„It’s so cold here in this hole. I’m so tired and completely exhausted. And my enemy knows exactly how I feel. After all, he must feel the same.”
It is the beginning of the 20th century. Europe's degree of industrialization is at its peak. Caused by the obsession for power of numerous governments and their greed for land and resources, an enormous race for armsbegins. Factories run day and night. Everyone wants to be prepared, when the inevitable conflict takes its course… Europe resembles a single political powder keg.
“Since days we’re robbing through the mud. Bullets are flying over our heads, grenades explode. The artillery’s thunder is ear-battering…”
In this precarious situation, the assassination of Austria-Hungary’s designated heir to the throne, Franz Ferdinand, almost appears as a godsend for the belligerent German Empire. Due to their tight alliance with the Austrians, one thing leads to another und suddenly all of Europe goes to the battle stations. Presidents and kings of all parts of Europe sniff their chances to expand their boundaries, to conquer foreign territory, to detract from problems in their own country.
“…when that metallic monster besides me starts to move…it sounds like the apocalypse…gosh, I want to be with my family now….”
But this situation did not come unexpected. The generals of Europe’s empires recognized soon, that the unavoidable bloodshed will be most devastating with the numerous technological novelities. It was just a matter of time. The bell tolls, the question is just: for whom?
“…every day I wonder if I’ll ever see them again. Will there be a home left, after this is over?”
The Germans with their all-destroying howitzer, the French with their unconquerable fortresses, the Britains with their overwhelming armada and a brand new vehicle made of iron, which will very soon be feared under the name of “tank”. Even the airspace was laced with murderous air ships and zeppelins.
“…focus. Don’t think too much. If you think too much now, you’re dead…Oh, my….They are coming! I have almost no ammunition left. There are so many of them! They are coming closer and closer!!!.....”
In this difficult time, an empire needs a world class head of state. A leader that keeps cool in the biggest war of mankind so far. A statesman that has superior strategic skills, forms necessary alliances and leads their troops to victory. Someone, who is always one step ahead of the enemy.
