Creating an Industrial Empire in 19th Century Parallel World

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 explained 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 explanation. He knew that the process of heat-treating chromoly was complex, 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 result comes 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 explain 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 success 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 succeed.

One hour later, 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 glanced 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 will come with a set of instructions that specifies the appropriate cooling rate and holding time for that particular 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 risk compromising 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 essential component 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."

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 moments later, she returned, holding a small rectangular 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 this company, I noticed that the pocket watch you use has cracked glass. I figured you'd need a new one to keep track of time," she explained, 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 occasion."

"Well, I'm glad 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 place. "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 occupied since their arrival in this world, they are the ones who filled in the blanks. 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.