At the end of September 1914, both the German Empire and the Austro-Hungarian Empire grew increasingly impatient with Italy's prolonged indecision regarding a declaration of war against the Entente powers.
German Foreign Minister von Kidlerun-Wahitte and Austro-Hungarian Foreign Minister Baron Leopold von Berchtold jointly visited the Italian capital, Rome, with a clear ulterior motive: to persuade Italy to join the Central Powers in the conflict. This time, they had received formal authorization from Kaiser Wilhelm II and Emperor Franz Joseph I to adopt a more assertive stance in negotiations. Should Italy choose to betray its alliance, they were prepared for the possibility of war with the Kingdom.
The Italian government regarded the visit of the two foreign ministers with great significance. Although Italy had yet to finalize its decision on joining the Central Powers, they could not afford to alienate their allies entirely before reaching a conclusion. Doing so would effectively cut off their retreat, jeopardizing their opportunity to navigate between both sides for maximum advantage. If they aimed to maintain neutrality, they might find themselves compelled to align with the Entente, a scenario unacceptable to Italy, as it would severely threaten their interests.
Unbeknownst to the Italians, the German Empire and Austro-Hungary would no longer offer them the luxury of choice.
Italian Prime Minister Antonio Salandra hosted a banquet at the Prime Minister's residence to honor the visiting diplomats. Members of the Italian cabinet attended, and the atmosphere was one of conviviality, filled with toasts and laughter. On the surface, the event appeared a resounding success; however, beneath this facade lay a web of ulterior motives. The Italians were eager to glean the limits of German and Austro-Hungarian patience, yet both von Kidlerun-Wahitte and Baron Berchtold were seasoned diplomats, adept at concealing their true positions. As such, the Italians were likely to leave the evening none the wiser.
Following the banquet, von Kidlerun-Wahitte and Baron Berchtold retired to their hotel. However, Prime Minister Salandra and Foreign Minister Paolo Saldelli found sleep elusive. Over strong coffee, they discussed how to maneuver during the impending talks with Germany and Austria.
"Germany and Austria appear less than amicable this time," Saldelli expressed with concern. "If we do not clarify our position soon, we risk inciting their ire. What should we do, Your Excellency?"
Salandra's expression mirrored his companion's unease. Italy sought to balance its options and extract maximum benefit, but turning against Germany and Austria could jeopardize all their strategic planning.
"Do they not fear forcing us into the arms of the Entente? Are they so convinced of their victory? Their current position on the battlefield does not suggest overwhelming advantage," Salandra questioned, perplexed.
In truth, the Italians had overestimated their own importance in the conflict, viewing themselves as an essential player capable of swaying the outcome. They believed both the Central and Entente powers would vie for their favor, allowing them to make exorbitant demands. In another timeline, such bargaining had indeed worked to Italy's advantage. Yet here, the situation was markedly different. Qin Tian, fully aware of Italy's hollow ambitions, was resolute in denying them the opportunity to exploit their position. Italy's potential decision to join the Central Powers would have little impact on the broader conflict, leaving Qin Tian indifferent to the possibility of betrayal.
Had Italy possessed the might of the United States, perhaps Qin Tian would have reconsidered. Alas, Italy was not the United States. They were driven by ambition without commensurate strength, leading to inevitable disappointment.
"Your Excellency, it might be prudent to wait for Germany and Austria to articulate their demands tomorrow before we respond. In any case, we must buy time," Saldelli suggested.
Salandra nodded, recognizing this as the only feasible course of action. He sensed that a critical juncture lay ahead for Italy.
The following day, the formal discussions commenced in the Prime Minister's reception room. German Foreign Minister von Kidlerun-Wahitte and Baron Leopold von Berchtold took one side, while Prime Minister Antonio Salandra and Foreign Minister Paolo Saldelli occupied the opposite.
Aside from translators and recorders, no other parties were present; the discussions were highly confidential.
"Your Excellencies, nearly two months have passed since the outbreak of war. Yet, Italy has continually found excuses to delay its participation. Are you intending to abandon the alliance? The Emperor is extremely dissatisfied with this situation, and we have come to Rome in hopes of obtaining a clear response from Italy," von Kidlerun-Wahitte asserted with unwavering firmness.
"The Austro-Hungarian Empire shares this stance; we cannot wait indefinitely. Italy must immediately clarify its commitment to the alliance!" Baron Berchtold added.