Building a Conglomerate in Another World

Chapter 81: Realizing the Potential

The chamber gradually emptied as the officers left, their footsteps echoing in the grand hall. General Nathaniel Warner lingered at the head of the table, his mind heavy with their recent discussions. He turned his gaze to the maps adorning the walls, his thoughts drawn to the broader implications of the Army Board’s decisions.

Warner straightened his uniform and walked to the window, where the sprawling training grounds of the United Army came into view.

Soldiers drilled with rifles, their movements precise and disciplined. The sight stirred a mix of pride and unease within him. These men relied on the Board to ensure they were equipped with the best tools possible—a responsibility Warner did not take lightly.

His moment of solitude was interrupted by a soft knock on the door. Major Theodore Calloway entered, carrying a leather-bound ledger. The younger officer saluted crisply before stepping closer.

"General, I wanted to discuss the next steps for the proposal," Calloway said, his tone eager but measured.

Warner nodded, gesturing for him to take a seat. "Go ahead, Major. What’s on your mind?" Read exclusive content at novelhall.Côm

Calloway opened the ledger and scanned his notes. "The phased deployment of the automatic gun needs careful consideration. I believe we should begin by equipping specialized units stationed in critical regions, particularly those along the southern frontier. That area is more likely to see engagements where suppressive firepower could turn the tide."

Warner stroked his chin thoughtfully. "An excellent point, Major. The frontier garrisons often bear the brunt of skirmishes and border disputes. A demonstration of the automatic gun’s capabilities in such a setting would provide valuable data."

Calloway continued, "As for the bolt-action rifle, I propose starting with two divisions. A staged rollout will allow us to monitor its integration and address any unforeseen issues before scaling up. Additionally, we could offer incentives to Hesh Industries to prioritize production quotas."

Warner arched an eyebrow. "Incentives? Elaborate."

Calloway tapped his pen against the ledger. "Increased funding or tax reductions for meeting specific delivery milestones. It would ensure Hesh Industries maintains focus on our contracts while ramping up their manufacturing capacity."

Their conversation was interrupted by Colonel James Whitaker, who approached their table with a grin. "Generals, I hope I’m not intruding."

"Not at all, Colonel," Caldwell said, gesturing for him to sit. "Join us. We were just debating the merits of Mr. Hesh’s designs."

Whitaker chuckled as he took a seat. "Debating, were you? I’d wager Grayson’s playing the devil’s advocate."

Grayson smirked but said nothing, letting Caldwell fill Whitaker in on their conversation. Whitaker listened intently before weighing in.

"Gentlemen, change is inevitable. What we’ve seen today represents the next step in that evolution. If we cling to outdated methods and equipment, we’ll only make ourselves vulnerable to those who embrace progress."

Grayson frowned. "Progress isn’t without risk, Colonel. And in war, risks can be costly."

"True," Whitaker conceded. "But the greater risk is stagnation. These weapons give us an edge our enemies can’t match—not yet, at least. If we don’t seize this opportunity, someone else will."

Grayson drained the last of his brandy, his expression grim. "I only hope we’re prepared for the consequences of that choice."

Meanwhile, General Warner sat alone in his office, drafting the formal proposal to present to the Republic’s War Ministry. His pen moved steadily across the parchment, outlining the phased deployment plans, cost analyses, and expected outcomes of adopting the Hesh Model 85 series.

As he wrote, his thoughts returned to Matthew Hesh. The man was an enigma—brilliant, innovative, and enigmatic. Warner couldn’t shake the feeling that Hesh’s designs were more than mere ingenuity. There was a purpose behind them, one that extended beyond profit or prestige.

Warner set down his pen and leaned back in his chair, staring out the window at the city’s skyline. Whatever the future held, he knew one thing for certain: the Great Republic of Amerathia was on the cusp of transformation, and Matthew Hesh’s inventions were at the heart of it.

With a resolute sigh, he returned to his work, determined to ensure that this transformation would strengthen the Republic, no matter the challenges it might bring.