When Crown Prince Karl left the American Embassy with a smile on his face, it was already the dead of night. Still, he was more than satisfied with the benefits he had obtained from the Americans. A low-interest loan of two hundred million dollars was already a considerable sum for the Austro-Hungarian Empire. They could use the money to further develop their military strength and raise the capabilities of both the Austro-Hungarian Empire Army and Navy. Then, even if they tore all ties with Germany in the future, they would not be left without the strength to resist.
However, Baron von Berchtold, the Austro-Hungarian Foreign Minister who rode back with Crown Prince Karl, did not see it that way. He believed that the Crown Prince's actions were inviting trouble for the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Although the Austro-Hungarian Empire had won the World War, it had gained little from it. Meanwhile, domestic conflicts were becoming increasingly acute. On top of that, Austrian Emperor Franz Joseph I was nearing the end of his strength. The Austro-Hungarian Empire was truly beset by troubles on every side! Offending Germany at such a time—was that not simply asking for trouble?
"Your Highness, this is German territory. It does not seem appropriate for us to meet with the Americans like this. If the Germans find out, the consequences could be serious," Baron von Berchtold said.
"Rest assured, Your Excellency. The Germans will not know what I discussed with the Americans. Besides, even if they do find out, without solid evidence, there is nothing they can do to us. Germany may be stronger than the Austro-Hungarian Empire, but we are not clay for them to knead round and flatten," Crown Prince Karl said indifferently.
"Your Highness, no matter what, Germany is the world's hegemon. No one can deny