"Then how about we agree to the Germans' demands? Our face may suffer somewhat, but at least we won't be attacked by the Germans. That would be the best outcome for the Kingdom," Alfonso XIII said.
Clearly, after being intimidated by the German Ambassador, he had begun leaning toward compromise with the Germans.
"Your Majesty, if we compromise with the Germans, the Kingdom of Spain will surely become the laughingstock of the entire world. By then, our reputation will be dragged through the mud. At the same time, it may provoke public dissatisfaction at home and trigger another wave of anti-government riots. If that happens, the consequences will be impossible to predict," Count Romanones said worriedly.
A trace of conflict appeared on Alfonso XIII's face. At such a critical moment, his inability to make decisions had flared up again. For a monarch without resolve, being asked to make a choice in such a complicated situation was simply too difficult.
"Your Majesty, the German Ambassador acted stern and fierce. But perhaps that is precisely proof that they lack the determination to go to war with us. They merely want to frighten us into accepting their terms. If we compromise now, then we will truly have fallen into their trap," Preto said.
"Is that really so?" Alfonso XIII asked doubtfully.
"Your Majesty, why don't we wait a little longer? We can gather information from other sources before making a decision," Preto suggested.
"Very well. Gather intelligence from other sources and report back to me as soon as possible. The time the Germans have given us is running out," Alfonso XIII said, heavy with worry. He had a feeling that his country was facing an enormous crisis. One careless misstep, and it could be destroyed.
Count Romanones and Preto left the royal palace,