Building a Conglomerate in Another World

A week had passed since the tense meeting with the Japanese diplomats, and Hesh Industries had settled back into its regular rhythm. The hum of machinery echoed outside as engineers and workers moved with purpose. Matthew Hesh was at his desk, carefully studying the blueprint for a more efficient modular engine. Robert Anders entered with a knock, holding a letter in his hand.

"Matthew," Robert began, his voice tinged with curiosity, "you've got another delegation. This time, it's the Chinese Empire."

Matthew looked up from the blueprint, his expression serious. "The Chinese? Did they say what they want?"

Robert shook his head. "Not directly."

Matthew sighed and leaned back in his chair. "Interesting. Let's see what they have to say. Are they waiting in the lounge?"

"They are," Robert confirmed. "And they've brought their own tea, which, frankly, smells incredible."

Matthew chuckled. "It sounds like they're prepared. Let's not keep them waiting."

As Matthew entered the lounge, he found three men seated at a polished table, dressed in finely tailored traditional Chinese robes adorned with subtle embroidery. They rose as he entered, bowing slightly as a gesture of respect. The leader of the group, an older man with a composed demeanor, stepped forward.

"Mr. Hesh," he began in carefully enunciated English, "it is an honor to meet you. I am Ambassador Liu Chang, and these are my colleagues, Mr. Zhang Wei and Mr. Chen Xian. We represent the Chinese Empire."

Matthew inclined his head politely. "The honor is mine, Ambassador Liu. Please, have a seat."

The three men returned to their seats, and a servant of theirs poured tea from an ornate pot into delicate porcelain cups. Ambassador Liu gestured toward the tea.

"This is a fine blend from Fujian Province, Mr. Hesh. We hope you'll find it to your taste."

Matthew took a sip, savoring the rich, aromatic flavor. "It's excellent. Thank you for sharing it."

After a brief exchange of pleasantries, Ambassador Liu set his cup down, his tone becoming more formal.

"Mr. Hesh, we are aware of your recent meeting with representatives from the Japanese Empire. Allow me to assure you that our intentions are quite different from theirs."

Matthew raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "You're aware of that meeting?"

Zhang Wei, the younger of the delegation, spoke next, his tone matter-of-fact. "Our sources are well-informed, Mr. Hesh. We understand that they approached you with a proposal for exclusivity—one you wisely declined."

Matthew nodded but kept his expression neutral. "If you already know my stance on exclusivity, then you'll understand why I'm cautious about partnerships of this scale."

Chen Xian, the third member of the delegation, leaned forward slightly. "We respect your caution, Mr. Hesh. However, it's important for you to understand why the Japanese are so eager to secure your technology. There is a storm brewing in East Asia, and we are here to ensure that our nation is not left defenseless."

Matthew placed his cup down, his expression growing serious. "You're speaking of war."

Ambassador Liu nodded solemnly. "Indeed. While I cannot disclose the specific alignments, I can tell you this much: tensions in East Asia have reached a critical point. The Japanese are preparing for conflict, and they see your innovations as the key to securing dominance."
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Matthew's eyes narrowed. "And China's interest?"

Zhang Wei spoke again, his tone calm but resolute. "China's interest is stability, Mr. Hesh. Unlike the Japanese, we do not seek expansion or conquest. Our goal is to defend our borders and maintain peace within the region. For this reason, we are here to discuss a partnership that aligns with your values."

Chen Xian added, "We understand that you value the open exchange of ideas and resources. That is why we are not asking for exclusivity. Instead, we propose a mutually beneficial agreement that allows both our nations to prosper."

Ambassador Liu gestured toward Matthew. "Your designs have the potential to save lives, Mr. Hesh. By equipping our forces with your vehicles and weapons, you can help us maintain peace in a volatile region."

"But how does arming yourselves with my weapons maintain peace? Isn't that counterintuitive with what you are doing? If the Koreans or the Japanese were to see you equipped with my technology, they will see it as an escalation, not a step toward peace. How does arming yourselves with advanced weaponry ensure stability rather than provoke conflict?"

Ambassador Liu nodded slowly, acknowledging the validity of Matthew's concern. "You are correct, Mr. Hesh. The line between preparation and provocation is a delicate one. However, the reality of geopolitics is that strength deters aggression. A well-equipped China can discourage others from attempting to exploit us or destabilize the region."

Chen Xian added, his tone more assertive, "You must also consider the broader implications, Mr. Hesh. If Japan secures exclusive access to your technology, it will undoubtedly tilt the balance of power in their favor. That is a scenario we cannot afford, and I doubt it is one you would wish to enable."

"You are all missing one thing, I don't think I can make this decision alone. Arming any one of you would mean handing out the best technology there is in the field of military, and my nation won't simply ignore the implications of such a transaction. These technologies are not just a matter of private enterprise; they hold strategic value that extends far beyond what Hesh Industries alone can dictate. I would need to consult with the Republic's leadership before moving forward on any such deal."

"We anticipated as much, Mr. Hesh. Rest assured, we are prepared to engage with your government if necessary. However, we wished to approach you first to establish a foundation of mutual understanding."

Matthew nodded. "I appreciate the gesture of trust, Ambassador. Transparency is important to me, and I value knowing where you stand. Thank you, this meeting of ours is now dismissed."

As the Chinese delegation rose from their seats, Ambassador Liu extended a firm handshake to Matthew, a composed smile gracing his face.

"Thank you for your time, Mr. Hesh. We trust you will give our proposal the careful consideration it deserves."

Matthew nodded, his expression neutral yet polite. "I will, Ambassador. Safe travels back to your embassy."