"Good! Russia can support Bulgaria's expansion in the Balkans, but only to keep the other great powers in check. We won't send troops ourselves!" Nicholas had calmed down. Though Ferdinand's promise was tempting, the chances of success were slim, and he had no intention of investing too much.
Though Ferdinand knew what Nicholas had in mind, he didn't care. He had already achieved his real goal!
To keep the alliance secret, the agreement with Russia would certainly be a secret treaty, so it wouldn't have much diplomatic impact. Bulgaria could obtain abundant mineral and human resources from Russia and complete its industrialization in the short term.
The international situation would change in the future. The Bear would suffer a crushing defeat in the Russo-Japanese War, and just as it recovered its strength, it would be caught up in the world war. The Bear would have no chance at all to carry out this strategy. The plan would remain a plan forever!
Historically, Bulgaria had stood alone in the Balkan Wars, without a single ally. That would no longer come to pass. Of course, this wasn't apparent yet. Although the pro-Russian faction had come to power in Serbia, they were still Austria-Hungary's little brother, and Russia had no choice of allies at this point. (Note: In 1891, Greece was in the British sphere of influence, while Romania had already signed a treaty with Germany and Austria-Hungary.)
After reaching a preliminary agreement with Nicholas, Ferdinand let out a deep sigh of relief.
Bulgaria's biggest obstacle to development had been overcome. Now it was time to develop with all its strength. They had to seize the moment and quickly leave the other Balkan countries far behind in national power.
Ferdinand wouldn't need to personally handle the negotiations from here on. Bulgaria had