Chancellor

In the grand and solemn presidential palace, Akado stood before President Hindenburg, flanked by his loyal followers. They were the victors of the day, albeit not wholly unchallenged. Behind them, a throng of journalists gathered, their cameras flashing incessantly, transforming the stately office into a dazzling spectacle.

President Hindenburg, with a trembling voice, initiated the inauguration of the new German Chancellor, a ceremony steeped in tradition and gravitas. "Former Commander-in-Chief of the Army, esteemed Admiral Mr. Akado, do you pledge to faithfully execute the duties of Chancellor, prioritizing the interests of the nation above all else?"

Stepping forward, Akado placed his palm solemnly on the Bible held by the priest and Hindenburg, affirming his commitment with a firm "I will."

"Are you prepared to swear before God to uphold the German Constitution, support the President, and respect the authority of Congress?" Hindenburg continued, his voice steady.

Akado's hand trembled slightly against the Bible as he met Hindenburg's gaze. After a moment's pause, he declared, "I do."

With that, Hindenburg announced, "I hereby declare Mr. Akado Rudolph as the new Chancellor of Germany. May Almighty God bless your tenure."

Though Hindenburg's eyes betrayed a hint of reluctance, he offered his blessings nonetheless. "Long live the great Germany!" Akado responded, saluting Hindenburg with a traditional German gesture, opting not to shake hands but rather affirming his oath in his own distinctive manner.

The room erupted in applause as the flashbulbs continued to pop. "Long live great Germany!" echoed through the chamber, as many attendees raised their arms in the customary German salute, their excitement palpable.

Nearby, photographer Jaeger Hugo captured the moment. His camera clicked at the exact second, immortalizing the scene where a proud Akado stood beside a visibly aged President Hindenburg. The president appeared slightly stooped, his shoulders sagging, in stark contrast to Akado's lean and upright posture. This photograph, later titled "The Dawn of Germany," graced the front page of the German newspaper Deutsche Bahn. However, a French tabloid reprinted the image under a more ominous headline: "The Fallen Country."

Akado's ascent marked the consolidation of power by the Grand German Party, bringing him closer to complete control over Germany's various sectors. As a compromise, General Hamelstein was reinstated as the commander-in-chief of the National Defense Forces, while the rising military star, General Brosich, was appointed chief of staff. Numerous generals loyal to Akado were promoted, solidifying his influence over the military. He now commanded 24 divisions, including elite units like the 1st Paratroopers Division and the 25th Armored Division, totaling nearly 290,000 troops—more than half of the National Defense Forces. Despite this, it was widely known that many within the smaller remaining forces also favored Akado and his expansionist policies, which promised more opportunities for promotion.

The position of German Foreign Minister was filled by Merkel, an Akado appointee, with his predecessor, Nobel Laureate Streisman, serving as his deputy. This strategic pairing fueled high expectations for Germany's diplomatic future.

In the economic realm, Akado appointed Horace Greely Schacht, a relatively unknown figure outside the Grand German Party but a former president of the German National Bank and an early party member since 1927. Known for his disdain for the Democratic Parliament, Schacht was a staunch supporter of Akado, likened by many within the party to an ancient knight in his loyalty. Despite his low profile, Schacht was a brilliant financial strategist, renowned for his policies in the 1920s that stabilized the German currency through foreign exchange loans. His innovative thinking earned him the role of Minister of Economics, a decision that surprised many but was ultimately supported by influential party members like Krupp and Boss.

The police system was placed under the control of Reinhardt Heidrich, a choice that was surprisingly well-received internationally, as foreign police spokespeople expressed hope that Heidrich's leadership would help combat the growing menace of international drug trafficking. A lesser-known figure promoted by Akado to deputy police minister remained fiercely loyal to him, though this appointment garnered less attention.

With his cabinet in place, Akado began implementing a bold military expansion plan. Under his direction, Schacht devised a covert "loan" scheme to fund the rearmament efforts. These loans, not recorded as actual currency but as credits for purchasing raw materials and paying wages, were to mature in five years under a government-controlled company known as "Mifu." This financial maneuver allowed Germany to massively scale up its military production without apparent discrepancies in government financial records.

Despite his focus on economic revival and military strengthening, Akado faced persistent opposition from other political parties, particularly regarding his plans to expand the armored forces. His proposals were nearly blocked in secret Congressional sessions, highlighting the challenges he still faced in achieving absolute control over Germany.

One day, in a strategic move to consolidate his power, Akado summoned Leuk Carter to his office. Handing him a document titled "Protection of the German People's Law," Akado explained that this bill was intended to silence opposition parties and streamline his governance. Despite Carter's initial reservations about the bill's risks, Akado reassured him of their impending victory, bolstering his confidence with a promise of triumph.

"Long live great Germany!" Akado proclaimed, his optimism unshaken.

"Long live Akado!" Carter responded, his loyalty unwavering as they prepared to face the challenges ahead.

In the grandeur of the presidential palace, President Hindenburg faced Arcado with a stern expression. He broke the silence, his voice heavy with decision, "I cannot sign your bill and forward it to Congress. It will meet the same fate as before. I recognize your efforts for this nation and understand the resistance you face. However, relying on such a document to defeat your adversaries does not align with our country's laws."

Arcado's fingers had been rhythmically tapping on the desk, but they halted abruptly as he retorted, "Mr. President, I lack the time and energy to contend with these fools. Our German adversaries are swiftly advancing, and we need to surpass them rather than squabble with domestic nitwits!"

Hindenburg sighed deeply, "But it's not just a few people opposing you; it's the majority."

Arcado insisted, "No, the majority of Germans yearn for strength; they just lack proper representation."

"That's what Congress is for! Are you suggesting overthrowing Congress and undermining the Constitution? I've already warned you, power seized by improper means is doomed to fail," Hindenburg frowned deeply.

"Give up, Arcado. You've done well. The German people will remember your contributions fondly," he added.

Yet, Arcado stood up, resolute. "I still wish to try," he declared, looking Hindenburg in the eye. "I have already sent the bill to Congress. The voting will commence shortly, and I intend to deliver a speech in hopes of persuading the majority."

In the parliamentary chamber, tension brewed as a lawmaker slammed his fist on the table, scattering papers. "Is he out of his mind presenting this for a vote? Does he think we're fools?" he bellowed.

Another congressman scoffed, "He must think this is like the National Defense Force where he can dictate terms."

A nervous colleague nudged him, whispering urgently, "Quiet down, his supporters are here. We'll vote against it. They don't have the majority anyway."

On the parliamentary stage, Arcado began his speech, "Gentlemen, we must unite for German democracy! Let those capable of combating crime have the freedom to act! Henceforth, only the ruling party will be allowed to distribute propaganda. All other party activities that could undermine our unity or security are hereby suspended..."

Mid-speech, an outraged lawmaker stood up, shouting, "Go to hell, you dictator! Go back to where you came from!" He was quickly subdued by members of the Grand Deutschland Party, restoring a tense calm.

Arcado, undeterred, continued, "This is all for the betterment of our people! God will forgive our temporary restrictions on freedom, for in the end, we will achieve a greater liberty!"

Amidst his speech, a clandestine conversation unfolded. A SS officer leaned towards a Nazi Party member, whispering, "Your son Jamie sends his regards. He and his mother visited our headquarters. They'll return tonight."

The lawmaker paled, "You've kidnapped them! This is illegal..."

"Yes, we are breaking the law to win. If we lose, we all perish, including you and your colleagues," the officer replied coldly, hinting at the lawmaker's recent corrupt dealings.

Fearing for his safety, the lawmaker conceded, "I understand. I'll comply."

As Arcado concluded, "Vote now on the 'Protection of the German People's Law' to safeguard our nation's interests!" the room fell silent.

The vote commenced. Nearly half the assembly, members of the Grand Deutschland Party, stood in support. Reluctantly, several Nazi Party members also rose, swayed by the tense atmosphere and veiled threats.

Amidst the voting, a German SS MP began singing the national anthem. His voice, though strained and off-key, was filled with fervor. Soon, others joined, their voices swelling in a powerful chorus that filled the chamber.

Lawmakers who had been hesitant were now compelled to stand, drawn by the overwhelming call for unity and patriotism. The anthem resonated, a solemn and binding force, pulling even the most reluctant to their feet.

As the song concluded, Arcado, with a commanding gesture, proclaimed, "Long live the Great Germany!"

The chamber erupted in echoes of support, "Long live victory!"

On January 1, 1933, the Law on the Protection of the German People was enacted. It stifled the opposition, particularly targeting the German Communist and the Nazi Party along with the Social Democrats, solidifying Congress's control under the German Party. This law severely restricted the activities of other parties, ensuring the dominance of the German Party.

Under this new regime, Arcado expanded the National Defense Force by 70,000 troops and added 336 advanced Leopard tanks. General Blauchic, the force's commander, assured Arcado of their preparedness against any potential French aggression, confident in their newfound strength.