Building a Conglomerate in Another World

October 20th, 1880.

The cool autumn air was crisp, with a hint of moisture that clung to the early morning mist blanketing the rail yard. The steam locomotive stood ready on a section of track, its polished metal glinting under the pale sunlight. The train was prepared for its maiden test with the newly integrated air brake system—a moment that would determine whether their efforts would pay off.

A makeshift stage had been erected beside the locomotive, adorned with a banner that read, Revolutionizing Railway Safety: The Air Brake Demonstration. Rows of chairs had been arranged in front of the stage for the investors and other distinguished guests. Among them sat prominent figures, including Charles Fitzwilliam, the wealthiest industrialist in the Great Republic.

Matthew stood off to the side, hands clasped tightly behind his back as he watched Mr. Hargrave shake hands with the guests. Hargrave's voice boomed with cordiality as he introduced key members of the engineering team and spoke of the day's significance. The investors nodded as he introduced them.

"Gentlemen, if I may have your attention," Hargrave said, turning to the audience with a flourish. "Today, we are gathered to witness a new chapter in railway technology. But before we proceed with the demonstration, allow me to introduce the mind behind this ambitious project—Mr. Matthew Hesh."

Matthew stepped forward, taking a deep breath to steady himself as he climbed onto the stage. The faces of the assembled crowd glistened with interest, including the unflinching gaze of Charles Fitzwilliam, whose presence alone raised the stakes.

"Thank you, Mr. Hargrave," Matthew began. "Distinguished guests. For too long, railway travel has relied on manual systems prone to error, delays, and, most concerning, accidents. But today, we take a step toward changing that reality."

Murmurs rippled through the crowd, and Matthew could see some investors leaning forward in their seats, intrigued.

"That boy looked young," Fitzwilliam commented.

"That's what I thought about him in the first place. But when you speak to him, it sounded like he had a decade of experience," Hargrave replied in a whisper.

"The air brake system you are about to see in action is designed to synchronize the braking of every car in a train simultaneously. This means no more inconsistent application, no more dangerous lags that put passengers and cargo at risk. This system will not only improve efficiency but will set a new standard for safety across the industry."

He paused, letting the weight of his words sink in. Fitzwilliam's brow arched slightly—a subtle signal that he was paying close attention.

"Imagine a train hurtling along the tracks at full speed, its engineer needing to stop on a dime. With manual brakes, it's a gamble. With this system, it's a guarantee. 

This is not just an advancement; it is a necessity for an industry poised for growth and greater speeds. Safety must evolve alongside ambition."

A few nods and a smattering of applause came from the crowd, but the true test lay ahead. Matthew gestured to the locomotive behind him. "Now, we will demonstrate what theory and dedication have brought us. I invite you all to witness the power of synchronized, automated braking."

With a nod to the engineers positioned by the train, the locomotive's whistle shrieked, and a hiss of steam billowed out as the engine moved forward. It picked up speed, chugging along the track until it reached the designated point for the brake test. The crowd hushed as the engineer in the cab activated the air brake system.

The entire assembly watched with bated breath as the brakes engaged. The hiss of released air swept through the system, and, almost as if the train itself responded to a silent command, it slowed smoothly and halted within seconds.

A stunned silence gripped the audience, quickly replaced by a wave of gasps and applause. Investors exchanged looks of astonishment and approval, while Fitzwilliam's lips curled into a faint smile.

"Amazing…there was no brakeman on top, and yet it stopped," one of the investors remarked, his eyes wide with disbelief. 

"Everyone," Matthew called their attention once more. "I present to you, the air brake system."

Matthew concluded his demonstration with a flourished gesture, stepping down from the stage to the sound of more applause. The engineers behind him exchanged proud nods and smiles, knowing they had just witnessed a pivotal moment in railway history.

He walked over to Mr. Hargrave, where he spoke.

"So, Mr. Hargrave. What do you think?" 

"It's beyond my expectations," Hargrave replied, a proud gleam in his eyes as he watched the crowd continue their excited conversations. "You've done something remarkable here, Matthew. This is going to change the face of the railway industry—not just here, but everywhere."

Before Matthew could respond, Charles Fitzwilliam approached with an entourage of sharply dressed men, each radiating a sense of wealth and influence. Fitzwilliam's eyes held a mix of curiosity and respect as he extended his hand to Matthew.

"Young man, you have a great mind. Truly a gift to the republic. Now, I'm sure of your invention, you'd want to get it across every railway company."

"Uhm…nope, the invention of the air brake is under my authority," Hargrave interjected smoothly, placing a firm hand on Matthew's shoulder. His tone was polished, but there was an unmistakable undertone of ownership. "As the financier and head of this establishment, the air brake system is a product of Hargrave's Railway Company. Without our facilities, resources, and my vision to take risks, none of this would have been possible."

Matthew remained silent, though a subtle tension tightened his jaw. He had anticipated this moment, knowing Hargrave would seize the spotlight and claim the invention as his own. It was a practical move on Hargrave's part; the man had, after all, funded every aspect of the project. But Matthew wasn't here to contest ownership; he had a different plan.

"Mr. Hargrave is right. This facility and his support made the development of this system possible," Matthew said, taking a moment to acknowledge Hargrave with a slight nod. "And now, as this invention enters the market, I only ask for one thing—compensation for my work. I am willing to sell the design, technical know-how, and rights to the air brake system for an agreed-upon sum. It will be yours to implement, expand, and profit from."

"Hoh…" Fitzwilliam mused, as he noticed Matthew having this vibe of a businessman. 

"How much are you asking for?" Hargrave asked.

Matthew met Hargrave's gaze with unwavering confidence. "Fifty thousand florin,"

The eyes of the investors widened in surprise, while Hargrave's expression shifted from pride to slight apprehension. Fitzwilliam's brow arched higher, a look of appraisal settling on his face. He nodded slowly, acknowledging the weight behind the sum.

"That's quite a figure, young man," Fitzwilliam said, a slight smirk playing on his lips. "But considering what we've just witnessed, I dare say it's justified."

Hargrave's jaw tightened as he processed the situation. He glanced at Matthew, realizing that this young engineer had just maneuvered himself into a position of power, even under Hargrave's roof. But the glint in Fitzwilliam's eyes suggested he was intrigued, and that was not an opportunity to be missed.

"It is a steep price," Hargrave interjected, his tone measured. "But if Mr. Fitzwilliam and others here are willing to back this endeavor, it could very well be the most profitable investment of the decade."

Fitzwilliam looked around at the other investors, who were nodding and whispering among themselves. "Well, Hargrave, I'm not one to shy away from a good opportunity," he said. "Fifty thousand florin is an investment worth considering for a system that could revolutionize the railway industry across continents, and even other countries."

Hargrave straightened, a faint smile returning to his face as he extended a hand to Matthew. "It seems we have an agreement to discuss, Matthew."