Being able to rise from being a figurehead to becoming a true Emperor, Emperor Meiji was not someone who could be easily deceived. The army's sworn "guarantee" not only failed to reassure him but instead made him feel even more uncertain.
As an insightful Emperor, Meiji was very aware of the sort of troops that European countries dispatched to their overseas colonies. Defeating a colonial army primarily composed of native soldiers was not an accomplishment worth boasting about.
Moreover, the army was not the main actor in this war. Diplomacy was the true determinant of victory or defeat, followed by the navy.
Ignoring Ozan's assurance, Emperor Meiji spoke with measured caution, "Only three months remain until the Vienna Peace Conference convenes; we too should begin our preparations.
Prime Minister, this time you will lead the delegation personally. We do not expect the Anglo-Austrian two countries to support us, but at the very least, we must ensure their neutrality.
