"Your Majesty, the people of the island nation remain steadfast in their refusal to yield, even after we have destroyed eight of their major cities. Are we truly prepared to annihilate every coastal city of theirs? The consequences of such an action would be far too great!" Marshal Count Tirpitz inquired.
It became apparent to all that they had severely underestimated the Germans' degree of obstinacy. They had initially believed that the islanders would soon surrender, especially after their navy had been decimated. It seemed that there would be no recourse but submission to the German Empire. Yet, to everyone's astonishment, the islanders were still clenching their teeth in defiance.
"Destroying all the coastal cities of the island nation is unfeasible. If we resort to such measures, we would truly become synonymous with ruthless slaughter," Qin Tian said, shaking his head.
"However, we cannot afford to delay indefinitely. The supply lines of the expeditionary fleet are on the verge of collapse. If we cannot force the islanders to submit, our only options will be to either recall the fleet or send more transport ships to the island," Marshal Count Tirpitz added.
Qin Tian furrowed his brow, sensing the gravity of the situation. It was indeed a tricky dilemma.
"Your Majesty, our forces have discovered that the islanders are looting wealth and resources from their Southeast Asian colonies. Clearly, they are preparing for an escape. If we do not make them compromise quickly, we will suffer significant losses," Admiral Shiluo warned.
"Does the expeditionary fleet have any suggestions?" Qin Tian inquired.
Since the expeditionary fleet was positioned near the island, they possessed a far more comprehensive understanding of the situation. Thus, Qin Tian was eager to hear their opinion, as it would aid in his decision-making.
"Your Majesty, the expeditionary fleet proposes forcing our way into Tokyo Bay and launching a direct assault on the capital. Should we succeed in destroying Tokyo, the shock to the islanders would be unparalleled. At that point, they would likely have no choice but to submit," Marshal Count Tirpitz reported.
"To force our way into Tokyo Bay? That is indeed a plausible strategy. However, as the capital of the island nation, Tokyo Bay's defenses are undoubtedly formidable. The defenses of the Uraga Strait are no less difficult to breach," Qin Tian acknowledged, fully aware of the immense challenges involved.
"Indeed, Your Majesty. But this remains one of the most effective means of compelling the islanders to yield. The expeditionary fleet will ensure all preparations are in place!" Marshal Count Tirpitz assured.
Qin Tian nodded. "Very well, inform General Spee that I have approved their plan. However, they must prioritize the safety of their forces. If the losses are too great, I would rather forgo the operation."
Qin Tian had always placed great importance on the safety of his troops, making it his foremost concern.
"Yes, Your Majesty," Marshal Count Tirpitz replied.
At Sagami Bay, the main force of the German expeditionary fleet had gathered. After they had laid waste to Northern Kyushu, they found that the islanders still refused to capitulate. Vice Admiral Spee had ordered the fleet to return to Sagami Bay while dispatching a telegram to the homeland, seeking approval for his proposed plan.
"Have we secured a safe route through the Uraga Strait?" Vice Admiral Spee inquired.
"General, it has been difficult. We have only managed to send reconnaissance seaplanes and destroyers to test the waters. We have barely identified a relatively safe route, but we cannot guarantee its absolute safety," Rear Admiral Mohr reported gravely.
Vice Admiral Spee nodded, fully aware that nothing could ever be completely certain.
"Let us use our strongest 'Mackensen-class' battlecruisers to clear the path. Their formidable defenses may be able to withstand the impact of mines," Vice Admiral Spee proposed.
"General, the 'Mackensen-class' battlecruisers indeed possess formidable defenses. A single mine strike would likely cause minimal damage. Even if the armor is breached, the ship would not suffer catastrophic harm. However, if multiple mines are triggered in succession, the situation becomes far more perilous," Rear Admiral Mohr cautioned.
Despite the risks, Vice Admiral Spee was determined to proceed with the plan.
"General, we also have to be wary of the coastal defense artillery stationed along the Uraga Strait. Unlike other areas of the island nation, the coastal defense positions along the Uraga Strait are the most advanced, with the main guns boasting a caliber of up to 305 millimeters. Our battlecruisers can withstand the fire, but light cruisers and destroyers would likely face grave difficulties," Rear Admiral Mohr advised.
"Indeed, this is a concern. However, we can have the battlecruisers lead the way, with light cruisers and destroyers following at full speed. Alternatively, while the battlecruisers suppress the islanders' coastal defenses, we can create a safe passage for the lighter ships," Vice Admiral Spee suggested.
Rear Admiral Mohr nodded. "That should prove effective. However, once we enter Tokyo Bay, we must be prepared for a counterattack by the islanders' destroyer flotillas. I am certain they will fight to the death at that point. Our fleet must be on guard once we enter Tokyo Bay!"
"Indeed! The islanders likely have few destroyers remaining. If we launch a surprise attack, they may not have time to react before we enter the Uraga Strait. Once inside, our risks will be significantly reduced," Vice Admiral Spee concluded.
"Yes, General," Rear Admiral Mohr affirmed.
"Since preparations are in place, we will begin the operation tomorrow morning. This time, we will breach the Uraga Strait and enter Tokyo Bay. Let the islanders know the cost of angering the Empire. Once Tokyo is destroyed, I cannot believe the islanders will have the courage to persist further," Vice Admiral Spee declared.
"Yes, General!" Rear Admiral Mohr nodded.
Though the forceful entry into Tokyo Bay and the attack on the capital could result in casualties, the overall threat was not deemed insurmountable. This made the German expeditionary fleet hopeful that this risky venture would bring them the final victory.
At 4 AM on August 19, the German expeditionary fleet set sail, preparing to navigate the Uraga Strait.