Chapter 3

"Father, this is the new test report from the navy. According to this report, the new armor we have successfully experimented with has an overwhelming advantage over all existing armors, whether it's steel armor or the new nickel steel armor the French have developed. From a technical standpoint, we can monopolize the armor market for all naval warships in the world. The huge economic benefits can completely solve the various difficulties the kingdom is currently facing." Rupprecht handed the report to his father, Ludwig III.

The middle-aged Ludwig III flipped through a few pages without responding, instead glancing at the court chamberlain, Count Schelling, who stood beside him. The chamberlain was responsible for the main daily operations of the Bavarian royal family, both internally and externally.

"The navy is very satisfied with the new armor and is willing to place an order. Currently, the old marquis supports overseas expansion, and the construction of the navy has been put on the agenda. At present, we are the only ones within the empire capable of producing this armor, so there is no possibility of losing money," Count Schelling succinctly explained the current situation.

Although Bavaria generally does not influence the empire's major policies, it is still aware of every move within the empire. As the 1890s approached, with German industry becoming increasingly saturated and in need of more markets and raw materials, expansion became an inevitable part of history. Don't think that only the young Kaiser Wilhelm II was a German leader who wanted to "claim a place in the sun." The Iron Chancellor Bismarck was also such a person, and he gained more while facing less backlash. This was a matter of means and technique. From this perspective, calling Wilhelm II a troublemaker is not wrong; he didn't gain much benefit but made a lot of enemies! It's important to note that Germany's colonies in Africa were mostly acquired during Bismarck's era, and despite all his rhetoric, Wilhelm II didn't gain much.

Now that the colonies are in place and there are disputes with certain countries (such as the dispute with the United States over Samoa), and the existing warships are no longer adequate, building new ships has become inevitable! Unlike some time-traveling shipbuilders, the current situation is a win for Rupprecht no matter what. The naval department might overlook the value of the new armor, but whatever ships they build will need armor steel! Without any alternatives, what choice do they have?

"Very good. You can discuss the specifics with Count Schelling. For financial matters, you can contact the royal treasury's chief, Count Hohenstein. I will speak to someone in the navy." The two men's arguments dispelled the last of the prince's concerns, and the matter was settled in principle. The details were left to Rupprecht to handle.

"You have done well with this matter, but I hope you can view the country from the perspective of a ruler rather than a capitalist. We need to look at the big picture to see how we can change the country. I have reviewed your other plan, but I am not an expert and need professionals to discuss it with you. The other issue I want to discuss today is Bavaria's position in the future empire and Central Europe. I would like to hear your opinion," Ludwig III closed the document and asked.

"The bridge of Central Europe, the link between the German Empire and the Austro-Hungarian Empire." Rupprecht's answer was simple and very practical! This is the most fitting decision for Bavaria's current situation. First, improve the economy and transportation, and deal with other issues later. Politics and diplomacy cannot be taken lightly, or, to put it another way, Bavaria's survival to this point, despite the overwhelming power of Prussia, is a result of adapting to the situation. On this point, Rupprecht had to give his predecessors credit!

It's important to note that before German unification, there were many more kingdoms and duchies. After the Austro-Prussian War, Prussia not only expelled Austria but also annexed a series of small states, including the Kingdom of Hanover and the Duchy of Hesse. Why did Bavaria escape? Because it did not fulfill its obligations to Austria and provided little help. After the war, it was not held accountable by the elder Wilhelm and the chancellor, and because Bavaria had some strength, it maintained a relatively independent status, along with substantial government funding to secure its support.

Now, the Austro-Hungarian Empire needs Germany's support to compete with Russia in the Balkans, almost becoming Germany's junior partner. It would be unwise for Bavaria to act out at this time. The current treatment is quite good, so why stir up trouble?

"Bavaria, though poor in mineral resources, is at the center of Germany and Austria! It has many rivers, and developing inland waterway transport would greatly benefit Bavaria's economy and status. While maintaining good relations with Prussia, we should also strengthen our ties with the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Historically and through blood ties, the relationship is very close, and we need to maintain it," Rupprecht said.

This is based on historical facts. When the Habsburg dynasty was strong, Bavaria was Austria's junior partner, and the relationship was very good. As for blood ties, they are even closer. Do you know Empress Elisabeth (Sisi)? She was a member of the Wittelsbach family, a branch of the Bavarian royal family, and her father once served in the Bavarian court. In terms of seniority, she was Rupprecht's aunt! Considering her husband, Emperor Franz Joseph, who had Bavarian blood, the blood ties between the two are even closer!

Regardless, there is a traditional friendship and blood relationship between the two! Moreover, Bohemia, Austria's most important industrial region (now known as the Czech Republic), is adjacent to Bavaria, home to the world-renowned arms manufacturer, Skoda! Rupprecht could seek technical support from his aunt's family for his future projects. Therefore, maintaining good relations with the Austro-Hungarian Empire has both historical significance and practical benefits!

"Additionally, we need to develop agriculture and improve farmland. The German Empire cannot produce enough food to meet its needs, and domestic production only meets about 70% of the demand. Bavaria's land is relatively poor, and we need to import more food than other regions. If we can achieve food self-sufficiency as much as possible, our government's finances will be much more comfortable. Food self-sufficiency is also the foundation of the kingdom's stability!" As the saying goes, "With food in hand, there is no fear in the heart." One of the reasons Germany lost World War I was due to a lack of food.

Although it is unlikely that Bavaria can achieve self-sufficiency given its current conditions, saving on food imports is still beneficial. Moreover, if Rupprecht is not mistaken, Germany's food tariffs may rise, and Bavaria will have to spend more money each year.

"Hmm, very good, very practical." In general, Ludwig III was very satisfied with his grandson's plans to improve logistics and transportation, develop agriculture, and strongly support high-end manufacturing. He added, "Tomorrow afternoon, your uncle will be here. He is a strict man, a true soldier. You should be careful with your words!"

"Understood, Father." Rupprecht nodded seriously. Compared to his father, the person he would face in the afternoon was much more challenging!

Thank you, JhonnyRidden, for your support! By the way, dear new and old readers, could you please take a moment to add this book to your favorites and give it a recommendation? The new book has just been uploaded, and it's not easy to get noticed!

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