I Became A Hidden Powerhouse Of The British Empire [EN]: Chapter 269

< Fraternal Asia (3) >

In modern times, many people naturally assume Okinawa is Japanese territory. However, historically, Okinawa wasn’t originally part of Japan.

Until the 19th century, the Ryukyu Kingdom existed as an independent nation.

Even after becoming a vassal state of Satsuma [a feudal domain in Japan] in the early 17th century, Ryukyu continued to pay tribute to the Qing dynasty [the ruling dynasty of China from 1644 to 1912]. This meant Japan couldn’t openly annex Ryukyu.

However, as Japan’s power grew and it no longer needed to be mindful of Qing, the weak Ryukyu was unable to resist and was eventually overtaken.

In the original timeline, the Ryukyu Kingdom was incorporated into Japan. But in this reality, it still exists.

However, with the Qing dynasty’s increasing decline and Japan’s remarkable achievement of being classified as a victorious nation in the war against Russia, Ryukyu finds itself in a precarious situation.

If things continue as they are, it seems almost certain they will be annexed.

Considering this background, I can understand why they approached me so earnestly.

As expected, the Ryukyu envoy knelt and paid respects as if meeting an emperor, desperately outlining their situation.

To be precise, there were many exaggerations and flowery embellishments, but I don’t have the time to spare for a territory that isn’t even my vassal state.

“So, to get straight to the point, the Ryukyu Kingdom is in danger of being annexed by Japan at any moment, correct?”

“Th, that’s… that’s right.”

While Ryukyu’s envoy, Ma Ryosai, carefully chose his words to further dramatize their plight, I continued in a nonchalant tone.

“I sympathize with your long journey, but Ryukyu is a foreign country with no formal ties to us. Japan is an allied nation with whom we have diplomatic relations, so I’m unsure what you expect from us. Ryukyu supposedly pays tribute to Qing, so shouldn’t these matters be addressed to them?”

“Qing is currently struggling to suppress rebellions across its territories. Even if we ask for help, they are unlikely to assist us.”

“That’s unfortunate. But surely you understand that we aren’t in a position to intervene, right? Do you have any alternative proposals?”

A request to establish diplomatic relations under the same terms as Joseon [ancient Korean kingdom] or Japan is out of the question.

There’s little benefit for us in such an arrangement.

Fortunately, Ryosai wasn’t so naive as to ignore these considerations. He bowed his head even lower and pleaded desperately.

“We are willing to accept any unfavorable conditions. Please, conclude a treaty of protection with Ryukyu!”

“A treaty of protection…”

“Yes. We will accept any conditions your country proposes.”

“That sounds like jumping from the frying pan into the fire. Are you sure you’ve thought this through?”

Could it be that they expect me to act on behalf of Asia simply because of my Asian heritage?

I’d be disappointed if their judgment was that flawed.

“If both options are dangerous, wouldn’t it be better to be a little further away from the immediate threat?”

“I understand your reasoning, but I must decline. Japan is currently very receptive to our suggestions. I don’t wish to provoke them to protect Ryukyu.”

“Is it because Your Highness is also a Tokugawa?” [referring to a powerful Japanese clan]

“…Hmm? Ah, that? I’m indifferent to that connection. However, as you mentioned, the current Shogun [military dictator of Japan] is very cooperative. Unless they cause trouble first, I see no reason to antagonize them.”

“Alas, however…”

“Still, I feel bad for you to return empty-handed after such a long journey, so I’ll introduce you to some individuals who might be helpful. Are you aware that the Joseon delegation will soon arrive in London for the Expo?”

Ryosai blinked, seemingly surprised by the sudden mention of Joseon.

“Yes, yes. I’ve heard that Joseon has already established an embassy here.”

“Joseon and Ryukyu have historically been friendly nations with a long history of exchange, is that correct?”

“Yes. It’s no exaggeration to say that we’ve enjoyed a friendly relationship for centuries.”

“Then seek out the Joseon ambassador. If you present your case well, they might offer assistance.”

“…Yes?”

He looked genuinely confused, but I had neither the obligation nor the time to spoon-feed him further.

After sending Ryosai away, I sent a letter to Kim Jwa-geun, who was busy preparing for the Expo, instructing him to pay closer attention to Ryukyu than to Japan.

[If they seem useful, incorporate them into the plan; otherwise, simply send them back.]

I kept the message concise, confident that the quick-witted Kim Jwa-geun would understand my intentions.

The Expo hasn’t even opened yet, and the behind-the-scenes maneuvering is already more captivating than the main event.

* * *

The Andong Kim clan, a symbol of powerful families representing Joseon, boasted immense influence.

The two figures considered the leading representatives of the family faced each other with slightly awkward expressions.

“It’s been a while. Weren’t you exhausted from such a long journey?”

“My hardship is insignificant compared to our cousin’s suffering in this foreign land. Have you been well?”

“Compared to those who suffered in exile, my hardships are nothing. I heard you were reinstated, and immediately appointed as the Right State Councilor.”

“Hahaha… If it weren’t for you, my brother, I would still be languishing in exile. I’m eternally grateful.”

Kim Jwa-geun and Kim Heung-geun were both key figures in the Andong Kim clan, sixth cousins only a year apart in age, sharing many connections.

However, Kim Heung-geun, relying on his family’s power, engaged in various corrupt practices, eventually facing censure from the king and being exiled.

But with Kim Jwa-geun’s appointment as ambassador to England, Kim Heung-geun was pardoned and is now rapidly rising in the court, recently even attaining the position of Prime Minister.

It’s understandable that Kim Jwa-geun, toiling in a foreign land far from his beloved homeland, might harbor some resentment.

Kim Heung-geun was acutely aware of this, making him somewhat apprehensive.

However, Kim Jwa-geun was more surprised by his own reaction, finding himself less emotionally affected than he anticipated.

I expected to be more resentful, but strangely, I feel calm.

Could it be that the realization that making a name for oneself in Joseon is practically meaningless has taken root in my heart?

Being an influential figure in Byeonbangsa [a border defense agency] in Joseon is a hundred million times less valuable than working as an ambassador here in London, leveraging my acquaintance with the Duke.

These days, I seriously believe that.

Of course, Kim Heung-geun, unaware of this, continued to cautiously observe Kim Jwa-geun, searching for any signs of discontent.

“By the way, Right State Councilor, what are your impressions of your first visit here?”

“Impressions… I’m at a loss for words. Hahaha.”

“Now you understand that I wasn’t lying or exaggerating in my reports, right?”

Kim Heung-geun nodded, staring blankly at the brightly illuminated gaslights.

“Amazing… truly amazing. The people from the Jo family who accompanied me are half out of their minds. Have you grown accustomed to this lifestyle?”

“Human adaptability is remarkable. I was the same when I first arrived. I was overwhelmed by everything I saw… People probably laughed at me quite a bit.”

“Is the difference between England and Joseon this vast… it’s disheartening.”

“The young officials who came with me are dedicating all their time to learning and researching Western culture, sacrificing sleep, believing that enlightenment is the only path to survival.”

Joseon needs to understand the reality.

Kim Heung-geun understood what Kim Jwa-geun was saying.

In fact, after witnessing it firsthand, he fully grasped the points Kim Jwa-geun had been passionately advocating.

At the same time, a concern arose.

“But with such a significant technological gap, will Joseon’s technology be recognized at the Expo?”

“Of course, we shouldn’t focus on emphasizing technological superiority. We need to showcase the traditional beauty and culture of Joseon. That’s the direction we’re taking.”

“I see. His Majesty instructed us to meticulously report and record all the exhibits from other countries. But we lack knowledge about European countries, so I’d appreciate some guidance.”

“I’ll assign our people to assist you, so don’t worry. More importantly, there’s a banquet to commemorate the Expo’s opening in three days, and we plan to pay our respects to the Duke there. You must, absolutely, make a good impression. Understood? You must not appear even slightly awkward. Absolutely.”

Just in case, I emphasized it repeatedly. Fortunately, Kim Heung-geun understood the gravity of the situation and nodded silently.

“Don’t worry. His Majesty also instructed me to do so. Still, I’ll make sure to warn everyone again.”

“Then no one will object to this plan, right?”

“…It’s a complicated feeling, but I have no choice but to admit it.”

Kim Jwa-geun sighed in relief and nodded at the answer, which was practically an acceptance.

“Okay, let’s prepare.”

To think that the work that had been sluggish for years would proceed so quickly.

After all, people only come to their senses after experiencing a shock.

Kim Jwa-geun couldn’t help but smile bitterly as he looked at the unfamiliar demeanor of his sixth cousin, whom he had never seen before.

I mean, if someone tells you something, you should believe them, right? Blessings come to those who believe.

* * *

“We greet Her Majesty Queen Victoria of the Great British Empire, the center of the world, the ruler of the ocean, and the noble leader who has received the mandate of heaven.”

What is this ridiculously arrogant title?

A strained smile appeared on Victoria’s face after hearing the translation of the short but intense flattery.

“I welcome you, the people of Joseon, who have traveled from afar.”

“Your Majesty’s grace is boundless!”

The Joseon delegation’s intention to use the word ‘grace’ and pay respects as if to an emperor was blatantly obvious.

This wasn’t a private audience; it was a banquet attended by ambassadors from various countries.

The European ambassadors watched with undisguised curiosity.

The Japanese ambassadors, arriving late, felt frustrated at missing the opportunity to be first, and the Qing ambassador displayed undisguised anger.

The nobleman who seemed to be the head of the delegation, standing next to Kim Jwa-geun, must have sensed the atmosphere, but he kept his forehead to the ground and shouted loudly.

“All the energy of the world is concentrated where Your Majesty resides, so it’s only natural that all the cultures of all nations are introduced in the capital of the Great British Empire! I, Kim Heung-geun, the Right State Councilor of Joseon! I’m convinced that the success of the World Expo is the will of heaven already decided, so I congratulate you in advance!”

Did this man climb to the position of Prime Minister through flattery?

I, guarding Victoria’s side, stepped forward and helped the representative of Joseon, who was kneeling in the middle of the banquet hall, to his feet.

“Thank you for your kind greetings. I appreciate the respect shown by the people of Joseon.”

“No. Joseon has long understood the ways of the world, obeyed them, and followed the natural order. Therefore, it’s only natural to pay due respect to the Emperor, who is the center of the world and has received the mandate of heaven.”

Even in Europe, the history of claiming to be the successor to Rome, the center of the world, and arguing about who is the best and who is fake, isn’t that long ago.

However, there has never been a case where an Eastern country has shown such a subservient attitude in front of other countries.

In particular, for Qing, who still considers Joseon their vassal state, it must feel like a blow to the head.

In fact, the Qing ambassador was glaring at Kim Heung-geun with wide eyes, but the situation forced him to clench his fists and tremble.

Of course, it may be unpleasant to watch, but what are they going to do?

If you’re uncomfortable, change your posture. Tsk tsk tsk.

In such a banquet hall where strange curiosity and tension coexisted,

Just as I was about to change the subject, the Japanese ambassador standing behind the Joseon delegation suddenly took an unexpected action.

“Hail Kirian Goa, the incarnation of Susanoo!” [Susanoo is a Shinto god]

“……?”

To such a sudden and absurd praise with no context.

The Japanese ambassador, noticing my bewildered gaze, raised his voice even more desperately and shouted with his arms raised.

“Banzai!” [a Japanese cheer, meaning “ten thousand years”]

“Wa, wait a minute…”

“Banzai! Banzai! Banzai!”

“Hail! Hail! Hail Victoria!”

If someone tells you something, listen to them, you crazy people!

The Japanese envoys lined up behind also shouted Banzai, and the Joseon officials in front, as if they couldn’t be outdone, also came forward, shouting Victoria’s name and three cheers.

No! I told you to subtly transfer the title of Emperor to this side, but who told you to sing a eulogy?

I couldn’t bear the rising embarrassment and shook my head, covering my face.

But there was no escaping the three cheers, no matter which way I turned… I’m going crazy, really.

They truly don’t understand moderation.