Building a Conglomerate in Another World

The following week, Governor Matthew Hesh issued a series of administrative and economic reforms aimed at stabilizing and revitalizing the newly acquired northern territories. His first public announcement was made in the town square of Nueva Esperanza, a recently renamed settlement near the largest oil field. The people gathered cautiously, many still harboring deep resentment and fear after the war. Armed Amerathian soldiers kept a discreet watch over the crowd, though Matthew had ordered them to maintain a non-threatening presence.

Standing on a makeshift podium, Matthew addressed the crowd with a steady voice. Amber stood by his side, along with local officials he had appointed to serve in key positions. Translators were on hand to ensure his words reached every ear.

"Citizens of this territory," Matthew began, his tone firm but measured, "I know that recent events have brought pain and hardship. Your homes, your families, and your way of life have been shaken by conflict. But today, I stand before you not as a conqueror, but as someone who believes in building a future together. We have an opportunity to create prosperity in these lands—an opportunity I want to share with you."

The crowd murmured in confusion and skepticism. For many, the idea that Amerathia would bring anything other than occupation and exploitation seemed absurd.

Matthew continued, "Starting today, new reforms will be enacted to ensure economic stability and growth. The first of these reforms is the establishment of a fair labor system. Anyone willing to work will be given opportunities in infrastructure projects, agriculture, and the development of local industries—including our expanding oil operations. Wages will be competitive, and skilled labor will be prioritized for training programs."

The mention of wages and training caught the attention of several locals in the crowd. A middle-aged man near the front, a former dockworker named Miguel Alvarez, stepped forward.

"Governor," Miguel called out, his voice cautious but clear, "we've heard promises before from foreign powers. They take our resources and leave us with nothing. How do we know you won't do the same?"

Matthew met Miguel's gaze without hesitation. "That's a fair question, and I won't deny your right to be skeptical. But let me tell you this: we need each other. Amerathia wants this region to thrive because it benefits us both. The oil and industries here will drive prosperity for generations. But that can only happen if the local population is invested in the success of these projects. I won't succeed unless you do."

More murmurs rippled through the crowd, but now there were glimmers of cautious optimism. Miguel nodded slowly but didn't say more.

Matthew moved on to the next set of reforms. "To support our workforce, we're also implementing education and healthcare initiatives. Schools will be rebuilt and expanded, offering programs focused on technical skills and engineering. Our healthcare system will include new clinics staffed by medical professionals, with priority given to areas hit hardest by the war."

Amber stepped forward and added, "These measures aren't just words on paper. Construction of new schools and clinics begins this month. We've already allocated resources from both local revenue and Amerathian investment funds to ensure that these projects are completed on schedule."

The crowd's attitude began to shift. A young woman, Maria Ortega, who had lost her brother during the bombing, hesitated for a moment before asking, "And what about those of us who lost everything? Our homes, our families? Will there be any compensation?"

Matthew took a deep breath, aware of the delicate nature of her question. "I can't undo what's been lost, Maria. No one can. But what I can do is ensure that survivors have access to housing, jobs, and support. The government will assist in rebuilding homes and providing food supplies. It won't happen overnight, but we will rebuild together."

Maria gave a slow nod, her expression softening slightly. The crowd began murmuring in agreement, though there were still signs of unease and mistrust.

Building Local Administration

Following the public announcement, Matthew met with his newly appointed administrative council. The group consisted of both Amerathian officials and prominent local figures, including Miguel Alvarez, who had been nominated by the townspeople to represent their interests.

"The people are starting to come around," Miguel said during the meeting. "But they'll need to see results soon. Words alone won't win them over."

"I understand," Matthew replied. "That's why we're moving forward with immediate projects. Infrastructure comes first—roads, water systems, and electricity grids. We can't build industry without those foundations."

Amber handed out detailed project timelines to the council members. "We've contracted several engineering firms to begin work on key infrastructure corridors. Our goal is to connect every major town to the ports and oil fields within the next eighteen months."

One of the Amerathian advisors, Robert McKinley, raised a concern. "Governor, what about resistance groups? We've had multiple reports of sabotage attempts on supply lines. If they escalate their activities, it could cripple our progress."

General Hayes, also present at the meeting, spoke up. "We've already increased patrols and checkpoints, but we'll need more cooperation from local leaders to prevent sympathizers from aiding the resistance."

Matthew turned to Miguel. "You know the local dynamics better than we do. What's your take?"

Miguel sighed. "There are still pockets of loyalists to the old government, but most people just want stability. If we show them that this new administration can provide jobs and security, support for the resistance will dwindle."

Matthew nodded. "Then that's our strategy. Focus on winning hearts and minds. Keep the security measures tight, but don't overreach. We need the locals to trust that we're here to protect, not oppress."

Within weeks, construction crews began making visible progress. Roads connecting key towns were cleared and reinforced, and the first shipments of heavy equipment arrived at the oil fields. Temporary housing projects for displaced families were established near major construction sites, providing both shelter and employment opportunities.

Local reactions varied. Some residents remained wary, watching the Amerathian projects unfold with guarded eyes. Others, seeing the tangible improvements, began to offer their support. Miguel and other community leaders acted as intermediaries, helping to bridge the gap between the local population and the new administration.

However, not everything went smoothly. One evening, a convoy transporting construction materials was ambushed near a remote village. Two Amerathian soldiers were killed, and several trucks were destroyed. The attack sent shockwaves through the camp, prompting heightened security measures.

In a meeting the next morning, General Hayes reported on the incident. "The attackers fled into the jungle. We're tracking them, but they know the terrain better than we do. This won't be the last attempt."

Matthew's expression darkened. "I want every convoy escorted by armed patrols from now on. And increase our intelligence efforts. We need to know who's behind these attacks and cut off their support network."

Amber added, "We can't let this derail our progress. The locals need to see that we're not intimidated."

"They will," Matthew said firmly. "This is a test, and we're going to pass it. The future of this territory depends on it."

Despite the challenges, the project pressed forward. The foundations of refineries, schools, and clinics began to take shape, and for the first time since the war ended, the people of the northern provinces saw a glimmer of hope for a better future.