After Qin Tian's engagement to Princess Gundelinde, his life underwent a transformation. No longer did he devote all his time and energy solely to work; instead, he made it a point to visit Munich each month, or have Gundelinde come to Berlin. Their engagement rendered any scrutiny of their time together moot.
Of course, the flames of youthful passion ignited swiftly. On a moonlit night, Qin Tian and Princess Gundelinde became one, allowing Qin Tian—who had lived two lives—to savor the exquisite beauty of romantic love for the first time, leaving him enamored for a spell.
However, Qin Tian was ultimately an individual with grand ambitions. Now, he had to consider not only his own future but also that of his beloved. As the esteemed heir to the throne, should Germany face defeat, he would plummet from grace, dragging Princess Gundelinde into the turmoil. Thus, to safeguard their future, he knew he had to redouble his efforts.
In October 1908, news from Krupp indicated success: they had completed the development of the 343mm naval cannon, ready for mass production, while also commencing work on the 380mm main gun. Substantial investments would soon be made into this formidable artillery.
By November, the Deutsche Waffen- und Munitionsfabriken, backed by Deutsche Industriegesellschaft and Krupp, celebrated a breakthrough in lightweight weapons. Semi-automatic rifles, sniper rifles, light machine guns, general-purpose machine guns, mortars, and grenade launchers were all successfully developed and undergoing testing. Qin Tian was immensely pleased. With several years until war was anticipated, if the German army could commence large-scale rearmament now, the introduction of these advanced weapons would elevate their combat effectiveness, thereby enhancing the likelihood of victory in the impending conflict.
Gustav Krupp visited Qin Tian's office to discuss the next steps.
"Your Highness, the weapons you requested have all been developed and are currently being tested. I have consulted with the experts, and given the manageable technical challenges, we foresee no significant issues. Testing should conclude within a month. What shall be our next course of action?" Gustav Krupp fixed his intense gaze upon Qin Tian.
"Mr. Krupp, if the testing proceeds without complications, our next step must be to present these weapons to the army. I believe their outstanding performance will undoubtedly attract the army's attention," Qin Tian replied.
"Your Highness, while the performance of these weapons is indeed advanced, it may not guarantee procurement by the army," Gustav Krupp's smile faded.
"Oh? Why is that?" Qin Tian was taken aback. Surely, it made no sense for the military to overlook superior weaponry in favor of inferior options—such a choice could only lead to unnecessary loss of life.
"Your Highness, although our weapons are technologically superior, their cost is slightly higher, which translates to a greater purchasing price. Moreover, the Mauser and Rheinmetall companies will undoubtedly attempt to obstruct us. Their connections within the army are not to be underestimated," Gustav Krupp's demeanor turned serious.
Qin Tian nodded, understanding the implication. Should Deutsche Waffen- und Munitionsfabriken's products achieve success, it would threaten Mauser and Rheinmetall's market share, potentially leading to losses for both companies—an unacceptable outcome for them. Thus, they would likely mobilize every resource to undermine Deutsche Waffen- und Munitionsfabriken. Even Qin Tian's royal status and Krupp's extensive influence might not suffice to deter them, for the stakes were a matter of survival.
While Krupp's company wielded considerable influence within the German army, Mauser and Rheinmetall were formidable adversaries in their own right. United, they could pose a significant challenge to Krupp. Therefore, for Deutsche Waffen- und Munitionsfabriken to succeed, a considerable struggle lay ahead.
Yet, despite the formidable obstacles, Qin Tian was resolute. Having come this far, he could not afford to waver. His actions, while encroaching upon the interests of certain individuals, were ultimately aimed at ensuring the German Empire's victory in future wars. He felt no guilt in this regard and trusted that others would understand his intentions.
"Even so, we cannot abandon our pursuit. I am confident we will achieve success. Let us organize a demonstration of the new weapons at the shooting range next month, just before Christmas. I will make arrangements to invite His Majesty to attend, and I am certain that senior army officials will also be present. If our weapons perform exceptionally, they will not be able to dismiss our accomplishments. Once we have garnered their consensus, Mauser and Rheinmetall will have little recourse," Qin Tian proposed.
"That is indeed a viable plan. I will leverage Krupp's connections to ensure we overcome any opposition from Mauser and Rheinmetall. This time, we must not be thwarted," Gustav Krupp echoed, his enthusiasm ignited.
Qin Tian and Gustav Krupp swiftly set their plans into motion. Qin Tian approached the palace to invite Wilhelm II to the new weapons exhibition. Wilhelm II expressed his intention to attend, despite his busy schedule, demonstrating his support for Qin Tian. The emperor was eager to see what new weaponry Qin Tian would unveil. Having witnessed the navy's advancements, he grew increasingly hopeful about strengthening Germany's military capabilities, which would enhance their chances in any forthcoming conflict.
The army's General Staff, along with its leadership and commanders, received invitations as well. General von Moltke, Deputy Chief of Staff General Waldersee, Army Minister von Falkenhayn, and Navy Minister Count Tirpitz would all participate in the upcoming exhibition. Although they held significant ranks, they would not disregard Qin Tian's request.
Gustav Krupp urged the research department to ensure flawless execution for the demonstration.