Calculating Against Allies

"As for peace talks with the Italians, we can discuss them after the Austro-Hungarian Empire's representatives arrive. Put them last. First negotiate peace with the French, then with the Italians," Oscar said.

The Austro-Hungarian Empire was Germany's ally. Although it had not contributed much in this war, if it had not tied down a large number of Russian troops at the start of the war, it would not have been so easy for Germany to win. At the very least, Germany would have paid a far greater price. Moreover, in the war against Italy, the Austro-Hungarian Empire was the main force. Though its army's combat strength was rather poor, the Italians were even worse! With Russia already out of the war, if the Austro-Hungarian Empire launched an all-out assault on Italy, the Italians would simply be unable to withstand it. If the Austro-Hungarian Empire had not been trying to preserve its strength, it might well have defeated Italy long ago.

Of course, Oscar had always remembered that the relationship between Germany and the Austro-Hungarian Empire would gradually change as the situation developed. When the war broke out, the two nations had been intimate allies. But as victory gradually came within reach, their interests would also collide. Especially after the war was won, the two nations would inevitably develop even more conflicts over an unequal division of the spoils. Under such circumstances, their relationship would certainly worsen by the day, perhaps even turning into confrontation.

The European continent was too small. With a great power like Germany already present, there was room for no other great power. Even to ensure Germany's status and security, Oscar would have to suppress the Austro-Hungarian Empire going forward.

What was more, the Crown Prince of the Austro-Hungarian Empire had always been hostile toward Germany. That