William II's expression soured at the prospect of stringent measures, sensing an impending risk of war. The crucial question lingered: could Germany emerge victorious?
Foreign Minister von Kidren Wachter voiced concerns, "The French, supported by the British and Russians, maintain a stern stance. Continued firmness may escalate into war."
Dismissing worries, William II asserted, "The French are like a Gallic chicken in flashy feathers. We defeated them over thirty years ago when we were just Prussians. Now, as the unified German Empire, our strength has multiplied. The French won't dare war with us, despite British and Russian support. We boast the world's largest army and second-largest navy, ensuring our victory if war does unfold."
Turning to Chief of the General Staff Mao Qi, William II inquired about the army's readiness.
"Mobilization can occur within three months. The French army is vulnerable, but British and Russian support hampers our full strength. The British would reinforce France, and the Russians threaten our east. We must strategize to overcome these challenges," cautioned Mao Qi.
Crown Prince William, optimistic about German allies, asserted, "Austro-Hungarian Empire and Italy won't stand idle. Once we swiftly defeat the French, victory is assured."
However, the ministers doubted the Austro-Hungarian Empire's effectiveness due to internal conflicts. Italy, despite being an ally, was viewed as unreliable, motivated by self-interest.
Acknowledging his son's perspective, William II promised consideration. Unseen by Prince William, the ministers revealed disapproval, noting his youth and inexperience.
Concerned about the British naval blockade, William II questioned the Navy Minister about breaking it.
"The German Navy is growing rapidly, but the Royal Navy outnumbers us significantly. Their 41 completed battleships, with ten more under construction, pose a substantial challenge," admitted Marshal Count Tirpitz.
The room fell silent as the overwhelming strength of the British navy sank in. The German Navy faced a formidable adversary, with France also possessing a noteworthy fleet. The challenges ahead seemed daunting for Germany.William II's expression soured at the prospect of stringent measures, sensing an impending risk of war. The crucial question lingered: could Germany emerge victorious?
Foreign Minister von Kidren Wachter voiced concerns, "The French, supported by the British and Russians, maintain a stern stance. Continued firmness may escalate into war."
Dismissing worries, William II asserted, "The French are like a Gallic chicken in flashy feathers. We defeated them over thirty years ago when we were just Prussians. Now, as the unified German Empire, our strength has multiplied. The French won't dare war with us, despite British and Russian support. We boast the world's largest army and second-largest navy, ensuring our victory if war does unfold."
Turning to Chief of the General Staff Mao Qi, William II inquired about the army's readiness.
"Mobilization can occur within three months. The French army is vulnerable, but British and Russian support hampers our full strength. The British would reinforce France, and the Russians threaten our east. We must strategize to overcome these challenges," cautioned Mao Qi.
Crown Prince William, optimistic about German allies, asserted, "Austro-Hungarian Empire and Italy won't stand idle. Once we swiftly defeat the French, victory is assured."
However, the ministers doubted the Austro-Hungarian Empire's effectiveness due to internal conflicts. Italy, despite being an ally, was viewed as unreliable, motivated by self-interest.
Acknowledging his son's perspective, William II promised consideration. Unseen by Prince William, the ministers revealed disapproval, noting his youth and inexperience.
Concerned about the British naval blockade, William II questioned the Navy Minister about breaking it.
"The German Navy is growing rapidly, but the Royal Navy outnumbers us significantly. Their 41 completed battleships, with ten more under construction, pose a substantial challenge," admitted Marshal Count Tirpitz.
The room fell silent as the overwhelming strength of the British navy sank in. The German Navy faced a formidable adversary, with France also possessing a noteworthy fleet. The challenges ahead seemed daunting for Germany.