Chapter 0834: No Peace, No War

The United States was undoubtedly the unrivaled hegemon of the Americas. Its rapid development could be attributed to its unique geographical advantages. Following the conclusion of the Civil War, America's industrial growth surged at an extraordinary pace. At present, the entirety of the Americas had essentially become America's backyard.

Of course, in South America, Germany's influence was also considerable. Even before the outbreak of World War I, Germany had already begun competing with the United States. However, America held a dominant position in the Western Hemisphere due to its geographical advantages.

"If the Empire were to launch an attack on Canada, would the United States go to war with the Empire?" Qin Tian asked with a cold smile.

"Your Majesty, the United States will not oppose the German Empire," Bryan responded. "However, I hope Your Majesty does not underestimate the resolve of the United States to protect its interests!"

Although Germany was now the undisputed global superpower, possessing the most formidable army and navy in the world, America was not to be underestimated. The U.S. Navy was still in the midst of building new warships, but the strength of the U.S. Army had already developed significantly. Today, the United States Army boasted over a million active-duty soldiers, equipped with far superior technology than before. While perhaps not as elite as the German military, in a defensive war on home soil, America could likely withstand any assault from Germany crossing the Atlantic. After all, America's immense industrial capacity and population—over 80 million people—could potentially support armies numbering in the millions. The U.S. government firmly believed that with such numbers, protecting their homeland was more than feasible.

Qin Tian narrowed his eyes. The Americans' arrogance and overconfidence greatly irked him. Were it not for the situation, he would have preferred to dismiss Bryan outright. However, he knew this would not contribute to resolving the matter at hand.

Germany's plans did not include an immediate confrontation with the United States. The Empire had already reaped vast benefits from this global conflict, and those spoils had yet to be fully integrated into the nation's strength.

While Germany was undoubtedly powerful, launching another war with a strong nation like the United States so soon after a world war would be extremely difficult, even catastrophic. Moreover, the German public had no appetite for further prolonged warfare. They felt that the war was already won, and it was time to savor the fruits of victory. A new war would only breed disappointment, and the Empire's popularity would certainly suffer as a result.

"If it is unnecessary, the German military will not attack Canada," Qin Tian said after a brief moment of contemplation. At this juncture, an open confrontation with the United States was clearly unwise. Therefore, he decided to give the British a temporary reprieve. Once Germany had fully absorbed the gains from this war, it could easily strike back whenever necessary.

Bryan nodded, a faint smile appearing on his face. He had not expected Germany to back down, but the concession was undoubtedly encouraging. It proved that while Germany was immensely powerful, it was not invincible. With enough determination, they could make even the mighty German Empire yield.

"However, the Empire will certainly occupy all of Britain's colonies, except for Canada. Any attempt to block this will be crushed by the Empire!" Qin Tian emphasized.

Bryan did not respond directly. Although the United States harbored ambitions for Britain's colonies, he knew full well that America stood no chance of competing with Germany. The Germans were resolute in their desire to claim these territories. Any involvement by America would surely lead to a full-scale war with Germany, something the U.S. was not prepared for at this moment.

"Furthermore, I do not wish to see the British engage in any covert actions, such as sending fleets to attack Imperial merchant vessels. If such activities are discovered by the Empire, we will immediately strike Canada. If America dares to interfere, let it come to war!" Qin Tian warned. He was certain that the British, having fled to Canada, would not resign themselves to simply being sidelined. They would surely engage in petty provocations. While such actions might not pose a significant threat to Germany, they would certainly be irksome.

"Your Majesty, I will convey your message to the Canadian authorities. I believe they will make the right decision," Bryan said.

Qin Tian nodded, saying nothing further. After a few more pleasantries, Bryan took his leave.

In the afternoon's meeting, Qin Tian relayed the Americans' demands to the Imperial ministers. The room erupted in anger.

"Who do the Americans think they are? How dare they threaten the Empire?" shouted the Minister of the Army and Chief of Staff, Von Falkenhayn, his face flushed with fury.

"Indeed, Your Majesty! The United States Navy currently has only two capital ships. Though they are building more, that will take time. If Your Majesty gives the order, the Imperial Navy can destroy all the coastal cities on the U.S. East Coast!" added Admiral Count Tirpitz, Minister of the Navy.

Germany was the world's undisputed superpower, with the mightiest military forces. For the Americans to threaten them seemed like madness.

"The Empire cannot afford another large-scale war right now, which is why the Americans are acting so brazenly!" said Prime Minister Bülow.

Qin Tian nodded. "The Imperial Navy certainly has the capability to obliterate all the U.S. East Coast cities. But to decisively defeat the United States is unrealistic. Let's not forget that the Americans can arm millions of soldiers to defend their homeland. Meanwhile, the Empire would have to traverse the vast expanse of the Atlantic to launch an invasion. That's a huge disadvantage. At least for now, it is extremely difficult for the Empire to defeat the United States."

Qin Tian's clear-eyed assessment of the situation, despite Germany's status as the world's supreme power, was a relief to the ministers. It was rare for a young leader to possess such a sober understanding of reality. They were reminded of the Austro-Hungarian heir, who, after gaining power, had lost his way.

"Gentlemen, we shall avoid direct conflict with the British in Canada for now. However, we will not sign any peace treaties or ceasefire agreements with them. Our offensive against the British colonies will continue unabated. Should the British dare to engage in provocations, we will retaliate swiftly and decisively. Let them know that the Empire is not one to be taken lightly!" Qin Tian said gravely.

"Yes, Your Majesty!" the ministers replied in unison.