Creating an Industrial Empire in 19th Century Parallel World

A week after the election in the United States, former Lieutenant Colonel Richards received an urgent summons to the United States Legation. He was riding a palanquin, a basic mode of transportation in the country that was carried by a group of skilled bearers.

Seated comfortably within the palanquin, Richards watched as the bustling cityscape of Hanseong unfolded before him. The rhythmic cadence of the bearers' footsteps echoed through the narrow streets as they skillfully maneuvered through the crowds. Colorful market stalls lined the thoroughfares, filled with merchants hawking their wares — fragrant spices, intricate textiles, and various exotic goods that had made their way to the bustling capital from distant lands.

Through the latticed windows of the palanquin, Richards caught glimpses of the city's diverse inhabitants, dressed in traditional hanboks, the country's traditional attire. He marveled at the vibrant hues and intricate embroidery that adorned their garments.

Beautiful as it may be, their way of life was primitive compared to the United States. There were not many electric or telegraph lines, there were no trams that ran through the streets, and automobiles were a rare sight. No wonder why the Japanese were able to bully the Kingdom of Joseon due to its technological inferiority.

Arriving at the United States legation, the bearers of the palanquin carefully set it down on the ground, allowing Richards to step out onto the grand courtyard of the legation. The atmosphere shifted from the vibrant chaos of the streets to a more tranquil and ordered environment. Neatly trimmed hedges lined the pathways, leading to the majestic main building.

Richards was greeted by the sight of the American flag fluttering proudly in the breeze, standing tall beside the flag of the Joseon Kingdom. The legation itself was an architectural marvel, with its imposing colonial-style façade and meticulously manicured gardens.

"Uhm…this is 5 won…gamsahabnida," Richards said slowly as he handed a bill to the bearers, expressing his gratitude for their service. The bearers bowed respectfully before making their way back into the city, leaving Richards standing in front of the legation.

A soldier donned in a United States Marine Corps uniform approached Richards, saluting him with a crisp motion. "Captain Richards, welcome to the United States Legation. I am Sergeant Johnson, here to accompany you inside. The Ambassador is eager for your arrival."

Captain Richards returned the salute and nodded, his curiosity piqued. "Thank you, Sergeant Johnson. Lead the way. I'm eager to meet the Ambassador and hear about this urgent summons."

Sergeant Johnson guided Captain Richards through the grand entrance of the legation. Moments later, they arrived at a spacious office, where Ambassador John M. B. Sill. a seasoned diplomat with graying hair and a warm smile, stood to welcome them.

"Captain Richards, I'm glad you could join us. Please, have a seat."

Richards took a chair across the polished wooden desk, his eyes falling on the ambassador.

"Before we begin, do you want something to drink? We have whiskey, scotch, literally everything," Ambassador Sill gestured toward a well-stocked drinks cabinet situated in a corner of the office.

Richards smirked and replied, "Whiskey, please. A little liquid courage never hurts."

The ambassador chuckled and poured two glasses of whiskey, sliding one across the desk to Richards. They raised their glasses in a toast before taking a sip.

"So, you are the captain of the Aegis Tactical Service, a private military company owned by no other than the two geniuses of our beloved nation."

"That is correct, Mr. Ambassador, though I'm still curious as to why you summoned me here. Not to mention that meeting with you is dangerous, especially when the Japanese figured this out. They might think that the United States is directly involved in the operation we would soon conduct."

"Ah…so you were worried about that huh?" John chuckled and waved his hand dismissively. "Don't worry, I won't do anything that would implicate our beloved nation to whatever you are going to do to the Japanese. I summoned you because I want to inform you that your boss didn't win the presidential election…"

"Is that so?" Richards mused. "Well, that's sad and good at the same time. With him not being the president means our beloved country wouldn't be implicated. It will only be him. Though I am worried that their business with Japan might be affected, I'm just a soldier, I don't meddle in such things. I am doing what I'm told to do by the country…Oh, I am not a soldier anymore, but a mercenary."

John scoffed. "Whatever you are planning to do, make it quick. The Japanese have already raised questions yesterday as to why you and your men are here. They fear that you are training the Joseon Royal Army, to which we deny any connection with you and your employer…."

He paused as he noticed a noise coming outside. He looked out of the window and saw two Japanese soldiers at the gate.

"Speaking of the devil..." John muttered under his breath, his expression tense. The two Japanese soldiers at the gate were a clear indication that their presence had already drawn suspicion. Richards could feel the weight of the situation intensify as he observed the soldiers conversing with the United States Marine guards stationed at the entrance.

"Let me escort you outside, Mr. Richards," John said, his voice filled with urgency. The ambassador swiftly moved towards the door, Richards following closely behind.

As they approached the gate, the United States Marine guards maintained a calm and composed demeanor while engaging in a conversation with the Japanese soldiers. Richards could see the soldiers' stern expressions and the hint of suspicion in their eyes.

Ambassador Sill raised his voice, projecting an air of authority. "Gentlemen, is there a problem?"

The marine who was blocking them turned and spoke. "Sir, they are asking for an audience with you about him…"

Captain Richards pointed to himself. "Me? What do those Japanese want to know about me?"

"You!" The Japanese officer pointed his finger at him. "What are you doing in this country?" He spoke in English with a heavy Japanese accent.

"That's not your concern," Richards simply said.

"You come here in this country with guns, what are you planning to do huh?!" The officer continued, his voice growing more confrontational.

"I will say again, our visit here is not your concern," Richards repeated.

"This damn Yankee…" the officer growled in his native tongue.

"Uhm... gentlemen," John finally stepped forward. "I believe we spoke yesterday. I am the Ambassador of this legation, and I must remind you that entering our premises without an appointment infringes upon the sanctity of diplomatic premises and violates international law. I kindly request that you both leave immediately, or I will be compelled to contact the Japanese Embassy and lodge a formal complaint against your actions. I'm sure you are aware of the severe consequences that such a complaint could entail."

The Japanese officer scoffed.

"What's your name, sir?" Richard asked.

"I'm Colonel Takamura," he replied. "I'll be watching your every move sir..?"

"Richards…Captain Richards."

"Richards," Takamura repeated before turning to his partner. "Ikuzo."

As the two Japanese officers walked away, Richards sighed. "This is going to be a heck of a challenge,"