"The Germans are no longer our loyal allies. The Austro-Hungarian Empire must rely on its own strength to defend its interests and even ensure its continued existence. Therefore, our only course of action is to vigorously develop our military power. I hope that the military might of the Austro-Hungarian Empire will be able to stand against the Germans. Only then can we cease to fear them," said Emperor Franz Joseph I.
"Though I am fully aware of the difficulty of this task, I hope that it can become the goal of us all. Even if I may not live to see that day, I wish for the Austro-Hungarian Empire to remain strong for generations to come!" Emperor Franz Joseph I continued.
"Your Majesty, we will strive with all our might! The Austro-Hungarian Empire shall grow ever stronger," said Duke Caspar.
Emperor Franz Joseph I nodded, a look of reassurance crossing his face. "However, for the time being, we must maintain a cooperative relationship with the Germans. This is, after all, in the Empire's best interests."
"Yes, Your Majesty. With Germany's victory in this war, they will emerge as the most powerful nation in the world—far stronger than the British Empire ever was. In such circumstances, it would be unwise for the Empire to oppose the German Reich," said Chancellor Mario Weber.
"The might of the German military is overwhelming; before the war, no one could have anticipated such strength. They have effortlessly defeated numerous powerful foes. When the war ends, Germany will possess the world's strongest navy, the most formidable army, the largest colonies, and an industrial capacity unmatched by any nation. In this regard, no one can stand against them," said Hungarian Prime Minister István von Tisza.
The Austro-Hungarian Empire, though a great power, had to contend with its internal divisions. Each constituent kingdom maintained considerable autonomy, and if not for the immense prestige of Emperor Franz Joseph I, who had managed to hold the Empire together, the separate kingdoms might have gone their own way, and the Empire itself would have splintered.
"In my view," continued Marshal Baron Hecendorf, "what truly makes the German Empire so terrifying is not merely its overwhelming strength but its Emperor. Kaiser Wilhelm III, though only 27, has exhibited extraordinary talent in every respect. It is no exaggeration to say that the German Empire's rise to power and its success in this war are inseparable from his leadership. During his reign, the Austro-Hungarian Empire will likely find itself incapable of contending with the Germans. Our only recourse is to follow in their wake and hope to secure greater benefits in the process."
Emperor Franz Joseph I nodded gravely. "Indeed, Kaiser Wilhelm III is exceptional. If the heir to the Austro-Hungarian throne had but half of his brilliance, I would have no regrets even if I were to meet my maker today."
This sentiment echoed in the hearts of many of the Empire's high-ranking officials. The heir's capabilities were crucial to a nation's future. As discontent with Archduke Karl grew among many, there was a fervent desire for a more capable and sagacious successor. But, without a more suitable candidate, they were left with little choice.
As one of the great powers of the world, the Austro-Hungarian Empire was now facing a dire and complicated future, its internal strife compounded by Germany's growing wariness. The situation for the Empire was becoming increasingly precarious, and its leaders felt powerless in the face of such overwhelming challenges.
Nevertheless, Germany's actions in suppressing the Austro-Hungarian Empire had undeniably left a rift between the two nations. As time passed, that rift would only grow wider. It was only a matter of time before the two former allies could become bitter enemies.
Upon receiving instructions from Vienna, Archduke Karl and Baron Berchtold complied, abandoning their previous hardline stance in the peace negotiations with the Kingdom of Italy.
After Italy raised the war indemnity to 6 billion marks, the Austro-Hungarian delegation reluctantly accepted the terms.
"The agreement between the Austro-Hungarian Empire and the Kingdom of Italy is undoubtedly the best outcome. A war, thus, has been averted, and this is crucial in maintaining peace in Europe," said German Foreign Minister von Wicht, his face alight with a smile.
Italian Foreign Minister Paolo Boselli beamed as well. What they had initially expected to be a devastating cost for Italy had turned out to be far less than anticipated.
Of course, the total 26 billion marks in reparations remained a substantial burden for Italy, but it was still far less than the 50 billion crowns that the Austro-Hungarians had initially demanded. Adding to Italy's woes was the loss of substantial territories and all its overseas colonies. The country had suffered a severe blow, and recovery would take years.
The Austro-Hungarian delegation, however, looked far less pleased, their expressions cold and sour as though they had been wronged.
As the Austro-Hungarians signed the treaty with Italy, stipulating a payment of 6 billion marks in reparations to be paid in full within three years, the transfer of Venice and its eastern territories to the Empire, and the cession of Italy's East African colonies, Archduke Karl and his entourage left Berlin without attending the celebratory banquet. They hurried to the train station, eager to return to Vienna, their hearts filled with anger and resentment.
As the special train pulled away from the station, Archduke Karl gazed out the window at the bustling city of Berlin, his eyes seething with fury. "The Germans will pay for this," he muttered under his breath. "Oscar, I swear, the humiliation you've inflicted upon the Austro-Hungarian Empire, I will repay tenfold!"