Creating an Industrial Empire in 19th Century Parallel World

Three months into the escalating conflict in Europe, the formidable industrialist pair continued their work with unyielding determination. Despite their usual close collaboration, Poul managed operations from Pittsburgh, while Jonathan journeyed to New York for a crucial client meeting.

Seated in the renowned Delmonico's restaurant in New York, Jonathan found himself across from the elegant Caroline, who dined on her steak with poise and grace.

As the soft glow of the chandeliers cast a warm ambiance over their table, Jonathan couldn't help but be captivated by Caroline's presence. Her intelligent eyes sparkled with curiosity as she listened intently to Jonathan's story, clearly intrigued by the events that occurred three months ago.

"Pray tell, are you suggesting that Poul's girlfriend from the real world has arrived, and she is none other than the daughter of the Duke of Wessex?" Caroline inquired delicately, taking a measured sip of her wine. "I must confess, this revelation does not entirely surprise me."

Jonathan furrowed his brow, curiosity piqued. "What do you mean by that?"

Caroline's eyes gleamed with intrigue. "It has long been apparent to me that there is an air of mystery surrounding Lady Penelope Ascart. Consider the improbability of a sheltered young lady possessing such extensive medical knowledge, even to the extent of saving the British Empire from a devastating cholera outbreak. I mean, it is completely obvious that she's from this world. Though I didn't expect that it would be Poul's girl from the original world."

"No one expected it," Jonathan said. "We didn't expect Sara to die in a car accident while she was on her way to the coffee shop where we got killed."

"So, what's going to happen between them now?" Caroline asked.

"Well, Poul told me that they want to stay together, but given their circumstances where Poul is an Albian and Penelope is a princess herself and is engaged with the Crown Prince of the British Empire, it will not be easy."

"I assume that it is a mutual decision by the two?" Caroline commented. "I must say, it is going to be a difficult case, I wonder how it will unfold. Let's set that topic of discussion aside and let's get to business. So, I was told on the telephone that you are going to start your electric distribution company soon and you want me to invest."

"We could have gone to John Morgan, but he is already backing James Russell. It will be hard for us to convince him and besides, he already invested in our enterprises."

"How much are you asking?" Caroline asked, her brows raised inquisitively as she awaited Jonathan's response.

Jonathan leaned in, adopting a more businesslike demeanor. "We're looking for an investment of $2 million to launch our electric distribution company. Your support would not only provide us with the necessary capital but also lend credibility to our venture."

Caroline considered his proposal thoughtfully, swirling the wine in her glass. "I must say, I'm intrigued by the potential of your company and I know it is going to replace the current system, which is the direct current. However, I'll need to examine the business plan and financial projections in greater detail before making a commitment."

"Of course," Jonathan agreed, understanding the importance of due diligence. "I have prepared all the necessary documents for your perusal, and I'm confident that you'll find our plans both ambitious and feasible."

As their discussion continued, Jonathan and Caroline delved into the intricacies of the electric distribution market.

Jonathan cleared his throat, this conversation would be a formality, and he began outlining their strategy.

"Our primary goal is to build a comprehensive electric distribution network that serves both urban and rural areas. We plan to focus on our alternating current technology, which we believe has significant advantages over the direct current systems employed by the likes of James Russell Electric Company."

Caroline nodded thoughtfully. "The prospect of more efficient and versatile power transmission is certainly appealing. However, I foresee regulatory hurdles and potential resistance from existing power providers who have invested in direct current systems. How do you plan to address these challenges?"

"You raise valid concerns," Jonathan acknowledged. "To mitigate these risks, we intend to work closely with regulators and demonstrate the benefits of our alternating current technology. Additionally, we aim to create mutually beneficial arrangements with existing utilities to ensure a smooth transition."

Caroline furrowed her brow, probing further. "What about the competition? As you mentioned earlier, James Russell's venture has substantial backing, and his direct current system is already being implemented. How will your company differentiate itself?"

Jonathan leaned in confidently. "While Russell's operation is formidable, we believe our emphasis on innovation and our advanced alternating current system will set us apart. Poul and I have already invented induction motors, transformers, and other technologies that make alternating current transmission not only feasible but also more efficient and cost-effective."

Intrigued, Caroline continued her inquiry. "I've heard about the potential benefits of alternating current, including its ability to transmit power over greater distances with reduced power loss. However, there are concerns about safety and public perception. How do you plan to address these issues?"

Jonathan nodded, understanding the importance of addressing safety concerns. "We are fully aware of these concerns, and our priority is to ensure the safety and reliability of our system. We will invest in thorough testing, research, and development to refine our technologies, and we'll collaborate with leading experts to certify the safety of our infrastructure. Furthermore, we will engage in public education campaigns to address misconceptions and build trust in our system."

Caroline seemed satisfied with his response. "I must say, your vision is compelling, and your dedication to innovation is commendable."

"Caroline, do you truly believe this conversation is necessary?" Jonathan inquired gently. "Surely you recognize the potential of alternating current to revolutionize the electric industry."

Caroline's gaze was unwavering as she responded, "Jonathan, there is no doubt that you and your partner possess remarkable ingenuity, creating technologies that are beyond this world's comprehension. However, I must ensure that you are equally adept at navigating the complexities of the business landscape. Many inventors excel in their craft but falter when it comes to marketing their creations. Do you understand my concerns?"

"Yes we do," Jonathan mumbled.

Caroline smiled and looked over at the documents Jonathan handed to her.

I will look over these documents and give you my decision within a week," Caroline promised. "In the meantime, I have some news to share with you, and I'm sure you are going to like it."

"Oh?" Jonathan mused. "What might that be?"

"New York City is experiencing a massive population growth due to immigration and rapid urbanization," Caroline explained. "The city's infrastructure is struggling to keep up with the increasing demands, and the Board of Transportation is desperately seeking solutions to improve the city's transport network."

Jonathan listened intently, curious about where this might be leading.

Caroline continued, "Given your expertise in civil engineering and your partner's expertise in electrical engineering, you two are well-equipped to create a comprehensive solution to the city's transportation needs. I suggest that you explore the possibility of designing and constructing an electric metro system for New York City."

Jonathan's eyes widened as he considered the implications of Caroline's suggestion. Not only would such a project be an incredible opportunity to showcase their skills and innovations, but it would also demonstrate the practical applications of their alternating current technology.

"That's an intriguing proposition, Caroline," Jonathan admitted. "It would certainly be a groundbreaking endeavor and could revolutionize urban transportation. I'll discuss this idea with Poul, and we'll explore the feasibility of such a project."

Caroline nodded, satisfied with his response. "I believe this venture has the potential to significantly benefit both your company and the city of New York. If you decide to pursue this idea, I'm confident that the Board of Transportation would be eager to work with you."

"Yeah, and I'm getting filled with ideas right now. This world still uses steam locomotives as the primary way of transportation. That won't work on Metro as it will choke the passengers with its smoke and fumes. That means we will have to design a locomotive that runs on electricity."

"That's why I called it an electric metro system," Caroline reiterated. "I'm sure you know how to build an electric locomotive, right?"

"Indeed, do you know, before we got here, we were working on a railway project? Poul was to design a new electric locomotive and I was to design the infrastructure. We can do it, but building such a system is a huge undertaking. Not to mention we are busy in our enterprises, especially the Arms Manufacturing Company."

"So I heard," Caroline chuckled. "Countries who were participating in the Crimean War are ordering rifles from your companies and the United States, seeing its effectiveness in warfare is ordering more. It is true what they say, that there is always money in guns."

"That's right," Jonathan smiled. "Well, what do you want to do after this? Can I take you out later? No business talks or anything, just you and I, knowing each other?"

Caroline smiled warmly, her eyes sparkling with genuine interest. "I would be delighted, Jonathan. It's been far too long since we've had a chance to catch up on a personal level. I look forward to it."