Chapter 369: Farewell
Ernst had no knowledge of Rosens' activities. If he had known about Rosens' talents, he would have undoubtedly rewarded him generously. Ernst had finally completed his visit to Germany and was now traveling from Berlin to Austria. He had booked two carriages, one for himself, security personnel, and a think tank team.
As the train rumbled along, Ernst's aide offered him tea. Ernst accepted it but warned not to spill any on his manuscripts. The journey was bumpy, but Ernst, an experienced traveler, didn't mind.
Ernst's aide questioned why he had to personally go to Africa to deal with the Boers, considering the long distance and challenging environment. Ernst brushed off the concerns, claiming he knew Africa well, especially East Africa, and felt at home there.
However, his subordinates believed Ernst was bragging, unaware of his extensive travels across Africa in his previous life.
Ernst's aide suggested that despite studying maps, Ernst might not fully grasp Africa's complexities without firsthand experience. Africa's environment was less favorable than Europe's, and traveling there presented challenges.
Ernst had specific plans for his visit to East Africa. He intended to lead the war against the Boers, a different kind of enemy compared to previous indigenous forces. The defeat of a small white country like the Transvaal Republic would have a more significant impact, especially on non-European nations.
The political landscape around the Transvaal Republic was complicated. Black kingdoms like the Zulu, neighboring Orange Free State, British interests, and Mozambique all needed consideration. Maputo, Mozambique's capital, was particularly relevant due to its proximity to the region.
Ernst's primary focus was on the Matabele Plateau, located near Pretoria, the Transvaal Republic's capital. The conflict would primarily unfold there, with Mozambique and its capital, Maputo, also playing a role.
After three days of travel, Ernst and his party reached Vienna, where he would bid farewell to Rudolph, as previously arranged. Rudolph had kept his visit secret from Emperor Franz.
As the train entered Vienna Railway Station, Ernst disembarked, and Rudolph was already waiting. They exchanged words, with Ernst inquiring whether Franz knew of Rudolph's absence. Rudolph explained that his father and mother had recently quarreled, providing him the opportunity to sneak away.
Rudolph preferred being outside the palace, even if it meant facing his father's potential anger. He had spent much of his life under the influence of his mother and grandmother. Only after their quarrel did his grandmother assert full control.
Ernst and Rudolph had met when Ernst took Rudolph to Berlin to study in Prussia. Rudolph found a kindred spirit in Wilhelm II, who shared similar experiences of being isolated from court life.
Ernst reminded Rudolph to take care of himself, advising him not to engage in conflicts with his father over the Hungarian issue. He explained the complexities of the matter, emphasizing that Hungary was a bargaining chip for the Hungarian nobles to maintain their privileges and power.
Rudolph agreed and mentioned that Wilhelm II had shared similar insights about Hungary. He understood the political intricacies and the importance of aligning with his father's ideas.
Ernst knew that Franz had a long and stable reign ahead of him, so Rudolph need not worry. As the conversation concluded, Ernst prepared to leave, knowing that the train was about to depart.
Rudolph bid him farewell, and they agreed to meet again in two years.