Time passed steadily, and the entire German Empire became engulfed in a wave of euphoria over their victory in the world war. Although the German Army and Navy continued their operations against Britain's overseas colonies, these were but small-scale conflicts. They hardly affected the lives of the German populace.
The everyday life of the German people began to shift as well. Rationing of agricultural products and goods was abolished, and as long as one had money, any desired product could be purchased. Additionally, due to the war, Germany's industrial production was operating at full capacity, ensuring that nearly every citizen had employment and enjoyed a more prosperous life.
As their living conditions improved, the support of the German populace for their Emperor and government naturally grew stronger.
The upcoming military parade sparked an immense enthusiasm among the people. Those who could afford it flocked to Berlin or Wilhelmshaven, eager to witness the grand display of military might, whether in the form of a military or naval review.
Meanwhile, representatives from various nations were hastening toward Germany, eager not to miss the event, particularly those nations hoping to align themselves with the new global hegemon—Germany.
As the American Secretary of State, William Jennings Bryan, representing the United States, embarked aboard a warship toward Germany, he arrived in Berlin on November 12. His early arrival was not simply for the event but because he had other matters to discuss with the German government.
By now, the British Isles had fallen, and Germany had full control of British soil, even installing three puppet states on the British mainland. Furthermore, a peace treaty had been signed with the United Kingdom of England and Wales, which had inherited the largest portion of the British Empire. However, this did not signify the end of the war—at least not between Germany and the British Empire.
Churchill and his government had fled to Canada, suffering tremendous losses. Though they had begun to utilize royal wealth to rebuild their strength, particularly their military capabilities, restoring military power was no easy task—it required time and effort. Would Germany allow them that time? The odds were slim. Once the German Army crossed the Atlantic and launched an assault on Canada, the British would be unable to resist unless the United States made a clear stand to support Britain and even sent military forces to fight alongside them. Only then could the British hope to maintain a foothold in Canada.
Bryan's mission to Germany was authorized by President Woodrow Wilson, as he sought to engage in negotiations. The United States hoped that Germany would refrain from military action against Canada. Of course, the Americans knew this would be a difficult request, but they had to assert their stance. Especially now that the U.S. and Britain had entered a deep cooperative relationship, it was vital for them to continue their partnership to secure the means to challenge Germany. Thus, the United States felt compelled to protect the remaining British interests in Canada.
Upon his arrival in Berlin, Bryan immediately requested an audience with Emperor QinTian.
Despite the deteriorating relationship between Germany and the United States and the clandestine hostilities that had already begun, outwardly, the two nations had yet to openly sever ties.
After receiving a report from Foreign Minister Wascht, Emperor QinTian agreed to meet with Bryan.
The following morning, Bryan entered the Imperial Palace to meet the Emperor.
"Your Majesty, I bring the most sincere greetings from President Wilson," Bryan said, bowing respectfully. Despite QinTian's youth, Bryan did not underestimate him.
Indeed, QinTian now stood as one of the most powerful men on Earth, and there were few, if any, who could afford to disregard him.
"Secretary Bryan, please convey my regards to President Wilson as well," QinTian replied with a warm smile.
Despite the tensions between the two nations, a certain level of diplomatic cordiality had to be maintained.
"Certainly, Your Majesty," Bryan nodded.
After exchanging pleasantries, Bryan, representing the United States, congratulated Germany on its victory in the war. Although the U.S. had provided substantial support to the Allied powers, including selling active naval ships to Britain, they had not directly engaged in the world conflict. However, this had not spared them from considerable losses.
The United States had provided vast amounts of war supplies, much of which had been lent to the Allies. With the defeat of the Allied powers, it was unlikely that those loans would ever be repaid. The defeated French would certainly not honor their debts, and even if the British did, they could not possibly afford to repay the sums.
Moreover, this war had been an unprecedented opportunity for the United States to rise to power. Through it, they could have profited greatly, reaping enormous wealth and potentially positioning themselves as the world's most powerful nation once Europe had been shattered.
But, alas, Germany's swift victory in the war had dashed those ambitions. The Americans had never had the chance to intervene meaningfully. Had they joined the war in its early stages, they might have posed a significant threat to Germany, even potentially altering the course of the conflict. However, by the time they considered involvement, Germany had already secured a decisive victory, and even if the United States had entered at that point, it might not have been enough to change the outcome. Therefore, the Americans had no choice but to accept their fate, watching helplessly as Germany claimed victory and ascended to global supremacy.
"Your Majesty, the war with Britain has now concluded, and British soil is entirely under German control. The United States earnestly hopes that the conflict will end here," Bryan said.
QinTian furrowed his brow. There seemed to be an underlying message in Bryan's words.
"Secretary Bryan, what exactly is the United States implying?" QinTian inquired.
"Your Majesty, the United States does not wish for the war to spill over into the Americas," Bryan clarified, making his position abundantly clear.
QinTian's expression darkened. Even at this stage, the Americans still sought to dictate terms to Germany? Did they not realize that Germany had already become the world's dominant power? The United States could not even compare to Germany's strength. Had it not been for the enormous resources Germany had already expended in this war, QinTian would have long since ordered an invasion of Canada.