But the challenge was more than financial—it was cultural. For men like this American banker, entrenched in notions of racial superiority, the idea of Japan emerging victorious against the vast empire of Russia was laughable.
Still, Takahashi persisted. He had to.
"The world changes, sir," Takahashi continued, his voice cutting through the financier's dismissive attitude. "Empires rise and fall not by the color of their rulers but by their determination, strategy, and courage. Invest in us, and you'll not only witness history—you'll profit from it."
The financier leaned back, puffing thoughtfully on his cigar. Takahashi's words had not fully convinced him, but they had left a mark. Japan's resolve was clear, and in that resolve lay a potential profit too enticing to ignore.
"Destiny, you say?" the banker mused, a glimmer of curiosity breaking through his skepticism. "We'll see about that, Mr. Takahashi. Let's discuss terms."
