I Became A Hidden Powerhouse Of The British Empire [EN]: Chapter 392

Humans are the masters of all things on this earth, yet they are also creatures rendered infinitely vulnerable by even the smallest of threats.

Dealing with an opponent that appears overwhelmingly large and dangerous is, paradoxically, relatively straightforward.

Historically, it’s the seemingly insignificant things that have driven countless people to their deaths, things small enough to be easily overlooked.

The fact that mosquitoes have caused far more deaths than tigers or lions proves this point.

You don’t even need to look as far as mosquitoes; even small venomous insects, easily crushed underfoot, may have killed more people than tigers.

Everyone instinctively recognizes the danger of a tiger bite, but the peril posed by these tiny pests is often underestimated.

A prime example is malaria, which claimed countless lives, yet the precise mechanism of its transmission remained unknown until the 19th century.

If mosquitoes looked as menacing as tigers or lions, people would likely have recognized the danger much sooner.

That’s precisely why the danger of pests was so often overlooked.

Considering the rapid pace of human scientific advancement, it seems illogical that even as we approach 1870, a truly effective insecticide has yet to be developed.

One could argue that the technology simply wasn’t available, but the reality is more nuanced.

Necessity is the mother of invention, and if a genuine need is recognized and research is diligently pursued, some form of result will inevitably emerge.

At the very least, something tangible will come of it, even if it’s not a complete success.

Alchemy serves as a compelling example.

Diligent investment and unwavering dedication to this principle yield results.

The correctness of my theory has once again been validated.

“As per Your Majesty’s instructions, we have analyzed various compounds with insecticidal properties and developed prototypes suitable for mass production.”

“Prototypes, plural?”

“Yes. We generated more ideas than anticipated. When I announced a 3000% bonus for anything leading to mass production, a flood of unconventional proposals poured in.”

“Indeed…”

When progress is stalled, money often provides the solution.

Lack of technology? Environmental concerns? If profitability is assured, existing elements will be combined to force a breakthrough.

“Where should we begin reviewing them? You’re aware that our most pressing need is a solution for the Panama Canal construction, correct?”

“Of course.”

James arranged several prototypes and pointed to a familiar spiral-shaped product.

“First, this was developed based on Your Majesty’s concept. What did you call it? A mosquito coil? Regardless, the spiral shape is highly effective. Linear products lasted only a few hours, but this design provides sufficient coverage for an entire night’s sleep.”

“I see.”

If you asked someone born in the late 20th century to name a classic mosquito repellent, nine out of ten would undoubtedly choose the mosquito coil.

“However, testing revealed that it doesn’t effectively kill mosquitoes. They seem to flee when the scent spreads. It might work if completely sealed, but that would create breathing difficulties and be dangerous. However, mosquitoes avoid the area when it’s lit, so it definitely has a preventative effect.”

Yes, yes. It’s a product with a proven track record, so if manufactured correctly, it’s bound to be effective.

“But are the raw materials readily available?”

“Yes. We have secured a stable supply of pyrethrum [a natural insecticide derived from chrysanthemum flowers]. Importing solely from the Dalmatia region is expensive, so we explored direct cultivation options and identified several promising areas. Central Africa shows potential, and certain regions in Joseon [Korea] or Japan are also viable. However, Brazil appears to be the most convenient for transport to Panama, so production will likely be centered there.”

“Okay. That’s a relief. I was prepared to ship it from the Balkans if necessary.”

The origin of pyrethrum is Dalmatia in the Balkans.

Thanks to acquiring territory from Greece during the war with Russia, cultivating the flower and producing insecticides wouldn’t be difficult if I chose to.

Still, diversifying the supply chain is prudent, so sourcing from multiple locations is ideal.

“Are they allowing you to cultivate the flower there?”

“Yes. When I offered them financial incentives, they readily agreed. It wasn’t difficult at all.”

“Well, their country’s economy is struggling, so they’re eager to attract any investment. It’s a win-win situation. Anyway, I’m glad we have pyrethrum. I was almost forced to search for a new substance from scratch.”

In fact, the pest control properties of pyrethrum were already known in the surrounding areas.

The reason it wasn’t actively commercialized was simply a lack of perceived need for processing and large-scale production.

Consequently, James secured a large-scale exclusive supply agreement, effectively monopolizing the resource. I consider myself fortunate.

“So, you intend to continue producing this incense?”

“Incense alone isn’t sufficient. And as I mentioned, everyone became incredibly motivated when I offered bonuses. This product uses oil extracted from India, and we’ve confirmed that even a small application repels mosquitoes. However, it’s relatively expensive, so it’s best suited for individuals working in mosquito-infested areas, rather than the entire workforce.”

“Impressive. So many products are emerging. How did you even discover this?”

“One employee even hired a detective, driven by the bonus, to survey people in pest-prone areas about their methods of pest control. Oh, and the real breakthrough is this.”

James presented a bottle containing a colorless and odorless liquid.

“It’s an artificial substance synthesized by reacting Chloro something with a sulfuric acid catalyst, and it’s remarkably effective at killing insects. In terms of insecticidal potency, the previous two products pale in comparison. It can be sprayed directly or on a large scale without significant concerns.”

A colorless and odorless compound that effectively kills insects? That sounds familiar. Could it be DDT [dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane]?

I know its effectiveness was recognized and utilized much later, but its emergence at this time is surprisingly early.

“Have you conducted any experiments with it?”

“Yes. We sprayed it into a mosquito net containing mosquitoes, and they convulsed and died. The overall assessment was that it was quite effective.”

“I can imagine.”

“In my opinion, we should actively spray this at the canal construction site and supplement it with the mosquito coils and oil. This should dramatically reduce the incidence of malaria.”

“Well, from an efficiency standpoint, that’s undoubtedly the best approach.”

I was solely focused on pyrethrum, but with the unexpected arrival of DDT, the canal project could potentially restart as early as next year.

Given that he’s presenting this, it implies that mass production is feasible, so there are no immediate practical obstacles.

However, the problem is that DDT is a prohibited substance in modern times, according to my recollection.

I lack specific knowledge of the reasons, but I’m aware of the general consensus that it’s harmful to both the body and the environment.

I believe it’s classified as a carcinogen, but I’ve also heard claims that this is an exaggeration, so I’m unsure of the truth.

What’s certain is that it’s detrimental to the environment, likely accumulating in the soil and within animals and plants.

“What are your thoughts? If Your Majesty approves, we can immediately begin operating the factory through the company established in the North. This will obscure any direct connection between these insecticides and Your Majesty.”

“The insecticide production will be handled by a company entirely separate from the James Group, correct?”

“Yes. These companies were established long ago for this type of operation. We have two more such companies in the North, and approximately three in Europe.”

“Okay, let’s proceed with production for now. But, this substance is an artificial synthetic, not found in nature, correct? Therefore, closely monitor its use and meticulously record any potential harm to people or animals. We must be prepared for unforeseen consequences.”

“Ah… that’s a valid point. Since it’s a non-natural substance, unexpected side effects are possible. I understand.”

Considering that it was banned after decades of indiscriminate use in the original timeline, it’s unlikely to cause immediate and severe pollution.

However, there’s a reason for its ban, so it shouldn’t be used recklessly.

But it’s illogical for me to simply declare that this synthetic material, never before present on Earth, is harmful to the environment and therefore shouldn’t be used.

Instead, using it temporarily in this controlled environment and gathering data on its effects on animals, plants, and the environment will be the most effective way to minimize potential damage.

And it will also expedite the canal construction.

“Then let’s proceed. Let’s eliminate these pesky mosquitoes and complete the canal as quickly as possible.”

“I will place an advertisement on the second Tuesday of next month.”

“Okay. Then, as soon as I hear the news, I will immediately finalize a large-scale supply contract and invest in the insecticide company.”

“Yes. But Your Majesty, aren’t you being a bit too lucky?”

“Is that so? Is it becoming obvious?”

Reflecting on my actions, it seems that whenever I venture somewhere, a war conveniently breaks out, ultimately benefiting me, and the war concludes swiftly, allowing me to capitalize on the situation.

Here, just as I was about to elevate Canada to a kingdom, a communist country emerged, and when I acquired Panama, the cause of malaria was identified, and insecticides were developed.

Coincidentally, luck that makes me feel like the world is revolving around me is occurring repeatedly.

It’s suspicious to anyone observing, and considering that I openly suspected councilors in parliament some time ago, it’s not unreasonable to assume that someone is investigating.

“James, what do you think? Is it suspicious after all?”

“Even if one investigates, there’s no concrete evidence, so suspicion is futile. However, if these events continue, someone will inevitably delve into Your Majesty’s background. In fact, someone is already doing so.”

“Have there been any requests to detective agencies?”

“Of course. They seem hesitant to use detective agencies within the British Empire, so there have been numerous inquiries to agencies in the North, seeking information on Your Majesty’s past. Haven’t I reported this before?”

“That’s right. I dismissed it at the time because they were insignificant individuals, but are you raising it again because Wolcheok was apprehended?”

The primary reason for establishing large-scale detective agencies in the British Empire and the United States was to gather information even in non-public domains.

However, this had an unexpected side effect: investigating those who were attempting to illegally investigate others.

In retrospect, it was a stroke of genius to separate the entities that would investigate illegal activities if incentivized with money.

Originally, the intention was to preemptively dominate this niche, but I’m unintentionally encountering quite a few intriguing scenarios.

“Since the Pinkerton office is a prominent company throughout the United States, there was no direct request to investigate Your Majesty’s background. It’s more of a twisted form of admiration… Anyway, it was a request of that nature. However, another company, operating under the motto of stealing even the British Empress’s underwear if the price is right… Of course, they don’t actually accept such requests, so you needn’t worry. Regardless, they received a rather interesting request.”

“Why are you hesitating? It’s alright, tell me.”

“‘Kilian, the national husband of the British Empire and the King of Canada, must be a two-faced individual with a hidden agenda. Please investigate. I will provide unlimited funds.’ Of course, the client is anonymous and will likely use an intermediary even if we meet in person. Still, the potential reward is substantial, so what should we do?”

What should we do?

If it’s not merely an act of aggression but a genuine investment of significant capital, there must be someone influential behind it, so this shouldn’t be taken lightly.

As James mentioned, they’ll use an agent, and we’ll do the same.

“Spare no expense to identify the individual behind the person who made that request.”

In truth, I anticipated this type of situation eventually arising.

A virtuous and diligent person is inevitably subject to envy and jealousy.

Who is meddling in affairs that are none of their concern?

I’m eager to see the face of the person hiding behind that veil of suspicion.