Germany, Spring 1901
The situation is tense. Beset on all sides by former and actual antagonists, the German Empire must rely on it's diplomatic and military prowess in order to survive. But it also has a vital position at the very heart of Europe, a dedicated Volk, and mighty Armee's to defend the Fatherland.
To the North, the United Kingdom, a strong naval power with ambitions on the continent. Their strong defensive position and naval supremacy allows them to be more daring in their political and military maneuvers. Germany is open to an understanding with this mighty power.
To the West, France, fully recovered from the wounds of the German attack on Paris, and desiring revenge, willing to start an Entente with the Devil to reach their goals.
To the South, our cultural brothers, who have difficulties of their own, but whose success may cause them to turn their eyes to our belly, to reclaim hegemony over Germany.
To the East, the Devil himself, the Russian czar. Commanding a large army and navy, Russia has never been stronger. The army reforms which abolished the Streltski turned Russia's disorganized and low-quality army into a respectable force. And they have their eyes set everywhere, from Norway to Smyrna.
Leaving as more distant powers Turkey and Italy. The first is bent on recovering it's lost lands and the glory of the Ottoman Empire. They may work with the Devil to achieve that goal, but Germany will not tolerate such aggression.
Italy has designs on Austrian territory, but it is in an awkward place, between France and Austria-Hungary. Their support would prove most useful, but other nations will be able to offer better deals than Germany. A word of advice to Italy, the other powers will generally make deals that leave you with the short end of the deal. Italy is a worthy pawn to countries like France, A-H, Russia. You'll have to deal with some of them, but refuse to be shafted in deals. Make them pay for your aid, as it is vital to them.
I may not seem entirely fair in diplomacy, referring to Russia as the Devil, but it is the country with most SC's at start, and it is a corner power, meaning that it can focus more forces on one front. Furthermore, it has potential for devastating alliances in game, ENG/FRA/RUS (the Entente) and RUS/TUR (Juggernaut). Still, if the russian leaders show themselves to be reasonable (or if someone else starts blobbing), I will revise my opinion about Russia.