The Rise of German empire

Wilhelm II leaned back in his chair, stroking his beard thoughtfully as Marshal Tirpitz and Oscar concluded their case for the Marine Corps. He saw the potential, but he also understood the risks.

"Tirpitz, I see the logic behind your proposal," Wilhelm II began, his voice carrying both authority and caution. "A Marine Corps would undoubtedly strengthen our capabilities, especially if we plan to challenge Britain on their soil. But you both know as well as I do that the Army will not take this lightly. Tensions between our services must not escalate into open conflict. The survival of the empire depends on unity."

Oscar stepped forward, his eyes steady. "Father, the Army's reservations will be understandable, but not justified. This is about preparation for the empire's future. If we truly aim to bring Britain to its knees, we must ensure our forces are equipped and trained for every eventuality, including amphibious operations. The Army lacks that specialization."

Tirpitz nodded in agreement. "Your Majesty, this is not about usurping the Army's role but complementing it. The Marine Corps would be small, no more than five divisions, but their training and equipment would allow them to secure critical beachheads—tasks that traditional infantry divisions are neither equipped nor prepared to handle."

The Emperor frowned, his mind already imagining the uproar this would cause. "Five divisions is no small number, Tirpitz. That's over 80,000 men—a significant force in any context. The Army will see this as a direct encroachment."

"They might," Oscar admitted, "but the alternative is sending unprepared infantry to slaughter on British beaches. I cannot in good conscience endorse that. Every German soldier's life is precious, Father, and the Marine Corps would ensure we minimize unnecessary losses."

Wilhelm II sat in silence for a moment, weighing the arguments. Finally, he stood. "I will consider your proposal carefully. However, I must consult the Army before making any decision. You will have my answer tomorrow afternoon."

Oscar and Tirpitz bowed, leaving the Emperor to his thoughts.

That evening, Wilhelm II summoned his secretary, Essen von Jonareit, with a specific instruction: "Leak the Navy's proposal to the Army's high command. I need to know how they'll react before I decide."

Within hours, word of the Marine Corps proposal reached Chief of Staff Moltke the Younger. His response was immediate and furious.

"That brat Oscar!" Moltke growled, slamming his fist on his desk. "And Tirpitz, of all people! Has commanding the Navy gone to his head? Does he now want to challenge the Army as well?"

Moltke, a man deeply entrenched in the traditions of the German military, viewed the proposal as an existential threat to the Army's authority. The idea of the Navy commanding ground troops was anathema to him.

"Summon Falkenhayn and Walderser immediately," he barked at his aide. "This overreach must be crushed before it gains momentum."

Within the hour, Falkenhayn, the Minister of War, and Walderser, the Deputy Chief of Staff, arrived at Moltke's office. Both men sensed the urgency in Moltke's summons.

"Gentlemen," Moltke began, pacing the room like a caged lion. "The Navy has proposed forming a Marine Corps. A ground force under their command. Can you imagine the implications? This is not just an overreach—it's an affront to everything the Army stands for!"

Falkenhayn raised an eyebrow. "A Marine Corps? This is the first I've heard of it. What justification have they given?"

"They claim it's for landing operations," Moltke sneered. "But mark my words, this is a power grab. If we allow this, what's next? A naval artillery division? A naval cavalry?"

Walderser, ever the pragmatist, spoke up. "Landing operations do require specialized training. But I agree that this sets a dangerous precedent. The Army's role in ground combat is absolute. We cannot allow any division of that responsibility."

Falkenhayn, though aligned with Oscar on many issues, saw the political reality. "If we oppose this move, we must present a united front. The Army cannot appear divided on such a critical issue."

Moltke nodded, his expression grim. "Then it's settled. Tomorrow, we confront the Emperor and make our position clear. The Navy will not dictate ground operations while I am Chief of Staff."

Meanwhile, in the Crown Prince's residence, Oscar and Tirpitz discussed their strategy over cigars and brandy.

"They'll resist," Tirpitz said, swirling his glass thoughtfully. "Moltke sees this as a challenge to his authority. He won't take it lying down."

Oscar smirked. "Let him rage. We have the Emperor's ear, and our proposal is sound. This isn't about challenging the Army—it's about securing the empire's future. If Moltke can't see that, he's the one being shortsighted."

Tirpitz raised his glass. "To the Marine Corps, then. May tomorrow bring us victory."

The battle lines were drawn. The next day's meeting with Wilhelm II promised to be a decisive moment, not just for the Marine Corps but for the balance of power within the German military. Both sides were prepared to fight tooth and nail for their vision of the empire's future.