Building an empire which the sun never set-Chapter 52: More inventions 2

After the meeting, Arthur set off towards the industrial district, carrying the detailed plans for his latest inventions. The weight of his ideas and aspirations for industrial progress pressed upon him as he made his way toward the heart of production. As he arrived at the district, he took a moment to observe his surroundings. Since its inception, the industrial district had undergone significant expansion. The presence of key manufacturing hubs, such as steam engine workshops, railway depots, weapons foundries, and steel production plants, had led to multiple phases of growth, each driven by increasing demand for industrial goods.

Arthur carefully watched the smoke billowing from the tall chimneys of the factories, a testament to the relentless activity within. He observed the organized movement of raw materials being transported into the facilities while finished goods were systematically loaded onto trains bound for other cities and nations. The flow of industry was evident in every direction. He turned his gaze towards the railway lines, where an extensive network of tracks connected the industrial sector to the bustling port. Over time, the increase in production had necessitated more frequent train schedules, and the number of trains traveling in and out of the district had risen considerably.

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He stood in place for a while, silently observing the endless stream of trains departing with cargoes of refined products and returning laden with essential raw materials. The air was thick with coal smoke, an unmistakable scent that clung to the industrial zone. It was an environment many found oppressive, but to Arthur, it was a symbol of progress, a sign that industry was thriving. The sight of factories churning out goods, the rhythmic sound of machinery, and the organized transport of materials filled him with immense satisfaction.

After taking in the scene for a while, Arthur resumed walking. His destination was a newly constructed administrative office, designed to streamline the ever-growing network of factories under his control. Unlike the massive industrial buildings that surrounded it, this office was relatively small. However, its role was no less significant—it served as the nerve center for managing operations across the entire district. As Arthur approached the entrance, the stationed guards, who were already well acquainted with him, quickly moved to inform William of his arrival.

Not long after, William emerged to greet Arthur. He had grown accustomed to Arthur's unannounced visits, which almost always signified the unveiling of new industrial projects. He walked briskly, eager to hear what new developments Arthur had in store. Upon reaching Arthur, he gave a respectful salute and said, "Welcome, Your Highness."

Arthur returned the gesture with a nod. "Hello, William. It has been some time since we last met. It is good to see you again."

William responded with a courteous smile. "The pleasure is mine, Your Highness."

With that, he led Arthur into the office building.

The administrative office had been constructed recently to manage the ever-expanding industrial empire. Inside, numerous accountants, managers, and senior engineers were engaged in their respective duties. Arthur observed as clerks operated telegraph systems to process orders, calculate shipments of raw materials, and coordinate deliveries of finished goods. The atmosphere was one of efficiency, with every worker fully immersed in their tasks.

As they made their way through the corridors, Arthur led William to the designated meeting room. Once inside, Arthur took a seat at the polished wooden table, and William, ever the gracious host, poured a cup of tea and set it before him. Then, taking his own seat across from Arthur, he asked, "What can I do for you, Your Highness?"

Arthur retrieved the rolled-up plans from his coat and placed them on the table, methodically unfurling them before William. William picked up the first set of schematics and examined them carefully—it was for a fountain pen.

Arthur leaned forward and began his explanation. "This is the first item I wish to introduce to our manufacturing line. Unlike traditional quill pens, which require constant dipping into an inkwell, this pen carries an internal ink reservoir, providing continuous ink flow."

William studied the technical drawings as Arthur elaborated further.

"The fountain pen consists of several crucial components. The ink reservoir, housed within the barrel, holds a sufficient amount of ink to sustain long periods of writing without interruption. A feed system regulates the flow of ink to prevent spillage while ensuring a steady supply to the nib. The nib, crafted from durable metal, is designed to facilitate smooth writing. Additionally, the cap protects the nib and prevents the ink from drying. The pen functions based on capillary action, allowing ink to flow naturally from the reservoir to the nib with applied pressure."

Arthur paused before adding, "The main challenge in manufacturing this pen lies in the precise fabrication of its small, intricate components. However, given our expertise in producing high-precision watch mechanisms, I am confident we possess the technical capabilities to construct these pens with accuracy."

William nodded in agreement. "Yes, Your Highness, I will oversee the production of a prototype and begin planning for a dedicated factory."

Arthur smiled. "Our primary market will be businessmen and bureaucrats. I foresee great demand among professionals who require a reliable and efficient writing instrument. Ensure that our marketing efforts are directed toward these individuals."

Their discussion then shifted to the plans for a steam-powered washing machine. Unlike the fountain pen, which required precision engineering, the technological foundation for the washing machine already existed, making its production relatively straightforward. However, Arthur emphasized that its commercial success would depend on an effective business model.

Arthur laid out his vision: rather than selling steam-powered washing machines to individual households, they would establish laundries where customers could pay an hourly rate to use the machines. William quickly recognized the profitability of this approach. If their company initially established several laundries to demonstrate viability, they could eventually sell machines in bulk to independent entrepreneurs interested in operating their own laundries.

Next, they reviewed the mechanical sewing machine, a design heavily influenced by Isaac Singer's innovations.

"The mechanical sewing machine operates by utilizing a needle with an eye near its point, which moves in a vertical motion through the fabric. A shuttle carrying a secondary thread loops the needle thread underneath, forming a secure lockstitch. The feed mechanism ensures consistent movement of the fabric, producing even stitches. A foot pedal or hand crank provides power, driving the needle and shuttle mechanism in synchronized motion. This device significantly enhances sewing efficiency and consistency, making it far superior to manual sewing."

Finally, they arrived at the gas lighting project. Arthur explained the enormous benefits that gas-powered lamps could bring to factories, allowing them to continue production during the night.

Arthur provided a comprehensive overview of the necessary infrastructure, including the gas distribution system and critical safety measures. William immediately grasped the significance of this innovation.

William stated, "Your Highness, we can manufacture the necessary pipelines and construct gas production plants without difficulty. However, coal gasification is beyond my expertise. We will require a chemist to handle this aspect."

After a moment of thought, he added, "Richard Moseley, the lead chemist at our gunpowder production facility, would be an excellent candidate for this task. We should seek his expertise on gas manufacturing."

Arthur agreed, and William promptly sent for Richard. While waiting for his arrival, they discussed further refinements in their production strategies.

By the time Richard arrived, the sun had already begun to set. After Arthur thoroughly explained the gas lighting project, Richard absorbed the details and responded confidently, "Rest assured, Your Highness, I will oversee the establishment of the gas production plant and ensure it becomes operational as quickly as possible."

Arthur, pleased with this assurance, turned to William. "For a project of this magnitude, government cooperation is essential. Work closely with the Ministry of Transportation and municipal authorities to coordinate the necessary plans."

As Arthur left the industrial district, the sun had already begun to set, casting long shadows over the city. The once-bustling streets, filled with merchants, workers, and traders during the day, were now beginning to lose their energy as businesses and factories started closing for the night. With the absence of artificial lighting, the streets gradually emptied, and a sense of stillness settled over the city. Arthur, riding alongside his guards, took note of how quickly the lively city faded into silence.

This sight led him to reflect on the impact of lighting on a city's social and economic life. In his previous world, the glow of street lamps, shop signs, and city lights allowed for an extended period of commerce and leisure, keeping economic activity alive well into the night. With businesses staying open longer, consumers had more opportunities to spend, which in turn stimulated further production and employment. The benefits of night-time economic activity were undeniable. Now, seeing how the lack of proper illumination led to an abrupt halt in daily life, Arthur realized more than ever how vital gas lighting would be for the growth of the city. As he looked upon the dimming skyline, he knew that soon this situation would change. The city would no longer be confined to the rhythm of the sun—it would transform into a place where activity thrived at all hours.

Upon arriving at the palace, Arthur dismounted from his horse, feeling the weight of the day's events upon him. The discussions, planning, and negotiations had been exhausting, but they were all necessary steps toward progress. Entering the grand halls of the palace, he made his way to his private chambers, where the warmth and comfort of his room awaited him. The flickering candlelight cast gentle shadows across the ornate walls as he removed his coat and stretched his tired muscles.

Wanting to unwind from the long day, he decided to take a hot bath. The soothing warmth of the water eased his tension, washing away the fatigue that had settled into his bones. As he relaxed, he allowed his mind to wander through the events of the day—the successful discussions with William and Richard, the promising projects now set in motion, and the vast potential for industrial expansion. Once he finished bathing, he changed into something comfortable and called for one of the palace servants.

When the servant arrived, Arthur requested that his dinner be brought to his room. Within minutes, a well-prepared meal was placed on the table before him. The aroma of freshly cooked food filled the room, and Arthur ate slowly, savoring each bite. The day had been long, and he welcomed the simple pleasure of a good meal in solitude. As he dined, he allowed himself a rare moment of peace, knowing that tomorrow would bring new challenges and more work.

After finishing his meal, he took a final glance out of his window. The city beyond was dark, save for a few scattered lanterns providing minimal light along the roads. Soon, this would change. Soon, the streets would be illuminated, businesses would remain open, and the economy would flourish under the glow of artificial light.

Feeling satisfied with the progress made, Arthur turned away from the window and made his way to his bed. He pulled back the covers and lay down, exhaling deeply as exhaustion took hold. His mind briefly entertained thoughts of the future—the industries that would rise, the innovations that would shape the kingdom, and the prosperity that would follow. As his thoughts drifted, fatigue overtook him, and sleep enveloped him in its embrace. With the promise of a brighter future ahead, Arthur allowed himself to rest, ready to face whatever challenges awaited him in the coming days.