Creating an Industrial Empire in 19th Century Parallel World



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 clapped their hands.

As the blimp safely touched down, the crowd erupted into thunderous applause. Walter, Poul, and Jonathan exchanged triumphant smiles, their hearts filled with a sense of accomplishment and anticipation for what lay 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 congratulations, eager to get a closer look at the magnificent airship that had just completed its maiden flight.

Walter approached the podium that had been set up near the landing 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 occasion—a successful 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 applause 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 played 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 accomplishments. 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 successful flight.

***

Twenty minutes later, 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 glance before Poul responded, "Amelia, it exceeded our expectations. The flight was flawless, 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 glad 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 Cleveland is going to win the election. This is what happens when you run for the presidency on an impulse."

Jonathan placed 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 Alexander come for us."

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 overcome 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 find common 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 formulating a plan. 

"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 our company."

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 clapped his hand. "With that done, Jonathan, we can continue our discussion about the Empire State Building."