Plot Twist: Betrayal in the Shadows
As the Reich solidified its hold over Belgium and prepared for further expansions, a clandestine meeting was held in the shadows of Berlin. High-ranking officials, including some of Aron's trusted generals and advisers, had begun to question his leadership. They feared that Aron's unyielding ambition and Erwin's ruthlessness would lead to the Reich's undoing. Among them was Friedrich von Richter, the once-demoted major general, now seeking revenge and power.
Scene: A Whisper of Dissent
It was late at night when Erwin entered Aron's study with an unusual grimness.
"Brother," Erwin said, shutting the door firmly behind him, "there's been a breach in our inner circle. A conspiracy against you."
Aron leaned back in his chair, his expression unreadable. "Tell me everything."
Erwin placed a list on the desk. "These are the names of those conspiring against us. Friedrich is among them. He's rallied several officers and advisers who fear the Reich's expansion will lead to war with France and England. They plan to depose you and establish a council to 'stabilize' the Reich."
Aron's hand clenched into a fist. "Traitors."
Scene: A Sudden Betrayal
Two nights later, while Aron and Erwin prepared for their next military campaign, an explosion rocked the central government district in Berlin. The targeted building housed the Ministry of External Affairs, a key institution for the Reich's diplomacy. Panic ensued as flames lit the night sky, and chaos spread through the streets.
Erwin burst into Aron's war room. "This was no accident. The conspirators made their move."
Before Aron could respond, news arrived that several garrisons loyal to Friedrich had seized key military installations in eastern Berlin. The city was on the brink of civil war.
Scene: The Turning Point
In a desperate countermeasure, Aron ordered the deployment of the Reich Guards and loyal divisions to crush the uprising. The battle for Berlin lasted three harrowing days, with the streets turning into battlegrounds. Civilians fled, and the once-proud city bore the scars of betrayal.
Friedrich was eventually captured in a daring raid led by Captain Sofia Monterouge, Aron's personal bodyguard, whose loyalty had proven unshakable.
As Friedrich was dragged before Aron, bloodied but defiant, he spat, "Your tyranny will destroy you. You've sown the seeds of your own downfall."
Aron, cold and unwavering, replied, "The only seeds I sow are those of power. Take him to the gallows."
Aftermath
The betrayal shook the Reich to its core. To prevent further dissent, Aron implemented sweeping reforms:
A reorganization of the military to ensure loyalty.The establishment of the Internal Security Bureau (ISB) to root out traitors.Increased propaganda to solidify his image as the savior of Germany.
While Aron appeared unshaken, the betrayal left him more paranoid and ruthless, driving him to tighten his grip over the Reich. Erwin, meanwhile, secretly began questioning whether their ambitions might ultimately consume them both.
The Reich was stronger than ever, but cracks had begun to form in the foundation of their empire.
Scene: The Strategic Meeting
The grand conference room in the Reich's capital, Berlin, was filled with tension as the high-ranking officers and directors gathered. The long, polished table at the center gleamed under the dim light, the walls lined with maps and charts of the Reich's territorial expansions. This was no ordinary meeting. This was where decisions that would shape the fate of the Reich were made.
Aron, dressed in his military uniform, stood at the head of the table, flanked by Erwin, Sofia Monterouge, and the top officials from every branch of the military and government. Today, the Reich faced both internal and external challenges that could either solidify its dominance or bring it to its knees. The audience before him included Generals from the Army, Navy, and Air Force, leaders from the Reich Guards, as well as the Directors of the Ministries of War, Internal Affairs, and External Affairs. The newly formed Internal Security Bureau (ISB) was also represented by its director, alongside senior intelligence officers.
Aron's sharp gaze swept over the room, taking in the faces of those who had served him and the Reich for years. His voice was cold, commanding, and full of purpose.
Aron: "Gentlemen and ladies, the Reich stands at a crossroads. We have successfully conquered much of Europe, but the moment of true challenge is upon us. Our neighbors—France, England, and the remnants of the old kingdoms—are only waiting for us to falter. We cannot afford to rest on our laurels."
He paused, letting his words sink in. His hand moved to the map laid out on the table, indicating the current borders and territories under their control.
Aron: "Our expansion must continue. But we must be strategic. This year, I propose a two-pronged approach. First, we will push through the remaining monarchies in the Balkans and Eastern Europe. Then, we must turn our attention to consolidating control within our own borders and solidifying our grip on the people. This means ensuring that our military presence is overwhelming, and that any dissent is eliminated before it has the chance to spread."
The room was silent. Only the sound of papers being shuffled and the occasional cough could be heard. Erwin, who had remained stoic throughout the meeting, spoke up.
Erwin: "We've already established a powerful military presence in the occupied territories. But we must not underestimate the growing resistance within them. The people of these regions are not all loyal to the Reich. We must root out insurgents—quickly and decisively."
Aron nodded, his eyes narrowing.
Aron: "Indeed. The Internal Security Bureau has been effective in tracking down resistance movements, but we need more. Director, how close are we to fully neutralizing these insurgents?"
The Director of the Internal Security Bureau (ISB), a tall, stoic man with an air of authority, stood up and spoke in a calm, measured tone.
ISB Director: "We've been successful in infiltrating key resistance cells in the occupied regions. However, there are still pockets of rebellion that remain difficult to infiltrate. I propose expanding the use of our intelligence network and recruiting more locals within the territories to act as informants. Their loyalty can be bought with rewards or fear."
Aron's lips curled into a tight smile.
Aron: "Very well. Use whatever means necessary to crush the resistance. We will not tolerate dissent in our Reich."
He turned his attention to the other leaders present, focusing now on the military commanders.
Aron: "General von Richter, I trust the Army is ready for the next phase of our expansion?"
General Friedrich von Richter, the Army's most seasoned commander, nodded confidently.
Von Richter: "We are prepared, Führer. Our divisions are stationed along the borders, and we have already begun preliminary mobilization. The troops are eager to secure further territory."
Aron: "Good. I want us to strike swiftly and decisively, just as we did with Belgium. The world will know that we are not to be trifled with. General, ensure that our forces are equipped for a Blitzkrieg-style invasion. We will strike with speed and overwhelming force."
Von Richter: "Understood, Führer. We'll move within the next two weeks."
Aron looked around the room, his gaze sharp and unwavering.
Aron: "And what of the Navy and Air Force? The seas and skies are still contested. We must ensure that our enemies can't strike us from above or below."
The Director of the Navy, a seasoned officer with an aura of calculated calm, spoke.
Navy Director: "We've strengthened our fleet significantly, and with the development of our advanced warships, we are confident in our ability to dominate the seas. Our next objective is to control the Mediterranean completely, which will disrupt any naval movements by France or England."
Aron nodded approvingly, then turned to the Air Force Director.
Air Force Director: "Our air superiority has grown steadily. We've begun to experiment with new forms of bombers and fighter aircraft. While we are not yet at the cutting edge of air warfare, we are making rapid strides. In the next few months, we anticipate being able to challenge any aerial opposition with devastating effect."
Aron's face softened slightly with satisfaction.
Aron: "Good. We will not only dominate the land but the skies and the seas. Now, Director of External Affairs—what is the status of our relations with France and England?"
The External Affairs Director was a tall, calculating man, accustomed to diplomatic maneuvering. He leaned forward, speaking carefully.
External Affairs Director: "France remains hostile, but we've ensured that their internal problems will keep them preoccupied for the time being. As for England, their response to our expansion has been measured—they are not yet prepared for war, but they are watching us closely. Our diplomatic efforts have kept them from forming an alliance with France, but we cannot rely on that forever."
Aron's eyes gleamed with a cold resolve.
Aron: "Then we will force their hand. If they want war, we shall give it to them. If they want peace, they will submit. We will control Europe. And no one—no one—will stand in our way."
The meeting concluded with a sense of grim determination in the air. As the generals, directors, and advisers filed out, Aron and Erwin remained in the room, the weight of their plans bearing down on them.
Erwin: "Do you believe they'll comply, Aron?"
Aron's voice was unwavering, his expression a mask of confidence.
Aron: "They have no choice. The world will bend to our will—or it will burn."
The brothers stood, watching the future of their Reich unfold before them.
Scene: Strategic Meeting Continued
The room was thick with tension as Aron, Erwin, and the senior officials of the Reich's military and government sat in the grand conference room in Berlin. The flickering candlelight reflected off the polished table, where detailed maps and documents were spread across its surface. Aron, having just concluded discussions regarding the Reich's territorial expansion, now turned to a new and crucial matter—foreign diplomacy.
Aron stood at the head of the table, his sharp eyes scanning the faces of the gathered officials, his mind calculating every move. Erwin stood silently by his side, his loyal brother, ever ready to carry out Aron's will.
Aron: "We've conquered much, but there is still more to be done. Our expansion has caused ripples in Europe. We've already established our dominance over the major powers, but now it is time to secure our flank."
He turned his attention to the External Affairs Director, a man known for his cunning and expertise in diplomacy.
Aron: "I want you to send an ambassador to the Ottoman Empire. Forge an alliance with them. They are a significant power, and their support could prove invaluable. Make sure the terms are favorable to us—an alliance of necessity. Their strength in the East can deter any other powers from encroaching upon us."
The External Affairs Director nodded, understanding the gravity of the task ahead.
External Affairs Director: "I'll send the ambassador immediately, Führer. The Ottoman Empire is a formidable force, and their cooperation could solidify our position."
Aron then shifted the conversation to his next set of demands. He laid out a map of the Balkans, his eyes narrowing as he pointed to the small kingdoms in the region.
Aron: "As for the smaller kingdoms to the south—the Kingdom of Denmark, the Kingdom of Croatia, the Kingdom of Bosnia, the Kingdom of Montenegro, the Duchy of Serbia, the Kosovan Kingdom, Macedonia, and Albania—these states are insignificant and stand in the way of our continued expansion."
His voice was steady, but there was a clear edge to it.
Aron: "Send them an ultimatum. Give them two weeks to decide. They will have two choices: join the Reich and become part of the United States of Greater German Reich, or face annihilation. If they do not comply, we will bring them under our control, one way or another."
The room fell silent as everyone processed Aron's words. The implications of such a sweeping ultimatum were clear. These were not states that could withstand the might of the Reich for long, and their only option would be to submit or be crushed.
Erwin, who had been silently observing the situation, leaned in with a sharp, approving smile.
Erwin: "Two weeks is more than enough. The surrounding powers are already wary of us. They won't dare resist."
Aron's eyes flicked to the map again as he thought of the strategic importance of each of these regions. Controlling these small kingdoms would allow the Reich to consolidate its position in the Balkans and secure a stronger foothold in the region.
Aron: "I want these responses fast, Director. Time is of the essence. I expect nothing less than total submission from them. Should any of them resist, we will not hesitate to act."
The Army General, seated nearby, spoke up, his voice steady but resolute.
Army General: "We will begin preparing our forces for a swift response, Führer. We'll have the troops ready in case the ultimatum is rejected."
Aron nodded approvingly, satisfied with the readiness of his military leaders.
Aron: "Good. We strike swiftly and decisively. As for the ambassador to the Ottoman Empire—make sure our position is clear. We need their cooperation, and we need it now."
With that, the meeting continued, the officials already making preparations for the next phase of the Reich's expansion and diplomacy. The fate of the smaller kingdoms rested in the hands of the Reich, and Aron knew that his plans were taking shape, one step at a time.
As the meeting came to a close, Aron stood up and addressed the room one last time.
Aron: "Remember, we are not just building an empire—we are reshaping the world. Let no one forget that the Reich will be the dominant power. Nothing will stand in our way."
The room erupted with murmurs of agreement, and the high-ranking officials of the Reich moved swiftly to put their leader's orders into action. The storm of conquest was far from over, and Aron's will would shape the future of Europe.
January 28th, 1776: Responses from the Nations
Aron, Erwin, and the high-ranking officials of the Reich gather in the strategy room of the Berlin headquarters. The atmosphere is tense as the responses from the ultimatums sent to Denmark and the Balkan kingdoms arrive.
The Director of External Affairs steps forward, holding a stack of sealed envelopes. He begins to read aloud:
Denmark: A firm rejection. They refuse to abandon their monarchy or bow to the Reich, stating they will defend their sovereignty.Kingdom of Croatia: A rejection, though with a tone of caution, suggesting they might reconsider if circumstances shift.Kingdom of Bosnia: Silence—no official response, implying defiance.Kingdom of Montenegro: A firm rejection, aligning themselves with other Balkan states for mutual defense.Duchy of Serbia: Rejection, but intelligence suggests internal divisions could be exploited.Kosovan Kingdom: Silence, similar to Bosnia.Kingdom of Macedonia: Acceptance, submitting to the Reich and offering cooperation to avoid conflict.Kingdom of Albania: A reluctant acceptance, citing the need to protect their people from war.
Aron sits back, tapping his fingers on the table as the room falls silent. Erwin, standing to his right, breaks the tension.
"Brother, it seems Macedonia and Albania are wise enough to see the benefits of unity under the Reich. The rest, however, are blind to reason. What shall we do?"
Aron rises, his eyes scanning the map of Europe on the table. He points toward Denmark and the Balkans.
"Denmark will pay for their arrogance. We'll start by mobilizing our forces along their southern border. As for the Balkans, we divide and conquer. Montenegro and Croatia have made their choice. Bosnia and Kosovo's silence is defiance. Serbia's divisions are an opportunity."
The generals nod in agreement. Aron continues, "Prepare for simultaneous campaigns. Blitzkrieg tactics will be employed against Denmark first. For the Balkans, Erwin, I trust you to coordinate with the ISB to sow discord among their alliances and exploit Serbia's weaknesses."
Orders and Preparations
Denmark Campaign:
The Reich's Navy is tasked with blockading Danish ports to cripple trade.The Army prepares to launch a swift invasion through Schleswig and Jutland.
Balkans Campaign:
Erwin directs the ISB to infiltrate Serbia, spreading propaganda and supporting factions against the monarchy.Generals strategize coordinated strikes against Croatia, Montenegro, and Bosnia, with a focus on quick victories to prevent united resistance.Final Directives
Before the meeting ends, Aron delivers his final orders:
"We will not tolerate hesitation. Denmark's defiance will serve as an example to the world. As for the Balkans, our message is clear: submit or face destruction. Begin mobilizing immediately. We strike in one month."
The room erupts in a chorus of agreements, and the officials disperse to execute their tasks. Aron returns to his office with Erwin, their minds focused on the battles ahead.
Behind the Scenes
As preparations intensify:
The Reich accelerates the production of bolt-action rifles and artillery to ensure the army is well-equipped.Erwin supervises intelligence operations, ensuring the Balkan nations are destabilized before the invasions.Sofia Monterouge oversees security in Berlin, ensuring no internal threats disrupt their plans.
The stage is set for the Reich's next aggressive expansion, as the world watches in growing fear of Germany's iron will.
February 25th, 1776: A Whisper in the Shadows
As the Reich mobilizes for war, Aron and Erwin are approached with disturbing news. Sofia Monterouge, Aron's trusted bodyguard, brings a sealed document to his private office. Aron, curious yet suspicious, dismisses everyone but Erwin and Sofia before breaking the seal.
The document contains coded intelligence from an anonymous source within the ISB. After decoding it with Erwin's help, Aron's expression hardens.
"The Ottoman Empire," Aron mutters, "is secretly aligning with Denmark and the Balkan states. They've offered military and financial aid under the guise of neutrality. If we move against these nations, we risk waking a sleeping giant."
Erwin clenches his fists. "It seems our so-called alliance with the Ottomans was a façade. They've been waiting for us to make the first move, hoping to strike when our forces are spread thin."
Aron takes a deep breath, his mind racing. "This changes everything. We cannot afford a two-front war, especially not with the Ottomans. But we can use this information to our advantage."
A Dangerous Gambit
Aron devises a bold plan:
Divide the Ottomans' Focus: Send covert operatives to stir unrest in Ottoman territories, particularly in regions with strong nationalist movements.Deception: Leak false intelligence suggesting that the Reich plans to invade France next, forcing the Ottomans to reconsider their strategy.Diplomacy: Secretly approach other European powers, like Spain and England, with promises of non-aggression treaties in exchange for their silence or support against the Ottoman threat.
Erwin leans in, his voice low but resolute. "And what of Denmark and the Balkans? Do we proceed?"
Aron nods. "Yes, but we adjust our tactics. Denmark will be hit with precision, a lightning-fast campaign to crush their resistance before they can rally Ottoman support. In the Balkans, we focus on internal destabilization. Let them destroy themselves while we wait for the opportune moment to strike."
Internal Betrayal
Unbeknownst to Aron and Erwin, the anonymous source within the ISB has their own agenda. The message was sent not out of loyalty but as part of a deeper plot to undermine the Reich's leadership. Whispers of discontent are growing within the party, with some viewing Aron's aggressive expansionism as a threat to the Reich's stability.
One high-ranking official, Colonel Friedrich von Richter, now demoted but still influential, begins quietly organizing a faction within the military and political elite. Their goal: to remove Aron and Erwin from power and restore the Reich to a more "reasonable" path.
The Calm Before the Storm
As March approaches, the Reich is at a crossroads. The invasion plans for Denmark and the Balkans are revised, with tighter deadlines and greater stakes. Aron and Erwin push their generals and ministers harder than ever, aware that any misstep could lead to disaster.
Yet, in the shadows of Berlin, betrayal brews. Aron and Erwin remain unaware of the growing conspiracy within their ranks, a threat that could be more dangerous than any foreign enemy.
The stage is set for a dramatic escalation, where the true strength of the Reich—and its leaders—will be tested.
March 15th, 1776: Shadows of Treachery
The Reich's war machine is in full motion. The lightning campaign against Denmark is set to launch within days, and covert operations in the Balkans are creating fractures in the smaller kingdoms. However, cracks are forming within the Reich itself.
Colonel Friedrich von Richter, emboldened by secret meetings with discontented officials, expands his faction. They argue that Aron's aggressive policies are reckless, endangering the stability of the Reich. Friedrich's rhetoric resonates with some generals who have grown weary of constant warfare and fear retaliation from neighboring powers.
A Meeting of Deception
Friedrich meets with Major General Klaus Schäfer, a respected but cautious leader in the army. The two converse in whispers within a secluded estate on the outskirts of Berlin.
"Schäfer," Friedrich begins, "the Führer is leading us into ruin. Denmark, the Balkans, and now the Ottomans? He's turning the world against us."
Schäfer frowns. "And what would you propose? Removing Aron is no small task. His loyalists are everywhere, especially Erwin."
Friedrich smirks. "We don't need to remove both. Aron's death would suffice. Erwin can be swayed or neutralized later. The Reich needs a strong, cautious hand—not a tyrant blinded by revenge."
Schäfer remains silent, the weight of Friedrich's words pressing down on him.
Denmark Falls
March 20th, 1776: The Reich's Blitzkrieg strategy proves devastatingly effective. Within a week, Denmark's forces are overwhelmed. Key cities fall to the advancing Reich Guard, and by March 25th, Denmark formally surrenders.
Aron celebrates the swift victory with a speech in Copenhagen, emphasizing the liberation of the Danish people from monarchy and their integration into the Reich. However, Erwin's sharp eyes catch subtle signs of tension among the generals during the victory celebrations.
"Brother," Erwin says that evening in private, "something feels... off. Some of the generals avoid eye contact. Others seem hesitant to offer congratulations. We may have discontent within our ranks."
Aron narrows his eyes. "Keep your ears open, Erwin. I want names. If anyone plots against us, they'll be dealt with swiftly."
A Conspiracy Unfolds
By April, Friedrich's faction grows bold. They begin leaking false intelligence to create confusion in the Reich's plans and undermine Aron's authority. Small-scale sabotages in supply lines and communication networks are disguised as external attacks, further straining resources.
Sofia Monterouge, ever vigilant, intercepts a cryptic message between suspected conspirators. She brings it to Aron and Erwin late one evening.
"This confirms our suspicions," Sofia says, placing the document on Aron's desk. "There's a coordinated effort to destabilize the Reich from within."
Aron's face darkens as he reads. "Friedrich," he growls. "I should've executed him when I had the chance."
Erwin cracks his knuckles. "Let's not act rashly. We need to expose the entire network before we strike. A single move could force them into hiding."
The Calm Before Chaos
April transitions into May. The Reich's military is preparing for the Balkan campaigns, but the leadership is on edge. Aron and Erwin secretly deploy the ISB to root out traitors, while outwardly maintaining a façade of control and confidence.
Aron knows that his enemies are closer than ever, and the looming betrayal threatens to destroy everything he's built. But he also knows one truth:
A tyrant does not rise to power without making enemies. And he will stop at nothing to crush them.
In a top secret Strategic Meeting with only trusted party leaders and military Generals along with Aron's top bodyguards, he says, "Traitors are growing in our country. I have a whole list. The list will be given to you by Sofia later this night so that no one suspects. I am going to make a speech at the grand hall here in Berlin. There will be all the divisions, units and ministries representing them on each pad. Every one of these traitors will be here. Once my speech will end, I will start taking these names. I want the ISB to have it's men on the terrace and balconies and shoot down every name I speak in the correct order right in the head right on the pad and the place they will be standing at. I want each of them dropping soulless on the ground in front of the audience and other loyal soldiers and officers."
The room fell silent as Aron finished his grim command. The trusted leaders and generals exchanged uneasy glances but nodded, knowing better than to question the Führer's ruthless methods. Erwin leaned forward, his icy gaze locking onto the assembled officials.
"You've heard the Führer's orders," he said. "There will be no mistakes. Timing, coordination, and precision are everything. The traitors must fall in front of their peers. Let this be a message to any who dare plot against the Reich."
Sofia Monterouge, standing at Aron's side, stepped forward. "I will personally oversee the list's delivery and brief the ISB on positioning and timing. The operation will be flawless."
Aron's voice cut through the room once more. "This is not just an execution—it's a demonstration. The Reich does not tolerate betrayal. Make sure the message is clear: loyalty is rewarded, treachery is met with death."
The Day of Reckoning
The grand hall of Berlin was packed to capacity on the day of Aron's speech. Representatives from every division, unit, and ministry stood in formation, each stationed on a raised platform bearing their group's insignia. The air buzzed with anticipation and unease.
Aron ascended the stage, flanked by Sofia and Erwin. His bodyguards were strategically positioned throughout the hall, their eyes scanning the crowd for any sign of trouble. The ISB agents were already in place, hidden on the terraces and balconies above, their rifles loaded and sights trained on their targets.
The Führer began his address, his voice booming through the hall. He spoke of the Reich's triumphs, the unity of its people, and the vision of a thousand-year empire. The audience hung on his every word, unaware of the storm brewing above.
The Moment of Truth
As Aron concluded his speech, his tone grew darker. "Yet, even as we strive for greatness, there are those among us who conspire to tear us apart. Traitors who dare undermine the Reich, who seek to betray the sacrifices of loyal men and women."
The hall grew still. Aron reached into his pocket and pulled out a list.
"Today, we cleanse the Reich of this poison. The first name is Major General Friedrich von Richter."
A sharp crack echoed through the hall as a single shot rang out. Friedrich collapsed onto his platform, a red stain spreading across his uniform. Gasps and murmurs filled the room, but Aron's voice cut through the chaos.
"Next, Major General Klaus Schäfer."
Another shot, another body falling lifeless to the ground.
The executions continued, each name followed by a gunshot and a stunned silence. The audience stood frozen, their shock palpable. The ISB agents worked with precision, their targets dropping in perfect sequence.
The Aftermath
When the last name was called and the final shot fired, Aron lowered the list. The hall was deathly quiet, save for the muffled sobs of those too afraid to make a sound.
Aron surveyed the room, his expression cold and unyielding. "Let this be a lesson to all. The Reich does not tolerate betrayal. We reward loyalty, but treachery is met with swift and merciless justice. Those who stand with us will prosper. Those who stand against us will perish."
The speech ended to a thunderous applause from those still alive, though many clapped out of fear rather than conviction. As the bodies of the traitors were carried away, the surviving officials knew one thing for certain: Aron's rule was absolute, and defiance was a death sentence.
In the shadows, Erwin whispered to Sofia, "This is only the beginning. The Reich's enemies, both within and beyond, will know the price of betrayal."
Sofia nodded, her face unreadable. "They'll know, sir. They'll know."
As the ceremony concluded, Aron descended the stage with an air of authority that brooked no argument. Spotting the hall's chief overseer, he issued a curt command: "Remove these bodies and clean the floors. Make sure this place is spotless by morning." Without waiting for a response, he strode out, flanked by his loyal bodyguards.
The soldiers in attendance dispersed, their minds clouded with a mix of fear, loyalty, and unease. The chilling spectacle they had witnessed lingered like a heavy fog, leaving them questioning the nature of the regime they served.
Later That Night
In the grand palace, Aron sat in his private study, nursing a glass of wine as Erwin joined him. The room, adorned with opulent tapestries and a large map of the Reich, bore testament to the power they had built together.
Aron's gaze was distant as he spoke, breaking the silence. "Erwin, I have been thinking about something for a long time."
Erwin raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "What is it, brother?"
Aron sighed, setting down his glass. "I am old now, older than I ever thought I'd live to be in this tumultuous life. And I think it's time… I need to get married."
Erwin leaned back in his chair, his sharp mind immediately assessing the implications. "Marriage, Aron? Is this for personal reasons, or is it a strategic move? You've always been a pragmatist."
Aron allowed a faint smile to touch his lips. "A bit of both. I need an heir to secure the Reich's future, to ensure that all we've built does not collapse after us. But also… I have grown tired of solitude. A wife might bring me some peace in this storm of politics and war."
Erwin nodded, his expression thoughtful. "Then it must be someone who strengthens the Reich—someone from a noble or influential family. An alliance through marriage could fortify our position domestically or abroad."
Aron tapped his fingers on the desk, his mind already calculating. "Indeed. Perhaps someone from a powerful European family, or even an alliance with the Ottomans. We need to weigh our options carefully. I will not marry out of mere sentiment; this union must serve the Reich."
Erwin smirked, his cold pragmatism mirroring his brother's. "Then let us draw up a list of suitable candidates. I'll have Sofia and the Ministry of External Affairs assist in identifying prospects."
Aron nodded. "Do that. But remember, Erwin, this is not just about alliances. The woman I marry must understand what it means to stand by me. This life is not for the faint-hearted."
Erwin rose, a rare flicker of approval in his eyes. "Understood, brother. By the end of the week, we'll have a list prepared."
As Erwin left the room, Aron stared out of the window at the sprawling city of Berlin, illuminated by the soft glow of gas lamps. For the first time in years, the thought of companionship brought a strange warmth to his chest—a small reprieve in the cold, ruthless world he had forged.