Short Story 1
| Powder Monkey July 2010 |
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| Fix Bayonets Book Two - The Unholy War by Larry Brasington |
Steiner made one last sweep of the room. The others were already
loading up outside. Satisfied, he picked up his submachine gun, kit, and canvas
bag. As he reached lifted the bag, he could not help himself; he opened it to
look at his gold. The gold they risked life and limb to get. He smiled as he
recalled their mad escape. Reaching in he took a handful, but it was not all gold.
Between his fingers was a letter addressed to him.
Dear Wolfgang, I hope you will not be too mad with little Sasha, I took
some of your gold. Thanks for everything...
“Why that thieving hussy!” Steiner exclaimed.
“Got you too,” Fritz said walking in. He was smiling.
“Damn it Fritz. You were right. I should have shot the little.”
“Now Wolfgang, she left each of us something. Besides, you’ll always
have your memories of Leningrad.” Fritz laughed, pretending to be
sympathetic. He was enjoying his friend’s suffering.
Suddenly, the absurdity of it all struck Steiner, and he began laughed.
“Yes, my dear Fritz, Sasha and I will always have Leningrad. Don’t suppose it
would do much good to complain to the Finns, would it.” Fritz shook his head.
“Hey, we got something, we’re alive, and we are headed home. Be
grateful for the small things, Major.”
“I suppose so, but if I ever see that blond bombshell again. I’m taking my
share out of her hid.”
“Right. I’ll believe it when I see it. Though I’ll have to admit, It’s a lovely
hide. Besides you got a little extra. Take a look at your bed.” Fritz remarked,
pointing to a silvery object lying on Steiner’s cot.
Steiner lifted item. What Sasha had left him was a lock of blond hair held
in a finely woven silver locket. Bringing it to his nose he took in the sent, it
smelled just like her. For a moment, he saw her face and the sparkle in her
eyes. Yes, I’ll keep this. He said to himself pocketing the lockett. “Ready
Lieutenant Schultz?”
“When you are Major Steiner.”
Swinging up his gear Steiner headed outside. A truck waited for him,
idling. Behind the wheel was a driver, in the Alpine Division uniform. Seated in
back was his men. They were in a jovial mood, despite Sasha’s withdrawal from
their bags and waved at their leader. Evidently, Steiner had been the worse hit.
“Ready sir?” the driver asked. Steiner nodded and got in beside him.
“Anytime driver. But when we get to Helsinki, I would like to go by the
Spanish Embassy. Do you know where that is?” Steiner questioned
remembering Franco’s contact.
“Yes, Herr Major, it is in the old part of town. Not far from the airfield, I
will take you there,” came the driver’s reply; but Steiner was lost in his own
thoughts. His mind was filled with Sasha’s smile, golden hair, slim legs and
delicious lips. Yep, I’m going to take it out of her hide. If I ever see her again.
Helsinki was an unusual city, part ancient and part modern. Steiner had
thought for some reason, it would be small and provincial. Passing the stadium,
built by the Finns for the ’40 Olympics, he marveled. It was as modern
Nurnburg's. How silly of me. This could pass for any German City. What was I
thinking?
Steiner studied the pedestrians. There were in no hurry. From their
demeanor you would think there wasn’t a war on at all. Turning down a
boulevard the red and gold flag of Spain appeared up ahead. They stopped
outside an iron gate, two gray uniformed soldiers stood silently inside the gate
looking out.
When one opened the gate and approached the truck, Steiner turned and
shouted back to his men. “Franco.” In moments the swarthy Inspector jumped
down and came forward. Seeing the Embassy Guard blocking the way, Franco
began speaking in rapid fire Spanish. Steiner could only guess at what they
were saying. It was way too fast for him.
Franco smiled. “It is good to speak in my native tongue. But I forget, the
guard will announce us.” Steiner offered Franco a cigarette as they waited for
the guard to return. He will let us in side Major. Give them a moment.” Both
guards turned and pushed the iron gate back making a way for the truck.
“Take us in driver,” Steiner said, “park next to the building. Get out and
stretch your legs. My guess is we will be a while. Not too long though.” When
the truck had stopped Steiner got out. It was good stretching again.
Franco joined him and they both waited for Fritz and the others to climb out. As
they did a striking raven haired woman, dressed in a dark blue penstripped suit
approached them. She greeted them in German. “Senors, my name is
Constantia Ramierez, I am the assistant to the Ambassodor. What can the
Spanish Embassy do for you today?” Ms. Ramierez said, her voice was rich
and cultured with a hint of Spanish in each word.
Bowing slight Franco addressed the woman. “Senorita, Ramierez, I am
Inspector Franco De Lavare of the Madrid Police. I would like to speak with my
cousin. Rodrego De Lavar. I believe he is the Attache for Cultural Affairs.”
“He is inspector. I will announce you. This way. Meanwhile Major, I will
see that refreshments are offered to your men. Inspector, I will take you right
away to Don De Lavare’s office. Guard see that refreshments are offered to
our guest.” As Franco followed the beauty, Steiner and Fritz fell in step with him.
The inside of the Embassy was rich looking with bright red oriental rugs,
dark Spanish teak furniture. On one wall was a picture of a Spanish treasure
gallery. It was a proud ship. Spain had ruled an Empire then. After a brief climb-
up one flight of stairs, the woman paused at a door, knocked and went in.
Before Steiner could think of something to say she returned. “Mr. De Lavar will
see you now.”
Franco smiled and mover past her. As the door opened an older man
dressed in an emaculate gray suit greeted them. Streeks of gray in his black
hair. He was a tall man. Taller than Steiner and he greeted Franco with his arms
open wide. “My God, it is you Franco. How in the world did you wind up in
Finland. Last I heard you were chasing murders in Madrid.” The attache said
wrapping Franco up in his long arms. Then turning to Steiner and Fritz.
“Gentlemen, may I offer you some refreshments?”
Fritz, never shy about speaking his mind replied, “Yes, do you have some
brandy?’
“Certainly, over next to the books, pour what you need. Tell me cousin
what brings you here. Try one of my cigars, the finest in the world, from Cuba.”
He offered. Both Steiner and Fritz took on. Franco instead sat in a big red
velvet chair next to his cousins teak desk.
“It is good to see you Rodrego. Good indeed. It has been a longtime. How
is your mother?” Franco asked.
“She is fine. Still working her vineyard. She loves her grapes. I sometimes
think she loves them more than her family. Now please tell me what I can do for
you cousin.”
Sitting Steiner saw the Inspector was uncomfortable, for he was shifting
position in his chair. “Your excellency,” Steiner began. “We have a problem
which we were hoping you could assist us with.”
Lightning a cigar Rodergo first looked at Steiner and then a Franco.
“Certainly Major, are you sure the Spanish Embassy is where you should seek
help?”
Steiner smiled. He liked Franco’s cousin the man was sharp. Puffing he
said, “Yes, sir. I believe you are a man of the world and...” Before he could
finish his sentence Franco placed his hand on Steiners chair arm.
“Cousin. Let me say my associates and I have liberated some items from
the Soviets and don’t wish certain entanglements.” With Franco’s words,
Rodrego sat up and leaned forward. Looking first at his cousin then both
Germans. He seemed to be gauging them. Then sitting back he smiled.
“I have known you all of my life Franco. We fought side by side in the War.
You are a good man. Whatever you need is yours. Just name it.”
“Good. Rodergo, I need you to transport some items for me to Spain. I
think it would be best for these--items--to travel by diplomatic courier.”
“Sure. How big are these diplomatic items?” Rodrego asked. Franco,
pulled his satchel off and placed it on Rodergo’s desk and nodded. Leaning
forward Rodergo opened and looked in the satchel. If he was surprised by the
contents he never let it show. The man was cool.
“I see.” Was all he said, “And wear in Spain would you like these
diplomatic items taken?”
“To Uncle Ricardo’s bank in Madrid.”
“I see. A wish place for such things.” Rodergo was enjoying himself and
the discomfort of his cousin the inspector. Steiner watched their by play and
inwardly smiled. He knew it was hard for the cop to be treasure hunting, but
Franco grimly held on to his promise.
Offering an envelope to his cousin Franco continued, “Here is a list of
names for these accounts Rodergo. If uncle Ricardo will deposit these
diplomatic items in there names, I would be grateful.”
Rodergo took the envelope and put it in a side draw and locked it. “If you
will leave your things with me. I will see that it is done. Now write your mother
Franco. She is worried sick about you being here and you know when your
mother is unhappy mine is too. That is all I ask. Will you?”
Franco smiled. “Yes, I will write something out for you before I leave. You
have been most kind.”
“Gentleman, I assume this concludes our business. If you will accompany
me down stairs I am taking a quick brunch. I would be honored if you will join
me. Your men major are being offered refreshments and I will have my
assistant secure your packages. A word with you major?” Rodergo asked.
Steiner motion for Franco and Fritz to go on. He turned as the Attache
close the doors. “Let me be frank major. How is the war going?”
Interesting. I thought he was going to reprimanded me for asking him to
smuggle treasure out. “How do you mean your excellency?” Steiner replied.
“Major you may call me Rodergo. Let me put it another way, are the
Germans going to win the war in Russia?”
“I see. Rodergo, I assume you are more than the Cultural Attache?
Understand sir I am not a general. Until a short time ago I was a sergeant. The
grand movement of armies isn’t something I’ve studied.”
“Yes, major I see but surely even a sergeant has an opinion. You see I
ask this question because my government has been approached by yours and
the British. It would be profitable for me to understand better. There were many
communist during our civil war and feelings still run strong.”
“Rodergo, the German soldier believes he can win. I see it in there faces
and there steps. It isn’t something you can measure, but feel. Like the right time
for the matador to strike. Yet, the Soviets are not broken either. I think this
winter will tell it all. If we are able to capture Leningrad and Moscow by winter.
I think we will win. If not, I think our best chance has passed.”
“The Finns?”
Steiner sighed. He felt disloyal even mentioning the Finns. “I think the Finns
are taking care of the Finns.”
Laughing, Rodergo patted Steiner on the back. “Ah, you are learning to be
a diplomate. My friend I thank you for your candure. It is difficult for a diplomate
to find that in this world. I too believe that the Finns are hedging their beats. If
your army takes Leningrad, they will be more aggressive. If not, I suspect they
will protect themselves. Now let us join the others major. You know I have a son
and grandson in the Spanish Blue Division.”
When the brunch at the Embassy was over Steiner loaded back up in the
truck. Somehow he knew the driver would mention their unauthorized visit to the
Spanish Embassy. For a moment he toyed with making up something, but
discarded it. If the powers at be wanted to know, they could ask him.
It was not long before he saw aircraft, both civilian and military. The
airport wasn’t as large as Berlins, but it would do. A Finnish policeman waved
them through the barbed wire fence and the driver turned right. Following a
secondary road he skirted past the commercal terminal and headed out toward
a large hanger by itself and stopped. “You’re here major.”
“Thanks.” Steiner said stepping out and slinging has kit over his right
shoulder. The hanger doors were slightly opened. On the outside was a Ju-52
painted in blue and white camouflage surrounded by some pilot types and
civilians. He started toward the group. Fritz and the others loosely failing in
behind him.
Not seeing Max, Steiner hailed on of the ground crew. “Say can you tell
me where Captain Ritter is?” The man turned with an annoyed look on his face
and then seeing Steiners rank straight.
“Herr major. I believe Captain Ritter is in the hanger, sir.”
“Thank you.”
“Lieutenant Schultz, you will accompany me, please.” Fritz turned to
Dietrich.
“Sergeant take charge. The major and I will be a moment,” and he
dropped his bag. Skipping t catch up with Steiner.
Just inside the door stood two paratroopers, weapons out. One a lance
corporal addressed Steiner. “Major, may I have your name, sir?” It was not lost
on either man that the other Fallschjager kept his submachine gun trained on
them.
“I am Major Steiner and this is Lieutenant Schultz. We are looking for
Captain Ritter.”
“Very good sirs. Wait here while I tell him you’re here.” With a sharp
salute the first man left. Not thinking Steiner reached in his pocket for a
cigarette.
“No smoking here sir, the fuel.” Said the guard.
Embrassed Steiner put the cigarette back in his case. Just then Max’s
voice rain out from the hanger. “It’s okay. You can let them in.”
Entering the hanger both men looked at a long black plane. It was sleek.
Its wings tapered back at a slight angle. Yet, the strangest thing about it was
no propellers. Max saw them admiring his new toy. “Well, how do you like her?”
Walking up next to him Steiner asked, “Where are the propellers Max.”
He laughed. “Very funny Steiner, very. Don’t need them. This is a new kind
of plane, a jet.”
“Okay. Max what’s a jet?”
“Ah, you ground pounders are all alike. Major, this is science at work.
The jet was invented by a Brit would you believe. Their working on jet power
aircraft too. It’s a race to see who gets there first. The jet engine will
revolutionize the airplane.”
“What you’re looking at is a proto type. Its called the XB 140. Simply put,
they took the airframe of a Doenitz, strenghten the wings, removed the old
engines and replace it with two BMW turbines. This baby is hotter than my 109
ever was. It climbs and flies faster than any other plane in our aresnal. I’ve been
given this one to test. You and your boys will be my first passengers. Of course
major all of this is Top Secret. If you tell anyone, I’ll have to kill you!” Max
laughed, but Steiner didn’t feel his friend was really kidding.
Seeing Steiner’s discomfort, Max tried to make amends. “Relax. We have
a brief side trip to take. Orders.”
Steiner was tempted to ask where, but he figured Max would tell him in his
on good time. “So Max when do we go?”
“When you’re load up. I’m fueled and ready. Already have clearance.
Corporal, would you get the major’s men.” The paratrooper saluted and left.
“Go ahead and stow your gear. I need to do a preflight walk around, be with
you in a minute.” Max saluted.
A crewman motioned Steiner and Fritz under the bomber. A bomb bay
door was opened. The only side door was up by the pilot’s seat. Ducking under
Steiner lifted his kit and tossed it on the flat surface and climbed in. Outside
something began whining like a turbine and getting faster.
On board were a row of benches where a second crew guided them
toward. “Not much room major. This is a test plane. You can put your gear
under the bench.” The man said.
As Steiner was getting himself squared away, Dietrich and the others
came up of the bomb-bay. “Not a Condor is it,” Fritz mentioned sitting down.
“No and I don’t really know what it is. What’s a jet?” Steiner asked. Fritz
shook his head. In a moment Max came through a cabin door.
“If you boys will strap in we’ll leave. Make sure you’ve got everything
stowed away. Major. I will see you after take off. Enjoy.” Max smiled.
Enjoy? Is this an amusement ride? No sooner had Max disappeared than
the whining sound became so loud all conversation stopped. No one could talk.
Steiner sat back. What else was there to do. He felt the plane bounce along as
it moved. For a moment it stopped. Then, with a deafening increase in noise,
began rolling forward faster and faster. In seconds they lifted off. How fast is
this thing? Steiner wondered. It took the old Ju-52’s minutes to take off.
Outside the sound roar continued, until suddenly it eased back. The plane
seem to level. “Well, that was something.” Fritz remarked. “Hey, anyone back
there got a window?” Fritz’s question was met with a chorus of noes.
After about five minutes Max reappeared. “Major, come on up. Let me
show you my toy.” Unbuckling, Steiner stood and followed Max. The bombers
control cabin was small, compact with barely enough room for the two pilots. It
was empty. “Please sit down, in my seat Wolfgang. I’ll stand.”
Steiner gazed out. Below blue of the Baltic Sea stretched out. Without a
reference it was hard to tell how fast they were going. They looked like they
were at a considerable height.
“How fast are we going Max?”
“I’d say about 600 kilometers an hour.”
“Isn’t that fast Max?”
“Yes, we’re cruising at a rate faster than a Heinkel can fly. We can go
faster, I’ve had her up to almost 700, but at this speed we’re saving some fuel.
The brains at the island are playing around with different configurations. There’s
a lot fo stuff you won’t believe. I didn’t. If we had a fleet of these planes we
could bomb London, Moscow and no fighter plane in the world could intercept
us. It would shorten the war, but Goering thinks the war will be over before we
can mass produce these planes. Still, our scientist are amazing though.”
“In part I agree, if the high command would let them work war would be
over. They even have a rifle that shoots around corners.”
“Now Max, I know you’re pulling my leg.”
“No, really. Somehow, they have curved the barrel so you can point it
around the corner and shoot.”
“I’ll keep my barrels straight thank you Max.’
“You’ll probably like the walking tanks.”
“What?”
“Never mind. Perhaps they’ll let you see one.” Max smiled and added, “So
besides saving heads of state what have you been up to?”
“Not much. Can I smoke?”
“I won’t advise it.” Max replied.
“So where’s this stop over?”
“A little island in the Baltic. We’re going to change planes for the flight to
Berlin. The lab coats want their toy back. Too many snooping eyes in Berlin.”
God, that was the truth and that was just the Germans: SS, Abwehr,
Army, Navy, the party and SD. Everyone was watching everyone else. To boot
the Americans still had an Embassy in Berlin and probably half their staff
worked for MI5.
“So my friend sit back and relax for a bit. We’ll be there in no time. I’ll
introduce you to Dr. Braun when we land. You’ll like him. Good man.”
“Thanks for showing me cockpit,” Steiner said standing. Sliding back into
the bomb-bay, he thought, for a bomber their wasn’t much room. His squad was
packed in. Max’s crewman sat talking with his men.
Steiner sat. “So Fritz what do you think. You’ve had some flying
experience.”
“Oh, so now I’m an expert. Ten hours in the air with a hot babe isn’t flying
experience. This jet is something new. It has power and its fast. Fuel might be a
problem, hard to tell without a gauge. Not much room, surprised they put us on
board. Max say anything?”
“Not much. Said he was switch planes when we land. Then it’s on to
Berlin.”
“I can hardly wait. Anything else?” Fritz asked.
“No.”
“Then have a sandwich,” Fritz replied and pulled one out of his pack.
Steiner took it and sat back.
Am I missing something here? We are flying in a new kind of plane and
with someone I meet at dinner? It’s almost as if I’m being steered in a direction
here, but by who.
loading up outside. Satisfied, he picked up his submachine gun, kit, and canvas
bag. As he reached lifted the bag, he could not help himself; he opened it to
look at his gold. The gold they risked life and limb to get. He smiled as he
recalled their mad escape. Reaching in he took a handful, but it was not all gold.
Between his fingers was a letter addressed to him.
Dear Wolfgang, I hope you will not be too mad with little Sasha, I took
some of your gold. Thanks for everything...
“Why that thieving hussy!” Steiner exclaimed.
“Got you too,” Fritz said walking in. He was smiling.
“Damn it Fritz. You were right. I should have shot the little.”
“Now Wolfgang, she left each of us something. Besides, you’ll always
have your memories of Leningrad.” Fritz laughed, pretending to be
sympathetic. He was enjoying his friend’s suffering.
Suddenly, the absurdity of it all struck Steiner, and he began laughed.
“Yes, my dear Fritz, Sasha and I will always have Leningrad. Don’t suppose it
would do much good to complain to the Finns, would it.” Fritz shook his head.
“Hey, we got something, we’re alive, and we are headed home. Be
grateful for the small things, Major.”
“I suppose so, but if I ever see that blond bombshell again. I’m taking my
share out of her hid.”
“Right. I’ll believe it when I see it. Though I’ll have to admit, It’s a lovely
hide. Besides you got a little extra. Take a look at your bed.” Fritz remarked,
pointing to a silvery object lying on Steiner’s cot.
Steiner lifted item. What Sasha had left him was a lock of blond hair held
in a finely woven silver locket. Bringing it to his nose he took in the sent, it
smelled just like her. For a moment, he saw her face and the sparkle in her
eyes. Yes, I’ll keep this. He said to himself pocketing the lockett. “Ready
Lieutenant Schultz?”
“When you are Major Steiner.”
Swinging up his gear Steiner headed outside. A truck waited for him,
idling. Behind the wheel was a driver, in the Alpine Division uniform. Seated in
back was his men. They were in a jovial mood, despite Sasha’s withdrawal from
their bags and waved at their leader. Evidently, Steiner had been the worse hit.
“Ready sir?” the driver asked. Steiner nodded and got in beside him.
“Anytime driver. But when we get to Helsinki, I would like to go by the
Spanish Embassy. Do you know where that is?” Steiner questioned
remembering Franco’s contact.
“Yes, Herr Major, it is in the old part of town. Not far from the airfield, I
will take you there,” came the driver’s reply; but Steiner was lost in his own
thoughts. His mind was filled with Sasha’s smile, golden hair, slim legs and
delicious lips. Yep, I’m going to take it out of her hide. If I ever see her again.
Helsinki was an unusual city, part ancient and part modern. Steiner had
thought for some reason, it would be small and provincial. Passing the stadium,
built by the Finns for the ’40 Olympics, he marveled. It was as modern
Nurnburg's. How silly of me. This could pass for any German City. What was I
thinking?
Steiner studied the pedestrians. There were in no hurry. From their
demeanor you would think there wasn’t a war on at all. Turning down a
boulevard the red and gold flag of Spain appeared up ahead. They stopped
outside an iron gate, two gray uniformed soldiers stood silently inside the gate
looking out.
When one opened the gate and approached the truck, Steiner turned and
shouted back to his men. “Franco.” In moments the swarthy Inspector jumped
down and came forward. Seeing the Embassy Guard blocking the way, Franco
began speaking in rapid fire Spanish. Steiner could only guess at what they
were saying. It was way too fast for him.
Franco smiled. “It is good to speak in my native tongue. But I forget, the
guard will announce us.” Steiner offered Franco a cigarette as they waited for
the guard to return. He will let us in side Major. Give them a moment.” Both
guards turned and pushed the iron gate back making a way for the truck.
“Take us in driver,” Steiner said, “park next to the building. Get out and
stretch your legs. My guess is we will be a while. Not too long though.” When
the truck had stopped Steiner got out. It was good stretching again.
Franco joined him and they both waited for Fritz and the others to climb out. As
they did a striking raven haired woman, dressed in a dark blue penstripped suit
approached them. She greeted them in German. “Senors, my name is
Constantia Ramierez, I am the assistant to the Ambassodor. What can the
Spanish Embassy do for you today?” Ms. Ramierez said, her voice was rich
and cultured with a hint of Spanish in each word.
Bowing slight Franco addressed the woman. “Senorita, Ramierez, I am
Inspector Franco De Lavare of the Madrid Police. I would like to speak with my
cousin. Rodrego De Lavar. I believe he is the Attache for Cultural Affairs.”
“He is inspector. I will announce you. This way. Meanwhile Major, I will
see that refreshments are offered to your men. Inspector, I will take you right
away to Don De Lavare’s office. Guard see that refreshments are offered to
our guest.” As Franco followed the beauty, Steiner and Fritz fell in step with him.
The inside of the Embassy was rich looking with bright red oriental rugs,
dark Spanish teak furniture. On one wall was a picture of a Spanish treasure
gallery. It was a proud ship. Spain had ruled an Empire then. After a brief climb-
up one flight of stairs, the woman paused at a door, knocked and went in.
Before Steiner could think of something to say she returned. “Mr. De Lavar will
see you now.”
Franco smiled and mover past her. As the door opened an older man
dressed in an emaculate gray suit greeted them. Streeks of gray in his black
hair. He was a tall man. Taller than Steiner and he greeted Franco with his arms
open wide. “My God, it is you Franco. How in the world did you wind up in
Finland. Last I heard you were chasing murders in Madrid.” The attache said
wrapping Franco up in his long arms. Then turning to Steiner and Fritz.
“Gentlemen, may I offer you some refreshments?”
Fritz, never shy about speaking his mind replied, “Yes, do you have some
brandy?’
“Certainly, over next to the books, pour what you need. Tell me cousin
what brings you here. Try one of my cigars, the finest in the world, from Cuba.”
He offered. Both Steiner and Fritz took on. Franco instead sat in a big red
velvet chair next to his cousins teak desk.
“It is good to see you Rodrego. Good indeed. It has been a longtime. How
is your mother?” Franco asked.
“She is fine. Still working her vineyard. She loves her grapes. I sometimes
think she loves them more than her family. Now please tell me what I can do for
you cousin.”
Sitting Steiner saw the Inspector was uncomfortable, for he was shifting
position in his chair. “Your excellency,” Steiner began. “We have a problem
which we were hoping you could assist us with.”
Lightning a cigar Rodergo first looked at Steiner and then a Franco.
“Certainly Major, are you sure the Spanish Embassy is where you should seek
help?”
Steiner smiled. He liked Franco’s cousin the man was sharp. Puffing he
said, “Yes, sir. I believe you are a man of the world and...” Before he could
finish his sentence Franco placed his hand on Steiners chair arm.
“Cousin. Let me say my associates and I have liberated some items from
the Soviets and don’t wish certain entanglements.” With Franco’s words,
Rodrego sat up and leaned forward. Looking first at his cousin then both
Germans. He seemed to be gauging them. Then sitting back he smiled.
“I have known you all of my life Franco. We fought side by side in the War.
You are a good man. Whatever you need is yours. Just name it.”
“Good. Rodergo, I need you to transport some items for me to Spain. I
think it would be best for these--items--to travel by diplomatic courier.”
“Sure. How big are these diplomatic items?” Rodrego asked. Franco,
pulled his satchel off and placed it on Rodergo’s desk and nodded. Leaning
forward Rodergo opened and looked in the satchel. If he was surprised by the
contents he never let it show. The man was cool.
“I see.” Was all he said, “And wear in Spain would you like these
diplomatic items taken?”
“To Uncle Ricardo’s bank in Madrid.”
“I see. A wish place for such things.” Rodergo was enjoying himself and
the discomfort of his cousin the inspector. Steiner watched their by play and
inwardly smiled. He knew it was hard for the cop to be treasure hunting, but
Franco grimly held on to his promise.
Offering an envelope to his cousin Franco continued, “Here is a list of
names for these accounts Rodergo. If uncle Ricardo will deposit these
diplomatic items in there names, I would be grateful.”
Rodergo took the envelope and put it in a side draw and locked it. “If you
will leave your things with me. I will see that it is done. Now write your mother
Franco. She is worried sick about you being here and you know when your
mother is unhappy mine is too. That is all I ask. Will you?”
Franco smiled. “Yes, I will write something out for you before I leave. You
have been most kind.”
“Gentleman, I assume this concludes our business. If you will accompany
me down stairs I am taking a quick brunch. I would be honored if you will join
me. Your men major are being offered refreshments and I will have my
assistant secure your packages. A word with you major?” Rodergo asked.
Steiner motion for Franco and Fritz to go on. He turned as the Attache
close the doors. “Let me be frank major. How is the war going?”
Interesting. I thought he was going to reprimanded me for asking him to
smuggle treasure out. “How do you mean your excellency?” Steiner replied.
“Major you may call me Rodergo. Let me put it another way, are the
Germans going to win the war in Russia?”
“I see. Rodergo, I assume you are more than the Cultural Attache?
Understand sir I am not a general. Until a short time ago I was a sergeant. The
grand movement of armies isn’t something I’ve studied.”
“Yes, major I see but surely even a sergeant has an opinion. You see I
ask this question because my government has been approached by yours and
the British. It would be profitable for me to understand better. There were many
communist during our civil war and feelings still run strong.”
“Rodergo, the German soldier believes he can win. I see it in there faces
and there steps. It isn’t something you can measure, but feel. Like the right time
for the matador to strike. Yet, the Soviets are not broken either. I think this
winter will tell it all. If we are able to capture Leningrad and Moscow by winter.
I think we will win. If not, I think our best chance has passed.”
“The Finns?”
Steiner sighed. He felt disloyal even mentioning the Finns. “I think the Finns
are taking care of the Finns.”
Laughing, Rodergo patted Steiner on the back. “Ah, you are learning to be
a diplomate. My friend I thank you for your candure. It is difficult for a diplomate
to find that in this world. I too believe that the Finns are hedging their beats. If
your army takes Leningrad, they will be more aggressive. If not, I suspect they
will protect themselves. Now let us join the others major. You know I have a son
and grandson in the Spanish Blue Division.”
When the brunch at the Embassy was over Steiner loaded back up in the
truck. Somehow he knew the driver would mention their unauthorized visit to the
Spanish Embassy. For a moment he toyed with making up something, but
discarded it. If the powers at be wanted to know, they could ask him.
It was not long before he saw aircraft, both civilian and military. The
airport wasn’t as large as Berlins, but it would do. A Finnish policeman waved
them through the barbed wire fence and the driver turned right. Following a
secondary road he skirted past the commercal terminal and headed out toward
a large hanger by itself and stopped. “You’re here major.”
“Thanks.” Steiner said stepping out and slinging has kit over his right
shoulder. The hanger doors were slightly opened. On the outside was a Ju-52
painted in blue and white camouflage surrounded by some pilot types and
civilians. He started toward the group. Fritz and the others loosely failing in
behind him.
Not seeing Max, Steiner hailed on of the ground crew. “Say can you tell
me where Captain Ritter is?” The man turned with an annoyed look on his face
and then seeing Steiners rank straight.
“Herr major. I believe Captain Ritter is in the hanger, sir.”
“Thank you.”
“Lieutenant Schultz, you will accompany me, please.” Fritz turned to
Dietrich.
“Sergeant take charge. The major and I will be a moment,” and he
dropped his bag. Skipping t catch up with Steiner.
Just inside the door stood two paratroopers, weapons out. One a lance
corporal addressed Steiner. “Major, may I have your name, sir?” It was not lost
on either man that the other Fallschjager kept his submachine gun trained on
them.
“I am Major Steiner and this is Lieutenant Schultz. We are looking for
Captain Ritter.”
“Very good sirs. Wait here while I tell him you’re here.” With a sharp
salute the first man left. Not thinking Steiner reached in his pocket for a
cigarette.
“No smoking here sir, the fuel.” Said the guard.
Embrassed Steiner put the cigarette back in his case. Just then Max’s
voice rain out from the hanger. “It’s okay. You can let them in.”
Entering the hanger both men looked at a long black plane. It was sleek.
Its wings tapered back at a slight angle. Yet, the strangest thing about it was
no propellers. Max saw them admiring his new toy. “Well, how do you like her?”
Walking up next to him Steiner asked, “Where are the propellers Max.”
He laughed. “Very funny Steiner, very. Don’t need them. This is a new kind
of plane, a jet.”
“Okay. Max what’s a jet?”
“Ah, you ground pounders are all alike. Major, this is science at work.
The jet was invented by a Brit would you believe. Their working on jet power
aircraft too. It’s a race to see who gets there first. The jet engine will
revolutionize the airplane.”
“What you’re looking at is a proto type. Its called the XB 140. Simply put,
they took the airframe of a Doenitz, strenghten the wings, removed the old
engines and replace it with two BMW turbines. This baby is hotter than my 109
ever was. It climbs and flies faster than any other plane in our aresnal. I’ve been
given this one to test. You and your boys will be my first passengers. Of course
major all of this is Top Secret. If you tell anyone, I’ll have to kill you!” Max
laughed, but Steiner didn’t feel his friend was really kidding.
Seeing Steiner’s discomfort, Max tried to make amends. “Relax. We have
a brief side trip to take. Orders.”
Steiner was tempted to ask where, but he figured Max would tell him in his
on good time. “So Max when do we go?”
“When you’re load up. I’m fueled and ready. Already have clearance.
Corporal, would you get the major’s men.” The paratrooper saluted and left.
“Go ahead and stow your gear. I need to do a preflight walk around, be with
you in a minute.” Max saluted.
A crewman motioned Steiner and Fritz under the bomber. A bomb bay
door was opened. The only side door was up by the pilot’s seat. Ducking under
Steiner lifted his kit and tossed it on the flat surface and climbed in. Outside
something began whining like a turbine and getting faster.
On board were a row of benches where a second crew guided them
toward. “Not much room major. This is a test plane. You can put your gear
under the bench.” The man said.
As Steiner was getting himself squared away, Dietrich and the others
came up of the bomb-bay. “Not a Condor is it,” Fritz mentioned sitting down.
“No and I don’t really know what it is. What’s a jet?” Steiner asked. Fritz
shook his head. In a moment Max came through a cabin door.
“If you boys will strap in we’ll leave. Make sure you’ve got everything
stowed away. Major. I will see you after take off. Enjoy.” Max smiled.
Enjoy? Is this an amusement ride? No sooner had Max disappeared than
the whining sound became so loud all conversation stopped. No one could talk.
Steiner sat back. What else was there to do. He felt the plane bounce along as
it moved. For a moment it stopped. Then, with a deafening increase in noise,
began rolling forward faster and faster. In seconds they lifted off. How fast is
this thing? Steiner wondered. It took the old Ju-52’s minutes to take off.
Outside the sound roar continued, until suddenly it eased back. The plane
seem to level. “Well, that was something.” Fritz remarked. “Hey, anyone back
there got a window?” Fritz’s question was met with a chorus of noes.
After about five minutes Max reappeared. “Major, come on up. Let me
show you my toy.” Unbuckling, Steiner stood and followed Max. The bombers
control cabin was small, compact with barely enough room for the two pilots. It
was empty. “Please sit down, in my seat Wolfgang. I’ll stand.”
Steiner gazed out. Below blue of the Baltic Sea stretched out. Without a
reference it was hard to tell how fast they were going. They looked like they
were at a considerable height.
“How fast are we going Max?”
“I’d say about 600 kilometers an hour.”
“Isn’t that fast Max?”
“Yes, we’re cruising at a rate faster than a Heinkel can fly. We can go
faster, I’ve had her up to almost 700, but at this speed we’re saving some fuel.
The brains at the island are playing around with different configurations. There’s
a lot fo stuff you won’t believe. I didn’t. If we had a fleet of these planes we
could bomb London, Moscow and no fighter plane in the world could intercept
us. It would shorten the war, but Goering thinks the war will be over before we
can mass produce these planes. Still, our scientist are amazing though.”
“In part I agree, if the high command would let them work war would be
over. They even have a rifle that shoots around corners.”
“Now Max, I know you’re pulling my leg.”
“No, really. Somehow, they have curved the barrel so you can point it
around the corner and shoot.”
“I’ll keep my barrels straight thank you Max.’
“You’ll probably like the walking tanks.”
“What?”
“Never mind. Perhaps they’ll let you see one.” Max smiled and added, “So
besides saving heads of state what have you been up to?”
“Not much. Can I smoke?”
“I won’t advise it.” Max replied.
“So where’s this stop over?”
“A little island in the Baltic. We’re going to change planes for the flight to
Berlin. The lab coats want their toy back. Too many snooping eyes in Berlin.”
God, that was the truth and that was just the Germans: SS, Abwehr,
Army, Navy, the party and SD. Everyone was watching everyone else. To boot
the Americans still had an Embassy in Berlin and probably half their staff
worked for MI5.
“So my friend sit back and relax for a bit. We’ll be there in no time. I’ll
introduce you to Dr. Braun when we land. You’ll like him. Good man.”
“Thanks for showing me cockpit,” Steiner said standing. Sliding back into
the bomb-bay, he thought, for a bomber their wasn’t much room. His squad was
packed in. Max’s crewman sat talking with his men.
Steiner sat. “So Fritz what do you think. You’ve had some flying
experience.”
“Oh, so now I’m an expert. Ten hours in the air with a hot babe isn’t flying
experience. This jet is something new. It has power and its fast. Fuel might be a
problem, hard to tell without a gauge. Not much room, surprised they put us on
board. Max say anything?”
“Not much. Said he was switch planes when we land. Then it’s on to
Berlin.”
“I can hardly wait. Anything else?” Fritz asked.
“No.”
“Then have a sandwich,” Fritz replied and pulled one out of his pack.
Steiner took it and sat back.
Am I missing something here? We are flying in a new kind of plane and
with someone I meet at dinner? It’s almost as if I’m being steered in a direction
here, but by who.