People often say time is like an arrow once released from the bow.
It means that in the blink of an eye, it is gone.
But the past few years truly feel like I closed my eyes and they were deleted.
That does not mean I was not busy.
Humans actually perceive time more slowly when they are not busy.
Honestly, it is easier to expand territory without thinking.
Managing what you already have is several times harder than conquering it.
Like other European nations, I could simply whip them and say, "Work, you slaves."
That would make things easier for now.
But if I do that, a time will come when everything I have taken will be vomited back out, and the empire will shrink.
To be honest, the two world wars in original history were disasters for the entire world.
But for European powers, they were also a convenient excuse.
Everything bad was blamed on Germany.
The victorious nations pretended innocence.
They ignored everything they had done in their colonies.
Instead, they highlighted Nazi atrocities and racial discrimination.
They declared such inhuman acts must be condemned.
They called for peace and created international organizations.
It would have been admirable.
If it had not come from nations that had beaten and exploited the rest of the world for over a hundred years.
In truth, if Germany had not taken all the blame in original history, Britain and France would not have cleaned their image so easily.
But will such luck happen again?
I do not know if something like the Nazis will appear.
Even if it does, I cannot accept an ending where all colonies are lost.
France or Prussia could afford that.
But if it happens to the British Empire under me, it would be entirely my responsibility.
So for the past six years, I classified the colonies and calculated their potential for integration.
Canada, where I serve as Duke, can clearly become another homeland.
Oceania, which is rapidly expanding, is the same.
These regions are already culturally and emotionally similar.
They can be integrated as part of the homeland.
As for Joseon and Japan in Northeast Asia, including them directly in the United Kingdom is unrealistic.
The population is too large.
The cultural gap is too great.
But if I stand at the center, they could still be incorporated as federated states under this system.
India is different.
No matter how I think about it, it cannot be integrated.
The population is too large.
In 100 years, it will exceed 350 million.
In 150 years, over 1.2 billion.
Trying to swallow that will only cause collapse.
The best option is to maintain a loose federation.
Let it act as a massive market that consumes British goods.
Policies that treat it like other European colonies, forcing extraction and labor, must be avoided.
Such methods inevitably create backlash.
Except for a few profitable regions, this style of colonial rule will soon become inefficient.
At least, I know that.
If I prepare tailored plans for each region now, the gap between Britain and other European nations will continue to grow.
Along with that, I also cared for the children growing day by day.
And for Victoria, who was pregnant.
That is why six years disappeared so quickly.
And now, it was time to harvest the results I had carefully cultivated.
Among them, the event that drew the world's attention was the opening of the Suez Canal.
A massive project connecting the Mediterranean and the Red Sea.
A canal long imagined since ancient times.
Now it had become reality.
Previously, ships had to sail around Africa and pass the Cape of Good Hope.
Now that was no longer necessary.
It reduced the journey by roughly 9,000 kilometers.
Even in the 21st century, no canal achieves such a reduction.
"Everyone! The yacht carrying His Highness Killian Gore Hanover, the main architect and largest shareholder of this canal, is now entering the Red Sea directly from the Mediterranean for the first time in human history! The route dreamed of for thousands of years is now reality! Please welcome this moment with cheers!"
"Waaaaa!"
As soon as my travel ban ended, the first international event I attended was this ceremony.
The reason was simple.
This canal was practically mine.
Egypt held some shares.
But I and my companies held more.
Eventually, it would be transferred to the British royal family.
It would become a royal asset.
So of course I had to attend.
Victoria also allowed it.
Though she told me to return immediately.
"Hahaha! Is this not a magnificent sight?"
The Governor of Egypt, Muhammad Said Pasha, laughed and raised his glass.
"I never imagined construction would proceed so smoothly. This must be the power of the British Empire."
"It was only possible thanks to your support, Governor. This is a joint achievement."
"In the past, the Pharaohs tried to connect these seas and failed. Now it has been accomplished. It carries great meaning."
As we drank, night fell.
Lights rose from the ships behind us.
The Governor still did not understand who truly owned the canal.
My personal shares and company shares were separated.
If combined, Egypt's shares were meaningless.
But that would be handled gradually.
"Your Highness, if anyone interferes with the canal…"
"They will learn why the Royal Navy is called the strongest in the world."
"Hahaha! As expected of the strongest empire."
This statement meant everything.
The canal was physically in Egypt.
Egypt was nominally part of the Ottoman Empire.
But in reality, it was semi-independent.
If conflict disrupted the canal, Britain would intervene.
That alone made Egypt secure.
It was like gaining the strongest shield.
That was why the Governor smiled so brightly.
"This canal will symbolize eternal friendship between Egypt and Britain."
No.
It would symbolize the dominance of the British royal family.
"Of course. A symbol of eternal friendship. Even Caesar would envy you."
"Haha, you flatter me."
At least he knew it was flattery.
I ignored his fantasies and continued.
The canal stretched 164 kilometers.
Once we passed through completely, the Mediterranean was behind us.
And the Red Sea lay ahead.
From this moment on,
the world became smaller.
The opening of the Suez Canal attracted global attention.
Entrepreneurs from many countries attended.
Including those connected to the canal.
Among them was a major investor from Canada.
"Meeting you here in Egypt feels strange."
"It does."
"By the way, the Governor asked to meet you."
"Of course."
"Life is strange. The Governor wants to meet me through you."
"You built a gold empire across Canada and the United States. That is natural."
"Still just a salaried manager."
He drank deeply.
"Careful. You are not young anymore."
"Then let me retire."
"You delegate well already."
"I learned from someone I respect."
He looked at me.
"So what are you planning this time?"
"Nothing unusual. Just developing Canada."
"The factories you told me to expand all produce military goods."
"Ah, that."
"You received another prophecy?"
"Not prophecy. Data-based reasoning."
"Then explain it."
I pointed to a newspaper.
He looked confused.
I showed the headline.
The Republican Convention of the United States.
< Abraham Lincoln nominated after defeating William H. Seward >
***
July 4, 1860.
Toronto, Canada.
The Crown Prince of the British Empire, Edward VII, stepped once again onto the land where he was born.
"Long live His Highness Edward, the true heir of the royal blood born in Canada!"
"Your Highness Edward! Welcome home!"
"Welcome back to your homeland!"
From the Governor General to members of parliament.
From influential figures in the city to factory owners and workers.
The port was filled so tightly that there was barely space to stand.
For a moment, Edward felt dizzy.
Even in London, he had never received such a passionate welcome.
Canada always greeted him like this.
He knew the reason very well.
He was the eldest son.
The one who would inherit everything from his father, the Duke of Canada, and his mother, the Queen of the British Empire.
His siblings were also warmly welcomed.
But the affection toward Edward and Adelaide was especially intense.
The other princes and princesses were born in London.
But the twins were born in Canada and spent their childhood here.
That alone made the difference.
Even now, he still had faint memories of toddling around this land as a child.
"Your Highness! How was your journey?"
"It was very pleasant."
"We heard the waves were rough due to rain. Did you suffer from seasickness?"
"When I am welcomed like this, something like seasickness is nothing."
"Hahaha! Hearing that puts us at ease. Will the Princess not be joining this time?"
"This time I came alone due to scheduling. Next time, I will come with my sister and stay longer."
Their visits were part of Canada's integration.
Ideally, his father would come.
But someone as busy as him could not always be here.
And Edward himself had become a symbol.
A symbol of unity.
The future of Canada.
Simply meeting influential figures and listening to citizens was enough to have an effect.
He also felt attachment to this land.
There was no dissatisfaction.
Rather, maintaining his presence like this was a great advantage.
However, this visit had another purpose.
"Your Highness, it has been a long time. You have grown remarkably."
"Yes. It has been a while. I am glad to see you in good health as well, Mr. James."
The greatest tycoon of the British Empire.
A man who built success across railways, steel, coal, detective work, real estate, and finance.
A figure known by everyone.
Yet he smiled like an ordinary man.
"I just returned to Canada from Egypt. Fortunately, our timing matched."
"Did things go well with my father?"
"Unfortunately, yes. It seems I must once again be worked hard as His Highness wishes. At my age, it brings tears to my eyes. I hope Your Highness does not resemble that aspect of him."
"If I could resemble anything at all, that would be enough."
Even without showing it, his voice grew heavy.
James' smile disappeared.
"Is something troubling you?"
"My entire life feels like a series of burdens. There is no single concern."
"You know His Highness better than most people."
"I have heard endlessly about what my father did when he was young."
"When I was a child, I thought nothing of it."
"When I was around ten, I simply felt proud."
"Four years ago, you even asked me to tell you about his youth."
"Yes. But at some point, I began to think more."
"My siblings can live under his shadow."
"But I cannot."
If he had never heard anything, perhaps his mind would be at ease.
When he was young, he believed he could do the same.
His father did it.
So why not him?
That was why he sought out people who knew his father's past.
From Queen Victoria to Charles Wellesley, to Disraeli, to James.
But every story was different.
None overlapped.
In his early teens, his father had already worked with the Prime Minister.
He had guided election strategies.
He had even helped Disraeli win.
At the same time, he taught the Queen.
She had learned politics and economics from him.
"Sir James, what you said before… is it true that my father built the foundation of all your businesses?"
"Yes. Everything my group has is based on what His Highness created."
At first, Edward thought it was a joke.
The James Group.
The wealthiest in the British Empire.
Greater than Rothschild or Baring.
And yet it belonged to the royal family?
Only his father and mother knew the truth.
Edward knew because he was the heir.
"Your autobiography says the beginning was real estate and a detective agency in America."
"At that time, my father was younger than I am now."
"He was barely in his early teens…"
"That is correct. At that time, I thought, what kind of child is this."
"The truly shocking part was how he multiplied the money. But it is better not to say."
"…I see."
So it was true.
When Edward struggled with Latin,
his father had already built political power,
taught the Queen,
and expanded businesses.
Was that even possible?
Was he even human?
For a moment, he envied his siblings.
If he were in their position, he could simply enjoy having such a father.
"Your Highness, I have watched him closely. It is better not to compare yourself."
"It will only lower your confidence."
"You will inherit the throne of the Queen."
"Not your father's position."
"But in Canada, I will inherit his place."
"…It seems I spoke carelessly."
"Then think positively."
"Perhaps Her Majesty will live a very long life."
"That is not comforting."
"If I must struggle, I would rather begin now."
"I will find my own way."
"My father must already know."
"That is why he gave me this opportunity."
There were two reasons he crossed the Atlantic.
First, to inspect Canada's industrial facilities.
To encourage them for the coming boom.
That was simple.
Anyone could do it.
The second was more important.
"Sir James, have you investigated the person I requested?"
"Of course. Surprisingly, he exists. Antonio Meucci, an immigrant to the United States."
"He created several inventions but could not patent them due to lack of funds."
"Good. I will meet him personally."
"I will purchase his inventions and register them as royal property."
His father called it a telephone.
If monopolized early, it would generate immense wealth.
Now, people treated him kindly.
But what about the future?
Would the people accept him as the successor of Killian Gore Hanover?
Even success in this project would not be enough.
Perhaps it would be easier if the Queen lived long and he remained Crown Prince.
But even then, he would still be called the inferior son of a great father.
To inherit everything, he needed results.
Even imitation would be enough.
Recently, he had begun to feel it clearly.
Although Abraham Lincoln was nominated as the Republican candidate, the British Parliament remained quiet.
Nations of the 19th century had little understanding of others.
Or perhaps they simply did not care.
Or information was too slow.
Even Charles Wellesley found my suggestion unexpected.
"You want to increase cotton imports? Stockpile them?"
"Yes. As much as possible. Increase the budget and gather it at the government level."
"Do you expect prices to rise?"
"Or perhaps the South will refuse to sell."
"From next year, Egypt will produce large amounts of cotton."
"We should reduce dependence on the United States."
"Food imports should also be adjusted."
Wellesley looked at me suspiciously.
But my predictions had always come true.
Again and again.
If a die shows six ten times in a row,
it is no longer luck.
"Even if I agree, I must persuade Parliament."
"If I say the South will refuse to sell, they will think I am insane."
"Explain your reasoning…"
"War will break out."
Silence filled the room.
Then a sigh.
"…It begins again."
"Yes. So we must prepare."
The six-year pause was over.
Now,
the world would return to violence.
People still had not learned.
Not enough blood had been shed yet.
***
As the presidential election approached, tensions in the United States began to surface.
Other European nations did not consider it a serious issue.
They were not fools who ignored it entirely.
Each country analyzed data.
They examined possible economic impacts.
But their attention was focused only on their own economies.
Whether the United States fought among itself or not did not matter.
Europe had little interest in political stability across the Atlantic.
As long as grain from the North and cotton from the South continued,
most did not care what happened.
'Abolish slavery or not, just give us cotton.'
'Wheat and corn can be produced without slaves anyway.'
The British Empire, France, and Prussia all shared this optimistic view.
Even within the United States, few believed anything serious would happen.
Politicians had watched years of threats and bluffs.
" If the North suppresses our rights, we will leave the Union."
" If we win, slavery will be abolished immediately."
The political landscape had split between Republicans and Democrats.
The Republican Party was not fully unified.
It was a coalition.
Former Whigs.
Anti-immigration groups.
Anti-slavery groups.
All united by one goal.
Abolition.
The South had already become deeply unpopular.
Even in the North, people did not view blacks equally.
But even conservative Northerners thought,
" Still, the South is too much."
The South knew this.
They escalated rhetoric.
The North responded in kind.
Still, the North did not believe secession would actually happen.
Too many empty threats had been made.
" If a Republican wins, we will act."
" This is not an empty warning."
" Yes, of course."
No one took it seriously.
Population alone made the difference clear.
The North had nearly four times the population.
Its industry and agriculture far surpassed the South.
Mechanization allowed even women to farm.
The South lagged behind.
Northern intellectuals mocked them.
They relied on slaves instead of innovation.
The outcome was already decided.
Republican leaders knew this.
" Our analysis shows strong results."
" We expect at least 170 electoral votes."
" Then victory is certain."
"There are still months left. Do not become complacent."
Abraham Lincoln remained cautious.
" Even favorable elections can be overturned."
Still, confidence was understandable.
The election had become a four-way race.
Democrats were divided.
A separate Southern candidate had emerged.
" Even if others unite, we must prepare for the worst."
" Yes, but even without Southern votes, we already exceed the majority."
The number was 173.
The required majority was 152.
Victory was effectively guaranteed.
Yet Lincoln's expression darkened.
" Why are you concerned?"
" Because it aligns too perfectly."
If this continued, Democrats would be confined to the South.
" That is the problem."
No one understood.
" Do you think the South does not know this?"
Silence followed.
The House was determined by population.
The South had no chance.
Even without them, the Union would function.
They would lose all influence.
" If they realize that…"
"…what will they do?"
Lincoln had hoped for division in the South.
Blame could be shifted.
But if they lost completely…
" Arrange a meeting with British or French diplomats."
" Yes, discreetly."
This moment would decide the future.
For now, tension was all he could enforce.
At the same time.
London.
Buckingham Palace.
" Wheat and cotton prices continue to fall."
"That is a good sign."
" Egypt plans to increase production further."
"They seem quite motivated."
"I merely mentioned an opportunity."
"You also mentioned the possible consequences in America."
"That is all."
Charles Wellesley smiled.
" Egypt may face losses later."
" Risk is part of business."
" And in return?"
"They seem to believe the Suez Canal belongs to them."
"That misunderstanding must be corrected."
Their shares would be reclaimed.
Completely.
At least enough to ensure control.
" For this plan to work, the South must resume exports."
" Supporting slavery openly would be… distasteful."
"So support must come indirectly."
" Canada cannot openly sell weapons to the South."
" It would contradict its identity."
Supplying only the North would end the war too quickly.
"That would not be profitable."
" The war should last longer."
"As expected of you."
" Then we sell to both."
" But indirectly."
"There is a precedent."
"…Spain."
A familiar method.
Sell through intermediaries.
Profit.
And shift blame.
Spain would benefit as well.
A weakened United States suited them.
Weapons.
Profit.
And a convenient scapegoat.
October.
One month before the election.
Edward VII arrived in Washington.
The visit was not planned for political reasons.
It was simply a diplomatic stop.
But the situation had changed.
Tension was everywhere.
At balls.
At gatherings.
Everywhere.
Only meetings with the outgoing president felt comfortable.
Everywhere else, pressure followed.
" Has the President given any indication?"
" Any message regarding the Democrats?"
" Please attend this event."
" No, attend ours instead."
Edward refused.
These were clearly political events.
He had no intention of becoming involved.
He had no authority.
Yet the pressure itself revealed something.
The situation was serious.
He wanted to leave.
But he could not.
Doing nothing would invite criticism.
So he followed protocol.
He met all candidates.
Maintained neutrality.
But the real target was clear.
Abraham Lincoln.
"I assure you, the United States will not be shaken."
"We seek continued trust with Britain."
"So do we."
"Our economic ties continue to grow."
Lincoln repeatedly emphasized unity.
" No matter who wins, the Union will endure."
" Conflict will be resolved."
" There is no need for concern."
The atmosphere remained friendly.
But Edward did not believe it.
Loud voices meant instability.
He recalled something his father once said.
" Strong words make one appear weak."
That was exactly the situation.
" The United States may face serious internal conflict after the election."
" Both sides seek British support."
"This situation should be utilized."
It could be an opportunity.
To prove himself.
To change how he was seen.
[ South Carolina warns of secession if Lincoln wins ]
[ Jefferson Davis declares it a declaration of war ]
[ Lincoln rejects division ]
"How is it?"
"As expected."
"Tensions are rising."
"But no one believes it is real."
"Investors are not withdrawing."
"However, His Highness Edward seems concerned."
"He suggests considering intervention."
"Edward?"
"Yes."
Charles Wellesley smiled.
I sighed.
He should have simply enjoyed the trip.
Then Benjamin Disraeli spoke.
"Perhaps you should praise him."
"Praise?"
"He confirmed your prediction himself."
"That is true."
"Send encouragement."
I paused.
"Did he ask you about me?"
"…Yes."
"About your youth."
I understood.
He had been comparing himself.
"That child…"
"It is natural."
"Children of great men feel pressure."
"He will become Emperor."
"That burden is different."
It was true.
Still, he needed achievements.
That was why I sent him.
To meet Antonio Meucci.
Originally, I planned to praise him after success.
Now the order had changed.
Raising children was unpredictable.
Nothing followed expectations.
"Prime Minister."
"Yes."
"Help me draft a letter."
"A message to Edward."
Wellesley nodded.
Even this felt harder than planning for war.
I rewrote the letter five times.
Trying to balance it.
Not too much.
Not too little.
Just enough.