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.
A week later, in the grand study of Berlin's palace, Aron sat at the head of the table, flanked by Erwin and Sofia. The Ministry of External Affairs had presented a meticulously prepared list of potential candidates for his marriage. Each name came with detailed dossiers—political alliances, economic benefits, and personal attributes.
Aron scanned the list with sharp eyes, pausing at one name. He tapped his finger on the table. "The daughter of the President of the Republic of Spain, Isabella Montserrat."
Erwin leaned forward, studying the file. "An interesting choice. Spain remains a republic but has maintained cordial relations with us. Her marriage to you could tilt their government towards an alliance or even allow us to influence their policies subtly."
Sofia nodded. "She's well-educated, politically savvy, and reportedly well-regarded among the Spanish elite. Marrying her could stabilize our southern flank and potentially open new trade routes."
Aron's eyes narrowed. "What do we know of her personality? Will she bend to the Reich's needs, or will she be a thorn in my side?"
Sofia responded promptly. "From what our intelligence has gathered, she is intelligent, strong-willed, and fiercely loyal to her father's ideals. However, she is also pragmatic and knows the power dynamics at play in Europe. A carefully orchestrated courtship might win her over."
Erwin smirked. "Strong-willed, you say? She sounds like someone who might challenge you, brother. But perhaps that's precisely what you need."
Aron leaned back in his chair, a small smile playing on his lips. "A challenge, indeed. But one that could secure the Reich's future. Begin the diplomatic overtures immediately. Make it clear to the Spanish President that this marriage would signify a partnership of equals. We will honor their republic while maintaining the Reich's dignity."
Sofia saluted. "I'll oversee the arrangements personally, Führer. Spain's ambassador will likely want guarantees of your intentions."
Aron's voice hardened. "They'll receive guarantees, but they'll also know that rejecting this proposal would be unwise. Spain cannot afford to alienate us."
Erwin chuckled darkly. "The carrot and the stick, as always."
Aron rose from his seat, his decision final. "Prepare the diplomatic team. I will draft a personal letter to the Spanish President and Isabella herself. If we are to form this alliance, it will be on my terms."
Weeks Later
The diplomatic delegation returned with promising news. Isabella Montserrat had agreed to visit Berlin, accompanied by her father and a small entourage. The President of Spain recognized the strategic importance of the alliance and viewed the marriage as an opportunity to solidify Spain's position in Europe.
Aron prepared the palace for their arrival, ensuring every detail reflected the power and grandeur of the Reich. When Isabella arrived, the first meeting was cordial yet formal. Aron found her to be as intelligent and perceptive as her dossier suggested. She met his gaze without flinching, her demeanor poised and confident.
Over the next few days, the courtship began. Aron spoke to her of shared visions for the future—of a Europe united under strong leadership, of prosperity and stability. Isabella listened intently, occasionally interjecting with sharp observations that impressed even Erwin.
At the end of the week, Aron proposed to her in the great hall of the palace, witnessed by high-ranking officials and foreign diplomats. Isabella accepted, sealing a union that would reshape European politics.
The marriage was scheduled for the following month, marking a new chapter in the Reich's history—a chapter that promised both opportunities and challenges in equal measure.
The Grand Wedding in Berlin
The streets of Berlin overflowed with jubilant citizens on the day of the Führer's wedding. Every corner of the capital was adorned with banners bearing the Reich's insignia intertwined with the emblem of Spain, symbolizing the union of two powerful nations. Aron stood at the altar in the Great Hall of Unity, dressed in a striking black and silver uniform, his medals gleaming under the chandeliers.
Isabella Montserrat entered the hall with grace, her gown a masterpiece of Spanish craftsmanship, embroidered with subtle motifs representing both nations. The ceremony was presided over by the High Priest of the Reich, blending solemn tradition with the grandeur of state power.
As Aron and Isabella exchanged vows, the crowd erupted in cheers. Aron's speech after the ceremony emphasized the strategic alliance:
"This union is not just the merging of two lives but the strengthening of two nations. Together, we march towards a brighter future, unyielding in our pursuit of progress and unity."
The reception was a spectacle, attended by dignitaries from across Europe. Despite their varied allegiances, they all acknowledged the growing influence of the German Reich. Isabella's poise and intelligence impressed even the most skeptical, cementing her position as the new First Lady of the Reich.
The Balkan Campaign
While the citizens of Berlin celebrated, the Reich's military forces were orchestrating a ruthless campaign in the Balkans. The two-month ultimatum had expired, and Aron's patience had run out. With Erwin leading the strategic operations, the Reich's forces descended upon the Balkan kingdoms with a ferocity that left no room for resistance.
Phase One: Divide and Conquer
The campaign began with the Reich's forces splitting into three main divisions:
The Northern Division, tasked with subjugating Croatia and Bosnia.The Central Division, targeting Montenegro, Serbia, and Kosovo.The Southern Division, focusing on Macedonia and Albania.
Using the newly developed blitzkrieg strategy, the Reich overwhelmed the small and disorganized armies of the Balkan states. Towns and cities fell within days as the locals, many of whom were weary of their monarchs, offered little resistance.
Phase Two: Psychological Warfare
Erwin deployed the ISB to spread fear among the population, using propaganda and selective executions to deter rebellion. Leaflets were dropped from the skies, proclaiming the Reich as a liberator from monarchic oppression. Promises of improved infrastructure, economic opportunities, and security were made to the people of the Balkans.
Phase Three: The Capitulation
By the end of February, the Balkan kingdoms had capitulated. The once-fractured region was now under German control, reorganized into provinces governed by loyal administrators appointed by the Reich. Resistance movements were crushed swiftly, with Sofia Monterouge leading the elite forces in rooting out dissenters.
A Strategic Discussion
A week after the wedding, Aron, Erwin, and the top military leaders convened in the Berlin strategy room. The map on the table now displayed the expanded Reich, stretching from the North Sea to the Adriatic.
Aron pointed to the Balkans. "The campaign was swift, but we must ensure the region remains stable. Appoint local leaders who are loyal to the Reich, but ensure they know who holds the true power. The ISB will maintain order."
Erwin added, "We should also begin exploiting the natural resources of the Balkans—iron, coal, and agricultural products. They will fuel our growing economy and military."
Aron nodded. "And send a message to the Ottoman Empire. Assure them that our expansion does not threaten their borders, but also remind them of our strength. We must keep them neutral for now."
With the Balkans secured and the marriage strengthening international ties, the Reich's influence was at its peak. Yet, Aron knew that every step forward brought new challenges, and the march towards his vision of ultimate power was far from over.
The Strategic Ultimatums
In the Berlin strategy room, Aron stood at the head of the table, his eyes scanning the map that now depicted a Reich reaching deep into Eastern Europe. The atmosphere was tense yet determined as he addressed his generals and ministers.
"Slovenia is insignificant in size," Aron began, his voice sharp and authoritative. "Their resources are limited, but their strategic location is critical to solidifying our control in the Balkans. Send them an ultimatum. Give them one month to surrender their sovereignty and join the Reich. If they refuse, we will annex them without hesitation."
He then shifted his gaze to Erwin, Sofia Monterouge, and the Director of External Affairs. "As for Greece and Bulgaria, the approach must differ. Draft a peaceful ultimatum emphasizing unity and progress. Offer them a place in the Reich as equals, not as subjugated territories. Highlight the benefits of economic prosperity, military protection, and freedom from monarchical oppression. Present this as an opportunity to join a stronger Europe—a better Europe."
Erwin nodded, his face unreadable but his mind already formulating contingency plans for potential resistance. "Understood, Führer. The ISB will also monitor for any signs of dissent within these nations during the negotiation period."
Aron added, "Make it clear that this is their chance to align with the inevitable. But if they choose to resist, their refusal will be met with the full force of the Reich."
Preparing for Diplomacy and Conflict
As the ultimatums were dispatched, the Reich's military forces began positioning themselves along the borders of Slovenia, Greece, and Bulgaria. Troop movements were masked as routine exercises to avoid alarming the international community. The Ministry of Propaganda launched a subtle campaign to sway public opinion in the targeted nations, flooding them with messages about the Reich's vision of a unified and prosperous Europe.
Behind the scenes, the ISB infiltrated key political circles in Greece and Bulgaria, identifying potential allies and sabotaging any nascent opposition. Sofia Monterouge personally oversaw these covert operations, ensuring that the Reich's influence extended deep into the heart of these nations.
Public Reaction
In Germany, news of the peaceful ultimatums was met with a mix of enthusiasm and skepticism. The Reich's propaganda machine worked overtime to frame these moves as steps toward uniting Europe under a single, powerful entity. Aron made a public speech in Berlin to address the nation:
"Slovenia, Greece, and Bulgaria have been given the chance to join us in building a better future—a future free from the chains of monarchy and the chaos of fragmented rule. We are not conquerors; we are liberators, bringing order and progress to a divided continent."
The crowd erupted in cheers, chanting Aron's name and pledging their unwavering loyalty to the Reich.
The Waiting Game
As the weeks passed, tension grew. Slovenia remained silent, their government hesitant and unsure. In Greece and Bulgaria, debates raged in their parliaments, with factions both for and against the Reich's proposal clashing over the decision.
Aron, in the privacy of his office, confided in Erwin, "These nations must understand that our patience is not infinite. If they fail to see the wisdom of joining us peacefully, they will see the consequences of defiance."
Erwin smirked. "And when they do, brother, the world will know that the Reich's vision is unstoppable."
Reactions from the Global Powers
While Aron and his inner circle waited for responses from the targeted nations, the international community was not oblivious to the moves of the German Reich. The growing expansionist reach of the Reich began to rattle several world powers, including Russia, the United States, and other significant European and global actors.
Russia's Reaction
Emperor Charles III, still seething over the loss of his sons and the rise of Aron, was quick to respond with a blend of diplomatic maneuvering and military posturing. In the royal palace in St. Petersburg, the Russian court buzzed with activity. Charles had long been aware of his son's ambitions and knew that the encroachment of the Reich into Eastern Europe was an existential threat to the Russian Empire's dominance.
At a council meeting, the Russian Foreign Minister declared, "The Reich's reach into the Balkans cannot be tolerated. We must make a strong stand before they extend even further. The Ottomans will not wait forever to act."
Charles, furious but controlled, said, "We will support Greece and Bulgaria in any way necessary. The idea of a united Europe under a single, fascist banner will not go unchallenged."
Russia had quietly begun mobilizing troops near its western borders, and diplomatic envoys were dispatched to Greece and Bulgaria to offer military and economic support should the nations reject Aron's offer. The Russian Empire, still reeling from its internal strife, knew this was the time to make a calculated move to destabilize the growing power of Germany.
America's Response
Across the Atlantic, the United States, under President George Washington, watched with growing unease as the Reich's shadow spread across Europe. Though America had no direct interests in the Balkans, the potential for conflict on the European continent was concerning for the United States' future foreign relations.
Washington convened his Cabinet, and the mood was grim. "The rise of tyranny in Europe cannot be allowed to continue unchecked," said the Secretary of State. "However, we must tread carefully. A direct confrontation with Germany may drag us into another war, and we are not prepared for that."
In response, Washington ordered diplomatic channels to remain open, but he also instructed the American military to begin preparations for potential intervention if the situation escalated. While America had no formal alliances with the Balkans, they could not afford to let a fascist superpower destabilize Europe further.
Other European Powers
The British Empire, despite being a distant observer of the developments, viewed the rise of the Reich with suspicion. The monarchy in London knew that Aron's ambitions were growing, and Britain could not ignore the possibility of a united Europe under a singular, authoritarian regime. However, Britain, struggling with its own colonial issues, had little military focus on European affairs. It chose a cautious, wait-and-see approach, strengthening its diplomatic ties with France and the Netherlands to ensure that it had allies if things took a more violent turn.
Ottoman Empire's Involvement
The Ottomans, always cautious of any rising European power, had their eyes firmly on the Balkans. Sultan Mustafa III had been following the Reich's expansion closely, and while he was initially hesitant to intervene directly, he recognized that a German-controlled Balkans could endanger Ottoman interests.
The Sultan ordered several diplomatic envoys to be sent to Bulgaria and Greece, offering them protection and support in exchange for their loyalty to the Ottoman Empire. The Ottomans hoped to form a counterbalance to the growing German threat and possibly use Greece and Bulgaria as buffer states.
Responses of the Targeted Nations
As the deadline for Aron's ultimatum approached, the targeted nations began to make their decisions. The responses came in as follows:
Slovenia
Slovenia, with its small size and vulnerable position, chose to capitulate to the Reich's demands. Their government issued a public declaration of surrender, announcing their formal integration into the German Reich. Slovenian leaders framed it as a move toward greater prosperity and security under the guidance of Germany, hoping to avoid conflict.
Greece
Greece, divided by internal political strife, found itself torn. The royal family, along with conservative factions, leaned toward joining the Reich for the promise of stability and protection. However, socialist movements within Greece rallied against the idea, with their leadership warning of a totalitarian takeover. Despite this, Greece's monarchy eventually gave in, signing a treaty of cooperation with Germany, agreeing to be formally integrated into the Reich's sphere.
Bulgaria
Bulgaria was similarly divided. The government hesitated but, under pressure from both internal factions and the looming threat of a German invasion, agreed to join the Reich under the condition of autonomy in domestic affairs. Bulgaria's submission came with a list of political demands that Aron grudgingly accepted in the hopes of avoiding a prolonged military campaign.
The Ottoman Empire's Influence
In a surprise turn of events, the Ottoman Empire's diplomatic efforts bore fruit. Greece, now under pressure from multiple sides, began negotiations with the Ottomans for greater autonomy within their sphere of influence, while Bulgaria chose to accept the Reich's terms. Slovenia's quick submission, however, remained a smooth and uncontested acquisition.
The International Community's Reactions
Russia, upon learning of the Balkan nations' submissions to the Reich, escalated its rhetoric. The Russian government began openly condemning the Reich's actions and promising support to any who opposed German expansion. At the same time, Russia started massing troops at its southern borders, particularly along the Danube, signaling potential future conflict.
The United States, although diplomatic in its response, began quietly offering economic and military aid to Greece and Bulgaria in a bid to sway them back from the Reich's grasp. The U.S. also warned Germany that their actions would have repercussions, though Washington was careful not to escalate things into a full-blown conflict.
A New Europe
As the Balkans officially fell under the Reich's control, Aron's vision of a united Europe seemed closer than ever. However, the growing tensions with Russia, the Ottoman Empire, and even the United States pointed to the possibility of a larger, more destructive conflict.
Aron, standing on the balcony of his palace, looked out over Berlin. The city now pulsed with the might of a superpower, but he knew that the greatest challenges were yet to come. Europe was on the brink of war, and the future of the Reich was uncertain. The balance of power had shifted, but at what cost?
He turned to Erwin, his loyal brother and right hand. "The world will never be the same again, Erwin. This is only the beginning."