The Constanta Steel Plant, a crucial component of the German reparations, stood as the pillar of Romanian industry. In a country previously devoid of coal and iron, and thereby lacking a robust steel industry, the onset of World War I loomed ominously. Edel, aware of the impending conflict and informed by the historical treatment of China during World War II, recognized the strategic necessity of establishing a domestic steel production capability. In peacetime, importing resources might have been feasible, albeit costly, but wartime presented an entirely different scenario where supply lines could be disrupted or severed entirely.
The completion of the first phase of the Constanta Steel Plant marked a significant milestone. Edel, accompanied by the plant director Duzweigan, toured the newly operational facility. This initial phase boasted a production capacity of 30,000 tons of steel and 70,000 tons of iron annually. Coal was primarily sourced from Russia and Austria-Hungary, while iron ore was imported from Ottoman Turkey. Before the outbreak of global hostilities, trade flowed relatively freely, allowing even Germany to procure steam turbines from Britain for their dreadnoughts—a naval rivalry that seemed inconceivable in the post-war world.
During the tour, Duzweigan proudly informed Edel, "Your Royal Highness, we are currently employing the open-hearth steelmaking process. The workers have mastered the operation of the plant machinery independently, without further need for guidance from German experts."
Edel, observing the diligent Romanian workers maneuvering around the steel furnaces, responded appreciatively, "You have done commendable work, and the kingdom recognizes your efforts."
Duzweigan, visibly pleased by the Crown Prince's approval, replied, "All achievements are under the wise leadership of the kingdom."
Edel was aware that Duzweigan's flattery was partly an attempt to secure recognition for his own contributions. Despite reports from Carrust, the chief of the guard, painting Duzweigan as less than scrupulous, Edel understood the pragmatic necessity of utilizing such individuals for greater strategic goals, provided they remained useful.
After the inspection, Edel suggested, "Let's have lunch in the factory canteen today."
"By all means, Your Royal Highness," Duzweigan responded, leading the way.
In the canteen, Edel observed the workers queuing up for their meals—thick soup, mashed potatoes, brown bread, and an apple each. It was clear that the presence of royalty had likely improved their usual fare. A portly man with a pockmarked face hurried over with a beaming smile upon noticing Edel's party.
Duzweigan quickly introduced him, "Your Royal Highness, this is Polo, the canteen steward." Turning to Polo, he sharply added, "Why isn't the food for His Royal Highness ready?"
Polo, catching the urgency in Duzweigan's tone, scurried back to the kitchen, ensuring that Edel's presence did not disrupt the workers' mealtime.
As they ate, Edel inquired, "Director Duzweigan, are there any current difficulties in the plant's operations?"
Duzweigan, eager to maintain a facade of competence, assured, "Thank you for your concern, Your Highness. The plant thrives under the kingdom's glory, and as its director, I have no grievances."
Sensing the Crown Prince's skepticism, Duzweigan quickly added, "It was merely a jest, Your Highness. There are no significant issues."
Edel nodded, accepting the explanation.
Post-lunch, the party visited the site of the plant's second phase, where construction was underway. Jatexman, the chief engineer from Knoop Steel Plant in Germany, who had overseen the first phase, was now detailing the progress of the second phase. "Thanks to the diligent efforts of our workers, we are already 20% complete. With the materials and machinery prepared during the first phase, I anticipate we could finish three months ahead of schedule."
Edel expressed his gratitude, "I will personally write to Krupp Steel to commend the outstanding support provided by your engineers, particularly Mr. Gartxman."
Gartxman, visibly pleased by the acknowledgment, humbly replied, "It is our duty at Krupp, Your Highness. We are simply fulfilling our roles."
The day concluded with Edel feeling a mix of exhaustion and satisfaction. The next day's agenda, as briefed by Carrust, involved inspecting the port—a vital component of Edel's industrial strategy for Romania, which relied heavily on the logistical advantages of Constanta for its burgeoning industrial sector, particularly in steel-dependent industries like automobile manufacturing. This strategic positioning was essential in overcoming Romania's natural resource disparities and fostering economic resilience in the face of impending global turmoil.