Chapter 0113: Engagement

That evening, as the members of the Bavarian royal family gathered for dinner, Qin Tian and Princess Gundelinde appeared hand in hand before everyone, causing a collective gasp of astonishment.

Although Qin Tian and Princess Gundelinde's relationship had been deepening in recent days, they had not publicly displayed much intimacy. However, it was evident that everything had now changed.

Ludwig III observed the scene with a satisfied nod, feeling content that his daughter had found a worthy companion.

Several princes wore broad smiles; having the heir to the German Empire as their brother-in-law was undeniably a matter of prestige. More importantly, this alliance would yield greater benefits for the Bavarian royal family.

A few princesses, perhaps fueled by feminine rivalry, felt a twinge of resentment. During Qin Tian's stay, some had entertained thoughts of winning his affections away from Gundelinde, even putting those thoughts into action, albeit unsuccessfully. While no cat is without its curiosities, Qin Tian's focus was entirely on Gundelinde, leaving little room for anyone else.

"Your Majesty, I have officially proposed to Princess Gundelinde, and she has accepted. I humbly seek your approval for our union," Qin Tian declared to Ludwig III.

"What? A proposal?" The members of the Bavarian royal family were once again taken aback. They had not anticipated such swift progress between Qin Tian and Gundelinde.

Even Ludwig III was momentarily stunned; it had only been a few days, and these two had already reached the point of discussing marriage.

"Gundelinde, is what the Crown Prince says true?" Ludwig III turned to his daughter, though he already knew the answer.

"Yes, Father, I wish to be with Oscar and become his wife," Princess Gundelinde replied, summoning courage as she met her father's gaze.

"Very well, since both of you are in agreement, I have no objections. However, Crown Prince, will you not first consult His Majesty the Emperor?" Ludwig III inquired.

"Your Majesty, I shall return to Berlin tomorrow to seek my father's opinion. I am confident he will agree," Qin Tian responded with assurance.

Ludwig III nodded, choosing not to press further. Since Qin Tian was so certain, he was happy to endorse the union between the Bavarian royal family and the imperial family, believing it would bring happiness to Gundelinde and great benefit to Bavaria.

The other members of the Bavarian royal family offered their heartfelt congratulations to Qin Tian and Gundelinde, eager for the opportunity to unite with the imperial family.

"Crown Prince, Gundelinde will not turn eighteen until next year. I propose that if His Majesty the Emperor has no objections, you could become engaged this year and marry next year. What do you think?" Ludwig III suggested.

"Your Majesty, I have no objections to this plan. Upon my return to Berlin, I will formally inform my father. I believe he will not oppose it," Qin Tian replied. Wilhelm II had long agreed not to interfere in this matter, so both the engagement and marriage should encounter no resistance.

Early the next morning, Qin Tian departed Munich on a special train. At the station, he and Princess Gundelinde embraced passionately, oblivious to the gazes of onlookers, sharing a fervent kiss.

Though their acquaintance was brief, their bond had developed rapidly. Apart from the final step, they had already engaged in everything else, which filled the once-reclusive Qin Tian with a sense of pride.

On July 10, Qin Tian returned to Berlin. Directly upon arrival, he made his way to the palace to seek an audience with Wilhelm II.

"Oscar, welcome back! How did your trip to Munich go?" Wilhelm II asked with a smile, fully aware of Qin Tian's activities through the royal family's intelligence network.

"Father, I am extremely pleased with my visit to Munich. Princess Gundelinde and I have become a couple," Qin Tian announced joyfully.

"Ha! Well done! Oscar, to win the heart of a beautiful princess so quickly is quite an achievement," Wilhelm II laughed heartily.

"Father, I have returned to inform you that I proposed to Princess Gundelinde, and she accepted. King Ludwig III raised no objections. I now formally seek your approval," Qin Tian stated.

Though he framed it as seeking counsel, Qin Tian had already made up his mind. Wilhelm II understood this, and he certainly would not oppose it; doing so would jeopardize their relationship.

"Oscar, you are my most exceptional son, and I support your choice," Wilhelm II declared.

"Thank you, Father!" Qin Tian responded with genuine joy.

"Father, King Ludwig III has proposed that since Gundelinde will not turn eighteen until next year, we could become engaged this year and marry next year," Qin Tian added.

Wilhelm II nodded in agreement, "Certainly, that poses no issue. You may set the engagement for this year and marry next year."

Afterward, the arrangements became a matter between Wilhelm II and Ludwig III, who decided to announce the engagement a month later.

When the news broke, it sent shockwaves throughout Germany. Although it was already well-known that Qin Tian had taken a liking to Princess Gundelinde, the swiftness of their union surprised everyone. Countless noble maidens found themselves disheartened.

Even though marriage could be dissolved, especially since this was merely an engagement, it was rare for an emperor or crown prince to divorce. This signified that many of these young women had lost their chances. Yet, regardless of their discontent, they could not change the unfolding events.

On August 18, 1908, Qin Tian and Princess Gundelinde officially became engaged in Berlin, with their wedding date set for the following September, the month after Gundelinde's eighteenth birthday.