"Your Majesty, I am truly grateful for your tremendous support! I will continue to dedicate myself wholeheartedly to your service..." Director Hansche bowed with joy.
Where was that person trembling a while ago?
Was it because of my decision or simply their desire for money? Those fools who only care about money...
Nevertheless, this is not the time to worry. It was only a matter of time before they had grasped the key to mass production.
Who wouldn't profit from penicillin?
It could bring me tremendous authority and popularity.
Would everything be resolved once I became the Emperor? Of course not. But as the Emperor, if I were to shout, "Long live the Emperor!" the citizens would enthusiastically applaud.
The Habsburg family and the status of Emperor were absolute in this empire.
However, at a time when nationalism was gradually burning, I wondered how long it would last.
In that case, I must demonstrate that the Emperor is capable.
What sets our Emperor apart from others? Penicillin could be the answer.
Once penicillin is introduced, it will undoubtedly be most widely used within the Empire's territories, and the benefits will be for the citizens.
The Kaiser will dismiss the competent Prime Minister and then provoke conflicts all over Europe, while the Tsar of the neighboring town will soon taint Sundays with bloodshed and suppress the workers.
In the midst of such a political landscape, there will be an Emperor who developed antibiotics for the sake of the citizens. They will surely cheer, even running out while having a meal, chanting 'Long live Kaiser!'.
An Emperor who saves lives and an Emperor who takes them. Who will be more popular?
Moreover, those who don't die from various diseases will remain assets to the nation.
Penicillin can only bring tremendous benefits to me and the Empire.
Unlike his usual self, he spoke with dignity, befitting a member of the imperial family.
Director Hansche responded solemnly, matching the atmosphere.
"Yes, Your Majesty!"
"No matter how long it may take, can you complete the clinical trials within 3 years and achieve mass production within 5 years?"
This is the ultimate goal.
Whenever I see my father, who displays no signs of syphilis, and with mass production becoming a reality within 5 years, I can follow the predetermined plan once I become an adult.
"Please believe me. I will settle everything within 5 years!"
Director Hansche made a solemn vow before me with his disciples.
I truly hope he succeeds. If he does, I will support researchers to pursue their desired research wholeheartedly.
But what if he fails?
Of course, it's just a joke to say we'll bury him secretly for failing. However, it emphasizes how crucial penicillin is.
We have decided to provide additional support for academics, film production, and research laboratories.
Moreover, the war between the United States and Spain seemed to be gradually coming to an end. It was a conflict between the rising power, the United States, and Spain's colonial empire.
Contrary to expectations of a close match, the United States unilaterally defeated Spain. Although Spain made some efforts for a while, it was not enough to change the outcome of the war.
The United States secured control of the Caribbean Sea with a large fleet and landed ground forces in Cuba and Puerto Rico, gaining the upper hand in the war against Spain.
With the Caribbean secured, the United States moved towards the Pacific and completely occupied the Philippines, ending the war. Spain was utterly defeated and ultimately signed a peace treaty in Washington, marking the end of all hostilities.
And I waited until September to remove the Emperor's yellow card.
A Swiss newspaper published an article:
"[A noble lady stays at a luxurious hotel on the beautiful Lake Geneva. Surprisingly, she is none other than the Empress of Austria!]"
Elisabeth von Wittelsbach. One of the most famous women in Europe during the 19th century.
Given her position as the Empress of the Empire and stunning appearance, it was only natural that she became the subject of many tales. So, why would this woman be the reason for erasing the Emperor's yellow card?
It's because she's going to be assassinated this month.
The Emperor, who loved her deeply, was in shock, even fainting at the news. The Emperor had strong mental strength, at least as much as anyone else.
Crown Prince Rudolf suffered from depression, panic disorder, anxiety, and neuroses due to harsh education in his early years, but the Emperor endured and overcame it all.
Foolish thoughts like, "If Franz Joseph endured it, Rudolf should too," led to this unfortunate incident.
Anyway, the Emperor showed almost robotic mental strength, but even he was greatly shocked by his wife's death, so he needed to act.
Who would plot against the Emperor with such malice?
I will continue to enjoy the Emperor's reign for another decade or two, and my power and influence will expand even more.
Clank, clank!
"Your Majesty, you shouldn't say such things...!"
As I traveled to Switzerland, the maid beside me, disguised as an ordinary noblewoman, seemed quite nervous. She must be aware that the Emperor recently warned me not to leave Vienna. But here we are, openly defying his orders—how would she feel about it?
She probably thinks I'm mad for tempting fate. Perhaps she even imagines herself throwing herself out of the train's window in desperation.
"It's okay. We won't get caught," I reassured her.
To be honest, I don't worry much about fate or bad luck. As a young royal and the future heir, I believe I'm meant for greater things.
Stuck in the office, what can the Emperor do?
He often discovers things too late and reacts with anger. But this time, I made sure to invest considerable effort into planning and execution. It's crucial not to get caught in the process.
The consequences would be dire.
That's why I disguised the maids and the soldiers guarding me as a noble couple, with me playing the role of their child. We took extra precautions, and nearby, additional soldiers responsible for my protection were waiting, so there was no immediate danger, and my mind was at ease.
"If the Kaiser finds out, he'll be furious...!" the maid whispered anxiously.
The maid's voice trembled, and I understood her concerns.
Being a noble's maid in these times is no simple task. Radicals, anarchists, and nationalists are running rampant, targeting nobles at every opportunity. Hiring just anyone without a proper background could be dangerous, risking betrayal or even harm.
Fortunately, the maid accompanying me has a well-established noble status, but that doesn't diminish the Emperor's imposing aura.
Nevertheless, I have reasons for defying the warnings and embarking on this journey. Once this mission is accomplished, I won't be bothered by any scoldings from the Emperor.
In fact, I believe he'll be impressed with my achievements. Perhaps he'll even reward me, though I don't expect anything extravagant like a plane ride. After all, I am sure about the Kaiser's love for Sissi, a nickname for Elisabeth von Wittelsbach.
However, I must admit that I hold a rather negative view of her. Is it reasonable for the Empress of the Empire to roam freely outside, neglecting her duties to attend official events and uphold her authority?
She seems to prioritize her trips and luxury stays in fancy hotels, all at the expense of the state. On the other hand, Franz Joseph dedicates himself to his work and seldom leaves his office.
While Elisabeth von Wittelsbach, the Austrian Empress, might not have committed any crime deserving of death, her actions as both a public figure and a private individual have drawn criticism. Straying from her responsibilities and roles as Empress, wife, and mother, she engaged in excessive travels and pursued her own desires, leading to a negative perception of her among the people.
Some hold her partially responsible for the tragic suicide of Crown Prince Rudolf, and her favoritism towards her youngest daughter, after strategically arranging marriages for her other unaffectionate daughters, has not gone unnoticed.
Certainly, one must consider the challenging circumstances surrounding her marriage to the Emperor. The Empire was going through a period of instability, with Hungary in turmoil and the establishment of the Dual Monarchy.
These crises led to rigid customs and culture within the imperial court, and her mother-in-law, Archduchess Sophie, was known for her dominating presence in high-conflict European families.
Sissi's children were not exempt from her control, and their education was almost abusive. In such an oppressive environment, it is understandable that Sissi, who had grown up with freedom and independence, struggled to adapt. Nevertheless, everyone has their struggles and challenges to overcome.
My negative view of Sissi has remained unchanged. Her actions, such as wearing mourning attire and traveling after her son's suicide, have only deepened my confusion. I expected her to be affected by guilt after her son's tragic act, but she remained unchanged. However, I must remind myself that my judgments may be too harsh.
The history of the Habsburg Empire is full of turmoil, including assassinations, executions, insanity, and even suicide. It is peculiar that the Empire has managed to survive despite these events. Perhaps stability within the Habsburg family is the key to stabilizing the Empire during times of struggle. My thoughts may be controversial, and I should be cautious about such judgments.
"Your Majesty, it's too dangerous!"
"You worry too much. What could possibly happen in Switzerland?"
Ignoring the maid's warning, Empress Elisabeth ventured out onto the streets.
She couldn't fathom any possible dangers in Switzerland. After all, it wasn't a conflict zone but a stable and peaceful country. She had even traveled to Africa before, so why should she be concerned about a European city?
However, her indifference and reckless behavior proved to be perilous. Even though she had disguised herself as an ordinary noblewoman and garnered attention from a newspaper article, now everyone knew she was near Lake Geneva.
The Swiss police, although not foolish, couldn't ignore an imperial Empress in their vicinity. The implications of any domestic issues arising from this situation were evident.
As a result, the Swiss authorities promptly dispatched their escort troops to ensure her safety. However, the Empress was frustrated by their presence and didn't want to be constantly watched.
Complicating matters further, she had recently dismissed most of her attendants, leaving only one maid to accompany her. Consequently, they were unable to prevent a man from approaching her.
"Ah!"
The Empress collided heavily with the approaching man and staggered. The man didn't even look back and quickly disappeared from the scene.
"Your Majesty, are you okay?!"
"I-I'm fine. It must have been a pickpocket."
"Really? Are you sure nothing's missing?"
"No, nothing's missing."
"Phew, we were worried."
"You're too timid."
The women thought the man was just a foolish pickpocket. After all, nothing was missing, even after the collision. They laughed at the pickpocket and were about to continue their way. However, a group of people surrounded them.
"Your Majesty, we're from Vienna."
"What's going on? Can't you let go?!"
The soldiers who had escorted her tightly restrained Luigi Lucchini, the man who stabbed the Empress. "Deal with him quickly."
The soldiers skillfully dragged the man into a secluded place after receiving the orders. As expected of those who served in the imperial guard, they were competent.
The problem was that they were in a Swiss city, making them noticeable to the public. They had to finish quickly before the police arrived. Unfortunately, they couldn't prevent the assassin's approach.
The initial plan was to catch him before he could stab, but it was challenging to locate the Empress. Damn it, how could an individual with the title of Empress roam around with just one maid without an escort? No wonder they said she was killed too easily.
"Let go! I haven't done anything!"
"You're running away like you've done nothing?"
"W-Who?"
"I don't know."
"Grr...!"
An accompanying guard struck the man forcefully, causing the anarchist assassin, Luigi Lucchini, to collapse. While radicals or nationalists might have understandable motives, anarchists remained incomprehensible. They were mere pathetic individuals without real power, seeking to vent their frustrations in the chaotic world.
Assassination attempts on royals were common in this era, carried out by nationalists or radicals. However, targeting an old woman like the Empress seemed devoid of significance.
If they had to aim for someone, why not the Emperor or someone in a higher position?
Despite my negative views of her, I certainly didn't wish her death. I wondered why he did it, but I didn't bother asking. There was no point in engaging with such people.
"Don't kill him."
"Yes, Your Majesty!"
The man who had pleaded death after the assassination attempt was caught. However, Switzerland had abolished the death penalty, so there was no way he would be executed. Luigi Lucchini chose to end his life on his own terms.
Killing someone like him would only add to the misery. It's better to spare him, especially since he's an assassin targeting royals; my guards will twist his arms in strange directions.
"Aaahhhh!"
Ignoring the pig-like squeals, I headed toward where the Empress was. Thankfully, I had hired two doctors in advance, who were now attending to her injuries. The Empress's complexion wasn't too bad; it was the maid standing beside her whose face was pale with worry.
"How is she?"
"It's a puncture wound. There's bleeding, but with prompt treatment, it shouldn't be a significant problem."
"We narrowly avoided a big disaster."
The hired doctors breathed a sigh of relief as they spoke.
Luigi Lucchini, the would-be assassin, didn't possess the means to acquire proper firearms or weapons, and the small blade he had used proved ineffective.
Despite being stabbed, the Empress remained unaware of her injury and boarded the ship without any issues. The main concern was excessive bleeding, but she should be safe with the doctor's treatment. Though I worried about her age, fortunately, she appeared in decent condition.
After our conversation concluded, the Empress raised her gaze and fixed her eyes on me.
"Who are you?"
I let out a sigh. It seemed that the Empress couldn't recognize members of the imperial family.
"I am Karl, your grandson."
The Empress furrowed her brows, seemingly puzzled by the name Karl, and widened her eyes when she heard "grandson." As a woman close to her death, it's strange that she's more concerned about something else.