Qin Tian regarded Wilhelm II, a middle-aged man exuding an air of authority intermingled with a touch of benevolence, ambitious yet somewhat overreaching in his aspirations. Although Wilhelm II was undeniably obstinate and self-important, it was impossible to overlook his capabilities as an exceptional sovereign.
The Kaiser's grand ambitions ultimately met with failure, largely due to the formidable strength of his adversaries. Germany, though an emerging power, stood little chance against the established might of Britain and France, compounded by the betrayal of America at a critical juncture, rendering Germany's victory in the war implausible.
Qin Tian understood that Wilhelm II was a man of resolute decisions; once he made up his mind, it was exceedingly difficult for others to sway him.
However, Qin Tian was unwilling to squander four years of his life at the Kiel Naval Academy. Four years was ample time to accomplish a multitude of endeavors. To say the least, accumulating considerable wealth was entirely feasible. In that case, even if Germany were to face defeat, his riches could at least secure him a comfortable life as a wealthy gentleman.
Thus, Qin Tian felt compelled to reject Wilhelm II's directive. Despite being acutely aware of the potential repercussions, he knew that his refusal could provoke the Kaiser's wrath.
Yet, at this moment, Qin Tian was beyond caring.
"Father, I do not wish to attend the Kiel Naval Academy!" Qin Tian stated calmly, locking eyes with Wilhelm II.
"Hmm?" The Kaiser furrowed his brow in surprise.
Among the monarchs of Europe, the German Emperor wielded considerable power. While not comparable to that of the Chinese Emperor, his authority was still absolute, especially within the royal household, where none could contravene his will.
Wilhelm II likely did not anticipate that Qin Tian would dare to utter such words, leaving him momentarily taken aback.
To the side, Crown Prince Wilhelm, who had been smiling moments earlier, now bore an equally frozen expression.
However, a smirk soon crept across his lips.
As the heir to the German Empire, he undoubtedly preferred his brothers to be inept and incompetent. This would serve to highlight his own abilities while solidifying his claim to the throne, alleviating any concerns of being usurped by his siblings. Of course, the likelihood of such an occurrence was minimal; unless he were to die young or Germany were to fall, his ascension to the imperial throne was virtually guaranteed.
"What an imbecile, daring to reject our father like this—he truly knows no bounds," Crown Prince Wilhelm thought, secretly reveling in the situation.
Though he held his reclusive brother in contempt, he did not perceive Prince Oscar as a threat to his position. The prospect of keeping Oscar underfoot, forever denied an opportunity to rise, was certainly a pleasing thought.
"Oscar, what are you doing? This is your father's plan for your future! How can you refuse it? By saying such things, you are wholly disregarding his kindness," Crown Prince Wilhelm interjected, directing a tirade of reproach at Qin Tian, as though he had committed an unforgivable crime.
A flicker of displeasure crossed Wilhelm II's face but was swiftly masked; he waved his hand to silence Crown Prince Wilhelm's incessant chatter.
"Oscar, do you have any thoughts of your own? If you truly don't want to attend the Kiel Naval Academy, perhaps you could consider another institution. What about the Army Academy?" Wilhelm II inquired.
To demonstrate loyalty to the German Empire and to gain the public's favor, it was customary for the royal princes to pursue military careers. Whether in the army or navy, service was essential. This would allow the people to see the royal family standing on the front lines in defense of the Empire and its interests.
Under the intense scrutiny of Wilhelm II, Qin Tian felt an overwhelming pressure.
"Father, I do not wish to attend university; I want to do my own things," Qin Tian replied, bracing himself.
The moment these words escaped his lips, the expressions on Wilhelm II and Crown Prince Wilhelm's faces transformed dramatically.
Wilhelm II could barely suppress his fury; from his eyes, Qin Tian could clearly discern his disappointment. It was evident that in Wilhelm II's eyes, Qin Tian had become a coward devoid of ambition, evading his duties and responsibilities.
Crown Prince Wilhelm, following a brief period of astonishment, now wore a mask of schadenfreude. He had not anticipated Qin Tian to fall so far beneath his expectations. It seemed evident to him that Qin Tian would pose no threat to his reign for the rest of his life.
"What a fool; it appears he is truly beyond redemption. Yet, for me, this is fortuitous. As a gesture of brotherly compassion, I shall offer you assistance when you find yourself in dire straits," Crown Prince Wilhelm thought, regarding Qin Tian with a hint of pity.
"Oscar, what on earth are you thinking? You are a prince of the German Empire, a scion of the Hohenzollern family. Do you wish to bring disgrace upon the illustrious Hohenzollern name and the German royal family through your actions?
You have disappointed me greatly. Your brothers have all entered the military or are preparing to serve. As a member of the German royal family, it is our fate to fight for the Empire, even at the cost of our lives in battle. And now, you display such cowardice—truly a disgrace to the House of Hohenzollern."
Wilhelm II's voice erupted in a furious roar, his body trembling with rage. He could scarcely tolerate the notion of having such a son among his offspring.
Qin Tian opened his mouth, longing to explain himself, but ultimately found no words to voice. He could not possibly reveal to Wilhelm II that if Germany continued on its present trajectory, no amount of preparation would enable it to contend with Britain, France, or America, leading to inevitable ruin.
Were he to say such a thing, Wilhelm II would undoubtedly dismiss him as a madman spouting nonsense.
Moreover, being acutely aware of the future trajectory of history was Qin Tian's greatest secret, one he was unwilling to divulge. If anyone were to discover that the soul residing within Prince Oscar's body belonged to another, who knew what Wilhelm II might do—he might very well execute him.
"Oscar, return to your room at once. I care not what your thoughts may be. In a week's time, you are to report to the Kiel Naval Academy. Even if you are merely biding your time, you shall remain there for a full four years. During that time, without my express permission, you are forbidden from returning to the palace!" Wilhelm II ordered, his voice laced with indignation.