Treaty of Saint-Germain-en-Laye
The signing of the Treaty of Saint-Germain-en-Laye, marking the formal dissolution of the Austro-Hungarian Empire and the establishment of the Republic of Austria, with representatives from the Allied
Setting
Grand Salon of the Château de Saint-Germain-en-Laye, a historic French royal palace with ornate interiors. The room is adorned with gilded moldings, large mirrors, and a high ceiling featuring intricate frescoes.
Characters
Allied Diplomat
primary
A middle-aged man of imposing stature, with a well-groomed mustache and sharp, calculating eyes that betray his diplomatic acumen. His posture is erect, exuding authority and confidence.
Austrian Diplomat
primary
A middle-aged man with a slender build, sharp facial features, and thinning gray hair combed neatly back. His pale complexion contrasts with his dark, weary eyes, which bear the weight of national humiliation. A neatly trimmed mustache frames his tight-lipped mouth.
Secretary
secondary
A young man in his late twenties, slight of build with sharp features and neatly combed dark hair. His wire-rimmed spectacles perch on a narrow nose, emphasizing his studious appearance. His hands are ink-stained from hours of document work.
Military Attaché
secondary
A middle-aged officer in his late 40s, with a stern, clean-shaven face and sharp, observant eyes. His posture is upright, reflecting years of military discipline, and his build is lean but strong, indicative of a career spent in active service. His hair is cropped short in a regulation military style, showing streaks of gray at the temples.
French Guard
background
A tall, broad-shouldered man in his late 20s with a clean-shaven face and a stern demeanor. His posture is rigid, reflecting his military training, and his piercing blue eyes scan the room with disciplined alertness. His dark brown hair is neatly trimmed beneath his ceremonial helmet.
Dialog
Allied Diplomat
The terms are now set forth in their entirety, Herr Minister. Should you require any further clarification before affixing your signature, I shall oblige.
Austrian Diplomat
Clarification would imply ambiguity where none exists. The victors' terms are... regrettably precise.
Secretary
Your Excellency, the annex regarding Carinthia requires countersignature on page seventeen.
Allied Diplomat
Let us proceed without further delay. The world has waited long enough for Austria's formal acknowledgment of these necessary conditions.
Austrian Diplomat
Necessity wears many coats. This pen shall bear witness to one of them.
Secretary
The inkwell, if it please Your Excellency.
Austrian Diplomat
May history record that Austria signs today not with ink, but with the blood of her dismembered provinces.