Persian Empire 1845

Chapter 450 Ruler and Subject

News of the regime change in the Kingdom of Afghanistan reached London via India. Upon hearing that Afghanistan, which they had worked tirelessly for two and a half years to the point of having only one person escape, was now under Iranian control, London felt worse than if they had been killed.

The Earl of Derby even challenged the Liberal Party at a cabinet meeting, saying that if the Liberal Party could not protect Britain's interests, the Conservative Party would take its place.

There's no way around it; the first Anglo-Afghan War occurred during the premiership of William Lamb, a member of the Whig Party, the precursor to the Liberal Party. But saying this makes the Liberal Party seem incompetent, considering that Palmerston and Russell quelled many unrest and wars during their terms, and Britain's influence continued to grow. These are their achievements.

However, it's better for Afghanistan to fall into Iranian hands than Russian hands. At least Iran can control its expansionist desires, while Russia is truly out of control. And usually, they leave the land but not the people; they can really carve up a desolate wasteland.

Moreover, Iran wields considerable influence in the Middle East, a region dominated by Muslims. The Shia Muslims need no introduction, and even the Sunnis have been rallied by Iranian propaganda portraying a return to the golden age of the Abbasid Caliphate. It's clear to everyone that the Ottoman Empire is losing its right to be the dominant power.

Russell dispatched the Earl of Clarendon to St. Petersburg to reach a trade agreement with Russia as soon as possible. This would prevent Iran from becoming too lawless, and if they insisted on doing so, Britain wouldn't mind making them like Ali of Egypt.

If Afghanistan doesn't work, let's try somewhere else. The war in South America is intensifying. Patagonia is holding off the Chilean offensive while continuing its advance towards Buenos Aires. The Argentine army is suffering repeated defeats; it seems their fighting strength only increases when fighting their own people.

In Chile, the Chilean navy continued its attacks on Iranian merchant ships. However, three Iranian warships soon arrived in the area, providing constant protection for merchant vessels. They also shelled the Chilean port of Valparaiso, and residents of the capital heard the explosions from the harbor.

Chile is scared. The ambassador appealed to Britain for help, saying that if the problem could be solved, then their future mineral resources would be given to them.

Such a large-scale move suggests Chile has truly been cornered. And since Italy values ​​loyalty, if Chile goes to South America and succeeds, Araucanía will be its own.

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“Shah, these were all sent by Abdul.”

Naserdin looked at the large chests filled with various gems, gold, and silver. Abdul had found them in Kabul and had them sent over immediately as a gift.

"What's going on in Britain?"

“They are especially quiet without the Shah.”

Naserdin was puzzled. Logically, when faced with Britain, which bordered India, he would act as if his parents had died, clamoring for control. Why was he now acting like he'd become a monk, having a complete change of heart?

“Keep an eye on it; Britain is unlikely to stand idly by. They may take back Afghanistan through other means.”

However, Nasserdin is not currently worried about Afghanistan being a vassal state. Because Afghanistan is still a country, and being a country means he is at risk of being courted. Only by completely controlling Afghanistan can he feel at ease.

These items were distributed among the palace staff. Recently, Nasser al-Din had a son and a daughter, increasing the size of his family. He named his fifth son Muzaffar and arranged for him to be raised well.

“Teacher, do you think the British will retaliate?” Nasser al-Din asked Amir.

"It's hard to say. Britain doesn't send troops without a reason. They usually send representatives to negotiate first, and then send troops. But I haven't seen them yet. They seem to really think there's no problem."

Amir wasn't entirely confident either, but if he could hold out for two months and the British didn't react, then the matter would be resolved. Of course, he also needed to avoid being targeted later and maintain a defensive posture. "Shah, I sincerely hope you will reconsider my proposal."

Seeing Naserdin about to leave, Amir quickly stepped forward to explain.

Naserdin frowned. "If you're talking about the teacher's resignation letter, then let's not ask."

“Shah, I’ve been up here for over 15 years. I don’t know how many people are watching me like wolves. My wife also wants to quit her job and go back to our old home in the countryside.”

Amir is exhausted, even though he's only 58 and still in his prime. The position of Grand Vizier has drained him of immense energy, from various reforms to diplomatic maneuvering; he's working 24 hours a day as if it were 48. He's truly worn out.

Of course, there was another reason for Amir's resignation, which was the change in public attitude.

As public demands for a parliamentary session grew louder, but the Shah showed no inclination to do so, and Amir supported the Shah's absolute control, the Grand Vizier naturally became the target of public criticism, with many demanding his resignation.

Since the people are demanding this, Amir will go along with it. If it's approved, he can retire comfortably. Looking at Iran now, he has no regrets even if he dies.

"Teacher, you underestimate yourself. You negotiated with the Ottomans and Russia, so how could you lack energy?"

I know why you resigned; those citizens were simply misled by a few people. No one will take your place; just stay here peacefully.

Amir was getting anxious; this wasn't what he wanted. "Shah, the government needs a dynamic leader right now. I'm no longer up to the task, so please approve my resignation."

Naserdin shook his head. "I will approve it, but not now."

These words offered Amir some comfort. Once he completed his other tasks, his term should be over. No one can last forever, no one.

"So, Shah, what do you think of this petition...?"

Amir produced a petition, the tenth request to convene parliament this year. Nasser al-Din glanced at it briefly, then handed it to the attendant beside him.

"Parliament, Parliament. It's as if only Parliament can save the country."

Nasserdin believes that since he has established an expert council, that constitutes parliament. Why insist on a Western-style elected parliament? Isn't he afraid of parliamentary dysfunction?

“Shah, this is also a matter of public opinion. Apart from Russia, other European countries have already established parliaments. If they want to develop into civilized nations, parliaments are essential.”

Nasser al-Din thought about it carefully and realized it made sense. But this wasn't about building a civilized nation, but rather about ensuring the dynasty's long-term development. The first priority was to bring more people into the government and prevent them from causing trouble.

"Perhaps, we'll just have to wait for the right time." That's what Naserdin said.

(End of this chapter)