Reich Plays New Indirect Cards

In a strategic meeting in the heart of Berlin, with the highest-ranking generals, military officers, and key party leaders, Aron stood at the head of the table, his gaze intense. The air in the room was thick with tension as they discussed the growing global opposition.

"I fear that France, England, Russia, the Ottomans, and the USA might forge an alliance against us," Aron said, his voice resolute. "We need to secure strong allies. We can't afford to wait for them to act first. Italy and Romania, they have the potential to strengthen our position. Send formal alliance requests to both. If we can secure their loyalty, we will have powerful allies on the European continent."

His words reverberated through the room as Erwin nodded, already drafting the communication strategy.

Aron continued, his tone colder. "We can't let any dissent grow in Greece or Bulgaria. I want the ISB to infiltrate their movements, quash their protests. Open fire on any protestors. We cannot afford to let these rebellious elements take root. Let them know the power of the Reich."

The Generals in the room exchanged cautious glances but knew better than to question the Führer. They acknowledged his orders with a sharp nod.

"France is the next obstacle," Aron stated firmly. "I have been patient, but no longer. We need to crush their forces before they can form any meaningful resistance. I will move our armies to the French border once we secure the Balkans. Soon, they will be forced to bend to us."

Aron paused, allowing the room to digest the weight of his statement. Then, his voice lowered, but his resolve grew stronger.

"I've also heard that the Portuguese Empire has declared war on Spain. We will send aid to Spain immediately. Help them push back the Portuguese, but we need something in return. We will annex all Portuguese colonies—Angola and Mozambique—into the Reich. Spain can keep the mainland. This will not only bolster our influence globally but also expand our territorial holdings."

He turned to his trusted ministers, generals, and bodyguards, his gaze piercing them all.

"Do not waste time. Begin the preparations immediately. I want Italy and Romania on our side. I want the streets of Greece and Bulgaria cleansed. And Spain—tell them the offer is on the table. If they accept, Portugal will fall, and their colonies will become part of the Reich."

The room remained silent, the weight of the orders settling over the meeting like a thick fog. Each individual knew their part. The preparations would begin immediately. But the air was electric, as Europe stood on the brink of an all-consuming war.

Behind the Scenes: Preparations Begin

As Aron's orders rippled through the ranks, the Reich's intelligence network, led by the ISB, was immediately activated. Spies were dispatched to infiltrate protest movements in Greece and Bulgaria, while special units were tasked with silencing any opposition. Across the border, military divisions began to mobilize on France's doorstep, preparing for an impending assault.

Diplomatic envoys were dispatched to both Italy and Romania, presenting them with the benefits of a formal alliance with the Reich. The promise of economic support, military aid, and security against the growing opposition from other world powers made the offer enticing, but Aron knew time was of the essence. Their decision would shape the fate of Europe.

Meanwhile, the ISB agents began working covertly in Greece and Bulgaria, with orders to control any protests that erupted in opposition to the Reich's growing influence. As Aron had commanded, the agents used whatever means necessary to ensure total submission—open fire on protesters, silence any dissidents, and ensure the people knew the price of defiance. The streets soon became quieter, but at a terrible cost.

The Portuguese Threat and Spain's Dilemma

In Spain, the news of the Portuguese declaration of war was met with grave concern. The Portuguese Empire had long been a thorn in Spain's side, but their colonial holdings—particularly in Angola and Mozambique—were highly coveted by the Reich. Aron's offer to Spain was clear and tempting. If Spain agreed to Germany's help in defeating Portugal, the Reich would absorb the Portuguese colonies into its expanding empire, further solidifying its influence over Africa.

But Spain's leaders were cautious. They knew the power of the Reich all too well. However, the weight of the Portuguese threat pushed Spain toward considering the offer. The negotiations were tense, but Spain's monarchy ultimately accepted the deal—Spain would retain control over its mainland while Germany annexed the Portuguese colonies.

A new alliance was born between the Reich and Spain, one that would forever alter the balance of power in Europe and Africa.

The Balance of Power Shifts

As Aron watched his plans unfold, the global stage began to take on a darker tone. The alliance of nations against the Reich seemed imminent. Russia, the United States, and the Ottoman Empire—desperate to stop the expansion of the German superpower—began to coordinate their efforts, though their response was still unclear.

Yet, with Italy and Romania potentially aligning with the Reich, and Spain now firmly within their grasp, Aron's vision of a united Europe under his iron fist was becoming a reality. The European map was being redrawn, and the world would soon feel the tremors of a new power rising.

Aron knew that the coming months would determine the fate of Europe—and perhaps the entire world. As the Reich prepared to invade France, his strategy of Blitzkrieg was set to be tested like never before.

But one thing was certain: the road ahead would be paved with blood.

The Annexation of Portugal

In the summer of 1777, the German Reich, now an unstoppable force, began its swift campaign against Portugal. With Spain's cooperation and support, the Reich's military divisions swiftly pushed through Portuguese defenses, overwhelming their forces. The small Iberian nation, once a colonial empire, now found itself under the might of the Reich's modernized military.

The city of Lisbon fell first, its defenses no match for the Reich's elite forces. Soon, Portugal's coastal cities were under German control, and the Reich began to establish its authority over the Portuguese colonies in Africa—Angola and Mozambique. The two vast territories, rich with resources, were integrated into the German empire.

Aron had secured a significant strategic victory, expanding Germany's colonial holdings and further cementing its dominance in Europe and Africa. The Reich's grip over global trade routes and colonial resources strengthened, providing further wealth and power. In return for Spain's assistance in toppling Portugal, Aron ensured that Spain kept its mainland, as promised, while Germany took full control of the Portuguese territories.

The annexation of Portugal and its colonies sent shockwaves across the international community. The already fragile alliances and rivalries between European nations intensified, with a new sense of fear over the unchecked expansion of the German Reich.

The Response from Italy and Romania

With the annexation of Portugal and the increasing militarization of the Reich, Italy and Romania began to see the writing on the wall. Initially hesitant, both nations began to recognize the overwhelming power of Germany. Italy, in particular, had a vested interest in securing Germany's favor, given the Reich's economic and military prowess. Romania, situated at the crossroads of Europe and constantly vulnerable to larger powers, was also enticed by the Reich's offer of protection and support.

Both nations were invited into a private meeting in Berlin, where Aron and Erwin laid out the terms of their potential alliance. Italy was offered lucrative trade deals, military assistance, and a guarantee of security against French and Ottoman ambitions. In exchange, Italy would align itself with Germany, pledging support in future military campaigns, particularly against France and any potential resistance from other European powers.

Romania, still a relatively small and underdeveloped nation, faced a similar choice. Aron promised Romania greater autonomy in its domestic affairs but requested military support in upcoming conflicts. Romania would benefit from the Reich's strength, while Germany would gain an important ally on its eastern flank, particularly in dealing with any Russian threats.

After days of negotiation, both Italy and Romania agreed to the terms of the alliance. Italy's formal declaration of loyalty to the Reich was met with a grand military parade through Rome, where the Italian government pledged its support. Romania followed suit, signing a treaty of mutual defense and cooperation.

These alliances strengthened the Reich's position considerably. With Italy's geographic advantage, Germany could now project power across the Mediterranean and into North Africa. Romania's strategic location, bordering the Russian Empire, also provided critical leverage in the event of any future conflict.

International Reactions and Growing Tensions

As Italy and Romania pledged their allegiance to the Reich, the international community was thrown into turmoil. France, England, and the Ottoman Empire, who had long viewed Germany as a rising threat, began to seriously consider forming an alliance to counterbalance the Reich's growing influence. Diplomatic channels between these nations began to buzz with intense discussions, but no formal alliances were made—yet. The possibility of a European-wide coalition against Germany was imminent, and Aron was fully aware of the risks.

Meanwhile, the United States, watching the events unfold from across the Atlantic, began to send covert messages to European powers, urging them to form a united front against Germany's expansionism. Russia, still reeling from the loss of territories and unable to match the Reich's growing military prowess, quietly began fortifying its borders. The Ottoman Empire, too, watched with growing concern as the balance of power in Europe shifted, leading them to reconsider their diplomatic ties with the Reich.

Despite the mounting international pressure, Aron remained resolute. He knew that in the coming months, the Reich would face fierce resistance. Yet, he had already prepared for it. The success of the annexation of Portugal, the fall of France, and the continued consolidation of power across Europe were all part of a carefully crafted vision for the future. The formation of alliances and the expansion of the Reich's territory were merely stepping stones toward a greater goal: a total, unchallenged reign across Europe and beyond.

Aron's ambitions were clear. He would not stop until the entire continent was under his control.

The Road Ahead

As the Reich's expansion continued, the diplomatic landscape in Europe became increasingly hostile. With Italy and Romania firmly in Germany's grasp, Aron prepared for the next phase of his plan. The looming threat of a unified coalition against Germany remained, but Aron was confident that his new allies, combined with the Reich's powerful military, would be enough to hold off any potential opposition.

But Aron's enemies were many, and his every move was being watched. The world was on the brink of a massive shift, and Europe stood at the precipice of war. The next steps would be crucial in determining the future of the continent—and perhaps the entire world.

In Berlin, the strategic plans were set into motion. The Reich would continue its expansion, but Aron knew the cost would be high. And, as always, he was ready to pay it.

Poland's Ultimatum

In the spring of 1778, as the Reich solidified its grip on Europe, Aron sent a friendly but firm ultimatum to Poland. The Kingdom of Poland, situated between the expanding German Reich and Russia, had long been a geopolitical buffer. With tensions rising across Europe and Aron's relentless pursuit of territorial consolidation, the Reich now sought to bring Poland into its fold.

The ultimatum was crafted with tact, presenting the offer as one for mutual prosperity and security. Germany promised to help Poland modernize its infrastructure, expand its economy, and safeguard it from the growing Russian threat. Poland would be allowed to maintain its sovereignty in domestic matters, but its foreign policy would be aligned with the Reich. In return, Poland would provide troops to the Reich's military campaigns, ensuring a combined force capable of standing against any outside threat, particularly Russia and the Ottoman Empire.

Poland, while wary of German intentions, understood the strategic importance of such an alliance. They could either resist, facing the full weight of the Reich's military might, or join the ever-expanding power of the German Empire and secure their future. The ultimatum gave Poland two months to respond—an offer of peace and prosperity, but with the firm expectation of compliance.

Romania and Moldova

Romania, now firmly aligned with the Reich, had been embroiled in a conflict with its neighbor, Moldova, which had resisted Romanian expansion and sought alliances with Russia. Romania, eager to assert its dominance and secure its borders, called upon Germany for assistance.

The Reich's military support was swift and decisive. Romania's forces, backed by German weaponry, tactics, and experienced soldiers, easily overran Moldova's defenses. The Moldovan army, unable to match the might of the combined Romanian-German forces, capitulated within weeks. Moldova, once a sovereign state, was absorbed into Romania's expanded borders.

Germany's involvement in the conflict solidified its influence over Romania, ensuring the country's loyalty for the foreseeable future. The annexation of Moldova also provided a key strategic location on the Black Sea, further strengthening Germany's eastern defenses. The Reich's military prowess was displayed once again as it manipulated the regional balance of power to its advantage, with Romania firmly under its control.

Germany's Ultimatum to Norway

In the summer of 1778, Germany turned its attention to Scandinavia. Norway, a small but strategically important kingdom, had been neutral during the Reich's earlier conquests. However, with the rise of the German Empire and the impending pressure from both the Ottoman Empire and Russia, Norway's position had become increasingly vulnerable.

The Reich sent an ultimatum to Norway, offering the kingdom a chance to join the German Empire and ensure its security. The proposal was framed as a pathway to greater economic development and modernization. In return for joining the Reich, Norway would receive military protection, access to Germany's advanced technologies, and participation in the Reich's growing naval power. The message was clear: Norway had the choice to ally with the Reich or face potential invasion from the advancing forces of Germany.

The Norwegian leadership, while hesitant, could not ignore the overwhelming power of the Reich. Germany's rapid expansion, bolstered by its alliances, put immense pressure on the Scandinavian kingdom. The ultimatum gave Norway two months to respond, but its leaders understood the consequences of rejecting Germany's offer.

Reactions to the Ultimatums

As these new developments unfolded, the international community reacted with growing concern. Russia, already wary of Germany's territorial ambitions, viewed Poland's potential incorporation into the Reich as a direct threat to its interests in Eastern Europe. Russia's government began to mobilize its forces, preparing for a potential confrontation with the growing German Empire.

The Ottoman Empire, too, began to reconsider its diplomatic stance, uncertain of how the Reich would react to its presence in the Balkans. The rise of the Reich was an unsettling development for both Russia and the Ottomans, who had long seen themselves as the dominant powers in Eastern Europe and the Mediterranean.

France and England, still uneasy with Germany's swift expansion, quietly discussed the possibility of forming a coalition to counterbalance the Reich. But the question remained: could they unite before it was too late, or would Germany's sheer power make such a coalition futile?

The Path Ahead

As Aron's forces prepared for the next phase of expansion, the world's attention was fixated on the shifting balance of power in Europe. Poland, Romania, and Norway were now key pieces in the grand chessboard of European politics. Aron knew that with these new acquisitions, the Reich would be in an even stronger position to challenge any external threat.

Yet, with the looming tensions from Russia, the Ottoman Empire, and the growing diplomatic pressure from France and England, the question remained: how long could Germany continue its unchecked expansion before it faced a formidable counterforce?

In Berlin, Aron and Erwin prepared for the next moves. The Reich's influence continued to grow, but Aron was aware that with great power came great risk. The coming months would determine whether Germany could continue its rise to global dominance or whether it would face the wrath of a united opposition.

Spain Capitulates Andorra

As Germany's influence continued to grow across Europe, Spain, under pressure from the Reich, began to consolidate its territorial claims. The small principality of Andorra, nestled between France and Spain, had long been neutral. However, the increasing dominance of the Reich in Western Europe and Spain's newfound alignment with Germany made it clear that neutrality was no longer an option.

Spain, with German backing, sent a diplomatic request to Andorra, offering them the opportunity to join the Iberian Federation or face annexation. The ultimatum was simple: submit to Spain's sovereignty and reap the benefits of German technological and military support, or resist and face the wrath of a combined Spanish-German invasion.

Andorra, facing overwhelming pressure, capitulated swiftly, officially becoming a part of Spain's growing empire. The Spanish expansion was now aligned with the Reich's broader objectives in Europe, further solidifying the Iberian Peninsula's place under German influence.

Italy's Expansion

Italy, under Aron's influence, had become an increasingly powerful ally of Germany, and its territorial ambitions were now in full swing. The Italian Kingdom, recognizing the benefit of securing its borders and increasing its territorial holdings, took action to absorb key small states and regions.

Malta and San Marino: Malta, a strategically located island in the Mediterranean, was a long-time British possession. However, Italy, with its growing naval power, made a swift diplomatic maneuver, offering Malta the opportunity to join the Italian Kingdom or face the consequences. With Britain distracted by other conflicts, Malta's leadership, seeing the inevitability of Italian power, quickly capitulated. Similarly, San Marino, a tiny republic surrounded by Italy, was absorbed into the Kingdom, its autonomy rendered moot under the weight of Italian and German influence.

The Vatican and the Pope: The Vatican, once an independent entity with considerable influence, found itself cornered by the rise of both Italy and the Reich. The Pope, after lengthy discussions with Italian and German leaders, agreed to align the Vatican with Italy. In exchange for the Vatican's spiritual endorsement and continued autonomy within its borders, the Pope offered Italy support in the form of diplomatic recognition and influence over Christian nations under the Reich's control. The formal agreement allowed Italy to claim a greater degree of moral authority across Europe, further consolidating its position within the Reich's sphere of influence.

Monaco's Resistance and Fall

Monaco, a small yet wealthy principality on the Mediterranean coast, had long maintained its independence, even amidst the surrounding empires. However, with Italy's growing power and Germany's rise, Monaco was under increasing pressure to align itself with the Reich or face military consequences.

The ruling family of Monaco initially resisted the idea of submitting to any foreign power. The country's wealth and strategic location made it an attractive target, but its entrenched position of neutrality and autonomy was not easily broken.

Despite initial resistance, Monaco's position soon became untenable. Italy, with its growing influence and military strength, began to encircle the principality, offering an ultimatum: join Italy as a vassal state, or face an invasion. When Italy's forces began mobilizing along Monaco's borders, the ruling family of Monaco saw no choice but to capitulate, joining Italy under the Reich's expanding domain.

Arrival of the Responses

As the year drew to a close, the responses to Germany's ultimatums arrived, each marking a new phase in the unfolding European drama.

Poland's Response: Poland, despite the pressure, rejected the Reich's offer. Fearing the loss of sovereignty and influenced by Russia's promises of support, Poland held firm. This decision would prove costly, as the Reich's military forces began to mobilize along the border, preparing for an invasion in the coming months.

Norway's Response: Norway, wary of the Reich's growing power but unwilling to face the consequences of defiance, agreed to join the German Empire. The decision was made with a sense of pragmatism, understanding that Norway's future depended on aligning with the Reich, rather than risking destruction.

Greece and Bulgaria: Greece, under political turmoil, saw the writing on the wall. The government capitulated to the Reich's demands, agreeing to join Germany in exchange for protection and economic advancement. Bulgaria, similarly, folded under the pressure, joining the Reich to secure its future and avoid being consumed by neighboring powers.

Ottoman Empire and Russia: Russia, now on high alert, responded to the growing European unity under the Reich with increasing military mobilization. The Ottomans, concerned with their southern borders, began to strengthen their defenses, wary of Germany's increasing influence in the Balkans. Both empires understood that the Reich's territorial ambitions had no limits, and they prepared for the inevitable clash.

France's Response: France, still bitter from past confrontations with Germany, responded with defiance, rallying its allies in a bid to halt the Reich's progress. The French government called for immediate diplomatic talks, but the tone was clear—France was preparing for war.

The Path Forward

With the responses now in hand, Aron and his advisers convened in the strategic meeting room, preparing for the next series of military actions. The Reich's territorial expansion had reached unprecedented levels, but the reactions from the major powers of Europe suggested that the Reich's ambitions would soon be tested on the battlefield.

Aron, with his unwavering will, knew that the path ahead would be fraught with conflict. Poland had rejected his offer, and war seemed imminent. The Ottomans, Russia, and France were all preparing for a confrontation that would reshape Europe once more. But in the face of such opposition, Aron remained steadfast, determined to continue the expansion of his empire and to solidify the legacy of the German Reich as the dominant power in Europe.

The world was on the brink of a new conflict, and the question remained: who would rise victorious in the struggle for European dominance? The stage was set, and the future of Europe now lay in the hands of the iron-willed Fuhrer.