Chapter 0128: Determination

Suppressing the anger within, Qin Tian greeted each of the commanders of the 8th Army Corps with a smile. These officers were the principal leaders of the various units, and to fully command the 8th Army Corps, gaining their support was imperative. 

Certainly, individuals like General Pritwitz, who lacked discernment, were exceedingly rare. Qin Tian was not only the newly appointed commander of the 8th Army Corps but also the imperial heir. Given this dual identity, few would dare to provoke him; it would be sheer folly to invite ruin upon oneself.

Following their meeting, the group proceeded to the 8th Army Corps headquarters, where Generals François and Hindenburg had prepared a sumptuous dinner, eagerly awaiting their arrival in Königsberg. 

Despite the absence of a crucial commander, the dinner atmosphere was convivial. Qin Tian's approachable demeanor allayed the officers' initial doubts. Moreover, he announced his intention to allocate greater resources to bolster the strength of the 8th Army Corps, a promise that pleased the assembled leaders immensely.

"Gentlemen, the international situation grows increasingly tense. I can assert with certainty that war will erupt, and within five years at the most. Thus, we must ready ourselves for battle. Our adversary will be the Russians, who, apart from their numerical superiority, possess little else in their favor. Engaging the Russians will offer us a monumental opportunity for glory. I hope that when war breaks out, we can send them fleeing in disgrace. With valorous deeds, medals will come easily, and promotions will be well-deserved!" Qin Tian addressed them passionately.

As the adage goes, a soldier who does not aspire to become a general is not a good soldier. These generals, too, harbored lofty ambitions of ascending in rank, even aspiring to become Field Marshals of the Empire. Such aspirations hinged upon martial success.

While they recognized the immense pressure of facing the Russians with a force of merely several hundred thousand, they also perceived a significant opportunity. The Russian army was poorly equipped and lacked combat effectiveness. Should hostilities commence, these German leaders were confident in their ability to overcome the odds. A decisive victory against the Russian forces would bring them unparalleled accolades, as Qin Tian had suggested.

Yet, they understood that defeating an army of over a million with a mere few hundred thousand was no small feat. However, if the Austro-Hungarian Empire could lend support, it might just be achievable.

The officers' gazes toward Qin Tian began to radiate enthusiasm. They now felt that having him as their commander was not a misfortune; perhaps, following his lead could yield greater opportunities in the future.

After dinner, Generals Hindenburg and Ludendorff remained, while the others returned to their respective units. 

"Your Highness, General Pritwitz's recent behavior was a clear provocation and a substantial blow to your standing. If this situation is not handled judiciously, your authority within the army may suffer considerably," Hindenburg expressed with concern.

"It would be best to reassign Pritwitz from the 8th Army Corps," Ludendorff suggested.

Qin Tian nodded, "I certainly wish to expel that individual from the 8th Army Corps, but it will be quite difficult. After all, he is favored by His Majesty and enjoys a close friendship with Moltke."

Qin Tian held little fondness for Pritwitz. Despite his status as a favorite of Wilhelm II, his rise was based on amusing tales shared at the dining table rather than any genuine military acumen. Such a person could hardly be expected to possess significant military talent. Qin Tian envisioned making the 8th Army Corps the strongest unit in the German army, capable of delivering decisive blows to the Russians in future conflicts. If Pritwitz remained, it would undoubtedly undermine his plans, and he could not afford to see his hard work unravel.

Yet, he was aware that removing Pritwitz would be no simple task. Not only was Wilhelm II likely to resist, but Moltke would surely oppose it vehemently. Moltke had made his disapproval clear regarding both the deployment of the Marine Corps and Qin Tian's appointment as commander of the 8th Army Corps. Their relationship had already soured significantly; while it had not yet reached an irreparable state, it was perilously close.

"Your Highness, it is possible that this incident was orchestrated by Moltke. Regardless of the challenges, we must find a way to reassign Pritwitz. Otherwise, given your relationship with Moltke, he will undoubtedly continue to undermine you, diverting your focus from commanding the 8th Army Corps," Hindenburg cautioned.

"Your Highness, you require an opportunity to establish your authority within the military, and this incident with Pritwitz undoubtedly provides an excellent chance. You should not let this opportunity slip away," Ludendorff added earnestly.

Qin Tian hesitated momentarily, then resolved to act decisively. Although this would further strain his relationship with Moltke, he could no longer afford to hesitate. With war merely years away, he could not afford further delays.

"Very well, I will send a telegram to Berlin immediately. Pritwitz must be reassigned from the 8th Army Corps. As for his successor, please give it some thought and report back to me by tomorrow!" Qin Tian commanded.

"Understood, Your Highness," both Hindenburg and Ludendorff replied, their faces breaking into faint smiles. Qin Tian's willingness to assert himself on this matter pleased them greatly. Although they had a duty to assist him, they yearned for a leader who possessed strength and talent rather than indecisiveness. Without a doubt, Qin Tian's current demeanor was satisfactory to them.