After the Austro-Hungarian Empire imposed martial law, all three of Europe's great powers had fallen into severe political turmoil. In Germany, Adolf had launched sweeping persecution and purges against the Labor Party, the Jew... and other opponents.
Then came the political movements within the Soviet Union. Many people had been swept into political struggles, with factions from every quarter accusing and denouncing one another. Great numbers were thrown behind bars or subjected to political persecution.
Finally, there was the Austro-Hungarian Empire. A civil war could erupt there at any moment, and the public was gripped by fear, terrified of being caught in the spillover.
Germany, Stuttgart.
In the heart of Stuttgart's urban district stood East Africa's consulate. In recent days, the number of visitors to the East African consulate had noticeably increased.
"Sir, what questions would you like to ask?" In the Immigration Office's dedicated work area within the consulate, an employee named Brien questioned the man before him.
In recent years, as East Africa's demand for immigrants had declined, the East African Immigration Office had shut down its separate offices in Germany and instead begun operating jointly with diplomatic institutions.
The visitor was a man in his thirties. Sitting in the chair by the service window, he answered, "Yes, I would like to know what conditions are required to apply for East African nationality."
After hearing his request, Brien explained, "At present, East Africa's demand for immigrants is mainly directed toward engineers, senior technical personnel, scientists, researchers, and certain scholars."
"Of course, ordinary people may also submit an application to us. After our review, an immigration destination may be assigned."
In truth, the latter was a trap. East African mainland had no need whatsoever for ordinary immigrants at present. After all, its population was already approaching two hundred