The Tales from Madness
Author's note:I do NOT own Hetalia or any of its characters. Also this story will have swearing, torture, killing, blood, mention of Hitler and other subjects of WW2. I will be posting chapters as the get done. As for editing, I will corrected when people notice any of my mistakes or my friend reads over the chapter. So don't be rude about my grammar or spelling please. When you see italic without "" or with out ' ' then it is when someone is writing in their diary.
For better understanding:
Dear A.T. Diary: Italy
Dear Journal: England
Hero's Log: America
Entry #: Germany
Japan's Journal: Japan
When In () to show change in who is writing. Also when not around humans, nations only use their human names if close friends, family, or lovers
Sorry it took so long for an update. It took longer to work on my other story than I thought. Then later a writer block the size on a mountain hit me. Hope you enjoy this chapter.
Thanks to ForTheLoveOfBeerUndWurst (for the story follow and favorite), SavannahLOVE32 (for the following and favorite me and for favorite and following this story), psYchOtlc Summoner (For following, favorite, and following me)and to Drath Lex (For following) and to the guest for the review.
The Tales from Madness
Chapter 1: What Happen to Volker? I Am Not a Traitor!
Dear Journal,
Today's meeting was a little startling. France had started the meeting, serious for once, by throwing a collection of photos onto the table.
"We need to do something about Germany! He has gone crazy!" said France as he placed his hands on the table.
"Da! I have to agree." spoke Russia oddly clam. "His government and he have broken The Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact and attacked my people." (Author Note: Officially the Treaty of Non-Aggression between Germany and the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics and was signed in Moscow on 23 August 1939 and remained in effect until 22 June 1941.)
"How do you even know that it's Germany might be the one attacking? Alfred asked the two nations.
I know the reason behind his questioning Germany and Italy are at my place. So how can Germany be attacking Russia or leading troops in France.
"I mean have you seen Italy with him? The Italien is never far from Germany."
"True America but you got to take a look at those pictures." responded France.
Grabbing the photos, America flip through them as I looked over his shoulders. Both of us saw what France and Russia was talking about. In each photograph was someone that looked like Germany but was wearing the black Schutzstaffel uniform. (Author Note: Schutzstaffel began at the end of 1920 as a small, permanent guard unit known as the "Saal-Schutz" (Hall-Protection) made up of NSDAP volunteers to provide security for Nazi Party meetings in Munich . Later in 1925, Heinrich Himmler joined the unit which had by then been reformed and renamed the "Schutz-Staffel". Under Himmler's leadership (1929–45), it grew from a small paramilitary formation to one of the largest and most powerful organizations in the Third Reich.)
"I don't understand. I thought Germany didn't like the idea of joining a secret police. Or at least he said he didn't before the war started." I said as I took a seat at the table.
"So did I." Said China. "But my main concern is Japan. There was an Earthquake at his place and now the whole island was gone quite."
"Now that is strange. When I was visiting Hawaii, I saw strange lights coming from Japan's home." said America.
"So I am not the only one that saw those lights. Anyway I got a few people checking out what is going on in the land of Japan, if I find anything I will let you know America."
"Thanks, China. It means a lot to me." responded America in a happy tone.
"I hate to change the subject but what about Germany?" said France bringing everything back to the important topic at hand.
I am sad to say that America and I did hold back in the plans to counter attack the land of Germany. We are not sure now it would affect Germany even though he does not have ties to his government.
Entry #
American and England has been away from England's house and at meetings for a few days.
As for me, I had a few more coughing fits but other than that things are okay. I am no longer wearing the wig and as for covering my left eye, I only wear an eye patch to keep dirt out of it when I am moving around outside under Dr. Asimov's advice..
As for Feliciano, he has joined me when I get up to train in the morning. I have made a few jokes about him not feeling well but I appreciate that he is trying to help me. maybe Italy is trying to keep his promise about staying by my side.
Right now, Feliciano was inside England's kitchen. He had gone inside, with Ludwig's permission, to start working on breakfast for the two while Germany finished his training.
Hearing the sound of a car pulling to the house, Ludwig jumped up from his push ups and walked to the front of the house. As he came around the corner of the building, he saw America and England exiting the British nation's car.
"Hey Germany! How are you doing? I see that you are not wearing the wig." Said America when he noticed the German nation.
"I am doing better." Answer Ludwig. "As for the wig, I decided that I needed stop hiding. So how was the meeting?"
"It was okay. There area few things that England and I need to talk to you about."
"I see.." responded Ludwig as his face took a serious look. He was wondering happen during the Allies meeting that they were wanting to share with him. "Well Feliciano is already inside. He is making us breakfast, but I don't thinking he was making enough for four."
"It's okay. We had breakfast before we left the hotel." Said England as he opened the front door.
Ludwig and Arthur enter the house to joined Italy in the kitchen. America on the other hand glanced over his shoulders before entering the house with the other nations.
Hero's Log:
I am glad that Italy had made breakfast for Germany and him. This gave England and I time to gather our thoughts about what France and Russia had told us. This is going to be a very hard topic to talk about...
"So what was it that you wanted to talk about?" asked Ludwig as he took a seat on England's sofa.
Italy flopped down on the other end of the sofa so he could sit next to the German.
"Well it is about what France and Russia has told us." answer England as he took a seat in one of the chairs. America on the other hand remained standing.
"What did they have to say?"
"France said that your country's army has picked up force and are marching towards Pairs." Answered America.
"On top of that Russia told us that your government broke the pact you had with his country and has started fighting in his land." said England.
"What! Have they gone insane in Berlin?' Said Ludwig as he stood to his feet.
"Calm down, Ludwig." said England as he looked to the German. "You are still recovering and getting upset is not good for your health."
"How can I clam down? Because of that manic in charge of my people, my country is going to war with the rest of Europe!"
"Dude! We understand what you are saying but we have more to tell you." spoke Alfred calmly to the German, before returning his vision to the window behind the sofa that Italy and Germany had chosen as their seat.
"Ludwig, please take a seat." said Feliciano as he reached forward and took one of Ludwig's hands into his own.
Feeling Feliciano's hand in his own did calm Germany down but not much. How could he stay completely calm when destruction was coming to his people. Returning to the sofa, Ludwig looked at England and America, "So what was the other thing?"
"Well I have a question first though? I m sorry if it brings up any bad memories, but was there anything that stood out during the torture those doctors put you though?" Asked England as calmly as he could, he did not want to upset the German nation, it might cause Germany to unintentionally use his mental abilities.
Looking down at the floor Germany tried to fight back the fear that flooded his mind that came when he thought back to that time period.
"It's okay Ludwig." said Italy as he gripped the German's hand tighter when he felt it start shaking. "You're not there anymore, you are safe now."
"I know...It is just that sometimes I swear I can feel the pain again when I think about what I had gone through those weeks." said Germany.
"I am sorry. If it is to much you do not have to answer." Said England.
"No, it is okay, England. Thinking back on it the only things that stand out is all the samples they took."
"Samples?"
"Yes, if they found something new they took a sample from it. My hair, my skin, my muscles, my teeth, my fingernails, my spine, and bones, and my ...eye."
"What sick bastards!" Said America breaking the quite he was under since he helped clam Germany , this caused the other nation to turn their focus to America. "Sorry about being so blunt."
"It's fine America."
"Is their anything else you can think of Germany?" England then asked.
"Well, beside a strange dream, nothing else comes to mind."
"A dream about what?" asked England, he remembered that Germany had mentioned this when he had broke the British nation's front window, which had been replaced and was now the window Italy and Germany now sit in front of.
"I had a dream a few weeks back where I saw actions through someone else's eyes. Now why all the questioning about what had happen?"
"Well, the thing is both France and Russia was clammed that they have seen you on the battlefield since Italy and you came here." answered America.
"But that is impossible! I can vouch that Ludwig has been here the whole time. You can even talk to Dr. Asimov and he would say the same thing." Italy said in a panic tone.
"Feliciano is right and even with my so called metal powers I don't think I could have been there." spoke Ludwig in a more calm tone than Italy.
"We know and would have not believed them if France did not have photographic proof." responded England.
Sighing, Germany place his free hand on his forehead, the other was still being held by Feliciano. "I don't know what this means. I don't have any family besides Gilbert and I lost contact with him a few days before Hitler imprisoned me."
"Don't stress yourself to much about it. We'll find out what is going on and put a stop to it." Responded England.
Suddenly, America put a finger to his lips and made a Shh! sound. This made the other nations freeze for a few minutes before England, in a quite tone, ask "What is wrong Alfred?"
"Everyone remain calm." Answered the North American nation. "Since we have come home there is a black haired man hanging outside your house. I didn't think anything about it at first but I think that he would have moved on by now or asked for help if he needed it."
Looking out the window behind Germany and Italy, England saw who America was talking about.
"I think he might be a spy." said America. "If he should make it back to his base with what he saw it will cause problems."
"I know that." said Germany in a quite tone. "What do you say we do?"
"We, of course, are going to capture him. First, I am going to leave the room like nothing has happen. Give me about ten minutes to sneak behind him. Then I would like you, Arthur to come out the front door."
"Why England?" questioned Ludwig. "I am sure I can help."
"Yes, you could but if he is looking for you he might not hesitate in shooting you."
"I see."
"Okay then, England hopefully you leaving the house will distract the man and I will tackle him from behind. Once he is under control , we will call the police and let them take care of the man from there. Is this okay with everyone?"
"Fine." answered England and Italy.
"Fine with me but if it gets to be to much for England and you, I will help." answered Germany.
Hearing this Italy nodded, a silent agreement. If it should get to rough he would also help. Especially after all that the two Allies had done.
"Okay, I am leaving now." Said America as he calmly walked out of the room.
Hearing the quite sound of the back door opening and closing. The other three nations waited in the living room for a few minutes. In fact that is was six minutes before England got up from his chair and moved to the front door. Apparently the British nation had noticed America had made it behind the man, who had not noticed the nation behind him. Seeing Arthur's actions, Germany rose to his feet.
Throwing open the front door, England ran at the black haired man. Before the stranger could respond to England's charge, he was tackled from behind by America.
"Who the hell are you and why are you spying on my friends and me?" yelled England at the man as Alfred lifted his head by the hair.
Joining America and England outside, Italy's eyes widen when he saw the face of the man. "Volker?"
"Feliciano?" responded Volker when his eyes met the Italian's face.
Dear A.T Diary,
Volker is here! Last time I saw him it was the night that we rescued Ludwig from Hitler's and his sick doctor's clutches. In fact, he had took a different path to draw the soldiers away from Ludwig and me, so we could make it safely to England house.
How he got here or even figure out that I would be here is a few of the questions that now plagues my mind.
"So your the famous Volker Edlenkrieger." said England as he handed the German a glass of water. American on the other hand kept a serious eye on Volker, but could you blame him? The German was a former SS officer.
"Thank you..." Volker started to say.
"Arthur," responded England "and that is Alfred." as he pointed to America.
"And I am Ludwig." Said Germany as he extended a hand. "Es ist schön, offiziell kennen zu lernen."(It is nice to officially meet you.)
"Same here." responded Volker as he shook Ludwig's hand.
"So what happen after that night Volker?" asked Italy.
You could say I was very eager to know what happen to my friend.
"It is a long story and I would like to start from the beginning if no one minds." answered the former SS Officer.
"Go ahead, Volker." responded England.
"Well it was my courage on the battlefield in France at the start of the war that got Hitler's attention. In fact I had only been part of the Schutzstaffel for a few months before I helped Feliciano. But even before that I knew something was wrong...
XX Day of the month of XXXX of year 19XX (Volker)
This morning I stood at the train station once again and watched another train, normally used to move cattle, haul another load of people. Most people don't think anything about it, but I don't think that theses people are just prisoners of war, that the government has told us. For starters there are children in these carts for God's sake.
Later
I have tried to talk to my superior officers about the trains but only those close to the Führer know that something is going on and they will not share this information with a low ranking officer. I would talk to the Führer but asking to many questions can get you into trouble.
I will have to find out what is with those trains on my own. I will look into it tomorrow which is my day off.
XX Day of the month of XXXX of year 19XX
Got up early this morning, so I didn't draw the attention of my fellow officers that live near me, as I drive off in my car. It's not that I think they would stop me, just they might ask about my trip, which will draw the attention of the superior officers.
Later
As I drive past and threw small towns, I have noticed a large grey cloud in the distance. I have tired to talk to some of the town people, near the cloud, but they are not willing to talk.
Since the cloud seems to be in the direction the train tracks lead, I am going to head in that direction.
Much Later
The road in the direction of the grey cloud has suddenly stop. There looks like there was a dirt road but it looks like it has not been used these pass few months.
To avoid being noticed I have decide to leave my car behind and to continue on foot...
XX day of the month XXXX of year 19XX
I have just returned to my car. What I have seen ...I can't begin to describe... the horrors I have seen...
As I walked what felt like a few miles, I came to the top of a hill were I could look down at what looked like a few buildings surrounded by a tall fence with barbwire on the top.
As I stood, just far enough for no one to notice me, I watch as families were spilt up. I saw some be forced to the left, which were beaten, stripped, deloused, shaved and then what looked like something was being forced into the side of their arms. The ones forced onto the right were shoved into a large brick building that had grey smoke coming out of the stacks. I had a sick feeling that those going into those buildings would never walk out. I now knew the source of the grey cloud.
Having enough of watching the front of this place, I moved to a different part of the area where i was standing. As I walked around I saw people, that were to thin for their own good, digging into the Earth. I had another feeling that they were digging their own graves.
I am sorry to say that I didn't do anything to help those poor people but I did empty my stomach of what little contents that were in it. Even if I tried right now I know that I would fail and maybe make things worse for these poor people. All I can do now is wait for a chance to come so I can help these people.
XX day of the month XXXX of year 19XX
It has been a few weeks since my visit to that cursed camp and the images continue to plague my minds and dreams. Knowing that there are innocent people are starving, makes it hard to eat a normal meal. What the worse thing is that I continue working, in other words helping the man that is sending these people to their deaths.
Later
I have noticed strange things at work. For one thing when I stay late at night or alone in my section of the building I hear a scream from outside my office door. I have tried to fine the source of the sound but I have not found anything. I talked to a few coworkers about it but they only say it is stress or that I need to see a doctor.
Another thing that I have noticed is the crates of medical supplies that are being moved into the empty office near mine. What is strange is that the next day the office seems to be empty the next day. If that is the case then where are the supplies going?
XX day of the month XXXX of year 19XX
Today the Führer has dismissed most of the staff and a few of the officers. I know the war is getting a little rough but why send so many people away? Something must be going on.
XX day of the month XXXX of year 19XX
Today seem like it was going to be another worthless day of me doing nothing...
That was until I met the Italien...
Walking down the office building hall Volker tried to talk with Burchard, a fellow officer, about the strange things going on these past few days. Sadly it was not going well.
So haben Sie mit niemandem über die Sounds, die Sie in der Nacht wurden Anhörung sprachen? ( So have you talked to anyone about the sounds you have been hearing at night?) Burchard asked.
Ja, aber sie sagen, dass es das Gebäude oder Absetzen von Stress durch zu arbeiten. (Yes, but they say that it is the building settling or from stress due to work.) answer Volker.
Volker had brought up the screaming that he had been hearing at night but all that did was get him sent to a doctor. Of course, the doctor did not find anything wrong.
Es gibt eine gute Chance, dass es Stress ist. Vor allem, da wir jetzt kurz übergeben. (There is a good chance that it is stress. Especially, since we are now short handed.) responded Burchard.
Pulling his view away from Burchard, for he knew this conversation was going no where , Volker noticed a new Italien employee had frozen stiff. Volker did not know if the Italien had frozen because of the sight of the two officers or because of nerves from starting a new job.
Anyway, the new employee looked like he could use some help. Stopping his walking, Volker turned to the Italien and placed a hand on his shoulder. This action caused the new employee to jump before he turned to face Volker.
"Tut mir leid, Sie Angst haben, aber du siehst verloren. Gibt es trotzdem kann ich helfen?" (Sorry to have scared you, but you look lost. Is there anyway I can help?) Volker said as he removed his hand from the employee's shoulder.
"Ja, ich bin für die Toilette gesucht, aber ich denke, ich habe rund gedreht." (Yes, I am looking for the restroom, but I guess I got turned around) answered the Italien. It surprised Volker that the Italien was fluent in German.
Mach dir keine Sorgen, das ist passiert enine Menge mit dem neuen Personal. Ich verstehe nicht, warum der Führer musste das alte Personal gebraten und senden so viele Menschen weg. (Don't worry that has been happening a lot with the new staff. I don't see why the Führer had to fried the old staff and send so many people away.) Volker heard Burchard say to the new employee so he would not feel bad about being lost.
"Wie auch immer, gehen diesen Flur, bis Sie die erste Cross Korridor zu erreichen, nehmen Sie den linken Korridor bis Pass fünf Bürotüren. Es sollte die nächste Tür auf der rechten Seite." (Anyway, go down this hallway until you reach the first cross corridor, take the left corridor until pass five office doors. It should be the next door on the right side.) Said Volker as he gave the Italien directions.
Seeing the Italien give a nod before saying "Vielen Dank." (Thank you.), Volker respond " Ihr Willkomen und viel Glück auf Ihrem neuen Job. (Your welcome and good luck on your new job)
After helping him, I got the feeling that there might be more to him than just a new employee.
XX day of the month XXXX of year 19XX
Went to another day of work. It seemed that I was going to spend another worthless day.
That was until I heard the sounds coming from the coat closet at the end of the hall. I don't know why there is even a closet there because most of the coats are collected at the door. Opening the closet door, I was greeted by the Italien falling out of the closet and onto the floor.
"Sind sie Okay?" (Are you okay?) Volker asks before he realizes that it was the Italien from yesterday. Kneeling down and extending his hand. "Oh, du bist es von der anderen Tag. Was ist passiert? hat jemand stopfen Sie dort? (Oh, it is you from the other day. What happened? Did someone stuff you in there?)
"Ja," Answer the Italien as he grabs the officers hand. Fragen einige andere Offiziere mir ihre Mäntel zu bekommen. Als ich im Inneren zu erreichen, schob sie mich in und schloss die Tür." (Yes, Some other officers ask me to get their coats. When I reach inside, they pushed me in and closed the door.)
"Wie unprofessionell von ihnen! Ich werde sie über die Kommissionierung auf der neuen Hilfe sprechen." (How unprofessional of them! I will talk to them about picking on the new help.) Helping the Italien to his feet, Volker examined the outfit that the employee was wearing. Just seeing made Volker know that something more was going on than a prank, but he was not going to call the man out on it.
"Danke, ..." (Thank you..)
"Volker Edlenkrieger." Volker does not know why he trusted the Italien so easily, he had own known him for a few days, but he told him his name anyway, by removing his hat, revealing his short black hair, and giving the Italien a slight bow. "Und darf ich fragen Sie nach Ihrem Namen?" (And may I ask you for your name?)
Looking at Volker's face, the employee answered. "Umm.. Mien Name ist Feliciano Vargas." (Umm.. my name is Feliciano Vargas.)
"Schön, Sie zu treffen, Feliciano." (nice to meet you, Feliciano) Said Volker as he returned his hat to his head.
"Nun, ich will nicht unhöflich erscheinen, aber ich muss gehen." (Well, I do not want to appear rude, but I have to go.)
"Dann lassen Sie mich gehen Sie aus, deen ich für den Tag fertig bin." (Then let me walk you out, for I am done for the day.) responded Volker. The truth was that he a few questions to ask Feliciano but he did not want to ask where the other officer would hear.
"Okay, ich denke..." (Okay, I think...)
As the officers and the employee walked out of the building, Volker noticed that other officers recognized Feliciano but they did not approach them. Once the two reached the end of the sidewalk to the building, Volker turned to face Feliciano.
"Bevor wir getrennte Wege, Kann ich dich etwas fragen Feliciano?" (Before we part ways, Feliciano. Can I ask you something?) Said the male officer.
"Sicher." (Sure) answers Feliciano
"Wenn Sie in diesem Schrank waren hörten Sie etwas seltsam?" (When you were in that closet did you hear anything strange?)
"Es tut mir leid, aber ich habe nichts gehört. Ich glaube, ich war zu sehr in Panik, etwas zu bemerken." (I am sorry, but I didn't hear anything. I guess I was in too much of a panic to notice anything.)
Sighing at the answer that Feliciano gave him, Volker had a feeling that he was something more...
Later,
After going though some copies of paperwork, I came across some documents containing information on Feliciano Vargas. From what I read about Feliciano works for the Italien government. A few photos of Feliciano show him with a tall blond German officer. (Author note: Sources say that there were color photos in the 1840s. So it is possible for a colored picture to have been taken during WW2.) My question then is where is the German officer if Feliciano always near him? i wonder if it has to do with Feliciano's actions?
A Little Later,
Got a call from work. They say that there are signs of someone breaking into the offices. They want every officers to come in to help look for clues on who is responsible.
When Volker arrived in front of his work, he sees that Feliciano is standing in front of the building.
"Feliciano!" Volker calls out to the Italien, Was machst du denn hier? Nur Offiziere wurden in. Jemand bemerkt Kratzspuren auf einige der Büros Schlösser genannt. ( What are you doing here? Only officers were called in. Someone noticed scratch marks on some of the offices locks)
Feliciano, who had turned to face the German officer, only could stutter an answer, "Nun, ich..". (Well I...)
"Hat das mit Ihnen beening in diesem Schrank gesperrt tun?" (Does this have to do with you being looked in that closet?) Volker questioned the Italien when he thinks back to the paperwork he had gone though earlier.
"Entschuldigen Sie mich?" (Excuse me?)
"Ich kann sagen, dass du mich angelogen. So was macht der Schrank haben, mit Ihnen zu tun? " ( I can tell you lied to me. So what does the closet have to do with you?)
Watching Feliciano for a few minutes, Volker could tell that he was reluctant to talk to him. This made Volker wonder what was going on with his life if someone was so scared of him.
"Nun, der Schrank hat eine versteckte Tür in der Rückseite. Ich glaube, dass jenseits dieser Tür ist jermand in Schmerzen soemone. Diese Person könnte das Schreien Sie gehört haben, sein." (Well, the closet has a hidden door in the back. I believe that beyond this door is someone in pain. This person might be the screaming you have heard.) answered Feliciano which pulled Volker from his thoughts and brought another question to him.
"Woher wissen Sie darüber?" (How do you know about that?)
"Ich habe gehört, Sie über darüber zu reden, wenn wir zum ersten Mal traf in der Halle. Wie auch immer diese Person Schmerzen hat, dass jemand mich interessiert. Ich brauche, um ihn zu retten". (I over heard you talking about it when we first met in the hall. Anyway that person in pain is someone that I care about. I need to save him.)
"Ich sehe." Responded Volker as he looked away for Italy to glance at the building. If what Feliciano said was true then it would explain a lot. Returning his gaze to Feliciano, Volker said. "Ich werde helfen." (I see. I will help then)
"Du willst!" (You will!) Volker heard the Italien shout. He must have surprised him.
Ja, aber Sie müssen in der Nähe bleiben, um mich und halten Sie Ihren Kopf nach unten." Said Volker as draped his coat over Italy's shoulder and placed his hat on the nation's head. "Wenn jemand Sie sehen sollten dann werden wir beide in Schwierigkeiten." (Yes, but you must stay close to me and keep your head down. If someone should see you then we both will be in trouble.)
I then led Feliciano to my office. We did not run into any trouble but I am not sure if that was because of my coat and hat or because of everyone worrying about the lock picker.
"I hope you don't mind that we are in my office. It is the closest that I could get us to that closet with the 'hidden' door without any one asking any questions." Said Volker in English. The officer hoped that speak the language would keep passerbyers from eavesdropping.
"Thank you, but why are you so willing to help me?" asks Feliciano.
"Let's say that I have my own reasons." Answers Volker as a flash of the camp before his eyes. "So is it safe to say that someone important is behind that door."
"Yes, But I don't have the key that will unlock the door. Believe me, I have tried every key that I have to this place. From what I can tell of the lock I don't think I could pick it."
"Well," said Volker as he took a seat at his desk. "then you'll need the key. I do have a good idea to where a copy might be."
"So do I. In Hitler's office."
I had thought the same thing...
"That was what I was thinking ,but good luck with that. The Führer's office has a lock that can't be picked and even if you have the skills to pick it, someone would see you before you even finish." Said Volker searching in one of his desk drawers, before pulling out a map of the building. "Now if everyone was not on high alert, I would suggest one to climb the wall of the building and enter though the window. Now if you had a key then getting in would be no problem, but Hitler only gave a few of those keys to a select few."
Reaching in his pocket, Feliciano pulled out the ring of keys that he had on himself since he began his search. "By any chance is this key silver in color?"
"Well, the one that I saw was."
"Then maybe this one is one of those keys?" Italy asks as he shows Volker the silver key on Germany's key ring.
"That looks like it." Said Volker, who rises to his feet when he gets sight of the key. "Sadly we will not know if it is unless we try it out. Unfortunately if you or me get close to the Führer's office someone will notice."
"Then what do you suggest?"
Looking at the map, Volker had an idea to draw the other officers away from Hitler's office. "A fire?"
"A Fire!" Apparently, the Italien had not expected Volker's idea.
"Yes, you see a fire would draw everyone attention away from that office. Also some people will evacuate so the building will be more empty for a short time.'
"I understand at what you are getting at."
"Good. I will start the fire on the other wing." Said Volker as he point to the spot on the map, which Italy glanced at. "They will suspect me less because of my rank. When you hear the fire alarm, you need to see it the key works and unlock Hitler's office quickly, because you will not have much time. I am pretty sure that someone might check the office shortly after they see that the fire is under control. If you can't get in or find the key then leave and we will try another way."
"That is a good plan. You are very smart, Volker." Said Italy
"Thank you, Feliciano. Now lets get this rolling."
To tell the truth, I was most likely as nervous as Feliciano about this quest.
Heading to the east wing, Volker looked around before sliding into one of the unlocked offices. Grabbing the trash can, which was full of discarded paperwork. Returning to the hall, Volker pulled out a lighter from his pocket. Volker did smoke but it was more for when stress of the day affected him. Lighting the papers, Volker tossed the can back into the office. Waiting a few minutes, Volker started yelling "Feuer!" (Fire!) before pulling the alarm (Author's Note: My research says that the first electric fire alarm was designed by William B. Watkins in the early 1870's).Just as planned some people head to the exit and some people ran to the direction of the fire in hopes to get it under control.
"Was ist passiert?" (What happened?) yelled an officer that Volker recognized as Sgt. Nichtwichtig
"Ich weiß es nicht! Ich rieche Rauch und fand dieses Büro auf Feuer!" (I do not know! I smell smoke and found this office on fire!) answered Volker as he grabbed one of the fire extinguisher that another officer was passing around. (Author's Note: The modern fire extinguisher was invented by British Captain George William Manby in 1818.)
It did not take long to put out the fire. I do hope I gave Feliciano enough time to search Hitler's office.
Ich frage mich, wenn die Sperre Picker hat das getan? (I wonder if the lock picker did this?) Volker hears Sgt. Nichtwichtig ask, but he does not answer. Instead he heads back to his office.
When the German officer returned to his office, he saw that Feliciano had already return form his search of Hitler's office.
"Volker! I am glad your safe!" Said Feliciano as he ran up to Volker.
"Me too. I ended up helping put out the same fire that I started. A little funny when I think about it." Said Volker to Feliciano as he thought back to the events. "So did the key work?"
"Yes! and I found this." Answered Feliciano as he held up the red key he had during his search of Hitler's office. "I found it in a book. Hopefully, this is the key to the lock."
Looking at the key Volker could see that it was a very complex key for a complex lock. And that was if it was the right key.
Another thing that came to the German officer's mind was the danger they were going to face. Feliciano and he were going to have to make their move tonight. With the fire, Volker knew that whoever had Feliciano's friend would most likely move him after everyone had left for the night.
"I do hope so too, Feliciano. Because of the fire, we are going to have to save your friend now." Said Volker as he crossed his office to a safe that sat under the window. Inside the safe was some guns that Volker had attained before becoming a SS officer.
"I was going to ask if we could do it tonight anyway. It also seems that I will not be needing to ask you for help." Feliciano said as he watched Volker.
This surprised Volker at how calmly Feliciano was speaking. this man had something very important to gain.
Spinning the dial back and forth on the safe, Volker opened it and reached in, pulling out two guns. "I want to do this anyway, my friend. It wouldn't hurt for us to be armed though. Do you know how to shot a gun?" He only asked this question because the Italien looked like someone that would not harm anyone willingly.
"Yes. I even have my own." Answered Feliciano as he pulled a gun from his pocket.
This surprised the German when he saw the Walther P38. "Nice model you got there. now let us hurry." said Volker as he pocketed his own weapons.
Quickly rushing down the hall the two left Volker's office, to the closet at the end of the hall. Once they got there Feliciano quickly picked the lock with his tools. When the door was unlocked the pair slid into the closet.
Noticing that he was blocking most of the light from the hallway, Volker pulled out a small flashlight from one of his many coat pockets. Turning on it on, he was almost sorry he had when he saw the Italien jump at the flooding light.
Hearing a faint click, Volker asked in a whisper "Did it work?"
The German officer got his answer in the form of a nod from the Italien. This made Volker draw out one of his guns, before Feliciano repeated the action.
"Okay, let's make this as quick and as quiet as we can." Said Volker as he reached out and pushed the door open. What has on the other side of the door was a set of stairs that leaded down into the Earth. At the end of the stairs was what appeared to be an orange glow from an unseen light source.
Turning off his flashlight. so the light from it would not alert anyone that might be in the hidden basement, Volker, with Italy following close behind him, descend the stairs. As the two down the stairs Volker wonder in Feliciano had noticed the slight copper smell that was mixed into the damp musty smell of the basement.
"So which end do you recommend we search first?" Volker asked once the two reached the end of the stairs. He had noticed that an orange glow was coming from both ends of the underground hall.
"Why don't we go left." Feliciano answered as he looked around the right corner of the stairs.
Steeping cautiously into the hall, Feliciano, with Volker following close behind as back up, started walking to the source of the light.
The two males soon found the source of the orange light, which turned out to be a caged light above a metal door. Seeing that the lock was the same from the door in the closet, Feliciano inserted the key and unlocked the door. Opening the door, Feliciano and Volker found that room was full of crates. Steeping into the room and examine the crates, Volker recognized that they were the same medical supplies he had seen being place in the empty office. So that answer Volker's question about where the medical supplies were going. This did make him wonder, "My question is why down here? They would be more use upstairs."
Before Feliciano and I could move on, I heard someone say "Was machst du hier?" (What are you doing here?)
Before I could turn to face the stranger, he grabbed me from behind and slammed me into the wall of wooden crates. I tried to fight him off by elbowing him in the chest but didn't seem to affect him. Instead the man grabs the back of my head and slams it into the crates. It wasn't until something went crack over the man's head that I was able to be freed.
When I turned to face Feliciano, I saw that he had pried off a lid to one of the crates and smashed it over the head of the man.
"Thank you, Feliciano." His bottom lip had busted open during the fight and blood ran down the side of his face from a cut on his forehead. Seeing that Feliciano had some gauze, Volker kneeled and let the Italien wrap the wound on his head.
"Normally, I am not this brave, but seeing an another friend in trouble made me take action." Feliciano respond.
"Well, you could have fooled me." answered Volker as he returned to his feet. "Now lets take care of our friend here."
Deciding that tying up the officer, so he would not wake up and warn anyone else, Volker search though the crates for some rope. As he was doing this Feliciano filled his pockets with medical supplies.
"I got him tied up now." Volker when he saw that Italy was still going though the crate. "We should be going now."
"Of course." Answered Feliciano.
As the Italien followed Volker, he looked over his shoulder and noticed that Volker had also gagged the man.
As the two men walked down the hall to the other end, Volker wonder if Feliciano had noticed that the smell of copper had gotten stronger but didn't ask because he thought it might scare the Italien. They soon found another door with a light above it. The main thing that the German noticed was a white colored light coming from the bottom of the door and the sound of something being sharpen. Hearing this meant that someone was inside the room, Volker lowered the safety to his gun as Feliciano unlocked the door.
"Halt!" (Stop!) Volker yelled as he kicked open the door which the two doctors, inside the room, dropped their instruments when they saw the armed officer. Sadly, they didn't live long when Feliciano put a bullet into their heads when he saw Ludwig.
When I saw the condition of Feliciano's friend, I felt sick. How could someone do such a thing to another person?
"Feliciano!" called out Volker, who's face had paled from the sight. This pulled the Italien out of the shock he was under. "We need to hurry. Someone must have heard those shots."
"Sorry." respond Feliciano as he moved towards the operation table.
"It's oaky." Said Volker in order to comfort the Italien. "I would have done the same if it was someone important to me on this table."
As I unstrained the left side of the German, being careful not to trip over the dead doctors, and removed the tube from his wrist, and the cable from the left eye, he suddenly turned his head to look at me before looking at Feliciano before saying "Night wirklich." (Not real.) I wonder why he said that.
Once the two men were done removing the strapping from Feliciano's friend, Italy quickly bandaged the German's right arm. As Volker slowly raise the wounded man into a sitting position, Feliciano pulled of Volker's coat and wrapped his friend in it.
In a demanding tone Feliciano said "I'll carry him."
"Are you sure that you can handle him?" asked Volker when he noticed Feliciano's tone.
"Yes, it would be..." Feliciano started to answer before he was interrupted by the sound of the voice of the one person Volker did not want to run into this night.
"Was ist hier los?" (What is going on here?) Said Hitler as he entered the room with two guards behind him.
"Du!" (You!) Shouted the Führer when he saw Feliciano. This made Volker wonder how important the Italien was if Hitler was able to recognize Feliciano so easily. But before Hitler could do a thing, Feliciano pulled out his gun and shot the man in the chest.
As Hitler fell to floor, I shouted "Betrachten Sie diese meinen Rücktritt!" (Consider this my resignation!) as I shot the two guards in the head.
After that I help Feliciano load his friend on to his back and we took off running. There was a few times I had to shoot a few officers as we ran up the stairs and out of the building. This caused people to shout and I am sure that someone must have thrown a grenade at us but it missed us by a few meters.
It wasn't until we were outside in the rain that I realized the danger behind us. There was no way the other officers were going to let us go and were already in pursuit of us. I then knew what I had to do.
"Feliciano, you need to run! Run until you and your friend is safe!" yelled Volker over the rain.
"What about you?" Feliciano shouted back.
"I will keep them off your trail. Just keep running no matter what you hear. Run and survive this war!" Volker said as he face the sound of people heading towards them.
(...)
"I don't want to be rude Volker, but we know most of what you have told us." said Italy. The nation almost brought up that he was there.
"I know but there is more to my tale." responded Volker as he looked at the others in the room.
"Do carry on then." Said England. He was curious about the German officer's tale.
"As I was saying..."
(...)
Running down the street, Volker yelled, "Hier bin ich! Komm und hol mich!" (Here I am! Come and get me!) in order to get the attention of the pursuiters. And it worked! The men began to chase Volker. Sadly, they did not have a chance to catch him, for Volker knew the streets of Berlin like the back of his hand.
(...)
"Eventually, I was able to lose them. Since I knew that I was now a wanted man, I couldn't return home."
"I'm sorry." responded Feliciano. He did realize what Volker had lost by helping him.
"It is okay. I knew the risk. On top of that I didn't have much to lose. I have no family and as for material possessions you can't take them with you."
"So what made you know where to look for us?." questioned Germany, "I mean Europe is a big place."
"Well, it wasn't easy but..."
XX Day of the month of XXXX of year 19XX
It has been about three weeks since I helped Feliciano rescue and escape with his friend and Berlin is still seem to be in an uproar over the escape of the German and the Italien.
From what I have gather from easy dropping into officers' conversions and what I have read in the newspaper both Feliciano and 'Ludwig' were enemies of not only the government but also their home counties. But I do not believe this for one minute. Feliciano seem so sincere that 'Ludwig' was captured and experimented on against his will. On a side note the news does not mention that 'Ludwig' was already in captivity when we attacked the headquarters.(Yes they even pinned that on us, even though it was one of their own.)
What has got me really wondering was that Hitler had recognized Feliciano. This stands out because often us soldiers have to reintroduce the Italien officers, expect for Mussolini. So why did Hitler take the time to knowledge this particular Italien. I must look into this.
Volker slowly turned into the alleyway, like he was just taking a shortcut. In truth, the alley lead to an even narrower alley. In the smaller alley, Volker had discovered one of many hidden entryways to the current Nazi headquarters.
'They should have known better than to pick such an old building, especially one that the city grew up around it.' thought Volker as he pushed open the secret door and slid into the hidden passageway.
From the research, Volker had done, once he saw that the government was moving into the building was that it was one of the few office buildings that still stood from before the first World War. So that meant it had lots of passages for servants to use as they move around unseen. These passageways were sealed up or forgotten when the building was remodeled at the end of World War I. But now these passages were once again in use as Volker sneaked around in his search to clues to Hitler's knowledgement of Feliciano and the experiments on 'Ludwig.'
Turning sideways Volker slid into the space between the two walls of two rooms. At the end of this space was a door that opened to the room that currently stored the stuff from Hitler's office.
Hitler himself was still in the hospital from the bullet that Feliciano had put into his chest. Plus there was the damage from the former office when it exploded. Because of this an office had not been set up. Also the SS officers had a feeling that they would be moving soon once the Führer was back in charge.
It had been just plain luck that I had found the passageway that lead to this one room. I could have ended up anywhere in this building.
From how much empty space was in the room, I could tell that a lot of Hitler's original office must have been unsalvageable. There was a few boxes containing paperwork, books, and some personal belongings but what stood act was the suitcase.
The suitcase was made of brown leather with brass corners and latches. The handle was broken, most likely from when it was pulled from the rubble of the last office building, but other than that it looked like it had not gone through such an ordeal. And that was what drawn Volker attention to it.
Examining the suitcase closer, Volker noticed that there was three sets of locks. The lock on the left end was a combination lock that need four numbers while the lock on the right end was a word lock that need a five letter word. The middle lock looked like it would be the easiest to open because it was a simple key lock, which the former SS officer could easily pick. Sticking the pick into the lock, Volker move it around until the lock sprang open.
'Now for the other two.' thought Volker as he looked at them, 'It would be easier if I can open them than pick them.'
Examining the case one more time, an idea came to his mind. Since this was Hitler's suitcase then he would have chosen something easy to remember, something that would be personal. The number lock would most likely be an important date.
Clicking through the numbers, Volker first tried his former Fuhrer's birthday, which he only knew because of his former place in the SS. When that did not work, Volker then tried the date of the release of Hitler's book : Mien Kampf (Author Note: My Struggle). Sadly that did not work neither. Thinking for a moment, Volker then used the only other date he could think of: 2834 and the lock clicked open. (Author Note: 2 August 1934 is when became the Fuhrer of Germany.)
"Ja!" (Yes!) Volker yelled quitely. This cause him to pause and look at the main door to the room for a few minutes to make sure that no one heard him.
Turning his attention to the other lock, Volker knew it was a five letter word but had a feeling that it would not be something easy as the Fuhrer's name. Trying the last name of Hitler's companion, Braun, since her first name was to short, but that did not work. Volker then tried the word, cross, since that was the only five digit word in the awards that Hitler had won, but that did not work neither. (Author Note: Hitler was only married to Eva Braun for two days before their deaths. Also Hitler was rewarded the Iron Cross First Class, Iron Cross Second Class, and the Wound Badge.)
'Let's try Kampf.' thought Volker. The word Kampf (Struggle) came from the book that Hitler had wrote. To his success the right lock clicked open.
'Wow! Who knew that the Führer could be so predictable.' thought the German as he opened the case.
Inside the leather case was a folder, a black notebook, and what looked like two medical files. Picking up the folder, Volker opened it to find that it was filled with photos of Feliciano's friend 'Ludwig.' Turning a few of them over, the former German officer noticed that there were dates on the backs.
'That can't be right.' Volker thought when he saw the date on the back of the photo containing both 'Ludwig' and Feliciano. The date said that the image was taken in the year of 19XX. That was about five years ago and they had not age a day. This just increased Volker's curiosity.
Setting down the folder, he then picked up the black notebook. Opening the notebook to a random page, Volker read a section of an entry:
... Ludwig Beilschmidt könnte einer der vermeintlichen Nationen aus Legende. Das Thema hat Anzeichen von Wetterkatastrophen oder ihn beeinflussen gezeigt. Weitere Daten müssen gesammelt werden, um sicher zu sein.
Auf der Seite, könnte die sogenannte Feliciano Vargas auch eine Nation zu sein. Er hat sein rund um vergangene Ereignisse zu Ludwig gebracht. Weitere Informationen können müssen sicherstellen, dass diese Theorie stimmt werden.
(... Ludwig Beilschmidt might be one of the supposed nations from legend. The subject has shown signs of weather or disasters affecting him. More data may need to be collected to be sure.
On the side note, the one called Feliciano Vargas might also be a nation. He has brought up being around past events to Ludwig. More information may be need to make sure this theory is true.)
'Human Nations? Are they crazy?' thought Volker, 'And if they are of legend how come I never heard of them?'
Setting down the notebook, the former SS officer then picked up the first medical file. As he flipped through the pages, Volker could see that they were documentation on the procedures that the doctors had performed on Ludwig. Glancing at the notes on one of the pages Volker read:
Selbst jetzt den Körper der Person beginnt die Regeneration der Knochen, Muskeln und Haut, die wir entfernt haben. Der einzige negative Reaktion auf, was scheint, eine natürliche Reaktion des Körpers sein, ist das Motiv der verlorene Körpergewicht...
(Even now the subject's body starts the regeneration of the bone, muscle, and skin that we have removed. The only negative reaction to what appears to be a natural body reaction is the subject is the lost of body weight...)
Now knowing that someone documented a person as a subject just added to the sickness of the experiments. It made Volker almost not want to know what was in the other file.
Picking the file up, Volker began to open it when the handle to the main door started to turn. Slamming the suitcase close and stuffing the file into his jacket, Volker made a beeline for the hidden door.
(...)
"So that is how you found out about us." respond England to Volker's tale.
"Well, I did more research before I truly believed." answered the German.
"But that didn't answer my question. How did you know where to look for us?" asked Ludwig.
"I mentioned it in my research, I found out Feliciano's last name, so I went to Italy, but when I went to Feliciano's last known address. The place looked like no one had been there in months." Answer Volker.
(Feliciano)
No one home in months? Where have you gone Romano?
"Anyway, I then thought about what I had said to Feliciano: about running and surviving. If I was trying to survive, I would leave Germany and go to the Allies. But I would not go to France because it is to close to the battle front and Russia has that shoot first, ask questions later attitude. So that left England."
"I'm impressed that you were able to make it here." Said America. He had been quite until now.
"It wasn't easy. Just to cross the channel, I had to hide away on a carrier." answer Volker. "Once I made it to the shore, I had to find where in England Feliciano and Ludwig were staying. By the way you need to improve your security in your government buildings."
Hearing this caused Arthur to sit up straighter. "I'll get right on it."
"Oh by the way, you may want this." Said Volker as he reached into his dirt covered coat. the German then pulled out the medical file that he had stolen from the SS headquarters.
"I believe you may want to take a look at what is inside." said Volker as he hand the file to Arthur. This caused America, Italy, and Germany to gather around England.
" What's it say. I can't read it" spoke Alfred.
"That is because it is in German." answer Ludwig.
"So what does it say?"
"Something about a project called Traugott."
"That is not all. Take a look at the image on the last page." said Volker.
Flipping to the back, like the former officer had said, the four nations' eyes widen in shock. The page had a photo stapled to it. The photo contained an image that looked identical to Germany! Seeing the photo made Ludwig pull away from the group, as he grabbed his head in rage.
"Well, this explains a lot." Said England, as he kept looking at the file, even though Feliciano had turned to face Ludwig. America on the other hand had turn his focus to Volker.
"What Arthur means is that nations have seen Project Traugott." Explained Alfred when he saw the puzzlement on the former SS officer's face.
Meanwhile, while America was talking to Volker, Feliciano reached out and placed his hand on the German nation's arm. "Are you okay, Ludwig?"
"Nien!" (NO!) Answer Ludwig as he clenched his fists.
"Ludwig..."
"I went through all those experiments...all that pain...and they made a copy...a doppelganger of me. A clone of me that is under the influence of Hitler and his party."
Not sure how to respond to what Germany had said, Feliciano remained silent.
"I need to go outside for a bit." said Ludwig as he pulled away from Italy and exited the living room and then the house.
"Ludwig!" called out Italy as he ran after the German.
Later (America)
It has been about two hours since Volker has told us about what has been happing in the country of Germany. Once I got around that he was a former SS officer , he is a pretty reasonable guy.
On a side note, I'm not sure what to say to Germany about the clone 'Traugott.' it must be very disturbing to Germany to know that your government has made a copy of you. Talk about invasion. I just wish there was something I could say to him.
Germany had been outside since he had left England's house. Instead of staying in the front yard or the back yard, Ludwig had disappeared into the forest, the same forest that Italy and he had his picnic a few weeks ago. The German nation just wanted to be alone.
Rubbing his left eye socket, Germany gazed out at the waterfall. It was hard for him to gather his thoughts after what information that Volker had told him. The former German officer had also answer the question about the coughing fits and the strange dreams.
"Ludwig! Ludwig! Where are you?" The German heard Feliciano shout out, breaking the silence of the forest. "Come on this is not funny!"
Deciding that he had enough of being alone to his thoughts and of Feliciano's yelling, Ludwig called out. " I am over here."
Listening to Italy stagger through the bushes, tress and other forest growth, Ludwig rubbed his eye once again.
"Ludwig!" exclaimed Feliciano when the German nation came to his vision. "You shouldn't have run off like that. When I couldn't find you, I panicked. I thought that you were hurt or in danger."
"I'm sorry, Feliciano." Ludwig spoke as he watched the Italien approach him. "What I found out when Volker talked to us...it got to me."
Embracing the German nation, Feliciano looked into Ludwig's face. He could see the worry in his face. "I can't begin to understand how you fell right now, but as I already said I'll stay by your side."
"I know and thank you." spoke Ludwig as he return the hug.
The two remained like that for a few minutes until Ludwig moved his arm to rub his eye again.
"What's wrong?" asked Feliciano when he noticed Ludwig's actions.
"I don't know but my left eye socket feels weird." Answered Germany.
"You should get it looked at by Herbert. If we head back to England now, maybe we could get him to see you today."
Later (Germany)
When Feliciano and I returned to England's home, we were surprised by how well England and America were getting along with Volker.
"Hey guys. Nice to see that you came back." America said when he saw the Axis nations.
"Well, where else are they going to go?" responded England. The British nation felt that America's statement was a little on the dumb side.
Volker, who was helping in the preparing of a meal with England, just remained silent. He did not want to get involved in the argument.
"Please Arthur, I don't want to fight."
"Then don't say stupid things."
This made America turn around before releasing a sigh.
Noticing this , Feliciano said. "Hey Arthur, I think something is burning." in order to break up the fight.
Turning to the stove, England start his focus on the meal.
After dinner, the nations and Volker returned to the living room.
"Oh by the way, I called Dr. Asimov. I thought that he could take a look at any wounds you might have, Volker." Said England.
"Thank you." Answer Volker.
"That's good to hear." exclaimed Italy. Ludwig ad he had meant to talk to the British nation about contacting the doctor but was distracted by England and America argument.
"What do you mean by that, Feliciano? Are you sick?" asked Arthur.
"It is not him that needs to talk to Dr, Herbert, but me." answer Germany.
"What's wrong?"
"My left eye socket has been bugging me."
"Oh, I see..." with that comment the room fell silent, each person lost in their own thoughts.
"So what are we going to do now?" Alfred asked the question that must have been on everyone's mind.
"I need to get control of my country back." answer Germany.
"You know that will be hard. I may been able to escape Berlin but crossing Europe was very difficult." spoke Volker.
"I know that. Plus on top of that I just can't walk into Berlin and throw Hitler out."
"You'll need an army to do that." Said America.
"I know..."
