[img=http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/9/96/Imperial_Coat_of_Arms_of_the_Empire_of_Austria_%281815%29.svg/800px-Imperial_Coat_of_Arms_of_the_Empire_of_Austria_%281815%29.svg.png]

[center][b]Austro-Prussian Alliance of 1866[/b][/center]
[center][b]Or[/b][/center]
[center][b]The Promise of Vienna[/b][/center]

[center][i]With the intent to safeguard the German-speaking nations and peoples of Europe from foreign aggression, and to ensure the prosperity and security and stability of the German-speaking regions of Europe, the Austrian Empire and Kingdom of Prussia rise to defend all those who would willingly take their place beneath the protective wings of the Prussian and Austrian eagles.[/i][/center]

[center][b]Article I[/b][/center]

[center]The Austro-Prussian Alliance of 1866 calls upon the Austrian Empire and the Kingdom of Prussia to settle any disagreements between the two by peaceful means in the interest of regional peace and stability. Of utmost importance is the security and prosperity of the German-speaking nations and peoples of Europe, which the Austrian Empire and Kingdom of Prussia hereby pledge to defend against any foreign, [u]non-German[/u] aggressor.

[b]Note:[/b] Foreign and/or non-German aggressors are defined as any nation or outside force of non-German descent, who's military actions put at risk the stability and security of the German-speaking nations and peoples of Europe. The Austrian Empire and the Kingdom of Prussia are, however, not obligated nor encouraged to partake in a conflict between German-speaking nations or forces in Europe, unless foreign non-German intervention threatens to destabilize the region further.[/center]

[center][b]Article II[/b][/center]

[center]The Austrian Empire and Kingdom of Prussia hereby agree to promote peaceful and friendly international relations between the German-speaking nations and peoples of Europe, and to uphold regional stability. In the interest of prosperity and steady national growth, the Austrian Empire and Kingdom of Prussia will encourage economic collaboration and trade with all German-speaking nations, and with themselves.[/center]

[center][b]Article III[/b][/center]

[center]The Austrian Empire and Kingdom of Prussia agree to mutual protection and military aid. The two parties are, however, not obligated to provide assistance in a war that does not directly threaten the stability or safety of the German-speaking nations and peoples of Europe.

The Austrian Empire and Kingdom of Prussia will convene whenever the two, or any German-speaking nation, feels the security of the region is at risk.

[b]Note:[/b] The signatories may call for military assistance if threatened.

[b]Note:[/b] If either signatory becomes involved in a conflict far from Central Europe, where the safety of the German-speaking nations and peoples of Europe is not directly threatened, both parties are within their rights to decline and refuse any call for assistance.[/center]

[center][b]Article IV[/b][/center]

[center]This treaty will be in effect for a period of ten years, after which it may be renewed. Amendments to the treaty may be called for by any of the signatories at any time. The parties will then consult and agree to an amendment collectively in a democratic manner. Signatories may withdraw completely from the treaty provided they submit a notice of withdrawal at least one year before their leave.[/center]

[x] Kaiser Franz Joseph I of Austria
[x] King William I of Prussia

It hadn't been a decision he had made lightly. His bid to stop the Kingdom of Prussia from cementing its dominance over the German states had failed and one of his most valuable allies, France, had withdrawn before the horns of war had finished their dreadful song. Their withdrawal had cost him the war, and he had few kind words for the French. He felt as though all he could do now was consolidate Austria's power and strengthen his position. The dream of Austrian-dominated Germany was one that was now ungraspable - unachievable. 

All he cared about now was Austria itself, and those unfortunate enough to be caught between a war with no clear end in sight. He wanted to protect them. And so it was with a clear conscience and a righteous aim that he stood and made his will known. "Enough." he boomed. "This war has plagued Europe long enough. It seems to me as though Europe could see peace again - within the year, even. After all, who is it that insists in tainting the soil with the blood of sons and fathers, if not the English and the Ottomans? The Germans have made their peace. The French have made their peace. The Dutch. The Italians. Or so they have tried. But the English and the Ottomans have have refused their peace. [i]They[/i] are why we are still at war. [i]They[/i] are why your sons.. your fathers, are dead. Let it be known that it is with righteous intent that I make my demands; lay down your arms and make peace. Fail to do so, and I promise [i]you[/i], the British, the Ottomans, that we [i]will[/i] meet in battle once more, but it will be the barrel of our guns that you will face, and you will know why our empire bares the words [i]All the world is subject to Austria.[/i]

I hereby declare war on the United Republic and the Ottoman Empire. Truly, though, I hope that you understand the suffering you are causing, and cease hostilities at once. I've no desire to spill further blood, less so that of my former allies, but I do have an obligation; I will end this war."

- Kaiser Franz Joseph I of Austria