Marshal von Falkenhayn, the Minister of the Army and Chief of the General Staff, was not particularly pleased with the expansion of the Imperial Marine Corps. Tensions between the military branches were inevitable. Although even with the proposed expansion, the Marine Corps would still pale in comparison to the Army, which currently boasted a formidable twelve corps.
Despite his reservations about the Marine Corps' growth, von Falkenhayn could not deny their exceptional performance in amphibious operations. Had it not been for their valiant efforts, the German Army would have paid a steep price during the initial landings on British soil.
However, the Marshal had firmly resolved that the Marine Corps could expand only to ten divisions. Should they seek further enlargement, he would vehemently oppose it.
"Gentlemen," Emperor QinTian began, his voice both firm and resolute, "this war is now behind us. The Empire has achieved its long-awaited goal—our victory has crowned us the new masters of the world. To honor the bravery of our soldiers and to demonstrate the immense strength of the Empire, I have decided to hold a grand military parade in Berlin. We will show the world the might of Germany's military power and instill a sense of awe in our enemies! At the same time, the citizens of our Empire will see firsthand the greatness of their nation."
"A military parade?" The military and political ministers exchanged looks of uncertainty. While they all understood the significance of such an event, the scale QinTian envisioned seemed extravagant, and the financial cost would be considerable.
Prime Minister Bülow opened his mouth to offer counsel, but upon seeing the Emperor's eager expression, he thought better of it and kept silent.
Given that the Empire had triumphed in the war, showcasing its military prowess was not only justifiable but essential.
"Well then, Your Majesty," Bülow finally agreed, "the Cabinet supports the idea of the parade. We could invite all foreign envoys stationed in the Empire or even extend invitations to the heads of state from other nations. The fact that the Empire has displaced Britain as the world's dominant power makes this an ideal opportunity to showcase our strength. This will undoubtedly reinforce the Empire's leadership on the global stage."
"Very well, then," QinTian declared with palpable excitement. "Marshal von Falkenhayn, the parade will be your responsibility. Ensure that the world witnesses the might of the Empire!"
At that moment, QinTian could not help but feel a surge of pride. The German Empire was now the most powerful nation on earth. Its military strength was overwhelming, capable of crushing any adversary. Having just secured a decisive victory, this was the perfect moment for a grand display. Certainly, a parade would serve as a fitting tribute to their triumph. Moreover, QinTian harbored a fond nostalgia for military parades from another time and place—those majestic, disciplined formations, the precision of every march, which stirred his very soul.
"Understood, Your Majesty!" Marshal von Falkenhayn nodded in agreement. He too recognized the value of showcasing the Empire's military might, and he had no objection to the parade.
"Your Majesty, if we are to have a parade, the Army and Army Air Corps should certainly participate. But there is no place for us, the Navy! I strongly request that a naval review be held in Wilhelmshaven. Let the world know that the Imperial Navy is also second to none!" came the sharp interjection of Count Tirpitz, the Minister of the Navy.
Naturally, such a public event as a military parade, which showcased the triumph of one branch, could not neglect the others. The Navy, just as much as the Army, deserved recognition.
QinTian pondered the suggestion and nodded thoughtfully. Both the Army and Navy were equally vital to the Empire's status as the world's preeminent power. A parade for the Army alone would not suffice; the Navy's strength also needed to be acknowledged.
"Agreed," the Emperor said decisively. "We will have the parade in Berlin and a naval review in Wilhelmshaven!"
"Thank you, Your Majesty!" Count Tirpitz responded with enthusiasm. He was determined to make the naval review an event that would leave an indelible impression on the world, reinforcing the supremacy of the German Navy.
The date for the military parade was set for December 18, with the naval review scheduled two days later, on December 20, in Wilhelmshaven.
Once the plans were confirmed, both the Army and Navy set to work. Each of the Army's corps had to select representatives to participate, and long rehearsals were planned.
The naval review, though less complex, still required significant preparation. The scattered fleets needed time to return to Germany, and some of Germany's secret naval assets, such as aircraft carriers, would not be present at the review.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs sent invitations to foreign heads of state, urging them to attend the event. With the German Empire now the world's dominant power, almost every nation eagerly accepted, sending their representatives to witness the parade.
The Japanese Empire, for instance, sent Crown Prince Hirohito and Foreign Minister Kato Takakami. The Japanese Emperor was too unstable to represent the nation himself, fearing diplomatic complications. Crown Prince Hirohito, though only 14, was mature beyond his years and would serve as an appropriate representative.
The United States, under President Woodrow Wilson, declined to send a representative, opting instead for Secretary of State William Jennings Bryan. Given that the United States was expected to be Germany's primary competitor in the near future, the diplomatic distance was clear.
Austria-Hungary, as an ally of Germany, sent Crown Prince Karl to represent the Empire. Though Franz Joseph I, the Emperor of Austria-Hungary, was in his final years, Crown Prince Karl had already taken on the responsibilities of state. Despite this, his antagonism toward Germany had only grown stronger in recent years.
The Russian Empire, though isolated from much of the world, maintained cordial relations with Germany. Joseph, the representative of the Soviet Union, was chosen to attend the parade and participate in a private meeting with Emperor QinTian.
Smaller nations also eagerly sent their leaders to the event, eager to solidify their relationships with the new world power. The German Empire, now the undisputed leader of the globe, was the center of the world stage, and everyone sought to bask in its newfound glory.