"

    "Mr. Morgan, if I may," Caroline chimed in. "The automobiles that they made aren''t entirely useless, they are roads that can amodate their cars such as the streets of New York and even the streets of Paris, but long-distance transportation with cars without proper roads would be difficult. In fact, there is already a solution to that problem."

    "Which is what?" Morgan looked at Caroline expectantly.

    "Asphalt," Caroline revealed.

    "Asphalt?" Morgan repeated. "I have heard of that before, isn''t that made of oil?"

    Jonathan interjected. "That''s correct, Mr. Morgan. Asphalt is a petroleum-based material that ismonly used for paving roads. It''s a mixture of aggregates, like crushed stone and sand, and asphalt binder, which is a viscous liquid thates from crude oil. The mixture is heated and mixed together, thenid down on a prepared surface andpacted to create a smooth and durable road surface."

    Morgan nodded in understanding. "So, with asphalt roads, automobiles could travel long distances without difficulty?"

    "Yes," Jonathan confirmed. "Asphalt provides a smooth and durable surface that is resistant to wear and tear, making it ideal for automobile travel. And as more and more people begin to adopt automobiles for long-distance travel, the demand for good-quality roads will only increase. The good thing is that we have an oil mining and refiningpany, so it''s a win-win for us. However¡­" Jonathan trailed off.

    "What''s the problem?"

    "Paving the roads with asphalt is more of a government matter, and it will take time for them to allocate funds and resources for it," Jonathan exined. "But I believe that with the increasing poprity of automobiles and the need for better transportation infrastructure, it''s only a matter of time before we see more asphalt roads being built."

    Morgan nodded thoughtfully. "I see. Well, I guess we''ll just have to stick with the carriages for now. Oh, before I forgot, there''s someone from the United States Navy that would like to speak with you, or rather from your partner."

    "The Navy? What do they want from us?" Jonathan arched his brow, his interest piqued. <novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "They didn''t tell the details but representatives from the Navy will see you in Paris, at the World''s fair. Though can you guess what they might need from you?"

    Jonathan stroked his chin as he contemted. "Based on what we have right now, we don''t have services that cater to the Navy but one possible area I could think of is the propulsion system."

    "I see where this is going," Caroline gasped softly.

    "Uhm¡­I''m feeling a bit left out here, please do exin, I have to know if there''s money in it."

    "Well it isn''t possible that they would ask us to build a warship but what the industrialist duo could do is to improve the propulsion system of the ship. You see, Mr. Morgan, most of the warships that the world has right now are powered by reciprocating steam engines, which are heavy, inefficient, and require a lot of maintenance. But in the electric enterprise of Mr. Nielsen and Axelsen, the steam turbines used in power nts can be adapted to power ships," Caroline exined.

    "Wait, steam turbines? How does that work on a ship?" Morgan asked, a bit confused.

    Jonathan took over the exnation. "Well, Mr. Morgan, a steam turbine is a device that uses high-pressure steam to rotate des that are connected to a generator, producing electricity. In a ship, the steam is generated by boilers and the turbine turns the propeller, which moves the ship forward. The advantage of using steam turbines is that they are more efficient and require less maintenance than the reciprocating steam engines that aremonly used in warships today."

    Morgan nodded, looking impressed. "I see. So, you''re saying that yourpany can provide a more efficient and reliable propulsion system for the Navy?"

    "Yes, that''s correct. We have already developed and installed steam turbines in several power nts that we have finished building, and we are confident that we can adapt this technology for use in naval vessels as well. It would require some modifications and testing, but we believe that it would be a significant improvement over the current technology," Jonathan replied and continued. "I hope¡­"

    "I hope?"

    "This is more of Poul''s forte as he is the one who developed the steam turbine for the power nts, if you want a detailed exnation, you can go to him and ask."

    "But what if they do not want a new propulsion system, instead they want you to design a warship? How are you and your partner going to react?"

    "Well that''s impossible, Mr. Morgan. We are not a shipbuildingpany so there''s no reason for the Navy to go to us and ask us to build a warship. Secondly, although we know the basics of shipbuilding, I don''t think we have the expertise and experience required to build one. Thirdly, the capital to start one is expensive, you would rather buy an existing shipbuildingpany and employ the same workers."

    "But you can design a warship right?" Morgan asked.

    "I believe we can¡­" Jonathan replied, his tone hinting a

    bit of hesitation. "But designing a warship is apletely different ball game than designing a power nt or a propulsion system. There are so many factors to consider, from the size and shape of the ship to the type of armor and weapons it will carry. It would require a team of experts in naval architecture, naval engineering, and naval warfare to design a sessful warship."

    Caroline nodded in agreement. "And not to mention the time and resources it would take to design and build a warship. It could take years toplete, and cost millions of dors."

    Morgan looked thoughtful for a moment before nodding. "I see your point. I''ll keep that in mind. For now, we have a long trip ahead so sit back and rx."

 Chapter 217 Arrival At France

    ?

    A weekter, the team from the Axelsen & Nielsen Company arrived at the bustling port city of Brest. The salty sea air filled their lungs as they stepped off the ship and onto the port. The sound of seagulls and the crashing waves echoed in the distance. The city was alive with activity as cargo was loaded and unloaded from steamships, while sailors bustled around on the docks, hauling ropes and crates.

    As they walked through the port, the team was greeted with the sight of steamships puffing out thick, white smoke from their tall smokestacks, filling the sky with a gray haze. The loud, rhythmic thumping of the steam engines could be heard from miles away as the ships glided in and out of the harbor, their powerful propellers churning up the water.

    The port was a maze of ships, warehouses, and cranes, eachpeting for space and attention. The smell of fish and salt mixed with the thick smoke created a pungent odor that lingered in the air. Wooden nks creaked beneath their feet as they made their way along the busy docks, dodging carts and sailors carrying heavy loads.

    The team passed by towering stacks of wooden crates, barrels, and bales of cotton, eachbeled with its country of origin. They saw sailors unloading exotic fruits and spices, while others loaded crates of weapons and ammunition. The team couldn''t help but feel a sense of awe as they took in the sheer size andplexity of the operation. It was like a small city within a city.

    Despite the chaotic scene, there was a sense of order and organization. The steamships were docked in neat rows, each with its own crew and cargo. The team could see men in uniforms directing the loading and unloading of goods, while others patrolled the area, keeping a watchful eye on any suspicious activity.

    The sun was setting on the horizon, casting a warm glow over the port. The team knew that they had a lot of work ahead of them, but for now, they took a moment to appreciate the bustling scene before them, the nging of metal, the whistling of the wind, and the distinct smell of the sea that permeated the air.

    "So this is Brest huh?" Poul scanned around. "Well, this is an interesting view. Amelia, please repeat your report to me to the rest of the group."

    "Affirmative, Mr. Nielsen," Amelia strode purposefully towards the group and pivoted to address them. "Our engineering team was dispatched to Paris a week ago to liaise with the fair''s organizers. The innovative inventions and state-of-the-art technologies have been installed and are now poised for the public debut at the grand opening of the World''s Fair."

    "Thank you, Amelia," Poul said, beckoning her to return.

    Amelia smiled before joining them again. "Well, the fair is going to start on the morning of May 6th, 889. We will stay in Paris for the next two weeks, and then after that, we return home and tend to our businesses. So that means you can go wherever you want around France before the World''s fair starts. We are not going to stay in one hotel because I want us to enjoy our visit here with the important people in our life."

    "Amen!" Jonathan raised a non-existent shot ss in the air.

    "So, if you have dates or any business in Paris, you are free to do so," Poul said. "This is something that Jonathan and I have agreed upon."

    "So who ising with you?" Morgan asked. "As for me, my family is due to arrive in Paris in five days. But how about you? Is it Amelia?"

    "Oh no," Poul shook his head. "Amelia has someone that will apany her I believe."

    "That''s right, Poul," Amelia said. "He is waiting for me in Paris." <novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "Wait, if she is not the oneing with you, then who?" Morgan inquired again, getting confused.

    "Isn''t it obvious?" Poul ced an arm around Sara''s shoulder. "It''s Sara."

    Sara blushed at the sudden attention. "Hey¡­Mr. Nielsen, isn''t this a bit too sudden for Mr. Morgan?"

    "Yeah, I am confused. Ms. Olsen is the new nurse that applied for your clinic right? So she is the one? I really thought that it was Amelia¡­"

    Sara''s expression fell when the name Amelia was brought up again. When she first arrived in the United States as Sara, Jonathan told her that there was someone keeping Poulpany, and she believed it was Amelia. The executive secretary, the one that works closely with Poul. There''s no denying the fact that the two could have developed a close rtionship, so she couldn''t help but feel jealous. But Sara tried to push those thoughts aside and focus on the present. She looked at Poul, who was still holding onto her shoulder and saw the sincerity in his eyes. He really did care about her, and that thought made her heart flutter.

    Meanwhile, Amelia''s expression was also the same as hers and she was puzzled. Why would she also have that expression? There''s nothing going on between them right? So howe she is seemingly affected by Poul''s action?

    "Okay, I think that''s enough question Mr. Morgan," Jonathan stepped in, stopping the conversation from going any further. "Let''s just enjoy our time here in France and make the most out of it. We have a train to catch anyway so we should get moving."

    The group nodded in agreement and started to gather their belongings. As they made their way to the train station, Sara walked beside Poul, feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness about their trip to Paris.

    During the train ride, Poul and Sara sat together, discussing their ns for the next few days. Poul had already arranged for a private tour of the Eiffel Tower, a visit to the Louvre, and a dinner reservation at Le Grand V¨¦four, one of the most luxurious restaurants in Paris. Sara was amazed by the itinerary and couldn''t believe she would be experiencing all of this.

    "It''s been a year since you left Ennd, Sara. How do you feel? A sense of longing?" Poul asked as he held her hand.

    "I don''t know Poul, even though the police ended the investigation, there are rumors that Alexander is still doing an investigation," Sara said. "Don''t you think this will bite us soon?"

    "You don''t have to worry about being caught, Sara," Poul said. "They have no lead so they can''t proceed any further. I''m sorry if I brought such a bitter memory up."

    "So, how are we going to tell the others? That we are in a rtionship?" Sara asked.

    "Well, we just have to prove that we are a couple by following the itinerary. We only need them to see us in that way, after all, and I believe this trip is a surefire way to make it happen."

 Chapter 218 Paris, France

    ?

    The group stepped out of the train station and immediatelyid their eyes upon a colossal monument of steel standing tall in the center of the city. Poul gazed up at the impressive structure, his mouth hanging open in awe.

    "There''s no mistaking it, that''s the Eiffel Tower," Jonathan announced, grinning from ear to ear.

    As they made their way toward the tower, they were struck by its sheer size and intricate design. The tower seemed to reach up towards the heavens, its metal frame gleaming in the bright sunlight.

    The intricate metalwork of the tower was a testament to the impressive engineering capabilities of thete neenth century. Thetticework of the tower''s structure was both beautiful and functional, providing the necessary support while also creating a sense of lightness and elegance.

    The group made their way closer to the base of the tower, looking up in wonder at the intricate details and ornate embellishments that adorned the structure. They could see people milling about on the observation deck high above, and they couldn''t wait to join them and take in the breathtaking views of the city from above.

    However, they were stopped by the guards who were stationed at the base of the steel tower.

    "I''m sorry,dies and gentlemen, but the tower is closed for visitors until the world''s fair starts," the guard exined.

    "Is that so? Then who are the people above?" Poul asked.

    "Those are engineers and the city council conducting routine maintenance checks," the guard replied.

    The group was disappointed but understood the situation. They decided to explore the area around the Eiffel Tower instead, taking in the sights and sounds of the bustling city.

    They wandered through the nearby Champ de Mars park, admiring the beautiful gardens and the majestic fountains. They passed by quaint street vendors selling pastries, cheeses, and other French delicacies, and they couldn''t resist stopping to sample some of the delicious treats.

    "I see," Jonathan said, reading a newspaper. "The Eiffel tower was created solely for this world''s affair to gain attraction from the public and internationalmunity."

    Poul and the others listened with interest as Jonathan continued to read aloud from the newspaper.

    "It says here that the tower is 300 meters tall and was built in just two years by Gustave Eiffel and his team of engineers. They used over 18,000 pieces of wrought iron and 2.5 million rivets to construct it," Jonathan exined and continued. "Not only that, they built it in just two years."

    "Impressive," Caroline said in awe. "Though it is just a tower made of steel, it surpassed the Washington Monument in height and became the tallest man-made structure in the world at the time. And to think, it was only meant to be temporary," she added.

    "Temporary?" Amelia and Sara intoned. "What do you mean?"

    "Well, you see the Eiffel Tower was built as the centerpiece of the Exposition Universelle, or World''s Fair, which was held in Paris to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the French Revolution," Jonathan exined. "It was meant to showcase France''s engineering and industrial prowess to the world, and to attract visitors to the fair."

    "But why was it only temporary?" Amelia asked.

    "After the fair was over, there were many people who wanted to tear it down," Jonathan replied. "They thought it was an eyesore and didn''t fit in with the rest of the city''s architecture. But Gustave Eiffel convinced them to keep it standing by demonstrating its usefulness as a radio antenna."

    "Radio antenna?" Morgan and Amelia tilted their heads to the side. "What are you talking about, Mr. Axelsen."

    Jonathan gulped, he got carried away from exining the history of the Eiffel Tower to the point where he mentioned the radio antenna which isn''t supposed to be invented in the next six years.

    So he racked his brains, trying toe up with a reasonable exnation the two could understand.

    "What I meant was that the Eiffel Tower was used for various scientific experiments, including testing radio waves and studying the Earth''s maic field," Jonathan said quickly, hoping that his exnation would suffice.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    Morgan and Amelia nodded, seemingly satisfied with Jonathan''s response, and the group continued their exploration of the area.

    Two hourster, the group grew tired and wanted to retire back to the hotels they booked a month before the start of the World''s fair.

    Jonathan and Poul hailed a carriage passing down the street and the group piled in, ready to head back to their hotels. As they rode through the streets of Paris, they chatted excitedly about their day at the fair and all the amazing things they had seen.

    However, one individual, Amelia noticed something off from Jonathan''s exnation.

    "What does he mean after the fair is done¡­" Amelia muttered under her breath. "That the people are going to demand the removal of the Eiffel Tower? How is it possible for them to know the future?"

    Poul, who was in the same carriage as her, noticed her contemtion.

    "Are you alright, Amelia?"

    Sara also took notice of her expression and was a bit concerned about it.

    "Poul, the way Jonathan exined the Eiffel Tower earlier, it''s odd don''t you think? I haven''t given it much thought earlier as I was engrossed by his exnation but when I was looking back at his words just now, he mentioned something that hasn''t happened yet. It''s as if he knows the future," Amelia said, furrowing her brow.

    "Shit!" Poul cursed inwardly, recalling back how Jonathan spoke about the Eiffel Tower, he realized that his friend had slipped up and revealed too much information.

    "How can one know the future if it hasn''t happened yet? Are you sure that you heard him right? Because I didn''t hear him say that."

    "Yeah, me too," Sara nodded, going along with Poul. She knew also that it would be dangerous if Amelia were to find out that they are not from this world.

    The only way to solve this is to gaslight Amelia.

    "But I heard him say that, I can also ask Mr. Morgan, I''m sure he heard Jonathan saying that."

    "But he didn''t, Amelia. And don''t ask that to Mr. Morgan, he is not the kind of man who would entertain such a question," Poul said.

    Amelia felt a knot forming in her stomach, something was definitely off and she couldn''t shake the feeling. She decided to drop the matter for now but promised herself to look into it furtherter.

    As the carriage pulled up to their hotel, the group bid each other goodnight and went to their respective rooms. The hotel that they booked is one of the most luxurious ones in Paris, the Grand Hotel on the Boulevard des Capucines.

    Poul saw Jonathan making his way towards the elevator, he caught up to him and spoke.

    "Oy, Jonathan. Amelia is on you. Your exnation earlier could have jeopardized our identity."

    "Yeah, Caroline and I realized it too, Poul. I''m sorry about that. As you know, I always get carried away when exining things. So how did you manage it?"

    "I simply told her that you didn''t say that and we didn''t hear anything, just be careful next time, okay?"

    "Got it."

 Chapter 219 Deal From The United States Navy

    ?

    As Poul stepped into the suite at the Grand Hotel, he couldn''t help but gasp in awe. The room was nothing short of breathtaking. The opulence and grandeur of the suite were beyond his expectations.

    The walls were adorned with rich tapestries, and the floors were covered with plush carpets. The room was bathed in warm, soft light, which gave the space a cozy and inviting feel.

    Poul couldn''t take his eyes off the furniture, which was all handcrafted and upholstered in the finest fabrics. The sofa and chairs were covered in soft velvet, and the ornate coffee table was made of gleaming mahogany.

    The room was filled with beautiful art pieces, including paintings, sculptures, and intricately designedmps. Poul couldn''t help but admire the attention to detail that had gone into every aspect of the room''s design.

    As he walked around the suite, he noticed the luxurious bedroom. The bed was covered in silk sheets and piled high with fluffy pillows. The room was spacious, and the windows overlooked the bustling city of Paris.

    "One of the perks of being a millionaire in this era," Poulmented. "And there is only one bed, meaning we are going to sleep together aren''t we?" he said teasingly to Sara who was trailing behind him. "How long since west slept together?"

    Sara rolled her eyes at Poul''sment, used to his yful banter. "I don''t know, fifty years or so?"

    "Damn, that''s a lot of time don''t you think? That means we will have a lot of catching up to do," Poul grinned mischievously.

    "Well, unfortunately, you have to meet the officials from the United States Navy, I believe they are waiting for you downstairs."

    "Come on, we can do a quickie," Poul Sara let out a sigh, shaking her head at Poul''s persistence. "We can''t just skip out on our obligations, Poul. Besides, I thought you were excited to meet with them?"

    Poul shrugged, a grin still stered on his face. "I am, but that doesn''t mean I can''t have a little fun first."

    Sara chuckled, shaking her head once again. "You''re incorrigible, Poul. But you have to go, you don''t want to keep them waiting, especially when they are from the government."

    Poul reluctantly tore his gaze away and sighed. "Fine, I guess we can do itter," he said with a smirk. "But promise me, after this meeting, we''ll have some time to ourselves."

    Sara smiled, knowing that Poul wouldn''t be able to resist any longer. "I promise, we''ll have some time to ourselves," she said as she shooed him out of the room and towards the elevator.

    "Give me a kiss on the cheek first," Poul turned back, giving Sara a cheeky grin. She shook her head but leaned in to give him a quick peck on the cheek.

    "Alright, now go," she said, pushing him towards the elevator.

    When the door of the elevator closed, Sara sighed. Sometimes, Poul can be a bit of a handful, she thought to herself.

    At the grand foyer of the Grand Hotel, Poul saw Jonathan waving at him, getting his attention. He was standing by the table, along with Mr. Morgan and one person he doesn''t recognize. It must be from the United States Navy.

    "Poul, you were two minutester, what happened to you¡­" Jonathan paused as he spotted a tint of lipstick on Poul''s cheek. He raised an eyebrow, looking amused.

    Poul chuckled and wiped the lipstick off his cheek. "Why? She was asking for one,," he replied, ignoring Jonathan''s teasing.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    Jonathan grinned. "Ah, I see. Well, let me introduce you to Captain Alfred Thayer Mahan. from the United States Navy. He''s been waiting to meet you."

    "Captain Mahan?" Poul repeated the name. "I know you, you were the one who wrote the Mahan doctrine "Yes, that''s correct," Captain Mahan replied with a smile, extending his hand to shake Poul''s. "It''s an honor to meet you, Mr. Poul. Your reputation precedes you."

    Poul shook the hands of the man who wrote the Mahan doctrine, which ording to it, "Sea power was the key to a country''s economic and military dominance," Poul said, recalling the doctrine. "Your writings have had a significant impact on the development of naval strategy around the world."

    Captain Mahan nodded. "Yes, that''s correct. And now, we are interested in discussing some potential business opportunities with you."

    Poul raised an eyebrow. "Business opportunities?"

    "Yes," Captain Mahan replied. "The United States Navy is currently in need of some advanced technology for our ships and we''ve heard that yourpany has been churning out technologies that are beyond the minds of the people."

    "I''m ttered by the praise, captain, but if I heard you right, you are asking us to work on your ships? We don''t have experience in shipbuilding."

    "No, that''s not what I meant, Mr. Nielsen, you see, our naval engineers in Washington believed that your steam turbine can be used as a new type of propulsion, recing the reciprocating engines that we currently use in our ships. We believe that your technology can make our ships faster, more efficient, and more maneuverable. We would like to explore the possibility of coborating with yourpany on this project."

    Jonathan smiled, he had predicted that this would be the case.

    "Well, if that was the case, we can help you," Jonathan stepped in. "Also, we may not have expertise in shipbuilding but we can design you a better ship than what was currently in the market."

    "Is that true?" Mahan flickered his gaze at Poul.

    "Yeah, we can try."

    "In that case, I''d love to see the model of your ship. The United States Congress is nning to pass another Naval Act, which would fund the construction of new warships to protect our interests around the world. If we found your model ship to our liking, then the United States Navy will honor you with a contract for its construction and supply."

    Poul and Jonathan exchanged a look, surprised at the sudden turn of events.

    "That''s going to be a problem as we don''t have a shipbuilding enterprise yet¡­"

    "That''s okay," Morgan stepped in. "You can acquire one. Don''t worry, I''ll take care of it, just do what you are good at."

    "So are we in agreement, Mr. Nielsen? Mr. Axelsen? The steam turbine and a new model warship?"

    Poul and Jonathan exchanged a quick nce again and nodded. "We have an understanding, Mr. Mahan."

 Chapter 220 The Worlds Fair

    ?

    The sun had just begun to rise over the city of Paris, casting a golden glow over the rooftops and the streets below. As the first light of day illuminated the city, crowds of people began to gather at the gates of the World''s Fair, eager to witness the grand opening of one of the greatest spectacles of the modern age.

    The air was filled with the sound of excited chatter andughter as people jostled for position, craning their necks to catch a glimpse of the grand entrance. And there it was, the centerpiece of the fair - the Eiffel Tower - rising high into the sky, its intricate ironttice shining in the early morning sun.

    The President of France, Marie Fran?ois Sadi Carnot, stood at the head of the crowd, waiting for the moment to begin the ceremony. He was nked by his cab members, foreign dignitaries, and other important guests. As the clock struck 9 am, a hush fell over the crowd, and the president stepped forward to deliver his speech.

    "My fellow citizens, and esteemed guests from around the world," President Carnot began, his voice carrying over the quiet murmurs of the crowd. "Today, we stand here, witnessing the opening of one of the greatest exhibitions of our time - a testament to human ingenuity and progress."

    As the president spoke, the crowd listened intently, their eyes fixed on him. The air was electric with anticipation, and everyone knew that they were about to witness something truly historic.

    "As we look around us," the president continued, "we see the culmination of years of hard work and dedication. The Eiffel Tower, the Pce of Fine Arts, the Machinery Hall - these are just a few of the many wonders that await us inside the gates of this great fair."

    The president''s words were met with cheers and apuse from the crowd, and he smiled, knowing that his message had been well-received.

    "Let us remember," he said, his voice rising above the noise of the crowd, "that this fair is not just a celebration of our achievements, but a call to action - a reminder that we must continue to strive for progress, to work towards a better tomorrow."

    As the president finished his speech, the crowd erupted into cheers and apuse once again. They knew that they were a part of something historic - a moment that would be remembered for years toe.

    And so, with the president''s words ringing in their ears, the crowd surged forward, eager to explore the wonders that awaited them inside the gates of the World''s Fair. They walked past the Eiffel Tower, marveled at the Pce of Fine Arts, and gazed in awe at the Machinery Hall, where thetest technological marvels were on disy.

    And on that Machinery Hall was thepany staff of the Axelsen & Nielsen Company. Poul, Jonathan, and the engineers they brought to Paris introduced them to a variety of inventions. The electrical appliances, thetest steam lotive devices, and one that caught all of the attention of the people passing by the automobile.

    People kept staring at the automobile, wondering how they work. Others thought that it was some sort of a disy to attract more visitors to the fair. Poul and Jonathan, seeing the fascination of the crowd, decided to give a demonstration of how the automobile worked.

    "Okay gentlemen anddies, gather around as we will do a demonstration on how this beauty works," Poul walked forward, waving his hand as he greeted the visitors.

    "Let me introduce myself, my name is Poul Nielsen, one of the founders of the Axelsen and Nielsen Companies that I wouldn''t bother to name one by one due to their numbers but, we are actually looking into starting a new type of enterprise, a one that revolves around this beauty of art," Poul exined as he walked around the automobile.

    "I''ll have my partner to demonstrate, Mr. Axelsen, please enter the vehicle. We don''t want to keep our visitors waiting too long,"

    As Poul introduced Jonathan, he walked towards the front of the automobile and lifted the hood. He then pulled out a metal rod that was tucked under the front of the vehicle.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "Ladies and gentlemen, this is how we start the automobile. Just this simple hand crank," Jonathan said, holding up the metal rod for the crowd to see.

    He walked towards the front of the automobile and inserted the metal rod into a small opening on the engine. Jonathan then gave the crank a few turns, and the engine sputtered to life.

    The sound of the motor caught the attention of the crowd, and they gathered around to watch the demonstration. Jonathan got back into the driver''s seat and shifted the gears, getting ready to showcase the automobile''s maneuverability.

    Slowly, he drove the automobile around the Machinery Hall, turning left and right, showcasing its speed and agility. The crowd was in awe, and they cheered and pped as the automobile passed by them.

    "Amazing, how can it run without something pulling it?" one of the visitors asked.

    "Must be like a steam engine, but I don''t see any smoke billowing out from the chimneys. Wait there''s no chimneys¡­how is it running?"

    "You stupid, there''s no way a steam engine is running that car, it will need a huge boiler. There''s no boiler so it must be something else," the other visitors said.

    Jonathan heard the visitors'' discussion and decided to exin. He slowed down the automobile and rolled down the window, gesturing to the curious onlookers toe closer.

    "Excuse me, folks, but this is not powered by steam or horses," Jonathan said, smiling. "This is a gasoline-powered automobile, one of ourtest inventions."

    He stepped out of the vehicle, allowing the visitors to see the interior. As the visitors gathered around the automobile, Jonathan began to exin the inner workings of the gasoline-powered vehicle. He pointed out the engine and the variousponents that made it run.

    The visitors were fascinated, and they bombarded Jonathan with questions about the automobile. They asked about its top speed, how far it could travel on a tank of gas, and how much it cost.

    Jonathan answered each question with a smile, clearly enjoying the attention. He exined that the automobile could travel at speeds of up to 60 miles per hour and that it could travel up to 200 miles on a tank of gas. As for the cost, he said that it was still being determined, as the automobile was a new invention and thepany was still figuring out how much it would cost to produce.

    As the demonstration came to an end, Poul stepped forward to address the crowd once again. "Ladies and gentlemen, I hope you have enjoyed this demonstration of ourtest invention," he said. "We are proud to introduce the world to the gasoline-powered automobile, and we hope that it will revolutionize the way we travel."

    The visitors pped and cheered, and many of them approached Poul and Jonathan to ask more questions or to express their admiration for the new invention. Poul and Jonathan were both pleased with the response, and they knew that they had something truly special on their hands.

    However, one individual noticed that one section was surrounded by a crowd of people. Curious, he headed towards there.

 Chapter 221 Carl Benz

    ?

    Two minutes earlier, Carl Benz was strolling around the fair, looking for something that might pique his interest. However, it was all but disappointing as most of the mechanical contraptions disyed in the Machinery Hall were nothing but a disy with no practical use.

    He had traveled all the way from Germany to witness new technologies made by other countries, and seeing those lifeless machines only made him more determined to showcase something revolutionary himself. As he walked down the aisle, he noticed a small crowd gathered around a peculiar machine. Curiosity piqued, he made his way over to see what all the fuss was about.

    To his surprise, it was an automobile. The body of the car was made of shiny metal, with long, sweeping lines that gave it a sense of speed even when it was standing still. The wheels wererge and spoked, with wide tires that looked like they could handle any terrain.

    As Carl approached the car, he couldn''t help but be impressed by its beauty. It was unlike anything he had ever seen before, with a style and grace that seemed almost otherworldly.

    He could see the intricate details of the car, the perfectly crafted curves, and lines that flowed seamlessly from one end to the other. He could imagine the craftsmanship that must have gone into creating such a masterpiece.

    As Carl stood there, admiring the automobile, he couldn''t help but feel a sense of wonder and amazement. It was a true testament to the ingenuity and creativity of the human mind, and he felt honored to have witnessed it with his own eyes.

    "I must know who made it," he quickly squeezed through the crowds and saw a silver-haired and blonde-haired man standing by it.

    "Uhm sir¡­are you the inventor of this automobile?" Carl asked, getting Poul''s attention.

    "I am indeed that person," Poul smiled as he walked forward. "Sadly, we just finished the demonstration and we couldn''t go for another six hours as we are saving fuel for future demonstrations."

    "Is that so? That''s a shame, I was wandering around, hoping that I would find something as ingenious as this. Truly, this is an automobile right?"

    "Yes, this is an automobile, the one that is going to revolutionize transportation, and rece horse-drawn carriages."

    "I see. I must say, the design of your automobile is impressive, truly. I never knew that an automobile could be that sleek-looking. Sadly, the automobile is unreliable and inefficient."

    "What do you mean?" Poul tilted his head to the side.

    "Oh, let me introduce myself. My name is Carl Benz, I''m the inventor of a motorcar, it''s an automobile simr to yours but I''m not finding any luck in marketing it. This is why I was looking forward to seeing you demonstrate it¡­"

    "Wait, you are Carl Benz?" Poul eximed

    "Yes, that''s correct," Carl nodded. "I''ve been trying to market my motorcar for a while now, but it seems that people are not ready for this revolutionary idea yet."

    Poul looked at Carl with newfound respect. He had heard of the name Carl Benz before, but he never imagined he would meet the inventor of the motorcar in person.

    "I''ve heard of your work, Mr. Benz. Your motorcar is quite an impressive piece of machinery," Poul said, admiringly.

    "Thank you, but it isn''t without its ws. You see, my engine is prone to overheating, and it requires a lot of maintenance. I''ve been working on improving its efficiency, but it''s been a slow and challenging process," Carl exined.

    Poul hummed. "The motorcar, is it disyed also in the Machinery Hall? Can I take a look?"

    "I can, but in exchange, you''ll let me see yours," Carl smiled.

    "Fine, I''ll let you," Poul then led Carl towards the automobile.

    "Jonathan, I''ll do a brief demonstration for this gentleman here, do you mind?" Poul asked Jonathan who was sorting tools.

    Jonathan simply shook his head, indicating that he didn''t mind. So Poul grabbed a metal rod and cranked the engine, which roared to life with a powerful hum.

    After cranking it, Poul opened the door, inviting him to take a seat in the driver''s seat. Carl eagerly obliged and sat behind the wheel, his eyes scanning every detail of the vehicle''s interior.

    As Poul gave him a brief overview of the car''s features, Carl couldn''t help but feel a sense of envy. The automobile before him was a work of art, a masterpiece of engineering and design. He knew that his motorcar had a long way to go before it could evenpare to this one.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    There was a speedometer that told the driver how much speed the car was going, an air-conditioning system that cooled or heated the interior depending on the weather, andstly, the electrical systems that powered the headlight and taillight.

    "Can I see it move?" Carl asked.

    "Of course, if you would move aside," Poul nodded and stepped aside.

    Poul put the car into gear and slowly eased onto the road. The automobile glided smoothly along the dirt road, its engine humming contentedly. Visitors from all around the world turned their heads towards the automobile inquisitively.

    "Where is your station?" Poul asked, keeping his eyes on the road.

    Carl, who was so impressed that he forgot how to speak, snapped when Poul asked a question.

    "Over there," Carl pointed to a small booth that was set up on the side of the road.

    As they arrived at the booth, Carl stepped out of the car and gestured for Poul to follow him. He opened the door to his booth and beckoned Poul toe inside.

    Once they were both inside, Poul immediately noticed the motorcar.

    Once they were both inside, Poul immediately noticed the motorcar. It was a three-wheeled vehicle, like the one he saw in the newspaper.

    As Poul made his way around the car, he took note of every detail, observing the distinctiveness of the front wheel which stood out prominently inparison to the two smaller ones at the back. He couldn''t help but notice how the steering mechanism was expertly attached to thisrger wheel. The design was highly practical, with a thin wheel reminiscent of the ones used in horse-drawn carriages.

    Then the engine. Based on its appearance, Poul could tell that the engine used was the single-cylinder four-stroke design that wasmonly used in small engines at the time. But as he looked closer, he was beginning to take notice of the ws.

    "Now I know why your engine is prone to heating," Poulmented and continued. "You see, Mr. Benz, the materials used in the engine''s construction were not heat-resistant. The engine block and otherponents were made of cast iron, which is a rtively poor conductor of heat. This meant that heat was retained within the engine, making it more prone to overheating."

    Poul continued to point out various ws in the engine''s design and construction. He talked about how the engine had no cooling system, which meant that it relied solely on air to dissipate heat. This was a serious limitation, especially in hot weather. Poul also noted that the engine''s carburetor was not properly designed, which resulted in fuel and air not mixing effectively. This, in turn, led to inefficientbustion, which reduced the engine''s power output.

    Carl listened intently as Poul went into greater detail about the ws in his engine. He realized that Poul was right. The engine he had designed had numerous limitations and would not be able topete with his design.

    He felt a sense of disappointment, but at the same time, he was grateful for Poul''s honesty and expertise.

    As Poul finished his analysis of the engine, he turned to Carl and said. "Mr. Benz, if possible, can you work for me?"

    "Pardon?"

    "I want you to work for me, Mr. Benz," Poul repeated. "I believe your knowledge of automobiles would prove to be a great asset to ourpany. You see the automobile that we invented, we are going to build a lot of them in the future, and we will need your skills to do that."

    Carl was taken aback by Poul''s offer. He had never considered working for someone else before. He had always been his own boss, and the idea of working for someone else seemed foreign to him.

    But as he thought about it, he realized that Poul''s offer was too good to refuse. The opportunity to work on a project as ambitious and exciting as the automobile was too great to pass up. He had always been passionate about engineering and innovation, and working with Poul would give him the chance to pursue that passion in a way he never had before.

    He looked at Poul, who was watching him expectantly, waiting for his answer.

    After a moment of consideration, Carl replied, "I ept your offer, Mr?"

    "Nielsen, Poul Nielsen," Poul extended his hand, offering a handshake.

 Chapter 222 Unexpected Visitor

    ?

    After Poul''s offer of a position to Carl Benz, he left his station and made his way back to his own.

    Poul parked the automobile inside their tents and turned off its engines before stepping out from it.

    "Yow, Jonathan," Poul called. "I got some news for you."

    "Really? Well make it quick as I have a date with Caroline," Jonathan said as he straightened his suit and tie.

    "I offered Carl Benz a position in our new enterprise, and he epted. I think it''d be best if we have someone with expertise in automobiles."

    "Is that so?" Jonathan raised a brow. "Well, I can agree on that, perhaps we should invite Henry Ford as well. You know, having them two together would definitely make our automobile enterprise formidable, don''t you think?" he nced back at Poul who chuckled in response.

    "That is for sure, after all, we are eliminating potentialpetition in the automobile market. Okay, that would be all, Jonathan. Enjoy your date with Caroline. Speaking of which, I also have a date, which means we have to leave everything behind to¡­" Poul paused as he shifted his gaze to the two engineers working in the tent. It was Timothy and Walter.

    "You two, should someonee looking for us, tell them that theye back tomorrow as we are busy doing things. You know the usual," Poul said.

    "But sir I also have a date," Timothy protested and continued. "Besides, Walter can handle things here on his own."

    "Heh?" Walter mused. "Leaving me here while you go out and have all the fun? Don''t worry, I''ll make sure everything runs smoothly here."

    Poul nodded, satisfied with their response. "Don''t worry Walter, I''ll give you a pay raise once we get back to the United States. For now, I want you to look after this station and make sure everything is in order. We will return in two hours, so not that long a wait."

    "Understood, sir," Walter said with a nod.

    Poul and Jonathan left the tent and headed toward their respective meetup. Poul saw Sara in the Japanese section, admiring Japanese calligraphy being made by an old Japanesedy in a kimono.

    He approached her from behind and wrapped his arms around her waist. She jumped in surprise but then rxed as she recognized his touch.

    "Hey, what do you think?" she asked, pointing at the calligraphy.

    "It looks nice, but you know what I like more than that?" he replied, whispering into her ear.

    "What?" she giggled.

    "You," he said, nting a soft kiss on her cheek.

    Sara blushed and yfully pushed him away. "Come on, Poul, we''re in public."

    "Alright, alright," Poul chuckled and watched together as the Japanesedy continued her calligraphy work. He marveled at the delicate strokes of the brush as the ink flowed smoothly on the paper, creating a beautiful design of Japanese characters.

    The atmosphere around the Japanese section was serene and peaceful, with the sounds of traditional music yed on a koto and the smell of incense filling the air. Poul and Sara walked around, admiring the intricate art pieces on disy, from hand-painted fans to delicate porcin vases.

    As they strolled through the section, Poul noticed a group of people gathered around a small stage, where a woman in a kimono was performing a traditional dance. Her movements were graceful and precise, and her costume was adorned with intricate embroidery and patterns.

    "Now this is looking more like a world''s fair," Poulmented. "You think we should buy some of their pots ?" he asked, gesturing towards the porcin vases.

    Sara smiled. "Sure, why not? We can bring them back as souvenirs."<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    They made their way toward the pottery section, admiring the various styles and designs of the vases on disy. Poul was particrly drawn to a blue and white porcin vase with a dragon motif.

    "This one''s nice," he said, pointing at the vase. "What do you think?"

    Sara examined it closely. "It''s beautiful."

    "Then we will take it,"

    Poul said, and they purchased the vase before continuing their exploration of the fair.

    As they walked, they saw another section where a pavilion making traditional Indian textiles was set up. Poul and Sara approached it, curious about the colorful fabrics on disy.

    They were greeted by a friendly Indian man who weed them and exined the intricate process of creating the textiles. He showed them how the yarn was dyed in various colors, then spun and woven into beautiful patterns and designs.

    The next stop was the Chinese section, where they were greeted by a lively atmosphere filled with the sounds of drums and cymbals. A group of Chinese acrobats was performing impressive feats of bnce and strength, drawing arge crowd of onlookers.

    Poul and Sara stood among the audience, pping and cheering as the acrobats performed their stunts with precision and grace. They were amazed at the flexibility and agility of the performers, who seemed to defy thews of gravity with their acrobatics.

    Lastly was from Belgium, where countless disys of choctes and pastries were presented in a grand pavilion. Poul and Sara''s eyes widened as they took in the vast array of sweets on disy, from delicate pralines to rich chocte truffles.

    "Belgium is great at making choctes, maybe we can take some back home for our friends?" Sara suggested.

    Poul nodded, already imagining the delight on their worker''s faces as they savored the delicious treats. They walked towards the pavilion and were greeted by a friendly Belgian woman who exined the different varieties of choctes and pastries on disy.

    They couldn''t resist trying some of the samples, savoring the rich vors and textures of the chocte. Poul''s favorite was a dark chocte truffle with a hint of raspberry, while Sara preferred a milk chocte praline filled with hazelnut cream.

    After picking out a variety of choctes and pastries to take back with them, Poul and Sara thanked the woman and continued their exploration of the fair. They wandered through more pavilions, each showcasing the unique culture and traditions of different countries.

    As the day began to draw to a close, Poul and Sara realized they had seen most of the fair and decided to make their way back to their station. Just as they arrived there, Jonathan and Caroline came up to them.

    "Hey, you two! How was the fair?" Jonathan asked.

    "It was good," Poul remarked and continued. "We even bought a few souvenirs."

    "I see, well, there''s not much to say from us," Jonathan said, cing an arm over Caroline''s shoulders.

    As they were having their conversation, a group of men approached their tent.

    "Is this the Axelsen and Nielsen Company booth?" The man asked.

    "Yes, it is¡­"

    As soon as his eyesnded on the man who inquired, it widened. Sara too had the same reaction. They recognized the man.

    "Prince Alexander?"

 Chapter 223 Standoff

    ?

    "Your Highness¡­what are you doing here?" Poul stammered, shocked to see someone unexpected.

    "It sounded like you don''t want me here, Mr. Nielsen," Alexander simply replied. "Just like everyone else, I''m enjoying the world''s fair. The Government of France extended their invitation to our government, thereafter I, a member of the royal family, decided to attend. And here I am."

    As he spoke, he nced at the girl who was hiding behind Poul. "If you do not mind me asking, who is that woman behind you?"

    "She is a nurse working for our clinic, Your Highness," Poul replied. "Why did you ask?"

    "Because she looked like someone I am so familiar with, I can''t help but notice it," Alexander continued. "Her body figure, her face, is very simr to the person who holds dear to me."

    Poul chuckled nervously, did the Crown Prince find out the whole n? And is looking at a reaction out of them? This is going to be tough, as he has to consider every word that wille out of his mouth secondster. If the Crown Prince already knew the truth and was just toying with him, then he had to be careful not to reveal anything incriminating.

    "I''m sorry, Your Highness, but I''m not sure who you could be referring to," Poul said cautiously. "Perhaps it''s just a coincidence."

    Alexander looked at Poul, his eyes narrowing slightly. "Perhaps," he said. "But I have a feeling there is more to it than that."

    Poul''s heart raced as he tried toe up with a usible exnation. Meanwhile, Sara could feel the tension in the air and was starting to feel uneasy. She had a feeling that the Crown Prince was onto them and that they were in trouble.

    "Have we met before, Your Highness?" Sara asked.

    "Even your voice is simr to hers," Alexander paused, studying Sara closely. "Tell me, what is your name?"

    Sara hesitated for a moment before answering. "My name is Sara, Sara Olsen," she said softly.

    "Sara," he repeated. "I think Penelope would suit you better."

    ''Shit," Poul cursed inwardly. The Prince is indeed onto them, he racked his brains, studying the Crown Prince''s facial expression for the moment to figure out if he had found out. However, there were no signs of him suspecting anything more than a striking resemnce.

    Sara feigned confusion. "Penelope? Who''s Penelope?" she asked.

    "Penelope is the most beautiful and talented woman that I have ever met in my life. Sadly she passed away, murdered. However, there is an investigation suggesting that she was still alive, living a new life."

    "I''m sorry, Your Highness," Poul stepped in, cutting him off. "I don''t see the reason why you have to divulge such information about someone to us. Did you reallye here to see our station?"

    Alexander smiled slyly. "I do, I was intrigued by your new invention, the automobile. To think that a metal box can move without a horse or a boiler is fascinating to me. Tell me, Mr. Nielsen, is it already avable on the market?"

    "Unfortunately not yet," Poul replied calmly. "The infrastructure needed to support and sustain this new invention is not yet introduced. Perhaps in the next year or two, we would be able to market it."

    "Is that so? I''ll be waiting then¡­" Alexander said, his gaze not moving away from Sara. "I''m sorry, I can''t help but be drawn to you, Ms. Olsen. Tell me, what is your rtionship with Mr. Nielsen?"

    "He is my employer, Your Highness," Sara answered.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "Your employer? Are you sure you two are not a couple? Because I saw you earlier in the Japanese section acting like a couple," Alexander pressed, his eyes narrowing.

    Poul could feel the heat rising to his face, his mind racing as he tried to think of a way out of this situation. He had to find a way to distract the Crown Prince from Sara and the resemnce to Penelope.

    "Well, you can say that I''m looking for ways to court Sara, Your Highness," Poul interrupted, hoping to steer the conversation away from Sara''s identity. "Fortunately I have been very sessful in that department."

    "I see? But she still hasn''t answered you yet, right?" Alexander smirked.

    Poul grinned. "I''m working on it, Your Highness."

    "If that was the case, perhaps I still have a chance?"

    Upon saying that, Alexander walked forward and grabbed Sara''s right hand. And as he was about to press his lips upon it, Poul immediately grabbed Alexander''s arm, stopping him in his tracks.

    "Your Highness, you may be the crown prince of a country but what you are doing is utter disrespect. I will not tolerate such behavior towards my girl," Poul said firmly, his grip on Alexander''s arm tightening. "Remember your ce, Crown Prince, you are not in your country so you better act ordingly. You know what, fuck it, I''m going to be honest. I hate you, and I don''t know why but whenever I see your face it makes me feel sick to my stomach."

    Sara''s eyes widened in shock as she watched Poul''s outburst toward the Crown Prince. Alexander''s expression turned cold and he slowly pulled his arm away from Poul''s grip.

    "You! How dare you speak like that to the Crown Prince of the British Empire?" One of his aides stepped forward, his voice filled with indignation.

    But Alexander raised his hand to silence him. "It''s fine. Let him speak his mind. In fact, I find it quite refreshing to meet someone who''s not afraid to express their true feelings," he said, his tone surprisingly calm. "I understand that my position as Crown Prince can be intimidating sometimes."

    "Why don''t you just leave huh? It seems to me that you are not after our products but us," Poul said chilly.

    Alexander''s eyes narrowed, and for a moment, there was a tense silence between them. Then, he let out a small chuckle, as if amused by Poul''s remark.

    "Well, Mr. Nielsen, you''re partly right," he admitted, "I dide here to see your new invention, but I also wanted to meet the people behind it. You truly are the treasure of your country huh? Inventing revolutionary technologies beyond anyone''s imagination."

    "Can you drop that polite tone of yours? It''s irritating? Why don''t you just say whatever you came here to say and be done with it?" Poul said, his voice filled with annoyance.

    "That won''t do, I have a reputation and dignity to uphold," Alexander said with a smile. "Perhaps in private, I can do so. Speaking of which, I''ll see you very soon, Mr. Nielsen."

    After saying that, Alexander and his entourage left.

    Poul turned around and faced his associates who witnessed the whole thing.

    "Emergency meeting, now."

 Chapter 224 Emergence Meeting

    ?

    As soon as the Crown Prince left their station, Poul immediately convened an emergency meeting in the private room. Inside were Caroline, Jonathan, Sara, and him.

    "Shit I think the Crown Prince knows," Jonathan said, shaking his head. "I always have taken into ount that this could have happened, and it will happen. Poul, I thought your n was foolproof?"

    "The Crown Prince knows nothing, Jonathan, and calm down. He is simply posturing, trying to get a reaction from us," Poul countered. "Look, if the Crown Prince really knows, then he wouldn''t waste his time talking to us and would immediately incarcerate us."

    "Then what should we do? If the world found out about your secret, ourpany, our reputation that we have built for thest nine years would be over. Imagine the anger of every British citizen thrown at you," Jonathan eximed, his voice filled with desperation.

    Caroline leaned forward, her brow furrowed with concern. "We can''t afford to panic," she said, her voice steady. "Jonathan is right. We need to have a contingency n in ce."

    Sara spoke up. "Let''s assess the situation objectively. Poul, what evidence does the Crown Prince have, if any?"

    Poul sighed heavily, his gaze fixed on the table. "I''m not entirely sure. It''s possible that he''s bluffing, trying to gauge our reactions. But if he does have some information, it could be disastrous."

    Jonathan ran his fingers through his hair, his frustration was evident. "How did we let this happen? We were so careful, so meticulous in covering our tracks."

    Caroline ced a reassuring hand on Jonathan''s shoulder. "ming ourselves won''t help now. We need to focus on finding a solution."

    "The only solution that I could see is that me and Sara leave this ce immediately," Poul suggested. "I have met the Crown Prince and had an impression of him. He is a very mysterious person that won''t show himself so easily despite me having a good ability to read people."

    "But won''t that make the Crown Prince suspicious?" Jonathan asked. "You leaving so suddenly without warning might raise more questions."

    Poul nodded, understanding the concern. "You''re right, Jonathan. It''s a delicate situation. But you also have to remember that we are businessmen, and businessmen are always on the move. That being said, I could simply tell everyone that there is an emergency back at Pittsburg that requires one of our attention. And for that case, I''ll go with Sara," he continued. "Look, if the Crown Prince has evidence, sooner orter he might decide to arrest me. France may not be Britain but it sure as hell wouldn''t give a damn about me. It''s best that I return to the United States where I can have some protection."

    Caroline and Jonathan exchanged nces, contemting Poul''s suggestion. They knew that separating themselves might be the safest option, even if it carried its own risks. The consequences of the Crown Prince''s knowledge could be catastrophic for theirpany and their personal lives.

    Caroline finally broke the silence. "Poul, if you and Sara leave, we need to ensure that your departure is seamless and doesn''t raise any suspicions. We''ll have to maintain the appearance of business as usual, at least until we gather more information."

    Sara nodded in agreement. "We''ll need a carefully crafted n to ensure our exit doesn''t draw unnecessary attention. Jonathan, can you handle the day-to-day operations while we''re away?"

    Jonathan hesitated for a moment, weighing the responsibility. "I can handle it."

    "Good, then we are all settled then?" Poul nced at everyone and saw that no one was objecting. "Very well, dismissed, and I apologize."<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    Jonathan and Caroline left the room, leaving Poul and Sara alone.

    "Poul, we have expected this, should the Crown Prince find out about us, we should be ready."

    "But your people aren''t going to ept it so easily," Poul replied. "You are the hero, a symbol, to the British people, and if they found out about you going out with a frowned upon minority. They might do something to you. You know there are fanatics out there who are so obsessed with their hero figure?"

    "There''s no point in worrying about it right now as I havemitted, Poul. I know the risk. Why do you think I left my family there so I can be with you? That goes to show how much I love you, ever since in our previous world."

    Poul sighed heavily. "I will speak with the President of France tomorrow, and inform him that we are leaving."

    Poul''s words lingered in the air as they both realized the magnitude of the decisions they had made. Their rtionship, once a secret hidden away from the world, was now at the forefront of their existence.

    Sara reached out and took Poul''s hands in hers, giving them a reassuring squeeze. "We''vee this far, Poul. We can''t turn back now. We knew the risks, and we chose each other over everything else. We have to stay strong."

    Poul nodded, his eyes filled with a mixture of determination and concern. "You''re right, Sara. We can''t afford to falter. We''ll face whatever challengese our way, together."

    They spent the rest of the evening making preparations for their departure, ensuring that everything was in order and that their absence would go unnoticed as long as possible. Poul contacted the necessary authorities and arranged for their journey back to the United States.

    The next day, Poul met with the President of France in the presidential office.

    He approached the President with a respectful nod and took a seat opposite him.

    "Mr. President, I appreciate your willingness to meet with me under such short notice, but I''ll make it brief. Unfortunately, Mr. President, I and one of my associates have to cut our trip short."

    "Why?" President Carnot asked.

    "There was an emergency back at home and I needed to be there. Jonathan would be here, so our station would still be running until it''s due," Poul exined.

    "That''s a shame, I was nning on visiting your station one day to see that automobile that everyone is talking about. Well, can''t help it then. Good luck on your journey back home."

    "Thank you, Mr. President."

 Chapter 225 Found Out

    ?

    "I informed the President, we are leaving, Jonathan," Poul said, his voiceced with a hint of weariness as he carried his and Sara''s luggage.

    Jonathan looked up from his desk, surprise evident on his face. "Is that so? Have a safe journey back to Pittsburgh then," he said casually, but his eyes betrayed a mixture of concern and uncertainty. "Let''s see each other once our time here is done. And also, I have told Mr. Morgan about your sudden leave."

    Poul''s brows furrowed in curiosity. "What did he say?" he asked, eager to know Mr. Morgan''s reaction to their departure.

    Jonathan let out a sigh, leaning back in his chair. "Nothing in particr, he simply nodded and asked me to leave," he replied, his tone tinged with a hint of disappointment. "I can''t help but feel that there''s more to it, though. Mr. Morgan has always been a shrewd man, and he''s not one to let things slip by unnoticed."

    A flicker of concern passed through Poul''s eyes. Mr. Morgan was a powerful figure, the backbone of theirpany, and any suspicion or unease from him could have dire consequences. After all, he is the man who would put his interest above everything else.

    "Let''s not assume the worst this time, Jonathan, we have a lot on our te," Poul said, his voice tinged with a hint of optimism. He refused to let the fear of Mr. Morgan''s reaction consume him.

    Jonathan nodded, his expression softening. "You''re right, Poul. And if I was you, I would have probably done the same, though I already said that to you before. Caroline extends her best wishes for both of you as well."

    Poul smiled gratefully. "Thank you, Jonathan. Please convey our gratitude to Caroline. We''ll keep in touch and update you once we''ve settled back in Pittsburgh."

    As Poul and Jonathan exchanged a firm handshake, Poul couldn''t help but feel a sense of gratitude for the unwavering loyalty of his friend. They had been through so much together, and Jonathan had always been there, standing by his side. Now, as they faced an uncertain future, Poul knew he could rely on their bond to withstand any storm that came their way.

    Leaving Jonathan''s office, Poul and Sara walked down the bustling streets of Paris, their luggage in tow. The city''s charm and vibrancy seemed bittersweet now, knowing that their time there wasing to an end.

    Arriving at the train station, Poul and Sara checked their luggage and made their way to the tform. The grandeur of the station filled the air, bustling with travelers and the rhythmic sounds of departing and arriving trains.

    As they waited for their train, Poul and Sara found a secluded spot on the tform, away from prying eyes.

    Just then, the sound of a train whistle pierced through the air, signaling the arrival of their departure. Poul and Sara exchanged a final, lingering look, drawing strength from each other. With a shared understanding, they gathered their belongings and boarded the train.

    As the train pulled away from the station, Poul and Sara found their seats by the window, watching as the familiarndscapes of France gradually gave way to new surroundings.

    Five hourster, they arrived at the port city of Brest. Stepping off the train, Poul and Sara were greeted by the salty breeze of the Antic Ocean, a reminder that they were now one step closer to their journey back home.

    The streets of Brest were bustling with activity, sailors, and merchants going about their daily routines. Poul hailed a horse-drawn carriage, and they climbed aboard, their luggage neatly stowed away. The carriage rattled along the cobblestone streets, taking them to the harbor where their ship awaited.

    As they approached the harbor, the sight of the massive vessel brought a mix of excitement and trepidation. This was its,st step, and they are out of the country.

    Poul and Sara made their way up the gangway, their steps guided by a mixture of hope and uncertainty. However, just as they were about to fully cross the gangway, someone called from behind.

    "Leaving so soon?" <novelsnext></novelsnext>

    A man''s voice sent shivers down Poul''s spine.

    Poul and Sara turned around, their eyes widening with surprise and a hint of trepidation. Standing there, with a sly smile on his face, was Alexander. His presence sent a wave of unease through them as if he had caught them in the act of some forbidden endeavor.

    "I thought you were going to stay in Paris for one or two weeks? Why the rush?" Alexander asked.

    "What are you doing here, Your Highness?" Poul asked as he moved out of the way as they were holding up the line. He signaled Sara to go into the ship without him which she did.

    "I came here looking for you, Mr. Nielsen," Alexander said, stepping forward and gazing deeply into his eyes. "You know, ever since I first met you, there is this thing that bothers me, about your presence. And I was right, there was really something off of you. I''m going to give you a chance, to tell the truth right here and now, Mr. Axelsen."

    "What are you talking about?" Poul asked, his heart racing, he probably had found out.

    "How dare you, do something like that to me, you dirty Albian," Alexander growled.

    "I don''t know what you are talking about, Your Highness."

    "Don''t address me as ''Your Highness,'' you filthy, uncultured swine! How dare you trick me, fool me, forcing me to believe that she was dead!" Alexander shouted. "You think I wouldn''t know, one of your conspirators confessed to me. you are already caught." Did you really think that we stopped the investigation? You must have fooled us at first, where you led us to believe that it was Penelope''s body that was in the River Thames."

    "Wha¡­"

    And thus his worst nightmare came to reality. Poul waspletely speechless, and his face turned pale.

    Suddenly, the royal guards of the Crown Prince appeared from all directions, pointing their rifles at Poul.

    "I want to hear it from you, Poul. Did you take Penelope away from me? Poisoned her mind into following you?"

    Poul took a deep breath, trying to keep hisposure despite the overwhelming fear that consumed him. He knew that denying Alexander''s usations would be futile. He had toe clean.

    "So what if I did? It''s not like it''s your problem, isn''t it? It''s her choice to be with me after all."

    "That''s one thing that troubles me. Why did she go with you? I don''t understand, you two are unrted until she first visited America. I don''t understand, I don''t understand!"

    "You wouldn''t understand even if you try to make sense of what''s happening, Crown Prince¡­"

    Sara, who noticed the scene on the other side of the gangway, couldn''t bear to leave Poul alone in this dangerous situation. She rushed back towards them, her heart pounding with worry.

 Chapter 226 Arrest

    ?

    Gasps and confusion fell upon the port city of Brest as an ongoing standoff between Poul Nielsen and Prince Alexander unfolded. The atmosphere was tense, with the Royal Guards tasked with guarding Prince Alexander aiming their rifles at Poul, creating an intimidating vibe that hung heavily in the air.

    Sara, having boarded the ship as instructed by Poul, couldn''t shake off the sense of unease that washed over her. Something was amiss, and she couldn''t leave Poul alone to face the brewing storm. She made a split-second decision, abandoning the safety of the ship and rushing back towards Poul and Alexander, her heart pounding with worry.

    "Stop this, Alexander. I''m begging you," Sara pleaded.

    Alexander nced at Sara who was standing in front of Poul with her arms spread.

    "Sara?! I told you to stay on the ship!" Poul raised his voice, but Sara was unfazed.

    "Penelope¡­you are truly alive!" Alexander stammered. "Don''t worry, I will get you out of here from your kidnapper and make sure that this insolent vile would pay the price of taking you away from me, from your family to the British Empire."

    "No! He didn''t kidnap me, I came with him willingly," Sara interjected, her voice filled with determination. She locked eyes with Alexander, trying to convey the sincerity and truth behind her words. "The reason for my going is because of love..."

    Prince Alexander''s expression wavered between disbelief and anger. "How can you defend him?" he spat, his voice tinged with betrayal. "He''s a deceiver who has manipted you into thinking he is something he''s not. I won''t let him corrupt you any further," he continued. "And I don''t really understand¡­.I can''t understand, how to understand¡­how¡­howe you have loved a person you have never met before in your childhood? This is not making any sense¡­there is only one logical reason behind your mysterious behavior, which is that he had corrupted you."

    "No! I''m not corrupted, I''m telling the truth!" Sara''s voice rang out, filled with sincerity and desperation. She could see the disbelief in Alexander''s eyes, the struggle within him to reconcile the reality before him with the beliefs he held so strongly.

    "Sara, get out of here, we expected this to happen, so let them take me. Don''t worry, I''ll be back with you in no time," Poul said in a reassuring voice.

    "No, you won''t get away from this easily, Poul Nielsen. I will make sure of it, that you won''t return to your normal life," Alexander growled.

    As Alexander was about to order his guard to move forward and detain Poul, someone stepped in.

    "What''s going on here?"

    Alexander''s gaze flickered to the man who chimed in, it was a French police officer. Behind him was a police officer with their pistol trained at the Royal Guards.

    "Drop your guns and step away," the police officermanded, his voice booming around them. The tense standoff now had an unexpected twist, as the local authorities intervened.

    The Royal Guards, caught off guard by the sudden appearance of the police, hesitated for a moment, and pulled out a letter from his pocket.

    "I have this letter here from your Government, officer, that we are within our right to detain this man in your country as it has vited one of ourws," Alexander exined as he handed the letter to the police officer.

    The police officer nced at his men before grabbing the letter from Prince Alexander. He carefully examined the document, his brow furrowing in concentration.

    [After careful consideration and consultation with the relevant authorities, we are pleased to inform you that the French government grants its approval for the detainment of Mr. Nielsen by the British Empire within the territory of France, in ordance with the details provided in your letter.

    We understand the gravity of the alleged vitions of Britishw attributed to Mr. Nielsen, and we recognize the importance of upholding justice and facilitating international cooperation in such matters. ordingly, we assure you that the French authorities will extend their full support and assistance to the British Empire during the detainment process while ensuring that all applicable Frenchws and regtions are duly observed.

    We emphasize the importance of adhering to due process and safeguarding the rights of the detainee throughout the entire operation. The French authorities will closely monitor the proceedings to ensure that Mr. Nielsen''s rights are respected, and any necessary legal provisions are strictly followed.

    ]

    After reading the letter, the police officer looked up from the document, his gaze shifting between Prince Alexander, Poul Nielsen, and Sara. His stern expression softened slightly as he took in the tense atmosphere and the conflicting emotions ying out before him.

    "I have read the letter carefully, and it seems that the detainment of Mr. Nielsen is indeed permitted under the agreement between our governments," the police officer stated, his voice firm but measured. "However, it is also crucial that we ensure the proper observance of Frenchws and the protection of Mr. Nielsen''s rights during this process."

    "There''s no need to do that, officer. We will just be bothering you. Our government wanted Poul Nielsen to be taken to the British Empire as soon as possible. Further obstruction would damage the rtionship between our nations," Prince Alexander interjected, a hint of frustration in his voice. "I demand that youply with the agreement and allow us to proceed with the detainment."<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    The police officer sighed, his gaze shifting from Prince Alexander to Poul Nielsen. "Fine, but on one condition. I want your men to drop their weapons, it''s scaring the people around."

    Prince Alexander paused for a moment, considering the request. He knew that the French police officer was right - the presence of armed Royal Guards was only heightening tensions and causing rm among the bystanders. Finally, with a heavy sigh, he nodded in agreement.

    "Very well. Lower your weapons," hemanded his men.

    The tension in the air dissipated somewhat as the guards obeyed the order, slowly lowering their rifles and pistols. The police officer nodded his approval before turning his attention back to Poul Nielsen.

    "Mr. Nielsen, you wille with them peacefully and without resistance. As per the letter given to me by Prince Alexander of the British Empire, the French Government has granted him full authority for your arrest and that we shouldn''t interfere."

    After saying that, the police officer stood by and watched. Seeing them on idle, Prince Alexander turned his attention once more to Nielsen, his anger towards him swelling up again.

    "Detain that man," Alexander ordered.

    "Yes Your Highness," one of the royal guards stepped forward and moved to apprehend Poul Nielsen. However, before he couldy a hand on him, Sara stepped between them, her expression determined.

    "I won''t let you¡­"

    "Sara, stay out of this," Poul said. "Don''t worry, they won''t do a thing to me, that I promise you. Just contact Jonathan and Morgan and tell them about the situation."

    "Oh no, Penelope is alsoing with us," Alexander said.

    "That is not what the letter said, Alexander," Poul countered. "The letter specifically stated that I should be the only one you should take. If you take her, that would be a vition of the agreement between your government and the French, isn''t that right, officer?" he asked.

    The police officer nodded slowly, acknowledging Poul''s point. "You are correct, Mr. Nielsen. The agreement stiptes your detainment, and any deviation from that would indeed be a vition. Prince Alexander, I''m afraid the letter does not grant permission for anyone other than Mr. Nielsen to be taken into custody."

    "But Penelope is a British citizen," Alexander said.

    "Not anymore, she is an Avalonian now."

    "Under a false identification, which is illegal, therefore the British government doesn''t recognize her change of nationality, thus she remains a British citizen," Prince Alexander argued.

    "Even if that was the case, she is on French soil, not British. So the jurisdiction of the French authorities should be respected," Poul interjected.

    "You really are good at twisting your words to suit you, Mr. Nielsen," Alexander interjected, his frustration mounting. "But I will not be deterred by your cunning tactics. Penelope is an innocent woman caught up in this mess, and she deserves to be protected. And stop calling her with the name that doesn''t belong to her. Her name is Penelope, not Sara."

    "I''m sorry, Your Highness, but you can only take Mr. Nielsen. If you take the girl, we would have a problem," the police officer interceded. "Look, you can go with Mr. Nielsen now, or you can choose to disobey our orders and risk damaging the rtionship between our countries. The decision is yours."

    "Fine, I will only take that Albian," Alexander relented.

    "Go, Sara. Tell them¡­" Poul said.

    "I wille back for you, Penelope. I will save you from whatever he did to you," Alexander said as he watched his royal guard cuff Poul.

    Poul was then taken away by the guards, escorting him to the ship that belonged to the British Royal Navy, anchored at the port. As Poul was led away, Sara was consumed by a mixture of fear and determination. She knew she had to act quickly to ensure Poul''s safety and find a way to take him back from the clutches of Prince Alexander. With a nod, Sara turned away from the scene and disappeared into the crowd

 Chapter 227 Asking For Help

    ?

    Sara wasted no time and rushed back to the fair in Paris. Hailing a carriage, she urged the coachman to hurry towards the station of the Axelsen and Nielsenpany.

    As the carriage pulled up to the station, Sara swiftly disembarked and made her way toward the office, where she spotted Jonathan and Caroline engaged in conversation.

    "Sara?" Jonathan stood up, his face etched with surprise. "Why are you here? I thought the ship left six hours ago? Where is Poul?"

    Sara''s eyes welled up with tears, and she shook her head. Jonathan and Caroline instantly grasped the seriousness of the situation, although they couldn''t pinpoint the exact details.

    "Poul... Poul... has been taken by Prince Alexander," Sara revealed, her voice trembling. "He''s been forcibly taken aboard a ship bound for London... They discovered... they discovered everything!"

    "Damn, it..." Jonathan cursed. "So he found out about your rtionship, huh?"

    Caroline ced aforting hand on Jonathan''s shoulder. "What should we do, Jonathan? Should we contact Morgan?"

    "Morgan is our only hope right now," Jonathan affirmed, nodding his head. "Arrange an urgent meeting with him immediately. Tell him it''s a matter of utmost importance."

    "Alright, I''ll head back to the hotel and call him over. In the meantime, please take care of Sara," Caroline offered, her concern evident.

    Jonathan nodded his head, and Caroline made her way out of the office, leaving Jonathan and Sara alone.

    Sara, unable to contain the emotions swirling inside of her, burst into tears. She copsed into a nearby chair, her whole body trembling with grief and fear. Jonathan rushed to her side, wrapping his arms around her in a tight embrace. He held her close, offering sce amidst the storm of emotions that threatened to consume them both.

    "I can''t bear the thought of losing him," Sara sobbed, her voice muffled against Jonathan''s shoulder. "This is all my fault."

    Jonathan hushed and held her even tighter. "Calm down, Sara. We''ll find a way to bring Poul back safely. No one is at fault here. Don''t worry, Morgan is definitely going to help us."

    Sara sniffled, her tears subsiding slightly as she looked up at Jonathan with a glimmer of hope in her eyes. "But how, Jonathan? How can we possibly rescue him from Prince Alexander''s clutches?"

    Jonathan took a deep breath and asked. "Tell me how did they arrest Poul?"

    "Uhm¡­there is this letter of authorization from the French government, that authorized the British to arrest Poul in their country. Alexander wanted to take me away as well but Poul was able to talk it out," Sara exined.

    Jonathan''s eyes narrowed as he processed the information. "Letter of authorization? Even if that was granted by the French government, Poul is still an Avalonian citizen, they don''t have a right to extradite him like that. This is going to be a diplomatic blunder. That''s it, that''s how we are going to help Poul."

    "How?" Sara looked up at him and asked.

    "We''re going to make this a diplomatic issue," Jonathan said firmly, his mind already working on a n. "We need to get the Avalonian government involved, and fast. They won''t take kindly to their citizen being forcibly taken away like this, especially by a foreign power, and more especially if that citizen is Poul."

    Thirty minutester, Caroline arrived with Morgan.

    "I got here as soon as I heard the news. Exin to me why Poul was captured by the British," Morgan asked.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "Morgan, what you are about to hear is something that would cause a scandal, I want you to promise that you won''t tell a soul about it."

    "Jonathan, how can I help you and Poul if you are not going to provide me with all the information?" Morgan looked at Jonathan with a mix of curiosity and concern. He knew that Jonathan wouldn''t keep such secrets without good reason.

    "Don''t worry, you''ll still understand the issue despite me not telling the whole truth," Jonathan assured.

    "Okay fine," Morgan relented, understanding the gravity of the situation. He trusted Jonathan''s judgment and knew that certain details might need to be kept confidential for the time being.

    Jonathan took a moment to gather his thoughts before continuing. "Thisdy beside me, Sara Olsen, is not really originally Sara, but a princess of the British Empire. She is the daughter of the Duke, who is the Prime Minister of the British Empire, and a former candidate for the Crown Prince''s wife."

    Jonathan paused, allowing Morgan to process the revtion. Sara looked at Morgan, her eyes filled with trepidation and uncertainty. She had kept her true identity hidden for so long, fearing the consequences it might bring. But now, she had no choice but to trust Morgan with this delicate information.

    Morgan''s brows furrowed as he absorbed the weight of Jonathan''s words. "You mean to say that Sara is Penelope? The princess that had gone missing and murdered?"

    "I understand that it is hard to believe, Morgan," Jonathan replied, his voice filled with empathy. "But Sara here is indeed Penelope, the princess who was presumed to be missing andter dered murdered."

    "Then what is she doing along with you?" Morgan asked, getting more curious about Sara''s rtionship with the industrialist duo.

    "Poul and Penelope were lovers, like a very long time ago, I can''t tell you the specifics but that''s the story. Poul hade up with a n to extract her from the country since Poul and Penelope being a couple won''t be epted by her family, especially the British.

    "Wait¡­wait¡­wait, am I the only one who is not informed about this" Morgan interrupted.

    "Me and Caroline are the only one who knows the truth, now that you heard it, that makes you the third. Morgan, I was hoping you could help us get Poul back. I know you have connections with the government and I was thinking if maybe you can convince them to do a diplomatic action towards his arrest by the British."

    Morgan''s eyes widened with astonishment. The magnitude of the revtion sank in, and he realized the enormity of the situation.

    "My God, Jonathan, do you realize what this means?

    "I know, Mr. Morgan, but please, I''m begging you, to help my partner get out of this. If you help us, I swear, we are going to let you into our future enterprises and let you all reap the benefits."

    "Jonathan, I know what you are doing. You think I only care about money but you are wrong, Poul is a close friend and I will help him. Give me a day or two, I''ll reach out to my friends in Washington, and see what our options are."

    "Thank you, Mr. Morgan. Your support means the world to us," Jonathan expressed sincerely.

    "Thank you¡­Mr. Morgan," Sara said bashfully.

    "So how are you going to n it?" Caroline asked Morgan.

    "Let''s go to the United States embassy tomorrow morning."

 Chapter 228 Governments At Play

    ?

    And that was what the group did. The next morning, they wasted no time and made their way to the United States Embassy in Paris. Aware of the urgency of their situation, Morgan had called ahead to schedule a meeting with the ambassador, emphasizing the gravity of their purpose.

    As they arrived at the embassy, they were ushered in with priority. The receptionist recognized Morgan''s name and influential status, allowing them swift ess to Ambassador Smith''s office. Nerves tingling with anticipation, Morgan, Jonathan, Sara, and Caroline stepped into the room, where the ambassador awaited them.

    "Mr. Ambassador, thank you for seeing us," Morgan greeted, extending his hand in a firm handshake. Jonathan, Sara, and Caroline followed suit, acknowledging the ambassador with respect.

    Ambassador Smith, a seasoned diplomat with a warm demeanor, returned their greetings. "It''s my pleasure. Please have a seat."

    The group settled into thefortable chairs arranged around a polished wooden table. Morgan took a moment topose his thoughts before exining the dire circumstances surrounding Poul''s arrest and detention by the British authorities in Paris. He highlighted the uwful extradition and emphasized Poul''s status as an Avalonian citizen.

    "We seek your assistance, Mr. Ambassador, in rectifying this unjust situation," Morgan implored. "Poul''s safety and well-being are at stake, and we believe that diplomatic intervention is our best course of action."

    Ambassador Smith listened attentively, his expression reflecting his growing concern. He understood the implications of such a diplomatic blunder and the need for immediate action.

    "I sympathize with your predicament," the ambassador responded, his tone serious. "The United States will not tolerate unjust arrest on one of our citizens, that I can assure you. Though I must ask why you omitted the reason why the British arrested him in the first ce."

    "That''s the problem. Mr. Ambassador, they didn''t specifically state why they were arresting him," Morgan replied. "Isn''t that right, Ms. Asca¡­I meant Ms. Olsen?"

    "That is right, they took him away, and not only that, they were authorized by the French government," Sara added.

    Ambassador Smith furrowed his brow, his concern deepening at the revtion. The omission of a specific reason for Poul''s arrest troubled him, as it raised further questions about the circumstances surrounding the unjust detention.

    "I see," the ambassador said, his tone turning grave. "An arrest without a clear reason and with the authorization of the French government is a matter of great concern. It suggests a potential vition of international protocols and raises questions about the involvement of multiple parties in this affair. Well, sadly, gentleman, this issue won''t be solved overnight. I have to inform the men in Washington and get instruction from there."

    "Are you going to reach out to the President?" Jonathan asked.

    "No, there is a chain ofmand here, Mr. Axelsen. I''ll inform the Secretary of State first, and then he will discuss the matter with higher authorities in the government," Ambassador Smith rified. "Rest assured, I will make every effort to expedite the process and ensure that Poul''s case receives the attention it deserves."

    Morgan nodded, understanding the diplomatic protocols at y. "Thank you, Mr. Ambassador. We trust in your expertise and determination to bring about a swift resolution."

    "Not a problem, it is my duty to uphold justice and protect the rights of our citizens," Ambassador Smith replied earnestly. "I will pay President Carnot a visitter, telling him about this case."

    "Much appreciated," Morgan thanked him once more and the three expressed their gratitude.

    ***

    Three dayster, on the other side of the Antic Ocean, the White House stood majestically in the heart of Washington, D.C. The sun cast a warm glow on its white facade as the bustling city continued its daily activities. Inside, President Benjamin Harrison sat in the Oval Office, engrossed in his duties.

    As President Harrison reviewed various matters of state, his chief of staff, William Windom, approached his desk, holding a stack of documents. William was a trusted advisor, known for his astute judgment and discretion.

    "Sir, there''s an urgent matter that requires your attention," William began, his voice carrying a sense of urgency.

    President Harrison looked up, intrigued. "What is it, William?"<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    William ced the documents on the president''s desk and began exining the situation surrounding Poul''s arrest and detention in Paris. He detailed the uwful extradition, the involvement of the British and French governments, and the diplomatic efforts initiated by Morgan and his group.

    "The Ambassador to France, Mr. Smith informed us of the circumstances," William continued. "He believes there may be a vition of international protocols, and Poul''s safety is at stake."

    President Harrison leaned back in his chair, his expression carefree. "Who is this Poul Nielsen?"

    "You don''t know him, Mr. President? He is an industrialist founder of the Axelsen and Nielsen Companies throughout the country, the one who invented the air brakes, electrical appliances, alternating current systems, electric lotive, the maker of our new standard rifle, the AN-M1 rifle."

    "Ah, Poul Nielsen? I remember him now. How could I forget such an important figure in our country? Now, let''s return to the matter at hand. You said he was uwfully detained by the British with assistance from the French, correct? If that is true, then we must take immediate action. It is uneptable to subject a foreigner to thews of a country they are visiting," President Harrison rified.

    William nodded, acknowledging the president''s statement. "Indeed, Mr. President. I already called the Ambassador of the British Empire, he will arrive at the White House shortly to discuss this matter with you."

    President Harrison nodded, appreciating William''s proactive approach. "Good, William."

    Thirty minutester, the British Ambassador, Sir Arthur Langley, arrived at the White House. President Harrison and William Windom weed him into the Oval Office, where they gathered around the President''s desk.

    "Thank you for joining us, Ambassador Langley," President Harrison greeted him, extending his hand. "Please have a seat."

    The British Ambassador took a seat, his expression reflecting a mix of professionalism and curiosity. "Thank you, Mr. President. I appreciate the opportunity to discuss this pressing matter with you."

    President Harrison wasted no time and got straight to the point. "Ambassador Langley, we have received rming information regarding the arrest and detention of Mr. Poul Nielsen in Paris. It hase to our attention that his detainment was carried out without a clear reason and with the involvement of the French government. This raises significant concerns about the vition of international protocols and the protection of Mr. Nielsen''s rights."

    Ambassador Langley listened attentively.

    "Mr. President, I don''t think you know this, but Poul Nielsen is involved in a conspiracy regarding Penelope Ascart''s disappearance," Ambassador Langley interjected, his voice carrying a mix of concern and resolve. "Our government has evidence that he kidnapped the daughter of the Prime Minister of the British Empire and orchestrated an borate scheme that has caused significant embarrassment and turmoil. Therefore, we cannot hand Poul Nielsen over to your custody at this time. He will be judged ording to thews of our country."

    President Harrison''s brows furrowed as he absorbed this unexpected revtion.

    "Wait, what are you talking about? Penelope? Poul kidnapped her?" President Harrison''s voice carried a mix of surprise and concern.

    Ambassador Langley nodded solemnly. "That is correct, Mr. President. The abduction of Penelope Ascart deeply affected the people of the British Empire. She is not only the daughter of our Prime Minister but also a symbol of hope, who brought miracles to the masses. We cannot allow such a heinous crime to go unpunished. Therefore, it is in your best interest not to interfere with our proceedings. Or else risk a war between us."

    "War?" Harrison stammered. "Seriously?"

    "Yes, so let us have Poul Nielsen, and our countries can do business as usual," Langley paused for a moment before continuing. "In fact, I have brought with me an official extradition request from the British government. I hope you will consider it seriously."

    President Harrison took the extradition request from the Ambassador and began to read it carefully.

    "I will need time, Mr. Ambassador, thank you foring."

    "Understood, Mr. President, but I do advise that you don''t linger."

 Chapter 229 News

    ?

    A dayter, the esteemed Ambassador to France, Mr. Smith, graced the World''s Fair station of Axelsen and Nielsen with his presence. Amelia, the proud executive secretary, took it upon herself to personally guide him through their impressive disy of technological marvels.

    "Ms. Weiss, this is a remarkable invention," Mr. Smithmented with a warm smile. "I hope to witness even more groundbreaking creations from the talented founders."

    "Thank you, Mr. Smith. Axelsen and Nielsen aremitted to continuous innovation and revolutionizing technology," Amelia replied graciously. "It''s been my pleasure to show you around. If you have any further inquiries, please don''t hesitate to ask."

    "As a matter of fact, I do have a question. Is Mr. Axelsen or Mr. Morgan avable? I''d like to have a conversation with them," inquired Mr. Smith.

    "Allow me to check for you, Mr. Smith. Please wait here," Amelia respectfully bowed and curtsied before making her way toward the office. Inside, Jonathan and Morgan were engrossed in a serious discussion while sipping their coffees. The atmosphere at the station had be increasingly tense since Poul''s departure, noticeably different from before.

    Amelia gently knocked on the door, capturing the attention of the two founders. As their eyes met hers, she wasted no time in rying the message.

    "Mr. Axelsen, Morgan, Ambassador Mr. Smith from the United States is looking for you," Amelia announced.

    Jonathan and Morgan promptly rose from their seats, adjusting their suits with purpose. "Please, invite him in," Jonathanmanded.

    Amelia bowed respectfully, ready to lead the ambassador into their presence.

    Amelia returned to the waiting area and gestured for Mr. Smith to follow her. The ambassador followed her with an air of curiosity, his gaze fixed on the approaching figures of Jonathan Axelsen and Morgan.

    Jonathan extended his hand in a firm handshake as they met. "Ambassador Smith, it''s an honor to have you here," he greeted warmly. Morgan nodded in agreement.

    "Thank you for amodating my request, Mr. Axelsen, Mr. Morgan," replied the ambassador, returning the handshake. "I''ve heard remarkable things about yourpany''s technological advancements, and I must say you live up to your name."

    "Thank you, Mr. Ambassador. Our secretary told us that you wanted to see us? How about we discuss that matter in the office?" Jonathan suggested.

    "That would be a wonderful idea," replied Ambassador Smith, He followed Jonathan and Morgan into their office.

    Amelia discreetly closed the door behind them, leaving the three men to engage in a private conversation. The lively atmosphere that they had just now seemed to have faded as Smith''s expression turned serious.

    "Mr. Axelsen, Mr. Morgan, there is something important that I have to tell you about," Smith began. "The British Ambassador to the United States visited the White House and met with the President. ording to them, Poul Nielsen is engaged in an borate crime of kidnapping the daughter of the British Prime Minister, Princess Penelope Ascart, who was presumed dead and was living in the United States and working for yourpany. Knowing this, Washington understood the gravity of the situation and sympathized with the British. Therefore, we won''t be able to help Mr. Nielsen¡­"

    Jonathan mmed the table, producing a loud noise that startled the Ambassador. <novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "Mr. Ambassador Poul Nielsen is not just any person that you can casually throw around. He has been an integral part of why the United States is prospering thanks to our invention. Should you not help him, then, as the co-founder of the Axelsen and Nielsen Arms Manufacturing Company, we will terminate our agreement with you. I don''t care about thewsuit it will bring, but I will not let you abandon my partner. Do I make myself clear?!"

    The intensity in Jonathan''s voice reverberated throughout the room, and Ambassador Smith realized the gravity of the situation. He had underestimated the determination and loyalty of the founders towards their colleagues and friend.

    Smith''s stern expression softened, and he nodded solemnly. "Mr. Axelsen, I understand the emotion you are having right now, but Mr. Nielsen justmitted a heinous act, and even if we were to help him, the British made it clear that any interference would mean a war with them."

    Morgan, who has been listening to their conversation, chimed in. "War? They really told us that?"

    "Yes, the British Ambassador, threatened the president that should we interfere, they will not hesitate to take drastic measures. It''s best that we let them do their thing, and hope that this will not go public."

    Jonathan and Morgan exchanged nces, their faces etched with concern. The weight of the situation settled heavily upon them. They understood the potential ramifications of interfering in a matter that involved international diplomacy and the risk of an escting conflict.

    After a moment of silence, Jonathan spoke, his voice filled with resignation. "Ambassador Smith, we appreciate your honesty in sharing this information with us. We understand the gravity of the situation and the potential consequences that could arise from our involvement. However, I want you to think for a moment, how valuable my partner is. We are developing a powerful weapon, so powerful that it would make any country so strong that the others won''t be able topete. Unfortunately, Poul Nielsen is the one who hase up with it and he is one step closer to making a prototype. Losing him would be a defeat in the United States National Defense, so I would like you to reconsider your decision."

    Ambassador Smith leaned back in his chair, deep in thought. He recognized the weight of Jonathan''s words and the potential impact that Poul Nielsen''s departure could have on the United States national defense capabilities. The prospect of losing such a valuable asset gave him pause.

    "Mr. Axelsen, I understand the significance of Poul Nielsen''s contributions to yourpany and the potential advancements in national defense. However, we must also consider the delicate bnce of international rtions and the consequences that could arise from interfering in this matter," Ambassador Smith replied, his tone measured.

    "They are bluffing, Mr. Smith," Morgan interjected. "There''s no way the British would really dere war on us."

    "Well, if you really want this thing to turn around, I suggest that you meet the President himself in Washington and appeal to him. He is the only one who can make a decision on this matter," Ambassador Smith suggested.

    Jonathan and Morgan exchanged a quick nce, considering their options.

    "Very well, we will meet the President," Jonathan decided. "Please inform him that we will be arriving next week."

    "Understood, Mr. Axelsen, and good luck," Smith replied.

    As the meeting came to an end, Ambassador Smith left the office, leaving Jonathan and Morgan deep in thought and anticipation. They knew that meeting with the President would not be an easy task, but it was a risk they were willing to take for the sake of theirpany and their colleague, Poul Nielsen.

 Chapter 230 Cell

    ?

    Meanwhile, in the depths of London, Poul Nielsennguished within the suffocating confines of a dimly lit solitary cell. The darkness enveloped him, its oppressive weight pressing upon his weary spirit, leaving him isted and devoid of hope.

    His world had been reduced to the ustrophobic dimensions of this deste enclosure, where the echoes of his own footsteps were the only sounds to break the eerie silence. Time became an elusive concept as the minutes stretched into agonizing hours, and the walls seemed to close in on him, amplifying his sense of confinement.

    The air in the cell was stale, tainted with a lingering dampness that clung to his skin and permeated his every breath. It carried no hint of the outside world, no reminder of life beyond these grim confines. Poul''s existence had been reduced to mere existence, stripped of purpose and connection.''

    Suddenly, the metal door that sealed Poul''s world of darkness creaked open, its rusty hinges protesting against the intrusion of light. Poul shielded his eyes, unustomed to the brightness that flooded his cell. A silhouette stood at the threshold, an indistinguishable figure whose presence ignited a flicker of both curiosity and apprehension within him.

    As his eyes adjusted, Poul discerned the outline of a stoic prison guard, d in a uniform that mirrored the cold, sterile environment that held him captive. The guard''s face remained concealed beneath a stern expression, revealing little of the emotions thaty beneath.

    "Nielsen, you have a visitor," the guard''s voice resonated with an air of indifference, devoid of anypassion or sympathy. Poul''s heart skipped a beat at the prospect of an encounter beyond the confines of his solitary existence.

    It had been two long, agonizing weeks since Poul''s arrest at the hands of the British authorities. His mind raced with questions, desperately seeking answers that remained elusive. Who was this visitor? What news did they bring? And most importantly, what would be of him in thisbyrinthine maze of the legal system?

    With a mix of anticipation and trepidation, Poul followed the guard through thebyrinthine corridors, each step carrying him closer to the unknown. The prison seemed to swallow his presence, the dampness clinging to his clothes, mirroring the chill that ran down his spine.

    As they reached the visitation area, Poul''s heart pounded within his chest. The room was stark and sterile, devoid of any semnce of warmth orfort. He took his ce on one side of the partition, his gaze fixated on the empty chair that stood opposite him.

    Time seemed to stretch infinitely as he waited, the silence bing a suffocating presence. Then, the door on the other side swung open, and a figure stepped into the room. It was Crown Prince Alexander.

    "Look how pitiful you are," Crown Prince Alexander''s voice dripped with contempt as he entered the room, his eyes narrowed in disdain.

    "What do you want?" Poul''s voice trembled with a mix of defiance and curiosity. Despite his circumstances, he refused to cower in the presence of the Crown Prince.

    A wicked smile tugged at the corner of Alexander''s lips, his gaze piercing through Poul.

    "I want to learn everything, Poul. How the two of you ended up, where did you two meet¡­I want to understand." <novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "You wouldn''t understand, Alexander. And I wouldn''t waste my time enlightening you."

    Poul''s voice resonated with a newfound strength, his eyes meeting Alexander''s with unwavering determination. The weight of his confinement seemed to momentarily lift as he stood his ground, refusing to be diminished by the Crown Prince''s contemptuous gaze.

    Alexander''s expression wavered, a flicker of surprise crossing his features before being reced by a smoldering intensity. He leaned forward, his voiceced with a mixture of curiosity and defiance.

    "You don''t want to tell me? Fine, what good will it bring when you are going to die regardless? Your country, your friend has abandoned you. We will deal with you ordingly for making a fool out of everyone, your days in this world are numbered," Alexander sneered, his words dripping with vindictiveness.

    "Oh, if you are curious about how we found out, let me introduce you to someone."

    Alexander flicked his fingers, and the door to the visitation room swung open once again. In walked a man, in his thirties. Poul looked up to see the man and instantly recognized him. It was the coachman that he hired to transport him and Sara to the Port.

    Poul let out a mirthlessugh. "There''s no surprises here, I believe he lost all of his money gambling so he turned to you, provided you with vital information about Penelope, and brought us here together."

    "Nothing personal, sir," the coachman interjected, a hint of mockery dripping from his voice.

    Poul''s eyes narrowed. "No need to tell me, at least I know how I got caught. So, Alexander, I would like to return to my cell now if you don''t mind. You will get nothing from me."

    "Really? Then let''s do this the other way, I''ll release the news to the public, on how you fooled us, and from there, expect that thepany you built crumbled into pieces."

    Poulughed flippantly. "Then go for it. It''s not like thepany won''t survive without me anyways. People may hate us at first, but they''lle back because our products are superior to thepetition, whether it''s guns, automobiles, or appliances. Once the initial outrage subsides, it will be business as usual."

    "I hate you, even in the face of uncertainty, you are still showing strength. Or is it a facade? Well let''s see how the public is going to react to the information we are going to release. And I will allow you to live longer to see it," Alexander rose to his feet, straightening his posture with an air of authority. The Crown Prince''s eyes bore into Poul''s, their intensity searing with disdain.

    Poul remained unfazed by Alexander''s threats as the two guards lifted him from his chair and began escorting him back to his cell. He maintained a steely resolve, refusing to let fear or doubt cloud his mind. He drew strength from the knowledge that his associates on the outside were tirelessly working to secure his release from this wretched ce. Deep within, Poul held onto the belief that, in the end, he would have thestugh.

 Chapter 231 Reaction

    ?

    The misty dawn broke over the dampened cobblestone streets ofte neenth-century Britain, casting a mncholic haze upon the bustling city of London. As the city stirred from its slumber, the resounding toll of cathedral bells and the distant tter of horse-drawn carriages filled the air. Yet, amid this semnce of ordinary life, a torrent of news, like a venomous serpent, slithered through the veins of the empire, poisoning hearts and minds alike.

    From the morning editions of The Times to the whispers exchanged in the dimly lit taverns, the shocking revtion spread like wildfire, igniting an inferno of emotions. The ink on the pages of the newspapers ran dark with the news that Poul Nielsen, an audacious Albian scoundrel of ill repute, hadmitted the audacious act of kidnapping Penelope Ascart, the presumed-dead princess and cherished daughter of the esteemed Prime Minister.

    As sunlight pierced through the smoky windows of opulent parlors and seeped into humble cottages, the nation awoke to a cacophony of disbelief and indignation. Faces once adorned with genteel smiles were now contorted with rage, lines etching deep furrows upon the brows of aristocrats andmoners alike. The genteel calm that had pervaded their lives shattered like a delicate porcin figurine, reced by an overwhelming tide of resentment and loathing.

    Within the hallowed halls of Parliament, where the scent of aged wood and polished leather lingered, the air thickened with a palpable sense of fury. The legitors, adorned in their tailored frock coats and waistcoats, crowded the chamber, their voices a symphony of righteous anger and impassioned rhetoric. The grandeur of the room seemed dwarfed by the magnitude of the atrocity that had befallen their cherishednd.

    Amidst the storm of voices and gestures that painted the room with fervor, Lord Reginald Hastings, an orator of formidable eloquence, took the floor. His piercing eyes, as blue as the azure sky on a clear summer''s day, glinted with an intensity that demanded attention. The deep timbre of his voice echoed through the chamber,manding both respect and awe.

    "This heinous act, a brazen affront to the dignity of our nation, shall not go unanswered!" Lord Hastings proimed, his words resonating like a rion call to arms. "But let us not mourn the loss of our princess just yet. The shadows have deceived us, for Penelope Ascart lives!"

    A collective gasp swept through the assembly, silencing the voices of anger and despair. The members of Parliament exchanged bewildered nces, their expressions a mosaic of astonishment and hope.

    Lord Hastings continued, his voice brimming with determination, "This vile criminal, Poul Nielsen, has employed deception to divert our attention from his true intentions. Penelope Ascart''s abduction was but a sinister ploy, a facade that concealed her existence from our grieving nation. It is imperative that we uncover the truth, for it is the key to saving her from the clutches of this treacherous fiend."

    The revtion hung in the air like a fragile thread of hope, weaving its way into the hearts of the parliamentarians. A renewed sense of purpose swept through the chamber, reigniting their anger and fortifying their resolve. The Empire''s grief transformed into a potent force, an unyielding tide of determination to reim their lost princess and deliver justice upon the malefactor who dared to toy with their emotions.

    Beyond the walls of Parliament, the news rippled through the streets, carrying with it a wave of astonishment and renewed hope. The citizens once resigned to the tragic fate of their beloved princess, now found sce in the possibility of her survival. Anger gave way to fervent anticipation, as a fervor of support for the Empire''s mission swelled within the hearts of the people.

    Meanwhile, somewhere in the depths of the British Empire, Poul Nielsennguished in a pitiful state. His once imposing figure was reduced to a mere shell of its former self, as ragged clothing hung loosely from his emaciated frame. The vibrant colors that once adorned his garments had faded, now reced by patches of dirt and grime that clung to the fabric.

    "So, how are you enjoying the unfolding narrative?" Alexander inquired, a derisive grin adorning his face. "The world shall witness the depths to which you have fallen, Poul Nielsen."

    Poul''s eyes, clouded with weariness and defeat, met Alexander''s gaze with a flicker of defiance. Despite his current state, there remained a glimmer of the audacity that had once defined him, a sliver of the cunning mind that had masterminded his intricate web of deceit.

    "The opinion of others holds little sway over me, so feel free to revel in your self-created stage," Poul retorted smoothly. "But remember, Alexander, we both know that my stay in this situation will be short-lived. Yes, I may havemitted what youbel a heinous crime, but in the grand scheme of things, my value and worth far surpass any temporary setback."

    Alexander chuckled, a smugness lingering in his voice. "You still cling to the futile hope that your ingenuity as one of the world''s great inventors will somehow save you. But I must inform you, my dear Poul, that it is checkmate for you. Your country can''t take back someone who is already dead."

    "What..." Poul''s voice trailed off, a mix of confusion and disbelief coloring his words. His eyes narrowed, searching for any sign of deception in Alexander''s smug countenance.

    Alexander savored the moment, his eyes gleaming with a sadistic delight as he relished the power he held over his fallen adversary. With a chilling smile etched upon his face, he continued, his voice dripping with malice and coldness.

    "Do you truly believe, Poul Nielsen, that I am jesting? The parliament and the citizens of the British Empire mor for your execution, damning you for the corruption of Penelope. Oh, how I informed you, didn''t I? I shall grant you the privilege of witnessing the consequences of your actions. But now, there is no turning back. The inexorable march towards your demise has been set in motion."

    A pause filled the air, pregnant with malevolence, as Alexander allowed the weight of his words to settle upon his captive audience. His voice dropped to a sinister whisper,den with promises of suffering.

    "Five days, Poul Nielsen. A mere handful of fleeting moments before your final reckoning. If I were you, I would relish every second that remains. Savor the touch of the cold, unforgiving floor beneath your feet, caress the unforgiving walls that will be your eternal prison, and inhale the stale air that will be yourst breath... for it shall be a cruel reminder of the life slipping away from you."<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    However, despite the looming threat of execution, Poul managed to calm himself down.

    "Five days huh? That''s more than enough time," Poul interrupted, his voice suddenly devoid of fear. A chilling calmness settled over him as he locked eyes with Alexander, the glimmer of audacity returning to his gaze.

    "I hate it when you remain so confident, even with your back against the wall," Poul remarked, a sinister smile creeping across his face. "But mark my words, Poul, that smug look on your face will be erased when the day of execution arrives. Guards, take him away. I have no time to waste on this pitiful charade."

    The guards, obedient to Alexander''smand, stepped forward and lifted Poul with rough hands, dragging him away from the dimly lit cell. Poul''s weakened body stumbled, but he refused to show any signs of pain or vulnerability.

    As he was being dragged away, one of Alexander''s servants stepped forward and whispered.

    "Your Highness, I have received word from the king recalling you to Buckingham Pce urgently," the servant whispered, his voice barely audible amidst the gloom of the chamber.

    Alexander''s eyes narrowed, a flicker of annoyance crossing his face. "What does my father want from me now?"

    "Unfortunately, Your Highness, that wasn''t specified in the message," the servant replied, his voice tinged with trepidation. "But the urgency suggests it must be of utmost importance. You are to depart immediately."

    "Fine fine, I''ll head over there immediately," Alexander quickly responded, dismissing the servant with a wave of the hand.

    Leaving the gloomy chamber behind, Alexander hastened to his private quarters, where he swiftly changed into a more presentable attire befitting his status. As he donned his regal garments, he wondered what his Father wanted to speak about.

    Twenty minutester, Alexander arrived at the throne hall of Buckingham Pce.

    "Father, I havee as swiftly as you requested," Alexander announced, his voice echoing through the grand hall. He approached the throne where his father sat.

    The king rose from his seat, his weariness momentarily forgotten as he looked upon his son.

    "Alexander, how is Mr. Nielsen doing?"

    "You still care for that dog, father? Well, he is waiting for his doom now," Alexander snickered.

    "Is that so? That''s a shame, Alexander¡­"

    "What do you mean, father?" Alexander asked.

    "I would like you to hold off on Poul Nielsen''s execution," his father revealed. "There are matters of greater importance at hand."

 Chapter 232 Meeting The President

    ?

    A day earlier, in the United States of Avalonia, the air crackled with anticipation as Jonathan and Morgan arrived at the majestic gates of the White House. With a sense of purpose, they were joined by their trusted associates from Pittsburgh, who had been instructed to patiently await their summons outside the hallowed walls.

    Escorted by a detachment of stern-faced guards, Jonathan and Morgan traversed the immactely manicured gardens, their footsteps echoing through the corridors of power. As they approached the Oval Office, the weight of the moment hung heavy in the air, blending with the scent of authority and lingering wisps of smoke.

    Behind the iconic Resolute Desk, a symbol of power and decision-making, sat President Harrison, an imposing figure with an air of quiet confidence. Puffing thoughtfully on a cigarette, he exuded amanding presence, his gaze fixed on the horizon beyond the grand windows.

    Standing steadfastly beside him was William Windom, the President''s trusted Chief of Staff. With a distinguished demeanor, Windom stepped forward, his voice resonating with gravitas as he introduced himself to the visitors.

    "Good afternoon, gentlemen. I am William Windom, Chief of Staff to the President," he stated, his wordsced with a subtle blend of formality and warmth. "And behind me, as you already know, is President Harrison."

    Jonathan and Morgan exchanged firm handshakes with Windom, their eyes reflecting both anticipation and respect for the gravity of the moment. As they approached the President''s desk, Jonathan''s palms grew slightly moist, a testament to the weight of standing in the presence of the leader of a nation. Meanwhile, Morgan appeared remarkablyposed, exuding an air of tranquil confidence.

    With a mixture of reverence and gratitude, Jonathan addressed the President, his voice carrying a tinge of awe. "Mr. President, it is a profound honor to stand before you today, and we extend our deepest gratitude for the privilege of this audience. My name is Jonathan Axelsen, the co-founder of the Axelsen & Nielsen Companies. Beside me is John Morgan, our main investor."

    "A pleasure to see you again, Mr. President. It''s been a while since ourst dinner," Morgan smiled, his voice warm and familiar. President Harrison''s eyes sparkled with recognition, a glimmer of shared memories passing between them.

    "Indeed, John," the President responded, a hint of nostalgia coloring his words. "That dinner was quite memorable. I trust you''ve been keeping well since then."

    Morgan nodded, his gaze steady as he met the President''s eyes. "Indeed, Mr. President. Now as for why we are here, we are in need of your help."

    "Please, do take a seat," Harrison invited, gesturing gracefully towards the plush chairs arranged in front of his imposing desk. Jonathan and Morgan acquiesced, settling into their seats with an air of attentiveness, their eyes fixed intently upon the President.

    Harrison leaned forward, his countenance assuming a serious mien. "I surmise that Iprehend the purpose of your visit, Mr. Axelsen and Mr. Morgan. It pertains to your associate, Mr. Nielsen, does it not?"

    Jonathan nodded affirmatively, his voice filled with earnestness. "Indeed, Mr. President. Mr. Nielsen is presently being held uwfully by the British Government, based on allegations that have yet to be substantiated."

    The President''s gaze sharpened, his expression bing even more resolute. "However, I must rify, Mr. Axelsen, that the evidence presented thus far by the British authorities does indeed implicate Mr. Nielsen as the mastermind behind Princess Penelope''s disappearance and her unauthorized entry into our country. I am also under the impression that both of you possess certain knowledge pertaining to this matter."

    Jonathan shook his head with conviction. "No, Mr. President, I must correct you. The truth is that I alone possessed such knowledge until recently. Mr. Morgan was only made aware of the situation just before our arrival here Also, even if they do have evidence, they still don''t have the right to detain an Avalonian citizen right?"<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "I apologize, Mr. Axelsen, but Mr. Nielsen has done something so heinous that helping him would make me the center of a bacsh. It''s best that he answers his crime and be done with it. Not only that, we can''t go to war with the British over one person,"

    The room fell into a momentary hush, the weight of the President''s words hanging in the air. Jonathan''s brow furrowed, a glimmer of frustration crossing his face as he leaned forward, his voiceced with determination.

    "Mr. President, how much do you love guns?" Axelsen asked.

    "What''s with the sudden question?" President Harrison arched an eyebrow, caught off guard by Jonathan''s unexpected question. He leaned back in his chair, his gaze probing Jonathan''s face for the meaning behind the inquiry. After a brief pause, he responded cautiously, "As the leader of a nation, I prioritize the safety and security of our citizens. Guns, when used responsibly, can be a means of protection and defense."

    "Then what if we told you that we have developed a weapon, more powerful than the AN-M1 rifles that we are currently supplying our army? How would you react?"

    President Harrison''s curiosity was piqued as he leaned forward, his eyes narrowing with intrigue. "A weapon more powerful than our current arsenal? That certainly sounds remarkable.

    "Mr. President, would you please give us a moment of your time to demonstrate to you those weapons?"

    President Harrison considered Jonathan''s request, his gaze shifting between Jonathan and Morgan. After a moment of contemtion, he nodded, intrigued by the proposition.

    "Very well, Mr. Axelsen. I am open to witnessing this demonstration of your advanced weaponry.

    "Can we use your southwn?"

    Jonathan''s request to use the southwn of the White House caught President Harrison off guard. He hesitated for a moment, his mind calcting the potential risks and political implications of such a demonstration. However, his curiosity and desire to explore all possible avenues to resolve the situation with Mr. Nielsen prevailed.

    "Using the southwn for a demonstration of advanced weaponry is an unconventional request, Mr. Axelsen," President Harrison replied, his tone cautious. "But if you can assure me that it will be conducted safely, I am willing to grant you this opportunity."

    "We have an agreement, Mr. President," Jonathan smiled.

 Chapter 233 Meeting The President Part 2

    ?

    Two hours had passed since the meeting in the Oval Office, and on the southwn of the White House, a buzz of activity filled the air. Personnel from the Axelsen & Nielsen Arms Manufacturing Company diligently erected wooden dummies, positioning them strategically as practice targets. Meanwhile, other members of the team carefully carried wooden crates containing thepany''stest weapons, which had yet to be marketed to the army.

    President Harrison, John Morgan, and Jonathan observed the preparations with keen interest. The sun cast its warm glow upon the scene, lending an air of anticipation to the moment. After fifteen minutes of meticulous work, the setup wasplete, and the stage was set for the demonstration tomence.

    "Can we begin now?" President Harrison inquired, turning to Jonathan with an expectant gaze.

    "Not quite yet, Mr. President. We are still waiting for someone," Jonathan replied, his tone confident.

    Curiosity piqued, President Harrison pressed further, "Who is it that we are waiting for?"

    Just as the question left his lips, a figure emerged on the southwn, striding purposefully toward the gathering. President Harrison''s eyes widened with recognition as he realized the identity of the man. It was General Sherman, a respected military figure known for his strategic acumen and unwavering dedication to national security.

    General Sherman approached the group with a firm yet respectful demeanor, his military uniform impable. President Harrison''s surprise quickly transformed into a weing smile.

    "General Sherman! What a pleasant surprise to see you here," President Harrison eximed, extending his hand in greeting.

    General Sherman returned the gesture. "Good to see you again, Mr. President. Mr. Axelsen extended me an invitation to this special demonstration. I am here to serve as your attach¨¦ in assessing the viability of these weapons and making informed decisions regarding their acquisition."

    "Is that so?" Harrison arched his brow. "Very well,"

    After that greeting, Sherman turned to Jonathan and Morgan, shaking their hands.

    "Mr. Axelsen, I understand the situation that you are going through and I''m willing to help you out. I don''t care if Nielsen took the Princess home as long as you provide the army with good weapons, you are pretty much free to do whatever you want."

    Axelsen chuckled. "You are as pragmatic as ever, General Sherman. Rest assured, we have not spared any effort in developing weapons that surpass our current arsenal."

    With that, Jonathan stepped forward and opened one of the wooden crates, revealing its contents. He carefully lifted the weapon from within the crate and raised it high in the air for the others to see.

    Harrison, Sherman, and Morgan''s eyes were drawn to the magnificent weapon that Jonathan unveiled.

    "What is that?" Sherman asked.

    "This, gentlemen, is the AN-1 Axelsen & Nielsen Heavy Machine Gun," Jonathan revealed and continued. "This machine gun boasts a robust construction, built to withstand the rigors of the battlefield. It fires .50 caliber rounds, delivering devastating firepower and exceptional range. With an improved feed mechanism, it ensures reliable ammunition supply, minimizing jams and maximizing sustained fire."

    Jonathan continued. "Unlike the Maxim Machine Gun and the Gatling gun, this heavy machine gun of oursbines the best elements of both. The AN-1 incorporates the simplicity and reliability of the Maxim design while incorporating the rapid-fire capability of the Gatling gun. Its innovative design allows for a high rate of fire, providing a substantial advantage on the battlefield."

    Sherman nodded, his interest piqued. "Tell us more about its rate of fire, Jonathan."

    "Of course, General," Jonathan replied, his voice filled with enthusiasm. "The AN-1 has a cyclic rate of fire that surpasses anything currently in service. It can sustain a staggering 1,200 rounds per minute, delivering a hail of bullets with incredible uracy. This firepower superiority can effectively suppress enemy positions, granting our troops the upper hand in any engagement."

    "Show us, Mr. Axelsen," Morgan said, his voice brimming with anticipation.

    Jonathan nodded, understanding the importance of showcasing the AN-1''s capabilities in action. He turned to the team members who had been diligently setting up the wooden dummies and signaled for them to take their positions. The atmosphere on the southwn grew tense as everyone prepared for the demonstration.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    With practiced precision, the team members retreated to a safe distance while Jonathan manned the AN-1. He positioned himself behind the heavy machine gun, the weight of its potential resting on his shoulders. Taking a moment to steady himself, he focused on the task at hand.

    "Stand by!" Jonathan called out, his voice cutting through the air.

    The crowd fell silent, their eyes fixed on Jonathan and the AN-1. President Harrison, General Sherman, and John Morgan watched with bated breath, eager to witness the power of the weapon they had heard so much about.

    Jonathan''s finger tightened on the trigger, and in an instant, the air was filled with the thunderous roar of the AN-1. Rounds erupted from the muzzle, streaking toward the wooden dummies with remarkable speed and precision. The impact was swift and devastating, shredding the targets with each precise burst.

    The continuous barrage of firepower showcased the AN-1''s remarkable rate of fire, leaving everyone in awe of its destructive potential. The sound of the heavy machine gun echoed across the southwn, sending shivers down everyone''s spine.

    President Harrison couldn''t help but smile as he watched the AN-1 in action. He turned to General Sherman, his eyes gleaming with satisfaction. "General, what are your thoughts?"

    General Sherman''s expression mirrored President Harrison''s satisfaction. "Mr. President, this weapon is truly impressive. The AN-1''s rate of fire and uracy are beyond anything we currently possess. It has the potential to change the course of battles and safeguard our troops. I am convinced of its value to our military. Mr. President, it''s best that we get this weapon to the army."

    "I know¡­"

    Jonathan stopped firing, and introduced more weapons, showcasing its capabilities. Weapons like MP 40, Thompson submachine gun, andstly the Sturmgewehr 44.

    Morgan, Sherman, and Harrison were too stunned to speak, the weapon that they witnessed was too unconventional in the current mode of warfare, drastically changing the nature of the battlefield should it debut into a battle. They have to get it.

    "So, Mr. President, what do you say? You can get this weapon for your army exclusively but on just one condition. You have to save my partner from the British. Do that and we will be happy to make guns for your army. Oh also, don''t forget, we are also working on something that would definitely shock you to the core. So if I were you, Mr. President, I''d take this deal."

    Harrison pondered for a moment, helping Nielsen would be the wisest choice but he is still hesitant about causing a conflict in his term.

    "Mr. President, if you don''t ept this deal, Mr. Jonathan will export it to other countries, meaning we can lose our superiority and advantage over them," Sherman said, trying to convince the President.

    "You do know that I hold little power right? Helping you means I have to talk to Congress¡­" Harrison exined.

    "Then go talk to the Congress, and tell them what you have seen here. Mr. President," Sherman President Harrison took a deep breath, considering the weight of the decision before him. The potential of the AN-1 and the other weapons presented by Axelsen & Nielsen was undeniable. They could provide a significant advantage to the United States military, ensuring the safety of American troops and potentially changing the course of battles.

    General Sherman''s words resonated with him. The thought of these weapons falling into the wrong hands was a concern that could not be ignored. The risk of losing the technological edge to other countries was something the President couldn''t overlook either. Time was of the essence.

    President Harrison looked at Jonathan, his expression a mix of resolve and caution. "Mr. Axelsen, your proposal ispelling, and the capabilities of your weapons are remarkable. Therefore, I have decided to help your partner. Mr. Windom."

    "Yes, Mr. President?"

    "Set up a meeting with the Congressional Leadership, I want to inform them of my decision. We will tell them that helping Mr. Axelsen is paramount to the defense of our nation. We won''t be threatened by the British anymore once we have these guns."

    Jonathan smiled after hearing that. "Thank you, Mr. President."

 Chapter 234 The Order

    ?

    "What are you talking about father? Holding off on Poul''s execution? Are you insane? He literally took Penelope from us and you want us to let it go?"

    "Calm down, Alexander, there is a reason for this," the king raised his hand, stopping him from speaking. "We have received a letter from the government of the United States, you might want to see it for yourself."

    One of the butlers of the king stepped forward with a silver tray with an envelope on it.

    Alexander frowned, wondering what the letter held. He picked it up from the tray and opened the envelope.

    "This missive originates from the esteemed government of the United States. Although we duly acknowledge the profound gravity of Poul''s transgressions, it perturbs the international protocols to subject him to British jurisdiction based on circumstantial evidence," Alexander read aloud, his voice tinged with incredulity.

    He continued, enunciating each word with aposed demeanor. "The United States Government presents an unequivocal demand for the repatriation of Poul Nielsen. Failure toply shall necessitate the initiation of stringent measures. Let it be known that it was you, the recipient of this correspondence, who first invoked the specter of jeopardizing the delicate equilibrium between our respective nations. Consequently, the return of Mr. Nielsen must be effectuated before the week draws to a close, with the British Ambassador duly facilitating the requisite logistical arrangements."

    After reading the letter, the King spoke. "The United States is willing to go to war over Poul Nielsen if we don''t return him, I fear that this nation will be plunged into a conflict of dire consequences," the king uttered with a somber tone. His voice carried the weight of responsibility and an acute awareness of the potential repercussions.

    "So what, Father?" Alexander''s voice quivered with a mixture of anger and desperation, his eyes glistening with unshed tears. "Just because they have called our bluff, does that mean we must yield? Are we to abandon our quest for justice and let the man responsible for taking Penelope away slip through our grasp? What do you think would be of the legacy and image of the royal family if we sumb to this pressure? How will the people, whose unwavering trust we strive to preserve, react when we hand Poul Nielsen back into the hands of those who would see him escape his rightful punishment?" His voice cracked with intensity, the anguish seeping through every syble.

    Alexander''s words hung heavily in the air,den with the specter of history and the haunting echoes of past revolutions. His eyes bore into his father''s, searching for a glimmer of understanding amidst the turmoil that engulfed them.

    "Do you want us to suffer the same fate as the French royalty, Father?" Alexander''s voice trembled with a mix of fear and defiance. "To be deposed, stripped of our titles and privileges, cast aside by those we have sworn to protect? Is that the legacy we want to leave behind?"

    "Father, I implore you to reconsider capitting to their demands. Allow me to convene with the War Council, strategize, and n for a potential military intervention against the United States."

    The king''s countenance softened as he attentively absorbed Alexander''s impassioned plea. He discerned the profound resolve and unwavering determination that infused every uttered syble, prompting a glimmer of paternal pride to dance fleetingly in his eyes, mingling with an overriding sense of concern for the precarious path they were on the brink of treading.

    "Alexander," the kingmenced, his voice steeped in a judicious blend of caution and paternal guidance. "I empathize with your tumultuous emotions, and I wholeheartedly share your ardent pursuit of justice. However, engaging in a war with the United States would inevitably yield a cataclysmic loss of human lives."

    "But is that not what the valiant men and women of our nation have willingly pledged their lives for? Father, the public is fervently resolute in witnessing the execution of Poul Nielsen. We must address their relentless yearning for retribution," Alexander interjected, his voiceden with exasperation and desperation.

    "I have already decided, Alexander, and you will follow my orders. You are to free Poul Nielsen and hand them over to the United States Embassy."

    "And what if I refuse, Father? Which is precisely what I intend to do?" Alexander''s voice rang out,ced with determination and defiance. His gaze locked with his father''s, unyielding in his stance against what he perceived as an abandonment of justice.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "Then I will order someone else to do that job," the king simply replied. "However, don''t misunderstand me, Alexander. Just as I said, I share your anguish and desire for justice. But let me be clear, what I am proposing is merely a formality. If you truly believe that Poul Nielsen must pay for his sins and the pain he has caused, then I suggest you follow through with your decision. It is your call, and you must be willing to ept the consequences of taking his life."

    "Ah¡­I see now father," Alexander gasped softly. "Very well, Father. I will engage in a dialogue with the Ambassador of the United States to convey your decision. However, before I do that, I feelpelled to pay Mr. Nielsen, to visit myself."

    The king nodded, acknowledging his son''s resolve. "You are dismissed, Alexander."

    With a nod of acknowledgment, Alexander turned and made his way out of the room.

    Thirty minutester, in an undisclosed location, Poul and Alexander found themselves in the same room, sitting across from one another. The atmosphere was tense, charged with an unspoken history between them.

    "So, what is the purpose of your visit now, Your Highness?" Poul asked, his voice tinged with a mixture of bitterness and mockery.

    Alexander met Poul''s gaze, his expression firm but burdened with the weight of their shared past. "You are a fortunate man, Poul. The government of the United States is demanding your repatriation," he said, his voice carrying a hint of resignation.

    Poul''s eyes widened in surprise. "Demanding my repatriation? I see, so what are you going to do? Are you going to hand me to them?"

    "Honestly, I would want to kill you right here and now before I can return you to your government. But this is a decision by our government and so I must abide by it."

    Poul scoffed. "I see, damn government right?"

    "Take him away," Alexandermanded the guards, and they swiftly moved forward and escorted Poul out of the room.

    Alone in the chamber, Alexander motioned for one of his trusted servants to approach. The servant stepped forward, bowing respectfully.

    "Yes, Your Highness?"

    "I want you to make sure that Poul Nielsen won''t get to the Port. Use any means necessary," Alexander said.

    "Understood, Your Highness."

 Chapter 235 Uncertainty And Doubts

    ?

    On the other side of the Antic Ocean, Jonathan and Morgan waited for the president to arrive in the Oval Office. While doing so, they chatted to pass the time.

    "Jonathan, I remember you saying that there is more to your offer, which I have interpreted as you developing something cooler than those weapons. Do you mind sharing with me the details? I swear I won''t tell anyone," Morgan said.

    Jonathan chuckled. "I''m afraid I can''t do that, Mr. Morgan. It''s best that I keep it a surprise to anyone. Spoiling it to you would ruin the excitement. Trust me, it''s something that needs to be experienced firsthand."

    Morgan leaned back in his chair, a yful grin on his face. "Well, Jonathan, you certainly know how to pique my curiosity. The President is sure is taking his time eh?"

    "It''s the President, so it''s obvious that he has a lot on his te," Jonathan said.

    Just as Jonathan finished his sentence, the door to the Oval Office swung open, and the President entered with a determined stride. Jonathan and Morgan stood up, ready to delve into the important matters that awaited them.

    "Good afternoon, gentlemen," Harrison greeted them with a firm handshake. "I apologize for the dy. It''s been a busy day. Please, have a seat, and let''s get started."

    They settled back to their seats again and the President began.

    "I have good news for the two of you, Mr. Morgan, and Mr. Axelsen. The British have agreed to our demands. They will hand over Poul Nielsen back to us by the end of the week."

    Upon hearing those words, Jonathan and Morgan exchanged a nce, their faces etched with a mix of relief and anticipation. The news was a significant breakthrough, validating the tireless efforts they had invested in securing Poul Nielsen''s return.

    "That''s excellent news, Mr. President," Jonathan replied, his voiceced with gratitude. "Thank you for your efforts."

    "Not a problem, Mr. Axelsen, just make sure you hold up the end of your bargain and we are even," Harrison replied cheekily.

    "They are going to return Mr. Nielsen just like that?" Morgan asked, his tone filled with doubts.

    Jonathan nced at Morgan, his brows raising. "What do you mean by those words, Morgan?"

    "Well, Poul Nielsen is the number one enemy of the British Empire. I wouldn''t even be surprised if they dered him persona non grata. Think about this for a second, he kidnapped Penelope Ascart, they bluffed on using force against us if we interfere with their process, and now they are willingly handing him over without any resistance? It just seems too convenient," Morgan exined, his voiceced with skepticism.

    Jonathan leaned back in his chair, deep in thought. Morgan had a point. The sudden agreement from the British authorities did raise some questions about their true intentions. It was unlike them to simply relinquish their most wanted criminal without a fight.

    "You''re right, Morgan. It does seem peculiar," Jonathan replied, his tone contemtive.

    "You guys are just overthinking it," Harrison chimed in. "Don''t worry, we will ensure Poul''s safe return to our country, so you can sit back and rx and wait for him toe back."

    Jonathan and Morgan exchanged another nce, their concerns still lingering in the air.

    "I appreciate your reassurance, Mr. President," Jonathan spoke up, his voice measured. "However, given the gravity of Poul Nielsen''s crimes and the implications they have on both our nations, it is imperative that we exercise caution. We cannot afford to becent in this matter." <novelsnext></novelsnext>

    Morgan nodded in agreement, his gaze fixed on President Harrison. "With all due respect, Mr. President, we must remain vignt. We don''t know what the British are nning on doing to Poul. Not to mention the fact that he is still on their soil."

    "I will issue a direct order to our marines stationed in London to ensure Poul Nielsen''s safety during the handover process," President Harrison assured them. "We will coordinate closely with the British authorities to guarantee his well-being and secure his return to our jurisdiction. Does that ease your concerns?"

    Jonathan and Morgan exchanged a brief nce, finding somefort in the President''s words. While their skepticism remained, they understood that the situation required a delicate bnce between caution and trust.

    "Thank you, Mr. President," Jonathan replied, his tone sincere.

    They stood up and shook hands with President Harrison.

    As they left the Oval Office, Jonathan and Morgan retreated to a private room where they could discuss. The room was dimly lit, its atmosphere conducive to the secrecy and intensity of their conversation.

    Jonathan paced back and forth, his mind racing with uncertainties. Morgan, on the other hand, sat at a table, watching him.

    "Maybe the President was right, Jonathan, we might be overthinking it."

    "No, we don''t even know what the Crown Prince is capable of. What we all know is that he is obsessed with Penelope and that he would do everything for her. Imagine you are the Crown Prince whose fiance got taken by some random dude? How would you feel?"

    Morgan nodded, understanding Jonathan''s point. "You''re right. The Crown Prince''s emotions must be running high, and that makes him unpredictable. We can''t underestimate his determination to get Penelope back."

    Jonathan paused in his pacing and turned to face Morgan, his expression serious. "Exactly. That''s why we can''t afford to let our guard down. Even if the British authorities hand over Poul Nielsen, there''s no guarantee that the Crown Prince won''t have a backup n in motion."

    "But what can we do at this point? We are literally thousands of miles away from London. Our job here is done, it''s best that we put our trust in the President and his n to ensure Poul Nielsen''s safe return," Morgan said, concern evident in his voice.

    Jonathan stopped pacing and locked eyes with Morgan, and clicked his tongue. "It''s so frustrating to feel so powerless."

    "Truth be told, Jonathan. I still don''t understand why you won''t divulge information between Poul and Penelope''s past. Maybe if you tell me, I would understand the gravity of the situation."

    "Sorry, Mr. Morgan. You can ask me anything but that," Jonathan replied firmly. His tone indicated that he wouldn''t entertain any further questions on that particr matter.

    Morgan sighed and leaned back in his chair, realizing that Jonathan''s decision was final. He respected his boundaries, understanding that there were certain secrets that needed to remain hidden, even from someone as influential as Morgan himself.

    "Alright, Jonathan," Morgan said, his voice tinged with eptance. "I won''t push any further on that matter. Just know that I trust your judgment, and I''m here to support you in any way I can."

    Jonathan nodded appreciatively, acknowledging Morgan''s understanding. Despite the uncertainty that loomed over their current situation, their partnership had grown stronger, and their shared determination to bring Poul back remained unwavering.

    "Now, it''s a waiting game. What will you do? Your Highness?" Jonathan muttered under his breath.

 Chapter 236 The Failed Attempt

    ?

    Five dayster.

    The London street was filled with energy as the sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows upon the cobbled pavement. A sea of protestors, their fervor burning brightly in their eyes, filled the thoroughfare, their voices rising in an unrelenting chorus of indignation. cards painted with bold words and vibrant drawings waved defiantly in the air, bobbing like a turbulent sea in the wake of an approaching storm.

    The air hummed with the righteous anger of the masses, their grievances echoing through the ancient stone facades that lined the street. The city was aze with a collective fury that permeated every brick and mortar, infecting even the very atmosphere with its palpable weight. And at the heart of this tempest of discontent, a lone horse-drawn carriage ambled down the road, oblivious to the maelstrom it had be a part of.

    Inside the carriage, Poul Nielsen, an Avalonian whose name had be infamous overnight, sat with an air of indifference. His flippant grin remained stered across his face, a twisted mockery of the anger that roiled through the London streets. His eyes, cold and devoid of remorse, fixated on the scene outside the window, where the relentless protestors fought for justice.

    As the carriage rolled forward, the cacophony of voices grew louder, their cries for retribution piercing through the protectiveyers of privilege that shielded Poul Nielsen from the consequences of his actions. He leaned back against the plush upholstery, his body rxed and his confidence unwavering, confident in the deal his government had struck with the British.

    Through the narrow gaps between the curtains, Poul glimpsed the faces of the protesters, contorted with a mix of frustration, grief, and anger. Their eyes zed with an unquenchable fire, their voices raised in unison as they demanded justice for the kidnapped princess, Penelope Ascart. The crime had struck a chord deep within the hearts of the popce, shattering the illusion of safety and invulnerability.

    "Do you know what you have done, you filthy Albian?" one of the guards stationed inside the carriage seethed, his voiceced with venom.

    Poul Nielsen turned his gaze from the window to meet the guard''s furious re. His flippant grin faltered for a moment, reced by a flicker of annoyance.

    "You don''t have to remind me. I can hear their shouts from here," Poul retorted, his voice tinged with irritation. He leaned forward, meeting the guard''s furious gaze. "And why is your anger directed at me? Shouldn''t you be infuriated with your own government, the one that brokered the deal with my homnd to set me free?"

    The guard''s eyes narrowed, his features etched with resentment. "Oh, don''t worry. We are angry with our government too. But that doesn''t absolve you of your crimes," he spat, his voice heavy with usation.

    He continued. "Penelope was the symbol of hope for us, the one who saved us from a catastrophe of a cholera outbreak. You took her from us¡­where is she? Where is the princess?"

    "She is safe, that I can assure you," Poul interrupted, his voice calm butced with a hint of mystery. He leaned back, his gaze fixed on the guard. "Rest assured that she is safe under my watchful eye. But her whereabouts shall remain undisclosed for security purposes¡­" he trailed off, his eyes shifting. "Guard, please stop talking to me, there has been a lot of noise outside and I don''t want you adding up."

    The guard clenched his fist and clicked his tongue in frustration. He wanted to punch Poul in the face but he couldn''t as it would be considered an act of insubordination. The guard''s duty was to protect Poul, despite his own personal disdain for the man.

    Well, if there was an attempt on his life by someone, he would dly let them do so. But for now, he has to act.

    Outside, two men watched as the carriage drove down the cobblestone streets. They were puffing their cigars as their eyes followed the movement of the carriage. When it passed by them, the two exchanged a meaningful nce and then nodded.

    One of the men opened his knapsack and pulled out a rectangr box, and handed it to his partner.

    The man who received the box nodded in kind and ran ahead of the carriage. The moment he was at a distance, he threw the box at the carriage. The convoy, primarilyposed of marines who were escorting the carriage, looked at the projectile heading onto the carriage; they wondered what that was.

    Since the beginning of the journey, there have been some protesters throwing stones and other objects at the carriage, but this projectile seemed different. The box sailed through the air, its trajectory aligning perfectly with the moving target. The convoy guards, momentarily caught off guard, scrambled to react, but it was toote.

    With a resounding thud, the rectangr box struck the side of the carriage, instantly shattering into a burst of shrapnel and mes. The explosion engulfed the carriage, sending debris flying in all directions. The force of the st reverberated through the surrounding area, rattling windows and causing chaos among the protestors.

    Inside the carriage, Poul Nielsen was jolted from his seat as the explosion rocked the vehicle. Shards of ss and splinters of wood rained down upon him, cutting through the air with deadly precision. The guard who had been engaged in a heated conversation with Poul was thrown to the opposite side of the carriage, his body limp and bloodied.

    In the midst of the chaos, Poul''s survival instincts kicked in. With a surge of adrenaline, he fought against the disorienting impact, struggling to regain hisposure. He could hear the crackling of mes and the anguished cries of the injured.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    As the smoke and dust began to settle, Poul surveyed the aftermath of the explosion. The carriagey in ruins, reduced to a charred wreckage. The guards who had apanied him were scattered and wounded, their bodies strewn across the street.

    "What the¡­" His vision blurring, and his hearing muffled, Poul struggled to gather his bearings amidst the chaos. The explosion had taken him by surprise. With each passing second, pain seared through his body.

    "Are you okay sir?" One of the marines approached Poul, his voiceced with concern. Poul''s gaze shifted towards the marine, his eyes bloodshot and filled with a mixture of shock and pain.

    "I... I think so," Poul managed to reply, his voice strained. He struggled to push himself up, his limbs trembling from the impact of the explosion. The marine extended a helping hand, assisting Poul to his feet.

    Meanwhile, the crowds that had gathered in the streets ran amok, their panic escting with the unexpected explosion. Chaos reigned as people frantically scattered in all directions, seeking safety from the devastation. The once unified chorus of protest had transformed into a cacophony of screams and cries.

    Poul Nielsen, his mind reeling from the st, attempted to make sense of the situation. His body ached, and blood trickled down his forehead from a gash on his temple. He struggled to steady his breathing, fighting through the pain as he looked around for any sign of his guards or the princess.

    The marine who had helped Poul to his feet scanned the chaotic scene, his eyes wide with rm. "We need to get you out of here, sir," he said, his voice urgent. "It''s not safe. Can you walk?"

    Poul gritted his teeth and nodded, pushing aside his pain. Together, he and the marine made their way through the debris-strewn street, navigating the frightened and disoriented crowd. The remnants of the carriage smoldered behind them, a grim reminder of the danger they had narrowly escaped.

    As they moved further away from the explosion site, Poul''s attention turned to the two men he had seen before the attack. He strained his eyes, searching for any trace of them in the chaotic aftermath. The assants seemed to have vanished into thin air, leaving behind only destruction and confusion.

    "Have you identified who threw the bomb?" Poul asked.

    "Yes, we saw a glimpse of them. They ran after they threw the bomb and I ordered two men to chase after them. But since those men were affected by the explosion, I don''t think they''ll catch them. In the meantime, we need to get you to the embassy," the marine replied.

    "I understand," Poul replied weakly.

    As they hurried along, Poul''s mind raced, trying to piece together the events that had just unfolded. The attack had been targeted specifically at him, and he couldn''t shake off the feeling that there was more to it than just the anger of the protestors. Who were those men, and why had they singled him out?

    "What did they look like? Are they wearing some sort of disguise or clothing that covers their faces?" Poul asked, his voiceced with urgency.

    The marine nced back at Poul, his brows furrowed in concentration. "It all happened so fast, sir," he replied. "But from what I could gather, they were wearing dark clothing and had their faces partially covered with masks or scarves. It was difficult to make out any distinguishing features."

    Poul''s mind raced, trying to connect the dots. Dark clothing and concealed faces only added to the mystery. Whoever these assants were, they had nned their attack meticulously, ensuring their identities remained hidden.

    "I see, well, whoever they are, we have to get to the Embassy fast. Since they saw me standing up and leaving the site means they are going to try again."

    "Sir, I think it''s best that you don''t speak for now. You are wounded."

    "I knew that this wouldn''t be an easy leave," Poul mumbled.

 Chapter 237 The Workers Learning It

    ?

    Meanwhile, in Paris, Amelia and Timothy were conducting their usual daily work until a newspaper was handed out by one of the employees.

    "Ms. Weiss, Mr. Anderson, you might want to see this," he said.

    Amelia and Timothy checked the newspaper that was handed to them and the moment they saw the headlines, their eyes widened in surprise.

    "Mr. Nielsen is caught in a scandal by kidnapping the daughter of the British Prime Minister, Penelope Ascart¡­" Timothy spoke.

    "Further investigation shows that Penelope Ascart was forced to take a new identity as a nurse working for the Axelsen and Nielsen Company. Though there hasn''t been any contact with Penelope, it is certain that Poul Nielsen, the founder, was the sole responsible for deceiving the entire poption of the British Empire. He is currently being held in London for the crimes hemitted," Amelia finished.

    "Wait¡­so the new nurse in town was the British Princess herself? All this time?" Timothy eximed. "Damn, I didn''t expect this. So that''s the reason why Mr. Nielsen disappeared huh? He was taken by the British."

    "Possibly, and neither do I," Amelia added. "Now everything is making sense, the reason why she didn''t go through normal procedure was because it has already been prepared for her. But one thing that I don''t get is if Penelope Ascart is kidnapped, then shouldn''t she be repulsive towards Poul? Why are they acting like lovers?"

    "Maybe Mr. Nielsen has threatened her not to make a hint?" Timothy guessed.

    "That''s impossible, as a woman myself, I can read the signs of maniption and coercion. There has to be something more to their rtionship," Amelia mused, her mind working to unravel theplex web of deceit.

    Timothy nodded in agreement. "You''re right, Amelia. There''s definitely more going on here than meets the eye. But I wouldn''t waste my time unraveling it. Because I''m too busy working on a new project of mine, and neither should you, Amelia. We shouldn''t interfere in the affairs of our founders."

    "But, as their executive secretary who handles the optics and public image, it is our responsibility to ensure thepany''s reputation remains untarnished," Amelia argued, her voice filled with determination. "If we turn a blind eye to this scandal, we would beplicit in the wrongdoing. Our duty is not just to the founders but also to the employees and stakeholders who have put their trust in us."

    Timothy paused, his gaze shifting between the newspaper and Amelia''s resolute expression. Slowly, a flicker of realization crossed his face. "You sure are idealistic, Amelia. But this is more a personal matter than just thepany''s reputation. I''m sure the founders have found a way to soften the fall."

    "Why didn''t they tell me this," Amelia wondered.

    "Maybe because it''s a scandal? And that''s why they are keeping out of it?" Timothy suggested, his voice tinged with skepticism. "But regardless of their intentions, I must say, Poul did dirty on this one."

    As they were having a conversation, a voice sounded from behind.

    "Oh, you two have time to talk about other things instead of working?"

    The two immediately recognized the voice, it was Caroline. She was put inmand by Jonathan who is in the United States with Morgan to lobby for Poul''s release.

    Amelia and Timothy turned to face Caroline, their superior, who had a stern look on her face. They exchanged a quick nce, realizing that they were caught in a conversation they probably shouldn''t have been having at work. They straightened up, regaining their professionalposure.

    "Lady Dupont, we apologize. We were just discussing some urgent news that came up," Amelia replied, trying to gather her thoughts.

    Caroline''s eyes flickered over the newspaper in her hand, and her expression softened. "I see that you have learned of the issue huh?"

    Timothy tilted his head to the side. "Wait, Lady Dupont, do you also know about this?"

    "Yes, I do, for quite a long time I must say," Caroline revealed.

    Amelia and Timothy exchanged puzzled nces, taken aback by Caroline''s admission. The revtion raised more questions than answers, deepening the mystery surrounding the scandal and their founders'' involvement.

    Caroline noticed their confusion and sighed, her eyes filled with a mix of weariness and determination. "Look, there are certain things that you both need to understand. The situation goes far beyond what you see on the surface. Poul Nielsen may have made some questionable choices, but there''s more at stake here than just his personal actions."

    Amelia''s voice was tinged with curiosity and concern as she asked, "What do you mean, Lady Dupont? What could be at stake that would justify such drastic measures?"

    "That is something I cannot tell you," Caroline said, her voice tinged with regret. "Believe me, I wish I could be more transparent, but there are forces at y that demand secrecy. The safety of thepany, our founders, and even our own lives could bepromised if certain information were to be exposed."

    Amelia''s brows furrowed in frustration, her determination reigniting. "But Lady Dupont, we can''t simply ignore the truth and turn a blind eye to the actions of our founders¡­"<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "The British are just making a big deal out of the situation," Caroline interrupted. "Poul Nielsen never kidnapped Penelope Ascart as the princess herself came willingly with him to the States and changed her personal identity."

    "If that''s the case, then why did Penelope Ascart go with him? Do they have a history with one another?"

    "I''m afraid I can''t also tell you that. Look, Amelia, sometimes there are things that we shouldn''t inquire about, especially for something that doesn''t have benefits for us. If I tell you the truth, what are you going to do with it?"

    Caroline raised a point. If Amelia were to learn the truth, then what''s next? Yes, she learned the truth but what she is going to do with that information is the question that loomed over her.

    "So do you understand now, Amelia?" Caroline asked and Amelia was left speechless. Timothy remained silent, not wanting to discuss something that doesn''t benefit him.

    Momentster, Timothy broke the silence. "I''m going to return back to work,dies. I will leave you be."

    Amelia watched as Timothy walked away, his footsteps echoing in the hallway, leaving her alone with Caroline.

    "Amelia, you know me. I told you a lot of things about unfortunately, this is not one of them. In time, you would soon understand the reason behind their actions. For now, focus on the task at hand left for us."

    "Understood, Lady Dupont," Amelia lowered her head and curtsied.

    ***

    Three dayster, back in Washington D.C.

    Jonathan and Morgan were summoned by the President of the United States. The letter that was sent to them sounded urgent, and they wasted no time to get there.

    As soon as they arrived at the Oval Office, the two immediately noticed the serious expression on Harrison''s face. It was as if he was holding on to something grave.

    "What''s the matter?" Jonathan asked, preparing himself for the worst. "Did the British take back their words?"

    "Please take a seat first, Mr. Axelsen, and Mr. Morgan," Harrison gestured to the seat in front of them.

    Jonathan and Morgan exchanged a quick nce, their apprehension growing as they took their seats. The gravity of the situation hung heavy in the air, and they waited anxiously for the President to reveal the purpose of their summons.

    Harrison took a deep breath, his eyes filled with a mix of concern and determination. "Gentlemen, I''m afraid I have some distressing news," he began, his voice steady but tinged with a hint of urgency. "There was an explosion on Mr. Nielsen''s convoy on their way to the Port of London. Lots of marines were seriously injured ording to the reports."

    "Wha¡­" Jonathan stammered. "What happened to Poul?"

    "Mr. Nielsen is safe, having sustained minor injuries. It is truly a miraculous oue considering the direct hit the carriage endured, as reported by eyewitnesses. As for his current whereabouts, he is being amodated at the Embassy. Unfortunately, the perpetrators responsible for the attack remain atrge, posing a significant risk. It would be unwise to relocate Mr. Nielsen at this moment, given the potential danger involved."

    Jonathan heaved a sigh of relief. He thought his partner was gone after hearing the news from the President.

    "So, what did the British say about this?"

    Harrison''s expression grew more solemn as he continued. "The British government has condemned the attack and expressed their utmost concern for Mr. Nielsen''s safety. They have pledged their full cooperation in investigating the incident and bringing the perpetrators to justice. But we all know that is BS, considering the fact that they hated Mr. Nielsen for what he did."

    "You''re right about that," Morgan interjected cautiously. "There is a possibility that the government is behind the bombing, but making such a serious allegation without concrete evidence could have severe consequences. For now, it''s best to keep our suspicions to ourselves."

    "Is he safe in the Embassy?" Jonathan asked. "Like, are there any guards stationed there?"

    "Of course, Mr. Axelsen," Harrison replied. "The Embassy has increased security measures to ensure Mr. Nielsen''s safety. They have stationed additional guards and implemented strict ess control protocols. We''re taking every precaution to prevent any further attacks or attempts on his life. I will inform you of the next schedule for his leave in the letter. Thank you foring here, and I apologize for bothering you toe in person. In a serious situation like this, I believe it''s best to deliver the information personally rather than sharing it over the telephone."

    "No problem, Mr. President, thank you for telling this to us," Jonathan said.

 Chapter 238 The One Responsible

    ?

    On the day of the failed attempt.

    The two bombers that threw a bomb on Poul Nielsen''s carriage returned to an undisclosed mansion just ten kilometers away from Buckingham Pce.

    They were being escorted by the pce guards, leading them toward a room where their employer was waiting.

    As they arrived at the door, the two royal guards standing on either side of the door pushed the door open, revealing an ornate reception room bathed in soft, golden light. The air was thick with a sense of anticipation as the bombers entered, their steps echoing on the marble floor.

    Seated at the far end of the room, behind a polished mahogany desk, was a distinguished figure in a tailored suit. His piercing blue eyes sparkled with a mix of authority and menace.

    "Wee back, gentlemen," Lord Vandermere greeted them, his voice smooth andmanding. "I trust the mission was carried out sessfully?"

    The expression of the two bombers turned pale upon hearing the question.

    "Your Highness¡­the bomb went off and destroyed Poul Nielsen''s carriage but it was unable to effectively kill him. He is now heading towards the United States Embassy, seeking refuge."

    Alexander''s face contorted upon hearing their answer. His usuallyposed demeanor shattered, reced by seething anger that flickered in his eyes.

    "Useless fools!" Alexander thundered, mming his fist onto the desk with a resounding thud. The room trembled with the force of his rage. "You had one job! One simple task, and you failed me!"

    The lead bomber lowered his head, his voice trembling as he spoke. "Your Highness, we did everything ording to n. We couldn''t have anticipated his escape."

    "Anticipated? That''s what separates the mediocre from the exceptional," Alexander seethed through gritted teeth. He rose from his seat, towering over the trembling bombers. "You dare disappoint me? After all, I''ve done for you?"

    Fear and regret washed over the faces of the two bombers as they realized the gravity of their failure. They knew that crossing Alexander, the man who held their lives, was not a position anyone wanted to be in.

    "I''m sorry, Your Highness," the other bomber stammered, his voice barely a whisper. "We will rectify our mistake and finish the job."

    Alexander''s anger subsided for a moment, reced by a calcting gaze. He circled the room, his steps deliberate and measured. The silence was heavy, broken only by the echoes of his footsteps.

    "Very well," he finally replied, his voice filled with a chilling calmness. "You will have one more chance. Find Poul Nielsen, eliminate him, and bring proof to me. Failure is not an option."

    The two bombers nodded, their determination renewed despite the trepidation still etched on their faces. They knew their lives hung in the bnce, and the stakes had never been higher.

    As they left the room, escorted by the pce guards, Alexander watched them with a mix of frustration and anticipation. In his mind, the grand chessboard of power shifted once again, and he prepared to y his next move.

    "Your Highness," his aide de camp leaned forward and whispered. "If Poul Nielsen is in the embassy, I don''t think the assassins that we hired are going to get through the strict security."

    Alexander''s gaze turned icy as he turned to his aide de camp. "I don''t care about their security measures. I want Poul Nielsen eliminated, no matter the cost," he hissed, his voiceced with venomous determination.

    The aide de camp could sense the desperation in Alexander''s voice, but he also understood the need for caution. "Your Highness, if they traced the assassins back to you, it would cause an international incident. Your reasons may justify the means but it will tarnish the dignity and reputation of the royal family."

    "You do not speak for me," Alexander interrupted, his voice sharp. He took a step closer to his aide de camp, his eyes zing with a dangerous intensity. "Do not forget your ce, nor the consequences of questioning my decisions."

    The aide de camp swallowed hard, realizing he had overstepped his bounds. He quicklyposed himself, straightening his posture and lowering his gaze. "Apologies, Your Highness. I meant no disrespect. I only wish to offer a different perspective, considering the potential ramifications."

    "The people of the British Empire wanted one thing, and that is the death of Poul Nielsen. As a member of the royal family, I have a duty to fulfill their desires," Alexander retorted, his voice dripping with a mix of arrogance and conviction. "They wouldn''t hate me for doing that. In fact, they might love me for that. If Poul Nielsen seeks refuge within the United States Embassy, then it is within those walls that he will meet his end."

    The aide de camp sighed inwardly, recognizing the futility of arguing further. He knew that once Alexander had made up his mind, it was nearly impossible to sway him.

    "Very well, Your Highness."

    "Oh, one more thing. I would like to see Poul Nielsen in the evening, see how it goes?" <novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "Pardon?" His aide de camp raised a brow. "Your Highness, why would you want to meet the person you wanted to eliminate?"

    "You are questioning my authority again," Alexander interrupted.

    "I''m sorry, Your Highness, I have overstepped my bounds again and would assure you that it won''t happen again."

    ***

    Two hourster, Prince Alexander arrived at the Embassy of the United States in London. Normally, visiting Poul Nielsen wouldn''t be possible due to the recent event that almost took his life, but as a Crown Prince of the British Empire, those protocols were often bent or reinterpreted to suit his desires. Apanied by his loyal aide de camp, Alexander was led through the high-security entrance of the embassy, where he was met by the American ambassador and a team of security personnel.

    "Your Highness, I''m Smith, the Ambassador. I see that you want to see Mr. Nielsen?"

    "Yes, I want to see how he is doing. The event earlier was unfortunate and I want to assess the situation personally," Alexander replied.

    Ambassador Smith nodded, his expression cautious. "Understood, Your Highness. Mr. Nielsen is currently in a secure room. We have taken every precaution to ensure his safety."

    "I appreciate your efforts, Ambassador," Alexander acknowledged, his eyes scanning the surroundings. He could sense the tension in the air, the heightened security measures that surrounded them. It seems that the United States is making a huge effort on protecting Poul Nielsen. It''s going to be hard for the assassins he hired to infiltrate.

    The ambassador led Alexander and his aide de camp through a series of corridors, guarded by additional security personnel at every turn. They finally reached a reinforced door, guarded by two armed agents. The agents exchanged a brief nod with the ambassador, unlocking the door and allowing Alexander''s party to enter.

    Inside the room, Poul Nielsen sat at a sturdy wooden table, bandages wrapped around his forehead and arm. His face bore the marks of the recent attack.

    He looked up to meet Alexander''s gaze and asked.

    "Your Highness? To what do I owe the pleasure of seeing you here in the Embassy? Oh, sorry to have seen this miserable state of mine, I''m sure you are aware of the failed assassination attempt on me earlier?"

    Alexander''s eyes narrowed as he observed Poul Nielsen''sposed demeanor. He could sense the underlying strength and resilience in the man despite his injuries. A flicker of admiration crossed his mind, quickly suppressed by his desire for vengeance.

    "Yeah, I heard the news, I am d that you are okay," Alexander said.

    "Oh, spare me the pretense, Your Highness," Poul Nielsen interrupted, his voiceced with a hint of sarcasm. "I highly doubt you''re here to offer your well wishes. What is it that you truly seek?"

    Alexander tilted his head to the side, adopting a practiced expression of innocence. "I must confess, Mr. Nielsen, I find your insinuation rather puzzling. My purpose for being here today is simply to extend my well wishes and offer my deepest apologies. You see, our government had provided assurances that you would be transported to port safely, but the unfortunate incident that urred raises concerns regarding the effectiveness of our security measures."

    Poul Nielsen raised an eyebrow, his gaze piercing through Alexander''s facade. He had dealt with enough politicians and maniptive individuals in his line of work to see through their masks.

    He sighed and decided to y along with his charade.

    "In that case, thank you for the thought, Your Highness. I sustained injuries but I''m recovering well. I hope there won''t be any attempts on me next time as I am sure that the British won''t definitely let it happen again if they are sorry."

    Alexander smiled stiffly at Poul Nielsen''s response, his eyes glimmering with a mix of hidden motives and suppressed anger.

    "Rest assured, Mr. Nielsen, I will personally ensure that such incidents never happen again. The safety and well-being of all individuals within our borders, including yours, are of utmost importance to me. We will spare no effort in rectifying any shorings and strengthening our security measures."

    Poul Nielsen nodded, a faint smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "I appreciate your assurance, Your Highness. It isforting to know that steps will be taken to prevent any future mishaps."

    Alexander''s smile faltered for a moment, a hint of suspicion crossing his face. He couldn''t help but wonder if Poul Nielsen suspected his involvement in the assassination attempt. But he quicklyposed himself, regaining hisposure and reaffirming his resolve.

    Poul on the other hand, couldn''t help but smirk inwardly. He can read it in his face, Alexander has something to do with the assassination attempt on his life, it was too obvious for him. After all, if he was in his position, he would probably do the same.

    "I''ll take my leave now, Mr. Nielsen," Alexander said before leaving his room.

 Chapter 239 Taking Caution

    ?

    After meeting with the Crown Prince, Poul let out a sigh.

    "This is going to be problematic," he muttered under his breath. He pushed a desk bell resting atop a table next to his bed, and a man entered his room.

    "What do you need, sir?" the guard asked.

    "I want to speak with the Ambassador, is he avable?" Poul asked.

    "One moment sir," the guard said and stepped out of the room.

    Alone in the room, Poul contemted for a moment. The conversation that he had just now with the Crown Prince brought circumstantial evidence that he may be behind the failed assassination attempt. He held his life so dearly, wanting to return with his team and Sara so desperately. Therefore, the goal is to leave the British alive, and not be caught in any attempt that may happen sooner orter.

    Momentster, the guard returned to his room and spoke.

    "Sir, it''s going to take a while as the Ambassador is currently talking with the Crown Prince of the British Empire. He''ll be able to amodate your request in the next fifteen minutes."

    "Thank you," Poul replied to the guard, his mind still upied with thoughts of the potential danger he was in.

    Fifteen minutester, Poul was escorted to the office of the Ambassador.

    "Good evening, Mr. Nielsen. I heard that you wanted to speak with me."

    The ambassador sitting behind the mahogany desk is the Ambassador to the British Empire, Ethan Smith. He has a brother who happens to be an Ambassador to the Republic of France. The Ambassador helped his partner and Morgan to settle an arrangement between them and the President of the United States.

    "Yes, Mr. Smith. I hope I''m not interrupting anything important," Poul began cautiously, eyeing the seriousness etched on the Ambassador''s face.

    "No, no not at all, Mr. Nielsen. My schedule for this hour is pretty much me sifting through documents. So, how can I help you? Oh, before that, how are you feeling?"

    "Well, if not for the doctors stationed in your embassy, my situation might get worse," Poul said with a chuckle. "Anyways, have they found the bomber yet? I get a feeling that they are nearby, wanting to finish an unfinished job."

    Smith shook his head. "Unfortunately, those men remain atrge. But rest assured, Mr. Nielsen, the ce is secured. There''s no way that those men could ever get into our embassy. The president ordered it, and we are doing our best to uphold the order."

    "That''s reassuring, Mr. Smith. Thank you for that," Poul said.

    "Is that all, Mr. Nielsen? A reassurance? I''m sure there''s something more that you want to share," Smith paused, his gaze unwavering. Poul knew that he couldn''t hold back any longer.

    Taking a deep breath, Poul leaned forward, his voice lowered. "Mr. Smith, you are coordinating with the British Government about the routes which my transportation is going to take right?"

    "That''s right, Mr. Nielsen."

    "Well, do me a favor, Mr. Smith. Suspend it immediately," Poul pleaded urgently, his eyes fixed on the Ambassador''s face.

    "Suspend coordination with the British?" Ethan Smith''s brows furrowed in confusion. "Why is there a problem?"

    "I have a reason to believe that the British may be behind the assassination attempt. This is based on a deduction based on the avable facts. Facts that the government and the people hate me for what I have done. Therefore, it''s our best bet that only the United States of Avalonia should take care of my transportation, the route it''ll be taking, and the ship that we will be boarding," Poul exined, his voice filled with urgency.

    Ambassador Smith''s expression shifted from confusion to concern. He leaned back in his chair, absorbing Poul''s words and the weight they carried. After a moment of silence, he nodded slowly.

    "I understand the gravity of your request, Mr. Nielsen," Smith replied, his voice steady. "Given the circumstances and the potential involvement of the British, it would be wise to prioritize your safety and rely on our own resources."

    Poul felt a glimmer of relief wash over him, knowing that the Ambassador understood the urgency of the situation. "Thank you, Mr. Smith," he expressed sincerely. "I know this is a lot to ask, but it''s crucial that we take every precaution to ensure my safe passage out of this country."

    The Ambassador reached for his telephone, his fingers dialing a familiar number. Poul watched as Smith engaged in a brief conversation, his tone hushed and determined. After hanging up, Smith turned his attention back to Poul.

    "I''ve just informed the appropriate authorities to suspend the coordination with the British government," Smith confirmed. "From this point forward, we will handle your transportation and security arrangements internally, with the utmost discretion."

    Poul breathed a sigh of relief, grateful for the swift action taken by Ambassador Smith. He knew that the stakes were high, and every decision could mean the difference between life and death.

    "Thank you, Mr. Smith," Poul said again, his voice filled with gratitude. "I trust in your ability to ensure my safe departure from this country. My team and I are relying on you."

    Ambassador Ethan Smith nodded, his gaze steady. "You have my word, Mr. Nielsen. We will do everything in our power to ensure your safety. You are our important asset after all, one that we are willing to go to war with,"

    Poul rose to his feet and extended his hand toward the Ambassador. Smith stood up as well, epting the gesture and firmly shaking Poul''s hand.

    "It''s an honor to have your support, Ambassador Smith," Poul said. "And it is a pleasure meeting you in person. I am grateful for the actions you have taken to prioritize my safety and themitment of your government to stand behind us."<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    Ambassador Smith smiled warmly and sped Poul''s hand firmly. "The pleasure is mine, Mr. Nielsen. Now if you need something else, please don''t hesitate to let me know. We have a dedicated team working on your security arrangements, and we will keep you updated on the progress."

    After that, Poul left the Ambassador''s office and retreated to his room.

    ***

    A dayter, in Paris, Sara''s life had been turned upside down since the scandal involving Poul Nielsen was revealed. Not only were the British people scrutinizing her every move, but the citizens of France and Avalonia as well. The once-vibrant world she knew had be suffocating, and she couldn''t venture out into the streets without a guard apanying her.

    Jonathan and Morgan, realizing the gravity of the situation, advised Sara to go into hiding until the storm blew over. Coming from the modern world, she understood that allowing the controversy to fade away naturally was the best path to reiming her freedom gradually.

    However, for the time being, Sara had to prioritize her safety and conceal herself from the public eye. She found sce in a small, secluded apartment in the heart of Paris, provided by Ambassador Ethan Smith and his connections. The ce offered her a respite from the constant scrutiny and allowed her to regain some semnce of normalcy.

    As she sat by the window, gazing out at the bustling city below, memories of her past life as a British princess flooded her mind. Tears welled up in the corners of her eyes, betraying the pain she felt deep within.

    "It''s as if my life never changed," she whispered, her voice barely audible. The weight of her circumstances pressed upon her, and she longed for the freedom she once had. She yearned to walk the streets without guards, to experience the simple joys of life without the burden of public judgment.

    But she knew that patience was her ally now. She had to trust that time would heal the wounds caused by the scandal, and eventually, she would regain her autonomy.

    Suddenly, there was a knock on the door.

    "Who is it?" Sara asked.

    "It''s Caroline, I came here to deliver your food," Caroline

    answered from the other side of the door.

    Sara quicklyposed herself, wiping away her tears with the back of her hand. She approached the door and unlocked it, revealing Caroline carrying a tray of food.

    "I got your favorites," Caroline said with a warm smile, holding the tray out to Sara. The aroma of freshly baked croissants and a steaming cup of coffee filled the air, momentarily distracting Sara from her troubled thoughts.

    "Thank you, Caroline," Sara replied, grateful for the small gesture of kindness. She invited Caroline inside and ced the tray on a small dining table by the window.

    Caroline''s eyes softened as she observed Sara''s pensive expression. "You seem lost in your thoughts, Sara. Is everything alright?"

    Sara sighed and took a seat at the table, gesturing for Caroline to join her.

    "Truth be told, everything feels overwhelming right now. I never imagined my life would take such a drastic turn."

    Caroline sat down across from Sara, her genuine concern evident. "I can only imagine what you''re going through, Sara. The media frenzy, the public judgment¡ªit must be incredibly challenging."

    Sara nodded, her fingers absentmindedly tracing the rim of the coffee cup. "It''s been a whirlwind. I feel trapped, confined by the actions of others. Sometimes, I wonder if I''ll ever regain a sense of normalcy."

    Caroline reached across the table and gently ced her hand on Sara''s. "It may not seem like it now, but this storm will pass. People''s attention spans are short, and soon enough, they''ll move on to the next scandal. You''re strong, Sara, and you''ll get through this."

    A glimmer of hope flickered in Sara''s eyes as she listened to Caroline''sforting words. "Thank you for believing in me, Caroline. Your support means more to me than you know."

    Caroline smiled warmly. "You''re not alone in this, Sara. Jonathan, Morgan, and I are here for you. We''ll do everything we can to help you. Poul is doing alright as well."

    "Oh¡­Poul, I haven''t received any news about him since the time when you informed me that they are moving him out of the country. What happened?"

    Caroline''s expression turned somber upon the mention of the topic. She wished she could tell Sara right now but should she do so will only make her worry.

    "Everything is going smoothly, though I don''t know the specifics. Bureaucracy isplicated and things are being kept confidential for security reasons," Caroline replied carefully, choosing her words wisely. "But rest assured, Poul is in good hands. The United States of Avalonia is taking every measure to ensure his safety."

    "That''s great to hear¡­"

    "Oh, also Sara, I didn''t onlye here to give you your food, there is someone outside wishing to see you¡­"

    "Who is it?"

    Upon asking that, two figures entered the room. Sara flickered her gaze to the two and instantly recognized them.

    "Mom? Dad?"

 Chapter 240 Reconciliation

    ?

    "Mom¡­dad¡­"

    Sara gasped, struggling to her feet. Her body trembled with a mix of exhaustion and overwhelming emotions as she slowly approached her parents. Her hands instinctively reached out, desperate to bridge the gap that had kept them apart for so long.

    Her mother, catching sight of those outstretched arms, rushed forward and enveloped her daughter in a tight embrace.

    "Penelope..!" Her mother''s voice quivered, tears welling up in the corners of her eyes. "Why? I''m so relieved that you''re alive..."

    Her father, however, remained rooted in ce, observing the scene before him. His face contorted with a mixture of frustration and disappointment, a clear betrayal of his true feelings. He had watched the unfolding moments between his wife and daughter, torn between his love for Penelope and his disapproval of the choices she had made.

    As the hug between mother and daughter lingered, a heavy silence settled upon the room. The unspoken tension hung in the air, creating an invisible barrier that threatened to shatter the fragile reunion. It was a silence pregnant with unexpressed words, a testament to the emotional chasm that had formed between father and daughter.

    Though his face remained stoic, his eyes revealed a tumult of conflicting emotions. Behind his annoyed expression, a profound sense of loss and hurt resided. Penelope''s decision to abandon her family for a man and fake her own death had shaken him to the core, leaving scars that had yet to heal.

    As he observed the tender bond shared between his wife and long-lost daughter, he couldn''t help but feel a twinge of bitterness. It was a bitter cocktail of regret and anger, an indelible mark left by Penelope''s betrayal. Yet, deep down, his love for her still lingered, obscured by a haze of disappointment and wounded pride.

    "Why would you do such a thing?" Her father''s voice finally broke the silence, his tone somber andden with unspoken pain.

    Penelope hesitated, her eyes shifting between her parents, searching for the right words to exin the choices she had made. She knew her actions had caused irreparable damage to their rtionship, but the ache for her own freedom had driven her to desperate measures.

    "I don''t know¡­father¡­" Penelope couldn''t think of a better reason. She couldn''t just say that she wanted to be with a person that she loved from her previous life that also happened to be here because it wouldn''t make sense to them.

    But she knew that not telling them would cause a further misunderstanding, unabling her parents to understand the decision behind her actions.

    "You even changed your appearance," her father continued. "It seems like you aremitted to that Albian,"

    Penelope took a deep breath, gathering her thoughts. She knew she had to be honest, even if it meant facing her father''s disapproval.

    "Dad, his name is Nielsen," she said, her voice steady. "And yes, I care deeply for him. He showed me a different world, one where I felt free and alive. But I realize now that my pursuit of happiness shouldn''t havee at the cost of tearing our family apart. I should have found a way to reconcile my desires with my responsibilities."

    Her father''s gaze softened slightly, his eyes searching hers for sincerity. The hurt and disappointment remained, but there was a glimmer of willingness to understand.

    "I can''t promise that I''ll immediately ept or understand your choices, Penelope," he said, his voice heavy with the weight of their fractured bond. "But perhaps, with time, we can start the healing process. I want to believe that you''ve learned from this, that you understand the consequences of your actions."

    "Can I hug you father?" Penelope

    Penelope''s voice quivered with a mix of hope and trepidation. Her heart yearned for her father''s embrace, a physical manifestation of their shattered bond slowly being pieced back together. She longed for his eptance, to feel his arms around her once again.

    Her father''s eyes softened further, his stern expression giving way to a glimmer ofpassion. He saw the genuine remorse in Penelope''s eyes and understood the weight of her words. He realized that beneath her choicesy a daughter desperate for love and understanding.

    A flicker of vulnerability danced across his face as he nodded, granting her unspoken request. With hesitant steps, Penelope closed the remaining distance between them. As their eyes locked, years of pain and longing merged into a single moment.

    In an instant, Penelope found herself enveloped in her father''s arms, feeling the warmth and strength that had been absent from her life for so long. Tears streamed down her face as she held on tightly, savoring the sensation of her father''s love.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "I''ve missed you so much, Dad," Penelope choked out, her voice muffled against his chest.

    Her father''s grip tightened, his own voiceced with emotion. "And I''ve missed you too, Penelope. Despite everything, you''re still my daughter, and I love you."

    Meanwhile, standing just a few feet away from them was Caroline, who observed Penelope having her moment with her family. She can''t help but feel touched at their reunion. Penelope has it hard to be honest, having been born into a family whose destiny is preordained to wed a powerful figure in the royal family.

    Caroline had been a close friend of Penelope''s since her arrival in the United States, and she had learned the struggles and expectations that had burdened her shoulders. Like Penelope, Caroline had also felt trapped by societal norms and obligations. While she had chosen a different path, her heart ached for the pain Penelope had endured.

    With a mixture of relief and joy, Caroline approached the trio, a soft smile on her lips. Her presence caught the attention of Penelope and her parents, who broke away from their embrace to acknowledge her.

    "Thank you, Caroline, for showing them to me," Penelope said.

    Caroline''s eyes sparkled with gratitude as she embraced Penelope once again. "I''m just d that I could help bring you all back together. Penelope, you had the strength to follow your heart, even if it meant making difficult choices. And your parents, they had the courage to open their hearts and give you another chance."

    Penelope''s parents, still holding each other''s hands, nodded in agreement. The weight of their daughter''s absence had been lifted, reced now with a glimmer of hope for a renewed bond.

    "So, Sara was the new name that you assumed, isn''t that right?" Penelope''s mother asked.

    "Yes mother, and I work in the clinic in Poul Nielsen''spany," Penelope confirmed.

    "So, what''s special about this man named Nielsen that the Crown Prince doesn''t have? What made you go against everything we had nned for you?" Penelope''s father interjected, his voice filled with a mix of curiosity and concern.

    Penelope took a deep breath, mustering the courage to exin her feelings and experiences to her parents. She knew that opening uppletely would be challenging, but it was necessary for them to understand her perspective.

    "Nielsen... he''s not just any man," Penelope began, her voice tinged with a hint of awe. "He''s kind,passionate, and he sees me for who I truly am, not just as a pawn in a political game. With him, I feel alive, free to pursue my own dreams and ambitions."

    "Let''s not just speak of the Crown Prince, dear." Penelope''s mother interjected. "So, Penelope, I know this isn''t going to be easy but I''m going to tell it nheless. Do you want toe home with us? I didn''t mean you return to live with us. Just consider it a visit."

    Penelope''s gaze shifted between her parents, uncertainty and longing evident in her eyes. The offer to visit her home was unexpected, and she pondered the implications it held. Returning to the ce she once called home, even temporarily, could potentially mend the fractures in their rtionship. It would allow her parents to witness the person she had be, and perhaps, they could findmon ground and eptance.

    But, returning to that ce means she''ll have to meet the people that she abandoned, that includes the people of the British Empire that considered her treasure, the King, and the Crown Prince himself whom she wanted to get off from.

    "Mother, I appreciate your offer," Penelope began, her voice filled with sincerity. "It means a lot to me that you''re open to the idea of having me back, even if it''s just for a visit. I''ve missed our family, the shared moments, and the feeling of belonging. But not today. The issues are still hot, anding back with you in the middle of the issue would certainly bring misfortunes to our family. So how about next year?"

    Her mother sighed. "Fine," she conceded, her disappointment evident. "Next year, then. But promise me, Penelope, that you''ll keep in touch. Don''t let the distance between us grow any further."

    "I promise, Mother," Penelope replied, her voice filled with determination. "I won''t let our connection fade away again. We''ll stay in touch, and perhaps, by the time I visit next year, things will be different."

    With a heavy heart, Penelope''s mother nodded, acknowledging theplexities of their situation. It was a bittersweet moment, filled with both hope and apprehension. But at least they had taken a step forward, however small it may be.

 Chapter 241 The Easiest Escape

    ?

    "Mr. Nielsen," the guard entered Poul''s room and announced. "We are moving you in, get ready."

    It''s been five days since the assassination attempt and now Poul has the chance to leave. Since the British Government is not in the case of taking care of his transport, they can move him now discreetly.

    Poul got up from his bed and prepared to leave. He followed the guard that led him to the carriage parked in front of the embassy.

    Before hopping into the carriage, Poul stopped and turned to face Mr. Smith.

    "Mr. Ambassador, thank you for what you did to me. I truly appreciate it," Poul said.

    "It''s nothing, like I said, you are our country''s most important asset. Losing you is a major blow to the country. Oh, to make this trip more reassuring, I have told the British Government that we are nning on moving you in two days, so they are not going to expect you to leave now."

    Poul smiled, gratitude swelling up inside him. "Well, I''ll put a good word on the president that you did a remarkable job of keeping me safe. He might want to promote you."

    Mr. Smith chuckled, waving his hand dismissively. "No, you''ll only bother him. So, once you are in the port, you are to get into a merchant ship. The British customs officer won''t even "bat an eye. They have been informed that the ship is carrying a cargo of textiles from our country, and they won''t suspect a thing. The ship''s captain has been briefed and is aware of the situation, so you''ll be in good hands."

    Poul nodded, acknowledging the careful nning that had gone into his escape. He felt a mixture of relief and anticipation, knowing that soon he would be leaving the dangers behind and getting his life back again.

    As he stepped into the carriage, he swept the curtain to the side and waved his hand to bid a final farewell to Mr. Smith. The ambassador stood there, his expression a mix of pride and concern as if he understood the weight of the task Poul was about to undertake. Poul held onto that image in his mind, knowing that he carried the hopes and trust of his nation with him.

    The carriage set off, its wheels rolling along the cobbled streets of the city. Poul leaned back against the plush seat, feeling a sense of surrealism wash over him. It seemed like just yesterday he was entrenched in the midst of a dangerous conspiracy, and now he was on the verge of leaving it all behind.

    As the carriage journeyed towards the port, Poul''s mind wandered back to the events that had led him here. Truly, bringing Sara to the United States would result in this, but since everything ising to an end now, he can remove those thoughts from his mind.

    Twenty minutester, the carriage arrived at the port. The coachman jumped off and opened the door for Poul.

    Poul Nielsen climbed down the steps of the carriage, taking in the sights and sounds of the bustling port. The air was thick with the scent of saltwater and the mor of sailors and dockworkers going about their tasks. He adjusted his hat, pulling it lower to shield his face, knowing that anonymity was his greatest ally now.

    Guided by the guard, Poul made his way toward the designated merchant ship. It''s towering masts and sturdy hull stood out among the other vessels, a silent promise of escape and a return to his past life.

    The ship''s crew greeted Poul with nods and smiles, recognizing him as the special cargo they had been entrusted with. They showed him to his cabin, a modest butfortable space that would serve as his sanctuary during the journey. Poul appreciated the simplicity of it.

    "Well, it seems like the British didn''t really know that I''m leaving London. That''s a shame, I thought there was someone watching me. Or is it my imagination," Poul mumbled as he jumped to the bed, feeling the cool sea breeze on his face from the open windows. The ship''s engines roared to life, vibrating beneath his feet as it began to move. Poul watched as the shore grew smaller and smaller, disappearing into the horizon. <novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "That was easy," hemented.

    ***

    A dayter, at the United States Embassy in London, the royal carriage carrying the Crown Prince stepped off the carriage and burst his way through the embassy.

    His face fumed with anger as he made his way to Mr. Smith''s office. The ambassador, taken aback by the sudden intrusion, rose from his chair, his expression a mix of surprise and concern.

    "Crown Prince Alexander," Mr. Smith greeted, regaining hisposure. "What brings you here with such urgency?"

    The Crown Prince mmed his hand on the desk, his voice filled with frustration. "I demand answers, Ambassador! Where is Poul Nielsen? He was under your protection, and now he''s gone? I thought you are to transport him in two days? Why the hell did he leave yesterday?"

    "Well, Crown Prince Alexander, please calm down first and take a seat," Mr. Smith said, gesturing to a chair.

    But Crown Prince Alexander was in no mood to calm down. He paced the room, his frustration boiling over. "Don''t tell me to calm down! You fooled us. I thought we are in a mutual understanding, but what you just did is a betrayal of trust! You jeopardize the rtionship between your country and mine. Exin yourself, Ambassador!"

    Mr. Smith maintained hisposed demeanor, understanding the Crown Prince''s anger. He spoke firmly but respectfully, trying to defuse the situation. "Crown Prince Alexander, I assure you that everything we did was to ensure Mr. Nielsen''s safety. The decision to expedite his departure was made to minimize the risk of further attacks and ensure a sessful escape from the conspirators. We believed it was in his best interest to depart earlier than nned."

    "And why didn''t you tell me that?"

    "Because we are under the impression that the British Empire has something to do with the failed assassination attempt on Mr. Nielsen''s life."

    "What?!" The Crown Prince eximed exasperatedly. "That''s a serious allegation you are making, Ambassador. Do you have any evidence to support such ims?"

    "We don''t but it''s better safe than sorry, am I right?" Mr. Smith replied, his tone steady. "We have been working on gathering more evidence to substantiate our suspicions. I understand that this situation has put a strain on our nations'' rtionship, but we acted in what we believed to be the best interests of both countries. Our priority was Mr. Nielsen''s safety. Isn''t that right? You gave your word on him that Mr. Nielsen is going to be safe, and now he is on his way to the United States, shouldn''t we be celebrating?"

    The Crown Prince clicked his tongue in frustration, the Ambassador got him. "Yeah¡­you are right, if Mr. Nielsen is in safe hands, then there''s nothing to worry about. I''m sorry for barging into your office, Mr. Ambassador. That was unnecessary of me," the Crown Prince admitted, his anger subsiding slightly."

    "There''s no need to apologize, Your Highness. Now, if there''s nothing else I''ll return to my work."

 Chapter 242 The Return

    ?

    Seven days had passed since Poul''s departure from the shores of the British Empire, and now, as he stepped foot on the hallowed grounds of the Port of New York, a wave of emotions washed over him. The familiar hustle and bustle of the city, the vibrant energy in the air, and the old buildings embraced him like a long-lost friend. It was a feeling of belonging, a sense of homing that wrapped around him, easing the weariness of his journey.

    "Poul!" He heard someone calling from afar, Poul''s gaze flickered at the source of the voice and there he saw a familiar figure. It was Jonathan and Morgan, waving their hands and tipping their hats.

    Poul tipped his hat and waved his hands in return before walking towards them.

    "Poul!" Jonathan eximed. "It''s good to have you back buddy," he embraced.

    Poul wrapped his arms around Jonathan, feeling a surge of gratitude for their unwavering friendship. "Thank you, my friend," Poul replied, his voice tinged with genuine appreciation. "It''s been too long, and I''ve missed you both."

    Morgan, always the reserved one, nodded warmly and extended his hand toward Poul. "Wee back, Poul. We''ve been eagerly awaiting your return," he said, a touch of nostalgia in his voice. "You have a lot of work to do as we have made a lot of deals with the President to get you out."

    "Yeah, I have heard. So you are developing a lot of weapons now eh?" Poul asked.

    "That''s right, the United States wanted thousands of them to be made within the end of the year. We literally have a lot of things to do, we also have to deal with the uing bid for the World''s Fair in Ohio."

    "How is the reception of the public?" Poul asked if he''d been wanting to know the reaction of the public about the scandal that he was involved with.

    "Well, there are mixed reactions, some hated your guts while others didn''t simply care at all. But you are hailed as one of the geniuses in the United States and they considered you more important than the Princess of the British Empire so you are pretty much in a go."

    "Is that so?" Poul chuckled. "That''s good, I was considering stepping down as the CEO of thepany to save face if the reaction were hostile¡­"

    "Oh don''t overreact Poul," Jonathan patted him on the back and reassured him with a friendly smile. "You''re far too valuable to thispany and our partnership. Besides, we''ve weathered storms before, and this will be no different. The world can be fickle, but true talent and ingenuity will always shine through, especially in this era."

    "So, our team in Paris, are they returning?"

    "They''ll return tomorrow, along with Sara, Caroline, Amelia, and the engineers that were brought along," Jonathan answered.

    "What about the reaction of the British Empire? Did they say something about me returning to the country?"

    "They are pissed," Morgan interjected. "I got a call from the President, telling me the story of the Crown Prince barging into the office of Mr. Smith in his Embassy. It can be inferred from that that they are involved with your assassination. Also, even though you got free from their reigns, they dered you persona non grata. Our branches there, specifically the air brakes, were boycotted, and the workers faced harassment from the locals. We had no choice but to close our air brake branch there."

    "We should also stop supplying them with AN-M1 rifles right?" Jonathan suggested.

    "Well, I don''t think they are going to like that," Morgan replied. "They may hate you Poul but the weapons you are making are highly sought after. The British Empire relies on our technology for their military forces. Cutting off the supply would definitely make a statement, but it might also escte tensions."

    "So civilian products are boycotted but the military isn''t? That sounded like every politician would do," Poul chuckled. "Well, even if the case is solved for us I still have to issue a statement. I can''t simply return to work as if nothing happened, you know that Morgan."

    "Yup, tomorrow, when your executive secretary arrives, you will be addressing the New York Times and other major news agencies," Morgan confirmed. "For now, let''s celebrate your return. I just know a good bar in New York." <novelsnext></novelsnext>

    Morgan led them to a cozy tavern nestled within a historic brownstone, its dimly lit interior reminiscent of an era gone by. They found a quiet corner table, surrounded by walls adorned with vintage photographs and antique memorabilia.

    "Drinks on me. Order as many as you want, don''t worry about the cost," Morgan said.

    "Thank you, Morgan," Poul replied with a chuckle, settling into thefortable seat. "But let''s not go overboard. A round of drinks to celebrate is more than enough."

    Jonathan nodded in agreement, ncing around the tavern with curiosity. They started ordering their own drinks and drank them the moment they arrived at their table. As they drank their drinks they chatted, discussing business and sharing stories.

    It kept like that for three hours, and Poul is now wasted, his speech bing slurred and his movements unsteady. The effects of the alcohol had caught up with him, and he found it increasingly difficult to maintain hisposure. His friends exchanged concerned nces, realizing that Poul had reached his limit.

    Jonathan leaned in closer, his voice filled with worry.

    "Poul, my friend, I think it''s time we call it a night. You''ve had enough to drink, and it''s clear that you''re too intoxicated to continue."

    Poul let out a boisterousugh, swaying in his seat as he struggled to focus his gaze on Jonathan.

    "Nonsense! I''m just getting started! The night is young, my friends!"

    "Oh this is going to be hard," Jonathan said. "Well Mr. Morgan, I''ll leave Poul under your watch as I call a carriage outside."

    Jonathan rose from his seat, his expression a mix of concern and amusement. He knew that dealing with an intoxicated Poul could be quite a challenge, but he also trusted Morgan''s ability to handle the situation.

    Morgan nodded, acknowledging Jonathan''s decision.

    Understood, Jonathan. I''ll take care of him.

    Jonathan made his way to the entrance of the tavern, where he hailed a passing carriage. Meanwhile, Morgan gged down the bartender and settled their bill, ensuring that everything was taken care of before assisting Poul.

    With a steady hand, Morgan helped Poul out of his seat and onto his feet. Poul swayed unsteadily, his vision blurry, but he managed to lean on Morgan for support. Together, they made their way towards the exit, the dimly lit tavern bing a blur of sights and sounds.

    The cool night air hit Poul''s face, momentarily clearing his mind as he stumbled alongside Morgan. The world around him seemed to sway and spin, making each step a challenging endeavor. Morgan guided Poul''s unsteady movements, carefully leading him toward the waiting carriage.

    Jonathan held open the carriage door, his patience evident as he watched his friends'' slow progress. Morgan gently guided Poul inside, ensuring that he was settledfortably on the seat. As Jonathan closed the door, Poul''s gaze wandered aimlessly, a dazed smile ying on his lips.

    "Thank you, my friends! I owe you guys a big one!" Poul mumbled, his words slurred. He tried to reach out to pat Jonathan''s shoulder, but his hand missed its mark andnded on his own thigh instead.

    The three friends shared a chuckle at Poul''s drunken antics, their bond, and camaraderie unshaken by the evening''s events.

 Chapter 243 Returning To Work

    ?

    Three days had passed since their arrival to New York, now the team stood at the doorstep of their headquarters in Pittsburgh. Poul Nielsen, dressed impably in a sleek ck suit, was greeted by a swarm of eager employees. Their hands fluttered in the air, hoping to catch Poul''s attention and earn his recognition. Poul acknowledged their warm wee and reciprocated the gesture, his expression reflecting gratitude. As one unified entity, Poul and his team strode purposefully toward the main office.

    "Wee back, Mr. Nielsen," the guard stationed at the main entrance eximed, his voice filled with genuine warmth as he swung open the heavy doors.

    "Thank you," Poul responded with a nod, acknowledging the guard''s greeting. With measured steps, he crossed the threshold and entered the building. Inside the reception hall, Beatrice, the dedicated receptionist, couldn''t contain her surprise and delight at the safe return of her esteemed employer. A radiant smile illuminated her face as she witnessed Poul''s arrival.

    "Wee back, Mr. Nielsen," Beatrice said.

    "Thank you," Poul said as he returned a smile.

    Even though Poul is not the only one who returned to Pittsburgh, it felt like Poul is the center of attraction.

    Boarding an elevator, they made their way up and settled into their offices.

    Poul sat in his office chair and leaned back on it. He had missed its familiarfort, and feeling it again made him feel a sense of groundedness and reassurance. The weight of the recent events still lingered in his thoughts, but being back in familiar surroundings offered a brief respite.

    "The employees missed you so much, Poul," Jonathan remarked. "To the point that they didn''t even notice us."

    "That''s true," Amelia added. "By the way, Mr. Nielsen. It is good to have you back working with us."

    "Yeah, there will be a lot of work from this moment forward," Morgan chimed in. "Mr. Nielsen, our efforts on getting you back from the British must not be wasted."

    "Everyone, I want to thank you again for your help and support," Poul said. "Don''t worry, I will work thrice as hard topensate for your dedication and to ensure that our collective efforts yield meaningful results."

    Poul''s voice resonated with sincerity, his gaze meeting each team member''s eyes as he spoke.

    "I''ll be going back to my room Poul," Sara said. "I have to get ready for my shift, I''ll see youter, Poul," she said casually.

    Poul nodded and Sara left the office.

    "Well, I''ll stay here for three days and return to New York and get back to work," Caroline said. "Jonathan, you are going toe with me right?"

    "Of course, the metro station isn''t going to build itself," Jonathan chuckled. "Though technically it can, the team still needs my guidance and direction."

    "Okay, the first order of business everyone, was the World''s fair a sess for ourpany? Did it fulfill its goal of having our name known and our product?"

    Poul asked, shifting the focus back to their overarching objectives.

    Amelia leaned forward, her eyes shining with enthusiasm. "Absolutely, Mr. Nielsen! Our pavilion attracted thousands of visitors, and some investors from other countries are looking forward to having our product sold in their countries. They also expressed their willingness to partner with us. Our presence at the World''s Fair has definitely raised our profile and opened new doors for expansion."

    Poul''s face brightened with satisfaction as he listened to Amelia''s report. "Despite experiencing a small hup due to my scandal, we managed to showcase our innovation and capture the attention of potential investors and coborators. What did they specifically like?"

    "Well, they liked the automobile and the electric appliances," Amelia answered.

    "In that case, we''ll focus on that," Poul said and continued. "Oh, Jonathan, Morgan, you two said that you used our weapon prototype as a bargaining chip to get me out right?"

    "That is right," Jonathan said. "I told you that before, they want it now."<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "Is it possible with our current infrastructure to mass produce those weapons?"

    Jonathan nodded his head. "With small refurbishments and upgrades to our manufacturing facilities, we can certainly ramp up production," Jonathan replied confidently. "We have the expertise and resources to meet the demand. So once it is done, we can get it rolling."

    Poul nodded in agreement. "Excellent. I know you still have a project toplete in New York but our weapon enterprise takes precedence, we don''t want the government to wait for results so I''m thinking that maybe you can focus on our weapon enterprise for six months, and then once everything is going smoothly, you can shift your attention back to the project in New York.

    "I will speak to my associates back in New York and inform them of the change in priorities," Jonathan said.

    "Eh? So¡­Jonathan won''t be staying in New York for a while?" Caroline nced at Jonathan, a mixture of surprise and sadness evident in her eyes.

    "Well, work is work, Caroline. But don''t worry, I''ll get back to you as soon as I''ve settled things here and ensured the weapon enterprise is on track."

    "I understand, Jonathan. You can take as much time as you need to ensure the smooth operation of the weapon enterprise. Besides, you, making a lot of weapons, means I have to ramp up the production of gunpowder. So I''ll be busy too."

    Caroline''s voice held a hint of excitement, knowing that her own role in thepany would be crucial in supporting Jonathan''s endeavors.

    Poul observed their interaction and couldn''t help but smile. His gaze flickered between Caroline to Jonathan, a yful glint appearing in his eyes.

    "You know," Poul said, his voice taking on a mischievous tone, "seeing the two of you work together so seamlessly, it makes me wonder..."

    Caroline raised an eyebrow, her curiosity piqued. "Wonder about what, Poul?"

    Poul leaned forward in his chair, his smile widening. "When are you two going to get married? You already nned for it right?"

    Caroline''s eyes widened in surprise, and Jonathan''s cheeks flushed slightly.

    "Oh, a marriage, huh?" Morgan chimed in, unable to contain his curiosity. "I didn''t know the rtionship between you two has gotten that close. Do inform me of the wedding date, I''ll surely attend."

    Caroline and Jonathan exchanged a nce, their surprise slowly giving way to amusement. Jonathan cleared his throat, finding his voice again.

    "Well, Morgan, we haven''t exactly set a date yet," Jonathan replied, a yful smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "Maybe after finishing the metro station in New York, we''ll have more time to think about it."

    Caroline nodded, her own smile growing wider. "Yes, we want to make sure that everything is done on our end. But rest assured, Morgan, you''ll be the first to know when we set a date."

    Morgan chuckled. "Fine."

    As they were having a joyful conversation, a telephone on Poul''s desk suddenly rang, breaking the pleasant atmosphere in the room. The team''sughter faded, and all eyes turned toward the ringing phone. Poul reached for it and answered the call, his expression shifting to one of focused attention.

    "Who is it? Ah, the media are already here huh? Very well, Beatrice, let them in."

    After that, he hang up the phone and turned to his team, a hint of seriousness in his eyes.

    "It seems the media is already here," Poul informed them. "I''ll be preparing to face the questions and address any concerns they may have. Everyone is dismissed except for Amelia."

 Chapter 244 The Media Arrives

    ?

    As per Poul''s orders, the room quickly emptied, leaving only Amelia by Mr. Nielsen''s side.

    Curiosity sparked within Amelia as she questioned, "Mr. Nielsen, why did you specifically leave me out?"

    A wry smile formed on Mr. Nielsen''s face as he responded, understanding the inquisitiveness behind Amelia''s words. "Well, Amelia, you hold a vital position as my executive secretary, and with the impending storm of media attention that awaits me, I want you by my side. I need your expertise to meticulously prepare me for whatever questions the media might throw at me."

    Amelia''s eyes widened slightly, realizing the weight of the responsibility bestowed upon her. She straightened her posture and nodded, ready to face the challenges ahead. With a shared understanding of their roles in this critical moment,

    "So, Mr. Nielsen, they might ask why youmitted the kidnapping¡­Sorry for using such incriminating words but the point is they''ll certainly ask that. I asked Sara while we are on our way back to New York to get a clear view of the situation. She said that she came with you willingly but the media is not going to believe that."

    "How should I respond then?" Poul asked.

    Amelia took a moment to gather her thoughts, contemting the best approach to navigate this delicate situation. She maintained herposure, ready to provide the expert advice Mr. Nielsen sought.

    "Mr. Nielsen, it''s crucial to establish a narrative that not only defends your actions but also showcases your integrity and the true nature of the circumstances. While it may seem challenging to convince the media, we must focus on presenting apelling story backed by facts."

    "Facts huh? Well, Amelia, let''s say the facts can''t be told to the media as it must be held confidential, that no one can know even you. What should I do?" Poul inquired.

    "Well, Mr. Nielsen, the media is going to get confused. They are going to wonder what rtionship you two have had in the past. ording to some information, Penelope Ascart didn''t travel to the United States until 884. So how are they going to build a narrative?"

    "Amelia, I understand your point, but you have to understand me as well. Our past must be kept in utmost secrecy and it must remain that way at all cost. Is there another way?"

    Amelia paused, absorbing Mr. Nielsen''s words and recognizing the weight of the situation. She understood the importance of maintaining the secrecy surrounding their past, whatever it may entail. With a nod, sheposed herself and continued to offer her expertise.

    "Mr. Nielsen, I fully understand the need for confidentiality, especially when ites to our past. We must tread carefully in order to protect both your reputation and the truth we hold. In light of this, it bes crucial to focus on building a narrative around the present circumstances rather than delving too deeply into the past."

    She leaned forward, her voice earnest. "The media will undoubtedly dig for answers, but we can control the information we provide without disclosing sensitive details. We should emphasize the circumstances that brought you and Sara together in the present. It could be framed as a chance encounter, a shared experience, or even a professional rtionship."

    Amelia met Mr. Nielsen''s eyes, her determination unwavering. "By focusing on the present, we divert attention from the past while still providing a usible exnation for your actions. We can highlight the positive impact you''ve had on Sara''s life and how you''re both working together towards amon goal. This approach allows us to shape the narrative without revealing ssified information orpromising our past."

    Mr. Nielsen leaned back, considering Amelia''s words. "I see, how about I told the media that it was love at first sight?"

    Amelia paused, her brows furrowing slightly as she processed Mr. Nielsen''s suggestion. She understood his desire to protect their past and maintain secrecy, but the idea of iming "love at first sight" could be met with skepticism from the media and the public. She chose her words carefully, wanting to offer a bnced perspective.

    "Mr. Nielsen, while portraying a connection between you and Sara is essential, iming ''love at first sight'' may raise more questions than it answers. The media tends to scrutinize such ims, and they may appear overly romanticized or unbelievable. We need to strike a bnce between authenticity and usibility."

    "This is hard huh?" Poul muttered under his breath. "Well, since Sara is here with us, why don''t we let her join the interview? That way she might be the one to exin? Like you know, reassuring the media that I didn''t force her toe with me."

    Amelia''s eyes brightened with intrigue as Mr. Nielsen suggested involving Sara in the interview. It was a clever approach that could potentially alleviate some of the doubts and misperceptions surrounding their situation. She considered the idea, recognizing the value of having Sara speak directly to the media.

    "Mr. Nielsen, that''s a thoughtful suggestion. Bringing Sara into the equation would provide an opportunity for her to share her perspective and reassure the media about the nature of her involvement. Her presence in the interview would demonstrate her willingness to participate and shed light on the truth behind our actions."

    "So we are in agreement then? We will let Sara participate in the interview."

    "Yes, Mr. Nielsen," Amelia affirmed. "Involving Sara in the interview would be a strategic move to address the media''s concerns and establish a more transparent narrative. Her firsthand ount will lend credibility to our ims and help assuage any doubts surrounding your actions. I will get her here now." <novelsnext></novelsnext>

    With that, Amelia left and went to where Sara was staying. Amelia informed her of the n and Sara agreed.

    The two returned to the office, and inside, they saw the media from the New York Times, The Globe, and The Washington Post gathered, their notepads ready to capture every word and expression.

    Amelia led Sara to a designated area, providing her with a few moments topose herself before facing the journalists. She reminded her of the key points they had discussed and encouraged her to speak from the heart, emphasizing her willingness and the positive impact Mr. Nielsen had on her life.

    As the interviewmenced, the reporters fired questions at Mr. Nielsen, probing into his motivations and the nature of his rtionship with Sara. Mr. Nielsen remained calm andposed, answering tactfully while Amelia stood nearby, ready to provide support if needed.

    After a series of questions, Amelia stepped forward, introducing Sara to the media as someone who could shed light on their unique circumstances. The journalists turned their attention to Sara.

    "Your Highness," One of the reporters mentioned.

    "Indeed I am. I am formerly called Penelope Ascart but in this country, I''m Sara Olsen, a nurse working in the clinic. And I would like to assure you that Mr. Nielsen didn''t force nor kidnap me. I came here in my own volition and with a purpose."

    "In that case, Ms. Olsen. Can we at least know why?"

    "No," Sara firmly rejected. "That is the only thing that you should know."

    Poul and Amelia nced at Sara with a surprised expressions. The tactic that she used was unexpected, but Amelia quickly realized the significance of Sara''s response. It was a calcted move to redirect the narrative, leaving the media intrigued and hungry for more information while maintaining the confidentiality they desired.

    Amelia stepped forward, her voice steady andposed. "Gentlemen, I understand your curiosity, but we must respect Sara''s wishes. The purpose of this interview is to shed light on the present circumstances and if Ms. Olsen assured that she wasn''t forced, then there''s nothing to warrant further spection or probing into her personal motivations. Why don''t we talk about the sess of Axelsen and Nielsen Company at the World''s Fair?"

    Amelia shifted the focus of the conversation smoothly, redirecting the journalists'' attention away from Sara''s refusal to disclose her reasons. She knew that discussing the achievements of thepany would not only distract the media but also showcase Mr. Nielsen''s professional aplishments, further cementing his reputation as a sessful entrepreneur.

    The reporters, intrigued by Amelia''s suggestion, began to steer the conversation toward thepany''s recent achievements. Mr. Nielsen, now more at ease with the direction of the interview, confidently discussed the groundbreaking technologies that Axelsen and Nielsen Company had unveiled at the World''s Fair.

    He eloquently described the impact these advancements would have on various industries and emphasized their significance to the country''s economy and prestige.

    After two hours, the interview ended with Poul, Amelia, and Sara heaving a huge sigh of relief.

    "That was good, Amelia. Thank you."

    "I''m simply doing my work, Mr. Nielsen," Amelia said.

    "Stop humbling yourself, Amelia. You saved us. If you have any request, I''ll grant it, be it anything," Poul offered.

    "Thank you, Mr. Nielsen. In that case, I''ll return to you once I have decided on something."

    Poul nodded and grabbed Sara''s hand, caressing it. "You did a great job too, Sara."

    Sara smiled tenderly, and Amelia couldn''t help but feel a twinge of jealousy. Well, maybe it''s time for her to let go of that feeling as Poul already loved someone.

    "I''ll be leaving you two alone, Mr. Nielsen, Ms. Olsen," Amelia bowed her head.

 Chapter 245 The Grand Opening Of The Metro Station

    Two yearster, on a crisp autumn day in 891, the bustling metropolis of New York City buzzed with anticipation as a grand ceremony unfolded at the heart of the city. The New York Board of Transportation had meticulously organized the inauguration of the first-ever subway station, a testament to the relentless progress of modern engineering.

    Amidst the dignitaries and esteemed guests in attendance, including the President of the United States and the Councilors of the New York Board of Transportation, two figures stood prominently at the forefront. Jonathan Axelsen, the visionary maverick in civil engineering, and Poul Nielsen, an engineer who built the first functioning and efficient electric lotive, were the masterminds behind this monumental achievement. Their names echoed with reverence in the conversations of the crowds gathered around them.

    Poul and Jonathan exchanged nces at one another and smiled.

    "With this, I guess you can have your marriage now with Caroline," Poul said teasingly.

    "Yeah, maybe," Jonathan replied, chuckling. "Speaking of which, where is she? She is supposed to be here."

    As soon as he uttered those words, Jonathan''s eyes widened, and a surge of anticipation filled his chest. His gaze wandered through the crowd until he caught sight of Caroline emerging from the sea of onlookers. She glided towards him, her presence illuminating the grandeur of the asion.

    Caroline donned an exquisite ensemble that epitomized the elegance of the 1890s. Her gown, crafted from rich, deep blue satin, hugged her figure gracefully before flowing into a sweeping skirt that grazed the ground. Intricatece adorned the high cor of her dress, entuating her delicate features. A wide-brimmed hat adorned with feathers nestled atop her golden curls, framing her radiant face.

    As Caroline drew closer, her eyes met Jonathan''s, and a radiant smile curved her lips.

    Jonathan extended his arm, and Caroline gracefully slipped her hand into the crook of his elbow. They exchanged a silent exchange of reassurance, knowing that this was not just a celebration of the subway''s inauguration but also a significant milestone in their journey together.

    "Caroline, you look absolutely stunning," Jonathan whispered, his voice filled with admiration.

    She blushed, her cheeks turning a delicate shade of pink. "Thank you, my dear. And you, Jonathan, have truly outdone yourself. This moment, this achievement¡ªit''s awe-inspiring."

    He smiled, pride and affection illuminating his eyes. "None of this would have been possible without you by my side, Caroline."

    "Oh you are so silly, I didn''t do anything in your project, if anything else, it must be your partner here, Poul. Speaking of which, how are you, Poul?" Caroline flickered her gaze over to Poul, acknowledging his crucial role in the construction of the metro station.

    Poul, his own gaze filled with warmth, stepped forward. "Caroline, you underestimate your influence. You are the reason why Jonathan is rushing the construction of the metro station so that you two can be together."

    Caroline giggled. "Is that so? Then I''m

    d to have yed a part in this monumental endeavor," she replied yfully.

    As they exchanged lighthearted banter, a distinguished gentleman approached them, dressed in a tailored suit adorned with a golden pin representing the New York Board of Transportation. He was one of the attendants of the councilors, responsible for overseeing the smooth execution of the ceremony.

    "Mr. Axelsen, Mr. Nielsen, we would like to invite both of you to the podium," the attendant announced with a respectful nod. "The councilors would like you to address the esteemed guests and share a few words about your remarkable achievement."

    Jonathan and Poul exchanged a brief nce, their expressions a mix of surprise and excitement. They had anticipated being recognized, but the opportunity to address such a prestigious gathering was an honor beyond their expectations.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    With Caroline still by his side, Jonathan straightened his posture, his eyes gleaming with a newfound resolve. Poul, standing tall next to him, wore a confident smile that mirrored Jonathan''s determination.

    As they reached the podium, the guests hushed and settled into their seats. Jonathan stepped forward and gave his speech.

    "Four years ago, I had a vision that one day in New York, there would be an efficient mode of transportation that would revolutionize the way people travel. Today, that vision bes a reality with the inauguration of this subway station. This project has been abor of love, driven by the collective efforts of a dedicated team of engineers,borers, and visionaries who believed in the transformative power of modern engineering. Together, we have constructed awork of tunnels that will connect neighborhoods, bridge distances, and bring our great city closer than ever before.

    This subway station represents more than just a physical structure; it symbolizes progress, innovation, and the boundless possibilities that lie ahead. It is a testament to ourmitment to shaping the future, to making our city more essible, efficient, and vibrant. With this milestone, we embark on a new era of transportation, opening doors to opportunities, creating connections, and enhancing the lives of countless individuals.

    But our work does not end here. This is just the beginning. As we stand here today, let us remember that the future holds countless challenges and opportunities. Let us continue pushing boundaries, embracing innovation, and striving for excellence. Together, we can build a city that thrives on progress and leaves asting legacy for generations toe. The future is bright, and together, we can achieve greatness."

    After his speech, the guests pped their hands, the sound resonating through the air with thunderous apuse.

    Poul, who was watching Jonathan from behind, pped as well, his eyes scanning the crowds and looking for someone familiar. There he saw Amelia, Morgan, and some famous industrialists in the United States.

    "Poul, do you want to share a few words with the guest?" Jonathan asked, beckoning him toe forward.

    Poul waved his hand dismissively. "Well, you pretty much have said everything that I wanted to say, so there''s no need. In exchange, I''ll be the one to cut the inauguration ribbon," Poul replied, a mischievous glint in his eyes.

    Jonathan chuckled, knowing Poul''s aversion to public speaking. "Fair enough, my friend. I''ll dly take the spotlight while you handle the ribbon-cutting duties."

    As the ceremony went on, with Poul and Jonathan having a chat with the high-ranking guests of the ceremony, the time for ribbon-cutting arrived.

    Poul, who was given a scissor, was beckoned toe forward. Heplied, and he stood next to Jonathan, the President of the United States, and the councilors from the New York Board of Transportation.

    Despite his past scandal, Poul noticed that it wasn''t being brought up. Must be because it was overshadowed by his aplishments and contribution to the country.

    Poul snipped the ribbon with precision, marking the official opening of the subway station. The subway station will have twenty stations running along Manhattan and connecting various neighborhoods, allowingmuters to travel swiftly and conveniently across the city.

    As the ribbon fell to the ground, the crowd erupted into apuse, their excitement reverberating through the air. Poul stepped back, a sense of pride swelling within him. He had yed a crucial role in the creation of this marvel, and seeing ite to life brought profound satisfaction.

    After that, Morgan approached Poul.

    "Poul, the President of the United States and the Secretary of Navy wants to speak with you and your partner. Have you prepared everything they want to see?" Morgan asked.

    "Morgan, don''t worry,ter in the hotel, I will unveil to them what we have been working on," Poul smiled.

 Chapter 246 New Proposal

    ?

    The Metro Station of New York started operating as soon as it opened. Thousands of passengers flooded the first station, making it the epicenter of bustling activity and excitement. Commuters from all walks of life descended into the underground depths, eager to experience the modern marvel that promised to revolutionize their daily journeys.

    The air inside the station hummed with anticipation as the sound of trains approaching reverberated through the tunnels. The tform was a vibrant tapestry of diverse faces, reflecting the rich tapestry of New York City itself. People of different backgrounds, cultures, and aspirations stood side by side.

    As the train doors slid open, a rush of cool air greeted the passengers, thanks to its air-conditioning The interior of the train gleamed with polished surfaces, adorned with intricate details andfortable seating arrangements. Passengers found their ces, settling into plush seats and holding onto the sleek handrails as the train embarked on its journey.

    The subway train departed from the station, gliding smoothly along the tracks. The passengers marveled at the speed and efficiency with which the cityscape transformed outside their windows. Buildings, parks, and neighborhoods shed by in a blur.

    No longer do they have to deal with the ck smoke emitted by the steam lotive as the train used in the metro station is a new one, an electric lotive. The absence of the ck smoke emitted by steam lotives was a breath of fresh air, both literally and figuratively. The electric lotive powering the subway train propelled it forward silently, its clean and efficient operation leaving no trace of pollution in its wake.

    Not only that, they no longer have to bear the smell of the streets outside as the windows used in the electric lotive were designed to be soundproof and tightly sealed, effectively isting the passengers from the noise and odors of the bustling city streets outside.

    In its five hours of operation, the metro station has amodated almost twenty thousand passengers, a testament to the immediate impact and poprity of this new mode of transportation.

    The ones who made it possible were now partying in the Astoria Hotel on Fifth Avenue.

    Inside the ballroom, the atmosphere was alive with celebration. Jonathan, Poul, Morgan, Caroline, and along with their dedicated team of engineers and visionaries, were surrounded by colleagues, city officials, and influential figures who had supported their endeavor from the beginning. The clinking of sses and the joyous chatter filled the air as they toasted to the sess of the Metro Station of New York.

    "Congrattions on the sess of your project, Mr. Nielsen," one woman in her mid-twenties approached Poul.

    Poul recognized her immediately, it was Fiora Whitney, the one who was shunned due to his background and race.

    "Oh, Ms. Whitney, a pleasure to see you again. It''s quite a surprise that I will find you here."

    "Well, Mr. Nielsen, I know that we have a bitter past, but please let us not dwell on it tonight," Fiora Whitney said, her voiceced with a hint of sincerity. You see, my father has quite taken an interest in the electric lotive that you invented. And he believed that it will be the future of urban transportation due to its efficiency and cost-effectiveness. He would like to explore the possibility of investing in your project and supporting its further development."

    Poul sipped his ss of wine before answering. "Well, Ms. Whitney, there''s a lot of people who are expressing their interest in it so your father will have to line up like everyone else."

    "Are you still bitter because of that scene?" Fiora asked.

    "Nope, it''s just that there''s someone who approached me first. In business, personal rtionships should not cloud judgment," Poul replied, his tone polite yet firm. "I believe in fair opportunities, and I would be happy to discuss the potential investment with your father."

    As they spoke, one of the attendants approached Poul and whispered to his ears.

    "Oh, Ms. Whitneys, it seems like I have a meeting to attend. I''ll leave you be, please enjoy the evening and feel free to mingle with our guests," Poul said with a polite smile. He excused himself from the conversation and followed the attendant to a secluded corner of the ballroom.

    "Is everyone already present in the room?" Poul asked.

    "Yes sir, you are the only one they are waiting for," the attendant replied respectfully.

    Poul took a deep breath, preparing himself for the urgency of the situation. He entered a small meeting room where several high-ranking officials were gathered around arge conference table.

    "Thank you all for waiting," Poul said, taking his seat at the head of the table. "I apologize for the dy. As you can see, I have to wee the guests. Mr. President, Mr. Secretary of the United States Navy, Mr. Morgan. We will now start the proposal."

    With a flick of the finger, a person entered the meeting room. They looked at the person who came inside and saw that it was Jonathan, pushing a cart with a model scale ship resting atop it.

    The Secretary of the Navy and the President of the United States rose to their feet, their eyes widening.

    "Would you look at that!" The Secretary of the Navy eximed, his eyes widening with awe. "Is this what I think it is?"

    Jonathan beamed with pride as he positioned the model scale ship in the center of the table. "Gentlemen, what you see before you are the future of naval warfare, battleships."

    The Secretary of the Navy looked closer at the scale model and caressed its intricate details with a sense of admiration. "This is truly remarkable, Jonathan," he remarked, his voice filled with genuine appreciation.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "Mr. President, Mr. Secretary. As you can see, the ships of foreign countries are constantly adapting, they are transitioning from irond to dreadnoughts. But this ship of ours takes naval warfare to an entirely new level. Powered by eight water-tube boilers, this battleship can achieve speeds of up to 33 knots, making it faster and more maneuverable than any other battleship in existence," Jonathan exined, his voice filled with pride.

    He continued, pointing out the features of the model. "The ship''s main armament consists of nine 16-inch guns, capable ofunching devastating shells over incredible distances. These guns are housed in three turrets, each capable of firing independently

    to maximize the ship''s firepower. The armor protection of the battleship is also unparalleled, with thickyers of hardened steel covering vital areas, ensuring its survivability inbat situations."

    "The fire control systems onboard this battleship are state-of-the-art," Jonathan continued, his voice brimming with enthusiasm. "We have implemented advanced rangefinders, optical telescopes, and improvedmunication systems, allowing for precise target acquisition and coordination between different parts of the ship. Last but not least is an experimental device we call radar. It''s a type of technology that uses radio waves to detect and track objects, including enemy ships."

    "Radar?" The Secretary of Navy tilted his head to the side, unfamiliar with the term.

    "Well, consider it the eye of the battleship," Jonathan exined. "Radar allows us to detect and track enemy ships even in low visibility conditions, such as fog or darkness. With this technology, our battleship will have a significant advantage in situational awareness and the ability to effectively engage and neutralize threats before they be a danger."

    The President leaned forward, his gaze fixed on Jonathan. "This radar technology sounds groundbreaking, Jonathan. Can you provide more details on how it works?"

    "I think Poul would be the one who could exin the workings of the radar in a simpler manner," Jonathan replied, giving Poul a nod of encouragement.

    "Gentlemen, radar works by emitting radio waves and then receiving the reflections or echoes of those waves when they bounce off objects in their path. In the case of naval warfare, our battleship will have a radar system that sends out radio waves in all directions, continuously scanning the surrounding area. Speaking of radio, we are also nning on introducing a new type of prototype we are working on. Wirelessmunication. As you know everyone, our telegraphs still use cables, even in our telephones. If the enemy were to cut off the line, we are virtually cut off frommunication. With wirelessmunication, we can establish awork ofmunication between our troops."

    "Do you have any working prototype that we can see?" The President asked.

    "Well, we have one back in Pittsburgh, do you want us to demonstrate it?"

    "Yes, if you can, do it in the White House. Also, about the ship, it sounds too good to be true, can it be built though? Looking at the appearance, it seems that it ispletely made of metal. What is the estimated weight of that thing once built?"

    Poul smiled. "The weight of this ship would be around 48,110 long tons."

    "48,110 long tons?!" The President and the Secretary of the Navy eximed in unison, their eyes widening with astonishment. The sheer magnitude of the weight was difficult toprehend.

    Poul nodded, understanding their surprise. "Yes, it is a massive vessel, but with advancements in shipbuilding technology and materials, we believe it is feasible to construct such a battleship."

    "Most warships built by other countries couldn''t even reach 10,000 long tons. This is making me wonder how we could possiblypete with a battleship of this size," the Secretary of the Navy admitted his expression a mix of awe and concern.

    Jonathan interjected. "Mr. Secretary, the size and capabilities of this battleship are precisely what will give us the upper hand. It will also be a good psychological weapon, instilling fear and respect in our adversaries. The sheer power and presence of this battleship will deter any potential threats and secure our naval superiority."

    The President leaned back in his chair, deep in thought. "I understand the significance of having a technologically advanced battleship, but we must also consider the cost implications. Building and maintaining such a vessel would require substantial financial resources. Can we afford it?"

    Poul leaned forward, his gaze focused on the President. "Mr. President, I understand your concerns about the cost, and I assure you that we have carefully considered the financial aspects of this project. The initial investment may be substantial, but the long-term benefits and strategic advantages of having a technologically superior battleship outweigh the costs."

    He continued, "Furthermore, we have devised aprehensive n that involves coboration with various industries and government agencies to streamline the production process and minimize expenses. By leveraging our expertise in engineering and harnessing the potential of mass production techniques, we believe we can achieve significant cost reductions withoutpromising the quality and performance of the battleship."

    The President went silent for a moment as he considered the cost. "How long will it take for you to build one if we the Congress were to allocate the necessary funds?" he finally asked.

    Poul paused for a moment, thinking about theplexities of the project. He nced at Jonathan, who nodded in encouragement.

    "Three years, Mr. President. In three years, you will have the strongest battleship on Earth. That I can assure."

    "Don''t worry, Mr. President," Morgan finally interjected. "There will be private investors who would dly support this project as well. The potential for technological advancement, national security, and economic growth thates with building this battleship is immense. We have already received expressions of interest from various individuals and organizations who understand the significance of this endeavor."

    The President leaned back in his chair, his expression contemtive. After a brief moment of silence, he nodded.

    "Very well, gentleman, I will speak to the congress and draft a bill to allocate the necessary funds for the construction of the battleship," the President dered.

 Chapter 247 Seeing Him Again

    ?

    After the meeting with the President and the Secretary of the Navy, they left, leaving Poul, Jonathan, and Morgan alone in the meeting room.

    "Poul, Jonathan, to be honest, I share their reaction," Morgan said. "The battleship that you proposed caught me off guard. Well since the two of you said that you can build it, given your past credentials of building something beyondprehension, I''ll be betting on you."

    "You better be, Mr. Morgan," Poul said, his lips curling to a smile. "Since we will be the one to get the projects means we can exclusively profit from it. The metals that would be used to build the warship will be supplied by our steel manufacturing enterprises, and the electronics system such as the radars and wireless telegram would be produced by our own as well. And to make the matter more favorable to you, the United States is surely going to love the battleship that we have proposed to them."

    "Yeah, I can see the surprise on their faces," Morgan nodded his head. "Well, I''m concerned about the steel enterprise the two of you are running. You are facing Carnegie. You see, he is the one that supplies railroads with tracks, beams for skyscrapers and bridges, and other steel products. You two have beenpeting directly against him since the establishment of your steel enterprise."

    "Yeah but as far as we know he is not doing anything yet," Jonathan said. "Maybe because our market share is not just as big as him to see us as a significant threat. But rest assured, our steel enterprise exists solely to supply our own projects."

    "Are you sure? Because I remember you saying that you n onpeting with Carnegie," Morgan asked.

    Poul and Jonathan exchanged nces.

    "Maybe, steel is a lucrative business after all," Poul said. "Would there be anything else, Mr. Morgan? Because if not, we would like to return to the party to celebrate our sess in constructing the metro station¡­"

    "Sir!"

    Poul was interrupted by the sudden entrance of the attendant to the meeting room.

    "Jesus Christ you startled me," Poul eximed, clutching his chest. "What is it?"

    The attendant''s face was pale, and his voice trembled with urgency. "Sir, I apologize for the interruption, but there is a visitor outside that would like to see you, Mr. Nielsen."

    "Wait, you barged into our meeting room with that?" Jonathan scoffed. "Who is it then? I guess that it is not the President of the United States because we just finished speaking with him earlier. So who might be the person that ranked above him wanting to see Poul?"

    "I can speak for myself, Jonathan, thank you," Poul replied, his curiosity piqued. "Who is this visitor, and why do they want to see me specifically?"

    The attendant took a deep breath to steady himself. "Sir, the visitor is from the British Empire, the new king of the British Empire, King Alexander."

    Upon hearing the name of the visitor, Poul, Jonathan, and Morgan exchanged startled nces. King Alexander, formerly known as Crown Prince Alexander ascended the throne a year ago. Also, he is the person who deeply hated Poul formitting a grave mistake against him.

    "What the heck is he doing here in the United States?" Poul stammered. "What does he want from me?"

    "He didn''t state specifically why he wanted to see you, Mr. Nielsen, but it''s best that you meet with him and find out," the attendant said, his voice filled with concern.

    Poul took a deep breath, trying to steady his nerves. King Alexander''s visit was unexpected and held the potential for confrontation. However, Poul was not one to back down from a challenge. He looked at Jonathan and Morgan, who nodded in silent support.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "Alright," Poul said, his voice firm. "Escort King Alexander to a private room. I will meet with him there."

    The attendant nodded and hurriedly left the room to ry the message. Poul turned to hispanions, a determined look in his eyes.

    "I don''t know what King Alexander''s intentions are, but he won''t be able to do a thing to me while I''m in this country."

    Five minutester, Poul stood in the private room, awaiting King Alexander''s arrival. His mind raced with thoughts of their tumultuous past and the potential challenges thaty ahead.

    The door swung open, and King Alexander entered the room, his regal presence filling the space. Poul noticed a sense of purpose in the king''s demeanor, contrasting with the animosity they had once shared.

    "Your Majesty," Poul greeted respectfully, nodding his head. "I didn''t expect to see you in our grand opening celebration, neither did my country. To what do I owe the honor of your visit."

    King Alexander''s piercing gaze fixed upon Poul, studying him intently. There was a moment of silence as the weight of their shared history hung in the air.

    "Poul Nielsen. I came here to the United States to see the metro station that you were part of building and congratte you for making yet again a momentous achievement," Alexander said sincerely yet there was a subtle hint of a lie beneath it.

    "Is that so, Your Majesty. You could have contacted me if you wanted to see the grand opening, I could have saved you a good seat. But is that what you truly came for? To congratte me? Because I couldn''t imagine you doing that."

    "What''s wrong? Always thinking that I''m out to get you?" King Alexander interrupted with a wry smile, cutting through Poul''s skepticism. "I must admit, our past encounters have been less than pleasant due to you stealing my girl. But that is in the past now as I have found a new woman, better than that treacherous wretch," Alexander said, his voice dripping with disdain.

    "I will suggest that you watch your words very carefully, Your Majesty. You are not in your country so stop acting tough. Though I''m d that you found a woman that would love your obsessive tendencies¡ª"

    The table shattered under King Alexander''s furious blow, abruptly interrupting their tense exchange. A powerful shockwave surged through the room, shaking the furniture and forcing Poul, Jonathan, and Morgan to instinctively step back in surprise. Poul''s eyes narrowed, his own anger simmering beneath the surface, yet he managed to maintain hisposure despite the provocation.

    "I see where this is going," Poul said, a sly smile forming on his lips. "If you are wondering if Sara is okay, I assure you, Your Majesty, she is perfectly fine under my care. I will get back to her now if there''s nothing more to discuss."

    "Wait, Poul," Alexander spoke, his voice dripping with venomous intent. "Just because I have bided my time for the past two years does not mean that I have relinquished my pursuit of revenge. Do not be mistaken, I am still relentless in my quest to make you pay for the pain you caused me. Now, as the King of the British Empire, I am poised to unleash my wrath upon you... for tearing her away from me, toying with my emotions, and reducing me to a pitiful fool."

    Poul''s countenance remained unyielding, his resolve unshaken by the King''s threats. "Merely proiming your kingship alters nothing, Alexander. You are but a puppet, a puppet adorned in regalia and ceremony. However, if you wish to challenge me, I might consider a more formidable position. Perhaps I shall run for President of the United States. After all, the uing election is just around the corner."

    Jonathan and Morgan exchanged startled nces, their eyes wide with disbelief. Poul had just spoken of a bold and audacious endeavor.

    "Yes," Poul continued, his voice resonating with an undeniable aura of power. "I shall run as the President of the United States, and in that arena, we shall truly determine who reigns supreme, who possesses the true power, King or President."

 Chapter 248 Running For Presidency

    ?

    "It seems like there''s nothing more to discuss, Your Majesty," Poul spoke with grace. "You have conveyed your intention and therefore there''s no reason for us to speak for any much longer," he rose to his feet and extended a hand, offering a handshake.

    "I don''t know if a handshake is an appropriate etiquette to end a conversation with the King but, here it is."

    Alexander''s eyes narrowed, his face contorted with a mixture of anger and disbelief. He stared at Poul''s outstretched hand, his mind grappling with conflicting emotions. The audacity of Poul''s gesture seemed to momentarily render the King speechless.

    After a tense moment, Alexander reluctantly extended his hand, gripping Poul''s firmly. Their hands sped together, a subtle sh of wills taking ce within that simple contact.

    "Very well, Poul," Alexander replied through gritted teeth, his voiceced with a barely contained fury. "Congrattions once again, I''ll take my leave."

    With that, King Alexander left the meeting room and everyone inside the room heaved a sigh of relief.

    "So he came here to present himself as a nuisance again huh? Seriously, how long does he intend to keep this charade up," Jonathanmented and continued. "And what''s more, what are you saying Poul? You are running for the presidency? Are you serious?"

    "Well, I haven''t really given much thought about it as I''m pretty much satisfied with the position of my life. However, if Alexander won''t stop hassling me and posing a threat to everything we''ve built, then perhaps running for the presidency is a strategic move," Poul responded. "Besides, running for the presidency is not that far-fetched. You just have to be a United States citizen and must be living in it for 23 years. I don''t know why the age requirement is short but it sure as hell gives me an advantage," Poul said, a hint of determination in his voice.

    Morgan leaned forward, his eyes gleaming with curiosity. "Poul, I understand your motivation but if you only run for the presidency for your self-interest, then I suggest that you reconsider. The position of the President carries immense responsibility, and it should not be pursued solely for personal gain. It requires a genuinemitment to serving the nation and its people."

    "Oh look at you Morgan," Poul scoffed. "Talking about self-interest when you are doing that basically every time. Don''t lecture me onmitment and responsibility."

    "Well, you have a point," Morgan conceded. "But assuming you won the presidency, would that really help you make Alexander disappear? And if it did, what will you do during the rest of the term?"

    "I''ll serve the people," Poul replied as if it was the most obvious thing in the world. His voice carried a resolute determination that echoed through the room. "I may have my own motives, but that doesn''t mean I can''t use my position to make a difference. If I be President, well I might turn this country into the strongest, and most respected nation in the world. President Poul Nielsen, that doesn''t sound bad, in fact, it fits me, do you agree?"

    Poul nced over his shoulder, his eyesnding on Jonathan.

    Jonathan chuckled at Poul''s question, a glimmer of excitement in his eyes. "President Poul Nielsen, huh? It does have a certain ring to it. But I don''t think you will do this easily, you are involved in a big scandal in the British Empire."

    "Jonathan, you are forgetting something, it''s a scandal in the British Empire, not the United States, so that doesn''t count. Also, the people of this country love me, so winning the presidency is not an impossible feat," Poul replied with a confident smile.

    "Well, if you are really considering running as the next President of the United States, you must get moving because there''s only one year left before the presidential election," Morgan interjected. "However, before you embark on the campaign, you must settle our business down first. The weapons for the United States, their battleships, must bepleted."

    Poul nodded in agreement with Morgan''s words. "You''re right, Morgan. We must ensure that the weapons production for the United States remains on track. That also can help me in my campaign. Speaking of which, Mr. Morgan, how to run as a president in this country? I''m sure you know a lot of things about it right?"

    Morgan leaned back in his chair, contemting Poul''s question. He took a moment to collect his thoughts before responding. "Running for the presidency in the United States is no simple task, Poul. It requires careful nning, strategizing, and understanding of the politicalndscape."

    He paused, adjusting his sses as he continued, "To begin with, you will need to officially dere your candidacy by forming an exploratorymittee. Thismittee will help gauge public support and assess the feasibility of your campaign. Once you have gathered enough support and are ready to proceed, you can formally announce your candidacy."<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    Morgan reached for a piece of paper and a pen, scribbling down some key points as he spoke. "Next, you will need to establish a strong campaign team,prising experienced political advisors,munications experts, fundraisers, and grassroots organizers. These individuals will assist you in shaping your campaign message, organizing rallies and public appearances, and coordinating fundraising efforts."

    Poul nodded attentively, absorbing the information. "And what about the primaries? How does one navigate through that process?"

    Morgan smiled, appreciating Poul''s eagerness to learn. "The primaries are a crucial stage in the presidential race. They are held by political parties to determine their respective nominees. In order to secure your party''s nomination, you must participate in debates, engage in public campaigning, and gain support from party delegates through caucuses and primaries held in various states."

    He continued, "Building a strongwork of supporters, establishing rtionships with influential party members, and showcasing your policy positions and leadership qualities are key to winning the primaries. It''s a challenging andpetitive process, but with determination and a well-crafted campaign strategy, sess is possible."

    "Oh I forgot to ask, are you a Republican or a Democrat?" Morgan asked.

    "Independent," Poul answered.

    "Well, that is going to be tough," Morgan remarked, his brows furrowing in thought. "Running as an independent candidate poses its own set of challenges. The two major parties, the Republicans and the Democrats have a stronghold on the politicalndscape. However, it''s not impossible to make an impact as an independent candidate."

    Poul leaned forward, his interest piqued. "Tell me more, Morgan. How can I navigate thisndscape as an independent and make a substantial difference?"

    Morgan took a deep breath, considering his words carefully. "As an independent candidate, you have the advantage of presenting yourself as a non-partisan figure, free from the constraints and baggage of the established parties. This can appeal to voters who are disillusioned with the current political system."

    He continued, "To make a substantial difference, you will need to build a broad coalition of support that transcends party lines. This means reaching out to individuals and groups who share your values and vision for the country. It will require a grassroots movement, engaging withmunities, and listening to their concerns."

    Poul nodded, absorbing the information. "So, instead of relying solely on party structures and endorsements, I need to focus on connecting directly with the people?"

    Morgan smiled, pleased with Poul''s understanding. "Exactly. You must present yourself as a candidate who prioritizes the interests of the people above partisan politics. Develop a strong tform that addresses the pressing issues facing the nation and resonates with a diverse range of voters."

    "I''m surprised that you know a lot of this stuff, Morgan. Surely you are not just a businessman right?"

    Morgan chuckled, his eyes gleaming with a hint of mystery.

    "Indeed, Poul, there is more to me than meets the eye. While I may have a business background, I have always had a keen interest in politics. Over the years, I have closely observed the workings of the politicalndscape, studied the strategies of sessful candidates, and built connections that span different spheres of influence. So, Mr. Nielsen, I''m going to ask you again, do you want to run as President of the United States."

    Poul hummed for a moment, weighing the pros and cons. After a second, he spoke.

    "Yes."

 Chapter 249 Announcement To The Public

    ?

    The evening arrived and the celebration concluded with Poul and Jonathan making a passionate speech about the sess of the metro station and announcing that it would continue to build miracles in the future.

    As the guests left the Astoria Hotel, the industrialist duo retreated to a single room along with Caroline, Morgan, Amelia, and Sara. Confusion filled the air as the threedies wondered why they were in the same room. When Jonathan rose to his feet and faced them, their curiosity turned into anticipation.

    "Ladies, Morgan and I have something important to tell you," Jonathan began. The room fell silent as everyone awaited his revtion. "Poul Nielsen is nning on running for president of the United States in the 892 elections."

    The announcement sent shockwaves through the room. "Poul is running as president?!" Caroline eximed, unable to contain her surprise. "Why?"

    Jonathan cleared his throat and exined, "Well, the reason behind Poul''s decision is the threat posed by the King of the British Empire, Alexander. Our security and safety are at stake, and in order to ensure our peace, we need to be in a position where we can protect ourselves. That''s why Poul Nielsen has made this choice."

    Sara, still trying to process the news, asked, "Wait, Alexander came here? Why weren''t we informed?"

    Poul stepped forward, his voice calm yet resolute. "The reason is simple. There was no need for him to see you. They had no legitimate business with us, and yet they came here unannounced and provoked me."

    Amelia, always insightful, raised an important concern. "But Mr. Nielsen, if I may be candid, you are an Albian. The white poption has historically looked down on the Albians. Won''t that affect your presidential run if you announce it to the public in the future?"

    Poul hummed in thought, acknowledging the validity of Amelia''s point. While Albian people faced discrimination, it was not as pervasive as the marginalization faced by the ckmunity. "The Albians are the natives of thisnd," Poul began, his voice carrying a hint of pride. "Arguably, we are the rightful rulers of thisnd. The Europeans arrived on this continent and exploited my ancestors, who were technologically inferior to them. If it weren''t for that, Avalonia would be dominated by the Albians. Moreover, Albians make up thirty percent of the United States poption. If I can gain their support, I will only need to convince¡­Oh right, I forgot, the United States is an electoral system," he interjected,pleting his thought. "In the electoral system, winning the presidency requires securing a majority of the electoral votes, rather than a specific percentage of the popr vote. Each state has a certain number of electoral votes, and the candidate who wins the popr vote in a state typically receives all of its electoral votes."

    Caroline''s eyes widened with curiosity. "So, does that mean you''ll need to win specific states to secure the presidency?"

    "Wait, Poul, you are serious? You are running for the presidency?" Sara chimed in. "You are not joking?"

    "Do I look like I''m joking, Sara?" Poul asked sternly.

    "Well, it just feels unexpected and sudden. And of course, I support whatever decision you make, but doesn''t it feel too early?"

    "Not ording to the constitution," Poul replied with a determined expression. "The United States is a nation built on the principles of democracy and the rule ofw. The constitution outlines the requirements and procedures for presidential elections, to and I have met all the requirements. Sara, should I win this election there is no need for you to worry about Alexander anymore, as I will be the one more powerful than him."

    "So, you are running for my sake?" Sara asked. "But doesn''t that sound too selfish? You are running for your own interest and not the people?"

    "Morgan has asked me that question to which I have answered it beautifully to the point Morgan approved of my running. He''ll be my main campaign manager," Poul replied, his voice filled with conviction. "But I want you to understand, Sara, that while my personal safety and our collective security are part of the motivation, my primary goal is to serve the people. Earlier, I have thought of the issues the United States is facing right now. Such as the growing wealth gap, the exploitation of workers, and theck of social and economic opportunities for marginalizedmunities," Poul continued. "The current president and the preceding administration have failed to address these pressing issues adequately. Their policies have only served the interests of the wealthy elites, neglecting the needs of themon people."

    "I for one n to change it."

    "That''s too idealistic for you, Poul," Morgan interjected. "You are running as an independent and your chances of winning are very slim."

    Poul looked at Morgan, a hint of determination in his eyes.

    "I understand the challenges, Morgan, but sometimes change requires taking risks. The two-party system has created a politicalndscape that often prioritizes party interests over the needs of the people. By running as an independent, I can offer a fresh perspective, free from the constraints of partisan politics. In fact, in the first ce, the two-party system is what is making the United States divided. Even George Washington, our first president, recognized the dangers of political parties and warned against their divisive influence in his Farewell Address."

    "Well, I ain''t stopping you now, Poul. I''ll back you up," Morgan said.

    "Me too," Caroline stepped in and offered her support. "Let''s get you that title, President Nielsen." <novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "I don''t know about you guys but I''m satisfied with Mr. Nielsen running apany instead of a country," Amelia chuckled. "Well, if that is his decision and he is determined to win and change the country, who am I to stand in his way? I''ll be there to provide any assistance I can."

    Sara looked around at her friends, their unwavering support evident on their faces. She took a deep breath and smiled at Poul. "Alright, Poul, I''m with you too. I believe in you and your vision. If you think running for president is the way to protect us and make a difference, then I''ll stand by your side through it all."

    Poul''s heart swelled with gratitude as he looked at everyone.

    "Thank you, everyone. Your belief in me means everything. Together, we will face whatever challengese our way."

    ***

    Two weekster, at Axelsen & Nielsen headquarters. News agencies from around the country gathered to hear a speech from Poul Nielsen.

    "Ladies and gentlemen, fellow Avalonians,

    Thank you all for being here today, as we embark on a momentous journey together. Today, I stand before you to announce my candidacy for the presidency of the United States.

    This decision did note lightly. It is born out of a deep sense of duty and a genuine desire to serve the Avalonian people. We stand at a critical juncture in our nation''s history, facing challenges that demand bold and decisive action.

    I have built my career as an industrialist, working alongside brilliant minds to create marvels that have transformed lives. But today, Ie before you not just as a businessman, but as a citizen deeplymitted to the principles that underpin our great nation.

    I believe in the power of unity, in the strength thates when we set aside our differences and work towards amon purpose. The United States has always been and of diverse voices and opinions, and it is this diversity that has fueled our progress and innovation. Buttely, we have seen division creep into our national discourse, eroding the very fabric that holds us together.

    It is time for us to rise above party politics ande together as Avalonians. It is time for a new era of leadership that transcends the boundaries of red and blue, and focuses on the greater good of our nation.

    As an independent candidate, I am unencumbered by the constraints of partisan politics. I am beholden only to you, the Avalonian people, and to the values that have made our country a beacon of hope and opportunity.

    Our campaign will be built on three fundamental pirs: prosperity, justice, and unity.

    First, prosperity. The Avalonian dream must be within reach for all. We will build an economy that works for everyone, not just the privileged few. We will invest in education and innovation, creating an environment where every Avalonian has ess to quality jobs and the chance to thrive. Together, we will bridge the wealth gap and ensure that economic growth benefits all, leaving no one behind.

    Second, justice. Injustice has no ce in our society. We will reform our criminal justice system, striving for fairness and equity. We will address systemic racism and discrimination, working towards a future where every Avalonian, regardless of their background, can live without fear or prejudice. We will champion the rights of the marginalized and ensure equal opportunities for all.

    Lastly, unity. We are a nation of diverse backgrounds, cultures, and beliefs. It is our diversity that has shaped us into the strong and resilient nation we are today. We will bridge the divides that separate us, fostering dialogue and understanding. Together, we will restore civility to our public discourse and build bridges that bring us closer, rather than walls that keep us apart.

    But I cannot do this alone. I need your support, your voice, and yourmitment to the ideals that have made our country great. Together, we will write the next chapter of our nation''s history¡ªone of unity, progress, and shared prosperity.

    I call upon every Avalonian to join me on this journey. Democrats, Republicans, Populists, Independents¡ªwe are all Avalonians first and foremost. Let us put aside thebels that divide us ande together as one nation, indivisible.

    Together, we will build a future that our children and grandchildren can be proud of. A future where the Avalonian dream is not just a distant hope, but a reality for all who call this great nation home.

    Thank you, and God bless Avalonian."

 Chapter 250 The Sweeping Start

    ?

    With their decision solidified, the group spent the next few weeks tirelessly preparing for Poul''s presidential campaign. Morgan took charge of the campaign strategy, utilizing his expertise in public rtions and political maneuvering to create aprehensive n. Caroline used her extensivework and charisma to rally support from influential figures across various industries. Amelia contributed her sharp analytical skills, helping Poul develop policies and initiatives that addressed the country''s pressing issues.

    He embarked on a series of town hall meetings and public speeches, crisscrossing the nation to meet with citizens from all walks of life. Poul spoke passionately about the need for change, emphasizing the importance of unity and inclusivity. He listened to the stories and concerns of ordinary Americans, absorbing their experiences and channeling them into his vision for a better future.

    The campaign gained momentum as Poul''s message resonated with the American people. Many were tired of the political status quo and yearned for a leader who genuinely cared about their well-being. Poul''s authenticity andmitment struck a chord, and his poprity surged as more and more citizens rallied behind his cause.

    As the campaign progressed, Poul found himself facing intense scrutiny from political opponents and the media. They questioned hisck of political experience and attempted to undermine his credibility.

    Newspapers became the battleground for public opinion as Poul Nielsen''s presidential campaign gained traction. While some publications recognized his sincerity and fresh perspective, others seized on his Albian background as a means to discredit his candidacy.

    Headlines zed with sensationalism, with articles questioning whether an Albian, a descendant of the original inhabitants of thend, had the right to run the country. Op-ed pieces challenged his qualifications, arguing that hisck of political experience rendered him unfit for the highest office in thend.

    Editors and columnists engaged in fierce debates within the pages of newspapers, often veering into contentious discussions that brought his heritage into question. Some writers perpetuated stereotypes and xenophobic narratives, insinuating that an Albian could never truly understand or represent the diverse interests of the American people.

    Public forums and gatherings served as tforms for passionate debates, wheremunity members expressed their opinions on Poul''s candidacy. While some apuded hismitment to change and inclusivity, others voiced skepticism, casting doubt on his ability to lead based on his Albian heritage.

    Poul faced reporters who sought to undermine his credibility, posing challenging questions about his background and qualifications. Journalists scrutinized his every word, searching for any misstep or vulnerability they could exploit.

    However, Poul refused to be defined by the narrow confines of his critics'' narratives. He engaged in public speeches and interviews, eloquently countering their prejudices and highlighting the shared values that transcend racial and ethnic boundaries.

    "I stand here not as an Albian, but as an Avalonian," Poul dered, his voice resolute and unwavering. "This great nation was built upon the principles of equality and justice for all, and it is those principles that guide my campaign. My heritage does not disqualify me from seeking the presidency; rather, it strengthens my resolve to build a more inclusive and united America."

    Poul''s words resonated with many Americans who had grown tired of divisive rhetoric and were yearning for a leader who embodied the values of unity and empathy. Community gatherings became tforms for dialogue, where Poul engaged in honest and open conversations with citizens from all walks of life.

    But Poul can''t spend most of his time campaigning as he has business to run. Specifically, a demonstration at the White House with the current president, Harrison.

    He brought Amelia with him, with Morgan waiting in the Oval Office with the President of the United States. As their carriages arrived at the main entrance of the White House, Poul and Amelia stepped out onto the grand steps. They were greeted by the President''s staff, who led them through the historic halls adorned with portraits of past leaders, inspiring Poul who imagined his portraits hanging alongside them one day.

    Entering the Oval Office, Poul and Amelia found Morgan engaged in an animated discussion with President Harrison. The atmosphere in the room was charged with tension and urgency. The President''s gaze shifted to Poul, assessing him with a mix of curiosity and skepticism.

    "Poul Nielsen, it''s a pleasure to meet you," President Harrison greeted, extending his hand. Poul shook it firmly, maintaining hisposure.

    "The pleasure is mine, Mr. President," Poul replied respectfully. "Thank you for granting us this opportunity to discuss matters of mutual interest."

    President Harrison motioned for them to take a seat, and the room fell into a brief silence before Poul spoke.

    "So, Mr. Nielsen, first things first, Congress has passed a bill that will allow us to procure the battleship that you proposed to us. The Secretary of the Navy will visit your office anytime soon to award you the contract," President Harrison informed Poul.

    "I can''t wait to work on it, Mr. President," Poul said.

    "Who is thatdy?" Harrison asked as he looked at Amelia.

    "She is my executive secretary," Poul introduced. "Her name is Amelia Weiss. She has been a great asset to mypany and is also doing a lot of work in my campaign," he paused and sighed. "Speaking of campaigns, who could have thought that they''d be so exhausting? You know, traveling around the country, visiting town after town to hear their stories."

    "I can agree with you on that, I still can''t believe that the person I saved from the British ispeting against me for the presidency," President Harrison said sternly.

    Poul chuckled softly, breaking the tension in the room. "Indeed, Mr. President, life has its way of bringing unexpected twists and turns. But I believe it is our sharedmitment to this great nation and its people that truly matters. Ourpetition should be a testament to the strength of our democracy and the power of ideas," he continued. "Also, there is this one candidate that is sweeping some support, his name is Grover Clevnd, what do you know about him?"

    President Harrison leaned back in his chair, considering Poul''s question. "Grover Clevnd," he mused, "he''s certainly been making waves in the politicalndscape. He''s the governor of New York and has gained a reputation for his progressive policies andmitment to reform."<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    Poul nodded, intrigued by the mention of Grover Clevnd. "I''ve been following his campaign as well. It''s clear that he has struck a chord with many Americans. His focus on government ountability and fighting corruption has resonated with people across the country."

    "As much as I''d like to discuss more about Grover Clevnd, I''m afraid there is a specific allotted time for this discussion. So, Mr. Nielsen, I suggest that you start on your demonstration about your wireless telegraph."

    "Very well, Mr. President."

    With a flick of a finger, Poul''s engineer from Pittsburg entered the Oval Office with a wireless telegraph.

    The engineers carefully set up the wireless telegraph in the corner of the Oval Office, ensuring that it was positioned for optimal demonstration.

    Poul rose to his feet and walked over to the machine. "So, Mr. President, as you are aware, the current telegraph that we have in this world is wired. Therefore limiting the range and essibility ofmunication. However, this wireless telegraph," Poul exined, gesturing toward the device, "has the potential to revolutionizemunication by allowing messages to be transmitted over long distances without the need for physical wires."

    President Harrison leaned forward, his interest piqued. "That sounds remarkable, Mr. Nielsen. Please proceed with the demonstration."

    Poul nodded and turned to his engineer. "Could you please prepare a message to be transmitted?"

    The engineer quickly typed a short message on a nearby device, and within seconds, the wireless telegraph emitted a series of beeps and clicks, tranting the message into Morse code.

    Poul stepped closer to the telegraph, holding a receiver in his hand. He adjusted the settings, and as the beeps and clicks resonated from the device, the receiver began to pick up the signal, tranting the Morse code back into words. A small printer connected to the receiver printed out the message.

    "Impressive," Morgan and Harrison muttered.

    "How does it workpared to wired telegraph?" Morgan asked.

    Poul smiled, pleased with the positive reaction to the demonstration.

    "The wired telegraph relies on physical wires to transmit signals, which limits its range and requires extensive infrastructure. On the other hand, this wireless telegraph utilizes electromaic waves to transmit messages through the air. It eliminates the need for wires, allowing formunication over much greater distances."

    He paused for a moment, gathering his thoughts before continuing. "The wireless telegraph utilizes electromaic waves to carry the signals. By employing a transmitter to encode messages into electromaic waves and a receiver to capture and decode those waves, we can effectively transmit messages without the need for physical connections."

    "Is there a possibility, let''s say an enemy intercepting the message?" Harrison asked. "If there is, how can we prevent it?"

    "The issue of security in wirelessmunication is indeed a valid concern, Mr. President. While the transmission of messages through electromaic waves does introduce the possibility of interception, there are measures we can take to enhance security." he continued. "Encryption techniques can be employed to encode the messages, ensuring that they can only be deciphered by authorized receivers with the corresponding decryption key. Additionally, we can develop protocols and systems that continuously evolve and adapt to emerging threats, ensuring the utmost security in wirelessmunication."

    "I see, so what about the radio that you speak of? Where is it?"

    "The prototype is still under development but in a month, it''ll be ready," Poul replied confidently.

    "Okay, I''m impressed with the wireless telegraph. That is themunication that will be used by our warships and military right?"

    "That is correct Mr. President."

    "In that case, I have no reason to not go forward with the decision. To what you think is best for our forces, Mr. Nielsen."

    "Thank you, Mr. President."

 Chapter 251 The Prospects

    ?

    After their meeting with the President, Poul sank back into the plush velvet chair of the carriage, letting out a deep sigh of relief. The weight of the momentous asion had finally lifted from his shoulders.

    "Atst, it is done," Poul murmured, his voice tinged with a mix of exhaustion and satisfaction. He turned to Amelia, who sat across from him, her presence aforting reassurance amidst the whirlwind of emotions. "What are your thoughts on the President''s reaction, Amelia?"

    Amelia offered a warm smile, her eyes reflecting a blend of pride and anticipation. "The President seemed pleased, Poul. But now, it''s time to focus on your radio prototype. The real work begins."

    Poul chuckled softly, the sound resonating within the confined space of the carriage. He allowed himself a moment to settle into the embrace of the luxurious surroundings, his gaze drifting upwards to the intricately adorned ceiling.

    As afortable silence descended upon them, Amelia''s inquisitive naturepelled her to voice a question that had been lingering in her mind.

    "Poul," she began hesitantly, "may I inquire about something that has been on my mind? You have already introduced automobiles to the public, haven''t you? Why do we continue to rely on horse-drawn carriages instead?"

    Poul leaned back in his seat, a thoughtful expression crossing his face. He understood the curiosity behind Amelia''s query, and the desire to embrace the marvels of modern technology.

    "Ah, Amelia," Poul began, his voice filled with wisdom, "the reasons are multifaceted. While it is true that automobiles have been unveiled, we must consider the intricate web of infrastructures required to support them effectively."

    He gestured towards the window, where the city streets unfolded before them, bustling with carriages and pedestrians alike. "Our current roads are ill-suited for automobiles. The majority remain unpaved, strewn with obstacles that would make for a most ufortable and jarring journey. To traverse such paths would be an arduous undertaking, not to mention theck of adequate maintenance."

    Amelia listened intently, her eyes focused on Poul''s every word. The reality of the challenges involved became increasingly apparent, and she found herself immersed in the intricacies of the transportation dilemma.

    Poul continued, his voice unwavering in its conviction. "Furthermore, there exists an absence of essential amenities. Automobiles rely on a steady supply of fuel, but where would one find a gas station in thesends? They are non-existent, my dear Amelia. To refuel an automobile would prove a daunting task indeed."

    Amelia nodded, her understanding deepening as Poul unveiled theyers ofplexity inherent in their transportationndscape. The allure of progress had momentarily blinded her to the practical realities thaty before them.

    "So, until the infrastructure catches up with the automobile''s demands," Amelia mused, "We shall remain reliant on these elegant carriages that have graced the streets for centuries."

    "Yup, we stick to the traditional one," Poul replied with a hint of resignation in his voice. He nced out the window again, watching as the horse-drawn carriages passed by on the bustling streets of the city. Despite the limitations, Poul knew that their current mode of transportation had its own charm and elegance, allowing him to immerse himself in this time period.

    "While we are on our way back to the train station, Poul, you might want to look at these reports," Amelia said, handing him a pile of documents that she whipped out of nowhere.

    "Eh?" Poul grumbled, casting down a nce at the file of documents. "I''d prefer to listen to the report. I know that you were the one that made it so I won''t waste my time reading all of it."

    Amelia sighed, knowing it would turn out as she expected. "Understand, this report concerns the production of oil mining enterprises. Ever since itsmissioning, our oil mining enterprise has been able to pump crude oil from the ground at an astonishing rate," Amelia said, her voice tinged with excitement. "In fact, thetest numbers show that we have discovered a massive reserve, estimated to be worth millions of barrels."

    "Of course it''s in Texas it''s natural that we would find an oil reserve with that magnitude," Poul interjected, a spark of curiosity reigniting within him. "Does Rockefeller know about this?"

    Amelia''s face turned serious as she corrected herself. "Actually, Poul, Rockefeller doesn''t know about this discovery yet. We have been keeping it under wraps until we can properly assess its potential and develop a strategic n. As you know, Rockefeller is ourpetitor in the oil industry, and revealing this information prematurely could tip the bnce of power."

    Poul leaned forward, his interest piqued. "So, what is our n, Amelia? How do we proceed with this valuable oil reserve?"<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    Poul actually know how to proceed but he wanted to test Amelia''s knowledge and expertise.

    Amelia sensed Poul''s intention and met his gaze with a determined expression.

    "Poul, I believe it is crucial that we handle this discovery with utmost care and strategic foresight," Amelia began, her voice steady and confident. "First and foremost, we need to establish a dedicated team consisting of geologists, engineers, and experts in oil extraction. This team will be responsible for conducting a thorough assessment of the reserve to determine its true potential and devise the most efficient extraction methods."

    Poul nodded, impressed by Amelia''s understanding of the situation. "Excellent, Amelia. And what about the logistical aspects? How do we n to transport and store the extracted oil?"

    Amelia''s eyes sparkled with excitement as she continued. "Given the magnitude of the reserve, it would be prudent to invest in the construction of a pipelinework to transport the crude oil from the extraction site to designated storage facilities. This will require meticulous nning and coboration with engineering firms experienced in pipeline construction."

    Poul leaned back in his seat, a smile ying on his lips. He could see that Amelia had a firm grasp of theplexities in the oil enterprise, which he found all the more impressive. From air break to oil mining, Amelia never failed to satisfy.

    "In the future, a new industry will emerge from the invention that I will bring," Poul stated.

    "Are you talking about the radios, Poul?" Amelia''s brows furrowed in curiosity.

    "Yes, Amelia, radios are just the beginning. With the sessful implementation of radio technology, a whole new industry will emerge, transformingmunication as we know it. Imagine a world where people can connect and share information instantaneously, regardless of distance."

    Amelia''s curiosity grew, and she leaned forward, eager to hear more.

    Poul leaned back in his seat, a thoughtful expression on his face. "The possibilities are endless, Amelia. Radios can revolutionize various sectors, such as broadcasting, telmunications, and even entertainment. I envision a time when radio stations will transmit news, music, and stories directly into people''s homes, providing a wealth of information and entertainment options."

    Radios were not a new concept in thete neenth century, in fact, the precursor to it, the telegraph, has a simr concept of transmitting information over long distances. But the telegraph can only send pulses that are decoded to transmit messages in Morse code. Poul''s vision for the radio went beyond simple code transmission. He aimed to develop a device capable of sending and receiving voice and music, allowing for a more immersive and interactive experience.

    With his expertise in electrical engineering, Poul had the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue his vision of creating a functional radio prototype. He had been working on the concept for quite some time, and it will be done in a month.

    "Uhm¡­Poul, about the oil reserves, you said that the automobile can''t start without gas stations right? Where do automobiles refill gas? Why don''t you build one for a demonstration? You know, show the public that the automobile you invented is efficient and has the potential to rece the traditional horse-drawn carriages."

    "Of course, I have thought of that, Amelia, who do you think I am?" Poul replied. "That project will be handled by Jonathan and Caroline as they are the ones with expertise. Still, good insight."

    As they discussed, there was a banging sound on the ceiling.

    "Mr. Nielsen, we have arrived at the train station," The coachman informed.

    "Thank you, David," Poul replied, grateful for the interruption that brought him back to reality. He straightened his posture and collected his thoughts, ready to step off the carriage. "Let''s finish that radio of ours."

 Chapter 252 The Birth Of Wireless Communication

    ?

    A few weekster, despite Poul being busy with the presidential campaigns, he was still able to y his role in thepany. On the third floor of the main office, a group of engineers surrounded a table, scanning the object that they have been working on for months.

    "So, that is the radio?" One of the engineers muttered, looking at its sleek wooden casing with awe. The radio prototype sat proudly in the center of the table, its design a testament to Poul''s vision and the engineers'' craftsmanship.

    Poul nodded with satisfaction, his eyes fixed on the intricate details of the radio. The polished wood exuded elegance, while the carefully arranged knobs and dials hinted at its functionality. It was apact device, designed to fitfortably on a tabletop or shelf, with a built-in speaker and a small antenna extending from the top.

    "Yes, this is our radio prototype," Poul replied a hint of pride in his voice.

    Amelia leaned forward, her eyes filled with curiosity and excitement. "How does it work, Poul? How can we transmit and receive voices and music through this small device?"

    Poul''s gaze shifted to the engineers, specifically Walter, who exchanged knowing nces. Walter, eager to exin.

    "The radio operates through the use of electromaic waves," he began, gesturing to the variousponents inside the radio. "We have incorporated a receiver that captures radio waves emitted by broadcasting stations. These waves carry encoded audio signals, which the receiver decodes and converts into audible sound through the built-in speaker."

    Walter pointed to the antenna, exining its crucial role. "The antenna acts as the interface between the radio waves in the air and the receiver. It captures the electromaic waves and directs them to the receiver for processing."

    "It would be easier to demonstrate it rather than simply describing it," Poul interjected, a mischievous twinkle in his eyes. He walked over to a nearby table and picked up a microphone, which he had conveniently brought along.

    "Amelia, would you be so kind as to speak into this microphone?" Poul requested with a yful smile.

    Amelia looked slightly perplexed butplied, holding the microphone close to her lips. "Testing, one, two, three," she spoke into the microphone, her voice reverberating through the room.

    Poul walked back to the radio prototype and adjusted the knobs, tuning it to a specific frequency. Suddenly, Amelia''s voice filled the airwaves, emanating from the radio''s speaker with remarkable rity.

    Amelia''s eyes widened in amazement as she heard her own voice echoing from the radio. "Poul, it''s incredible! My voice is traveling through the air and being received by the radio!"

    Poul chuckled, delighted by Amelia''s reaction. "Indeed, Amelia."

    Poul leaned closer to the radio, pointing at the receiver. "Inside the receiver, we have electronic circuits that are designed to detect and extract the encoded audio signals from the radio waves. These signals are then converted into electrical currents that can be amplified and transformed into sound waves, which we hear through the speaker."

    Amelia nodded, beginning to grasp the concept. "So, the radio waves act as carriers of information, and the receiver''s circuits are responsible for extracting and decoding that information. Fascinating, but how does one reach another that is located a great distance, let''s say two thousand kilometers, how do radio waves get to that?"

    Poul smiled, appreciating Amelia''s curiosity. He took a moment to gather his thoughts before responding with scientific and technical details.

    "Ah, the propagation of radio waves over long distances," Poul began. "It''s a remarkable phenomenon, Amelia. Radio waves are a form of electromaic radiation that travels through space at the speed of light. They propagate through the atmosphere, and their behavior can be influenced by various factors."

    He gestured towards the antenna of the radio prototype. "The antenna ys a crucial role in both transmitting and receiving radio waves. When ites to transmitting, the radio station uses a powerful transmitter that generates high-frequency electromaic waves. These waves carry the encoded audio information, and the antenna efficiently radiates them into space."<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    Poul paused, his gaze focused as he continued. "Now, when ites to receiving those signals over long distances, we rely on the principles of wave propagation. Radio waves can be affected by factors such as atmospheric conditions, the curvature of the Earth, and obstacles in their path."

    He moved closer to the table, tracing his finger along the surface. "To reach a destination located thousands of kilometers away, we employ abination of techniques. One of the key methods is called ''skywave propagation'' or ''ionospheric propagation.'' When radio waves encounter the ionosphere, ayer of the Earth''s upper atmosphere, they can be reflected back down to the Earth''s surface."

    Poul raised his hand, signaling the height of the ionosphere. "The ionosphere is present at an altitude of around 80 to 1,000 kilometers above the Earth''s surface. By adjusting the frequency and power of the transmitted radio waves, we can optimize their chances of reaching distant locations through reflection and refraction in the ionosphere."

    He looked at Amelia, his eyes shining with enthusiasm. "Of course, this is a simplified exnation, as the behavior of radio waves can beplex and influenced by various factors. But through careful engineering and understanding of these principles, we can establishmunication links over vast distances."

    Amelia was a bit lulled by the technical details but remained intrigued. She took a moment to absorb the information, contemting the marvels of radio wave propagation. Breaking the silence, she asked.

    "I''m quite understanding it so how will we mass produce this radio and market it?"

    Poul''s smile widened, appreciating Amelia''s practicality and forward-thinking mindset. He walked back to the table, where the engineers had gathered around the radio prototype, and motioned for Amelia to join them.

    "Mass production and marketing, an essential aspect indeed," Poul responded, his voice filled with determination. "To bring this radio to the world, we will need to establish a robust manufacturing process and develop a strategic marketing n. As we all know, people around the world still use telegraphs, especially those that are connected via cable. I''m sure you have seen telegraph pole lines crisscrossing above, ruining the view of thendscapes. Our radio and wireless telegraph has the potential to revolutionizemunication and eliminate the need for these unsightly wires."

    Amelia nodded in agreement. "So we simply highlight that one aspect? Well, this is kind of basic. It will also save potential customers money as they don''t have to build cable infrastructures to establish telegraph connections. We can emphasize the cost-effectiveness of our radio technologypared to the instation and maintenance of extensive telegraph lines. I''ll get to work."

    "Oh, what do we have here?"

    Everyone turned to the sudden visitor, and they recognized the voice, it was Jonathan.

    "Hoh? A radio huh? So you have finished it, Poul?" Jonathan said, looking at Poul.

    "Yup, you just missed the demonstration," Poul chuckled.

    "I see, well I''m going to need your help on our weapon''s enterprise," Jonathan revealed the reason why he was there. "As soon as you finish there, I want you toe down and join me to visit the weapons factory."

    "Actually, I''m technically done here," Poul said. "Amelia, prepare aprehensive and detailed n for starting a new enterprise."

    "What would you like it named, Poul?" Amelia asked, jotting down everything Poul had said.

    Poul has pondered a new name for that enterprise, and based on the nature of the product, it can fall under the Axelsen & Nielsen Electric Manufacturing and Distribution Company. But he wanted it to be a separate entity, where it can focus solely on developing hi-tech wirelessmunication.

    "It''s simple, Axelsen and Nielsen for our signature name and then Radio Manufacturing and Broadcasting Company."

 Chapter 253 A Glimpse To The Headquarters Life Part 1

    ?

    "Before we proceed to the weapon''s factory, there''s someone I need to meet," Poul stated, striding alongside Jonathan.

    Curiosity piqued, Jonathan inquired, "Who might that be?" However, as he observed the path they were taking, realization dawned on him. "Ah, I understand now."

    The pair of industrialists entered the clinic, instantly assailed by the overpowering smell of disinfectant. The nurse who passed by them noticed the founders and paid her respects.

    "Uhm, Mr. Nielsen, Mr. Axelsen. It''s an honor to have you here," the nurse greeted them. "Are you perhaps looking for someone?"

    Poul nodded politely, acknowledging the nurse''s greeting. "Where is Doctor Olsen?"

    Poul''s question caught the nurse off guard for a moment, but she quicklyposed herself and replied, "Dr. Olsen is on her rounds at the moment. She''s on the second floor if you two want to find her."

    Poul thanked the nurse for the information and turned to Jonathan with a nod.

    With that, they made their way to the second floor, climbing up the stairs all the while passing clinic staff.

    As they reached the second-floornding, they found themselves in a quieter area of the clinic.

    A nurse passed by, her eyes widening with recognition. "Mr. Nielsen, Mr. Axelsen," she greeted them. "Are you searching for someone in particr?"

    Poul nodded. "Yes, we''re looking for Dr. Olsen. Have you seen her? The nurses down on the first floor said shest saw her here."

    "Ah¡­Doctor Olsen, she is in room 2116, just down the corridor," the nurse replied, pointing in the direction they needed to go. "She''s conducting a consultation at the moment."

    Poul and Jonathan thanked the nurse and followed her directions, walking briskly down the corridor until they reached room 2116.

    "Why do you want to see Sara anyways?" Jonathan asked, looking at Poul.

    "Well, Sara and I have decided to go on a date tomorrow," Poul revealed. "You see, I have been busy with the campaigns and work in thispany to the point that I don''t even get proper time with Sara. Just like you are with Caroline. It''s a man''s need, and I''m sure you understand that."

    Jonathan chuckled, understanding the sentiment all too well. "I can definitely rte."

    Arriving at the door of room 2116, Poul and Jonathan saw Sara along with the group of nurses surrounding a patient.

    "Mr. Mueller, you suffered injuries for mishandling the acetylene torch," Dr. Olsen exined to the patient. "We are going to need to clean and dress the burns properly to prevent infection."

    "Will I be able to return back to work, doctor?" Mueller asked, concern evident in his voice.

    Dr. Olsen gently rested her hand on Mr. Mueller''s shoulder, offering reassurance. "You will be able to, Mr. Mueller. We will do everything we can to ensure your swift recovery¡­Now, as for you nurses," Olsen turned around, facing the nurses. "I believe you know how to handle this case¡­Burns are one of the most frequent injuries the workers face in thispany."

    The nurses nodded in acknowledgment. They went about their tasks, preparing the necessary medical tools for dressing the wound.

    Meanwhile, Sara noticed Poul and Jonathan standing by the door, and she waved her hand to catch their attention. Poul''s face brightened with a smile as he saw Sara, and he waved back, gesturing for Jonathan to join him.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    Sara excused herself from the group of nurses and approached the doorway where Poul and Jonathan stood. She gave them a warm hug.

    "You two, I didn''t expect you toe here. What brings you here?" Sara asked, looking at the two.

    "Well, it''s simple really, Sara. I wanted to see if you are doing fine. As you may know, all of us have been busy with our line of work. So I was wondering if our date tomorrow is still on," Poul replied with a gentle smile.

    "Of course. I have freed my schedule for tomorrow just for that asion," Sara replied. "Is that all?"

    "Well, it was until I saw your patient. Mind if I enter?" Poul asked.

    "I don''t see the reason why not," Sara stepped aside and gestured for Poul and Jonathan to enter the room.

    Poul and Jonathan stepped into the room, their gazes shifting to Mr. Mueller, who looked up with surprise as the two founders entered.

    "Mr. Nielsen¡­Mr. Axelsen¡­what are you doing here?" Mueller''s eyes widened in disbelief as he recognized thepany''s founders standing before him.

    "I''m curious as to how you ended up here, Mr. Mueller. It''s your name, isn''t it?" Poul raised a brow.

    "It is indeed, Mr. Nielsen."

    "Mind telling us how you ended up here? I believe that every worker that applies to ourpany went through seminars to prevent idents such as this."

    Mr. Mueller shifted ufortably in his hospital bed, his gaze drifting to the bandages covering his burned hands. After a moment of hesitation, he began to speak.

    "Well, you see, gentlemen, I''ve been working for yourpany for the past five years," Mr. Mueller started. "I take pride in my job, and I''ve always followed the safety guidelines to the letter. But that day... that day was different."

    Poul and Jonathan leaned in, giving their full attention to Mr. Mueller''s story. They knew that understanding the details of his ident would provide valuable insights into theirpany''s safety practices.

    "I was assigned to a critical welding task," Mr. Mueller continued. "There was an urgent order, and we were pressed for time. I had to use the acetylene torch to weld two heavy metal pieces together."

    He paused, gathering his thoughts, before he went on. "In my haste to meet the deadline, I neglected to perform a routine check on the torch''s equipment. It was a foolish mistake, one that I regret deeply."

    Poul and Jonathan clicked their tongues. Well, idents may happen in their factories. But negligence was something they couldn''t tolerate.

    "Well. Mr. Mueller, I think it''s safe to assume that if you follow the safety guidelines and procedures properly, this incident could have been prevented," Jonathan stated disappointingly. "We have implemented extensive safety protocols and provided training to ensure the well-being of our workers. Neglecting those procedures puts not only yourself at risk but also your fellow colleagues."

    "But we are not here to judge, the safety and the human resource department will review the incident and determine the appropriate course of action based on thepany''s policies and guidelines," Poul added and shifted his gaze to Sara who had been listening to their exchange. "Well, Dr. Olsen, we will leave you as Jonathan and I have to be somewhere."

    "See you tomorrow I guess?" Sara grinned.

    "Yup," Poul confirmed and patted Jonathan on the arm. "Let''s go Jonathan."

 Chapter 254 A Glimpse To The Headquarters Life Part 2

    ?

    Soon after, the industrialist duo arrived at the weapon''s factory, their footsteps echoing through the vast halls. They were immediately greeted by the symphony of machinery, the rhythmic hum of gears turning, and the nking of metal against metal.

    The air was thick with the scent of oil and smoke, mingling with the metallic tang of freshly forged steel. Massive machines towered overhead, their iron frames casting long shadows across the factory floor.

    Amidst the controlled chaos, the workers moved with purpose, their heavy steps synchronized with the rhythmic pulse of the machinery. d in soot-stained aprons and goggles, they operated the intricate contraptions that brought forth instruments of war. Each worker was a cog in this intricate mechanism, their expertise honed through countless hours ofbor.

    Jonathan and Poul navigated through the maze of production lines, their eyes scanning the bustling workers. Sparks flew as molten metal was shaped and molded, giving birth to rifles, pistols, and other deadly instruments of warfare.

    The noise was deafening, with the constant tter of hammers, the rhythmic pounding of presses, and the intermittent sts from the firing range where new prototypes were tested.

    Jonathan and Poul made their way to the heart of the factory, where the engineering team, the minds of the operation, worked tirelessly to innovate and improve upon existing designs.

    The engineers huddled around drafting tables, bent over intricate diagrams, their brows furrowed in deep concentration. Their hands moved with precision, sketching, measuring, and making adjustments.

    "So, what seems to be a problem?" Poul asked.

    Jonathan leaned against a nearby workbench, his eyes fixed on the engineers who were huddled around drafting tables. He took a moment to gather his thoughts.

    "The AN-1" Jonathan began, his voiceced with concern. "We are encountering a technical issues that are hindering its production."

    Poul furrowed his brow, his gaze locked on Jonathan. "What kind of issues are we facing?"

    Jonathan sighed, the weight of responsibility evident in his voice. "We''re grappling with inconsistencies in barrel rifling, which affect the weapon''s uracy and reliability."

    Poul''s eyes widened, his mind grappling with the implications. "Inconsistencies in barrel rifling? That''s a serious concern. How are we addressing it?"

    Jonathan ran a hand through his hair. "My team has been conducting extensive analysis to identify the root cause. We suspect it could be abination of tool wear, material properties, and machining techniques. However, pinpointing the exact source of the issue has proven elusive. I''m at wit''s end here. What''s more, if we fail to deliver two thousand of them to the United States Army, it would affect our reputation and you. That''s why I called you Poul, for your expert opinion."

    Poul nodded, his analytical mind already dissecting the problem. This weapon was the price of his freedom, if a problem was encountered, he must fix it as soon as possible.

    He approached the nearest engineer, who was engrossed in a blueprint spread out before him.

    "May I?" Poul asked, gesturing toward the diagram.

    The engineer, momentarily startled by Poul''s presence, quicklyposed himself and nodded, relinquishing the blueprint. Poul''s eyes scanned the intricate details, his mind working through the dimensions and specifications, seeking any clues that might unveil the source of the rifling inconsistencies.

    After a few moments, Poul handed the blueprint back to the engineer. "What alloys are we using on the barrel?"

    The engineer nced up, surprised by Poul''s question. "We are currently using a high-strength alloy steel, specifically 4140 chromoly steel, for the barrels," he replied, adjusting his goggles.

    Poul furrowed his brow. "And have we analyzed the microstructure of the barrels to ensure uniformity and consistency?"

    Jonathan interjected. "Indeed, we have. We perform meticulous examinations of the microstructure using metallographic techniques. We rely on optical magnification and careful etching of cross-section samples to reveal the grain structure, detect any potential ws or inclusions, and ensure the desired hardness and strength properties."

    "And what was the result?" <novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "The microstructure analysis of the barrels indicated that they possess remarkable uniformity and consistency. The grain structure is well-formed and free from any significant defects or inclusions. This is odd because if the test is showing consistent results, then the issue must lie elsewhere."

    Poul paused for a moment, a thoughtful expression on his face. He nced around the factory, observing the workers and the machinery in motion. Then, he turned to face Jonathan.

    "Jonathan, I believe the issue lies not in the manufacturing process or the materials used, but rather in the machinery itself," Poul stated confidently.

    Jonathan raised an eyebrow. "The machinery?"

    "When you analyzed the microstructure of the barrels and found no significant defects or inconsistencies, it led me to consider the possibility of external factors affecting the rifling process. The machinery responsible for rifling the barrels ys a critical role in shaping the grooves that impart spin to the bullets. If there are any inconsistencies or malfunctions in the machinery, it could result in irregr rifling patterns," Poul exined and continued. "Lead me to one of our rifling machinery."

    Jonathan nodded, recognizing the logic behind Poul''s analysis. He gestured for Poul to follow him as they made their way through the maze of machinery toward one of the rifling stations.

    They reached a massive machine with a metal frame and a series of rotating spindles, specifically designed for rifling the barrels.

    Poul approached the machine, his eyes focused on its intricateponents. He inspected the spindles, checking for any signs of wear or misalignment. His hands ran along the smooth surface, feeling for irregrities or vibrations that could indicate an issue.

    Jonathan watched Poul''s keen examination, his anticipation growing. He knew that Poul''s expertise in machinery and his attention to detail could potentially uncover the root cause of the rifling inconsistencies.

    After a thorough inspection, Poul stepped back and turned to Jonathan with a determined expression. "Jonathan, I believe I''ve found the problem," he said, his voice filled with conviction.

    Jonathan leaned in closer, eager to hear Poul''s findings. "What is it? What''s causing the irregr rifling patterns?"

    Poul pointed towards one of the rotating spindles. "Look closely at this spindle. See how it''s slightly misaligned? The cutting tool is not making consistent contact with the barrel as it rotates, resulting in uneven grooves and variations in the rifling."

    Jonathan squinted, his eyes following Poul''s indication. "Really? But I am not seeing any misalignment."

    "Look closer," Poul urged, pointing to a subtle gap between the cutting tool and the barrel. Jonathan leaned in, his gaze fixed on the area Poul had indicated. As he focused, he could indeed see a slight misalignment in the spindle.

    "How could we have missed that," Jonathan ced a hand over his face in frustration. "It''s like 0.1 millimeters off. How did you see it?"

    "Well, let''s say that I have a clear eye for precision," Poul replied with a hint of a smile. "It''s natural that you and others would have missed it."

    "I was thinking it was a tool wear but we ruled that out. It turns out it was the spindle¡­" Jonathan chuckled. "Now that we know the culprit, we can start the production of the AN-1 Heavy Machine Gun. As for those we have already made, well, it''s a defect so throw that out."

    "Understood," the engineers behind them echoed in unison.

    "I''m going to check the other equipment and machines used for the production of the heavy machine gun to make sure nothing is amiss," Poul announced.

    Jonathan nodded, appreciating Poul''s thoroughness. "Good idea. I''ll gather the team and start working on recalibrating all the rifling machines. If you found something in other machines, let me know."

    Poul raised a thumbs up as he walked away.

 Chapter 255 The Forgotten Enemy

    ?

    A dayter, with the issue in the weapon''s factory now solved, the industrialist duo could finally heave a gigantic sigh of relief. The timely resolution was crucial, especially for Nielsen, as any dy in production would have been problematic.

    Despite the fact that theirpany introduced superior weapons to the Army, they couldn''t deny the awful actmitted by Poul. Consequently, some members of Congress harbored a deep-seated resentment towards him.

    "Jonathan, Amelia, I''ll leave everything to you for now," Poul said, swiftly packing up his belongings.

    "Oh, so you''re heading out now, huh?" Jonathan grinned mischievously. "Well, enjoy your time with Sara."

    Amelia''s brows furrowed in confusion. "Wait... Mr. Nielsen, you''re going out today? With Sara?" she asked, her toneced with surprise. The outing was not mentioned in Poul''s schedule, and the fact that Amelia had no prior knowledge of it indicated that he hadn''t informed her beforehand.

    "Yes, I apologize if I didn''t inform you about it. As you are aware, there was an issue in the weapon''s factory that required my attention, and while dealing with it, I forgot to update my schedule," Poul admitted, a tinge of sheepishness evident in his voice.

    Amelia''s confusion melted into understanding. "It''s alright, Mr. Nielsen. But today we are facing an issue with Mr. Russell."

    "Russell?" Poul repeated. "What about him?"

    "Well, sir, there is this man named William Francis Kemmler who is currently in the custody of the New York Police. ording to the police report, William murdered his wife after a heated argument. He was sentenced to death and the execution is¡­you won''t believe this¡­electrocution."

    Poul and Jonathan''s interest is piqued by Amelia''s revtion.

    "So, what does it have to do with us?" Poul inquired, his voice filled with curiosity and a hint of concern.

    Amelia took a deep breath, gathering her thoughts before continuing. "Well, a man named Southwick Brown from the Capital Punishment Commission proposed the execution of William Kemmler with an alternating current."

    With that, Poul and Jonathan''s attention began to focus on Amelia''s words.

    "Did you say alternating current? That''s our system! If it bes associated with death and executions, it could be a public rtions disaster for our entire electric enterprise," Poul eximed.

    Jonathan chimed in, his voice filled with worry. "You''re right, Poul. And if Russell is involved, then it is one of his other smear campaigns against us. Should we take legal action? Since the electric chair is not yet fully understood by the public, we could argue that it is a vition of the eighth amendment for it being cruel and inhumane punishment."

    Amelia nodded, contemting the options. "Legal action might be an avenue to explore, but we should also consider the broader implications. We don''t want to engage in a lengthy legal battle that could further tarnish our reputation. Instead, we should focus on proactive measures to counter any negative associations."

    "What are you suggesting?" Poul asked.

    "For starters, we need to speak with Mr. Russell. He was the one responsible for suggesting Southwick Brown use our alternating current system."

    "Damn, Russell. He never knows how to give up eh? We beat him and proved that our system is superior," Poul murmured. "Well, Jonathan, you go with Amelia to New York. Speak to him and tell him that we won''t tolerate him using our technology in such a manner without our consent. Make it clear that if he continues down this path, we will not hesitate to take legal action."

    Jonathan nodded in agreement. "Very well. Amelia, we will leave tomorrow. I want this settled immediately."<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "Understood, Mr. Axelsen," Amelia acknowledged and then flickered her gaze to Poul. "What are you going to do, Mr. Nielsen."

    "Hmm," Poul pondered aloud. "I believe that you two can handle it for now. The situation is not that serious to the degree that I have to interrupt my ns. I trust both of you to handle the matterpetently¡­ahh this is sounding like I''m an irresponsible

    leader, isn''t it?" Poul chuckled softly, realizing his unintended implication.

    Amelia and Jonathan exchanged nces before Jonathan spoke up.

    "Poul, in case you forgot, I''m your partner. And you helped me greatly yesterday in the weapons sector. Amelia and I are going to handle it and you deserve this break."

    Amelia nodded, going along with Jonathan.

    Poul''s expression softened as he looked at his trusted partners. He appreciated their understanding and support.

    "Thank you, both of you. It''s just for this day."

    With that, Poul grabbed his jacket and made his way toward the exit. As he waited for the elevator he was riding to reach the ground floor, his mind was preupied with thoughts of the uing day and his ns with Sara. He needed this break to clear his mind. It had been work after work and it had been a while since Poul had taken a day off.

    He trusted hisrades that they would handle the situation with Russell and the potential PR disaster. Jonathan and Amelia werepetent and resourceful, and Poul knew they would do whatever it took to protect theirpany''s reputation.

    As the elevator doors opened, Poul stepped out onto the ground floor and headed towards the main exit. There, he saw a familiar individual. It was Carl Benz.

    "Mr. Nielsen, I have brought you the automobile." Carl Benz said, extending his hand, and pointing towards the parked Duesenberg Model J.

    Poul smiled as he approached Carl Benz and shook his hand. "Thank you, Carl. I appreciate your assistance. The timing couldn''t be more perfect."

    "You seemed rather tense, sir. Did something happen?" Carl asked, sensing the tension in Poul''s demeanor.

    Poul''s smile faded slightly. "Nothing serious, Mr. Benz. Just some business matters that are challenging me and my partner."

    "Well, if you say so, Mr. Nielsen. Please enjoy riding her," Carl replied.

    "Oh I will do just that," Poul nodded, a glimmer of excitement returning to his eyes.

    Meanwhile, Jonathan and Amelia wasted no time in preparing for their meeting with Russell. Amelia called the train station, booking two tickets for the next avable train, and Jonathan packed his things in his bedroom as they needed to leave early the next morning. The urgency of the situation demanded prompt action, and they wanted to be well-prepared for their discussion with Russell.

 Chapter 256 The Date Part 1

    ?

    Nielsen approached the gleaming Duesenberg Model J. He stood beside the powerful automobile, his eyes fixed on the hand crank. With a determined grip, he gave it a swift clockwise turn. The engine roared to life, its growl resonating through the air, as Poul took a step back, a satisfied smile crossing his face.

    There''s a charm in starting an automobile using a crank, giving him nostalgic memories when he was in his original world where his father allowed him to use a vintage car from the 1930s. However, a hand crank can be dangerous, especially when it is not handled properly. Poul knew this all too well, having heard stories of idents caused by the crank kicking back violently, injuring those who attempted to start the engine.

    Sooner orter, he would introduce an electric starter to their future fleet of automobiles, eliminating the need for the hand crank and minimizing the risks associated with it.

    As the engine rumbled with a powerful purr, Poul opened the door and slipped into the plush leather seat of the Duesenberg Model J. The scent of fine craftsmanship and luxury enveloped him, indicating that it was new. He adjusted the mirrors, ensuring perfect visibility, and his hands settledfortably on the steering wheel.

    With a flick of his wrist, Poul engaged the gears, feeling the smooth transmission respond to his touch.

    As Poul drove the Duesenberg Model J into thepany town, he noticed a gathering of workers nearby. They paused their tasks, their eyes drawn to the gleaming automobile. It was clear that for many of them, this was their first encounter with an automobile despite it being built here.

    The people of this era were ustomed to seeing horse-drawn carriages as a form of transportation, but with the arrival of the automobile that he introduced, the perception of transportation was about to be revolutionized.

    Five minutester, Poul steered the Duesenberg Model J toward the clinic. As he brought the car to a graceful halt, he nced towards the entrance and instantly found his gaze drawn to Sara. There she stood, a vision of timeless beauty, her strawberry-blonde hair falling in gentle waves around her shoulders. The sight of her radiant smile and the sparkle in her blue eyes filled his heart with indescribable joy.

    Sara''s presence was a breath of fresh air amidst the bustling town. Her attire, though simple and casual, exuded an understated elegance that enhanced her natural charm. d in a flowing skirt that gracefully swayed with each step, and a crisp white blouse that entuated her delicate features, she possessed an effortless grace that captivated Poul''s attention.

    As Poul stepped out of the car, his eyes locked with Sara''s,

    "Hello," Poul said, chuckling nervously.

    "Hi," Sara replied, ncing over at the vehicle that he brought. "Well¡­well¡­you are using an automobile now? I''m expecting that you''d pick me up here with a horse-drawn carriage."

    Poul chuckled, his nerves easing as he met Sara''s teasing gaze. "I must admit, a horse-drawn carriage would have been more fitting for the setting, but I couldn''t resist the allure of this magnificent automobile. I mean look at it, granted it would have been ssy and romantic, but this car, it just has a different feel to it."

    Sara''sughter rang out melodiously, a sound that warmed Poul''s heart. "You always have a way of surprising me, Poul," she said, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "I suppose a ride in this car will be an adventure in itself. By the way Poul, I made some sandwiches that we will be eating wherever you''ll take me."

    Sara raised the pic basket with a warm smile, revealing a carefully prepared selection of sandwiches and a bottle of chilled lemonade. Poul''s eyes lit up with delight as he took in the sight of the delectable treats.

    "I can''t wait to try it out," Poul chuckled.

    With a gentle motion, Poul offered his hand to Sara, a gesture of old-fashioned chivalry. "Allow me, my dear," he said with a warm smile.

    Sara''s eyes softened with appreciation as she ced her hand in his, allowing him to guide her to the car. He opened the car door with a graceful flourish, ensuring Sara''s entry was as smooth andfortable as possible. As she settled into the plush leather seat, Poul closed the door with a satisfying thud.

    Taking his ce behind the wheel, Poul adjusted the mirrors once more, ensuring their safety on the journey ahead. With a gentle touch, he engaged the gears, and hit the gas pedal, sending a surge of power through the car. The Duesenberg Model J responded eagerly, propelling them forward with a graceful eleration.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    The wind tousled their hair as they ventured into the picturesque countryside of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The Duesenberg Model J gracefully navigated the unpaved roads, its suspension absorbing the uneven terrain with ease. Vibrant green fields and patches of blooming wildflowers stretched out before them, painting a captivating canvas of nature''s beauty.

    As they cruised along the winding roads, the engine of the car purred in perfect harmony with the serene surroundings. The gentle hum of the tires on the gravel, punctuated by the asional chirping of birds, created a symphony of tranquility that embraced their journey.

    There''s nothing more perfect than a date ride, one that he had specifically nned for Sara. Poul had chosen this particr route through the Pittsburgh countryside to showcase the breathtaking scenery and provide them with a sense of freedom and serenity.

    As they ventured deeper into the countryside, Poul couldn''t help but steal nces at Sara beside him. The way she was smiling as she gazed at the picturesque scenery unfolding before them warmed his heart.

    "Are you enjoying it?" Poul asked.

    Sara turned towards him, her eyes shining with delight. "I do."

    Poul removed his hands from the gear stick and reached over to Sara''s leg, gently cing his hand on top of hers.

    "What are you doing, Poul?" Sara asked, chuckling.

    "Nothing, is it illegal to touch my future wife''s thigh?"

    Sara''sughter bubbled up once again.

    "No, not at all but perhaps you should focus on the road, Mr. Nielsen rather than me."

    "Road? What road?" Poul said, waving his hand around. "We are in the 1890s, there''s no car or traffic signs that exist in this era." Poul winked at Sara, teasingly. "There''s no one to pull us up."

    Sara yfully nudged Poul''s arm. "I suppose you are right."

    Poul returned his hand to herp, caressing it.

    Thirty minutester, they arrived at Laurel Hignds, the spot that Poul had chosen for their pic. The vehicle came to a smooth stop on a grassy knoll overlooking a breathtaking vista of rolling hills and a shimmeringke in the distance. Poul turned off the engine, and a peaceful silence settled around them.

    Stepping out of the car, Poul hurriedly made his way to the passenger side to open the door for Sara. As she gracefully emerged from the vehicle, her eyes widened in awe at thendscape before them.

    "It''s pretty, Poul," Saramented.

    "Well, I''m d that you liked it," Poul replied, his heart beating fast. He had taken her to this ce for one special asion, and that is to propose to her formally.

 Chapter 257 The Date Part 2

    ?

    Poulid the pic carpet on the grassy knoll, creating a cozy spot for them to enjoy their meal. The soft breeze rustled the leaves of nearby trees, adding a touch of serenity to the atmosphere. He reached into the pic basket and carefully arranged the sandwiches and other goodies, making sure everything was perfect for this special moment.

    Sara watched Poul''s preparations with a mix of curiosity and excitement. She couldn''t help but wonder what he had in store for her. There was an air of anticipation that filled the space between them, making her heart flutter with anticipation.

    Poul gently took her hand, guiding her to sit on the pic carpet. They settled down, facing each other, their eyes locked in a tender gaze. Poul reached for a sandwich and handed it to Sara, his fingers brushing against hers for a brief moment that sent a delightful shiver down their spines.

    "Thank you Poul, but I would like you to taste it first," Sara said.

    "Hmm," Poul hummed, looking at the sandwich in his hand which was made by her. Based on its meticulous presentation and the enticing aroma, he knew it would be a delicious treat. He took a bite, savoring the vors that danced on his pte.

    As Poul chewed, his eyes never left Sara''s. Her eyes sparkled with a mix of nervousness and anticipation, awaiting his verdict.

    "Was it good?" Sara asked, her lips tugging to a smile.

    Poul swallowed the bite and smiled warmly at Sara. "Good? No, it was exceptional. Probably the best sandwich that I have ever had!"

    "Really Poul? Maybe you are saying it just to make me feel better," Sara said somberly.

    Poul shook his head, his smile growing wider. "I promise you, Sara, I would never say something just to make you feel better. If your sandwich is bad, I would, of course, tell you the truth, but this sandwich is genuinely amazing."

    Sara''s face brightened, a wave of relief washing over her. She had poured her heart and soul into perfecting this sandwich, and Poul''s genuine praise meant the world to her.

    "I''m so d you liked it, Poul," she said, her voice filled with gratitude.

    "You should eat yours," Poul said, pointing to the untouched sandwich in front of him. He couldn''t wait to see Sara''s reaction when she tasted the sandwich she had made.

    Sara chuckled and picked up her sandwich, taking a small, hesitant bite. Her eyes widened, speechless.

    "See?" Poul said, his voice filled with yful triumph.

    Sara nodded, her mouth still full as she savored the explosion of vors. After swallowing, she managed to find her voice. "I still got it!" she proudly eximed.

    Poulughed heartily as she gazed at Sara''s face. Oh, what a beautiful sight it is. Until he noticed a mayo smudge on the corner of Sara''s lips.

    "Seems like you got a little something right here," Poul said, reaching out with his thumb and gently wiping away the smudge of mayo from Sara''s lips, and sucking it off his thumb.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "Po-Poul¡­what did you just do?" Sara stammered.

    "Why? It''s a waste if I were to wipe it off," Poul whispered, his voiceced with a hint of mischief. He leaned in closer, his eyes locking with Sara''s, as he continued, "Besides, I couldn''t resist the opportunity to taste the vors that have touched your lips.

    Sara fumbled her hand nervously, her cheeks blushing as Poul''s words hung in the air.

    "Stop saying stupid things¡­dummy."

    Poul leaned in even closer, his warm breath caressing Sara''s cheek. His voice was barely a whisper as he continued, "Sara, there''s something I''ve been meaning to tell you too."

    Sara''s eyes widened with anticipation, her whole being focused on Poul''s every word.

    "Sara, I faced obstacles in getting you here in this country. I almost got executed for it. The majority of the citizens have overlooked what I have done in the previous years. And since your parents epted and respected your decisions, maybe the time it''s right to seal our partnership in a more official way," Poul said, his voice filled with determination.

    Poul pulled a velvet box from his pocket, its edges worn from the countless times he had contemted this moment. He opened it slowly, revealing a glistening ring nestled inside. The sunlight caught the diamond, casting a shimmering reflection in Sara''s eyes.

    "Sara," Poul''s voice quivered with emotion, "will you do me the incredible honor of bing my wife? I want to spend the rest of my life waking up to your smile, cherishing every moment, and creating a lifetime of beautiful memories together."

    Sara''s heart swelled with overwhelming joy, tears of happiness streaming down her cheeks. She gazed at the ring, mesmerized by its beauty, and then locked eyes with Poul, her voice barely a whisper.

    When he said that, memories of the past flitted across his eyes. The time when he was in his original world, telling Jonathan that he would propose to her when she arrived, only to have been halted by a twisted turn of events. He thought he would never see her again, even contemting letting go and finding a new one. Not until he discovered that she was also transmigrated into this world. Fate surely had a way of bringing them together, and now, they had the chance to create a future they had once dreamed of.

    Sara took a deep breath, her voice filled with unwavering certainty. "Poul. Ever since our past life, you were the one that I couldn''t imagine my life without. You were the one that rescued me from the depths of despair and brought light into my world, even to this world. So, my answer would be yes."

    Tears of joy welled up in Poul''s eyes as he heard Sara''s response. He had been waiting for this moment for what felt like an eternity, and now, it was finally here. The weight of their shared history, their love, and their connection hung in the air, sealing their fate together.

    Poul''s hand trembled slightly as he picked up the glistening ring from the velvet box. He took Sara''s left hand in his, and with utmost care and tenderness, he slid the ring onto her finger. It fits perfectly as if it had been waiting for this very moment all along.

    And then Poul leaned to press his lips against Sara''s, the one that he had longed to do to her for so long.

    When they finally pulled away, their foreheads pressed gently against each other, they remained locked in a tender embrace.

    "I promise you, Sara, that I will keep you safe. I won''t let anyone take you away from me," Poul whispered.

 Chapter 258 Realization And Determination To Change

    ?

    After the sessful marriage proposal, Poul and Sara packed up their things and prepared themselves to leave. Poul grabbed the crank to start the engine of the vintage vehicle they had arrived in. He turned it with a firm grip, expecting the familiar roar of the engine. But instead, there was nothing but a series of clicking sounds.

    Puzzled, Poul tried again, turning the crank with more force this time, but still, the engine refused to start.

    Sara leaned over the passenger seat, concern etched on her face. "Is there a problem?" she asked, her voice filled with worry.

    But when Poul gave it more force this time, the engine sputtered to life, coughing and spluttering as it regained its rhythm. Poul''s eyes widened in surprise, a mix of relief and excitement flooding his senses.

    Sara''s worry turned into tion as she witnessed the resurrection of the engine. A wide smile spread across her face, mirroring Poul''s own expression of triumph. For a second they feared that the car won''t start, which would probably lead them to get stranded here.

    With the engine running smoothly now, Poul hopped onto the driver''s seat.

    "Are your seatbelt fastened?" Poul asked, looking at Sara.

    "Yup," Sara replied.

    "Okay, let''s go."

    ***

    Forty-five minutester, just fifteen minutes away from Pittsburgh, Poul and Sara continued their journey, relishing the serene silence that enveloped them. The asional sounds of the wind rustling through the trees and the gentle hum of the engine provided aforting backdrop to their thoughts.

    As they approached the outskirts of the city, thendscape began to shift, with factories that billowed ck smoke recing the tranquil countryside. The vintage car chugged along, gracefully navigating the urban terrain, its engine purring contentedly.

    Along the way, they would notice passersby casting inquisitive gazes at the couple, specifically at the automobile.

    "Hey¡­Poul, I noticed this on youtely, are you facing a problem of some sort?" Sara asked.

    "Where did thate from all of a sudden?" Poul asked, his eyes fixed on the road.

    "Well, I just noticed. You see Poul, even if your body is not the same as the ones you had in our past world doesn''t mean I can''t get a read on you. I didn''t want to bring that up earlier as it might ruin the mood¡­" Sara exined.

    "Ah¡­it just proves that I''m not good at hiding things," Poul chuckled. "Well, darling, you know Mr. Russell right? The alternate Thomas Edison of this world."

    "Yes, I heard about him, and his smear campaign against your electric enterprise? What happened? Did heunch another smear campaign?"

    "Something like that," Poul confirmed, nodding his head. "There is this man sentenced to death by execution, only this time it''s going to be an electric chair, which will debut at ater date. And they are going to use alternating current, a current that is associated with our electric enterprise." <novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "I see¡­so what are you guys nning to do?" Sara asked.

    "Well, Jonathan and Amelia are heading to New York to talk to Mr. Russell," Poul said and sighed. "We shouldn''t be talking about business. For now, we should focus on our future."

    "Yeah¡­" Sara said, gazing upward and watching as the orange sun began to set, casting a warm glow over the horizon. "Hey¡­Poul, I am wondering, what if Alexander were to hear about our engagement?"

    "That is what I''m worried about. He might do something to us again. He has confronted me a lot of times now and I don''t think he is going to stop any sooner. For now, he is our greatest threat. But just as I said to you, I will protect you, even if I don''t win the presidential election, I will¡­" Poul paused as an idea popped up in his head.

    "What is it?" Sara looked at him expectantly.

    "Nothing my dear," Poul said, reaching out to her hand and squeezing it.

    Sara looked at Poul, sensing that there was something he wasn''t telling her. She could see the flicker of determination in his eyes, and her curiosity grew stronger.

    "Poul, please tell me. I can sense that there''s more to it. What are you thinking?"

    "Thinking of ways on how to protect you," Poul revealed. "I''m just formting now in my mind."

    Poul realized that at this point, he and Jonathan are always reacting to the situation, always depending on others to save them. But this time, an idea that he hade up with right now would finally make them take the offensive.

    The idea came after he was thinking that if he lost the presidential election, which has a high chance of happening given the current political climate of the United States, the concept of building a military force, a private army.

    Yes, it might sound too much for defense, but that''s the only way Poul could protect Sara and those who are precious to him. Alexander, at one point, would do something to them, he was sure of it, as he said before that he was not done yet on them. Well, if it involves endangering one''s life, then the only way for them to protect themselves is that a private army.

    However, building a private army for the sole purpose of self-defense wouldn''t cut it, there must be another purpose for its existence. Poul and Jonathan knew that in the future, oil would be a preciousmodity.

    In the future, they would expand their oil mining operations abroad. Specifically in the middle east, where half of the oil global reserves are located.

    In this world, the situation in the Middle East was tense due topeting interests and power struggles among various nations. The British Empire, in particr, had a significant presence in the region and was vying to establish control over the oil-rich territories. They sought to secure ess to the region''s vast oil reserves to fuel their industrial and imperial ambitions.

    Poul''s idea of building a private army tied into their n to expand oil mining operations in the Middle East. By establishing their presence and securing oil fields, they could ensure a stable supply of oil for their own purposes. However, they also knew that they would be met with resistance from both local powers and foreign interests.

    They couldn''t forever rely on their country, not even Morgan. It''s time for them to take matters into their own hands.

    With a determined expression on his face, Poul is going to start major reforms in their business and way of life.

 Chapter 259 The Backing

    ?

    Returning back to Pittsburgh, Poul and Sara head up to the main office where they see Amelia and Jonathan having a conversation.

    "So you are saying that even Mr. Russell''s current can be used as a current for the electric chair?" Amelia asked, her voice filled with curiosity and a hint of concern.

    Jonathan nodded thoughtfully, his eyes fixed on Amelia. "I believe it''s possible," he replied. "Direct current has been utilized in various applications, and while I haven''t personally seen it, the fundamental principles of electricity suggest that it could work."

    "No it wouldn''t," Poul walked forward, startling the two.

    "Poul?" Jonathan gasped softly. "You already returned¡­with Sara I see," Jonathan said, scanning Sara''s appearance. He noticed a ring on her index finger, suggesting that there had been a development on their date. But it wasn''t the right time to bring that up. "Why do you say that direct current can''t be used on electric chairs?"

    Poul cleared his throat, taking a moment to gather his thoughts.

    "Well, Jonathan, while the direct current does have its applications, using it in electric chairs for execution purposes presents several technical and practical challenges," he exined.

    "First and foremost. AC allows for a cyclical flow of electricity, which is crucial in inducing the necessary physiological effects to execute a person. The alternating nature of AC ensures that the body experiences a series of muscr contractions, which increases the chances of sessful execution."

    Amelia and Jonathan exchanged a puzzled look, their curiosity piqued. "But what specifically makes alternating current more suitable for this purpose?" Amelia asked, leaning in closer.

    Poul continued. "One key reason is the phenomenon of tetanus, which urs when muscles contract and remain contracted due to a continuous electrical stimulus. AC current induces tetanus more effectively than DC, as the changing prity of the current prevents the muscles from rxingpletely. This sustained contraction is necessary to ensure a swift and humane execution."

    "Humane execution?" Amelia repeated. "So practically, you are saying that our electric current system is more suitable for electric chairs? Then what are we supposed to say once we arrive in New York and talk with Russell?"

    "Compromise is the best option we could take," Poul replied. "You see, our system may be the best one for electric chairs. It would be disastrous PR for us. So tomorrow, you will speak with Mr. Russell, and discuss partnership. Don''t misunderstand me for this. We are only ensuring that the execution won''t be a botch."

    "So we are simply going to let him get away with smearing us?" Jonathan asked.

    Poul raised a hand, trying to temper the escting tension in the room. "No, Jonathan, we are not letting him get away with anything. By pursuing a partnership, we can address the concerns raised by Mr. Russell while also maintaining our integrity and upholding the values we stand for¡­ideologically of course."

    Jonathan chuckled. "Ahh... well, I would still give him a talking to. Oh since the issue with Mr. Russell has been brought up, Mr. Morgan would like to ask about our progress for the bid for the uing World''s Fair that will be held in Ohio."

    "Oh, the World''s Fair bid. We''ve been making significant progress on that front. Amelia and I have been working diligently to gather all the necessary information and put together apelling proposal. It will bepleted next month, and will be presented at Ohio City Councils."

    "Is that true, Amelia?" Jonathan flickered his gaze to Amelia.

    Amelia nodded confidently. "Yes, Mr. Axelsen."

    "Well, that''s just about it. How''s your date with Sara?" He paused¡­ncing at Sara''s index finger. He is thinking of whether to bring it up or not. He chose the former. "I see that there is a ring on her finger. Does that signify what I think it does?"

    Poul exchanged a knowing smile with Sara and nodded. "Yes, Jonathan, it does. During our time away, I asked Sara to marry me, and she said yes."

    "Oh really? Congrattions to both of you," Jonathan said.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    Jonathan''s words trailed off as he noticed Amelia''s reaction. The news of Poul''s engagement hit her hard, and her face fell, betraying a mix of emotions that she struggled to conceal. Her heart sank, and a dull ache spread through her chest. She had hoped, secretly harbored feelings for Poul, but now those hopes seemed futile.

    Amelia forced a smile, though it didn''t quite reach her eyes.

    "Congrattions to both of you," she managed to say, her voice slightly strained. She tried to push aside her disappointment and focus on being happy for Poul and Sara, but her inner turmoil was difficult to hide.

    Poul, who had been oblivious to Amelia''s feelings, nced at her briefly, sensing a shift in her demeanor. Concern crossed his face, but he chose to stay quiet, they already cleared their rtionship with one another but it seems as though Amelia is in a way affected by it.

    "Thank you, you two, though don''t expect that the wedding would be grand. You know our circumstances right?"

    Poul''s words hung in the air, a gentle reminder of the limitations they faced. Amelia nodded, trying to gather herself and maintainposure.

    "Of course, Poul," she replied.

    Jonathan, sensing the tension in the room, interjected with a supportive tone. "Poul, Sara, I wish you both the utmost happiness. It''s a joyous asion, and I''m sure your wedding will be beautiful in its own way, regardless of grandeur."

    "And as for your future wedding as well, Jonathan," Poulughed heartily. "Well, Jonathan I have something to discuss with you if you don''t mind."

    Jonathan tilted his head to the side. "What is it? Your tone sounded serious for a moment there."

    "Sara, Amelia, would you please give us the room?"

    Sara and Amelia exchanged a quick nce before excusing themselves from the room, leaving Poul and Jonathan alone. Once they were alone, Poul took a deep breath and looked at Jonathan with a mix of determination and seriousness.

    "Jonathan, you yed Call of Duty Advanced Warfare, right? Are you familiar with the antagonist of the story, a founder of a private military corporation As?"

    "I do recall ying that game, and yeah, I''m familiar with As. Why are you bringing that up?"

    "Well, Jonathan, for all intents and purposes, why don''t we start our own private militarypany?"

    "What¡­" Jonathan let out a forced chuckle. "Do what? Like the As?"

    Poul nodded. "Yes, something along those lines. You see, we have been reliant on our partners to the point that we are only reacting to the problem that is being thrown at us. The private militarypany is a start for our offense. You know there''s a low chance of me winning the presidency, so we must have something that can protect ourselves. From our enemy, specifically the King of the British Empire."

    "I see where you are going, Poul. And I for one agree with it. I can see the prospect of that enterprise once we expanded overseas. You have my full backing."

    "Thank you, Jonathan. Though I''ll still try to win that presidency, even if the chances are slim."

 Chapter 260 The Changes

    ?

    As the first rays of dawn illuminated the city, Jonathan and Amelia stood at the entrance of the main office building. A sleek and polished Duesenberg Model J awaited them.

    Amelia''s eyes widened with curiosity as she pointed at the elegant vehicle. "Are we going to use this, Mr. Axelsen?" she asked.

    Jonathan''s face lit up with a mischievous smile. "Absolutely," he replied, a hint of excitementcing his words. "My partner took it for a spin yesterday, so it''s only natural that I also take it for a spin. Let me carry your luggage."

    Jonathan reached out to take Amelia''s luggage and ced it on the back of the car. He then opened the door for her with a flourish, gesturing for her to enter.

    "Thank you, Mr. Axelsen," Amelia said before taking her seat in the passenger seat.

    "Please, call me Jonathan," he said, shing her a warm smile as he closed the door gently. "You have been working for us for a lot of years and you are still formal to me."

    "Okay then¡­Jonathan. So I was wondering, once we get to the train station, are we going to bring this automobile along with us or are we going to leave it at the station?"

    "We are going to leave, but don''t worry about it getting lost as I have men on the station who would return it here," Jonathan said and his habit of starting a car with a key gets the best of him. He realized soon that for this car to start, it must be cranked from the outside.

    "Oops," he muttered sheepishly. "I almost forgot. This beauty requires a manual crank start."

    He quickly walked around to the front of the vehicle and retrieved the crank handle from apartment near the grille. With a confident yet careful grip, he inserted the crank into the designated slot and began to turn it, feeling the resistance as he rotated it clockwise.

    The engine sputtered to life, its deep growl echoing through the quiet morning air. Jonathan''s face broke into a triumphant grin as he released the crank, allowing the engine to settle into a steady rhythm. He walked back to the driver''s seat and prepared for departure.

    ***

    Six hourster, at the Port of New York, Amelia and Jonathan stood in awe as they gazed toward the majestic New York Skyline. It was a sight that seemed to defy time itself, a testament to the city''s rapid transformation and unyielding progress.

    Only five years ago, the skyline consisted of modest two to five-story buildings but as the news of the Axelsen & Nielsen main office building had spread, it ignited a spark of inspiration among the city''s constructionpanies. They embarked on a race to the sky, each endeavoring to leave their mark on the ever-expanding horizon.

    "New York has truly changed a lot huh?" Jonathanmented. "I haven''t noticed this before as I''m not quite keen on observing the city but this caught my attention," Jonathan remarked.

    "Yes, I also read this newspaper about this new building called the Beaver Building and the Cocoa Exchange located in the financial district. It just finished construction this month."

    "Is that so?" Jonathan muttered under his breath. Without even seeing it in this world, Jonathan already knew what it was like. However, the time of its construction is quite earlypared to his original world.

    "We should get going, we don''t want Mr. Russell to wait for us."

    "Okay, I''ll hail a carriage for the two of us," Amelia offered.

    "There''s no need for that," Jonathan said. "We are going to take the metro station to get to Pearl Street. That''s the most efficient way to avoid the heavy traffic in the city. Plus, it will give you a chance to experience the modern marvel of underground transportation."

    Amelia pondered aloud. "Is that so, Jonathan? Well, I don''t particrly mind what transportation to take, but if you want us to ride a train then we''ll do so."

    "Then it''s settled. Let''s start walking. The nearest station is 300 meters down this street," Jonathan said, pointing in the direction they needed to go. Amelia nodded, and together they embarked on their journey toward the subway station.

    ***<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    Thirty minutester, they arrived at the Pearl Street Station.

    "That was fast," Ameliamented as they walked down the streets toward the Pearl Street Building where Mr. Russell''s office and power nt are located.

    "Right? What are your impressions?"

    "Well, it was not that crowded, and it was chilly inside. The ride was smooth andfortable," Amelia said, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "The fare was cheap. It won''t be a surprise that in the future, there will be strikes and protests from the horse-drawn carriage drivers due to the poprity of the subway."

    Jonathan chuckled. "You may be right but that''s an inevitable part of progress. When new things are introduced, the old ways are often pushed aside or rendered obsolete."

    Finally, they arrived at the building and entered it. They were escorted by Sam Insul, Russell''s personal secretary to his office.

    "Mr. Russell, thank you for giving us time to see us," Jonathan said warmly as he extended his hand.

    Russell nced at Jonathan''s hand and spoke. "I only have ten minutes to spare with you, Jonathan. As you can see, I''m busy with our uing bid proposal to the councils of Ohio."

    "Is that so? Don''t worry, this meeting won''t even take five minutes," Jonathan assured, putting his hand down as Mr. Russell is seemingly disinterested in shaking hands with apetitor.

    Jonathan and Amelia took their seats and began.

    "Mr. Russell I heard that you rmend your alternating current system as the main current for the electric chair that will be used for William Kemmler."

    "I see what this is about. You think that this is another smear campaign against yours but it is not. I was asked by the Capital Punishment Commission what suitable current is best for the electric chair and I suggested yours because of its nature."

    "Hmm¡­" Jonathan hummed. "I thought you are not going to invent things that will harm people?"

    "I didn''t invent the electric chair."

    "But they took inspiration from you. Like you were the first one to electrocute horses, cats, monkeys, and heck even elephants."

    "That is to demonstrate that your current is dangerous and could kill people¡­"

    "But not a single person died on our system aside from your horses, elephants, cats, and monkeys. Right?"

    Russell was stunned for a second, before momentarily regaining hisposure. "What do you really want, Mr. Axelsen? Sue me?"

    "Nope we want to cooperate with you," Jonathan proposed. "We will improve the design of the electric chair to prevent botched executions. You see, a thousand volts of electricity running through your body would be a grotesque sight. This executive secretary of ours Amelia will be handing you the paper for an agreement."

    Amelia opened the leather briefcase she had on her and pulled out a paper.

    Russell nced at the paper before sighing. "Whatever, let''s do it. It''s your current anyway."

 Chapter 261 Contribution

    ?

    August 6, 891, in Auburn, New York, marked a significant event as twenty attendees gathered at the local police station to witness a groundbreaking form of execution: electrocution. This method aimed to rece the traditional hanging of convicts with a more technologically advanced approach.

    Among the attendees were Jonathan Axelsen, Poul Nielsen, and Caroline Dupont, who had alle to witness the execution of William Kemmler, a man convicted of murdering hismonw wife.

    As the group assembled, Russell, a familiar acquaintance, greeted the four with a casual demeanor. "Fancy meeting you here, Mr. Nielsen, Mr. Axelsen, Mr. Morgan... and Ms. Dupont," he remarked. "I didn''t expect that you would ask for attendance at this execution."

    In response, Axelsen replied coolly, "Well, we wanted to ensure that the execution process goes smoothly. After all, it is our current that is being used for this purpose. We cannot afford any mistakes."

    Reflecting on the situation, Poul added, "We could have appealed to the Supreme Court, you know. We could have argued that the use of electricity as a means of execution is cruel and inhumane, thus viting the Eighth Amendment. However, we''ve seen numerous instances of botched hangings throughout the country, and perhaps this new method will prove to be more efficient and humane."

    "I see, well just so you know, this isn''t my idea to begin with. I was approached by Alfred Porter Southwick from the Capital Punishment Commission. I simply suggested that your current would be more effective than mine and he built the electric chair. This is nothing personal."

    "Is that so, Mr. Russell?" Caroline interjected. "Since you are here, are you going to watch the execution?"

    Russell shook his head. "I''m afraid not. I can''t watch a human being go through such a fate, regardless of the method. It''s just not something I can stomach."

    Caroline nced at Russell, her expression a mix of curiosity and concern. "Then why did you get involved in this endeavor if you find it so abhorrent? Truly this isn''t a smear campaign right?"

    "How many times do I have to tell you? This is not a smear campaign¡­now that you are involved with the creation of the electric chair, you are taking full responsibility for what''s going to happen from this moment forward. If execution through electricity is sessful, it would definitely improve the methods of capital punishment and potentially bring about a more humane approach. If it fails, well..." Russell''s voice trailed off, a subtle smirk spreading on his lip.

    "If it fails, this is going to be a PR opportunity for you, am I right?" Poul said, smiling.

    "Good day to you four," Russell dodged the question and made his way towards the exit, leaving the four.

    One of the guards of the police station approached the four and escorted them to the room where they would witness the execution. The atmosphere grew increasingly solemn as they entered the chamber. The room was small, with cold stone walls and a sense of foreboding that hung in the air.

    They took their seats, their eyes fixed on the ominous sight before them¡ªthe electric chair, a macabre contraption of metal and leather, waiting to fulfill its purpose. Jonathan, Poul, Caroline, and Ms. Dupont exchanged nces, silently acknowledging the gravity of the moment.

    Finally, the sound of footsteps reverberated through the room, marking the arrival of William Kemmler. He was led into the chamber by two guards, yet despite knowing his fate, he remainedposed and stoic. His eyes met those of the witnesses, and back to the electric chair.

    "Gentlemen, I wish you all good luck. I believe I am going to a good ce, and I am ready to go," William said before sitting down on the chair. He was strapped to the chair, his face was covered and the metal restraint was put on his bare head.

    While the guards were taking all the necessary steps, he spoke. <novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "Take it easy and do it properly, I''m in no hurry."

    Poul and Jonathan were quite amused at theposed demeanor of William Kemmler. It was as if he already epted his fate and had made peace with it. However, their amusement was tinged with a somber realization that they were witnessing a man''sst moments on Earth.

    The guard then covered his head with a ck hood, obscuring William Kemmler''s face from view. The room fell into an eerie silence as the guardspleted their preparations.

    "William Kemmler, electricity shall now be passed through your body until you are dead in ordance with statew. May God have mercy on your soul. Do you have anyst words?"

    "I ept my fate," he uttered, his voice steady butced with a touch of resignation. "I have made mistakes, and I am ready to face the consequences of my actions."

    After hearing hisst words, the guard then signaled his fellow to activate the electricity. The air crackled with anticipation as the executioner, standing by a switchboard, prepared to unleash the power that would course through William Kemmler''s body.

    With a swift motion, the executioner pulled the lever, and the room was instantly filled with a blinding sh of light. The witnesses instinctively shielded their eyes, their hearts pounding in their chests. The intense surge of electricity surged through the metal restraints, coursing into William Kemmler''s body.

    Jonathan, Poul, Morgan, and Caroline watched with a mix of morbid fascination and a sense of unease. They felt the weight of responsibility resting upon them, knowing that their work had contributed to this method of execution.

    The room filled with a faint smell of burnt flesh as the electricity continued to surge through William Kemmler''s body. The intensity of the current caused his muscles to convulse uncontrobly, his body tensing and jerking against the restraints.

    Twenty secondster, they deactivated the electricity. The sudden cessation of the electric current plunged the room into a deafening silence, broken only by the heavy panting of the witnesses and the lingering echoes of the execution. The stench of charred flesh hung in the air, a chilling reminder of the brutality that had just unfolded before their eyes.

    Slowly, the doctor on standby approached the electric chair with a stethoscope and carefully ced it on William Kemmler''s chest, listening intently for any signs of life. The room held its collective breath, waiting for the doctor''s verdict.

    After a tense moment, the doctor sighed and removed the stethoscope. "He''s gone," he announced solemnly. "William Kemmler has passed."

    With that, the first execution by electrocution hade to an end and was a sess. A figure approached the four from behind and spoke.

    "Thank you, for making this a possibility, Mr. Axelsen, Mr. Nielsen," Southwick said, extending his hand, offering a handshake.

    Poul and Jonathan shook Southwick''s hand.

 Chapter 262 The Showroom Opening And Future Conflicts

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    October 20th, 891. In the sprawling metropolis of New York, the city was abuzz with excitement as the doors of the grand Axelsen & Nielsen Automobile showroom opened for the very first time. The gleaming ss windows showcased a sight never before seen on the bustling streets¡ªa revolutionary invention that promised to change the way people traveled.

    Jonathan Nielsen and Poul Axelsen, the brilliant minds behind the enterprise, stood side by side, their faces beaming with pride and anticipation. Standing before the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Jonathan and Poul exchanged a nce, their eyes reflecting a mixture of nervousness and exhration. This moment marked the culmination of their tireless efforts and countless sleepless nights. The ribbon shimmered before them, a symbolic threshold between the past and the future.

    With a deep breath, Jonathan reached for the oversized pair of golden scissors, his hands steady despite the surge of emotions coursing through him. The crowd fell silent, anticipation hanging in the air like a tangible presence. Poul, his voice filled with conviction, addressed the eager onlookers.

    "Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed guests, and fellow pioneers of progress, today we stand at the threshold of a new era. Today, we unveil not just a mode of transportation, but a gateway to boundless possibilities. With the cutting of this ribbon, we invite you to step into the future¡ªthe future of mobility, convenience, and freedom!"

    The crowd erupted into cheers, their apuse thundering through the showroom and spilling out onto the bustling streets. Jonathan and Poul shared a triumphant smile, their hearts swelling with pride as they held the ribbon between them. And with one swift motion, the golden scissors sliced through the fabric, releasing a symphony of apuse and jubtion.

    As the ribbon fell to the ground, the doors of the Axelsen & Nielsen Automobile showroom swung open, revealing a dazzling disy of automobiles thates with different designs. The room was bathed in the warm glow of sunlight streaming through therge windows, illuminating the sleek curves and polished surfaces of the vehicles.

    Guests stepped into the showroom, their eyes widening with wonder at the sight before them. Jonathan guided them while Poul conversed with Morgan.

    "It feels like it was yesterday, and you never failed to deliver," Morgan remarked before sipping his champagne.

    "Well, this is just the beginning, Mr. Morgan. You see, our target customers for this are our upper sses. Only they are the ones who can afford this vehicle right now. In a few years, it would be avable for the masses," Poul replied, his gaze fixed on the gleaming automobiles before them.

    "I can''t really believe what I''m seeing right now," Morgan chuckled. "First the air brake, the signals, and then electricity, appliances, electric lotive, and diesel automobile. Your invention has been revolutionary ever since you and your partner started."

    "Well, what can I say, I''m just that good," Poul proudly said. "Oh, by the way, how is this looking for my presidential campaign?"

    "Let me see," Morgan pondered aloud. "Your rate has been steadily climbing in the polls though there''s no clear indication that you are going to win in this election. Well, that is to be expected from an independent candidate. For now, focus on the business, and let me do my magic in your political aspirations."

    "If you say so, Mr. Morgan," <novelsnext></novelsnext>

    As they clinked their sses, the showroom continued to buzz with excitement. Renowned families of the United States were in attendance, all being presented by Jonathan and other engineers that went along with them.

    "Oh, by the way, Poul," Morgan interrupted, his eyes glinting with curiosity. "Have you considered the potential military applications of your automobiles?"

    Poul paused for a moment, his brow furrowing slightly. "Military? Ah¡­I see where this is going. Of course, it has applications, but we don''t have a design suited for the specific needs of the military at the moment," Poul replied, carefully choosing his words.

    "Is that so? I was wondering because I imagined soldiers, instead of charging with their horses, they are charging into battle with their automobiles," Morgan continued, his voice filled with intrigue. "Just picture it, Poul¡ªa fleet of your vehicles thundering across the battlefield, delivering troops swiftly and efficiently to the front lines. It could revolutionize the way wars are fought."

    "Our weapons have already revolutionized warfare but not a single battle is backing it. The military is constantly purchasing our weapons because they were amazed by it. But there''s no war to test it out. Most of the conflict is in Europe," Poul said.

    "I don''t think so," Morgan said. "There is a rumor about the United States trying to take over Hawaii."

    "Rumor?" Poul questioned, his curiosity piqued. "Are you suggesting that the United States might engage in a military conflict to expand its territories?"

    Morgan nodded, his expression serious. "Indeed, there have been discussions within certain circles about the strategic importance of Hawaii and the potential benefits it could bring to the United States. While it may be mere spection at this point, it wouldn''t hurt to consider the possibility and be prepared. If you are really looking for a conflict, then look further East. The Qing Dynasty and the Empire of Japan are currently engaged in a bitter struggle for power and influence in Asia."

    "Ah¡­" Poul realized what Morgan was referring to. The First Sino-Japanese War, which had begun in 1894 in his original world, was a conflict born out of territorial disputes and the quest for dominance in the East Asian region.

    Of course, due to the technological superiority of the Japanese Empire, it was widely believed that they would emerge victorious in the war. However, one must remember that this was an alternate reality. If those two countries were to wage war with one another, Poul and Jonathan in support of the United States government would sell weapons to both sides, profiting from it. It''s going to be a win-win situation for them. After all, in order for their weapon enterprise to keep going, it must have continuous demand.

    A war would definitely create a high demand for their weapons. That''s certain because Poul had already made business with the Japanese Empire where they sold them the AN-M1 rifles to quell the rebellion of the samurais whose rights and traditional privileges were being eroded by modernization.

    Assuming that this world and his original world timeline flew the same, the war would start in three years. Poul has to be ready to take the opportunity.

 Chapter 263 The New Prospective Project

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    The grand opening of the Axelsen & Nielsen Automobile Company was a resounding sess for the industrialist order. Influential elites of the United States flocked to their stores and filed their orders which caused the stock of automobiles to run out the moment it was released.

    Fortunately, the industrialist duo had anticipated it and had built a huge assembly factory that could handle the overwhelming demand. This strategic move proved to be a stroke of genius as the assembly factory seamlessly swung into action, working tirelessly to meet the skyrocketing orders.

    With streamlined processes and a dedication to standardization, the assembly factory became a beacon of efficiency and productivity. Each department within the facility operated like a well-oiled machine, coborating seamlessly to ensure the smooth progression of automobile production.

    The industrialist duo estimated that they could produce one hundred to three per month, which was an astonishing feat. Of course, the industrialist duo wouldn''t settle for less. And so they made ns of expanding their production capacity even further. They embarked on an ambitious project to construct additional assembly factories in strategic locations across the country. These factories would not only cater to the increasing demand for their automobiles but also create job opportunities and contribute to the local economies.

    The expansion ns were met with great enthusiasm from both the public and the government. Recognizing the positive impact Axelsen & Nielsen had on the industrialndscape, local authorities provided support and streamlined the necessary permits and regtions. The industrialist duo spared no expense in ensuring that each new factory adhered to the highest standards of technology, safety, and sustainability.

    Not only that, this was a political move for Poul Nielsen, who is running for presidential office in the uing election. Poul Nielsen, one half of the industrialist duo, saw the expansion of the Axelsen & Nielsen Automobile Company as an opportunity to showcase his leadership, vision, and ability to stimte economic growth. By creating more job opportunities and contributing to local economies through the construction of new assembly factories, Poul aimed to establish himself as a champion of the working ss and a proponent of national prosperity.

    Of course, this was met with criticism by his opponents such as George Cleavnd and Benjamin Harrison who saw Poul Nielsen''s political aspirations as a threat to their ambitions. George Cleavnd, known for his eloquent speeches and charismatic demeanor, sought to portray Poul as a self-serving industrialist, iming that his role as the young founder of Axelsen & Nielsen was a calcted move to consolidate wealth and influence at such a young age. Cleavnd argued that Poul''s rtive youth and limited life experience would hinder his ability to understand and address theplex issues facing the nation.

    Benjamin Harrison, a seasoned politician with a strong following, echoed these concerns, emphasizing the importance of wisdom and seasoned leadership in the political realm. He questioned whether Poul''s age, in his mid-twenties, allowed him to possess the necessary depth of understanding and broad perspective needed to effectively govern a diverse and dynamic country.

    Poul Nielsen simply ignored their skepticism and continued to focus on his campaign and running his business.

    Speaking of business, Poul and Jonathan had another thing in mind.

    January 1st, 892. In Pittsburgh Pennsylvania. Poul was listening to Amelia''s report, who stood in front of his desk.

    "Construction of the gas station in states like New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Anta, and Texas is progressing smoothly," Amelia reported, her voice filled with enthusiasm. "We also coordinated with the state authorities for nationwide asphalt paving projects to ensure that when the automobiles started rolling out of our factories, they would have well-maintained roads to drive on."

    "I am liking what I am hearing right now, Amelia. Keep me posted on the progress of these projects," Poul replied.

    "Of course, Poul. The next order of business is about a request from the United States Army. They are inquiring if the automobiles have military applications."

    Hearing that question, Poul''s brows furrowed. So Morgan had told them huh? As long as there is a prospect of earning millions of money, Morgan wouldn''t hesitate to grab any opportunity that came their way. Poul took a moment to gather his thoughts and then spoke.

    "We are focused on a civilian market for now, Amelia. I already told Mr. Morgan about this. That we haven''t designed an automobile for the military. Once we do, we''ll inform them," Poul continued. "The military has always been at the forefront of technological advancements, so they can rest assured that we will consider their request seriously."

    "Very well, Poul. Well, that''s it for now," Amelia closed the cover of the file she was holding. "I''ll keep you updated on any further developments. Is there anything else you need from me?"

    "There is one, Amelia," Poul said, his lips curling into a smile. "Say, do you want to hear what we are working on next?"

    As he asked that, his gaze flickered at Jonathan who was busy handling paperwork on his desk.

    "Jonathan, should we tell her?" Poul said.

    Jonathan looked up from his desk and nodded approvingly. "I don''t see why not."

    "Eh? What is it that you could be working on this time, Poul, Jonathan?" Amelia asked.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    Jonathan rose to his feet and walked over to Poul''s desk. As he arrived, his gaze fixated on the ss wall of the office, offering a panoramic view of the bustling factories that churned out various products of theirpany.

    "Amelia, have you ever wondered if humans can fly?" Jonathan asked, his voice filled with intrigue.

    Amelia''s eyes widened with surprise at the unexpected question. She nced at Poul and then back at Jonathan, curiosity evident in her expression. "Well, I suppose humans have always dreamt of flying, but it has remained a pursuit of imagination as it is impossible. Though I have read this article in France a hundred years ago where a hot air balloon was used to carry passengers through the air," Amelia said, recalling a distant memory.

    "That''s correct but that hot air balloon was simply floating up in the air and couldn''t be controlled freely. We havee up with a technology that can do just that, where it can navigate the skies like the birds who are freely soaring and gliding."

    "What is it?" Amelia asked.

    Poul and Jonathan exchanged a knowing look before Poul spoke up. "Amelia, we are working on developing an aircraft¡ªa machine that can achieve powered and controlled flight. We are talking about building an airne."

    "Airne?" Amelia repeated, unfamiliar with the concept.

    "Yes, Amelia, an airne. Think of it as an automobile that can fly through the sky. Just as an automobile moves on wheels with the help of an engine, an airne uses wings and engines to generate lift and propulsion."

    "But how?" Amelia still continued to stare at Poul, her mind struggling to grasp the concept.

    Poul reached into a drawer in his desk and pulled out a rolled-up blueprint. He carefully unfurled it on the desk, revealing intricate drawings and annotations of an airne design.

    "Let me show you," Poul said, pointing to different sections of the blueprint. "Here, you can see the main wings. They are shaped to generate lift as air flows over them when the airne moves forward. Lift is what allows the airne to ovee gravity and stay in the air."

    Amelia leaned closer, her eyes scanning the blueprint with growing fascination. "And what about these engines?" she asked, pointing to a set of illustrations.

    "These engines are the heart of the airne," Jonathan chimed in. "They provide the necessary power to propel the aircraft forward. The propellers, connected to the engines, create a force called thrust that pushes the airne through the air."

    Amelia nodded, her excitement growing as she began toprehend the fundamentals of airne design. "So, the wings generate lift, and the engines provide the thrust to move the airne forward. It''s like abination of the forces at y in an automobile but in the air."

    "See, you are getting it now," Jonathan pped his hands lightly.

    "But what would be its impact if introduced?"

    Poul leaned back in his chair, contemting Amelia''s question. He swiveled his chair and gazed out the window at the sprawling factories below. The prospective sess of the automobile industry is starting to make its mark, but the introduction of airnes would take human innovation to new heights.

    "Amelia, the impact of airnes would be monumental," Poul began, his voice filled with excitement. "Firstly, it would revolutionize transportation. Just as automobiles have made travel faster and more convenient on the ground, airnes would allow us to traverse great distances through the air. Imagine being able to fly from one city to another in a matter of hours, connecting people and ces like never before. For example, you could travel from New York to California in just six hours. Compared that to a steam lotive that would take several days to cover the same distance."

    "That sounds promising, Poul, Jonathan."

    "Yeah, promising indeed," Poul chuckled. "Now then, let''s go all out on this new project of ours."

 Chapter 264 Debriefing The Engineers

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    Poul got to work on the new prototype that they had decided to introduce into this world. An aircraft. Or more specifically, the piston-powered aircraft. He has drawn the schematics for the aircraft, and the only thing he needs to do is to work on it.

    He went down to the third floor where he gathered the best of the best engineers that would work alongside him on this project.

    "Sir," Walter raised his hand. "What are we building now?"

    "Well, this will surprise you, everyone," Poul said with a grin. "I''m nning on making a vehicle that allows us to navigate the sky. In short, we are building an aircraft."

    "Aircraft?" The engineers around him tilted their heads to the side, unfamiliar with the concept. Just like Amelia, almost every person here in this era is new to the term.

    "It is what it is, everyone, we are building a vehicle that can navigate the sky," Poul reiterated, waving his hand.

    "So, that aircraft¡­" Timothy muttered. "Is it going to be like the vehicle in terms of design and appearance?"

    "Of course not!" Poul softly eximed as he unfurled the blueprints in his hands, revealing the intricate details of his vision. The engineers gathered around, their eyes widening with anticipation as they glimpsed the future taking shape before them.

    Poul gathered his team of skilled engineers on the third floor, ready to embark on the challenging task of building a piston-powered aircraft. Walter raised his hand, seeking rification on their project.

    "We are building an aircraft," Poul stated a confident smile on his face.

    The engineers exchanged puzzled nces, unfamiliar with the concept of aircraft in this era. Poul realized the need to provide technical exnations to bridge the gap in their knowledge.

    "An aircraft is a vehicle designed for air travel," Poul exined. "Unlike automobiles, this aircraft will utilize a piston engine, adapted for flight. It will consist of a fusge, wings, and a propeller, all engineered to achieve lift, stability, and forward thrust."

    He unfurled the blueprints, revealing the intricate details of their project.

    "The piston engine will power the aircraft. It will consist of multiple cylinders, each equipped with a piston. The pistons move within the cylinders, driven by controlled explosions of fuel and air mixture. This motion generates rotational force, which will be transmitted to the propeller."

    Poul pointed to the blueprint, highlighting the pathways of fuel and air within the engine.

    "The engine will have an intake system to draw in air and mix it with fuel. Thepressed mixture will then ignite, creating an explosion that drives the pistons. The resulting motion will be transferred to the crankshaft, which converts linear motion into rotational force. This force will rotate the propeller, propelling the aircraft forward.

    "The aircraft''s fusge will house the engine, cockpit, and payload. It will be designed for strength, aerodynamic efficiency, and weight optimization. The wings will generate lift as the aircraft moves through the air, providing the necessary upward force to counteract gravity."

    Poul pointed to the intricate wing design on the blueprint.

    "We will incorporate wing profiles that minimize drag and enhance lift, enabling the aircraft to achieve optimal performance. The propeller, connected to the engine, will have carefully calcted de angles and dimensions to maximize thrust efficiency."

    Timothy spoke up, seeking further rification. "How will the pilot control the aircraft?"

    Poul smiled, exining the cockpit systems.

    "We will equip the cockpit with a control panel, featuring various instruments and controls. The pilot will use the control yoke to manipte the aircraft''s flight surfaces, such as the ailerons, elevators, and rudder. These surfaces, controlled by the pilot''s input, will enable precise maneuverability and control during flight."

    The engineers nodded, their technical minds now engaged in the intricacies of aircraft construction.

    "Uhm¡­Mr. Nielsen," Walter raised his hands again. "Intuitively, I don''t see how the propellers help the aircraft generate lift¡­how does it work?"

    Poul grinned at Walter''s perceptive question, appreciating the engineer''s desire for a deeper understanding.

    "Walter, you''re absolutely right to wonder about the connection between propellers and lift," Poul responded. "Let me shed some light on the matter."<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    He moved closer to the blueprint, using his pointer to trace the lines representing the propeller''s motion.

    "While it may seem counterintuitive, the propellers themselves do not generate lift directly. Instead, they create thrust, which in turn contributes to the overall lift produced by the aircraft," Poul began, his voice steady and knowledgeable.

    "The propeller''s primary function is to convert the rotational energy from the engine into a powerful forward thrust. As the propeller des rotate, they create a flow of air moving backward. ording to Newton''s thirdw of motion, this action generates an equal and opposite reaction

    Poul paused for a moment, allowing the information to sink in before continuing.

    "Now, here''s where the magic of liftes into y," he continued. "The wings of the aircraft are specifically designed to exploit the airflow created by the propeller. As the aircraft moves forward, air flows over and under the wings. The shape of the wings, known as airfoils, creates a pressure difference between the upper and lower surfaces."

    Poul gestured to the intricate wing design on the blueprint, emphasizing the curved shape.

    "The upper surface of the wing is curved, while the lower surface is rtively t. This curvature, coupled with the angle of attack¡ªthe angle at which the wing meets the oing airflow¡ªcauses the air above the wing to move faster, creating a lower pressure areapared to the air below the wing."

    He continued to exin, his words punctuated by the engineers'' attentive nods.

    "This pressure difference generates lift¡ªa force that acts perpendicr to the airflow. The wings generate lift, and the propeller-driven forward thrust adds to that lift, enabling the aircraft to ovee gravity and stay airborne."

    Poul concluded his exnation, satisfied with the newfound understanding among the engineers.

    "I see, thank you for the exnation, Mr. Nielsen," Walter thanked.

    Poul nodded at Walter, pleased to see the engineer''s growingprehension. He acknowledged Walter''s gratitude with a nod of his own.

    "Uhm¡­Mr. Nielsen," Timothy raised a hand. "I also have a question. Although you have exined the general idea of how we are going to control the aircraft, I don''t get it yet. Can you borate more on that?"

    "Of course, Timothy," Poul replied, adjusting his posture to address the engineer''s question. "Controlling an aircraft involves the coordinated movement of various flight surfaces, which allows the pilot to manipte the forces acting on the aircraft and achieve the desired maneuvers."

    He walked over to a whiteboard and picked up a marker, ready to illustrate his exnation.

    "The primary flight surfaces we''ll focus on are the ailerons, elevators, and rudder," Poul began, drawing the basic outline of an aircraft on the whiteboard.

    "The ailerons are located on the trailing edge of each wing and provide control over the aircraft''s roll, or its side-to-side movement. By moving the control yoke or control wheel left or right, the pilot can change the position of the ailerons, creating a differential lift between the wings. This differential lift causes the aircraft to roll, allowing it to bank into turns."

    Poul demonstrated the motion with his marker, drawing arrows indicating the direction of the roll.

    "Next, we have the elevators, which are situated on the trailing edge of the horizontal stabilizer, located at the rear of the aircraft," Poul continued, adding the elevators to his illustration. "The elevators control the aircraft''s pitch, or its up and down movement. By moving the control yoke or control wheel forward or backward, the pilot changes the position of the elevators, adjusting the aircraft''s pitch angle."

    He drew arrows pointing up and down to represent the elevator movements.

    "Finally, we have the rudder, which is attached to the trailing edge of the vertical stabilizer," Poul said, adding the rudder to the diagram. "The rudder controls the aircraft''s yaw or its side-to-side movement around the vertical axis. By using foot pedals, the pilot can move the rudder left or right, inducing a yawing motion."

    Poul drew arrows to indicate the rudder''s movement.

    "By skillfullybining the control inputs for these flight surfaces, the pilot can execute a wide range of maneuvers," Poul exined, circling the control surfaces on the whiteboard. "For example, to initiate a turn, the pilot would bank the aircraft by applying aileron input, adjust the pitch angle with the elevators, and coordinate the yaw with the rudder."

    "Thank you, Mr. Nielsen," Timothy appreciated Poul''s way of exining theplexity of the control. He noticed that there is a stark difference between aircraft and automobiles. "Last question, what materials are we going to use in the aircraft? It can''t be something heavier right?"

    "That''s precisely correct," Poul agreed. "We are going to use aluminum alloys for the construction of the aircraft. Aluminum is an excellent choice due to its favorable strength-to-weight ratio. It is lightweight, yet sturdy enough to withstand the stresses and forces experienced during flight. We are also going to use specialized alloys for the construction of criticalponents such as the engine block and the propellers. This is going to be a roadmap for the aircraft. We finish this, we will be the first men in the world to achieve controlled flight."

 Chapter 265 Flight Test

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    Two monthster, in the Axelsen & Nielsen Company Headquarters. Poul was overseeing the preparation for the first test flight of their piston-powered aircraft. The workers toiled diligently as they cleared the makeshift airfield on which the ne is going to take off.

    Beside him was Timothy, who was doing some checklist for the uing test flight. Poul and Timothy had be an inseparable duo throughout the development process, working tirelessly to ensure every detail was ounted for.

    "Timothy, how are we looking with the checklist?" Poul asked, his eyes scanning the bustling activity on the airfield.

    Timothy double-checked his notes, his brows furrowed in concentration. "Everything seems to be in order, Mr. Nielsen," he replied, a hint of excitement in his voice. "Fuel levels are optimal, control surfaces have been thoroughly inspected, and the engine is primed and ready.

    Poul nodded his confidence about the uing flight test growing.

    "But sir, you still didn''t answer my question yesterday."

    "About what?"

    "Why are we using different fuel for the aircraft? Aren''t the automobile and the aircraft the same?"

    Poul furrowed his brows, realizing that he had neglected to address Timothy''s question. He paused for a moment, contemting how to provide a clear exnation.

    "Timothy, you bring up an important point," Poul replied, his tone earnest. "While both automobiles and aircraft use fuel, they are not exactly the same. The fuel requirements for aircraft are different due to the specific demands of aviation."

    He motioned for Timothy to join him in a quieter corner of the airfield, away from the bustling activities. They walked together, and Poul began to borate.

    "Aviation fuel,monly known as aviation gasoline or avgas, is specifically formted to meet the unique needs of aircraft engines," Poul exined. "It has a higher octane rating than automobile gasoline, which allows the engine to operate efficiently at high altitudes and under varying atmospheric conditions."

    "What does higher octane means?" Timothy asked, jotting down notes.

    "Octane rating measures the fuel''s resistance to knocking or prematurebustion," he exined. "In simpler terms, it determines the fuel''s ability to withstand highpression ratios without detonating before the spark plug ignites it. Operating at higher altitudes puts more stress on the engine due to reduced air density, and the higher octane fuel helps prevent engine damage or loss of power in such conditions."

    "I see, thank you for answering my questions. Mr. Nielsen. Ever since we started working on the aircraft, my interest in it started to grow exponentially," Timothy said with a wide smile, his eyes gleaming with newfound enthusiasm.

    "Oh¡­you are moving to aviation huh? Well, not that I''m against it. You follow what you want," Poul said.

    "Mr. Nielsen," a man called from behind. It was Walter. "The ne is ready.

    "Really?" Poul pped. "Then let''s get this show on the road, shall we?"

    Poul and Timothy rushed back to the aircraft. The aircraft was based on the Curtiss P-40 Warhawk, a legendary World War II fighter ne known for its robust design and formidable performance. It had a sleek, aerodynamic fusge painted in a vibrantbination of silver and blue, with thepany logo prominently disyed on its sides.

    As they approached the aircraft, Poul couldn''t help but feel a surge of pride. The months of hard work and dedication had culminated in this moment. The ne stood tall, its wings stretching wide, ready to take to the skies for the first time.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "Sir, are you sure about this? You will be the one to fly the aircraft?" Timothy asked.

    "Of course I am. I''m the one who designed this, so technically I know how to fly it better than anyone else," Poul replied with a confident smile. "Besides, I trust our team''s workmanship. We checked every crook and cranny of this aircraft to make sure nothing fails."

    After saying that, Poul then hopped into the cockpit of the aircraft, settling himself into the pilot''s seat. He fastened his seatbelt and adjusted the control panel, familiarizing himself with theyout and instruments.

    Poul nced out of the cockpit window, making eye contact with Timothy. He gave him a reassuring nod.

    With everything in ce, Poul initiated the pre-flight checklist, going through each item meticulously. He double-checked the control surfaces, tested themunication systems, and ensured that all safety mechanisms were properly engaged.

    The sound of the engine roared to life, sending vibrations through the airframe. The propellers began to spin, generating a gust of wind that rustled the surrounding dust.

    The aircraft taxied along the makeshift runway, gaining speed as it approached the designated takeoff point. The moment had finally arrived, and the excitement in the air was palpable. The workers watched with bated breath, their eyes fixed on the aircraft, ready to witness history in the making.

    Poul gripped the control stick firmly, his hands steady and focused. The anticipation built within him as he felt the power of the engine surging through the aircraft. He could sense the weight of responsibility on his shoulders, knowing that the sess of this flight would have far-reaching implications for theirpany and the future of aviation.

    As the aircraft reached the end of the runway, Poul pushed the throttle forward, unleashing the full power of the engine. The aircraft surged forward, elerating rapidly. The wheels left the ground, and the ne lifted off, soaring into the sky with grace and elegance.

    The crowd erupted into cheers and apuse as the aircraft climbed higher, leaving behind a trail of white smoke against the vibrant blue canvas of the sky. Poul felt a surge of exhration and pride coursing through his veins. The months of hard work and sleepless nights had paid off.

    Poul made some maneuvers, testing the responsiveness of the aircraft. The controls felt smooth and precise, allowing him to execute turns and climb with ease. As he gained confidence in the aircraft''s capabilities, Poul decided to push it further, exploring its limits and pushing the boundaries of what it could achieve.

    He performed a series of aerobatic maneuvers, delighting the onlookers below. The aircraft gracefully rolled, looped, and soared through the sky, showcasing its agility and performance.

    And then, he conducted a low fly-by on their team. The aircraft zoomed past the spectators, the wind rushing through their hair as they watched in awe.

    Thirty minutester, Poulnded the aircraft smoothly on the makeshift runway.

    As the propellers slowed down and the engine came to a halt, Poul opened the cockpit canopy and stepped out onto the wing. He was greeted with a sea of smiling faces and thunderous apuse from the entire team. Timothy rushed forward, his eyes gleaming with admiration.

    "Mr. Nielsen, that was incredible!"

    Poul simply returned the gesture and celebrated among his team. This was the moment he wanted to experience. When he started hispany, he wanted to expand on every avenue of industry, aviation is one of them.

    "Let''s shock the world again," Poul said.

 Chapter 266 Next Move

    ?

    The flight test of the aircraft was a resounding sess for Poul and his team. To celebrate Timothy grabbed a crate of beer and handed them over to the team one by one.

    "This is all for the sess of our aircraft!" Timothy cheered. "Mr. Nielsen, I can''t still believe that we can make such another miracle. You and your partner, Jonathan, are maybe the brightest minds of Avalonia¡­No! The whole world!" he eximed.

    Poul could only smile at his fervent praises. It''s true, since thest ten years he had single-handedly introduced modern technology to this world and gotten rich out of it. The total valuation of theirpany is nearing its 750 million dor mark. They have clients from domestically and abroad, all are seeking their products as they believe it is superior to others.

    Competingpanies could only crane their neck to catch a glimpse of Poul''s sess.

    Ideas flooded again in Poul''s mind as he contemted. The Axelsen & Nielsen Company had indeed grown exponentially in the past decade, and its sess had led to the establishment of numerous subsidiaries across various industries. Poul recognized that with their strong foundation and expertise, they had the potential to create an even more powerful conglomerate. The question was is it better to merge them all together in one entity?

    Poul weighed the pros and cons of merging their subsidiaries into a single entity. While a unified conglomerate would provide centralized control and a clear brand identity, it could alsoe with challenges such as managing diverse operations, maintaining specialized expertise, and potentially diluting the distinctiveness of each subsidiary.

    As he contemted the decision, Poul found himself leaning towards the idea of organizing a corporation for the Axelsen & Nielsen Company. The more he thought about it, the more he saw the potential benefits of this structure.

    A corporation would allow for centralized control and management of the subsidiaries, providing a clear chain ofmand and decision-making process. It would streamline operations and foster a more cohesive organizational structure, enabling thepany to respond swiftly to market changes and make strategic decisions with greater efficiency.

    Additionally, a corporation would enhance the brand identity of Axelsen & Nielsen, presenting a unified front to clients and investors. Thebined strength of all subsidiaries under one corporate umbre would amplify their market presence and create opportunities for cross-promotion and coboration.

    Poul envisioned a future where the subsidiaries would operate as divisions within the corporation, each retaining its specialized focus and expertise. They would benefit from shared resources, including research and development facilities, marketing strategies, and administrative support, while still maintaining their individuality.

    However, Poul was well aware of the potential challenges that came with organizing a corporation. He knew that integrating diverse operations and managing theplexities of multiple industries would require careful nning and execution. It would be crucial to strike a bnce between centralization and subsidiary autonomy, ensuring that the unique strengths of each subsidiary were preserved while fostering coboration and innovation across the entire organization.

    Fortunately, it was not a one-man decision, Poul would have to consult with his partner, Jonathan and as well as with his angel investors, John Morgan, and Caroline Dupont.

    "Mr. Nielsen," Walter called gently, interrupting Poul''s contemtion.

    Poul smiled warmly at Walter. "Yes, my friend, what is it?"

    "This is your beer," Walter said, handing Poul a cold bottle from the crate.

    "Oh thank you," Poul chuckled and epted the beer, clinking it against Walter''s bottle. "So, what do you think huh? You were skeptical at first when we were working on the aircraft."

    "It''s not that I''m skeptical, it''s just that I didn''te across the same concept. The hot air balloon for example is the only thing closer to being associated with the aircraft. That being said, I have an idea."

    "What is it?" Poul leaned forward, his interest piqued.

    "Well, I''m thinking of an aircraft that is lifted by air, simr to a hot air balloon," Walter continued, his eyes sparkling with excitement. "But instead of relying solely on hot air, we could incorporate advanced technologies to control the lift and achieve greater maneuverability."

    Poul''s curiosity grew as he listened intently to Walter''s idea. "That sounds intriguing. Can you borate?"

    Walter nodded, taking a sip from his beer before continuing. "Imagine a hybrid aircraft thatbines the lifting capabilities of a hot air balloon with the propulsion and control systems of a conventional aircraft. We could design it with arge envelope filled with a lighter-than-air gas, such as helium, to provide the initial lift. Then, using adjustable wings and engines, we could manipte the airflow around the envelope to control the ascent, descent, and direction of the aircraft."

    Poul tilted his head as he imagined Walter''s idea. It closely resembled the concept of a blimp from his original world. To think that Walter would conceive such an idea in this era by just observing the aircraft that flew earlier is remarkable.

    "I think I have a general picture of your idea, Walter, and it''s impressive if I must say," Poulmented. "Let me guess, is it powered by an internalbustion engine or something simr?"

    Walter nodded. "This idea is not new, to be honest, Mr. Nielsen. I have been thinking about making one but I have no idea where to start. When I looked at the radial engine that is being used by the aircraft, it flipped a switch in my mind."

    "I see," Poul hummed thoughtfully. "So, you''re suggesting we utilize the same radial engine technology we''ve developed for our aircraft and adapt it to power this hybrid aircraft?"<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    Walter nodded eagerly. "Exactly, Mr. Nielsen!"

    "Let me think about it, Walter. As you can see, we just finished building our aircraft prototype. We must focus first on that before jumping into another prototype."

    "If I may suggest, Mr. Nielsen," Walter interrupted. "Is it possible if I can work on this project alone? Of course not entirely alone but with five or six engineers to help me build the prototype. Please, Mr. Nielsen."

    Poul paused for a moment, considering Walter''s request. He knew that Walter was a talented engineer, and his passion for this new concept was evident. Poul also recognized the importance of focusing on their current aircraft prototype, which had the potential to revolutionize the world again.

    After a moment of contemtion, Poul nodded and smiled at Walter. "Fine, you can pick your engineers to work on that project of yours. I will also give you the funds so I will also give you the funds to kickstart the project."

    Walter''s face lit up with gratitude. "Thank you, Mr. Nielsen. I won''t disappoint you."

    Poul raised his beer bottle, offering a toast to Walter''s new endeavor. The two clinked their bottles together, the sound echoing in the hangar where they celebrated their achievements. As Poul looked around at his team, he couldn''t help but feel a sense of pride and gratitude.

    As they were having their moment, a voice cut through the air, interrupting their celebration.

    "Excuse me, gentlemen," the voice called out, causing Poul and Walter to turn their attention toward the source. Standing at the entrance of the hangar was a man and a woman, dressed in formal attire. Poul recognized them instantly. It was Jonathan and Amelia. "Why am I not informed of this?"

    Poul stepped forward, greeting the two. "Oh easy there now Jonathan. I and my team are conducting a flight test, what''s wrong?"

    "What do you mean what''s wrong? Shouldn''t I be part of this because I''m also the founder?"

    "I know which is why we are saving you for the best," Poul said. "We wanted to ensure that the aircraft will be ready for the demonstration to the President and major investors, which is where you''lle in."

    "Well you could have at least invited me over," Jonathan said, his tone a bit mncholic.

    "Woah there Jonathan¡­are you crying?" Poul teased.

    "What are you talking about?! Do you see tears in my eyes? Come on men."

    "Oh there you go have some beer instead," Poul handed Jonathan a bottle of beer.

    Jonathan reluctantly took the bottle of beer from Poul and sighed. "Fine, I suppose I can forgive you this time. But next time, don''t exclude me from this okay? I want to see our prototype."

    Poul chuckled and patted Jonathan on the back.

    "So, this is what''s making the noises in the sky huh?" Amelia remarked, looking at the parked aircraft in the distance.

    "That''s correct, Amelia," Poul confirmed. "Did you see it?"

    "I was the first one to notice it from the office, from which I informed Jonathan about it," Amelia replied with a smile. "It''s an impressive sight."

    "It would be more impressive if you were to experience it," Poul said. "Oh, by the way, you two, we have some matters to discusster about the reorganization of ourpany."

    Amelia raised an eyebrow, her curiosity piqued. "Reorganization? What do you have in mind?"

    "I''ll exinter."

 Chapter 267 The Massive Overhaul And New Project

    ?

    Five hourster, Poul and Jonathan made their way back to the main office. Taking their seats around the polished mahogany table, they prepared to finalize their vision for the future. Meanwhile, Amelia swiftly picked up the phone to make an important call.

    "Mr. Morgan is on the line, Mr. Nielsen," Amelia announced, her voice carrying a note of formality.

    With a nod of gratitude, she handed Poul the telephone. Poul cleared his throat andposed himself before speaking.

    "Mr. Morgan, it''s Poul Nielsen. Thank you for taking the time to speak with me," Poul greeted with a polite tone.

    "I hear you," Morgan replied, his voice carrying a mix of curiosity and mild annoyance. "What''s the purpose of this sudden call?"

    Poul took a deep breath, preparing to deliver the news that would reshape theirpanies and their partnership.

    "Well, we''ve been contemting a major overhaul in the operations and organization of ourpanies," Poul exined. "As our esteemed angel investor and valued partner, we believe that it is crucial to involve you in this important decision-making process."

    "This kind of discussion shouldn''t be discussed over the telephone," Morgan chided lightly. "But regardless, I''m intrigued by your proposal. So I''m all ears."

    "Fine¡­so we are thinking of merging all of our subsidiaries into one single entity," Poul began. "A corporation."

    Jonathan leaned forward, his eyes shining with anticipation.

    "Yes, a corporation that would harness the collective strength of ourpanies and unlock unprecedented growth potential. By merging our subsidiaries, we can streamline operations, eliminate redundancies, and create a unified brand that will dominate the market."

    Morgan listened intently, his initial annoyance giving way to genuine interest.

    "I must admit, Poul, the idea has its merits. A unified corporation could provide economies of scale, increased market share, and a strongerpetitive advantage. But how do you envision this merger taking ce?"

    Poul paused for a moment, gathering his thoughts before responding. "We propose conducting a thorough due diligence process to assess the viability of the merger. This would involve aprehensive review of each subsidiary, analyzing their financials, operations, and market positioning. We would then identify areas of synergy and create a strategic roadmap for integration."

    Jonathan interjected, his voice filled with conviction. "We have already conducted a preliminary analysis, and our teams are confident that the merger would result in substantial cost savings, improved efficiencies, and enhanced market presence. Together, we can achieve economies of scale, invest in cutting-edge technologies, and solidify our position as industry leaders."

    "As of now, the Axelsen & Nielsen Company has 8 subsidiaries. The Air Brake Company, Union Switch and Signal Company, Arms Manufacturing Company, Automobile Company, Oil Mining Company, Steel Manufacturing Company, Electric Manufacturing, and Distribution Company, and the newest Radio Manufacturing and Broadcasting Company."

    Morgan nodded, acknowledging the subsidiaries Poul listed. "I see. Consolidating these diverse entities into a single corporation would certainly present unique challenges. Each subsidiary operates in a different sector, with its own specific dynamics and market conditions. How do you propose to navigate theseplexities?"

    "We are aware that merging such diverse subsidiaries will require meticulous nning and strategic execution. Our approach is to leverage the expertise of our leadership teams within each subsidiary. We will appoint integration managers who will work closely with the subsidiary heads to ensure a smooth transition and minimize any disruption to ongoing operations," Poul said.

    Amelia interjected, her voice exuding confidence. "Furthermore, we have identified key synergies among the subsidiaries. For instance, the Steel Manufacturing Company can cater to the infrastructure needs of the Oil Mining Company. By capitalizing on these synergies, we can create cross-selling opportunities, expand our market reach, and maximize the value of the merger."

    "Is that Ms. Weiss, who spoke?" Morgan asked.

    "That''s correct, Mr. Morgan. And yes, that''s one of the synergies identified during our analysis," Poul confirmed.

    Morgan nodded, impressed by the team''s foresight. "Very well. It seems you have considered theplexities of this merger thoroughly. But what would be the structure of this new corporation?"

    Poul responded. "We propose establishing a centralized executive team that would oversee the overall strategic direction of the corporation. Each subsidiary would maintain a level of autonomy, headed by its own management team. Those who will head the subsidiary are the ones who have experience working in the specific industry. So far, we are the ones that are managing all of the subsidiaries and we already have a list of candidates capable of running the subsidiaries that we gathered two hours ago."

    "I understand the need for maintaining autonomy within each subsidiary, especially considering the expertise required in their respective industries. It''s encouraging to hear that you have already identified potential candidates to lead each subsidiary. This will help ensure a smooth transition and continuity in operations. However, have you thought about the governance structure of the new corporation?"

    "Indeed, Mr. Morgan. We propose establishing a board of directors for the new corporation that would include representatives from ourpanies as well as independent members with industry expertise. This diverse board would provide strategic guidance, ensure ountability, and safeguard the interests of all stakeholders. And since you and Lady Dupont have invested in our enterprises, you will have a seat on the board as well," Poul replied.<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "What will happen to our shares in the subsidiaries that we have invested in?" Morgan knew the answer to this question but he wanted to test whether Poul or Jonathan knew it.

    Poul and Jonathan exchanged nces before answering.

    "Rest assured, Mr. Morgan, your shares in the subsidiaries will be converted into shares of the new corporation on a pro-rata basis. The value of your investment will be preserved, and you will continue to hold a stake in the unified entity. We want to ensure that all investors, including yourself and Lady Dupont, benefit from this merger," Poul exined. "After all, we wouldn''t be where we are now without your support."

    "I will send my team over to your office to review the details of the merger proposal and conduct our own due diligence," Morgan said.

    "Very well, we will be waiting for your team''s arrival," Poul replied, a sense of relief washing over him. The fact that Morgan was willing to send his team to review the merger proposal and conduct due diligence indicated a genuine interest in the idea. Poul knew that this was a critical step towards turning their vision into a reality.

    As Poul ended the call, a wave of excitement and anticipation filled the room.

    "I think Mr. Morgan agrees with the rebranding of ourpanies," Jonathan remarked. "I will inform Caroler myself. What do you think she''ll think about this merger?"

    Poul pondered Jonathan''s question for a moment, considering the perspective of their long-time ally, Caroline Dupont. He knew that Lady Dupont had been instrumental in supporting their ventures and had a keen eye for business opportunities.

    "I believe Lady Dupont she''ll go along with it," Poul replied, his voice filled with confidence. "Not to mention, she is your future wife and someone who shares our vision for growth and innovation. She has always been forward-thinking and supportive of our endeavors. I believe she will recognize the tremendous opportunity this merger presents and the long-term benefits it can bring to ourpanies and our partnership¡­from a business standpoint of course."

    "Hmm¡­well, does this conclude our meeting?" Amelia asked.

    Poul nced at his watch and realized how time had flown during their discussion. He nodded in agreement.

    "Yes, I believe we have covered all the key points for now," Poul replied, a sense of aplishment evident in his voice. "We haveid the foundation for our vision, and presented the merger proposal to Mr. Morgan, and he has expressed genuine interest in further exploring the possibilities. Now, it''s time to wait for his team''s review and Caroline''s decision. Oh before you go, Jonathan, is there a project that you are working on?"

    "Currently, I don''t have one, why?"

    "Well, I''m thinking, maybe this is the right time that we introduce it?" Poul asked cryptically.

    "I don''t get it, what are you referring to, Poul?" Jonathan asked, his curiosity piqued.

    Poul leaned back in his chair, a mischievous smile ying on his lips. He knew he had caught Jonathan''s attention.

    "You remember when we first arrived in New York and you wanted to build a skyscraper in Manhattan?"

    When Poul said that, Jonathan''s eyes widened with surprise and excitement. Memories of their early dreams and aspirations flooded back to him, and he couldn''t help but lean forward.

    "You mean the Empire State Building?"

    Poul nodded, his smile widening. "Exactly. The time might be right to revisit that idea, my friend. With the resources we have at our disposal we can turn that dream into a reality."

    "What''s the Empire State Building?" Amelia asked.

    "It''s a skyscraper that we are nning on building sometime in New York. It will be the tallest in the world, even taller than what we have right now here in Pittsburgh," Jonathan answered.

    "I see¡­I can''t wait to see it then," Amelia said.

    "Well, Poul, give me two or three years. I will build that Empire State Building."

 Chapter 268 The Massive Changes & Development

    ?

    On September 1st, 892, a momentous asion unfolded as the renowned industrialist duo, Poul and Jonathan, orchestrated the transformation of their business empire, the Axelsen & Nielsen Companies, into the prestigious Axelsen & Nielsen Corporation. This grand rebranding marked a new era of sess and ambition for the duo.

    Tomemorate this significant milestone, an extravagant celebration took ce within the majestic walls of their Pittsburgh headquarters. Distinguished new directors, meticulously selected to oversee specific enterprises, were personally invited to witness the coronation of the corporation. The atmosphere was alive with anticipation and excitement.

    As the sun set, the venue transformed into a banquet hall, where an opulent feast awaited the esteemed guests. Delicacies from far-flung corners of the globe adorned the tables, tantalizing the senses with their exquisite vors and artistic presentation. It was a culinary symphony of indulgence, befitting the grandeur of the asion.

    The jubtion extended beyond the boardroom, as the Axelsen & Nielsen Corporation''s founders recognized the invaluable contributions of their dedicated workforce. In a gesture of gratitude, every worker who had diligently toiled for thepany was granted a paid leave bonus. This unexpected reward not only reflected the corporation''smitment to its employees but also served as a token of appreciation for their unwavering loyalty and hard work.

    As the night unfolded,ughter, clinking sses, and lively conversations filled the air. It was an evening of camaraderie and shared aspirations, symbolizing the unity and ambition that would propel the Axelsen & Nielsen Corporation toward even greater heights.

    "So, Mr. Nielsen. I heard that you are working on something even more magnificent than the automobile," Carl Benz, the director of Axelsen & Nielsen Automobile, remarked with a twinkle in his eye.

    "Indeed," Poul said, extending his arms towards the ceiling as if metaphorically grabbing the sky. "It''s a technology that would allow us to fly among the birds. You''ll see it once we make a formal announcement. Anyways, how are things going in your sector?"

    Carl Benz leaned back, a contemtive expression crossing his face. "We''ve made remarkable progress in the automobile division. Ourtest models boast improved engines, enhancedfort features, and more streamlined designs. We''re pushing the boundaries of what''s possible on the roads."

    "Can you be more specific on that?" Poul asked.

    "Certainly, Poul. One of our most notable breakthroughs is the development of abustion engine that runs more efficiently and emits fewer emissions. We have optimized the internalponents, introducing new engineering techniques that enhance power output while minimizing fuel consumption. Our engineers have also been experimenting with electronic ignition systems, which promise to revolutionize the driving experience."

    "Oh, electronic ignition systems huh?" Poul mused. He certainly knew what Benz was referring to. Although he didn''t share the idea with them, to think that they woulde up with it on their own was fascinating. This proved the point that even without him advancing every field in technology, there will be someone who would introduce it, albeit at a slower pace.

    "Well, Poul, the traditional ignition systems rely on manual mechanisms, such as a hand crank or a mao, to generate a spark for thebustion process. However, we have been working on developing an electric ignition system that uses a battery and a spark plug to ignite the fuel-air mixture. This automated system not only eliminates the physical effort required for ignition but also improves reliability and precision. It allows for smoother engine operation, reduced maintenance, and ultimately a more enjoyable driving experience for our customers. And what''s more, reduces the idents that involve the risk of injury from manual cranking,"

    "Mr. Nielsen!" Walter approached the two. "I havepleted it!"

    "Complete what?" Poul asked, his head tilting to the side.

    "The blimp! We have finished constructing it! We will be conducting a test flight tomorrow and I was hoping you coulde to see it!"

    Walter eximed, his eyes gleaming with excitement.

    Poul''s eyebrows shot up in surprise. "The blimp? Oh yeah, that thing, huh? Well, Walter, of course, I wouldn''t miss it for the world. You have put so much effort and resources into this project. It''s only natural for me as the co-founder and CEO of Axelsen & Nielsen Corporation to be there and witness its grand debut."

    "Thank you, Mr. Nielsen. It would be a great honor for me truly," Walter replied, his voice filled with gratitude and excitement.

    "No, don''t mind it," Poul waved his hand dismissively.

    Jonathan, who had been observing the conversation from a distance, approached with a smile. "Gentlemen, it seems to me that you are having an amicable discussion."

    "Thanks to you, we won the bid for lighting up the World''s Fair in Chicago. I guess that''s thest nail in the coffin for ourpetitors," Poul said with a proud grin.

    "Yeah," Jonathan confirmed. "Mr. Russell and hispany are being incorporated into our electric enterprise by Mr. Morgan. Though we offered him a position in thepany, he rejected it. He is now focusing on his newpany, Motion Pictures."

    "I see," Poul said, swirling the wine in his ss. "By the way, where is Caroline? Have you thought about your marriage yet?" <novelsnext></novelsnext>

    Jonathan chuckled, ncing around the vibrant banquet hall. "Ah, Caroline. Yeah, we have decided on the date. It would be on November 5th, 892 in New York. Three days before the Presidential election of yours."

    "Congrattions," Poul said, raising his ss in a toast. "To love, partnership, and the shared journey ahead. May your union be as prosperous and enduring as the Axelsen & Nielsen Corporation itself."

    Jonathan clinked his ss against Poul''s, a warm smile gracing his face. "Thank you, Poul. You''d be my best man at the wedding, okay?"

    "Of course, and you will be at my uing wedding with Sara. Speaking of which, where is she?"

    "Oh, she''s with Caroline at the moment, having theirdies'' moment," Jonathan said.

    "Oh, I see. They must be enjoying themselves," Poul replied, his eyes scanning the room as he tried to catch a glimpse of the two women. "Well, it''s good for them to have some time together."

    "Poul, did you know that Amelia has a boyfriend now?" Jonathan shared. "His name is Timothy Anderson, one of the best engineers we have in thispany."

    "Yeah I know, it''s good for her to find a man that would truly love her," Poul said, his eyes shifting towards the couple in the distance. There, they saw Amelia and Timothy heartilyughing and engrossed in conversation. Poul''s gaze softened as he watched them, a sense of contentment washing over him.

    "They make a lovely pair," Poulmented a hint of pride in his voice. "Amelia has always been a remarkable woman, and it warms my heart to see her happy."

    "Are you sure you are not in a way affected by it? I mean, you had a crush on her before right?"

    Poul chuckled, shaking his head. "Oh, Jonathan, that was a long time ago. Yes, I may have had a fleeting admiration for Amelia, but it was nothing more than that. Besides, I am genuinely happy for her and Timothy. Oh yeah, about the election I''m looking at the recent polls earlier and saw that despite our huge efforts, we didn''t even get near the two candidates, Clevnd and Harrisson."

    "Maybe you should concede," Jonathan suggested.

    "Concede?" Poul raised an eyebrow, amusement dancing in his eyes. "Jonathan, you know me better than that. I''m not one to give up so easily. The race may be tough, but we''vee this far, and we''ll continue to fight until the very end. We have invested so much in our campaign, I don''t want it to be in vain."

    "Well, whatever you say Poul," Jonathan replied with a smirk, knowing his friend''s determination all too well.

    "Right¡­Walter is conducting a flight test tomorrow, the blimp. Do you want toe? I''m saying this so that you wouldn''t feel left out again after that aircraft flight test," Poul chuckled.

    "Fine by me," Jonathan replied with a nod.

    As the evening wore on and the celebrations continued, the atmosphere in the banquet hall grew livelier. The guests mingled, exchanging stories and ideas, and forging new connections that would shape the future of the Axelsen & Nielsen Corporation. Poul and Jonathan, the dynamic duo behind the corporation''s sess, watched with pride as their vision unfolded before their eyes.

    The following day, the sun rose with a radiant glow, casting its golden light upon the grounds where the blimp awaited its inaugural flight. Poul, Jonathan, and a small group of esteemed guests gathered at the designated area, eagerly anticipating the momentous event.

    Walter stood beside the majestic blimp. It was an engineering marvel, towering above them with its sleek design and sturdy framework. The giant gas-filled envelope, secured by awork of ropes, shimmered in the morning sunlight.

    "He really made a blimp," Jonathan eximed softly. "Did you help him, Poul?"

    "On the technical side," Poul replied, his eyes fixed on the glistening blimp. "Walter led the project, but I provided guidance and resources whenever necessary. It''s impressive to see it finallye to fruition."

    And with that, they waited for Walter''s signal to start.

 Chapter 269 Blimp Debut

    ?

    Walter stood before the assembled crowd, his eyes shining with a mix of pride and excitement. The blimp loomed behind him, its majestic form an awe-inspiring sight against the backdrop of the clear blue sky. He cleared his throat, and the murmurs of anticipation subsided, all eyes turning toward him.

    "Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed guests, and the visionary minds of the Axelsen & Nielsen Corporation," Walter began, his voice carrying a tinge of enthusiasm that echoed through the air. "Today, we stand on the precipice of a new era in transportation, a realm where the boundaries of human ingenuity are pushed even further."

    He paused, allowing his words to sink in, the crowd hanging on to his every syble. A gentle breeze rustled through the surrounding trees as if nature itself were eager to witness this momentous asion.

    "Over the course of countless hours, days, and months, our dedicated team of engineers and technicians hasbored with an unwaveringmitment to bring this remarkable creation to life. And now, with great pleasure and profound gratitude, I present to you the culmination of our efforts¡ªthe Axelsen & Nielsen Corporation''s pioneering airship."

    A ripple of apuse swept through the audience, a chorus of appreciation for the collective endeavor that had brought them to this point. Walter''s gaze swept across the faces, acknowledging the shared triumph that animated their expressions.

    "The potential of this airship reaches far beyond the boundaries of imagination," Walter continued, his voice resonating with pride. "In an age where the world bes increasingly connected, our blimp represents a new paradigm of travel¡ªa fusion of innovation, elegance, and environmental consciousness."

    He gestured towards the towering vessel behind him, its surface gleaming in the morning light.

    "This airship, meticulously crafted to perfection,bines advanced aeronautical engineering with the principles of lighter-than-air flight. It harnesses the power of gas buoyancy, rendering it a marvel of efficiency and versatility.

    "And so," Walter concluded, his voice soaring with determination, "Today, my esteemed colleagues, partners, and friends, we embark on a journey that defies convention, that dares to dream beyond the confines of the ordinary. Together, let us bear witness to the maiden flight of the Axelsen & Nielsen Corporation''s airship, and may it be a symbol of our unwaveringmitment to innovation, progress, and the relentless pursuit of a better future."

    The apuse swelled as Walter concluded his speech, the sound reverberating through the air, a thunderous affirmation of the shared excitement and anticipation that filled the atmosphere. Walter acknowledged the crowd with a humble smile and a slight bow.

    As the apuse gradually subsided, the crowd''s attention shifted to Poul Nielsen and Jonathan Axelsen, the visionary founders of the Axelsen & Nielsen Corporation.

    "Mr. Nielsen and Mr. Axelsen," Walter spoke. "It would be my honor if you would join me in experiencing the maiden flight of our airship. It is only fitting that you are among the first to witness the culmination of our collective efforts."

    Poul and Jonathan exchanged nces, their eyes gleaming with excitement. They stepped forward, shook hands with Walter, and boarded the airship with him. The interior of the blimp was bathed in soft, ambient light that entuated the sleek design and luxurious amenities. The founders took their seats alongside Walter,

    As the cabin doors sealed shut, the sound of the outside world faded away, reced by the gentle hum of the airship''s systems. Walter nced at Poul and Jonathan.

    "So, what do you think of the interior?"

    "It''s good," Poul replied with a grin, his eyes scanning the elegant surroundings.

    "How confident are you that this is going to lift off from the sky and not plummet down like a lead balloon?" Jonathan interjected with a mischievous smile.

    Walter chuckled, understanding Jonathan''s yful skepticism. "Rest assured, Jonathan, our airship has undergone rigorous testing and checking to ensure its safety and performance. We haveplete confidence in its ability to take flight and provide a smooth and unforgettable journey."<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    "Well, I''m just asking. You know, they say prepare for the worst."

    Jonathan''s remark brought lightheartedughter from Poul and Walter.

    "Sir Walter," one of the engineers aboard the airship approached the three. "We will be ready for takeoff shortly. All systems are green, and the weather conditions are optimal for our maiden flight."

    Walter nodded. "Thank you for the update. Let''s proceed with the pre-flight preparations and get this airship soaring through the skies."

    As the engineer moved to carry out the final checks, the founders and Walter settled into their seats, their excitement palpable. Outside, the crowd gathered, their eyes fixed on the airship, eager to witness history in the making.

    With a gentle jolt, the airship slowly detached from the ground. The powerful engines roared to life, propelling the vessel upward. Poul, Jonathan, and Walter could feel the gentle ascent, a sensation akin to weightlessness, as the blimp gained altitude.

    Through the observation windows, they watched as the ground shrank beneath them, reced by a breathtaking vista of the city below. factories, parks, and winding rivers took on new perspectives, revealing the intricate beauty of the world from above.

    "How high are we?" Poul asked.

    Walter checked the altimeter readings and smiled. "We are currently at an altitude of 3,000 feet, Poul. But we''re just getting started. Our airship is capable of reaching even greater heights."

    "This is the view I saw when I conducted a test flight of our prototype aircraft," Poulmented. "But this is a different view. You know, where you can just stand here and watch as the view below. This blimp is going to be used in transportation right? Perhaps this airship can cross the Antic."

    "We haven''t got to the part yet," Walter interjected with a chuckle. "Too many technical issues need to be addressed."

    "I can help you with that," Poul said.

    "That would be fantastic, Poul," Walter replied, his interest piqued.

    Five minutester, the airship reached an astonishing height of 6,000 feet, revealing a panoramic view that stretched as far as the eye could see.

    "This is simply breathtaking," Walter murmured, his voice filled with wonder as he gazed out at the expansivendscape stretching below them. The airship soared through the sky, a graceful giant defying gravity, carrying them on a journey that seemed almost surreal. "So this is how it likes to be in the sky huh?"

    "Ourpany has been at the forefront for introducing things such as this, we will never stop until there''s no limit to what we can achieve."

    "I guess it''s time for me to bring the topic up about the Empire State Building," Jonathan said.

 Chapter 270 Triumph In The Skies, Ventures On The Horizon

    ?

    After thirty more minutes of spending time in the sky, the blimp finally made its descent toward the ground. Finalizing the flight test. The people craning their heads up below cheered their arrival. Some whistled while others pped their hands.

    As the blimp safely touched down, the crowd erupted into thunderous apuse. Walter, Poul, and Jonathan exchanged triumphant smiles, their hearts filled with a sense of aplishment and anticipation for whaty ahead.

    The cabin doors of the airship swung open, revealing the interior bathed in soft light. Walter stepped out first, followed by Poul and Jonathan. The crowd greeted them with cheers and congrattions, eager to get a closer look at the magnificent airship that had justpleted its maiden flight.

    Walter approached the podium that had been set up near thending site, the crowd''s attention now focused on him once again. He raised his hand, signaling for silence.

    "Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed guests, and the remarkable team behind the Axelsen & Nielsen Corporation," Walter began. "Today, we have witnessed a momentous asion¡ªa sessful maiden flight of our pioneering airship. I would like to thank everyone for witnessing this historic moment and for your unwavering support throughout this incredible journey. With all that being said, I now conclude our inaugural flight."

    The crowd erupted into apuse once again, their excitement echoing through the air. Walter''s eyes scanned the sea of faces, his gaze filled with appreciation for the individuals who had yed a part in making this dream a reality.

    "So, we''ll leave you be, Walter. Next time, better to call the media for more exposure and share your achievement with the world. We''ll do the same to our aircraft," Poul suggested.

    "I am thinking of doing that, Mr. Nielsen, Mr. Axelsen. Thank you so much for your time here despite your very busy schedules," Walter replied, his voice filled with gratitude. "Your support and guidance have been instrumental in bringing us to this moment. Together, we have achieved something truly remarkable."

    Poul and Jonathan nodded, their smiles reflecting the pride they felt in their aplishments. The three men exchanged a brief moment of camaraderie before Poul and Jonathan walked towards the automobile that was waiting to transport them back to the Axelsen & Nielsen Corporation headquarters. Walter lingered for a moment, basking in the afterglow of the sessful flight.

    ***

    Twenty minutester, the industrialist duo returned to the headquarters. There, they were greeted by Amelia, who was waiting for them in the lobby.

    "Mr. Nielsen, Mr. Axelsen. How was the blimp? Was it everything you had hoped for?" Amelia asked with a hint of excitement in her voice.

    Poul and Jonathan exchanged a knowing nce before Poul responded, "Amelia, it exceeded our expectations. The flight was wless, and the reception from the crowd was incredible. Walter did an exceptional job leading the team, and we couldn''t be prouder."

    Amelia''s face lit up with a bright smile. "That''s fantastic news! I''m so d to hear that everything went well. Oh, and as for the next course of business, you might want to see these files."

    Poul grabbed the file Amelia was handing to him. He opened the le and began flipping through its pages, his brows furrowing slightly as he read. Jonathan leaned over, his curiosity piqued.

    "What is it, Poul?" Jonathan asked, trying to catch a glimpse of the documents.

    "It appears that the polls are not really going in our favor," Poul sighed. "It seems like the Democratic Party candidate, Grover Clevnd is going to win the election. This is what happens when you run for the presidency on an impulse."

    Jonathan ced a hand on Poul''s shoulder and pressed it gently. "Don''t be tough on yourself. The odds are stacked against you anyway. And besides, even if you don''t win the election, the future president of this country won''t abandon us should King Alexandere for us."<novelsnext></novelsnext>

    Poul nodded, appreciating Jonathan''s reassuring words. "You''re right, Jonathan. Maybe we shouldn''t focus on politics first but on our business first. Speaking of which, Amelia, do you have any interesting news to share with us?"

    "The United States Navy is looking for an update about the battleship that we are supposed to build for them," Amelia said.

    "Have we started the process of acquisition the Newport Shipbuilding Company?" Poul asked.

    "Yes, Mr. Nielsen. We have initiated negotiations with the Newport Shipbuilding Company, and I believe we are making progress. However, there are a few hurdles we need to ovee to secure the acquisition."

    "What are they?" Poul inquired.

    Amelia took a moment to gather her thoughts before responding.

    "One of the primary challenges we''re facing is the concern raised by some key shareholders of Newport Shipbuilding regarding the financial terms of the acquisition. They are seeking a more favorable deal, which requires us to reassess our offer and findmon ground."

    "Well, in that case, it seems like we''ll have to find a concession. How about increasing our offer and reassuring them that we will take their workers so that they won''t be left without employment?" Poul suggested, his mind already formting a n.

    "I will try that approach and send our legal team to New York to engage in direct negotiations with the key shareholders," Amelia replied, nodding in agreement with Poul''s suggestion.

    "Anything else?"

    "Yes, the prospectors that we sent to Saudi Arabia found an oil reserve in the regions of Dammam and Dhahran. Initial assessments indicate that it could be a significant discovery," Amelia continued, her voice tinged with excitement. "Do you want me to schedule an appointment with the Al Saud royal family?"

    Poul''s eyes widened at the mention of the oil reserve. As expected, they would find oil there.

    "Absolutely, Amelia," Poul replied, his voice filled with determination. "Schedule an appointment with the Al Saud royal family as soon as possible. We need to discuss this oil reserve and explore the possibilities it presents for ourpany."

    Amelia nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. "Consider it done, Mr. Nielsen. I will reach out to the Al Saud royal family and arrange a meeting at your earliest convenience.

    "Is there still more?" Jonathan, who had been silent, finally spoke up.

    "That''s all the news, Mr. Axelsen. I''ll inform you once I know more."

    "Great," Poul pped his hand. "With that done, Jonathan, we can continue our discussion about the Empire State Building."

 Chapter 271 Arrival at Middle-East

    Chapter 271 Arrival at Middle-East

    September 1st, 892 in the continental calendar. The steamship carrying Poul and Amelia finally arrived at the port of Jeddah after a three-week voyage.

    Walking onto the gangway, they already felt the sweltering heat hitting them as the sun above cast its unrelenting rays upon the bustling port city. Poul wiped the beads of sweat forming on his forehead and nced at Amelia, who looked equally exhausted but determined.

    "Quite the wee, isn''t it?" Poul said with a wry smile, his voice slightly muffled by the sounds of seagulls and themotion of the busy port.

    Amelia nodded, adjusting the brim of her sunhat to shield her face from the scorching sun. "I never imagined it would be this hot. But we made it, Poul. We''re finally here in Jeddah. I never imagined I would set foot on thisnd. Anyways, Poul, have you read my report about the House of Saud? The one we are going to meetter?"

    "Yeah, I pretty much digest everything," Poul proudly said. "But there''s not much use to it don''t you think? The House of Saud wants to unify the Arabian Penins and steer away from the influence of the Ottomans. To do so, they''ll need to strike a deal with us, who will give them the money necessary to purchase arms and ammunition."

    Amelia scoffed softly. "It seems that you read it. Now, where is our contact?"

    them with a warm smile.

    As they stepped foot onto the bustling streets of Jeddah, their attention was caught by a local man dressed in traditional Arabian attire, a white thobe and a red checkered shemagh wrapped around his head. His piercing dark eyes met theirs, and he approached them with a warm smile.

    "Greetings, sir, ma''am," he said in ented but fluent English. "I am Abduh, a guide and a trustedpanion of the House of Saud. I''ve been informed of your arrival, and it is my honor to lead you to the Pce of Saud."

    Poul and Amelia exchanged surprised nces. It seemed their reputation had preceded them, and the connection they had been seeking had found them instead.

    Amelia extended her hand, expressing gratitude for his timely arrival. "This is Poul Nielsen, founder of the Axelsen and Nielsen Corporation and I''m Amelia Weiss, the executive secretary of thepany. This is an official document that outlines our proposal for support and cooperation with the House of Saud. We have been eagerly anticipating this meeting."

    Abduh took a nce at the sealed document and nodded. "Very well, Ms. Weiss, if you would be so kind as to allow me to guide you to the pce. Oh, I must inform you that ournd is not as advanced as yours. We do not have steam lotives and automobiles. Instead, we are going to take camels for the journey to the Pce of Saud. They are the most reliable and suitable mode of transportation in these aridnds."

    "It''s fine by us," Poul nodded his head. "How far is the pce anyway?"

    Abduh smiled warmly and gestured toward the horizon. "The pce of Saud lies about fifty miles to the northeast of Jeddah, across the vast expanse of the desert.

    After saying that, Abduh led them to a nearby stable where a group of sturdy camels awaited. With Abduh''s guidance, Poul and Amelia mounted their camels, feeling a slight jolt as the animals rose to their feet. Adjusting to the rhythm of their new mode of transportation, they set off on their journey through the bustling streets of Jeddah.

    The narrow alleys and bustling markets of Jeddah gradually gave way to open sandy ins as they ventured further away from the city. The camels moved with a steady, swaying gait, their padded feet sinking into the soft desert sand. The sun beat down upon them relentlessly, but a sense of anticipation and purpose carried them forward.

    Abduh rode at the front, skillfully navigating the path through his intimate knowledge of thend. Poul and Amelia followed closely behind, their eyes scanning the mesmerizingndscape that stretched as far as the eye could see.

    Three and a half hourster, the silhouette of the Pce of Saud grewrger on the horizon. Its towering minarets and ornate domes glistened in the fading light of the day, evoking a sense of majesty and power.

    "Is that the pce?" Poul asked, his tone dry from the arid desert air.

    "It is indeed the pce, Mr. Nielsen," Abduh confirmed.

    As they approached the pce gates, a group of guards dressed in ceremonial uniforms stood at attention, their spears gleaming in the dying light. Abduh halted his camel, signaling for Poul and Amelia''s camel riders to do the same.

    One of the guards stepped forward, his gaze fixed upon Abduh. "State your business and present your credentials," the guardmanded.

    Abduh reached into his robe and withdrew a parchment bearing the seal of the House of Saud.

    "I am Abduh, trusted guide andpanion of the House of Saud. I bring Poul Nielsen and Amelia Weiss, representatives of the Axelsen and Nielsen Corporation. Wee with an important proposal for the House of Saud."

    The guard inspected the document carefully, his stern expression softening as he recognized the seal. He then nodded in acknowledgment and signaled for the gates to open.

    "Wee to the Pce of Saud," the guard announced, his voice echoing through the courtyard. "Proceed."

    Abduh beckoned Poul and Amelia to off their camels, and together, the three of them walked through the grand entrance of the pce. As they entered, they were greeted by the opulence of the interior¡ªa sprawling courtyard adorned with vibrant mosaics, lush gardens, and the soothing sound of fountains.

    They were led through a series of ornate corridors, their footsteps muffled by the plush carpets underfoot. The air was scented with the fragrance of exotic flowers and subtle hints of incense. Finally, they arrived at a set of intricately carved double doors.

    Abduh turned to Poul and Amelia, a reassuring smile on his face. "This is it. The meeting chamber. Inside, you will have the opportunity to present your proposal to Abdziz Ibn Saud himself."

    Poul straightened his suit, this was it.

 Chapter 272 A Discussion with Saud

    Chapter 272 A Discussion with Saud

    The room was spacious, with high ceilings adorned with golden chandeliers casting a warm glow. At the far end of the chamber, seated upon a majestic throne adorned with jewels, was Abdziz Ibn Saud. He wore traditional robes of deep crimson, his presencemanding respect and authority.

    Abdziz Ibn Saud''s piercing eyes met Poul and Amelia''s, and a knowing smile tugged at the corners of his lips. "Wee, Mr. Nielsen and Ms. Weiss. I have been anticipating your arrival," he said and continued. "Please, take a seat."

    Saud gestured toward a pair of ornate chairs ced in front of his throne. Poul and Amelia followed his lead, gracefully settling into the seats as they maintained a respectful demeanor.

    "Your reputation precedes you," Poul began, his voice filled with admiration. "The House of Saud''s efforts to unify the Arabian Penins and establish a strong, independent nation have been widely recognized. We, at Axelsen and Nielsen Corporation, believe in your vision and are eager to support your cause."

    Some background, in this world and this era, the House of Sauds unified the Arabian Penins after defeating the opposing tribes and factions. Under the leadership of Abdziz Ibn Saud, they had sessfully forged a united Saudi Arabia, and that stood strong against external influences and internal divisions.

    Speaking of external influences, countries like the Ottoman Empire, British Empire, and the Russian Empire tried establishing diplomatic rtionships with them in exchange for economic benefits and geopolitical advantages. However, Abdziz Ibn Saud had always been cautious, meticulously weighing each opportunity and safeguarding the sovereignty of Saudi Arabia.

    But when the United States Oil Mining Company, one that is owned by Poul Nielsen, discovered oil, it was made imperative that the United States establish a partnership with the Saud.

    "So you came here about oil mining rights in the region of Dammam and Dhahran am I right?" Saud asked.

    "Not just those two but in the whole region that you control, sire," Poul responded, his voice filled with enthusiasm. "We believe that the vast oil reserves in your territories hold tremendous potential for economic growth and prosperity, not only for Saudi Arabia but also for the world. With our expertise in oil exploration and extraction, we can help unlock this valuable resource and ensure its responsible utilization. Also, while we are doing that, we will be the one to construct the infrastructure needed to support the extraction and transportation of the oil, which will further contribute to the development of the region like giving the locals jobs and fostering economic growth."

    Abdziz Ibn Saud leaned forward. "I have to say, the prospect is tempting. Our country as you currently know isgging behind Western powers in terms of technological advancements and infrastructure. If we were to embark on this partnership, it would not only bring economic prosperity but also pave the way for the modernization of our nation."

    "That''s right, that''s why I personally came here to extend my hand in friendship and coboration," Poul affirmed, his tone earnest. "Our partnership will not be a mere transaction; it will be a long-termmitment to the growth and development of Saudi Arabia. Together, we can build a future that honors your nation''s traditions while embracing progress and innovation. But¡­"

    "But?" Saud tilted his head to the side.

    "You must sign a document where it only allows United Statespanies to exclusively exploit the oil reserves in your territories," Poul continued, his voice bing more serious. "This will ensure that our partnership remains strong and that we can jointly navigate the challenges and uncertainties that lie ahead."

    Abdziz Ibn Saud leaned back on his throne, his expression thoughtful. "Exclusivity is a weighty decision," he mused. "It would mean entrusting the fate of our oil reserves solely to your corporation and the United States. While I recognize the potential benefits, I must also consider the impact on our sovereignty and the well-being of our people."

    Amelia, sensing the concern in the room, spoke up. "Your Highness, we understand the importance of sovereignty, and we aremitted to working hand in hand with the people of Saudi Arabia. Our intention is not to exploit or monopolize, but rather to foster a partnership that prioritizes mutual growth and shared benefits. We will ensure that the local workforce is empowered, that technology transfer takes ce, and that knowledge is shared for the benefit of the Saudi people. Our sess will be your sess."

    The room fell silent as Abdziz Ibn Saud contemted their words. After a moment, he nodded thoughtfully. "Your assurances give me hope, Mr. Nielsen. Very well, give us a few days to consider the terms of this agreement. I will convene with my advisors and ministers to discuss the implications of an exclusive partnership."

    "We are only staying here for three days, Your Highness. You may not know about this but I''m running for presidency in the United States, and the election is nearing. So please if possible I want to hear your decision before we leave," Poul interjected respectfully, a hint of urgency in his voice.

    Abdziz Ibn Saud regarded Poul for a moment. "Wait, you are running for the presidency? To be a leader of your country?"

    "That is correct, Your Highness," Poul replied. "Consider this visit of mine to your country as a testament to mymitment to international cooperation and the belief that strong alliances can bring about positive change on a global scale."

    "So that''s how the government functions in your country huh? The people elect their leaders. Here, it is quite different."

    "I know but we shall respect it. After all, this is your country," Poul said. "Anyways, Ms. Weiss, please hand His Highness the documents for them to peruse."

    "Understood, Mr. Nielsen," Amelia nodded, reaching into her briefcase and retrieving a folder containing the carefully prepared documents. With a graceful motion, she approached Abdziz Ibn Saud and presented the folder to him, bowing slightly as a sign of respect.

    When Saud received the document, he waved his hand, beckoning his servants toe. Momentster, they arrived by his throne.

    "Please see to it that our guests arefortably amodated in our finest quarters," Abdziz Ibn Saudmanded. "They are to be treated with the utmost hospitality during their stay."

    Poul and Amelia smiled at the gesture, grateful for the warm reception they were receiving. The servants quickly and efficiently attended to their duties, escorting Poul and Amelia to the luxurious guest quarters of the pce.

 Chapter 273 The Decision of Saud

    Chapter 273 The Decision of Saud

    After their meeting with Saud, Poul, and Amelia were promptly escorted to their respective guest quarters. The corridors of the pce were adorned with intricate tapestries and richly patterned carpets, showcasing the opulence that permeated the surroundings. Servants in traditional attire guided them through thebyrinthine halls, their footsteps echoing softly against the marble floors.

    As they reached the end of the corridor, a set of borately carved double doors stood before them. The doors opened soundlessly, revealing a spacious guest chamber bathed in a warm, golden glow. The room exuded an air of tranquility, a sanctuary from the outside world.

    Poul''s eyes scanned the room, taking in the luxurious furnishings and intricate details. A plush bed adorned with embroidered pillows stood against one wall, while afortable seating area invited guests to rx and unwind. The room was adorned with traditional Arabian artwork, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the kingdom.

    Amelia''s quarters mirrored the elegance andfort of Poul''s, as she was shown to a room adjacent to his. The servants ensured that every detail was taken care of, from fresh flowers on the bedside table to a selection of local delicacies arranged on a tray.

    "Thank you," Poul said sincerely to the servant who had apanied him. "We appreciate the hospitality and attention to detail."

    The servants, though unable to understand Poul''s words, recognized the sincerity in his tone and offered warm smiles in response.

    As the servants left the room, Poul took out his pocketbook from his breast pocket and opened it. He flipped through the pages until he got to the page of the checklist.

    "Proposing to the Saud¡­done," Poul muttered to himself, checking off the task with a sense of aplishment. Recalling back his interactions with the Saud, he was confident that they would findmon ground and move forward with the negotiations.

    Just as he settled into a plush chair, a gentle knock on the door interrupted Poul''s thoughts. He looked up, and Amelia''s voice followed, asking from the other side.

    "Poul, may Ie in?"

    A smile formed on Poul''s face as he recognized Amelia''s voice. "Of course, Amelia," he replied warmly, rising from his seat. He walked towards the door and opened it, revealing Amelia standing there.

    "This is supposed to be our break but how can I help you?" Poul asked, still staring down at Amelia.

    "Can I stay in your room for a moment? I''m not used to staying alone in a room in a country I just visited," Amelia exined.

    Poul tilted his head to the side and hummed aloud. Poul considered Amelia''s request, realizing that her unfamiliarity with the surroundings might make her feel uneasy. Understanding her need forpanionship, he smiled warmly and stepped aside, gesturing for her to enter his room.

    "Of course, Amelia," Poul replied, his voice gentle and reassuring. "You''re more than wee to stay here for a while. Besides, it''s getting boring."

    Amelia''s face lit up with gratitude as she stepped into Poul''s room.

    "I know that we are only staying here for three days but I can''t wait to go home," Amelia said as she looked around his room.

    "Me too, there''s a lot of preparations I need to take care of in the United States. My elections, my weddings, and the demonstration of the aircraft to the public," Poul paused, nodding in agreement. "Indeed, there''s much to attend to back home," he replied. "But our trip here is just as important as our work at home. So you just have to bear with it, suck it up."

    Amelia chuckled at Poul''s blunt honesty. "You always know how to lighten the mood, Poul," she said with a yful grin. "But you are right. Once we secured a partnership with the Saud, our oil mining enterprise would be greatly enhanced. Though I still doubt if they are going to agree to our terms."

    "What do you mean?" Poul asked, raising a brow.

    "The Sauds allow us to mine their oil reserves in exchange for thirty percent of the profits that we generate," Amelia exined. "Do you think they would find it unfair?"

    "Well, it is our equipment, our technical know-how, and not to mention, we are the ones paying for the construction of the facilities. I don''t think they would find it unfair," Poul replied. "We bring expertise, advanced technologies, and amitment to responsible resource extraction. Our proposal is a fair and mutually beneficial arrangement. Still, the agreement is not yet signed so it is still open for negotiations."

    "What if they ask us to raise the percentage? Like, make it forty or half?" Amelia asked.

    "We can''t go higher than thirty percent," Poul replied firmly. "We have carefully calcted the costs, risks, and investments involved in this venture. Going beyond thirty percent wouldpromise our profitability and undermine the sustainability of the project. "Well, we will find that out tomorrow, the day after tomorrow, or the day after the day after tomorrow."

    ***

    Two dayster. In the throne room. Poul and Amelia stood in front of Saud who was sitting on his throne.

    "We have reviewed the documents and learned your terms," Saud said. "After aprehensive evaluation, we determined that the termsid out in the proposal are not eptable to us."

    Poul and Amelia exchanged concerned nces, their anticipation turning into apprehension. Poul stepped forward, his voice calm yet determined. "Your Highness, we believe our proposal reflects a fair and bnced arrangement. The terms we have presented have been carefully considered and are in line with industry standards."

    Saud leaned forward, his expression serious. "While we appreciate your expertise and technical know-how, we must also consider the value of our resources and the economic impact on our kingdom. We believe that a profit-sharing arrangement of forty percent is more equitable."

    Poul''s eyebrows furrowed slightly as he mulled over Saud''s proposition. Forty percent was beyond their initial calctions, and it is what he and Amelia were concerned about two days ago.

    "I apologize, Your Highness, but we can''t go higher than thirty percent."

    "If you are not going to agree to our terms then we might as well look to other Western powers. Particrly the British."

    "Respectfully, Your Highness, even if the British approach you, I don''t think they''ll give you forty percent. Even thirty percent is already a generous offer considering the industry standards¡­"

    Poul knew that the Saud was ying the negotiation game, trying to leverage their valuable oil reserves to secure a more favorable deal. But that won''t work in a nation that is desperate.

    "Your Highness, it would be wise to ept our offer, as it might note again. You wanted to modernize and industrialize your nation right? This is the first step for it. Are you going to waste that opportunity to stand among the Western powers for 10 percent?"

    Saud''s face hardened as he listened to Poul''s persuasive words. He leaned back on his throne, contemting the consequences of his decision. Poul''s argument had struck a chord within him, reminding him of the long-term vision he held for his kingdom''s development.

    "Fine¡­" Saud said. "We will sign the partnership."

    Poul and Amelia smiled at his decision. "Thank you, Your Highness."

 Chapter 274 Seeing him Again

    Chapter 274 Seeing him Again

    Poul and Saud signed the document together at the table and once they were finished, they rose to their feet and exchanged a firm handshake.

    "Now to cement our partnership, we must take a picture," Poul gestured at the front, where the cameraman stood ready with hisrge-format camera. The cameraman, dressed in a ck suit and bowler hat, adjusted the lens and prepared the necessary equipment.

    "Indeed, a photograph tomemorate this momentous asion," Saud agreed, his regal demeanor giving way to a hint of excitement. "Let us capture this milestone for future generations to witness."

    Poul and Saud positioned themselves side by side, with the document they had just signed prominently disyed on the table in front of them. The room fell silent as the cameraman readied the camera, adjusting the settings and ensuring everything was in ce.

    "Just a moment, gentlemen," the cameraman said, lifting a ck cloth and carefully cing it over his head, disappearing under its cover. He adjusted the lens once more, ensuring perfect focus.

    The cameraman''s muffled voice broke the silence. "Ready... steady... hold your pose."

    The sh ignited, briefly illuminating the room before fading away.

    "And... done!" the cameraman eximed, removing the ck cloth from his head and revealing a relieved smile. He carefully extracted the photographic te from the camera, handling it with utmost care.

    Poul and Saud rxed their stance, a wave of satisfaction washing over them.

    "You are leaving now, Mr. Nielsen?" Saud asked.

    "Yes, Your Highness. We have a business to take care of in the United States. Though we will remain in touch," Poul said.

    "I see well good luck on your endeavors, Mr. Nielsen. I will have my men escort to escort you and Ms. Weiss to the Jeddah port."

    Poul nodded appreciatively. "Thank you, Your Highness. Your assistance is greatly appreciated. We look forward to maintaining a strong partnership with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia."

    Amelia, who had been observing the exchange quietly, stepped forward. "Your Highness, I would also like to express my gratitude for your hospitality and the opportunity to engage in this historic coboration. We hope to contribute positively to the growth and development of your nation."

    Saud acknowledged Amelia''s words with a nod and a warm smile. "The pleasure is mine, Ms. Weiss. Now then," he beckoned the guards forward, "please ensure Mr. Nielsen and Ms. Weiss have a safe journey to the port."

    The guards, d in traditional Arabian attire, stepped forward. Poul and Amelia gathered their belongings and followed their escorts through the ornate corridors of the pce. Outside were the camels that awaited them.

    "Atst we are going home," Amelia mumbled but Poul overheard her words and turned to her with a gentle smile.

    "Atst it is," Poul chuckled.

    "I couldn''t bear the heat in this country. Poul, make sure that we export air conditioners to Saudi Arabia," Amelia quipped, a mischievous twinkle in her eyes.

    "Really? In our three days of stay here, that''s what you came up with?" Poul teased, shaking his head yfully. "Well, I suppose it wouldn''t hurt to explore that possibility."

    As they mounted their respective camels, the driver looked up at them and raised a thumbs up, indicating if they were ready.

    Poul returned the gesture with a thumbs-up of his own, signaling their readiness to begin the journey.

    ***

    In the Port of Jeddah, Poul and Amelia gazed at the mysterious ship that is currently docked at the port.

    "Is that a British battleship?" Amelia asked, her eyes fixed on the warship.

    Poul, who had been keeping tabs on the Royal Navy''s fleet after they took a deal from the United States to build a battleship, identified it immediately.

    "Based on the appearance alone, it appears to be theirtest warship, HMS Royal Sovereign," Poul said. "But what is it doing here¡­"

    He trailed off the moment his gaze caught someone. Poul recognized the figure descending from the gangway of the battleship¡ªit was none other than King Alexander of the British Empire, apanied by his entourage of dignitaries and officers. The sight of the monarch in Jeddah was unexpected.

    "What the heck is he doing here?" Poul dismounted his camel and rushed towards Alexander.

    "Poul wait!" Amelia called after him, her voice filled with concern. She quickly dismounted her camel and followed Poul, trying to catch up with him.

    Poul reached the gangway where King Alexander was descending and approached him, but the Royal Guards immediately blocked his path.

    "Stay back!" One of the guardsmanded.

    "No, it''s okay Andrew," Alexander said, easing his hand up, signaling his guards to lower their defenses. Poul came to a stop, a few feet away from the king. "Fancy meeting you here, Mr. Nielsen."

    "Yeah fancy meeting you here as well," Poul said, scoffing. "What are you doing here?"

    "Is that the right way to speak to the King?" Alexander said, the corners of his lips twitching with amusement."

    "Are you following me?" Poul asked, his brows narrowing.

    "Following you?!" Alexander scoffed. "Why would I do that? I''m here on a diplomatic mission to establish a formal rtionship with Saudi Arabia. What makes you assume that? This is too ridiculous."

    "So we happen to coincidentally meet again? Is that what you want me to believe?" Poul retorted.

    "Watch your mouth you uncultured Albian!" The guard snapped, unable to bear the disrespect Poul is doing.

    "Calm down, Andrew. I got this," Alexander said, raising his hand to signal his guard to step back. He then turned his attention back to Poul, his expression serious butposed.

    "Well, Mr. Nielsen, I don''t think you have the right to know what I''m doing here in this country specifically, but may I ask, how is the election going on? Thetest polls suggest that you are not even making it to the top three. What happened to the big words you were throwing around during ourst encounter? That you are going to be a president¡­" he burst outughing, followed by his royal guards.

    "This bastard¡­" Poul cursed inwardly.

    "Mr. Nielsen, remember when I told you that I''m not finished with you yet? The humiliation of taking away Penelope from me. Well, get ready because I''m getting started now. It seems to me that you just struck a deal with the Sauds, what is it again¡­ah the oil mining rights."

    "How did you know that?" Poul demanded.

    Alexander ignored Poul''s question and simply looked at the timepiece. "I''m sorry, it seems like we are gettingte for our appointment. Mr. Nielsen, it was a pleasure talking to you, even though it was not. Get him out of my sight."

    Andrew, the head of the royal guard, stepped forward, his stern expression leaving no room for negotiation. "You heard the king. Leave now."

    "So you are explicitly dering war on me now, Your Majesty?" Poul said. "In that case,e at me with all you have got."

 Chapter 275 The Private Military Company

    Chapter 275 The Private Military Company

    Two dayster, Poul and Amelia arrived at the Port of New York. Walking down the gangway, they set foot on solid ground, officially disembarking from the ship. They looked around as if looking for someone.

    "There they are!" Amelia pointed her fingers to the distance.

    "Where?" Poul looked to where Amelia was pointing, and there were Jonathan and Caroline, standing by the automobile, waving their hands at them.

    They quickly head towards the two.

    "Just in time!" Jonathan eximed enthusiastically. "We''ve been eagerly waiting for your arrival. You must have so many stories to share! So how did it go? Did the Sauds ept the proposal¡­"

    Jonathan trailed off, his enthusiastic voice fading into concern as his gaze fixated on something he had noticed on Poul''s face. Furrowing his brow, he interrupted himself mid-sentence, unable to ignore the peculiar sight any longer.

    "Poul, is everything alright?" Jonathan''s voice now held a tinge of worry. "You seem to have a mark on your cheek. Did something happen during your journey?"

    But Poul was silent, lost in his own thoughts as he tried to recall any incident that could have caused the mark on his cheek. Sensing his friend''s preupation, Jonathan turned to Amelia, seeking answers.

    "Amelia, do you have any idea how this could have happened?" Jonathan asked, concern etching his face.

    Amelia''s eyes widened, momentarily taken aback by Jonathan''s question. She quickly collected her thoughts and nodded.

    "Well, the thing is Mr. Axelsen, there was an unprecedented meeting that urred during our time in the Middle East," Amelia exined. "It''s King Alexander of the British Empire."

    "Alexander¡­you say?" Caroline repeated, walking over to them. "I almost forgot about the guy, what did that king tell Poul to make him look like that?"

    "King Alexander is showing no signs of leaving our backs," Poul finally spoke, yet his tone was serious. "He knew where I was and it is not a coincidence that we happened to meet there in the Middle East."

    "Shit¡­" Jonathan mumbled a curse. "Alexander hasn''t moved on huh? After all these years. But what''s more concerning is that he knew where you were."

    "And he is also keeping tabs on the election polls," Poul added. "He made fun of me Jonathan, that prick¡­it seems like any moment now he could retaliate. Though I don''t know how far he will go, it''s best that we prepare. How is the recruitment going on to our private militarypany?"

    "The United States Army is willing to loan some of their men for it, but are you being serious right now? Why the private militarypany? Don''t tell me¡­you are going to hire them to kill the King?" Jonathan eximed.

    "What?! No, of course not," Poul quickly interrupted and continued. "About the Middle East, Saudi Arabia has epted our proposal. We are to operate and mine their oil reserves. However, I have a feeling that King Alexander might do something that would not be in the best interest of ourpany. Like coercing King Saud to terminate our agreement with us or worse, sanctioning British troops to upy some regions in the country¡­The British Empire helped the Sauds family to gain their independence so you can imagine the leverage King Alexander holds over them."

    "Yeah, I can definitely imagine it," Jonathan said, his voice grim. A potential conflict in the Middle East with their private militarypany against the British Army. If things escted and those two were to sh, it would be a war.

    "He is dering war on me, though not literally but figuratively," Poul said. "I want the list of men the United States Army is willing to loan us for our private militarypany. We need to be prepared for any eventuality."

    Jonathan nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. "I''ll make sure to get that information for you, Poul. I''ll call Morgan, he is the one I call for this type of thing."

    "Poul, perhaps you are overreacting¡­" Caroline chimed in. "You might lead this country to a war with the British Empire."

    "Well, if that were to happen, it''s a win-win for us," Poul said. "Our arms manufacturing enterprise may be producing revolutionary weapons but it''s not going to matter if there is no conflict for it to be used. Besides, I have a feeling that King Alexander would undermine our interest in the Middle East."

    "Looks like the wedding is going to get postponed," Jonathan said jokingly to Caroline.

    "No, you can push forward your marriage, Jonathan. It''s not like the conflict is going to happen now. Let''s return back to Pittsburgh."

    ***

    Seven dayster, in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania, the headquarters of the Axelsen & Nielsen Corporation. Hundreds of men outside the main office queued up to be vetted by the industrialist duo for their private militarypany.

    Poul and Jonathan were in their respective rooms, each interviewing the potential recruits. They implemented stringent measures to make sure that only the most capable and trustworthy individuals would join their ranks.

    Meanwhile, outside the main office were the factory workers. They chatted amongst one another, wondering why there were a lot of young men lining up outside.

    "Miss Olsen, do you happen to know what''s going on there?" One of the nurses working under Sara asked.

    "To be honest Le, I don''t have any idea."

    "But¡­isn''t Mr. Nielsen, your fiance? Howe that he hasn''t informed you about it?" Le asked, her curiosity piqued.

    "It''s simple Le, I don''t usually meddle in Poul''s business affairs or anything for that matter," Sara replied with a gentle smile. "We respect each other''s professional domains, and Poul has always been the one to handle the strategic decisions regarding the corporation. He trusts me to focus on my work as a doctor, just as I trust him with his responsibilities as an industrialist¡­" She paused, her curiosity piqued. "But now that you mention it, I can''t help but wonder what exactly is happening. It seems like a huge job fair but never in the main office¡­"

    As curiosity got the best of her, Sara walked over to the line and asked one of the men.

    "Excuse me, sir, may I ask what you are here for? Are you applying for a job in one of the factories?" Sara asked.

    "Sorrydy, but I''m not at liberty to discuss the details. We''ve been asked to wait in line and follow the instructions given to us," the man replied politely.

    "Is that so?" Sara''s suspicion grew stronger as the man''s response raised more questions than it answered. She couldn''t shake off the feeling that something significant was happening within the Axelsen & Nielsen Corporation. Determined to find out more, she decided to take matters into her own hands.

    "Le, wait here. I''ll go inside," Sara said.

    "I will return back to the clinic, rather than wait for you, Ms. Olsen," Le said sheepishly.

    Sara nodded at Le and made her way towards Poul''s office inside the building. Up on the eighth floor, Sara made her way to Poul''s room. As soon as she arrived at the door, she saw Poul shaking hands with a man.

    "Wee to Aegis Tactical Services," Poul said to the man.

 Chapter 276 Justification

    Chapter 276 Justification

    It wasn''t long after Poul noticed someone was standing at the door.

    "Sara?" Poul uttered, his hand still shaking the applicant. "What are you doing¡­wait¡­you may go now, John."

    John, the applicant, nodded and quickly left the room, leaving Poul alone with Sara. Poul''s expression turned from surprise to concern as he observed Sara''s presence in his office.

    "Sara, what brings you here? I thought you were in the clinic."

    Sara took a deep breath,posing herself before responding. "Poul, I couldn''t help but notice the unusual activity outside the building. There are so many men lining up, and what''s this about the Aegis Tactical Services? It sounded militaristic¡­Is there something that you''d like to tell me?"

    "Sara¡­"

    Just as Poul was about to exin what was happening to her, a feminine voice interjected.

    "Poul, the next applicant would be George¡­wait¡­Sara?"

    The voice belonged to Amelia, with a startled expression on her face as she entered the room. Amelia''s eyes darted between Poul and Sara, sensing the tension in the air.

    Sara turned her attention to Amelia, her gaze filled with curiosity. "Amelia, what is going on here? Why are there so many applicants for this Aegis Tactical Services? And why is Poul involved in it?"

    Amelia hesitated for a moment, ncing at Poul for guidance. Poul took a deep breath and decided it was time to reveal the truth to Sara.

    "Amelia, please have a seat. There are things that I need to exin," Poul said, gesturing toward the chairs in front of his desk.

    Saraplied, her expression a mix of anticipation and concern. Poul sat down behind his desk, collecting his thoughts before he began.

    "Aegis Tactical Services is the private militarypany that Jonathan and I have established," Poul started. "Given the recent geopolitical tensions and the looming threat of King Alexander, we felt the need to have a capable force that could protect our interests."

    "Wait¡­King Alexander?" Sara interrupted as she didn''t expect to hear that name again. "Why? What had he done now?"

    "Well, Sara, you have to understand that Alexander is keen on destroying us. He still believes the fact that I deceived and stole you from him."

    "So you started a private militarypany to protect us, is that what you are saying?" Sara said.

    Poul nodded. "Yes, Sara. Aegis Tactical Services is more than just protecting our interests. It''s about safeguarding our lives, the lives of our friends, and those who are close to us. King Alexander''s obsession with revenge poses a significant threat that we cannot ignore. We can''t solely rely on the government''s protection, especially when our lives are at stake. Even though we manufacture guns for them, politics can be unpredictable. Aegis Tactical Services gives us the ability to take control of our own security and provide a level of protection that we wouldn''t have otherwise."

    "So this is what you and Jonathan were talking about when you excused me and Ms. Weiss left your officest year?"

    Poul''s eyes softened as he met Sara''s gaze. "Yes, Sara, that was the day when Jonathan and I first discussed the idea of establishing Aegis Tactical Services. We knew we needed to take proactive measures to ensure our safety and protect those we care about. King Alexander has unlimited resources at his disposal. He might even throw two countries at war to get revenge on me."

    Sara''s eyes widened with a mixture of shock and concern. The gravity of the situation became clearer to her as Poul''s words sank in.

    "I don''t have a problem¡­to it¡­Poul," Sara broke the silence. "I understand the reason why you are doing this and for that I support you. As someone who had experienced Alexander''s twisted side¡­" Sara''s voice trailed off, her thoughts drifting back to the time when she had been under King Alexander''s grasp, where he can be scary at times. "I knew what he was capable of."

    "I won''t let you experience it again, Sara... not on my watch," Poul dered. "I''ll see you in the evening, and have dinner."

    "Okay¡­I''ll see you then," Sara rose from her seat and walked over to Poul, nting a gentle kiss on the forehead.

    After that, Sara left the room, leaving Amelia and Poul alone.

    "Amelia, please call the next applicant," Poul ordered.

    "Right away," Amelia bowed slightly and quickly stepped out of the room to make the call. Poul sat in his chair, deep in thought, contemting the immense responsibility thaty before him. The weight of the world seemed to rest on his shoulders, especially after King Alexander made an appearance again.

    King Alexander¡­ had forgotten about him momentarily after a year of idleness, and yet he reappeared, only this time he was acting dangerously.

    Five hourster, Poul and Jonathan finished interviewing two hundred applicants. There are still four hundred men to interview in theing days. Exhausted but determined, Poul knew that finding the right individuals to join Aegis Tactical Services was crucial. Each person would y a vital role in the organization''s mission to counter King Alexander''s threats.

    "Do you want a beer?" Jonathan asked, breaking the silence that had settled in the room. He reached into the small refrigerator hidden behind the desk and pulled out two cold bottles.

    Poul nced at the beer and shook his head. "Thanks, but I''ll pass for now. I have dinner ns with Sarater, and I want to make sure I''m fully present for that."

    Jonathan nodded understandingly and ced one of the bottles back in the fridge. "So how many applicants that you interviewed pass the test?"

    "About half of them show promising potential," Poul replied, his voice filled with a mix of exhaustion and satisfaction. "We still have a long way to go."

    "For me, it was ny," Jonathan "For me, it was ny," Jonathan chimed in, a hint of pride in his voice. "We''vee across some truly exceptional individuals today. People with extensive military backgrounds in the civil war."

    "That is a good start, I''m also considering hiring abroad. Veterans and skilled soldiers from the Franco-Prussian war, Austro-Prussian War, Russo-Turkish, and the Crimean War," Poul suggested.

    "Well, I think we should hire three hundred as a start for now, Poul, and put them to the test. Like have it hired by another country," Jonathan proposed.

    "Not a bad idea," Poul considered, nodding thoughtfully.

    Jonathan sighed. "My wedding ising soon, I hope King Alexander doesn''t do things during that. I have to go now, Poul. If you need something, just call me."

    "Thank you, Jonathan."

 Chapter 277 The Wedding Ceremony

    Chapter 277 The Wedding Ceremony

    On October 5th, 892, the atmosphere at the headquarters of the Axelsen & Nielsen Corporation was filled with excitement. The wedding of Jonathan Axelsen and Caroline Dupont was taking ce in thepany town church, conveniently located just 300 meters north of the main office. It was a special asion, and all employees were invited to join the celebration, including the hardworking factory workers who had dedicated their efforts to thepany, the clerical staff who diligently managed the paperwork, and the executives who steered thepany''s direction. The vibrant spirit of camaraderie was palpable as colleagues exchanged warm greetings, their faces adorned with joyful smiles.

    Thepany town church, a modest yet charming structure, stood as a beacon of hope and unity for themunity. Its doors swung open wide, weing the steady stream of handpicked attendees. Inside, the air was filled with a sense of anticipation and love. The pews were adorned with delicate floral arrangements, their sweet fragrance mingling with the murmurs of conversation.

    Jonathan, the co-founder of the Axelsen & Nielsen Corporation, stood confidently at the altar. His well-fitted suit showcased his dignified presence, while a tasteful boutonniere on hispel symbolized hismitment and love for Caroline.

    Caroline, the CEO of Loreal Company, looked radiant in her elegant white gown as she walked down the aisle. Arm in arm with her father, their synchronized steps drew them closer to the person she cherished most. A melodic hymn filled the air, bringing a serene touch to the bustling atmosphere of the moment.

    "I remembered the day you told me that you are going to introduce this man to me, Caroline," Caroline''s father said, his tone stern yet filled with underlying warmth.

    "Well, Father, an unexpected problem arose that time when we were in Paris so we had no choice but to cancel it. Still¡­I want to thank you Father for showing up here with Mother. I know that our rtionship is strained due to me defying your expectations, but your presence here means a lot to me," Caroline responded.

    "You live your life now, my dear," her father interrupted, his stern tone softening further. "I may not always understand your choices, but I can see the happiness in your eyes. It is evident that Jonathan makes you happy, and that is all a parent could ever want for their child. Now¡­go meet him."

    As they reached the altar, Caroline''s father gently kissed her on the cheek before stepping back allowing Caroline to stand face to face with Jonathan. Their eyes locked, and at that moment, the world around them seemed to fade away, leaving only the two of them and their shared journey ahead.

    As they were in that intimate moment, Poul, Sara, Morgan, and Amelia sat in a row of reserved seats at the front, their eyes fixed on Jonathan and Caroline with heartfelt admiration.

    "Oh look how lovely they are," Morganmented. "It seems that Mr. Axelsen had beaten you on this one, Poul."

    Poul scoffed softly. "My marriage with Sara is certain, Mr. Morgan. It''s just that Jonathan and Caroline seemed eager to be the first."

    As he said that, he felt a light tap on his side as Sara elbowed him gently. "Shh¡­Poul. You are jinxing it¡­"

    "Do you still believe in that superstition, Sara?" Poul teased, a mischievous twinkle in his eyes. "I assure you, our love is far stronger than any jinx."

    Sara yfully rolled her eyes but couldn''t help but smile. "Well, if that''s the case, then let''s focus on celebrating their happiness today. It''s such a beautiful moment."

    The ceremony continued with the priest stepping forward, his presence capturing the attention of everyone in the church.

    "Dearly beloved, we gather here today to witness and celebrate the union of Jonathan and Caroline in holy matrimony," the priest began his words carrying a gentle authority. "Marriage is a sacred bond, a covenant between two souls who have chosen to embark on a shared journey of love,panionship, and support."

    His eyes scanned the room, meeting the gazes of the attendees, as he continued, "Jonathan and Caroline, you stand before us today, surrounded by your loved ones and colleagues who havee to honor yourmitment to one another. Your love has brought you to this moment, a moment that marks the beginning of a new chapter in your lives."

    Jonathan and Caroline exchanged nces, their faces radiant with happiness and anticipation.

    "Marriage is not merely a legal or social contract," the priest continued. "It is a union of hearts, a promise to stand by each other through life''s joys and challenges. It is a pledge to nurture and cherish one another, to be each other''s rock and refuge, to build a life together grounded in love and respect."

    He paused for a moment, allowing his words to sink in, before speaking directly to the couple. "Jonathan Axelsen, do you take Caroline to be yourwfully wedded wife, to love her, honor her, and protect her, in sickness and in health, for richer or poorer, for better or worse, for as long as you both shall live?"

    "I do," Jonathan''s voice resonated with conviction as he answered, his gaze never leaving Caroline''s eyes.

    With all my heart and soul, I take Caroline to be my wife, to love her unconditionally, to honor and protect her, to support her dreams and aspirations, and to walk by her side through all the seasons of life."

    The priest smiled and shifted his gaze to Caroline. "And you, Caroline Dupont, do you take Jonathan to be yourwfully wedded husband, to love him, honor him, and protect him, in sickness and in health, for richer or poorer, for better or worse, for as long as you both shall live?"

    "I do," she said with a trembling voice. "With all my heart and soul, I take Jonathan to be my husband, to love him fiercely, to cherish and support him, to be his confidante and his guiding light, as we embark on this beautiful journey together."

    The priest nodded with a wide smile.

    "May the vows you have exchanged today be eternally bound in the tapestry of your love. May your union be a source of strength,fort, and inspiration to you both? And now, by the power vested in me, I pronounce you husband and wife. You may now kiss."

    As the priest spoke those final words, a collective cheer erupted from the attendees. Jonathan and Caroline leaned in and sealed their vows with a tender, passionate kiss. Apuse and jubntughter filled the church, spreading an infectious wave of happiness throughout the room.

    Poul, Sara, Morgan, and Amelia rose to their feet, pping enthusiastically.

    "That''s my man over there!" Poul whistled.

    "Poul¡­shh!" Sara shushed Poul but failed utterly.

    After their kiss, Jonathan and Caroline turned to face their loved ones and colleagues. Jonathan pointed his finger at Poul as if acknowledging his cheers to him.

    "We are going to be next, Sara. Not even a king from the other side of the ocean can stop us¡­" Poul said.

 Chapter 278 The Brief Respite

    Chapter 278 The Brief Respite

    Outside the church, the factory workers waved their hats in weing gestures, some cheered, others whistled, and a few even shed happy tears. The atmosphere was contagious with joy as the news of Jonathan and Caroline''s marriage spread throughout thepany town.

    In the midst of the celebration, the factory workers formed a makeshift parade, eager to show their support for the newlyweds. Led by the factory foreman, they marched through the streets with banners and gs, their footsteps synchronized and their voices raised in unison.

    The townspeople, drawn by the lively spectacle, poured out of their homes and shops to join the procession. Children skipped alongside, theirughter echoing through the air. The townsfolk pped and cheered, caught up in the infectious merriment.

    As the parade reached the main office of Axelsen & Nielsen Corporation, the employees inside caught sight of the jubnt crowd. They hurried to the windows, their faces lighting up with smiles as they watched the procession pass by.

    Meanwhile, the ballroom of the main office building was transformed into a grand reception venue, adorned with elegant decorations and sparkling chandeliers. The sound ofughter and cheerful conversations filled the air as guests entered, marveling at the beautifully arranged tables and the tantalizing aroma of a sumptuous feast.

    As a token of appreciation for the efforts of their employees and workers, Poul and Jonathan had decided to make the wedding day a paid holiday. So right now, no one was working in the factories, and productions were paused to give way to this celebration. Even though this decision would cost them millions, they believed it was a small price to pay for the dedication and hard work their employees had put into building thepany.

    Jonathan and Caroline, now officially married, entered the reception hand in hand, smiles radiant and their hearts filled with gratitude. They made their way to the center of the ballroom, where a grand stage had been set up for the evening''s festivities.

    Poul, Sara, Morgan, and Amelia made their way towards the couple. Upon arriving in front of them, they shook hands and exchanged warm congrattions.

    "Congrattions again to both of you," Poul said. "So when''s the honeymoon, huh?" he teased.

    Jonathanughed, ncing at Caroline affectionately. "We''re actually leaving for our honeymoon tomorrow morning in Newport."

    "Ah, Newport. Isn''t that where you are living, Caroline?"

    "That is correct Poul," Caroline confirmed, her gaze flickering to Amelia.

    When Amelia noticed her gaze on her, she immediately walked forward and gave her a warm embrace.

    "Oh¡­ Lady Dupont, I''m so happy that you''ve found someone who brings you so much joy," Amelia said, her voice filled with genuine happiness. "Jonathan is a wonderful man, and I have no doubt that the two of you will have a beautiful life together."

    "Thank you, Amelia. Your support and friendship mean the world to me," Caroline said.

    "I wouldn''t raise your sry even if you said that, Amelia," Jonathan said jokingly.

    Amelia chuckled, yfully swatting Jonathan''s arm. "Oh, don''t worry, Jonathan. I won''t hold you to that. Take care of Lady Dupont for me okay? She is like a big sister to me¡­"

    Jonathan nodded affectionately. "I will¡­Amelia¡­I will."

    "That''s touching," Morgan finally chimed in. "Now that you are husband and wife, does that mean we are going to see a child soon?"

    Jonathan and Caroline exchanged a knowing nce, their faces lighting up with excitement. The question about starting a family was one they had contemted and discussed in private, and now it seemed like the perfect moment to share their hopes with their closest friends.

    Caroline smiled warmly at Morgan. "We''ve certainly talked about it, Mr. Morgan, though, is that really the question you wanted to ask us?"

    "Well, I''m just saying, you''re both old enough to have children don''t you think? Actually, you are way toote."

    "What can I say, Mr. Morgan, we are running a corporation here," Jonathan said in a lighthearted tone, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "We''ve been a bit busy with our responsibilities, but rest assured, we do have ns for a family."

    "Oh, I can''t wait to be the godfather of your child!" Morgan eximed. "Anyways, now that your wedding has been sealed and concluded, I want to know when will be the wedding of Poul and Sara. Is it next week?"

    Poul chuckled, exchanging a knowing nce with Sara. "Well, Morgan, we appreciate your enthusiasm, but I''m afraid our wedding might not be as grand as Jonathan''s. We''ve been facing some unexpected challengestely which I''m sure you know who I am referring to."

    "Ah, that King of the British Empirehuh? Well why bother, you two have a private militarypany now? Equipped with thetest technology more advanced than what the United States Army is using. If King Alexander dares to attack you indirectly or directly, you can retaliate with that."

    Poul chuckled. "That may be true but we can''t say that for certain. We have to test the troops first. Speaking of which, a country by the name of Joseon Kingdom is hiring our private militarypany to go fight against the Japanese that are threatening their sovereignty."

    "Hmm¡­wouldn''t that implicate our country by helping that Joseon country?" Morgan asked. "Not to mention, this could affect your ratings as a running president."

    "Morgan, I''m no fool. I have seen the recent polls, I have no chance of winning against the giants of the Republican and Democrat Party. As for your concern in implication, I don''t think so. Private militarypanies operate in a gray area, and our involvement with the Joseon Kingdom will be under contractual terms."

    "But Poul, thepany is still an Avalonian, I don''t think the Japanese will see it that way," Morgan interjected, concern etched on his face.

    "It is Avalonian, Mr. Morgan but the troops are under the private Come on, let''s drink and toast Jonathan and Caroline''s happiness!" Poul eximed, trying to steer the conversation back to the joyfulpany, not a country. There is a huge difference. Anyways, we shouldn''t be talking about business, we should be celebrating! Come on, let''s drink and toast Jonathan and Caroline''s happiness!" Poul eximed, trying to steer the conversation back to the joyful asion.

    The groupughed and enjoyed the day.

    A day after the wedding ceremony, thepany town of the corporation returned to its usual hustle and bustle as operations resumed at Axelsen & Nielsen Corporation. The factories hummed with activity once again, as workers donned their uniforms and got back to their daily tasks. The celebration had been a brief respite from their responsibilities, and now they were ready to tackle their work with their usual vigor.

    "Poul, themander of the troops that will lead our forces in Joseon has arrived," Amelia informed.

    "Good, let him in."

 Chapter 279 Meeting the Commander of the PMC

    Chapter 279 Meeting the Commander of the PMC

    Amelia walked briskly down the corridor, her heels clicking against the polished marble floor. The officer she was escorting, Lieutenant Colonel Richards, strode confidently beside her, his military insignia gleaming on his crisp gray uniform. Their mission was a delicate one - to establish a private military presence in the Joseon Kingdom, a histord known for its rich culture and traditions.

    As they approached the heavy wooden door, Amelia straightened her posture and rapped her knuckles against the solid surface. The door swung open, revealing a spacious office.

    Poul looked up from his desk, his eyes widening as he caught sight of the new arrival.

    Poul''s gaze lingered on the tall,manding figure standing in the doorway. The man appeared to be in his early forties, with a chiseled jawline and piercing blue eyes that exuded a sense of authority. His uniform clung to his athletic frame, emphasizing his confidence and strength.

    Poul''s trained eye recognized the meticulous care with which the Lieutenant Colonel had adorned himself, a clear reflection of his dedication to his role.

    "Wee, Lieutenant Colonel Richards," Poul greeted him warmly, gesturing towards a pair of plush chairs positioned in front of his desk. "Please, have a seat."

    Richards nodded appreciatively and gracefully settled into one of the chairs, his posture remaining upright and attentive. "Thank you, Mr. Nielsen," he replied, his voice deep and resonant.

    Amelia positioned herself near the desk, positioning herself next to Poul.

    "So, Lieutenant Colonel Richards," Poul repeated his name while reading the file in his hand. "It says here that you participated in the United States Civil War back in 863 at the young age of twelve. So young huh? How were you able to enlist?"

    "Well, I''d say that the Union was in dire need of every able-bodied individual to fight the Confederacy," Richards began, a flicker of nostalgia crossing his face. "I grew up in a small town ravaged by the war, and at twelve years old, I witnessed the destruction and loss that it brought upon us."

    He leaned back in his chair, his gaze fixed on a distant memory. "My family, like many others, had suffered greatly. My father, a soldier, had fallen in battle, leaving my mother and younger siblings vulnerable. I couldn''t bear the thought of sitting idly by while our home and loved ones were at risk."

    Richards clenched his fists, his knuckles turning white momentarily. "So, I made a decision¡ªan audacious one, you could say. I disguised myself as a young soldier, altering my appearance to look older. I forged documents and presented myself as an eighteen-year-old recruit. The desperation of the times allowed me to slip through the cracks of age verification, and before I knew it, I found myself enlisted in the Union Army."

    Poul leaned forward, his eyes reflecting a mix of surprise and admiration.

    "That''s quite an extraordinary feat. To be able to deceive them, you must have appeared remarkably mature for your age," Poulmented, his curiosity piqued.

    Richards chuckled softly, a hint of nostalgia lingering in his eyes. "I suppose I possessed a physical maturity that belied my actual age. But it wasn''t just my appearance that allowed me to slip through the cracks. I observed the older soldiers closely, imitating their mannerisms, learning to carry myself with a sense of authority and confidence."

    "What major battles did you participate in? Although I can read it from here, I want to hear it from you," Poul said. "I participated in several major battles during my time in the Union Army. One of the most significant was the Battle of Gettysburg. I can still remember the deafening roar of cannon fire and the acrid scent of gunpowder in the air as if it just happened yesterday¡­"

    Poul hummed loudly. "I''d say that you are good on paper, Mr. Richards. But the Kingdom of Joseon is a differentndpared to the United States. The culture, the norms, everything is different. I believe you have studied the papers my executive secretary handed you to prepare for the operation."

    "I already did, sir," Richard confirmed with a nod of his head. "We are to repel the Japanese forces illegally upying just forty miles north of Hanseong."

    "It''s a clear vition of Joseon''s sovereignty, or so they believe," Poul said. "But we don''t dive into the details here, Mr. Richards. We are a private militarypany, we don''t ask questions, we do what we are paid to do. It will be a lot more different than fighting for your country."

    "Wouldn''t this drag our country into conflict with Japan?" Richards asked, a concerned expression etching his face.

    "No, and even if it did, I don''t think the Japanese would risk escting tensions with Western Powers. They don''t have the guts," he paused and sighed. "You are probably the fourth person who has asked this question. Just leave the politics to us, and do your job."

    Richards rose to his feet and saluted. "I will, Mr. Nielsen,"

    Poul rose to his feet as well and walked around the table, moving closer to him. He straightened Richard''s military uniform, which bore simrities to the historic uniforms of the Wehrmacht in World War II. Poul believed in creating an intimidating presence for his troops,bined with a touch of fashion.

    "Now, the Joseon Kingdom has paid us a significant sum, and I don''t want any mistakes orplications," Poul emphasized. "Do you understand?"

    Richards straightened his posture, meeting Poul''s gaze with unwavering determination. "Yes, Mr. Nielsen. I understand the gravity of our mission and the responsibility that rests on my shoulders. I assure you that I will do everything in my power to ensure a sessful operation and protect the interests of the Joseon Kingdom and thispany."

    Poul nodded, satisfied with his response. "Good, I don''t have to remind you that this is also our first contract, so I want you to make a good impression on the Joseon Kingdom and demonstrate the effectiveness and professionalism of our private militarypany."

    "Duly noted, Mr. Nielsen."

    Poul patted his shoulders. "Great, you are now dismissed."

    Richards gave a final nod of acknowledgment and turned to leave the office.

    Amelia, who just listened to their conversation, finally spoke.

    "Mr. Nielsen, there is also another thing that I wish to discuss with you. It''s about the agreement we have signed with the House of Saud¡­and you are not going to like it."

    "I hope it''s not what I''m thinking," Poul said, a faint smile tugging his lips.

 Chapter 280 The Anticipated News

    Chapter 280 The Anticipated News

    With Richards gone and Amelia sharing something important, his focus shifted to her.

    "So what was the news, Amelia? Let me guess, is the House of Saud terminating their agreement with us?"

    Amelia looked down somberly and responded, "You are correct, Poul. They have given us a reason. Granting us exclusive rights to mine the oil fields in the territory of Saudi Arabia would be detrimental to the economic development of the nation. They believed that they would be under our control by giving us full control of their oil reserves. But that is not the worst part. They negotiated with the British Empire, spearheaded by King Alexander, and reached an agreement. Saudi Arabia has just allowed the British to mine their oil reserves, and we are being kicked out of the oil field that we discovered."

    "Son of a..." Poul couldn''t contain the anger that surged through him. In an instant, he mmed his hand down on the table, producing a loud bang that startled Amelia slightly. The force of his frustration reverberated through the room, echoing his disappointment and outrage.

    Amelia''s eyes widened as she watched Poul''s outburst, recognizing the gravity of the situation. She had rarely seen him lose hisposure to such an extent.

    Poul took a deep breath, his voice seething with restrained fury. "I fucking knew it¡­that Alexander would do something like this. Ah¡­

    shit¡­I want to punch him in the face, if he was standing in front of me, I would have delivered a blow that would make him regret his actions."

    Amelia quickly stepped forward and ced a soothing hand on Poul''s shoulder, her touch radiating calming energy. She knew she had to diffuse the mounting anger before it consumed him entirely.

    "Now¡­now, Poul. This is unbing of you. You have anticipated this would happen so calm down and allow us to talk rationally," Amelia urged, her voice gentle but firm.

    Poul''s breathing gradually slowed as he absorbed Amelia''s words. He realized that losing his temper wouldn''t serve their cause; it would only hinder their ability to find a solution.

    "Okay, I''m calm down¡­I''m calm down¡­Amelia," Poul reassured.

    "Good," Amelia smiled warmly.

    "But I''m still going to punch him should fate present the opportunity," Poul added with a hint of determination in his voice.

    Amelia sighed, knowing that Poul''s anger was deeply rooted in their shared frustrations.

    "Well if this is going to help, then I won''t stop you. Should Alexandere before you, you can do whatever you want. But for now, we have to settle this. First, the House of Saud. They are obliged to follow our agreement as we are bound by a contract. There is a use in the contract that should either one party back out, they must inform first the other party within a specified timeframe," Amelia exined and continued. "But they didn''t inform us, so the exclusive contract is still in effect. But I''m sure that His Majesty Saud would do everything, with the help of his new friend, the British, to try and invalidate our agreement. That''s where we will exploit it."

    "Based on your confident voice, I assume that you already came up with a n huh?" Poul mused. "You have piqued my interest. What is it?"

    "It''s simple, Poul. If they want to terminate an agreement with us so badly, then they''ll have to do it by paying us a substantial amount of money. I''m talking about tens of millions here. It may be their country but we have the im. Their country''s constitution was not formalized when we found those oil reserves so technically, it''s ours."

    "And if they refuse to pay?" Poul asked despite knowing what would be the repercussions if the Saud refused to pay. But, he wanted to hear it from Amelia.

    "If they don''t then, we have the legal rights to defend it, Mr. Nielsen. You can deploy your private militarypany in the region and ensure that our im is protected. Not to mention, the United States would be backing us on this one. The government already knows the value of oil to the economy and industry, and they won''t let such a tant disregard for contracts go unnoticed," Amelia exined confidently.

    "This is getting exciting," Poul chortled, his frustration giving way to a newfound sense of determination. "But first, I want to speak with the Ambassador of Saudi Arabia. Can you get him toe here to Pittsburgh in two days?"

    Amelia nodded, understanding the importance of Poul''s request. "Consider it done, Poul. I''ll reach out to the Ambassador and arrange a meeting here in Pittsburgh.

    "Thank you."

    As Amelia set the wheels in motion, Poul focused on preparing for the uing meeting. He discussed with his friends in the government like the current President of the United States, business partners like Jonathan, Caroline, and Morgan, andstly, hispany''s legal firm who drafted the contract which was then signed by him and His Highness Saud.

    Two dayster, the Ambassador of Saudi Arabia arrived in Pittsburgh, ready to meet with Poul. He scanned his appearance, wearing a traditional Arabian dress, a white thobe, with a flowing robe and a ghutra, a white head covering held in ce by an agal.

    "Wee, Ambassador. Please, have a seat," Poul said, gesturing towards the empty chair at the head of the table.

    The Ambassador nodded appreciatively and gracefully took his seat.

    "Now, let''s cut to the chase, Mr. Ambassador. I believe you know who I am. I''m the person whom the leader of your country has engaged in an agreement with me. Now, I heard the news that he is backing down in favor of the British and I don''t like that. So you tell him once you are back in Washington that if he wants to terminate the agreement, he''ll have to pay 80 million dors aspensation for breaching the contract," Poul stated firmly.

    "Mr. Nielsen, I have reviewed the issue my country is facing with you, but I don''t think His Highness would be able to pay what you are asking. And besides, it was ournd, you have no right on it."

    "I beg to differ, Mr. Ambassador," Poul interrupted with a steely gaze. "The oil reserves were discovered by ourpany, under the terms of an agreement signed by His Highness Saud himself. We have a legally binding contract that grants us exclusive rights to mine those reserves. Whether it was yournd or not when the reserves were found is irrelevant. The fact remains that we invested heavily in exploring and developing those fields, and we expect to bepensated ordingly."

    "Compensated? 80 million dors? I don''t think that the oil field you found is worth that much. Our country has made a new agreement with the British Empire, which will benefit us greatly. Your demands are unreasonable."

    "I understand that your country has made a new agreement with the British, but that does not absolve you of the obligations outlined in our contract," Poul countered. "You say my demands are unreasonable but what if I told you that Your Highness''s advisors and ministers found it reasonable?"

    "I''m not talking about that, I''m talking about the money you want us to pay. It''s unreasonable."

    "Well, he should have thought about that. Let me repeat myself, Mr. Ambassador. If he wants to terminate the agreement, pay us that amount, or else we will be obliged to protect the oil fields that we discovered and rights that were given to us to prospect oil in your country."

 Chapter 281 A Change of Pace

    Chapter 281 A Change of Pace

    "I think that would be all, Mr. Ambassador," Poul rose to his feet, and extended his hand, offering a handshake.

    The Saudi Arabian ambassador stood and shook his hand. "I will speak with my government, Mr. Nielsen. Have a good day."

    With a light tap on the shoulder, Poul gestured towards the door, beckoning Amelia to escort the Ambassador out of his office.

    Amelia stepped forward with a polite smile, ready to apany the Saudi Arabian ambassador out of Poul''s office.

    "Allow me to show you out," Amelia said politely, guiding the ambassador towards the door. As they walked, she maintained a friendly and professional demeanor, creating afortable atmosphere for further conversation.

    "I apologize on his behalf for his bluntness, Your Excellency, I hope you understand the situation he is going through."

    "There''s no need to apologize," the Ambassador smiled gently. "I understand why he is feeling like that. He felt cheated. Even I would feel the same way. But his demands are going to lead my country into a precarious situation."

    "And whose fault do you think that is?" Amelia nced at him as if emphasizing the weight of her words.

    The ambassador sighed, his expression tinged with a mix of frustration and resignation. "I acknowledge that both sides have yed a part in reaching this impasse," he admitted. "It is aplex issue. Even I was not informed very well about the problem. But nevertheless, I will do my best to convey Mr. Nielsen''s demands on His Highness."

    Amelia nodded and led him to an elevator, one of the technologies that impressed him in the United States.

    Ten minutester, Amelia returned to the office.

    "The Ambassador has been safely escorted out," Amelia reported, closing the door behind her. She walked over to Poul''s desk, her expression concerned yet determined. "Poul, I sensed a genuine willingness on the ambassador''s part to understand our position."

    "Really?" Poul scoffed. "It''s not like it would help us in any way. Anyways, while you were escorting him out, I informed Jonathan of the issue. He had given his support."

    "Is that so? Are they enjoying their time in Newport?" Amelia asked curiously.

    "We can only imagine," Poul chuckled. "Oh, Amelia, our private troops are preparing to leave Pittsburgh right? Why don''t you and I go together and see them?"

    "Thank you for the offer, Poul but there is a lot that I need to finish, one of which is making sure that your exhibition of new technology to New York would flow smoothly."

    "Is that so?" Poul hummed, standing up from his seat. "If you say so then. I will check them out myself¡­or with Sara."

    "May you have a wonderful time, Poul," Amelia replied.

    With that, Poul left the main office and headed straight to the clinic, where he would pick up Sara. The streets of thepany town of Axelsen & Nielsen Corporation had changed dramatically.

    Upon its establishment, the main mode of transportation for workers was the omnibus, a horse-drawn carriage capable of amodating multiple passengers. However, times had changed, and the streets of Axelsen & Nielsen Corporation were now dominated by a new invention¡ªthe automobile. These mechanical marvels glided along the asphalt-paved roads, offering faster and more convenient transportation. Although public transportation vehicles were currently exclusive to thepany town, the industrious duo had ambitious ns to introduce them nationwide within a year.

    Don''t be mistaken, the industrialist duo only introduce luxury types of automobiles for the upper ss.

    As Poul navigated the streets, he couldn''t help but notice how the skies above were crisscrossed with awork of telephone and electric lines, further exemplifying the town''s embrace of modernization and connectivity.

    To experience the change himself, Poul hailed a passing automobile. The bus whose design is simr to the Ford Transit bus came to a stop before him, and he climbed inside.

    Inside, he was met with stares and gazes from the factory workers who were on their way to their respective factories. They couldn''t believe what they are seeing, the founder of thepany riding along with them.

    "Gentlemen, I see that you are quite in shock," Poul observed. "Don''t worry, I won''t bite."

    Poul was met with silence as if the workers were speechless.

    "Oh, guys, the presidential election ising soon. May I have your word that you''ll vote for me?"

    "Can you win, Mr. Nielsen?"

    Finally, one of the passengers spoke up, breaking the silence that had enveloped the bus. Poul turned to the worker.

    "I''ll be honest with you, the chances of me winning the entire election is slim and I know it. I''m just an Albian, a minority race here in the United States. Frowned upon by the white people even though my color is simr to theirs with my hair only being different. Still, I''ll appreciate the people who would vote for me, because I take it as a token of their belief in my vision andmitment to change," Poul responded sincerely. He understood the challenges he faced as an Albian and as a candidate with ambitious goals for progress.

    "I''ll vote for you¡­Mr. Nielsen," the passenger who asked the question. "You''ve shown us that you care about the workers, about the people who make thispany what it is. If you can do that to your workers, there''s no doubt that you can do it to all the people here in this country."

    "You got my vote too, Mr. Nielsen!" the other passenger eximed a spark of determination in his eyes. "We''ve seen what you''ve aplished here at Axelsen & Nielsen Corporation. You''ve brought progress, innovation, and a better life for all of us. We believe in your vision, and we''ll stand by you."

    Poul couldn''t help but feel a surge of gratitude, it feels good when someone stands by you. If he were to win the election miraculously, he would never let them down. Even though the main reason for his joining was to counter the threat of King Alexander, the fulfilling sensation is just rewarding for him.

    "For the better Avalonia," Poul chanted. "And I believe¡­this is my stop¡­sir," he said, looking out of the window and saw the facade of thepany town''s hospital.

    The bus pulled up to a stop, and Poul stepped off, thanking the workers for their support. He made his way through the hospital''s entrance, greeted by the familiar sights and sounds of a bustling medical facility.

    "I''m here to see Ms. Olsen¡­"

    As he was asking that to the receptionist, Poul''s vision darkened as a soft and delicate hand covered it.

    "Why are you looking for me¡­" Sara whispered in his ears, caressing his cheek with her fingers. Poul''s heart skipped a beat at the sound of her voice and the touch of her hand. He turned toward her, a smile spreading across his face.

    "I am wondering if you can join me to see the troops of our private military enterprise. I assure you, you''ll like it. But it has to be now."

    "I''m on duty¡­" Sara said.

    "Is there something important you must do ahead of you?" Poul asked.

    Sara tilted her to the side and pondered aloud. "Just paperwork and visiting my patients, nothing too serious."

    "Then it''s settled, you''lle with me now," Poul insisted.

 Chapter 282 Embarrassing Moments

    Chapter 282 Embarrassing Moments

    Thepany town of Axelsen & Nielsen Corporation had undergone significant improvements, bringing about a more organized and connected environment. One notable change was the division of the town into distinct sections, each serving a specific purpose.

    In the northern part of the town, the Air Brake Company was located, with its headquarters at the center. This section focused on the production of air brake systems, and workers could be seen going about their tasks with precision and expertise.

    Heading towards the western part of the town, there was a separate factory dedicated to manufacturing electrical equipment and steam turbines.

    To ensure efficient transportation and connectivity, the town had implemented awork of bus automobiles and trams that linked the different sections. This infrastructure facilitated the movement of workers and residents throughout the town, making it easier for them tomute and ess various facilities.

    Now, the newly established enterprise of the corporation, the Aegis Tactical Service, a private militarypany, is located in the eastern part of thepany town, about ten kilometers west of the main office. Now instead of factories dominating thendscape, it was like a military fortress, epassing training facilities, armories, and administrative buildings.

    Poul and Sara arrived at its headquarters via bus and were escorted promptly by one of the soldiers hired in thepany. Just like any other soldier in the area, the soldier escorting them is dressed impably in a World War 2 German army uniform.

    Sara nudged him gently on the arm, getting his attention.

    "What?" Poul leaned his ears closer to her.

    "The soldier''s uniform, it''s quite simr to what the Nazis wore in world war 2, did you perhaps copy it?"

    Poul simply nodded. "Despite what it did to our country Denmark, you can''t deny the style of their uniform. Not that I''m supporting the vision of the Nazis or anything. I just want to make our troops fashionable. After all, we are businessmen, and the soldiers here around us are our product."

    Sara understood what Poul meant and so she epted it. It''s not a big deal in this world, after all, it''s a different universe.

    After minutes of walking, they were now inside the hangar, where former Lieutenant Colonel Richards are briefing his team that will join him in the Joseon Kingdom.

    Richards immediately noticed Poul''s arrival and paused what he was doing.

    "Sir!" Richards saluted, followed by the rest of the soldiers.

    Poul chuckled nervously. "Guys, you don''t have to do that, I''m not a military officer that needs to be acknowledged by a salute."

    "But sir, you are our employer, therefore that makes you like ourmander-in-chief, and therefore it is only proper of us to show respect and salute," Richards replied firmly, maintaining his salute.

    "Can''t help it then," Sara interjected. "Just let it, Poul. After all, one day you might be their actualmander-in-chief, that is to say, if you win the election," she teased.

    "Fine fine¡­" Poul waved his hand dismissively, a smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "So anyway Richards, we are simply making a visit. Please, continue your briefing, we''ll just watch."

    Richards nodded resolutely before turning his attention to his men and resuming briefing. Poul and Sara listened to the briefings attentively from behind as if they are part of the troops he''ll be leading.

    "So the first contract was to repel the Japanese presence in the capital Hanseong?" Sara asked, looking up at Poul.

    "That''s right," Poul confirmed. "Just as Mr. Richards said, the Japanese illegally ced troops near the capital without the approval of the Joseon king. Now, the Joseon army is primitive, to say the least, they can''t repel the Japanese on their own as the Japanese are technologically more advanced than Joseon. There''s not even a single country in the West that is willing to help Joseon as they see no merit to it. Japan has be a trading partner of almost all of Europe, and even the United States. So they''ll try not to ruin those rtionships. But we, Axelsen & Nielsen Corporation, are different. We are not a nation but apany, so we can intervene without causing diplomatic incidents."

    Poul then continued. "You see those rifles by the wooden crate?" he pointed.

    Sara looked to where Poul was pointing and saw an assault rifle.

    "That''s an StG 44. An assault rifle. Each of our soldiers would be equipped with that weapon. Alongside the pistol that we copied from the Colt in our world. Combined, you have the most modern troops in this world. I''m thinking of introducing bulletproof vests as well, to enhance their protection."

    "Do you even know how to build one?" Sara asked teasingly.

    "Of course, I know, who do you think I am? Since Jonathan and I started thepany, we have been building miracle after miracle, advancing this world years or decades ahead of our original world¡­

    A bulletproof vest is easy."

    Now, saying those words would cause confusion to those who will hear it, but Poul and Sara were at a safe distance where they could talk about their original world.

    "I''m just asking you know, why do you have to be so serious?" Sara said, averting her gaze and pouting.

    "Ohe on now," Poul wrapped his arms around Sara''s shoulders, pulling her close. "I didn''t mean it okay, forgive me."

    He then started nting soft kisses on her neck, savoring the sweet taste that lingered on her skin.

    "Wha¡­Oi¡­Poul¡­what do you think you are doing..!" Sara tried to protest but she couldn''t help but feel aroused from his lips that were smooching her neck. She struggled to maintain herposure as his kisses sent shivers down her spine.

    "Uhm¡­Mr. Nielsen."

    Richards called, snapping Poul and Sara back to reality. Startled, they quickly pulled away from each other, their faces flushing with embarrassment. They turned to face Richards, who had a bemused yet slightly awkward expression on his face.

    "Sorry for the interruption, Mr. Nielsen but my men and I couldn''t focus when you two were doing a couple things¡­May I suggest my office which is located over there?" He pointed to a room inside the hangar.

    "No need for that, Mr. Richards," Poul cleared his throat, still blushing. "We got carried away for a moment. Please continue with your briefing. We''ll try not to distract you further."

    Richards nodded understandingly, a small smile ying on his lips. "We appreciate that sir but we have already finished our briefing. We were just watching you¡­"

    "Oh no¡­" Poul eximed, feeling slightly embarrassed.

    Richards waved off Poul''s worry, a hint of amusement in his eyes. "No harm done, sir. We understand that these things happen. As soldiers, we are trained to adapt and maintain focus even in unexpected circumstances."

    "I don''t think that this is part of those unexpected circumstances," Sara chimed in and rose to her feet. "Poul, I need to return back to the hospital, I''m still on duty remember?"

    "Oh, of course," Poul said, snapping out of his momentary daze. "Apologies for the distraction, Richards. We''ll leave you and your team to prepare for the mission, and have a safe voyage to Hanseong."

    Poul and Sara bid farewell to Richards and his team.

    "I almost got carried away there," Poulmented. "I have to be careful from now on. Sorry, Sara for that.."

    "Well¡­it''s not that I didn''t like it, Poul," Sara said bashfully while twirling a strand of her hair around her finger. "Do you want to continue it somewhere else?"

    Poul''s expression faded when Sara suggesting that they should continue their intimate moment somewhere else, and it is tempting him.

    "I''ll pick you up after your duty."

 Chapter 283 Pleasure [R18]

    Chapter 283 Pleasure [R18]

    As the clock ticked away, four hours slipped by, and thepany town of the Axelsen & Nielsen Corporation was slowly cloaked in the embrace of nightfall. Poul found himself drawn to the window, peering out at the city streets below as the soft glow of streetlights began to cast their illumination.

    The scene before him held a quiet familiarity, the gentle hum of life winding down for the day. Factories stood stoically, their windows twinkling with scattered lights. A few solitary figures made their way through the dimly lit streets, creating fleeting silhouettes against the backdrop of darkness.

    In this moment of quiet observation, Poul found sce. It was a brief respite from the demands of the day. The meeting with the Ambassador of Saudi Arabia to the United States of Avalonia, visiting the military headquarters of their private militarypany with Sara, and then there were the endless stacks of paperwork, the ceaseless flow of documents that demanded his attention. It was a monotonous task, a necessary evil that threatened to consume his every waking moment. As he nced at the clock, the hands slowly ticking away, he couldn''t help but feel the burden of tomorrow''s workload looming over him.

    The night outside appeared serene, casting a stark contrast against the constant whirlwind of Poul''s role as CEO. Despite the semnce of calm, a deep yearning for respite gripped his heart. He longed for a fleeting moment to step away from the relentless cycle of obligations that apanied his position. An overwhelming desire urged him to escape the confinements of his responsibilities, to break free from the suffocating routine that governed his days, and immerse himself in a world untouched by the weighty burdens of deadlines and memos.

    At this point, he contemted the possibility of an early retirement, despite being only twenty-nine years old ording to the fabricated birthdate he had assumed upon transmigrating into this world. While it may seem premature to others, Poul felt a profound sense of weariness, as if he had lived a lifetime within the corporate confines. For him, age was but a number and the yearning for freedom and fulfillment knew no bounds.

    He imagined himself spending the rest of his life with the love of his life, Sara, creating a family together and nurturing their future children¡ªa vision of a simple yet profound life. However, he knew that such dreams would have to wait. Not in the next year or even the next decade, for the looming threat of King Alexander still cast a shadow over their aspirations. The recent incursion in the Middle East served as a stark reminder of Alexander''s power and the unrest he fomented. As long as Alexander remained alive, Poul understood that he could not find true rest or peace.

    As he was engrossed in his thoughts, a knock on the door interrupted Poul''s contemtion, pulling him back into the present moment. He turned his attention towards the door, curious about the unexpected visitor at this hour. With a hint of reluctance, he left the window and approached the door.

    When he opened the door, he saw Sara.

    "Good evening, Poul," Sara said sweetly before walking up to him and wrapping her arms around him in a warm embrace.

    Poul stood still, his brow furrowing in confusion. "Isn''t your shift ending in another hour?" he asked, his voiceced with surprise.

    Sara nodded a mischievous glimmer in her eyes. "It was, but Ipleted my tasks ahead of schedule. Why the somber tone? Are you perhaps not happy to see me?"

    "What? No, that''s impossible. Why would I feel that way? I just didn''t expect you toe home this early," Poul said, dismissing her worries.

    Sara heaved a sigh of relief. "That''s reassuring¡­Well, do you remember our promise?"

    Poul recalled their agreement earlier, his eyes widening. "Oh¡­do you want to continue where we left off?"

    Upon saying that, Sara tipped her toes forward,nding a passionate kiss on Poul''s lips.

    Poul, taken aback by the sudden advance of Sara, reciprocated her kiss with equal fervor. Their lips moved in sync, their bodies pressed against each other as if trying to bridge the gap between their souls. At that moment, the weight of their responsibilities, and the worries of the world outside, all faded into insignificance. There was only the intensity of their connection, the raw and undeniable love they shared.

    As their kiss deepened, Poul''s hand trailed down Sara''s back, feeling the warmth of her skin and the familiar contours of her body. The passion between them grew, fueled by the deep longing they had suppressed for far too long.

    With an unspoken understanding, they broke away from the kiss, with Poul scooping her up Sara into his arms and carrying her to the bed. Hey her down on the sheets before he took his clothes off. Sara did the same, unbuttoning her blouse and sliding off her skirt. Poul''s gaze never left her as she stood before him, d only in her undergarments. His eyes roamed her body, drinking in every inch of her with unbridled desire.

    Without a word, Poul climbed onto the bed, his body hovering over Sara''s. He leaned down to kiss her, his lips moving hungrily against hers as his fingers reached to her inner thighs. There, he felt a viscous fluid leaking out from her, a wet and sticky substance that covered her groin.

    "You''re so wet now," Poul remarked, inserting his fingers, causing Sara to moan out loud.

    He slowly thrust his fingers in and out of her, his eyes fixated on her face. A deep flush was growing on her cheeks, her breathing growing heavier with every movement.

    "I want you now," Sara pleaded breathily.

    "I know," Poul replied, positioning his member at her entrance. "I want it too."

    With a single thrust, Poul pushed himself deep inside of Sara. The sensation of her warmth enveloping him was the most intense feeling he had experienced in a long time. This was his first time, in this world and from his previous world.

    "Sara, Sara¡­" he called out as he thrust himself deeper into her. Sara''s legs moved to wrap around his waist as if locking in ce.

    Sara''s moans of pleasure grew louder, triggering Poul to move faster and faster. He felt himself nearing the edge, his body tensing up as the tension built.

    He leaned down to kiss her, entwining their lips with an open-mouthed kiss. While their tongues fought for dominance, Poul pushed himself to finish.

    "Sara, I¡­" Poul said, his body convulsing as he released a torrent of fluids inside of her.

    The heat of his semen caused Sara to lose her control as she cried out in ecstasy.

    Their bodies were on the verge of copsing from excess heat, but Poul still managed to muster up his strength. He rolled off her andy by her side, his hands slowly stroking her body. They breathed in and out heavily, exhausted from their lovemaking.

    "Thank you, my dear," Poul said. "Did I satisfy you?"

    "More than ever, darling," Sara replied.

 Chapter 284 The Election Announcement

    ?

    November 15th, 892, marked the passage of a sluggish week since the Avalonian nation had cast their votes, their collective hopes entwined with the forting announcement of their next president. In an era long before the advent of instantaneousmunication, news traveled at the mercy of horse hooves and the unwinding of telegraph wires. As the sun ascended its midday arc, the atmosphere crackled with palpable anticipation in the bustling town square of thepany town. Here, a multitude of expectant faces of thepany''s factory workers turned as one towards the podium that stood as the focal point. Amidst the throngs of eager onlookers stood the notable figures of Poul, Jonathan, Morgan, Sara, Caroline, and Amelia.

    "Do you want me to spoil you with the result, Poul?" Morgan asked.

    "There''s no need, I''ll know soon enough so just be quiet there," Poul replied.

    "Things weren''t looking good on our side so I wouldn''t be surprised if we lose the election," Jonathanmented

    The town crier, a figure of authority adorned in a tailored coat and top hat, stood at the podium, the weight of the moment etched upon his features. A parchment clutched in his hand held the destiny of an entire nation. The crowd, wrapped in suspense, clung to his every movement, their eyes flickering with a mix of hope and trepidation.

    With a deep breath, the crier stepped forward, his voice projecting through the square,manding attention.

    "Citizens of Avalonia dwelling in thepany town of the Axelsen & Nielsen Corporation. After days of tireless counting and coting, the moment has arrived to unveil the oue of our sacred electoral process."

    The square fell into a hush, the only sounds heard were the distant hum of machinery and the rustle of anticipation.

    As he unfurled the parchment, time seemed to stand still. The inked words, carefully inscribed by diligent hands, now held the power to shape the nation''s future. His eyes scanned the lines, pausing to double-check, ensuring the uracy of the momentous announcement.

    He cleared his throat and, with measured certainty, dered, "Gathered citizens, it is my privilege to reveal that the Avalonian nation has chosen its next President, the steward who shall guide us through the trials and triumphs of the years ahead. With resounding confidence, I present to you..."

    The wind, as if conspiring with fate, gusted through the square, whispering through the autumn leaves and causing the parchment to flutter precariously. The crier''s eyes widened momentarily, his grip tightening on the document, determined not to let this unpredictable force alter the course of history.

    The crowd held its breath, an ethereal pause that heightened the significance of the moment. The crier, his voice unwavering, regainedposure and continued, "I present to you the 22nd President of the United States of Avalonia...!"

    "Oh for god''s sake just tell us already," Jonathan said.

    The crier, sensing the urgency in Jonathan''s voice, didn''t waste another moment. He took a deep breath and spoke with unwavering resolve, "The 22nd President of the United States of Avalonia, chosen by the will of the people, is none other than Grover Clevnd!"

    A wave of silence washed over the square, followed by a collective exhtion of disappointment. Murmurs of disbelief and sadness rippled through the crowd. Poul Nielsen''s supporters, who had gathered with hopeful hearts, felt their dreams dissipate like morning mist. <novelsnext>I think you should take a look at </novelsnext>

    "May I invite, Mr. Poul Nielsen to join me on this tform and deliver a speech to his supporters?"

    The town crier''s invitation hung in the air, momentarily suspended by the weight of disappointment that permeated the square. Poul Nielsen, despite the shroud of defeat that surrounded him, gathered his resolve and stepped forward, ascending the podium. The crowd, their eyes now fixed upon Poul, hushed in anticipation of his words.

    "Gentlemen anddies, we have heard the result of the election. I know¡­it''s sad we lost the election but still I would like to express my gratitude for your unwavering support throughout this campaign. Together, we embarked on a journey to advocate for the betterment of Avalonia and to fight for the rights and well-being of every citizen in this great nation. And though our efforts fell short in this electoral battle, our spirit remains unbroken."

    The crowd, still reeling from the disappointment, listened attentively as Poul continued, his words carrying a glimmer of hope amidst the prevailing gloom.

    "Let''s not dwell on the oue of this election alone," Poul Nielsen urged, his voice infused with determination. "As for there is always a next time. For now, let us support the new administration, led by President Grover Clevnd, in their efforts to govern Avalonia. We, the presidential candidates, only want what is best for our nation and its people. It is our duty to put aside our differences and work together towards themon goal of progress and prosperity. That''s all everyone, may you all have a good day."

    Ending his speech, Poul bowed his head to the crowd, acknowledging their resilience and dedication. The apuse that followed was not filled with the jubtion of victory, but rather with a sense of admiration and gratitude for Poul''s unwaveringmitment.

    Stepping down the podium, Poul found himself surrounded by the factory workers, nodding and pping him on the back.

    "You are our true president, Mr. Nielsen!" One of the crowds shouted, capturing the sentiment of the gathered workers. Others echoed the sentiment, their voices joining in a chorus of appreciation and support.

    Poul was deeply moved by their words and gestures. He mouthed a thank you to each and one of them before returning to his team.

    "Well, we lose, that sucks," Poul said in a lighthearted tone.

    "I told you, Poul. Your chances of winning in this election were slim," Morgan said.

    "Look you don''t have to remind him that almost every time, Morgan," Jonathan interjected. "Don''t be hard on him, at least he tried, you know."

    "Well, with the election aside, you two can now focus on expanding your business. I am looking forward to your demonstration of passenger aircraft in next next week," Morgan replied, trying to shift the conversation toward a more optimistic future.

    "Yeah¡­" Poul nodded. "Let''s go back to business, to where we are good at."

 Chapter 285 PMC In Joseon

    ?

    A week after the election in the United States, former Lieutenant Colonel Richards received an urgent summons to the United States Legation. He was riding a pnquin, a basic mode of transportation in the country that was carried by a group of skilled bearers.

    Seatedfortably within the pnquin, Richards watched as the bustling cityscape of Hanseong unfolded before him. The rhythmic cadence of the bearers'' footsteps echoed through the narrow streets as they skillfully maneuvered through the crowds. Colorful market stalls lined the thoroughfares, filled with merchants hawking their wares ¡ª fragrant spices, intricate textiles, and various exotic goods that had made their way to the bustling capital from distantnds.

    Through thetticed windows of the pnquin, Richards caught glimpses of the city''s diverse inhabitants, dressed in traditional hanboks, the country''s traditional attire. He marveled at the vibrant hues and intricate embroidery that adorned their garments.

    Beautiful as it may be, their way of life was primitivepared to the United States. There were not many electric or telegraph lines, there were no trams that ran through the streets, and automobiles were a rare sight. No wonder why the Japanese were able to bully the Kingdom of Joseon due to its technological inferiority.

    Arriving at the United States legation, the bearers of the pnquin carefully set it down on the ground, allowing Richards to step out onto the grand courtyard of the legation. The atmosphere shifted from the vibrant chaos of the streets to a more tranquil and ordered environment. Neatly trimmed hedges lined the pathways, leading to the majestic main building.

    Richards was greeted by the sight of the American g fluttering proudly in the breeze, standing tall beside the g of the Joseon Kingdom. The legation itself was an architectural marvel, with its imposing colonial-style fa?ade and meticulously manicured gardens.

    "Uhm¡­this is 5 won¡­gamsahabnida," Richards said slowly as he handed a bill to the bearers, expressing his gratitude for their service. The bearers bowed respectfully before making their way back into the city, leaving Richards standing in front of the legation.

    A soldier donned in a United States Marine Corps uniform approached Richards, saluting him with a crisp motion. "Captain Richards, wee to the United States Legation. I am Sergeant Johnson, here to apany you inside. The Ambassador is eager for your arrival."

    Captain Richards returned the salute and nodded, his curiosity piqued. "Thank you, Sergeant Johnson. Lead the way. I''m eager to meet the Ambassador and hear about this urgent summons."

    Sergeant Johnson guided Captain Richards through the grand entrance of the legation. Momentster, they arrived at a spacious office, where Ambassador John M. B. Sill. a seasoned diplomat with graying hair and a warm smile, stood to wee them.

    "Captain Richards, I''m d you could join us. Please, have a seat."

    Richards took a chair across the polished wooden desk, his eyes falling on the ambassador.

    "Before we begin, do you want something to drink? We have whiskey, scotch, literally everything," Ambassador Sill gestured toward a well-stocked drinks cab situated in a corner of the office.

    Richards smirked and replied, "Whiskey, please. A little liquid courage never hurts."

    The ambassador chuckled and poured two sses of whiskey, sliding one across the desk to Richards. They raised their sses in a toast before taking a sip.

    "So, you are the captain of the Aegis Tactical Service, a private militarypany owned by no other than the two geniuses of our beloved nation."

    "That is correct, Mr. Ambassador, though I''m still curious as to why you summoned me here. Not to mention that meeting with you is dangerous, especially when the Japanese figured this out. They might think that the United States is directly involved in the operation we would soon conduct."

    "Ah¡­so you were worried about that huh?" John chuckled and waved his hand dismissively. "Don''t worry, I won''t do anything that would implicate our beloved nation to whatever you are going to do to the Japanese. I summoned you because I want to inform you that your boss didn''t win the presidential election¡­"

    "Is that so?" Richards mused. "Well, that''s sad and good at the same time. With him not being the president means our beloved country wouldn''t be implicated. It will only be him. Though I am worried that their business with Japan might be affected, I''m just a soldier, I don''t meddle in such things. I am doing what I''m told to do by the country¡­Oh, I am not a soldier anymore, but a mercenary."

    John scoffed. "Whatever you are nning to do, make it quick. The Japanese have already raised questions yesterday as to why you and your men are here. They fear that you are training the Joseon Royal Army, to which we deny any connection with you and your employer¡­."<novelsnext>I think you should take a look at </novelsnext>

    He paused as he noticed a noiseing outside. He looked out of the window and saw two Japanese soldiers at the gate.

    "Speaking of the devil..." John muttered under his breath, his expression tense. The two Japanese soldiers at the gate were a clear indication that their presence had already drawn suspicion. Richards could feel the weight of the situation intensify as he observed the soldiers conversing with the United States Marine guards stationed at the entrance.

    "Let me escort you outside, Mr. Richards," John said, his voice filled with urgency. The ambassador swiftly moved towards the door, Richards following closely behind.

    As they approached the gate, the United States Marine guards maintained a calm andposed demeanor while engaging in a conversation with the Japanese soldiers. Richards could see the soldiers'' stern expressions and the hint of suspicion in their eyes.

    Ambassador Sill raised his voice, projecting an air of authority. "Gentlemen, is there a problem?"

    The marine who was blocking them turned and spoke. "Sir, they are asking for an audience with you about him¡­"

    Captain Richards pointed to himself. "Me? What do those Japanese want to know about me?"

    "You!" The Japanese officer pointed his finger at him. "What are you doing in this country?" He spoke in English with a heavy Japanese ent.

    "That''s not your concern," Richards simply said.

    "Youe here in this country with guns, what are you nning to do huh?!" The officer continued, his voice growing more confrontational.

    "I will say again, our visit here is not your concern," Richards repeated.

    "This damn Yankee¡­" the officer growled in his native tongue.

    "Uhm... gentlemen," John finally stepped forward. "I believe we spoke yesterday. I am the Ambassador of this legation, and I must remind you that entering our premises without an appointment infringes upon the sanctity of diplomatic premises and vites internationalw. I kindly request that you both leave immediately, or I will bepelled to contact the Japanese Embassy and lodge a formalint against your actions. I''m sure you are aware of the severe consequences that such aint could entail."

    The Japanese officer scoffed.

    "What''s your name, sir?" Richard asked.

    "I''m Colonel Takamura," he replied. "I''ll be watching your every move sir..?"

    "Richards¡­Captain Richards."

    "Richards," Takamura repeated before turning to his partner. "Ikuzo."

    As the two Japanese officers walked away, Richards sighed. "This is going to be a heck of a challenge,"

 Chapter 286 Motivated

    ?

    November 30th, 892. Back in the United States, the industrialist duo, Poul and Jonathan were getting ready for another unveiling of a new invention. From all around the world gathered in Pittsburgh to witness what surprise the industrialists have for the world¡­again.

    "I''ll go ahead and meet our foreign dignitaries, Poul," Jonathan said, waving his hand. "This is getting exciting, I can''t wait to see the reactions on their faces when they see those beasts flying."

    "Actually¡­Jonathan, there is something you might want to hear first before you head there."

    Amelia''s words halted Jonathan''s steps, prompting him to turn around and face her.

    "What is it?"

    "It involves our foreign enterprises, Poul, Jonathan," Amelia began. "First in the Middle East, construction of the infrastructure to mine the oil is facing dy, one of the reasons being the transportation by an ultranationalist group of the country, they call themselves ''the Al-Katari''. They''ve been sabotaging our operations and causing significant disruptions."

    "Al-Katari?" Poul repeated the name. "Are they acting independently or sponsored by the state?"

    "Unfortunately Poul, we can''t determine the nature of their group. One thing we know about them is that they hate foreigners infringing on theirnds."

    "Is that so?" Jonathan interjected. "How about the British then? They were given the right to explore oil fields in their country, right? So are they also being attacked? If not then there is something shady going there."

    Amelia shook her head again. "That is also something we can''t tell for certain but we are looking into it. The situation isplex, and we are working closely with our local contacts to gather more information and assess the extent of their activities."

    "That damn Saud, he signed an exclusive contract with us and now he is viting every term on it," Jonathan sighed.

    "It made my trip there practically useless," Poul eximed. "Well, let''s do everything we can to protect the oil field we discovered."

    "But¡­Poul, did you just listen to her report? It''s going to be hard with those terrorist groups interfering with the logistics," Jonathan reminded. "It''s like they are making it hard for us to stay in the country¡­" he paused as Jonathan realized something.

    "Maybe that''s it," Jonathan said. "Maybe they are paying those terrorist groups to

    create chaos and drive us out of the country."

    Poul and Amelia exchanged a worried nce.

    "It is indeed a usible theory," Amelia acknowledged, her voiceced with concern. "If they are indeed behind these attacks, it suggests a calcted effort to undermine our presence and gain control over the region''s resources we took away from them, allowing them to gain an upper hand in future negotiations. Poul, Jonathan, if what I''m saying right now turns out to be true, then I suggest that we terminate the contract with Saud and lower the termination fee¡­"

    "No, Amelia," Poul interrupted with a resolute tone. "Amelia, you have no idea how much value those oil reserves hold for us. Oil is the future, and there''s no doubt that it will be the major cause of conflict in theing decades or centuries. We won''t be pushed back, not without a fight. Why do you think we established a private militarypany? To protect our interest abroad."

    "I apologize for suggesting otherwise, Poul," Amelia said. "If you wish to hold on to that oil field, then as your executive secretary, I will do everything in my power to help you two."

    "Speaking of the private militarypany, how are our forces doing in the Joseon Kingdom?" Jonathan asked.

    "That''s the second piece of news I was about to share with you. The Japanese are concerned about the presence of our private army in the region. They fear that our private army might take actions contrary to their interests."

    "Of course, they would," Poul chortled. "I too would find it suspicious when an armed foreigner came to the territory my country would wish to annex. So we have Saudi Arabia acting against our interest and the Japanese preparing for a conflict with our private military. This month is truly an unlucky day for us. First I lost the presidential election and now this? Just what did I do wrong to deserve all of this? Karma? I don''t think I have done something terribly wrong," Poul sighed, frustration evident in his voice.

    The room went silent as the three individuals contemted the gravity of the situation. The weight of the challenges they faced seemed insurmountable, but they were not ready to concede defeat. Poul''s determination resurfaced, fueling his resolve.

    "Amelia, the moment our private military finished the contract with the Hanseong, assigned them next to Saudi Arabia. Do they want to fight? Then let''s give them a fight. We won''t lose to their primitive forces who are still transitioning from bows and arrows."

    Jonathan smiled, seeing that Poul was more motivated than ever. "I agree with you, Amelia. Make it a priority. Let''s use Saud as an example if anyone attempts to renege on their agreement."

    "Very well, Poul, Jonathan. I must also remind you that the operation of our private military willmence next week, so expect the media flooding to our doorsteps the day after the operation."

    Poul and Jonathan nodded in unison. Poul nced at his wristwatch, checking the time.

    "Oops, let''s move out now, the demonstration is starting soon."

    ***

    In the makeshift runway near the Axelsen & Nielsen Corporation headquarters, hundreds of spectators, and media personnel flocked to the edge, eagerly awaiting the unveiling of Poul and Jonathan''stest invention. The crowd whispered with anticipation, specting about what the industrialist duo had in store for them this time.

    Dignitaries from other countries such as ambassadors, government officials, and influential figures had also gathered, adding an air of importance to the event. To make it even more special, even the newly-elected president of the United States attended the demonstration alongside his military advisors.

    "Mr. Nielsen!" Clevnd called, waving his hand in the air to get Poul''s attention.

    "Mr. President, thank you for attending the unveiling," Poul said, extending his hand for a firm shake. "We are honored to have you here today."

    Clevnd smiled, returning the handshake. "The honor is mine, Mr. Nielsen. I''ve heard remarkable things about your inventions, and I''m excited to witness thistest creation firsthand. And by the way, I hope that me winning the president election doesn''t affect you in any way."

    "I already epted the truth, Mr. President. I lost the election fair and square, and I bear no ill will towards you. Our focus for today is another leap for humanity."

    Clevndughed. "Very well, let''s see it."

 Chapter 287 The Demonstration Of Aircraft To The Masses

    ?

    "Jonathan!" Poul called as he approached Jonathan who was talking to a familiar figure. "Oh, I see that you are talking to Mr. Morgan here."

    "Good day, Mr. Nielsen," Morgan greeted him formally with a nod of his head. "When is the demonstration going to start? Sitting here for almost an hour is bad for my back."

    "We''ll start in ten minutes, Mr. Morgan," Poul adopted a formal tone as he replied. "Just sit there and rx, and have yourself some refreshments. What do you want? We are serving orange juice? No liquid courage."

    "What? There''s no liquid courage?" Morgan feigned disappointment. "Okay, I''ll take the juice."

    Poul beckoned the staff over and ordered a ss of orange juice for Mr. Morgan. As the staff scurried off to fulfill the request, Poul turned his attention back to Jonathan.

    "Jonathan, I''m going to join our pilots now. Can you handle it from here?"

    "Yeah, I got this, you do you, Poul," Jonathan said, pping his hands lightly on Poul''s back. Poul nodded appreciatively before making his way toward the designated area where the pilots were preparing for the uing aerial demonstration.

    Left alone with Mr. Morgan, Jonathan resumed their conversation, starting from where they left off.

    "Jonathan, I wonder why you invited foreign dignitaries to attend this demonstration? I thought yourpany had an exclusive deal with the United States Government. That only the United States will get the best technology from your country and no one else."

    As Morgan asked, the orange juice that Poul ordered for him arrived in a sparkling ss. Jonathan took a moment to collect his thoughts, contemting Morgan''s pointed question.

    "We know, Mr. Morgan, you don''t have to remind us. The reason why we called those foreign dignitaries is that they are different kinds of aircraft we''d be selling to you. There are military aircraft that can be used, as the name implies, for military purposes, there are also of course civilian aircraft that carry passengers to be transported from point A to point B, and there are research aircraft that are used for scientific experiments and exploration. We can''t sustain our aircraft manufacturing enterprise with only the United States government as our primary customer. Of course, the government will receive the cream of the crop, but we also want to expand our market and forge partnerships with other countries."

    Morgan sighed, buying Jonathan''s exnation. "Very well, Jonathan, you had a valid point."

    Jonathan looked at his wristwatch and checked the time. "Oops, it seems like it''s time for me to make the opening speech," Jonathan said, ncing at the bustling crowd that had gathered for the aircraft demonstration. He adjusted his suit and left Morgan.

    Taking a deep breath, Jonathan made his way toward the podium at the center of the field. The onlookers turned their attention toward him, their curious eyes filled with anticipation.

    Clearing his throat, Jonathan began his speech.

    "Gentlemen anddies, esteemed guests, I stand before you today to present a breakthrough in human innovation. Today, we shall witness the power of flight, a concept that has captured the imagination of mankind for centuries."

    The audience leaned forward, hanging onto Jonathan''s every word. He continued, "It is with great pride that I introduce to you our revolutionary aircraft. This magnificent creation, born from the ingenuity and dedication of our team, represents a new era in transportation and exploration."

    Jonathan gestured towards the aircraft lined up on the field, gleaming under the warm sunlight. "Gone are the days when the skies belonged solely to birds. Today, we unveil to you a machine that defies gravity and allows us to soar high above the earth."

    A murmur of excitement rippled through the crowd as they marveled at the sight before them. Their eyes widened with amazement, mingled with a hint of trepidation.

    With his speech concluded, Jonathan stepped away from the podium, leaving the crowd buzzing with excitement. He nced back at Poul, who nodded reassuringly, who was one of the pilots of the aircraft whose design is simr to B-25.

    Poul, who was in the cockpit, nodded back as if they could see one another.

    "Okay, let''s give them a show, boys," Poul said through the radio as he started pushing the throttle. With a powerful roar, the engines of the aircraft ignited once again, filling the air with a symphony of raw power. The crowd''s anticipation reached a crescendo as Poul skillfully maneuvered the aircraft down the runway, ready to demonstrate its capabilities.

    Jonathan stood at the edge of the field, his eyes fixed on the aircraft as it gathered speed. The moment of truth had arrived, and he couldn''t help but feel a surge of nervous excitement. The crowd held its breath as Poul pulled back on the controls, lifting the aircraft off the ground.

    The machine gracefully soared into the sky, leaving behind a trail of awe and wonder. Poul and the other pilots showcased the aircraft''s performance. The journalist below began jotting down notes, their cameras pointed at the aircraft streaking across the sky.

    But that''s not what the industrialist duo wanted to show the spectators. Jonathan ambled towards the podium and addressed the stunned crowds.

    "Gentlemen anddies, I know all of you are enjoying the demonstration but please may I ask that you take a step back for a little for your safety. We will show you other things an aircraft could do.

    The spectators heed Jonathan''s words and took a step back. Poul, who was looking out of the windows, saw that the crowds were cooperating and quickly ryed the information to the other pilots through their headsets. They adjusted their flight paths ordingly, ensuring a safe distance between the aircraft and the spectators.

    "Okay, I''ll begin first," Poul informed as he opened the bomb bay of the B-25 with a flick of a switch.

    500 pounds of explosives began falling out from the bomb bay. The spectators followed the trajectory of the falling objects with their eyes. Secondster, a thunderous explosion reverberated through the surroundings. Dust and debris billowed up from the impact site, creating a mesmerizing visual disy. The shockwave rippled across the field, and was felt even at a safe distance.

    "What the¡­" Clevnd eximed and turned to his military advisors. "Did you see that? It dropped a lot of bombs!"

    The military advisors, who were invited to evaluate the use of aircraft in military strategy, exchanged nces, their expressions a mix of astonishment and intrigue. The unexpected bomb demonstration had certainly caught their attention, highlighting the aircraft''s potential in military operations.

    Other aircraft whose design is simr to Curtiss P-40 Warhawk began its strafe run, flying low over the field, unleashing a rapid barrage of gunfire. The sound of machine guns echoed through the air as tracers streaked across the sky. The crowd watched in awe as the aircraft demonstrated its firepower, sending plumes of dirt and debris into the air, simting a ground attack.

    The military advisors leaned forward, their eyes glued to the spectacle unfolding before them. They whispered amongst themselves, discussing the tactical implications of such an agile and powerful aircraft.

    "We must get that, Mr. President!"

    "I know¡­I know¡­" Clevnd said, agreeing with them.

    Jonathan headed over to where Morgan was sitting, and there he saw his faces, glued to flying aircraft.

    "So, Mr. Morgan, how do you like our aircraft?"

    "Very," Morgan uttered.

 Chapter 288 Problem With Advance Technology

    ?

    Thirty minutester, the aircraft demonstration ended. Poul and Jonathan approached the crowd and to their surprise, they were immediately surrounded by foreign dignitaries and reporters.

    "Mr. Axelsen! Mr. Nielsen! How much for the aircraft? Are you selling them?" The French dignitaries asked, trying to find his way through the crowd.

    "We want to buy your aircraft, Mr. Nielsen! Mr. Axelsen! The German Empire would be pleased to conduct business with yourpany!" The German Empire representatives chimed in.

    Jonathan and Poul exchanged nces, their excitement mounting at the overwhelming response. They had anticipated interest, but the immediate influx of inquiries and offers took them by surprise. It was clear that the aircraft demonstration had made a profound impact, captivating the attention of nations far beyond their initial expectations.

    "Any business offers shall be made through our office only! Thank you. Please let us through," Poul asserted firmly, trying to navigate through the crowd with Jonathan by his side. Their determined expressions and authoritative tonemanded attention, eventually parting the sea of people, allowing them to make their way toward where the President of the United States was sitting.

    But¡­

    "Mr. Nielsen! Please answer this question of ours, will the aircraft that you demonstrated today be avable to the market regardless of nation or will you limit it to the United States?"

    One of the journalists called out, cutting through themotion and directing the attention back to Jonathan and Poul. The question hung in the air, capturing the curiosity of everyone present.

    Poul turned back and faced the journalist who is ready to jot down his response. He understood the importance of addressing this concern and rifying their stance on the avability of their aircraft.

    "Thank you for the question," Poul began, his voice clear and authoritative. "While we are indeed making our aircraft avable to the global market, we want to emphasize that their distribution will be subject to rigorous scrutiny. We hold the responsibility to ensure that our advanced technology is used responsibly and does not pose any risks to national security or international stability."

    "Well, isn''t that the way of saying, we''d only sell them to the United States but to other countries, it depends on the government''s decision¡­Am I right?"

    Poul maintained hisposure as he addressed the journalist''s follow-up question.

    "I appreciate your perspective," Poul replied and continued. "Allow me to borate. While it is true that the United States holds a special significance to us as the birthce of ourpany and a key market, we aremitted to working with responsible governments and organizations around the world. Our aim is to foster coborations that prioritize safety, innovation, and global progress."

    Jonathan stepped forward. "We firmly believe in the power of international cooperation and the benefits it brings. Our intention is to engage in thorough assessments of each potential buyer, considering factors such as their adherence to international norms,mitment to peace, andpatibility with the values of the United States. It is through this careful evaluation process that we will determine the suitability of distributing our aircraft to different nations."

    The journalist nodded, seemingly satisfied with the response.

    "Okay, that''s enough questions for today, please let us through," Poul asserted.

    The crowd began to disperse, allowing Poul and Jonathan to continue their journey toward the President''s location.

    Reaching the President''s area, they were met with a warm reception. The President stood up, extending a hand toward Poul and Jonathan.

    "Gentlemen, that was an impressive demonstration."

    "Thank you, Mr. President," Poul and Jonathan responded in unison, shaking the President''s hand with gratitude.

    The President gestured for them to take a seat, and as they settled down, he continued, "You have showcased a remarkable achievement today. And my military advisors see to it that we must exploit this technology to its fullest potential for the benefit of our nation''s security and defense capabilities¡­right Morgan?"

    Morgan stepped forward, making an appearance to the industrialist duo. "That''s right, Mr. President."

    "Now, not only we are economically stronger than Europe but technologically superior as well. I see that you were being asked by the foreign dignitaries about you selling them the aircraft. What did you tell them?"

    "I told them that it is a possibility," Poul answered.

    "Well, I think giving that technology to European powers might undermine our national security and put us at a disadvantage," Clevnd responded thoughtfully. "We need to tread carefully and consider the implications of sharing such advanced technology with other nations. I believe we should prioritize our own interests and ensure that our country remains at the forefront of aviation innovation. I don''t think I have to remind you that yourpany made a deal with the United States for your freedom."

    "You didn''t have to bring that up, Mr. President. I owe the United States everything, but let me offer you another feasible option. You see, Mr. President, if you don''t authorize sales of military aircraft to Europe, it will lead to industrial espionage. There will be a time when the Europeans might reverse engineer my aircraft and when that happens, they''ll start building their own aircraft. We wouldn''t be able to make money out of that. But more importantly, it would jeopardize our technological advantage and potentially create a more fragmented global aviationndscape," Poul replied, presenting his perspective.

    "But if you were to sell it, then how would we be advantageous over them? The deal was you will make us a technology that will make us superior to Europe," Clevnd replied.

    "Mr. President," Jonathan chimed in. "Those aircraft are not the best we have, we are building far more advanced models that will keep the United States at the lead."

    "Is that true, Mr. Nielsen?" Clevnd asked, turning his attention to Jonathan.

    "Yes, Mr. President," Poul confirmed.

    "Mr. President, I can vouch for that," Morgan interjected. "I have been working for them since they started theirpany and I must say, they are always working on something new."

    Clevnd turned to his military advisors, exchanging meaningful nces, and secondster, Clevnd turned to Poul.

    "We''ll discuss this further with my military advisors in the White House, see if we can give you room to maneuver," Clevnd responded.

    "Thank you, Mr. President," Jonathan and Poul intoned as they rose to their feet in unison and offered a handshake.

    The President rose from his seat, reciprocating the handshake with a determined grip.

 Chapter 289 The Misleading News

    ?

    Two weekster, in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania. Poul and Jonathan were reading the newspapers that were recently published. They have grim looks on their faces as the headlines of the news begin to sink in.

    "A military sh between the United States Armed Forces and the Empire of Japan urred in the capital city of the Kingdom of Joseon. 50 Japanese soldiers were killed while 80 were injured. The United States Army is still to release a statement regarding this event," Poul read before setting down the newspaper on the table.

    "This is why I hate the media in this world, their headlines are misleading people," Poul eximed, sighing exasperatedly. "Though we still achieved our goal in Hanseong right? We were able to expel the Japanese garrison out of Hanseong, which is what we were paid to do but¡­"

    "But¡­the media told the public that it was the United States Army," Amelia finished Poul''s sentence, her brow furrowing. "Yeah, this is a great misunderstanding and we have to issue a statement to the press."

    Jonathan, who was silent about the ordeal, continued reading the newspaper. In the newspaper, witnesses imed that the United States Army is using a new kind of weapon that can shoot out thirty bullets in less than ten seconds. The sight was a massacre, with bodies littered with bullet wounds to the point the body was unrecognizable.

    "How can we exin this to President Clevnd hmm?" Jonathan finally spoke.

    "We''ll clear it to the public," Poul suggested flippantly. "Tell the people that it wasn''t the United States Army but our private military hired to kick the Japanese out of Joseon."

    "Yes, that seems easy Poul but what about after?" Jonathan emphasized. "If the Japanese were to hear about the Joseon Kingdom hiring a private military that massacred their forces in Hanseong? How do you think they would react to it?"

    "Jonathan, we have considered every possibility of what could happen after the operation, and believe me this was one of them. It was clearly stated on the contract that anything that happens after is none of our concern. Should they want us to settle their problem again, they should hire us again. This is the reality of private military business, when things go bad when things go bad, we cut our ties and move on to the next job," Poul replied, trying to sound confident but with a hint of unease. He nced at Amelia, who was listening to the exchange of the industrialist duo.

    "Amelia, what do you think the media would ask us?"

    Amelia pondered aloud. "To be honest, Poul. There is a lot, one example would be the objective of the operation in Hanseong."

    "Then¡­let''s prepare for the media," Poul said.

    ***

    In the following days, the news about the private militarypany of the Axelsen & Nielsen Corporation spread throughout the United States. The media coverage was relentless, with headlines ranging from sensationalism to investigative pieces delving into the operations and ethics of private military contractors. The public was divided, some expressing curiosity about the role and capabilities of private militarypanies, while others voiced skepticism and outrage over the events in Hanseong.

    President of the United States, Grover Clevnd, addressed the news surrounding the events in Hanseong during a press conference held at the White House. The room was filled with journalists eager to hear the President''s response and rification on the matter.

    Standing at the podium, President Clevnd began his address with a solemn expression.

    "Ladies and gentlemen of the press, thank you for gathering here today. I stand before you to address the recent reports regarding a military sh in the Kingdom of Joseon."

    He paused for a moment, allowing the room to settle into an attentive silence before continuing.

    "First and foremost, I want to make it absolutely clear that the United States Armed Forces had no involvement in the events that unfolded in Hanseong. The reports suggesting otherwise are inurate and misleading."

    The journalists in the room exchanged puzzled nces, their pens scribbling furiously to capture every word the President spoke.

    President Clevnd continued, "I have been fully briefed on the situation, and our intelligence agencies have thoroughly investigated the matter. The sh in Hanseong was carried out by a private militarypany, the Axelsen & Nielsen Corporation, which was contracted by the Kingdom of Joseon to address a specific security concern within their borders."

    He emphasized, "The actions of this private militarypany were not sanctioned by the United States government, nor were they executed by our Armed Forces. It is essential to separate fact from fiction and refrain from attributing me where it does not belong."

    The room erupted with questions, reporters vying for attention to seek further rification. President Clevnd raised his hand, signaling for calm.

    "I understand that these events have raised concerns among the public and within the internationalmunity. Rest assured, we are working diligently to ensure a full investigation is conducted, not only to ascertain the facts surrounding the incident but also to address therger questions it raises about the role and ountability of private military contractors."

    He continued, "I have instructed my administration to engage in direct diplomatic dialogue with the governments involved, including the Empire of Japan and the Kingdom of Joseon. We will work towards an open and transparent resolution to prevent any further misunderstandings or esctions."

    "Were there any civilian casualties in the sh?" One of the journalists asked.

    "Thank you for your question," President Clevnd replied. "Based on the information avable to us at this time, there have been no reports of civilian casualties in the sh. The operation conducted by the private militarypany was specifically targeted at the Japanese garrison in Hanseong, with the objective of expelling them from the capital city of the Kingdom of Joseon."

    "How did the Japanese react to this matter? Are we going to war?" Another journalist asked.

    President Clevnd took a moment to collect his thoughts before responding to the journalist''s question. His demeanor remainedposed and assured as he addressed the room once again.

    "I understand the concerns about the potential ramifications of this incident. It is important to note that the sh in Hanseong was an isted event involving a private militarypany and the Japanese garrison. While we cannot predict the exact response of the Empire of Japan, I want to assure you that our administration is actively engaged in diplomatic dialogue to prevent any further esctions."

    He continued, "We have reached out to the government of Japan tomunicate the facts surrounding the situation and rify that the United States government was not involved. Our intention is to foster understanding and work towards a peaceful resolution. War is not in the best interest of either nation, and we will do everything in our power to ensure that diplomatic channels remain open and productive."

    President Clevnd''s words struck a chord with the journalists, who furiously scribbled notes and prepared follow-up questions.

    After answering more questions, Clevnd ended his press conference, assuring the public and the internationalmunity that his administration wasmitted to resolving the situation peacefully.

    Inside the White House, Clevnd walked with heavy footsteps, infuriated at the news.

    "Has Mr. Nielsen and Mr. Axelsen arrived in the White House?" He asked his secretary.

    "Yes sir, they are at the Oval Office."

    "Good, I''ll talk to them."

 Chapter 290 A Compromise With The President

    ?

    Inside the spacious Oval Office, Poul and Jonathan anxiously awaited President Clevnd''s return from his press conference. The room was filled with an air of tension as they sipped their coffee, its aroma mingling with the scent of freshly baked peanut butter cookies, which had been thoughtfully prepared by the White House staff.

    Poul nervously tapped his fingers against the armrest of the plush chair, while Jonathan absentmindedly stirred his coffee, lost in his thoughts.

    "Let''s have a bet, Poul," Jonathan said with a mischievous glimmer in his eyes.

    "A bet?" Poul repeated, tilting his head to the side.

    "For a thousand bucks, President Clevnd would think that this issue is you sabotaging his presidency by forcing him into a situation such as this, and for that, he would be very angry at you."

    Poul scoffed. "For a thousand bucks, I''d say that Clevnd is going to be calm and collected. He''s a seasoned politician, and he knows how to handle delicate matters like this."

    Jonathan chuckled, amused by Poul''s confidence. "Well, we''ll see about that. A thousand bucks on the line, remember?"

    As they continued to banter, the door to the Oval Office opened once more, and President Clevnd re-entered the room, followed by his Chief of Staff. The atmosphere in the room shifted as they took their seats around the imposing desk.

    "Mr. President, it is a pleasure to see you," Poul began.

    "A pleasure? Well for me it''s not, Mr. Nielsen. What yourpany did in Hanseong is just uneptable," President Clevnd interrupted, his voiceced with frustration. His eyes bore into Poul''s, his disappointment evident.

    "Woah woah¡­" Poul raised his hand. "Calm down. The private militarypany of ours is a legitimatepany with a clear and specific goal," Poul quickly interjected, trying to defend hispany. "Hanseong asked us to kick the Japanese out of their soil, and we did just that."

    "I don''t care about the Joseons or the Japanese, I cared about my presidency here, Mr. Nielsen. Are you trying to kill me? Are you still bitter because you lost the presidential election against me?"

    "Woah¡­why are you bringing that one up? No this isn''t personal, Mr. President. This is just business with the media distorting the truth. You can see from our reports that we have given to you three days prior, that our private military troops only exterminated Japanese soldiers. There are no civilian lives lost."

    "And yeah thanks to that the Japanese are enraged by the fact. Do you have any idea how delicate our rtionship with the Japanese is?" President Clevnd''s voice trembled with frustration as he continued, "We''ve been working tirelessly to foster diplomacy and build trust with Japan, and now this incident threatens to unravel all our progress."

    "If they haven''t incurred the Joseon''s sovereignty, this wouldn''t happen," Poul said.

    President Clevnd''s anger surged, his face turning a shade of crimson. "That''s not for you to decide, Mr. Nielsen! And I don''t know why you are helping that primitive nation. There''s nothing lucrative in the Joseon Kingdom. Thanks to you, our market shares in Japan are dropping, and that also goes for yourpany if I need not remind you."

    Poul waved his hand dismissively. "Don''t worry about it, they''ll still be dependent on our products. It''s not like the Japanese canpletely ban Avalonian products entirely, doing so would cause them tog behind the Western powers. Also, Jonathan and I havee up with a way to resolve things."

    "Oh yeah, what is it?" Clevnd asked, his gaze shifting between Poul and Jonathan, his curiosity piqued despite his lingering frustration.

    Jonathan reached into his pocket and pulled out a silver pipe, gently tapping it against his palm. With a thoughtful expression, he began packing the bowl with fragrant tobo. After a few moments, he struck a match and lit the tobo, taking a deep puff and exhaling a cloud of smoke that filled the air around him.

    President Clevnd watched the smoke dance in the room, momentarily captivated by the swirling patterns. "Well, don''t keep me waiting, Jonathan. What is this n you''ve devised?"

    With a calm demeanor, Jonathan leaned back in his chair, the smoke from his pipezily curling around him. "Mr. President, we believe that the key to resolving this delicate situation lies in technological exchange. If you allow us to sell military aircraft that are less advanced than what we were supplying your Army, we believe the Japanese are going to let it go."

    "So we are to sell sophisticated technology to Japan with an aircraft I saw in your demonstration?" Clevnd asked.

    "That''s correct, Mr. President. And remember, a ne that is subpar to what we are building for the United States Army."

    "How subpar?" Clevnd pressed.

    Jonathan nced at Poul, prompting him to take over.

    "Well, the aircraft that we are building for the United States Army is made of lightweight materials such as aluminum alloys but for the Japanese, it''ll be a wooden frame and fabric construction," Poul exined. "The Japanese will receive a reliable and functional aircraft, but it won''t possess the advanced capabilities and durability of the ones we''re developing for this beloved country. It will be apromise that allows us to address the current crisis while ensuring that our superior technology remains in our hands. What do you think?"

    "But what if the Japanese didn''t want wooden frame aircraft but the ones you are building for us?" Clevnd asked.

    "The Japanese are resilient and adaptable, Mr. President. For sure, giving them that wooden aircraft would allow them to think outside the box. They will improve the design and enhance its capabilities. In fact, since they saw the aircraft that we demonstrated, they''ll simply copy it. Just like how they copied British warships. But the key here is that we are controlling the starting point."

    Clevnd sighed, seemingly considering the proposal put forward by Poul and Jonathan. He weighed the potential risks and benefits in his mind, aware of the delicate diplomatic situation and the consequences of any missteps.

    After a moment of contemtion, President Clevnd leaned forward, his expression serious yet contemtive. "Gentlemen, I must admit, your n intrigues me. So let''s go forward with that. Oh, as for your private militarypany, I want you to release a statement supporting the statements that I gave the press earlier."

    "Consider it done," Poul and Jonathan intoned.

    "Okay, there''s nothing to talk about now. You may go, Mr. Axelsen. Mr. Nielsen."

 Chapter 291 The Consequences Of Actions

    ?

    After a meeting in the White House, Poul, and Jonathan scurried out of the hallway escorted by the guards. Outside the White House, they entered an automobile, which will then take them to the train station.

    "Where are my thousand bucks?" Jonathan asked as he extended his hand toward Poul.

    "What do you mean?" Poul asked, simply ncing at Jonathan''s hand.

    "Oi, we have a bet to which you lose," Jonathan exined.

    "I don''t know what you are talking about," Poul averted his gaze and looked out of the window.

    "So that''s how you want to y it huh? Well, I wasn''t serious about the bet anyways so even if you win, I wouldn''t give you a thousand bucks," Jonathan said, reeling his hand away from Poul and letting out a small chuckle. "Ah¡­so anotherpromise to be made huh? Selling wooden bines to the Japanese to ensure peace between our beloved country and the Japanese Empire."

    "I think that''s a goodpromise, but not for the Joseon Kingdom," Poul said, sighing. "We havepleted our goal in the Joseon Kingdom, disying the capabilities of our private militarypany. Now, the Joseon people are to face the consequences. Sooner orter, the Japanese Empire will dere war on the Joseon Kingdom and annexed them. Saying this out loud is making me feel guilty¡­like thousands are going to get killed in that war and there''s nothing we can do to stop it."

    Jonathan sighed heavily and leaned back in his seat, staring at the passing scenery outside the car window. The weight of their actions was beginning to sink in, and he couldn''t help but feel a pang of guilt as well.

    "You''re right, Poul," Jonathan said, his voice filled with remorse. "We''ve yed a dangerous game, and now innocent lives are at stake. My moralpass is spinning out of control. I''m sure, the United States will probably not interfere with the Japanese expansionist ambitions."

    Silence settled upon the car as they both grappled with the enormity of the situation. The reality of their actions weighed heavily on their hearts, overshadowing any previous aplishments or personal gains.

    Three dayster, when the Japanese Empire confirmed that the Joseon Kingdom indeed hired a private militarypany, and killed their forces stationed in Hanseong, they were fumed with anger to the point they had cut diplomatic ties with the Joseon Kingdom. Tensions escted rapidly, and the Prime Minister of Japan, Hiroshi Tanaka, took to the podium on December 19th, 892, to deliver a speech that would forever alter the course of history.

    The air was thick with anticipation as people gathered around their radios and in public squares, awaiting the Prime Minister''s address. Poul and Jonathan, still burdened by guilt, found themselves glued to a radio in their office, listening intently.

    With a solemn expression, Prime Minister Tanaka began his speech. "Fellow countrymen, today I stand before you with a heavy heart, burdened by the recent events that have transpired between the Japanese Empire and the Joseon Kingdom. The actions of the Joseon Kingdom, hiring a private militarypany and attacking our forces stationed in Hanseong, can only be seen as a direct threat to our sovereignty and the stability of our region. In light of these grave provocations, I regret to inform you all that we can no longer maintain diplomatic rtions with the Joseon Kingdom," Prime Minister Tanaka continued, his voice filled with steely resolve. "Effective immediately, I dere a state of war between the Japanese Empire and the Joseon Kingdom.

    "We havee to a point where our beloved country must defend its interests and safeguard its honor. Our military forces will be mobilized, and we will pursue all necessary measures to secure victory and ensure the safety and stability of our great nation."

    As the radio broadcast ended, the office fell into a heavy silence. "Oh my god¡­what have we done?" Amelia stammered.

    "The Joseon Kingdom couldn''t possibly defend itself against the Japanese forces. It will be a total annihtion," Caroline said.

    "I can''t believe we are the main cause of it," Saramented.

    "No, I don''t think we are at fault here," Morgan stepped in, trying to lighten up the mood of his friends. "The Joseon Kingdom hired our private militarypany and were fully aware of the consequences it might bring. I believe we have that written in the contract, that whatever happens after is not our responsibility. I thought that was the case right? Poul¡­Jonathan? So why are you looking down now?"

    "Well¡­Morgan, despite us convincing ourselves that it was the case, we can''t help but feel guilty," Poul exined. "But what is done is done."

    The radio flickered back to life and this time, it was from Washington. The radio broadcast from Washington carried the voice of President Grover Clevnd.

    Poul, Jonathan, and their associates turned their attention back to the radio, eager to hear the President''s response to the escting conflict between Japan and the Joseon Kingdom.

    "My fellow Avalonians," President Clevnd''s voice echoed through the room, steady andmanding. "We find ourselves in a time of great turmoil and uncertainty as war looms between the Japanese Empire and the Joseon Kingdom. As the President of the United States, it is my duty to address this critical situation and guide our nation through these challenging times. In light of the circumstances, I must emphasize that the United States remainsmitted to maintaining its neutrality in this conflict,"

    President Clevnd continued. "We stand as an impartial observer, respecting the sovereignty and independence of both nations involved. It is not our ce to interfere in the affairs of foreign powers, but rather to seek a peaceful resolution to global conflicts through diplomacy and dialogue. In this difficult time, let us remember the value of peace, the importance ofpassion, and the power of unity. I urge all Avalonians to pray for the well-being of both the Japanese and Joseon people, as they endure the trials of war. May wisdom prevail, and may the path to reconciliation and understanding be found."

    The radio fell silent once again, leaving Poul, Jonathan, and their friends in contemtive silence.

    "Jonathan, Poul, if you want to support the Joseon Kingdom in this dire situation, we have an opportunity. War brings business, and we can provide them with weapons to counter the Japanese. To maintain neutrality and bnce, we can also sell arms to the Japanese Empire. Just like we did in the Crimean War."

    Morgan was right, as a businessman, war is a huge opportunity for their arms manufacturingpany to make a profit. And the fact that their weapons are being loved by virtually any nation in the globe means that the Joseon and Japan will eagerly buy their weapons.

    "Very well," Poul nodded his head resolutely.

    ***

    At the capital city of Joseon Kingdom, two days after the Japanese dered war on their country, the United States Legation was in a state of organized chaos. The urgency in the air was palpable as diplomats hurriedly packed their belongings, knowing that time was of the essence.

    Ambassador John M. B. Sill led his team with precision. As important documents were being burned to prevent them from falling into the wrong hands, Sill focused on ensuring the safety of his staff and their swift departure.

    The legation''s staff, a diverse group of individuals from different backgrounds, found themselves grappling with a range of emotions. Anxiety, fear, and determination mingled as they hurriedly gathered their personal belongings and prepared to leave behind the ce they had called home for years.

    But for the local staff, such as the Joseon interpreters, the situation was even moreplex. They were caught between their loyalty to their country and their employment at the legation. Many of them had worked closely with the Avalonian diplomats, forging strong bonds of friendship and trust over the years. Now, they faced an agonizing decision¡ªwhether to stay and risk their lives or leave their homnd behind.

    Among them was Ji-hoon, a young interpreter who had dedicated himself to fostering understanding and cooperation between the Joseon Kingdom and the United States. He had seen the tensions escting, but the outbreak of war had taken him by surprise. As he packed his belongings alongside his Avalonian colleagues, a sense of uncertainty washed over him.

    Ambassador Sill, aware of the internal struggle faced by the local staff, approached Ji-hoon with a sympathetic gaze.

    "Ji-hoon, I understand the difficult position you find yourself in," he said, his voice filled with empathy. "Your dedication and loyalty have been invaluable to our mission here. I want you to know that whatever decision you make, we will support you."

    "But...Mr. Sill, why are the United States leaving Joseon? You signed a treaty with us¡­that you will protect Joseon Kingdom from any military threats."

    Ji-hoon''s voice trembled as he voiced his confusion and disappointment. He had believed in the promises of support and protection made by the United States, and now it seemed as though they were abandoning the Joseon Kingdom in its time of need.

    Ambassador Sill sighed, his expression reflecting the weight of the situation. "Ji-hoon, I understand your concerns, and I share your disappointment¡­but the United States couldn''t do anything at this point."

    "Is it because our government hired an Avalonian private militarypany that killed the Japanese soldiers?"

    "Yes, Ji-hoon," Ambassador Sill replied, his voice tinged with sadness. "The actions of the Avalonian private militarypany hired by your government escted the tensions and provoked a strong response from the Japanese. While we understand the desperate situation your government faced, it ultimately led to severe repercussions. So, are youing with us, or are you going to stay and fight for your country."

    Ji-hoon''s heart pounded in his chest as he stood before Ambassador Sill, faced with an agonizing decision that would shape his future.

    Taking a deep breath, Ji-hoon finally spoke. "I¨Cwant¡­.I want toe with you, Ambassador. As much as it pains me to leave my homnd behind, I believe that by joining you, I can continue to work towards peace and diplomacy in a different capacity."

    Ambassador Sill nodded, his eyes filled with empathy. "Very well."

 Chapter 292 Frustration Mounting

    ?

    As the war situation was developing in the Far East, Poul, and Jonathan scrambled to face the media. Journalists from New York Times, the New York Globe, the Washington Post, and correspondents from other countries were in Pittsburgh, determined to get a statement out of the individuals who indirectly caused a war between the Joseon Kingdom and the Japanese Empire.

    The reception was made on the first floor of the main office, with an erected tform and a podium standing proudly at its center. The room was abuzz with anticipation as reporters jostled for the best positions to capture every word, every expression. Daguerreotypes were set up, focusing on Poul and Jonathan, who stood side by side, d in their formal attire.

    "Mr. Nielsen, Mr. Axelsen," the journalist from the New York Times began the query. "First and foremost, can you confirm the involvement of your private militarypany in the military sh in Hanseong?"

    Poul leaned his mouth forward to the microphone and answered. "Yes, the private militarypany known as Tactical Aegis Services was involved in a military sh with the Japanese Army garrisoned in Hanseong."

    "What was the objective of the operation in Hanseong? Why was yourpany hired?"

    Poul looked at Jonathan, prompting him to answer the question asked by the journalist. Jonathan raised a brow as if saying that Poul could answer it but relented.

    "The objective was simple," Jonathan began. "That is to quote the Hanseong officials, to kick out the Japanese Army that is viting their sovereignty and upying their capital city. Ourpany was hired because we possess the necessary expertise and capabilities to carry out such operations effectively."

    The journalist began jotting down the notes as Poul and Jonathan continued to address the inquiries from the eager reporters.

    Another journalist, this time from a foreign publication, raised their hand and spoke up.

    "Were there any casualties on your side during the sh? Did yourpany receive explicit authorization or support from the United States government for this operation?"

    Poul acknowledged the journalist''s question and took a moment to collect his thoughts before responding. "ording to the information we have at the moment, our private troops didn''t suffer any casualties in the operation. And as for the second question¡­"

    Poul paused briefly, his gaze sweeping across the room before returning to the journalist who had posed the question. As expected from the journalists, they''d want to implicate the government to cook some issues, leading to more subscriptions.

    "As a private militarypany, Tactical Aegis Services operates independently and maintains strict confidentiality regarding our clients and the specifics of our engagements. So no, the United States has no involvement in authorizing or supporting our operation in Hanseong," Poul rified firmly.

    "Can you rify the rtionship between yourpany and the United States Army? How closely do you work together?" Another journalist asked.

    "While Tactical Aegis Services maintains no direct rtionship with the United States Army, it is true that many of our highly skilled personnele from military backgrounds, including retired Marines and Army veterans," Jonathan answered and continued. "Ourpany takes pride in hiring individuals with extensive training and experience in military operations. These individuals bring valuable expertise and discipline to our organization, allowing us to execute our missions with utmost professionalism and effectiveness. Again, to reiterate thest question, the Tactical Aegis Services operates as a separate entity from the United States military. We do not receive direct support or authorization from the government for our operations. Our engagements are undertaken on behalf of our clients and are subject to their specific requirements and objectives."

    After answering the question, Jonathan and Poul nced to their right, where Amelia was watching and giving them signs. She made a sign to cut off the press as she believed they were revealing too much.

    "Uhm¡­everyone, I think that''s all for today," Poul said, raising his hand in a gesture to signal the end of the press conference. The room erupted with a cacophony of voices, journalists moring to get another question in, their hands waving in the air like gs of persistence. But Poul and Jonathan remained firm, ignoring the persistent pleas for more information,

    Poul stepped down from the tform, followed closely by Jonathan. Amelia joined them. But as they were about to go to the elevator, one of the journalists shouted a question that got their attention.

    "How do you feel about the lives that will be lost because of your private militarypany? Innocent men, women, and children. How would you be able to sleep knowing that at any moment, hundreds are going to die?"

    Poul stopped in his tracks. Amelia tugged his sleeves, advising that he shouldn''t entertain any further questions, but Poul felt the need to answer them.

    "Well, why is the me directed at us? We are a private militarypany, we take clients and that client is the government of the Joseon Kingdom. Shouldn''t you be raising that question to their government itself? Because they are the ones that brought them into the conflict with the Japanese Empire," Poul answered resolutely.

    "But you could have prevented that from happening¡­you could have rejected their offer," the journalist pressed, determined to extract a response.

    "You are right, we could have rejected that offer. But, we chose not to because we are businessmen, we need clients in order for private militarypanies to thrive and continue our operations¡­You know what, I am done with you journalists whose only job is to find holes and spin stories. You paint us as viins without understanding theplexity of the situation," Poul eximed frustratingly.

    "Then how about you Mr. Nielsen huh? Calling yourself a businessman is very euphemistic in this context, isn''t it? Yourpany engages in acts of violence, profiting from the suffering of others," the journalist retorted a hint of usation in their voice.

    Amelia, recognizing the need to extricate themselves from the situation, stepped forward and gently ced a hand on Poul''s arm.

    "Poul, that''s enough. You are risking the reputation of the corporation. I don''t think Mr. Morgan and Mrs. Axelsen weren''t going to be pleased," Amelia advised.

    Poul took a deep breath, his anger slowly subsiding. He realized that he had allowed his emotions to get the better of him, and Amelia was right¡ªthey couldn''t afford to damage the reputation of Tactical Aegis Services or the corporation any further. He nced at Jonathan, who nodded in agreement, silently urging him to let it go.

    Poul cleared his throat. "Well, as I have said before, we are not entertaining any questions, maybe in the next press conference you cane and ask whatever questions you have. But for now, we have to end this conversation."

    With those words, Poul and Jonathan turned and walked towards the elevator with Amelia trailing behind. They entered the elevator and the moment the elevator door closed, they sighed.

    "Oh¡­almost," Poul said, phewing. "If you didn''t stop me there, oh boy, things would get personal."

    Jonathan pped his hands on Poul''s shoulder. "I guess I have more control over my emotions than you, Poul," he chuckled. "Anyways, now that the media are aside, we can now return to our business, as we should always be."

    "Amelia, where is Captain Richards? Are they already heading towards their next mission?"

    Amelia nodded her head, her hair gently swaying with the motion. "Yes, Captain Richards and his team are en-route to Saudi Arabia."

    Poul hummed in thought. Ever since the defiance of the Saud on the exclusive agreement and siding with the British Empire, the location where oil was discovered by theirpany is being attacked by militia. Threatening the local workers employed by them to build the infrastructure to mine oil, and expats being kidnapped and held for ransom. There is no mistaking it, it is a sabotage supported by the state and the British Empire. Though they have no definite evidence, it was apparent based on Poul''s encounter with King Alexander.

    "What should we do to the kidnapped engineers in the region, Poul?" Amelia nced up at him expectantly. "Should we pay them the ransom?"

    Poul looked at Jonathan. "What do you think, partner? Our private troops are headed there as we speak."

    "We''ll have our private troops extract those kidnapped engineers with the money. How much are they asking for again?"

    "10,000 dors for each person," Amelia answered. "There are twelve engineers who were kidnapped, most of them have the expertises needed to construct the necessary infrastructures. But there is also a reason to believe that those engineers might not work and opt to return home. I can only imagine how traumatizing the experience must be for them."

    Poul clicked his tongue. "King Alexander is indeed making it hard for us huh? I know what to do now. After rescuing the engineers in Saudi Arabia, I want those private troops of ours to invade Great Britain. By invading, I mean invading his private residence. We might find a private correspondence connecting him with Saud''s illicit deals. If we found one, I''m sure the media from every corner of the world would do anything to get a piece of it¡­to the point they will forget that there is even a war in the Far East."

 Chapter 293 PMCs New Assignment

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    January 5th, 893, somewhere along the Indian Ocean. Captain Richard,mander of the private militarypany, the Aegis Tactical Service, stood steadfast on the weathered deck of the majestic steamship. Bound for Saudi Arabia, the vessel sliced through the endless expanse of azure waters, leaving a trail of frothy white foam in its wake.

    With a salt-kissed breeze tousling his hair and the rhythmic symphony of crashing waves as his soundtrack, Captain Richard''s eyes scanned the horizon, his mind lost in thoughts. Thanks to the new invention of the industrialist duo, the wireless telegraph, he was able to receive news from his country. And that the news he received is that his employer is facing a backsh.

    After their operation in Hanseong, the Japanese Empire dered war on them, starting a conflict that he knew wouldst for years and the annexation of the Joseon Kingdom which he assumed based on the imperialistic ambition of the Japanese. Though he couldn''t care less about what would happen to the Joseonese, he is most concerned about their boss.

    They are ming their boss for starting this war, even though they were not. The me should fall on the Joseon officials who hired them and led the country into the mess they are in now. But just as he said before, he couldn''t care less about what''s going to happen to their country. For him, he had done their job remarkably, killing the Japanese and getting paid handsomely for it.

    Now, they are heading to Saudi Arabia, this one is more personal from their boss. Their mission is to protect the mining infrastructure that was being built in the country from the state-sponsored militia. Though this is not yet confirmed, it is more likely to be the case.

    Having enough of the view, he decided to meet his crew under the shade of the ship''s towering smokestacks. As he descended the weathered stairs leading to the lower decks.

    Reaching the bustling crew quarters, he found his loyalrades gathered around arge, oak table strewn with charts, maps, and half-empty tankards of ale.

    "Captain!" one of his men raised a ss of whiskey, a mischievous grin spreading across his scruffy face. "Why are you not joining us? It''s going to be your loss as this is thest bottle."

    The man speaking was Antonio, just like him, he was a veteran of the United States Civil War hired by thepany. Though they had never met in the civil war, a bond had formed between them during their time together in the Aegis Tactical Service. Antonio was known for his jovial nature, a stark contrast to Captain Richard''s more stoic demeanor.

    "In less than two hours, we''ll be reaching Saudi Arabia, you should be sobered before we arrive," Captain Richard replied with a hint of amusement, epting the ss of whiskey from Antonio''s outstretched hand. He took a measured sip, savoring the smoky warmth that spread through his chest.

    Antonio raised an eyebrow, his mischievous grin widening. "You worry too much, Captain. A little drink won''t dull our senses. If anything, it''ll help us unwind and be ready for whatever awaits us in the desert."

    Captain Richard nodded, acknowledging Antonio''s point. He understood the need for his crew to find sce and camaraderie amidst the arduous nature of their work. And while he valued discipline and clear-mindedness, he also recognized the importance of bnce.

    Leaning against the table, Captain Richard nced around at his crew. Some chatted, while others tended to their rifles, disassembling them and carefully inspecting each part. The rhythmic clicking of metal against metal filled the air as the crew ensured their weapons were in prime condition for the mission ahead.

    "Captain¡­this rifle thepany provided to us, aren''t these to advancepared to our country''s army?" One of the crew by the name of Edward asked Richards, catching him off guard. Captain Richard turned his attention to Edward.

    "That''s right, while we pull the trigger and fire thirty rounds in under ten seconds, the army has to cock the bolt after each shot. These rifles we carry are magazine-fed, allowing for rapid and continuous fire without the need for manual reloading after each shot. It gives us a significant advantage inbat situations, which was evident in our fight against the Japanese."

    As he said that, Richards'' mind reyed back when they raided the Japanese garrison in Hanseong. Bullets whizzed past them as they advanced toward them. The Japanese, cocked their bolt-action rifle as they fired on Richards and his men but they couldn''t match the relentless rate of fire unleashed by the Aegis Tactical Service. In mere moments, the tide turned, and the enemy was overwhelmed by the hailstorm of bullets.

    Edward nodded, a newfound appreciation gleaming in his eyes. "Truly remarkable," he murmured, his voice filled with admiration. "I believe in the next few years the United States is going to adopt these rifles."

    "A lot has changed since those industrialist duo emerged. I even spected that they might be from the future because the technology they bring into this world is revolutionary."

    Hearing that, Edward and Antonio burst outughing.

    "Captain¡­I''m sorry¡­but¡­theming from the future? You should be the one who needs to be sobered before we arrive in Saudi," Antonio said, his voice cracking withughter. The crew joined in the jovial moment, theirughter echoing through the crew quarters. Captain Richard couldn''t help but smile, his stoic demeanor momentarily softened by the camaraderie and lightheartedness of hisrades.

    "Yeah, maybe I''m saying nonsensical things. Yeah¡­you can shut up now," Richards said, but theughter continued for a few more moments before shutting themselves.

    "Okay, perhaps this is the perfect time that we discuss our new mission," Richards said, gathering the attention of his crew. "This won''t be like Joseon, okay? We are not hired by the host country to attack a foreign army garrisoned in their country. We are protecting the oil mine of our bosses'' oil mining enterprises from the militia. They appear to be armed with century-old musket''s but don''t let your guard down, as it can kill you. Once we arrive at Jeddah, we are to meet one of the personnel working on the mines who will be taking us there."

    "Uhm Captain!" One of his men raised his hand. "How many days are we going to stay in that desert country?"

    Captain Richard paused, his gaze sweeping across the faces of his crew. He knew the question that lingered in their minds. The vastness of the desert and the uncertainty of their mission made it difficult to determine the exact duration of their stay.

    "Men, we cannot predict the exact number of days we will spend in Saudi Arabia," Captain Richard began. "It may take months."

    "Months?!" Edward repeated.

    "I told you, this is not like Joseon okay? We are guarding an oil mining infrastructure in a vtile region."

    "Okay¡­" Edward said softly.

    "Now, do you have any questions aside from how long we are going to stay in the country?" Richards asked, ncing at his men. No one raised their hands, indicating that the mission is clear.

    "Very well, let''s prepare boys."

 Chapter 294 The PMC Arrives And The Impending Conflict

    ?

    Two hourster, the steamship carrying the 40 private soldiers of Aegis Tactical Services arrived at the port of Jeddah. With the gangway beneath their feet, they disembarked, their boots sinking slightly into the sandy soil. The scorching heat engulfed them immediately, causing Antonio to let out a whoop.

    "This country sure is hot," he eximed, hastily wiping the sweat that wasn''t there off his forehead.

    Edward, a practical man, chuckled and replied, "You''re exaggerating, Antonio. It''s hot, yes, but we''ve faced worse."

    As the soldiers made their way across the gangway, they carefully carried the wooden crates filled with ammunition and supplies. Each step was deliberate, ensuring they didn''t miss anything crucial. Their mission depended on their thoroughness.

    "Let me see the manifest," Richards requested, and one of his crew promptly handed him the document. Richards scanned the list, confirming that all the necessary provisions had been ounted for. Satisfied with his inspection, he neatly folded the manifest and securely tucked it into his jacket pocket.

    The port of Jeddah was a hive of activity, focused primarily on constructing new port facilities to facilitate international trade. Saudi Arabia, as they had learned from theirpany''s information, was a developing country, striving to modernize every aspect of its infrastructure.

    The soldiers observed the towering cranes that dotted the skyline with the port echoing with the sound of machinery, intermingled with the chatter of workers and the locals who spoke a differentnguage.

    "So, Captain," Edward called. "When do we meet our contact? We''ve arrived at the agreed time, after all."

    Richard turned towards Edward, his brow furrowing slightly. He understood the impatience in hisrade''s tone. They had meticulously nned their arrival, ensuring they were punctual for their meeting.

    "To be honest, I don''t know Edward. It''s not like we can call them right?" Richards let out a chuckle. "Just be patient, they''ll be here, because if they don''te here, who will protect them from the militias?"

    Just as Richards said that a white man approached them.

    "Excuse me, are you from the Tactical Aegis Services?"

    Richards turned to the man who had addressed them, his eyes scanning his appearance. The man stood slightly taller than average, with a sturdy build and a weathered face that spoke of years spent in challenging environments. His fair hair was peppered with streaks of gray, and a neatly trimmed beard framed his strong jawline.

    "Yes, we are from Aegis Tactical Services," Richards replied, his tone conveying both professionalism and curiosity. "I assume you''re our contact?"

    The man extended his hand in greeting, a warm smile ying on his lips. "Indeed, I am. William Kingley, at your service," he introduced himself. "I represent Axelsen & Nielsen Oil Mining Company. We appreciate your presence here. The situation at the oil infrastructure we''re building has be increasingly vtile, and we require your expertise to ensure the safety of our workers."

    Richard shook William''s hand firmly, acknowledging the weight of their responsibility.

    "I''m Captain Richards and these men behind me are my team," he stated, gesturing towards his fellow soldiers.

    As Richard introduced hisrades, the soldiers raised their hands in friendly waves, while some offered crisp salutes.

    "I see," William smiled at Richard''s gestures. "As you can see the country is still developing so there is no modern transportation such as trains, trams, or even automobiles to be found here. But what we have are camels. The hike is going to be a long one as there''s no port avable on the eastern side of the country."

    "Oh don''t worry about the hike, my men and I hiked a lot of distance during the civil war," Richards chuckled. "So, how far are we talking about?"

    William smiled before revealing the answer.

    "More than a thousand kilometers¡­"

    "Thousand kilometers?!" Richards and his men eximed, their eyes widening in disbelief at the sheer distance revealed by William.

    William nodded, understanding their astonishment. "Yes, it''s a considerable distance," he confirmed. "But don''t worry, we have a n to cover the vast expanse. We''ll embark on a five-day journey, making strategic stops along the way to rest, resupply, and ensure everyone''s well-being."

    The soldiers exchanged nces, their expressions a mix of determination and readiness. The prospect of a week-long trek through the arid desert presented a daunting challenge. But they are paid to do anything, so they couldn''tin.

    Edward broke the silence. "Well, at least we won''t be short on adventure," he quipped, earning a few chuckles from hisrades.

    Antonio let out a low whistle, his earlierint about the heat seemingly forgotten. "Looks like the scorching sun won''t be the only challenge we''ll face," he remarked.

    "This country should start building ports on the opposite side of their country," Richardsmented.

    "Well, they already have ports there, but they can''t amodate steamships," William exined. "Anyway, gentlemen, now that we have our introductions, why don''t we head out now? Time is of the essence, and we have a long journey ahead."

    Richard nodded, his eyes scanning the soldiers of Aegis Tactical Services. "You heard him, everyone. Prepare your gear, and double-check your equipment. Get all of our things in the camels provided by Mister Kingley," Richardmanded.

    The soldiers swiftly sprang into action, they lifted the wooden crates and ced them on the charrette which would be drawn by camels. Each soldier meticulously secured their gear to the saddles, ensuring nothing would be lost during the arduous journey.

    Antonio approached one of the camels, running his hand gently along its sturdy neck. "Captain, how do you ride a camel?"

    "Just like how you ride a horse," Richards replied with a smile. He demonstrated by mounting his own camel, gracefully settling into the saddle.

    His crew did exactly what he had shown to them and mounted their respective camels.

    "Oh, I forgot to introduce to you Captain, that person in the front is Ahmad, our guide," William pointed out. Ahmad, a local Bedouin with deep knowledge of the desert, stood confidently at the head of the camel caravan, his eyes scanning the horizon with a keen awareness of their surroundings.

    "Very well," Richards acknowledged.

    ***

    Four hourster, they arrived at the city of Taif and covered at least 170 kilometers. The night descended upon the desertndscape, casting a nket of darkness dotted with twinkling stars above. The soldiers and their camels found respite in a makeshift camp on the outskirts of Taif, their tired bodies yearning for rest.

    Somewhere not far away from the group was a man garbed in traditional Arabian clothing. He closed the window and turned at hisrades.

    "The Avalonian working on the oil mine seems to have brought some friends from his country. It''s time that we show them hospitality."

    After saying that, hisrades cocked their bolt-action rifles.

 Chapter 295 The Gunfight

    ?

    In the city of Taif, the Tactical Aegis Services private army was in their apartments.

    "Okay, half of us would be on the night watch, the rest can rest and sleep," Richards said, rising up on his feet. "Since we are forty, twenty would be on duty while the other twenty can get some rest. Let''s rotate the shifts every four hours to ensure everyone gets enough sleep and stays alert."

    The soldiers nodded in agreement, acknowledging the importance of maintaining a vignt presence throughout the night. They quickly organized themselves into two groups, with one group preparing to take up their positions for the night watch while the others settled down to rest.

    As the soldiers began their shift rotations, the night enveloped the city of Taif in serene darkness. The streets were quiet, with only asional sounds echoing in the distance. The soldiers stationed themselves strategically across different vantage points, ensuring they had a clear view of their surroundings.

    Richards stood atop a rooftop, his eyes scanning the dimly lit streets below. The cool desert breeze brushed against his face, providing a brief respite from the scorching heat of the day. He tightened the grip on his assault rifle, his senses heightened as he remained vignt.

    In the adjacent building, Edward sat near an open window, his gaze fixed on the deserted alleyway stretching before him. The flickering streemp cast eerie shadows, creating an atmosphere of anticipation. He adjusted his position, maintaining a steady focus on any potential threats that might emerge from the darkness.

    The night wore on, each soldier fulfilling their duty with dedication. The moon cast its soft glow over the city, illuminating the intricate architecture and adding a touch of ethereal beauty to the scene. However, the soldiers remained acutely aware that danger could lurk in the shadows.

    As the hours passed, the silence was intermittently broken by the distant howling of desert winds and the asional scurrying of nocturnal creatures. The soldiers maintained their focus, their training guided their instincts, and their camaraderie provided a sense of solidarity and safety.

    "I hope this will be a quiet night," Richards said and then heard a rustling noise from afar. He quickly trained his rifle on the source of the noise, his finger ready to press the finger.

    "What''s the matter, Captain?" Edward asked through the radio.

    "I heard something," Richards replied, his eyes fixed on what seemed to be an alleyway. Though there is a clear sky with the moon giving a faint illumination, the shadows in the narrow passageway obscured the source of the sound. Richards remained on high alert, his finger poised on the trigger.

    Suddenly, a figure emerged from the darkness, moving cautiously towards the streemp at the entrance of the alley. Richards squinted his eyes, trying to discern the identity of the person. As the figure stepped into the light, it became clear that it was a young girl, no older than twelve.

    She wore tattered clothing and her face bore signs of fatigue and desperation. Richards lowered his rifle, recognizing that the girl posed no immediate threat.

    "Stand down, it''s just a child," Richards said, sighing.

    Edward burst outughing over the radio, relieved that the situation turned out to be a harmless encounter.

    "Captain, I think our nerves could use a break. We were ready for anything, even a tumbleweed, and here we have a little girl," Edward chuckled.

    Richards couldn''t help but smile, his tension easing as he realized the innocence of the situation. "You''re right, Edward. We''re trained to expect the unexpected, but sometimes it''s a reminder that not everything is a threat."

    Just as Richards and Edward shared a moment of relief, a sudden sh of light caught Richards''s attention. His instincts kicked in, and he swiftly turned his gaze toward the building located fifty meters away. It was in that split second that he heard the distinctive sound of a gunshot.

    Reacting with lightning speed, Richards threw himself to the ground, narrowly evading the bullet that grazed his arm. The searing pain coursed through him, but he refused to let it hinder his response. With adrenaline fueling his actions, he returned fire, aiming at the source of the muzzle sh.

    The crack of his rifle echoed through the night as he unleashed a series of well-aimed shots toward the building. The stato bursts of gunfire filled the air, drowning out all other sounds. The rest of the soldiers, alerted by themotion, sprang into action, taking up defensive positions and scanning their surroundings for any signs of hostile activity.

    Amidst the chaos, Edward''s voice came through the radio, his tone urgent.

    "Captain Richards, are you alright? What''s happening?"

    "I''ve been shot, but I''m still in the fight," Richards replied, his voice steady despite the pain. "I returned fire, the enemy is fifty meters north of my position!"

    Edwards redirected the aim of his muzzle toward the direction indicated by Richards. He peered through the scope of his rifle, scanning for any signs of movement or additional hostiles. There was movement¡ªand he fired.

    Suddenly, the quiet streets of Taif erupted into chaos as a wave of armed militia flooded the area. They brandished bolt-action rifles and advanced towards the private army''s defensive positions, their intent clear¡ªoverwhelm and eliminate the threat.

    The Tactical Aegis Services soldiers maintained theirposure, their training and disciplineing into y. They swiftly adapted to the changing situation, utilizing their superior firepower and tactical expertise to hold their ground.

    Edward sighted an another armed militiaman taking cover behind a sandstone wall, his finger gently squeezing the trigger. A precise shot rang out, finding its mark and neutralizing the threat. But there were many more enemies to contend with.

    The firefight intensified as bullets whizzed through the air, creating a symphony of danger. The private army soldiers that are on watch moved with precision, coordinating their actions to provide mutual support and cover. They strategically utilized the buildings and structures of Taif as both defensive positions and opportunities for ambush.

    As the militia pressed forward, Richards fought through the pain of his wound, leading his team by example. He gritted his teeth, his focus unyielding as he returned fire.

    Just as the militia''s assault seemed relentless, a cacophony of footsteps and hurried voices echoed through the streets. The soldiers who had been resting awoke to the sound of gunfire, instinctively grabbing their rifles and rushing to reinforce theirrades.

    The newly awakened soldiers joined the fray, adding their firepower to the defensive line. They swiftly positioned themselves, providing cover fire and suppressing the advancing militia.

    The streets were filled with gunfire as the militia, possibly the ones attacking the mining facility, exchanged shots with the private army. But minutester, the overwhelming firepower of the assault rifles they were armed with quickly overwhelmed the militia.

    As the battle raged on, Richards''s attention was drawn to the young girl who had previously emerged from the darkness. Amidst the chaos, she stood frozen in fear, tears streaming down her dirt-streaked face. The sounds of gunfire and the intensity of the situation had overwhelmed her, leaving her paralyzed in the middle of the street.

    Richards''s heart clenched at the sight, his protective instincts kicking into overdrive. He knew he couldn''t leave her exposed and vulnerable in the midst of the firefight. With a swiftmand over the radio, he ordered his soldiers on the ground to prioritize the girl''s safety.

    "Get her to safety!" he shouted.

    His men immediately sprang into action, rushing towards the girl, and grabbing her by the arm. The girl was swiftly taken inside the apartment.

    Four minutester, the militia that attacked were gone, killed.

    "All units report! Any casualties?" Richards said.

    "We are good Captain!" One of his men said, followed by the rest of the team.

    "Shit¡­we have to get moving."

 Chapter 296 Getting Out Of Danger

    ?

    After the heated battle, Richards and the surviving members of his squad retreated back to their apartment, their adrenaline still pumping from the intense firefight. They moved swiftly and efficiently, checking their surroundings for any signs of lingering danger.

    Inside the apartment, they took a moment to catch their breath, the weight of the recent encounter evident in their sweat-drenched brows andbored breathing.

    "Are they the ones that are attacking the facility, Mr. Williams?" Richards said, ncing at William who had a troubled expression.

    "Yeah, they are the ones," William confirmed.

    "Well, it seemed like they followed us. It''s dangerous to stay here longer, we have to move out and resume our journey."

    "Uhm¡­Captain," Edward interjected. "Are you serious? It''s literally dark outside. We won''t be able to see anything in the way and risk another encounter."

    "So you are saying that we should stay put until dawn, which is more dangerous because we don''t know if that''s only them. Who knows, there could be hundreds of them flooding into the city within an hour. I don''t want to risk staying here, Edwards, we have to move."

    The tension in the room escted as the squad debated their next move. The weight of their exhaustion and the uncertainty of the situation hung heavy in the air. Richards knew that every decision he made could mean life or death for his team, and the responsibility weighed heavily on him.

    "We can''t afford to wait here until dawn," Richards reiterated firmly. "If they followed us once, they could do it again. We need to take the initiative and get out of here. It''s not like we are going blind here; we have Ahmad," Richards said, extending his arm toward Ahmad.

    "I know the way sir," Ahmad assured. "Even if it''s dark."

    "See!" Richards eximed in a determined tone. "We have Ahmad, and he knows the way. Trust in his skills, and we can navigate through the darkness."

    "Well, you are the captain, sir, you decide, we follow," Edward said, acknowledging Richards'' leadership. The rest of the team nodded in agreement, their trust in Richards unshaken.

    Richards took a deep breath, feeling the weight of their trust and the gravity of the situation. He knew the risks involved in venturing out into the dark, unknown territory, but they hade too far to turn back now.

    "Thank you, everyone," Richards said gratefully.

    The team began making final preparations, checking their weapons, adjusting their gear, and loading up the horse-drawn carriage with their supplies.

    Richards approached the young girl, crouching down to her level.

    Ahmad nodded and began speaking to the young girl in Arabic. She seemed hesitant at first but then started to share her story with him. Ahmad turned to Captain Richards and tranted her words.

    "The man who attacked us gave her bread in exchange for telling us where we were, sir."

    "Wait what?" Richards furrowed his brow, trying toprehend the gravity of the situation. The revtion sent a chill down his spine, knowing that their movements had been betrayed by someone they had encountered.

    "Are you sure, Ahmad?" Richards asked concernedly.

    "Yes sir, the girl gave out our location in exchange for bread," Ahmad reiterated.

    "Oh how evil they are," Richards clenched his fists angrily. "To use a kid for their sinister purposes," Richards continued with frustration evident in his voice.

    "Antonio!" Richards called, and Antonio promptly stepped forward, ready to assist his captain.

    "Sir, what can I do for you?" Antonio asked, his eyes showing concern for their current predicament.

    Richards took a moment to collect his thoughts before speaking. "We still have some of the biscuits not yet opened right?"

    "That is correct sir¡­" Antonio said, his brows furrowed in confusion. "Why are you asking?"

    "Well, you see Antonio, the men who attacked us earlier had used this poor little girl as a pawn," Richards exined and continued. "They gave her bread, probably one of our rations, to coax her into revealing our location. They exploited her innocence for their own sinister purposes."

    Antonio''s eyes widened in disbelief and fury. "Those heartless monsters! Using a child like that," he seethed, his hands clenched into fists.

    "So can you bring me those biscuits, and bottled water also so I can give it to her," Richards said.

    "Right away, sir," Antonio replied. He swiftly retrieved the biscuits and a bottle of water from their supplies and handed them to Richards.

    Richards returned to La, who was still sitting quietly, unsure of what to make of these soldiers who had suddenly entered her life. He crouched down and offered the biscuits and water bottle to her with a warm smile.

    "La, these are for you," he said gently, pointing to the food and water. "Go home now, and don''t talk to strangers. Is your home near here?"

    Ahmad tranted Richards'' words, and La looked up at the kind captain, her eyes brimming with gratitude. She nodded, clutching the provisions to her chest.

    "Yes, my home is nearby," Ahmad conveyed La''s response.

    "Good," Richards replied, offering a reassuring smile. "We will leave now, okay, we don''t want you seeing you again or following us and giving our location. Return home as soon as we leave this city, is that understood?"

    "She said okay, sir," Ahmad said.

    Richards nodded, satisfied with La''s response. He stood up and signaled to his team that it was time to go. They couldn''t afford to linger any longer in the city, not with the threat of the attackers potentially closing in on them.

    Outside the apartment, Richards barked orders to his team as they mounted their camels respectively.

    "Keep your eyes peeled, everyone," Richardsmanded as they mounted their camels. The squad members took their positions, alert and ready for any sign of danger. "Our rules of engagement remain the same. Shoot if there is a clear indication of a threat."

    "Hurrah!" The soldiers under hismand responded in unison.

    With Ahmad leading the way once more, the squad set off through the vast desert terrain. The night was still dark, but the moon''s soft glow provided some visibility.

 Chapter 297 Frustrated By The Politics

    ?

    A weekter, back in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania.

    "Poul, I have news for you," Amelia said as she stepped forward over to Poul''s desk.

    "Fire it away, Amelia," Poul prompted her to continue while reading a newspaper in his hand.

    "The Tactical Aegis Services has arrived in our oil mining facilities and they are setting up a defensive perimeter around it. There were some hups along the way as they encountered a militia in the city of Taif."

    "An encounter huh?" Poul mused, leaning back in his chair. "Was this the only encounter they faced or is there another?" he asked, this time, looking at Amelia.

    "That''s the only encounter, Poul, the rest of their journey was smooth and sessful. They managed to neutralize the militia without any casualties on their side," Amelia replied confidently.

    Poul nodded, considering the information. "Good. I knew bringing Tactical Aegis Services on board was the right decision. With them already on the site, our oil mining operations in the Middle East will be more secure than ever."

    "Well, there is a downside, Poul. You see, Saudi Arabia has raised their objections to the United States Government, believing that us bringing in a private militia without their knowledge constitutes a breach of their sovereignty," Amelia exined with a hint of concern. "We also have received a letter from the White House, demanding you and Jonathan to attend an urgent meeting with the President," she added, holding out the letter for Poul to read.

    Poul took the letter, his brow furrowing with worry. "The President wants to see both of us?" he asked, ncing at Jonathan, who was standing nearby, listening attentively to the conversation.

    "You can pretty much handle it alone, Poul," Jonathan said as he continued scribbling down some notes on a nearby notepad. "I''m busy with the Empire State Building project."

    "I wish that would be easy Jonathan but the President Clevnd asked for us together. This matter concerns both of us as it is ourpany," Poul said, causing Jonathan to sigh.

    "Am I the only one noticing that we have been dealing a lot in politics? Like it has never been like this before," Jonathan remarked.

    "Now that you have said it, Jonathan, you are quite right," Amelia concurred.

    Poul chuckled before returning his gaze to the letter. "ording to this letter, we have to meet the President tomorrow at five o''clock in the afternoon. Amelia, please prepare everything necessary for the journey."

    "Understood, Mr. Nielsen," Amelia said, adopting a formal tone.

    Jonathan sighed again. "I hate all of this."

    ***

    A dayter, in the Washington D.C White House. The guards stationed at the gates approached the automobile that was carrying Poul and Jonathan inside.

    The industrialist duo stepped off the vehicle and thanked the guard for his assistance. They made their way through the corridors of the White House, and to the Oval Office.

    As they entered, President Clevnd stood up from behind his desk, a warm smile on his face.

    "Mr. Nielsen, Mr. Axelsen, wee. Please, have a seat," he gestured to the chairs in front of his desk.

    "Thank you for having us, Mr. President," Poul said, extending his hand for a firm handshake.

    "Indeed, it''s an honor," Jonathan added, shaking the President''s hand as well.

    The President motioned for them to sit down, and they all settled into their seats.

    "I understand there have been some concerns raised by Saudi Arabia regarding yourpany''s actions," President Clevnd began, his tone serious yet inviting. "You sure are not going to start a war in Saudi Arabia right?"

    "Joseon and Japan is a blunder, Mr. President," Poul said and continued. "We don''t intend to repeat that."

    "Then what are your private militia doing in Saudi Arabia huh?" Clevnd asked.

    "They are there to protect our oil mining facilities and ensure the safety of our workers. We had faced several security threats in the past, and we sought to prevent any further risks to our operations," Poul exined calmly. "Besides, you don''t want the United States to lose that precious oil right? You know it''s a preciousmodity, especially for our automobiles."

    "I know that Mr. Nielsen but you see, I have received word from the Congress demanding that your private militarypany be brought in for a congressional hearing," President Clevnd interjected, a concerned expression crossing his face.

    Poul and Jonathan exchanged nces, surprised by the news. "A congressional hearing? But why?" Jonathan asked, feeling a knot of apprehension in his stomach.

    "The concerns raised by Saudi Arabia have sparked a debate in Congress about the use of private militarypanies in foreign territories," the President exined. "They believe that this action might set a dangerous precedent and could potentially vite the sovereignty of other nations. The Congress wants to thoroughly investigate the matter and ensure that our actions align with our foreign policy principles."

    "So another formality again huh?" Jonathan chimed in.

    "No, Mr. Axelsen, this is a serious matter. You''ll be informed of the dates and specifics of the congressional hearing soon," President Clevnd said firmly. "Congress takes matters of national security and international rtions seriously. But still, your private militia can continue its operation in the Middle East given the nature of their mission to protect your oil mining facilities. That''ll be all."

    "A congressional hearing huh?" Poul repeated. "So what''s next, President Clevnd? An antitrust to ourpany?"

    "Woah¡­Poul, calm down," Jonathan reached out to his partner''s shoulder.

    President Clevnd raised an eyebrow, slightly taken aback by Poul''s frustration.

    "Mr. Nielsen, this is not personal or meant to be an attack on yourpany," President Clevnd rified, trying to defuse the tension in the room. "Congress is simply exercising its oversight role."

    "After making Avalonia great by inventing technologies that are beyond the Europeans, this is what we get huh?" Poul chuckled. "Well, if it''s the will of the Congress, we have no choice but toe up. We''ll take our leave now, Mr. President, and I hope you have a very good day."

    Poul rose to his feet and left the Oval Office without bothering to shake hands with the president. Jonathan on the other hand shook the President''s hand and spoke.

    "I apologize for Poul''s behavior, Mr. President," Jonathan said earnestly. "I''ll talk to him."

    After saying that, he left the Oval Office and chased Poul.

 Chapter 298 The Prospect Of Hearing

    ?

    Jonathan caught up to Poul near the main entrance of the White House. Poul was pulling out a small box where he kept his tobo, opened it, and lit a cigarette.

    "Hey, Poul, hold up," Jonathan called out, slightly out of breath from rushing to catch him.

    Poul turned to face Jonathan, a stern expression on his face as he took a drag from his cigarette. "What is it, Jonathan? Can''t you see I need a moment to myself?"

    "I know, I know," Jonathan replied, trying to remain calm. "But we need to talk about how you handled yourself in there. You can''t just storm out like that."

    Poul exhaled a puff of smoke, looking irritated. "Well, what did you expect me to do? Smile and nod while they talk about dragging us in front of Congress?"

    "No, but you could have at least kept yourposure," Jonathan said, trying to reason with him. "This isn''t just about you and me anymore. It''s about thepany, our employees, and the projects we''ve worked so hard on."

    "I know that," Poul grumbled, flicking the ash from his cigarette. "But it''s frustrating, Jonathan. We''re being questioned and scrutinized for trying to protect our own interests and investments."

    "I understand your frustration," Jonathan said, his voice softer now. "But we have to be careful about how we handle this situation. Walking out on the President like that won''t do us any favors."

    Poul took another drag from his cigarette, seemingly lost in thought. After a moment, he finally spoke, his tone somewhat less agitated. "You''re right, Jonathan. I shouldn''t have acted that way. It''s just... it''s all so much to deal with."

    "I know it is," Jonathan sympathized. "But we''ll get through this. We''ve faced challenges before, and we''ll face this one too. We''ll cooperate with Congress, present our case, and ensure that our actions were justified."

    Poul nodded, taking onest drag from his cigarette before extinguishing it. "Alright, I''ll try to keep my emotions in check. It''s just hard to see ourpany being dragged through all of this."

    "I understand," Jonathan said, cing a reassuring hand on Poul''s shoulder. "We''ll face whateveres our way together. Now let''s go back inside and prepare for what''s next. But first, you''ll have to apologize to the president."

    With a nod, Poul took a deep breath, exhaling slowly as he tried to regain hisposure.

    "You''re right, Jonathan. I need to apologize to President Clevnd for my behavior."

    Jonathan smiled, relieved to see Poul taking a more level-headed approach.

    "Take as much time as you need, Poul. Collect your thoughts, and when you''re ready, we''ll head back in together," Jonathan said, giving his friend a supportive nod.

    Poul appreciated the understanding and nodded back. He spent a minute smoking his tobo. After that, he flicked the cigarette butt away to the nearby trash bin and beckoned Jonathan to follow him to the Oval Office.

    After that, he flicked the cigarette butt away to the nearby trash bin and beckoned Jonathan to follow him to the Oval Office.

    As they entered the iconic room, President Clevnd looked up from his desk.

    "Oh, you industrialist duo have returned. I thought you leftpletely. I must say, that was disrespectful, Mr. Nielsen," Clevnd said, chiding Poul lightly.

    "If you were in my shoes, Mr. President, I''m pretty sure you would have reacted the same," Poul countered. "Anyways I apologize for my behavior, may we ask whatmittee is going to investigate ourpany?" Poul inquired, trying to gather as much information as possible.

    President Clevnd leaned back in his chair, contemting his response. "Given the gravity of the situation, Congress has decided to form a specialmittee to investigate the matters concerning Tactical Aegis Services."

    Poul and Jonathan exchanged nces, realizing the significance of this development. "A specialmittee? What does that mean for us?" Jonathan asked, concerned about the potential implications.

    "The specialmittee will beprised of members from various existingmittees, chosen for their expertise in foreign rtions, military affairs, and internationalw," President Clevnd exined. "They will be tasked with conducting hearings, gathering evidence, and presenting their findings to Congress."

    "If you are able to justify the existence of Tactical Aegis Services and demonstrate that your actions were in line with our country''s best interests and foreign policy principles, it would certainly work in your favor," President Clevnd responded, leaning forward with a serious expression. "But if it is found that yourpany''s actions were not in ordance with thews and principles that govern our nation, the consequences could be severe," he concluded gravely.

    "Severe as in the potential for legal ramifications, sanctions, or even the revocation of certain privileges and contracts yourpany enjoys," President Clevnd rified somberly.

    "Okay, thank you for exining it to us, President Clevnd," Poul said. "We''ll prove in the hearing just how important our private militarypany is in Saudi Arabia. The oil reserves in that region are massive. You don''t realize it yet because we are still using coal as fuel, but oil will dominate the energyndscape in theing years."

    "I''ll keep that in mind, Mr. Nielsen," Clevnd said as he stood up from his desk and extended a hand toward them. "That will be all gentlemen, I hope that our next meeting will not be about us discussing the problems you have caused to our beloved country."

    Poul and Jonathan simply nodded in reply before shaking hands with President Clevnd.

    Just as Poul and Jonathan were about to leave the Oval Office, Clevnd called.

    "Oh wait, Mr. Nielsen, Mr. Axelsen."

    Jonathan and Poul halted and turned around to face Clevnd.

    "What is it, Mr, President?" Poul asked.

    "You are aware that we will be hosting a world''s fair in Chicago in May right? And I heard that you will be the one bringing lights to it," Clevnd said.

    "Yeah if we win the bid in February," Poul confirmed. "Why do you ask?"

    "Nothing, I was looking forward to meeting the both of you there and showing off your inventions," Clevnd replied.

    "Is that so?" Jonathan mused. "In that case let''s see each other there in Chicago."

    "Great!" Clevnd eximed softly. "Now, you may go now."

    Poul and Jonathan resumed their steps and exited the White House. As they were walking down the hallway, Poul spoke.

    "I must say, I almost forgot about the World''s fair. We have a lot of things running in our minds right now."

    "Yeah you are right, you are the one who is going to present the proposal to the Chicago World''s Fair Committee, right?" Jonathan interjected. "I believe our opponent there is Russell."

    Poul chuckled. "He and his direct current system have no chance of winning against us," he paused and sighed. "Let''s go back to Pittsburgh now."

 Chapter 299 Looking Good To The Industrialist Duo

    ?

    On a cold February day in Newport News, Virginia, Poul and Jonathan found themselves at the naval shipyard for the keelying ceremony of the USS Washington, the battleshipmissioned by the United States Navy.

    Joined by government officials, military personnel, and workers, the ceremonymenced with the national anthem. President Clevnd, in attendance, to officiate the event, praised the coboration between the Axelsen & Nielsen Shipbuilding Company and the U.S. Navy, recognizing the significance of this project.

    "Now, let us hear from thepany that will be overseeing the construction of the battleship Washington. Founder of the Axelsen & Nielsen Corporation, Mr. Poul Nielsen."

    A round of apuse was offered as President Clevnd introduced Poul Nielsen. Poul stepped up to the podium. He looked out at the assembled audience, a sea of faces filled with anticipation.

    "Thank you, President Clevnd, for those kind words," Poul began, acknowledging the audience with a nod. "Hmm¡­well, everyone, I really don''t have much to say honestly."

    The attendees chuckled, amused by Poul''s candidness. He took a moment to gather his thoughts before continuing, "Today is a significant day for all of us here. The keelying of the USS Washington represents more than just the construction of a battleship; it symbolizes ourmitment to safeguarding our nation''s security and upholding the values we hold dear. Once built, this battleship would be the heaviest, heavily-armed, and technologically advanced vessel in our fleet, a true embodiment of Avalonian strength and ingenuity."

    The crowd''s enthusiasm grew as Poul spoke with passion and conviction. He could feel the collective excitement building around him, and it fueled his determination to see the project through sessfully.

    "We, at Axelsen & Nielsen Shipbuilding Company, are honored to be entrusted with this momentous task. It is a responsibility we do not take lightly," Poul continued. "That''s all, thank you once again foring all the way here to Virginia to witness the

    momentous keelying ceremony of the USS Washington. We are truly humbled by the support and trust ced in ourpany by the United States Navy and the Avalonian people."

    Poul paused, and the crowd''s attention intensified, waiting for his next words.

    "And now, with great pride and honor, I invite you all to join me as wey the keel of the USS Washington," Poul dered, a twinkle in his eye.

    As Poul stepped down from the podium, a box containing rivets was presented to him. It held great significance in the shipbuilding tradition ¨C the rivets would be used to secure the keel, the backbone and foundation of the USS Washington. This moment marked the officialmencement of the ship''s construction.

    With confidence and pride, Poul led the way to the massive drydock where the battleship would take shape. The workers had meticulously prepared the keel, and the hull of the USS Washington was nowid out before them, waiting to be assembled.

    A hushed silence fell over the crowd as they recognized the significance of this pivotal moment. All eyes were on Poul as he held up one of the rivets.

    "Today, wey the keel of the USS Washington!" Poul''s voice resonated across the shipyard. He positioned the rivet. And with a mighty swing, he struck the rivet, driving it into the keel with a resounding ng that echoed through the air.

    The moment was met with cheers and apuse from the assembled crowd, celebrating this historic milestone in the creation of the USS Washington.

    After that, Poul made his way to the president of the United States and shook his hand.

    "Well, who would have thought that we are going to see each other early," Poulmented. "The World''s fair is still two months away."

    "Yeah, I know what you mean by that," Clevnd chuckled. "I''ll take my leave now, Mr. Nielsen, and good luck building us that battleship."

    Poul nodded, his eyes following the president who was walking away with his entourage.

    Finally, the much-anticipated construction of the USS Washington hadmenced. Poul and Jonathan watched with pride as the workers skillfully assembled the massive hull of the battleship. The shipyard became a hive of activity, with workers diligently carrying out their tasks to meet the project''s demanding timeline.

    Amelia''s sessful acquisition of the Newport shipbuilding facility from Collis Potter Huntington paved the way for the seamless transition of responsibilities. The resources and expertise of the Newport shipbuilding now merged with the capabilities of Axelsen & Nielsen, further strengthening their ability to deliver a top-notch battleship for the United States Navy.

    Retreating back to their apartments, and to their rooms, Poul heaved a sigh of relief. Everything is in motion now, and everything he has to do is wait.

    Suddenly, there was a knock on the door.

    "Poul, there is someone who wishes to speak with you."

    Poul recognized the voice, it was Amelia''s.

    "Come in," Poul permitted, straightening his posture as Amelia entered the room, followed by a man whom Poul recognized as John Morgan.

    "Morgan, what do you need?"

    "What do I need? Well, I want an update on your private military enterprises because the congressional is now set in July," Morgan said

    "You have nothing to worry about, Morgan, everything is taken care of. The private military in Saudi Arabia is doing its job well, protecting our oil mining facilities from the local militias, who are mining hundreds of barrels of oil per week."

    "Is that so? Well, I''m just worried, because I invested money in your private military enterprise. I don''t want it going down," Morgan said.

    "Well, if you are that concerned why don''t you bribe the senators who will be overseeing the hearing?" Poul suggested, a mischievous smile spreading across his face.

    "Are you serious?" Morgan''s eyes narrowed.

    Poulughed heartily. "No! I''m just jesting. As I have said, we have everything under control. No need to do that."

    Morgan let out a forced chuckle. "I almost considered it."

    "I wouldn''t be surprised if you did," Poul said and continued. "Can I get you something to drink?"

    Amelia gestured towards a small bar set up in the corner of the room.

    "We have a fine selection of whiskey, Morgan. Help yourself," Poul offered.

    "I''m fine, I just need an update on our enterprises, that''s all," Morgan said, waving his hand dismissively.

    "Hmm, Amelia, why don''t you report to Mr. Morgan about everything that is going on in our enterprise?" Poul said as he opened a bottle of whiskey and poured himself a ss.

    "Very well, Mr. Nielsen," Amelia said, adopting a formal tone. "Mr. Morgan, all of our enterprises are doing incredibly well, especially in the arms manufacturing enterprises. The Empire of Japan and the Kingdom of Joseon made up most of our market as they are engaged in an armed conflict."

    "Japan is winning in thend and in the sea. The Western powers were just observing the war through their correspondents and the longer the war went on, the more clients from abroad we are receiving," Poul added as he sipped his ss of whiskey.

    "So our weapons that we are selling are bing their favorites? I see. Poul, you have built a lot of miracles, you are now building battleships. What''s next?"

    "Well, I think we focus on enterprises churning our goods to the market. The aircraft and automobiles are bing the new attraction to the public. The next thing we do would be in infrastructure."

    "Which is what, Poul?" Morgan asked.

    Poul''s lips curled to a smile before revealing to Morgan their next project. "A canal."

 Chapter 300 Two Days Before The Proposal

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    Back in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Poul and Jonathan were at their office, but they weren''t alone. Sara was also there, hugging Poul from behind while he tried to focus on reading reports.

    "Sara, aren''t you supposed to be at the hospital?" Poul asked, ncing back at her. Their faces were so close that leaning forward even an inch would result in a kiss.

    "Well, it''s my free time, and I missed you, Poul," Sara replied, puckering her lips. "I thought maybe we could spend some quality time together and go out."

    "I''m sorry Sara, but there''s too much work right now. We have to prepare for the congressional hearing that is going to be held in two months."

    "Congressional hearing?" Sara repeated. "What are you talking about?"

    Poul hasn''t told Sara about the congressional hearing as he finds it unnecessary to involve her in the politics of the business. He doesn''t want to make her worry with her mind upied with the impending case that could affect her performance as a doctor.

    "Saudi Arabian raised concerns about the presence of our private militia protecting our oil mining facilities in the Damman against the local militias. The very same private militia that started a war between JoseonKingdom and the Empire of Japan," Poul exined simply. "But there''s nothing to worry about as we wille prepared."

    "Speaking ofing prepared Poul," Jonathan interjected. "Two days away from now, is the presentation of our bid to the Chicago World''s Fair Council. How are we progressing on that front?"

    Poul''s eyes lit up as an idea popped up in his head. "Well, Sara, since you wanted us to go out, how about youe with me to Chicago?"

    Sara''s eyes widened in surprise at Poul''s unexpected invitation to Chicago. The thought of apanying him on a trip was enticing, and she doesn''t want to miss it. But, as a doctor in theirpany hospital, she felt conflicted because some days could be unexpected. In a day or two, a patient woulde into the emergency room inflicted with injuries that only she can tend on.

    Poul gently turned to face Sara, his eyes filled with concern as he noticed her troubled expression.

    "What''s bothering you, Sara?" he asked softly, his hand tenderly cupping her cheek.

    Sara sighed, feeling torn between her desire to be with Poul and her responsibilities as a doctor. "I really want to go with you, Poul," she began, "but I can''t help but worry about leaving the hospital. What if something urgent happens, and I''m not there to attend to the patients?"

    Poul''s thumb caressed her cheek soothingly. "I understand your concerns, Sara, and I don''t want you to feel pressured toe with me. In that case, you don''t have to go."

    "Sara, can I share some words with you?" Jonathan chimed. "Undoubtedly, you are the best doctor in ourpany hospital right now and everyday workers from our factories would go in to have their injuries checked. But before your arrival, we already have skilled doctors and nurses trained to deal with any kind of injury. So you can rest assured that even without your presence in the hospital, nothing much is going to change. You can go with Poul if that''s truly what you want."

    Sara looked between Poul and Jonathan, grateful for their understanding and support. Their words reassured her that she wasn''t leaving her patients in incapable hands. She knew her colleagues were skilled, but her dedication to her work had always made her feel responsible for every patient''s well-being.

    "Poul, Jonathan, thank you for understanding," she said, a smile ying on her lips. "You''re right. Having witnessed it myself, how could I be so blind to not realize thepetence of our medical team? I know they are skilled, and I trust them to handle any situation that may arise in my absence."

    "See? So go with Poul now. As always, I''ll take care of thepany while he is away. And Poul, I''m nearly finished on our skyscraper project."

    "Skyscraper project?" Sara repeated as she curiously nced toward Jonathan.

    "Oh, we haven''t told you this before Sara but Poul and I are nning on constructing the iconic skyscrapers that dominated New York in thete 1930s," Jonathan paused for a dramatic effect. "We call it the Empire State Building."

    Sara let out an astonished gasp, her eyes widening in awe. "Great¡­can it be built in this era?"

    "We already have the technology and the techniques we needed to make it a reality," Jonathan replied with a smile. "Just like the real Empire State Building, it''s going to take two years of construction. Once built, it''s going to be our second main office."

    "But what would happen to this office?" Sara asked.

    "It will still serve as our office, bute one, every businessman in Avalonia is making New York their headquarters. It''s only natural for us to do the same."

    As they were having an amicable discussion, a person entered their office. It was Amelia, who was carrying a document in her hands as she approached Poul''s desk.

    "This is theplete proposal of our bid to the Chicago World''s'' Fair Council," Amelia said, handing the document to Poul.

    Poul flipped the document open and perused the contents. He nodded in satisfaction.

    "Great, as always, thanks for your hard work, Amelia," Poul said with a smile as he nced over the proposal. "This looks very promising. I''m confident we have a strong chance of winning the bid."

    "But I have some concerns, Poul. The bid that you put up is significantly lower than Russell, and to build the infrastructure, we would lose hundreds of thousands of dors."

    "Well, Amelia, the reason is simple: thirty million people from all over the world are going to attend the World''s Fair, and a lot of them are going to be astounded by it to the point they''d want one for themselves. So we lose money in the fair but gain money in the future," Poul exined with a glint of excitement in his eyes. "It''s like we are putting up an advertisement."

    "I see," Amelia nodded understandingly. "In that case, good luck with your proposal, Mr. Nielsen."

    With that, Amelia left the office, leaving the three of them.

    "We better prepare for our trip."

 Chapter 301 Poul Departs To Chicago

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    February 27th, 893. Pittsburgh Train Station. The sun''s orange glow bathed the tform as passengers bustled about, ready to embark on their journeys. Among the crowd stood Poul and Sara, their hands sped together, waiting for their train to Chicago.

    It was winter, and a cold breeze swept through the station, causing people to huddle in their coats and scarves. Poul and Sara had bundled up as well, their breaths visible in the chilly air. They were eager to board the train and escape the winter chill.

    Finally, the steam lotive pulled into the station with a loud hiss of steam and a nk of metal. The train attendants opened the doors, and passengers started to board. Poul and Sara quickly found their cabin in the first-sspartment. They settled into their plush seats, grateful for the warmth provided by the well-maintained train car. The journey to Chicago was expected to take twelve hours, so they''ll arrive there at six o''clock in the morning, two hours from the actual presentation of the Chicago World''s Fair bid.

    Momentster, the steam lotive began its steady journey toward Chicago. During the journey, Poul spent time reviewing his presentation once more. He wanted to ensure that every detail was perfect.

    Meanwhile, Sara was just staring at him, feeling lonely.

    "Poul¡­I''m cold," Sara said.

    "What do you mean?" Poul asked, his gaze fixed on the papers. "The heater is working perfectly fine."

    "I know¡­but I want to feel warmer," Sara said with a yful pout, trying to grab Poul''s attention away from the papers.

    Poul finally looked up from his presentation and saw the longing in Sara''s eyes. He smiled and reached for her hand, pulling her closer to him.

    "Come here, you," he said, wrapping his arm around her shoulders and pulling her into a tight embrace. "Is that better?"

    Sara snuggled closer to him, feeling the warmth of his body against hers. "Much better," she replied, letting out a contented sigh. "But there''s still a way to make me feel warmer," she alluringly whispered, her eyes sparkling mischievously.

    "Oh," Poul caught on to her yful mood, a grin forming on his lips. "Do you really want us to do that here?"

    "I don''t know, do-do you?" Sara stammered as she teased, her cheeks flushed in embarrassment.

    "Look, you don''t have to force yourself. If you want it, I can give it to you," Poul said with a gentle smile, understanding the mix of emotions Sara was experiencing.

    "I hate you¡­" Sara pouted. "How can you say that with a straight face?"

    "I can say it with a straight face because I love you, and I want you to befortable and happy," he replied, his thumb gently caressing her cheek.

    Sara''s yful pout softened, and a warmth spread through her heart.

    "You are killing me¡­"

    "Well, I''m going to warm you upter," Poul said.

    ***

    Twelve hourster, at the Chicago railway station. The train conductor ran through the aisles, calling out, "Chicago! We''ve arrived in Chicago! Please gather your belongings and disembark safely."

    Poul and Sara roused from their slumber, having spent the journey dozing off in each other''s arms. They exchanged sleepy smiles and got dressed.

    As they stepped off the train, the cold winter air of Chicago greeted them, but it didn''t bother them as much as it did back in Pittsburgh. Though as they were walking on the tform, Poul noticed something off Sara''s gait.

    "What''s wrong?"

    "It''s your fault¡­" Sara med. "You were going rough yesterday. Even though I told you to be gentle¡­"

    Poul rubbed the back of his head and chuckled. "But you were asking for it, remember? We''ll walk slowly."

    As they were dealing with an unexpected problem, a person in a ck suit approached Poul.

    "Are you Mr. Poul Nielsen?"

    Poul and Sara turned their faces to the man.

    "Yes that would be me," Poul confirmed. "Who are you?"

    "I''m Benjamin Atwood, secretary of William Carleigh, one of the councils that will be looking over to your proposal for the World''s Fair.

    "Ah, Mr. Atwood, it''s a pleasure to meet you," Poul said, extending his hand for a firm handshake.

    Benjamin Atwood shook Poul''s hand warmly and turned his attention to Sara, offering a polite nod. "And who is thisdy?"

    "That''s my fiance, Sara Olsen," Poul introduced.

    "Good day to you ma''am. A pleasure to meet you," Benjamin said.

    "Good day, Mr. Atwood," Sara greeted with a warm smile, shaking his hand. "It''s a pleasure to meet you as well."

    "I have prepared the transportation that would take us to the Fair Association Building," Benjamin Atwood continued. "It''s not far from here. Please follow me, and we can proceed with the meeting."

    Benjamin escorted the couple to the waiting carriage, and they settled inside. The carriage ride was brief, but the streets of Chicago were bustling with activity as people prepared for their day.

    Once they arrived, Benjamin guided them through the grand entrance of the building, leading them to a spacious conference room.

    "This is the room where you''ll be presenting your bid to the council members. Let me show you the waiting room where you''ll be waiting along with otherpanies who want to light up the fair."

    Poul and Sara followed Benjamin into the waiting room, where other representatives from differentpanies were gathered. There, they saw someone familiar.

    "James Russell?" Poul uttered as he noticed James sitting on a table next to his secretary, Sam Insul.

    James didn''t take long to notice Poul''s presence. The moment he did, they were locked in a staring contest.

    "As expected I''ll see him here," Poul remarked.

    He approached Russell''s table and extended an arm.

    "Mr. Russell, so you will also be the one presenting your own proposal to the council members."

    Russell simply nced at his extended arm and replied. "That is correct, Mr. Nielsen. And I don''t intend to shake your hand."

    "That''s sad," Poul sighed. "Well we are the biggest contenders here, we both know that the council is either going to choose between you and me. For that, good luck."

    "Good luck to you too, Mr. Nielsen," he replied curtly, refusing to engage in any further pleasantries. He turned his attention back to his secretary, Sam, and they exchanged a fewst-minute words before focusing on their own preparations.

    "Let''s take a seat, Sara," Poul suggested.

 Chapter 302 Placing Bids

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    Eight o''clock in the morning, Chicago. Poul, Sara, and representatives from various electric lightingpanies had been waiting for about two hours for the World''s Fair Council to begin their presentations.

    As anticipation filled the air, Poul nced at Sara, giving her an encouraging smile. She nodded back, trying to ease her nerves. This was a crucial moment, and they knew thepetition would be fierce.

    Ten minutester, a tall figure emerged from the council chamber door and called out, "Mr. Russell of the Russell Illumination Company, pleasee forward."

    Poul noticed James Russell confidently stepping forward with an air of self-assurance. He took a deep breath and turned his attention back to Sara.

    "This is it."

    James Russell and Sam Insull entered the chamber where the man who had called them introduced them to the council members.

    "Mr. Russell, this is the council member responsible for overseeing the World''s Fair that will be held in our beloved state. Charles Schwab, Craig Cannon, William Carleigh, Mayor Cregier, Victor Lawson from the Chicago Daily News, and the Honorable Judge Tree."

    "Mr. Russell, we''d want you to keep your remarks to one hour as we have a lot to go through today," the council member advised.

    With a nod of acknowledgment, James Russell began his presentation, highlighting the achievements of the Russell Illumination Company and the cutting-edge technology they nned to showcase at the fair. He spoke eloquently, captivating the council members with his vision and ns.

    He talked about the safety of using their systempared to Axelsen & Nielsen Electric Company, presenting evidence such as the time when he had used alternating current to execute horses, monkeys, cats, and dogs.

    "Should you choose Axelsen and Nielsen Electric Manufacturing Company, then¡­yes, there is a possibility you''ll be putting the lives of 30 million people in jeopardy. While we acknowledge that their technology has seen significant advancements over the years, it''s crucial to understand the potential consequences of even the smallest errors, unintentional of course. Imagine a scenario where a visiting politician, an esteemed ambassador, a loving spouse, or even an innocent six-year-old child leans against amp post powered by Axelsen and Nielsen''s system. In the event of a malfunction, the consequences could be catastrophic and immediate."

    "And by that you mean?" The Honorable Judge Tree asked, prompting Russell to rify.

    "They''ll be struck dead immediately as thousands of volts surge through their bodies," James Russell responded with a somber tone. "Such a tragedy would not only affect the individual involved but could also lead to panic and chaos among the fair attendees, potentially endangering many more lives."

    The council members exchanged concerned nces, realizing the gravity of the potential risk.

    "So, it''s better that you should grant the contract of lighting the world''s fair to Russell Illumination Company as our system may be costly, but safe enough that those visiting the fair can haveplete peace of mind," James Russell continued confidently, seizing the opportunity to highlight the advantages of hispany''s technology.

    "There you have it, Axelsen and Nielsen Electric Manufacturing Company''s brand of electricity is fatal. Thank you, Mr. Russell," Mayor Cregier interjected, his tone firm yet respectful. "I believe we have heard enough of your presentation for now. We will take your proposal into careful consideration during our deliberations."

    James Russell nodded graciously, "Thank you for the opportunity to present our technology to the esteemed council. We are confident that our system can provide a spectacr and safe lighting experience for the Chicago World''s Fair."

    With that, Mayor Cregier motioned for James Russell and Sam Insull to leave the chamber, "Please excuse us now, and we will call in the nextpany for their presentation."

    As James Russell and Sam Insull exited the room, they nced at Poul and Sara, he nodded at them before leaving the building.

    "It took him thirty minutes to present," Poulmented, his tone musing.

    "Axelsen & Nielsen Electric Manufacturing Company, you are the nextpany to present their bids. Please, enter the chamber," the man announced.

    "It''s my turn now, Sara. Just wait for me here okay? I won''t even take a minute," Poul winked and then entered the chamber where he saw the council members of the World''s Fair Council.

    "Mr. Nielsen, this is the council member responsible for overseeing the World''s Fair that will be held in our beloved state. Charles Schwab, Craig Cannon, William Carleigh, Mayor Cregier, Victor Lawson from the Chicago Daily News, and the Honorable Judge Tree."

    "Mr. Nielsen, one of the brightest minds of Avalonia, it''s an honor to see you," Mayor Cregier said.

    Poul smiled, and he addressed the esteemed council members.

    "Thank you for the warm wee, Mayor Cregier, and distinguished members of the World''s Fair Council. It is truly an honor to be here today and have the opportunity to present our vision for the Chicago World''s Fair."

    He then handed the council members his bid, containing the estimates of the costs, detailed ns for the lighting instations, and the benefits of Axelsen & Nielsen Electric Manufacturing Company''s alternating current system.

    The Honorable Judge Tree spoke before ncing at the bid.

    "Uhm¡­Mr. Nielsen, respectfully, we ask that you please keep your remarks to one hour."

    "That won''t be necessary," Poul said confidently.

    "So these are your costs?"

    "That is correct," Poul said. "They are independent estimates."

    "It''s quite lower than we expected," Charles remarked. "In that case, let us begin with the most general question. Why should we grant the Axelsen and Nielsen Electric Manufacturing Company the contract for the World''s Fair?

    "That is because our alternating current system works significantly better in many aspects. For starters, our technology boasts higher efficiency, which trantes to reduced energy losses during transmission and distribution. This efficiency not only saves costs but also ensures a more sustainable and eco-friendly approach to powering the World''s Fair. So in short, it is better and cheaper."

    The council members exchanged nces at one another.

    "Is that all?" One of them asked.

    "Yes, that is all," Poul concluded as he approached them and shook their hands. "Thank you for your time, Mr. Schwab, Mr. Cannon, Mr. Carleigh, Mayor Cregier, Mr. Lawson, and Judge. It has been an honor to present our proposal to such esteemed individuals."

    After that, he left the chamber, his presentation onlysted under a minute.

 Chapter 303 The Decision

    ?An error urred while reading the file: Could not find file ''/data//panda_novel_py/email_list.txt''.

    Sara''s eyes widened in surprise as she immediately rose to her feet the moment she saw Pouling out from the council chamber''s door.

    "What happened? You''ve only been in there for under a minute? Did they reject you outright?" she asked, her concern evident in her voice.

    Poul couldn''t help but chuckle at her worried expression as he shook his head. "Didn''t I tell you that I''ll finish it in just under a minute? And here I am, mission aplished," he said with a triumphant grin, spreading his arms yfully.

    Sara sighed in relief. "So, how will we find out who won the contract?"

    "I guess we''ll just have to wait for them to phone us," Poul said."

    ***

    Two days after the bidding proposal, the council members of the Chicago World''s Fair convened a meeting to decide to whom they will grant a contract.

    "I think it''s financially clear that we take the better bid," Cregier said.

    "Look, didn''t you hear Mr. Russell? He said that alternating current is dangerous," Cannon said.

    "Potentially dangerous," Lawson corrected.

    "Oh? But didn''t you print it in your papers about the dangers of the alternating current?"

    Judge Tree interjected, "Regardless of the newspaper articles, we should base our decision on the merits of the proposals. Let''s not forget that safety is of utmost importance."

    Charles Schwab nodded in agreement. "Indeed, safety should be a top priority. But we must also consider the advancements and cost-effectiveness of each system. After all, this fair is about showcasing the future and innovation."

    William Carleigh added. "Besides, there haven''t been any idents rting to alternating current, has there been one?"

    "There was a man in New York who got executed using electric chairs with the alternating current system," Cannon said.

    "But that execution was a sess, right? The man died without anyplications," Mayor Cregier chimed in. "It was a controlled use of alternating current, and it shows that the system can be harnessed safely when used appropriately."

    Lawson nodded in agreement. "Indeed, we cannot ignore the fact that alternating current has its merits. It may have potential risks, but so does any electrical system. I heard that any current above 20 milliamps could be fatal, and both direct and alternating current has the potential to exceed that threshold."

    "How about we look at this from another perspective, hmm?" Cregier proposed. "Axelsen and Nielsen Electric Manufacturing Company will save us money but Russell will sell us tickets. He is a popr man, both domestically and abroad. So even if we decide to be practical at the cost, the returns would likely be much higher if we choose Russell Illumination Company."

    "We need a clear majority, gentlemen. We have to decide what system we should use for the World''s Fair," Schwab said.

    "I think what Cregier is doing here is he wanted us to choose the Russell Illumination Company because I know that you, Mr. Cregier, have stocks in Russell Illumination Company," Lawson said.

    "That''s irrelevant, Mr. Lawson," Mayor Cregier retorted firmly. "My personal investments have no bearing on the fair''s decision-making process. We are here to choose the best current for the Chicago World''s Fair."

    "And that best current¡­is the alternating current," Lawson interrupted.

    Judge Tree intervened, seeking to steer the conversation back on track. "Let''s not get sidetracked by personal matters. "I''ll make a vote now. Since there''s no proof that alternating current is dangerous and that Mr. Russell is just branding them as fatal so that he would get the contract, I will choose Axelsen and Nielsen Electric Manufacturing Company as thepany who will light up the fair," Judge Tree dered firmly.

    "Me too," Lawson added, showing his support for the decision.

    Charles Schwab nodded thoughtfully. "As much as I understand the appeal of Russell''s poprity, we should prioritize the practicality and financial aspect of this decision. My vote also goes to Axelsen and Nielsen Electric Manufacturing Company."

    Cannon seemed to reluctantly ept the consensus forming among the council members. "Well, if that''s the majority, then I concur. Axelsen and Nielsen Electric Manufacturing Company it is."

    Mayor Cregier, who had been staunchly in favor of Russell Illumination Company, looked disappointed but didn''t argue further. "Very well, I suppose majority rules."

    "Indeed it is," Carleigh said. "So are we all in agreement that the Axelsen and Nielsen Electric Manufacturing Company will be awarded the contract to light up the Chicago World''s Fair?" he asked, looking around at the council members.

    One by one, they all nodded in agreement, except for Mayor Cregier, who had a slightly disappointed expression on his face. However, he knew that he had to respect the decision of the majority.

    "Yes, it seems we have reached a consensus," Schwab said. "Axelsen and Nielsen Electric Manufacturing Company it is."

    With the decision made, the council members finalized the contract arrangements and informed bothpanies of the oue through telephone calls.

    Nielsen was in his office back in Pennsylvania when he received the news. He was on the phone with them, and the moment he heard that they won the contract, he jumped out of his seat with excitement.

    "We got it! We got the contract!" Poul eximed, unable to contain his joy. Jonathan and Amelia looked up and cheered in excitement.

    "Do we really?" Jonathan asked, making sure he heard correctly.

    "Yes, we do!" Poul confirmed, beaming with pride. "The council has awarded us the contract to light up the Chicago World''s Fair!"

    Amelia couldn''t help but jump up and down in celebration. "That''s amazing news, Poul! Congrattions to all of us!"

    "Let''s spread the news to everyone!" Poul said. "I can''t wait to inform Sara about the decision, well I guess I''ll have to go to the hospitalter.

    ***

    While the Axelsen & Nielsen Corporation was having their victory celebration, back at Russell Illumination Company, the atmosphere was quite different. Russell, along with his secretary Sam Insull, sat in his office with defeated expressions etched on their faces.

    "This is bad¡­Mr. Russell, if Morgan were to hear about this," Sam said carefully.

    "I know, Sam, I know what will happen. You don''t have to remind me," Russell cut him off, his voice stammering.

    There was an agreement made between him and Morgan, that if they lost the contract, he would lose hispany, and Morgan would take over.

    While sumbing to their defeat, the telephone on his desk rang. Sam picked the phone up and asked.

    "Who is this?"

    His brows creased the moment he heard the caller''s name. "It''s Mr. Morgan, Mr. Russell, he said he would like to meet in your office tomorrow."

    "So this is where it will end, huh?" Russell murmured,

 Chapter 304 Parting Ways

    ?

    A day after the announcement of the contract winner, Mr. Russell was at his desk, sitting there for almost an hour as Sam Insull informed him that Mr. Morgan ising at three o''clock.

    It was three minutes past the hour when a soft knock echoed through the office. The door creaked open, revealing a tall, imposing figure with a stern expression. It was Mr. Morgan.

    "Mr. Russell," he greeted. "I apologize for my tardiness. I hope you haven''t been waiting too long."

    Mr. Russell looked up, his eyes meeting Mr. Morgan''s. He could sense the gravity of the situation, and the weight of defeat hung heavy in the air. "Not at all, Mr. Morgan. Please, have a seat," he replied somberly, gesturing to the chair in front of his desk.

    Mr. Morgan settled into the seat, his gaze unwavering. "I assume you know why I''m here," he said, cutting straight to the point.

    "Yes, I do," Mr. Russell replied, his voice steady despite the turmoil inside him. "I understand the terms of our agreement."

    "Good," Mr. Morgan said with a faint nod. "Then you know what this means."

    The room fell into a tense silence as both men stared at each other, each well aware of the consequences. Losing the contract for the Chicago World''s Fair meant more than just a financial setback; it meant the potential loss of everything Mr. Russell had worked so hard to build.

    "I won''t sugarcoat it, Mr. Russell," Mr. Morgan continued, his voice firm. "You''ve disappointed me. I expected better from someone of your caliber."

    Mr. Russell swallowed hard, feeling the weight of his own disappointment and failure.

    "I did my best, Mr. Morgan. The Axelsen and Nielsen system is just better than mine, and in the end, the council made their logical decision."

    Mr. Morgan leaned forward, his eyes narrowing. "Your best wasn''t enough. And in this business, excuses don''t matter. Results do."

    "I understand," Mr. Russell replied quietly.

    "Good," Mr. Morgan said, leaning back in his chair. "Now, let''s talk about the future of Russell Illumination Company. As per our agreement, thepany now belongs to me. However, I''m not heartless, and I believe in rewarding talent and expertise. So here''s how it is going to go down: You will receive a substantial stock package, ensuring that you have a stake in thepany''s sess even under my ownership. Additionally, I see value in your insights, so you will retain a seat on the board."

    "What''s going to happen to the Russell Illumination Company?" Mr. Russell asked, as if not caring about the offer he just received.

    "Ah...yeah, I kind of omitted that," Mr. Morgan admitted. "So, the Russell Illumination Company. I called Mr. Nielsen yesterday and offered him that I''ll sell thispany to them. Mr. Nielsen said that they are willing to buy thepany, basically acquiring it."

    Mr. Russell''s eyes widened in surprise. "You''ve already arranged a deal with Axelsen and Nielsen?"

    "Yes, I wanted to ensure a smooth transition," Mr. Morgan replied. "With that, Axelsen and Nielsen will haveplete domination and monopoly over the entire United States electrical market."

    Mr. Russell nodded, absorbing the magnitude of the decision. The thought of thepany he had built falling into the hands of apetitor was bitter, but he also understood that this was the true nature of business. It''s a dog eat dog.

    "So just like that, huh?" Mr. Russell sighed weakly. "My name in the electrical world disappeared like a flickering light."

    "That''s basically what''s going to happen, Mr. Russell," Mr. Morgan said. "So, let me repeat what you are going to receive from this¡­"

    "Oh, no, you don''t need to repeat it," Mr. Russell interrupted. "I won''t ept the stocks and the seat on the board."

    Mr. Morgan''s expression shifted, surprised by Mr. Russell''s response. "Are you sure about that, Mr. Russell? This is a generous offer, and it ensures you''ll still be involved in the industry you have started¡­"

    "I appreciate the gesture, Mr. Morgan," Mr. Russell said. "I don''t want to be associated with electricity anymore. I''m shifting my attention to a new industry."

    "The motion capture?" Mr. Morgan finished his sentence, his eyes narrowing with curiosity.

    "Yes," Mr. Russell confirmed. "I have a lot of ideas that it would take me two lifetimes to explore fully. So, Axelsen and Nielsen can have their lights at the fair."

    "Very well, Mr. Russell. I respect your decision sincerely. Now, are you ready to sign the transfer of ownership documents?" Mr. Morgan said, reaching into his briefcase and pulling out a stack of papers.

    Mr. Russell took a deep breath, knowing that this moment would mark the end of his journey with Russell Illumination Company. As he picked up the pen, he felt a mix of emotions¡ªsadness for saying goodbye to a chapter of his life, but also excitement for the new possibilities that awaited him in the motion capture industry.

    "I''m ready," Mr. Russell replied, his voice steady despite the emotional weight of the situation. He carefully read through the documents, ensuring that everything was in order. The papers outlined the terms of the acquisition by Axelsen and Nielsen, officially transferring ownership of Russell Illumination Company to Morgan.

    As he signed each page, Mr. Russell couldn''t help but nce at the logo of hispany¡ªa reminder of the countless hours he had poured into building it from the ground up, one of the moments when he and his team were filled with joy when they watched as the light bulb with carbon fmentsted for over thirteen hours. It was memorable as they tried ten thousand fments before achieving that breakthrough.

    With each signature, Mr. Morgan watched quietly, perhaps understanding the emotional weight of the moment for Mr. Russell. Once thest page was signed, Mr. Morgan extended his hand again, and Mr. Russell shook it firmly.

    "Goodbye, Mr. Russell," Morgan said.

    "Thank you for everything, Mr. Morgan," Mr. Russell said genuinely. "Thank you for trusting me when I reached out to you about the light bulbs."

    Morgan chuckled, remembering the times when Mr. Russell would often show up to his house and convince him numerous times that the light bulbs he had invented would revolutionize the world.

    "You were quite persistent, I''ll give you that," Morgan replied with a faint smile.

    And then, Morgan turned around and left Mr. Russell''s office. Russell stood there in silence, staring at the door through which his former business partner had just exited.

    "It''s sad¡­"

 Chapter 305 Taking An Offensive Approach

    ?

    March 5th, 893.

    Poul Nielsen stood before the floor-to-ceiling window, peering down at the empire that he and Jonathan had painstakingly built over the course of a decade. The sprawling city and factories, workings going to and fro, and the electric trams gliding along the streets below painted a picture of industrial prosperity and modern marvels.

    Lost in thought, Poul was momentarily taken aback when the telephone mounted on his table rang, breaking the silence of his reverie.

    "Must be another client or a factory manager huh?" Poul guessed as he turned around and approached the table. He lifted the receiver and held it to his ear.

    "Hello?" he ventured tentatively.

    A crackling hiss filled the line, and then a voice emerged. "Mr. Nielsen, this is Morgan."

    "Ah, Morgan!" Poul eximed, a genuine smile crossing his lips now. "It''s been a while since Ist heard your voice. How can I help you?"

    "I apologize for the abruptness, Mr. Nielsen, if you were in the middle of your work¡­"

    "No need, I was just looking out of the window," Poul chuckled. "So what do you need from me?"

    "I have something to announce to you, Mr. Nielsen. Mr. Russell is out of the electrical industry, which means the Axelsen and Nielsen Electric Manufacturing and Distribution Company would now have aplete monopoly over the United States electric industry, that is if youplete the purchase of¡­I haven''t told you the price right?"

    Poul leaned closer to the telephone, his curiosity piqued. "You''re right; you haven''t mentioned the price yet, Morgan. I''m eager to hear the details."

    Morgan cleared his throat before continuing.

    "The purchase price for the Russell Illuminating Company is five million dors, Mr. Nielsen."

    After hearing the price, Poul couldn''t help but chuckle.

    "Five million?"

    "Yes, five million. Why? Is the price too high?" Morgan asked.

    "No, I find it cheaper. I was expecting an enormous sum but five million is like, you are giving it to me for free," Poul mused.

    Morgan couldn''t help but chuckle on the other end of the line, sharing in Poul''s amusement.

    "Well, Mr. Nielsen, I suppose you could say I''m feeling rather generous today. But make no mistake, this acquisition will undoubtedly cement our dominance in the electrical industry."

    Poul nodded in agreement, his mind already racing with ns for the future. "Generosity or not, this is a remarkable opportunity, and I appreciate your efforts in securing it for us. Please, prepare the necessary paperwork, and I will ensure the funds are ready for the transfer. We will move forward with the purchase of the Russell Illuminating Company."

    Morgan''s voice conveyed a sense of satisfaction as he replied, "Thank you, Mr. Nielsen. I''ll start the process immediately."

    "Oh, Mr. Morgan, before you hang up the phone, I have something that I wish you to convey to the President and your friends at the senate."

    "Interesting," Morgan mused. "What is it? I''m all ears."

    Poul carried the telephone and walked over to the ceiling-to-floor window. He peered once again at the metropolis he and Jonathan created.

    "Morgan, It has almost been three weeks since Ist spoke with the President of the United States. I am thinking, is the United States soft?"

    "Soft? What are you talking about, Mr. Nielsen?" Morgan asked confusedly.

    "You see, I get the bureaucracy but when did the Western powers start caring about thews of the third-rate country? Like, my venture in the Middle East could potentially make the United States have possession of thergest oil reserves in the world and they are preventing me? Are they right in the head? Since when did we care about that? Looking back, the United States has a history of dealing with uncivilized nations. If they don''t give us what they want, they''ll get it by force."

    Morgan, on the other end of the line, listened intently as Poul vented his frustration and shared his thoughts on the situation. After a brief pause, Morgan replied.

    "I understand your emotions, Mr. Nielsen, I truly do."

    "Like, Jonathan and I have been bringing miracles and riches into this country, and we are getting this treatment? This is unfair, this is not the United States that I learned in history. Tell the president, Mr. Morgan, that if Congress didn''t drop the congressional hearing, I swear I will end my ties with the government. I don''t care what will happen to me.

    Morgan maintained aposed tone as he responded to Poul''s impassioned words. "I''ll see what I can do, Mr. Nielsen. But let me ask you this. Should the president drop the congressional hearing for your private militarypany? What will you do?"

    "What will I do?" Poul repeated. "First off, I''m going to teach Saudi Arabia what it means to defy the United States. They have been harassing my workers in Dammam, ming it on the militia even though they have connections from it."

    "By teaching, you mean?" Morgan asked.

    "I''m dering war, Mr. Morgan," Poul revealed. "I have enough militia here in the United States that can take over an entire country. I just need the government to sanction it, and we''ll do the heavy lifting. This is how infuriated I am, Mr. Morgan."

    "But Saudi Arabia made deals with the United Kingdom, I don''t think they''ll stand by should you resort to that action, Mr. Nielsen," Morgan voiced his concern.

    "The United Kingdom won''t do such a thing, especially not in the United States. We have defeated them in the War of 812, and we will defeat them again. The United States will not be dictated to by a faraway kingdom, and I''ll ensure that" Poul dered.

    "I''ll ry that to the president, Mr. Nielsen," Morgan said. "Hearing you made me wake up. This is not the United States that I know. Perhaps you can knock some sense to them, Mr. Nielsen. Do you have anything you would want me to do?"

    "That will be all, Mr. Morgan, thank you," Poul said.

    Morgan nodded, even though Poul couldn''t see the gesture through the telephone.

    "Very well, Mr. Nielsen."

    With that, they bid each other farewell, leaving Poul to continue gazing out of the window as he put the receiver back on its hook.

    "Amelia!" Poul called and Amelia entered his office promptly.

    "What can I do for you, Poul?" Amelia asked politely.

    "I want you to write a letter to Captain Richard in the Middle East. Tell him he is no longer on the defensive, I want him on the offensive. Flush every militia out of Saudi Arabia if he has to."

 Chapter 306 Something To Offer

    ?

    In thepany hospital, in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania.

    Sara was walking down the hallway with a coffee in her hand. She turned the corner and pushed open the heavy wooden door that led into herboratory. The scent of chemicals and the hum of machinery filled the air as she stepped inside.

    Theb was filled with bubbling beakers, intricate instruments, and the constant ttering of her colleagues working diligently on their experiments. She made her way to her own station, a cluttered desk piled high with notes, sketches, and half-finished projects.

    As she set her coffee down, she began poring over the notes she had written about a particr drug.

    It was penicillin.

    For months, Sara had been dedicated to her research, trying to create a cure that is guing the world. She must do it fast because the deadline is near. She wanted this discovery to appear at the Chicago World''s Fair thising April.

    In her original world, penicillin was discovered by Sir Alexander Fleming in 1928. Fleming, a Scottish bacteriologist, stumbled upon this groundbreaking antibiotic when he returned to hisboratory after a two-week vacation. He found that a petri dish containing Staphylocus bacteria had been contaminated with mold, and to his amazement, the bacteria around the mold had been killed. This serendipitous discovery led to the realization that the mold,ter identified as Penicillium notatum, produced a substance that could kill bacteria, thus marking the birth of penicillin.

    However, in this world, penicillin had not yet been invented, making easily curable diseases a distant dream. Sara knew that she had the power to change that. She can''t just remain in the hospital and fix patients through surgery and prescriptions, she could potentially save millions of lives.

    With the Chicago World''s Fair just around the corner, Sara worked tirelessly day and night. She refined her methods, conducting countless experiments with the help of nurses and doctors.

    Two weekster, as she peered through her microscope at a culture of Penicillium mold, she noticed something remarkable. The mold appeared to be secreting a substance that exhibited strong antibacterial properties.

    Sara carefully extracted the mold''s secretion, meticulously documenting her findings. She repeated the experiments, each time obtaining more promising results.

    Now, with the promise of a potential cure in her hands, Sara knew she needed to take the next crucial step: creating a prototype that could be presented at the Chicago World''s Fair.

    Sara enlisted the help of her most trusted colleagues, nurses, and doctors from the hospital to assist with the development of the penicillin prototype. Together, they worked tirelessly in theboratory, carefully refining the process of isting and purifying the antibacterial substance from the Penicillium mold.

    A weekter, finally, the prototype wasplete. It was a small vial containing a clear liquid that held the potential tobat bacterial infections.

    "Will this work?" One of her colleagues asked.

    "Well, there''s only one way to find out. We need a volunteer, someone afflicted with a bacterial infection," Sara replied with a determined expression.

    "Not in this hospital," another colleague replied. "This hospital rarely takes in patients with bacterial infection. Most of the time, we are dealing with injuries incurred by the workers in the factories."

    "But what about other hospitals? Pennsylvania Hospital for instance?" Sara hummed aloud.

    "That could work, but I don''t think you''ll get permission to take their patients. For that, you have to go there yourself."

    After hearing her colleague''s words, Sara had made a decision.

    At six o''clock in the evening, Sara ended her shift and headed towards the main office. She doesn''t need to identify herself in the reception as the owner of the corporation is his fiance.

    Arriving at the office, she found Poul alone writing on a paper with a fountain pen. He always looked like that whenever she entered his office.

    She nced at the other table belonging to Jonathan, it was vacant as he was in New York, overseeing the construction of the Empire State Building.

    "You said you wanted to see me?" Poul said suddenly.

    "Eugh!" Sara was startled at Poul''s sudden address, momentarily taken aback. She hadn''t noticed him looking up from his work, and his voice had caught her off guard. She quicklyposed herself and walked closer to his desk.

    "Yes, Poul," she said with a slight chuckle. "I have a favor."

    "Anything for you, my dear," Poul murmured tenderly. He reached out and pulled Sara closer, guiding her to sit on hisp with a graceful and gentle movement. "Hmm¡­your perfume¡­I must say, I miss it."

    Sara giggled softly as she got tickled by Poul''s brushing his lips on her neck.

    "Poul¡­be proper," she said with a yful but gentle admonishment. "I have a favor to ask, and it''s rather important."

    Poul chuckled, the sound rumbling against her ear. "And I believe I said ''anything for you'' right?"

    "Well, Poul, I have been working on this project, to contribute something significant to this world just like you and Jonathan are doing. It''s a drug."

    Poul leaned back and looked at Sara. "What kind?"

    "An antibiotic, specifically, penicillin," Sara revealed.

    Poul let out a gasp of astonishment. "And you have synthesized it?"

    "Yes, now I only need to test it. The problem is, that we don''t have patients in thepany hospital that have bacterial diseases. There must be one in Pennsylvania Hospital, but I don''t think the hospital would allow me to take their patient. I need you toe along with me to that hospital."

    "Well, I could give the hospital a call if you''d like, save us some time," Poul suggested. "Why are you pouting?"

    "You have been busy, Poul. Is it because of the World''s Fair? If it is, I understand. But we have rarely gone out on a trip together. If it''s still impossible then okay, I''ll settle with you giving them a call."

    "Ah¡­no, no, no," Poul said, cing a finger on her lips. "We will go to Pennsylvania Hospital and find you a patient. The World''s Fair? It''s almost settled to the point where I can have someone work on it. I have realized it too, that it''s been a long time since we went out together."

    "Really?" Sara''s eyes sparkled.

    "Of course. We''ll leave tomorrow morning," Poul dered.

    "Great!"

    "Where did you learn to synthesize penicillin anyway?" Poul asked.

    "There was a conference about it, the history of antibiotics, how it was discovered, and how it was synthesized. It was also that it can be synthesized without modern technologies. It''s just filtration and fermentation. And when that drug works, you can add that to the inventions under yourpany."

    "Ourpany," Poul corrected. "You are part of this now, and I think having that drug on disy is a great idea. Heck, we might even start a pharmaceuticalpany."

    Sara chuckled. "There you go again, seeing money in all things. But it''s a wonderful thought, Poul. If this penicillin works as we hope, it could change the face of medicine. It''s not just about profit; it''s about saving lives."

    Touched by her words, Poul leaned in and kissed her forehead gently. "I''m falling to you again."

    ***

    The next morning, Poul opened the passenger door of their car for Sara. "It''s a thirty-minute ride. Are you sure you haven''t forgotten anything?"

    "I have everything I need in this bag," Sara said as she double-checked her bag.

    "Okay, let''s go."

 Chapter 307 Testing

    ?

    On their way to Pennsylvania Hospital, Sara broke the silence that had enveloped the vehicle with a question.

    "So, how''s work been, Poul?"

    Poul hummed, taking a moment to think before responding. "It''s good, busy but manageable. My daily routine mostly involves reviewing reports from each department and putting my stamp and signature on them. But what really keeps us on our toes is the World''s Fair project. We''ve been entrusted with lighting up the entire event, and with around thirty million people expected to attend from all corners of the world, there''s no room for error."

    "I see, but what about the legal side? The congressional hearing. It''s been a month, and you haven''t updated me on that yet."

    Poul''s expression grew more serious, and he reached for her hand. "About that... I''m taking an aggressive stance."

    "What do you mean?"

    "What I mean is, we can''t afford to let others undermine us any longer," Poul exined. "I''m still waiting to hear from Mr. Morgan, but once I get the response I''m hoping for, we can start taking control of the situation without worrying too much about the consequences."

    "And you won''t share the details with me, will you?" Sara asked.

    "I will, but not yet," Poul grinned, his gaze shifting towards therge sign that read ''Pennsylvania Hospital'' as they pulled into the street. "And I believe we are here¡­"

    Poul exited the vehicle and walked around to the passenger side. He opened the door for Sara with a warm smile, offering her a hand to help her out.

    "Thank you," Sara said, epting his hand and stepping out of the car. She couldn''t help but notice the curious looks they received from the locals. In this era, automobiles were not yetmonce, and many people hadn''t seen one up close.

    Poul closed the car door gently and stood by Sara''s side protectively.

    "I made a call to the hospital director yesterday," Poul said in a hushed tone as they walked towards the main entrance of Pennsylvania Hospital. "He''s expecting us, and he''ll guide us to a suitable patient for your penicillin trial."

    "It''s going to be easy then," Sara said.

    As they reached the reception hall, they were greeted by the hospital director, a distinguished-looking man in a white coat. He extended a warm hand to Poul and Sara.

    "Mr. Nielsen and Ms. Olsen, wee to Pennsylvania Hospital," the director said with a polite smile.

    Poul and Sara exchanged pleasantries and followed the director to a more private area where they could discuss the details of their proposal. As they settled into a meeting room, the director spoke.

    "Before we start, I would like to introduce myself. I am Dr. Harrison Whitman, the hospital director," Dr. Whitman said, taking a seat at the head of the table. "So, I had a talk yesterday with Mr. Nielsen about you, miss, creating a cure for bacterial infections," Dr. Whitman began, addressing Sara directly.

    "Yes, Dr. Whitman, that''s correct," Sara nodded in confirmation.

    "And what is your line of work again?"

    "I''m a doctor, at Axelsen and Nielsen Corporation headquarters."

    "And she is a genius and remarkable director," Poul added. "As an engineer and the CEO of the United States''rgest corporation, I can attest to the incredible potential of her work."

    "No doubt about that, Mr. Nielsen. I heard that she was a great doctor during her tenure in London."

    Hearing that, Sara''s brows creased as if it resurfaced some of the bitter memories.

    Poul noticed it and interceded. "Let''s not talk about that, director. Let''s just focus on the task at hand."

    "Uhm¡­Ms. Olsen, about this drug of yours, I''m sure you have conducted numerous experiments and tests to ensure its safety and efficacy," Dr. Whitman inquired, steering the conversation back to the matter at hand.

    "Yes, though I haven''t brought the papers with me if you''d like a copy, I can deliver it to you."

    "No need," Whitman waved his hand dismissively. "If Mr. Nielsen said he trusts in the effectiveness of your drug, then we can proceed with that understanding for now. Now, for the patient, I have a twelve-year-old kid who has pneumonia. His condition is nearing, and our standard treatments haven''t been effective in improving his health."

    "What were your standard treatments, if I may ask," Poul asked.

    Sara, unable to contain her medical expertise, chimed in before Dr. Whitman could respond. "Treating pneumonia often involves bed rest, warmpresses, and medication like digitalis and opium to manage symptoms. But as you mentioned, standard treatments have their limitations, especially in severe cases."

    Dr. Whitman nodded, impressed by Sara''s knowledge. "You''re absolutely correct, Ms. Olsen. We''ve been following those practices, but with the boy''s condition deteriorating, we''re running out of options. The best thing we can do is to make the patient feel asfortable as possible."

    "Okay, show us to the patient, director," Poul said.

    Dr. Whitman rose from his seat, gesturing for them to follow. "Of course, let''s proceed to the patient''s room. I''ll introduce you to the young boy and his family."

    Sara and Poul followed Dr. Whitman through the corridors of Pennsylvania Hospital.

    They arrived at a quiet room with a wooden door. Dr. Whitman knocked gently before entering, and the sight inside was heart-wrenching. A young boy, pale and frail,y in a narrow bed, covered with thick nkets. His parents, anxious and tired, sat nearby, their eyes reflecting the despair of not being able to help their child.

    "Mr. and Mrs. Cooper, these are the individuals I mentioned earlier," Dr. Whitman said, introducing Sara and Poul. "They have a potential treatment that might help your son."

    The parents looked at Sara and Poul.

    "Wait¡­you are the founder of the Axelsen and Nielsen Corporation!" Mr. Cooper said.

    Poul wasn''t surprised anymore, given his poprity skyrocketing across the states.

    "How long since the patient had pneumonia?" Sara asked.

    Mr. Cooper nced at his wife, and they exchanged worried looks. "It''s been over a month now. Andrew developed a persistent cough, and we initially thought it was just a cold. But his condition worsened, and he started having difficulty breathing."

    "Okay, we can still intervene," Sara said. "Let me introduce myself, I''m Sara Olsen, a doctor who has developed a cure for bacterial infections. And we would like to test it on your son, Andrew."

    "Is it safe?" Mrs. Cooper asked.

    Sara nodded reassuringly. "Yes."

    "It''s the boy''s greatest hope for surviving," Poul interjected. "We are going to need your consent of course. But if you give your consent, not only you see your son walking lively again, but you''ll receive two thousand dors."

    "Tha¨Cthat''s a lot of money," Mr. Cooper eximed.

    "It is," Poul replied. "But more importantly, it''s a chance to save your son''s life."

    Mrs. Cooper looked at her son, whoy weak and pale in the bed. "We''ve tried everything we could, and nothing seems to work. If there''s a chance, we''ll take it. Please, do whatever you can to help our boy."

    Sara pulled a vial and a syringe out from her bag. She then carefully drew the experimental penicillin solution into it.

    Sara swabbed a spot on Andrew''s arm with an alcohol pad, and then she administered the penicillin injection. The boy flinched slightly, but he didn''t cry out in pain. His parents held their breath, their eyes never leaving their son.

    "Now, we wait," Sara said softly. "The penicillin will need some time to work. In the meantime, we''d like you to transfer to ourpany hospital so I can look over Andrew''s progress closely and ensure he receives the best care possible."

    The Coopers exchanged hopeful nces, and they nodded in agreement.

    "Mr. Whitman, please prepare a transfer for Andrew to our hospital," Poul added, addressing the hospital director. "We''ll pay the fees that they haven''t covered."

    "Very well, Mr. Nielsen."

    Poul leaned over and whispered into Sara''s ears. "How long will it take for the boy to show improvement?"

    "It''s difficult to say precisely, Poul. Penicillin can work quite quickly in some cases, but it depends on the severity of the infection and how well Andrew responds. We''ll need to monitor him closely and make adjustments to his treatment n as needed. But I''m hopeful that we''ll start seeing positive changes within a few days."

    "Okay, if it''s a few days that can do," Poul said. "The World''s Fair is on the 25th of April."

 Chapter 308 Prospect Of A New Enterprise

    ?

    April 1st, 1893.

    Five days had passed since Poul and Sara''s visit to Pennsylvania Hospital, where they administered Sara''s experimental penicillin to a young boy named Andrew suffering from pneumonia.

    Sara meticulously monitored Andrew''s condition, providing periodic updates to Poul on the progress. Poul''s anticipation was palpable, recognizing the high stakes involved in this groundbreaking medical endeavor. The oue could potentially have a profound impact on the field of medicine, not to mention the substantial financial gains he envisioned.

    April 3rd, 1893.

    Sara donned her doctor''s attire and entered Andrew''s room, her eyes widened when she saw Andrew walking around the room. His grateful parents flickered their gazes at Sara and smiled.

    "Doctor¡­look! Our boy is making a miraculous recovery!" Mr. Cooper eximed, tears welling up in his eyes as he watched his son move about with newfound strength.

    Sara''s heart swelled with joy at the sight of Andrew''s improvement. She approached the boy, her eyes full of wonder, and gently examined him. Andrew''s once pale face now bore a healthy flush, and his breathing appeared significantly easier.

    "It''s truly remarkable," Sara murmured. "It seems that the penicillin is working far better than we could have hoped."

    "Unbelievable, I thought it was all lost when the doctor who examined him told us that his disease was incurable¡­but¡­" Mrs. Cooper trailed off as she tried to find the right words to express herself.

    "But now, thanks to your miracle medicine, our son has a second chance at life," Mrs. Cooper finished her sentence with a profound sense of gratitude.

    Sara smiled warmly at the Coopers, her heart touched by their relief. "I''m just d that we could be part of this miracle. I can''t wait to tell my colleagues who helped me develop it. In the meantime, Mr. and Mrs. Cooper, we still have to observe Andrew closely and make sure his recovery continues smoothly."

    "Of course¡­" Mr. Cooper nodded his head.

    "I''ll do some short check-up and then leave, okay?"

    "Absolutely," Mrs. Cooper replied.

    Sara conducted a thorough check-up, making notes of Andrew''s vital signs and overall condition. The results were encouraging, and it was evident that the penicillin had effectively fought off the infection.

    Afterpleting her examination, Sara turned to the Coopers with a warm smile.

    "Everything looks excellent. I will take my leave for now, okay?"

    With that, Sara exited the room and leaned her back on a wall. She ced both hands on her face and squealed with delight. Her excitement was barely containable.

    One of her colleagues who helped her develop penicillin approached her.

    "Doctor Olsen, what''s the matter?"

    Sara turned to face her friend, her lips curving into a wide smile. "Ruby...!"

    Ruby, equally curious and somewhat puzzled, responded with a raised eyebrow, "What?"

    "The penicillin worked!" Sara revealed.

    "Really?!" Ruby''s eyes widened in disbelief as she processed Sara''s jubnt promation. "Yay!"

    Sara and Ruby held hands together and jumped with joy, their voices filling the hospital corridor with unbridled tion. They were like two children who had just discovered hidden treasures.

    The hospital staff nearby couldn''t help but smile at the infectious joy radiating from Sara and Ruby.

    "We have to tell everyone," Ruby suggested.

    "That''s a great idea. Let''s have a celebrationter¡­First, I need to inform Poul about this."

    "Okay, I''ll gather everyone," Ruby nodded, her enthusiasm undiminished.

    Sara quickly made her way to the main office while humming in a singsong tone, her heart still dancing with the euphoria of their sess. She knew that informing Poul of the miraculous recovery of Andrew was a moment that couldn''t wait.

    She took the tram that was filled with factory workers who noticed her tion.

    "Looking good today, Doctor Olsen," said the worker.

    "Marcus!" Sara eximed softly as she recognized the man. He was one of the factories that got injured in the line of work and was treated by her. "I didn''t expect to see you here."

    The rest of the workers tipped their safety hats and acknowledged her presence with nods and smiles. Sara''s reputation had extended beyond the hospital, making her popr with the workers.

    "You are all going to work?" Sara asked.

    "Yes ma''am," they replied in unison.

    "I see... In that case, y''all take care now. Wouldn''t wanna see any of you in the hospital, lyin'' on a cot," Sara said with such charm that it made the hearts of the workers on the tram skip a beat.

    "I wouldn''t mind gettin'' injured all day, long as I''d be takin'' care of ya," one of the workers said but was immediately pped by Marcus.

    "Oi, watch what you''re talkin'' ''bout, Ms. Olsen is already engaged," Marcus chided.

    Sara giggled. "It''s fine, Marcus¡­Oh, my stop ising up. Goodbye," Sara said as she prepared to exit the tram. The workers waved her goodbye, their spirits lifted by her presence.

    Once off the tram, Sara continued on her way to the main office, and to the reception desk.

    "Is Mr. Nielsen in his office?"

    "Yes, Ms. Olsen," Beatrice confirmed. "Should I inform him that you''ll being up?"

    Sara shook her head. "No need, I''ll just surprise him."

    After saying that, Sara headed straight to the elevator and pulled the lever to the top floor.

    The elevator door opened and Sara stepped out onto the top floor.

    Sara reached the main office where Poul was hunched over his desk, engrossed in paperwork.

    "Poul~!" Sara cooed as she slowly approached him, her hands behind her back and cutely smiling. Poul looked up, his brow furrowed in concentration until his eyes met Sara''s yful expression. He blinked in surprise and then grinned as he recognized the mischievous look in her eyes.

    "Sara¡­you looked lively huh? Let me guess, the penicillin worked?"

    Sara''s cute smile turned into a pout. "Ahh, there goes the surprise¡­"

    Poul chuckled and rose from his chair, walking over to Sara. He gently took her hands from behind her back and held them in his.

    "Sorry if I spoiled the surprise, my dear," Poul said. "So, the cure worked. This has a huge implication! We can now announce to the world that we now hold the cure for bacterial infection."

    "So you''ll include the penicillin in the World''s Fair right?" Sara asked.

    "Yup, it has earned its spot. Oh, Jonathan called and told me that he and Caroline will arrive here tomorrow. I told them about what we were working and Caroline was the eager one. She is proposing a partnership if we decide to start a pharmaceuticalpany, which we will do, and penicillin will be its gship product."

    "I''m happy to hear that," Sara said.

    "Do you really?" Poul asked, sensing Sara''s hesitancy.

    "Of course, I''m thrilled about the partnership and the potential to make a real impact on healthcare. It''s just that you know¡­the medicine is groundbreaking and you make it expensive¡­"

    "What? I wouldn''t do that," Poul replied, a hint of hurt in his voice at the suggestion. "If you want to feel assured then I can make you the director of the future pharmaceutical enterprise. It''s your invention after all."

    "No need, I''m not good at business¡­and if you say you won''t do what pharmaceutical corporations did in our world¡­then it''s fine. I''m excited to see the two back again. It''s been months."

    "Yeah¡­it is. The World''s Fair is only 22 days away, I couldn''t be more excited."

 Chapter 309 The Reunion

    ?

    April 2nd, 893.

    Poul and Sara stood near the entrance of the main office, observing a Model J Duesenberg as it pulled up to the curb.

    From the car, a well-dressed man in a ck three-piece suit emerged. He adjusted his ck top hat, casting a brief nce in their direction before offering a polite smile.

    "Jonathan," Poul said, acknowledging his arrival.

    Jonathan circled around the car and opened the passenger door, extending his hand to assist thedy inside.

    Thedy who emerged from the car was none other than Caroline, Jonathan''s wife. She wore a stylish, ankle-length dress that flowed gracefully as she stepped onto the sidewalk. Her hat matched the ensemble, adorned with a ribbon that fluttered in the light breeze. With a graceful nod of gratitude, Caroline epted Jonathan''s hand and stepped out of the car, her eyes lighting up as they met Sara''s.

    "Sara!" Caroline eximed, her voice warm with familiarity as she embraced her friend.

    Sara returned the embrace, her face breaking into a radiant smile. "Caroline, it''s been too long!"

    Jonathan closed the car door and joined the group.

    "How''s it been, Jonathan?" Poul said as they bumped their fists in a friendly greeting, the camaraderie evident in theirughter.

    "Same as always," Jonathan replied with a hint of amusement in his voice.

    "Hello, Poul," Caroline greeted, giving Poul a friendly peck on the cheek.

    Poul chuckled, returning the gesture with a warm smile. "Caroline, you look as elegant as ever."

    "I am elegant. Anyways, why don''t we get inside? We have a lot of catching up to do."

    Poul nodded and together, they made their way inside the main office and up to their office.

    On the eighth floor, they ran into Amelia.

    "Mr. and Mrs. Axelsen," Amelia gasped. "You just arrived?"

    "Yes, I was wondering why we didn''t see you down there," Caroline said, pulling Amelia into an embrace.

    "I was sorting some documents so I wasn''t able to join Mr. Nielsen and Ms. Olsen," Amelia exined. "I''m so happy to see you again¡­"

    "Me too," Amelia replied.

    "You know you can join us, Amelia," Jonathan said. "It''s been months since the five of us had a proper sit-down. This is an order from your boss."

    Amelia chuckled nervously. "Well, if it''s your order then I''ll have no choice but to join you. Can I get you something to eat? Cake or pies and drinks?"

    "Hmm¡­I see, how about some apple strudel and an iced tea?" Poul suggested with a smile.

    "I''ll tell the chef. Why don''t you settle inside the office?" Amelia suggested and the group nodded.

    The four entered the office and took their seats on the sofa.

    Jonathan walked over to the floor-to-ceiling window and looked out at the bustlingpany town below. "Oh, this view never fails to mesmerize me," he remarked, his eyes scanning the cityscape with a sense of nostalgia.

    Caroline, seated on one end of the sofa, and crossed her legs. "It''s a testament to how far we''vee, isn''t it? And we could grow even further as I heard that Sara developed a penicillin."

    Poul and Sara exchanged nces and smiled proudly.

    "I''m considering the idea of starting a pharmaceuticalpany," Poul said. "But of course, we can''t just establish apany solely to produce one product. We must make different drugs. Like¡­hmm¡­I can''t name a single one."

    "I have theoretical knowledge about streptomycin, tetracycline, and erythromycin but to produce them is something beyond me. But if we dedicate a talented team of scientists who major in medicine, we might be able to make it. Aside from antibiotics, we can also introduce insulin. As you can see in this era, diabetes is a growing concern."

    "Do you know how to make insulin?" Poul nced at Sara

    "Insulin is a hormone that regtes blood sugar levels in the body. It''s primarily produced in the pancreas. To create it outside of the human body, we''ll need a source, and the mostmon source is the pancreas of cattle or pigs. We''ll extract and purify the insulin from these animals, and then standardize the production process to ensure consistency and safety. It''s aplex process but it can be done."

    Poul nodded in understanding. "So not only do we need to start a pharmaceuticalpany but a farm as well huh?"

    "We are going to need a lot of cattle or pigs," Sara said, chuckling.

    "Well, we have the means necessary to start another enterprise and I''m loving it," Caroline said. "Let''s have a serious discussion about that after the World''s Fair, Speaking of which, what''s the progress of installing the bulbs on the site?" Caroline asked.

    "Timothy is in Chicago supervising the instation," Poul said. "He assured me that everything will go into operation before the World''s Fair, which is on the twenty-fifth."

    "I can''t wait for it," Jonathan finally joined the conversation, sitting next to Caroline and cing an arm around her shoulder.

    "How about you Jonathan?" Poul asked. "How''s the Empire of State Building faring?"

    "We are just starting Poul," Jonathan said. "As for the timeframe, we can finish it in two years. It''s going to be the tallest building in the world and an iconic symbol of United States capitalism."

    "Great, can''t wait to move our main office there," Poul said with a grin, clearly excited about the prospect of theirpany having an office in the iconic Empire State Building.

    "How about the oil mining operation in the Middle East?" Jonathan inquired again. "I was told by Morgan that you demanded he call off the congressional hearing?"

    "Yeah, we are getting serious this time, Jonathan. I''m tired of all the politics when we are contributing so much to the country. I haven''t heard from him yet, I hope he can give me an update at the World''s Fair."

    "What technology are you going to disy at the World''s Fair?" Caroline asked.

    "The penicillin, new electrical appliances, automobiles that a middle ss can afford, the electric trams and lotives, and the aircraft," Poul said with a sense of pride in his voice. "Thirty million people are going to attend that fair, free advertisement for our products, meaning more profit to ourpany."

    As they were having a joyful conversation, Amelia entered the office, carrying a tray of refreshing iced tea and delicious apple strudel, which she carefully set down on the coffee table before the group.

    "Here you go, everyone," she said with a warm smile. "Enjoy your snacks."

    The group graciously epted the refreshments, and they indulged in the sweet pastry and sipped their tea.

    "Oh, Amelia, could you tell us the update about the Josean-Japanese war?" Poul said.

    "Not much, Poul. But based on thetest newspaper covering the war, the Japanese are nearing the capital. It''s only a matter of time for the Joseon Kingdom to sue for peace. On the business side, the Japanese seemed to have liked our weapon and are cing one hundred thousand orders."

    "Thank you, Amelia," Jonathan said. "Well, the only thing that we need to do is to prepare for the World''s Fair."

    "You are right," Poul said.

    Caroline noticed a somber expression on Sara''s face, affected by the news of the war.

 Chapter 310 Chicago Worlds Fair Part 1

    ?

    April 25th, 893.

    The much-anticipated day had finally dawned, heralding the grand opening of the Chicago World''s Fair. As the rays of sunlight painted the sky, a monumental arch gate weed a sea of people from diverse backgrounds, both domestic and foreign.

    Groups of friends chattered excitedly, families marveled at the towering structures, and couples strolled hand in hand, soaking in the atmosphere of wonder and innovation that surrounded them.

    Technologies invented by variouspanies and individuals were proudly on disy, each vying for attention amidst the cacophony of delighted exmations.

    The scent of international cuisines wafted through the air, enticing fairgoers with promises of exotic vors. Street vendors hawked their wares, from intricate trinkets to thetest gadgets.

    Children clung to their parents'' hands, their eyes wide with wonder as they encountered marvels they had only dreamed of. And couples exchanging loving nces.

    Amidst the bustle, Poul, Sara, Jonathan, Caroline, and their loyal associate, Amelia, made their way through the fairgrounds. They were dressed in their finest attire that reflected their social standing.

    They were heading towards their station, where they were disying their products.

    After walking for about a minute, they finally arrived at the location. The Axelsen & Nielsen Corporation had secured a prime spot for their exhibition, thergest and widest pavilion at the fair.

    The entry to their spot was an arch gate adorned with intricate Art Deco designs. As they passed under it, it was as if they entered into the future.

    The pavilion''s interior was a symphony of modernity and elegance. Polished stainless steel fixtures gleamed under the soft glow of custom-designed chandeliers. The space was carefully divided into thematic sections, each showcasing a different facet of their groundbreaking work.

    Thousands of people were inside, and many more were waiting patiently to enter, forming a line that snaked its way through the fairgrounds.

    They observed them, surrounding one space that seemed to be where the radios were disyed.

    Jonathan nudged Poul on the arm and whispered. "You think this is the perfect time to introduce television? If you know how to make one."

    "I know the mechanism of a television, Jonathan," Poul replied in a whisper. "But I think we should give the people some time to breathe. We have invented a lot of technologies to the point they couldn''t adapt as fast as we are making new ones."

    "So you know how to make a television," Jonathan grinned. "We are going to be extra rich. Okay, everyone, I think this is where we part. Amelia, you are to facilitate our pavilion. Caroline, you''lle with me that''s given and you Poul, well you can show Sara around."

    "That''s what I intend to do," Poul inclined his head in agreement.

    Amelia, ever efficient, nodded in acknowledgment. "I''ll ensure everything runs smoothly in the pavilion. Visitors will have an unforgettable experience."

    "Good, and don''t push yourself too hard, okay?" Jonathan said. "I also want you to enjoy the fair like everyone else."

    Amelia smiled appreciatively at Jonathan''s concern. "Thank you, Jonathan. I promise to take a moment to enjoy the fair''s offerings as well."

    Caroline, ready to explore the wonders with Jonathan, linked her arm through his. "Let''s go, Jonathan."

    As Jonathan and Caroline disappeared into the crowd, Poul turned his attention to Sara.

    He offered her his arm with a charming smile. "Shall we explore the pavilion, my dear?"

    Sara took his arm. "Lead the way, Poul."

    With that, Poul and Sara explored the pavilion.

    They first made their stop at the showroom where automobiles akin to the design in the 1940s were disyed. Hundreds of spectators surrounded the showroom as the man standing next to the automobile exined to them the key features.

    "This vehicle is called the AN Model A. It''s equipped with a powerful thead V8 engine, boasting a remarkable horsepower of 85. This engine provides an unparalleled driving experience, with the capability to conquer even the most challenging terrains."

    The fairgoers leaned in, their interest piqued by the impressive specifications of the automobile. Poul and Sara listened attentively, their curiosity matching that of the crowd.

    With a spacious interior and seating for up to five passengers, the AN Model A offers bothfort and convenience. Itsrge fuel tank allows for long journeys without the need for frequent refueling. If you are looking for numbers, that would be 300 miles."

    The fairgoers gasped at the features of the vehicle. Though almost everyone wasn''t familiar with vehicles, hearing the details fascinated them.

    "As for the transmission, The AN Model A features a state-of-the-art 3-speed sliding-mesh manual transmission."

    "What does that mean?" One of the fairgoers asked. "Speak in a way we can understand."

    "Yeah, speak English!"

    He smiled warmly at the inquisitive fairgoer and said, "Of course, let me exin it like this. You see, the transmission in the AN Model A is a bit like the gears on a steam lotive or an electric lotive. Just like those lotives have different gears for going uphill, downhill, or on t tracks, this automobile has gears to help it move smoothly in different situations."

    The fairgoers nodded, some of them having had experiences with lotives in the past. This analogy helped them grasp the concept more easily.

    "And you know how when you''re riding in a horse-drawn carriage, the driver uses reins to control the horses and make them go faster or slower?" the man continued. "Well, in this car, the driver uses a gear stick to select the right gear, just like reins, to control how fast or slow the car goes. It''s all about making the ridefortable and efficient, no matter the road ahead."

    "How much does that automobile cost?" Another person asked.

    "The unit price is 750 dors. It will be released in three months on all Axelsen and Nielsen dealerships," the man replied. "And I must say that this is not the only vehicle Axelsen and Nielsen are selling, there are also trucks, buses, pickups, and motorcycles. It''s in the next showroom. Please follow me."

    Poul and Sara chuckled as they watched the fairgoers follow the man introducing the automobile.

    "You truly went all-out in the automobiles huh?" Sara remarked.

    Poul nted a kiss on her forehead before replying. "There''s no holding back, especially on automobiles. We have introduced them in thepany town so why not introduce them to the world?"

    "Point taken," Sara said.

    They ventured into the next showroom, where a dazzling array of vehicles awaited them. The fairgoers eagerly gathered around as the man resumed his exnations, showcasing trucks, buses, pickups, and motorcycles, each more impressive than thest.

    "These vehicles," the man began enthusiastically, "represent the future of transportation. Theye in various sizes and styles, designed to cater to different needs and preferences. Whether you''re a business owner looking for a reliable truck, a family in need of a spacious bus for long journeys, or an adventurer seeking the thrill of a motorcycle, Axelsen & Nielsen has you covered."

    As they moved on from the transportation section, Poul and Sara discovered another part of the pavilion dedicated to electrical appliances. Rows of refrigerators, washing machines, radios, and other modern conveniences were on disy.

    They lingered for a while, watching as fairgoers marveled at the prospect of owning such time-saving andbor-reducing devices. Many asked questions about how the appliances worked and their avability in the market.

    Before they moved on, Poul and Sara took a moment to admire a particr innovation: the penicillin disy. Sara had yed a pivotal role in developing this revolutionary antibiotic, and she felt a deep sense of aplishment seeing it showcased at the fair.

    Poul ced a supportive hand on her shoulder and whispered. "Happy?"

    "I am¡­" Sara replied softly.

    A Sara basked in the sense of achievement, a voice boomed through the pavilion''s public address system, capturing the attention of everyone inside.

    "Gentlemen anddies, fairgoers of the Chicago World''s Fair, we have a special treat for you today! Please make your way outside to the open area for a unique spectacle."

    Curiosity piqued, Poul and Sara joined the stream of people as they made their way out of the pavilion. The grand entrance led them to a spacious courtyard where thousands of fairgoers gathered, their eyes cast upward at the clear blue sky.

    "What do you think this is, Poul?" Sara asked, her gaze fixed on the heavens.

    "We will see."

    As they joined the crowd, they craned their necks to see what awaited them. And then, emerging from the horizon, they saw it: a massive blimp, gracefully hovering in the sky.

    The fairgoers collectively gasped and whispered in amazement.

    A banner unfurled from its side, disying the words "Axelsen & Nielsen: Shaping the Future."

    "You know this would happen," Sara said.

    "If I tell you, it''ll ruin the mood," Poul said. "Now, why don''t we continue our exploration?"

 Chapter 311 Chicago Worlds Fair Part 2

    ?

    As Sara was on the verge of agreeing to the proposition, a voice they both recognized resonated from behind.

    "Mr. Nielsen!"

    Startled, Poul and Sara swiveled to locate the source of the familiar voice. There, amidst the bustling crowd, stood Mr. Morgan, enthusiastically waving them over. He wasn''t alone; his wife and daughter, Amelie and Fiona, apanied him.

    "Mr. Morgan," Poul greeted warmly, pivoting fully to face him. "What a delightful surprise. I hadn''t expected to run into you so soon."

    Poul and Morgan exchanged hearty handshakes, acknowledging the presence of their respectivepanions in this unexpected encounter."

    "Well that is because I am looking for you, Mr. Nielsen," Morgan revealed. "Can I talk to you in private?"

    Poul nced at Sara, their nned agreement momentarily put on hold as he assessed the situation. Sara nodded in understanding, and Poul turned back to Morgan.

    "That can be arranged but I hope it won''t take much of my time. As you can see, I''m in the middle of a date."

    Morgan nodded in understanding. "Of course, Mr. Nielsen, I won''t keep you long."

    Poul and Morgan moved to a quieter corner, where they could converse without the distractions of the bustling fair. The distantughter of children and the hum of fairgoers served as a backdrop to their conversation.

    "So what do you want from me, Mr. Morgan?" Poul inquired straightforwardly.

    "Come on, loosen up, Mr. Nielsen," Morgan chuckled, attempting to break the ice with a lighter tone. "Okay, so I spoke with the president about the congressional hearing of your private militarypany and said that he would rather speak about that matter to you personally."

    "What? Couldn''t he just tell you?"

    Morgan shook his head. "I''m afraid there''s only so much a businessman can do to reach the President of the United States. But don''t worry, it won''t be a long wait. The President ising to the fair. He''ll arrive in the afternoon, just before the grand lighting ceremony of the fair."

    "I see," Poul replied thoughtfully. "I have to prepare then."

    Morgan continued, his tone bing more serious. "Indeed, but there''s something else I''d like to share with you."

    Poul raised an eyebrow in anticipation. "What is it?"

    Morgan leaned in, his voice low. "You see, as I was discussing your concerns about government interference in your business with the President, he seemed receptive to my words. In fact, he was nodding and appeared to be considering the idea of dropping the congressional hearing."

    Poul''s eyes widened in surprise. "That''s a promising development," he said, rubbing his chin as he contemted the implications.

    "So I can say with great confidence that the President is likely going to drop the congressional hearing," Morgan vouched. "I believe I have taken too much of your time, so let''s return to our respectivepanions."

    Poul nodded, a sense of gratitude still in his eyes. "Thank you once again, Mr. Morgan. Your assistance in this matter is invaluable."

    As they made their way back to Sara and their respective families, Poul couldn''t help but feel a weight lifted off his shoulders. The prospect of the President dropping the congressional hearing was a significant relief, and it meant that Axelsen & Nielsen could continue their work without the looming threat of government intervention. But he knew better than to confirm it from the President''s words himself.

    "Uhm¡­Mr. Morgan," Poul called, getting the attention of Morgan once again.

    "Yes?" Morgan and his family turned their heads towards him.

    "Why don''t you join us in exploring the fair? Starting with taking a ride on that blimp," Poul suggested, pointing his fingers up at the hovering blimp that was slowly making its descent.

    Morgan and his family craned their necks to see the blimp and let out astonished exmations of awe.

    "Wait¡­ is that one of your inventions?" Morgan asked, his eyes sparkling with curiosity.

    "One of our engineers invented it, though I made some improvements on the technical side. Still, do you want to give it a try?"

    "Wait¡­Poul?" Sara pinched him in the arm. Poul nced at her and raised a brow.

    "That''s where you n on taking me?" Sara asked.

    "Yes¡­it''s one of the attractions of the fair. Only the elites have the privilege of experiencing it," Poul responded with a yful grin.

    "Is it safe?"

    Poul chuckled at Sara''s concern, understanding her hesitation. "Absolutely, Sara. Why would I put you and the Morgans in any danger? Or myself for that matter?"

    Sara looked at Poul, reassured by his words. "Alright then, let''s give it a try."

    "I trust you in this, Mr. Nielsen," Morgan said. "If this fails, well you know what will happen."

    "You don''t have to remind me, Mr. Morgan," Poul chuckled and led the way. "Come follow me."

    With their decision made, the group made their way towards the blimp''s boarding area.

    As they approached, a uniformed crew greeted them with smiles and helped them board the blimp. Once inside, they foundfortable seats, and Poul exined some of the safety features to ease any lingering concerns. The crew assured everyone that the blimp ride was a well-practiced routine andpletely safe.

    The blimp slowly ascended, and as they rose above the fairgrounds, an incredible view unfolded before them. They could see the vast expanse of the fair stretching out in all directions, with the elegant White City buildings, thegoon, and the multitude of visitors and attractions below.

    Amelie and Fiona were particrly ecstatic, their faces pressed against therge windows as they took in the breathtaking scenery. Sara, too, couldn''t help but be captivated by the aerial perspective of the fair.

    Morgan leaned over to Poul and said, "I must admit, Mr. Nielsen, this is quite an experience. You''ve outdone yourself."

    Poul smiled, appreciating thepliment. "I''m d you''re enjoying it, Mr. Morgan. It''s a privilege to share this with you and your family."

    "Where is Mr. and Mrs. Axelsen?" Morgan asked.

    "Oh they were having their personal and romantic moments," Poul said. "They were always like that ever since they got married. Preferring that they''d be together rather than joining a group."

    "I see. By the way, Mr. Nielsen, when are you nning to make Sara your wife?"

    Poul chuckled, ncing at Sara with affection. "Soon, Mr. Morgan, very soon."

    Meanwhile, Sara and Fiona continued peering down below, satiating their eyes with a magnificent sight.

    "So you are thedy that captured Mr. Nielsen''s heart?" Fionamented.

    "What''s with the question all of a sudden¡­Ms. Morgan?"

    "Nothing, I have been curious about what Mr. Nielsen''s fiance looked like and now that I saw you, well I think he made the right choice. You are beautiful, and a skilled doctor. Compared to me¡­I''m just a daughter of the United States'' greatest banker."

    "You liked Poul?" Sara asked gently.

    "I did, I developed feelings for him when he saved my life. But now, I think those feelings have gradually faded away. I wish the two of you all the happiness in the world," Fiona said with a genuine smile, her gaze returning to the breathtaking view outside the blimp''s windows.

    Sara appreciated Fiona''s sincerity and returned her gaze as well to the view down below.

 Chapter 312 Chicago Worlds Fair Part 3

    ?

    It was five forty-five in the afternoon, and the sun had begun its gradual descent beneath the horizon, painting the fairgrounds in a soothing, golden glow.

    The industrialist duo, apanied by their partners, continued to explore the fair on their own, theirughter and animated conversations blending with the lively atmosphere around them. They entertained themselves by participating in some of the games and attractions that lined the fairgrounds.

    Poul and Sara found themselves trying their luck at a ring toss game, where they aimed to loop small rings onto bottles to win a prize. Sara''spetitive spirit shone through as she meticulously aimed and tossed the rings, while Poul cheered her on with yful encouragement.

    Meanwhile, Mr. and Mrs. Axelsen embarked on a romantic journey through the fair, hand in hand. They strolled along the brightly lit pathways, pausing to admire the artistic disys and asionally sharing a tender moment beneath the softly glowingnterns.

    Then, after their delightful explorations and amusement at the fair, the two couples rendezvoused back at their pavilion''s entrance.

    "Just in time," Poul said as he checked the time from his wristwatch.

    Jonathan took a bite from his cotton candy and grinned. "Five minutes away from the official lighting ceremony."

    "Yeah¡­" Poul nced at the thoroughfare lined with street lights. "We are going to light this whole fair up. Oh, some good news, the President of the United States is going to arrive soon."

    "I know," Jonathan said, not surprised by the news at all. "Didn''t he tell us about it in February when weid the keel of the battleship?"

    Poul''s eyes widened slightly as he recalled those moments, Jonathan was right. "Well, I''m just telling you. We should go to the main square, I''m sure the mayor is waiting for us."

    With a collective nod, they made their way to the main square of the fair.

    Arriving at the main square, attendees from all around the world had gathered to the point where it was difficult to make progress. Fortunately, there was a path toward the center reserved exclusively for the selected guests of honor¡ªthe Industrialist duo and theirpanions.

    As they made their way through the throng, the atmosphere was charged with excitement, wondering what could be the Chicago World''s Fair reserved for them.

    As they neared the tform, they were blocked by the guard.

    "Papers?" The guard demanded, holding out his hand for identification.

    Poul retrieved a set of documents from his inner coat pocket and handed them over. The guard inspected the papers and, after a brief pause, nodded in acknowledgment. He then turned his attention to Jonathan and the others, repeating the process to ensure that everyone in their party had the proper clearance.

    Once satisfied, the guard stepped aside, allowing them to proceed toward the tform where the mayor and other dignitaries awaited.

    "Mayor Carter," Poul extended a respectful greeting as they approached the tform. The mayor, a dignified figure in his formal attire, weed them with a warm smile.

    "Mr. Nielsen, Mr. Axelsen, esteemed guests," Mayor Carter. "I must say, I am a bit anxious about you not getting here in time."

    "That''s impossible," Jonathan chuckled. "We were enjoying the fair, like everyone else, and it took time. Anyways, has the president arrived?"

    "He is backstage," Carter said, confirming the attendance of the president. "Along with Mr. Morgan and members of the council."

    Poul checked his watch again, and it saw it was fifteen minutes past six. The sun''s orange glow is beginning to be reced by the cool embrace of twilight, painting the sky with hues of pink and purple.

    The lighting ceremony would start at six thirty in the evening when the night would nket the fairgrounds with darkness.

    The industrialist duo took their seats on the chairs provided for them on the tform. They waited as the clock reached six thirty and watched as the main square was being filled with an expectant crowd.

    The air was charged with anticipation, and the fairgrounds transformed as the first stars began to twinkle overhead. The main square was now dimly lit by the oilmps and light bulbs surrounding the tform.

    "Mayor¡­is it time?" Jonathan whispered to Carter.

    As if on cue, the musicians readied their instruments and yed the Hail to the Chief as the President of the United States, Clevnd stepped onto the tform.

    The industrialist duo and everyone else on the tform stood and pped. President Clevnd simply waved his hands at the cheering crowds. As the apuse subsided, President Clevnd stepped up to the microphone and made a small speech.

    Mr. Morgan stood next to Jonathan and whispered. "The President said that he''ll announce his decision to you after you light up the fair."

    "That''s good to hear, I''m sure my partner here couldn''t wait to hear it," Jonathan whispered a reply.

    About five minutester, President Clevnd concluded his speech and was met with a round of apuse. The Mayor was next to make a speech where just like the President, his speech contained him weing the attendees and expressing his gratitude to the team that made the fair possible.

    Another five minutes had passed, and the Mayor concluded his speech, again, with apuse. But this time¡ªit was different.

    "Now, let''s wee another guest that I''m sure every one of you is aware of. The founders of the Axelsen and Nielsen Corporation, one that made this country technologically advanced above others, Mr. Poul Nielsen and Mr. Jonathan Axelsen!"

    Poul and Jonathan rose to their seats and acknowledged the apuse with humble nods and smiles.

    "Okay, I''ll be the speaker," Poul stepped in front of the podium while a staff member carried another podium and set it next to Poul''s podium. But instead of a microphone atop it, it was a lever.

    "Gentlemen anddies," Poul began. "It''s an honor for ourpany to be chosen for lighting up the fair. You might wonder, where are the lights? Why is it still dark? Well, my friends, that''s because we wanted to show you how a city transforms from darkness to light, just as our country has transformed through innovation and hard work. We have brought something special for this asion, something that embodies ourmitment to progress."

    Poul gestured towards the second podium with the lever. The crowd watched in anticipation, curiosity etched on their faces.

    "As you can see, we have here a lever," Poul continued. "And with the pull of this lever, we will illuminate this entire fairground, just as we have illuminated our nation.

    He reached for the lever, and the crowd held its collective breath.

    Poul gripped the lever firmly and pulled it down in a smooth motion. A low rumbling sound filled the air as unseen machinery roared to life. Then all of a sudden, the fairgrounds electric lights lining the streets and the light bulbs on each pavilion burst into golden radiance.

    The entire fairground was bathed in the warm glow of thousands of electric lights. The once-dark pathways and structures now shone brilliantly.

    The crowds cheered once again, whistling and pping.

    Poul and Jonathan stood side by side, their faces illuminated by the radiant spectacle they had unleashed.

    Then they returned to their seats where President Clevnd waited for them.

    "Mr. Nielsen, Mr. Axelsen. That was a sight to see," Clevnd said. "Now, as for your request to cancel the congressional hearing. I¡ª" he paused for dramatic effect. "I have convinced the congress to drop it. Now, your private militarypany will not be under scrutiny. You have knocked some senses into us and now we are awake. As long as what you are doing benefits the United States, we are going to support you."

    Poul and Jonathan exchanged nces, and then back to Clevnd.

    "Thank you, Mr. President. The United States is now back."

 Chapter 313 The New Customer From Afar

    ?

    The night was still young at the Chicago World''s Fair. With all the lights lit up, it was like the day had never left.

    After securing the assurance of the President of the United States that there''d be no congressional hearing, the industrialist duo could now heave a deep sigh of relief. With this, they have more freedom than ever, able to do something that would otherwise be restrictive.

    "I think we deserve a toast," Jonathan said, grinning goofily.

    "Indeed we do," Poul said. "Now this is the United States that I am familiar with. Those camel jockeys would realize who they are messing with now."

    Sara and Caroline stifled their chuckles, taken aback by the sudden shift in their partners'' demeanor. They have never seen them in their scary and confrontational mode before.

    Well, judging that they have been restricted a lot bureaucratically, they understood the emotions surging within them.

    Together, the four returned to their pavilion, with more people than ever lining up to see the propeller aircraft disyed at the far back corner of the pavilion.

    "Poul, Jonathan," Amelia called, waving her hand, trying to catch their attention.

    The industrialist duo were quick to notice Amelia waving at them, and they immediately walked over to her.

    As they made their way over to her, the people lining up recognized them.

    "Wait¡­isn''t it the inventor of aircraft?"

    "Poul Nielsen, I only heard about him in newspapers."

    "Look at his hair, an Albian, who knew an Albian possessed such vast knowledge?"

    Poul didn''t mind thement and smiled graciously at the crowd''sments, acknowledging their curiosity. He never minded him getting prejudiced as an Albian who was a native of the continent, he''d rather let his action speak for itself and break down stereotypes.

    Arriving at where Amelia was standing, Jonathan was the first to question.

    "What''s the matter?"

    "Well, Jonathan, the people here wanted to know when they''ll see the aircraft fly?"

    "We will fly it tomorrow," Jonathan said, ncing at the crowds. "Poul specifically."

    It was not that surprising for the industrialist duo to have peopleing here to see the aircraft. After all, those people only saw it in the newspaper when the President of the United States attended the demonstration. They wanted to see for themselves if a man could conquer the skies.

    "Any other matters that arose while we were away?" Poul inquired. There couldn''t be just that, there must be something else for Amelia to call them over.

    "Another thing Poul, Jonathan, is that there is someone from another country wishing to speak with you."

    The industrialist duo tilted their head to the side, wondering who it could be. Just before they could inquire further, a voice with an asian ent sounded from behind.

    "Mr. Nielsen, Mr. Axelsen."

    The industrialist duo, along with their partners, turned around and saw a man of Asian descent in his fifties of small stature, wearing a ck suit and top hat, and holding a cane in his right hand.

    "Uhm¡ªwho might you be?" Poul asked.

    The Asian man removed his top hat and bowed deeply before introducing himself. "I am Count Inoue Kaoru, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan. I apologize for the abrupt introduction, but I have been following your remarkable achievements closely, and I couldn''t resist the opportunity to meet you two here at the Chicago World''s Fair."

    Poul and Jonathan exchanged nces. Both were aware that there was an armed conflict between Joseon and Japan due to the actions made by their private militarypany. So there''s no way that the Japanese diplomat would see them for their achievements, especially when the person is a foreign affairs minister.

    "Uhh¡­Hajimemashte?" Jonathan extended his hand, offering a handshake. "Am I saying that right?"

    Count Inoue Kaoru smiled appreciatively and epted Jonathan''s handshake. "Indeed, Mr. Axelsen, you pronounced it quite well. It''s a pleasure to meet you and Mr. Nielsen."

    Poul nodded politely, still intrigued by the unexpected encounter. "Likewise, Count Inoue. How may we assist you during your visit to our pavilion?"

    The Japanese diplomat straightened his posture and spoke with a diplomatic tone.

    "My government is interested in the aircraft you demonstrated for the President of the United States. We got curious about it and sailed across the ocean to see it. We are wondering if we can get that one for our Imperial Army?"

    "I see no problem with it," Poul said. "But this is not the ce for that discussion. You haven''t made an appointment with us, making this conversation an informal one. For inquiries and appointments, you can speak with my secretary here¡ªMs. Weiss."

    Poul flickered his fingers, repeatedly, and Amelia stepped forward.

    "Mr. Nielsen," Inoue cleared his throat. "You must be aware of why my country is in conflict with Joseon right?"

    "Oh, we are well aware of that fact, sir. It was business, the Joseon government hired our private militia and executed what they were paid to do. Which is what we are still doing but in another venture. Both countries purchase weapons from the Axelsen and Nielsen Arms Manufacturing Company. It''s just business, don''t take it personally."

    Upon hearing that, the Japanese guards behind Inoue, who are probably former samurai, stepped forward in an aggressive manner as they felt insulted by his words.

    Poul and Jonathan were unfazed and simply stared at the men in the eye.

    Count Inoue calmed the tension down by raising his hand.

    "I would like to apologize for their behavior, they are quite defensive," he said. "We will do as you told, we are going to set up an appointment with your secretary here, is tomorrow fine?"

    Poul and Jonathan exchanged another quick nce before nodding in agreement.

    "Tomorrow will work," Poul replied. "We''ll be avable for a meeting after the flight demonstration tomorrow at noon."

    Count Inoue Kaoru offered a formal bow once more before taking their leave.

    The industrialist duo watched as their figure disappeared from a distance.

    Caroline wrapped her arms around Jonathan and spoke gently. "What a lucrative offer awaits from the Japanese. You know, it''s not just Japan who will get interested in the aircraft right?"

    "We''re well aware," Jonathan replied, his fingers gently entwining with hers, effortlessly gliding across her velvety skin. "The United States has already disyed their keen interest, and they''re determined to secure the finest design for their own use."

    "But do they have the money for it?" Poul smirked and continued. "We haven''t developed an efficient and effective assembly line for mass-producing aircraft yet. Well, it''s their money, let''s just show them tomorrow what they are buying. And it''s going to be a whole different from the demonstration with the President because thirty million people would witness it."

 Chapter 314 Securing a Deal

    <h4>Chapter 314 Securing a Deal</h4>

    April 26th, 893.

    It was two o''clock in the afternoon and there was a huge crowd forming along the barricades.

    The congregation drew more passersby, among them were two brothers who were in their twenties.

    "Why are people here?" One of the brothers asked.

    "Apany named Axelsen and Nielsen Corporation have something to demonstrate for us," said one of the crowd before squeezing through the crowds, making his way to the front.

    The person who asked tilted his head to the side and wondered what demonstration was going to be performed. Curious, he tiptoed and from over yonder, he saw a pavednd that goes for about five hundred or seven hundred meters.

    "Orville¡ªlook!" said the other brother who shook his shoulder as he pointed his other hand at the end of the paved road. There they saw an odd-looking contraption, made out of metal with propellers in front and a fixed wing on either side.

    Orville squinted at the strange apparatus and whispered to his brother, "Wilbur, do you have any idea what that thing is?"

    Wilbur shook his head, his eyes still fixed on the peculiar machine. "I''ve never seen anything like it, Orville. But it''s Axelsen and Nielsen! One of the greatest innovativepanies in the United States! What they always invent is revolutionary. I can''t wait to see what It''ll do."

    "Yeah me too," Orville responded.

    Suddenly, the speakers fixed on the poles sounded.

    "Gentlemen anddies who are present at the World''s Fair! The Axelsen and Nielsen Corporation have something to present to you all, aircraft!"

    "Aircraft?" Orville and Wilbur intoned and exchanged nces at one another.

    "Do not blink, as it will be a waste of a lifetime! In history, only the birds can soar through the skies. Sure there is a hot air balloon, but do you really call it flying when you are just floating? But today, we shall witness a glimpse into the future where humanity dominates the sky, where it can turn freely, ascend, descend, roll, and loop!"

    The excitement in the crowd reached a fever pitch as the strange aircraft revved its engines. Smoke billowed from the exhaust, and the propeller in front started

    spinning faster. And then, it began to move forward, moving along the paved runway.

    The two brothers, Orville and Wilbur, stood shoulder to shoulder, their eyes locked onto the magnificent machine before them.

    As the aircraft gathered speed, the crowd held its collective breath. It was as though time itself had slowed down in the face of this extraordinary moment. And then, with a sudden burst of power and a deafening roar, the flying machine gracefully lifted off the ground.

    The gasps of the crowd were drowned out by the thunderous apuse and cheers that erupted. The aircraft climbed higher into the sky, defying gravity and expectations. It banked left and right, demonstrating its agility and control, leaving the spectators in awe.

    Orville and Wilbur couldn''t believe their eyes. The sight of the flying machine ignited a passion within them, The two exchanged nces once more before nodding in determination.

    The demonstration ended after about two hours, and it drew almost every attendee of the World''s Fair, to the point that some had to be taken to the hospital as they passed out from not being able to breathe due to the tight and overwhelming crowd. Medical personnel rushed to attend to those who had fainted or experienced breathing difficulties in the sweltering heat of the day.

    An hour after the demonstration, Poul, the pilot of the aircraft, entered the office of their pavilion.

    There he saw Count Inoue Kaoru, Jonathan, Amelia, and Caroline standing as if waiting for him to arrive.

    "Where''s Sara?" Poul asked.

    "She''s at the hospital, tending to the injured," Jonathan said and added. "We had expected the crowds to be huge but we underestimated the sheer number of people who would be drawn to the demonstration."

    "It''s going to be bad optics for us," Amelia interjected. "The headlines of the newspapers will be Axelsen and Nielsen demonstration of their aircraft resulting in the injuries of tens of attendees."

    "Well, pay for their hospital bill," Poul offered simply. "Meanwhile, Mister Kaoru, did you like the demonstration?"

    "I am beyond amazed," Kaoru said. "I heard that it can carry bombs and machine guns?"

    Poul nodded. "Yeah, but for safety purposes, we didn''t mount any in the aircraft we have demonstrated earlier."

    "Well, my advisors told me that it has a huge potential for military application, and stressed out to me that I should get it. So, I''m ready to ce my order."

    "I''m going to remind you that it''s going to be expensive, Mister Kaoru, we don''t have the factories that will manufacture the aircraft in great numbers."

    "How much per unit?" Kaoru asked.

    Poul exchanged nces with his fellow executives and they nodded.

    "For a unit with a machine gun, it''s going to cost you 30,000 dors. Bombs will be sold separately, which cost around 50 dors each depending on the size ordnance. You also have to buy fuel for it, and that aircraft is powered by a V-12 engine which consumes 70 gallons of fuel per hour. You will also have to train pilots for it, so another additional cost and the shipping fee."

    "What the¡ª"

    Poul could see the surprise on Kaoru''s face at the price tag, but he continued without hesitation. "But we''ll be willing to cut it down for you if you buy a lot. Let''s say two and a half million dors for seventy aircraft? Bombs and fuel included."

    Kaoru pondered for a moment, after considering the numbers Poul had presented. The potential of this flying machine for various applications, especially in the military, was evident. Count Inoue Kaoru, nodded.

    "Fine."

    "Okay, I''ll have our secretary, Amelia, to draw up the contract," Poul said.

    "We are also going to buy the vehicles that you are disying," Kaoru added.

    "We can have that arranged," Jonathan chimed.

    "You, Mr. Nielsen, and everyone in thepany are ingenious. I wonder how you were able toe up with such a revolutionary idea?"

    "Well, that is because we are tired of smelling horse dung," Jonathan chuckled. "During the time when automobiles weren''t yet invented, people relied on horses to go from point A to point b. An average horse defecates 20 pounds of dung and urinates 5 gallons of urine. Imagine a city like New York five years ago where daily horse trips were about 150,000. You do the math, and you''ll realize the magnitude of the problem we were facing. It was not only a matter of unpleasant odors but also a public health concern. So, we set out to find a better way, and that led us to develop automobiles. It doesn''t defecate and urinate."

    "In short, without automobiles, the streets and roads of the modern world will be covered in manure," Caroline concluded.

    "I understand¡­" Kaoru chuckled. "We are facing the same problem in Tokyo. Your automobiles would help us tremendously in addressing these challenges."

    "Let me show you the vehicles we are selling," Poul offered.

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