The so-called intellectuals and artists are undoubtedly among the most self-important individuals in the world. They delude themselves into believing that art transcends national boundaries, insisting that war cannot tarnish cherished landmarks and masterpieces.
In reality, the true power brokers pay little heed to their opinions. Their foremost concern is securing victory in this war, which is undeniably of paramount importance; all else pales in comparison.
However, fueled by the efforts of both the British and French, as well as the encouragement from the United States, global attention has turned to the German atrocities in Paris. Indeed, some artists have begun to characterize the German assault on Paris as barbaric, even likening it to the actions of beasts. Newspapers across the world are condemning Qin Tian and the advancing German forces, while countless artists vociferously denounce their destruction of civilization.
The situation has caused significant upheaval within Germany as well. Hundreds of German artists have collectively penned a letter to Kaiser Wilhelm II, demanding an end to the assault on Paris and calling for severe punishment for Qin Tian, even suggesting the removal of his status as heir apparent.
"Your Majesty, this marks the third letter of protest I have received. The artists are exceedingly discontent with the actions of His Highness and the military in Paris. Should we not seek to placate them?" Prime Minister Bernhardt von Bülow remarked at the imperial council. He had been overwhelmed by the protests in recent days.
"Pacify them? Why should we? His Highness is leading our forces in a fierce battle against the enemy, while these individuals hide in the rear enjoying their comforts, now emerging to castigate him and our troops. It is utterly outrageous! Have they forgotten their own identity?" Minister of War and Chief of General Staff Falkenhayn retorted with discontent.
As the imperial army prepared to seize Paris and secure a monumental victory over France, these dissenters seemed intent on sowing discord. Moreover, it was perplexing that artists from other nations had joined in the uproar—had they forgotten they were Germans?
"Indeed, Your Majesty. For our Empire, finding a way to win this war is of utmost importance. Paris is a vital city that we must conquer. Should we capture Paris, the resolve of the French would likely be shattered, even if they wish to continue fighting. Their capacity to resist would wane significantly, especially if they lose hundreds of thousands of troops there. Therefore, we must not only persist in our assault on Paris but actively support His Highness's endeavors," Admiral Count Tirpitz affirmed.
Clearly, the stance of the imperial military was unequivocal: defeating the enemy was the foremost priority during wartime. Matters of culture and art must be set aside.
Kaiser Wilhelm II nodded in agreement, recognizing the gravity of the situation. To him, the artists' protests appeared entirely frivolous. The destruction of Paris was of little consequence to them. It was understandable for the French and British to be agitated, but for German artists to join in the fray was completely unacceptable; they seemed to disregard their identity as Germans altogether!
"Gentlemen, while Paris is undoubtedly a beautiful city, a cultural jewel, it is imperative that we secure victory in this war, even if that means razing Paris to the ground. Our actions in Paris are entirely justified and necessary. This is all part of the machinations of the British and French," Wilhelm II declared, making his position clear.
Evidently, the Kaiser prioritized victory in the war over the cultural significance of Paris; its destruction was of little concern.
"Your Majesty, your wisdom is evident," both Admiral Tirpitz and General von Falkenhayn concurred promptly.
"Your Majesty, how should we deal with these artists? Allowing them to continue their ruckus cannot be a viable solution! Their daily articles in newspapers denouncing His Highness and the imperial government could severely damage both his and the government's reputation," Prime Minister von Bülow warned.
Wilhelm II furrowed his brow; any tarnishing of Qin Tian's reputation could adversely affect his future claim to the German throne.
"A solution must be found to silence these individuals!" Wilhelm II asserted.
"Does anyone have a suggestion?" he inquired.
"Your Majesty, we might consider dividing and conquering. I believe many among these artists are genuinely principled individuals. However, there are certainly those who have been bribed by the French or British. We could target them and expose their treachery to the public. In doing so, the others would be dissuaded from making further noise," General von Falkenhayn proposed.
Wilhelm II nodded in approval. "That is indeed a sound strategy. The Army Department will oversee this matter."
"Understood, Your Majesty," General von Falkenhayn acknowledged.
He knew that confronting these artists would be all too simple. Despite their apparent fervor, they would crumble before the might of the state apparatus, especially the military. There were countless ways to discredit them. Even if they had not been bribed, mere allegations would suffice; before the power of the state, they would have no chance to defend themselves.
"Your Majesty, what about the matter of international public opinion? Aside from our adversaries in Britain and France, there are many neutral nations like the United States voicing unfavorable sentiments towards the Empire," Foreign Minister von Kidderlen-Waechter remarked.
"The actions of the British and French speak for themselves; this is all part of their conspiracy. As for other nations, let them stir up trouble; it will have no impact on the might of the German Empire. Once we secure victory in this world war and ascend to supremacy, they will think twice before challenging us again," Wilhelm II proclaimed with confidence.
"Indeed, Your Majesty," von Kidderlen-Waechter responded.
If Germany were to emerge victorious in the war and claim dominance on the world stage, would other nations dare to persist in their criticism? They would likely be cautious not to provoke Germany further.