Building a Conglomerate in Another World - Chapter 64 - The Protest

By August of 1883, the success of Hesh Motors was undeniable. With over fifty thousand vehicles sold, the automobile had become a symbol of progress and innovation across the Great Republic of Amerathia. Wealthy individuals eagerly replaced their horse-drawn carriages with sleek, efficient automobiles. Even the middle class, aided by Hesh Financial Services, was beginning to embrace the new mode of transportation.

But not everyone welcomed this transformation. The booming automobile industry had unintended consequences, particularly for those whose livelihoods depended on horse-drawn carriages. Carriage drivers, stable owners, blacksmiths, and others in the horse-related trades were struggling to adapt to the rapid change. The demand for carriages had plummeted, leaving many workers without income.

The frustration boiled over into organized protests. Groups of carriage workers took to the streets, carrying signs and shouting slogans denouncing the rise of automobiles. While some protests were peaceful, others turned hostile. Reports of vandalism began to emerge—parked automobiles were scratched or defaced, and gas stations had their windows broken during the night. These actions, while isolated at first, began to affect Hesh Motors’ business.

Matthew sat in his office, reviewing the latest sales reports. Despite the strong numbers, the protests and vandalism were a growing concern. Amber entered, holding a stack of newspapers. She placed them on his desk, her expression serious.

“Have you seen these?” she asked.

Matthew picked up one of the papers. The headline read:

“Carriage Workers Protest Automobile Boom—Tensions Rise in Across the Nation”

He sighed, scanning the article. “It was only a matter of time. The automobile has disrupted their entire industry.”

Amber nodded. “And it’s not just the protests. We’ve had reports of vandalism at our gas stations and showrooms. It’s starting to impact sales.”

Matthew set the paper down, leaning back in his chair. “We can’t ignore this. If we don’t address their concerns, the backlash will only grow.”

“What do you suggest?” Amber asked. “This isn’t something we can solve with a new product or marketing campaign.”

Matthew thought for a moment before replying. “We need to engage with them directly. Listen to their grievances and see if there’s a way to help them transition. That’s the only way.”

***

After days of gathering information, Matthew identified the leader of the protests as Harold Pritchard, a prominent horse-drawn carriage company owner. Harold’s speeches against automobiles had stirred the unrest among carriage workers, fueling their resentment. While he denied direct involvement in the vandalism, his rhetoric was undoubtedly a driving force.

Matthew arranged a meeting with Harold at a neutral location—a quiet office space in downtown Sylvania. The tension in the room was palpable as the two men faced each other across a polished wooden table.

“Mr. Pritchard,” Matthew began, his tone calm but firm. “Thank you for agreeing to meet with me.”

Harold, a stout man with graying hair, crossed his arms. “I didn’t have much of a choice, did I? Your people made it clear you wanted a word.”

Matthew nodded, leaning forward slightly. “I’ll get straight to the point. The protests and vandalism targeting my business have gone too far. Damages to our gas stations and vehicles are mounting, and it’s clear that your speeches have been a significant factor in inciting this behavior.”

Harold scoffed. “My speeches? I’ve only spoken the truth. Your automobiles are destroying the livelihoods of honest workers. I never told anyone to damage your property.”

Matthew’s eyes narrowed. “You may not have given direct orders, but your words have consequences. When you stand in front of an angry crowd and denounce my company, calling us the enemy, what do you think happens next? You’ve created a mob mentality, and now you’re trying to wash your hands of it.”

Harold’s posture stiffened. “I’m not responsible for what others choose to do. I have no control over them.”

Matthew leaned back, his expression sharp. “You’re wrong. You have more control than you’re willing to admit. And whether or not you intended for this to happen, you’ve set these events in motion. That makes you accountable.”

Harold’s jaw tightened. “You can’t prove I’m behind the vandalism.”

Matthew’s voice grew colder. “I don’t need to prove it in the way you think. Your speeches and public appearances are well-documented. They show a clear pattern of incitement, and I have enough evidence to bring a case against you.”

Harold raised an eyebrow. “A case? On what grounds?”

Matthew didn’t flinch. “Incitement of property damage, disruption of commerce, and endangering public safety. I’ve consulted with some of the best lawyers in the country. If I decide to move forward, you’ll be facing a mountain of legal trouble.”

Harold laughed bitterly. “Do you think the courts will side with you? I represent the working man—the people who’ve been thrown aside by your so-called progress.”

Matthew’s tone turned steely. “I represent progress itself, Mr. Pritchard. And if you think I’m alone in this, you’re mistaken. I have the backing of some of the most influential businessmen and politicians in Amerathia. If I wanted, I could have all the charges laid squarely at your feet. Your connections won’t protect you from what I can bring down.”

Harold hesitated, clearly unnerved by Matthew’s confidence. “You’re bluffing.”

Matthew’s gaze was unwavering. “Try me. I’ve already spoken with the mayor, and I have the support of key members of Congress. They see the vandalism and protests as a threat to the nation’s progress. This isn’t just about Hesh Motors—it’s about the future of transportation and industry. You’ve picked a fight with forces much larger than yourself.”

Harold shifted uncomfortably in his seat, his bravado faltering. “What do you want, then? If you’re so powerful, why bother meeting with me?”

“Because I believe in solutions,” Matthew said, his tone softening slightly. “I don’t want to destroy you, Mr. Pritchard. I want to resolve this in a way that benefits everyone. But if you force my hand, I won’t hesitate to protect what I’ve built.”

Harold stared at him, weighing his options. Finally, he spoke. “What kind of solution are you proposing?”

“How about transitioning your company into an automobile taxi service? The demand for public transportation will only grow as cities expand, and automobiles can meet that demand more efficiently than horse-drawn carriages ever could.”