Following my proposal, once the British Empire stepped in as mediator, Spain and the United States quickly began preparing for peace negotiations.
The location was London.
Each nation would send no more than five representatives, and the treaty would be ratified immediately according to their constitutional procedures.
Spain had no position from which to oppose or argue, so it quietly formed its delegation and arrived in London ahead of time.
The Duke of Valencia, Ramón María Narváez, who had served as Prime Minister four times, led the Spanish delegation, and as expected, he came to see me as soon as he arrived.
"Your Majesty, thank you for agreeing to mediate."
"There is nothing for me to be thanked for. If the war between the United States and Spain continues, it may affect Europe in unpredictable ways. Conflicts are also breaking out elsewhere, so it is better for both sides to resolve matters quickly. That is why the British Empire has stepped forward."
"Thank you."
Spain itself understood that prolonging the war would only lead to complete devastation.
I spoke as if unaware of everything, offering an apology in a tone filled with feigned regret.
"Rather, I should be the one thanking you. Spain must have been preparing a large-scale counteroffensive, yet your government chose to consider ending the war. It could not have been an easy decision. A great power such as Spain would not wish to end a war at a loss, so I assume this was done to preserve your nation's dignity."
"…That…"
Spain had been beaten without even raising its guard, yet it could not admit that it had been saved by an external intervention.
Narváez could not tell how much I already knew, so even empty bravado was difficult.
In such a situation, one could almost read his thoughts just by looking at his face.
If he behaved like this in negotiations, he would be thoroughly exploited by the North and South.
Even so, I could not give the impression that I was fully aware of everything while taking advantage of Spain, so I calmly led Narváez into the office.
"As you already know, the negotiations will involve five representatives from Spain, five from the North and South combined, and from the British Empire, one representative each from the House of Lords and the House of Commons, along with Prince Edward representing Canada, making a total of thirteen participants. Of course, we will not interfere in your negotiations and will mainly observe."
"Yes. I have already heard that the Duke of Wellington and Benjamin Disraeli will attend. However, I did not expect His Royal Highness Prince Edward to participate."
He seemed surprised that a member of the royal family would take part.
But Edward was attending not as part of the British monarchy, but as a representative of the Kingdom of Canada.
He had consistently performed well in the responsibilities I gave him, and this negotiation would serve as another opportunity for him to gain experience.
I had prepared a situation where even a basic performance would be enough to succeed.
There was no risk of failure.
It might seem that I was allowing him to grow accustomed to negotiations from a position of overwhelming advantage, but considering the future he would inherit, this was the most appropriate path.
Building and maintaining power are similar, yet fundamentally different.
I had to do both, but my children would focus on maintaining what had already been established.
By the time they entered politics, the British Empire would already stand as the undisputed global power.
They needed to learn how to guide allies and influence other nations with subtlety.
I had always reminded them that they must never become arrogant simply because they belonged to the strongest empire.
Other nations must be used, but with sophistication.
My goal was to raise someone who could pursue national interests while maintaining the dignity of a respected royal family.
Fortunately, Edward had proven capable.
If he had been incompetent, placing him here would have invited criticism.
After completing the formal welcoming procedures, the Spanish delegation remained in London, gloomy like prisoners awaiting execution.
About a week later, the joint delegation from the North and South arrived in London with confidence.
Unlike the defeated atmosphere of the Spanish delegation, they carried themselves proudly.
The northern delegation was led by Secretary William Seward along with senators.
The South sent Mikhail Bakunin along with a member of its Supreme Council.
Seward was already familiar with London, but Bakunin drew considerable attention.
A well-known European anarchist had risen to become the second most powerful figure in a communist state and returned to Europe.
Even so, he did not draw unnecessary attention and allowed the North to take the lead.
However, neither side concealed their confidence from victory.
On the day of the negotiations, as I watched the delegations arrive with Edward, I could not suppress a faint smile.
Narváez entered like a condemned man walking to execution.
Seward and Bakunin entered with confidence, like top scholars attending a celebration.
"It feels as though the outcome is already decided," Edward said.
"I agree," I replied.
Edward could not help but think the same.
He did not want to see the British Empire end up like Spain.
Spain had once ruled the seas and possessed the Invincible Armada.
Now it stood defeated.
There were similarities between Spain in the past and the British Empire in the present.
Both possessed unmatched naval power and global colonies.
Watching a fallen great power lose to a rising nation was not pleasant.
Especially when that rising nation was the United States.
Edward had studied history and understood why independence had occurred, but he still found it difficult to accept.
If the situation had been understood better at the time, perhaps things would have been different.
His father, however, had transformed Canada into a powerful state beyond all expectations.
What had begun with limited goals had expanded far beyond them.
It was no longer coincidence.
It was inevitability.
He believed that even dividing the United States had been part of a greater design.
Standing here, he felt certain of it.
"Thank you for agreeing to this peace negotiation," Seward said with a smile.
"I did not realize Spain was such a lover of peace," Bakunin added.
The sarcasm was obvious.
Edward was surprised.
Seward was usually a composed and courteous man.
Now he openly mocked Spain.
Narváez could only endure it.
The negotiations would not end in a single day.
They would continue for weeks.
Seward seemed intent on humiliating Spain at every opportunity.
If Spain lost its temper, it would only justify further action.
"Let us begin with the terms," Narváez said. "Spain proposes that the debt of Cuba be shared."
"We should share it?" Seward replied.
"Why?" Bakunin added.
Their reaction was immediate.
The United States had no intention of assuming Cuba's debts.
"We have no connection to Cuba," Bakunin said. "We seek Puerto Rico, not Cuba."
"The same applies to us," Seward said. "Spain will bear the debt."
Narváez's face turned pale.
"We supported Cuban independence. Why should we assume the debts of another nation?"
It was a calculated position.
Cuba was treated as independent in principle to avoid responsibility.
Edward understood.
This was how great powers exploited the defeated.
He watched carefully as the negotiations continued.
Something had just occurred to him.
If Spain was forced to bear Cuba's debt alone, the consequences would be significant.
He decided not to intervene and continued observing as Seward and Bakunin methodically pressed Spain further.
***
The reason the British Empire could demand the Philippines from Spain was simple. Spain already owed a massive debt to the Empire.
Then what would happen if Spain, already burdened with debt, was forced to assume Cuba's debts alone?
Edward watched Narváez being beaten down in the negotiations without intervening.
The result was clear.
Spain relinquished all rights to Cuba and Puerto Rico.
Spain assumed full responsibility for Cuba's debt, while Puerto Rico was taken by the South.
In addition, Spain officially acknowledged that the South did not need to repay the remaining payments owed for weapons previously sold to the old Confederate government.
"Then what remains is for Spain to acknowledge that it destroyed our transport ship with a naval mine and provide compensation. Public anger is considerable. A proper apology would help calm the situation."
"We did not do such a thing. How can we apologize for something we did not do?"
"Then let us proceed differently. Since Spain must pay compensation to conclude the war, you may add concessions. We understand Spain holds silver mining rights in Mexico. We will take those instead."
"…Very well."
Spain had little liquidity left. Losing even its mining rights in Mexico would leave it with almost nothing, but in truth, it could not maintain those interests anyway.
"We cannot transfer them without compensation. If that were the case, we could simply sell them ourselves. Provide an appropriate price, and we will agree."
"Understood. Payment will be made in installments over at least five years."
"…Agreed."
After about ten days, matters concerning the American continent were largely concluded.
Spain wished to leave as soon as possible, but unfortunately, the true negotiation had yet to begin.
"Now that the agreement between Spain and the North and South has been settled, we must address another matter. Like all debts, priority must be observed. The amount Spain owes the British Empire is not insignificant, and repayment to us should take precedence over all others. I would like to ask Secretary William Seward and Comrade Mikhail Bakunin if they agree."
"We have no objection."
"That is only natural. Our primary compensation lies in territorial gains. Monetary compensation is secondary."
Although Spain owed the British Empire, it could not be directly tied to the Philippines without proper timing and justification.
Now that the North and South had settled their claims, the opportunity had arrived.
It was now possible to shift the discussion naturally.
You have obligations to them, but you have not forgotten what you owe us first, have you?
With the support of the North and South, Spain had no room to escape.
"…Yes. That should be possible."
"It must be. You have not forgotten how much time we have already granted you."
"…Understood. We will present a clear calculation tomorrow."
Everyone knew Spain had no money left.
Now burdened with Cuba's debt as well, there was no realistic source of funds.
The next day, Narváez returned, exhausted, carrying stacks of documents.
"…The amount we can raise this year is…"
"Please answer clearly. Is repayment possible or not?"
"If you grant us five more years…"
"That is not possible."
"…."
"If necessary, we will proceed with enforcement once the deadline passes. You have been given sufficient opportunity."
Enforcement meant seizing assets.
Seward leaned forward.
"If the British Empire enforces repayment, will it not affect the compensation owed to us?"
"We will coordinate in advance to prevent that."
"Then let us suggest this. Since we have already resolved matters in the Americas, perhaps the British Empire could take its compensation from Spain's Asian and Pacific territories."
"…What would be suitable?"
"The Philippines or Guam."
"Th-the Philippines? Why is that being discussed here?"
The Spanish delegation turned pale.
They had thought the Philippines might be spared.
But if there is no money, payment must be made in other ways.
The North and South had effectively forced the issue, making it appear as if they were offering the Philippines rather than Britain demanding it.
"Th-the Philippines are not possible."
"Then what alternative do you propose?"
"…Then exclude Luzon. We can transfer the other regions…"
"That is unacceptable."
"Indeed. It is quite remarkable. I have never seen a nation attempt to evade repayment to the British Empire so openly."
The pressure continued.
"Please wait. The Philippines are beyond my authority. If this is included, it will not be ratified."
"Then we will wait. Please consult your government. We will also inform Parliament that Spain appears unwilling to repay its debts."
"N-no, that is not…"
Spain was surrounded.
What had seemed like a two-sided negotiation had become three against one.
"Then we will suspend discussions until Spain confirms its position."
"We agree."
"We agree as well."
Majority rule prevailed.
Spain's opinion no longer mattered.
"And one more thing. If the British Empire assumes part of Cuba's debt, perhaps Guam could be included along with the Philippines."
Narváez staggered and collapsed back into his chair.
When I later heard of this, I had to suppress a smile.
Edward had done well.
"Joseon and Japan. To the friendship between the Korean people and the Yamato people."
"To friendship."
"May the bond between our nations last forever."
"Forever."
While Spain was being humiliated in London, Joseon and Japan, united by their campaign in Manchuria, pledged to continue the war together.
Their alliance had become something closer to a blood pact.
Had the two nations ever been this close before?
To commemorate this alliance, Japan sent its Prime Minister, Ōkubo Toshimichi, to Joseon.
For Ōkubo, this was partly an opportunity to leave Japan.
The situation at home had grown increasingly unstable.
Speaking honestly had become dangerous.
Ministers had already been assassinated.
Remaining in the country carried risk.
Killian had advised him to endure and survive.
Leaving temporarily seemed wise.
There was also curiosity.
He wanted to see Joseon's situation firsthand.
"Ha ha ha."
"Ha ha ha."
After arriving, he found it identical to Japan.
The same enthusiasm.
The same rhetoric.
The same madness.
At first, he thought he had arrived in western Japan.
When he finally met Kim Jwa-geun, he felt an immediate sense of familiarity.
"With our alliance, conquest of the continent is only a matter of time."
"Indeed. Just seeing our two Prime Ministers sharing a drink makes the future clear."
Officials surrounded them, praising a bright future.
Even military leaders were present.
Ōkubo calmly observed Kim Jwa-geun.
In Japan, Kim was known as Joseon's Ōkubo.
In Joseon, Ōkubo was known as Japan's Kim Jwa-geun.
The comparison felt strangely accurate.
After the gathering ended and they were alone, Kim drained his drink and slammed the cup onto the table.
"This is unbearable."
Ōkubo smiled faintly and nodded.
"I understand."
Kim Jwa-geun switched to Japanese.
"I apologize. You understand Korean."
"Not well. But I understand the tone."
Kim Jwa-geun laughed bitterly.
"In times like this, who can remain sane?"
Ōkubo agreed.
Both had led reforms.
Both had lost control.
Both now watched their nations spiral.
Kim Jwa-geun looked at him with emotion.
Ōkubo felt the same.
They were not alone.
"Did you receive any instructions from London?" Kim Jwa-geun asked.
"I did. Let me explain."
Their conversation continued late into the night.
Two leaders, once in control, now struggling to restrain forces far beyond them.
***
The drinking session that had continued deep into the night did not end until the sound of a rooster crowing at dawn echoed in the distance.
"Damn it, the military is completely hopeless."
"I agree. They are nothing but fools obsessed with war. If we could gather them all and throw them into the Pacific, both our nations would be far more peaceful."
"That will not be possible until the war ends. At least in our case. We are reclaiming Manchuria and expanding the territory several times over. How could we restrain them in such a situation? Is it not the same for your country?"
At Kim Jwa-geun's question, Ōkubo Toshimichi could only respond with a bitter smile.
Both men were slightly drunk, yet the chance to finally speak freely left them too absorbed to feel fatigue.
"Manchuria, Manchuria, Manchuria. Even if we take it, who is going to govern it? We have only just begun organizing administration for half of Sakhalin."
"It is the same for us. Even Taiwan will be difficult to manage given our current capacity. Since the British Empire already has a presence there, I originally intended to sell it to them. That would offset some of the loans we have taken."
"That is a clever plan."
"Is it not? We would recover war expenses from Qing, sell the territory to the British Empire to reduce our debt, and use the victory to accelerate modernization. That was my original plan. Avoiding war would have been best, but once it began, I intended to conclude it that way."
Kim Jwa-geun had thought similarly.
His original goal had been limited.
Secure Jiandao, negotiate with Qing, incorporate part of it into Joseon, and return the rest in exchange for payment.
With that money, repay European loans, claim success in expanding onto the continent, and push modernization further.
But now even that had become impossible.
After considering the cause, they arrived at the same conclusion.
"This is all Qing's fault. What have they been doing?"
"Exactly. A so-called great power behaving like this. That is why they are being exploited by Europe."
"They were investing heavily in reform, were they not?"
"It must have all ended up in Empress Dowager Cixi's stomach."
"With such resources, and yet this result."
They continued criticizing Qing for some time before pouring another round of drinks.
"By the way, what did you hear from London? You mentioned receiving a reply earlier."
"He must know our situation. I explained everything in detail. His response was simple. Endure a little longer."
"That was all?"
"Yes. I burned the letter after reading it."
"That is quite cold."
Kim Jwa-geun believed Killian was someone who could resolve even this chaos.
At the very least, a formal warning from the British Empire should have restrained the military.
"Perhaps he judged that our militaries might even reject British mediation."
"That would be madness."
"…Are they not already mad?"
Kim Jwa-geun fell silent.
Ōkubo was right.
"If the military refuses the British Empire, everything we have built will collapse. Of course, we could use that as an opportunity to eliminate them."
"Perhaps the British Empire prefers Qing to continue weakening. The longer the war continues, the more they can extract later."
"That is possible."
"Then what about France and Prussia? Why are they silent?"
"That is something I also find strange. There are rumors of financial backing from Jewish financiers."
"Do they truly support Joseon?"
Both men understood Europe well enough to know how unusual that was.
"They speak of historical legitimacy. That reclaiming ancestral land is justified."
"Are they serious?"
"It is difficult to tell."
They mentioned a "promised land," but neither could fully understand the meaning.
Even with their experience, understanding such thinking was not easy.
"In any case, the discussion is tomorrow. Will you attend?"
"No. It will proceed without me."
"Then let us drink again instead."
They laughed.
The alliance between Joseon and Japan was now being pushed further.
Beyond cooperation, toward a union of royal families.
Ōkubo had come partly for this purpose, but he had no confidence in handling it himself.
He intended to leave it to others.
Public support for a marriage alliance was already high.
Some even invoked Killian as a symbol linking both nations.
The logic was absurd.
Yet it was gaining traction.
Ōkubo tried to prevent such ideas from reaching London, but it was only a matter of time.
"Do you think such a marriage will actually happen?"
"Logically, it should fail."
"Then it will succeed."
They both laughed.
In these times, what seemed impossible often became reality.
Kim Jwa-geun poured another drink.
"Spain has agreed to the transfer of the Philippines and Guam, with a ten percent increase in price."
"That is acceptable."
Cuba became independent. Puerto Rico went to the South. Mexico's silver mining rights went to the North.
The Philippines and Guam went to the British Empire.
Spain lost nearly all of its colonies.
Even its remaining Pacific islands were sold.
What remained was negligible.
The treaty concluded peacefully.
Spain returned home defeated.
The outcome had been decided from the beginning.
Only Spain had not realized it.
Still, there were unexpected gains.
"Guam, Palau, and the Caroline Islands as well?"
"Yes. Guam is ideal for a naval base. Given that the Philippines will be transferred to France and Prussia, it is necessary for us to secure it."
Edward had exceeded expectations.
He had not only secured the Philippines, but also all of Spain's Pacific holdings.
More importantly, he had done so by coordinating with the North and South.
His growth was remarkable.
"You have done well. This deserves recognition."
"Thank you."
"Do you have any questions?"
"I understand the reasoning for selling the Philippines. But is this also intended to gain leverage over France and Prussia?"
"Why do you think so?"
"Because they intend to divide territories beyond Spain's control. That will create long-term problems for them."
It was an accurate observation.
Managing such distant colonies would become a burden.
Eventually, it would create opportunities.
Killian smiled.
Edward hesitated, then spoke again.
"Father, does this mean I understood your intentions correctly?"
"Yes."
"Then may I act with more confidence?"
"Of course."
Killian poured him a glass of wine.
"If there is something you wish to handle next, say it."
Edward pointed to the Far East.
"I would like to take responsibility for this region. Your homeland."
***
As soon as the agreement was concluded and the results were revealed, reactions immediately poured in from all sides.
Those who had previously complained about delayed responses fell silent and began offering praise as if nothing had happened.
It went beyond simple approval. Many struggled to retract their earlier criticism and instead devoted themselves to praising the royal family.
Most of the earlier criticism had been directed at the government rather than the royal family itself.
In the British Empire, no one dared openly criticize the royal family.
Even mild remarks questioning the royal family's performance could lead to severe consequences.
Still, this was the British Empire.
A nation known for its fervent supporters.
Once they fixated on something, they became fanatical.
Unofficial groups and passionate supporters spread across Britain and Canada.
Some even formed organizations with names that sounded absurd.
One such group had recently set fire to a newspaper office that published criticism of Asian policy.
Their justification was simple.
Criticism of Asian policy was seen as criticism of the royal family.
Criticism of the royal family was seen as an insult to Killian.
The logic was extreme.
Yet they believed it completely.
Even when punished, they showed no regret.
What irritated me most was that Prime Minister Charles Wellesley sometimes wore their badge when visiting.
"Your Majesty, look at this. A limited edition."
"From this moment, that group is banned from Buckingham Palace."
"That is tyranny."
"If you continue, I may demonstrate what tyranny truly means."
Wellesley removed the badge with reluctance and sat down.
"Your Majesty, regarding the Crown Prince."
"Yes."
"He wishes to take charge of Asian affairs."
"That is not possible."
"Then perhaps a tour of Hong Kong and Shanghai?"
"That is also risky. The war is ongoing."
"He may intend to influence events."
That was likely.
"I will consider sending him later as part of mediation."
"That suggestion has already been rejected."
"He is eager."
"Also, intelligence reports indicate that Joseon and Japan are discussing a marriage alliance."
"A marriage alliance?"
"Yes. It is still under discussion, but the information is reliable."
This was unexpected.
The implications were troublesome.
If it proceeded, it would create new complications.
I had a feeling it would not end simply.
Edward, having proven his abilities through the London negotiations, received widespread praise.
For a moment, he stood proudly.
Then his mood darkened.
"Why the long face?"
Adelaide, his twin sister, spoke casually.
"Do you have mood swings?"
Edward frowned.
"You should show more respect."
"We are twins. That is unnecessary."
She leaned back, drinking tea with ease.
Her confidence came from her own success.
She had built a business independently, expanding across Europe.
Unlike Edward, she did not carry the burden of succession.
"Is this about the articles praising Father?"
"Not exactly. It made me realize how far I still have to go."
Edward looked at a newspaper.
It contained exaggerated praise for Killian.
Even advertisements had taken on an almost fanatical tone.
Such displays were becoming common.
"They are not normal," Adelaide said.
"No."
"But we cannot become like that. We prove ourselves through ability."
"That is true."
Edward reflected on the recent negotiations.
He had performed well.
But everything had already been arranged.
He had merely acted on a prepared stage.
"How can I call myself a successor when I only follow his design?"
"You are thinking too much about that role," Adelaide said.
"You are not the successor."
"That is why I can speak freely."
She paused, then added more seriously.
"You cannot become Father. You should not try. You must become yourself."
Edward remained silent.
"You have the ability. Build your own path."
Her words lingered.
Edward had already sensed this truth.
He could not replicate Killian.
But that did not mean he had to.
What mattered was serving the Empire and earning the trust of its people.
His father was a precise strategist who left no room for error.
Edward could take a different path.
A leader who complemented that strength.
The direction became clear.
Edward lifted his head.
For the first time, he felt certain of the path he needed to take.
***
In the spring of 1867, a cold rain fell over London.
One might imagine spring rain as fresh and gentle, but that was not the case here.
In mid-nineteenth-century London, the rain was harsh enough to feel like a bombardment.
Hats and umbrellas were essential.
No one could afford the bravado of walking through the rain as if it did not matter.
I remained inside the palace, making sure not a single drop touched my hair.
"Father, look at this. I plan to present these shoes and this dress at the next grand banquet. Do they look beautiful?"
"Yes. The most beautiful in the world."
"As expected of you. You can tell even without looking."
"Of course. I can see everything with the eyes of the heart."
Adelaide looked at me with disbelief.
She was no longer a child who would be impressed by such words.
"I do not see why you ask me when you already know better than I do. What meaning does my opinion have?"
"It has plenty of meaning. According to a survey by The Times, you are ranked first among the most desirable men in the British Empire. That kind of endorsement is excellent for promotion."
"Has The Times run out of things to report?"
"It is not only them. Among the ladies, your name still comes up the most. It is their favorite topic."
I maintained my appearance through careful management.
Even so, time could not be stopped.
"I am considering launching a new brand aimed at wealthy men. If I use you as a model, would that not be effective?"
"So that is why you insisted on dining together."
"That is not true. That was affection. This is business."
She remembered something I had said years ago.
That wristwatches would one day become popular among men.
At present, wristwatches were considered feminine.
Men preferred pocket watches.
"How will you change that perception?"
"War. Soldiers cannot constantly take out pocket watches. They need something practical. If we create a durable and precise wristwatch, it will spread naturally."
"Your insight is impressive."
"Of course."
She showed me a prototype.
"Instead of obvious advertising, we introduce it naturally. For example, during military exercises."
"That is the correct approach."
Her business had grown far beyond my expectations.
The luxury industry was becoming increasingly significant.
"Very well. I will support you fully."
"Thank you."
She smiled brightly.
Then she asked,
"Have you spoken with Edward recently?"
"Yes."
"He seems to have found direction. You should speak with him."
"Thank you."
Not long after, that opportunity came.
"What are they thinking?"
I could hardly believe the request.
"Joseon and Japan ask that I deliver a congratulatory address for their royal marriage."
Under normal circumstances, it would not be unreasonable.
But not now.
Such an act would be interpreted as support for their war against Qing.
"That would be problematic."
"Yes. It came officially through the embassy."
"Prime Minister, what is your view?"
"I have none. It is absurd."
Edward entered at that moment.
"Father, may I handle this?"
"You?"
"Yes. I want to take responsibility for matters concerning Joseon and Japan."
"Do you have a plan?"
"Yes. The marriage itself benefits us. The problem is timing and interpretation."
"Go on."
"They are part of our Pacific strategy. Their cooperation benefits us. But we must separate the marriage from the war."
"That is correct."
"We support the marriage, but remain neutral in the war."
"Good."
He continued.
"We should also preserve their royal houses. In the future, a marriage between our line and theirs could secure influence over both nations."
His reasoning was sound.
"But we must avoid appearing hostile to Qing."
"I understand."
He did not hesitate.
"I will go to Asia myself."
"That will cause significant impact."
"I am prepared."
I studied him for a moment, then nodded.
"Very well. Do as you wish."
This would be his true test.
No guidance.
No preparation.
Only results would matter.
***ANNOUNCEMENT***
for every 100 powerstones = 1 chapter