I Became A Genius Of The French Royal Family [EN]: Chapter 329

Whether they are called the Four Dragons, Tigers, or Earth Dragons, what truly matters is whether they possess the power to justify such grand titles.

Fortunately, or perhaps unfortunately, the Coalition of Enlightened Nations possessed the power to act as the dominant force in the region, at least within Asia.

Coincidentally, the timing couldn’t have been better.

Among nations of comparable strength, none could effectively resist the rapidly modernizing forces of the coalition.

China and India, which might have overwhelmed them with their vast populations, were not in a stable condition.

China was fragmented, a shadow of its former self, and India was grappling with the turmoil left in the wake of British departure.

Above all, Kwangtung France [Guangdong under French influence], which could have mediated in Asia, remained silent, awaiting instructions from the mainland.

In this opportune moment, the Enlightenment factions surged forward, eager to capitalize on the situation without hesitation.

“Is war always this easy?” one soldier wondered.

“We win every battle, it’s hard to know when to stop. Is this how France felt during its conquests?” another mused.

From the north, the Manchurian Empire advanced swiftly, while the combined forces of the Korean Empire and Japan pushed inland from the Shandong Peninsula.

Before long, Beijing, the symbol of China and the heart of its ancient order, fell to the allied forces.

The Northern Yan [a regional power in northern China], which had once held sway in the north, crumbled before the combined might of the Korean Empire and Japan, unable to mount a significant defense.

After a string of victories, the Korean Empire developed a sense of invincibility that bordered on arrogance.

French weaponry was seen as infallible, and Gatling guns were practically deified.

They believed themselves unbeatable in any open engagement, save for ambushes in dense forests.

“Look, Minister Ryu, this is the Forbidden City! The Forbidden City! Hahaha!” one officer exclaimed.

“When I was young, it seemed as unattainable as Mount Tai [a sacred mountain in China], but now it feels like a casual stroll. What are your thoughts, Minister Konoe?”

“I share your sentiments, Minister Ryu. I wish I could convey this feeling to the Prime Minister and His Majesty the Emperor, but alas, I cannot at this moment.”

“Indeed. I must also prepare a report for His Majesty, detailing my overwhelming emotions.”

For the nations of Asia, leading their armies into Beijing was an unparalleled experience.

For the Korean Empire, which had long been under China’s shadow, and Japan, which had been regarded as a peripheral barbarian state, the moment was especially significant.

Yet, there were others who were even more deeply moved than these two.

These were the warriors of the Manchurian Empire, who had ridden their horses to the very gates of Beijing.

“……”

“……”

Unlike the Koreans and Japanese, who were vocal in their emotions, they remained silent.

They had been driven from the land of their ancestors and had now returned.

How could anyone truly grasp the complexity of their feelings?

The allied forces, proceeding cautiously into the city, secured the Forbidden City and entered the Hall of Supreme Harmony, its main hall.

Ryu Hyowon, the commander of the Korean Empire, subtly taking a leading role in the alliance, spoke in a cheerful tone.

“Well, well, our primary objective has been successfully achieved. This is all thanks to the outstanding efforts of our allies. Applause!”

“Applause!” echoed through the hall.

Ryu Hyowon, having lightened the atmosphere with congratulatory applause, surveyed the Hall of Supreme Harmony.

The Manchurian Empire had taken most of the cultural artifacts during their retreat, and the hall had suffered damage from multiple occupations.

Still, being there filled him with a sense of grandeur, as if he had become the master of the world.

He now understood the allure of capturing Beijing.

“Now that we have Beijing, we must decide on our next course of action. Does anyone have specific instructions from their home country to share?”

“Our Prime Minister and His Majesty the Emperor have declared that we must take the lead in establishing a true Greater East Asia Co-Prosperity Sphere [a Japanese concept promoting regional dominance]. Only through the Four Dragons of Asia can Asia truly catch up with Europe!” declared the Japanese representative.

“Our position is divided. Some advocate for dividing and ruling the continent, while others are more cautious and prefer to observe France’s reaction,” stated the Manchurian representative.

“Vietnam is currently engaged in a conflict with Thailand and has requested our support, if possible,” added the Vietnamese delegate.

“Direct military support would be difficult, but we will consider other forms of assistance,” Ryu Hyowon replied.

The alliance spread out a large map of Asia and exchanged opinions, pointing and gesturing as if engaged in a game of territorial acquisition.

Japan, fervently advocating for the Greater East Asia Co-Prosperity Sphere; Manchuria, a nation of uncertain allegiance; and Vietnam, primarily focused on Southeast Asia rather than the Central Plains.

To maintain this alliance, a coalition of disparate ambitions, the Korean Empire had to take the lead and maintain equilibrium.

Ryu Hyowon, bearing this heavy responsibility, calmly set priorities.

“First, despite our alliance, permanently ruling this vast land is impossible. We must strive to utilize local countries as much as possible. Does anyone disagree?”

“No. Isn’t that the agreed-upon policy from the beginning?” someone confirmed.

“Then, let us refrain from dissolving the surrendered countries and instead establish them as protectorates. And we must never turn them into colonies. I’ve heard that colonial rule is an outdated approach these days.”

“Isn’t that just kicking away the ladder after climbing it? They did as they pleased and now they’re telling us not to do the same…” Konoe muttered, eliciting nods from others.

Indeed, that was how Europe’s behavior appeared to the latecomers.

Having studied Western history after modernization, they couldn’t help but feel resentful.

They had committed massacres in the New World and plundered Asia, and now they were acting virtuous?

It was infuriating that they acted with impunity when strong, and now sought to sanction Asian countries for attempting similar actions.

Ryu Hyowon inwardly agreed with Konoe’s sentiment.

“France… I can say that they have been on a moderate path since His current Majesty became the real power. But when I see the British talking about ethics and stuff, I feel more repulsion.”

“Perhaps they are deliberately employing high-level psychological warfare.”

“That’s right. England is capable of such tactics.”

In fact, the Korean Empire and Japan were closely studying England’s methods of influence.

There was no more efficient or cost-effective way to manipulate other countries than the English model.

It served as a textbook for newly emerging nations to consult, at least once.

“Europe must have noticed our actions by now. Should we decide on the next step after assessing their reaction?” Ryu Hyowon asked.

“Then, how about supporting Vietnam to establish a foothold in Southeast Asia? If Europe attempts to intervene in Asia, they will have to pass through there first,” suggested Konoe.

“You’re suggesting we use Southeast Asia as a buffer. That’s an excellent idea.”

Their confidence grew with each passing day.

They felt capable of taking on anyone, except perhaps France.

※※※

The second modern Olympics concluded as a resounding success.

The only disappointment was that France did not secure more than half of the medals.

Still, their overwhelming first-place finish was enough to reinvigorate French national pride.

-Who said we were only good at soccer? Securing the first and second Olympics after the inaugural games! France, the world’s leading sports power!

-From soccer and music to comprehensive sports and gastronomy, all the world’s centers lead to France.

-Rome reborn in the 19th century. No, an empire greater than Rome. Its name is Great France.

As people grew accustomed to such pronouncements, the articles became increasingly hyperbolic.

The newspaper companies, focused on sales, eagerly sought out more sensational phrases.

Politicians were pleased with the public’s satisfaction, recognizing it as a valuable asset.

Amidst this wave of national pride, a report arrived, detailing the increasingly bizarre situation in Asia.

“So, they call themselves the Four Dragons,” I remarked.

“Yes. Currently, no force in Asia can effectively challenge their alliance,” Talleyrand confirmed.

“I suppose so. Even if only Joseon… No, the Korean Empire, and Japan were united, they would be a formidable force. With Vietnam and Manchuria joining, it’s even more significant.”

“The self-proclaimed Four Dragons Alliance has advanced to Beijing and is now focusing on attacking the Chakri Dynasty of Thailand [the ruling dynasty of Thailand],” Berthier added.

Thailand, in its current state, could not even handle Vietnam alone.

With the indirect support of the other three countries, their chances of victory were nonexistent.

“How is the war progressing?” I inquired.

“It appears that the capital, Bangkok, is on the verge of falling. That was the situation when this report was written, so it may have already been captured,” Berthier replied.

“This is truly chaotic,” I sighed.

I had anticipated potential issues with Japan.

However, I hadn’t expected Joseon or Vietnam to join in and create such a disturbance.

On the positive side, the reunification of China has been further delayed.

However, the escalating situation presented a new set of problems.

If Asia descended into chaos, European powers might intervene.

“Are any European countries attempting to intervene in Asia?” I asked.

“Yes. The newly formed Italian Empire seems to be eyeing Thailand,” Talleyrand reported.

“Italy? What’s gotten into them?” I wondered.

Italy had only recently unified after being divided into city-states for centuries.

The Roman Empire Federation, with its immense influence, likely inspired them.

“Well, unification is positive, but perhaps they lack opportunities for expansion? Are they now seeking to expand into Asia?” I speculated.

“They also seem to be aiming to consolidate internal unity by demonstrating their newfound national power,” Berthier added.

As Talleyrand and Berthier continued their analysis, I sighed.

“Okay, what do you think will happen if Italy intervenes to help Thailand?”

“Italy’s era of dominance ended after the Renaissance. Even if they attempt something now…” Talleyrand trailed off.

“Could Italy defeat Vietnam in Asia, even if they struggled on European soil?” I asked.

Their assessment was bleak.

I agreed with their opinions and raised no objections.

Perhaps Italy would earn the title of the first modern European country to be defeated by an Asian power.

“Your Majesty, what are your intentions? Should we send a message to Italy, urging restraint?” Talleyrand inquired.

“That would be interference in internal affairs. It won’t significantly impact us even if they act rashly, so let’s leave them be,” I decided.

If Italy displayed unexpected strength and defeated the Four Dragons, it would be a problem.

However, the probability of that occurring was as low as me being struck by lightning.

“I understand. I will observe Italy’s actions and prepare a plan for the future,” Talleyrand replied.

They seemed to consider Italy’s potential failure a foregone conclusion.

I didn’t know how the dignity of True Rome had fallen so low, but I decided to watch with an open mind.

Watching a fire across the river and watching a fight are among the most entertaining things in the world.

The clash between the Four Dragons of Asia and True Rome filled me with anticipation.