Chapter 0833: The Americans’ Demands

As time ticked by, Germany was engulfed in euphoria over its victory in the world war. Although the German Army and Navy continued their campaigns against British overseas colonies, these were mere skirmishes and held little significance for the lives of German citizens. 

Gradually, the lives of the German people began to transform. The rationing of agricultural products and goods was lifted. Anyone with money could now purchase whatever they desired. Moreover, the industrial boom driven by the war effort ensured that nearly everyone had employment, and prosperity was widespread. 

With improved living conditions, public support for the Emperor and the government soared. Anticipation for the upcoming military parade reached fever pitch, and those who could afford it flocked to Berlin or Wilhelmshaven to witness the grand display in person. 

Meanwhile, foreign envoys hastened to Germany, unwilling to miss this pivotal moment, particularly nations eager to align themselves with the new global hegemon. 

American Secretary of State William Jennings Bryan, representing the United States, arrived in Berlin aboard a naval vessel on November 12. His early arrival was due to pressing matters he needed to discuss with the German leadership. 

With the British Isles now under German control, Germany had established puppet states in the region and signed a peace treaty with the United Kingdom of England and Wales, the successor to the core of British territory. Yet, the war was far from over—hostilities between Germany and the remnants of the British Empire persisted. 

Churchill and his followers had fled to Canada, licking their wounds. Though they had begun to rebuild their strength with royal wealth, restoring military power was a slow process, and time was not on their side. Should German forces cross the Atlantic to attack Canada, British resistance would crumble unless the United States unequivocally pledged its support, even dispatching military forces to aid the British. Only under such circumstances could the British hope to maintain their presence in Canada. 

Secretary Bryan, acting on President Woodrow Wilson's orders, had come to negotiate with the Germans. The United States sought to dissuade Germany from launching an offensive against Canada—a difficult task, but one that had to be attempted. Especially given the deepening collaboration between the United States and Britain, protecting the remnants of British power in Canada became imperative. 

Upon Bryan's arrival in Berlin, he immediately requested an audience with Emperor QinTian. 

Despite the growing antagonism between Germany and the United States, diplomatic decorum remained intact, and QinTian, after receiving Foreign Minister von Jagow's report, agreed to meet with Bryan. 

The following morning, Bryan entered the imperial palace to meet the German Emperor. 

"Your Majesty, I bring the sincerest greetings from my President," Bryan began, his demeanor respectful and composed, showing no sign of underestimating the young emperor. 

Indeed, QinTian had firmly established himself as the most powerful figure on Earth—a status beyond question. 

"Mr. Secretary, please convey my regards to President Wilson," QinTian replied with a warm smile. Whatever the state of German-American relations, maintaining a polite facade was essential. 

"Certainly, Your Majesty," Bryan nodded. 

After the pleasantries, Bryan congratulated Germany on its victory in the war. Though the United States had provided substantial aid to the Allies, including selling naval warships to Britain, it had not directly entered the fray. This, however, had come at great cost to America. 

Firstly, the United States had extended massive loans to the Allies in the form of war materials. With the Allies defeated, recovering these loans seemed impossible. A defeated France would undoubtedly refuse to repay, and while Britain might acknowledge the debt, it lacked the means to pay. 

Secondly, the war had been a missed opportunity for the United States. America had hoped to amass immense wealth and rise to global dominance as Europe tore itself apart. Yet Germany's swift and decisive victory had denied the United States any chance to intervene meaningfully. By the time the U.S. contemplated joining, the war had effectively been won, and any effort to change the outcome would have been futile. Begrudgingly, the Americans had to accept Germany's ascension as the new global superpower. 

"Your Majesty, the war between your nation and Britain is effectively over. The British Isles are under German control. The United States sincerely hopes that the conflict will end here," Bryan said. 

QinTian frowned slightly—there was more to Bryan's statement than met the eye. 

"Mr. Secretary, what exactly is America's position?" QinTian asked. 

"Your Majesty, the United States does not wish for the flames of war to spread to the Americas," Bryan replied, his meaning now unmistakably clear. 

QinTian's expression darkened. Even at this juncture, the Americans dared to dictate terms to Germany? The United States' overall strength paled in comparison to Germany's. Were it not for the immense resources expended in this war, QinTian would have already ordered an invasion of Canada.