The Rise of German empire

On July 4, 1908, Oscar departed Berlin on a private train bound for Munich. His entourage was kept minimal, consisting only of his guards, whose vigilance had been heightened since recent incidents. Neither Oscar nor William II was willing to risk another assassination attempt.

The train also carried an array of carefully chosen gifts for Princess Gundlinde and the members of the Bavarian royal family. With Ludwig III, King of Bavaria, boasting an unusually large family, the logistics were no small feat. Though several of Ludwig's 13 children had tragically passed away in childhood or early adulthood, nine remained: three sons and six daughters. This impressive number of surviving heirs underscored the Bavarian royal family's prominence in the German Empire.

Oscar's gifts included Daimler B-class sedans, the pinnacle of luxury vehicles at the time. Though Daimler's more affordable C-class cars had become a staple for the working class, the B-class remained a symbol of sophistication and exclusivity. Securing one was no easy task, even for the wealthy.

Oscar arrived in Munich on the morning of July 6. News of his visit had reached the Bavarian court, and Crown Prince Ruprecht was dispatched to greet him at the railway station.

"Your Highness, welcome to Munich. It is a great honor for the Kingdom of Bavaria to receive you," Ruprecht said warmly, his smile broad. Having only returned to Munich the previous day, he couldn't help but note the timing of Oscar's arrival. The young prince's swift journey from Berlin spoke volumes about his feelings for Gundlinde.

Oscar returned the courtesy with a gracious nod. "Your Highness, I came to Munich at Princess Gundlinde's kind invitation and have long admired the beauty of this city. It is my privilege to be here."

Ruprecht was impressed by Oscar's demeanor, which lacked the arrogance often associated with royalty. As a general of the German Empire and a leader within Bavaria, Ruprecht appreciated the respect shown by the future Kaiser.

Together, they rode to the Munich Palace in a Daimler B-class car, drawing admiration from onlookers. Ruprecht couldn't resist praising the vehicle, aware of Daimler's ties to Oscar's Deutsche Industries Group. His compliments were both sincere and strategically flattering.

Meanwhile, in the palace, Ludwig III discussed the impending visit with his family.

"Father, Crown Prince Oscar will arrive shortly," Karl, the second prince, announced eagerly.

Ludwig III chuckled, turning to his youngest daughter. "Gundlinde, it seems your charms have captivated the brightest star of the German Empire. To think he would travel all this way so quickly—it speaks volumes."

"Father!" Gundlinde protested, her cheeks flushed. Though her embarrassment was evident, a flicker of joy shone in her eyes. She couldn't deny her happiness at Oscar's dedication.

Her sisters exchanged looks, a mix of envy and admiration in their expressions. The prospect of marrying a man like Oscar—charismatic, wealthy, and influential—was a dream few dared to hope for.

When Oscar arrived at the palace, he presented his gifts, ensuring that each member of the royal family received a Daimler B-class sedan. Though the Bavarian royals were wealthy, the rarity and prestige of the vehicles made them an impressive offering. The gesture earned him the goodwill of the family, solidifying his place as a favored suitor for Gundlinde.

That evening, Ludwig III hosted a grand banquet in Oscar's honor. The halls of the Munich Palace were filled with the empire's elite, but the focus of the night remained on Oscar and Gundlinde. As Oscar mingled, he noted the cold stares from several young men—no doubt admirers of Gundlinde. However, their hostility was of little concern. In his mind, Gundlinde's heart was already his.

Over the next few days, Gundlinde took on the role of guide, showing Oscar the splendor of Munich and its surroundings. They explored Marienplatz, Nymphenburg Palace, Theresienwiese, and the Deutsches Museum. Each outing brought them closer, their bond growing with every shared moment.

One evening, as the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the lawn where they rested, Oscar decided it was time to bare his heart. Turning to Gundlinde, he took her hand and spoke earnestly.

"Gundlinde, I've grown to care for you deeply. I want you to be my wife and share your life with me. I swear before God, I will love you and cherish you forever."

Gundlinde stared at him, her breath catching. Though surprised by his timing, she felt her heart swell with happiness.

"Oscar, I... I feel the same. I would be honored to be your wife and walk this path with you."

Overwhelmed with emotion, Oscar leaned forward, capturing her lips in a tender kiss. In that moment, their futures entwined, and their love became a promise as enduring as the setting sun.