Announcing the Declaration

February 28, 1898

St. Petersburg, Winter Palace

The message from Beijing had arrived days prior, carefully translated and meticulously presented to Tsar Nicholas II. He stood by the grand window overlooking Palace Square, the distant figure of the Alexander Column casting its shadow against the pale winter sun. The news was monumental: China had accepted the alliance, setting forth conditions both ambitious and resolute. He turned slowly, his eyes scanning the chamber where his most trusted advisors awaited his response.

Foreign Minister Count Mikhail Muravyov cleared his throat, stepping forward with deliberate caution. "Your Majesty, the Chinese terms are bold, perhaps unexpectedly so. Yet they align with our broader goals. The division of Japanese territories, specifically Honshu's demilitarized zone, offers a pragmatic solution that reduces future conflict."