Alliance in the Ice - The Guardians of Noindaith

Traxl, The Legacy of the Roman Empire - Political Conditions

Under the reign of King Franz Joseph I, the Western Empire had been a powerful empire that maintained strong military alliances with its neighbors. In the years leading up to the outbreak of war, however, there had been considerable tension and an arms race between the great powers across the continent. These differences were exacerbated by imperialist aspirations, nationalism and territorial disputes, particularly between the Western and Eastern Empires.

The abduction and assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand by militant factions of the Eastern Empire triggered a chain of events that led to the outbreak of war in the summer of 1914. The King therefore issued the following proclamation:

Vindisburg, July 28, 1914

The Western government has declared war on the Eastern Empire today. This step is in response to the serious incidents that have occurred in recent weeks and threaten the security and interests of the Western Empire.

On June 28 of this year, our beloved heir to the throne, Archduke Franz Ferdinand, and his wife were assassinated in a devious manner. There is clear evidence that the conspirators behind this attack had links to the Eastern Empire and that Eastern authorities and organizations were involved in the planning and execution of the assassination.

The Western Empire then presented an ultimatum to the Eastern Empire, asking for the punishment of the guilty and the cessation of supporting activities within the Eastern Empire. Unfortunately, the Eastern measures to ensure peace and justice in response to our ultimatum were insufficient.

The Western government is firmly committed to defending the security and sovereignty of our country and bringing those responsible for these terrible crimes to justice. We deeply regret that it has become necessary to take these measures, but we see no other way to protect our national interests.

We call on our people to stand together in these difficult times and give our full support to our beloved King and our nation. We hope for a speedy restoration of peace and stability throughout the continent.

Signed

King Franz Joseph I.

In many parts of the Western Empire, the outbreak of war was accompanied by a wave of patriotism. Many people were enthusiastic and proud to fight for their country, and there were countless voluntary registrations for military service.

At the same time, fear and uncertainty spread among the population. The outbreak of war meant drastic changes in everyday life, and many people were worried about their loved ones who had to go to war.

The government and the media carried out intensive propaganda to gain extensive support for the war. This led to euphoria among the population, which helped to maintain moral support.

The population did not enthusiastically join in the war celebrations everywhere in the Reich. There were protests in some cities, as many people saw the war as pointless and destructive.

The outbreak of war also had a significant economic impact, and the population felt the consequences in the form of food shortages, price increases, destroyed infrastructure and interrupted trade chains.

Many men were drafted into the army. This placed an additional burden on their families.

War bonds and fundraising campaigns wereintended to secure the financing of the war, and the population was asked tosupport the troops with money and donations in kind.