บท 416: Chapter 416: The Princess is Pregnant—Who is the Father?
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Princess Margaret's return from Hong Kong was met with widespread praise. Her successful promotion of 50,000 low-rent housing units was celebrated, and British newspapers lauded her dedication to improving the lives of the people.
In the palace, Princess Elizabeth warmly greeted her sister, praising her efforts. "You did an excellent job. Your contribution of 50,000 housing units has made a significant impact."
Margaret was quick to credit her partner, Viscount Hardy. "The real credit goes to Viscount Hardy. He's a committed entrepreneur who willingly made sacrifices to support Hong Kong."
Elizabeth took her sister's hand as they walked inside. "Of course, Hardy deserves recognition, but your efforts were crucial too. How was your trip? Did you enjoy it?"
"It was quite fulfilling. I believe it's important for royal family members to be more visible and involved in such initiatives," Margaret replied, subtly laying the groundwork for future engagements.
Upon returning to the palace, Hardy spent a couple of days with Han Yezhen and her son Byrne before traveling to Japan to inspect business operations.
As 1952 progressed, the Korean War continued to dominate the global stage. Reports from the Global Times revealed the surprising resilience of the Eastern forces, challenging prior perceptions of the US military's invincibility.
Hardy's time in Japan was brief. He returned to the US, where the presidential election loomed large. With President Johnson unable to seek re-election, the focus shifted to his successor. Eisenhower, supported by influential capitalists and the Hardy Group, was emerging as a key contender.
Hardy had previously struck a deal with the Rockefeller family to support the Republican Party's ascension. Now, he aimed to bolster this support by promoting Nicosson, a senator, for the vice presidency. Meanwhile, Hardy was also grooming Mike for a future role in Capitol Hill as a senator.
The Democratic candidate, Stevenson, was seen as a mere formality compared to the stronger Republican candidate.
At the same time, Hardy's assistant Li Gen transitioned from his role in the Actors Guild to a campaign for Congress. General MacArthur, another prominent figure, was also campaigning for the presidency, but his prospects seemed dim compared to the steady Eisenhower.
In a pivotal White House dinner, Johnson and Hardy discussed the upcoming election and strategic international matters. Hardy urged Johnson and Marshall to maintain a strong control over Japan and proposed that Penang and Malacca become US military allies, viewing them as strategic assets.
Marshall, though supportive, expressed concerns about potential future ambitions of a strengthened Dominion. Johnson, however, remained focused on the benefits of strengthening American influence in the region.
After a month, the US and the Dominion of Penang finalized a major military procurement deal. The Dominion acquired extensive weaponry, including aircraft and warships, securing its position as a significant ally. Hardy also planned to set up a rifle processing factory to produce AK47s, anticipating future needs in Southeast Asia.
Back in Britain, however, a significant issue arose. Princess Margaret had become lethargic and nauseous, symptoms mirroring pregnancy. Concerned, Princess Elizabeth reported this to her parents, Queen Elizabeth and George VI.
The news was startling yet handled with composure. Elizabeth had yet to confirm the pregnancy with a doctor, but the signs were compelling. The pressing question now was, who could be the father of Margaret's child?
The royal family faced a delicate situation, and the implications of Margaret's pregnancy were far-reaching.
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