Schlecher

In May 1932, as the German presidential election commenced, many anticipated Akado to challenge President Hindenburg. However, during a press conference, Akado announced his withdrawal from the race. Addressing a crowd of reporters, he eloquently expressed his support for President Hindenburg, advocating that he was the best choice for Germany at that time. Akado urged the public to be patient and give Hindenburg more time to stabilize the economy and address the impacts of the ongoing economic crisis. His speech aligned with the stance of the Great German Party, which he represented.

As the presidential election progressed, the Great German Party's propaganda machinery vigorously supported Hindenburg, leveraging his established contacts and esteemed reputation. This strategic support contributed significantly to Hindenburg's victory, where he defeated Adolf Hitler by a substantial margin. Akado's withdrawal from the race caused a significant shift in the political landscape, revealing the underlying strength of Hitler and drawing the attention of the Great German Party towards the Nazi Party.

With the presidential election concluded, the focus shifted to the upcoming Congressional elections in July 1932. The Great German Party, under the leadership of figures like Fannie, intensified their campaign efforts to compete against the Nazis. In Berlin, the streets were alive with the party's propaganda, with caravans of vehicles carrying SS soldiers who saluted and chanted slogans in support of Akado Rudolf.

Internally, the Great German Party was also experiencing a power struggle. The election for the new party chairman was approaching, and although Akado was expected to win decisively, there were other coveted positions within the party. This marked the first major reshuffle of the party's power structure since its inception, with various factions vying for influence and benefits.

The vice-presidency of the party was particularly contested. Krupp managed to secure his position by reaffirming his alliance with Akado and staunchly supporting his policies. Another vice-president, Streisman, however, found himself marginalized due to his lower popularity within the party and was forced to step down.

Among the notable candidates for various positions were Merkel, Leuk Carter, and Major General Blauchich, a figure recommended by the military. Also in contention was i.g. Carl Boss, a leader from the corporate sector.

Major-General Brauchic, pulled up from the ranks by Akado, represented a compromise between the old and new defense forces. He was known for his conservative values and deep respect for Akado, whom he secretly idolized. Brauchic's command included the 4th Division, strategically positioned along the French border, reflecting his significant role within the defense forces.

i.g. Carl Boss, representing the German Dye Industry Interest Group, became a key figure due to his financial contributions and the potential of synthetic gasoline and rubber technologies. After a meeting with Akado, where they discussed these technologies extensively, i.g. Faben signed a lucrative contract with the party for the production of synthetic rubber, solidifying Boss's position within the party.

Following these developments, Akado orchestrated a major reorganization within the Great German Party. He appointed Blauchich and Krupp as vice-chairmen, balancing military and political interests. Boss was named the party's finance minister, reflecting the significant trust Akado placed in him shortly after joining the party. Merkel was appointed as the Minister of Internal and External Relations, Fanny as the Minister of Propaganda, and Leuk Carter retained his role as the Minister of Personnel.

The reshuffle also saw Matt Hof reassigned as the SS police minister, a move that subtly reduced the powers of Reinhardt Heidrich. Additionally, a new Supervision Department was created to monitor internal party issues, with Gerin Nike Cassia appointed as its minister.

As the party stabilized its internal structure, Akado and his team turned their focus to the upcoming Congressional elections. Fanny reported that Hitler had garnered more support than anticipated, indicating a potential risk in the elections. Leuk Carter added that while their support within the defense forces was growing, the overall uncertainty remained.

Determined to secure victory, Akado rallied his party, emphasizing the need to mobilize all resources and secure every possible vote. As they strategized, interpersonal dynamics surfaced, with Anna and Fanny subtly competing for Akado's attention.

The conversation then shifted to internal security, with Leuk Carter reporting on the loyalty within the party ranks. Akado instructed him to maintain vigilance, emphasizing the importance of unity and integrity within the Great German Party.

As they prepared to leave for the cafeteria, Akado invited Leuk Carter to join him and Anna, intending to discuss further election strategies. The trio, along with Fanny, left the meeting room, ready to tackle the challenges of the upcoming elections, each determined to ensure the success and stability of the Great German Party.

Schlecher stood in the headquarters of the German Wehrmacht, clutching his leather bag. As an assistant to the Minister of Defense, he wielded considerable influence. Despite his relative obscurity among the general populace, Schlecher was a man of substantial stature. His lineage traced back to the esteemed Brandenburg nobility. His military career began in 1900 when he joined Hindenburg's old legion and befriended Oscar, Hindenburg's son. During World War I, he served under the then Defense Minister Groner and rose to prominence, even establishing a covert alliance with the Soviet Union alongside Akado. However, Schlecher harbored no fondness for Akado, preferring to align himself with the more influential President Hindenburg, thanks to his connections with Oscar.

As time passed, Akado's power surged, overshadowing Schlecher's influence within the German military and political landscape. Schlecher realized too late that shifting his allegiance to Akado might be beneficial as Akado's camp included formidable figures like Merkel of the Grand Deutsche Party and the rising star General Blauchich from the Defense Force. However, another faction approached Schlecher, offering him the coveted position of Minister of Defense. But Groner, the current minister, adeptly navigated the complexities of the National Defense Force, maintaining the trust of both Hindenburg and Akado, making Schlecher's decision all the more difficult.

Aware of the potential costs associated with these high-ranking offers, Schlecher understood they were akin to devilish temptations. Success and the fulfillment of these promises hinged on luck and outcomes. Thus, he found himself at a crossroads, opting to confront Akado directly about his quandary. He believed that betting everything on the side with the greater chance of victory was the prudent choice.

"Mr. Schlecher, General Akado invites you in," announced Sindra, emerging with a stack of documents. She briefly addressed Schlecher before disappearing down the corridor. Schlecher, gathering his courage, pushed open the door to Akado's office and stepped inside.

"Welcome, Mr. Schlecher. It's been a while," Akado greeted him with a smile, gesturing towards the sofa. "Anna, please offer Mr. Schlecher some coffee."

"Thank you, but no coffee for me," Schlecher declined politely as he settled onto the sofa, placing his leather bag on the coffee table. Without hesitation, he opened the bag and presented the documents to Akado. "These are all my cards, General. If you're still interested, name your price."

Akado chuckled. "Mr. Schlecher, you always intrigue me. I'm aware of your reputation and the offers you've likely received from my adversaries. So, why turn to me?"

Schlecher knew his own nature well—he was opportunistic, always ready to abandon his benefactors once he had used them to climb higher, much like the ancient Chinese proverb about crossing the river and destroying the bridge. Yet, he was here, ready to negotiate, driven by a belief in his own cunning and ability to manipulate anyone.

"It's simple. I prefer to align myself with the likely victor, for if I win, at least I have gained something. If I lose, I lose everything," Schlecher explained with a wry smile. "I know what I am, and while I may not be the most reliable ally, I still have my uses, wouldn't you agree?"

Seeing through Schlecher's intentions, Akado remained silent for a moment before making his offer. "How about the position of Minister of Defense?" he proposed, raising an eyebrow.

Schlecher was taken aback, not expecting an offer so comparable to what others had promised. However, Akado's next words tempered his excitement. "Understand, though, that this role is largely ceremonial. You'd be more of a figurehead than a wielder of real power. Are you prepared for that?"

The prospect of a powerless title disheartened Schlecher, who craved influence, not mere appearances. He pondered for a while before responding, "Perhaps it would be better to negotiate a financial arrangement instead."

Akado narrowed his eyes thoughtfully. "Sometimes, being a defense minister in a victorious nation carries more dignity than being a commanding officer in a defeated one. Should we win, I assure you a place in the negotiation delegation."

This promise sparked a new interest in Schlecher, who eagerly inquired, "Can you truly guarantee that?"

"I stake my life on fulfilling this commitment. It's what every German desires and deserves," Akado assured him.

Schlecher, initially skeptical, now found himself laughing heartily, moved by Akado's dedication and the unexpected turn in their negotiation. Wiping away tears of mirth, he stood, collected his documents, and approached Akado's desk. "I admire your vision and am drawn to the future you envision. Thus, I choose to stand with you," he declared, placing his bag on the desk.

As he headed towards the door, Schlecher added, "I will present those who opposed me with an unexpected dilemma, especially after the upcoming election—a token of my commitment to our alliance. I am eager to see where our paths will lead."

Akado rose, offering a parting reassurance, "Rest assured, you will not be disappointed."

The congressional elections proceeded as scheduled. The Grand Deutsche Party, Social Democratic Party, Nazi Party, and Communist Party all vied fiercely for control. Despite their efforts, the Grand Deutsche Party, led by Akado, secured 47% of the seats, falling short of an absolute majority but still outperforming the others.

In a solemn ceremony, Akado was declared the Chancellor of Germany, ready to lead the nation forward under his new administration. As he took his oath, Schlecher watched from the sidelines, contemplating the intricate web of politics and power he had now entwined himself with, hopeful yet cautious about the future.