After receiving Killian's secret instructions, William Ewart Gladstone carefully reviewed the materials and arranged a meeting with Spain's ambassador, Córdoba.
"Good day."
"It has been a while. You look even better than the last time we met."
"Thank you. I am glad to see you in good health as well."
Since this visit was not for any noble reason, Gladstone wore a slightly awkward smile, unlike his usual self, and quickly moved to the point.
"I requested this meeting because I have a proposal that will benefit your country as well."
"We have already received many benefits thanks to the British Empire. I almost feel guilty continuing to rely on you like this."
"In difficult times, nations must help one another. The British Empire values coexistence and mutual prosperity with its allies. Just look at Canada."
"Canada? Ah… thanks to that, Cuba's defenses have grown much stronger."
So he intended to maintain secrecy.
Gladstone leaned closer and lowered his voice.
"I am already aware of Spain's plan to sell weapons to the South."
"…I am not sure what you mean."
"I studied under His Highness and worked with him in the same party in the early days. Naturally, I heard it from him. There is no need to be cautious."
"Ah… I see. Then why did you come instead of His Highness?"
"If this were a matter concerning Canada, His Highness would come personally. But this involves the British Empire itself, which requires Parliament's approval. I am here to discuss a deal between Britain and Spain."
Gladstone knew exactly why Killian had sent him. This was not simply about Parliament. It was to make the arrangement appear as a joint effort of both ruling and opposition parties, spreading the risk across all political factions.
If something went wrong, responsibility would fall on Parliament, not Killian.
Refusing was not an option either. If the plan succeeded, Britain would gain enormous benefits. Standing aside would only weaken Gladstone's own position and party.
"Ambassador, selling weapons to the South through Canada will bring profit. But what they truly need most is warships."
"That is true, but warships leave clear evidence. The South has already requested them, but the risk is too high."
"We can remove that risk."
"…How?"
"Simply have Britain purchase the ships, then sell them onward."
Córdoba frowned.
"How does that remove responsibility?"
"It changes everything. If a ship built by one nation is directly sold, responsibility is obvious. But if a British ship, built under your request, happens to end up in Southern hands due to an 'incident,' then it becomes a matter for investigation."
"You mean to obscure responsibility."
"There is a great difference between something deniable and something undeniable. And I am known for supporting neutrality, so suspicion will be limited."
Córdoba looked at the document in silence.
"If we provide warships, Spain becomes indispensable to the South. They will grant whatever you request. Your position will rise accordingly."
"…That is certainly appealing."
"Furthermore, France is showing interest in this war. If the South performs well, France will intervene, and Spain will have to compete with them in South America."
"…France…"
"So you must secure stronger concessions now. Warships are an excellent bargaining tool."
"Thank you. Without this, we might have been outmaneuvered by France. So what does Britain want in return?"
"A route connecting the Atlantic and Pacific. This region, where a canal can be built."
Panama.
"If the South and Spain secure this territory from Colombia and transfer it to us, Britain will provide ample support."
Since it was not Spain's land to begin with, there was no real cost.
Córdoba quickly accepted and prepared to seek approval from Spain.
Gladstone smiled as they shook hands.
"I believe we can become good partners."
"I feel the same."
For the first time, his smile was genuine.
Now he understood why Killian always smiled.
This was what it felt like.
The American Civil War continued to intensify.
So far, events remained similar to the original timeline.
Neither side held a decisive advantage.
The South gained tactical victories, but the overall gap remained overwhelming.
Normally, such wars tilt suddenly when the stronger side stabilizes.
But this time was different.
Weapons produced in Canada were flowing into the South through Spain.
The North had not yet realized why the South appeared so confident.
They would soon understand.
And they would rage.
For now, I maintained the appearance of neutrality, acting busy with unrelated matters.
Fortunately, Edward VII had returned from North America with useful results.
"Everything went well with the telephone patent?"
"Yes. Antonio Meucci agreed to share the patent and business rights. He only requested recognition as the inventor and fair royalties."
"As expected. He cannot afford to develop it himself."
The telephone would eventually become state-controlled.
But if the royal family established control early, the government would not easily take it.
"And this technology will also revolutionize the military. I plan to assign you as its supervisor."
"Father."
"If you need resources, ask freely. This cannot fail."
Edward hesitated.
"I believe the timing is not ideal. A large war is unfolding. Attention may shift away from such innovations."
A reasonable concern.
But he continued.
"I do not think my first achievement should be business. I need military accomplishment."
"…Military?"
"Yes. The American Civil War."
Here it comes.
"Are you suggesting intervention?"
"Yes. If I achieve something there, I can prove myself."
His reasoning was sound.
Too sound.
"Absolutely not."
Even if precautions were taken, risk remained.
"And if Victoria hears this, we are both finished."
"…You have not even heard my plan."
"There is no need. You are the Crown Prince. Never forget that."
But his expression did not change.
This was not over.
"Then speak with your mother first."
"…Mother?"
"Yes. If she agrees, I will support you."
Victoria was the real authority here.
Edward had no answer.
For now.
Or so I thought.
That evening,
during the family dinner,
Edward raised the topic.
"I wish to join the war."
Silence fell.
Victoria closed her eyes slowly.
"…You want to go to war?"
"Yes."
"Why?"
"To prove myself."
She understood immediately.
"You think I will allow this?"
"I believe you should."
She tried to persuade him calmly.
But his resolve did not waver.
"I must participate. This war will determine control of the American continent."
His logic was flawless.
That was the problem.
After repeated attempts, even Victoria could not change his mind.
So I intervened.
"We will not remain neutral forever. What you want will happen eventually. For now, wait."
"…What?"
"You want to participate? Fine."
"Follow my method exactly. That is the condition."
Victoria turned toward me sharply.
"You are sending him to war?"
If left alone, he might act recklessly.
Better to guide him.
Edward smiled.
Victoria did not.
And I knew,
I would pay for this tonight.