As the new year passed and preparations began for the next stage of the war, Bruno found himself in Berlin, gathered alongside a cohort of world leaders and senior generals; specifically those of the Central Powers.
He sat beside the Kaiser, unusually silent, as kings, emperors, and field marshals debated competing visions for how the war might finally be brought to an end.
Wilhelm II had yet to speak. Whether he was waiting for the opportune moment or simply allowing his allies to voice their uncensored opinions, Bruno could not say.
Alexei was locked in a heated exchange with King Alfonso XIV of Spain. The young and recently enthroned monarch seemed eager to prove the strength of his nation, particularly after the death of his father and Spain's relatively restrained role in the war thus far.
His voice rose steadily, edging toward fury, until even Bruno was stirred from his stoic observation.
