"I deeply regret to inform you both that, after careful consideration, we have resolved to maintain our neutrality," Antonio Salandra stated, his expression impassive as he addressed von Kidren-Washit and Baron Leopold von Berchtold.
After the decision to join the Allies, Italy no longer wished to engage in pretense with Germany and Austria, seeking to avoid wasting time.
The faces of von Kidren-Washit and Baron Leopold von Berchtold darkened instantly. While they had anticipated that the Kingdom of Italy might make such a choice under pressure from Germany and Austria-Hungary, they were nonetheless shocked by the audacity of this swift decision.
"Damn it, have the Italians lost their minds to dare refuse the Empire's demands? Do they truly intend to stand against us?" von Kidren-Washit seethed inwardly.
"Prime Minister, is this indeed the final decision of the Kingdom of Italy? For the sake of our long-standing alliance, I urge you to reconsider. Such a resolution, once taken, should make you acutely aware of its implications," von Kidren-Washit said with a cold demeanor.
"Of course, we are fully aware of what this entails. However, the relentless pressure from your two nations leaves us with little choice," Antonio Salandra replied, feigning innocence as if the blame for Italy's decision rested entirely with Germany and Austria-Hungary.
"Very well, since the Kingdom of Italy has made its choice, there is little more to be said. I hope that in the future, Italy will not regret today's decision," von Kidren-Washit remarked, his gaze icy. He knew that, from this day forth, this former ally had become their enemy, a target to be vanquished.
"Hmph! The Kingdom of Italy will undoubtedly pay a price for today's choice," Baron Leopold von Berchtold fumed. Italy's betrayal posed a direct threat to the Austro-Hungarian Empire, necessitating a redeployment of military forces to the southern front. Otherwise, should Italy launch an offensive, the empire would find itself perilously exposed.
"The Kingdom of Italy will certainly not regret this decision, for we shall emerge victorious!" Antonio Salandra proclaimed confidently, as if their victory were already assured.
Thus, the meeting concluded on a sour note. von Kidren-Washit and Baron Leopold von Berchtold wasted no time in departing Rome; they needed to return home immediately to report Italy's intended betrayal of the Allies and to prepare their nation for the impending conflict.
However, just as von Kidren-Washit and Baron Leopold von Berchtold communicated the news through clandestine channels, the Kingdom of Italy officially signed a treaty with England and France in Rome.
The treaty stipulated that Italy would abrogate the Triple Alliance and join the Allies in combat. Within a month of signing, Italy was to declare war on Germany and Austria-Hungary and dispatch its main military forces to attack Austria-Hungary. In turn, England and France would provide Italy with military equipment and interest-free loans. Furthermore, the treaty clearly defined the benefits Italy would receive post-war.
Italy's treachery, abandoning the treaty to ally with the Allies, undoubtedly stirred a global uproar. Initially, the Central Powers had appeared to hold the upper hand in the war due to Germany's strong performance. However, Italy's defection obliterated that advantage, even placing them at a disadvantage. Such a sudden turn of events rendered the outcome of the war increasingly uncertain.
Certainly, the English, French, and Russians breathed a collective sigh of relief. Germany's aggressive strategy had instilled great concern over their ability to prevail in this conflict. With Italy's support, however, their chances of victory had undeniably improved.
In stark contrast, Germany and Austria-Hungary were incensed.
In his office, Emperor Wilhelm II raged against the Italians, denouncing them as despicable traitors. After all, the alliance between Germany, Austria, and Italy had endured for many years. Now, in pursuit of their own interests, they brazenly betrayed the German Empire, inciting Wilhelm II's fury.
"Gentlemen, the Italians have betrayed us, signing a treaty with England and France to join the Allies. This is, without question, extremely troubling news. How should we respond?" Wilhelm II asked, deeply worried. The Central Powers had previously enjoyed an advantage in the war, but Italy's defection had turned that tide, thrusting them into a precarious position. Wilhelm II was determined not to suffer defeat; should the German Empire lose, it would be a total disaster.
"Your Majesty, the Austro-Hungarian Empire must urgently redeploy forces to the southern front in anticipation of potential Italian attacks. If the Italians cross the Alps and invade, the consequences could be dire," von Falkenhayn advised.
Wilhelm II nodded in agreement. "Yet, this will inevitably weaken Austria-Hungary's forces on the Eastern Front. It seems we must expedite assistance to the Austro-Hungarian Empire to defeat Russia."
"Oscar, what is your perspective on this?" Emperor Wilhelm II inquired.
"Father, I believe there is little to worry about. The combat effectiveness of the Italians is abysmal. Their entry into the Allies will not benefit them; rather, they will be a liability. Should the Kingdom of Italy align with the Central Powers, we might need to deploy eighty divisions to protect them. However, if they join the Allies, we would only require forty divisions to utterly vanquish them!" Qin Tian stated with an air of confidence.
For a moment, Wilhelm II and the high-ranking military and political officials of the German Empire were taken aback, then burst into hearty laughter. While they may have perceived Qin Tian's assertions as somewhat exaggerated, their concerns about Italy diminished significantly.