The following evening, Matthew Hesh sat in his office, reviewing production schedules and correspondence from the Department of War. The room was quiet, save for the occasional shuffle of papers and the faint hum of the factory floor below. As he reached for his cup of coffee, Robert Anders entered, a subtle look of hesitation on his face.
"Matthew," Robert began, holding a leather-bound folder, "you've got a visitor. Charles Fitzwilliam is here."
Matthew straightened in his chair. "Charles? What brings him all the way out here?"
Robert shrugged slightly. "He didn't say, but he seemed… concerned."
Matthew sighed, setting the papers aside. "Alright, send him in."
Moments later, Charles Fitzwilliam, one of the wealthiest industrialists in the Republic and a major investor in Hesh Industries, entered the room. His tailored suit and polished demeanor exuded confidence, but his furrowed brow suggested otherwise.
