The Military Parade had been a tremendous success. The representatives of every nation had witnessed the valiant bearing of the German military. They all lamented that Germany's victory in this World War had indeed been no accident. Setting everything else aside, their armies alone were absolutely no match for Germany's.
That evening's banquet was even more enjoyable for both hosts and guests. The smaller nations in particular had already switched into thigh-hugging mode. Having witnessed Germany's formidable military strength, they all understood perfectly well that Germany's position as the world hegemon was firmly secured. At least for some time to come, no country would be able to contend with Germany. If they wanted to keep muddling along on the international stage, they had to cling tightly to the Germans' thigh.
Naturally, the nations that bore grudges against Germany, or were potential rivals, felt their hearts grow even heavier.
On December 19, Oscar and the entire delegation boarded a special train for Wilhelmshaven, preparing to attend the Naval Review the next day. Although the Military Parade had already made the nations feel Germany's strength, the Naval Review would undoubtedly deliver an even more direct and shocking impression. After all, warships that weighed tens of thousands of tons apiece looked like floating hills upon the sea.
On the 20th, Wilhelmshaven Naval Base was already packed to the brim. To allow the German people to witness the might of Germany's military firsthand, the naval base had been specially opened to the public that day. German people from all over the country had nearly crammed the entire naval base so tightly that not even water could seep through.
At nine in the morning, the Naval Review officially began. Admiral Reinhard Scheer, Commander of the High Seas Fleet and the officer in charge of this