Beijing - April 12th, 1940
The morning sun streamed through the tall windows of the Hanseatic Embassy compound, casting geometric patterns across the polished wooden floors of the officers' quarters. A gentle spring breeze carried the scents of jasmine and flowering cherry trees from the embassy gardens, creating an atmosphere of serene anticipation that seemed almost at odds with the gravity of the day ahead.
In their adjoining chambers, Captains Kylian von Reichsgraf and Wolfgang von Witzland prepared themselves with the meticulous attention to detail that their military training had ingrained. Today marked their first formal appearance at the Chinese Imperial court, and both understood that their conduct would reflect not only upon themselves but upon the entire Hanseatic Empire.
The uniforms laid out for their inspection were unlike anything in their previous experience. Specially commissioned for Imperial Guard officers serving on overseas diplomatic missions, these dress uniforms represented the finest of Hanseatic military tailoring. The coats were crafted from the finest wool in a distinctive shade of pearl gray that managed to appear both understated and elegant ar the same time. Silver braiding adorned the shoulders and cuffs in patterns that had remained unchanged since the Empire's founding, while polished buttons bore the imperial griffin in raised relief.
Most striking of all was the ceremonial chain that stretched across the chest-not the simple cord found on standard dress uniforms, but an intricate work of silver craftsmanship studded with small rubies that had been cut and polished in the imperial workshops of Theodosia. Each stone caught the morning light like drops of captured fire, creating an effect that was both regal and magnificent.
"This is rather extraordinary," Wolfgang remarked, running his fingers along the silver chain with obvious appreciation. The weight and quality of the metalwork spoke to the skilled artisans who had created it, while the rubies represented a significant investment in their diplomatic appearance.
Kylian smiled as he adjusted his own uniform, noting how the tailoring seemed to enhance rather than conceal his military bearing. "I must admit, it's remarkable that they've created special uniforms just for this mission. The attention to detail is impressive."
"Indeed," Wolfgang agreed, fastening the ceremonial chain with practiced precision. "Being assigned to the Imperial Guard certainly has its advantages. Though I confess I'm rather looking forward to seeing what the Chinese court ladies make of these uniforms."
Kylian chuckled at his friend's obvious anticipation. "I suspect you'll find yourself spending more time in the company of court officials and eunuchs than eligible young ladies. But I'm sure your magnificent chain will impress them just as much."
"Come now," Wolfgang protested with mock indignation, "don't tell me you're entirely immune to feminine beauty yourself. These uniforms are bound to make some impression."
"I make no such claims," Kylian replied, his tone lighter than usual. "Though I suspect diplomatic protocol will leave little time for social pleasures."
Their conversation was interrupted by the sound of footsteps in the courtyard below. Through their windows, they could see Foreign Minister von Hausen emerging from the embassy's main building, carrying what appeared to be a substantial wooden chest. The container was clearly heavy, requiring him to support it carefully with both arms, and its surface was decorated with intricate Hanseatic motifs-griffins, intertwining vines, and the stylized basilisks that had served as imperial symbols for centuries.
The craftsmanship was immediately recognizable as the work of the palace workshops, where master artisans created objects intended for the highest levels of diplomatic exchange. The wood itself appeared to be rare Hanseatic ironwood, prized for its durability and distinctive grain patterns, while the carved decorations had been inlaid with precious metals that gleamed in the morning sunlight.
Curiosity overcoming protocol, both officers quickly completed their preparations and descended to the embassy courtyard, where they found the Foreign Minister carefully positioning the chest in the shade of an ornamental tree.
"Excellency," Kylian ventured, "might I inquire about the nature of that container?"
Von Hausen looked up from his careful arrangement of the diplomatic gift, his expression carrying the slight satisfaction of a man who had successfully completed a complex logistical task. "Imperial gifts for the Son of Heaven, naturally. His Majesty Emperor Konrad was quite specific about the appropriate tribute for this occasion."
Wolfgang's eyebrows rose with interest. "These are personal gifts from our Emperor? What manner of items warrant such elaborate presentation?"
The Foreign Minister's smile held a hint of mystery. "I confess, Captain von Witzland, that I am as curious as you are. His Majesty sealed the chest personally and provided specific instructions for its presentation, but he did not share its contents with me. Such discretion is not uncommon when dealing with gifts intended for fellow sovereigns."
Both officers exchanged glances, their imaginations naturally drawn to speculation about what treasures might justify such careful handling. Hanseatic craftsmanship was renowned throughout the world, and imperial gift-giving traditionally involved items of extraordinary value and artistry.
Their contemplation was interrupted by the arrival of the embassy's official vehicle-a black limousine that had been polished to mirror brilliance for the occasion. The Chinese driver, dressed in formal livery that reflected the solemnity of their destination, emerged to assist with loading the diplomatic chest while maintaining the respectful silence appropriate to his position.
The drive through Beijing's morning streets provided a fascinating contrast to their previous day's arrival. Where their initial journey had revealed a city struggling with modernization, this route took them through districts that showcased China's enduring grandeur. Ancient hutongs gave way to broader avenues lined with traditional architecture that had been maintained in pristine condition, while carefully tended gardens visible through ornate gateways suggested the presence of wealthy families and important institutions.
Wolfgang continued his photographic documentation of their journey, though his camera work had become more discreet following Ambassador von Hausen's earlier warnings about diplomatic sensitivity. The images he captured showed a city that was simultaneously ancient and vital, where traditional Chinese culture continued to flourish despite the political pressures that threatened the empire's stability.
As they approached the Forbidden City itself, both young officers found themselves pressed against the limousine's windows in wonder. The massive walls that surrounded the imperial complex rose before them like a man-made mountain range, their red-painted surfaces seeming to glow in the morning sunlight. Guard towers positioned at regular intervals along the fortifications created a rhythmic pattern that spoke to centuries of military engineering, while the ornate rooflines visible beyond the walls promised architectural wonders that few foreigners had ever witnessed.
"Gentlemen," Foreign Minister von Hausen observed from the front seat, noting their obvious fascination, "I suspect this will be neither your first nor your last visit to this remarkable place. You would do well to become accustomed to its magnificence."
Kylian tore his attention away from the passing scenery with some difficulty. "Are you suggesting, Excellency, that our duties will require regular visits to the Forbidden City?"
"Precisely," von Hausen confirmed. "Though I should clarify that while we have traveled to China together, our respective missions here serve different purposes."
This revelation prompted Wolfgang to sit forward with obvious interest. "Different purposes, Excellency? I confess I had assumed we would be assisting with your diplomatic negotiations."
The Foreign Minister's expression became more serious as he prepared to explain the complexity of their situation. "My own presence here concerns negotiations between His Majesty and the Chinese Emperor regarding matters of mutual strategic interest. Your mission, however, involves a different form of diplomatic service entirely."
"Which would be?" Kylian pressed, sensing that their comfortable assumptions about their role were about to be challenged.
"Training," von Hausen replied simply. "You will be working with Chinese military personnel to share Hanseatic expertise in various specialized areas. The specific details will be explained by the officer responsible for coordinating such activities."
Wolfgang's expression shifted from curiosity to mild disappointment. "Training duties? With respect, Excellency, neither of us possesses significant experience as military instructors. We're field officers, not academy professors."
Von Hausen's slight smile suggested he had anticipated this reaction. "Captain von Witzland, while you may lack formal teaching experience, the level of military education you have received far exceeds anything available to Chinese officers. Your training at Bechaven, your familiarity with modern tactical doctrine, and your understanding of contemporary military technology represent knowledge that could prove invaluable to our hosts."
"But surely," Kylian interjected, "such training programs would be better handled by officers with more experience and higher rank?"
"Under normal circumstances, you would be correct," the Foreign Minister acknowledged. "However, this particular arrangement serves multiple diplomatic objectives. Your youth and relatively junior rank make you less threatening to Chinese pride than senior officers might appear, while your obvious competence demonstrates the quality of Hanseatic military education. Additionally, your presence in training roles will provide excellent cover for other diplomatic activities."
The implications of this last comment were not lost on either officer. Both understood that military advisors often served intelligence-gathering functions, and their access to Chinese military personnel and facilities would provide valuable information about the empire's defensive capabilities.
Wolfgang sighed with resignation, though his tone suggested acceptance rather than rebellion. "Very well, Excellency. If these are our orders, we shall execute them to the best of our abilities."
Despite their professional acceptance of the assignment, both officers felt a pang of disappointment at the realization that they would not be participating directly in the high-level diplomatic negotiations that had brought them to China. The prospect of observing Foreign Minister von Hausen in action against experienced Chinese diplomats had appealed to their intellectual curiosity, while training duties seemed to offer fewer opportunities for meaningful contribution to imperial policy.
As their limousine approached the first of the Forbidden City's massive gates, both young men resolved to approach their unexpected assignment with the same dedication they had brought to every previous duty. If the Empire required them to serve as military instructors, they would prove themselves worthy of the confidence placed in them, even if their hearts remained focused on the grander diplomatic game being played around them.
The limousine came to a halt outside the towering vermillion walls of the Forbidden City, and both officers immediately understood why their journey had ended here rather than continuing into the palace complex itself. The massive gates before them, adorned with golden studs arranged in precise geometric patterns, seemed to represent a threshold between the mundane world and something far more sacred.
"Why are we stopping here, Excellency?" Wolfgang inquired, noting that other vehicles in the vicinity were similarly parked outside the walls rather than proceeding through the gates.
Foreign Minister von Hausen gathered his diplomatic materials and prepared to disembark. "No wheeled vehicles are permitted within the Forbidden City proper, Captain. The palace compound maintains traditions that predate the invention of the automobile by several centuries. We proceed on foot from this point-as befits visitors to the Dragon Throne."
Wolfgang sighed with resigned understanding. "I see. The old ways take precedence."
Before leaving the vehicle, von Hausen addressed their Chinese driver with careful courtesy. "Please return to the embassy and collect us here at five o'clock this evening. We should have concluded our business by that time."
"Of course, Excellency," the driver replied with a respectful bow. "I will be waiting when you are ready to depart."
As they approached the gates, their progress was immediately challenged by two guards whose appearance spoke volumes about the Chinese Empire's attempts to modernize its military forces. Both men wore impeccably tailored blue tunics decorated with elaborate golden embroidery that depicted dragons coiled around the imperial seal. Their bearing was unmistakably military, though their equipment represented a fascinating mixture of traditional and contemporary elements.
Most striking to Kylian's trained eye were the rifles they carried-the latest Mauser models, identical to those used by German forces. Their leather equipment was equally modern and well-maintained, suggesting access to military supplies that contradicted the general impression of Chinese military weakness they had observed at the airport.
"I wasn't aware the Chinese had access to the latest German weaponry," Kylian observed quietly to the Foreign Minister.
Von Hausen's expression remained diplomatically neutral. "German-Chinese military cooperation extends back to the days of Kaiser Wilhelm, Captain. There has been a substantial German military mission in Beijing for decades, and weapons sales have remained profitable for both sides."
This revelation prompted a slight raising of Kylian's eyebrows. "I confess ignorance of such long-standing arrangements, Excellency."
"Now you know," von Hausen replied matter-of-factly. "However, this is neither the time nor the place for detailed discussions of international arms trade. Let us focus on the immediate requirements of protocol."
The guards' challenge was formal but courteous, and von Hausen responded by producing an official document bearing elaborate seals and ribbons. The guard who received it examined the credentials with careful attention before using a hand-held radio to communicate with colleagues stationed deeper within the palace complex. After a brief exchange in rapid Chinese, the massive gates began to swing open with surprising silence, their ancient hinges clearly benefiting from meticulous maintenance.
"Thank you," von Hausen said simply, offering a slight bow to acknowledge the guards' service.
The guard commander responded with a deeper bow, his gesture conveying both respect for the foreign dignitaries and pride in his own position as guardian of the imperial presence.
As the gates opened to reveal the interior of the Forbidden City, both young officers found themselves momentarily speechless. The courtyard that stretched before them was a masterpiece of imperial architecture-vast expanses of white marble punctuated by intricately carved balustrades, while traditional wooden structures rose on all sides with upturned eaves that seemed to reach toward heaven itself.
"I feel remarkably privileged," Wolfgang murmured to his companion. "Few foreigners have ever been granted such access to the heart of Chinese civilization."
Kylian nodded, his usual composure softened by genuine awe. "It's magnificent beyond description. Every detail speaks to centuries of artistic refinement."
Their contemplation was interrupted by the approach of a small but elegant entourage led by a young woman whose very presence commanded immediate attention. She wore robes of silk so fine they seemed to shimmer with their own light, the deep blue fabric adorned with delicate embroidery depicting flowering branches and flying cranes. Her hair was arranged in an elaborate style that spoke to hours of careful preparation, held in place by jade hairpins that caught the morning sunlight like captured stars.
Even without formal introduction, both officers recognized her from the briefing materials they had studied during their journey to China. This was Princess Ruyi, the Second Princess of the Jin Dynasty, whose beauty had been striking even in the formal portraits they had reviewed. In person, however, she possessed a presence that transcended mere physical attractiveness-an intelligence in her dark eyes and a grace in her movements that spoke to excellent education and natural refinement.
As they approached, the princess offered a graceful bow that managed to convey both welcome and dignity. When she spoke, her English was impeccable despite a charming accent that reminded her listeners of her exotic origins.
"Welcome to the Imperial Palace," she said, her voice carrying the musical quality that seemed characteristic of educated Chinese speech. "I am honored to serve as your guide today. His Imperial Majesty awaits your presence in the Hall of Supreme Harmony."
Foreign Minister von Hausen responded with equal formality, though his own bow was carefully calculated to show respect without compromising Hanseatic dignity. "Your Highness honors us with your personal attention. We are deeply grateful for this courtesy."
Both Kylian and Wolfgang found themselves somewhat stunned by this development. Their briefings had prepared them for elaborate protocols and ancient ceremonies, but they had not anticipated being personally escorted by a member of the imperial family. The casual assumption that princesses might serve as guides for foreign delegations spoke to a level of cosmopolitan sophistication that contradicted many Western assumptions about Chinese court culture.
The princess herself was undeniably striking. Her features combined classical Chinese beauty with an alertness that suggested keen intelligence, while her slim figure was enhanced rather than concealed by her elaborate court dress. As she led them deeper into the palace complex, both officers found their attention divided between the architectural wonders surrounding them and their elegant guide.
Following diplomatic protocol that von Hausen had emphasized during their briefings, neither officer attempted direct conversation with the princess. As Wolfgang discovered when he quietly inquired about this constraint, such restraint was essential to proper court etiquette.
"Why aren't we permitted to address Her Highness directly?" he asked in Hanseatic, ensuring their conversation remained confidential.
"Protocol, Captain von Witzland," the Foreign Minister replied in equally hushed tones. "The hierarchical nature of Chinese court society requires that we speak only when spoken to by those of superior rank. Any attempt at casual conversation would be interpreted as presumptuous at best, insulting at worst."
Wolfgang nodded his understanding, though he continued to observe their surroundings with obvious fascination. The Forbidden City was clearly a functioning governmental complex as well as a ceremonial center-servants and officials moved purposefully along covered walkways, while guards stationed at regular intervals maintained vigilant watch over the various courtyards and buildings.
Their destination proved to be the Hall of Supreme Harmony, the most magnificent structure within the palace complex. Built upon a three-tiered marble terrace that elevated it above all surrounding buildings, the hall commanded the central courtyard like a mountain peak rising from carefully cultivated plains. The building's golden roof tiles caught and reflected sunlight in a display that seemed almost supernatural, while its massive red pillars created shadows that provided welcome relief from the day's growing heat.
Wolfgang instinctively reached inside his coat for his camera, but Kylian's quick gesture stopped him before he could produce the device. The warning was unnecessary-both officers understood that photography within the imperial presence would constitute an unforgivable breach of protocol.
As they ascended the marble steps leading to the hall's entrance, Princess Ruyi maintained the graceful pace that allowed her elderly courtiers to keep up while still projecting the dignity appropriate to her rank. At the threshold of the throne room itself, she paused to announce their arrival.
The interior of the Hall of Supreme Harmony exceeded even their elevated expectations. Massive wooden pillars, each carved from single ancient trees, supported a ceiling decorated with dragons and phoenixes rendered in gold leaf that seemed to move in the flickering light of countless candles. At the hall's center, upon a raised dais approached by additional marble steps, sat the Dragon Throne itself-a masterpiece of craftsmanship that combined imperial authority with artistic beauty.
Upon that throne sat Emperor Xianhe, the Son of Heaven, ruler of the Middle Kingdom and heir to a dynastic tradition stretching back over two millennia. Despite his relatively modest physical stature, his presence filled the enormous hall through sheer force of imperial dignity. His yellow robes-a color reserved exclusively for emperors-were decorated with dragons embroidered in gold thread, while the imperial seal upon his chest caught the light like a captured sun.
The throne room bustled with the activity of governance. Ministers in elaborate court dress consulted documents and whispered among themselves, while eunuchs and palace ladies attended to various ceremonial duties. Yet all this activity seemed to orbit around the imperial presence like planets around a star, creating an atmosphere of barely contained energy focused upon the figure seated at the hall's center.
As their party entered, Princess Ruyi stepped forward and prostrated herself completely before her father. "Your Imperial Majesty," she announced, "the honored guests from the Hanseatic Empire have arrived."
The Emperor looked up from his consultation with a senior eunuch, his gaze immediately focusing upon the foreign delegation. "Welcome, esteemed guests, to our realm," he declared, his voice carrying easily across the vast space. "We have been expecting you with considerable anticipation."
The moment of truth had arrived. Every person in the throne room turned to observe how the foreign barbarians would conduct themselves in the presence of the Son of Heaven. Would they follow Chinese custom and prostrate themselves completely, or would they maintain their own cultural traditions?
Von Hausen had prepared for exactly this situation during their journey, and his response reflected careful calculation of diplomatic necessities. The three Hanseatic representatives offered deep bows from the waist-respectful but not servile, acknowledging imperial authority without compromising their own dignity as representatives of a sovereign power.
"Greetings, Your Imperial Majesty," von Hausen declared as he maintained his bow. "We come bearing the profound respects of His Imperial Majesty Konrad II of the Hanseatic Empire. It is our great honor to stand in your august presence."
The failure to prostrate completely did not go unnoticed. Ministers and court officials began whispering among themselves, their voices creating a susurrus of commentary that made both young officers acutely uncomfortable. The cultural gap between Eastern and Western diplomatic traditions had never been more apparent or more potentially dangerous.
Wolfgang leaned slightly toward his companion. "The staring is rather intense," he murmured, barely loud enough for Kylian to hear. "They're clearly discussing our behavior."
"I know," Kylian replied, struggling to maintain his composure. "Let's hope this doesn't create lasting diplomatic complications."
Emperor Xianhe, however, seemed unperturbed by the breach of protocol. Whether from political calculation or genuine tolerance for foreign customs, he chose to overlook what others might have interpreted as disrespect.
"You may rise," he declared graciously, then turned to dismiss his daughter. "Princess, you have fulfilled your duties admirably. You are dismissed with our gratitude."
The princess rose from her prostration with fluid grace and departed the throne room, her exit creating a noticeable reduction in the hall's visual splendor. With her gone, attention focused entirely upon the diplomatic business at hand.
Von Hausen approached the throne carrying the elaborate gift chest he had guarded so carefully throughout their journey. "Your Imperial Majesty, His Majesty Emperor Konrad sends these tokens of friendship and mutual respect between our great empires."
The Chinese Emperor's expression brightened considerably at this gesture. "We are deeply honored to receive gifts from our brother sovereign. Such courtesy speaks well of the diplomatic traditions maintained by the Hanseatic Empire."
What impressed both officers most was the Emperor's obvious linguistic sophistication. Not only did he speak flawless English, but they could detect occasional Latin phrases and what appeared to be German expressions integrated naturally into his discourse. The Chinese court was clearly far more cosmopolitan than many Western observers assumed.
"Now then," Emperor Xianhe continued, "We believe time should not be wasted on unnecessary ceremony when important matters require discussion." He turned his attention to the two officers standing behind the Foreign Minister. "These are the military technicians we requested?"
"Indeed, Your Majesty," von Hausen confirmed. "Captain von Reichsgraf and Captain von Witzland represent the finest products of Hanseatic military education. They are entirely at Your Majesty's disposal."
"Excellent!" the Emperor replied with obvious satisfaction. He gestured to a court official who had been waiting nearby. "Minister Chen will escort your officers to their duties while we attend to diplomatic matters."
The official approached with measured steps and addressed both officers in excellent English. "Gentlemen, if you would be so kind as to follow me? Your duties await."
As they prepared to leave the throne room, Emperor Xianhe turned back to von Hausen. "We shall continue our discussion in a more private setting. Please follow our servant to the Imperial Garden, where we may speak without the distractions of court ceremony."
"Certainly, Your Imperial Majesty," von Hausen replied, offering another formal bow as he followed a palace lady toward what promised to be the most significant diplomatic conversation of his career.