Bab 373: Chapter 373: Two Troublesome Issues
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The grand opening of "Bourne Jewelry" in Hong Kong was a remarkable event. From the Governor to the Commissioner of Police, and the chairpersons and presidents of numerous companies, all gathered to cut the ribbon.
This scene left the entire city in awe.
The next day, newspapers covered the spectacular event. Many believed that such a prestigious jewelry company, backed by high-profile figures, would surely succeed without any interference.
"Bourne Jewelry" featured both Chinese and Western styles. The Chinese jewelry was crafted by artisans from Yangzhou and Suzhou, while the Western designs were created by Italian designers. Given Hardy's extensive investments in luxury brands, calling upon top European designers was a straightforward task.
At the opening, attendees were impressed by the exquisite pieces on display. The jewelry sold exceptionally well, with hundreds of pieces purchased on the first day alone.
In the VIP room, Han Yezhen was holding their son while Hardy presented a jewelry box to her. Inside was a crystal-clear emerald bracelet.
"Auntie, this is an emerald bracelet. It's a rare find and a gift from your grandson, Byrne," Hardy said, handing the bracelet to Han Yezhen.
Han Yezhen took her son's tiny hand and presented it to her mother. The little boy fussed as he adjusted to the new presence.
Mother Han, delighted, smiled as she received the gift.
Jadeite was highly valued during the Republic of China and remains a coveted material today. Hardy had accumulated a significant amount of jade, controlling a major portion of the market. His goal was to make jade popular in Europe and America as well.
He also gave Father Han an ancient piece of jade, purportedly from the Tang Dynasty, as a gesture of respect.
As October approached, Hardy returned to Japan, where his businesses were thriving. He anticipated a profit of around $200 million from legitimate ventures this year. Additional income from the black market and other enterprises was expected to exceed $100 million.
The entertainment industry was also booming, with ABC TV gaining prominence as Japan's leading network.
Meanwhile, the geopolitical situation had shifted. MacArthur's aggressive military actions had significantly altered the balance in the Korean Peninsula. With the situation deteriorating, the rabbit's decision to send troops was a drastic response to the evolving conflict.
In Japan, October was a peak tourist season. Hardy decided to take a short break and asked Sayuri, who had been serving him diligently, to join him on a trip to a small town at the foot of Mount Fuji.
Sayuri, dressed in a beautiful purple kimono, met Hardy at a wooden bridge. As they walked together through the early autumn scenery, Hardy mentioned a movie idea inspired by Sayuri's appearance.
"Have you ever thought about acting? You remind me of the heroine in Kawabata Yasunari's 'Izu Dancing Girl.' I'd like to make a film based on that story, with you as the lead," Hardy suggested.
Sayuri was both surprised and excited. The idea of being in a movie was thrilling, especially given Hardy's influence and resources.
Their trip included a stay at a traditional hot spring hotel. As they relaxed in the hot spring, the intimacy of the setting led to a romantic evening.
Returning to Tokyo after the trip, Hardy received two urgent telegrams.
The first was from Andy, reporting that the U.S. Congress was considering further political isolation and economic blockades against Eastern nations. This included a potential closure of Hong Kong and Macau, which would severely impact Hardy's operations in Hong Kong. The potential economic repercussions were unacceptable to Hardy.
The second telegram was from the actors' union, where Hardy served as chairman. Li Gen, the vice chairman, reported that McKinsey's doctrine was causing significant upheaval in Hollywood. Many companies and individuals feared being labeled as collaborators, leading to widespread investigations and disruptions.
McKinsey's doctrine, a politically driven campaign to root out perceived collaborators, had intensified. It threatened not only Hollywood but also Hardy's own ventures in the entertainment industry.
Hardy, angered by the implications, instructed his secretary to telegraph Henry. "Prepare the necessary personnel. I'm heading back to the U.S. immediately."
Henry, receiving the telegram, noted Hardy's displeasure and prepared for the imminent trip. With over a thousand employees under his command, Henry was ready to handle whatever challenges lay ahead.
In the complex landscape of global politics and business, Hardy was determined to navigate these new obstacles with resolve and strategy.
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Bab 374: Chapter 374: New Movie "Roman Holiday"
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Hardy's plane touched down in Los Angeles, where Henry was waiting to pick him up. Instead of heading home, Hardy went straight to HD Security Headquarters.
"Before I arrived, you were investigating 'Senator McKinsey.' What did you find out?" Hardy inquired.
Henry handed over a stack of documents.
"McKinsey hails from Wisconsin and is of Irish descent. He entered politics as a judge in 1939 and served in World War II. By 1946, he was elected Wisconsin Senator. McKinsey is far from a Puritan; he drinks, gambles, and has a poor reputation. He lost a significant amount of money last year through futures speculation. Despite his questionable reputation, he's an articulate speaker and adept at deceit."
"Many view him as a rogue politician—a political troublemaker."
"Currently, his situation is dire. He's financially ruined and facing political jeopardy. To retain his position, he's taken drastic measures. He claimed to have a list of 205 individuals suspected of being general workers, creating a significant uproar."
"McKinsey has found this tactic to be highly effective. If anyone criticizes him, he counters by accusing others of working against him. This strategy has silenced many critics."
"McKinsey has even initiated an investigation committee to scrutinize all general labor conditions with the FBI's assistance."
Henry continued, "The investigation now includes unions, publishing companies, universities, former Soviet Chinese workers, Russians, and Chinese. Hollywood is heavily impacted due to its representation of American culture. McKinsey has explicitly named the three major television networks and radio stations to be censored, including ABC."
"His recent speech targeted Hollywood directors and actors, like Chaplin, accusing them of having anti-capitalist sentiments in films such as 'Modern Times,' 'The Great Dictator,' and 'Mr. Van Dour.'"
"Under the McKinsey Doctrine, college teachers must criticize the Soviet Union and the old horse, and even the Cincinnati Red Baseball Team was forced to change its name. Actors are required to sign loyalty oaths."
Hardy understood the implications. McKinsey was using political correctness as a shield to gain leverage, manipulating public opinion to his advantage. Though it seemed to be a political ploy, it posed a direct threat to Hardy's interests, compelling him to act.
"Henry, send our most capable team to investigate McKinsey thoroughly. I want every detail on his background, his dealings—financial, political, anything deemed unsavory."
"Also, investigate his political enemies. Their grievances might prove useful."
"Boss, why not just eliminate him?" Henry suggested.
Hardy responded with a cold sneer, "A politician like McKinsey must be thoroughly discredited to neutralize his influence. We need him to be ruined beyond repair, leaving others to wonder what went wrong."
Henry understood the strategic depth of Hardy's plan.
After delegating the investigation to Henry, Hardy spent just one day in Los Angeles before heading to Washington to meet President Johnson.
Despite his busy schedule, President Johnson made time to meet Hardy in his office.
"Hadi, what brings you here on such short notice?" Johnson asked.
"I've heard Congress is considering a material blockade on Hong Kong," Hardy stated directly.
"Indeed, there are discussions about it. Congress views the Peninsular War as a strategic game involving the US and the Soviets. With Rabbit Country involved in the conflict, we need to tighten sanctions to prevent them from getting supplies through Hong Kong," Johnson explained.
Hardy sighed. "I don't want to interfere with government decisions, but Hardy Group has substantial business interests in Hong Kong. Sanctions could severely impact our operations."
Johnson pondered Hardy's concerns, recognizing his substantial investments in Hong Kong. While he valued Hardy's alliance, he couldn't single-handedly alter national policy.
After a thoughtful pause, Johnson proposed, "I can't change the sanctions, but I can offer Hardy Group a franchise to be the sole importer and exporter in Hong Kong. You must guarantee not to trade with the Soviets. How does that sound?"
Hardy's eyes lit up at the suggestion. The franchise would benefit Hardy Group significantly. While other companies faced restrictions, Hardy's business could thrive and expand, given the market vacuum.
"I accept. As long as our business remains unaffected and we avoid dealing with the Soviets, I'm satisfied."
With the matter settled, Hardy bid farewell to Johnson and returned to Los Angeles, awaiting the results of Henry's investigation.
Back in Los Angeles, Hardy contacted Monroe, who quickly arrived at his villa.
In the bedroom, Hardy indulged in an intimate encounter with Monroe. Afterward, he inquired about her movie, "Passionate."
"The editing is complete, and the film company is planning a screening. Everyone is optimistic about its success," Monroe replied.
"Once 'Passionate' is released, we'll begin preparations for your next film," Hardy announced.
Monroe was thrilled. "You mean 'Seven Year Itch'?"
"Yes, we'll start preparations for it in December after the screening of 'Passionate.' It's a summer movie, so we'll use the interim period for pre-production."
The next day, Hardy visited the film company to meet Edward.
"How are other film companies faring with the McKinsey investigation?" Hardy asked.
Edward replied with concern, "The impact is severe. Film companies are reducing their output drastically. Major studios are struggling, and many are losing money. Hollywood's production chain is disrupted, affecting countless professionals."
Hardy acknowledged the gravity of the situation. "We need to keep our production running smoothly. Ensure Monroe's 'Passionate' is on track and start gathering scripts for Ava and Taylor. They need roles this year."
"Understood, boss," Edward confirmed.
"Also, prepare for 'Roman Holiday.' Start arranging everything but keep it under wraps. Audrey Hepburn should go to Rome without knowing the details of the film or the script. I'll guide her through the Roman holiday experience personally."
Edward agreed, noting the production increase at Hardy Pictures. Despite the challenges, Hardy was set on maintaining momentum.
As Hepburn learned of her upcoming role and the chance to travel to Rome, she was excited and eager to begin her preparations.
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