The Situation in the South

At the end of the year, Ernst returned to East Africa after concluding his European visit. East Africa had actually been quite popular during this trip, with Germany being particularly enthusiastic.

This was much like the welcome attitude Western countries had shown toward the Far East Empire during the 2008 financial crisis in his previous life. In the 1970s, East Africa's importance to Germany had risen by several levels. It played an important role in stabilizing the German economy while also making Germany recognize part of East Africa's strength.

In his previous life, there had been an Italy, courted by all sides. Now Italy had split into three countries, with part of it occupied by the Austro-Hungarian Empire. This left Europe itself with one less great power, bringing East Africa into Germany's field of vision. However, East Africa was ultimately in Africa, so its importance still fell short of the Ottoman Empire's.

Nor did East Africa need to choose sides too early, so it remained rather ambiguous in response to Germany's overtures. In essence, however, it still leaned more toward Germany, or rather, the German camp.

After all, East Africa was also a country within the German system. Politically, economically, culturally, and militarily, it naturally gravitated toward the German territories. Yet East Africa's geographic position and strength allowed it to remain neutral.

"Ernst, you've finally returned! Friedrich has missed you all terribly!" Constantin said in delight the moment he saw his son.

"Papa, Mama!" Friedrich threw himself into their arms. After more than half a year apart, the little fellow was not the least bit unfamiliar with them.

Ernst held the little fellow close and said to his father, "Father, now that I'm back, you can leave the rest to me."

Constantin said irritably, "These old bones of mine have