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“Of course, sir.” You nod simply, following Krupp. His office is on the ground floor, surprisingly enough, and after going through a simple wooden door, you find yourself there.
Krupp’s office is simple, yet well-appointed. There is a wooden desk in the center of the room, with windows behind it looking out onto the nearby city. In front of the desk are two comfortable-looking chairs. As Krupp closes the door behind you, he clears his throat. “Today is a unique opportunity,” he begins.
“How so?” You raise an eyebrow.
The man turns to you, a serious expression on his face. “I have always prided myself on offering the very best for my loyal workers.” He frowns slightly, gesturing out the window at the city of Essen. “The world is changing. People are being forced into an age of machines. The simple farmers and peasantry are becoming workmen, laborers, and machinists…” He trails off. “It is a struggle to maintain the values of good living, when faced with such changes.”
You frown slightly, crossing your arms. “People are very adaptable.”
“Untrue,” the old German replies simply. “People only adapt naturally in the wrong ways. They have to be guided to goodness, the right path.” He smiles slightly, his eyebrows rising. “Common folk need firm, steady guidance to live correctly. That is what I have created here, not just a factory, but a place for good living.” He pauses, leaning toward you. “Some men cannot handle it, but the vast majority of my workmen have benefitted greatly from such guidance.” Your frown never leaves, but you wait for Krupp to continue. “But, there is only so much a man can do here in Europe. The cities are built up, their societies too corrupted…” He trails off. “But my belief in this purpose has never been shaken. What people need is a new city, built with good living in mind!” He walks over to his desk, beckoning for you to follow. You do, and on his desk is a map of Japan’s northern island, Ezo, with several areas circled in red ink. You’re not sure where he would’ve even gotten such a map, as you’ve only seen such things while in Japan itself.
“You have plans for the Island of Ezo?” You lean forward to get a closer look at the map.
“Indeed,” he replies excitedly. “I have hired surveyors, who have marked several suitable areas for construction of a steel works and gun foundry.” He pauses, running a hand through his beard. “As well as a new city, perfectly designed to support the manufacturing facilities, as well as promote good living!”
