Silence hung heavy in the room, and Count Hengervar found himself at a loss for words.
I might have dreamed of meeting Edison, the renowned American inventor, and entrepreneur in my younger days. But now, I was caught in an unexpected situation, facing him as a thief of our goods. The gravity of the situation weighed heavily on me, and I knew that for this to end, there might have to be some harsh consequences.
"Uh, well... so... it's Karl & Auto Pictures, huh," he stammered.
Ever the sharp character, Edison quickly regained his composure, demonstrating the resilience that often characterized successful individuals. Count Hengervar couldn't help but marvel at how Edison remained unruffled even amidst a crisis.
I wondered if I could keep my cool in such circumstances if I were in Edison's shoes. The realization that he had brazenly stole the movie, only to discover that the owner was a noble from a distant land in the Imperial domain, left him feeling disoriented.
"I deeply apologize for my rudeness. I had assumed it was an ordinary European production studio," Edison said, straightening himself and offering a sincere apology.
Then, in true entrepreneurial spirit, he began discussing their potential future collaboration.
"If Your Highness's film production company and my influence in the United States unite, we could yield even greater profits. Didn't we discuss something along these lines during the meal? I intend to eliminate potential competitors in America and dominate the market. Your Highness, wouldn't it be advantageous for you to join me on this venture?"
Edison's words brimmed with ambition and the prospect of collaboration. Joining forces to conquer the American market and reap substantial profits—what a compelling proposition.
Honestly, did the past even matter in the face of such promising gains in the future? Sometimes, alliances with apparent foes might be necessary when considering the bigger picture. And that was the truth of the matter.
Whining to the Federal Supreme Court about the lack of movie copyright laws wouldn't do any good. Even though he held noble status, expecting the Emperor to intervene for his money and film was presumptuous.
He might hold some influence within Austria, but beyond those borders, he was just an insignificant nobody.
Besides, even if the Emperor were to step in, would the United States, as a nation, bow down and apologize? Though considered a third-rate power, the United States had formidable national strength.
They would likely resist even more fiercely. Bringing in adults to settle a children's quarrel could lead to an uncontrollable situation. The strained relations between nations due to the clash between a single entrepreneur and a film wouldn't benefit anyone.
The Federal Supreme Court might find a satisfactory resolution by lifting a finger for either him or Edison. Yet, as a noble, he had an advantage. Without that status, Edison might have thrust an injunction in his face and demanded he back off.
Edison was undoubtedly confident in his victory. Initially, he planned to monopolize everything alone, but his noble birth prompted him to propose this agreement, saying, "Let's reach a consensus and work together for the future."
There was nothing bad in it for him, either.
Establishing a foothold in the United States could be highly beneficial. Honestly, there was no other place where he could amass as much wealth as in the current United States. It was a country with boundless potential, surpassing any other nation.
Ignoring such an opportunity would be foolish. Why not capitalize on the potential for duplicating wealth? Moreover, handling American affairs from Austria proved challenging.
Partnering with someone influential and capable within the United States, even if they might be ruthless like Edison, would make future endeavors smoother. However…
"It's a failed negotiation, Thomas Edison," I burst into laughter.
I declared the end of the meal and prompted the guests to leave. Who dared to believe they could strike a favorable deal with a noble? Did they think I could be easily fooled? If they expected me to roll over and beg for mercy without demanding restitution for the money I've been robbed of, they were sorely mistaken.
"Your Highness, you seem remarkably at ease," someone remarked.
On our way to New York, the nervous Tressler couldn't help but express his relief, saying,
"I'm glad we didn't agree to Edison's proposition."
I can't pretend to be comfortable in such situations. Am I an actor? Patience is essential, and there's no need to panic because our film business in the United States faces obstacles.
As a noble, I won't be easily driven out penniless. Unless I find myself in the same situation as when I was expelled after the First World War without any insurance, I can live well anywhere.
Even if I consider the money Edison made through illegal duplication in the United States as not mine, I have nothing to lose. And someone with nothing to lose is the most terrifying."
"Tressler, is there an urgent need?"
"Well, he's Edison, isn't he? What measures should we take..."
Even stray dogs eat half of their food in their front yards, so it's highly likely that Edison will act in a similar manner.
"Should we take this matter to His Majesty?"
"That might not be a good idea..."
I hesitated while shaking my head. I knew that approaching the Emperor directly might not yield the desired results.
While I could get away with a mere scolding for any missteps, it was different for others. As a high-ranking noble and influential figure, the Emperor's attention carried significant weight. Yet, even if I were to complain to the Emperor, he might provide some support.
Being close to the line of succession and the sole victim, I could potentially deliver a reasonable message to the U.S. government. As long as I didn't approach the situation too forcefully, the U.S. government would probably be accommodating.
However, perhaps I wanted to test my strength. I had never experienced failure before, and people perceived me as a genius capable of anything. Facing these challenges while increasing my influence might accelerate my growth. In truth, I had impulsively rushed into this situation because Edison's actions were too despicable.
Having considered all options, and if nothing else works, I might resort to pleading and even blaming those Yankee bastards for stealing my films. "But Your Majesty, who do you intend to meet?" Tressler asked, curious about my next move.
There is someone specific I have in mind."
Since arriving in the United States, I desired to meet Edison and everyone I could. I had already arranged to meet Edison through the consulate, and there was one more person I had promised to see.
Ironically, despite being a noble, I had to secure the appointment with a bit of condescension. I had to travel to New York in person instead of going through the consulate.
And that person was none other than Nikola Tesla.
The genius scientist emerged before me! An Austrian-born scientist who had triumphed in the War of Currents, cooperating with George Westinghouse to defeat Edison.
Tesla's achievements left numerous footprints in human history, including advancements in wireless communication, remote control technology, turbines, valves, radar concepts, and more. It was fascinating.
Even in front of a noble, he greeted with a hint of condescension while Edison sincerely tried to show respect. I guessed it would be the same even for giants like Rockefeller or Morgan. This was the first time I encountered someone like Tesla.
"I am Karl von Habsburg."
"Pleasure to meet you, Your Highness."
He was the person I had been eager to meet since arriving in the United States. A renowned and captivating scientist, Nikola Tesla's demeanor could be described as the natural nonchalance of a genius. His attitude wouldn't likely change even if Emperor Franz Joseph were present. Others had left due to his arrogant demeanor.
"Have you had a chance to see the movies I made, which have gained popularity in the United States?"
"I'm busy with my research."
His response was firm, showing little interest in casual conversation.
"Do you have any intention of returning to the Empire?"
Quickly and directly, he addressed the issue. Tesla wasn't one for engaging in friendly chit-chats.
With empathy, I wondered whether the Grand Magician, Nikola Tesla, had any interest in trivial human affairs.
"I'm busy with my research."
"Oh, is that so?"
Well, that was to be expected. I knew he wouldn't be an easy opponent.
Edison might be a difficult character, openly stealing and pushing others down the ladder, but at least he was someone you could engage with. However, the scientist before me was different. He wasn't just another clichéd mad scientist stereotype; he held a unique allure.
In the Three Kingdoms, monarchs valued talents for a reason. How delightful would it be to have such a scientist working in his research institute?
But forcing someone with American citizenship to comply was out of the question. Tempting him through sponsorship wouldn't be a piece of cake, either.
This person was sponsored by JP Morgan, and as wealthy as I was, he couldn't match that level of wealth. Deep down, I wished I could wrap this genius in a blanket and take him to the Empire.
If I were the Emperor, I might have at least tried, but currently, it was an impossible task. I couldn't comprehend why so many people wanted to abduct someone in this era.
Tesla and Einstein. I longed to bring these two individuals no matter what. But what could I realistically achieve immediately? All I had was the emotional appeal.
"I dream of connecting the entire Empire wirelessly."
Tesla's ears seemed to perk up at the idea. "Imagine everyone in the Empire communicating, watching sounds and images sent from the nation or companies in their homes, and expanding it to Europe and the rest of the world—that would be astounding."
Though it might sound impossible now, he believed that in a few decades, it could become a reality.
"Wow, that's a fascinating dream. I, too, have an experiment in mind—sending signals from New York to England."
A slight snort escaped as I observed Tesla's fascinated expression while leaning closer. That's exactly what you'd expect from a crazy scientist, right?
But that's where it ends. In reality, Tesla received support from JP Morgan to build a communication tower in New York but eventually failed when Morgan withdrew his backing. I can't sponsor such a project either; it requires a considerable amount of funding, far more than just a few coins.
Even a monster like JP Morgan couldn't see its feasibility and abandoned the project. As someone who needs to spend a lot of money, I certainly can't do it either. Well, I suppose I should forget about it.
"Oh, Your Excellency always has such intriguing thoughts," I remarked, trying to steer the conversation in a more pleasant direction.
Engaging in a smooth conversation with Tesla, I realized I had given up on everything and simply decided to have some small talk. After all, it was clear I couldn't bring this person over to the Empire. So, let's just discuss things from a fan's perspective and hear what he thinks about the technology of the 21st century.
That alone would satisfy my curiosity. However, both Tesla and I had busy schedules, so our conversation couldn't continue for long. Nevertheless, some lingering feelings remained, just in case.
"Tesla, there will be difficult times ahead," I said, knowing full well that this man was truly bizarre.
His eccentric personality and inability to manage money would likely bring him challenges. Inventions don't always lead to profits, and he'll soon face financial pressure.
"I can't provide financial support, but you can contact the consulate if you ever need help."
That's the maximum I can offer right now.
Watching me meet with Nikola Tesla greatly irritates Tressler, and it's no surprise considering our joint film was snatched away from us.
The tensions are high with Edison as we meet this peculiar scientist in such a hurry.
As people age, most of them might find it hard to understand why I cling to Tesla like this. Although Nikola Tesla will be highly regarded in the future, for now, he's simply a very, very, very intelligent scientist.
"Your Excellency, I have never once doubted you!"
Tressler defended himself, feeling unjustly accused. I can't help but pay attention when someone much older than me is talking back. It reminds me of my twenties.
"Tresler, success doesn't come from gaining something in just one action," I explained, finding his perspective quite intriguing.
It's not every day you hear someone talking like this.
"Is that so?" Tresler responded, perhaps realizing there was more to the situation.
"The traps we've laid will eventually capture Tesla firmly."
Tesla's future won't be smooth sailing. On the contrary, he will likely live in poverty in his old age.
As you grow older, you'll understand. Once the support is cut off, people might finally recognize and empathize with me. I plan to gradually offer assistance through the consulate, and when Tesla comes to the Empire, I'll have him confined somewhere, providing him with resources for his research.
Tesla might actually appreciate that. Spending a lifetime solely focused on research and then passing away, what could be a happier scenario? Given Tesla's eccentricity, it's very possible. "Then what's next?"
"Now we have to deal with Edison."
"That's right."
"It's our last, final move to reach His Imperial Majesty. We must try everything we can, don't you think?"
Tressler nodded firmly. The Emperor is indeed a formidable ally. "Let's use the media."
"The media, you say?"
"Yes, the media."
I'll use the magical phrase 'Let the coverage begins...'.
Regardless of the era, the media has always been filled with unscrupulous individuals, but the current media of the 21st century consists of crazy lunatics who can outdo the worst.
Joseph Pulitzer (the figure who established the Pulitzer Prize) and William Randolph Hearst are competing to see who could be the biggest troublemakers in journalism.
The truth doesn't matter to them. Armed with the belief that as long as they can gather people through provocation and fabrication, that's enough, they are true masters of manipulation.
Even Edison can't match their craftiness. But during this time, their tactics really work. Even people from the 21st century were easily swayed by articles, so what's different about this era? Even if it's all lies, their power is real.
Pulitzer went so far as to bring the Statue of Liberty from France to the United States through a newspaper fundraising campaign. But, of course, not all examples are good. There will naturally be bad examples too.
Soon after, the United States and Spain will be plunged into war. While not the direct cause, the main culprit was the yellow press, manipulating and inciting people to clamor for war, falsely blaming Spain as the cause.
What dreadful scumbags. When I become Emperor, these kinds of people won't be allowed to live in Austria. There will be no freedom of the press in front of me. And Joseph Pulitzer is an American of Hungarian descent from the Empire.
Ugh, just like Tesla and others, not a single one of them is normal.
Even the big shot in the pants is of imperial descent...
Is there something wrong with the Empire? Anyway, even during this time, the media significantly influenced people, and I intended to use them too. These spineless creatures are reliable allies when they're on your side.
Currently, the United States is a third-rate power. Economically and in every other aspect, it's not recognized by Europe. Why would they recognize a fundamentally baseless former colonial nation? The center of humanity is Europe.
It's astonishing, and even more so, the Americans themselves seem oblivious to the true strength of the United States—a country growing rapidly beyond measure.
Thanks to the wild and sensational yellow press, they engage in wars and take on Spain, all while failing to realize the hidden might of the underestimated genius. Thus, before anything else, they must gently nudge those blind spots.
The United States deserves to be elevated to its rightful place. After all, they are the esteemed nobility of the Habsburg family. Anyone who objects to this isn't a true American. A country with a past as a former colonial nation should not be underestimated—it is, in fact, the most powerful nation skillfully concealing its strength?!
Being an American right now, one can't help but be thrilled. Who wouldn't take pride in their citizenship? Especially in the case of the United States, they yearn for such stories.
They will approach me through interviews, lavishly praising me, thus boosting my popularity. Then, I'll deliver an emotional interview, shedding tears as I declare, "Edison stole my movie!"
Just the thought of it sends shivers down my spine. "Hello. This is Karl Archduke! From The New York Times!" Oh, the sheer excitement of imagining it all.
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Author's Note
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