The Rise of German empire

That evening, as the Bavarian royal family gathered for dinner, a collective gasp filled the air when Oscar and Princess Gundlinde appeared hand in hand before them. It was a moment that took everyone by surprise.

Though the growing closeness between the two had been apparent in the preceding days, their public display of affection was still unexpected. Their bond had deepened quickly, but up until now, they had remained somewhat reserved in front of the others. This change was unmistakable.

Ludwig III, witnessing the scene, nodded in approval. In his heart, he felt great satisfaction in seeing his daughter find a worthy match.

The Bavarian princes were equally pleased. To have the Crown Prince of the German Empire become part of their family was a tremendous honor. It promised not only personal joy but also significant political advantages.

However, some of the princesses looked on with a tinge of jealousy. Although Princess Gundlinde had always been favored by Oscar, there had been a few attempts from other royal daughters to win his affection. None had succeeded, as Oscar's attention was fixed solely on Gundlinde. Though the young women harbored some resentment, they understood that their attempts had been in vain.

Oscar, ever confident, turned to Ludwig III. "Your Majesty, I have formally proposed to Princess Gundlinde, and she has accepted. I kindly ask for your blessing."

The room fell silent. The news of the proposal was entirely unexpected.

Ludwig III, although caught off guard, quickly recovered. "A proposal? Is this true, Gundlinde?" He turned to his daughter, though he suspected the answer.

"Yes, Father," Princess Gundlinde replied, her voice steady but filled with emotion. "I wish to be with Oscar and become his wife."

Ludwig III smiled, the weight of the moment settling in. "Since both of you have made up your minds, I have no objection. But, Oscar, have you consulted with His Majesty the Emperor?"

"Yes, Your Majesty. I will return to Berlin tomorrow to seek His Majesty's formal approval. But I believe he will agree." Oscar replied confidently, knowing that his father, William II, had already given his support.

Ludwig III nodded, his face glowing with approval. "Then I see no reason to delay. The union of our families will strengthen both the Hohenzollern and the Bavarian royal family. May it be a prosperous match for all."

The other members of the Bavarian royal family expressed their well-wishes, congratulating the couple. They were delighted by the impending union, which promised to enhance their standing in Europe.

One of the princes spoke up, offering a suggestion. "Your Royal Highness, Gundlinde will only be eighteen next year. If His Majesty the Emperor agrees, I propose that you become engaged this year and marry next year."

Oscar nodded in agreement. "I have no objection to that. I will formally inform my father when I return to Berlin, and I believe he will support this plan."

Early the next morning, Oscar left Munich by special train. At the train station, he embraced Princess Gundlinde, kissing her passionately without a care for the onlookers. The speed of their relationship had astonished many, but Oscar was proud of how swiftly things had progressed.

On July 10, Oscar returned to Berlin. As soon as he arrived, he made his way directly to the palace to meet with his father.

"Welcome back, Oscar," William II greeted him with a smile. "How was your trip to Munich?"

"It went well, Father. I have successfully proposed to Princess Gundlinde, and she has agreed to marry me," Oscar said with excitement in his voice.

William II laughed, pleased with the news. "Well done, Oscar. You wasted no time in winning her over. You truly know how to capture the heart of a princess."

Oscar grinned. "Father, I have come back to consult you on the matter. King Ludwig III has agreed, and I would like to know your thoughts."

Although Oscar referred to it as a consultation, he had already made up his mind. William II, well aware of this, showed no resistance.

"Oscar, you are my most outstanding son. I support your choice," William II declared.

Oscar's face lit up with joy. "Thank you, Father."

"Father, King Ludwig III has proposed that, since Princess Gundlinde will turn eighteen next year, we should become engaged this year and marry next year. I hope this plan is acceptable," Oscar added.

William II nodded in agreement. "Of course. There is no issue with this timeline. Set the engagement for this year, and marry next year as planned."

With the approval of both monarchs secured, the families began making preparations. William II and Ludwig III discussed the specifics, deciding that the engagement ceremony would take place one month later.

The news of the engagement spread quickly throughout Germany, causing a stir across the nation. While many had already speculated that Oscar and Princess Gundlinde were a couple, few expected their union to progress so rapidly. The engagement sent ripples through the noble circles, leaving many women disappointed and envious of Gundlinde's good fortune.

Despite the inevitable jealousy, the engagement remained unchallenged. Royal marriages, particularly those involving the Emperor or Crown Prince, were rarely subject to dissolution. For many, this engagement symbolized an unbreakable bond between the two powerful royal families.

On August 18, 1908, Oscar and Princess Gundlinde were officially engaged in Berlin. Their wedding was scheduled for the following September, marking the beginning of a new chapter in both their lives.