June 18, 1935.
The sky over London was wet, colourless and gloomy.
Inside the Foreign Office.
Only the ticking of the longcase clock in Room 84 reminded anyone that time still moved forward.
Sir Samuel Hoare stood before a long walnut table, arms folded behind his back, the final agreement resting before him.
Across from him stood Joachim von Ribbentrop, posture perfect, eyes gleaming under a mask of calm.
His gloved hands rested lightly on a leather folder.
Behind him, an aide in a grey coat hovered silently.
No smiles.
"We have confirmed the articles," Hoare said, voice even.
"Germany accepts limitation to thirty-five percent of Royal Navy surface tonnage, with notification protocol and oversight mechanisms."
"Correct," Ribbentrop replied. "Germany views this as a foundation. A new equilibrium. Europe is... overdue for clarity."
"You'll understand," Hoare said, "that France is unaware."
