The first time Shoji saw Konstantiniadis was several months ago. The American businessman was giving a talk at the university auditorium about the importance of shipbuilding and shipping companies to cease dependence on conventional fossil fuels in favor of environmentally friendly ones like biodiesel. He had already taken the liberty by entering into contracts with South American farmers to grow jathropa for processing into biodiesel to fuel his ships. He even made mention that in the Philippines, Eric Ong was already mass-producing biofuels from jathropa, palm, corn and coconut oil as well as sugarcane for public consumption and that that country -not just the EOGC Territories- was already almost completely independent from crude oil.
That momentarily rekindled Shoji's admiration for Eric Ong until he heard the end of Konstantiniadis' speech.
"But I have a greater dream," said the American, "A dream that even Eric Ong will never be able to achieve."
Something that surpasses Eric Ong's achievements?
"Eric Ong's dream began as a struggle against oppression," continued Konstantiniadis. "He ended up creating his own quasi-nation. I admire the man because he built the EOGC Territories when I was only dreaming of my visions. But he limited himself to his insular ambitions and didn't look further. I offer something bigger: freedom! I offer the freedom to chart your own destiny. I offer you the freedom that only those with the determination, resourcefulness and the pioneering spirit possess! That sort of freedom is the freedom to lay the foundations of something greater than a mere business empire! That something greater will make you prosper truly and live your life to the most full!"
The crowd applauded him. Afterwards at the pictorials, Shoji was able to shake Konstantiniadis' hand.
The American businessman's appearance was imposing. He was a large man with a strong build, standing six foot-two, Mediterranean tanned, long black hair and a goatee. There was a bright sparkle in his eyes and he exuded an aura of confidence and power.
Konstantiniadis shook several hands, signed a few autographs and posed for a couple of shots before Shoji could approach him. Upon reaching the American, Shoji clasped his hand with both of his own hands excitedly.
"Mr. Konstantiniadis," he exclaimed, "I really like your speech. You inspire me!"
"Thank you," Konstantiniadis replied, "I'm glad I've got another person motivated."
Shoji took out his cell phone and asked another student to snap a photo of him and Konstantiniadis. Shaking hands with the American again, he left as the rest of the crowd pushed forward to have their own photo ops.
That was the first time Shoji met Konstantiniadis. He never forgot that moment. When the American businessman returned, it was learned that he would be in Japan for a month. Part of his schedule would include selling his book and participating in discussions over the purchase of new ships.
At a very prominent bookstore a book signing was being held for the businessman's work, which was titled The Dream of the Oceans and Konstantiniadis was sitting at a desk, signing copies of his book for customers.
Shoji snatched a copy from the shelf and went in line, a rather long one, to get an autograph. When his turn arrived, it seemed that the businessman recognized him and was glad to sign his copy quickly. Shoji wanted to say a few words of thanks but the crowd was pushing so he had to leave. of course, Konstantiniadis did give him a wave as he left.
After the book signing, it was back to school then home afterwards. He couldn't contain his excitement any longer when he rode back home on his bike. After taking off his jacket and dumping himself into bed, he took the book out of the shopping bag and began to read.
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