I Became A Hidden Powerhouse Of The British Empire [EN]: Chapter 510

Human nature is truly complex; people desire equality, but when they gain power, they often resist the idea of absolute equality.

People often say, “Your feelings change between entering and leaving the bathroom,” or accuse others of “double standards,” but isn’t that simply human nature?

In fact, it’s not entirely wrong to say that the very concept of ‘equality’ is primarily intended to protect the vulnerable.

Of course, it’s also true that protecting the vulnerable ultimately prevents the powerful from being overthrown or destabilized, making it a win-win situation for everyone.

Therefore, to build a stable society, the basic needs and rights of the vulnerable must be guaranteed as much as possible, while the powerful must be given enough rights and incentives to feel their contributions are valued.

The League of Nations in our original timeline failed miserably because it couldn’t achieve this balance.

With a unanimous vote system instead of a majority vote and no effective means of military enforcement, what meaningful discussions could possibly take place?

The permanent member states had relatively minor interests at stake but were expected to pay a disproportionate share of the dues, so what incentive did they have to fully commit?

It would be surprising if an organization that members could simply leave when things didn’t go their way actually succeeded.

Wellesley, following Killian’s advice, planned the creation of a league based on granting significant authority to the permanent member states.

From an idealistic perspective, he might be criticized for taking too pragmatic an approach from the outset.

Scholars who view the world through an idealistic lens immediately criticized this as an attempt by the great powers to legally carve up the world among themselves.

However, Wellesley’s stance remained unchanged.

“The great powers are already dividing the world anyway, so who would listen if I told them to unilaterally relinquish what they possess?”

“Even a child cries and throws a tantrum when you take away their toy, so would France or Prussia willingly cooperate?”

Among those who agreed with Wellesley’s realistic assessment, some lawmakers questioned the necessity of creating such an organization.

“Prime Minister, is it truly necessary to rely on such an international body? What if this new organization infringes upon the interests of the British Empire?”

No matter how overwhelmingly powerful the British Empire is as the world’s leading power, who would willingly join a league if it could single-handedly dominate the international community?

To operate such a large international organization, the British Empire would inevitably have to consider the opinions of smaller, less powerful countries.

Some lawmakers worried that the public would become dissatisfied if such a situation arose.

However, Wellesley believed that even if the British Empire was strong, it shouldn’t openly manipulate the world on its own.

It needed to control the international community in a more subtle and discreet manner while solidifying its position as the world’s foremost power.

That was the underlying intention behind creating this league.

Of course, he couldn’t reveal such intentions publicly.

At a private meeting held at the Prime Minister’s residence, Wellesley subtly hinted at this to the concerned lawmakers.

“After all, money is essential to maintain such a large organization. We will inevitably have to listen to the opinions of those who contribute the most dues.”

“But that means we’ll have to pay even more money…”

“I’m saying that because I’m confident we can get a return on our investment. If we spend that much money to effectively manage global affairs, wouldn’t that be a worthwhile bargain?”

With domestic public opinion generally settled, the crucial question was how many other countries would participate.

Wellesley prioritized attracting Prussia.

Fortunately, this opportunity presented itself perfectly, as prime ministers and ministers from various countries gathered to celebrate Killian’s birthday.

“Prime Minister Bismarck, it’s been a while since we’ve had a chance to talk like this. I’m truly pleased.”

“Hahaha, now that I think about it, it has been. Usually, His Majesty [referring to Killian] was with us.”

Wellesley, who was strategically seated to Bismarck’s immediate right in the front row of the birthday celebration, leaned back comfortably in his chair and stretched his legs.

“I didn’t expect such a busy Prime Minister to travel all the way to London again.”

“Whose birthday is it? Of course, I had to attend. Did the French delegation arrive as well?”

“Come to think of it, most countries sent officials at the prime minister level.”

In the past, it was customary to send congratulatory messages through ambassadors or, at most, ministers, even on the king’s birthday.

But when did prime ministers start routinely attending Killian’s or Victoria’s birthdays?

More than anything, this clearly demonstrated the elevated status of the British Empire.

“But did you know? His Majesty’s actual birthday might not be today.”

“…Yes?”

“To be precise, it’s an estimated birthday. But what does it matter? The important thing is that this occasion has brought us together.”

It might seem absurd that they were celebrating a potentially inaccurate birthday and that everyone came to offer their congratulations, but Wellesley had nothing to lose, as it allowed him to speak directly with the prime ministers of various countries under this pretext.

“I understand that you’ve reviewed the proposal I sent you, Prime Minister. Have you reached a decision?”

“Hmm… I was honestly surprised because it was an unexpected proposition.”

“The current peace is, in a way, the calm before the storm. Humans are, how should I put it… remarkably cunning. Not long ago, many believed that all problems would be solved and utopia would arrive if fewer people worried about basic necessities, but now the situation is different, isn’t it?”

“…The calls for military buildup are certainly growing louder.”

The creation of artificial fertilizers was beneficial, but once it was discovered that they could be used to produce gunpowder, the entire world began to expand its military might as if by mutual agreement.

No matter how much they protested, there was no alternative.

If we were leisurely producing fertilizers to feed our citizens while a neighboring country invaded, how could we defend ourselves?

“Therefore, the existence of an international organization with the power to enforce its decisions is essential to avert the impending disaster. Right now, we’re all collectively heading down a path of self-destruction.”

Logically, no matter how much Spain increases its defense spending, could it ever become stronger than France or Prussia?

It would only be possible if France or Prussia completely neglected their defense spending, but if they matched Spain’s expenditures, the power imbalance would remain.

However, if countries are manufacturing weapons and increasing troop numbers, it means fewer resources are available for other industries.

If the world wants to avoid collective stagnation, it’s crucial to avoid unnecessary spending.

So Bismarck also agreed that an international league is needed to sanction countries that are unnecessarily aggressive and guarantee the security of others.

But there was one significant flaw in this plan.

“But the protection of the international league will only extend to the countries that have joined, correct?”

“That’s the initial plan.”

“Then what should we do about the colonies in Asia? When the international league is established, the colonies seeking independence will undoubtedly demand that we accept them as well.”

“We can’t avoid being labeled as hypocrites. Who would listen if we told them to grant independence to all their colonies immediately? I’d be the first to be ousted.”

It’s easy to imagine the reaction if the Prime Minister of the British Empire announced the independence of India.

To attract the major European powers, we must guarantee their existing rights, which means giving them a free pass for their current actions.

“You’re going to proceed even though you know you’ll face criticism in the future.”

“Of course. I can’t claim that future evaluations are irrelevant… but I believe it’s more important to prevent the possibility of war. It’s idealistic nonsense to insist that we should only implement policies that are morally perfect and have no negative consequences.”

“I agree with that. International issues, in particular, need to be viewed from a more pragmatic and detached perspective. If you acknowledge all the rights that the home countries currently possess, I have no particular objections. I also appreciate the position and authority of that permanent member state.”

“Thank you for your understanding. If Prussia agrees, things will be much easier moving forward.”

“But how will the leader of that league be selected? Perhaps…”

Wellesley preemptively cut off Bismarck’s attempt to subtly suggest a German candidate.

“I’m not sure if the title will be Secretary-General or Chairman, but the first one won’t be chosen from the permanent member states. That way, we avoid internal conflicts, and the organization’s impartiality will be more appealing, don’t you think?”

“…I see. I understand your point. Well, we have no objections as long as it’s not a French or British person in that position. Then how many countries are you considering for the permanent member states?”

“Great Britain, Prussia, and France have been confirmed. Two more countries may be included…”

“To be honest, we’d prefer that no more countries be added.”

“I feel the same way, but I think we’ll face significant criticism if we don’t include at least one more country, as the composition would be too obvious.”

Even now, what would people say if the alliance of Great Britain, France, and Prussia, which already dominate the world, monopolized that position?

It’s obvious that there would be accusations that this is simply a strengthened version of the Three-Power Alliance with a different name.

“Then which country will be joining? Russia?”

“That depends on how well His Majesty can persuade them.”

In front of the large stage, bustling with preparations for the birthday party,

I decided to wait with a relaxed mind to see what answer Killian, who knows what kind of story is going on inside, would bring.

* * *

While Wellesley was negotiating with Bismarck,

“It’s been a long time. You look much better than when I saw you a few years ago.”

“It’s all thanks to Your Majesty.”

“You must be busy establishing a new country, but I don’t know how to express my gratitude for you coming all the way to London to celebrate my birthday.”

“Your Majesty saved my life once, so of course I have to show this much sincerity. Don’t worry about it.”

I was leisurely having a cup of coffee with Bakunin before joining the celebration.

I knew why Bakunin had come all the way here.

He wanted to secure a guarantee from Nana and Wellesley that the rights and treaties previously held by the Russian Empire would remain in effect.

He was understandably anxious because he had only received assurances that his request would be considered, without a definitive answer.

“Ah, but how should I introduce Bakunin? The first citizen of Russia? But does the country of Russia actually exist now? I know you’re aiming for anarchism, but it’s not appropriate to simply use the name Russia.”

“…We are pursuing anarchism, but we have concluded that we must temporarily maintain a country-like structure until that becomes possible. So… please consider it a temporary government.”

“I see. The head of the Russian Provisional Government.”

“No… so the head is… no, it’s not. You can refer to me as that.”

If he denies being the head, there’s no way to justify his authority to attend this meeting.

If he were just an ordinary citizen, the British Empire wouldn’t have bothered to invite him.

“I understand. Then we can definitely move on to the main point. I’ve reviewed your requests with my staff, and I’ve been informed that there will be no problem in acknowledging the validity of the existing treaties, provided a few concerns are addressed.”

“Is that so? May I know what those concerns are?”

“The most important thing is to confirm that you are indeed in a position to represent the country of Russia. That’s why Prime Minister Wellesley made this proposal to you.”

“…I understand that joining the international league under the name of Russia will ensure clear recognition of our representation. But then there’s no significant difference from the previous country…”

It’s already contradictory to have the name of a temporary government for an anarchist state, but joining the international league would be even more absurd.

I was concerned, but you don’t have a choice, do you?

“If you’re worried about that, shouldn’t we create another seat for Russia? We can slightly revise the resolution so that ‘groups’ or provisional governments equivalent to countries can also join the General Assembly. Then Russia can participate in a capacity other than as a ‘country’.”

Even if it seems minor, the impact of each of these small details is quite significant.

Bakunin smiled brightly and nodded immediately.

“Then, since there are many dignitaries from various countries gathered in London, let’s draw up a detailed agreement as soon as the celebration is over. I will also write a letter of assurance that the authority of the Russian Provisional Government is clearly recognized.”

“Thank you. I didn’t expect you to be so accommodating, and I thank you again.”

“You came all the way from Russia to congratulate me on my birthday, so of course I have to give you this much consideration.”

The smile that Bakunin couldn’t hide revealed his satisfaction at obtaining what he desired most. I shook hands with him and rose from my seat.

I was sincere when I said that I didn’t deserve the thanks.

It’s not that difficult to deal with them, even though they have a temporary government and diplomats, and they’re pretending not to be a country.

However, joining the General Assembly is possible with an amendment to the charter, but that’s only limited to the General Assembly.

It doesn’t mean that the charter will be amended to allow the permanent directorate ‘country’ to be selected from among the member states.

I’m sorry, but Russia, which is not a country, has no place there.