"Very well, I have noted everyone's opinions. I shall give them due consideration. Tomorrow, I will formally announce my decision," Wilhelm II proclaimed. Having fully grasped the ministers' sentiments, he undoubtedly had reached a conclusion within himself.
"Yes, Your Majesty!" the ministers responded in unison.
Observing Wilhelm II's decisive stance, von Moltke felt a twinge of discontent, yet he chose to remain silent. He understood that voicing further dissent would only invite the Emperor's ire.
Well-acquainted with Wilhelm II's obstinate nature, von Moltke knew that once a decision was made, it was not open to questioning; otherwise, it would be seen as a provocation. He recognized that his rise to prominence was entirely due to Wilhelm II's trust. Without that, he would not have attained his current standing. Thus, aligning himself with Wilhelm II and avoiding his wrath had always been his modus operandi.
After the ministers departed, Wilhelm II leaned back in his chair and closed his eyes.
"The Navy and a faction of the Army both support Oscar. It appears that Oscar's ascension as the heir is a matter of common accord," Wilhelm II remarked.
Though a flicker of doubt and resistance lingered within him, he understood that, for the Empire's sake, appointing Qin Tian as heir was undoubtedly the wisest choice. Qin Tian's capabilities rendered him well-suited for the role.
"Essen, summon Oscar; I wish to see him!" Wilhelm II commanded.
"Yes, Your Majesty," replied Essen von Jonarleit with a nod.
Upon receiving the summons, Qin Tian hurried to the palace. Although the council meeting had just concluded, he was already aware of its contents. He felt deeply moved by Marshal Tirpitz's staunch support during the meeting. Furthermore, von Falkenhayn's pivotal backing had enabled Wilhelm II to arrive at his final decision. Qin Tian was also acutely aware of von Moltke's opposition, and he kept all of this close to heart, vowing to address these matters once he became the heir.
"Von Moltke, it is unwise of you to make such a choice at this juncture. You will regret it," Qin Tian silently resolved.
In Qin Tian's estimation, von Moltke was wholly unfit to serve as Chief of Staff. His alterations to the Schlieffen Plan had led the German army into a quagmire at the onset of the conflict, ultimately resulting in the nation's undoing. Should the opportunity arise, he would certainly replace von Moltke with a more competent leader.
Upon arriving at the palace, Qin Tian made his way directly to Wilhelm II's office. From Essen von Jonarleit, he learned that Wilhelm II had been awaiting him since the council's conclusion.
"Father, I have arrived," Qin Tian announced as he stood before Wilhelm II.
"Oscar, please, have a seat," Wilhelm II gestured toward the sofa.
Qin Tian settled onto the couch, awaiting Wilhelm II's next instructions. He understood that today's meeting could very well serve as the final confirmation of his status as heir.
"Oscar, Prince Wilhelm has suffered a fall and is unable to fulfill his duties as heir. The Empire requires a new successor. The ministers largely believe you are suitable for this role. What is your perspective?" Wilhelm II fixed a penetrating gaze upon Qin Tian.
"Father, my brother's fall and continued unconsciousness spell disaster for the Empire. I have been praying to God for his recovery, and I have faith that He will protect my brother. As for the position of heir, I leave that entirely to your discretion. If you find someone more fitting, I shall wholeheartedly support them. I promise, regardless of my status, I will dedicate myself to the Empire," Qin Tian replied, fully aware that no one else was as capable as he at this moment.
Wilhelm II nodded. "Oscar, I hold your abilities in high regard. Your character is also commendable. You are indeed an exceptional candidate for heir. Yet, this very perfection gives me pause. Two years ago, you were quite different—isolated and sharp-tongued. Now, you seem like a transformed person, which puzzles me. Can you explain what has transpired?"
"Father, one must grow. Particularly for a man, it is vital to learn to shoulder responsibilities. This realization has brought about my transformation," Qin Tian answered calmly.
He certainly would not divulge to Wilhelm II that within the body of Prince Oscar resided a soul from a century in the future. Such a revelation would likely lead to his being subjected to experiments or worse. As long as he maintained his silence, others would be powerless against him.
Wilhelm II furrowed his brow, but after a moment, he appeared to acquiesce to Qin Tian's assertion.
"Oscar, regardless of everything, you are my son. I hope you will strive for the Empire's prosperity. Only with a robust Empire can we, its rulers, continue to enjoy our current lives and powers. Should the Empire fall, all we hold dear will vanish," Wilhelm II spoke with grave sincerity.
"Yes, Father!" Qin Tian worked to contain his joy, striving to keep his expression neutral.
Wilhelm II nodded. "Oscar, I sincerely hope you can fulfill this promise."
Then he continued, "After considering the ministers' opinions, I have decided to appoint you as the Empire's Vice Heir."
"Vice Heir?" Qin Tian was taken aback; why such a distinction when he could simply be the heir? Did Wilhelm II intend to further test him?
"Oscar, the position of heir ultimately belongs to Prince Wilhelm. Despite his faults, he is still your elder brother. I hope that should he awaken one day, you will return the title to him. However, if he remains in this state during my lifetime, we shall disregard that," Wilhelm II clarified.
Once Wilhelm II passes, Qin Tian would undoubtedly ascend as Emperor. Even if Wilhelm were to awaken then, Qin Tian could not relinquish the throne back to him, as the various strata of the Empire would never allow such a thing. The transition of power is no trifling matter.