The Rise of German empire

That evening, Oscar rarely returned to the palace for dinner with Emperor William II and his wife. With Crown Prince William in a vegetative state, the Imperial couple had grown increasingly attentive to Oscar. If Crown Prince William never awoke, it was only a matter of time before Oscar would surpass him in their affections—something that would unfold gradually, but inevitably.

After dinner, the family took a leisurely stroll through the garden, when William II suddenly turned to Oscar and said, "Oscar, come to my office."

"Of course, Father," Oscar responded.

Though Oscar was the Crown Prince of the German Empire, his role as the head of Deutsche Industries kept him busy. It was rare for him to return to the palace more than a few times a month, and every time he did, there was always something important to discuss with William II. The Emperor understood this well, knowing that his son's visits were rarely for anything trivial.

Upon entering the office, Oscar was greeted with coffee already prepared by Essen von Jonareit.

"Tell me, Oscar. What's on your mind?" William II asked, his tone direct.

Oscar did not beat around the bush. He immediately expressed his concerns about the current state of the Imperial Army.

"Father, the German Imperial Army is still considered the best in the world, but in recent years, it has stagnated. The Army seems to be living in the glory of past victories, resting on its laurels. The equipment is outdated, and the tactics are stagnant—our strategies are still stuck in the last war. I worry that if war breaks out, our army might struggle against more powerful enemies."

William II's expression shifted, becoming more serious. While he had always held confidence in the German Army's past accomplishments, he understood the truth in Oscar's words. The once-feared German Army was now reliant on its past reputation, and he could not ignore the possibility that it may not be as capable in the future.

"You are right, Oscar. The Army's development has indeed been lacking. But we cannot forget the might we demonstrated in past wars. We crushed our enemies and secured vast territories. Our Army still has great power." William II tried to reassure his son, though doubt lingered in his eyes.

"I agree, Father. Our Army is powerful, but our enemies are growing stronger. More importantly, this time we will face a coalition of Britain, France, Russia, and other countries. While Britain's army may not pose a significant threat, France and Russia will. The Russian Army, though weaker in combat effectiveness, has vast numbers, and they can mobilize millions of troops. We cannot underestimate this." Oscar's tone was resolute, a far cry from the usual calm confidence he exuded.

William II nodded slowly, digesting his son's words. "I see. So, what do you suggest we do, Oscar?"

Oscar had been waiting for this question. His heart raced, knowing this could be the moment that set his future in motion.

"Father, to ensure we can defeat our enemies in the future, we must reform the Army. This includes not just updating the weapons, but also changing the tactics. We need an Army that is capable of adapting to modern warfare, capable of winning at minimal cost."

William II's brows furrowed. "Reform... This will not be easy. There will be fierce resistance from within the Army. Any attempt to modernize could lead to turmoil, perhaps even rebellion. We must tread carefully."

Oscar nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. "I have a solution, Father, which might work."

William II's interest piqued. "What is it?"

Oscar took a deep breath. "According to the traditions of the German Empire, as Crown Prince, I have the right to command an army in times of war. While the war has not yet begun, the international situation is dire. I propose that I command an army now, ahead of the conflict. I can equip and train it according to my vision, and if the army performs well, it will give you reason to trust me with other forces."

Oscar glanced nervously at William II, waiting for his reaction. He knew the Emperor would likely see through his real intent—to gain control of military power. The question was whether William II would allow it, or if he would be wary of Oscar's ambitions.

William II paused for a long moment, his expression unreadable. He was no fool, and he knew exactly what Oscar was after. But rather than rejecting the idea outright, the Emperor surprised his son by showing admiration for his ambition.

"Oscar," he said finally, "I know you are capable in business and shipbuilding. But leading an army is a different matter. Can you truly handle this responsibility?"

Oscar's confidence never wavered. "Father, I may not be a professional soldier, but with the right advisers, I have no doubt I can lead an army effectively."

William II considered this for a long moment, weighing his options. Finally, he gave a reluctant nod. "Very well. I will present your proposal at tomorrow's imperial meeting."

Oscar's heart swelled with satisfaction, but he kept his expression neutral. "Thank you, Father."

The following day, during the imperial meeting, William II officially proposed appointing Oscar to command an army. While Moltke Jr. fiercely opposed the move, his objections were largely ignored. Most other officials, recognizing the need for reform, lent their support to the Crown Prince.

However, the main armies of the German Empire already had their commanders, so Oscar was given a lesser force to command—the 8th Army, also known as the East Prussian Army. Though it was not a prominent division, it was a start.

For Oscar, it was the first step in gaining control over the military, a vital foothold that would allow him to begin his plans for reform. It was a small victory, but one that would lay the foundation for greater power in the future.