It was not as if Leopold II of Belgium was the only one trying to deceive others.
From the very beginning, Killian Gore Hanover had intended to strip him bare, and Leopold II harbored similar thoughts.
In that sense, they were alike.
The crucial difference was that Leopold II was still only at the stage of suspicion.
"From my perspective, Your Majesty is also quite a unique person. Of course, I mean that in a positive sense. Even before I developed my current goals regarding Africa, you were already treating the blacks of the New World with far more humanity."
"Even so, it does not compare to Your Majesty's ambition to create a nation where blacks can live in prosperity. Though they are citizens of Canada, the leading role still belongs to white Britons. If that balance were denied, riots would break out immediately."
Even if they were called citizens, blacks and Asians were still second-class.
But even being called citizens at all was something.
Leopold II could not understand Canada.
How could they live together with Asians and former slaves as equals?
If such a policy were attempted in Belgium, it might trigger revolt.
Of course, these were only his inner thoughts.
Outwardly, he continued to flatter Killian smoothly.
"The United States calls itself a land of freedom and equality, but Canada seems closer to that ideal."
"Both nations simply follow systems suited to their circumstances. Canada did not rely heavily on slave labor, while the United States must now accept former slaves as equals, which naturally causes resistance."
"I see."
"And Belgium? How do your people view your plans for the Congo?"
"Mostly positively. Some question the necessity, but since they will not interact directly with Africans, most do not care what happens."
That was the key.
Supporting Congo development meant helping Africans in Africa, not granting equality in Europe.
If Leopold II had proposed equal treatment in Europe, he would have been attacked.
People act virtuous when it does not affect them.
Leopold II understood this well.
Yet something about Killian felt different.
For a moment, he even wondered if Killian genuinely cared about African rights.
"I sincerely hope your plans succeed. May I ask, how do you intend to develop the Congo economically?"
"…Well, I have ideas, but nothing finalized."
"You already know the outcome of the conference. Only my position remains."
"So if you oppose it, everything could fail?"
"I have no intention of doing that. But before offering full support, I would like to understand your vision."
In other words, convince him.
Leopold II hesitated, but answered.
"I plan to improve the ivory trade. Congo also has copper and small amounts of gold. There are lubricants and abundant timber as well."
"I see. Resource extraction. Then cooperation from the natives will be essential."
"For that reason, I established the Congo Association and built relations with local tribes."
"Impressive. In that case, I would like to introduce you to someone."
"…Pardon?"
Killian smiled brightly.
Leopold II felt uneasy.
He was one of the foremost experts on black affairs in the world.
If he intervened directly, it could complicate matters.
"Have you heard of the organization called the National Black Association in America?"
"Yes… the black liberation group."
"They have expressed a strong desire to assist your efforts in the Congo."
"…That is appreciated, but unnecessary."
"They are experts with decades of experience. They only wish to offer advice and volunteer support."
This was troublesome.
He had not expected such active involvement.
Rejecting them outright might raise suspicion.
"…Very well. I will meet them."
Better to control them than allow unchecked interference later.
"Excellent. I will arrange a meeting."
Leopold II smiled outwardly.
Inwardly, he grew irritated.
Acquiring land was proving more troublesome than expected.
Still, once Congo was his, he could control information and exploit it fully.
At that moment, Killian spoke again.
"There is one more matter I would like to discuss."
The serpent's tongue began to move.
I had encountered many liars in my life.
But this man was exceptional.
Most rulers reveal something in their expressions.
Even Victoria was no exception.
But Leopold II showed nothing.
One could never imagine that he would turn the Congo into hell.
No wonder even Otto von Bismarck and Charles Wellesley had been deceived.
But he was unlucky.
My instincts were honed to deal with people exactly like him.
And when facing such individuals, I felt a certain excitement.
There was no need to consider justice.
People like him never feel guilt.
They only feel wronged when defeated.
So my goal was simple.
Take everything.
"And I hear you are open to investment."
"Yes. My goal is mutual prosperity."
A lie.
More investment meant more scrutiny.
He would limit it.
"I would like to invest personally."
"That is unnecessary."
"It is not about profit. Consider it a deposit."
"…I see. So you do not seek direct returns?"
"Exactly."
A benevolent investor.
At least on the surface.
In truth, I had no intention of profiting immediately.
The real opportunity lay elsewhere.
Rubber.
Leopold II had no idea what was coming.
That was where I would strike.
He relaxed visibly.
"Then I accept. And I would appreciate your support."
"Of course. Think of us as partners."
I could not stop him now.
Without evidence, it would appear as tyranny.
And stopping him early would yield no benefit.
Better to let him climb higher.
Then remove the foundation.
The higher the fall, the greater the impact.
"Let us make Congo the hope of Africa."
Leopold II smiled.
But he still did not fully trust me.
Good.
It would be more interesting that way.
***
It may sound strange coming from me, but I generally do not lie.
This was not some noble principle or the last remnant of my conscience.
It was entirely a choice made for my own benefit.
Deceiving others is ultimately tied to credibility.
If it were a one-time scheme followed by a change of identity, it would not matter.
But I would live my entire life under the name Killian.
Before adulthood, I could act through James as a proxy, but the scale of matters I now handled made that impossible.
From the moment I became a minister, everything I said and did in official settings was recorded and scrutinized.
Now, as King Consort and King of Canada, that scrutiny was absolute.
Even private conversations were not entirely safe.
And anything said publicly would be preserved word for word, analyzed endlessly.
Therefore, I could never afford to tell a lie that would later be exposed.
Call it self-serving if you wish, but there is a vast difference between covering one's eyes and leaving them open.
As long as I could show that I had no such intent, my supporters would defend me.
The current situation was no different.
"Shall we discuss the detailed investment terms, or leave that to our staff and enjoy a pleasant conversation instead?"
"…The details can be handled by staff, but I am curious. You said you are not seeking major profit. Have you decided where to invest?"
Persistent.
He was worried that I might be aiming for something significant.
Of course, to an outsider, it sounded like simple curiosity.
"I have some ideas."
"Then may I hear them? I am curious what has caught Your Majesty's attention."
"It is nothing grand. You may even laugh. My daughter has recently taken an interest in rubber toys."
"Rubber? You mean actual rubber?"
"Yes. I thought it might be worthwhile to secure rubber and supply it to toy manufacturers."
At the mention of rubber, Leopold II of Belgium's expression shifted subtly.
In a few years, its value would skyrocket.
But for now, it was little more than a niche material.
Most Europeans saw rubber as something used for erasing pencil marks or making waterproof goods.
Even vulcanization was still relatively recent.
At best, it was used for boots and raincoats.
To nobles, it was insignificant compared to ivory or gold.
But that perception would soon change.
The James Group would introduce innovations that would transform the market.
Bicycles with rubber tires.
Eventually, automobiles.
And with the rise of electricity, demand for insulating materials would surge.
Rubber would soon face severe shortages.
Leopold II, unaware of all this, looked at me as if I were strange.
"You intend to invest such a large sum just to secure rubber trees?"
"Yes. As I said, I do not seek profit. You may even use the funds when needed."
"…Rubber…"
He remained suspicious.
"What concerns you?"
"No, nothing. I am simply unfamiliar with rubber."
He was clearly probing.
"From my understanding, Congo has an abundance of rubber trees. Producing too much would cause oversupply and reduce prices. Unless demand increases, it may not even cover transport costs. Do you expect demand to rise?"
He was testing me.
But I would not reveal anything.
"I do not know. This was merely a spontaneous idea. And if it is not profitable, all the better. It proves that Britain is not investing for profit."
"I see…"
Still suspicious.
"I will review it further. If it leads to losses, I would feel responsible."
"There is no need. I only wish to secure rights, not operate the business. It is essentially a donation."
"…But what if rubber becomes valuable later?"
He glanced at me carefully.
I responded naturally.
"If that happens, then what is the problem?"
"Your intentions might be questioned."
"Ah, I see. Thank you for pointing that out. Demand could indeed rise. Perhaps people will need twenty raincoats each if it rains all year."
"…Then perhaps a clause could be added?"
"Exactly. If demand rises and expansion becomes necessary, I will sell my rights back to you at a fair price."
A perfect arrangement.
If rubber remained worthless, I kept the rights.
If it became valuable, he could buy them back.
Leopold II considered it carefully.
He would gain access to large funds for expansion.
For him, it was an excellent deal.
"Are you certain?"
"It benefits the people of Congo, does it not?"
"…Indeed. I have learned much today."
He agreed immediately.
A contract was drafted and signed that very day.
And not a single lie was spoken.
Rubber demand would rise with near certainty.
But technically, I could claim uncertainty.
And I had even promised to sell the rights later.
No one could accuse me of greed.
In fact, they might pity me for missing such an opportunity.
But reclaiming it would require payment.
And rubber production in the nineteenth century would not be humane.
Under Leopold II, it would become infamous for brutality.
Severed hands.
Executions for failing quotas.
Atrocities beyond comprehension.
Why would I remain tied to such a system?
Better to sell it back.
Let him handle the consequences.
And repay the debt he owed me.
If he betrayed the trust I showed today, I would respond accordingly.
I maintained a warm smile and applauded him as he bowed deeply in gratitude.
***
With the dramatic negotiations concluded, there was now nothing left that could stop Leopold II of Belgium from taking control of the Congo.
In truth, this conference was essentially an earlier version of the Berlin Conference, and as such, it carried significant historical meaning.
If the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries had been a nightmare for Africans living along the coasts, then the nineteenth century would become a nightmare for those living in the interior.
Before the nineteenth century, Europe had eagerly exploited Africa, but it had not penetrated deep inland.
Malaria and other diseases caused severe losses, and accurate geographical knowledge was lacking.
Even when obtaining slaves from the interior, Europeans typically relied on coastal tribes, paying them to capture and deliver people.
However, as medicine advanced and explorers pushed into the heart of Africa, everything changed.
From a European perspective of this era, the vast resources scattered across Africa were irresistible.
As a result, every major power rushed to colonize the continent.
At the time, there were no firm international laws or agreements, so the colonization of Africa descended into chaos.
One could simply march in, plant a flag, and declare the land their own.
France and the British Empire led this expansion, and vast territories fell under their control.
Prussia joined as well, pressured by its citizens, and most of Africa was divided among these great powers.
Even smaller nations like Portugal managed to secure portions.
There was little land left for Africans themselves.
Such a situation inevitably led to disputes.
Even the great powers could not clearly define the exact boundaries of their territories.
Each claimed overlapping lands, leading to constant conflict.
The London conference sought to reduce these disputes.
If left unchecked, Africa would end up with artificially straight borders like those seen in modern times.
Though the situation was already similar, it was still necessary to consider local conditions such as tribes and languages.
That way, when colonies eventually gained independence, it would at least appear that some effort had been made.
While others obsessed over expansion, it was enough for me to appear more considerate.
Hiding such intentions, I observed the delegates as they debated.
"We should first establish the concept proposed by His Majesty Killian of effective occupation. If everyone recognizes this, unnecessary disputes will decrease."
"Indeed. Otherwise, nations will continue citing ancient texts, myths, and legends to justify claims."
"Prussia agrees. Control should belong to those who actually occupy the land."
With France, Prussia, and the North agreeing, other nations followed.
The North had little interest in African expansion, while France and Prussia had already secured enough territory.
Smaller nations also accepted this, as it protected their limited holdings.
"Next, the formal abolition of slavery. I trust there will be no objections."
At this, the Russian delegate smirked.
"Europe may agree, but what about the Islamic world? Reports suggest slavery continues there."
"That is slander."
"Is it? There are testimonies of Arab traders capturing and selling Africans."
Russia had shifted strategy.
It cooperated with Europe while criticizing the Ottoman Empire.
Most criticisms were grounded in reality.
"We, the Ottoman Empire, are willing to officially abolish slavery alongside Europe."
"Words are easy. Enforcement is another matter."
Even if enforcement was uncertain, such a declaration held symbolic value.
The age of slavery would formally end.
Other issues were discussed, but outcomes largely reflected the interests of the great powers.
The Netherlands gained nothing, suppressed by Britain.
Portugal's claims were dismissed.
"Our historical treaties grant us rights…"
"That is exactly what we are preventing with effective occupation."
"So at least consider past agreements…"
"The Treaty of Tordesillas?"
The French delegate drew a line across a map.
"By that logic, Spain should control all of South America. What do others think?"
"It is meaningless. Spain has already renounced such claims."
Portugal fell silent.
Finally, the main issue.
"The Congo Basin. Should it be recognized as the personal domain of His Majesty Leopold II?"
Wellesley addressed him.
"Do you still promise open economic access to all nations?"
"Of course. Though some limits are necessary to protect the natives."
"And you will not take all profits?"
"Certainly not. I seek no personal gain."
His words sounded sincere.
Even seasoned diplomats nodded in approval.
Perhaps he truly believed them.
Or perhaps he was simply an extraordinary actor.
In truth, the great powers had little reason to oppose him.
They already held vast territories.
Granting Congo to Belgium was convenient.
"Britain agrees."
"France agrees."
"Prussia has no objection."
One by one, all nations signed.
Spain, Denmark, Portugal, the Netherlands, Italy, Russia, and the Ottomans.
Thus, Leopold II officially gained control of the Congo.
"All nations here recognize the Congo Free State and respect His Majesty Leopold II's authority."
With signatures complete, there was no turning back.
The delegates truly believed he would rule justly.
Applause filled the hall.
"Congratulations!"
"Your efforts have borne fruit!"
Leopold II smiled humbly.
"Thank you. I will not forget this trust."
In a sense, he was sincere.
He had never intended benevolence in the first place.
After the conference, I approached him and extended my hand.
"Congratulations."
"This is thanks to Your Majesty."
"Your passion made it possible."
"Rest assured, I will honor our agreement."
"I have no doubt."
A photograph captured the moment.
Two rulers shaking hands.
A historic image.
Brussels.
Returning from London, Leopold II summoned Henry Morton Stanley.
"Are preparations complete?"
"Yes. The organization is ready. Gifts for tribal leaders are prepared."
"With the funds secured in London, we can proceed quickly."
Leopold II had not lied.
The profits would belong to the Congolese.
But if they chose to give everything back to him…
That would not violate any agreement.
"Are we certain they cannot read our language?"
"Yes. All literate individuals have been removed."
"Excellent."
He examined the document.
A contract transferring all rights and sovereignty to him.
Declaring it voluntary.
Without coercion.
He smiled.
Everything was ready.
The dice had been cast.
***
The orders given to Henry Morton Stanley, who was acting as the agent of Leopold II of Belgium, were simple.
"Everyone understands, right? We just need to make sure every tribe in the Congo signs this, as instructed by His Majesty."
While Leopold II appealed to the great powers of Europe about his sincerity, Stanley had been traveling throughout the Congo, investigating the tribes living there.
Which tribes lived where, their size, and building relationships with them were all part of his mission.
To be honest, it was not a difficult task.
The tribes of Africa were not fools.
They knew how powerful Western nations were, so they did not act hostile toward Stanley.
To them, whether it was the British Empire, the United States, or Belgium, they were all equally frightening white men.
To reassure them, Stanley offered alcohol and cloth as gifts and gradually gained their trust.
"Do not worry. The era of white men capturing and selling black people as slaves is over. Have you recently seen anyone taken away?"
With translators explaining repeatedly, the tribes slowly began to listen.
Of course, they did not trust him immediately.
Rumors of exploitation by European powers had already spread even to the Congo.
"We are not like them. Those you speak of are the British and the French. Brutal people. But we follow His Majesty Leopold II of benevolent Belgium. He wishes to protect you."
"We never asked for protection."
"Please, look at reality. You know what Prussia, France, and Britain are doing in the north. Have refugees not told you?"
"…That is…"
"His Majesty wishes to keep this region free from their control. And it seems he will succeed."
"So we can continue living as we are?"
A tribal leader showed visible relief.
Stanley realized that larger tribes already had some awareness of the situation.
"Of course. Other nations trust His Majesty completely."
He deliberately avoided mentioning that Leopold II would become their king.
Instead, he acted as a friendly ally.
"This is wine from France."
"And cloth you requested."
"And tools for hunting…"
As gifts continued, the tribes opened their hearts.
"Thank you. Life has improved."
"This is all thanks to His Majesty."
"I thought all white men were frightening."
"We are the same as you."
Stanley shook hands and even provided medicine.
Then he presented the treaty.
"Would you look at this?"
"What is it?"
"His Majesty is asking Europe to stay out of the Congo. If you support this, it will strengthen his position."
"Of course we do."
"Then sign here."
Anger flickered in the leader's eyes at the suggestion that they might accept foreign rule.
"Understood. We must show our will."
He took the pen.
"…How do I do this?"
"Write your tribe's name and your own. We will also take a photograph."
Flash. Click.
The document was written in French and English.
Languages the tribes did not understand.
But that was not their problem.
Their smiling signatures were recorded.
Stanley handed them wine generously.
"Thank you."
"No, thank you."
After leaving, Stanley's attitude changed.
"Damn, touching my hand like that. Filthy."
"Did you get the signatures?"
"Yes. Seven tribes."
"We got four."
"Good. Any trouble?"
"Some resisted. We threatened them."
That was enough.
The important tribes had signed.
"Time to report and collect our rewards."
"These idiots made us rich."
"They signed without understanding. Truly pathetic."
Even Stanley felt uneasy.
The agreement allowed absolute control.
Labor, violence, anything.
Even he thought it went too far.
But Leopold II insisted that Africans needed harsh control.
Looking at how easily they signed, Stanley almost agreed.
"Whatever. We just take our payment."
As he lowered his head, a flower crown fell.
He had forgotten he was wearing it.
A child had placed it on him earlier.
"What is that?"
"Looks ridiculous."
"…I forgot."
He crushed it under his shoe.
"Honestly, better than being ruled by France."
He justified himself.
"Not my problem. I just followed orders."
He walked away without looking back.
"…That concludes the report."
Allan Pinkerton sat speechless.
So did James (Chairman of the James Group).
"…Is this true?"
"Yes. I was there."
"This is madness…"
"This is worse than slavery…"
Pinkerton tried to rationalize.
"Surely he will not use all these powers?"
James did not respond.
He remembered Killian's words.
That Leopold II was dangerous.
Now it made sense.
Rubber demand was already rising.
With bicycles and electricity, it would explode.
And Congo…
"Alan. Monitor everything. Record all orders."
"Yes."
"I want to see reports before they reach London."
James felt it.
This would not end quietly.
As he organized the information for Killian, he realized something.
The most brutal creature in the world…
is human.
***
A few months after the establishment of the Congo Free State, a research institute under the James Group unveiled the first pneumatic rubber tire.
This rubber tire was immediately applied to wheeled transportation and brought about an enormous revolution.
In particular, when the new bicycle, equipped with a crank chain, was combined with pneumatic rubber tires, the popularity of bicycles surged dramatically.
Automobiles had not yet appeared, and carriages were far too expensive for ordinary people to use.
Although subways had begun to appear, only London had one.
Even within the British Empire, outside major cities, transportation was still limited to carriages and trains, so the development of the bicycle became a revolutionary change.
Although still costing several months' wages for workers, it was far more accessible than carriages.
Moreover, compared to original history, bicycles using rubber tires and crank chains had appeared much earlier, making the impact even greater.
Rubber tires had been used before.
But they were solid rubber, offering poor cushioning and durability.
With pneumatic tires, everything changed.
Urban infrastructure was affected, and new traffic regulations were introduced.
Not only in the British Empire, but across Europe and America, demand exploded.
It influenced all industries using wheels.
At the same time, I deliberately encouraged the press to exaggerate rubber's potential.
[Black gold? Explosive growth in rubber demand!]
[Not just tires! Rubber's insulation properties!]
[Rubber shortages expected! New production sites urgently needed!]
As such news spread across the British Empire and the United States, other nations naturally took notice.
With every wheel using rubber and the electrical industry expanding, demand skyrocketed.
Even early automobiles drew attention.
Investors rushed to buy shares in rubber-related companies.
As always, money drove interest.
At this point, the plan could be considered a complete success.
And that meant Leopold II of Belgium would inevitably suffer.
So I calmly waited for his contact.
[Rubber becomes true black gold! Prices rising daily!]
Each headline filled Leopold II with frustration.
"Damn it… how did this happen?"
"Is something wrong, Your Majesty?"
"No… nothing."
He could not openly complain.
That would reveal his greed.
"Rubber seems to be drawing your attention lately."
"Of course. Everyone says it will bring enormous wealth. Demand is rising rapidly."
"Yes."
"You know Congo is full of rubber trees, correct?"
"Yes. It is one of the richest sources."
"Then exporting rubber would bring immense profit."
"Of course. But many rights belong to the British Crown."
"That is the problem. But fortunately…"
He looked at the contract with Killian Gore Hanover.
That clause had saved him.
If not, he might have collapsed in rage.
Who could have imagined rubber becoming so valuable?
"Still… I can buy the rights back."
"Will he sell?"
"He must. It is in the contract."
Stanley praised him.
But Leopold II knew the truth.
That clause had been Killian's doing.
Still, the result was favorable.
He imagined Killian regretting it.
"Prepare. I will go to London myself."
"Yes."
Soon, Leopold II crossed the Channel again.
Driven by greed.
"What do you mean by that?"
"Exactly as I said."
Leopold II looked at me in disbelief.
"The contract clearly states it."
"I do not deny that. But have you decided to produce rubber?"
"Of course. Demand is overwhelming."
"I agree."
"With rubber profits, the natives will benefit as well."
He spoke smoothly.
I almost laughed.
"They will cry tears of joy."
Yes. Tears indeed.
"Then why not begin production first and negotiate later?"
"…Well…"
Of course I knew why.
He wanted full control before I could interfere.
"…Legal complications may arise with divided rights."
"I understand. Then I should transfer my rights quickly."
"Thank you."
"So… an appropriate price would be five million pounds."
His face froze.
"Fifty thousand?"
"No. Five million."
"That is absurd!"
He raised his voice, then composed himself.
"…Apologies. But that price is unreasonable."
"I believe it is fair."
In modern terms, it was enormous.
Even for a king.
"Explain your reasoning."
"Simple. If demand continues, profits could reach tens of millions over thirty years."
"…There is no guarantee."
"With automobiles emerging, demand will only grow."
He fell silent.
"Five million…"
He calculated rapidly.
Ten years would repay it.
"…Not as a lump sum, I assume?"
"Of course not. Twenty years is acceptable."
"…Then I agree."
He quickly signed.
Too quickly.
I signed as well.
The natives signed without understanding.
He signed while fully aware.
Walking willingly into hell.
Well.
If ignorance doomed the former,
Then greed doomed the latter.