Creating an Industrial Empire in 19th Century Parallel World



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, accompanied 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 respective companions 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 glanced at Sara, their planned 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 distant laughter 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.

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"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 military company 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 is coming 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 becoming 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 contemplated 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 respective companions."

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 exclamations 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 glanced at her and raised a brow.

"That's where you plan 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 playful 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 found comfortable seats, and Poul explained some of the safety features to ease any lingering concerns. The crew assured everyone that the blimp ride was a well-practiced routine and completely 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, the lagoon, and the multitude of visitors and attractions below.

Amelie and Fiona were particularly ecstatic, their faces pressed against the large 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 the compliment. "I'm glad 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 planning to make Sara your wife?"

Poul chuckled, glancing 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 the lady that captured Mr. Nielsen's heart?" Fiona commented.

"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.