Emperor Meiji had risen from being a rubber stamp to becoming a true emperor; he was not someone easily fooled. The Army's solemn "guarantees" not only failed to reassure him, but instead left him even more uncertain.
As an emperor with broad knowledge, Meiji knew very well what sort of troops the European powers stationed in their overseas colonies were. Defeating a colonial army made up largely of natives was nothing worth boasting about.
Besides, the Army was not the main player in this war. Diplomacy was what would truly decide victory or defeat, with the Navy coming second.
Ignoring Oyama Iwao's assurances, Emperor Meiji said gravely, "Only three months remain before the Vienna Conference convenes. We should begin preparing as well.
Prime Minister, you will personally lead the delegation this time. We do not expect Britain and Austria to support us, but at the very least, we must make them remain neutral.
The rise or fall of the Empire hinges on this one move..."
Hirobumi Ito's expression changed. From what he knew of Emperor Meiji, he could tell that Meiji's confidence had already been shaken.
Sending him to Europe was not merely for the Vienna Conference. More importantly, it was to find a way out and prepare for the worst.
Anyone with clear eyes knew that attending the Vienna Conference was nothing but a joke. Given Japan's current international standing, it was not even qualified to sit at the negotiating table.
The contents of the invitation made that clear. The Anti-French Alliance had merely invited them to attend the warship auction.
As for establishing a new international order, it was not yet the Japanese Government's place to speak. Once the dust settled, all they needed to do was obey it.
Because of the Philippine War, the Japanese Government could