Italy's Choice (Please Vote)

Paul Borselli fell silent, considering how to answer German Foreign Minister von Kiderlen-Wachth's question. He knew full well that if they offended both Germany and the Austro-Hungarian Empire at once, the Kingdom of Italy would be finished. Germany's formidable army could wipe out the Kingdom of Italy in an instant, leaving them without even the slightest chance to turn the tables.

The conditions Germany had proposed were likewise extremely harsh for the Kingdom of Italy. But compared with those of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, they were somewhat more lenient.

"Your Excellency, Germany's conditions are too harsh. The Kingdom of Italy cannot bear them. If the German Empire can lower them a little, the Kingdom of Italy can accept."

Wachth shook his head. "I regret to say that this is already the Empire's bottom line. There is no possibility of lowering it by even half a step."

Wachth's attitude was undoubtedly rather hard-line. Of course, he had every right to be so hard-line. The German Empire's immense strength allowed him to make such demands.

Paul Borselli thought for a moment before speaking. "Your Excellency, I need to report this to my country."

This was undoubtedly a tactful way of putting it. Faced with Germany's demands, even Italy's domestic leadership would likely have no way to refuse.

Wachth nodded in satisfaction and said no more. He knew that Italy could not reject Germany's demands, and that Germany's interests would be satisfied.

Crown Prince Karl's expression immediately turned extremely ugly. The Germans and Italians had struck a deal right before his eyes. This was outright disregard for him, a provocation against the Austro-Hungarian Empire. If he could endure that, then the sun truly would rise in the west.

"So Italy intends to meet Germany's demands while rejecting those of the Austro-Hungarian Empire?" Crown Prince