Treaty of Saint-Germain-en-Laye
The Austrian delegate signs the Treaty of Saint-Germain-en-Laye, officially dissolving the Austro-Hungarian Empire and imposing severe territorial, military, and economic penalties on Austria.
Setting
Grand Hall of the Château de Saint-Germain-en-Laye, a 16th-century Renaissance palace with high vaulted ceilings, gilded moldings, and large windows overlooking manicured gardens.
Characters
Austrian Delegate
primary
A middle-aged man with a gaunt face, dark circles under his eyes, and a meticulously groomed mustache. His posture is stiff, shoulders slightly hunched as if bearing an invisible weight.
French Diplomat
primary
A tall, middle-aged man with a sharp, angular face, neatly trimmed mustache, and piercing gray eyes that convey both intelligence and authority. His posture is upright, exuding confidence and control.
British Diplomat
secondary
A middle-aged man with a lean build, sharp features, and a neatly trimmed mustache. His posture is rigid, exuding an air of authority and precision. His piercing blue eyes observe the proceedings with calculated attention.
Secretary
secondary
A middle-aged man of slight build, with thinning dark hair combed neatly back and wire-rimmed spectacles perched on his nose. His hands are ink-stained from long hours of writing, and his posture suggests years of desk work.
Guard
background
A tall, broad-shouldered man in his mid-30s with a stern, clean-shaven face and close-cropped dark hair. His posture is rigid, reflecting his military training, and his eyes remain fixed forward, scanning the room with quiet vigilance.
Dialog
Austrian Delegate
Had fortune favored us... this pen would not weigh so heavily in my hand.
French Diplomat
Monsieur, history is not written with 'ifs' nor 'buts'. The ink, if you please—lest the world think Austria hesitates to atone.
British Diplomat
Come now—the Empire has had its dance. Best not to drag out the encore.
Austrian Delegate
A dance? No, sir. A funeral—and you hand me the shovel.
French Diplomat
Let us hope, for Europe's sake, this is the last requiem your nation composes.