In a luxurious but not overly large conference room inside Westminster Palace, those gathered could be described as the individuals who effectively controlled the British Empire.
Myself as the representative of the royal family, and Wellesley as head of government.
Disraeli, a central figure of the ruling party, and Gladstone and Russell representing the opposition.
The fact that figures spanning the royal family, Parliament, and the government had gathered here was proof that the situation had become urgent.
Even so, it did not mean both parties were united toward a single goal.
For the British Empire, Denmark was not originally an enemy that required overwhelming attention or destruction.
"Is the opposition not going too far? In such a critical situation, instead of criticizing Denmark, you are turning your guns toward us."
"Mr. Disraeli, what do you mean? We have criticized Denmark more fiercely than anyone."
"You say that, yet you subtly criticized us at the same time. Because of that, the criticism that should have been directed at Denmark almost turned inward."
"That was not our intention. And even if it was perceived that way, that would mean the ruling party shares some responsibility."
Disraeli began attacking the opposition at the first opportunity, and Gladstone immediately countered.
Wellesley and Russell exchanged glances as if to say they had seen this many times before, then looked toward me.
As always, mediation fell to me.
"This meeting is not meant to determine who is right or wrong. You are aware of that, are you not?"
"…My apologies."
"We will restrain ourselves."
"The fact remains that our royal family has suffered an unforgivable humiliation due to Denmark's recklessness. And to be clear, this is not the fault of any of us. It would have been impossible for our Foreign Office to ask whether their princess had relations with another man or whether she might be carrying a child."
"Your Majesty is correct."
If such a request had been made, it would have been recorded in history as arrogance and insult by a great power.
The fact that this situation had occurred without warning was shocking, but it could not have been prevented.
"The situation has become more complex than expected. Prussia has openly declared its intention to intervene, and Austria is observing cautiously. We have also received intelligence that the princess's lover, Wilhelm Frimann Marcher, has fled Denmark. If we do not want this situation to drag on, we must unify our stance."
"I agree. But is it true that the officer has fled? Could Denmark have allowed it?"
"There is little to gain from letting him go, so it is more likely that Denmark is too disorganized to manage the situation."
"If that is the case, Prussia will be even more eager, and Austria will grow increasingly anxious. By the way, Your Majesty, how is the Crown Prince? I have heard he is meeting well with Princess Gisela."
"I asked him, and he said she is a kind and gentle girl."
Naturally, it would be difficult for him to feel romantic attraction toward a fourteen year old, but that was a matter of time.
If he liked her, they could simply become engaged and wait several years before marriage.
What mattered was whether Edward felt inclined and whether Gisela was suitable as Crown Princess.
From that perspective, the signs were not bad.
Recently, Edward had been seen taking her around frequently.
He had even asked Adelaide for advice and attended a small ball together.
That was a positive sign.
"Edward is extremely devoted to his work. As a father, I would prefer that he have a gentle wife who can support him. The current atmosphere is not bad, so we will likely hear good news."
"This is the first time we have heard that the Crown Prince is spending leisure time with a woman. I agree that the outlook is positive."
"Then shall we proceed under the assumption of strengthening ties with Austria?"
Once the situation became clear, Disraeli and Gladstone immediately began discussing strategy together as if they had not been arguing moments before.
"Austria clearly intends to strengthen relations with us and use that as a buffer against Prussia. However, Prussia is our ally and has actively supported us in this matter. If we attempt to mediate clumsily when conflict arises, public opinion may turn against us."
"That can be managed. Bismarck is reasonable and not overly greedy."
"That applies only while he remains in power. He cannot remain chancellor forever."
"That is true, but the same applies to us."
They argued, then shifted seamlessly into productive discussion.
Perhaps maintaining such a balance was important for the Empire's future.
Even if ideologies differed, unity in matters of national interest was essential.
"Regarding Prussia, I have already spoken with Bismarck. They have promised structural reforms, so there is no need for concern."
"…When did you arrange that?"
"During his recent visit to London. As for Denmark, Prussia will act soon. We should intervene at the right moment and gain compensation through mediation. I am considering Greenland. What do you think?"
"Greenland is good, but what about Iceland as well? Securing a chain from Canada through Greenland to Iceland would eliminate obstacles between the mainland and northern Canada."
Disraeli's suggestion made sense.
"It is possible, but Denmark would need to be weakened significantly to concede that much."
"That should be achievable."
"Oh? Then let us hear your plan."
"…I believe Your Majesty could manage it."
I blinked.
Everyone was looking at me with the same expectation.
They had handed the problem to me completely.
"Wait a moment…"
"As expected of Your Majesty."
"I support His Majesty's view."
They were agreeing before I had even spoken.
Incredible.
Meanwhile, Wilhelm Frimann Marcher, who had fled in order to survive, stood at a crossroads.
If he wished to live, he had to leave Denmark.
And he found himself in Schleswig-Holstein, a region under Danish control but with weakened authority.
Beyond it lay the German Confederation.
But could he go there?
Prussia openly supported Britain.
If he entered their territory, he might be killed immediately.
Remaining in Denmark meant certain death.
After wandering, he was captured near the border.
He accepted his fate.
But unexpectedly, the officer who arrested him offered him a deal.
"…If I testify, my life will be spared?"
"Yes. That is the Chancellor's promise. You will need a new identity, but you will live."
"What must I say?"
"That Denmark attempted to shift all blame onto you and forced you toward suicide, and that you fled in injustice. It is not entirely false."
He hesitated.
Then the officer added another offer.
"Your child will be returned to you. You will be given a new life in Canada."
That changed everything.
"…How would that be possible?"
"Denmark will not raise the child. We will arrange it."
Marcher struggled.
His child mattered more than anything.
"…If Britain learns of this, will they not turn against you?"
"The Chancellor has already handled that."
Marcher realized there was more behind this.
"…Very well. What must I say?"
"That Denmark pursued this marriage to use Britain's power to annex Schleswig-Holstein."
At that moment, journalists entered the room.
The officer spoke calmly.
"Now. Speak."
***
[Was the disaster a foretold tragedy? Denmark's calculated gamble!]
[All or nothing. The tragedy of Schleswig used as a tool of risk!]
Even I had to admit that these headlines were crafted in a way that compelled people to open the newspaper.
Perhaps the saying that humans are creatures of adaptation and learning was true, because the skill of journalists across nations in creating headlines had been improving day by day.
Just by showing them a glimpse of the style of the twenty first century, newspapers of the nineteenth century had already begun evolving into something far more provocative than in the original timeline.
If radio and television were to become widespread later, it was somewhat concerning to imagine what kind of propaganda might dominate.
Still, that was a matter for the future.
What mattered now was seasoning this opportunity as richly as possible.
"Take a look at this. The situation is becoming quite interesting."
[Holstein uprising demands complete separation from Denmark.]
[Central and southern Schleswig support Holstein. Demand for a provisional government excluding the north.]
"This is an unexpected turn. The German Confederation issue has suddenly moved to the forefront."
"It was always a powder keg waiting to explode. Now that someone has lit the fuse, it would be strange if it did not blow up."
The British Empire had sufficient justification to attack Denmark, but Prussia alone lacked the proper justification.
Therefore, if Prussia wanted to gain anything, it would have to accept the risk of Britain initiating hostilities first, which was the main reason Britain hesitated to start a war.
Both ruling and opposition parties agreed on this point, and Wellesley made it clear that while pressure could be applied, war would be a heavy burden.
Even so, they still wanted Greenland and Iceland, and had the audacity to ask me to provide justification.
"Denmark took such a reckless gamble because it wanted to escape Prussian pressure and fully integrate Schleswig and Holstein. That is why they forced this marriage, even knowing the risks. They have provoked multiple parties at once."
"For the Germans in those regions, it must be infuriating. They were already seeking independence, and now they have the perfect justification."
"Once those regions rise first, the German Confederation gains the right to intervene, and Prussia will gladly move. It is a very clean development. Prussia has done well."
Wellesley spoke with admiration and then added in a curious tone.
"There is something strangely familiar about this approach."
"Since when did you become so perceptive?"
"Bismarck is meticulous, but his methods have always been orthodox, focused on securing justification. This kind of calculated and aggressive approach is unusual. There is only one person I know who operates like this."
He called it ruthless, but strategist would have been a more refined term.
Still, he clearly understood the opportunity.
"To clarify, I merely gave Bismarck a few reasonable suggestions. I did not outline any direct methods."
"Of course. Someone like you would never leave a trace. What exactly did you say?"
"If you break a door, it is theft. If the owner opens it, you are a guest. I simply offered examples and metaphors. He understood immediately."
If Marcher had died in Denmark, more complex measures would have been required to incite revolt in Holstein.
But now, with global attention focused on him, his presence in the German sphere was too valuable to waste.
"How long do you think Denmark can hold out?"
"I am not a military expert, but perhaps only a few months."
"Then we must prepare quickly. As guardians of peace, we cannot ignore a war unfolding before us. And given our involvement, we are obligated to mediate."
Prussia desired Schleswig-Holstein.
Austria sought influence.
The German Confederation's leadership was at stake.
This was a rare opportunity to resolve everything at once.
We would satisfy Prussia while preserving Austria's dignity.
If we missed this moment, events might follow the original course.
"As I said, Bismarck has already promised reforms. But reforms require both justification and strength. He needs a victory."
"So Schleswig-Holstein will serve as the foundation for Prussia's reforms. What about Austria?"
"That depends on Edward. He asked to handle it."
"Did the Crown Prince request that himself? He must have gained confidence after returning from Asia. Or perhaps he has taken a liking to the Austrian princess."
Wellesley spoke more like a concerned uncle than a politician.
"Political strategy is important, but I hope he chooses someone he truly likes."
"I feel the same."
Edward seemed to have already made a decision, but as a father, his happiness mattered most.
Austria could be managed without marriage if necessary.
Still, it would be wise to meet the potential future daughter in law at least once.
After the First Schleswig-Holstein conflict, the region had remained unstable.
Although under the Danish crown, Schleswig and Holstein had their own governments.
Holstein was part of the German Confederation, while also recognizing the Danish king.
Such tangled authority made conflict inevitable.
Until now, war had been avoided only because Prussia was focused elsewhere.
But Denmark's recent actions shattered its authority.
Public sentiment exploded.
"Denmark, leave!"
"We do not recognize Christian IX as our king!"
"Germans belong with Germany!"
German populations in the region rose up, demanding independence.
Schleswig followed.
The north was Danish, but the south was predominantly German.
Calls for independence and integration into the German Confederation grew.
"Schleswig has served the Danish king for eight hundred years!"
"That does not mean it must continue! Germans will not accept Danish rule!"
Conflict escalated.
The region descended into chaos.
Both sides sought support from their respective nations.
Denmark fell into confusion.
"What should we do? Abandon Schleswig?"
"Are you insane? It has been ours for centuries!"
"If we send troops, it means war!"
"Protecting our people is our duty!"
The government hesitated.
They passed the decision to the king.
"Your Majesty, what shall we do?"
"…Schleswig… must be protected…"
His unclear words were taken as approval.
The decision was made.
Denmark mobilized its forces.
Soon after, Otto von Bismarck deployed Prussian troops under the justification of protecting Germans.
The speed of their mobilization far exceeded Denmark's.
Their objective was simple.
Advance into central Schleswig.
Avoid attacking Danish dominated northern regions.
Do not fire first, but provoke the enemy.
The intention was clear.
Maintain justification while forcing conflict.
"Advance! For Prussia!"
The soldiers believed in their leader completely.
And soon, reports spread across the world.
Prussian and Danish forces had clashed in Schleswig.
The conflict had begun.
***
When Denmark deployed its forces, it had no intention of defeating Prussia in the first place.
"Even if Holstein is lost, it cannot be helped. We must at least defend Schleswig."
"War favors the defender. We will simply fortify and endure."
If Prussia were to take both Holstein and Schleswig, the Danish straits would effectively become Prussia's front yard.
Britain might tolerate it due to its proximity to Prussia, but Russia would not simply stand by.
Although Britain would never side with Denmark, Russia's relations with Prussia had recently worsened, making support possible.
Denmark's plan was to hold Schleswig, draw Russia into the conflict, and end the war quickly.
But they overlooked a critical point.
Their understanding of Prussia's strength was based on the First Schleswig War from over thirty years ago.
Since then, Prussia had invested heavily in military expansion under Otto von Bismarck and gained real combat experience through participation in the American war.
In Europe, aside from Britain and France, no country could match Prussia.
Russia itself was struggling internally and had no capacity to intervene.
Countries with real war experience would have understood this, but Denmark lacked such awareness.
Their past conflicts had been minor and inconclusive.
They had also remained observers during major wars.
Because of this, even within the Danish military, many underestimated Prussia.
"With our current strength, we cannot defeat Prussia. However, advances in weapons favor defense. If we study tactics used in the American war, we can hold them off."
"Prussia suffered losses in that war. We can exploit that."
"As long as Britain does not intervene, it is possible."
This assessment would have seemed laughable to those who understood the true balance of power, but Denmark believed it based on recent events.
France and Prussia had not appeared overwhelmingly strong during the American conflict.
Many had expected them to crush the North quickly.
Instead, they struggled.
This created the illusion that they were weaker than expected.
"Was France and Prussia really that weak?"
"Perhaps Britain is the only true power."
When Britain intervened and the war ended quickly, this perception spread further.
In reality, the North yielded because it could not face Britain, but appearances mattered more.
Later victories against Spain restored some reputation, but the damage lingered.
Thus Denmark believed it could resist.
"We do not need to advance. We only need to hold our ground."
"What about Russia? Will they intervene?"
"They are unstable internally. If we demonstrate resistance, they may act."
Denmark decided to concentrate its forces and repel the advancing Prussians.
And then—
[Great victory of Chancellor Bismarck. Danish forces shattered in the opening battle. Estimated losses reach four thousand. Central Schleswig defenses collapse.]
As always, those who misunderstood both themselves and their enemy faced predictable consequences.
Denmark learned that Prussia was not weak. Their opponents had simply been stronger.
An overwhelming victory.
Prussian officers could hardly contain their excitement as years of military investment bore fruit.
"The Danish forces have retreated to northern Schleswig."
"At this rate, the entire region will fall within a month."
"Was war always this easy?"
"Is this the strength of the German people?"
Like a knight finally drawing his sword after years of training, Prussia was experiencing its own power for the first time.
"This is how it should be. This is Prussia."
"The American war was simply unfavorable conditions."
"If they had fought us in Europe, they would have been crushed like Denmark."
Confidence surged.
Even the Junkers in the rear were intoxicated by victory.
"Denmark was never a real opponent."
"This was obvious."
"This is not even a contest. It feels like defeating a child."
"Even so, this is war."
"Bismarck was right. Strength guarantees our future."
Some had once criticized Bismarck for aligning too closely with Britain, but those doubts vanished after this victory.
"Improving relations with Britain allowed us to expand freely."
"Next is Austria."
"He supports a smaller Germany."
"That is only temporary. Eventually, a greater German Empire will emerge."
Confidence turned into ambition.
Prussia's military strength was now undeniable.
The Junkers believed they would rise even higher under Bismarck.
Austria was often seen as a declining power.
Yet its legacy still held weight.
Until now, that reputation had maintained balance.
But time had passed.
Prussia's rapid advance revealed the true shift in power.
Austria felt it clearly.
"We support full independence for Holstein."
"It should form its own government within the German Confederation."
"Annexation would violate its sovereignty."
In truth, Austria was trying to prevent Prussian expansion.
Their statements were cautious and indirect.
Europe watched with growing concern.
"Will this escalate into a larger war?"
"What happens to the German Confederation?"
No one welcomed a powerful neighbor.
Amid this tension, Edward spoke casually.
"Father, the Austrian ambassador has been visiting Princess Gisela frequently. It seems they are already trying to influence her."
"I have heard. Do you like her?"
"She is kind and innocent. Too young for marriage now, but perhaps in a few years. However, she seems easily influenced."
"That will not be an issue in London. And you would not allow it anyway."
"That is true. I would like to clarify our position with Austria early."
He intended to establish authority.
Considering her personality, that might be beneficial.
"If that is your decision, proceed. Austria is in no position to pressure us."
"Thank you. I will handle it."
Though Denmark and Prussia were at war, the real players were already looking beyond it.
Denmark, Prussia, Austria, Britain, and even Russia watched closely.
What began as a scandal had grown into a major diplomatic struggle among the great powers.
***
The idea that a married woman becomes part of her husband's family was a common convention across cultures until the twentieth century.
Of course, as with all things, there were exceptions.
If the woman's family was overwhelmingly powerful, or if relations between the two sides were so close that she could openly rely on her natal family's influence.
But exceptions remained exceptions, and in most cases the husband's side held the dominant position after marriage.
That did not mean the woman had no influence at all.
Even as the mistress of a noble household, she could exert both direct and indirect influence over family affairs.
If the scale extended beyond a household to a nation, the impact was even greater.
Openly favoring one's natal family would be dangerous, but subtle influence was always possible.
Even if major secrets could not be shared, minor information could be passed without crossing the line.
As long as boundaries were respected, influence could be exercised.
This was precisely what the Austrian court wanted from Gisela.
Find out the British royal family's current thinking through the Crown Prince, but do not ask directly. Even a general sense of his views would suffice. Above all, do not make him uncomfortable.
As soon as her meetings with Edward increased, a telegram arrived from Vienna with these instructions.
No one asked whether the Crown Prince treated her well or what kind of person he was.
Her father showed some curiosity, but her mother remained distant and cold.
Now, however, her mother had begun interfering in everything.
"Now they suddenly care."
"Her Majesty the Empress is simply fulfilling her duties. Please understand the situation of the Empire."
"Concern for the Empire? That is a new claim."
Gisela believed her mother cared more about her appearance than the fate of the nation.
Even portraits were discarded as her beauty faded with age.
It was said she judged people entirely by appearance.
Such a person claiming concern for the Empire was difficult to believe.
Gisela suspected her mother wanted to use her position to gain advantage in court politics.
Conflicts between Empress Elisabeth and Archduchess Sophie had intensified recently.
With Sophie withdrawing from public life, Elisabeth's influence had grown.
Perhaps she intended to use Gisela's marriage to strengthen her position further.
Not out of patriotism, but out of rivalry.
Gisela understood all of this clearly.
She did not want to follow her mother's wishes, yet she lacked the courage to refuse.
"…But I am not close enough to him to ask such things."
"Affection can grow quickly. You are the only woman outside his family with this level of access. You must not waste this opportunity."
"I understand, but asking about Austria directly would seem too obvious."
An experienced diplomat might manage such a task.
But she was only fourteen.
It was impossible.
If things went wrong, all blame would fall on her.
Her mother would avoid responsibility.
"…Just bring it up naturally. The war is a common topic. Simply report what he says."
"…I understand."
"The British Empire's position is crucial. Do not forget that."
After the ambassador left, she sighed.
"Why must I do this?"
She thought of Edward and the warm hot chocolate he had prepared for her.
She could not bring herself to treat him coldly.
Yet she could not defy her mother either.
Perhaps pretending to be ill was the only option.
When Edward had visited Joseon, he learned how dangerous powerful in laws could be.
He recalled stories of Taejong of Joseon eliminating such threats.
His father had even given him the nickname "Kill Bangwon," which he never forgot.
Though extreme, the logic made sense.
But Edward had no intention of using such methods.
Words would suffice.
He already knew Austria would attempt to use Gisela.
It was not surprising.
Even a weakened power could still attempt influence.
Still, it was necessary to establish authority early.
With his father's approval, he prepared accordingly.
Yet unexpectedly, Gisela refused to meet him.
"She is ill?"
"Yes, Your Highness."
"That serious?"
"Not exactly. She appears healthy, but is avoiding meetings."
He clicked his tongue.
Then stood.
"If she can read, she is not seriously ill. Prepare gifts. I will visit her."
Soon, he arrived at her residence.
And there she was.
Reading calmly in the garden.
He smiled faintly.
"British medicine must be extraordinary to cure you so quickly."
"I… only came out briefly…"
"I heard you were too ill to meet me, so I came instead. It seems you are recovering well."
"…I am sorry. I could not think of a better excuse…"
"What did your ambassador say?"
"How did you know?"
Her reactions were too transparent.
"Were you asked to gauge my views on Prussia?"
"…Yes, but I did not want to…"
"Why?"
"I did not want to treat you poorly…"
He stopped teasing her.
She looked ready to cry.
"Then just tell them this."
He handed her chocolate and spoke casually.
"Tell them that every time they ask, I will publicly support Prussia even more."
"…What?"
"And if they truly wish to know, they are free to ask me directly."
His meaning was clear.
Stay in line, and all would be well.
Push too far, and consequences would follow.
Either way, it was advantageous for him.