Chapter 57 Negotiation Part 2

--- Empress Dowager Cixi's POV ---

--- Yiluan Hall ---

--- 20th of March 1897 ---

'Oh? What a sharp tongue indeed.' I thought

However, rather than feeling insulted by Minister Hongyi's response, I found myself forming a smile of satisfaction and calmness. Trying to intimidate me with those stern looks and serious tone? Quite laughable.

While I am aware that the Butuanon people are recognized for their humility and politeness, I also understand that they are frank individuals who won't accept unfair treatment, both as individuals and as a society. Their culture is deeply rooted in the concept of general collectivism, much like ours.

It's intriguing, though. It seems that someone from Sooraj has indeed been dispatched, capable enough not to be easily intimidated. Yet, I'm not one to easily yield or simply appease others. I wouldn't have risen to my current position as the most powerful person in this nation if I were easily intimidated.

Despite my advanced age, I continue to hold the most authoritative position in the Qing Dynasty. My nephew, who owes his power solely to my endorsement, consistently seeks my guidance in shaping the nation's course of action. Most ministers in the imperial court strive to appease me, and even the Imperial Guards, along with the Northern and Western Warlords, remain loyal to my directives.

Feeling intimidated by others' mere glances is a sentiment reserved for the weak. Only those lacking real power—peasants and vermin—succumb to such feelings.

While I comprehend his concerns, they hold no significance to me. My greater concern lies in preserving the monarchy and upholding our endangered traditions, threatened by barbarians who, much like dogs, marry freely. The influx of their ideologies and religion poses a risk, potentially influencing the peasants and jeopardizing the dynasty's survival. As Manchu people, our position as the pinnacle of this nation is at stake.

"Disadvantageous? What do you mean? I believe these circumstances offer sufficient benefits for your nation," I calmly asserted, meeting his gaze.

"Friendship built through negotiated deals must be a two-way street. Neither party should receive significantly less while the other gains considerably more. Sooraj is eager to engage in a deal with you, Empress Dowager, but it seems that you yourself are not inclined to do so.

In the present era, Sooraj isn't desperate to amass a multitude of allies. Our alliances with the West, the Kings of Joseon and Siam, along with numerous rulers seeking our partnership, are quite substantial. They are all capable and willing to offer anything they possess in exchange for our support and cooperation.

What you are offering might sway those who are vulnerable or less astute, but it holds no appeal for us. Your offerings are insufficient to rally the support of Butuan and potentially our allies," he affirmed with conviction and pride after hearing my response.

The concept of friendship—how nostalgic to hear that word in the context of diplomacy and negotiation. Over the years, I've witnessed friends betraying each other. Even family members are engaged in constant battles for superiority, and I'm no exception to that.

I confess, I've undertaken numerous actions to secure my current position. I went against my late husband's imperial edict, removing the eight regents he appointed to oversee our late son's reign, thereby making myself the sole ruler during his reign. I placed my inept nephew on the throne not as a true ruler but as a puppet who follows my directives.

At present, I'm gradually poisoning someone who showed disrespect by baring their teeth at me. The audacity of this individual to be ungrateful when I've facilitated their rise to power in this great nation!

I harbor no regrets about my actions; everything is for the nation's improvement.

In discussions about an ongoing deal, I aim to control the negotiation by limiting what Minister Hongyi can propose to add to our agreement. This isn't about granting everything to them. We're not a charity for beggars seeking aid, nor are we prey for others to easily overcome. We are the hunters, the overlords of this land, destined to conquer and rule.

As time passes, discussions deepen with Minister Hongyi negotiating their nation's benefits in the deal. They seek more for Butuan compared to what they'll offer. They argue that Butuan's global position and relationships with Western countries might be jeopardized.

I find this amusing. Fearful of their global position? Do they not hear their own words? While they might boast the world's 3rd largest economy, they lack presence on the global stage, particularly in this region. Beijing still reigns as the beacon and guardian here. We are the overlords, not Sooraj or Tokyo; Beijing remains the center of this world segment.

Soon, if my plan succeeds in expelling those foreigners and reclaiming our lost lands, we won't just expand east, west, or south but will stretch our nation's influence across the seven seas, surpassing even Genghis Khan's legacy.

--- Imperial Prince Sharvil, Duke of Cebu ---

A solemn air enveloped the entire hall as Empress Dowager Cixi and Foreign Minister Hongyi persisted in their discussions regarding the deal, each holding steadfast to their positions. Despite the Empress Dowager's unwavering stance, Ministers Hongyi and Weijun continued negotiations, aiming to secure favorable terms for us.

Their argument centered on the potential harm to Butuan in the event of a confrontation with the Western world, not only in economic terms but also diplomatically. I echoed their sentiments, highlighting the impact on our populace already grappling with poverty. Additionally, I emphasized the imbalance in manpower that would arise from facing empires in Europe that spanned across Africa, the Middle East, Americas, and Asia if conflict ensued.

The combined manpower of these nations would seem like an infinite resource compared to Butuan's population, which is far fewer than even a hundredfold of their numbers.

Hence, the three of us—myself, Minister Hongyi, and Minister Weijun—continued diplomatic talks with Empress Dowager Cixi, aiming to negotiate benefits for Butuan that could offset potential expenses incurred from the deal.

Our concerns extended beyond deploying manpower; we were also investing in arming Empress Dowager's forces, providing weaponry, and training them in the traditional Butuanon Military styles, a departure from the new methods introduced by my nephew. Our goal was to prepare them for a possible conflict with the West, pending agreement during negotiations.

The discussions persisted as both sides sought to refine the potential clauses of the deal. With time passing and the sun nearing its final rays for the day, Empress Dowager Cixi eventually relented. She agreed to consider the points we wished to include in the deal's clauses, prompted by a whisper from one of her attendants that led her to change her mind.

The situation struck me as unusual because she's known for her steadfastness, never yielding on matters she deems right. Yet, the mere whispers of her lady-in-waiting seemed powerful enough to sway the mind of a woman typically seen as the most influential figure in this Dynasty. Not only did her tone shift, but she also displayed a trace of discomfort, which was quite unexpected.

"Sigh... It appears we're heading into endless negotiations without any tangible progress, but let's settle this matter nonetheless. What does your nation seek in return for offering full support to my war against the Western Nations?" She spoke in a rational tone, directing her gaze at the three of us.

I expected Ministers Hongyi and Weijun to voice Kuya's desires. However, instead of them, Minister Weijun whispered to me that it should be my task. After receiving an affirming nod from Minister Hongyi, I accepted the responsibility.

"Empress Dowager, as previously discussed, we desire to enter into this agreement, seeing it as a mutually beneficial opportunity. To ensure our nation's cooperation, including training your soldiers and supplying weapons, Butuan seeks additional benefits: the inclusion of Xuwen County and Leizhou County among the rewards.

In exchange for these added lands, the Butuan government pledges the support the Qing government seeks in its war against the Western nations. As per the original terms, Butuan will contribute by training your soldiers, providing military equipment through purchases, and, if necessary, will participate directly in the conflict," I confidently declared, locking eyes with the Empress Dowager.

This is the Emperor's and the Aguinaldo government's desired addition to the ongoing agreement with the Empress Dowager. Emperor Siagu XV, also known as Emperor Shyam Krishnan Harish Shaja, my older brother, envisions expanding our territories in Inner China/Qing, a goal attainable through this method for now.

The vast resources found in inland Asia make this deal highly desirable for the Butuan government, almost disregarding the potential risk of aligning too closely with the Qing Dynasty, a gamble Butuan is willing to take for the promise of substantial gains.

By entering into this agreement, as instructed by my older brother, and if successful, Butuan is willing to offer its support to the soldiers of the Empress Dowager herself. Additionally, my older brother, in collaboration with the Aguinaldo government, aims to bolster the Empress Dowager's army, enabling them to withstand the might of the Western Nations. However, our aim is to strengthen them without making them capable of overpowering us in battle.

We can supply them with the latest military technology available in the global market and advanced military training commonly adopted by many independent nations worldwide. However, the technologies and military training recently imparted by my nephew will not be extended to them. These are our advantages over others, and some might be sold to other parties only if we can develop even more advanced versions or models of said equipment. For now, these resources will remain exclusive to our military. Particularly the missiles, as they are items that should not be shared with others.

Despite the Empress Dowager's leniency, a hint of irritation appeared on her face after hearing my words.

"Imperial Prince Sharvil, do not overestimate yourselves. My kindness also has its limits. Your nation's demand for the counties of Xuwen and Leizhou in exchange for the assistance seems excessive. Asking for two or three coastal cities might be understandable, but the entire county itself? Ridiculous! And to add to that, your choice of two counties instead of just one," she said, on the verge of anger. It seemed she couldn't maintain her composure any longer.

A smile formed on my face as I looked at her. Women, despite their status and age, are still easily provoked and lose their composure, once you hit the right nerve.

"Empress Dowager, you might be mistaken. We are not merely asking or pleading; we are demanding benefits that are proportionate to what we might sacrifice in this cooperation. Moreover, the counties of Xuwen and Leizhou hold little to no significance to your nation in the current context. Not only do these counties lack development in terms of human sustainability, but they have also become breeding grounds for potential diseases that might affect our people in the province of Hainan.

Unlike your country, these two counties hold significant importance to our people residing in the province of Hainan. Their relatives, who were separated from them after our jurisdiction was established over the island of Hainan, currently reside in these two counties. Initially, it was not a problem for the people of Hainan to visit their relatives in Xuwen and Leizhou during holidays.

However, due to constant provocations by your warlords towards the government of Butuan and the local government of Hainan, preemptive measures were taken. This resulted in these warlords retaliating by closing the borders of Xuwen and Leizhou, preventing the people of Hainan from visiting their relatives in these areas. By demanding these counties as part of the benefits, we aim not only to ease the concerns of the Butuanons in the Hainan province but also to alleviate a burden from your Dynasty.

As Xuwen and Leizhou are considered two of the most impoverished counties in this Dynasty—disregarding those desert counties of yours, based on our nation's criteria for classifying poverty-stricken areas—Butuan will not only bear the responsibility for these counties but will also help alleviate your Dynasty's burdens. This will allow your funds allocated for these counties to be redirected toward further strengthening your capital and your soldiers," I replied with a smile before pausing momentarily and then continuing, "So, what are your thoughts? This seems a much more reasonable arrangement for both parties involved."

"I strongly believe that the collaboration between our nations should offer more benefits. While we appreciate your support in training our personnel, providing military weaponry, and the potential for your country's involvement in the conflict, the advantages to Xuwen County and Leizhou County are considerably greater. It's crucial to note that these weapons are not complimentary but available for purchase," she stated, pausing briefly before continuing. "Furthermore, these military resources and training opportunities are also accessible from other nations."

Her words momentarily surprised me, prompting a recollection of vital information we had obtained. Yes, these armaments and military training were indeed obtainable from other countries. However, my confidence lay in the understanding that no European powers were likely to arm or instruct soldiers serving the Empress Dowager, fearing the empowerment of a force challenging to subdue. Yet, amidst the European reluctance, one formidable nation stood out in its potential to benefit from the struggles of other European countries in East and Southeast Asia—the Russian Empire.

In contrast to the deteriorating relationships between the Qing Dynasty and major European nations, the stability and growth of the Russian Empire were evident. Moreover, the cooperation between the two empires had culminated in a clandestine alliance aimed at countering Japanese expansion in the Korean Peninsula. This alliance served as a substantial advantage for the Qing Dynasty, securing a potent ally against Japan.

However, this very advantage posed a challenge in the ongoing negotiations. If news of this alliance were to spread, it would attract not only the scrutiny of European nations but also potentially provoke Japan to seek Western allies—an unfavorable scenario for Butuan and the alliance between Qing and Russia.

"Indeed, these weapons and training methods are available elsewhere, including within the Russian Empire, I presume, Empress Dowager Cixi?" I remarked with a smile, directing my gaze at the Empress Dowager, who appeared somewhat shaken by my words.

"Um... I'm not sure, maybe? Hehehe," she replied awkwardly. She seemed shaken, and a few more pushes might lead her to finally give in.

"Be cautious in your decision-making, Empress Dowager. Provoking the world against you before you can make your move isn't advisable. A single misstep won't just shatter your dreams but could also wipe out your entire family and your cherished nation, leaving it as a mere remnant of the past," I stated calmly as I sipped my tea. "Make your choice now, Empress Dowager. Your words will be pivotal in determining whether the world learns of your alliance with the Russian Empire or if we maintain silence and proceed with negotiations based on our terms."

A look of shock crossed her face upon hearing my final words before I fell silent. She swiftly recovered, hiding her face behind her fan, taking a few moments to think. You aspire to rule this empire but hesitate to bear the responsibility of governance? Well then, let's see you, for once, carry the weight of deciding your country's future.

'So... what will it be, Empress Dowager? Will you accept our terms or risk incurring not only the enmity of the Japanese but also that of the entire European powers?' My thoughts while staring at her.

Silence reigned in the hall once more, as my ministers and I continued sipping our tea, guarded by the soldiers of Butuan. Empress Dowager Cixi, still behind her fan, was accompanied by her ladies-in-waiting, engaged in conversation or assisting her.

Finally, Empress Dowager Cixi lowered her fan and prepared to respond to my words.

"Sigh. It seems that someone has breached my close circle for you and your group to obtain that confidential information. It appears that my influence has been slowly diminishing over the years, especially since I've delegated much power to my ineffective nephew!" she exclaimed, clenching her fists briefly before calming herself.

"Apologies for my sudden outburst. Nevertheless, here's my response to your requests. The Xuwen and Leizhou Counties have caused significant trouble for our Dynasty. These regions aren't just home to rebels; they've consistently drained our funds due to frequent damage from typhoons. Redirecting our funds towards strengthening our Dynasty against outside influences would be advantageous.

Therefore, along with the terms previously discussed, including the reestablishment of diplomatic ties, granting you complete control over Hainan and Formosa islands, an exclusive trade agreement, and our pledge of neutrality in your conflict with Japan...

I will also agree to your demands concerning the Xuwen County, providing you with total control. However, as an additional benefit, your nation will need to pay 13.6 billion wén ($13.6 million) or ¥10 million for this transfer of ownership.

Regarding Leizhou County, we'll lease it to your nation for 150 years, the cost of this lease is 800 million wén ($8 million) or ¥5.840 million. During this time, your nation will oversee the jurisdiction, government officials, and other affairs within the county.

Given these additional terms, we have our own requests for mutual benefit.

Instead of paying the market price for the weapons we plan to purchase from your country, we expect a 60% discount. These weapons must be the latest available to ensure our soldiers can match those of European nations.

Additionally, your country must provide training for our soldiers in both weapon handling and combat. This training will take place in our country, with your soldiers under the supervision of our generals. They'll be trained until they form a capable battalion.

It's essential for your country to support us in case of a dire situation that calls for war against these nations. Failing to overcome these challenges won't only affect the Qing Dynasty but also your nation.

As a new addition, I request permission to send 30 of our most promising youths to study in your country for the next 5 years. Imperial Prince Sharvil, these are the terms I can offer and request. This is already a significant concession on my part; further demands might jeopardize our negotiations," the Empress Dowager stated, fixing her gaze on me.

--

Note: Qing wén into dollar is 1000 wén = $1

wén is the official currency of the Qing Dynasty