Chapter 0953: The Outcast

Emperor Charles I had come to realize that his defeat was total and irreparable. The German army had just begun its assault, yet the seemingly formidable Austro-Hungarian Empire was already disintegrating. One by one, the various states within the empire turned against their emperor, secretly forging pacts with the Germans and betraying him and the entire empire. Even now, the Austrian forces were retreating without a fight. In such circumstances, what could they possibly use to resist the German invasion?

Charles I felt as though he were nothing more than a fool, aware that once the news of his empire's collapse spread, he would become the subject of ridicule the world over.

"All my efforts, my perseverance, all my grand ambitions—have all been nothing but a farce!" Emperor Charles I muttered to himself, rising from his seat and leaving the war room.

The military and political ministers of the Austro-Hungarian Empire watched his departure in silence, none daring to stop him.

Though Charles I still held the title of emperor, it seemed almost impossible for him to retain that position after such a catastrophic error. Even if the German Empire chose to show mercy, the emperor's reign would surely come to an end. The Germans would never allow a ruler hostile to their interests to continue as emperor of the Austro-Hungarian Empire—or of the Austrian Empire alone.

The ministers could already foresee the inevitable outcome. The best they could hope for was the dissolution of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, with everything reverting to the state it had been in before the union of the Austrian Empire and the Kingdom of Hungary.

Of course, if the German Empire was intent on completely annihilating them, not even the Austrian Empire would be allowed to survive. In that case, the Habsburg dynasty's thousand-year reign would come to a tragic end.

"Baron, you must leave at once for Berlin to seek an audience with the Kaiser. No matter the cost, we must convince Germany to halt its invasion," said Prime Minister Mario Weber.

"Yes, Your Excellency, but the terms the Germans propose are likely to be extremely harsh!" Baron Berchtdorff warned.

Prime Minister Weber gave a bitter smile. "Of course, their terms will be harsh—that goes without saying. But we have no choice left. If the Austrian Empire can survive, we will accept whatever they ask."

Baron Berchtdorff nodded thoughtfully, then hesitated before asking, "And if the Germans demand that Emperor Charles I abdicate? Should we accept that?"

The faces of the Austro-Hungarian ministers darkened. If the Germans demanded the emperor's abdication, it would be another humiliating blow to the empire, perhaps even a final affront to its dignity. However, they had to admit that such a demand was entirely possible.

"Your Highness, what do you think?" Prime Minister Weber asked. It was clear that government unity on this matter was not enough; the military's support was essential.

Archduke Friedrich sighed and replied, "Emperor Charles I is indeed unfit to rule."

The other ministers of the Austro-Hungarian Empire nodded in agreement. Charles had been emperor for barely two weeks, yet his actions had already led to a crisis that threatened the very existence of the empire. Had they known the consequences in advance, they would have rebelled before allowing him to inherit the throne.

But now, it was far too late to undo their mistake.

"Given the trouble Charles I has caused, it is clear he cannot continue as emperor. If the Austrian Empire can be saved, we must choose a new ruler from the Habsburg family," suggested Duke Caspar, the Minister of War.

Field Marshal Baron Herzendorf also agreed with a nod.

With the support of Archduke Friedrich, Duke Caspar, and Field Marshal Herzendorf, the position of the Austrian Army was now clear. There might be others who disagreed, but their views no longer held weight.

"Given this, if the Germans insist on Emperor Charles I's abdication, we may have no choice but to accept their terms," said Prime Minister Weber.

Clearly, the Austro-Hungarian Empire was no longer concerned with its dignity. The preservation of the nation had become their sole focus, even at the cost of all external appearances.

Sadly, even this drastic step might not suffice to secure their survival.

"Baron, you must depart immediately. Time is of the essence!" Prime Minister Weber urged.

Baron Berchtdorff nodded in acknowledgment.

"Prime Minister, since time is so urgent, perhaps the Baron should fly to Berlin. It will take only a few hours, whereas traveling by train would take until tomorrow," suggested Duke Caspar.

Baron Berchtdorff shot an irritated glance at Duke Caspar. Air travel was dangerous in this era, and any mistake could result in a deadly crash. He had no desire to meet such a fate.

Prime Minister Weber's eyes lit up, and the other ministers also seemed to agree with the idea.

For the Austro-Hungarian Empire, the most pressing concern was to secure Germany's understanding. If the German army continued its advance, it would only worsen their situation. Reaching Berlin as quickly as possible to negotiate with the Germans was the best option, despite the risks of flying.

"Baron, time is too critical. Please take the risk. I believe God will protect you," Prime Minister Weber said earnestly.

The other ministers looked to Baron Berchtdorff, placing great pressure on him.

At that moment, refusing the task was simply not an option. If he were to decline, it would surely anger the others, and he might even lose his position as foreign minister. Resigned to his fate, Baron Berchtdorff spoke with a note of melancholy.

"Very well, gentlemen, I will leave immediately. If I reach Berlin alive, I will do my best to secure the best terms possible. But if the Kaiser is intent on destroying the Austro-Hungarian Empire, then there is nothing more I can do." The Baron's words carried a sense of tragic resolve.