Chapter 127: The Missing General and Rising Tensions
Königsberg, the capital of East Prussia, stood as a crucial fortification on the Eastern Front, a strategic point in Germany's defense against Russia. The surrounding region had been heavily fortified, with numerous defense structures erected to protect against any potential Russian advance.
As part of the Schlieffen Plan, Germany had initially focused its military efforts on the Western Front, positioning the majority of its forces to strike France before Russia could mobilize. This left only ten infantry divisions stationed in East Prussia, a force that was drastically insufficient compared to Russia's massive standing army of over a million men. The German Army General Staff had hoped that a defensive strategy, relying on delaying tactics, would be enough to buy time until a decisive victory was achieved in the West.
Oscar traveled from Berlin to Königsberg on a special train, accompanied by Admiral Paul von Hindenburg, Deputy Commander of the 8th Army, and Brigadier General Erich von Ludendorff, the acting Chief of Staff. Their arrival marked a significant moment for the newly-formed 8th Army, and all eyes were on the Crown Prince as he took control of the military force.
Upon reaching the train station in Königsberg, Oscar was met by a gathering of army commanders and division leaders of the 8th Army. These men, some of whom had been awaiting this moment for some time, knew the significance of having Oscar at the helm. The 8th Army, formed with the purpose of being a strategic force in the coming conflict, was not only the Crown Prince's responsibility but also a critical piece in the Empire's military strategy.
"His Royal Highness is taking charge of the 8th Army?" said Lieutenant General Mackensen, commander of the 20th Army, expressing both surprise and admiration. "This is unexpected."
"I am confident in His Royal Highness's abilities," responded Lieutenant General François, commander of the 11th Army. "With General Hindenburg and General Ludendorff at his side, the 8th Army will undoubtedly grow stronger."
The 8th Army was composed of three main armies: the 11th, 17th, and 20th, with a reserve force, the 1st Reserve Army. If fully mobilized, the 8th Army could muster over 200,000 soldiers. But despite its potential, the army was still lacking in terms of training and equipment. Yet, Oscar was determined to change this, and he intended to shape the 8th Army into a modern and powerful force that would play a pivotal role in future wars.
The atmosphere on the platform was a mix of anticipation and quiet tension, especially given the absence of Lieutenant General Prittwitz, the commander of the 17th Army. Prittwitz had long been a favorite of William II, and many believed he was the one most likely to lead the 8th Army. However, now that Oscar had assumed command, Prittwitz's hopes were dashed. Some generals, like Mackensen, were privately glad to see him sidelined.
"I'm sure someone is very disappointed," General Mackensen remarked with a smile, referring to Prittwitz, whose connections with the Kaiser had once made him a powerful figure in East Prussia.
General François nodded, "Indeed, Prittwitz is a man with connections, but His Royal Highness will lead the 8th Army with the right mindset."
The generals' conversation was interrupted by the sound of a train whistle in the distance. Quickly, they fell silent, awaiting Oscar's arrival.
The special train pulled into the station, and as the doors opened, Oscar emerged in full military uniform, flanked by Admiral Hindenburg and Brigadier General Ludendorff. They were greeted by the waiting generals.
"Your Highness, welcome to Königsberg!" said General François and General Mackensen, stepping forward.
Admiral Hindenburg quietly informed Oscar of the identities of the generals before him.
"Thank you, General François, General Mackensen, for welcoming me," Oscar replied with a smile, extending his hand in greeting. He had heard of their reputations and was well aware of their talents. General François, in particular, had earned a reputation for his bold and strategic thinking, while Mackensen, though older, was a solid and experienced leader.
As Oscar surveyed the platform, he noticed the conspicuous absence of Lieutenant General Prittwitz. His absence immediately caught his attention and sparked his suspicion.
"Where is General Prittwitz?" Oscar asked, his tone calm but laced with curiosity.
"His Royal Highness, General Prittwitz is unwell and has taken leave to return to Berlin," Mackensen replied quickly.
"Unwell? I wasn't informed," Oscar replied, his expression turning colder. It was unusual for a senior officer to take leave without informing the commander. The fact that Prittwitz had failed to greet him personally seemed like a deliberate slight. Oscar knew of Prittwitz's close ties with William II, and he couldn't help but wonder if this was a subtle attempt to undermine him.
"General Prittwitz must have requested leave from the General Staff," General François added.
Oscar's face hardened, but he said nothing further. In his mind, however, Lieutenant General Prittwitz had already sealed his fate. His disregard for Oscar's authority, especially so early in his command, would not go unnoticed. Oscar was determined to assert his leadership, and Prittwitz's absence had made it clear that the general had no intention of respecting him. For now, Oscar would bide his time, but he had no intention of letting this slight go unpunished. He would not tolerate anyone questioning his command, least of all a man with ties to William II.
As the generals dispersed and the formalities of Oscar's arrival concluded, both Hindenburg and Ludendorff exchanged wary glances. They, too, were displeased with Prittwitz's behavior but knew that this issue would be addressed in due time. Oscar had just assumed his new role, and making a strong impression was essential. Prittwitz had made the mistake of underestimating the Crown Prince, and he would soon learn the consequences.
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