Treaty of Sèvres signed
The Ottoman delegate hesitates before signing the Treaty of Sèvres, which effectively partitions the Ottoman Empire under Allied terms, while the Allied delegates watch intently.
Setting
The signing takes place in a grand hall of the Sèvres porcelain factory, repurposed for diplomatic events. The room features high ceilings with ornate moldings, large windows draped with heavy velvet curtains, and a long mahogany table at the center.
Characters
Ottoman Delegate
primary
A middle-aged man of dignified bearing, with a well-groomed beard streaked with gray, sharp dark eyes, and a prominent nose. His posture is erect, betraying his military background, though his shoulders carry the weight of recent Ottoman defeats.
Allied Delegate
primary
A middle-aged man of aristocratic bearing, with a sharp, angular face, graying at the temples, and a neatly trimmed mustache. His posture is erect, exuding authority, and his piercing blue eyes survey the room with calculated scrutiny.
Interpreter
secondary
A middle-aged man of slight build, with sharp features and keen eyes that suggest years of careful observation. His dark hair is neatly combed back, showing streaks of gray at the temples. His posture is upright but not rigid, conveying both professionalism and a degree of wariness.
Secretary
secondary
A middle-aged man of slight build with neatly combed dark hair streaked with gray, wearing round wire-framed glasses that perch low on his nose. His hands are ink-stained from constant writing, and he moves with precise, efficient motions.
Guard
background
A tall, broad-shouldered man in his late 30s with a stern, clean-shaven face and closely cropped dark hair. His military bearing is evident in his rigid posture and alert stance. His eyes constantly scan the room, reflecting his vigilance.
Dialog
Ottoman Delegate
This pen weighs heavier than the sword of Damocles... yet I must wield it.
Allied Delegate
The terms are most equitable given present circumstances. Further delay serves neither party.
Interpreter
His Excellency observes that the conditions reflect... the current balance of affairs.
Ottoman Delegate
Balance? When the scales are weighted with our very sovereignty?
Allied Delegate
The conference has concluded its deliberations. We require only your signature, not commentary.
Interpreter
The distinguished representative... emphasizes the necessity of proceeding without further discussion.
Ottoman Delegate
Very well. Let history record this moment with all its... necessary signatures.