How a Dimitrescu Heart Beats

by Steiger4045

After an argument ensues after a stressful day with Bela Dimitrescu and her sisters. A quiet getaway turns into something that will build into much more than the eldest Dimitrescu discovered

15. Chapter 15: Exposed

How a Dimitrescu Heart Beats

Chapter 15 - Exposed

No. 8 Mittenwalder Straße

Berlin, Nazi Germany

January 2, 1941

The slumbering form of Victor Raddu, laid shirtless. His previous evening attire strewn around the apartment, from a most joyous event, his evening with Traudl.

Minus the interruption from the agents tracking the young man's aunt to some residence with a German officer, the night went better than the young Raddu expected.

The woman provided only the most wonderful company, with her gorgeous smile, affectionate laughter, and divine sweet taste of her lips. In short, Victor would not hesitate to pursue something…more…a future was a possibility with this magnificent young woman, and he would see it through.

With the stress of this Heisenberg nonsense, it was an evening that both were overdue to have with each other. The company they provided was a tremendous relief, one they shared and would not forget.

Finally home, Victor Raddu was fast asleep. His smooth breathing, and even a small smile that showed on his smooth face, indicated a likely wonderful dream. And it was, involving that future he had envisioned with the young Traudl Braun, as she stood beside the youngest Raddu sibling in a massive auditorium.

A large crowd of people, surrounded by the waving red Swastika flags, and the closest entourage to Hitler. Loud cheers and applause echoed, as Victor stood firm at attention, as his Fuhrer approached with a smile, while holding a small black box. And just as he approached Victor, during this joyful occasion. A different moment happened.

Ring…..ring…..ring…

The moment ended, with the phone rattling with ringing so loudly on the nightstand beside the peaceful form of the young man.

Annoyed, he felt his temper begin to heighten, as he slightly moved across the bed, and reached for the receiver. He fought every urge to throw the phone away, but calmed himself and spoke into the phone clearly irritated, and almost mumbling, "Yes…what the hell do you want at this hour?"

The voice responded, not the slightest bit impressed with the young Raddu's demeanour, "Victor! What the hell did you say to me? Where the hell are you? You're late for work, we have an urgent meeting in the next hour!"

The highly angered voice of Major Klein, snapped the young man out of his sleepy and irritated mood. Turning almost red, the shirtless form of Victor, immediately came out of bed and snapped to attention, as if facing his commander in person. He responded back, feeling quite guilty and embarrassed, "Herr Sturmbannführer. I…I am so sorry, I overslept and didn't know.."

Not even completing his reasoning with his commanding officer, Major Klein spoke into the phone, clearly exasperated but with clear instructions, "I don't wanna hear your damn sorry excuses Victor. Get dressed. I am sending my driver to your apartment. Bring all the reports on the Heisenberg case. He will want to hear it all and you will be briefing him."

The urge to ask Major Klein, who was "him?" was very great, but instead went with a simple response, "Zu befehl Herr Sturmbannführer."

And with that, the line went dead on the other end. Leaving Victor standing with no cover to his upper body, only standing in his undergarments.

The man slowly returned the receiver to its place and walked to the bathroom quickly.

He stared deeply at the mirror, at himself. With no expression, the young man just stared deeply, as if trying to look into himself for something.

But not even a blink of a moment, did the expression change into a deep frown, and snarling expression. The anger was surging as his fist then closed tight and firm. The anger boiled into a rage point.

But his anger wasn't geared at the wake up call, or Major Klein, or even himself. It all surged from something else entirely….

Ludmilla…The Heisenberg family…the filth of these Jews and other bastards that infect Europe with their deceit, lies and corruption…I will ensure they all know my name, Victor Raddu….I'll make the swine beg for death when facing me…I will not stop until they all pay for what they have done to not just me, nor Germany, nor our Fuhrer, but our world.

His silent pledge made, Victor nodded and continued his preparations for the morning. Quickly putting together the scattered report files, dressing into his grey SD uniform on top of a brown shirt and tie. He dashed out the door, almost forgetting his wallet and identification papers.

Reich Security Main Office

Prinz-Albrecht-Straße,8

Berlin, Nazi Germany

January 2, 1941

The drive to the central office of the Third Reich's intelligence was done quite rapidly and quickly. Major Klein's elderly driver maneuvered through various side streets and shortcuts, until the black Mercedes came to a screeching halt at the doors of the large building.

Two SS sentries stood outside the building with rifles slung over their shoulders, exchanged glances of surprise and confusion. But snapped to attention, when they saw the rank of the officer come out of the back of the black car.

Like a marathon runner, Victor paid no attention to neither the driver nor guards, as he dashed like a lightning bolt into the Reich Security Main Office lobby. He nearly forgot to show his identification papers to a bewildered SS sergeant at a desk, who didn't know what to think of the profusely sweating form of Captain Victor Raddu.

Once his papers were returned, Victor made a mad dash to the stairs. On a handful occasions, did the youngest Raddu nearly collide into various personnel, including a number of higher ranked officers. Words and gestures were given by the frustrated personnel to the rapid moving form of Victor Raddu.

The echoes of the clumping up the stairs were loudly heard in the stairwell. At some point, Victor even began to skip some of the wooden steps, going up every two or three steps . As his leather satchel with the field reports on the Heisenberg matter, we're secured and held tightly to Victor's upper form, like a child holding a dear stuffed animal so close to them.

As the young Raddu reached the floor of his and Major Klein's office, he was stopped by the still form of a frowning man on their floor. He had to use every muscle to avoid a nasty collision with his commanding officer, Major Klein.

Dropping his satchel, Victor sweatily and nervously snapped to attention with his arm firm in salute, "Heil Hitler! Herr Sturmbannführer."

All the young Raddu got in return from the angered man was a curved right hand and a brief set of words, "Heil Hitler Victor. I'm pleased you made it on time today. Now enough of this charade. We are needed for an important meeting upstairs, let's go."

Bewildered at this set of events, Victor grabbed his satchel and followed Major Klein who had already begun ascending to the upper levels of the building. The young Raddu couldn't help but wonder where they were going, but not once asked. Instead found himself with constant apologies and lame excuses for his display of unprofessionalism, something Victor took quite personally to ensure he was at his best all the time.

He mentally cursed himself, as he knew much better than to show up late, disorderly in appearance, and nearly collide with the office personnel. His conduct was clearly swinish, and he gave another pledge to himself, to better his actions in the future.

While he prepared himself, swatting off his long grey winter coat the bits of snow or other dirt, Victor became aware they were already at the higher levels of the Reich Security Main Office, an area he knew very little about, let alone had any experience with any entry to.

It was the upper levels that were closed off to Victor's rank and lower, that only Major Klein and the higher ranks along with the various other ministries or higher entourage to Hitler, were permitted. Usually Reichsführer Himmler was the only one to be seen at these upper areas of the building. Frequent secret meetings regarding this matter or that matter, centered around internal security to the Nazi regime. Particularly the Jewish matters plagued across not just Germany but now the occupied areas of Europe.

Finally reaching after what seemed like an endless row of wooden steps, the two officers turned down a length of hall, approaching a set of double doors, with a massive wooden carved eagle with the Swastika emblem carved into it. Two SS guards stood at firm attention, with their MP40 submachine guns held in their hands. The one young private knew of Major Klein, but demanded the identification papers from Victor, while glaring at the youngest Raddu intensely.

Victor was stunned, but complied with the level of security, as he foresaw the guard not enjoying a Captain being given access to the higher levels of the Reich's Security building. Major Klein would usually appreciate the level of security checks as routine, but they were also in a hurry, and he calmly spoke to the guard, "It's okay Oberschütze, he's with me, and we're running late."

The sentry snapped to attention, without checking over Victor's papers, and responded sharply, "Jawohl Herr Sturmbannführer." And with that, opened the first door to allow the officers entry.

Victor and Major Klein entered into a massive outer office, as the young man's eyes widened as large as a hen's eggs, glaring over the gorgeous artistic design of the massive room. Decorated with various propaganda posters, and a small portrait of Himmler, the gorgeous maroon colour and silver coloured lights and darker furniture gave it a pleasant looking almost hotel room. A small oak desk was seen to the side, as a middle aged woman secretary stood at attention, smiling at the Major and Victor, "Good day Herr Sturmbannführer Klein. He is expecting you."

Although the room seemed quite pleasant in both mood and atmosphere, there was one thing that stood out, a man seated at the far end of the room.

Dawning a clad black Allgemeine SS uniform, that was flawless in neatness and form. Carrying the rank of Captain, which caused a bit of nervousness to creep in the young Raddu's stomach.

But the most outstanding feature was the man's body form. Although seated, Victor could tell the man was quite tall. His muscular structure was quite notable, like that of a strongman from a circus act. His physical features also gave way to a pure "master race" look. His light blonde hair like fresh wheat and his blue eyes like the ocean, gave the man a "poster look" to how the German man should appear, or what the Nazis embedded into its citizens.

Still glaring at the man, Victor watched as the man now stood, and his height gave way to that of almost a giant. The SS Captain stood at firm attention, and stuck out a firm and muscular right arm, in Nazi salute to Major Klein and Victor. He was completely bewildered, as the large man was seemingly over seven feet in height.

Snapped out of his daze, the Major motioned Victor to step up to another set of double doors, he looked at the youngest Raddu directly into his light blue eyes, his voice was sharp and direct, "Whatever has happened. You must know that things will change, and you need to keep up with those changes. I hope that this meeting will sharpen your focus and determination to see….matters to rest."

Stunned at the words said, but not wanting to inquire further, Victor merely nodded and responded, "I understand Herr Sturmbannführer."

And with that, the door opened and the two entered for a moment, that took the breath out of Victor with the man standing at the front of a desk…

Eichmann….

It was a moment where time seemed to have frozen, when being faced with such a high ranked officer, Lieutenant Colonel Adolf Eichmann. But it wasn't the rank that was the notable thing about the man, or credentials, but the man himself.

To those who did not know much of the Lieutenant Colonel, were usually the ones who found the hard way, whether by allowing some administrative technicality work it's way, preventing his authority or orders from being enacted, rarely but when they did would face Eichmann and his sharp and peculiar way when dealing with set individuals.

He was a fanatical Nazi. Dedicated to systematic racial purification that both Hitler and Himmler had begun to set in motion. He was a dedicated individual, who was an expert on Jewish affairs, and the top advisor to Himmler and the other ministries when enforcing the Jewish policies in and out of the Reich's soil.

His most notable element was his appearance. Eichmann was a fairly tall, thin, and balding man. His dark eyes were behind a set of steel rimmed glasses, giving him a sharp expression. His still expression, rarely allowing even a small smile around those who had just met the man, had given Eichmann the appearance of a hardened school master that everyone feared. But his absolute ice cold and calm demeanour, brought even the bravest of beings to an all stand still, unable to read this fixated man's next move. Leaving the moments facing the director of department IV b4 of the Reich's Racial Department, unnerving.

Still catching his breath, and staring with more widened light blue eyes, than what Victor had witnessed in the next office, he dropped his satchel again, and snapped a right arm into the Nazi salute, "Heil Hitler Herr Oberstumbannfuhrer!"

At the same time, Major Klein fast approached the side of Eichmann's desk, snapping as well to attention with the click of his boots, echoing the large office. He too followed with a salute of the right arm.

The Lieutenant Colonel, raised his right arm slightly bent, returning the salute to the officers in the room, then slowly returned the arm behind his back. Eichmann, not turning to face the Major, opened up slowly and softly, "Your esteemed protégé on the Heisenberg case, Herr Sturmbannführer Klein?"

The Major turned slightly to look at the youngest Raddu sibling, with a sharp direct glare for a moment, then turned to face Eichmann, his tone sounding defeated, "Yes Herr Obersturmbannführer."

At that, Eichmann slowly stepped forward, his eyes never left Victor's for a second, his sharp tone dug into Victor like an elongated blade, "It would appear that you no longer seem capable of handling this investigation Herr Hauptsturmführer Raddu."

Stunned at those words to the core, for a moment the only thing that Victor could do, practically, was leave his dry mouth, slightly agape. He tried to fathom what Eichmann meant, "I'm afraid I don't understand Herr Obersturmbannführer."

Unperturbed, the Lieutenant Colonel began his slow walk around Victor, like a predator circling its wounded prey. His glare never left the youngest Raddu for a second. His tone was chillingly slow, and felt like a monstrous tentacle wrapped around Victor's throat, as Eichmann began, "No? Then allow me to…elaborate with you Hauptsturmführer Raddu."

After a moment, Eichmann continued while almost performing a slow methodical dance, "You have clearly…some unique interest in this matter indeed. Since you have tracked your…Aunt Ludmilla Stahler, 49 years old, a war widow…we know you have lived with the woman for years…after an unfortunate turn of events from your home in Romania."

Although showing signs of anxiety, Victor was not surprised by the amount of knowledge that Eichmann possessed on the young man. It was part of the recruitment into the SS, to be thoroughly checked, to ensure no linkage in one's family to any of the Reich's…unwanted races.

Eichmann watched Victor like a hawk, continuing and using his most direct point yet, "We know you had her arrested for marrying the Jew, Ernst Heisenberg. A 39 year old tailor from Frankfurt, moved to Berlin. But interestingly enough, you had her given an offer for freedom, to be turned down. And while our people questioned the primary suspect, the Jew, you had him sent to a camp. Instead of notifying me, fully knowing we would benefit from knowing more from Ernst Heisenberg on the key members of smuggling other Jews out of Germany."

Not relenting, he continued, "Instead you decided to release your dear aunt, who had no relevant information on anyone in the Heisenberg family. To be followed by two agents. Picked up by some army officer, and taken to some residence. Then when our operatives requested your operational authority to perform a raid to capture your aunt, they contacted you. Only to be ridiculed and berated in front of a reputable dining establishment in the city, while you enjoyed your hearty meal….and exquisite dessert…you were continuously contacted by Sturmbannfuhrer Klein, who had to contact me for permission to allow the agents to move on your aunt, by which time…she had left the residence with the army officer…how peculiar it was that you made no move on someone you have such an interest, wouldn't you say Herr Hauptsturmführer Raddu?"

Heavily breathing, with such widened eyes, Victor couldn't believe such words from the Lieutenant Colonel, with more than the entire impliance of them…

Eichmann thinks I let my aunt go on purpose? I wanted her to run away…that I would dare either harbour or allow a traitor to be free…

Eichmann could begin to see the effect of his words on the young Raddu Captain, and pressed another direct point or moreover question, his snake-like approach of tone, "However I do understand you indeed Herr Hauptsturmführer Raddu…and I am not without a heart. You are her nephew, and she is your aunt. It's not that you wish to upset or frighten the woman, than the trauma she has already endured. I mean it isn't that you would be coddling or…protecting an enemy of the state?"

Victor was now feeling exasperated beyond recognition, as he went from seeing Eichmann implying that Victor went from letting Ludmilla escape to assisting her further or protecting her. He came out without hesitation in the blink of an eye, his tone desperate to clear this misunderstanding, "Herr Obersturmbannführer, I am not protecting her. I am planning to use her."

Seemingly interested, Eichmann stopped his slow walk, and stood with a sharp eye on the young Raddu, "Oh? Explain."

While swallowing nervously, Victor did so, "I know that there are key members of the Jew family, the Heisenbergs. And since my aunt married into it, she will seek such aid from someone who has great influence or amounts of resources. Likely the uncle. Although we don't know the name of this man, I feel that my aunt will lead our operatives to him. In doing so, will help us round up the key members and question them thoroughly, until we get the key locations and shut this ratline down."

Nodding slowly at that, Eichmann spoke with his usual slow form of tone, "Ahh I do understand indeed, you feel likely…that you will catch more flies with honey than shit?"

Nodding and clearing his throat, Victor seemed pleased that his point may have saved his career…even life, "I feel that the results will speak for themselves, Herr Obersturmbannführer."

Eichmann merely stared Victor down for what seemed like an eternity, which was only a minute. After that, Eichmann finally spoke which didn't carry for the response that Victor had hoped for, "Despite which, I do feel that my confidence in your methods has been quite…dissatisfied."

With that, the Lieutenant Colonel walked over to the door, and opened part way. He spoke outside to someone, "Please come in Herr Hauptsturmführer."

Once said, the steps of large boots on the floor could be heard approaching, as the flawless black uniform stepped into the office.

Victor turned and stared at the behemoth sized man, as the SS Captain clicked his heels and raised his arm again in a Nazi salute to all in the room. Only Eichmann returned the salute, as he approached the young light brown haired Raddu, still staring in shock and awe.

After watching Victor's glare of admiration or even intimidation, Eichmann felt compelled to point out something, "This is Hauptsturmführer Hans Dietrich. He will help find…your lost aunt."

Not listening to what Eichmann had just said, Victor continued a hard stare at this overly sized man in the office, and sensed his thoughts that appeared almost…sympathetic…

God help you Ludmilla. You should've taken that deal. Now you will face not a man, but clearly someone who eats such filthy traitors like you for breakfast and tosses the bones away…

But another thought crept into Victor, that brought a horrible sense in his gut…dread. Not of this overly sized man, that could crush a human skull, but the rank of the man, Eichmann's theory of the young Raddu's reluctance to pursue Ludmilla. It was becoming clear as day. Victor was going to be replaced.

And suddenly a flood of memories from Victor's time in training in the SS school, his seminar in questioning enemies of the state, his meeting with the revered Reichsfuhrer on graduation and induction to the Reich Security Main Office, to the day he apprehended his aunt and the Jews at the ceremony. It was to be all for nothing.

The young Raddu felt his eyes begin to water, but refused to cry in front of the ice cold man, Eichmann. Not tears from failing his family, Anton, Lucille, Uncle Mihai, Aunt Ester, his late parents, Traudl, and finally himself.

Compelled to defeat, Victor raised his head and stared eye to eye with the Lieutenant Colonel, he let out one more breath and began, "Herr Obersturmbannführer. As I feel I have shattered your trust and confidence, that I be allowed to apologize for my lack of attention and integrity to this case, and that I shall never abuse such privileges, and as such conduct myself as an officer in the SS."

A raised eyebrow, as Eichmann looked deeply at Victor for a moment. He then responded, "My confidence and trust with you Hauptsturmführer Raddu, is shaken but not shattered. Despite my personal opinion, I'm afraid that these matters have taken quite notable attention….from other people."

Eichmann went to his desk and retrieved a white envelope before returning to Victor, and handing the young man the white document.

Victor took and glanced over the envelope, noticing no name it was addressed to, and even absent carrying any of the swastika emblems on it. Curiosity rose in the man, as he opened and pulled a letter that carried the Swastika emblem as well as the SS.

After a second of starting to read, Victor was beckoned by Eichmann firmly, "Aloud if you will Herr Hauptsturmführer."

Looking up from his readings, Victor gave a quick glance for permission, only to face the undeniable order to be complied with by Eichmann. He began reading aloud to the occupants in the room, giving his attention, "By personal order of the Fuhrer, and acting under my authority in regards to internal security of the Reich. Hauptsturmführer Raddu is to be assisted by all military and civilian personnel without distinction to rank in all manners in regards to his operational authority. Furthermore Victor Raddu is to be promoted to Sturmbannführer effective immediately. I look forward to his future success and intend to follow up when necessary. Reichsführer SS Heinrich Himmler."

After a few moments of brief silence, Eichmann allowed a small smile to creep on his thin face, "Well Victor, it would appear that under the terms of such a document, that I find myself under your personal command. So do a job, for the Fuhrer."

Still in absolute shock at the contents of the letter he just received and read, Victor pushed a question that crept into his mind. Although part of the young man wanted to stop from asking it, still used a calm tone with it, "Herr Obersturmbannführer. I don't understand the promotion for me, I'm presently serving under Herr Sturmbannführer Klein when dealing with this case."

Giving a brief but intense look at Major Klein, his rimmed glasses returned to Victor's confused blue eyes, and Eichmann clarified, "Herr Sturmbannführer Klein is to be transferred to another assignment…elsewhere due to some matters that the Reichsfuhrer has felt concerned with."

Nothing more was pressed from Eichmann with that chilling answer received. A gut feeling just told Victor Raddu, that Major Klein was facing a death sentence or a very horrible place to eat away at the man's SS career.

With his point made, Eichmann further added, "Hauptsturmführer Dietrich, will take your vacant position in your office. Do not allow the man's strength to give way to making you think he's some mindless brute with no brains. Hauptsturmführer Dietrich is a graduate from the University of Munich in psychology. He's also a scholar like myself on Jewish affairs. But yes his strength does come in handy….when questioning such enemies of the Reich."

Victor turned once more to look up and eye the huge sized man, almost feeling like an ant compared to the size of Captain Dietrich. He also knew what Eichmann meant. This man may seem like an educated scholar, but underneath the brains, was a monster that would tear the Fuhrer's enemies like toys when given the opportunity.

With the conversation seemingly over, Victor picked up his satchel, and gave Eichmann a firm Nazi salute along with the large man Dietrich, together, "Heil Hitler Herr Obersturmbannführer."

A returned curved right hand, with a soft, "Heil Hitler."

Once done, Victor left the office not fast enough with his new aide trailing not far behind.

Moments later, the two officers made it to Major Klein's former office. Traudl was at her desk, when she saw that dashing young Raddu enter into the outer office, who the young woman greeted quite enthusiastically. Once she saw the large form of Captain Dietrich enter, became visibly nervous.

Victor greeted the gorgeous secretary with some shyness, unsure what to say after the incredible time they had together. Finally pulling himself together, he shared the news from Eichmann and showed the letter to Traudl.

After digesting all the information from the youngest Raddu sibling's mouth and the letter, Traudl was left both speechless and elated for a moment, before showing off that adorable smile. Her voice carried such mirth, "Oh my…Victor a promotion, how delightful. Congratulations."

Turning slightly red, Victor quietly cleared a matter with the young secretary, "Thank you Traudl. I am still dealing with the changes myself. But please let's continue to use addressment of rank on duty."

Victor was unsure if he came off a tad rude at that, but he felt out of place having Traudl use his first name, as opposed to being addressed by rank. Especially when someone who neither person knew, like Captain Dietrich was present.

To his surprise, Traudl was the one who turned quite red in embarrassment, and spoke softly, "Oh..I apologize Here Haupt….erm I mean Herr Sturmbannführer."

The young Raddu merely chuckled lightly, helping clear any tension, "It's fine Traudl, we can talk about other things later." Victor then turned and faced the overly large SS officer, and spoke with a small bit of enthusiasm, "Traudl, please let me introduce Hauptsturmführer Dietrich. He will be taking my vacant spot in our office. Ensure he is promptly briefed on all matters and routines in our department."

It was clear just as it was with Victor's first meeting, that the secretary had never seen such a specimen of a man of this stature. She didn't know whether to run or openly greet, but merely stared in awe.

To the shock of the two, it was Captain Dietrich who carried himself in such a formal manner. The blonde haired large man approached and took one hand of the young woman, and bowed leaving his face only inches from the front of Traudl's hand, snapping his heels together. He carried such a low voice, but calming like a soft round of thunder in the distance, "A pleasure Fraulein to work with you."

The woman turned slightly red, as she never expected another man to use such a…formal

approach on her, nor show such a soft and calm voice, but brushing the large man as an oversized scary being. It was quite relieving to work with a seemingly, "friendly giant." She responded shyly but politely, "The pleasure is mine, Herr Hauptsturmführer."

After a brief moment of silence enveloped between the two, Victor nodded satisfied at the friendly introduction. He then opened up, with his charming smile and soothing voice, "Well, now that we are all acquainted with another. Traudl, please brew up some of that incredible coffee and join me in the…office."

The woman smiled radiantly, although noticing Victor's voice trailing at mention of his entry into the former commander's office. Noting that he clearly felt unsure about the whole promotion position, and taking over from a man, that the young Raddu had nothing but respect for. She didn't pry and left promptly out of the office to a small kitchenette down the hall.

With that done, both Victor and Dietrich entered into the office. The young Raddu noticed that the large man had to duck to enter the doorway slightly, causing him to let a small smirk creep into his face.

Once inside, Victor removed his large trench coat and hung it on a large black wooden coat rack. Dietrich approached, all at the same time studying the large office. It seemed to him to be quite organized, but noted the unusual luxurious looking small bar in the far end, with a few glasses with remains of the alcohol still in them. The large man had found it quite unusual that the former commander who ran this office, indulged in such a habit that was against regulations on duty, that such was it enforced, only a handful of SS officers partook in such a wasteful habit.

With his coat hung up, Victor returned to the desk, and opened his satchel on the table and pulled out a couple dark folders, and placed them orderly on the desk. He watched in almost comical fashion, as the large man, Captain Dietrich slowly sat himself in a chair that seemed to be almost a touch too small, but the officer did not complain.

Smirking at the Captain sat across from him, the young Raddu took his seat, and began his "get to know" of his new coworker, "With such a impressive stature, I imagine you are quite an astute person who has been involved in some form of physical activity or sport?"

Clearly catching the large man off guard with the question, Dietrich slowly nodded and responded with his soft thunder sounding voice, "Yes Herr Sturmbannführer, quite astute indeed. Before the war, I was involved in boxing for a few years. I faced numerous people across Europe, and used the money to pay for my schooling in the university. I even tried to join the Olympic team in '36, but became ill and missed my chance."

Nodding, and clearly very impressed, the young Raddu leaned back with his arms folded, "How unfortunate Herr Hauptsturmführer. But with you being that type of athlete, it would seem you are quite keen to facing a challenge?"

Without even blinking, the large man nodded in firm agreement, understanding the hidden message to the question, "Yes Herr Sturmbannführer. There has never been a challenge I didn't overcome or…knock down."

Grinning at the answer, from a man that would not hesitate to break, literally, anyone who dared oppose the two. He felt a sense of both relief and even some sympathy that would cross this gigantic specimen.

With his well defined answer, Victor continued, "Good…good Dietrich, because we will face a lot of challenges here. We already are facing quite a one, with this Heisenberg matter. And the elusiveness of this Jewish family and other Jews has been quite….embarrassing."

Dietrich simply nodded, while focusing on the set of words from the newly appointed Major Raddu, "Although the Sturmbannführer Klein had me working in another office, I wish you to work in mine. I feel a man of your talents should help find such a crack in this investigation, and with our two heads and dedication to fixing this set of problems, should put these damned rodents to rest once and for all."

Before the large man could respond, the door opened, and in strode the young secretary carrying a large silver tray with three steaming cups, milk, sugar, and a few silver spoons. An envelope was also visible on the tray as the young woman fast approached, with such elegance like a waitress bringing a customer's order.

Once she delivered the tray, she handed the young Major Raddu an envelope, with quite a spark of excitement seen on her face and voice, "An orderly from Herr Obersturmbannführer Eichmann, arrived just now to give you this Herr Sturmbannfuhrer."

Victor nodded and opened the envelope, extracting a set of four shoulder ranked chevrons and one collar insignia, showing the rank of Major. While pouring the officers their coffee and her, she spoke with a perky voice, "Then it is official now. Congratulations Herr Sturmbannführer Raddu."

Caught off guard at that, and still taking in the fast new promotion, Victor just slowly nodded with such a shy and unsure expression carried over his face.

Dietrich, who poured the saucer of milk into his cup, also spoke up with clear admiration, "Indeed, congratulations Here Sturmbannfuhrer."

Still unsure, Victor remained speechless while holding one of the badges in his hand and could only mutter a quiet, "Thank you."

After a few moments of golden silence, it was Traudl who took a small sip of her steaming beverage, who broke the ice, "May I have your uniform attended and adjusted to display your rank Herr Sturmbannfuhrer?"

Nearly choking on his coffee, Victor slowly swallowed the hot fluid from his cup, before clearing his throat, "Erm..of course Traudl, please. Have my uniform attended to, and brought back when it's ready."

Traudl enthusiastically nodded, as she finished her cup quickly, and set it on the tray. She then approached, just as the young Raddu began to unbutton his tunic.

It was a thrill of a moment for the young woman, to watch the heroic and dashing man undress. She blushed brightly, as she watched the upper uniform come off, and took it. The secretary glared at the broad and well toned shoulders, although not as well defined as Captain Dietrich, she didn't care. Too much muscle was a large…turn off to the young woman.

Victor now stood, with just his light brown shirt and suspenders hanging off his shoulders, as he handed Traudl the tunic. The two had a moment of deep staring into each other's eyes. An urge for the two to get closer was felt in the moment. Even Dietrich watched with morbid curiosity that the two may share a moment, causing him to grin.

Clearing his throat, Victor quietly thanked the young and amazing radiant woman. Nodding, Traudl gave a small smile, and took the tunic and large trench coat to be attended to.

Before leaving, Victor spoke instructions to the two occupants in the room, "When you're done, Traudl, report back to me. I also want you to bring me all field reports, statements, even any unconfirmed reports and leads on anyone or anything related to the Heisenberg family. Bypass whatever department you have to under my authority, we need to find this so-called, "uncle." Too many Jews and other non Germaniacs have eluded and escaped us. We are now under close eyes of both the Reichsführer and the Fuhrer himself. We cannot afford any further mistakes."

Traudl smiled and responded without question, "I'll see it done, Herr Sturmbannführer." And with that, took both parts of the young man's uniform and left the office. Victor then turned to face the large seated Captain, "Dietrich, head down stairs, and grab everything and everything on this Heisenberg family. We'll get work, and put these puzzle pieces together. I'm sure we will find a clue and be able to link something here."

Clicking his heels and saluting with his right arm, the man stood at attention, towering over his commanding officer, "Jawohl Herr Sturmbannführer."

And with that, Victor watched the giant man leave his office. Letting a breath out, Victor opened a silver case, pulling out and lighting a cigarette, as he opened and began rereading his report while making quick notes.

A good part of the day was all but done, as the sun was beginning to go down over the capital of fascism. Much of the Reich's personnel in the Security Intelligence building had departed for the day. Only a small amount of staff and guards remained in the building, as snow started to fall and decorate the roofs and streets below of the Nazi metropolis.

Inside the building, two officers sat across from one another, with large amounts of binders, papers, photographs laid strewn in a messy pile on a large oak desk. The ashtray on one end, was becoming almost filled with a large contingent of cigarette butts.

Most importantly, the after effect of such a large load of reading and research put in, just to find any and all leads that would bring the youngest Raddu sibling to his goal, the Heisenberg uncle, and finally the escaped aunt Ludmilla Stahler.

Feeling strained and worn, like butter spread over far too much bread, Victor leaned back in his seat, while holding a half smoked cigarette, it's thin line of smoke flowing into the air. Only through the endless pots of coffee made, and the assistance of Traudl, who persistently requested Victor to be allowed to stay behind and help where needed. The woman was a Godsend to him. If it wasn't for her, Victor would've burned out long before.

Despite it all, and Dietrich's seemingly endless note taking, the effect was taking over Victor slowly, as he felt his heavy light blue eyes become heavy, and yearn so dearly to close.

Letting out a frustrated breath, the young Raddu rubbed his tired face, "Ugh. It seems like we are getting nowhere. All these leads we have confirmed are lost. These damn Jews have either escaped or been arrested and deported across the Reich. Others shot by trigger happy men, who feel their bullets show far more results than their fucking brains."

Dietrich put his pencil down for once, as he let out a small breath, nodding slowly, "This family is indeed quite extensive, but we seem to be stranded at a crossroads Herr Sturmbannfuhrer."

Feeling exhaustion and stress setting in, Victor put out his cigarette, then leaned back in his seat. His eyes finally gave way to closing slowly, and felt his breathing easing, as sleep began to creep in. The large SS Captain picked his pencil up and combed through another file, while scribbling notes.

Just as all hope seemingly dried up, like water under a hot sun, the moment turned as the door to Victor's office swung open.

Striding in with a quick pace, came Traudl with a number of papers in her grey sleeved arm. Her face carried both excitement and surprise.

Victor opened his eyes partially, while speaking ever exhausted, "Yes Traudl, something wrong?"

The brunette arrived, and placed one paper hurriedly in front of the young Raddu, and spoke with quite excitement, "No Herr Sturmbannführer. I found something…quite interesting about this man." And she leaned in and pointed, Victor snapped out his sleepy daze, and focused on the document in front of him.

She began after catching her breath, "This man, Joachim Heisenberg. A fallen soldier from the Great War. He has two brothers. One we have little information of, as he left after the war with a small family to Romania. The other stayed in Germany, and became a prolific Jewish author and writer, Jurgen Heisenberg."

Seemingly interested, but unsure if this lead had been dealt with, the young Raddu asked sleepily, "Hasn't this man been rounded up like the other Jews in Germany?"

Shaking her head and smiling, "No Herr Sturmbannführer. He's been a very lucky person not to be. But the interesting factor, comes from his brother who passed during combat in the Great War. I did some more research and digging. I found out Joachim served in the 97th Infantry Division, alongside another man…who you may know quite well, that I circled on this document."

Handing another sheet of paper of men who served with this Jew, Joachim Heisenberg, was a lengthy list. But the circled name caused Victor to freeze and fully awaken. He read the name quite slowly, while held back but the reveal.

Ludwig Menshel

With a hand now placed on his head, and his eyes closing. He felt a stir of rage build in him. As he was now not only betrayed by his aunt, but his former commanding officer in the army. That now the Heisenberg had a military contact, and worse its resources available.

Seeing her point made, Traudl smiled widely and continued her briefing, "More interesting is after the Great War, Ludwig married a sister to the Heisenberg brothers, Seline Heisenberg. They had a child, a son, but she abandoned the two shortly after birth in 1921. The son later died in action in Poland in '39. But the man, you knew Ludwig continued his army career."

The pieces now fit just…like that now. As Victor stood from his seat, stretching his worn back muscles, a nasty crunch was heard. He walked to the window, noticing the street lights on, and the large number of the city's denizens were gone canvassing the streets, with the odd car seen driving about.

Letting out a breath, Victor tuned to face the large Captain and brunette secretary, awaiting the young man's response to this incredible find, they didn't have to wait long, "You know my friends, anyone who has served in the military knows, that when you leave your family, you enter a "new" one. You meet your comrades and eat, sleep, laugh, cry, and most importantly fight together. But there is truly a special bond established between you and your men, or even towards one man."

Dietrich entered in a few words to summarize, "A form of brothers in arms. Where promises are made, sometimes pledges to pass on messages to loved ones. Even can be so deep as that man will look after the family when the man of the house has been killed."

With a pointed finger and a large grin, Victor clicked in, "Exactly Dietrich. So let's say…I am Joachim Heisenberg, and you are that slime of a traitor Ludwig Menshel. We meet on the front, become good friends after a week in the trenches, share all of our life stories with one another. I die in combat, and ask you to promise me to send my love to the Jewish family, the Heisenbergs, or more likely to look after the family. You oblige and return to Germany, and get close to the family. You eventually get to meet the sister, get married, and even have a child. Now your wife may leave you but you still remain close to the family."

Picking up a cigarette and lighting it, Victor continued, "And that watchful eye and assistance is especially important from you, with the Nazis rise to power, and the racial policies enforced. The Heisenberg family and their friends are all in danger. So you Ludwig would get involved, while using the limitless resources of the Wehrmacht to assist. And at times as dangerous as it is for Jews, it would come at a most…convenient time indeed."

Dietrich looked over his notes, his sharp blue eyes canvassing over the material written. His low powerful voice, "Everything fits indeed Herr Sturmbannführer, this Jurgen must be the uncle as well. A writer would have access to materials to write, such as forged documents, stamps, and with the army involved would have access to its transportation…perhaps even personnel, to."

Before even completing another word, the phone on the desk rang loudly, startling all three occupants. Not missing a beat, Victor grabbed it, his voice seemed quite excited as if expecting something quite developing, "Sturmbannführer Raddu…yes I am in charge now…WHAT?….Where?….no…no…no have them detained and secured, I am having Hauptsturmführer Dietrich to arrive there shortly…and before you go, what is their name?…excellent….thank you…Heil Hitler."

Slamming the phone down with some force, Traudl looked concerned, and softly spoke, "Is everything okay Herr Sturmbannführer?"

Victor gave her a sharp look, but was smiling from ear to ear, his excitement quite visible, "Better than okay my dear Traudl. That was the station master in Dresden's Hauptbahnhof. A train was stopped there on the way to Prague. A local small town Burgmeister and his family reported a family of Jews on the train. The Jewish family was pulled off, and apparently were reported being in possession of suspicious papers. They are being held and secured by a Hauptsturmführer Fassbinder."

A lead seemingly too good to be true, the large SS Captain inquired, "And the name Herr Sturmbannführer?"

Smiling now with teeth showing, Victor quietly answered, "Jurgen Heisenberg."

Now Dietrich grinned, while sharing a glance with a wide smiling Traudl Braun. But before another word was said, the young Major Victor Raddu cleared his throat and spoke to the oversized man, "Dietrich, head down to that station. Find Hauptsturmführer Fassbinder, and where the Heisenbergs are being held. Have them watched closely and secured. Absolutely no harm is to come to them, no more trigger happy soldiers at these Jews, ensure it's done. I shall be arriving in a few hours."

Dietrich stood like a massive statue, snapping his heels and raising his arm, "Zu befehl Herr Sturmbannführer."

And with that, the large SS Captain left the office to get to Dresden.

To that end the youngest Raddu sibling turned to Traudl, giving the woman a dashing and hearty smile, "Excellent word Traudl, please take the day off tomorrow you deserve it. Your findings were the key to the case, you have no idea how grateful I am that you are here."

Blushing brightly, the young secretary walked to Victor, and planted a small kiss on his cheek, nearly causing the young Raddu to melt. Her voice was so soft, and her eyes mesmerizing as she looked deep into the man, "I'm always here for you Victor. I'm glad to help with anything you need…and more perhaps another time. Now go get your bandits."

Victor stared dumbfounded and nodded slowly. With that done, Traudl gave one more grin, then turned to leave the office. Sensually swaying her hips to give the light brown haired young man a small show. And with that, she was gone. Victor lit another cigarette, before assembling some papers together, reading through them slowly.

Dresden Main Station

Dresden, Nazi Germany

January 2, 1941

The sky was heavily clouded, and sprinkled light specks of snow on the occupants of the city below. Many were resting, but another group at the station was on the way to a most…unfortunate journey.

Being smacked by the butts of rifles, clubs, and hands were rows of people. Barely clothed to shield against the bitter cold, with the odd one falling down on the snow covered ground. The large group of people, old men, adults, children of both male and female genders were being herded like animals to wooden box cars, while being sprayed by locomotive engine exhaust.

The masses were being watched by a nasty group of men, shouting, "Schnell!!!Los!!!Verdammt Juden Schweine!!"

The odd one carried a ferocious guard dog, barking away and bore ferocious fanged teeth.

Near the activity of the people being assembled and put on the train, a set of headlights from a black Mercedes, dawning the SS license plate, approached and stopped near the crowd. A group of rifle armed SS guards snapped to attention, and a thin grey coated SS officer approached the stopped vehicle, and opened the back passenger door. Snapping a firm right sleeved arm up, and with a nasal voice the grim-looking faced man beckoned, "Heil Hitler Herr Sturmbannführer." The officer looked as if the workload had worn and stressed the man, but still looked sharp and focused.

The open coated man, stepped out as his black boots crunched in the snow, as Victor Raddu came out of the car, holding a leather satchel and gave a brief look and right bent arm salute, "Heil Hitler Hauptsturmführer?"

The thin faced Captain smiled and bowed slightly, "Fassbinder Herr Sturmbannführer. I was the one who was sent to investigate activity regarding fleeing Jews on this train."

Smiling, but turning his head quickly towards a loud POP sound. He noticed an SS sentry had shot with a rifle, some old man, then returned to his position and continued to yell at the crowd. Fassbinder nodded and pointed at the large group of people, "Sad…these damn vermin move like snails, and that man was clearly shot obviously for not keeping up with the group. A mixed bag, communists, gypsies, other degenerates..but mostly Jews…work detail to the east, I hear the guards mention possibly Treblinka in Poland."

Nodding slowly, while continuing to watch the group of people being hurriedly along into the selected train cars, Victor began to imagine, they whole slew of Heisenbergs, their friends, that damn traitor Menshel, and finally Ludmilla…being pushed, kicked, punched, and hauled away to one of those camps in the east.

After letting out a slow frosty breath, the young Major Raddu turned to the officer, "Where is the man who reported the family on the train?" The coated SS officer motioned Victor to follow, "He's over here Herr Sturmbannführer. Burgmeister Schaufmann, mayor of Freiburg."

The two men walked in the direction of the station platform, towards a man, wearing a dark overcoat, shirt and tie. He was quite an obese man, with short dark hair, and small brown eyes. His coat carried the "National Socialist Workman's Party" emblem, with a tiny Swastika pin. Standing by a stopped, large passenger train and smoking a cigar.

When Victor and the SS officer arrived, the man tossed his cigar away, and raised a bent right arm, "Heil Hitler gentlemen."

Victor and Fassbinder raised their bent arms, softly chanting, "Heil Hitler." Fassbinder then introduced the young Major Raddu, with a brief summary, "This is Herr Burgmeister Schaufmann of Freiburg, Herr Sturmbannführer. He was the one who reported the Jews on the train."

Smiling at that, the young Raddu shook the mayor's hand, with extended compliments, "The Reich thanks you for your exemplary services with this report of these people to us."

The mayor merely grinned, "Think nothing of it, Herr Sturmbannführer. They came on the train, and smelled absolutely atrocious. Worse yet, they were hacking and coughing harshly. My family does not want their diseases. Damn Jewish filth. Humph, hope they get carted away like the lot over there where they belong."

Victor made a mental note in his mind…

Oh they will…and many many more like them soon my friend…

Impressed by the man's services and feeling obliged to reward, Victor nodded and spoke, "Herr Burgmeister, it's unfortunate that you and your family were inconvenienced by this turn of events. Where were you all heading?"

The mayor frowned, his voice carried a sense of irritation, "Well me, my wife and the kids were going to have a nice holiday in Prague. We unfortunately had to settle for the Aria Hotel. My wife and the kids wanted something…luxurious and I tried for the Grand Bohemia Hotel, but the damned clerk had to fight with me, some nonsense that they had no more room."

Nodding at that, Victor added in, "Unacceptable, a man of your credentials and of your services done should deserve only the best." With that he then turned to face the SS officer, "Hauptsturmführer Fassbinder. I want you to contact the Grand Bohemia Hotel in Prague. Have them set up a suite for the Burgmeister and his family. I want everything done right and perfect. Best services, dining, anything they want they get, am I clear?"

While the mayor's jaw nearly dropped off his face, Fassbinder clicked his heels and responded with a bow, "Jawohl Herr Sturmbannführer."

The mayor was left speechless, and fumbled with words, "Herr Sturmbannführer..erm..I don't know what to say."

Victor smiled once again, "It's because of people like you Herr Burgmeister, that Germany should be forever grateful as much as I am. I hope your trip goes well, and I will ensure to put in a good word personally…to the Fuhrer on your behalf."

The man excitedly took two hands and shook the young Raddu's hand, "Ohh thank you so much, Herr Sturmbannführer." And with that raised a bent right arm at Victor, "Until the final victory gentleman."

Victor and Fassbinder, raised their arms in salute, "Heil Hitler."

And with that left the platform, Victor noted a small group of people by a small building, under guard by four SS guards, armed with Mp40 submachine guns.

Fassbinder piped in, "The family is over here, that we arrested on the train. The man is in the station's maintenance shop behind them, under guard from Haupsturmfuhrer Dietrich, and a few of my men."

Victor grinned, knowing the giant of an SS officer was watching the uncle, and that there was no way that Jew would escape…at least in one piece with Dietrich present.

As they approached the family, the guards snapped to attention. Victor glared over, a family of two young boys, a girl about his age, and an older woman. The family was barely dressed for such dreadful conditions, and were all handcuffed with their hands forward, their shivering and odd cough mostly from one of the small boys. None of them looked up at the sharp orbs of Victor Raddu, but carried a grisly look on them.

The absence of coats and the horrible smell that carried on them, indicated to the young Raddu, that they were poor in hygiene, hungry, and frail in health. Victor had to pull a small handkerchief out to cover his face and nose, to avoid lurching. Surprisingly the slim faced SS officer did not cover his face or look sickened by the smell.

Glaring the small family down, Victor turned to Fassbinder and removed his handkerchief from his face, "Excellent work Hauptsturmführer Fassbinder. Ensure they are watched and kept secured. I'm going to talk to Herr Heisenberg. I'll call for you if requested."

Snapping his heels, the man sharply addressed, "Understood Herr Sturmbannführer."

And with that Victor strode towards the brightly lit interior of a small building, and would see his questions answered…whatever methods to be used.

The door opened, and Victor strode in bringing with him a bout of chilled air from the outside. Carrying his satchel, he addressed his bent arm salute in return, once a man yelled, "Achtung!"

The room was tall in height but small in size. A group of six SS guards, armed with mixed rifles and submachine guns, stood sharply, all the while watching a handcuffed man at a small wooden table in the centre. To the far side, layed a small workbench, with various tools and papers scattered. Finally a small coal stove was left on, to enhance the warmth in the room.

Victor's light blue eyes glared at the man at the table, his hands bound and resting on the table. The uncle, Jurgen Heisenberg was a fairly fit and tough looking man with thick facial hair, but his brown eyes carried exhaustion and defeat. His clothes of a plad patterned shirt, with brown trousers and suspenders over the shoulders were caked with bits of snow and dirt.

As Victor approached the table, the massive SS Captain Dietrich approached with a large suitcase, and opened it, "These things were found on him Herr Sturmbannfuhrer."

It was a massive trove of papers, letters, passports, as well as stamps, envelopes, and even currency from across Germany and Europe. A jackpot of various intelligence as well as contacts for the Reich Security to follow up, laid in front of Victor's widened eyes.

After a few moments combing through the various booklets of passports and identification papers, all forged. Victor took one and put the rest back in the suitcase, closing the flap. He then set his satchel down on the floor and pulled a wooden chair up.

Seated, he grinned at the man while pulling out a small file folder. Opening it, Victor began reading off it softly, "Herr Jurgen Heisenberg, born in 1880 in Berlin. Jewish German background. Writer and author of numerous titles." Upon reading the last line, the young Major looked up and smiled at the Jewish man, "Sadly, I haven't had the opportunity to read any. Seems the party was more interested in using them for impressive bonfires at the Fuhrer's nighttime rallies."

Jurgen was gritting his teeth with his mouth closed at this arrogant young boy, as he toyed and mocked with the man, and just yearned to break out of the binds to teach this "Nazi" a good lesson.

With such a rancid smile, Victor knew he had the infamous "uncle" where he wanted him, and would slowly take shots and continue to toy with his wounded prey, "You know you are an impressive writer I must say Herr Heisenberg. This latest work you are doing, is quite commendable…yet futile as it is. All these people, and the "names" you have given them. This story is as impressive as I might've expected indeed." As soon as he said that last line, while smirking, Victor patted the top of the suitcase softly.

After a moment, the young man got up from his chair, with hands in his pockets, he stepped and sat on the side of the desk while looking down at Jurgen, "But what honest chance did you have my dear man. All this dedicated work was going to be for nothing. Where would you and the little ones run to? Half of Europe has been overrun or occupied. Germany's allies have grown and the neutral countries have closed their doors on the Jews, and turned them away." He then leaned in while sharply looking and softly speaking, "Does it frighten you to know how much smaller your world for your people has become? How the world has turned on you…that they much would rather see your end, than survival."

The bearded man refused to look at Victor, though his eyes were beginning to water. Slowly those harsh words were becoming the truth, the world had seemingly been done with Jews and other people that the Nazi regime detested, and slowly poisoned the world to turn on the race.

Getting off the table, Victor then tried a simple method, as he spoke more neutral, "But you and your family do not have to perish, there is a chance for survival you know. Answer my simple question properly, and I can provide a place for your little ones to be so proud of their daddy. To end this perverse sense of Jewish honour and click in simple common sense. As you Jews have this habit of self obsession to protect your families."

Unsure what the young man meant, Jurgen brought his head to look at Victor, with possible curiosity, causing the Major to smirk.

Nodding, Victor began, "Indeed I will send you and your little ones to a transit ghetto in Theresienstadt Germany. A very fine place. Where some of the most prolific Jews such as highly decorated war veterans, doctors, lawyers, actors, and even writers such as yourself. The best food, accommodations, everything…it's described as a "paradise" ghetto, and one that is many many more times better than other…resettlement areas."

Giving a moment for the information to set in, Victor pressed his question, while grabbing and opening a small passport and showing Jurgen watching the young man, "I just want to know where this woman…who married your nephew Ernst…you know her quite well, likely spoken to her…used a good friend in the Wehrmacht, Ludwig Menshel to assist getting her out of Germany too…and I want to know where did they go?"

It didn't take long for the bearded man to look at Victor, with seething anger, "You wish me to tell you where that woman and a good friend of mine is? You deluded Nazi boy…you will never find them…they are gone, and if you find them, I hope she ends your wretched life, you her nephew, are a disgrace wearing that uniform to not just your family…but humanity."

The room went into gasps, while the overly sized black uniformed Captain, looked at the man like he grew an extra head…that he would love to tear off. Starting to slowly approach, Victor held a hand up stopping Dietrich for a moment. A pause occurred, while the young man stared deep at Jurgen. The tension was unbearable, as the room watched and braced for the unthinkable, perhaps the young short tempered Raddu might just shoot the Jewish man, between the eyes. But what happened next was even more of a surprise.

A slow smile gave way to a small chuckle, then laughter from Victor…as it became louder and louder…to which the man tilted his head back roaring in hard laughter. The room's occupants stared as if they thought the Major lost his mind at this scene.

After a few moments of hysterical laughter, Victor returned his head looking down at Jurgen, letting out small chuckles, "Oh my that was golden. You do have an impressive sense of humour, my good man. You think me as a "Nazi?" That I am some blonde hair, blue eyed pretty boy, that the party rants into every person? Well…it might interest you to know, there is some German in me…but for the most part I am Romanian."

Jurgen just stared in shock, unsure what else to say but stared with widening eyes. Victor just grinned, "Yes, Romanian, I know it's a shock indeed, but a nation that has just become tiresome of you Jews as much as Germany. And that's what I'm trying to explain to you. Give me my aunt and her little rescuer, and I will give you the chance to survive. You know nobody else would give you the deal I am….work with me, answer my question is all I ask."

Jurgen frowned and narrowed his eyes at the young Raddu, "Did you want to give all those people freezing out there that deal? Do you think, I would take such a pathetic deal, when you and I know that while Hitler lives, the Jews are dead to him. My family and I may live in this "ghetto." But sooner or later, we will be decided to be sent to the unspeakable eastern camps. So you can take this deal, find your beloved Fuhrer, and shove it up his ass."

Letting out an annoyed breath, Victor stared then shook his head. He then walked towards the door, before looking back, "I'm afraid if you won't talk to me. I will find someone who will, that I'm sure will realize the peril of their situation."

With that said, Victor opened the door and beckoned at the guard outside, "Bring me the girl."

With widening eyes of terror, Jurgen attempted to get up from his seat, frantic and panicked, only to be held by two SS guards on the chair, "Gir….Gerda…that's my daughter….leave her out of this…No!"

The man's pleas fell of deaf ears as Victor stepped aside and watched a pair of coated SS men drag the brunette girl, her face frozen with chilled snow and fear, and forced the girl to sit on the chair.

The girl with her hands bound, felt warmth from the building as well as tears, sting down her rough face, as she panicky spoke to her father, "Papa..you didn't say anything did you?"

Jurgen felt his eyes water, while giving the girl such a painful smile, "Oh my Gerda….I haven't said anything…we will be okay…oh my precious baby Gerda…how I love you."

The daughter just smiled back, while tears and a sob escaped her dry mouth, "I love you so much papa, and we will be together forever."

Victor closed the door, after the guards left and gave a smile to the two. His voice was full of mockery, "Aww. How sweet a moment to be shared by daddy and his little girl. You know, my father always taught me, my brother and sister the key lesson of always being honest. It always sets you free. I'm sure Fraulein Heisenberg can appreciate how it can benefit your lives, to be truthful. As I have no doubt you have had some assistance to papa's little operation, perhaps even spoken to the said culprits. But if you work with me and answer truthfully, I will put you and your family in a much finer place than where your said people are being loaded on. Where is Ludmilla Stahler and Ludwig Menshel?"

The girl gave a look, saddened, before lashing out an angry outburst, "Stick in your ass pig!"

Once again, the eyes of Dietrich radiated such rage, as he felt so compelled to teach the girl a painful lesson. Victor gave a look of "Save your energy" to the behemoth officer, that was enough to make him hold his spot.

Letting an amused breath, Victor turned away from the two Heisenbergs and approached the large workbench area, where he started fidgeting with the papers and tools. He then smiled and stared at the area with awe, as if it reminded him of a piece of…home, "Ahh I admire this workshop, indeed. It reminds me of my fine uncle's work area, back home in Romania."

After letting out a quick breath, Victor continued as he turned and looked at the angered Jurgen, "And speaking of Romania and of tales. I'm sure you have read a fair share my dear Jurgen. So have you ever read or heard of the said one, about Vlad the Impaler?"

The man and girl just stared with confused looks at the young Raddu. Victor merely chuckled, and continued, "I didn't think so, it's not a popular tale unfortunately, although quite across Romania. An impressive ancient warrior from many many years ago. Considered a hero to some in my country, a man who defied and defeated the great Ottoman Empire invading his land. But what is really intriguing about the man, was his method of warfare. He used psychological methods on his enemies. Usually leaving remains impaled on large poles along a road of heads or even whole torsos. Disheartening and demoralizing the invaders advancing into the land."

Without warning Victor turned and picked up a hammer and very long nails, seemingly used for railroad maintenance. He then with a burst of speed, advanced towards Gerda Heisenberg, and had the guards grab the woman's hands and pulled them flat on the table. What happened next was mortifying.

Victor then took the nails and placed them on top of the frightened girl's hands, and raised the hammer then slammed it down. The nail impaled through the woman's hand, and she let out a blood curdling scream. The woman's hand oozed blood onto the wood, as a nasty chunk of skin could be seen. Jurgen screamed, "NO! Stop leave her alone! I'm the one you want."

The pleas fell on deaf ears, as Victor's face turned almost dark with such a sadistic grin, as he yelled, "He would nail the person's hands to the table, and use other fun methods to make his enemies talk!"

Not even a split second, Victor repeated the motion again to the girl's second hand. The Jewish father protested and wrestled the guards, while begging the young Raddu to stop. The young woman's frightened screams were deafening, and endless tears and sobs of agonizing and excruciating pain, as her hands were nailed to the table, blood and skin left in their stride.

Standing back, and looking over his handiwork as if the young man had just been putting something together, he wiped a bead of sweat while looking at both the sobbing father and daughter, while he motioned for the guards to step away.

Jurgen was frantic with panic and despair, "Please stop this now! She didn't do anything..she.." He was cut off by the tear streaked eyes of his daughter, screaming, "Papa no more, don't say anything. They will kill us, and let them. They will get nothing from us."

Victor let out an annoyed breath, before frowning and turning to the bearded man, "It's a fact Herr Heisenberg. Everyone breaks, and let's test another method that Vlad the Impaler used." He motioned the large officer to come forward and took a pair of pliers off the work table, passing them to the giant officer. He then guided Dietrich, while explaining such a grotesque method, "He would use some tool, and place around the prisoner's fingers…. And stretch the digits to the point of…well lets see, shall we."

Dietrich with such a malicious grin did exactly that. He clamped the pliers on the young girl's pointy finger, like teeth snapping down on flesh. And slowly began to bend the finger further back…and back… and back… until

SNAP!!!

The first round of Gerda's screams were that of a squealing pig. But this time, she trembled, screaming excruciatingly loud, stamping her feet on the wood floor frantically. Utterly paralyzed in pain, and the gruesome sight of the bone protruding out of the broken skin, caused the girl to breath so rapidly.

Jurgen screamed at the two officers to stop the unbearable torture laid on his daughter. Finally Victor turned angrily, "Then tell me where my aunt and her little rescuer are now!"

The Jewish man looked sharply and desperately at the youngest Raddu, "I don't know, I helped them yes, but do not know where they went!"

Victor frowned, clearly unconvinced, turned to the large Captain, "A pity…continue Dietrich."

Against the constant pleas from Jurgen and Gerda, the gruesome process was repeated again..to the girl's index finger. Once again the screams of terror echoed through the room and likely across the train yard.

The disgusting crunch, protruding bone sticking out, even brought one of the coated guards in the room to lurch at the sight.

Finally seeing enough, Jurgen spoke sobbing and unable to blink tears away, "Okay I'll talk. Just leave my Gerda alone…"

Interested enough, Victor held a hand for Dietrich to stop for the time being, and wasted no time as he firmly demanded, "Tell me where is my aunt Ludmilla and Ludwig Menshel, or Hauptsturmführer Dietrich will break your little girl's fingers and then will take care of your…little sons."

Jurgen shook, it was beyond it to see his daughter slowly being ripped apart, but his boys…no more, and he spoke, "I don't truly know where they went…but you must speak to Ludwig's commanding officer, Oberst von Steylitz. He will know where to find them…just please leave my family alone…please."

Letting out a breath, Victor walked to the window and lit a cigarette. He then spoke to Dietrich while observing the mass of people being put on the train to the east, "Dietrich. That train that's assembled people for work detail. It hasn't left yet, put Jurgen Heisenberg and the family on it."

Releasing the grip on Gerda's four finger with the pliers, Dietrich nodded, "Zu befehl Herr Sturmbannführer."

Next thing, the guards lifted the sobbing and screaming Jewish man from the chair, while the girl continued to sob. Jurgen yelled at Victor, "Wait…wait…my daughter, she needs to come with."

Victor faced Jurgen with a sad look, "Oh, how forgetful, your all being sent for work detail. But the camp Kommadant will want people with working fingers to work…and sadly your dear Gerda doesn't have such an ability."

And with that, the young Raddu removed his P-08 Luger pistol from his holster, aimed at the back of the girl's brunette head, and pulled the trigger.

POP…

Blood, skin and brain matter splattered on the table, as the young Gerda Heisenberg slumped forward on the table, cuffed, hands impaled and head down, with a pool of blood forming.

Jurgen screamed at the top of his lungs, "NO!!!" Wrestling the guards to get her daughter's side, while blinded with endless tears. The guards dragged the screaming Jurgen away, towards the remains of his family, towards that fateful train ride…east.

Returning his pistol to his holster, he saw a frantic running Fassbinder enter the building, as he looked at the slumped girl with a bloodied bullet hole in her head, before turning to the young Major Raddu.

Victor nodded, while putting Jurgen's file back in his bag, turned and gave instructions to both the large SS Captain and grim-faced looking one, "I'm done here gentlemen. Dietrich secure this luggage. Fassbinder dispose of the that. I have what I came for."

And with that, Victor left the building as he lit another cigarette, leaving the two men to clean the mess, while he planned his next move…allowing his thoughts…

I'll see you soon auntie Ludmilla…and you too Ludwig…this meeting will be very… eventful.

Author's Notes:

-First and foremost, I sincerely apologize for the long time it took to do this story. And second the length of the story. It was my longest one yet that I desperate redid so many times but couldn't make it shorter. The plan was this chapter goes to Victor Raddu, Anton's youngest brother as he begins to clearly understand what's required and as such becomes a much darker person…Next chapter we will return to Castle Dimitrescu and our Bela and Anton, as well as other fine characters, as well as the infamous meeting.

-I will frequently use German words in the story. Here is what they mean…

Los - Go

Schnell - Now

Juden - Jewish

Schweine - Swine

Zu befehl - At your command

Jawohl - Yes sir

-Adolf Eichmann was one of the architects of the Holocaust. Implementing the final solution to Jews and other non Germans as of 1942. Oversaw the execution of over 5 million innocent people. Survived the war and escaped to South America after it. Ironically, he was traced and picked up my Israeli agents and brought to Jerusalem for war crimes, found guilty and hanged for his crimes.

-Theresienstadt and Treblinka were real places where Jews and lesser races were sent to. Theresienstadt was a "transit ghetto" meant to look like a paradise to dupe the public and Red Cross, as well as used for propaganda that Germany didn't mistreat the people there. By 1943 they were being secretly deported to Auschwitz and Treblinka, the real deal extermination camps.

-To explain the new oc Captain Dietrich, think of the character from the game Wolfenstein Old Blood, Rudi Jäger. Just a lot more brains than just sheer strength and muscle. He will have a good part of the story.

-The Heisenberg uncle and family, I will have done enough for that for now, don't know if I'll incorporate anyone but Karl Heisenberg for my story for now. May change, but wait till Karl finds that Anton's brother murdered off his cousin and her family. :)

-I thank everyone again for kudos, subs, likes, and comments. I will try to produce more material as we come along. Thank you for all the amazing support. It's a privilege to produce the story for ya. Happy Holidays all, stay safe, and see ya on chapter 16 soon. :D