Chapter 486: Diplomatic Suppression
The Central Railway passes through the Matabele Plateau, hidden in East Africa's rear lines. Although the Portuguese were aware that East Africa had railways, they never expected them to extend deep inland.
This was a blind spot in their understanding, as nobody believed a railway without population or trade would be profitable. Given Africa's low population density and economic level, the return on such an investment seemed impossibly distant. No one thought an African state would have the strength to do such a thing.
"If we cut East Africa in two, Portugal can seize the central territory, and we can declare a ceasefire. Portugal alone can't possibly defeat East Africa," Clément reasoned, knowing not to push too far. But even this outcome would be unacceptable to East Africa.
If Ernst knew what the French were thinking, he'd surely mock them. What kind of dream is this? You think you can just slice off our central territory? Even in the worst-case scenario—land concessions and reparations—no one starts from the middle. Losses begin at the edges.
Clément was clearly being overly optimistic. Used to pushing around weak colonial subjects, the French assumed East Africa was just another soft target. Luckily for them, they were only playing the role of manipulative advisors. If they'd gotten directly involved, East Africa would've made them pay dearly.
...
Schönbrunn Palace.
"Your Majesty, this morning British diplomats informed us that Portugal and East Africa are on the verge of war, and urged us not to get involved."
"Hmm!" Franz growled. "Since when does Britain get to tell us what to do? Just because they say so, we're supposed to obey?"
Franz hadn't even heard about the possible war—East Africa hadn't told him. Instead, he learned about it from the British. But what truly irritated him was the arrogant tone. Austria-Hungary considered itself a global power, not Britain's subordinate.
"Sire, Britain's behavior highlights how seriously they're taking the situation in Africa—and East Africa in particular. Clearly, East Africa is threatening British interests."
Franz scoffed. "So now they think we control East Africa? Their attitude is insufferably arrogant."
"There's not much we can do. Britain controls the Suez Canal and has a significant naval presence in the Mediterranean. They could easily cut off our connection with East Africa. And our navy simply isn't strong enough to challenge theirs."
This was one of the reasons Austria-Hungary lacked colonial ambition. Its navy was decent, but trapped in the Adriatic Sea. Without the power to protect far-flung territories, any overseas holdings would be easy prey for Britain or France.
Of course, Austria-Hungary could copy Germany's strategy of claiming scraps—but that approach wasn't appealing either. Colonies require administration. If they didn't generate significant income, the empire would have to subsidize them.
East Africa managed to conquer a huge portion of the continent through sheer effort and lucky timing. Now that its economy was growing, others had started eyeing its fruits, eager to steal what East Africa had worked to grow.
"The more they try to warn us off, the more I want to see Britain get burned," Franz muttered. "So tell me—how should we support East Africa?"
"Sire, are we really going to risk offending Britain for East Africa's sake?"
"What do you mean, 'for East Africa'? I just don't want to be bossed around. Are we some subordinate office of the British government?"
"But we really can't help East Africa. Their location—or rather, our location—makes direct support impossible. They're far beyond our military's reach. If Britain chooses, they can stop every single supply ship we send."
Indeed, Britain's threat wasn't just rhetorical. Both were global powers, but Britain had the upper hand. So in this matter, Britain dared to pressure Austria-Hungary—because of the quasi-alliance it had signed with East Africa.
Though not a full alliance, outsiders viewed East Africa as Austria-Hungary's client. To deal with the "little brother," Britain was now pressing the "big brother."
Still, out of respect, Britain wouldn't intervene directly. They would instead pit Portugal against East Africa in what appeared to be a fair duel. But in reality, Britain and France were providing Portugal with extensive military aid.
"And besides," said one advisor, "we don't really have anything to offer East Africa. Their weapons systems resemble Germany's. Only our artillery overlaps."
If they were to help militarily, weapons would be the logical choice. But East Africa already had a complete, self-sufficient supply chain. Austria-Hungary truly didn't know how to assist.
Franz finally summoned the East African ambassador: "The British are preparing to strike at you, and you didn't even catch wind of it?"
"Your Majesty, we are fully aware. Britain and France intend to use Portugal as a proxy in a war to weaken East Africa."
"France too? And knowing this, how can you remain so calm?" Franz was stunned by the ambassador's composure.
"Your Majesty, as long as Britain doesn't intervene directly, we are confident in defeating the Portuguese. Even if they do, we are prepared to confront them."
Franz: "…"
Now he was starting to believe East Africa and Prussia were cut from the same cloth. Maybe it was the cursed Hohenzollern surname that made both so militaristic.
Seeing his doubt, the ambassador continued, "East Africa has over 200,000 well-trained soldiers, all equipped with new Mauser rifles, plus ample machine guns and artillery. In Africa, we are undeniably the strongest military power. That's why we are not afraid."
Back when Egypt rivaled East Africa, things were different. But since the introduction of the Dreyse rifle, East Africa had become Africa's top military power. And now that it had a navy, even Egypt couldn't compete.
Franz said, "You're not including militias in that number, are you? Without a core of professional soldiers, that kind of army falls apart under pressure."
"Rest assured, Your Majesty. We would never lie about this. In fact, Archduke Ferdinand is well aware of East Africa's military strength. If you have doubts, feel free to ask him directly via telegram."
East Africa no longer had to hide its power. With war on the horizon, its full strength would soon be laid bare. There was no reason to be secretive anymore.
Thank you for the support, friends. If you want to read more chapters in advance, go to my Patreon.
Read 40 Chapters In Advance: patreon.com/Canserbero10