Black Corporation: Joseon [EN]: Chapter 1124

1124. The Middle East War (2)

As expected, Ryukyu accepted the Empire’s proposal. Following this acceptance, Ryukyu promptly dispatched envoys to Japan and Ming, informing them of the opening of its naval port. The reactions from Ming and Japan, while similar on the surface, held distinct underlying nuances.

-We appreciate the Ryukyu Kingdom’s goodwill, and our country will dedicate greater efforts to fostering friendly relations with Ryukyu.

The official letters sent by both countries to Ryukyu adhered closely to this sentiment. However, their true intentions diverged significantly. In Ming’s case, the reasoning was quite simple:

-It’s not essential, but it simplifies monitoring Japan, so there’s no reason to object.

Japan’s calculations, however, were more intricate.

Upon receiving the news, the Japanese King Yoshioki immediately summoned his Prime Minister.

“In the end, haven’t we simply benefited others?”

Yoshioki’s question carried a hint of reproach. The Prime Minister bowed his head and responded,

“No, Your Majesty, this is the best possible outcome.”

“The best possible outcome?”

“We were able to acquire three of the Empire’s assault battleships with ease, and we secured access to Ryukyu’s naval port without any bloodshed. How can this not be the best possible outcome?”

“Hmm? Wait…”

At the Prime Minister’s words, Yoshioki suppressed his rising anger and paused. After a moment of contemplation, he addressed the Prime Minister.

“From one perspective, the Prime Minister’s assessment may be accurate. However, from another, it sounds like sophistry and excuses. The Prime Minister should persuade me otherwise.”

At Yoshioki’s command, the Prime Minister paused briefly to clear his throat before beginning his explanation.

-The primary reason Japan desired Ryukyu was to use it as a stepping stone for expansion southward.

-However, attempting to seize Ryukyu by force would inevitably invite intervention from both the Empire and Ming.

-If Ming and the Empire were to intervene, Ming would undoubtedly resort to military action.

This is because Ryukyu is also a tributary state of Ming.

-Of course, Ming’s primary concern is the Empire, so they wouldn’t be able to commit their full strength. This makes our plan for Japan to confront Ming somewhat feasible.

-However, the likelihood of a protracted military conflict with Ming remains high. If this were to occur, Japan would suffer more losses than gains. A misstep could jeopardize our long-held ambition of advancing southward before we even begin.

-In this situation, Ryukyu has opened its naval port to us as well. This eliminates the need to mobilize our forces to conquer Ryukyu.

-By refraining from military action against Ryukyu, we avoid intervention from Ming and the Empire.

“…Therefore, this situation can be considered the most favorable outcome for Japan.”

Yoshioki nodded at the Prime Minister’s explanation and then inquired further.

“When Japan advances southward, will the Empire and Ming simply stand by?”

“They will remain still. Ming is currently content with its own situation. The Empire… continues to expand. However, upon closer inspection, it’s evident that they are still in the process of consolidating their gains.”

“Still consolidating… That is truly an enviable nation.”

The Prime Minister echoed Yoshioki’s sentiment with a similar expression.

“Indeed, it is an enviable nation.”

* * *

During this period, detailed information about the territory controlled by the Empire became widely known.

This information was gleaned from the records of explorers who ventured into the Great Inland Sea (大內海, present-day North Pacific) during the Gloria exploration. This was the result of European geographers’ remarkable patience.

It was a product of diligent effort and perseverance, piecing together fragmented information, cross-referencing it, and assembling a comprehensive picture. The rulers of other countries who reviewed these findings were astounded.

“Is this territory real? Even Rome or Mongolia never controlled such a vast area!”

“What kind of monstrous nation is this!”

Of course, there were exceptions.

Ming was one of them.

When the people of Ming saw the map of the Empire’s territory brought in by merchants, they shrugged dismissively and remarked as if it were insignificant.

“Well, it’s a bit large.”

“European exaggeration…”

“It seems only slightly larger than our Central Plains, so why are they making such a fuss…”

Hyang scoffed at the reaction of these Ming citizens.

“Hmph! Truly the land of Ah Q [a character known for finding mental victories in defeat]! Masters of mental gymnastics!”

In any case, most European monarchs who learned about the Empire’s geographical extent—even Portugal and Italy—openly complained.

“This is unfair!”

“How can one country occupy such a vast territory! This is not just!”

As time passed, not only the monarchs but also the common people began to voice similar sentiments.

The Empire’s response to this was straightforward.

“So what? What are you going to do about it?”

“You know the way, right? Come if you dare.”

The Empire’s military strength justified this response, and the European monarchs were forced to suppress their anger. Meanwhile, Hyang, upon hearing about Europe’s reaction, smiled and shook his head.

“What are they complaining about? It seems they’ve forgotten their own history? Especially England should never say that. Ah, but that’s still in the future. Wait? I intervened and made it a mess, so maybe not?”

* * *

Yoshioki, having lamented with envy and jealousy towards the Empire, quickly regained his composure and addressed the Prime Minister.

“In any case, it’s also true that we couldn’t have secured Ryukyu as a stepping stone so easily without the Empire. Isn’t that so?”

“That is correct.”

“Yes. Let’s acknowledge what needs to be acknowledged and move on. Now! When did the Empire say they would hand over the assault battleships?”

“At most, two years from now. They promised to refurbish and hand over one ship within half a year, and the remaining two ships as soon as the refurbishment is completed. However, there is a prerequisite that it may be delayed if a conflict arises in Persia.”

Yoshioki’s expression darkened again at the Prime Minister’s words.

“It’s the Empire’s warning not to act rashly for at least two years.”

“I also believe so. But…”

The Prime Minister paused for a moment and continued in a self-deprecating tone.

“The problem is that it will take Japan five more years to prepare properly.”

Yoshioki mirrored the Prime Minister’s expression.

“Isn’t five years too short? The Empire has overestimated us.”

Interestingly, the Empire’s military experts also predicted that Japan would need at least five more years before initiating any significant action. However, Woo, as well as Hyun, Wan, and Hyang, disagreed. Hyang was the most emphatic in his dissent.

“Japan is not a country known for making decisions and acting with such deliberate calm. It’s not in their nature. As soon as they perceive themselves as strong, they will initiate something, even if it’s not perfectly executed. The Japanese Empire was one of the symbols of ‘repaying with interest’ [a reference to their aggressive expansionist policies].”

Thanks to the reactions of the previous emperors, the deadline for handing over the assault battleships was set at two years.

-We could hand over all three ships immediately.

However, to respond reliably and comfortably should a situation arise in Persia, we require a bit more time.

-But if we set the delivery period too far in the future, Japan may become impatient and act rashly.

Therefore, a delivery period of approximately two years is appropriate.

-Two years for delivery, an estimated three years for Japan to integrate the assault battleships into their fleet. Adding the time required to prepare for their problematic advance southward, Japan will need at least seven years.

This was the Empire’s true calculation.

* * *

Some time after the issues between Japan, Ryukyu, and the Empire were resolved, Hyang visited Woo with Wan. Upon hearing of Hyang’s arrival, Woo emerged from his bedchamber to greet him.

“You could have simply summoned me. What brings you here?”

“Haha. Even if I am an elder, how can I summon the Emperor?”

“Please, come inside.”

As Hyang and Wan entered and took their seats, the court ladies prepared refreshments.

“What brings you here?”

“Ah, it’s nothing urgent. I simply stopped by due to some lingering concerns.”

“Lingering concerns, you say…”

“Looking at the way the world is evolving these days, wouldn’t you agree that it’s becoming increasingly volatile?”

“That is correct, Your Majesty. Therefore, I have instructed the Ministry of National Defense to enhance the Empire’s military readiness.”

“You have done well. But you see, I believe the most crucial element is mindset.”

“Mindset, you say?”

Hyang nodded slightly at Woo’s question and then asked Woo.

“I ask the Emperor: In the relationship between countries, what is your definition of peace?”

“Peace, you say?”

After a moment of contemplation, Woo cautiously responded.

“I believe it is countries coexisting while making concessions where possible.”

“Do you believe that will be easy?”

“It is difficult, but isn’t it the virtue of a monarch to strive for its realization?”

Hyang nodded at Woo’s words.

“That is a truly virtuous thought. The problem is that it is too virtuous—so virtuous that it is practically unattainable.”

“Is my thinking flawed?”

“Not entirely. It is indeed the virtue of the Emperor. However, I believe it borders on wishful thinking.”

Woo became thoughtful at Hyang’s words.

‘Why is he suddenly discussing peace? Wait… He explicitly stated earlier that the world is becoming increasingly volatile, correct?’

Having reached that conclusion, Woo cautiously asked Hyang.

“You mentioned earlier that the world is becoming increasingly volatile. Does that imply we should reconsider our understanding of peace?”

“In my opinion, yes.”

“Please share your wisdom. I am eager to listen.”

At Woo’s request, Hyang cleared his throat and began to speak.

“In my view, peace between countries—especially when a major conflict is looming—is a privilege reserved for powerful nations.”

“A privilege reserved for powerful nations?”

“That is correct. I believe that only powerful countries can choose and enjoy peace. Weak countries can only plead for it. Consider Ryukyu.”

At Hyang’s words, both Woo and Wan nodded.

‘The Empire’s current situation perfectly exemplifies that! The Empire has enjoyed peaceful years because of its strength!’

Seeing Woo’s understanding, Hyang continued.

“The issue is that this power is not solely determined by the strength of the military’s weaponry. The mindset must also be strong. The unwavering determination to protect the peace that our Empire currently enjoys is paramount. With such a mindset, vigilance will not wane, and complacency in defense will vanish.”

As soon as Hyang finished speaking, Woo looked at him with genuine admiration.

“Those are the most fitting teachings for the current state of the world! I will not only engrave them in my heart but also on the main pillar of the Geunjeongjeon Hall [the main hall of Gyeongbok Palace]!”

Hyang became embarrassed at Woo’s words.

“I think engraving it on the pillar is a bit excessive…”

“No! It is a teaching worthy of such honor.”

“Hahaha. I am at a loss for words, knowing that you value the concerns of an old man so highly.”

Although he said that, Hyang was thinking something else.

‘The inscription that was engraved on the main pillar of the Geunjeongjeon Hall in the past was quite lengthy. I wonder if there’s any space left to engrave it?’

Regardless of his inner thoughts, Hyang concluded his business and rose from his seat after engaging in light conversation for a while longer.

“I stopped by due to a sudden concern, and I am truly grateful that the Emperor has treated me so kindly.”

“No, please come and share your wisdom anytime.”

“Hahaha. I will.”

Subsequently, signboards were erected in prominent locations within major buildings of the Imperial Army, including the Ministry of National Defense.

-Peace can only be enjoyed by the strong. The weak can only beg for peace.

-The strong do not forget preparedness.

These were the phrases inscribed on the signboards.