Creating an Industrial Empire in 19th Century Parallel World

Returning back to Pittsburgh, Poul and Sara head up to the main office where they see Amelia and Jonathan having a conversation.

"So you are saying that even Mr. Russell's current can be used as a current for the electric chair?" Amelia asked, her voice filled with curiosity and a hint of concern.

Jonathan nodded thoughtfully, his eyes fixed on Amelia. "I believe it's possible," he replied. "Direct current has been utilized in various applications, and while I haven't personally seen it, the fundamental principles of electricity suggest that it could work."

"No it wouldn't," Poul walked forward, startling the two.

"Poul?" Jonathan gasped softly. "You already returned…with Sara I see," Jonathan said, scanning Sara's appearance. He noticed a ring on her index finger, suggesting that there had been a development on their date. But it wasn't the right time to bring that up. "Why do you say that direct current can't be used on electric chairs?"

Poul cleared his throat, taking a moment to gather his thoughts.

"Well, Jonathan, while the direct current does have its applications, using it in electric chairs for execution purposes presents several technical and practical challenges," he explained.

"First and foremost. AC allows for a cyclical flow of electricity, which is crucial in inducing the necessary physiological effects to execute a person. The alternating nature of AC ensures that the body experiences a series of muscular contractions, which increases the chances of successful execution."

Amelia and Jonathan exchanged a puzzled look, their curiosity piqued. "But what specifically makes alternating current more suitable for this purpose?" Amelia asked, leaning in closer.

Poul continued. "One key reason is the phenomenon of tetanus, which occurs when muscles contract and remain contracted due to a continuous electrical stimulus. AC current induces tetanus more effectively than DC, as the changing polarity of the current prevents the muscles from relaxing completely. This sustained contraction is necessary to ensure a swift and humane execution."

"Humane execution?" Amelia repeated. "So practically, you are saying that our electric current system is more suitable for electric chairs? Then what are we supposed to say once we arrive in New York and talk with Russell?"

"Compromise is the best option we could take," Poul replied. "You see, our system may be the best one for electric chairs. It would be disastrous PR for us. So tomorrow, you will speak with Mr. Russell, and discuss partnership. Don't misunderstand me for this. We are only ensuring that the execution won't be a botch."

"So we are simply going to let him get away with smearing us?" Jonathan asked.

Poul raised a hand, trying to temper the escalating tension in the room. "No, Jonathan, we are not letting him get away with anything. By pursuing a partnership, we can address the concerns raised by Mr. Russell while also maintaining our integrity and upholding the values we stand for…ideologically of course."

Jonathan chuckled. "Ahh... well, I would still give him a talking to. Oh since the issue with Mr. Russell has been brought up, Mr. Morgan would like to ask about our progress for the bid for the upcoming World's Fair that will be held in Ohio."

"Oh, the World's Fair bid. We've been making significant progress on that front. Amelia and I have been working diligently to gather all the necessary information and put together a compelling proposal. It will be completed next month, and will be presented at Ohio City Councils."

"Is that true, Amelia?" Jonathan flickered his gaze to Amelia.

Amelia nodded confidently. "Yes, Mr. Axelsen."

"Well, that's just about it. How's your date with Sara?" He paused…glancing at Sara's index finger. He is thinking of whether to bring it up or not. He chose the former. "I see that there is a ring on her finger. Does that signify what I think it does?"

Poul exchanged a knowing smile with Sara and nodded. "Yes, Jonathan, it does. During our time away, I asked Sara to marry me, and she said yes."

"Oh really? Congratulations to both of you," Jonathan said.

Jonathan's words trailed off as he noticed Amelia's reaction. The news of Poul's engagement hit her hard, and her face fell, betraying a mix of emotions that she struggled to conceal. Her heart sank, and a dull ache spread through her chest. She had hoped, secretly harbored feelings for Poul, but now those hopes seemed futile.

Amelia forced a smile, though it didn't quite reach her eyes.

"Congratulations to both of you," she managed to say, her voice slightly strained. She tried to push aside her disappointment and focus on being happy for Poul and Sara, but her inner turmoil was difficult to hide.

Poul, who had been oblivious to Amelia's feelings, glanced at her briefly, sensing a shift in her demeanor. Concern crossed his face, but he chose to stay quiet, they already cleared their relationship with one another but it seems as though Amelia is in a way affected by it.

"Thank you, you two, though don't expect that the wedding would be grand. You know our circumstances right?"

Poul's words hung in the air, a gentle reminder of the limitations they faced. Amelia nodded, trying to gather herself and maintain composure.

"Of course, Poul," she replied.

Jonathan, sensing the tension in the room, interjected with a supportive tone. "Poul, Sara, I wish you both the utmost happiness. It's a joyous occasion, and I'm sure your wedding will be beautiful in its own way, regardless of grandeur."

"And as for your future wedding as well, Jonathan," Poul laughed heartily. "Well, Jonathan I have something to discuss with you if you don't mind."

Jonathan tilted his head to the side. "What is it? Your tone sounded serious for a moment there."

"Sara, Amelia, would you please give us the room?"

Sara and Amelia exchanged a quick glance before excusing themselves from the room, leaving Poul and Jonathan alone. Once they were alone, Poul took a deep breath and looked at Jonathan with a mix of determination and seriousness.

"Jonathan, you played Call of Duty Advanced Warfare, right? Are you familiar with the antagonist of the story, a founder of a private military corporation Atlas?"

"I do recall playing that game, and yeah, I'm familiar with Atlas. Why are you bringing that up?"

"Well, Jonathan, for all intents and purposes, why don't we start our own private military company?"

"What…" Jonathan let out a forced chuckle. "Do what? Like the Atlas?"

Poul nodded. "Yes, something along those lines. You see, we have been reliant on our partners to the point that we are only reacting to the problem that is being thrown at us. The private military company is a start for our offense. You know there's a low chance of me winning the presidency, so we must have something that can protect ourselves. From our enemy, specifically the King of the British Empire."

"I see where you are going, Poul. And I for one agree with it. I can see the prospect of that enterprise once we expanded overseas. You have my full backing."

"Thank you, Jonathan. Though I'll still try to win that presidency, even if the chances are slim."