Creating an Industrial Empire in 19th Century Parallel World

A day later, 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 display of technological marvels.

"Ms. Weiss, this is a remarkable invention," Mr. Smith commented with a warm smile. "I hope to witness even more groundbreaking creations from the talented founders."

"Thank you, Mr. Smith. Axelsen and Nielsen are committed 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 available? 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 become 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 relaying 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," Jonathan commanded.

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 accommodating my request, Mr. Axelsen, Mr. Morgan," replied the ambassador, returning the handshake. "I've heard remarkable things about your company'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. According to them, Poul Nielsen is engaged in an elaborate 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 your company. 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 slammed the table, producing a loud noise that startled the Ambassador.

"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 the lawsuit 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 just committed 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 glances, 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 escalating 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 to compete. Unfortunately, Poul Nielsen is the one who has come 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 your company and the potential advancements in national defense. However, we must also consider the delicate balance of international relations 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 declare 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 glance, 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 their company and their colleague, Poul Nielsen.