Chapter 1 - Chapter One: The Starting Point of the World Line

At the beginning of the 20th century, the global political landscape was in a state of unrest and turmoil. Although the smoke of World War I had not yet completely cleared, its consequences profoundly influenced the fate of every nation. The disintegration of empires, the collapse of the old order, and the rise of new forces all became significant fluctuations in the long river of world history. However, history is not as unchanging as it is recorded. In this alternate world, the course of history has taken unexpected turns, and the future of the world has thus been rewritten.In a corner of this world, once-mighty empires continue to expand, not content with their existing territories, with ambition casting a shadow over all of Europe. Meanwhile, on the Asian continent of the Far East, a new power has emerged. Its goal is not only to defend its own national interests but also to change the global order dramatically. While political leaders around the world appear committed to peace and cooperation on the surface, beneath the currents, arms races, geopolitical struggles, and power struggles have never ceased.The Herder Empire, located in Central Europe, a nation that had collapsed during World War I, was revitalized on this alternate historical timeline. Under its control, vast tracts of territory in Eastern Europe returned to the empire's rule. The revival of the Herder Empire, at the same time, brought about subtle changes in the attitudes of other countries.The ruler of the Herder Empire, Emperor Oscar von Herder, is a leader with foresight. The young emperor, full of ambition, hopes to lead the country to restore its former glory. However, not every country can accept his plan. France, Britain, and other European powers have felt unprecedented pressure and challenges during the rise of the Herder Empire. Diplomatic games among countries have become increasingly intense, with the specter of war looming over Europe.In the meantime, the Serr Dynasty in the Far East has gradually become the center of global politics. The leader of the Serr Dynasty, the young King Kevin Alpha, has not only conquered neighboring countries through military means but also pushed the situation across Asia to a brand-new peak. In stark contrast to the expansion of the Herder Empire, the rise of the Serr Dynasty should not be overlooked. King Kevin Alpha possesses extraordinary military talent and political wisdom. He has not only successfully united multiple countries across East Asia but also manipulated the distribution of power on the international stage through a series of conspiracies and strategies.For other major powers, these two emerging nations are like a massive storm that could tear apart the existing order at any time. However, the major powers in Europe are not merely in opposition. Although the expansion of the Herder Empire and the Serr Dynasty inevitably leads to opposition on the surface, behind-the-scenes negotiations and political cooperation between the two sides quietly unfold. Diplomatic struggles among countries are becoming increasingly complex, and it seems that behind every move lies a greater game of strategy."War is inevitable," is the consensus among many international leaders. Although they are closely cooperating on one hand and secretly competing with each other on the other, they all know that a war that will change the world's pattern will eventually break out. The ultimate winners of the war might be those forces that can handle the balance between global politics and military affairs.On this day, Emperor Oscar von Herder of the Herder Empire summoned the empire's senior officers and diplomats. They will discuss the current international situation and the upcoming challenges at an emergency meeting."Ladies and gentlemen, our country has regained its former glory," Oscar von Herder stood in the parliamentary hall of the empire, his gaze firmly scanning the generals and advisors before him. "But we also understand that peace will not come easily. Behind every rising force lies a deep threat. The rise of the Serr Dynasty, the fluctuations in Eastern Europe, and the global unrest are precisely the challenges we must address."He paused for a moment, took a deep breath, and continued, "We cannot allow these situations to slip out of our control. Whether through diplomacy or military means, we must ensure that the Herder Empire stands firm in the upcoming tide. Our goal is not merely to restore the territory of the past but to take a leading position on the global stage."His voice was resounding and powerful, making everyone present feel a strong sense of pressure. However, this was not merely a threat of war. The leaders of the Herder Empire were well aware that the future world would not only be a battlefield but also a contest of intelligence and strategy."Prepare for the upcoming war," Oscar von Herder's words were firm and threatening, "This is not only for the glory of the empire but also for the reshaping of the global order."With the conclusion of the meeting, the fate of the Herder Empire will once again be closely linked to the global political trends. The footsteps of war are drawing nearer. The future world will be written by these ambitious nations.