I just wanted to compliment your fine work,
statichaos, and your first story, A World of Laughter, A World of Tears, got me to register on this website and create this account. History is my favorite subject when it comes to school, but to make such an elaborately crafted alternate historical timeline, speaks volumes for your grasp of history, and "what could have been", so to speak. At some point in the future, I'd love to tackle an alternate timeline myself, and your story sparks a desire within me to give it the old college try. So many historical events, and historical figures to choose from...
...and naturally, how would I go about fashioning either a depressing dystopian society, or better, a grimly dark utopian paradise where all free will is abolished for the glory of the state? Anyway, you've done fine work
statichaos, and I wish you all the best in your future literary endeavors!