Chapter 0940: Karl’s Choice

Baron Leopold von Berchtold, the Austro-Hungarian Foreign Minister, delivered his report solemnly. "Your Majesty, the President of the United States has requested an audience with you. Lately, you have been preoccupied with the funeral of His Majesty Emperor Franz Joseph I and preparations for your coronation. As such, you have not had an opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogue with President Woodrow Wilson during his visit." 

Emperor Karl I nodded. "Very well, I understand. Arrange a time for the meeting." 

"Your Majesty, it appears the President intends to pressure us into taking a definitive stance. This will not be an easy challenge to navigate," Berchtold cautioned. 

The Americans had long sought to draw Austria-Hungary into their fold, aiming to turn the empire into a pawn against Germany. For Austria-Hungary, however, such a move promised little benefit. Despite its status as a great power, Austria-Hungary was significantly weaker than Germany. Their alliance with Germany was the only safeguard against potential aggression. To side with the Americans would mean opposing Germany outright—a gamble fraught with peril. Should it provoke Germany's ire, Austria-Hungary might well face catastrophic consequences. 

"I understand your concerns," Karl replied gravely. "But coexistence with Germany is inherently untenable. The Germans would never tolerate a strong Austria-Hungary in their shadow. Their actions during the last redistribution of wartime spoils—when they systematically suppressed us—make this clear. If we continue to sit idle, Germany will only grow more audacious. Eventually, we may find ourselves incapable of resistance." 

"That may be true, Your Majesty, but the Americans are equally unreliable. As long as our alliance with Germany remains intact, they will hesitate to act against us. If we align ourselves with the United States, however, Germany's restraint will vanish," Berchtold warned. 

Karl's expression darkened. "You are correct. But do we have any way back? We have already accepted a $200 million loan from the Americans to purchase German warships. That debt must be repaid, and the empire lacks the funds to do so. Aligning with the Americans would secure additional financial support, perhaps even a fresh loan. With adequate resources, we could resolve domestic issues, strengthen the empire, and deter German aggression. Should conflict arise, a prolonged stalemate would inevitably draw American intervention, ensuring our security." 

Berchtold frowned. While Karl's reasoning had some merit, it was riddled with uncertainties. Placing hope in such a precarious strategy seemed a grave risk. 

"Your Majesty, this course of action is exceedingly dangerous," Berchtold urged. 

Karl's resolve was unwavering. "I have made my decision. Rather than endure Germany's continued suppression, we must seize this opportunity. Perhaps we can achieve victory. I trust that God will protect Austria-Hungary." 

Recognizing the emperor's determination, Berchtold reluctantly fell silent. He knew that Karl was deaf to dissenting voices. 

After Berchtold's departure, Karl clenched his fists tightly. "Hmph! These ministers are all cowards, utterly intimidated by the Germans. If everyone were as timid as they are, the empire would be incapable of resisting Germany. We might as well capitulate now," he muttered bitterly. 

Karl had long dreamed of elevating Austria-Hungary above the German Empire, becoming the world's foremost power. His ambition, fueled by arrogance, had only grown since he became heir to the throne. Emperor Franz Joseph I often held up QinTian as a model, which only deepened Karl's resentment and animosity toward him. 

When QinTian ascended as Emperor of Germany and led the nation to victory in the Great War, Karl's jealousy became unbearable. He was convinced that Austria-Hungary, under his leadership, could rival Germany. With Germany's numerous enemies, he believed he could seize the right moment to defeat QinTian and crown Austria-Hungary as the world's dominant power. 

On the afternoon of January 2, Karl held a private meeting with President Woodrow Wilson. The details of their conversation remained undisclosed, but Wilson left with a broad smile. In contrast, Prime Minister Mario Weber, who attended the meeting, appeared deeply troubled. 

"Your Majesty, are you truly prepared to sever ties with the Central Powers and dissolve our alliance with Germany?" Weber asked anxiously. 

Karl nodded. "Yes, I have given President Wilson my word." 

"But, Your Majesty, such a move is fraught with peril. It could push Austria-Hungary to the brink of war." 

"Not necessarily. The Germans may hesitate to attack us. Even if they do, our two million-strong army and formidable navy are not to be trifled with. Furthermore, the Americans have promised that if we can hold out for a month, over a million U.S. troops will land in Europe and open a second front. At that point, Germany will be overwhelmed, and we will secure victory. Once we defeat Germany, Austria-Hungary will dominate Europe, if not the entire world. Moreover, the Americans have pledged an additional $1 billion in interest-free loans. With these funds, we can resolve internal issues and emerge stronger than ever!" Karl declared with fervent conviction. 

"Your Majesty, even with American support, defeating Germany may prove impossible," Weber cautioned. 

"Prime Minister, you are too pessimistic. We will have our chance to triumph over Germany!" Karl declared, brimming with confidence.