With the monarchy crushed and the emperor executed, Aron and Erwin set about transforming Germany into their vision of a unified and powerful state. The declaration of the new nation was both grand and ominous, marking the dawn of a new era—but not one of the freedom many had hoped for.
The Rise of the Führer
On May 1, 1774, in a ceremony held in Munich, Aron proclaimed the establishment of the United States of Greater German Reich, shortened to Germany or the German Reich. Aron took the title of Führer, emphasizing his role as the singular, unquestionable leader of the state.
Erwin, as Aron's most trusted ally and enforcer, assumed the role of Chancellor and head of the newly formed Council of National Unity, which served as a facade for democracy but operated under Aron's direct control.
Reorganization of SocietyThe National Socialist People's Party (NSPP)The revolution's original grassroots movement was rebranded as the National Socialist People's Party (NSPP), with Aron as its supreme leader. Membership in the party became mandatory for government officials and military officers, ensuring loyalty to the Führer. The NSPP adopted a philosophy of national unity, militarism, and absolute loyalty to the state. Military Consolidation The Shadow Legion was formalized as the Reich Guard, an elite force loyal only to Aron and Erwin. A national conscription program was introduced, and all men of fighting age were required to serve in the military. Economic Overhaul Land seized from the nobles and monarchy was redistributed, but only to loyal party members and supporters of the revolution.The state took control of major industries, imposing strict regulations to ensure they served the Reich's interests.Farmers and artisans were organized into guilds, which reported directly to the NSPP.Education and PropagandaSchools were restructured to instill loyalty to the Führer and the Reich from an early age.The NSPP established a Ministry of Truth, which controlled all forms of communication, including newspapers, books, and public speeches.Monuments celebrating the revolution and Aron's leadership were erected across Germany.Challenges and ResponsesResistance MovementsFormer loyalists to the monarchy and disillusioned revolutionaries formed underground groups to resist Aron's rule.Erwin dealt with these groups ruthlessly, using spies, informants, and public executions to crush dissent.Foreign RelationsRussia: Emperor Charles III condemned the new German Reich, labeling Aron and Erwin as usurpers. Russian forces began amassing on Germany's eastern border, preparing for war.France and England: Both nations, while wary of Aron's growing power, sought to avoid direct conflict. They established trade agreements with the Reich, hoping to influence it economically.The Church: The Pope issued another decree excommunicating Aron and his followers. The Reich responded by expelling Catholic clergy and seizing Church property.Aron's Vision: A Fascist Utopia
Aron's vision for Germany was rooted in the idea of absolute unity and strength:
"One Nation, One Führer, One Purpose."He viewed opposition as a disease that needed eradication to ensure the Reich's survival and prosperity.
To achieve this, Aron implemented harsh laws that eliminated political opposition, suppressed freedom of speech, and criminalized dissent. Trials were rare, and executions were common.
Erwin's Role: The Enforcer
Erwin thrived in his role as the Reich's enforcer. While Aron was the charismatic leader, Erwin was the shadowy figure who ensured the machine of the Reich ran smoothly.
He organized the Black Cloaks, a secret police force tasked with rooting out traitors and maintaining order.Under his guidance, the Reich Guard grew into a formidable force, capable of crushing rebellions and defending the Reich's borders.Cultural and Religious ChangesPagan traditions and symbols were revived to replace Christian influence, emphasizing the Reich's independence from Rome.Festivals celebrating the revolution and the Reich's achievements became mandatory, fostering a sense of collective identity.A Nation Transformed
By the end of 1774, the United States of Greater German Reich had become a tightly controlled fascist state. While Aron's promises of unity and strength inspired many, others lived in fear of the regime's oppressive measures.
Aron and Erwin had achieved their dream of a unified Germany, but at the cost of freedom and individual rights. The shadow of their rule loomed over every aspect of life, and the brothers' ruthless ambition left little room for dissent—or mercy.
Aron's Speech in Berlin – The Iron Fist of the Reich
It was a cold and gray day in Berlin, the new heart of the German Reich. The towering figure of Führer Aron stood at the podium, overlooking a sea of supporters gathered in the grand square. The Reich Guards, in their distinctive black and silver uniforms, stood in formation around the crowd, their presence a reminder of the unyielding strength of the new regime.
This speech was crucial. Aron was about to solidify his vision of the future for all Germans, and the world would be listening. The Führer's words were both a declaration of the Reich's strength and a warning to those who would challenge it.
Aron's Address
"My fellow Germans, citizens of the new and glorious Reich," Aron began, his voice steady and commanding, rising above the murmurs of the crowd.
"Today marks not just the birth of a new nation but the birth of a new world—a world where we are no longer slaves to a corrupt monarchy, where the chains of tyranny and deception are broken, and where we, the true heirs of German greatness, rise to take our rightful place among the greatest nations of the world!"
The crowd erupted in applause, their faces alight with fervor. Aron raised his hand, silencing them before continuing.
"Our Reich is not merely a political entity—it is a movement. A movement born of the struggle against those who seek to divide and weaken us. A movement that rejects the monarchy's lies, the poison of communism, and the weakness of liberalism. The monarchy betrayed us, the church betrayed us, and now, we shall create a Germany that is strong, unified, and above all, free from their corrupt influence!"
He paused for effect, his gaze sweeping over the crowd. The sound of his words lingered in the air.
"But the birth of our Reich does not mean we will let chaos reign. No longer shall we allow the cowardice of unchecked protest or rebellion to jeopardize the stability and unity of our nation. The Reich Guard, loyal to the Fatherland and to me, will not tolerate subversion of the order we have created. Anyone who dares to speak against the Reich, against the Führer, or against the National Socialist People's Party, will feel the full weight of our justice."
The Iron Fist of the Reich
"Let me be clear," Aron continued, his tone turning colder, more menacing. "There will be no room for protests against the government, against the leadership, or against our glorious party. Those who act against the Reich shall be detained, arrested, and if necessary, executed. We shall not allow any force, internal or external, to threaten the hard-won stability we have created. This is not a democracy, and it will never be. It is a Reich built on strength, on unity, and on the blood and sweat of our people."
The crowd cheered, their voices echoing through the square, but Aron's gaze remained intense. He was playing to the emotions of the masses, but he was also laying down the law for those who might think of defying him.
"Only peaceful protests on non-political matters shall be allowed, for I believe that every German citizen has the right to live without fear. But political protests, the poison of those who seek to undermine us, shall not be tolerated. No longer will we be slaves to the voices of anarchists, traitors, or any who seek to dismantle our Reich. We will act decisively. And we will win."
Aron's Vision for the Future
"I have created this Reich for you, the people. A nation where no foreign power shall dare to meddle in our affairs. A nation where we will stand tall, independent, and unyielding, free from the corruption of monarchy, from the rot of communism, and from the weakness of false democracy. We will reject the lies of those who seek to tear us apart, and we will stand as one. National Socialism is the only path to a glorious future for Germany, a future of strength, of pride, and of honor!"
The crowd erupted into wild applause, some raising their fists, others waving banners adorned with the Reich's symbols. But in the back, among the shadows, several figures—those loyal to the old regime, or sympathizers to the more liberal factions—exchanged worried glances.
Aron's speech, however, had achieved its goal. It reinforced his unchallenged authority, cemented his vision of a strong, fascist Germany, and left no room for doubt: dissent would be met with brutality.
After the Speech: The Reich's Iron Grip
The Reich Guard's Expansion
Following Aron's speech, the Reich Guard saw a massive expansion. Recruitment drives across the nation filled their ranks with loyalists who were eager to preserve the new order. Under Erwin's direction, the Guard became even more ruthless in hunting down anyone who even whispered against the regime.The Black Cloaks, the secret police, became infamous, infiltrating every corner of German society and ensuring that no rebellion would go unpunished.
The Fate of Dissenters
Some small, secret groups of opposition attempted to organize. They were swiftly crushed. Public executions of traitors were broadcast across the nation, showing the harsh consequences of defying the Führer.The government began enforcing strict curfews and monitoring of communication, silencing any who could speak out against the regime.
National Socialist Propaganda
Propaganda outlets were put into overdrive. National Socialist ideology flooded the airwaves, newspapers, and schools. In classrooms, children were taught to revere the Führer and understand the superiority of the Reich.Large murals and statues of Aron were erected across cities, glorifying him as Germany's savior and ultimate protector.Conclusion: The Reich's New Path
Aron's speech in Berlin was a decisive moment in the history of the German Reich. It was a declaration of his absolute authority and an unequivocal warning to any who would dare oppose him. The regime was built on fear and loyalty, and under Aron's rule, Germany would grow stronger—at least in the eyes of those who supported him.
But what would happen to those who didn't? The Reich was not yet secure. External enemies loomed on the horizon, and internal dissent could not be eradicated forever. Would Aron's iron rule lead Germany into a new age of prosperity, or would the seeds of rebellion soon sprout, threatening the Reich from within?
The Strategy Room – A Meeting of Power
The atmosphere in the Joint Military Headquarters was heavy with tension. Inside the secure strategy room, the generals of the Army, Navy, and Military Police gathered around a large, circular table. The center of the table was dominated by a world map, a stark reminder of the vast ambitions that Aron and Erwin held for their Reich.
Aron stood at the head of the table, his posture commanding and his expression cold. Beside him stood Erwin, his eyes sharp, scanning each general in the room. The generals were a mix of military veterans and new blood, all chosen for their loyalty and ability to carry out the brothers' will.
"Gentlemen," Aron began, his voice low and firm, "the revolution has been won, but the true work is only beginning. We have taken Germany, but we need to secure our borders and position ourselves for the wars to come. Today, we discuss the next phase."
Erwin stepped forward, his hand resting on the map. "We've consolidated our control over the southern regions, but we must prepare for the inevitable pushback from Charles III and foreign powers. Russia will not stand idly by, and the rest of Europe will be watching closely."
The room fell silent as the generals exchanged uneasy glances. The brothers' rise to power had already stirred tensions. With Russia looming to the east, the tensions with neighboring states were only escalating.
The Military Strategy
"Our first priority is strengthening our borders," Aron continued, pointing to the eastern edge of the map where Russia lay. "We need to fortify the regions along the borders, especially in the east. We'll also establish new fortresses along the Rhine River. The Russians may try to invade when they believe we're weak. We cannot let that happen."
The general in charge of the Army, General Falk, nodded. "We've already begun construction on the Rhine defenses, but we'll need more resources to complete the fortifications. We also have reports that Russian spies are active in the region."
"Increase surveillance. Ensure loyalty among the local commanders," Erwin instructed coldly, his hand sweeping across the map. "We cannot afford any cracks in our ranks."
Naval Strategy and Foreign Affairs
Aron turned to Admiral Kessler, the head of the Navy, who had remained silent thus far. "What is our status with the Navy?"
Admiral Kessler straightened. "We've already begun assembling a fleet. The Mediterranean is our next target. France and England may not pose a direct threat for now, but their navies are growing stronger, and we must be prepared to control the seas. A strong fleet ensures we can project power and defend our shores."
"Make no mistake," Erwin added, "If France or England tries to meddle, we will not hesitate to strike first. But our greatest concern remains Russia. We must not allow them to gather strength in the east."
"We need to make our intentions clear to Europe," Aron said. "We will present ourselves as a power of neutrality, a strong nation that demands respect. But if anyone challenges us, they will learn the cost of their actions."
Internal Control and Maintaining Order
Aron shifted the conversation to internal matters. "Our military might is secure, but we need to maintain control over the population. The Reich Guard and the Black Cloaks will be crucial in ensuring internal stability. Any signs of rebellion must be quashed immediately."
General Vogel, the head of the Military Police, spoke up. "We've seen some scattered protests in the cities, mostly from former monarchist sympathizers. We've already cracked down on the most vocal of them, but we need to monitor the universities and intellectual circles. They may be breeding grounds for opposition."
Erwin's eyes darkened. "Intellectuals, activists, and those who spread dissent—they must be eliminated, quietly and efficiently. We cannot afford to let discontent fester."
"We'll be increasing patrols in key areas," General Vogel responded. "The Black Cloaks are already infiltrating the higher circles. We'll root out any subversive elements before they gain traction."
Foreign Relations – The Eyes of Europe
The conversation turned to Europe's response to the rise of the German Reich.
"What of the foreign powers?" Aron asked, his voice even but firm. "How will we handle France, England, and the growing threat of Russia?"
"Russia is the greatest threat," General Falk interjected. "Their forces are vast, and they see us as a direct challenge. We will need to prepare for war, but we also need allies. France may be hesitant, but England might be willing to stay neutral if we can guarantee our position."
Erwin nodded. "We must be careful with France. A diplomatic approach might be more effective for now. But once we've solidified our control, we will send a message—one that makes it clear Germany will not bow to anyone."
Conclusion: The Path Forward
Aron's gaze hardened as he addressed the generals one final time. "We have the power, the strength, and the resolve to forge a new Germany—one that will be feared and respected. We will expand, we will conquer, and we will strike anyone who dares to defy us."
Erwin, standing beside his brother, offered a final cold look at the assembled officers. "We have our orders. Prepare for the next phase of the Reich's domination."
The generals saluted, and the meeting was adjourned. Outside, the winter air was thick with uncertainty, but within the walls of the Reich's military command, there was no question—Germany was on the brink of total transformation.
The room fell into a tense silence as Aron's commanding voice echoed through the strategy room. All eyes turned to him, each general listening intently, recognizing the weight of the decision he had just proposed.
"France may be a powerful adversary, but we will deal with them when the time is right. Our immediate concern is to expand our influence to our borders. We will secure the lands of the Duchy of Austria, Liechtenstein, Czech, Slovakia, and the Kingdom of Hungary." Aron paused for effect, his cold gaze sweeping over the table, ensuring that each general understood the significance of what he was saying.
"We will offer them a choice—unite with us, or face our wrath. These monarchies are relics of the past, just like the one we overthrew. They stand in the way of the future we are building here, the future of a unified, stronger Germany."
Erwin, ever the strategist, stepped forward with a slight smirk. "Our new nation will need more resources to sustain its growth. The lands Aron speaks of are rich and will provide us with what we need to fund our next phase of expansion. But we must ensure these kingdoms and duchies understand the price of refusing us."
Aron nodded in agreement. "We have the power, and we will not hesitate to use it. We must send an ultimatum, a clear declaration of our intentions. We shall liberate the people of these monarchies from their oppressive rulers. We will create a united front, and they will either join the Reich willingly or be forced into submission."
The General of Foreign Affairs, Maximillian Weiss, raised a hand, breaking the tension in the room. "We'll need to carefully craft the ultimatum. If we present it too aggressively, we risk inciting an early confrontation with France or even Russia. We must tread carefully, Aron."
Aron's expression remained unyielding. "We've already done the hard part—taking power in Germany. These nations will have a choice: join the German Reich or face a swift and unforgiving war. We must make it clear that the time for monarchies has ended. The world must know that we are the new order."
The Ultimatum
Within days, the German Reich issued the ultimatum to the Duchy of Austria, Liechtenstein, Czech, Slovakia, and the Kingdom of Hungary. In carefully crafted letters, each ruler was warned of the consequences if they did not submit to the Reich's growing power. The letters spoke of liberation, offering the people freedom from their monarchs, but they also warned of absolute war should they refuse.
The ultimatum was sent in the dead of night, ensuring that there could be no immediate responses from the monarchs, giving the Reich time to prepare for whatever may come next.
Behind the Scenes
While the ultimatum was being dispatched, Erwin was already making plans. "We will not wait for them to deliberate too long. If any of these monarchies show hesitation, we will move swiftly." He turned to General Falk, his trusted commander of the Army. "I want your soldiers ready to mobilize. We will strike if needed. Austria will fall first, followed by Hungary. The rest will follow."
General Falk nodded firmly. "The Army is ready, Führer. Our troops are well-trained, and we have resources in place. We will execute this swiftly, just as we did in the southern regions of Germany."
The Foreign Reaction
As word spread of the ultimatum, Europe held its breath. The Kingdom of France closely monitored the developments, worried that the expansion of the German Reich would upset the delicate balance of power in Europe. The Russian Empire, already eyeing the expansion of the Reich with suspicion, sent secret envoys to Austria and Hungary to offer support, but nothing concrete had been arranged yet.
The Duchy of Austria and Kingdom of Hungary, both monarchies teetering on the brink of internal unrest, were forced into difficult decisions. The Czech and Slovakia, less powerful and more isolated, were left scrambling to figure out where their loyalties truly lay.
The Decision
Days passed, and the world waited for the monarchies' responses. But no matter the outcome, Aron knew that his vision for a unified Greater Germany was coming closer to reality. Whether by diplomacy or by force, these kingdoms would soon be part of the Reich—or they would face destruction.
"This is the future, Erwin," Aron said, his gaze fixed on the map. "The old world will fall, and we will build something new from its ashes."
Erwin stood beside him, the firelight reflecting in his eyes. "The time for hesitation is over. We strike now, or we risk losing it all."
Aron's gaze remained cold and determined as he spoke. "We don't just change the world, brother. We reshape it."
Aron's voice was steady, but the weight of his words pressed heavily on everyone in the room. The time for diplomacy was drawing to a close, and now, only force would dictate the future. He turned to General Falk, his eyes hard and resolute.
"Issue the final warning," Aron commanded, his tone cold and unwavering. "We give them one final chance to respond. Tomorrow, September 12th, 1775 will be their only opportunity to submit their answers. We will not wait longer. After that, there will be no negotiation."
"And what will we do if they refuse?" Erwin asked, his voice low but filled with a dark satisfaction.
"We will move, as planned. We will attack each of them based on their responses. If they submit, they are offered a chance to join us—freedom for their people and unity under our banner. If they refuse, there will be no mercy. Total annihilation." Aron's eyes flashed with the certainty of his words. "Their kingdoms will fall. There will be no hesitation."
The Final Ultimatum
The final notice was sent out to each of the five nations—Duchy of Austria, Liechtenstein, Czech, Slovakia, and Kingdom of Hungary. The message was firm and clear:
"To the rulers of the Duchy of Austria, Liechtenstein, Czech, Slovakia, and the Kingdom of Hungary,
This is your final warning. Tomorrow, September 12th, 1775, will be the last day you have to respond to the offer of unity with the German Reich. If you accept, your people will be welcomed into a new world, a world of prosperity under our protection. A future where your monarchies and outdated rule will be replaced by progress and strength.
Should you refuse, know that your refusal will only bring ruin to your lands and your people. Your kingdoms will fall, and your resistance will be crushed without mercy.
You have until tomorrow to choose: Join us, or face annihilation.
Aron Himmler, Führer of the German Reich"
The ultimatum was sent swiftly, carried by elite messengers who rode through the night. By the time dawn broke, the five nations had received their final warning. Their rulers were left with little choice but to consider the inevitable.
The Army Mobilizes
As the final warning was issued, General Falk immediately began preparing the Army for the potential invasion. He moved swiftly to execute Aron's orders, dispatching messengers to each division and preparing the troops for action.
"Ready the armies," Falk commanded his subordinates as he studied the map once more. "We will move based on their responses. Austria will be our first target if they refuse, followed by Hungary. If we receive even a hint of defiance, we strike with full force."
The Navy was also put on high alert, with Admiral Kessler making preparations to move ships along the Rhine River and beyond. The Reich Guard would ensure that any sign of dissent within Germany itself would be stamped out immediately, while the Military Police ensured loyalty from the population.
The Waiting Game
As the 12th of September 1775 approached, tension gripped the Reich. The final decision of the monarchies was all that stood between a world of peace under the Reich's rule or the beginning of a devastating war. Aron, Erwin, and the entire leadership of the German Reich waited for the responses, each moment ticking by with growing anticipation.
The fate of Europe now rested on the shoulders of a few monarchs, and the will of the German Reich would shape the future of the continent.