Eight o'clock in the morning, Chicago. Poul, Sara, and representatives from various electric lighting companies had been waiting for about two hours for the World's Fair Council to begin their presentations.
As anticipation filled the air, Poul glanced at Sara, giving her an encouraging smile. She nodded back, trying to ease her nerves. This was a crucial moment, and they knew the competition would be fierce.
Ten minutes later, a tall figure emerged from the council chamber door and called out, "Mr. Russell of the Russell Illumination Company, please come forward."
Poul noticed James Russell confidently stepping forward with an air of self-assurance. He took a deep breath and turned his attention back to Sara.
"This is it."
James Russell and Sam Insull entered the chamber where the man who had called them introduced them to the council members.
