Creating an Industrial Empire in 19th Century Parallel World

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 similar conversation before," he said, recalling the encounter.

Jonathan couldn't help but chuckle at the man's statement. It reminded him of a similar 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 plant in Ohio that will power several cities. There, you won't see a generator per mile as one power plant 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 your company 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 occasion."

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 glass 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 playfully with her finger, making him chuckle at her playful gesture.

"Feeling alone? Want me to accompany you?"

"I would like you to comfort me," Jonathan said, grinning.

Caroline smiled back at him, her eyes sparkling mischievously. "Oh, I see how it is. Using me for my comforting abilities," she teased.

Jonathan chuckled. "Hey, a little bit of comfort 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."

"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 voice laced with amusement.

Jonathan shook his head, still slightly startled. "It's fine, Sherman. I just didn't expect to see you here."

Sherman shrugged nonchalantly. "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, similar 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 access to. It would not only benefit us economically but also protect our national security," he explained.

"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 access 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 your company. 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 my comrades. Why don't we dance along with them?" He offered a hand.

Caroline smiled and took his hand. "Sounds like a plan," she said as they made their way to the dance floor.