[Germania – Berun – Central Command ]
Lt. Grantz was saluting General Rudersdorf nervously. The young man had been made the liason to the General Staff at Rerugen's suggestion. His unstated reason was that he thought the ones with the fewest interactions with Degurechaff were likely to be the most 'normal'.
The reason he was so uncomfortable was that Rudersdorf had yet to return his salute. This was not surprising as the lieutenant (at least the parts that weren't covered by his uniform) were entertainingly colored with very bright pigments that almost glowed in the light from the window. Blue and green blotches covered his hands and face and most of his hair was a shocking pink color. The older man finally completed the ritual and Grantz relievedly lowered his arm.
"So, Lieutenant. I trust everything is going well with the 203rd?" He continued to look at the colorful officer.
"Yes sir! There have been no issues worthy of note and we stand prepared to answer the call of the Fatherland." Their battalion was based in Berun so, if need be, they could reach any part of the country with minimal delay.
"And nothing – noteworthy – has happened?"
"All is as usual though, ahem, we have undergone a new training regimen recently." He hoped the general couldn't see the trickle of sweat going down the side of his face. "It was suggested by Colonel Degurechaff who also provided the toy... training devices."
"Ah, well. If that girl is in favor, who am I to dispute her judgment? Coincidentally, the shipment of new gear for the 203rd is ready for testing before we approve them for the rest of the army."
"Oh? That's good news, sir. Every advancement helps us all."
"It will... once we deal with this damnable political swamp they've made." He made a sound much like a growl. "Technically and legally, the Army is subordinate to civilian authorities. Frankly, I find the situation detestable."
"Sir?!" What the General said was akin to treason.
"Calm down, son. I meant the current authorities. There are very good reasons why the military doesn't have ultimate authority no matter how irksome it is at times." His voice lowered, "Or how many millions died because of it."
"I understand."
"All we can do is make sure that we serve worthy masters, eh?"
* * *
[Germania - Berun]
With the election approaching, the Political Office had swung into high gear to support Bruning and Mueller. Technically, they were supposed to be neutral in matter, keeping the wheels of government turning while politicians saw to their political careers but only the most naive bystander believed that would be the case.
Fortunately for them, naive bystanders also voted.
The post-war leadership was fixed by the foreign powers so that they would have a stable government to deal with but it was finally time for Germania to get back to normal.
"Is everything ready for our grand reveal? Good theater requires the proper entrance, of course." Bruning examined himself in a full length mirror. He looked every inch a leader... the incipient signs of a closet alcoholic were gone, washed away by the scent of success.
His aide agreed, all smiles. "Von Degurechaff has indicated she will appear before the Bundesrat today to report on the state of affairs with the Unified States. That will be an ideal opportunity to confront her with the information in the ledger."
"It couldn't be more perfect, frankly. We will gain the funds to save the country and that hateful child will be crippled by debt." He nodded with satisfaction and his reflection nodded back with a smug expression. "Do you believe in fate?"
"Fate, sir?"
"I can't help but feel the hand of providence guiding our actions. That a great purpose is being laid before me and I need but walk the path laid out. Wealth, enough fame to make my ascension a simple affair, and the destruction of the Devil. How can one not believe in a higher power?"
"I've never been one to put credence to such things but the situation is... advantageous."
Mueller laughed! "As ever, you are careful with your words!"
"One could say it's my job, sir." He glanced at the agenda. "The Federation's ambassador wants to talk about accelerated reparation payments. They are still unhappy about the trial and are demanding concessions."
"Assure them that all will be handled soon. In fact, I may visit them personally with completely repayment of the 'A' bonds... in gold, of course. In fact, what a wonderful idea! Imagine a world tour riding on a golden chariot, eh? Decades ahead of schedule, Germania paying its debts to the world with a new President overseeing the distribution of largess."
"After the election of course."
"Naturally. We can't have to make sure the country, and the world, associates this with one person. No longer President pro tem, as it were."
"Once the elections are held to change your de facto Presidency into a de jure one..."
"Yes, your job will be many jobs changing then." His reflection said with him, "Many, many things will be changing."
* * *
[Germania – Berun]
A long vehicle drove through the streets of Berun. Wherever they went, heads turned and people stared with admiration or, more often, shock. The design was unusual and was all sleek curves and bold lines, far different from the boxier automobiles on the market. The windows were darkened but the majority of the body was a beautiful silver color while the underbody and hubcaps were a brilliant red.
A bystander stopped in his tracks as he stared at the auto. "Mein Gott! How did they get that color? It's not paint but more like the metal itself..."
His friend said, "Ah! That's probably von Degurechaff's car. That colored metal reminds me of some of her recent products." He frowned, "Back when we could buy them, that is."
They stared at the unique vehicle as it moved down the street. "Say, did you notice something odd about it?"
"Isn't the whole thing odd? What do you mean?"
"It... it didn't make a sound at all. What kind of automobile moves without any engine noises?"
Inside the unique vehicle, Tanya and Visha were enjoying their new ride. Visha ran her hand along the leather seat in the passenger section while leaving the driving to a TvD employee. "What a fun surprise! I knew they research team was working on this but I had no idea that they had actually finished it."
"I have to admit, I'm impressed. Quite the luxury compared to most."
"This is the special edition as it has a mana engine. It can only be driven by mages but the amount of power required is a fraction of what a flying mage uses."
Tanya nodded. "That's makes sense. Flying is not terribly efficient and the human body is anything but aerodynamic. It's a shame that only mages can operate it but it's a good technology for non-combat mages."
"There's a huge list of potential purchasers, ha ha ha! Both for the standard and magical engine models. The assembly line is ready for full production so I had them start."
"Good. It will make a nice statement that we weren't unduly injured by this mess and will help the bottom line. Diversifying is one of our key weapons in the marketplace." She laughed a bit. "For any other company it would be death sentence but have too MANY good people to stay in just one or two areas. We make things no one has seen before and every product has a passionate team behind it."
"I guess innovation is our strength, then?"
"Oh, good phrasing! I'll use that when have a proper corporate structure and shareholders."
"When will that be?" Visha tilted her head to one side slightly. They already had plans in place for a more formal structure but they couldn't implement it until the country was more stable.
"Very soon. Next year, perhaps?"
"That seems ambitious!"
"It isn't really. Oh, we lost a lot of manpower and capital but there's nothing fundamentally wrong with the country. When facing a recession, or even a depression, there are two basic theories on how to handle it. There's the 'soft landing' where government makes all sorts of programs and laws, using money they don't have, to fix things. This does little other than to sap what little vitality remains from the parts of the economy that have survived. Then there's the 'hard landing' where you let individual businesses or even entire industries fail, tighten your belts, and start rebuilding. With the right policies, stability in a year and prosperity in three are not unlikely."
The car pulled quietly to a stop in front of the Bundesrat. "Well, it's time to go. A proper show requires a proper entrance." She grinned showing a bit of fang. "Let's give them a show they will never forget!"
* * *
[Germania – Berun - Bundesrat]
The men of the Bundesrat were a lively bunch if the volume of their discussions were any indication. Even then, they were easily outmatched by the Bundestag when they were feeling their oats, so even the current level was a minor blessing.
Bruning monitored the arguments with a Jovian disdain for minutiae. He was about to upend the tables and felt no need to get involved in squabbles that would literally become moot in a few weeks if not sooner. He surreptitiously patted the TvD ledger as if confirming their existence. Another round of audits had shown the information to be credible. Incredible, even!
He recalled what his chief accountant had said, With this level of wealth in just her reserves of hard currencies, it's simply staggering! I have no idea how she could amass so much in such a short time but it's a game changer of monumental proportions. You must get hold of these assets as soon as possible!
Bruning glanced at the clock on the wall, a large device toward the entrance that was easily visible to him but would require others to turn their heads (or even their whole bodies) to see it. He found it gave him a tiny edge when timing things and subtly keeping people off balance had served him well over the years.
She should be here soon. One her few good features is that, as a military person, she is used to being punctual. There's nothing wrong in using that against her. Time to start the show.
He raised his voice and got instant attention, even from those who were shouting at each other at the time. "Gentlemen, we can bicker about details all day but surely it all comes down to the simple fact that there is no gold in our coffers and the creditors are demanding payment."
One member sarcastically replied. "Oh, is that all? My goodness, and here I thought it was going to be something difficult!"
He replied calmly, "Attitudes aside, we have been mired in details that don't strike at the core of our problems. No amount of tweaks to the budget or similar measures will solve the problem." He sighed theatrically, "Let me be clear: there simply is no possible way, currently, that the fundamental issues can be solved. None!"
The room fell silent at such a blunt assessment of the situation. And older member broke this by clearing his throat. "You've never been one to not have an idea, Herr President. Why not share it with us rather than dragging out matters?"
Bruning gave them a small smile. "Of course." He stood up and said, "Friends and colleagues, loyal Germanians, there is a solution..." He suddenly felt a trembling in his heart... what his Gran would call 'someone stepping on her grave'.
He continued gamely, "...a solution to all these problems. We know that..." Again he felt it! As if something were reaching inside of him. "That unscrupulous tycoons have robbed the people of their fair..." Again the quiver in his heart and this time he felt as if his breathing were being restricted. Looking around the room, he saw that several other people looked concerned at the same time as him.
It was like the beating heart of a huge beast or the slow, heavy tread of a giant coming toward him. Is it an earthquake? But nothing is shaking...
He tried to regain his composure but had lost his train of thought. He tried to back up and recover. "Those with wealth horde it from thump the honest citizens of thump of this country. We've thump passed historic legislation thump to right these wrongs..."
By now, no one was paying attention and they were straining to hear... nothing. There was nothing but the inexorable approach of something huge but beyond their senses.
Suddenly, the door opened up and the feeling of dread lifted!
Colonel Tanya von Degurechaff stood there in her full dress uniform. She sported a half-cape and carried her now-iconic cane in one hand. Her vast array of medals were displayed on her chest with the Silver Wings Assault medal was polished to a high shine and was placed just below her neck where it was impossible to miss. In fact, she practically glowed as if she were an ethereal being that had descended to Earth to speak to the gathered mortals.
"Hello, everyone! I've from the Unified States and am pleased to report that all is well there!" She smiled and those that saw it felt as if sunshine and a pleasant spring breeze were clearing their thoughts. "But I understand you wish to speak to me about something?"
Bruning found his voice. "Why are you dressed like that, Ambassador? Surely it's not appropriate."
"This? It's a small vanity of mine. This is a formal report and I have the honor and privilege of wearing the uniform of the Fatherland so I chose it for today." She chuckled. "Actually, this is the first time I've been able to wear the clothes issued to me years ago. I'm afraid for my active career I was forced to purchase my uniforms since there was nothing my size and only now has my stature come into line with the standard uniform." She raised an eyebrow. "I did check with regulations and they do state all active duty and retired military personnel in good standing have the right to wear their uniforms. Did I perhaps misunderstand something?"
"No, no, it's not important." He looked at her gravely. "This isn't about your ambassadorship, but your activities as the head of TvD. It has come to our attention that your company has been illegally hording vast reserves of gold in defiance of ban of private ownership of gold and also the Fairness in Taxation law recently passed." He held up the ledger accusingly. "Do you deny the plain facts that we discovered here in your own documentation?!"
She glanced at the ledger and shrugged. "Ah, I'm glad to see that was rescued from the fire. I must thank the brave soul who assisted us this way."
"So you confirm that it IS your main ledger?"
"It appears to be but it's not very accurate."
"What?!" This is amazing! She's admitting to account improprieties in front of the entire Bundesrat! "You've been keeping double books all along to avoid taxes? The amount of gold noted here is enormous!"
Tanya smiled brilliantly. "Oh, it was accurate at the time. It's just that that journal is out of date. Our reserves of gold were actually quite a bit larger than that until recently." She shrugged. "But it's all gone now."
Chapter 128 - Heavy Metal
[Germania – Berun – Bundesrat]
"All.... gone?" Bruning stared at her blankly, his brain unable to process the information.
She nodded with a calm expression. "Indeed. Not an ounce is left."
"Ambassador!"
"Yes, President Pro Tem?" She stood confidently, seemingly immune to influence or threats.
He stumbled mentally at the recognition of the temporary nature of his position. "You do realize it is entirely illegal for Germanian citizens to own gold?"
"Of course. I like to keep abreast of any legislation that might affect me or my business." She shook her head forlornly. "It's troublesome, honestly. My time could be better spent."
He stared at her grimly, "And you are now openly admitting that you broke the law?"
Tanya looked surprised. "What would I admit something that isn't at all true?"
One of the members said mildly, "Your statements could be interpreted as a, pardon me, a confession of sorts."
"Oh, my apologies! Perhaps I didn't speak clearly enough. The company possessed the gold and, in case there's any confusion, it was only outside Germania proper. It's a sad truth that the mark is not accepted by any business or government anywhere in the world... other than this one. We had to use something that would be accepted anywhere. That's why it was listed separately on our books as a commodity rather than as cash." She chuckled, "It's not like there was a huge pile of gold somewhere so I could roll around in it!"
Bruning listened to her answer and he had the sinking feeling that she was correct. Her international holdings are even more extensive than I thought. If the gold was, as she said, just currency owned by her company, it would fall outside the private ownership law. Why didn't my lawyers notice this?!
With great effort, he spoke without grinding his teeth. "That is all well and good, but what do you mean all the gold is gone?"
"Technically, it's not gone... after all, the gold still exists. It's just no longer on our books."
"Where. Is. The. Gold?"
"Oh, I'm not the person to ask, Herr Bruning. After all, I turned it over to the Germanian government several days ago."
"What?" His exclamation was drowned out by the cries of the surrounding men.
After absorbing that, a slow smile appeared on Bruning face though he did his best to make it not appear predatory. So it's a partial victory. We won't be able to nail this upstart Schlampe this time but even with just the gold on these books, we can payoff the A-bonds completely and have enough money to spend as we wish. More than enough to cinch my re-election. Still, he had a question. "The nation thanks you for your contribution to our coffers but I've not heard of this influx. Certainly, such a large tax payment would have been noted and reported by even the slowest exchequer."
"Have I been unclear again?" She gave him an innocent smile and for some reason, he got a chill down his back. "Goodness, all that time overseas speaking in Anglish and my skills in Germanian have atrophied!" She tapped the ground with her cane but obviously wasn't leaning on it at all. "I submitted all of it as a prepayment to the tax department. In fact, we made sure that there was enough to pay the entirety of the A and B-bonds."
A stunned silence lasted for, at most, a second before cheers erupted around the room! Bruning sat down heavily. She already paid it... she already paid it... that means it's on our books already and is earmarked for the reparation repayment. I can't touch a single pfennig of it!
The oldest member asked curiously once the furor had died down. "There's still the question of why this was so quietly done."
"Ah, that's the simplest thing. There are all manner of thieves out there and we were moving many, many pounds of gold. So we snuck the gold in through a port in Ildoa disguised as machine parts and raw iron ingots. Then we found our way to a local tax office so we could inventory and complete the donation and paperwork. Then we donated the use of our trains to transport the gold with the office personnel." Without looking behind her at the clock she said confidently, "The Berun office should currently be receiving quite a few crates of gold bars as we speak."
"How cautious of you!"
"You may not have heard but we had made a very large gold shipment in the past and some criminals had the audacity to steal it!" She stared directly at Bruning's eyes, unwavering, cold, implacable. "Why, TvD had to found a mercenary company simply to hunt down the perpetrators! I was quite angry at the time, I assure you."
"And reasonably so!" said the old man. He turned to his colleagues. "Given the confirmation of this news, I think we can sunset that 'Fairness in Taxation' legislation today."
"Today?" Bruning said with surprise.
"Naturally. While it's a large amount, it's just weighing and counting. Certainly such a magnificent contribution deserves equal alacrity on our part, eh? Besides, it has already been verified by one office, so this is merely a formality."
"Surely, that's moving too fast! The sunsetting rules..."
"Were written by me, Herr President. I am quite familiar with the provisions. The moment the government has received contributions or taxes toward the A and B bond reparations in full, that legislation is eliminated. As has been said, it was an emergency measure to meet an immediate need, so with that need met, the measures will also go away." The dignified gentleman raised his voice. "I call for a vote to recognize this as soon as confirmation is received by this body."
Very much against his will, Bruning said, "All in favor?" There was a general echo of 'AYES' in the room.
"Opposed?" Even his allies dared not vote against the tide and his question was met by silence.
"Let the record show that the motion was passed unanimously with no dissent or abstentions." How bad can this day get? He wanted to rage! He wanted to break things! But more than either, he wanted a large drink. With great effort, he calmed himself. Despite this... setback... I'm on track to win the election easily. Given time, I'll find a way to take her down.
Degurechaff smiled and said mildly, "Given that news, I doubt you gentlemen care about my report on the state of relations with the Unified States. You'll receive a copy to your office but essentially they are excellent."
"Thank you for your service, Ambassador. We'll speak later."
Tanya clicked her heels together and strode out of the room. She paused at the doorway and half turned. "Oh, there is one other thing, not covered by my report."
"Oh?" said Bruning, already plotting her downfall.
"I'll be throwing my hat in the ring for the Presidential election." She smiled brilliantly. "Let's speak many times in the coming months!" Without waiting for a response, she continued out and the doors shut behind her as if commanded by some unseen force.
* * *
[Near the Columbian coast – several months ago]
The Queen of Atlantis was docked off a deserted island. It wasn't on any maps other than the Queen's own as it was only being used as a place to moor while the crew was working.
The first part of their mission had been enormously successful. Their target had been found with only a reasonable amount of searching. The recovery proceeded with even fewer problems. Moving tons of mass was simply work... there was no luck or cleverness involved.
Now came one of the easiest parts: processing their find.
Samel was stripped to the waist, sweating under the high sun but more from the magic power he was pouring into a large crucible. He had a specialized orb around his neck designed to produce massive amounts of heat and also protect the wielder from the same but even so, it just barely was able to shield him.
The mages took turns keeping the magical furnace hot while the others rested. A chute was set up so that sailors (further away from the crucible) could fill it while the mages worked. What they were shoveling was the surprising thing, though: gold coins... lots and lots of coins.
After a minute, the crucible tilted and molten gold flowed from the spout at the top and into channels toward bar molds that had been set up on the beach. The glowing metal flowed through the channels and Renata worked behind him to make sure the gold settled where it belonged with her orb and then accelerated the cooling process. Magic lifted the bars, tossed them to one side and then she called out, "Next batch!"
Samel grunted, "Right!" He twisted his hand and the crucible tilted again, releasing another torrent of gold.
Antonia monitored the process as the sailors used sturdy wheelbarrows to move loads of gold bars onto the ship. All were TvD employees and extremely well-paid but, more than that, they were loyal to their very bones and there was no lust for the shiny metal stacking up in the ship's hold. The ship was designed to carry many tons of cargo and that capacity would be well used.
The first mate shook his head. "If numismatists hear of this, we'll be hanged in effigy!"
Antonia shrugged. "It's not like that there was much historic significance in these coins. It was a just a method of counting and transporting all this gold from the New World to Eurpoa. Have no fear, I pulled aside a few bags of anything interesting."
"That's a consolation of sorts. How on Earth did we even find this if I can ask? I know this was all hush-hush before but we all know what's happening by now."
Antonia chuckled. "I suppose the golden cat is out of the bag! The President is a great lover of military history. She discovered that the San Jose had been sunk during Wager's Action in the early 1700s but the shipment of gold and silver she carried had never been retrieved. Literally tons of precious metals sunk too deep to find. But with the help of skilled mages and detection spells, what was impossible in the past becomes quite feasible today."
He raised his eyebrows. "So that's why we were moving so slowly around! It would seem like a futile quest but I can't argue with the results." He sipped his coffee and said, "Should we call this mission complete or do we have more treasure to look for?"
"As soon as we mold and deliver these bars, we can declare Projekt El Dorado a complete success!"
* * *
[Garmisch-two weeks ago]
Sommer approached the warehouse as he had been invited (summoned) to. The promise of a potential promotion and a 'gratuity' began to pale in comparison to the reality of what they needed him to do.
Whatever that might be!
That mystery would be enough to keep him up at night if he had had enough prior notice for there to be a night between then and now. He had only been contacted a few hours ago and told to bring his measuring tools so he suspected that it had something to do with bullion. Having no idea, he brought his full kit though he never used most of it.
The man who had contact him before was outside, smoking. "Ah, Herr Sommer! So good of you to be prompt. Time is money, as they say, so let's go inside." He stubbed out the cigarette, put the butt into a container, and then returned it to his pocket.
Standing around the warehouse were a number of very dangerous-looking men. They wore dark uniforms with a prominent silver eagle on the left side of their chest and on their shoulders. More were inside guarding a stack of small metal crates.
Near them was a fairly expensive balance measure, confirming his guess.
"You cleared your schedule, yes? It may be a long day."
"Of course! Shall we get started?" He opened his case and got his fine weights out.
"You probably should get your heavier weights, Herr Sommer."
"How heavy?" He raised an eyebrow.
"Unless you want to be here all day, I suggest the largest ones!" He motioned to the guards and said, "Let's start with crate 1 and go in order." Two of the men lifted the small crate with surprising difficulty considering its size. They placed it on the table and opened it revealing a row of gold bars.
The gleaming bars glowed even in the dim lights of the building. I can barely look away. I had doubted the lure of gold before but I can see how men have risked their lives or even killed for it. Best do this job quickly as I'm as weak as most!
He glanced at the guards. Though they were older, and some were missing limbs, the accountant had no doubt that they were dangerous. The weapons looked very comfortable in their hands. Any hint of envy at the sight of so much precious metal was thoroughly squashed with those season veterans all around.
Sommer quickly calibrated the scale and brought out his tally sheets. "Do ALL of these crates contain gold?"
"Of course." He paused and then clarified. "The rest of the gold is the main part of the warehouse though." He turned on a light showing crate after crate piled into neat stacks. "About half of them have silver, though. As I said, we should get started as we'll be here for many hours... even at our best speed, tons of metal are still tons of metal!"
After a very, very, VERY long day, Sommer had tallied every ounce and given the TvD man a receipt that was shocking in its final total. Likewise, he completed the paperwork to confirm the money was earmarked to pay down the reparation debt.
"The Silver Eagle mercenary company has been contracted to move the bullion to Berun. I realize that this would normally be the duty of the tax office but I doubt you have the ability to do so! Would you like to travel with the shipment?"
He shuddered, "Heavens, no! I dare not step foot in that town! I barely escaped to Garmisch when they weren't looking."
"President Degurechaff isn't that fearsome! Well, actually she is, but not in this case."
"That's not the president I'm avoiding. Out of sight, out of mind."
"Speaking of which, please keep this contribution a secret. We'd like to have everything processed before anyone can... interfere."
"Have no fear! Anything I say would just bring me problems. Better if those of sterner character attract those instead of me."
The agent grinned. "Have no fear. I do believe the President you are hiding from will have other things on his mind!"
* * *
All over Germania, posters proclaiming Tanya von Degurechaff's bid for the Presidency were affixed to walls by eager TvD employees before they reopened their businesses for the first time in weeks!
Chapter 129 - Narrow bridges
Chapter Text
[Germania – Berun - Political Office]
Bruning shouted at his legal team. "How can she run for President! She's a war criminal with more blood on her hands than the worst monsters of history AND she's not even an adult yet. You need to be forty! The last I checked 17 is considerably less than 40!" The man's face was red and he looked literally murderous and everyone leaned away from him whenever he got close to a fireplace poker or was holding anything in his hands.
The bravest lawyer (or perhaps the designated sacrifice) spoke up after the twenty minute rant. Swallowing heavily, he said hesitantly. "We researched this topic and..."
He stomped around the table and towered over the seated man. "And WHAT?! Can she just flaunt the law now? Has she taken over the country and is just going through an election out of ego? What is it? How can she do this?!"
The lawyer tried to ignore the sweat going down "Mr. President. There is an obscure law she's using. When the Fatherland moved from a pure empire to a constitutional monarchy, there were accommodations made."
Bruning was taken aback for a second, not expecting there actually was a good reason. The shock interrupted his rant and he sat down heavily. "Tell me, please, about these accommodations."
"Y-yes. The old monarchists wanted to make sure that would have sufficient representation in the new government so nobles could participate."
"And they do... but they are all of sufficient age!"
"The way the rules were written was that any noble that had served honorably, either in the military or civil government, would be eligible to serve in the Bundestag, Bundesrat or... as President. It's a parallel system to prevent the old nobility from being squeezed out of the, at that time, new government. As it turns out, it is never used but the procedures are there."
"You're telling me that the 'von' in her name lets her do this. Do I completely understand you?"
"That's what we understand."
"Surely this isn't some kind of blanket permission!"
"There is a requirement but it's... tricky. Sir."
"Spit it out, man!"
"The Kaiser, as the highest noble, has to approve of their nomination."
Bruning ground his teeth. I don't like that old man and the feeling is mutual. He will be difficult! "What are the chances of that?"
The advisor shrugged. "We don't know. He's never spoken of, or even to, Degurechaff except in a few ceremonial situations."
The lawyer spoke again. "Actually, the way the law is written is somewhat ambiguous. Half the team thinks the Emperor can object to a candidate and thereby remove them from candidacy, and the other half thinks she needs a literal endorsement."
Seemingly calm again, Bruning steepled his fingers in front of his face. "Either way we have to speak to the Kaiser as soon as possible. Set up a meeting immediately!"
* * *
[Germania – Berun - TanyaMarkt]
With their doors widely open, the citizens of Germania flooded into the Markt. Rather than a gloomy and dusty interior as they feared, the store looked freshly-scrubbed with full shelves, plentiful groceries, and new products they had never seen before.
The shoppers were filling their baskets (some were taking advantage of new shopping carts that were being introduced at the front of the store) with goods, mostly food. A former frequent shopper asked one of the workers, "Is it okay if everyone buys so much? Won't you run out?"
"Don't worry, Alma! We were ready and have a lot in back to restock quickly."
The woman put a hand over her heart in relief. "Good... that's good! I won't hurry too much, then." She glanced at a tall poster of Tanya wearing a stylish but modest dress. The image of Tanya was looking into the distance, toward a future only she could see. There was only a single word on the poster, "VOTE". Her eyes widened, "So it's true then!"
"Indeed it is! The elections are soon so we hope you honor us with your support."
"Naturally, naturally!" She shook a small fist full of emotion. "I can't believe they did all that to her! And that Bruning was trying to starve us, too! How dare he even try to be our president. Hmph! I've never voted before but I'll be sure to do it this time!"
"Please tell your friends, too. Even those who haven't participated before can always have their first time. We can help anyone with the procedures and can take people to the polls. It's going to be exciting! It's too bad that we don't have more time... the election is imminent but I think we have a good chance. It all depends on the voters but I have faith they will make the right decision."
"We'll show them! Hmph!" Alma looked around and saw that was something she needed was already sold out. "Umm, you said they were restocking soon?"
The clerk saw where she was looking and smiled. She reached under the counter and handed her a box of Zarts. "Don't worry, we have plenty."
"Bless you!" She glanced up at the poster. "Yes, definitely she has my vote!"
* * *
[Unified States – Chicago – Germanian consulate]
Wilson wheeled in the (acting) Ambassador's breakfast on a cart. It was an interesting piece of technology... everything from the wheels to the top were the result of new materials or new construction technologies. It was literally half the price to produce when compared to a competing product and was equal or superior in every particular.
It rolled smoothly and was nearly silent. This was especially useful if someone was sensitive to sound. Of course, this could be superseded fairly easily.
"Good morning, sir!" He threw open the heavy curtains, allowing the bright morning sunlight to flood the bedchamber.
His employer groaned and and muttered. "Remind me to accidentally push you into the ocean the next time we sail, Wilson."
"Noted, sir. Breakfast?" He lifted the cover of the tray revealing an extensive selection of eggs, sausages, toast and a variety of jellies with a small pot of fresh butter.
"So it's come to this... you're trying to assassinate me?" He rubbed his forehead and vainly tried to keep the directly sunlight from piercing his retinas. "I hope there's some hair of dog in that coffee."
"Of course, sir." He delivered a strong cup fortified by a hefty dollop of whiskey.
He drank it, ignoring the taste in favor of ingesting the liquid pain reliever. "Ahhh." Oskar took another sip. "Consider yourself reprieved until the next time." He was tempted to shake his head but decided against it. "Why does this keep happening?"
"Far be it from me to hypothesize, but perhaps it has something to do with excessive intake of alcohol."
Oskar growled but didn't comment directly. "These Americans apparently hadn't heard that the law against imbibing means their tolerance should also go down."
"I gather that public opinions and private activities may be somewhat divergent."
"Our employer called it voting dry and drinking wet, but I also agree." He finished off the coffee and held up his hand before Wilson could refill it. "As much as another dollop would easy my pain, I'll settle for an aspirin. Hand me the papers and take the rest of that foolishness away."
Being the assistant Ambassador required him to keep up on the news and to attend far too many parties and get-togethers which had led to his painful morning. I expect Degurechaff to pick up some of the slack once she's allowed... at least in moderation. She seems uncommonly interested in drinking despite sticking strictly to the law so I doubt she will object too much.
From long practice, he skimmed the articles quickly and only did a deeper dive as necessary. As usual, he picked up Die Wahrheit as the objectively most accurate news source. "Ah, so it's beginning!" The bold headline proclaimed, "Reparations Paid!" The article went on to detail (for full accuracy) that only the B and A bonds had been paid but this was sufficient to remove emergency measures. It was until page five that the news of Degurechaff entering the race to become the Germanian President was announced in a decidedly understated article.
"Wilson, is my meeting with President Hoover after lunch today?"
"Yes sir, by phone but I believe he will want an in-person meeting soon."
"Of course, or course. We've helped him a lot and he undoubtedly will want more help soon." Oskar kept an eye on weather reports from the west. If the Ambassador was right, this year or the next would be devastating for the Unified States. "We'll do what we can with analysis, of course, but we aren't in a state to give direct monetary assistance."
"Why would such an important man need a personal meeting, then?" Wilson was deeply involved in the consulate affairs but wasn't privy to all details.
"We can't provide monetary assistance but widespread food shortages... those we can help with. We've bought large numbers of farms and processing plants. Long term storage is quite inexpensive if done right and we are the world leaders on that right now... not that anyone knows about that yet!"
"It seems like a quite the gamble, sir."
"Isn't everything we've done? No, it's time for bold, intelligent action and truly it's less risky than you might think. If worse comes to worst, we can just eat canned food for a few decades!"
* * *
[Unified States – New York]
Conrad Meier was visiting the Unified States main office in New York for the first time in months. He had spent all that time on train after train, adjusting investments, finding opportunities, and making deals. He felt healthier than had since his college days though considerably more tired. "Ah, I think I've walked more in six months than the entire rest of my life!"
Yvette approached him with a cup of water. "Try doing it in high heels!" She sat down on the couch across from him.
"I'll pass on that, I believe, but thank you for the water." He swallowed half the cup at once. He pointed at his shoes. "You know how many pairs I've gone through? More than I can count! Ah, well, at least it has been worthwhile."
She looked around. "You got a nice office out of it, at any rate. A bit sterile, though."
"I've been here less than three times, how it could it not be empty?"
"Does that include today?"
"Yes."
"Soooo... this is your second time, then?" She glanced again at the effectively 'new' office.
"I've been very busy!"
"Oh, like I haven't been?"
"Of course not." He snorted briefly. "Who knows what you do better than I?"
"I have to admit, I've been spending more time on the phone and the telegraph office and less on the rails but it's been rewarding."
"Oh ho!" He shut the door to keep their conversation private. "Tell me more, pray!" His Waldstatte accent became pronounced when he was excited.
"I managed to complete 70% of plan B and almost 80% of plan C. Only my parts that is."
"Impressive! My rate was somewhat higher but with smaller total amounts, naturally. Who was the biggest holdout?"
She groaned. "Those damned Russies! They would only accept the full amount." Yvette sat back in her chair in a far from ladylike fashion. She commented shrewdly, "I saved them for last because they were most likely to leak the information. I got the strong feeling that they had gotten some promises."
Conrad got her point immediately. "So they have an ally in Germania that can guarantee their payments? That would have to be someone high up. Very high up."
"My thoughts exactly. There aren't many who could do that... assuming my presumption is correct."
"I'd be last to bet against either your instincts or deductions. Have you reported this yet?"
"I was hoping to use your office telegraph."
"I'll do you one better! Your lovely employer has seen fit to lay a new cable across the ocean... a telephonic one."
She looked surprised! "That's... incredible! So I can call the home office directly? Where's the office?"
"Where else? Right here in the ZKV bank. All the operators are TvD employees so I'm sure you can get access to a secured line. You can pass along my results at the same time." He shook his head. "I functioned as TvD's personal banker but it's a shame that I couldn't convince my bank to risk their funds. Apparently the scheme was a little too outre for them... they are not ones for undue gambles!"
She smirked. "I can see their point. Buying up the reparation bonds for a mostly bankrupt country... who would think that was a good idea? President Hoover bought some of the B-bonds but even he wasn't willing to touch the C-bonds." The Germanian looked at him shrewdly, "Did you use any of your own money?"
"Mine? Of course I did. I decided long ago to never bet against von Degurechaff and this time was no different!"
* * *
[Germania – Berun - the Royal Palace]
Bruning was annoyed that, despite being the highest official in all of Germania, he was forced to wait to see the ex-Kaiser. Despite being stripped of power by the surrender accords, and lacking even the ceremonial rights of nobles that the Albish monarcy had, he still acted like he was the leader of the Empire. For the most part, people went along with this because, even at the height of his power, he operated with a soft hand: suggestions rather than demands, advice rather than edicts.
Still, he was willing to bend the knee, figuratively speaking, if it meant getting him to reject Degurechaff's candidacy. As much as he might personally dislike the Political Office, I find it implausible that he would supported a barely-adult, upstart noble and a WOMAN on top of all that. It's worth any number of concessions to get a simple statement of disapproval out of him!
Fortified by this logic, he followed a servant through the grassy interior courtyard that Kaiser Wilhelm liked to use to relax and enjoy the weather. Within seconds, Bruning spotted the seating arrangements that had been set up. Instead of the flimsy outdoor furniture most would use, these were oversized chairs with high backs, padded seats and comfortable armrests. It took several burly servants to bring it all out and back again. And, on occasion, at a full run if the weather suddenly turned!
Wilhelm was sitting, drinking tea, as if he were relaxing in his parlor. He seemed in an uncommonly good mood. The servant announced, "President Manfred Aden Bruning."
The older man just nodded, so the servant stepped back and stood at attention with the other servants. Bruning moved to sit in the other seat but stopped suddenly when he saw it was already occupied.
"Ah, Herr Bruning! I said we would speak soon, but who knew it would be so soon!" Tanya von Degurechaff was smiling at him with a cup of coffee in her hand and twinkling eyes.
Chapter 130 - Party time!
[Germania – Berun - the Royal Palace]
The Kaiser smiled mildly. "My apologies, I hadn't realized my appointments had overlapped." He raised a hand and three hefty servants brought out another large chair and set it around the table.
Bruning noticed that the three chairs were evenly spaced around the round table. Mistake... no one would believe that nonsense. He sat down with a smile. "No, it's my error. I just came too early today."
Tanya nodded knowingly. "It's amazing that busy people such as ourselves have any time at all! That you were able to come early is obviously to your credit."
Bruning almost stumbled over his next words. Is she implying...?! His smile was more strained. "Perhaps it's a good thing, though. The Political Office's lawyers were preparing for the election and there was a question about... eligibility."
She cocked her head slightly to one side. "Oh? My lawyers also looked over the documents and they seemed quite clear. Was there something ambiguous?"
"Just a matter of perspective. On one hand, the guidelines might be read that his Majesty," he nodded toward Kaiser Wilhelm who remained impassive, "could veto a noble candidate. But the majority opinion was that only the Kaiser should have the right to pick the candidates." Bruning settled into the speech that he had prepared. "After all, it would be the height of presumption to try to take that traditional authority away from your Majesty!"
The older man sipped his tea and put it down gently. "Yes, being stripped of my 'authority' would be presumptuous. It rather reminds me of the very recent past when the Political Office had little concern about such things. It's good to see that they have finally remembered that after a few years."
"Your Majesty..."
Wilhelm shut him up with a glance. The steely authority he had refused to use before the Great War was in full force now. "I did not influence the government unduly in the past because I, fundamentally, thought the time of kings and kaisers was drawing to a close. Events have led me to believe this may have been an error.
"The role of a good monarch in these modern times is not to rule, it's to provide vision. To remember the long past as we travel toward the long future. Politicians and businessmen, workers and housewives, they get too focused on now and have no chance to plan 10 years, 20 years, a 100 years from now. The value of the nobility is that we have the duty and time to learn from the past and pass that wisdom on. Have there been bad nobles? Stupid nobles? Shortsighted nobles? Yes to all three but at least we have the opportunity to do better."
Tanya didn't bother to speak and simply listened to the man as he pontificated.
"So, I'll answer your question, stated or not: Whether Colonel von Degurechaff requires my imprimatur or not, she has it. Unequivocally. Now, you may go."
"Wilhelm...!"
The former ruler of the country interrupted the current leader. "Did you not hear me? I said you may go!"
Realizing there was nothing more to be gained there, Bruning stood and exited abruptly, shortly followed by his chair being carried back to the house by puffing servants.
Degurechaff allowed her cup to be refilled. Truly a marvelous blend... the Kaiser has a great staff... except for their urge to add cream and sugar. "That went faster than I predicted."
"Hmph. I'm surprised he had the gall to come to me – to me! – asking for political favors." He smiled and settled back in his seat when he realized he had half lifted himself. "My physicians also told me to avoid stress so removing him was literally 'doctor's orders'."
"If you don't have your health, what do you have? Also, thank you for your endorsement. That simplifies things when we have little time and much to do."
"Frankly, I thought about letting him take it court and – in a suitable dramatic fashion – show up to foil his plans in a thoroughly dramatic fashion." He chuckled. "My wife told me to stop being childish and just do the right thing."
Tanya laughed with him. "Truthfully, I lean more toward your way of doing things... given a suitable opportunity."
"My favor comes at a cost, but one I think you will pay gladly."
"Oh?"
"Make him pay for what he's done to the Fatherland. The wealth lost is nothing compared to the blood of millions! Make that bastard pay!" He pounded the arm of his chair with each word!
"Oh, little Aden will get a long-overdue bill for everything he's done." Her voice had a coldness rarely displayed. "Every last pfennig."
* * *
[Berun – TvD alternate headquarters]
As if nothing had happened the office was humming with its usual activities. While Tanya was running her errands, Visha was catching up with recent business. There wasn't terribly many and most were just logistics decisions involved with the reopening of all their stores.
Her aide stood by, noting what needed to be done.
Visha leaned back in her chair, obviously satisfied. "Demand across the board is 20% higher than expected but we have plenty stockpiled so just double the shipments for two weeks."
"Double?"
"There will be a momentum beyond just pent-up need. People may even start stockpiling items for fear of a government reprisals of some sort. Even in the worst case, we'll just have somewhat overfull storage for a few days."
"Should we be worried about another shutdown?"
Visha shook her head. "No, not at all. But since it has happened once, it might happen again in the public's eye and that uncertainty causes fear. Make sure we have plenty of canned and, to a certain degree, frozen foods."
"Noted. By the end of the month, given these predictions, we should be caught up on the losses of the last few weeks."
"That doesn't matter at all. We're producing as fast as we can and the demand never wavered. We just have to sell what we've already made."
The aide, enlightened, viewed her boss with fresh appreciation. "I think that's everything." She looked at Visha slyly. "There waaaaaaaas a personal message, though."
"Oh?"
"A certain gentleman has left several notes. Herr 'Z', I believe?"
Visha smiled, "Oh Ignatz! I'll have to arrange to have lunch with him soon. Find my list of restaurants and make reservation, please. Three days from now, I think."
"Reservation for two, coming up!"
"Actually, make it three."
"...three?"
"Yes, Tanya said she would like to join me on my tour of the eateries of Berun. Might as well combine them, yes?"
"C-certainly. I'll do that right now." She had a bad premonition about the event. All together at once? I'm sure everything will work out. The President is very protective but is a reasonable person, really.
* * *
[Germania - boardroom]
"Next on the agenda is... the election," said the assistant.
The looks around the room were less than sanguine. Finally, someone spoke up. "What the hell should we do? Bruning has not-so-subtly asked for our support and we have numerous government contracts."
"That's assuming he IS the government at the end of the year. He's forcing us to bet on a horse and we don't know which one will win the race!"
An older executive cleared his throat. "What are chances that a political newcomer winning? She has no influence and no contacts in the government. Even if he was just an appointee, he's the incumbent and doesn't have any scandals to drag him down. For the past few years he has been the face of Germania and people know him for that and NOT for wanton massacres."
"She does have some popularity, though."
"She's a child. Can you imagine your typical voter walking to the polling place and trusting the country to someone who won't even be able to vote and yet somehow will run the country?" He stated confidently, "Picture those factory workers, tired men getting off from a long day of work, deciding to risk the Fatherland when we have just turned the corner? Why would he vote so foolishly?"
"Voters aside, there's the very real threat of punishment if we don't pick Bruning. Degurechaff probably won't retaliate if we don't support her so do we have anything to lose by picking the favorite?"
The vote was unanimous after that.
* * *
[Germania – German National Democratic Party headquarters]
Sitting around a long table were tired men but they looked satisfied from long labors. "So, how are we looking for the next election?"
The most tired man pushed up his glasses slightly before he read from his papers. "I think we'll gain about a dozen seats."
"Hoh, nice! That will give us a decisive edge during the policy talks after the election. Hold off on pushing Bruning now, but hint that we can flip to another candidate unless we get that legislation passed."
"Will we still caucus with the Independent Centre Social Party?"
"It depends on how they want to apportion the building contracts in the south. If they are willing to play with us, we'll help them stay relevant in the budget talks."
They discussed the numbers for the upcoming election and how the current parties would end up after the elections. Their leader nodded. "Sounds good... you all have worked hard!"
Unlike some parties, the GNDP believed strongly in hard data because they didn't like to operate on mere opinion and hope. The chief statistician also nodded. "We doubled our polling numbers, focused on prior voters." He sighed and shook his head. "The old voter rolls had to be significantly purged. The Great War..."
The leader held up his hand. "It was bad for everyone, no need to go into it. That we will gain seats even with fewer voters is a sad silver lining." He clapped his hands sharply twice. "Everyone get some rest... we'll start our big push tomorrow!"
* * *
[Germania – TanyaMarkt]
There was a small crowd of people in the Markt after hours. The door was open, and light from the inside was spilling into the darkened street. A passer-by raised his eyebrows and approached the store. "Huh, I thought the Markt was closed at this hour." Posted on the open door was a notice: Meeting tonight, all welcome!
Curiously, he went inside and saw that one of the store employees was addressing everyone from on top of a crate. The medium-sized crowd was mostly women but there a good number of men as well. Most of them were sipping coffee or had a pastry or other treat in hand.
Another employee greeted the man as he came in. "You can sit wherever you like. Refreshments are to the left!"
"Danke, danke." He filled a cup and took a Buchtein liberally coated with powdered sugar and sat down to hear what was going on. Normally, he would have intruded when not specifically invited but it had been some time since he could afford treats such as this and the sign had certainly said "all welcome!"
The snack was very tasty.
He sat politely and sipped his coffee. He wasn't sure why these people had gathered but assumed that they were trying to sell something. Well, the least I can do is listen even if I can't afford anything.
The middle-aged woman continued, "...so you vote for a party and that will determine the number of representatives that the party has. To create the government, a majority of representatives will be needed so unless a party has more than half of the total, a coalition government will be created through an alliance of smaller parties."
A woman raised her hand, "Can anyone vote? I've never voted before." Others nodded in agreement with this.
The employee nodded. "As long as you are 25 years old and not invalidated for another reason such as criminal behavior or mental incapacity. Naturally, they will confirm your residency but there are really few requirements." She smiled, "Okay, those are the basics, now I'll explain about what we believe and why you should vote for us."
The crowd leaned forward, listening to every word.
"At the core, we believe that everyone should have the maximum amount of freedom possible."
"But... what does that mean? Aren't we already free?"
"Oh? Are you free to own gold? To protest against the war policies of the current government? To conduct business without onerous regulations?" She shook her head. "There's an invisible cage mostly made of rules and taxes that we have grown used to but they are there nonetheless. The President," she nodded toward the poster behind her, "likes to quote an American president, John Adams. He said, 'There are two ways to conquer and enslave a country. One is by sword. The other is by debt.'"
The listeners frowned unpleasantly or thoughtfully depending on their personalities. They had been assaulted by one in the last war and the other currently.
She monitored their faces. "Ah, you understand, then. Are we free?"
"But the war debts have been paid off, haven't they? At least mostly?" Again, most of them glanced at the poster.
"Those debts, yes, but what binds the hands of the government in making more debts? From printing marks day and night to make the ones in your pockets worthless? From getting us involved in new wars we can't win?"
One man stood up. "We didn't start that war!"
"Yes! But when the government had the chance, did they end it? Or did they take our narrow victory and turn it into an overwhelming defeat?" She paused to let that sink in. "You see how the seeming freedom is an illusion? We believe that with more freedom, we can build our own future, not survive on the promises of politicians!"
She stopped speaking and the crowd broke up into smaller groups to talk about what they had heard (or to get more snacks).
Like many, the man who had come in the end approached the speaker to ask questions. He waited for his turn and approached her with a determined gaze. "I'd like to join you. This country seems to be going astray and needs fixing soon." He turned bashful. "Can I help somehow? I don't have any particular skills that seem to be relevant. And, although I hate to admit it, I don't even know the name of your organization."
"We're glad to have you!" She shook his hand warmly. "Welcome to the Liberty Party!"
All across Germania, this scene was repeated over and over again.