Chapter 420: Penang Strategy Research Office

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January 1953.

After his honeymoon, Hardy returned to the United States to attend President Dwight D. Eisenhower's inauguration. He left Princess Margaret enjoying the warm Cayman Islands, where she was well accompanied by a maid, a housekeeper, a guard, and Elizabeth Taylor.

January 20, 1953.

On Capitol Hill, Hardy sat once again at the observatory, just as he had for President Johnson's inauguration. This time, it was Eisenhower's turn. Hardy anticipated many future opportunities and watched the ceremony, which was broadcast live by ABC to over 80 million viewers across the country.

During the broadcast, the camera lingered on Hardy for a few seconds, prompting some complaints about favoritism. However, his presence sent a clear message that despite Johnson's departure, Hardy remained an influential figure in Washington. This brief appearance helped solidify Hardy's position.

The inauguration proceeded with Nicholasone being sworn in as Vice President. Hardy, observing from the platform, noted that Nicholasone was a politician he had helped support. The new administration's cabinet included a mix of influential figures, with appointments reflecting a balance of power. Each president uses these appointments to distribute and consolidate power among their allies and supporters.

After Eisenhower's swearing-in and inaugural address, the ceremony concluded with him and his spouse moving into the White House. That evening, the White House hosted a reception where Hardy mingled with other guests. Eisenhower, acknowledging Hardy's support during the election, took a moment to thank him personally.

During their conversation, Hardy and Eisenhower discussed the strategic situation in Southeast Asia. Hardy outlined his plans for the region and sought Eisenhower's advice. Despite Eisenhower's tight schedule, he agreed to a more in-depth discussion the following day.

The next afternoon, Hardy and Eisenhower met again. They explored strategies to enhance the role of Hardy's dominion in regional security and affairs. Hardy was pleased with the outcome, feeling confident that support from both Britain and the United States would bolster his influence in Southeast Asia.

After the meeting, Hardy did not return to Los Angeles or the Cayman Islands but traveled directly to Hong Kong to see his newborn daughter. At the Mid-Levels Villa, Hardy met his daughter, who smiled at him as he picked her up. After some thought, Hardy decided to name her Annie—a name both charming and meaningful, reflecting grace and favor.

After spending two weeks with his daughter, Hardy traveled to Japan to step down from his role as economic envoy, a position appointed by Johnson. The Japanese government, including the emperor, prime minister, and many business leaders, bid him farewell. Despite stepping down, Hardy's influence remained significant in Japan, where his strategic reports would continue to impact economic and political affairs.

Before leaving Japan, Hardy called Sayuri. "I'm leaving Japan and may not return for a long time. Now that you're a well-known host and movie star, your career should be secure," he said.

Sayuri, kneeling beside him with tears in her eyes, responded, "My lord, are you abandoning me?"

Hardy gently lifted her face. "Have you ever thought about pursuing your own happiness? Find someone who loves you, get married, and start a family. You'll only be seen as a lover if you stay with me."

Sayuri looked at him with watery eyes. "Since I became an adult, I've assumed I would always follow you unless you chose to abandon me. Do you hate me, my lord?"

Hardy sighed. "It's not ancient times anymore. Japanese society is different now. Don't take this relationship too seriously."

"Can I still follow you?" Sayuri asked.

"Are you willing to be a lover forever?" Hardy inquired.

"Of course. I'm happier than most women in the world. Isn't that enough?" Sayuri replied firmly.

Hardy thought about it. Apart from her name, he could offer her everything she wanted: money, status, security, and satisfaction. He acknowledged that Sayuri's position, while unconventional, offered her a better life than most.

Sayuri took Hardy's hand and placed it against her chest, letting him feel her heartbeat. "Please don't give up on me."

Before leaving Japan, Hardy ensured that Sayuri would have a promising future. She was appointed as the deputy director of ABC TV and was also promoted to vice chairman of the Japan Women's Federation, a private organization advocating for women's rights. Hardy's extensive interests in Japan meant he would visit regularly, allowing Sayuri to reunite with him from time to time. In her position, Sayuri could find fulfillment and stability.

Leaving Japan, Hardy arrived in Penang, Malacca's key region. He focused on its strategic importance, as it could influence Malaya, Indonesia, and neighboring countries. With Southeast Asia's instability, Britain and the United States needed a reliable ally, and Hardy was prepared to take advantage of this.

Hardy's HD Defense Company began ramping up operations in Penang. American weapons and equipment flowed in as the company set up multiple war rooms and strategic research offices. His mercenary army was distinct from national forces, emphasizing flexibility and combat readiness over large-scale reserves.

Hardy planned to recruit 20,000 locals, with 10,000 joining the army and the rest divided between the navy and air force. After initial training, some recruits would become military police, while others would integrate into the HD Defense Company. His aim was to build a highly skilled, flexible force tailored to the region's needs.

Hardy arrived at the HD Defense Penang headquarters for a meeting with the experts from the Strategic Research Office. This team of former U.S. military strategists, intelligence specialists, and advisory analysts would help him analyze the strategic situation in Southeast Asia. Hardy outlined the key topics for discussion:

1. The future direction of Malaya.

2. The possibility of merging the Dominions of Singapore and Penang.

3. Strategies for responding to potential military conflicts with Indonesia.