The conflict between Joseon and Qing at the Exposition naturally spread to representatives of every nation.
Many consuls had witnessed the argument firsthand, and as it became a topic of discussion, within two days nearly all ambassadors were aware of it.
In truth, few even knew where Joseon was located, but that was not what mattered.
"Making the British Empire the Emperor of Asia? What kind of absurd claim is that?"
"Not even the Roman Emperor, but the Emperor of Asia?"
"Can a European nation even become the Emperor of Asia?"
"Well… if Asian kingdoms choose to treat Britain as such, then it is not impossible."
At present, the main states claiming the title of emperor in Europe were Austria, Russia, and the Ottoman Empire.
Yet in reality, none truly possessed the authority of an empire.
At best, Russia had once come close, but that was before the Crimean War.
The Ottomans claimed to be Roman emperors, but no one in Europe recognized it.
Austria, inheritor of the Holy Roman Empire, had legitimacy, but was too preoccupied with containing Prussia.
"What meaning does the title of Emperor even have now? It is little more than self-satisfaction."
"Indeed. It feels outdated, like something from another age."
Those drafting reports tried to rationalize it—
but none truly believed it meaningless.
Prestige mattered.
And this—
was unprecedented.
"Still, did we not already expect Britain might proclaim itself Emperor of India?"
"That is different. India was already under British control."
If Britain now became Emperor not only of India but also of Northeast Asia—
the implications were immense.
More importantly—
this posed a serious threat to the other great powers now eyeing Asia.
Unlike Napoleon's self-proclaimed title—
this recognition was being granted externally.
"Britain guards India fiercely. Even the slightest interference provokes them…"
"Are you suggesting Northeast Asia may become the same?"
France, which had expected a smooth victory over Prussia in the Exposition, was suddenly thrown into crisis.
Foreign Minister Louis reviewed reports carefully.
"This is no time to compete with Prussia. We must consult His Majesty."
"But what can we actually do?"
"That is the problem."
If Asian nations willingly aligned with Britain—
France could not intervene.
Yet doing nothing risked losing Asia entirely.
The issue was not Britain becoming Emperor—
but how it was happening.
Recognition meant alignment.
Whether tributary or vassal—
the result was the same.
Military coercion would no longer work.
"Which nations are supporting Britain?"
"Joseon and Ryukyu. Japan may follow."
"Ryukyu… where is that?"
A small island—
but strategically significant.
"Hong Kong, Shanghai… now this? If Ryukyu, Joseon, and Japan join…"
The map formed a net.
Northeast Asia enclosed.
Add India, Australia—
and Britain's reach became overwhelming.
"…So we are left with Southeast Asia?"
Even that was problematic.
Any colony would be surrounded by British influence.
France needed expansion to recover from war—
yet options were shrinking.
"There is something I do not understand. Why is Britain not exploiting colonies more aggressively?"
"We are unsure. It may be Killian's influence, or another strategy entirely."
"What is certain is this: our opportunities are shrinking."
Then—
a realization.
"Annam is also a Qing tributary, is it not?"
"…Yes."
Silence.
If Britain inherited Qing's tributaries—
France's plans in Indochina could collapse.
"We must send a telegram immediately. And arrange a meeting with the Joseon ambassador."
Better to understand Asia first—
before dealing with Killian.
Thus, a declaration from a small Eastern nation had plunged Europe into confusion.
Meanwhile—
Otto von Bismarck watched calmly.
"France must be panicking."
Prussia had no immediate interest in Asia.
A fortunate position.
Bismarck had no intention of competing with Britain overseas.
His focus was Germany.
"Colonial rivalry with Britain? Foolish."
Instead—
this was an opportunity.
To present Prussia as a reliable ally.
When Killian visited the Prussian pavilion, Bismarck raised the matter.
"So, Prussia supports Britain's policy?"
"Of course. Between us, how could it be otherwise?"
"Personal relations mean little between nations."
"Perhaps. But we have no interest in Asia."
Killian nodded calmly.
In truth—
Prussia's support meant little to Britain.
But for Bismarck—
it mattered.
He needed Britain neutral in German affairs.
"This situation has caused confusion. Some believe we intend to dominate Asia."
"I know you better than that. If you truly intended it, you would act more directly."
Killian smiled faintly.
"Indeed. It is pleasant speaking with someone who understands."
"Then visit us more often. You have visited France four times—for wine."
"They offer it for free. What can I do?"
"Prussia lacks such luxuries. We offer understanding instead."
"Competition is good, but you have done well. Third place is no small achievement."
France had secured second through strategy—
but Prussia had at least surpassed Austria.
"Still, I have prepared a gift."
"A gift?"
"Information."
Bismarck leaned in slightly.
"France appears to be contacting Asian nations in secret."
"…Interesting."
Killian's expression showed satisfaction.
Bismarck pressed further—
but then—
two familiar figures entered.
"…Ah."
Of all people—
the worst possible.
"Bismarck! It has been a while."
"You've become ambassador already? Impressive. Oh—and Your Highness is here as well."
Bismarck stiffened.
Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels approached—
smiling.
His past—
had just walked through the door.