After dismissing everyone, the tension on Franz's face instantly eased. It was clear that he had not truly been angry.
The army, navy, and air force competing for military funding was only natural; it was also part of the balance of power. If none of the three services fought for it, that would be the real problem.
Seeing that Franz was not angry, Friedrich asked with concern, "Father, which of the three proposals the military just presented do you favor?"
It had nothing to do with curiosity. Friedrich genuinely could not make up his mind and had no idea whom he should support.
On the surface, the strategic plans proposed by the army, navy, and air force were all highly feasible. If any one of them succeeded, it could bring the Holy Roman Empire to its pinnacle.
They were all "high-quality strategies," with no clear superiority or inferiority to analyze. Instead, they only made the choice more difficult.
"Is that important?"
Franz asked in return.
It was as though he had been struck by a question aimed at his very soul. The words Is that important? kept flashing through Friedrich's mind. It seemed very important, yet it also seemed not important at all.
The Holy Roman military was still competent. Although each of the three proposals had its own flaws, they ultimately led to the same destination by different paths.
None of the other competitors had yet grown strong. As long as they pulled the British down from their horse, the Holy Roman Empire would become the one and only world hegemon.
After a long while, Friedrich slowly replied, "I understand."
Looking at his solemn-faced son, Franz smiled. "No, you don't understand. In fact, we have no choice at all.
"Politics has never judged victory and defeat by right or