While Killian moved across Asia as if it were his own domain, the political center of the British Empire remained steady.
Unlike nations such as Russia, France, or Prussia, Britain's internal balance held firm.
The Conservative Party dominated Parliament, while the Liberal Party, led by William Ewart Gladstone, struggled to maintain its seats.
Even so, despite their overwhelming majority, the Conservatives could not relax.
Though they had achieved a decisive victory in war and gained significant advantages, their number of seats had not increased meaningfully.
At first glance, it seemed natural. With such a dominant majority, there were simply no more votes left to gain.
But deeper analysis suggested another factor.
"—The one who truly led the war to victory was not the party, but the royal consort Killian."
This narrative, subtly promoted by William Gladstone, had begun to influence public opinion.
Rather than attacking the ruling party directly, he elevated the monarchy, encouraging voters to separate the achievements of the crown from those of the Conservatives.
And it worked.
"Prime Minister, the latest figures. Party approval stands at 67%, while support for the monarchy is at 97%."
"…97%? I would like to meet the 3% who oppose it."
Even so, the gap was concerning.
"Prime Minister, Gladstone is making things complicated again."
"Indeed. He has a talent for creating difficulties."
Still, stability remained.
A new cabinet had been formed, and tax revenues were steady.
"Once His Highness returns, if we complete what he left unfinished, the people will feel the unity between the government and the crown more clearly."
"That is the priority."
War, however, had left its cost.
Even for Britain, mobilizing the navy required enormous expenditure.
Victory had justified it.
Anything less would have led to criticism despite success.
Thus, Wellesley preferred to avoid further conflict.
But politics rarely allows such luxury.
Soon, a thick stack of documents arrived from the royal household.
"What is this?"
"A strategic analysis of Asia's future, along with recommendations for Britain's course of action."
"…A 'Royal Committee' report?"
He almost laughed.
He did not need to ask who had truly written it.
"Still avoiding having your name recorded, are you…"
Killian had once again prepared everything in advance, leaving official credit to others.
"…Let's see."
He read carefully.
"Qing… expected. Joseon… as planned… but this…"
He paused.
Something unexpected.
Now it made sense why naval deployment had been considered necessary.
"Prime Minister, your decision?"
"What decision is there? Tell them we will proceed as proposed."
It would benefit the Empire.
And it would secure his own legacy as well.
Still—
"…How does he always know in advance?"
With a faint shake of his head, Wellesley signed the document bearing the seal of the royal household.
Meanwhile, in Joseon, Kim Eung-geun finally succeeded in hosting both Killian and the Crown Prince.
Determined not to miss this opportunity, he prepared a grand banquet.
"Meeting you, the one who stands at the pinnacle of such a great empire, is an honor."
"The honor is mine. I have long heard of the Andong Kim clan, even in London."
Relief washed over him.
"So you do not avoid us after all."
"It would be unwise to meet anyone prematurely in such a sensitive situation. Even the Crown Prince and I have not met privately until now. Is that not so?"
"Yes, that is correct."
Trust was established.
And with it, opportunity.
"Kim Jwa-geun and I are close relatives. I trust he is doing well?"
"He has adapted well. He often speaks of his reliable elder cousin in Joseon."
That was enough.
The conversation flowed naturally.
"Joseon's governance relies on balance between institutions. Our clan plays a central role."
"So the Andong Kim clan is like the ruling party?"
"…Yes, something like that."
"We support Your Highness's vision for a stronger Joseon. And we will fully support the Crown Prince as well."
Too direct.
But not unwelcome.
"The British Empire seeks only one thing. That Joseon become strong enough to counter Qing and Russia."
"…That is indeed our goal as well."
"If Joseon grows strong enough, even Manchuria would not be beyond reach."
Excitement flashed across Kim Eung-geun's face.
"And the Crown Prince shares this vision."
"…Yes, of course."
"Good. Then all that remains is for you to act."
Words alone meant nothing.
Proof was required.
"Before Your Highness departs, we will demonstrate our commitment."
"I look forward to it."
The obstacles to modernization were clear.
Conservative scholars.
Entrenched elites.
Removing them directly would risk instability.
Better to let them destroy each other.
Let them clash.
Let them collapse.
The old order would not simply disappear.
It would be made to fall.
And when it did—
it would do so cleanly, decisively, and without regret.