Empire Rising: Spain

Chapter 8: Chapter 8: Persuasion

Carlo understood that if he couldn’t persuade his father at this moment, not only would his own plans for the Austro-Prussian War dissipate, but even his hard-won right to manage his property independently would once again fall under the supervision of Vittorio Emanuele II.

Looking at Vittorio Emanuele II’s serious demeanor, Carlo organized his words in his mind: “Father, I believe it’s beneficial to let General Garibaldi begin preparing the army ahead of time at this moment.

There is bound to be a war between Prussia and Austria, and as allies of Prussia, we are certainly to be involved in this war.

Austria is also our enemy; if we want to use this opportunity to reclaim the Venice Region, we must prepare in advance rather than waiting for the war to begin and hastily respond.”

Vittorio Emanuele II nodded, quite pleased that Carlo understood these points.

However, despite his satisfaction, when it came to the matter of Garibaldi regaining military power, Vittorio Emanuele II would not easily compromise.

“Continue.” Vittorio Emanuele II maintained his expressionless face, looking seriously at Carlo.

“Father, you are aware that General Garibaldi holds immense prestige among the Italian populace and can easily organize a powerful army of tens of thousands.

If we can utilize this, it might deal unexpected blows to the Austrian Army in the Venice Region, possibly accelerating our efforts to reclaim the area,” Carlo continued.

Vittorio Emanuele II rubbed his brow and asked, “I’m more concerned about the harm that tens of thousands of soldiers might bring to the Kingdom than the contribution they could make.”

“This is precisely what you need not worry about, Father,” Carlo said with a smile.

Seeing the surprise on Vittorio Emanuele II’s face, Carlo knew his words had an effect, and he quickly added:

“Once the war between Prussia and Austria breaks out, you can actively order Garibaldi to join the fight against Austria.

If Garibaldi’s army performs well, the credit will naturally come to you. However, if Garibaldi fails in the battle against Austria, the disappointment among the people will be unrelated to you, won’t it?”

Such tactics are not unfamiliar to monarchs, placing themselves in a position to reap rewards without taking on responsibility.

However, this did not entirely dispel Vittorio Emanuele II’s concerns.

“Child, you don’t understand how formidable Garibaldi’s reputation among the people is. If his prestige grows further, it would be a devastating blow to the entire Savoy Family,” Vittorio Emanuele II said earnestly to Carlo.

Garibaldi’s reputation among the populace is already threatening, and he once leaned towards republicanism.

This poses a significant danger to a monarchy, which is why Vittorio Emanuele II takes the risk of dispatching soldiers to “protect” Garibaldi’s army closely.

“But he is almost 60 years old, Father,” Carlo replied.

Garibaldi’s age was the only reassuring factor for Vittorio Emanuele II.

In this era of inadequate medical technology, even in the most developed regions of the world like Europe, the average lifespan remained short, around 30 to 40 years.

Indeed, the average lifespan in Europe at the time was only around 30 years, making Garibaldi’s age nearing 60 quite rare, which was why Vittorio Emanuele II felt somewhat at ease.

Seeing Carlo persistently presenting compelling arguments, Vittorio Emanuele II gazed for a long time before finally saying, “My child, I acknowledge you have a talent for diplomacy.”

“So, do you agree, Father?” Carlo asked eagerly, unable to contain his excitement.

“I need to consult the Cabinet; some matters cannot be decided solely by the King, do you understand, Carlo?” Looking at Carlo, who still couldn’t fully conceal his feelings, Vittorio Emanuele II’s emotions were complex.

However, Carlo’s display of intelligence was ultimately beneficial to the Royal Family. Vittorio Emanuele II needed more aides to help him stabilize his power, especially a child like Carlo who shared his blood.

“Moreover, even if the Cabinet agrees, the nation doesn’t have any funds to help Garibaldi rebuild the army. Anyway, whether the Cabinet agrees or not, this matter is no longer your concern, Carlo. Once there is a decision, someone will inform Garibaldi. Your primary task now is to complete your studies at the Military Academy.” Vittorio Emanuele II touched his son’s head, finally returning to the role of a father.

After this conversation, Vittorio Emanuele II held great expectations for Carlo’s growth.

Though there is only one Crown Prince, it doesn’t mean the future Crown Prince won’t need close aides.

If Amadeo and Carlo both could grow into excellent military leaders, perhaps the future Kingdom of Italy would present a splendid situation where the Royal Army was entirely under control of the Royal Family, solidifying the Savoy Family’s position further.

“I understand, Father,” Carlo nodded.

Carlo also understood that he couldn’t directly persuade Vittorio Emanuele II to agree to let Garibaldi reorganize the army.

Vittorio Emanuele II indicated that he would seek the Cabinet’s opinion, but if he, the main opponent of Garibaldi, did not refuse, it’s likely the Italian Government wouldn’t reject the opportunity to gain tens of thousands of soldiers freely.

As for Garibaldi’s military capabilities, Carlo had no concerns.

Historically, both in the Austro-Prussian War and the subsequent Franco-Prussian War, Garibaldi demonstrated outstanding military capabilities.

It could be said that Garibaldi now is the last saving grace for the Italian Army. At least the army led by Garibaldi can hold its ground against the forces of Prussia, France, and Austria.

If Garibaldi could indeed commence military engagement upon the outbreak of war, perhaps the Italian army’s performance on the southern front wouldn’t be so poor.

This could have a significant impact on the entirety of the Austro-Prussian War, perhaps allowing Italy to secure a better position and solidify the Savoy Family’s status.

If this suggestion yields good results, it will surely make Carlo’s subsequent plans proceed more smoothly, at least facilitating persuasion of Vittorio Emanuele II in the future.