Building a Conglomerate in Another World

Chapter 91: Satisfaction Report

The bright morning sun streamed through the tall windows of the War Ministry’s grand conference room. The walls were lined with military banners, and the polished oak table in the center reflected the stern faces of the generals seated around it. Matthew Hesh walked into the room, his shoes clicking softly on the marble floor, his posture straight but calm. This was a meeting he had been waiting for—a chance to hear firsthand how his creations had performed in the heat of battle.

General Nathaniel Warner stood to greet him, his imposing figure commanding the room. Around the table sat a collection of high-ranking officers, their crisp uniforms adorned with medals and insignias. Among them was General Henry Caldwell, known for his logistical expertise, and Brigadier General Samuel Grant, whose reputation as a tactician was well established.

"Mr. Hesh," Warner said, extending a firm hand. "Welcome. Your timing couldn’t be better. We’ve just finished reviewing the battlefield reports."

Matthew shook Warner’s hand, his face betraying a hint of eagerness. "General, it’s a privilege to be here. I’m anxious to hear how the weapons and vehicles performed."

"Take a seat," Warner said, motioning to the chair directly across from him. "We have much to discuss."

Matthew settled into his chair, his leather briefcase resting by his side. The table was cluttered with maps, documents, and after-action reports, evidence of a military command deep in the throes of planning. Warner opened a folder in front of him and cleared his throat.

"The Hesh Model 85 Bolt-Action Rifle," Warner began, "has been nothing short of a game changer. Our soldiers reported unprecedented accuracy, and the increased range has allowed us to engage the enemy well before they can respond. Entire skirmishes have been decided before the Mexicans could even close the distance."

Brigadier General Grant leaned forward. "The precision has been extraordinary. One unit managed to hold a defensive position against three times their number. They credit the rifles for the decisive advantage."

Matthew nodded, a faint smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. "That’s excellent to hear. And the machine guns?"

Warner’s expression grew even more serious. "Devastating. The Hesh Model 85 Automatic Guns have turned defensive positions into fortresses. Entire cavalry charges have been stopped dead in their tracks. It’s like nothing we’ve ever seen."

General Caldwell, who had been flipping through a report, added, "The enemy is in complete disarray. They have no counter to the machine guns, and their antiquated muskets are proving useless against our firepower."

Matthew’s satisfaction was tempered by curiosity. "And the vehicles? How have the automobiles been integrated?"

At this, the room fell silent for a moment. Warner exchanged a glance with Caldwell before speaking. "The automobiles are performing adequately—for transport," Warner said carefully. "They’ve replaced horse-drawn wagons for moving supplies, but..."

"But what?" Matthew asked, leaning forward slightly.

Grant tapped his fingers on the table thoughtfully. "If this works, it could change how we conduct warfare. But the question remains—how long would it take to produce such devices, and at what cost?"

Matthew spread his hands. "Development will take months, perhaps longer, but once the initial prototypes are perfected, mass production can begin. As for the cost, I assure you it will be an investment worth every florin. The ability to coordinate your forces with unparalleled speed and accuracy would more than make up for the expense."

Caldwell interjected, "We’d need to train officers and soldiers in its use as well. This would be a significant shift in how we operate."

"That’s true," Matthew agreed. "But every major advancement requires adaptation. You’ve already seen what happens when superior technology meets outdated tactics. The enemy is left scrambling. Wireless telegrams would ensure that you’re always one step ahead."

Warner exchanged a glance with Caldwell, then turned back to Matthew. "Your ideas are bold, Mr. Hesh. Bold, but not without merit. If you can provide us with a working prototype within a reasonable timeframe, we’ll consider integrating this technology into our strategy."

Matthew smiled faintly, sensing he had regained their confidence. "I’ll make it my top priority. In the meantime, I’d like to revisit the current use of automobiles."

Warner raised an eyebrow. "You’re not letting that go, are you?"

"Not at all, General," Matthew replied with a hint of humor. "If you want to maximize their effectiveness, we need to think beyond transport. For instance, a convoy of armed vehicles could escort supply wagons or even flank enemy positions during an assault. They’d provide mobile firepower and protection in ways traditional methods cannot."

Caldwell leaned forward, nodding. "And with wireless communication, those vehicles could coordinate with infantry and artillery more efficiently."

"Exactly," Matthew said, his enthusiasm growing. "It’s about integration. Your infantry, vehicles, and artillery working together as a cohesive unit. That’s how you dominate the battlefield."

Warner rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "You’re proposing a significant shift in how we approach warfare. It won’t be easy, but I see the potential."

Grant added, "It’s clear your innovations have already given us the edge. If you can deliver on wireless telegrams and improve the implementation of vehicles, we might truly be unstoppable."

Matthew stood, extending his hand to Warner. "Then let me get to work. I’ll provide you with designs, prototypes, and whatever else you need to bring these ideas to life."

Warner clasped his hand firmly. "We’re counting on you, Hesh. The Republic’s future might just depend on it."