November 30th, 892. Back in the United States, the industrialist duo, Poul and Jonathan were getting ready for another unveiling of a new invention. From all around the world gathered in Pittsburgh to witness what surprise the industrialists have for the world…again.
"I'll go ahead and meet our foreign dignitaries, Poul," Jonathan said, waving his hand. "This is getting exciting, I can't wait to see the reactions on their faces when they see those beasts flying."
"Actually…Jonathan, there is something you might want to hear first before you head there."
Amelia's words halted Jonathan's steps, prompting him to turn around and face her.
"What is it?"
"It involves our foreign enterprises, Poul, Jonathan," Amelia began. "First in the Middle East, construction of the infrastructure to mine the oil is facing delay, one of the reasons being the transportation by an ultranationalist group of the country, they call themselves 'the Al-Katari'. They've been sabotaging our operations and causing significant disruptions."
"Al-Katari?" Poul repeated the name. "Are they acting independently or sponsored by the state?"
"Unfortunately Poul, we can't determine the nature of their group. One thing we know about them is that they hate foreigners infringing on their lands."
"Is that so?" Jonathan interjected. "How about the British then? They were given the right to explore oil fields in their country, right? So are they also being attacked? If not then there is something shady going there."
Amelia shook her head again. "That is also something we can't tell for certain but we are looking into it. The situation is complex, and we are working closely with our local contacts to gather more information and assess the extent of their activities."
"That damn Saud, he signed an exclusive contract with us and now he is violating every term on it," Jonathan sighed.
"It made my trip there practically useless," Poul exclaimed. "Well, let's do everything we can to protect the oil field we discovered."
"But…Poul, did you just listen to her report? It's going to be hard with those terrorist groups interfering with the logistics," Jonathan reminded. "It's like they are making it hard for us to stay in the country…" he paused as Jonathan realized something.
"Maybe that's it," Jonathan said. "Maybe they are paying those terrorist groups to
create chaos and drive us out of the country."
Poul and Amelia exchanged a worried glance.
"It is indeed a plausible theory," Amelia acknowledged, her voice laced with concern. "If they are indeed behind these attacks, it suggests a calculated effort to undermine our presence and gain control over the region's resources we took away from them, allowing them to gain an upper hand in future negotiations. Poul, Jonathan, if what I'm saying right now turns out to be true, then I suggest that we terminate the contract with Saud and lower the termination fee…"
"No, Amelia," Poul interrupted with a resolute tone. "Amelia, you have no idea how much value those oil reserves hold for us. Oil is the future, and there's no doubt that it will be the major cause of conflict in the coming decades or centuries. We won't be pushed back, not without a fight. Why do you think we established a private military company? To protect our interest abroad."
"I apologize for suggesting otherwise, Poul," Amelia said. "If you wish to hold on to that oil field, then as your executive secretary, I will do everything in my power to help you two."
"Speaking of the private military company, how are our forces doing in the Joseon Kingdom?" Jonathan asked.
"That's the second piece of news I was about to share with you. The Japanese are concerned about the presence of our private army in the region. They fear that our private army might take actions contrary to their interests."
"Of course, they would," Poul chortled. "I too would find it suspicious when an armed foreigner came to the territory my country would wish to annex. So we have Saudi Arabia acting against our interest and the Japanese preparing for a conflict with our private military. This month is truly an unlucky day for us. First I lost the presidential election and now this? Just what did I do wrong to deserve all of this? Karma? I don't think I have done something terribly wrong," Poul sighed, frustration evident in his voice.
The room went silent as the three individuals contemplated the gravity of the situation. The weight of the challenges they faced seemed insurmountable, but they were not ready to concede defeat. Poul's determination resurfaced, fueling his resolve.
"Amelia, the moment our private military finished the contract with the Hanseong, assigned them next to Saudi Arabia. Do they want to fight? Then let's give them a fight. We won't lose to their primitive forces who are still transitioning from bows and arrows."
Jonathan smiled, seeing that Poul was more motivated than ever. "I agree with you, Amelia. Make it a priority. Let's use Saud as an example if anyone attempts to renege on their agreement."
"Very well, Poul, Jonathan. I must also remind you that the operation of our private military will commence next week, so expect the media flooding to our doorsteps the day after the operation."
Poul and Jonathan nodded in unison. Poul glanced at his wristwatch, checking the time.
"Oops, let's move out now, the demonstration is starting soon."
***
In the makeshift runway near the Axelsen & Nielsen Corporation headquarters, hundreds of spectators, and media personnel flocked to the edge, eagerly awaiting the unveiling of Poul and Jonathan's latest invention. The crowd whispered with anticipation, speculating about what the industrialist duo had in store for them this time.
Dignitaries from other countries such as ambassadors, government officials, and influential figures had also gathered, adding an air of importance to the event. To make it even more special, even the newly-elected president of the United States attended the demonstration alongside his military advisors.
"Mr. Nielsen!" Cleveland called, waving his hand in the air to get Poul's attention.
"Mr. President, thank you for attending the unveiling," Poul said, extending his hand for a firm shake. "We are honored to have you here today."
Cleveland smiled, returning the handshake. "The honor is mine, Mr. Nielsen. I've heard remarkable things about your inventions, and I'm excited to witness this latest creation firsthand. And by the way, I hope that me winning the president election doesn't affect you in any way."
"I already accepted the truth, Mr. President. I lost the election fair and square, and I bear no ill will towards you. Our focus for today is another leap for humanity."
Cleveland laughed. "Very well, let's see it."
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