Holy Roman Empire

Chapter 67: Power Play

Prime Minister Azeglio's heart sank as he realized his mistake. He had acted too hastily without first seeking the King's opinion, which had caused the discontent of Charles Albert to arise. Politics can be quite delicate, as demonstrated in the case of the Kingdom of Sardinia, which operates under a constitutional monarchy. In this particular situation, when the Prime Minister made decisions without first consulting the King, it risked evoking the dissatisfaction of Charles Albert. Had he not reacted, it wouldn't have taken long for him to be sidelined and his authority undermined. Clearly, Charles Albert was no political novice like Louis XVI. He possessed a political acumen of at least 90 points and wasted no time in exerting his influence and challenging the Prime Minister's decisions. After carefully considering everything, Prime Minister Azeglio spoke with genuine trepidation, "Your Majesty, at present, we have only two options to address the financial issue. We can either impose a war tax or seek a loan from international financial institutions." Charles Albert glared at him fiercely, silently cursing in his heart, "Sly old fox." The words of Prime Minister Azeglio were only halfway spoken, "impose a war tax" — but towards whom would it be imposed? There must be a specific target or scope, right? The Kingdom of Sardinia has long imposed taxes on its old territories.Is the current tax imposition specifically targeting Lombardy, or is it being implemented nationwide? This is indeed a task that will offend people. The common people are already impoverished, and simply squeezing them will yield meager results. Therefore, the only option left is to reach out to the capitalists and nobles for assistance. Despite appearances of patriotism and their enthusiastic donations, one should not overlook the fact that the nobles and capitalists of the Kingdom of Sardinia may not be as willing to part with their money when the time comes. The reality might prove to be quite different than expected. The scandal of fraudulent donations exists even in this highly advanced era of the 21st century, let alone in the current circumstances. Putting on a show is something anyone can do. They are capable of doing much more, even donating a mere ten thousand lire while making profits of twenty or thirty thousand lire in return. Such cases are all too common. Fraudulent donations still exist in the era of highly developed internet in the 21st century. Is it any different in this era? Anyone can put on a show, right? They can do even more than that. It's common to see people donate 10,000 lire and then make two or three times that amount in return. Borrowing from international financial institutions? Who would be willing to lend money to the Kingdom of Sardinia now? Apart from the British, which other countries would be willing to lend them money? International loans are always high risk, high return, and without government involvement, who can guarantee repayment? If the Kingdom of Sardinia is defeated, who will they turn to for the money? Borrowing from the British would undoubtedly come with unfavorable terms and conditions, including signing numerous treaties that may compromise national interests. This kind of deal, which leaves a lasting stain, is something no one wants to engage in. "Oh, since the Prime Minister already has a clear understanding, let's implement it as soon as possible!" Without hesitation, Charles Albert decisively confirmed the decision. Constitutional monarchy is essentially about the king delegating power, isn't it? And now he has done just that. In short, this matter no longer had anything to do with the king; it was now entirely the responsibility of the cabinet. Prime Minister Azeglio does show some awareness in taking the blame for their leader. However, he knows he shouldn't shoulder the blame alone. Azeglio is not foolish, so naturally, he would try to drag others down with him. "Yes, Your Majesty! I will return and convene a government meeting to discuss this matter and implement it as soon as possible!" Satisfied, Charles Albert nodded. The prime minister took the responsibility upon himself, whether it would ultimately be shouldered by him alone or by the officials below was no longer important. As long as it didn't make things difficult for him as the king, that would make him a loyal subject. "Indeed, the issue of military expenditure is the responsibility of the cabinet, but we cannot delay the military operation to attack Venice. The Ministry of War must expedite war preparations!" Charles Albert added. "Yes, Your Majesty!" replied Minister of War Li Qi promptly.

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The king understood the intention behind his words. Regardless of the challenges they may face, the campaign to attack Venice must be initiated. This was the politically correct course of action. As for how to proceed with the attack, that remained uncertain. They could either concentrate their forces for a full-scale assault or send small units for probing attacks. The important thing was to showcase the determination of the Kingdom of Sardinia to the outside world. Li Qi was content. He had successfully secured additional time for the frontline troops. A preliminary probing attack, lasting around ten to fifteen days, wouldn't pose a problem, would it? Considering the overall preparation time, they could effectively postpone the decisive battle to June. By then, the training of new recruits would be mostly completed as well. … … As the Kingdom of Sardinia made preparations, Austria was not idle either. After Marshal Radetzky retreated to the Venetian region, the first thing they did was suppress the local rebellion. After the execution of a group of key figures, the Vienna government acquired over 70,000 individuals as free laborers. For the sake of the Venetian region, these individuals were promptly taken in by the Austrian government. Due to the war, the Vienna government didn't have the time to carefully assess these individuals, so they were all hastily incorporated into the road construction corps, working diligently to ensure the logistical supply for the Austrian army. After all the turmoil, the situation in the Venetian region has finally stabilized. However, the cost of this stability is that the economy has almost come to a standstill. However, considering that this place is about to turn into a battlefield, such concerns become inconsequential. During times of war, can we really expect economic development? "Your Excellency, Sir Rothschild requests an audience!" the aide whispered. Marshal Radetzky smiled slightly and said, "Let him come in!" … … Rothschild extended a noble salute to Radetzky and spoke respectfully, "Respected Marshal, Rothschild is honored to have the opportunity to meet you!" According to convention, it would be customary to address him by his title of nobility. However, compared to his noble title, Radetzky prefers to be addressed as Marshal. Rothschild naturally chose to address him according to his preference. "I am honored as well. Mr. Rothschild, may I ask what brings you here to see me today?" Marshal Radetzky asked with a smile. Rothschild replied, "Your Excellency, today I am here representing the Venice Business Association. As you are aware, this uprising has implicated..." Before he could finish his words, Marshal Radetzky forcefully interrupted, "Mr. Rothschild, the insurgents will not receive any forgiveness. If you are here to plead on their behalf, there's no need to continue. As for the captured leaders, most of them have already been executed. For those who haven't been captured, if they surrender themselves, they may be treated leniently." Feeling the imposing aura of Radetzky, Rothschild's forehead broke into a cold sweat. It was only April, and the weather in Venice wasn't particularly hot. He couldn't help but feel relieved that he had always been against violent revolution and had not participated in this rebellion. Otherwise, his head would have been added to the pillars in Venice by now. The Vienna government had been ruthless towards the rebels this time. Even those with powerful connections were of no use. Once they were caught, they were immediately executed without any time for them to maneuver. Rothschilde stammered, "No, Marshal. Why would I plead for these rebels?" Marshal Radetzky laughed and said, "Oh, don't be nervous, take your time. As long as you have no association with the rebels, everything is fine. Your father, old Rothschild, is still a friend of mine. Is there anything I can assist you with?" After this initial surprise, Rothschild started to regret getting involved in this muddy situation. As a nobleman and a part-time capitalist, his primary identity remained that of a nobleman.