Marriage (2)

In the present Congo market, Greece finds no room for intervention. As an agrarian nation, Greece heavily relies on the import of industrial products, including textiles. Apart from artemisinin, there are scarcely any other commodities circulating in Congo.

Constantine helplessly witnessed merchants from various nations amassing wealth in Congo, but there seemed to be nothing he could do.

Upon hearing Constantine's response, William fell silent for a moment before expressing, "I'm sorry, Constantine. Establishing good diplomatic relations with Turkey is crucial for Germany's interests, and it's impossible to assist Greece merely because we are in-laws."

From a geopolitical standpoint, a powerful and stable Turkey would bring considerable benefits to Germany. Firstly, Germany's close ally, Austria-Hungary, would become more reliant on Germany. Given its expansion ambitions in the Balkan Peninsula and its vulnerable strength, Austria-Hungary would be under greater pressure from Russia and the Ottoman Turkey, giving Germany more initiative in their relationship.

Secondly, Turkey would act as a magnet, diverting Russia's attention. The Russian-Turkish war, spanning over 200 years, saw both countries engage in conflicts every two decades. The Bosphorus and Constantinople, the capital of Ottoman Turkey, represented a strategically coveted location for Russia. As long as Russia remained interested in Turkey, the pressure on Germany's eastern border would significantly diminish, leading to eased relations between Russia and Germany.

This strategic decision to actively develop relations with Turkey was a collective choice of the entire German leadership. It couldn't be altered due to the marriage between the royal families because the benefits Germany derived from the Ottoman Turkey surpassed what a weaker Greece could offer.

"William, in reality, you need not take it too seriously," Constantine consoled him. "Greece can achieve success even on its own."

Constantine was reluctant to reveal any weakness to William and refused to portray Greece as an orphan in Europe. Although, in truth, King George and his wife, strong advocates for the marriage, attempted to approach other major powers in Athens, Greece, after facing threats from the long-time friend, the British navy.

Three days later, Constantine and Princess Sophie held a grand wedding in a church in Berlin, attended by personnel from nearly all the royal families and conducted according to Protestant etiquette (since Sophie is Protestant).

In the reception room of Sanssouci Palace, Princess Sophie bid farewell to her parents alongside Constantine. Crown Prince Frederick and his wife, filled with reluctance, looked at their departing daughter and son-in-law.

"Constantine, as a mother, I hope you can take good care of Sophie, and I hope you can both find happiness," Princess Victoria (Constantine's mother, Princess Victoria from England, daughter of Queen Victoria) sincerely blessed the newlyweds.

With Sophie on his arm, Constantine and Sophie bid farewell to their two elders.

Accompanied by King George and his wife, the newlyweds set sail for Greece on a cruise ship.

Upon hearing the news of Prince Constantine's marriage to Princess Sophie of Germany, the people of Athens rejoiced. The entire city was filled with joy on the day the couple landed in the port of Piraeus.

As they traveled to Tatoi Palace, Constantine and Sophie, riding in an open-top carriage decorated with golden yellow, slowly passed through the crowded streets. The Athenian people, enthusiastically offering their sincere wishes, filled the air with cheers, flowers, and a procession of well-wishers.

After the convoy returned to Tatoi Palace, Constantine finally relaxed, looking at his wife, Princess Sophie of Germany, with mixed emotions.

To be honest, the two of them were practically strangers before becoming husband and wife.

"Sophie, do you have any hobbies?" Constantine, as the initiator, broke the silence.

Sophie, in a white gauze dress, sat quietly on the sofa, the room now tranquil.

"I enjoy gardening, particularly English gardening," Sophie replied uneasily.

During Constantine's schooling in Germany, the two had only met twice, with minimal interaction.

"Sophie, as the Crown Princess of Greece, there will be numerous social events on weekdays, which is unavoidable," Constantine informed her.

The royal family frequently hosted events, and Sophie, as the crown princess, would likely have little leisure time.

"I would like to assign the responsibility of the Royal Greek Educational Foundation to you. How about becoming the president of the foundation?" Constantine proposed after careful consideration.

"The foundation? What can I do? I have no experience in this area, Constantine," Sophie expressed surprise.

In truth, it would be more fitting for Sophie to head the Royal Greek Educational Foundation. Originally funded by the royal family with a substantial amount, a member of the royal family should have been in charge. Additionally, the foundation aimed to promote Greek education's development, bringing great renown to the royal family as this noble cause progressed. Active involvement by the Crown Princess in Greece's education would enhance the royal family's reputation. If many talents benefited from the royal family in the future, the Greek royal family's rule would be significantly solidified.

Times were changing, and even the royal family needed to consider how to win the people's favor.

Constantine explained his plan to Sophie, and after some thought, she agreed to his request.

The following day, when Coredis and Ichios came to report on the progress of compulsory education, Constantine shared the news.

"Your Highness, this is excellent news. If Crown Princess Sophie becomes the president of the foundation, it will undoubtedly benefit Greek education," Ikios said happily.

Observing Constantine and Coredis looking puzzled, Ikios explained, "Currently, German academia boasts many talented individuals. Those renowned German scholars or scientists of the past won't look down on Greek schools anymore. Now that the Crown Princess of Greece, also the Princess of Germany, has invited these scholars to study in Greece, it won't be easy for these esteemed individuals to decline."