"Should I fail or if you're dead, then I'll raise fire from the darkest depths of hell as I take my vengeance upon this world"
000 German Embassy - Warsaw - September 15
Aldebert was frustrated, a state that was rapidly becoming the new normal for him and his staff as they worked feverishly each day to run the spy rings in their district. The invasion had gone off splendidly, Warsaw was under siege and already cracking, the Polish army was decimated, and their Russian allies were pressing in from the east. Things should have been going well.
Sure the embassy had a scare or two from angry crowds and soldiers but for the most part the local government had ensured the safety of embassy personnel as was custom during wartime. Case in point, most of the other embassies had been cleared of staff by their weak and fearful governments, only those of the neutral, or victorious, governments remained.
Leaning back in his chair Aldebert rubbed his jaw feeling the rough patch of skin, still quite sore, from where Pearl had slugged him. Yes, she was still out there. He'd gotten reports of sightings around the country and had deduced that she and her squad were trying to run for the coast. Then reports had come in of a woman matching her description stealing a tank at the supply depot battle, then most recently at the Bzura river battles. Picking up a map he began to scan the area around the most recent sighting around the town of Lowicz and avenues of travel from there.
"I must find her, must have her, must unlock the secrets of those strange beings. There has to be something in their cache of secrets that will help propel us to victory. But to get them I will need leverage and she will be that leverage."
Hours passed as he read battle reports from front line troops and interrogations of captured officers. Finally after his mind had nearly gone numb and the reports starting to blur together he got his lead. A few quick phone calls and radio conversations later a plan was taking shape.
000 September 16th Locomotive somewhere outside Gliwice, Poland
"Looks like we're back where it all started, figures the mountain pass is along this way" commented Pearl idly as she scanned the slowly passing countryside from where she was leaning against a hay bail peeking out from a crack in the wall of the boxcar.
It had been over a day since the train had departed on its mission and she had used the quiet time to meditate and recharge reserves. As she was awake and alert she was on watch while the rest of the squad rested on the other side of the boxcar on another bed of straw. Each had their rifles ready at hand should trouble show up.
"Looks like we're not the only ones heading towards the Southern Mountain passes, look at all the trains loaded with machinery and equipment" remarked a young Polish soldier as he too squinted through the narrow gap to see the outside world.
"I'm seeing lots of construction equipment too, lots of hopper cars filled with what I think is concrete mix. I wonder what they're building out here." said another soldier from the other side of the train.
Nodding her agreement Pearl resumed her careful watch through the crack as she scanned the trains and soldiers as the train passed through a switching yard. Most of the soldiers and officers she saw were too preoccupied with their own tasks to give the train more than a passing glance as it slowly made its way through the rail junction. With so much rail traffic moving and urgently needed equipment and supplies it was easy for the commandeered train to pass unnoticed.
Except for the yard boss who was keeping track of all the trains and cargo passing through the station. He carefully noted the number on the front of the engine, the trains composition, and its description in his log book before returning to his duties of directing the yard's traffic.
A few moments later the train's whistle blew loudly and soon the click click click of the wheels on the track increased in frequency; the train was speeding up. As the train picked up speed the view outside transitioned from freight and soldiers to green fields and forests. Once they were sure that it was safe the sliding door of the boxcar was opened to allow fresh air to enter the stuffy boxcar much to its occupant's relief.
Satisfied that they were safe for now Pearl moved to lay down next to the others and found a comfortable spot next to James. Smiling to herself and pulled a small adventure book she was sharing with the other soldiers from her pocket for some lite reading. "Must enjoy the quiet while we can, so rare these peaceful moments are getting" she thought idly to herself as she started on the next chapter.
000 German Embassy - Warsaw - September 16, late evening.
Exhaustion pressed down on him as if someone had fashioned a jacked of lead with a hat made of iron for him to wear. His movements were slow and imprecise but the report that his aid had just finished reading to him brought a burst of renewed energy. He was getting close, he had a description of the train, an engine number, and a track direction. Quickly he gave orders to his most trusted senior staff who quickly left to begin translating those orders into actions.
Finally having caught a break and his plan in motion Aldebert finally allowed himself to rest. Stumbling to his room he didn't bother to wash or change his clothes as he simply collapsed on the bed and fell fast asleep in an instant. So deep was his sleep that his staff couldn't wake him with the most recent news of their quarry and so left their spy master to his rest.
000 Jablunkov Pass - September 16th very late evening
It was late evening and the train engineers had been forced to stop the trains progress to refuel and top off the water tanks or risk running empty on one or both on the steep mountain grades. Mercifully there was almost no moon light which made it difficult for the depot managers to see much details of the odd locomotive and boxcars as it materialized out of the gloomy night and slowly pulled into the depot supply locomotive supply area.
The depot manager thought it curious that the brake-men and train crew assisting the engineers were sticking to the shadows and seemed to fumble about their tasks. He was about to approach the train to inquire if they needed assistance or help when he noticed that some of those figures were carrying long sticks on their backs, must be rifles he assumed.
Deciding not to interfere he returned to his duties logging the traffic passing through the station then retired to his comfortable chair in the depots rail direction tower. From his overlook he had a better view of the strange train in the scant light afforded by the few work lights around the yard. Quietly he uttered a curse at the saboteurs and ruffians who had attacked his depot a few weeks ago which resulted in most of the work-lights being broken along with other damage.
After about half an hour the mysterious locomotive's crew re-boarded the train and without so much as a steam whistle or lit lamp it slowly began to chuf and huff its way down the track.
"Odd things about on the rails, must be one of those German SS secret trains or something" he thought to himself before leaning back in his chair for a much needed rest. As soon as he felt his eyes drifting shut.
~{0}~
A couple hours later the station master was snapped back to alertness by the loud pounding of booted feet stomping up the stairs to the station masters lookout. A shadow with broad brimmed hat and cape like coat appeared outside the doors window and raised its fits to knock loudly.
"Öffnen sich! Öffnen sich!" shouted the voice beyond the door in thickly accented German accompanied by more pounding on the door. The old glass and wood shaking as if it would break under the force of the blows.
"Ich komme. Brich nicht meine Tür" grumbled the old station master as he stood-up and in a few quick steps reached the door and opened it. Illuminated by the dim office light stood a young man in the sharp black uniform of a German SS intelligence officer.
"Grüße ich bin SS operative Wilhelm, eine unbekannte Lokomotive ist hier passiert" asked the SS Officer with an unnervingly eerie smile that didn't match with the ice behind his eyes.
Swallowing his fear, the station master checked the clock on the wall and noticed the time from when he'd fallen asleep and last seen the train. "Ja, es ist vor 3 Stunden vergangen" he replied.
"Welcher Weg ging es?" queried Wilhelm as he turned his gaze towards the distant tracks and the Slovakia border. "Ist es in diese Richtung gegangen?" he asked pointing to the exit line.
It was all the station officer could do to just nod his head and point to confirm the question.
"Gut danke. Gute Nacht" replied Wilhelm with that same chilling smile. With that he turned and withdrew back down the steps to vanish into the night. Shouting orders as he walked towards a large silver sedan with a large radio antenna sticking out of its roof.
Up in the little station office the old depot manager stumbled over to a small desk to steady himself, opening a drawer he withdrew a bottle of old scotch and downed it in one swig before collapsing back into his chair.
~{0}~ German Embassy - Warsaw
Aldebert was pleased, he'd just gotten off the phone with his contact Wilhelm stationed along the Slovakia border and received the report he'd been waiting for. The escapees and Pearl's platoon were probably on their way into the mountains. Picking up the phone he contacted his operatives at the next most likely stop the train would make and gave his instructions. That task done he called his Slovakia border contact back and ordered him to secure fastest transportation possible to follow after their quarry.
A couple hours later he had traveled to the airfield and boarded a transport plane headed towards the destination city. If the agents at the border failed he would be in position at the next stop to personally make another attempt or at least be closer to the action.
000 Railroad side track along river Váh 156km outside Vienna Austria (Trenčín) - September 17th, 1939
The trees along the hills of the valley were beginning to show signs of the coming winter months as the seasons began the gradual change from summer into fall. Along a tree lined siding just off the main line where the tracks were a short walk from the river; a band of refugees rested and refreshed themselves in the rivers still warm warters. All along the little beach people bathed, washed clothes, or took a moment to just enjoy a simple swim to relax a little.
They were a motley mix of young soldiers in dirty uniforms, ranking civilians including scholars, musicians with their families, and a few high ranking political figures. Each carried with them their most precious personal effects; luggage filled with significant legal or bank papers, musical scores, family photo albums, all the building blocks of a society and its people.
From her perch atop one of the railcars, with her rifle close at hand, Pearl was fascinated by the mix of humanity united by common hardship. She smiled in amusement to herself as a group of older men with grey beards, probably the politicians, got into a splashing fight with a group of the young soldiers. "Must feel good to have a little relaxation in all this madness. I hope the boys are getting some rest too, I know James and Darren have been especially stressed lately" she thought.
A loud thump and grunt of effort announced the arrival of George and Frank as they climbed up the latter and flopped with a squish of wet clothes onto the train roof. Without wasting a beat they quickly unfurled their coats, set them down on the roof and proceeded to lay down and bask in the warm afternoon sun. "Afternoon little sister, we're just back from our swim and will take over watch, you're free to go relax and visit with our charges if you like." yawned George as he adjusted his coat into a pillow.
Frowning at the pair she almost scolded them for taking guard duty for granted before changing her mind. "Plenty of other guards around and they have their rifles nearby."
"Thank you boys, I'll take my leave then. If you need me I'll be down at the far end of the beach, I thought I saw a nice secluded place to meditate and recharge" she replied instead before jumping off the roof of the car to land gracefully in the soft dirt alongside the tracks.
~{0}~
A few minutes later Pearl found herself alone at a small patch of green grass growing along the river bank and shielded from the rest of the group by some low shrubs. Seating herself on the grass she closed her eyes and began to hum to herself as she centered her thoughts to try and meditate. After a few minutes she gave up. Sighing to herself she stood back up and stretched out her still tired limbs. "What to do, what to do, too much energy to need to meditate and too many things on my mind to focus." she mumbled quietly to herself, then got an idea.
Closing her eyes and focusing on the pocket dimension in her gem; a bright light shown from the stone and a moment later a beautiful finely tuned violin materialized in her hands. Grinning to herself she turned to face the mountains on the other side of the river, out beyond some still green farmlands, the sun just starting to make its way down towards the distant mountains.
Then she began to play, slowly at first with a few short practice pieces to warm up and remember how to play the delicate instrument. Soon her eyes drifted closed as she gave herself over to the music, her slim form swaying and moving gracefully in tune with the with the classical music.
Author's note: Search for "Cantabile for violin" on Google, should be the first result on youtube.
~{0}~
On the other side of the bushes James had just finished putting on his freshly cleaned mish-mash of uniform and civilian clothes when he heard the an unexpected sound. Someone was playing the violin … and playing it supremely well. Curious he set off in the direction of the sound to see if he could find its source.
~{0}~
Finishing the last note Pearl lowered the violin and breathed deep as she finally felt relaxed enough to meditate,but her thoughts were immediately interrupted by someone clapping softly.
Whirling around to confront a possible assailant she was caught again off guard by the site of James sitting on an old log at the edge of the clearing. A huge smile on his face as his warm eyes twinkled in merriment at the site before him. "James! What are you doing here, it's rude to interrupt a lady when she's practicing her music!" Pearl scolded him lightly.
"Sorry to interrupt, I don't mean any rude intrusion, but I heard such lovely music and had to find it source. I didn't know you could play the violin, but then I shouldn't be surprised. Where did you get it anyway?" asked James as he walked over and picked up the violin where it had fallen on the soft grass. Dusting it off he examined it for damage then lifted it to his own chin and assumed a playing position. "Do you mind if I give it a try? I haven't played either in ages."
Nodding her permission Pearl lay down on the grass with her arms folded behind her head so she could comfortably watch the young man play the instrument. "Please proceed, let's hear what you can do" she smiled brightly at James as he readied the bow and began to play.
Much to her surprise James was quite good at the fickle instrument as rather than an expected screech of strings, after a couple warm ups, he was soon playing nearly as well as she could.
The sun continued is slow drive to the horizon as the two took turns playing the violin by the side of the river. Soon a small crowd had gathered as they too were drawn to the mix classical music and lively folk music as the two musicians conducted an impromptu concert.
Author's note: James is playing "English Fiddle Jigs" search it on Google, should be first result.
000 Junkers JU-52 transport aircraft high over the Carpathian Mountains
High above the Carpathian Mountains a small Junkers tri-motor transport plan rattled and shook violently as it fought its way through the turbulent high mountain sky. Updrafts as winds collided with unyielding mountains would thrust the aircraft upwards only to be followed by downdrafts on the lee-side of the mountains. In the rear passenger area Aldebert was fighting back airsickness as he tried to focus on the latest batch of reports he'd received just before takeoff. The capture of Pearl wasn't the only project underway and the spymaster needed to be updated on all of them.
Checking his watch and looking out the window at the landscape he was pleased to note that they were running a bit ahead of schedule. Wilhelm had reported in during a refueling stop that he had secured transport and would be arriving in Vienna ahead of him and would take the liberty of organizing some of the local agents for whatever was needed.
A sudden drop in altitude caused Aldebert to slap a hand over his mouth and drop the current report, the papers fluttered in the momentary zero gravity before settling to the floor. Pushing down a rising urge to vomit up his previous lunch, a few minute later he'd recovered enough to collect the papers and tried again to distract himself with reading.
000 Vienna Austria rail-depot
They'd timed their arrival to so as to maximize darkness, the rail switching yard was large and there would need to be several track sidings to set for the tran to make it through to the correct line. Pearl and the other commando's had arrived earlier to begin scouting the tracks and occasionally sneaking around to pre-set the track-switches to speed up the transition. Now they provided over-watch from their vantage points atop a nearby engine house and repair shed for trouble that might develop as the train and its precious human cargo passed through the depot.
"Where is everyone? Shouldn't there be someone working late in the engine shed or the offices? The only movement I've seen so far has been at the station controllers tower" mumbled Darren from over by the buildings chimney.
"Looks quiet, I saw the security guard earlier on his bicycle patrolling the other side of the yard earlier but haven't seen him since, he's due to pass by any moment now" replied Pearl as she scanned the innumerable hiding places around the darkened rail-yard.
The two fell back into silence as they continued to scan the rail-yard shadows for threats. Looking across the way Pearl could just make out the forms of James and George who were invisible in the darkness unless one knew exactly where to look in advance. Looking back down into the rail yard she noted the brief flicker of shadow as Frank darted from cover, threw a switching lever, then just as quickly disappeared back into the shadows.
"Looks like Frank is getting the rail switches ready; any minute now the train will ease through the station and we can re-board it as it passes." whispered Darren as he too resumed his watch.
A couple minutes later; right on schedule, the faint chuffing and puffing of a steam engine heralded the entrance of the refugee train into the rail yards. At minimum speed with the engine's locomotive at its lowest possible power setting the engineers in the cab eased it into along the tracks so as to make sure they had plenty of time to double check the switches. Only the faint running lights were lit to give some semblance of normalcy to anyone watching that this was a normal trail on a normal late night route to some unknown destination.
Wheels screeching over the uneven rails and around the narrow turns the train drove deeper into the quiet switching yard of the depot as it slowly made its way to the desired outbound line. Passing the water tower the shadow that was Frank darted from cover and hopped up into side of a boxcar; its side door briefly opening then closing as he climbed in.
"One recovered, four to go" thought Pearl quietly to herself as she looked across to the station masters tower. Something caught her sharp eyes "Eyes up Darren, we got movement, station office tower, there's an extra person there now".
Shifting his rifle scope Darren sighted in on the spot, sure enough there was a new shadow. "Confirmed, where did he come from?" he whispered quietly. "You ready?"
"Ready" confirmed Pearl as she checked that her rifle was cocked and ready to fire. A dimly flickering light from James position grabbed her attention, the faint light was morse code. "Signal from James, they have movement, too…. Looks like he's pointing at the depot's main building"
"Confirmed, movement on the roof; signal James and George, we start shooting at my shot." ordered Darren as he settled himself more behind cover and lined up his targets.
"Darren? Are you sure? …. never-mind, ready on your mark" replied Pearl as she too settled into a shooting position then quickly signaled the others with her own dim flashlight.
The train continued to huff and chuff it's way through the yard, now about halfway to its destination. The cab was visible now, the crew was accompanied by some of the Polish soldiers ready to fend off any attack that might come. Their eyes warily peering into the darkness with rifles and machine guns on makeshift mounts at the ready for a fight.
Across the yard a few shadows broke cover and in the dim lights of the rail yard what could only be a heavy machine gun seen carried between them. "Pearl, MG at 2 o'clock" whispered Darren as he hesitated for just a moment, then opened fire. A second later the others opened up with their own rifles as each commando picked out likely targets to shoot at on the other side of the tracks.
Caught by surprise the men with the machine gun cried out and collapsed as the accurate fire of the commandos found the targets. Silence returned to the night as both sides pondered the next moves of the developing fight; each watching for a muzzle flash to reveal the other's position.
The bright strobe of a rifle firing was instantly followed by a heavy thunk and whizzing sound as someone fired on Pearl's position, the bullets impacting just in front of her. That was the trigger as the rail-yard erupted in a furious fire fight of rifle and machine-gun fire broke the silence of the night.
Tracer rounds from machine-guns flashed across the yard like laser beams as the two sides fought. Occasionally there was a shout of agony from the buildings as a bullet hit home. Casualties on both sides began to climb as bullets struck the train and engine seeking those hiding with. Over in the depot buildings German soldiers collapsed as accurate fire from the commando's found its mark again and again making the enemy pay a steep price for the fight.
Undaunted by the furious battle raging around it the mighty steam engine pressed forwards through the yard. Occasionally a bullet would ping off the cab but the engineers held firm in their duty for if they failed or fell then the whole train and operation would be doomed.
~{0}~
Adelbert and Wilhelm listened to the furious firefight from their command post behind the station building. Wilhelm had done his job well preparing the ambush. Through his efforts they had plenty of soldiers, weapons, and had explosives planted to derail the train if needed.
"Nicely done Wilhelm, nicely done; we should have our quarry tonight and with her the leverage and knowledge we need to gain the Gem technology for our great government." Expressed Aldebert happily "you'll get a commendation for this if it works, you can count on it".
Wilhelm's thin lips twisted up into a thin smile as he nodded his agreement then returned to the task of yelling orders to the troops.
~{0}~
Up on top of the engine house Pearl and Darren were fully engaged firing at any and all muzzle flashes in a desperate attempt to suppress the enemy's guns. The train was by now more than halfway through the yard and picking up speed. Soon it was passing the repair shed, James and George briefly stopped firing to use the train's bulk as a shield to leave cover and climb aboard. Once on board the two found good firing positions from within the boxcar and rejoined the battle quickly silencing another machine gun and sending others diving for cover.
Seeing her friends safely aboard the train Pearl switched her attention back to the enemy positions just in time to line up a shot on another MG gunner and shoot him. "This isn't going to work! We can't keep this up, there are too many of them! We need a new plan!" shouted Pearl over to Darren. Across the yard more enemy soldiers were appearing and joining the fight.
Darren just nodded as he lined up his shot then squeezing the trigger drilled a German MG gunner in the head and causing the gunner's assistant to duck behind cover. "Not disagreeing but right now just keep shooting while we think of something!"
So engrossed in the battle that Pearl's sharp hearing almost didn't hear the frantic yelling from the refugee train as it passed below them. "DARREN, PEARL! THE TRACKS!"
Quickly shifting her attention from the battle she looked down the tracks and nearly froze in horror. The train was rapidly approaching the last switch; it was set the wrong way. A flicker of movement revealed the cause as an enemy soldier was sprinting away from the switch; in his hand was the steel bar needed to change it back.
The soldier didn't make it far as Pearl's bullet smashed into his back, the man shrieked in pain and surprise before slamming into the ground and lay still. The critical switching bar still in the now dead soldiers hands. Thinking fast Pearl ran the calculations through her head, velocity of train, volume of fire, distance, time to cover the distance to arrive at a new plan.
"Darren, give me some cover, I need 30 seconds, I have a solution" she shouted over the din of battle. Emptying her latest clip into an MG's position she ducked down behind cover and sat down so she could concentrate safely. "Trust me, I'll get us some cover"
Nodding his understanding Darren concentrated fire on anyone shooting at their position until satisfied the immediate threats to their position were silenced. Ducking behind cover himself he began to gather their equipment to make ready for their own run to the train when he looked over at Pearl. He nearly dropped the equipment at what he saw before him.
Darren kneeled down and stared at Pearl as her Gem had begun to glow, its brightness rapidly increasing as if a light-bulb within was gradually warming up. Soon a thick fog began to fill the depot as it rapidly covered the train, the tracks, and finally the depot building. With their targets obscured the volume of fire slackened off as both sides could no longer see the other and only the occasional blind shot into the fog was heard.
Darren continued to stare at Pearl as her Gem continued to glow brightly, her eyes squeezed shut as she fought to concentrate. "Pearl? … did you make this fog?" he whispered for fear of breaking her out of the trance and losing the cover afforded by the fog.
After what seemed like eternity but was in reality only a minute Pearl opened her eyes and shakily got to feet. She tried to step but stumbled causing Darren to instinctively reach out and steady her. "Easy there little sister, you're very weak, just lean on me and I'll get us to the train.
~{0}~
The sudden stoppage of machine gun fire followed by a rapidly growing fog signaled to Aldebert that things were not going to go according to plan. "Wilhelm! They've got some trick, no time to figure out what it is; signal your men! Blow the tracks!"
Wilhelm grinned and licked his lips; he liked explosions. Especially those that broke a preys spirit ahead of the kill. Giving a quick salute, he turned and walked into the thickening fog.
~{0}~
With Pearl safely aboard the train Darren set out across the yard to where the soldier with the switch lever had fallen. Finding the soldier was surprisingly easy but finding his way to the indicated switch in the still thick fog was another challenge. Quickly he raced along the track as the engine chugged through the yard as it continued to build up momentum. "Why does everything always have to be a race" he grumbled to himself as he hurried across the tracks.
He nearly stumbled over the switching rails in the fog and darkness. "Finally, not a moment too soon!" Quickly he jammed the bar into the switch gate controls and shoved it forwards, adrenaline giving him a temporary super-human boost of strength.
With a screech of rusty, poorly oiled metal the switch shifted and a few seconds later the locomotive rumbled past and down the desired line. The last obstacle past the engineers poured on steam and the train rapidly began to build up speed as it pulled out of the embattled depot towards freedom.
Jogging along next to the squad's boxcar Darren was helped aboard by Frank and assisted over to a nearby stack of hay. Collapsing from exhaustion he settled into a resting position looking across the car he thanked his maker that everyone was present and free of serious injury.
"You doing okay over there Pearl?" he asked loudly enough to be heard over the clack of wheels over uneven rails. "I assume that was some Gem magic trick back there? It saved us all it did."
Sitting up she leaned on a very worried looking James for support. "Yes, but don't expect me to do that again, I promised Rose I wouldn't use magic and this counts as cheating."
James was about to reply when a bright light flashed outside the boxcar followed by a thunderous roar that shook the whole boxcar violently. Some of the soldiers and civilians in the car screamed in fear as the whole car threatened to derail before seeming to recover itself. Somewhere behind them the screech of metal on metal was briefly heard followed by screams then a loud crunching thud.
As fast as it had started it was over and the normal sounds of train wheels resumed, but there was a new noise, a persistent thunk-clunk sound now followed from the rear of the train.
For a long moment no one spoke or dared to breath for it was clear what had happened. Finally James stood and opened the side door of the boxcar to look outside. Wordlessly he pulled the door closed again, then sat down; his eyes wide with shock as what he'd seen.
"James?" whispered Pearl as she kneeled in front of him and wrapped her arms around his neck to pull him close. Slowly James lifted his arms to return the hug and began to cry softly.
"The last four carriages are gone; those were the ones with most of the civilian's and the wounded; those families, innocents, just trying to get to safety. We did all we could and it wasn't enough, they're gone". With that his emotions broke and he pressed his face into her shoulder sobbing quietly as his body shook with grief.
Fighting back her own tears Pearl did what she could to maintain a semblance of strength for James to draw upon as he leaned into her. An hour later exhaustion caught up to the survivors as one by one they drifted off to a restless sleep haunted by the ghosts of those who didn't make it.
~{0}~
Fires burned all around the twisted wreckage of the destroyed railcars casting a flickering red light across the gristly scene. All around lay the mangled and burned bodies of the passengers lay where they had fallen like broken dolls tossed by some uncaring hand.
Aldebert boots crunched along the gravel of the tracks; a picture of the woman they'd sought in his hands. He was angry, someone would pay for this screw up. The bomb was much too powerful and was detonated too late after the train reached it. It was supposed to derail the engine so they could surround and capture the occupants. Instead they had a bloody mess to clean up and a very real chance that their prize was among the dead.
"Damn shame this is, there's no honor in this." grumbled Aldebert as he walked up to Wilhelm's still form as he surveyed the carnage all around them. "The soldiers have checked most of the bodies and no sign of Pearl; the rest of the train escaped so at least we still have a chance."
Taking another look around Aldebert pulled a small camera from his pocket to snap pictures for his report then pulled a notepad from his pocket and began to scribble some thoughts down.
"Find out who blew up the wrong cars and have them punished; we can't afford another screw up and I don't like having civilian blood on my hands. Once that's cleared up we fly for our next stop; I think I know where they're headed if that track goes where the station master says it does" commanded Aldebert before turning and walking back towards his personal sedan.
Wilhelm continued to stand still as a statue at the threats of punishment for the screw up from his superior. Idly his eyes scanned over the wreckage taking in the horrific scene as a thin smile began to form on his lips for he had been the one to set the bomb and ensure it was too big. It would be a simple matter to select a hapless soldier to pin the blame onto. To his cold mind the Polish were just dirt to be removed, not investigated or given any quarter; and that woman the spymaster sought? What possible use could he have for her; just more dirt to scrape away.
~{0}~
As the sedan pulled away from the wreckage of the train Aldebert leaned back and closed his eyes. A massive headache was threatening to put him out of action; quickly he reached into his pocket and withdrew a bottle of aspirin. Downing a couple of the bitter tasting pills he waited for the medicine to take effect "Yes, we have another shot, but it will be complicated and more risky. Strange as it is the escape of the train is our best case scenario after this disaster"
Looking out the window another thought occurred to him. "I'll have to watch that Wilhelm, something tells me he's much too bloodthirsty to be part of this intelligence team. I don't have any proof but his lack of reaction at the derailment and carnage, that isn't right."
000 Leoben, Austria
The manager at the manufacturing plant was supremely happy to trade one of his older locomotives for a top of the line german engineered one. So happy he didn't ask for details about the obvious battle damage from bullet holes, scorch marks and blood splotches. In the cost averse business of manufacturing a good yard boss never looks a gift horse in the mouth.
With a replacement locomotive and some new boxcars, obtained by just hooking up the engine and driving off, the refugee train now resembled any number of industrial trains in the area. Hopefully this would help shake off any pursuing German agents as by now the description of the original engine was known.
000 Salzburg, Austria
The train had been forced by the rail routes to pass through the occupied city of Salzburg but the transition was much smoother through the large rail depot. A few times the commando's had thought they spotted German SS agents in the yards checking for railcars but whether due to the switch in locomotives or lack of interest they were not discovered.
James had been quiet for most of the trip, often just sitting on the side of the squad's railcar just watching the forested valleys and snow capped mountains scroll past. Often time's Pearl would sit with him telling stories of the Gem rebellions or some distant planet she'd been to in an effort to distract him and get his mind onto something else. Frank and George would occasionally try and play some joke on him or get him to drink some liquid they claimed was wine stolen from another train at one of the refueling stops. Darren even tried ordering him out of it man-to-man.
But in the end nothing worked and the young man continued to just sit and watch the world outside. It wasn't until the train made a stop in Liechtenstein that he finally seemed to snap out of it much to everyone's relief. When asked he said he simply had arrived at a conclusion and said no more about what it was or what it entailed; but he did smile more when Pearl was around to sit and chat with him.
000 Bern, Switzerland - September 22nd, 1939
The journey from Salzburg to Bern had been long but mercifully uneventful allowing the refugees much needed time to recover from the ideals of Vienna. Entering the neutral nation had been simple enough as they were clearly refugees from violence and a very sympathetic border security official. Now safely across the neutral nation the train was parked just outside the main rail station so the passengers could disembark and decide on their final destinations.
For the civilians this was easy as they were not representatives of their government; for the soldiers and politicians it was a different question. As in order to remain neutral the nation could not been seen to be harboring agents of the Belligerent nations and so they were granted a few days rest and resupply before they were mandated to continue their journey out of the country.
It was after the commando squad had settled in for their brief at a hotel near the train that James took his leave of the group and disappeared into the bustling city to run an errand.
When he finally returned hours later he was wearing an ear to ear grin with eyes full of life and excitement. "Pearl" he had begun "would you please join me on a date? I have tickets to a show I think you'd like and evening wear to go with it! What do you say?"
Pearl was speechless, a blue blush appeared as she smiled back at the expectant young man holding out an envelope with the tickets in one hand and two clothing bags draped over the other. She almost said no, almost made a polite rejection but something about his cheery demeanor or maybe the encouragement of the others she had said "yes".
000 Konzert Theater Bern Billettkasse - Swan Lake performance
The two had arrived just after dark as the doors to the theater where just beginning to drift closed to shut out late arrivals. An usher in a sharp uniform had guided them to their seat up in the balcony area where they would have a clear view of the performance below. James was dressed in a simple black formal suit coat with red tie and white silk undershirt; it was a size too big and he had to pull up the pant legs and cuffs but the he was able to make it work. Pearl was wearing a simple black strapless knee-length skirt with sparkling sequins that complimented her slim figure with a white accent shawl around her shoulders to finish the look.
As the two walked through the theater to their seats the more well-to-do patrons were staring at them; whether curiosity, jealousy or disgust the couple simply didn't care as they chatted idly waiting for the show to start. Ignoring the stares of the other visitors, they failed to notice a tall tuxedo clad young man who was chatting idly with some dignitaries; the young man however did notice them.
~{0}~
Aldebert nearly spit out his wine as his eyes went wide from surprise and shock. He'd been hunting her for days, across thousands of miles of roads and rail-lines, in stations, rail depots, and town all along the alps. They'd learned of the locomotive switch but with all the freight moving around couldn't locate the train itself. He gambled that they would show up in Bern but having not seen anything for days was about to give up and try another city. Now here they were! Excusing himself he hastily made his way to the front desk and asked to use the telephone. After a few rings a heavily accented voice answered and Aldebert relayed his plan.
~{0}~
"James, how ever did you arrange this? This theater is beautiful, the colors, the chandeliers, the lighting, the ornate craftsmanship of the structure. Stars its beautiful!" whispered Pearl in quiet awe as she took in the view of the ornate theater from her seat. When James didn't immediately answer she turned to look at him and chuckled a little at what she saw.
For a moment James's was clearly transfixed as his brown eyes were locked onto the woman seated next to him; a look of pure bliss on his face. "Earth to James, come in James" teased Pearl as she lightly patted his cheeks drawing an embarrassed blush from her date.
"Oh, sorry Love, just, caught up in the moment there…. Um.. well I realized some of my father's business associates had offices in Bern. He used to do some materials trading with them back when the economy and trade was better. Anyway I looked them up, made contact and after explaining who I was and calling some of Dad's old favors, here we are!" explained James shyly as he scratched the back of his head. "I got the idea earlier while we were on the train, I figured it would make a welcome distraction and well, I'll explain more after the show.
Pearl's smile could have melted snow as she lifted the armrest out of the way and shifted herself to lean against a now furiously blushing James. "Thank you for putting this together James and thank you for inviting me out to a show; it's been so long since I've been to anything like this".
A brief flickering and dimming of the theater lights announced the start of the show as darkness filled the theater. Soon the the stage lights were lit and a single violin began to play the opening notes to Swan Lake as a young ballerina appeared on stage to begin the dance. Up on the balcony Pearl leaned forwards in her seat to better see the stage; entranced by the music and graceful movements of the dancers below. Next to her James was only half watching the show.
~{0}~
It was late evening when the performance had ended and the audience filed out of the grand theater to make their way back to their accommodations. Pearl and James where the last to leave as she had wanted to make closer inspection of the ornate decor of the theater house.
The two walked contentedly along the bridge sidewalk arm in arm still feeling in high spirits after the performance. Without warning, and much to James's surprise, Pearl suddenly stepped away before leapt up onto the bridges railing and began to spin and dance in a graceful ballet. Humming the signature tune she pirouetted, curtsied, and danced to the classical music playing within her imagination. James could only stand and watch in awe as her form was silhouetted by the twinkling lights of the city that lined the walls of the river Aare below the bridge.
Finishing the dance she jumped back down to the sidewalk, and after straightening her dress turned to James with that same bright smile and lively blue eyes. "What did you think?"
By way of answer James took a step forward, gently pulled her into a tight embrace … then kissed her.
Pearl's eyes went wide as her body tensed up in surprise breaking the kiss as she leaned away from James and stared back at him. His eyes normally full of warmth and kindness where now full of fear and worry as one singular thought filled his mind, he'd screwed up. "Pearl, I'm sorry, I didn't mean, I was so caught up in the moment, I'll I'll." He was silenced mid apology as she put a finger to his lips and smiled shyly back at him, her eyes soft and filled with warmth.
A loud voice in her head told her to pull away, to push him away and scold him for his boldness to make him never do such a thing again. But a smaller voice whispered to her to embrace it, to live a little, to experiment, to try. After a brief hesitation, she decided to listen to the smaller voice and pulled James in for another, longer, deeper kiss. Time seemed to slow as the two stood in quiet embrace oblivious to the passing foot traffic; some smiling at the new couple.
~{0}~
Half an hour later the couple was walking back to the hotel as it was only a few blocks from the theater laughing and sharing jokes. Pearl was ecstatic, this was new, exciting, she'd never before been in any kind of relationship beyond Rose and certainly not with a human. It was clear to her that James was feeling the same way as the euphoria and excitement of what the future held and what adventures they would face together filled his imagination.
Passing a small pastry shop James slowed his pace and tugged Pearl back to him to catch her in another hug as he lifted her off her feet and twirled her around. Setting her back down he held her close for a moment more before releasing her and leading her into the desert shop.
"Table for two please" he asked the Major D who simply rolled his eyes and huffed. "Sorry sir, we're closing in a few minutes, the bakery is shutdown already and the staff are heading home."
"Oh don't worry, we'll just order whatever is leftover in the desert case then be on our way." assured Pearl before taking James's hand and half pulling half dragging him past the Major-D to a table near the bar. "Looks like you have some apple pie and cheesecake left, we'll take both with some herbal tea. That shouldn't be much trouble right?" asked Pearl as she smiled and fluttered her eyelashes at the Major-D.
The Major-D simply sighed and nodded as he went to fetch the order and warm water for tea.
James was still smiling as he leaned across the table to take Pearl's small hands into his own. Gently he entwined his fingers with hers as he took a moment to think of his words before speaking. "Pearl, thank you for coming out with me tonight. Ever since I first meet you at the training camp I've been entranced by you. You're smart, strong of spirit and form, confident even when faced with grave danger, yet so full of warmth and caring for those around you"
Taking a deep breath to steady himself he spoke the hardest words he'd ever spoken. "I love you Pearl, if you'll accept me, I'd like to see where this goes"
Pearl stuttered for words as she blushed a deep blue "James, I, I don't really know what to say to this, I've never been in a relationship before, not with anyone save for Rose. I don't.."
Having gotten past the hard part James felt his confidence return as he continued. "It's Okay Love, we can take it slow, at your own pace and your own limits. If it doesn't work out, if we can't balance duty and love, or you just don't feel comfortable, we call it off being able to say that we gave it a try. After all we've been through, I realized that we might not live to the end of this war and, well, I figured I had to try again so if whatever happens next, we'd have an answer."
By way of answer Pearl leaned across the table and planted a quick kiss on his lips, though brief and small it conveyed all that was needed to be said.
Before either could say anything more the dessert and tea arrived and the two tucked into the snack. Though new love was fun, it had been many long hard weeks since the last deserts.
~{0}~
The last two blocks to the hotel passed in easy silence as the couple walked along the streets. Having been awake most of the day, the excitement of the evening, and the late hour the two were tired and eager to return to the hotel to rest. They'd just turned the last corner with the hotel in sight when two blurs of shadow reached out from the shadow of a doorway and behind a parked car to grab them. Before either could shout strong gloved hands pressed foul smelling rags over their faces as their arms were pinned behind their backs.
Training kicked in before either could form a thought as James stomped down hard on his assailants foot and snapping his head back into the man's face. Now free of the attacker James staggered forwards and nearly collapsed, the exposure to the chloroform was brief but it was a strong substance and already he could feel his limbs and mind slowing. Looking up groggily to check on Pearl he was thankful to see that she had similarly subdued her own attacker; more importantly she was alert and ready to fight.
"Pearl, you should run, get the others" wheezed James as his sinuses and throat burned from the chemical's effects. He tried once more to stand and almost fell except for Pearl ducking under his arm to steady him as he slung his arm over her shoulders. "Not how I expected our first day to end, grant me a do over won't you?" he chuckled groggily. "Thanks by the way"
"Glad to see your humor's intact, okay let's get going before their friends realize their comrades are missing." Steadying herself and her human cargo she began to fast walk back towards the hotel and safety. "Not that it's much comfort, but I think they want us alive or else we'd be wounded or worse by now" remarked Pearl confidently as she quickened her pace.
"Not necessarily" said a thickly accented voice from behind as Pearl felt the unmistakable muzzle of a pistol press against her back. Twisting her head to look behind her eyes widened in surprise as a chill ran down her spine for the man's blue eyes and expressionless face expressed an empty, cold, malice.
"You overestimate your value to me." Then he squeezed the trigger.
Fire blossomed in her body as Pearl shrieked in surprise and pain as she collapsed forwards in agony, her eyes wide with shock and pain her form glitching a bit as she fought to maintain her physical form. Squeezing her eyes shut as she pushed back against the fire burning within her body she gathered her strength for one last desperate defense. "Not like this, I can't let them hurt him, they won't hurt him, not like this, not like this"
Weak from the chloroform James barely managed to cushion his fall as he collapsed to the ground; the strength had left his muscles leaving him helplessly sprawled on the sidewalk. Rolling onto his side he was surprised to find that he was still alive, looking towards Pearl he his mind went blank with fear at the sight of her. Briefly the two made eye contact and he could see the determined fire blossoming within her. "James, it's going to be okay" she whispered through gritted teeth as she began her counter attack.
Fighting through the burning pain in her chest Pearl twisted around and struck out at her attacker putting all her strength and remaining energy into the strike. She was rewarded with a satisfying crunch as her arm made contact with Wilhelm's leg shattering it instantly on impact.
Wilhelm staggered backwards in surprise and fell against a parked car, catching himself on its mirrors he managed to keep himself from falling completely. Then he did something completely unexpected, rather than cry out in pain and fear; he smiled then started laughing.
"Very good, the hunt is always best when the prey fights back. But I'm afraid I don't have time to play tonight. Good bye". And with that he emptied the rest of his ammunition into Pearl with a series of rapid pops that echoed up and down the street.
James could only look on in horror as Pearl's form began to glitch and fizzle as her gem fought to maintain her physical form. She looked over at him, eyes full of warmth and love as her lips moved soundlessly; but he understood just the same. "I'll be okay, you will be okay". With that her form collapsed in a bright flash of light and a gust of wind that stirred up the sidewalk dust. With a soft tink a simple round white stone fell to the sidewalk where Pearl's body was once was.
"YOU BASTARD! Why do this! Aren't you supposed to be taking us alive!" roared James as he struggled to sit up and try to swing at Wilhelm. "ANSWER ME YOU DIRTY *****!"
Wilhelm simply reloaded his pistol and pointed it at James's head. Idly he started flicking the safety off and on as he wordlessly stared back at James, seemingly oblivious to the burning hatred in the other man's eyes. "You liked her yes? Hhhmm, I wonder which is better. To just kill you …. Hhhhmmm, nah, I think I'll let you live knowing you completely and utterly failed her."
Headlights lit up the narrow street and a black sedan soon drove up and stopped next to the scene of the attack. The rear passenger door opened and an SS officer stepped out and began to angrily speak to Wilhelm in German and gesturing at the stone on the ground. After a brief discussion the officer walked over to James, looked down at him, smiled, then kicked him hard in the head knocking him unconscious.
~{0}~
"PEARL!" James yelled as he sat bolt upright having regained consciousness and quickly recovered himself ready to fight for his love. "Pearl, she's injured, she was shot and and…" his breathing was coming fast and shallow as he frantically surveyed his surroundings.
A gentle hand appeared in his view and firmly pressed him back down into the hotel room bed "Easy lad, easy, lay down now. You're safe here." said an unfamiliar voice.
Without warning he felt his head start spinning and a wave of nausea nearly made him throw up. Allowing himself to be pushed back down to the bed he shifted his gaze to the room at large to see who was speaking; to find that even his vision was blurry, probably from the impact.
"My name is Doctor Diez, you've got a nasty concussion and need to rest." soothed the large blur sitting by his bed. That must be the doctor he surmised groggily. Looking around he could see other blurs that must be the rest of the squad, one stood up and walked over to kneel next to his bed.
"Don't worry James, we know what happened, a drunk by the name of Howard was in the area and managed to remember enough of the event to tell us what and how it happened." reaching up and grasping James's hand in his own he squeezed hard to help focus his thoughts. "Remember what Pearl told us about Gem physiology? It sounds like her physical form 'poofed' which means that as long as her Gem is intact, and I believe it is, then she's alive and will need rescuing from wherever those SS officers have taken her."
James nodded his understanding as he leaned back into the pillow and closed his eyes "I'll get you back my love, I'll find you and get you back safe. Should I fail or you're dead, then I'll raise fire from the darkest depth of hell as I take my vengeance upon this world."
000 end chapter
Author's Notes
This story how now broken the 100,000 word mark and to celebrate you get an extra long chapter full of adventure, furious gun battles, romance, and a shocking chapter end. It was fun to write and I hope you enjoyed reading it and will take the time to try and trace their route on Google-Earth.
There isn't much history in this chapter; instead here are WW2 history notes about a few of the nations that the story-metrics are showing my readers are located for a fun change of pace. I scouted the full route and all specific locations using Google Map, Satellite imagery, and street view so it should all match up with real world.
Please review to let me know how I'm doing or what I can do better. Nothing fuels the desire to write more than hearing from the readers and their thoughts on the story.
000 HISTORY
The route taken: Lowicz to Gliwice - Poland, Jablunkov Pass to (just outside) Trenčín- Slovakia, Vienna to Leitendorf to Liezen then Innsbruck - Austria, and lastly Bern - Switzerland. Total trip distance is about 1,030 miles.
Sweden: Officially neutral at the start of the war; the nation still aided Finland economically and with armaments. This wasn't to last as outside pressures built.
Uzbekistan: 1941 to 1945, during World War II, 1,433,230 people from Uzbekistan fought in the Red Army against Nazi Germany.
Honduras: Initially neutral in the war but joined the Allied side after the attack on Pearl Harbor. It contributed food and raw materials to the allies.
Denmark: Denmark officially remained neutral from the outbreak of the war. It was invaded without declaration of war as part of Operation Weserübung on 9 April 1940.
Brazil: Maintained its official neutrality until 1941, when it allowed Allied bases to be opened to patrol the South Atlantic. The Brazilian Navy and Air Force played a role in the Battle of the Atlantic after mid-1942. Brazil also contributed an infantry division that entered combat on the Italian Front in 1944.
Australia: Among the first countries to announce it was at war with Germany, on 3 September 1939.
Mexico: Escuadrón 201, also known as the Aztec Eagles. A group of 300+ volunteers, who trained in the United States to fight against Japan. It was the first Mexican military unit trained for overseas combat.