Building a Conglomerate in Another World-Chapter 159: Arrival in Panama

The ship docked at the bustling harbor of Colón, a key city in Panama situated near the proposed canal route. The air was thick with humidity, and the scent of saltwater mixed with the earthy aroma of tropical vegetation greeted Matthew Hesh and his team as they disembarked. Workers on the dock moved quickly, unloading crates and directing passengers.

Matthew stood at the gangway, adjusting his hat to shield his eyes from the glaring sun. Amber walked beside him, her light dress catching the warm breeze. Behind them, Charles Whitmore, Victor Lachance, and Jacques Bellamont carried bags and folders, their faces a mixture of curiosity and focus.

"Quite a place," Charles commented, scanning the busy harbor. "You can feel the energy here."

Matthew nodded. "It’s a gateway. Once the canal is built, this place will be the beating heart of global trade."

Amber glanced at the chaotic scene of workers hauling goods and fishermen shouting about their catch.

"It’s vibrant, but it’s clear the infrastructure here needs work. We’ll have a lot to do."

A delegation of Panamanian leaders awaited them near the end of the dock. The group, dressed in modest but formal clothing, included influential community figures, local businessmen, and even a few military officers. At the center stood Enrique Castillo, a well-respected community leader and a vocal advocate for Panama’s independence. His presence was a calculated move, as Castillo’s support would be crucial to gaining the trust of the Panamanian people.

As Matthew and his team approached, Castillo stepped forward, extending his hand. "Señor Hesh, welcome to Panama. We’ve been expecting you."

Matthew shook his hand firmly. "Thank you, Señor Castillo. It’s an honor to finally meet you in person. We’re here to work together and make this vision a reality."

Introductions were made quickly, and Castillo gestured for them to follow. "We’ve prepared a meeting at the town hall. It’s not far. We can discuss the next steps there."

The town hall was a simple but sturdy building located near the city center. Its large wooden doors opened to a spacious room filled with rows of chairs and a long table at the front. Maps and diagrams of the proposed canal route had already been pinned to the walls, evidence of the groundwork the Panamanians had laid in anticipation of this collaboration.

Matthew and his team took seats at the table alongside Castillo and other key leaders. The room buzzed with a mix of anticipation and cautious optimism.

Castillo began, his voice steady but firm. "Señor Hesh, your arrival here marks a significant moment for Panama. We’ve fought for years to gain the attention and support of nations like Amerathia. This canal is more than just an engineering project—it’s a symbol of hope for our people."

Matthew nodded, meeting Castillo’s gaze. "We understand that completely. This isn’t just about building a canal. It’s about creating opportunities for Panama—jobs, infrastructure, education. This project will be a partnership, not an imposition."

One of the local businessmen leaned forward, his expression skeptical. "And what about Gran Colombia? They won’t take this lightly. What assurances do we have that your government will protect us if they retaliate?"

Charles spoke up, his tone measured. "The Amerathian government has committed troops to ensure stability during the transition. Their role will be to maintain peace and deter any interference from Gran Colombia. Additionally, Hesh Industries will provide resources and logistical support to strengthen your position."

Another leader, a middle-aged woman named Rosa Alvarez, raised a hand. "Stability is one thing, but what about the long-term benefits for Panama? How do we know this canal won’t just benefit foreign powers while leaving us behind?"

Amber leaned forward, her voice calm but firm. "We’ve made plans to invest directly in Panama’s development. Schools, hospitals, roads—these are all part of the project. The canal will bring economic growth, but it will also lay the foundation for a stronger, self-sufficient Panama."

The room fell silent for a moment as the leaders absorbed her words. Castillo broke the silence with a nod. "These are the assurances we hoped for. But talk is one thing, Señor Hesh. Action is another. How do you plan to begin?"

Matthew stood, walking to one of the maps on the wall. He pointed to the proposed canal route. "Our first priority is to secure this region. Amerathian troops will work alongside your people to stabilize the area and establish a safe zone for construction. At the same time, we’ll begin surveying the land to finalize the engineering plans."

Bellamont chimed in, his voice animated. "The terrain here is challenging, but we’ve accounted for that in the designs. The locks will handle the elevation changes, and we’ll employ new construction methods to prevent landslides. With the resources at our disposal, we can make this work."

Castillo exchanged glances with his fellow leaders. "It’s clear you’ve come prepared. If you can deliver on these promises, you’ll have the full support of Panama."

After the meeting, Matthew and his team walked through the streets of Colón with Castillo as their guide. The city was alive with activity, but it was also clear that much of the infrastructure was outdated. Roads were uneven, and buildings showed signs of wear and neglect.

Amber observed the surroundings thoughtfully. "There’s so much potential here. Once the canal is complete, this city could transform into a thriving hub of trade and commerce."

Castillo nodded. "That’s the dream, Señora Hesh. But for now, our people struggle to make ends meet. This project represents hope, but it also comes with risks. We need to tread carefully."

Matthew placed a reassuring hand on Castillo’s shoulder. "We’ll do this together. Change takes time, but with the right approach, we can make it happen."

As evening fell, Matthew and his team returned to their temporary accommodations—a modest but comfortable house provided by the local leaders. The day had been long, but productive.

In the dining area, Amber prepared a simple meal using local ingredients. As they sat down to eat, Matthew looked around the table at his team.

Enjoy new adventures from novelbuddy

"We’ve made a strong start," he said. "But this is just the beginning. The real work starts now."

Charles raised his glass of water. "To the Panama Canal. Let’s make history."

R𝑒ad latest chapt𝒆rs at freewebnovёl.ƈom Only.

The team echoed the toast, their determination unwavering.

Outside, the city of Colón settled into the quiet rhythm of the night. But for Matthew Hesh and his team, the journey was just beginning. The Panama Canal was no longer just a vision—it was a mission that would test their resolve, their ingenuity, and their commitment to building a better future.