Chapter 359: Arthur with a Strong Heart

Hardy spent a few days with Han Yezhen in Hong Kong. The woman seemed to be in particularly high spirits lately. One evening, as they lay in bed together, Han Yezhen leaned against Hardy and said, "You've got a lot on your plate back home. You should go back and handle things. There's no need to stay here with me."

Hardy ran his fingers gently along her back. "I worry about you. I'd rather be here with you as much as possible."

Han Yezhen laughed softly. "There's no need to be so concerned. With all the housekeepers, chefs, babysitters, bodyguards, and regular visits from traditional medicine practitioners, I'm well taken care of. You don't need to be so anxious."

Hardy shifted closer. "Well, if it eases your mind, I'll stay."

Han Yezhen smiled and nodded, her eyes reflecting a warm affection.

After a few days, Hardy returned to Japan, where the scene was bustling with activity. Various managers reported that all enterprises were running smoothly. Industrial businesses had turned into parts processing centers in the U.S., and light industry had become a production base for American living materials. Despite shipping costs, labor in Japan was so inexpensive that it significantly lowered production costs, making operations profitable.

The Japanese consumer market was thriving, stimulated by the influx of money from the profitable enterprises. With more disposable income, the black market began to flourish. The red-light district had opened, featuring nightclubs, taverns, and entertainment venues where men could indulge freely. The area quickly became a lively hub of activity.

Men with money found the red-light district particularly appealing, where they could enjoy drinks, socialize, and gamble. Although gambling was technically illegal, Hardy had devised a clever workaround. Pachinko machines, billiard balls, and slot machine tokens provided a seamless closed loop of gambling disguised as entertainment. 

The red-light district near the U.S. military base was especially lively, with American soldiers frequenting it and spending nights out, indulging in its offerings. General MacArthur, known for his unorthodox methods, didn't mind the soldiers' escapades, allowing them to enjoy the district's attractions, including its more illicit offerings.

Hardy, while no longer personally involved in the drug trade in the U.S., had his Japanese operations thriving. Japanese gangs had continued the tradition of drug trafficking, with Hardy's chemical companies secretly producing and distributing large quantities of drugs, including ice, a potent form of methamphetamine. The profits from this business flowed through a complex network, eventually reaching Hardy, making him substantial gains.

One day, Hardy contacted the editor-in-chief of the Japanese edition of the Global Times. He instructed them to establish an expert column focusing on Japan's political, economic, and cultural issues. The column would feature critiques of Japan's shortcomings and advocate for American ideals and influence.

Hardy also directed the editor to arrange interviews with high-ranking U.S. military officials, including General MacArthur, to enhance the image of American strength and discourage Japanese resistance. The aim was to strengthen the psychological impact of American power on the Japanese public.

George Sutherland, Chief of Staff of the Allied Command in Japan, was one of Hardy's contacts. Hardy had been introduced to Sutherland by Major General Williams and had arranged a meeting with him in a prestigious Tokyo club. The setting was a traditional Japanese courtyard-style venue with a long table filled with delicacies.

As they conversed, Hardy expressed his intention to promote American military strength through the Global Times. Sutherland agreed, recognizing the mutual benefit of reinforcing the image of American power. Hardy requested interviews with high-ranking officers, and although Sutherland hesitated about securing an interview with General MacArthur, he promised to make arrangements.

MacArthur, who was in Osaka at the time, welcomed the idea of an interview. The prospect of showcasing his achievements and the strength of the American military was appealing to him. He agreed to the interview, seeing it as an opportunity to bolster his public image and the perception of American dominance.