"How are the preparations for the battleship auction? Are many nations registered?" QinTian inquired, showing little concern over the Austro-Hungarian Empire's association with the United States. His plans were already laid: once Emperor Franz Joseph I passed away, he intended to take action against the Austro-Hungarian Empire.
"There can be no rest for others where one lays their head. Although the German Empire now stands as the world's preeminent power, it cannot permit a neighboring state as strong as the Austro-Hungarian Empire to exist," he mused.
In later times, did not the mighty United States oppress neighboring nations, ensuring that none could grow into great powers and thereby safeguarding its own dominance? Germany must follow the same course. The Austro-Hungarian Empire, though an ally, lies too close for comfort. To guarantee its security, Germany must dismantle the empire, splintering it into smaller states—a move most aligned with German interests.
Breaking apart the Austro-Hungarian Empire would not pose much difficulty for Germany. This dual monarchy, an amalgamation of over a dozen kingdoms and principalities, held together primarily by Franz Joseph I's prestige, could scarcely remain unified under the Crown Prince Karl. Once Franz Joseph I was gone, a little German interference could ignite the fissures, rendering the empire's dissolution all but inevitable and securing Germany's safety.
Russia, another formidable neighbor, presented a different challenge. Germany's territorial gains from the war had pushed its eastern borders far into Russian lands. Yet Russia, unlike the Austro-Hungarian Empire, was far tougher to contend with. Dealing with Russia required a long-term strategy. Only after neutralizing all nearby powers could Germany focus on contesting the United States for global supremacy.
Of course, such endeavors required time. With his vision established, QinTian trusted his ministers and generals to work toward these goals. Success, he believed, was not far off.
"Your Majesty, numerous nations have registered for the auction. The Austro-Hungarian Empire, the Ottoman Empire, Chile, Argentina, and Brazil have all submitted deposits," reported Grand Admiral Count Tirpitz.
"The Austro-Hungarian Empire? They're participating as well?" QinTian raised an eyebrow. He had assumed only smaller nations would compete, as major powers, capable of building their own capital ships, would have little interest in Germany's retired vessels, which lagged behind the active fleet in performance.
"Indeed, Your Majesty. The Austro-Hungarian Navy is quite weak, relying on just four Tegetthoff-class battleships, with another four Monarch-class ships under construction. Given their international standing, such a fleet is underwhelming. They likely see this auction as an opportunity to bolster their strength. Even our retired ships outperform their current ones, making this purchase advantageous for them," explained Tirpitz.
QinTian nodded. For the Austro-Hungarian Empire, acquiring these battleships was indeed the optimal choice for enhancing their naval power.
"Do they have the funds for this? Although these are retired ships, fierce competition could drive prices significantly higher," QinTian remarked.
"The Austro-Hungarian Empire's finances are indeed strained, but their recent alliance with the wealthy Americans might provide them with substantial support," Tirpitz responded.
"Your Majesty, if the Austro-Hungarian Empire strengthens its navy, it could jeopardize our Mediterranean interests. Should we bar them from participating?" proposed General von Falkenhayn.
QinTian shook his head. "We promised open participation to all interested nations. Reneging now would harm our reputation. Besides, these are ships we no longer value. Even if the Austro-Hungarian Empire acquires them, it's of no consequence. Our ability to sink them remains unquestioned."
"That's true," Tirpitz agreed. "Even if they purchase the ships, their naval strength won't pose a serious challenge. However, sinking our own creations does leave a bitter taste," he admitted, prompting laughter from the assembled ministers.
The auction soon commenced, sparking excitement among the participants. Nations had already inspected the vessels and were impressed. Despite years of service and participation in major battles, the ships remained formidable. Purchasing them would significantly enhance any navy, and with proper maintenance, these ships could remain operational for another decade, perhaps even two.
Vice Admiral Hipper, Chief of Staff of the High Seas Fleet, presided over the proceedings.
"Gentlemen, the auction is now underway. Our first lot comprises four Nassau-class battleships, which will be auctioned individually," Hipper announced, detailing their specifications.
The opening bid for each Nassau-class battleship was set at 20 million marks—less than half their original construction cost. Hipper was confident that competition would drive the price much higher.
"Twenty-two million marks!" declared Fatih Pasha, representing the Ottoman Empire, eager to strengthen their navy after losing two dreadnoughts to British confiscation.
"Twenty-five million marks!" countered Chile's Minister of the Navy, underscoring their determination to secure the warship.