Building a Conglomerate in Another World

The late afternoon sun cast a warm glow over the sprawling grounds of Hesh Industries as Matthew returned to his workshop. He had left the War Ministry with a clear mission: to bring his ideas for wireless telegrams and more efficient battlefield vehicles to life. The faint hum of activity in the factory greeted him, a constant reminder of the work that never ceased.

Matthew entered his private workshop, a spacious room filled with blueprints, mechanical parts, and half-assembled prototypes. His lead engineer, Robert Anders, was already waiting for him, scribbling notes on a clipboard.

"Robert," Matthew said as he shrugged off his coat, "we have a lot to do."

Robert looked up. "Let me guess—more ideas from the military?"

"Not just ideas," Matthew replied, walking over to his workbench and unrolling a fresh sheet of drafting paper. "Direct feedback and new demands. The generals are thrilled with the performance of the rifles and machine guns, but they're underusing the automobiles. They're treating them like glorified wagons."

Robert frowned. "That doesn't sound like a smart use of what we've built."

"It's not," Matthew said firmly. "And it's up to us to show them how to use these vehicles effectively. But there's more. I need to develop a system for wireless telegrams—portable communication devices for the battlefield."

Robert's eyebrows shot up. "Wireless communication? That's ambitious, even for you."

Matthew smiled faintly. "Ambitious, yes, but necessary. Imagine troops being able to relay orders or call for reinforcements instantly, without relying on runners or fixed telegraph lines. It could change everything."

Robert scratched his head, clearly intrigued but cautious. "Do you have any idea where to start with that?"

"I have some concepts," Matthew said, pulling out a notebook filled with rough sketches and notes. "We'll need to experiment with electromagnetic waves and build a prototype transmitter and receiver. It won't be easy, but if we succeed, it'll be revolutionary."

Robert nodded slowly. "And the vehicles?"

"We need to rethink their role entirely," Matthew explained. "Instead of just moving supplies, they should be integral to combat. Armed convoys, rapid troop transport, reconnaissance—they're capable of so much more."

Robert tapped his pencil against the clipboard, his mind already racing. "That means modifying the vehicles. Reinforced armor, mounted weapons, better engines for speed and endurance."

"Exactly," Matthew said. "And I want to create a demonstration for the military—show them what these vehicles can do when used strategically."

Robert grinned. "You always aim high, Matt. Let's get to work."

The two men dove into the task, their focus unwavering. Matthew sketched designs for a wireless transmitter while Robert began drafting blueprints for modified vehicles. The workshop buzzed with activity as they collaborated, their energy fueled by the vision of a more advanced battlefield.

***

A week later, Matthew stood in the testing field behind the factory. Before him were two modified automobiles, their sleek frames now reinforced with steel plates and mounted with light machine guns. One vehicle bore an experimental wireless transmitter, its antenna extending high into the air.

Robert joined him, holding a clipboard and looking pleased with their progress. "The modifications are ready, and the transmitter is operational—at least in theory."

Matthew nodded. "Good. Let's see what they can do."

He signaled to the test drivers, who climbed into the vehicles and started the engines. The machines roared to life, their new engines more powerful and responsive than before. The first vehicle sped across the field, its mounted gun swiveling to target practice dummies set up in the distance. The gunner opened fire, the machine gun rattling as it shredded the targets with ease.

The second vehicle demonstrated the transmitter. A nearby technician sent a message from a portable receiver, and moments later, a light on the transmitter flashed, signaling successful communication.

"It works," Robert said, a note of awe in his voice.

"It's a start," Matthew replied, though he allowed himself a small smile. "But we're not done yet. I want these vehicles to be faster and more versatile. And the communication range needs to be extended."

As the tests continued, Matthew's mind buzzed with possibilities. He could already imagine fleets of these vehicles on the battlefield, coordinating attacks and relaying vital information. The potential was limitless, and he was determined to see it realized.

***

Two days later, Matthew returned to the War Ministry with his prototypes and test results in tow. General Warner and his staff gathered in the courtyard to witness the demonstration. The mood was one of cautious optimism; the generals had seen Matthew's innovations succeed before, but this was uncharted territory.
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Matthew stepped forward, addressing the assembled officers. "Gentlemen, what you're about to see is a glimpse of the future. These vehicles are not just transport—they are tools of strategy and power. And this transmitter represents the next step in battlefield communication."

He motioned to the first vehicle, which roared to life and sped across the courtyard. The driver executed sharp turns and sudden stops, showcasing the machine's agility. The gunner fired at mock targets, the mounted weapon proving its accuracy and firepower.

The second vehicle demonstrated the wireless telegram. A technician sent a message from a receiver positioned at the far end of the courtyard, and the transmitter responded instantly.

The generals murmured among themselves, clearly impressed. Warner stepped forward, his expression thoughtful. "This is impressive, Hesh. These vehicles could indeed change how we approach warfare. And the communication system—how far can it reach?"

"Currently, only a few miles," Matthew admitted. "But with further refinement, I believe we can extend that range significantly."

Brigadier General Grant nodded. "The potential is undeniable. If we can coordinate our forces in real-time, it would give us an unmatched advantage."

Warner turned to Matthew, his tone firm but approving. "You've exceeded expectations once again, Mr. Hesh. We'll support the development of these technologies. But time is of the essence—can you deliver quickly?"

Matthew met his gaze without hesitation. "I'll work day and night if I have to, General. You have my word."

As the demonstration concluded, Matthew felt a surge of determination. The path ahead was challenging, but the rewards were immense. With the Republic's support, his innovations could shape the future of warfare—and secure victory on the battlefield.