The nineteenth century was celebrated as the era of humanity's greatest progress.
With less than twenty years remaining, voices anticipating the next century began to rise.
As the saying goes, new wine must be poured into new wineskins, and the British Empire also began preparing for the twentieth century.
Killian, who had elevated the Empire into the most powerful state in history, stepped back and placed his son Edward at the forefront.
"Stagnant water rots, and absolute power corrupts absolutely."
"For the three hundred year future of the Empire, nothing is more important than developing the successor."
Though power is said to be something even family cannot share, Killian gave everything freely to his heirs.
The Empire and its direct territories were entrusted to the Crown Prince.
His immense wealth was distributed among his children.
The influence of the imperial family expanded beyond Europe and the Americas into Oceania and Asia.
Edward's task was clear.
To successfully integrate Oceania into the Imperial Union.
As rumors spread that Oceania would become part of the British core, British territories in Asia began to stir.
"Should we not also be incorporated like Canada or Oceania?"
"How would that even happen?"
"If we have enough economic power and population, it is possible."
"Exactly. And that is why it is not."
Some even suggested uniting Taiwan, Shanghai, Hong Kong, and Singapore.
Such discussions reached Edward.
These were vital strategic locations.
They had to be maintained carefully.
But Asia posed a problem.
Canada and Oceania had been integrated because of their demographics.
Asia was different.
Still, gradual integration might be possible over decades.
Meanwhile, reports of instability in Qing increased.
"Rebellion in Sichuan."
"Yunnan and Guangxi are resisting the central government."
"Some propose separating Guangdong."
Edward knew this day would come.
Killian had warned him.
But the speed was unexpected.
"Could Qing collapse?"
"It is uncertain."
The administration analyzed every possibility.
Edward worked tirelessly.
"Unify Asian territories. If Qing collapses, how do we respond? Perhaps through the UN…"
Officials watched with satisfaction.
Killian's judgment had been correct.
"…This is impossible. I cannot do this."
Edward muttered in frustration.
His workload was overwhelming.
Even his younger days felt easier.
"This is not training. This is torture."
At first, he had been grateful.
Now he realized the truth.
Everything had been handed to him.
Meanwhile, praise for Killian filled the press.
"This is not leadership. This is dumping work."
Still, Killian's reasoning was flawless.
A successor must learn.
Edward had agreed.
His siblings had congratulated him.
Especially Adelaide.
"I wish I had a position too."
"You are busy with your company."
"I have time."
But when Edward asked for help,
She refused immediately.
"I am busy now."
The call ended.
Edward stared in disbelief.
"…So this is family."
Exhausted, he returned to his room and lay down.
"Was today difficult?"
"It always is."
"Can others help?"
"I asked. They ran away."
Perhaps Gisela could persuade them.
He sighed.
"At least I have you."
"I wish I could help more."
"You already do."
He rested his head against her.
This was their private world.
"Father will not return soon, will he?"
"He is enjoying his vacation."
Edward smiled bitterly.
"Then I must endure."
"Rest early tonight."
"…Yes."
Even in exhaustion, life continued.
The Caribbean offered a different kind of beauty.
Among them, the Bahamas stood out.
Warm waters, sapphire seas, gentle winds.
Already a famous destination, it became even more renowned after the Emperor's visit.
"Your Majesty, this is a local rum cake."
"Quite good."
"Many gifts have arrived."
"Inspect them first."
Killian relaxed.
For the first time, he truly rested.
"Shall we go fishing tomorrow?"
"That sounds nice."
"Edward must be struggling."
"This will strengthen him."
Killian had warned him.
Experience would teach the rest.
"If I had known how pleasant this was, I would have stepped back sooner."
Victoria smiled.
"Do not stay away too long."
"If he complains, what can he do?"
Killian laughed.
He would travel across the Caribbean, then California.
A long rest.
Then, one morning,
"Your Majesty!"
"What is it?"
"Urgent news."
"What happened?"
"Friedrich Engels has died."
Killian's eyes widened.
"…Engels is dead?"
"The Crown Prince requests your action."
"My action? He is in charge."
"He says this is his order."
Killian smiled faintly.
A small act of defiance from his son.
He dressed and stepped out.
"Engels… you could not last a little longer?"
For a moment, he remembered the past.
Young men speaking of ideals.
He poured a glass of whiskey.
A quiet tribute.
To memories that had already begun to fade.