Building a Conglomerate in Another World-Chapter 54: The Esteemed Visitor

The second day of the World’s Fair began with a renewed energy as the crowds poured in, even larger than the day before. The air was thick with excitement as visitors from across the globe eagerly explored the exhibits. At Matthew’s pavilion, the attention remained unrelenting. People clustered around the vehicles, snapping photographs, asking questions, and jotting notes in leather-bound journals.

Matthew stood near the sedan, answering a journalist’s question about its fuel efficiency, when Jules approached him, his expression unusually serious.

"Mr. Hesh," Jules began, gesturing toward a distinguished man approaching the pavilion. "You’re about to have a visitor—Professor Wilhelm Diesel from the German delegation. He’s one of their finest scientists and engineers."

Matthew’s eyebrows raised in interest. "Diesel? That’s an intriguing name."

Jules nodded. "Indeed. He’s known for his groundbreaking work in engines. I imagine he’ll have a lot to say about your work."

Matthew straightened his jacket, his curiosity piqued, as Professor Wilhelm Diesel stepped into the pavilion. He was tall and sharp-eyed, his neatly combed hair flecked with gray. His suit was crisp, but his demeanor carried the air of someone who spent more time in a workshop than a parlor.

"Mr. Hesh," Diesel greeted in perfect English, extending his hand. "A pleasure to meet you. I’ve heard much about your exhibit, and after seeing it for myself, I must say—I’m impressed."

Matthew shook his hand firmly, a polite smile on his face. "Thank you, Professor Diesel. It’s an honor to meet someone of your reputation."

Diesel glanced at the sedan, his expression thoughtful. "You’ve managed to achieve something remarkable here. I’ve been working on a similar concept—an engine that could operate without horses—but you’ve clearly brought it to life in a way I haven’t yet. Tell me, how did you do it?"

Matthew smiled modestly, gesturing toward the sedan. "The key was focusing on simplicity and reliability. The internal combustion engine is efficient because it uses controlled explosions to generate power. We designed a system that ensures these explosions happen in precise cycles. From there, it was about refining every component—fuel delivery, cooling, and the overall structure."

Diesel nodded slowly, clearly processing Matthew’s explanation. "Interesting. Your design appears to be well-balanced between power and efficiency."

"Exactly," Matthew agreed. "That balance is what makes it practical for everyday use."

Diesel’s gaze shifted toward the truck and its container system, his admiration evident. "And this," he said, gesturing toward the heavy-duty vehicle. "It’s ingenious. Logistics is an area where we’re still using old methods. Your detachable container system is a game-changer. What fuel do these vehicles use?"

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"Gasoline for most of them," Matthew replied. "But the heavy-duty truck can run on either gasoline or diesel, depending on availability."

At the mention of diesel, the professor’s expression tightened briefly, a flicker of something unreadable passing over his face. "Diesel, you say?"

"Yes," Matthew confirmed. "It’s just one of the options. Flexibility is important when introducing a new technology."

Diesel’s brow furrowed slightly, but he quickly smoothed his expression. "Fascinating. It seems we’ve both been thinking along similar lines. Quite the coincidence."

Matthew caught the hint of doubt in Diesel’s tone and added reassuringly, "A coincidence, indeed. The principles of internal combustion are universal, and it’s only natural that great minds explore similar solutions."

Diesel studied Matthew for a moment before nodding. "Of course. I’m not implying otherwise. It’s simply remarkable to see this level of innovation realized so effectively."

They walked together through the pavilion, Diesel asking questions about the vehicles’ development process and performance metrics. His curiosity was genuine, and his admiration for Matthew’s work grew with each answer.

Finally, Diesel paused in front of the sedan, turning to Matthew with a thoughtful expression. "Have you started selling these vehicles yet?"

"Not yet," Matthew replied. "The plan is to begin sales after the World’s Fair. This is our opportunity to introduce the concept to the world and gauge interest."

Diesel nodded, his gaze still on the sedan. "And will you sell them exclusively to the Great Republic, or will they be available to other nations as well?"

"The latter," Matthew said without hesitation. "These vehicles are designed to be accessible to as many people as possible, regardless of where they live. We want them to transform transportation on a global scale."

Diesel smiled faintly, a glimmer of approval in his eyes. "An ambitious vision. I admire that."

Charles joined them at that moment.

"Professor Diesel," he greeted, extending a hand.

"I see you’ve met Mr. Hesh. What do you think of our exhibit?"

"It’s exceptional," Diesel replied, shaking Charles’s hand. "Your team has done something remarkable here. These vehicles will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact."

Diesel turned back to Matthew, his expression earnest. "I hope we can continue this discussion in the future. Collaboration between minds like ours could lead to even greater advancements."

"I’d welcome that," Matthew said, extending his hand again. "It’s been an honor, Professor."

As Diesel departed, Matthew watched him go, a sense of accomplishment settling in his chest. The exchange had been brief but meaningful—a meeting of minds that underscored the significance of his work.

Amber appeared at his side, a playful smile on her lips. "You just impressed one of Germany’s finest. How does that feel?"

Matthew chuckled, shaking his head. "It feels like there’s still so much to do. But for now, it’s a good start."

Charles placed a hand on Matthew’s shoulder. "You’ve made another ally, Hesh. Keep this up, and who knows, Germany might be our first foreign market."

"It’s encouraging to think about. If someone like Diesel sees the value in what we’ve done, it means we’re on the right track."

Amber joined them, her clipboard in hand and a sparkle of excitement in her eyes. "And it’s not just Germany. Word is spreading fast. I overheard a few British delegates mentioning how impressed they were with the truck’s container system. They’re even talking about bringing their logistics experts to see it tomorrow."

Charles nodded approvingly. "Excellent. The more attention, the better. Hesh, this isn’t just about the vehicles anymore—it’s about setting a new standard for transportation."

Matthew adjusted his jacket, his gaze fixed on the bustling pavilion around him. Visitors were engaged in animated conversations about the vehicles, and Jules was expertly guiding a group of industrialists through the features of the pickup truck.

"I can see it," Matthew said, his tone thoughtful. "The potential for these vehicles to reshape industries, connect cities, and make life more efficient. But this is just the beginning. We need to keep refining, improving, and listening to what the world needs."