Don't mind walking around!" said Major Dwight, his tone easygoing.
"Of course," Charlie Lee nodded immediately. Could he say no to such a suggestion?
"For the record," Dwight continued casually, "I'm Major Dwight David Eisenhower, currently in the office of the Assistant Secretary of the Army." He reached out a hand with a smile.
"Charlie Lee," Charlie introduced himself politely, shaking the major's hand. "A new immigrant, doing a little business." But inwardly, his thoughts churned, "Dwight David Eisenhower? Why does that name sound so familiar?"
"You're not running a small business," Dwight said, his sneer catching Charlie off guard. "A security group of 1,214 people—that's hardly small."
The major's comment made Charlie shiver, and he nearly dropped his cigarette. Having grown up in a peaceful era, he held a natural respect—and a tinge of fear—for soldiers and law enforcement. These institutions symbolized authority and power, entities not to be trifled with.
Dwight, noticing Charlie's unease, eased up. "Security? Planning to turn them into mercenaries?" he asked, his tone more curious than accusatory.
Charlie quickly shook his head. "No, Major. It's strictly for protection. Life as a Chinese immigrant here… it's hard." He spoke honestly, understanding there was no point in hiding the struggles foreigners faced in America.
Dwight nodded, lighting a cigarette and staring off into the distance. "I hear you're looking for experienced veterans?" His tone was casual, but his words struck a chord.
"Yes," Charlie replied cautiously. "I want them to have proper training. Professionals who can be trusted."
As they spoke, Charlie began to relax. The major wasn't as intimidating as he'd initially thought; instead, Dwight had an air of confidence and camaraderie.
Dwight hummed thoughtfully. "I know many veterans—men who haven't adjusted to civilian life. If you're interested, I could introduce you."
Charlie's heart leapt at the opportunity. "Yes, of course! That would be fantastic." This wasn't just a chance to find trained personnel—it was an opening to establish a connection with someone in a powerful position.
Dwight looked at him, assessing. "Leave your contact information. I'll let them find you," he said, handing over a note with his own details.
Charlie took it eagerly, feeling like he'd struck gold. "Thank you, Major," he said, trying to maintain his composure.
Dwight smiled faintly. "We'll see each other again, I think," he said before walking off toward the checkpoint.
As Charlie got into his car, he clenched his fist in triumph. "This is it. This is my big break!" he muttered under his breath.
Paul, his right-hand man, noticed his excitement. "Boss, something good happen?"
Charlie waved him off, trying to appear nonchalant. "Nothing major," he replied, though the grin on his face betrayed him.
The drive to the station took them through a quiet countryside, eventually arriving at a run-down platform that looked more like an old grocery store. Cracked roads, narrow gates, and shabby halls spoke of neglect. Yet when the sleek, bullet-style train pulled in, Charlie couldn't help but be impressed.
"Express train to Chicago," Paul remarked. "Seats are narrow, but it'll get us there by tomorrow night."
Charlie smirked. "Not bad. This train looks like it could take off." For a moment, he marveled at America's advancements in the 1920s and 1930s. Trains could reach speeds of 156 km/h—an impressive feat.
The journey passed without incident, much to Charlie's disappointment. No train robbers, no action-packed drama. "Movies really do lie," he muttered as they disembarked in Chicago.
Once back at his headquarters, Charlie inspected the operations of the newly christened Aegis Bureau. The "headquarters" was nothing more than a few men and a skeleton staff, but Charlie was optimistic. He had bigger plans for the organization.
Two weeks later, Charlie received the call he'd been waiting for. Eighteen veterans from California, Texas, and Utah had arrived in Chicago. That night, he personally welcomed the group. Learning that they were all veterans of the Spanish-American War filled him with pride. These weren't just soldiers—they were experienced warriors.
Charlie wasted no time. "Your job is to turn my men into qualified soldiers. A monthly salary of $100 will be provided, and you'll receive a code of conduct to follow." He paused. "Two of you will act as head coaches and report directly to me."
Hearing the generous pay, the veterans eagerly agreed, their initial skepticism melting away.
"Boss, this is George Johnson," one man said, stepping forward. His broad shoulders and square face gave him the appearance of a battle-hardened leader.
"And I'm Andrea Helion," another added, slimmer but equally sharp-eyed.
Charlie nodded. "Good. The rest of you are dismissed for now. Lao Huang," he called out to his assistant, "arrange accommodations for them and explain the rules."
With that settled, Charlie led George and Andrea to the training ground. He wanted to test their skills personally.
"Show me what you've got," Charlie said, stripping off his coat and rolling up his sleeves.
George and Andrea exchanged glances, surprised by Charlie's challenge. But as they noticed his toned physique, their hesitation turned to determination.
"Together," Charlie clarified with a smirk, gesturing for both to face him at once.
The veterans hesitated, but the jeers from Charlie's men spurred them on. "Don't worry," someone joked, "you'll learn why the boss is in charge soon enough."
The ensuing sparring match left George and Andrea in awe. Despite being outnumbered, Charlie's agility and strength were undeniable. By the end of the session, both veterans were thoroughly impressed—and convinced of their new employer's capabilities.
With the Aegis Bureau beginning to take shape and connections like Major Eisenhower in his corner, Charlie Lee felt his ambitions solidifying. His businesses, the Blue and White Chamber of Commerce and the Aegis Bureau, represented both his economic and physical strength. Yet, he knew this was just the beginning.
For now, his focus remained on training his men and building his network. But with America on the cusp of great change, Charlie couldn't shake the feeling that his golden opportunity lay just beyond the horizon. And with a future president as a contact, he knew the sky was the limit.
"Here's to the future," Charlie murmured, a determined glint in his eye.