October 20th, 891. In the sprawling metropolis of New York, the city was abuzz with excitement as the doors of the grand Axelsen & Nielsen Automobile showroom opened for the very first time. The gleaming glass windows showcased a sight never before seen on the bustling streets—a revolutionary invention that promised to change the way people traveled.
Jonathan Nielsen and Poul Axelsen, the brilliant minds behind the enterprise, stood side by side, their faces beaming with pride and anticipation. Standing before the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Jonathan and Poul exchanged a glance, their eyes reflecting a mixture of nervousness and exhilaration. This moment marked the culmination of their tireless efforts and countless sleepless nights. The ribbon shimmered before them, a symbolic threshold between the past and the future.
With a deep breath, Jonathan reached for the oversized pair of golden scissors, his hands steady despite the surge of emotions coursing through him. The crowd fell silent, anticipation hanging in the air like a tangible presence. Poul, his voice filled with conviction, addressed the eager onlookers.
"Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed guests, and fellow pioneers of progress, today we stand at the threshold of a new era. Today, we unveil not just a mode of transportation, but a gateway to boundless possibilities. With the cutting of this ribbon, we invite you to step into the future—the future of mobility, convenience, and freedom!"
The crowd erupted into cheers, their applause thundering through the showroom and spilling out onto the bustling streets. Jonathan and Poul shared a triumphant smile, their hearts swelling with pride as they held the ribbon between them. And with one swift motion, the golden scissors sliced through the fabric, releasing a symphony of applause and jubilation.
As the ribbon fell to the ground, the doors of the Axelsen & Nielsen Automobile showroom swung open, revealing a dazzling display of automobiles that comes with different designs. The room was bathed in the warm glow of sunlight streaming through the large windows, illuminating the sleek curves and polished surfaces of the vehicles.
Guests stepped into the showroom, their eyes widening with wonder at the sight before them. Jonathan guided them while Poul conversed with Morgan.
"It feels like it was yesterday, and you never failed to deliver," Morgan remarked before sipping his champagne.
"Well, this is just the beginning, Mr. Morgan. You see, our target customers for this are our upper classes. Only they are the ones who can afford this vehicle right now. In a few years, it would be available for the masses," Poul replied, his gaze fixed on the gleaming automobiles before them.
"I can't really believe what I'm seeing right now," Morgan chuckled. "First the air brake, the signals, and then electricity, appliances, electric locomotive, and diesel automobile. Your invention has been revolutionary ever since you and your partner started."
"Well, what can I say, I'm just that good," Poul proudly said. "Oh, by the way, how is this looking for my presidential campaign?"
"Let me see," Morgan pondered aloud. "Your rate has been steadily climbing in the polls though there's no clear indication that you are going to win in this election. Well, that is to be expected from an independent candidate. For now, focus on the business, and let me do my magic in your political aspirations."
"If you say so, Mr. Morgan,"
As they clinked their glasses, the showroom continued to buzz with excitement. Renowned families of the United States were in attendance, all being presented by Jonathan and other engineers that went along with them.
"Oh, by the way, Poul," Morgan interrupted, his eyes glinting with curiosity. "Have you considered the potential military applications of your automobiles?"
Poul paused for a moment, his brow furrowing slightly. "Military? Ah…I see where this is going. Of course, it has applications, but we don't have a design suited for the specific needs of the military at the moment," Poul replied, carefully choosing his words.
"Is that so? I was wondering because I imagined soldiers, instead of charging with their horses, they are charging into battle with their automobiles," Morgan continued, his voice filled with intrigue. "Just picture it, Poul—a fleet of your vehicles thundering across the battlefield, delivering troops swiftly and efficiently to the front lines. It could revolutionize the way wars are fought."
"Our weapons have already revolutionized warfare but not a single battle is backing it. The military is constantly purchasing our weapons because they were amazed by it. But there's no war to test it out. Most of the conflict is in Europe," Poul said.
"I don't think so," Morgan said. "There is a rumor about the United States trying to take over Hawaii."
"Rumor?" Poul questioned, his curiosity piqued. "Are you suggesting that the United States might engage in a military conflict to expand its territories?"
Morgan nodded, his expression serious. "Indeed, there have been discussions within certain circles about the strategic importance of Hawaii and the potential benefits it could bring to the United States. While it may be mere speculation at this point, it wouldn't hurt to consider the possibility and be prepared. If you are really looking for a conflict, then look further East. The Qing Dynasty and the Empire of Japan are currently engaged in a bitter struggle for power and influence in Asia."
"Ah…" Poul realized what Morgan was referring to. The First Sino-Japanese War, which had begun in 1894 in his original world, was a conflict born out of territorial disputes and the quest for dominance in the East Asian region.
Of course, due to the technological superiority of the Japanese Empire, it was widely believed that they would emerge victorious in the war. However, one must remember that this was an alternate reality. If those two countries were to wage war with one another, Poul and Jonathan in support of the United States government would sell weapons to both sides, profiting from it. It's going to be a win-win situation for them. After all, in order for their weapon enterprise to keep going, it must have continuous demand.
A war would definitely create a high demand for their weapons. That's certain because Poul had already made business with the Japanese Empire where they sold them the AN-M1 rifles to quell the rebellion of the samurais whose rights and traditional privileges were being eroded by modernization.
Assuming that this world and his original world timeline flew the same, the war would start in three years. Poul has to be ready to take the opportunity.
