The British Empire is a peculiar country where the power of the nobility seems weak, yet is not weak at all.
Unlike pre-revolutionary France or even modern France, the aristocracy does not wield power openly, but their influence remains deeply embedded throughout society.
The House of Lords still exists as a hereditary authority, and there is hardly any sector of society untouched by aristocratic influence.
Of course, capitalists who amassed immense wealth have emerged, but most of them are closely connected to the nobility as well.
Even in an age where aristocratic authority is said to be declining, the upper class still revolves around them.
As the economy develops and living standards rise, the nobility naturally indulges in greater luxury.
At present, London's high society can truly be described as a world of its own.
Even so, after the accession of Empress Victoria, the trends within high society began to change.
With her conservative disposition, she tended to distance herself from nobles who indulged in excessive extravagance.
At first, she had intended to openly pressure them, but Killian dissuaded her and she changed course.
He advised that overtly suppressing people would not be effective.
If forced down, people would simply complain in secret. That was human nature.
Instead, Victoria established a cultural standard within the royal family that emphasized elegance and refinement without excess.
Those who strayed too far were not invited to private gatherings, even if they could still attend official events.
This alone proved highly effective.
"I heard the news. My daughter and I have been invited to the royal banquet in two weeks."
"As expected of you. I heard Her Majesty limited the invitations to around thirty guests since she does not favor overly extravagant events."
"We are quite close to the royal family."
"I see. I heard your husband has met His Majesty Killian several times. That is truly impressive."
The status of the imperial family in Britain had changed dramatically since Victoria's reign.
Even the name itself had changed from royal family to imperial family.
Though she did not directly control domestic politics, people believed the imperial family could do so if it wished.
In reality, that was unlikely.
But perception mattered more than reality.
People strongly felt the authority of the imperial family, and as Killian handled more international affairs, that perception only grew stronger.
To put it simply, the public viewed the imperial family like this.
Leaders who do not concern themselves with domestic political struggles, who focus on improving welfare and rights, and who secure benefits for the nation abroad.
In truth, much of the domestic burden had been left to Charles Wellesley, but the public did not know that.
They only saw politicians arguing endlessly in Parliament, while the imperial family quietly secured advantages overseas.
If the imperial family only had public support, it might have been dismissed as symbolic.
But that was not the case.
Canada was effectively under imperial control, Alaska was privately owned, and with control over Suez and Panama, immense wealth flowed in.
Naturally, other nations also paid close attention to the imperial family.
Under such circumstances, it was inevitable that the nobility would react to every movement of the imperial family and seek to draw closer.
"By the way, have you heard? It seems the Crown Prince may marry as early as next year."
"I have heard the same."
"Is it true? What kind of woman must the Austrian princess be to capture his interest so quickly?"
"You will see for yourselves soon. I have arranged to meet her."
The speaker was Frances Anne Spencer Churchill, Duchess of Marlborough.
At her words, the other noblewomen reacted with excitement.
"Truly? She will come here?"
"Yes. She will be in London next week, and we plan to meet at my estate. Would you like to join?"
"It would be an honor."
In British high society, everyone was eager to host the future Crown Princess, Gisela.
Securing such a meeting demonstrated the immense influence of the Marlborough family.
The duchess planned to invite only the highest ranking individuals, ensuring that all would recognize her standing.
At that moment, she believed she would be the center of attention.
"Oh, you are here."
"Yes. Thank you for inviting me."
"Have you grown accustomed to London?"
"Thanks to Edward and Adelaide, it already feels like home."
"And Gisela?"
"She was invited to a gathering hosted by a duchess."
Likely the Churchill estate.
It was a suitable place for her to gain attention.
Meanwhile, I spent time with Rudolf, teaching him what would be useful for his future.
"You have likely seen many of London's landmarks, so I will not dwell on that. Tell me, what has impressed you most?"
"The way Edward and Adelaide treat others. It is very different from my family."
"I see. Times are changing, and so must education. That is my principle."
"Perhaps that is why the British Empire continues to grow."
His admiration was sincere.
It reminded me of my own children when they were younger.
Perhaps Rudolf and Gisela would change as well over time.
"Your father asked me to make you stronger. I agreed, but I do not believe in such harsh methods. You will not experience the same treatment here."
Rudolf visibly relaxed.
He had endured harsh discipline in Austria.
Kindness was unfamiliar to him.
Even so, I reminded him of his responsibilities.
"A ruler must respect the military, but he does not need to live as a soldier."
"Yes, I understand."
"Then what is most important for a ruler?"
"I noticed that people here treat the imperial family differently than in Austria."
"That is partly correct. Austria is diverse, but so is Britain. We are a union of multiple nations."
I explained further.
Canada alone contains many different groups, yet it functions.
Conflicts exist, but they are resolved and learned from.
"The reason is simple. The imperial family serves as a symbol of unity."
Without such a center, divisions would intensify.
But with it, people unite under a shared identity.
Rudolf listened carefully.
"I want to become a ruler that my people can trust."
"You can, if you choose to."
Nationalism is powerful, but it is not absolute.
People seek pride and belonging.
If that desire is fulfilled, unity becomes possible.
That truth has not changed across centuries.
And it never will.
***
"Oh my, is it really true that His Highness the Crown Prince personally prepared gifts for you?"
"Yes. He is truly a warm and considerate person."
"I heard His Majesty Killian is also very kind and affectionate toward Her Imperial Majesty Victoria. It seems the Crown Prince has inherited that nature as well. Lady Gisela is truly fortunate."
"So then, where else has His Highness taken you? Which place did you enjoy the most?"
Having accepted the invitation of the noblewomen, Gisela felt overwhelmed by the level of attention that far exceeded her expectations.
Strangely, she felt more noticed here than she ever had in her homeland of Austria.
Once again, she realized just how powerful the title of the Crown Prince's companion was within the British Empire.
"…Recently, we went to the opera together. But I think what I enjoy most are the family dinners."
"So it is true that you are invited to imperial family dinners. You are already being treated as part of the family."
"Family… yes, I am truly grateful."
The new member of the imperial family that all the aristocracy admired.
Not just any royal, but someone who, barring unforeseen circumstances, would become the future Empress of the nation.
Older noblewomen naturally wanted to grow closer to her, and even the influential duchess was no exception.
"The atmosphere in Austria and London must be quite different. Have you had any difficulties adjusting?"
"I was worried at first, but now I am fine. His Majesty always calls for me regularly and takes care of me. Not just me, but my younger brother as well. We meet him at least once or twice a week."
"His Majesty personally calls for you that often?"
"Yes."
At her calm response, the expressions of the noblewomen grew more serious.
Though Gisela did not realize it, having private audiences with Killian was considered an extraordinary privilege within the Empire.
The effective ruler of Canada.
The overseer of foreign policy and Asia.
The man who controlled global shipping through Suez and Panama while influencing both the imperial family and the government.
To be favored by him alone could secure a political career.
Figures like the Marquess of Salisbury were proof of that.
"May I ask what you speak about when you meet him? Ah, perhaps that is inappropriate."
"It is nothing important. Recently, he even told me I could call him father."
"Truly? That is remarkably close."
Such openness would normally be unthinkable.
But Gisela spoke freely, as she had been encouraged to do so.
And the women present all understood the implications.
"It seems His Majesty has many concerns. Recently, I even prepared tea for him to help him relax."
"He treats you like a daughter rather than a daughter in law."
"I already think of him as a father."
After she left, the noblewomen gathered again to discuss what they had heard.
"This is far closer than I expected."
"I thought she would simply be a gentle bride, but it seems much more than that."
"Not only the princess, but even the Austrian Crown Prince is being treated this way. His Majesty must have a grand plan."
High society was not only about luxury.
Power was always at the center of interest.
As wives of powerful men and mothers of future leaders, they constantly sought opportunities.
"It seems clear that His Majesty intends to strengthen ties with Austria."
"Then positions related to Austria will become important. Should we prepare connections in advance?"
"Please do."
"And Gisela herself seems quite admirable."
"Yes. She is both pure and thoughtful. It is easy to see why the Crown Prince favors her."
"Then we must deepen our relationship with her."
"Of course. Introducing our daughters would benefit them greatly."
Her circle would naturally be limited.
Only those of suitable status could approach her.
And those present were more than qualified.
"If we grow close to her, we may gain access to the entire imperial family. There is no better opportunity."
From that moment, it became accepted within high society that the British Empire intended to strengthen its alliance with Austria.
This belief spread quickly to political and diplomatic circles.
"What? The imperial family intends to use Austria?"
"Yes. It is confirmed. His Majesty meets privately with both the Austrian Crown Prince and Princess regularly. He is clearly guiding them."
"I see. Send a telegram immediately."
The Prussian embassy began moving urgently.
"So Britain intends to act through Austria rather than directly?"
"We must report this to His Majesty at once."
Russia also deepened its suspicions.
Misunderstandings spread rapidly.
There are those who believe complex problems should be solved simply through force.
Like Alexander the Great cutting the Gordian knot.
Such thinking still exists.
"Some members of Parliament suggest we should simply support the Ottomans and defeat Russia."
"Who said that?"
"A member of the Conservative Party."
"Tell him to fight on the front lines himself if he believes that."
Such ideas emerged because the British Empire had grown too strong.
In the past, war with Russia was feared.
Now, confidence had replaced caution.
Some even suggested destroying Russia completely.
"Your Majesty prefers not to intervene directly."
"Unless there is something to gain, why should we send troops to the Balkans?"
"The Ottomans request naval support and arms. Some believe Russia controlling the Black Sea would threaten the Suez."
"If Russia becomes that reckless, we can intervene then. Acting now would only fuel independence movements."
Suppressing them temporarily would only worsen long term consequences.
"And the Ottoman request?"
"Tell them we will pursue diplomatic solutions for now."
The urgency lay with Russia, not Britain.
If Russia acted first, Britain could respond with justification.
"And once this war ends, we will announce Edward's marriage to Gisela. Prepare accordingly."
The union of the British Empire and the Habsburg dynasty.
And with Rudolf studying in London, the implications were clear.
Even before events unfolded, their impact was already spreading.
Within seventy two hours of these developments reaching Russia, Russian Empire declared that it could no longer ignore the oppression of Slavs and Orthodox believers.
And once again, the long cycle of war between Russia and the Ottoman Empire began.
***
The war between Russia and the Ottomans is a long standing conflict that stretches back to the sixteenth century.
In the early days, the Ottoman Empire, once a great power, achieved several victories, but that is now nothing more than a distant memory.
For a long time already, the Ottomans have been reduced to little more than a punching bag for Russia, and they could not withstand the Russian advance pushing southward.
Moreover, this time it was not only the Russian army advancing.
Independence forces from Serbia, Romania, Bulgaria, and Montenegro rose in support, greatly offsetting the disadvantages of a campaign.
The Ottomans urgently sent requests for help to various nations, but this war was different from the previous one.
It was obvious to everyone that Russia had ulterior motives, yet the justification for war was too strong.
Nationalism was not confined to Eastern Europe. It had become the dominant trend across the entire continent.
As a result, many people supported the establishment of independent states in the Balkans.
Furthermore, Greece had already set a precedent by gaining independence.
If Greece could become independent, there was no reason to deny the same to others.
In the past, such ideas might have been dismissed, but now Europe stood at the center of the world.
Many began to question why the Ottomans should continue to hold territory in Europe.
Some even framed the situation as a victory of Christian civilization.
"Dear brothers and sisters, the world is finally returning to its rightful order. Those wicked infidels decline day by day, while our Christian nations have become the true rulers of this world. The modern knights who wield the sword of the Holy Spirit will judge the unbelievers, and their weapons cannot touch us who are protected by faith. Do you know why?"
"Because Christ is with us."
"That is correct. God commanded us to be fruitful and multiply and to conquer the ends of the earth. The time of that promise has come."
At first, it seemed unlikely that such outdated religious rhetoric would have much influence, but surprisingly, it did.
Even with the spread of new scientific ideas, nineteenth century Europe was still deeply shaped by Christianity.
Many who did not openly express it still felt pride in the perceived triumph of Christianity over Islam, while others openly celebrated it.
Public opinion alone could have been managed if national interests demanded it, but this time there was no such opportunity.
At the very start of the war, independence forces rose across the Balkans simultaneously.
Russian forces advanced rapidly, defeating Ottoman defenses and pushing south like a storm.
Within a few months, they had reached the outskirts of San Stefano, leaving no time for other nations to intervene.
In the end, the Ottomans accepted defeat and signed the Treaty of San Stefano with Russia.
However, they did not simply surrender territory.
To ensure the legitimacy of the agreement, they demanded direct involvement from the British Empire, Austria, Prussia, and France.
As a result, Russia failed to fully achieve its original objective of complete control over the Black Sea.
Even so, a victory was still a victory.
Russia attempted to publicize its success and demonstrate that the Russian Empire remained strong.
Yet before the ink on the agreement had even dried, news of the marriage alliance between the British Empire and Austria overshadowed everything.
Russia's victory quickly faded from public attention.
The world only remembers the first place winner.
When the long anticipated union between the two imperial families was officially announced, London was filled with celebration.
There were five princes and princesses, and three of them were already over twenty, yet none had married until now.
At last, the Crown Prince would take the first step, and the public welcomed the news with relief and genuine enthusiasm.
Rumors and doubts about the Crown Prince disappeared completely, replaced by anticipation for the wedding.
To mark the occasion, I opened my treasury generously.
Festivals were held not only in London but across major cities, with food and beer distributed freely.
It was a considerable expense, but necessary to celebrate Edward's new beginning and to ensure that the foreign bride would be warmly welcomed.
As the celebrations expanded, messages arrived continuously.
Otto von Bismarck confirmed he would attend in person.
The Spanish royal family and nobles from the German Confederation sent their congratulations.
Even Russia and the Ottoman Empire, fresh from war, offered their greetings.
But time moves forward for everyone.
One person's beginning is another's end.
While reviewing the guest list with Wellesley, unexpected news arrived.
"Your Majesty, the former Prime Minister of France has passed away this morning."
"…I spoke with him only a week ago."
"He had been suffering from heart problems. He passed peacefully in his sleep."
"…I see."
It was not unexpected, yet hearing it still left a bitter feeling.
Wellesley spoke quietly.
"At least he did not suffer. I hope to go the same way."
"Do not speak so lightly."
He smiled faintly.
"I will retire within ten years at most."
The news cast a shadow over the preparations.
Still, the man had lived a full life and passed peacefully.
It could be called a good end.
Even so, the passing of someone long known could not be dismissed so easily.
It was a reminder of time itself.
I wondered whether I would go before Victoria, and whether she would be alright.
The last conversation came to mind.
A simple exchange without political calculation.
He had wished to attend the wedding.
Now he would not.
"…Life goes on. Are the other guests confirmed?"
"Yes. The Foreign Office has made all arrangements."
"Ensure they are compensated for their work."
"They will appreciate that."
Wellesley then asked me to confirm the final guest list.
After reviewing it, we spoke briefly about old acquaintances.
Even joked about James, who was enjoying retirement.
But soon after, Wellesley returned with a different expression.
"Your Majesty… I just received a telegram."
His voice was heavy.
"James has passed away."
"…What?"
For a moment, I could not understand.
Then the meaning settled in.
The cup slipped from my hand, spilling across the floor as I sank into my chair.
Countless thoughts passed through my mind, but no words came.
I simply stared at the dark stain spreading across the carpet in silence.