The most charismatic politician in Prussia, the Iron Chancellor Otto von Bismarck, let out a sigh of relief after securing my promise.
As long as Bismarck remained Prime Minister, that painting would never see the light of day.
In other words, once he stepped down, it could very well end up in the National Gallery, but there is no such thing as an eternal secret in this world.
"In any case, as time passes, credibility naturally fades."
"Then when that time comes, I can simply say the painting was exaggerated, correct?"
"That is entirely up to you. I never interfere with another person's freedom of expression."
Under the condition that the painting would remain in my private collection for the time being, Bismarck agreed to grant me a favor.
As he himself had just said, he likely believed that even if it were revealed later, he could simply explain it away.
Unfortunately, as science advances, it will become possible to determine precisely when such a painting was created.
Denying it would only add another layer of embarrassment.
It would be better to accept it openly.
But he had already said too much to retreat now.
"Prime Minister, this situation may not necessarily harm you."
"How could it not? I am about to be treated as a liar."
"At worst, you will be teased a little in private. If you turn it into humor, it may even make you more relatable."
This was partly a joke, but also sincere.
Sometimes, becoming a subject of humor can increase popularity.
Bismarck, unaware of how he might be remembered in the distant future, returned to Berlin satisfied.
Meanwhile, Edward, having given up on relinquishing his acting authority, accepted his situation and came to consult me instead.
"So you want to address Asia now that Europe and America are settled?"
"Yes. You said Asia could become the center of future conflict."
"That is correct. The populations of Qing and India alone are immense. In a century, even Japan and Joseon will not be negligible."
"So I want to prepare in advance by unifying our Asian territories into a single entity and making it the center of trade."
He meant integrating Taiwan, Singapore, and Shanghai.
From a strategic perspective, the idea had merit.
"You intend to control Asia through this unified territory."
"Yes. But the population difference is overwhelming. With increased food production, Asia's population will grow rapidly."
"That is true."
"Some say that only creates a larger market, but as you warned, such a population could itself become a threat."
"Imagine Qing reaching one billion people. At first, they will seek trade. But once the world depends on them, the balance will shift."
History had shown this before.
It would be wise to act early.
"So the best solution is to divide Qing into two."
"Divide it? I considered that, but ethnic unity may cause reunification."
"Then divide by system or ideology."
I smiled.
"Have you found an opportunity?"
"Yes. There are growing movements within Qing for constitutional monarchy and democracy."
"Good. Proceed as you wish."
Taking territory directly would be inefficient.
Dividing the state would be far more effective.
"With Qing divided and combined with our Asian territories, along with Joseon and Japan, we can contain any rise."
"Then you must secure influence in those nations as well."
"That should not be difficult. I also plan to expand scholarship programs to bring their future leaders to us."
"Double is not enough. Triple it."
To shape future elites, greater investment was needed.
"Thank you. I will discuss this with the Prime Minister."
As Edward left, I felt that I could finally begin to step back.
Joseon was undergoing a transformation.
Such change inevitably disrupts social order.
For those who relied on old systems, it was a death sentence.
Yet some adapted.
Those with resources seized new opportunities.
"Minister, who should we appoint?"
"Only those educated abroad."
"From King's College?"
"Yes. Bring them immediately."
In Joseon and Japan, those educated in London were highly valued.
The desire to study abroad grew rapidly.
The most prestigious path was the imperial scholarship program.
Selection meant honor for the entire family.
Among them was a young boy from a declining noble branch.
Yi Seung-man.
His family, once connected to royalty, had fallen into obscurity.
Now, they sought revival through him.
At less than ten years old, he traveled to London as a scholar.
At first, he held pride in his heritage.
But reality was different.
"Joseon? Where is that?"
It was an obscure land to most.
But there was one way to change that.
"I am from Joseon, His Majesty Killian's homeland."
"His Majesty's homeland?"
Reactions changed instantly.
Status came not from Joseon, but from association with Killian.
Realizing this, the boy's ambitions shifted.
It was not enough to preserve pride.
He needed recognition.
If he could meet Killian even once, his future would be secured.
Standing by the Thames, his eyes burned with determination.
The nineteenth century was nearing its end.
And a new era was about to begin.