Persian Empire 1845

Chapter 615 Undercurrents (Part 2)

"Ha, but you don't have any military support. Even if the military is terrible, it's still an army. What are you going to do about that?"

Ahmed pointed out the biggest problem, and Demirel laughed as he addressed everyone.

"Everyone, let's welcome the newcomer!"

Another surprise? Two men emerged from a small room nearby, shocking everyone. They were Ismet Inani Pasha and Refik Saidham Pasha, respectively an Ottoman officer stationed in Edirne and a former Minister of War. They were supporters and implementers of military reforms, enjoying considerable support among lower-ranking officers.

The Ottoman New Army was also among the first to embrace new ideas. Faced with corruption and inaction at the top, the lower-ranking soldiers were furious. They secretly formed the Ottoman Progressive Association, advocating for comprehensive reforms similar to those in Iran!

"I think you're all familiar with these two, right? With their support, does anyone still have any questions?"

Everyone fell silent, but Seydam Pasha raised his question. "Enough with the nonsense, Demirel. We all know what you just said. What can you do about it?"

In response to the inquiry, Demirel smiled and said, "Since we've invited you both here, we naturally have a way to solve this problem."

"First, we need a stable political environment. The previous political turmoil did nothing to solve any problems. This can be achieved as long as we cooperate."

This is also why it was necessary to win over the new army; without an army, even if you control the civilian government, you cannot implement other policies. The Progressive Association had great influence among Ottoman officers, and winning them over would allow you to control the new Ottoman army.

"Secondly, we need steadfast allies. Whether it's Britain or France, they wouldn't hesitate to sell out their empires when faced with interests, so we need a steadfast ally to support us."

"So you chose Iran, but don't forget that Iran is also a country that has invaded our territory."

Suddenly, Inani Pasha spoke up.

Demirel did not refute Inani Pasha's questions. "Does Your Excellency have a better option?"

This question left the other person speechless. After searching the map thoroughly, there truly wasn't a better option than Iran. It was just that their emotions prevented them from accepting it.

"We have considered what you said before. However, times are changing, and different situations require different approaches. In my opinion, an alliance with Iran is currently too advantageous for our country. At least we will no longer have to swallow our pride when facing Russia and Austria. Moreover, economically, we can also take advantage of Iran's rapidly developing economy to help our country get out of the economic crisis as soon as possible."

"However, alliances that are too close in distance may also lead to us being profoundly influenced by the other side in terms of diplomacy and military affairs. In that case, we are very likely to become the other side's pawns, which would be very difficult for us."

Demirel seemed unconcerned about the concerns raised by Saidham Pasha. "It's impossible for us to only think about profiting from the other side without giving anything in return, especially when the two sides are out of balance."

Inani Pasha couldn't help but ask, "Isn't there a better way?"

"That's not entirely true."

This sudden turn of events left everyone holding their breath, eager to hear what brilliant ideas this person had up their sleeve.

"Let me make this clear first, I won't admit to saying this once I leave this room."

This piqued his interest even more, and he heard the other party say a few words: "Exchange the Sultan!" "That's it!" Saiddam instantly lost interest. "This isn't unprecedented in history!"

"Yes, but what if they weren't chosen from the Ottoman family?"

???

Everyone became curious again. Although they had already guessed it, it was still unbelievable to hear it from the other person's mouth.

"What did you say? That Nasser al-Din Shah of Iran would become the Sultan of the Ottoman Empire?!"

Faced with everyone's astonishment, Demirel said, "Actually, it's nothing. Aren't those European countries the same? The King of England can also be the monarch of another country, and the ruler of Austria was once the King of Spain. As long as the empire is respected and its rights are not violated, why can't the Shah of Iran be our monarch?"

"But have you considered whether the domestic people can accept such an outcome? Even if the people accept it, when disputes arise between the two countries, will that wise Shah favor Iran or the Ottomans?"

Inani Pasha drew his gun, intending to kill the traitor. But Demirel wasn't afraid; he knew the other man was just bluffing.

"Gentlemen, I have a question for you. How long will it take us to restore Suleiman the Great to his former state? This is on the premise that we have steadfast allies."

Suleiman the Magnificent! This was the height of the Ottoman Empire. Everyone wants to go back to that era. If Iran helps, it might be possible.

"So why should we expect Iran to use its power to help us reclaim our lost territories?"

"Based on geographical location."

Demirel pointed to the map behind him and said, “I’ve studied Iran and know they were building warships and expanding their navy. Although they claim it’s aimed at Russia, I don’t believe they’re not interested in the Mediterranean. And as long as we share a monarch, we can guide them to eye the Mediterranean, which is our greatest advantage.”

Moreover, if we merge with Iran, their influence in the world will be greatly enhanced. With these two advantages in hand, they can't help but be tempted. Therefore, we can use this as leverage to negotiate a favorable outcome with Iran. We might even be able to seize Russian territory.”

These words gave the two Pashas a clue: the idea came from Demirel himself, not from Iran.

"This idea is quite unexpected, and we were caught off guard. However, after your explanation, I believe this matter is of such great importance that it needs to be discussed."

Camille Pasha smoothed things over, saying that everything today was too shocking and he needed time to process it.

"This plan is clearly the result of careful selection. I don't know how to choose it either. Let's discuss it more seriously next time we talk."

"Alright, but I think time is running out. I knew the Sultan would find out about this, and then it would be difficult."

This was the threat. After a long, drawn-out ten minutes, all the attendees took high-resolution photos in the hall. No one said anything, but the meaning was clear. Damn it!

(End of this chapter)