"Lord Yamagata, if we refuse Germany's terms, they will continue their offensive. How many cities will be reduced to ruins, and how many lives will be lost under their cannons?" Katō Takayoshi lamented with deep concern.
"For the sake of the empire's supremacy, enduring some losses is entirely justifiable. The Germans have no supply base in the Far East, and their fleet relies solely on a handful of transport ships. They won't be able to hold out for long in this region," Okamura Shinosuke declared.
"The Germans are no fools. They could easily dispatch more transport ships to the Far East. While they are preparing an assault on Britain's homeland, Germany's strength allows them to simultaneously pursue an offensive against us without difficulty. If that happens, the empire will pay an unimaginable price!" Ōkuma Shigenobu warned gravely.
"Prime Minister, we must explore alternative solutions. No matter what, we cannot abandon Southeast Asia. From the intelligence we've gathered, Southeast Asia is rich in resources—abundant grain, minerals, and even oil reserves in Borneo, controlled by the Dutch. If we seize control of these areas, the empire's ascension would be just a matter of time," Okamura Shinosuke argued passionately.
Ōkuma Shigenobu and Katō Takayoshi fell silent. They knew all too well the value of Southeast Asia's resources to their resource-starved nation. This scarcity had become a bottleneck hindering the country's development. Resolving this issue could indeed propel the empire to unprecedented heights, which explained why the army was willing to take such significant risks.
"However, if we sacrifice the coastal cities of the homeland and countless lives to German cannons, wouldn't the price be far too steep?" Ōkuma Shigenobu's stance began to waver.
"Evacuate the populace from coastal areas. Even if those cities are destroyed, we can rebuild," Okamura Shinosuke suggested firmly.
"What if the Germans remain unyielding despite these measures?" Katō Takayoshi asked.
"The army is already plundering wealth from Southeast Asia at an accelerated pace. We can secretly dispatch merchant ships to transport these resources back. Given the empire's extensive coastline, the German expeditionary fleet cannot possibly enforce a complete blockade. By securing as many resources as possible, even if we ultimately have to relinquish Southeast Asia, we'll still have gained substantially," Okamura Shinosuke reasoned.
While fully occupying Southeast Asia would be ideal, Okamura Shinosuke and others understood the immense difficulty of such an undertaking. Hence, they were preparing for the worst-case scenario.
The Japanese forces deployed to Southeast Asia had effectively turned into marauders, systematically looting resources to prepare for a potential retreat.
"Additionally, we could negotiate with Germany over their demands. Perhaps we could return the Pacific colonies to them in exchange for Southeast Asia. Or we might relinquish part of Southeast Asia while securing the remainder, which would still be highly beneficial for the empire," Yamagata Aritomo proposed.
"Lord Yamagata, Germany has shown no willingness to compromise, leaving no room for negotiation. Attempting talks on this basis would likely be futile," Katō Takayoshi countered.
"Then we must consider alternative strategies. We can appeal to other nations for support, urging them to voice opposition to Germany. While Germany is the world's foremost power, it has no shortage of enemies. These nations are unlikely to let such an opportunity pass," Yamagata Aritomo suggested optimistically.
"This approach is worth attempting, though its success remains uncertain," Katō Takayoshi admitted.
"Regardless of the outcome, we must try. Southeast Asia's importance to the empire cannot be overstated. No effort should be spared in this endeavor!" Yamagata Aritomo declared.
"Yes, Lord Yamagata," Katō Takayoshi responded immediately.
"Among the great powers, only the United States and Austria-Hungary remain besides Germany. The Ottoman Empire has long declined, and France and Italy, as defeated nations, are struggling for their own survival. Therefore, our only options for assistance lie with the United States and Austria-Hungary," Ōkuma Shigenobu analyzed.
"Would Austria-Hungary oppose Germany, their ally?" Okamura Shinosuke inquired.
"Before or during the war, Austria-Hungary was indeed Germany's ally. However, following the wars against Russia, France, and Italy, their relationship has soured significantly. Germany monopolized the benefits of the peace treaties with Russia and France, leaving Austria-Hungary with little. Even the reparations from Italy were primarily claimed by Germany. Furthermore, Crown Prince Karl of Austria-Hungary harbors deep animosity toward Germany. Many believe that once Emperor Franz Joseph I passes away, their alliance with Germany will likely dissolve," Katō Takayoshi explained.
"In that case, we must seize this opportunity to rally more support for the empire!" Yamagata Aritomo exclaimed.
"Yes, Lord Yamagata!" Ōkuma Shigenobu and Katō Takayoshi replied in unison.
"As for the United States, their relationship with Germany is also strained. With the collapse of Britain and France, the United States has emerged as the only power capable of rivaling Germany. Throughout the war, the United States has repeatedly undermined Germany, though Germany has consistently overcome these challenges with its formidable strength. If we can secure American support, the empire's predicament will significantly improve," Katō Takayoshi added.
"Indeed, the United States is immensely wealthy. Despite suffering considerable losses in this world war, its resources and influence remain those of a global power. We must spare no effort in winning their backing," Yamagata Aritomo affirmed.
"Yes, Lord Yamagata. We will do our utmost," Ōkuma Shigenobu and Katō Takayoshi pledged.
Soon after, the Japanese government issued evacuation orders for residents of coastal cities. Meanwhile, diplomats in the United States and envoys in Switzerland launched concerted efforts to garner support.