Deterrence

In addition, there were the usage fees for the Wooden Railway and the wages of the porters.

Baden had a population of barely over two million. These revenues alone would raise living standards across the country by a considerable margin.

Frederick tried to calm himself and said with a flattering smile:

"Your Highness, the cost of building the Wooden Railway... You know our financial situation. I'm afraid we cannot come up with that much money."

"You need not worry." Joseph raised his wineglass to him. "The French Reserve Bank will provide you with a loan of 900,000 Francs for laying the tracks. You need only supply the workers."

Frederick's lips curled upward in excitement. He raised his glass and clinked it against Joseph's.

"To Franco-Baden friendship! I truly do not know how to express my gratitude, Crown Prince. You shall forever be my most sincere friend. May God bless you!"

Joseph took a sip of Wine, set down his glass, and adopted a solemn expression.

"Your Majesty, once such an important trade route is completed, I fear it may draw the covetous eyes of certain ill-intentioned countries, who may even launch a war to destroy it."

Frederick froze. Baden was surrounded by France, Württemberg, and Austria. The first two were on good terms with us, while Austria, seeking to win over the German States, had been all smiles toward us as well. Who would attack us?

Before he could ask, Joseph continued in a firm tone, "To protect the trade route, our two countries should rehearse in advance how to resist invaders!"

"Ah? You mean...?"

"I propose that France and Baden each dispatch a force to conduct a Joint Military Exercise along the trade route."

"This... is that really necessary?" Though Frederick had never heard the term "Joint Military Exercise,"