"If a civilization lacked the strength to advance and protect itself, it was fragile and would sooner or later be conquered by barbarism. A nation's security couldn't always depend on the charity of others. History always moved forward through power and strength."
"We may be destroyed, but when we are, we'll drag the entire world down with us into the flames!"
Rumble!
Deafening, unending applause erupted in the modest auditorium. The brief speech by the German Fuhrer, Adolf Hitler, had ignited the German military and scientific researchers who had gathered for the event.
Johann Schmidt clapped especially enthusiastically. Hitler's words and legendary exploits were something he had always admired and followed.
The Fuhrer soon stepped down from the stage to meet and shake hands with the attendees. Heinrich Himmler, now head of the German SS, made a point of formally introducing Johann Schmidt.
"Fuhrer, this is Johann Schmidt, head of Germany's weapons development department. His team has just overcome the challenges of developing a new type of tank!"
"Mr. Schmidt," Adolf Hitler said in his distinctive, shrill voice, his tone peculiar.
"Heil Hitler!"
Schmidt saluted fervently, his hair shaking loose and becoming a little disheveled.
"There's no need to introduce Mr. Schmidt. I've been following his work all along. You're the pride of the Empire. I like the name you've given the weapons development department: Hydra, the indestructible many-headed serpent. Very good, very good."
Hitler gave him a few more quiet instructions, then continued greeting the people behind him.
At the very end of the line, Sebastian Shaw, dressed and looking somewhat different from the others, waited excitedly to meet the Fuhrer. He now went by the alias Klaus Schmidt. Thanks to some of his "research" over the years, he had managed to work his way into Germany's circle of