We're going to hang out the washing on the Siegfried Line.
Have you any dirty washing, mother dear?
We're gonna hang out the washing on the Siegfried Line
Cause the washing day is here.
000 October 16th, 1939
The morning sun was still low on the horizon as it once again began it's labored climb towards the heavens, it's normally bright light dulled by a layer of low clouds and fog around the camp. Everywhere around the old fort soldiers went about their duties from changing the watch guards, preparing breakfast or gearing up for a day of training. Off in one corner of the camp a group of French soldiers told stories of the failed Saar Offensive the previous month to an enthralled audience of young soldiers and civilians. Moral was high around the camp as this is what the French had been preparing for ever since the fires of the previous great war had blackened the earth.
After landing they had immediately been taken under armed guards to the local military headquarters where they were subjected to a seemingly endless series of debriefings, filing reports and examination. It was clear that the intelligence officers were cross-checking the stories, looking for gaps in the explanations that might expose a traitor or yield a new avenue of questioning. The hardest to explain was Pearl's presence on the squad and her apparent lack of proper documentation within the military. That had very nearly gone bad until an intervening phone call from Brigadier Clarke resolved it. Finally they were placed on a transport truck to their current lodging at the old Fort du Trou-d'Enfer just outside Paris city proper.
Pearl sat alone in the cool grass that covered the old forts roof as she meditated to rebuild her reserves and reflect on the turbulence of the past week. Though she appeared peaceful on the outside her thoughts were the opposite as memories still vivid from the past couple months vied for dominance. A memory of Adelajda and her working to fix a blown engine gasket at the Skierniewice camp brought with it a pang of sadness at the death of her friend. The thunder of distant guns and the accompanying feeling absolute power that flows from being the director of such firepower onto enemies. The warmth of new love brought a smile to her otherwise peaceful face only to shatter a moment later as the memory instantly switched to a sense of pain, fear, and a crushing feeling of claustrophobia.
"Ah!" shouted Pearl as her eyes flew open as she woke from her meditations breathing hard as her hands shot out to grab a handful of green grass. Looking around she worked to calm herself as she took in the sunrise in the distance, felt the cool grass still wet with the morning dew, and finally settling her gaze on a familiar form walking towards her from across the roof.
"Pearl! Are you okay over there? I heard you call out and for a moment it looked as if you were going to take off running. Some kind of bad dream is it? Inquired James as he took a seat next to Pearl and laid a hand tenderly across her shoulders to draw her to his side.
Nodding her confirmation of the theory, Pearl allowed herself a moment to just rest against him as she closed her eyes and let the warmth of his body drive off away the chill of the morning air.
"Bad dreams is all, do you remember I told you what happens to Gem's when poofed?" asked Pearl softly as she shifted her gaze to look up at her friends face.
"Yeah, that sometimes Gems are aware of… oh god, does that mean…" but his voice faltered at the implications of what she was implying where realized.
"Correct, while I wasn't aware of what was happening, I could still feel it as each time my body tried to form it was … blocked, crushed… It's a bit like being buried alive." whispered Pearl as the memories from her time in the containment unit threatened to overwhelm her.
Hearing the pain in her voice James pulled her closer and gently kissed the gemstone hidden beneath her hair to try and comfort the trembling woman he cared so much for.
"You are far stronger than you appear love, much stronger than you think you are. I don't know what I would have done but you, you were functional enough to form and execute an escape plan while grabbing valuable intelligence documents." affirmed James confidently as he tried to put a positive spin on the experience.
Smiling Pearl reached up to pull him into a quick kiss before settling back down to lean on him. "Thank you for the vote of confidence James, though it's probably that I just didn't have time to be afraid or dwell on it; just escape first, recover later." she whispered. "Besides, I had my own knight in …. shining armor? a beige uniform?... to rescue me along with his support crew."
James grinned broadly at this as he kissed her gem again before returning his gaze to the rising sun. "Actually it was mostly Darren and a lucky break with another spy group, but I'll take the compliment just the same. I'm just glad you're okay and recovering."
The two fell into an easy silence as they sat together on the grass roof watching the sun continue its steady climb upwards. After a while it was time to get back to business as James was the first to stand then offered his hand to help Pearl to her own feet. With one last look around to savor the opening of a new day, perhaps the last truly peaceful one, they went to join the rest of the squad for the morning briefing.
~{0}~
"What do you mean we're not going to be attacking!? We have nearly 140 full divisions of troops, tanks, aircraft and months worth of war-stock supplies! Most of the German army is still in Poland and out of position, if we just attack now we're sure to crush them and end this before it even starts!" shouted Pearl as she stood up from her chair nearly sending the old wooden chair toppling to the floor. Standing now she began to pace around the room in frustration.
"Pearl, it's not our call to make; the leadership wants to play a defensive game on this one. I guess they're still hoping for an opportunity to negotiate a way out of this mess." replied George as calmly as he was able. "But yes, we could steamroll them to Berlin."
"They're still licking their wounds over that failed Saar offensive while we were in Poland. It didn't go well and so that's why the new plan is to turtle and let the German's smash themselves to pieces against the defenses." added Frank as he flipped through his notebook.
Pearl stopped her pacing to breath out a sigh of frustration. "Sorry, you're right, It's just, frustrating is all, it's such an opportunity and I don't know…." with her frustration fizzling out she resumed her seat at the table "Sorry, Darren, I'm done, please continue"
Nodding his thanks Darren turned back to the wall map and chalk-board to continue the morning news update. "Thank you Pearl, now regarding what you've all heard about the sinking of the Royal Oak; it looks like the Navy has its hands-full dealing with…."
000 November 2nd, 1939
The days' has been getting colder, the sun increasingly lower on the horizon as the season's shifted ever deeper into the Winter months. All across the city low clouds hung threatening cold rains or sleet as the weather forecasters predicted the first snows to begin falling within the month. All around the first signs of the approaching winter storms were beginning to be felt. Up on one particularly cold rooftop across from the Polish Embassy building, a pair of soldiers kept watch over the proceedings below; only one was shivering, the cold held no sway over the other.
Hour one
"He's looking at us. He can totally see us"
"Who, the man with the dog?"
"Yes, the one with the dog, he's looking right at us"
"no he's not, he's looking at the statue… no, you're right, he's looking at us."
"Okay fine, maybe he's looking at you. Pretty sure he's looking at you.."
"Well that mean's he's look at both of us then as your right next to me. Let's see, he's got a camera, a hat, he's taking notes, and he's got one of those annoying little bitty dogs with him"
"Should we shoot him? The dog I mean?"
"Tempting, but no, that would make the Police mad and Darren mad and that would be bad. Besides, why would you even ask that?"
"We're holding a really high power suppressed sniper rifle, and I hate little tiny biting dogs"
Hour two
"I spy with my little eye…something that starts with a T"
"Tree, you already did that one, eye spy with my little eye, something that starts with an S"
"Street"
"Wrong, try again"
"Sign!"
"No, sewer, see the drain below?"
"Gross, okay, go again."
"Okay, I spy with my little eye, something that starts with P"
"Is it me? Its me isn't it?"
"Yes"
*light swatt* "your lucky we're on the same team"
Hour three
"How are you and James getting on? Can't be much time for romance or dates?"
"We're getting along fine, he's being patient and hasn't pressed or asked for anything more than what we have at the moment. We tried going to the Louvre but it was closed off as all the art was moved to storage and secure locations."
"Thats a shame, but you're otherwise good? Need any relationship advice? This is all new to you right so I imagine there must be some questions?"
"Well, now that you mention it,I did have a few questions about …."
Hour four
It was late into the evening when the clunk of a heavy door behind them announced the end of their watch shift as two Polish soldiers emerged to take over the overwatch position on the roof. With the political proceedings inside and a very real threat of either violence or intimidation at the embassy the extra sniper protection had been arranged. With their shift over the two commando's gathered up their belongings, handed the rifle over to the next watch team, and headed inside for warm drinks. A few minutes later they were at the embassy's coffee bar sipping some nice tea and chatting idly about the quiet day on the roof.
"So, how did we end up with over-watch duty? Why didn't the embassy use their own staff?" asked Pearl as she took a sip from her cup and leaned back with a contented smile at the pleasant flavor.
Finishing his own tea Frank set the cup down and leaned back as he settled contentedly into the deep plush cushions of the sofa. "He didn't tell you? Darren had said that the Embassy was a little short staffed for the ceremony security and one of the delegates was on the train through the alps with us. He reached out to Darren to ask if we could help out. Seems fitting I guess."
Taking a few sips to finish her tea, Pearl set the newly empty cup down on the little table to turn her attention to the dark sky outside the windows. Her face scrunched up with worry as she wondered how the others were fairing in the cold weather while they were warm and comfortable.
"Thinking about James?" inquired Frank softly, he'd seen that same worried look on his mother's face when he and his brothers were out causing trouble around town late into the evening.
Pearl nodded as she tore her gaze from the window to begin a survey of the various other guests at the Embassy. "Yes, it's getting colder and that meeting with the other Commando Squads is going to be running late into the evening…. but mostly just wondering about those poor soldiers still fighting back in Poland, where are they now, are they still alive, the news just keeps getting worse"
Frank was about to reply but Pearl didn't give him the chance as she sat forwards in her chair to look him in the eyes, "And what's worse!? We're just sitting here! We should be counter-attacking, we could roll them, easy! All the German heavy forces and Generals are not even near the Siegfried line!" she complained with, her voice full of frustration as she flopped back into her chair to brood.
Sighing with understanding, Frank ran his hands through his hair and scratched at some imagined itch as he contemplated a response. "As you said before, you're right, we're all frustrated. But command has a point, we're still gathering our forces and allot of units just aren't ready to fight. Put it out of your mind for now, it's not doing you any good and we did make a difference. Just look around here in this room, half the representatives here are still alive because of that train ride!"
Closing her eyes against a building headache Peal inhaled deeply, then blew out the breath and tried to find her center again. "So you say Darren ordered us out here on request from the embassy staff? To help with security while they go to a very important joint commando meeting?"
Frank just grinned "Yes, that's absolutely true, also after that issue with your official status was discovered and the circumstances of your single-handed escape from a heavily guarded German research facility AND all the very secret documents you brought with you…. he felt it best to keep you out of the spotlight so you don't have to struggle for answers to curious crowds."
Pearl huffed in annoyance at the suggestion that she couldn't handle questions under pressure. A light chuckle from George pulled her attention back to see him grinning at her. "Okay, fine, maybe I am a terrible liar, but I'm getting better, I haven't slipped up or revealed my special..status. To anyone! No one has come to arrest me or haul me off for questioning my military status!"
"Sure Pearl, we just want to keep it that way." replied Frank somberly.
000 December 17th 1939
Dear DeeDee
I hope this letter finds you in good health and your business flourishing; I apologize for the long delay in writing as things have been a bit … busy. I'm in Paris at the moment and I can tell you that everything you've heard of the city is true; mostly. It's the city of romance, lights, beautiful architecture, artwork and so much more. Ask Rose to take you through the warp-gates to visit.
As I'm sure you've heard by now the war I predicted has started and as luck would have it I was right at the flash point at the Gleiwitz radio station incident. I lost a good friend in the fight and think of her often, but it's true that grief and pain fade with time. Still, I think the experience will be one of the darker memories that I'll have to live with; I pray to the Stars that I don't accumulate more. The silver lining is that through it all my squad and I have come through it unscathed; all present and accounted for and I plan to keep it that way. There were numerous adventures in all of this including skulking about spying on the enemy, stealing tanks, directing artillery, and an epic train rescue.
But through it all war is still war in all its ugliness and brutality. I'm sorry to say that the Gem Rebellion wasn't all that different from these human wars. For all our talk of being highly advanced and civilized deep down, past all the differences in physiology and psychology, we're the same.
I'm sorry; I'm probably making you worried so I'll leave you on a brighter note. You can tell Rose that I've started dating a human! Yes, I know; me with a human, even I'm surprised by it but so far it's working out okay. I'm sure I'll have some juicy gossip to share if I get any time to visit home.
Okay, the squad is gearing up for patrol around the city so duty calls. I'll write again soon.
Please share this letter with Garnet, Amethyst, and Rose for me as they don't have a mailing address.
Your's truly…
Pearl
000 January - Midnight 1940
"Three! Two! One! Happy New Year!" shouted the assembled crowd to an accompanying brilliant fireworks displays all across the city flashing blues and oranges in the sky. The thunderous booms rattled windows and wowed the crowds as church bells across the city rang. At the barracks soldiers of many nations including French, Polish, British and a few other nations celebrated loudly as only soldiers can when they know that the next day could literally be their last. In one particular barracks at the old Fort du Trou-d'Enfer the party was especially loud and turning towards only the kind of humor that hardened soldiers could love.
Off in one corner of the courtyard the Commandos sat together around one of the long tables that doubled as meeting, planning, and mess table. Though many revelers were using the chance to get drunk the Commando's had instead opted for a few beers and wine; after all, someone had to remain sober.
"So there we were at the bottom of the mine when there was a loud BANG and everything started shaking and stuff all coming down from the ceiling. I wasn't worried about dying so much as just being trapped to suffocate down there in the dark." said George pausing to sip from his beer mug.
"So what happened next? How did you escape?" asked Pearl as she leaned forwards intent on hearing the conclusion to the tale. Her own recent claustrophobic experience still sharp in her mind. "It's a bit the same for us Gems, being trapped and unable to re-form; its worse than death.
George nodded somberly in understanding before continuing. "So, said to myself that I wasn't going to let that happen so I picked up a heavy board, used it as a shield over my head and charged forwards into the falling rocks. I figured I'd either die or make it through and well, I made it but I still sometimes feel a pain in my shoulder and ringing in the ears."
"What about the others?" asked Frank as his grip tightened on his own drink.
George just smiled and nodded "I know what you're thinking, they got out too but a couple days later. It was rough but everyone made it. After that I figured being a coal miner was too dangerous and I should find a safer profession to get my kicks, so I joined up!"
James chuckled and took a swig from his beer as he breathed a sigh of relief. "Good George, I was worried you were going to kill the festive mood with a downer ending. But you did manage to make P upset so now you have to fix that"
George smiled brightly before whispering to Darren who grinned and went over to the where the makeshift band was playing. After whispering a few words to the band leader he returned to his seat grinning wickedly. "I hope this isn't too hard on your sensitive years."
A moment later the band leader sounded his accordion loudly to get the attention of the revelers. Once he was sure all eyes were on him and the others joined in with drums and oboe and clarinet as the band began to sing.
I have a sad story to tell you
It may hurt your feelings a bit
Last night when I walked into my bathroom
I stepped in a big pile of...
Shaving cream, be nice and clean
Shave everyday and you'll always look keen
Pearl gasped in shock at the obvious crude joke but any protest was silenced as the squad gathered together as they began to sing along. "May as well join them" and so sat down next to James, picked up her beer, took a long gulp and began to sing along grinning like a fool.
I think I'll break off with my girlfriend
Her antics are queer I'll admit
Each time I say, "Darling, I love you"
She tells me that I'm full of...
Shaving cream, be nice and clean
Shave everyday and you'll always look keen
Pearl playfully pretended to slap Jame's face who then put on a look of mock hurt before both broke out in laughter to continue singing along even louder than before.
An old lady died in a bathtub
She died from a terrible fit
In order to fulfill her wishes
She was buried in six feet of...
Shaving cream, be nice and clean
Shave everyday and you'll always look keen
Pearl could feel the buzz of alcohol beginning to affect her Gem but she payed it no mind, there was too much fun to be had as she wrapped an arm around James and the two swayed as they sang along with a now clearly drunken crowd.
When I was in France with the army
One day I looked into my kit
I thought I would find me a sandwich
But the darn thing was loaded with...
Shaving cream, be nice and clean
Shave everyday and you'll always look keen
At this several old vegetables were tossed in the air as the mess tent crew played along with the foul lyrics. The vegetables landed out in the crowd where some were then picked up and tossed again. Soon a small food fight had played out leaving uniforms covered in vegetables.
And now, folks, my story is ended
I think it is time I should quit
If any of you feel offended
Stick your head in a barrel of...
"SH****TT" Yelled the crowd in one loud voice as the band finished the set. With spirits running high the band broke for a break as the crowd of soldiers returned to their own conversations.
Pearl and James were still leaning against each other grinning stupidly as they relaxed against the table reveling in the festive atmosphere and feeling the booze in their systems. Gazing at each other the two couldn't help but laugh at their mutually happy drunk faces as they leaned in for a quick kiss, which turned into another, then a third; until Pearl put her hand up to stop.
Feeling a wave of regret and humiliation James immediately sat back up straight as a stone, his eyes now full of worry and concern. "Sorry Love, I just got carried away with the drink and the.."
Pearl silenced him mid apology with a finger gently placed over his lips; her eyes half lidded with a teasing smile on her lips. "Actually, I was thinking we should head back to my meditation spot if we're going to continue" her voice low and full of warmth "but just kisses for now, I'm not up for more just yet."
"Geez you two, we're right here, go get some privacy before you talk like that" sassed Darren from the other side of the table. "Besides, I think you have an audience" he said laughing.
As one James and Pearl looked out to the crowd and immediately James blushed a deep red while Pearl turned blue. A dozen grinning French Soldiers were watching intently.
"Continuez avec le spectacle." said one as he gestured for them to continue kissing with his hands. "Kiss kiss!" said another with a big grin while the others laughed.
Hurriedly the two lovers practically leapt from the chair in embarrassment and ran off into the evening to find a better spot.
000 February 1940
Dear Father
It's been awhile since I've last written and I'm sure you must be worried terribly about me being out here in the danger zone. Rest assured that while I may not be 'safe', I am capable and making doing justice for the family name, I'm sure you and Uncle will be proud of me.
The military is just as you had said it would be when you served; its frequently quite boring with brief periods of intense action and danger. Most of my adventures are classified at the moment but I can tell you that I was there at the flash point and present for the fall of Poland. We aided in the escape of some refugees but it didn't go as well as planned; I'm still having nightmares from the experience. I wish we could have done more but what can one squad of Commandos do in the face of invasion?
In other news, I've met a girl who is a member of my squad; yes, our squad leader (Corporal Williams) is very loose on regulations provided we stay professional on duty. She's about as tall as mom, slim figured with blue eyes, peach hair and a strength of character and physique I think you would approve of. I hope that I can bring her to meet you when we are next in the London area and can do a trip out to the family farm. She's a talented musician and singer too, perhaps Grandma can teacher her some songs or violin ballads.
That's all for now till the next letter; your son
James Appleby
000 March 1940
Spring was finally making itself known as the winter snows were finally beginning to give way to the greener fields and warmer weather of the season. For the past month the squad had been deployed to one of the forts along the southern portion of the Maginot line on a patrol tour to keep watch over the southern borders. For most of the month things had been quiet as they watched the distant German borders fortifications on what was called the Siegfried Line by the Allies. There had been only the occasional skirmish actions between the two nations as neither side was willing to commit precious units to a large confrontation in the rugged terrain.
It was on the last day of their tour that the squad accompanied by a platoon of French regulars finally encountered a German unit busily setting up some new obstacles on their side of the border. All along a low hill under the shade of an old stand of farmed Oak trees they watched.
"How many do you see? Any indication what they're setting up over there?" asked Frank as he nudged Darren with his elbow to prompt a response from the squad leader.
Darren set down the high powered binoculars to give Frank an annoyed look before replying. "Looks like they're setting up some landmines, probably a mix of tank and couple platoons of personnel."
Frowning James picked up his own binoculars and turned them towards the supply truck next to the distant enemy troops. "Confirmed, looks like boxes of mines judging by the markings and abundance of shovels." setting aside the binoculars James turned to his companion. "Pearl, you getting all that? Grid locations and types of munitions?"
Pearl looked from the field map she was sketching out a field map of the area for later reference by other units once copied and distributed. "Yep, got it noted and referenced for the artillery units. Is that area in range? Maybe we should just wait till they're done and blast it away? Why wait?"
Darren looked over at the two as he mulled over the idea, after a long pause he turned and spoke a with they're translator who then relayed the new orders to the accompanying French platoon.
Returning his attention to his own Squad Darren began to issue orders. "Okay squad, here is the plan. We're going to pin them in pace so they don't leave and call for artillery to cover the whole grid area with fire. No need for precise targeting as the enemy is spread out anyway."
George and Frank grinned to each-other. "Finally, some action! Its one-sided and unfair advantage in our favor which makes it even better!" whispered George with some glee.
"Darren, do you have any incendiary ammo?" Asked Pearl as she secured her sniper's-scope to her rifle and began to sight it in on the enemy. "I want to start with the supply truck".
Darren nodded before reaching into his ammo pouch to hand her several cartridges with red and yellow bands. "What are you planning on doing with with those?"
Pearl grinned wickedly"You'll see, Please ask our French companions to begin calling in the artillery, by the time I'm ready and have fired the gunners should have already fired the first shots."
A few minutes later Pearl had finished her long-range shot adjustments as the squad looked on in anticipation of what she was planning to execute. At the signal from the French translator that the fire-mission had been relayed to the artillery regiment she squeezed the trigger and emptied the rifles clip of the special ammo.
A brief flicker of red tracers was seen in the early morning light as the incendiary round headed towards the German supply truck followed by a brief sparks on one of the boxes. All around German soldiers took for cover wherever it could be found while they looked for the source of the shot; a number of them clustering around the trucks. Including one with a smoldering crate.
After what seemed to be minutes but was actually only a few seconds… the truck suddenly exploded in a cloud of fire and flying red hot shrapnel. Some of the debris was un-exploded ordnance which, now heated from fire, began to itself explode leading to dozens of secondaries. Soon the whole mine-laying operation was an expanding conflagration of fire and shrapnel. By the time the heavy artillery bombardment began to impact the area there wasn't much left to finish off.
Pearl was grinning as she watched the distant destruction. "How's that for one clip efficiency?"
The squad and most of the surrounding French soldiers just started back at her in silent awe.
"That was mean." remarked Darren dryly as he looked through his binoculars to survey the distant carnage and began to write notes in his field book. "Efficient but mean."
"I'm glad you're on our side" quipped James as he patted Pearl on the head lovingly. "That's the ultra efficient and destructive lady I fell in love with".
000 April 1940
"It's about fighting season, the Germans and Russians have attacked Norway and still we're sitting here waiting for the hammer to fall." grumbled Pearl as she flipped through the latest newspaper as the squad relaxed in a small cafe near the small cities administrative building.
"I suspect you're right, that incident with the crashed German plane certainly gives credit that if anything it to happen it should be happening soon." agreed James as he looked out the cafe's large window. Outside it was a clear day with a few peacefully drifting clouds and families playing in the park. "Its as if the people outside are oblivious to the danger just across the border!"
"I'm sure they're aware of it James, after all the French have already begun rationing, digging fortifications, and blackout periods. It's just not fully real until the bombs start falling." grumbled Frank from the next table over, his rifle propped against the chair was drawing uneasy looks from some of the cafe's other occupants.
"Where's Darren, is he still out with the other BEF groups surveying evacuation routes and such?" asked Pearl as she finished her tea and waved the waiter over for a refill. "This cafe is nice but I'd much rather be out doing something useful than sitting here waiting"
"They should be back shortly, besides, I hear that most of the action is out at sea with the Navy and RAF giving the Krauts a proper bruising. I know your restless love, I am too, but we should savor the peace we have."
Pearl was about to reply when the sound of large diesel engines was heard down the street and growing louder by the second. The rumble and clank of heavy tracks marked the sound of the engines as approaching tanks as glasses and plates within the cafe began to vibrate and clank together as if a small earthquake was occurring. Eager to see what was happening the cafe's patrons were soon pressed against the window, each vying for a better view. Within moments a armored column was passing by the small cafe; the tanks crews ever alert for danger, they're faces set and focused on maneuvering the steel leviathans through the streets.
000 Sør-Varanger, Norway - April 1940
High above a hill just outside the little Norwegian industrial town of Sor three women watched the activities of a small German unit as it made it's way through the town. It was heading into spring but the air was still cold and a light frost of snow still coated the ground in places with lots of shade. The landscape was barren, rocky mountain terrain but for the occasional stand of trees where the soil had managed to accumulate enough for the roots. But the cold temperatures held no sway over the three as they watched and waited for orders.
"Looks like a mining expedition, what's so important about a bunch of humans digging up old rocks?" grumbled Amethyst as she watched, a board expression on her face.
"Because, the mine is close to the old shooting star storage facility; home-world set them up here in the mountains where it was always cold to keep them stable" answered Rose as politely as she could. Ever since Pearl had departed the little purple Gem had become even more irritable than normal, though Amethyst's behavior was poor Rose gave her a pass as she knew the reason.
Down in the town the roar of large vehicles was heard as the German's mounted up on the convoy. Soon the group of vehicles and earth movers was heading up one of the roads that would take them deep into the mountains, close to where the bomb storage was.
"We should go, if we leave now we have a solid chance of getting there ahead of them" ordered Rose as she backed down out of view below the ridge line. She was about to give the order to fast-move ahead of the group when she felt an arm on her shoulder hold her back.
"There is no need for moving fast, there is a greater than ninety percent chance they will be unsuccessful and turn back on their own" prophesied Garnet in her usual cool and relaxed voice.
Rose paused to consider the advice before shaking her head. "Just the same, we should be there for that other ten-percent and though they are German I'd rather try and prevent them from being hurt if we can help it."
With that, decision made, the three Gems began power-jumping between hills and over obstacles to reach the suspected destination of the German mining convoy.
~{0}~
Aldebert was cold, cold was uncomfortable to say the least. If he put on his coat he would become too hot as he moved around; take off the coat and he would freeze. Wear the coat outside then overheat on entering an insulated tent or building. Worst it was all bulky. But at least this particular excursion had a high chance of success if the legends were right and the prize they sought was found. For if it was true then this would be a very quick war.
Finally after hours of travel over uneven terrain they arrived at their destination high in the mountains. The trail-head of a little used road that lead up to an icy mountain shrouded in a persistent gloomy layer of clouds and mist. Finally after an hour or so packing the mules they were on their way up the mountain; almost all of them.
They'd barely gone a few paces when Aldebert noticed something odd, the locals were not following them up the trail. "What's the hold up? Why don't they follow us?" inquired Aldebert curiously as he walked back to the trail-head to speak to their interpreter.
The interpreter looked away as if embarrassed as he kicked at the dirt, struggling to find a suitable answer. Finally he decided there was no way way to say it. "They are afraid, legends said was defended by an evil ice spirit who would crush any who entered its territory."
There was a long silence as the two men stared at each other; one fearful of retribution, the other gazing curiously up at the mountain. "I believe them" answered Aldebert at last, "I've seen enough crazy things in this world to believe that those legends might be true."
The guide seemed to visibly relax as the fear almost visibly drained out of him. "What are we to do about it Heer Aldebert? The men don't want to fight a monster."
Aldebert chuckled as he answered "not to worry, tell them double rations for any man who joins us and triple pay for all if they can capture the monster. We have plenty of firepower, air-support and if it's too much we can always retreat then return later in more force.
The guide couldn't believe what he was hearing, especially from one of the feared SS Intelligence agents. "Why, why make such an offer for men you have conquered?"
"Because I've found that motivating people to help out willingly is a far better avenue for success than gunpoint. Besides, you are already conquered, why waste more lives and men?" answered Aldebert honestly. Really he was fully prepared to use force if needed but that would be an even greater waste of valuable resources; may as well give the carrot a try first.
Grinning the translator relayed the message to the others and soon a majority had changed their minds to join the expedition up the mountain. The rest agreed to at least stay and tend the vehicles for the return trip; for the sake of their countrymen at least.
~{0}~
A full day passed as the Crystal Gems followed the expedition through the narrow mountain valleys. Occasionally they would slip close enough to listen to conversations; it was on one of these that Adelbert's presence among the group of German soldiers was realized.
"Should we do something about Al over there?" asked Amethyst as she idly tossed a rock from hand to hand. "We don't have to kill him but we could get some payback for Pearl's sake"
Rose just frowned at the suggestion, "That won't be necessary, we're supposed to stay out of this, we're just following along to make sure they don't get the old Gem Technology"
~{0}~
Dawn the next day found their expedition at their destination; an enormous glacier high in the mountains. Visibility was low due to the thick fog but the ascent from base-camp to the place of legends passed with minimal hassle. Now the group stood in a narrow valley, searching for any clues they could find. Hours passed and the sun was beginning to set and still nothing was found.
"How sure are we of these legends?" asked Aldebert as he sat on a large granite boulder studying a map. "There were several places the trail split, maybe we took a wrong turn in the fog?"
"Doubtful" replied the guide as the munched on the contents of a tin marked "wild berries". "Those paths lead up at steeper angles while the legend said the 'door' was at the end of a narrow valley. By reason staying within the valley would bring us to the right spot."
Aldebert was about to reply when one of the soldiers began shouting excitedly. "WE FOUND IT! HEER ALDEBERT WE FOUND IT!"
Stuffing his map in his pocket Aldebert ran through the snow towards the shouts. Soon he was standing before an ornate door made of some unknown metal, its polished surface glimmering in the dim light. Carefully, as if it was an illusion, Aldebert reached out to touch it. Immediately he felt the chill of the icy cold of the ancient metal door, on closer inspection he could see it was ornately covered with murals of battles and imposing figures looking down on him.
"Magnificent, a work of art behind which lays the keys to ending this war soon. Quickly, bring tools but also buffers to minimize the damage. We must try and preserve the beauty of these doors." commanded Aldebert. Soon the group was digging into carrying crates to produce cutting torches, rock-drills, and blasting equipment. "Yes, see if we can blast the rock around it, perhaps we can make our own door or such. Good thinking!"
"Why do you care about the doors so much if what's behind is so important?" asked one of the soldiers as he hefted a rock drill and placed it against the rock. "It's just an ornate door"
Aldebert scoffed in annoyance as he gazed at the up at the door. "Because this was not made by human hands. Who knows what those symbols mean, we must preserve it for study!"
The soldier just rolled his eyes, this was all above his pay grade and his job was to complete the mission. Lifting the drill above his head he heaved it forwards where it struck the stone, hard.
The effect was instant as instead of a solid 'thunk' of the drill hitting rock; a sharp-crack followed by an ear piercing shriek was heard instead.
~{0}~
Up on the ridge above the camp the three Crystal Gems watched as the work-crew descended into chaos as the corrupted ice-gem came to life, its gem now showing a large crack. Its movements wild and full of furry as it lashed out at its attackers, soon trees were being knocked over and huge chunks of ice began to fall all around the valley. High above the glacier gave way.
~{0}~
"AVALANCHE! RETREAT RETREAT!" shouted Aldebert as the men abandoned their equipment and ran as fast as their legs could carry them. Soon the valley was empty of humans, almost. One of the miners had tripped and fallen in his haste to escape.
Rose was about to leap to his rescue but the ice-beast got there first. There was a quick loud snap, a blood chilling scream, then just the sound of the snow tumbling down the mountain.
Soon soft growling and shuffling could be heard from down in the valley as the beast secured its territory. With its attackers chased away it thumped over to its resting area to resume its slumber.
Up on the mountain top, the three Gems departed as it was clear the mountain was safe, for now.
~{0}~
Back at base camp Aldebert was busy at his typewriter as he excitedly typed out his latest report. Presence of ancient Gem facility confirmed. Facility guardian confirmed. Next expedition to bring heavier fire-power, flame weapons, air-drop heavier drills in advance.
000 Citadel of Lille - late evening - May 9th, 1940
Thump…..Thump!...Thump!
Pearl was meditating on the wall of the centuries old Citadel while the squad rested down in the makeshift barracks that had been set up to house the soldiers temporarily stationed in the city.
Krump! Thump! Thump! * wail of an air-raid siren * Boom boom boom boom
Opening her eyes and looking out to the source of the disturbance Pearl gasped at what she was seeing and stood up to try and get a better view over the trees surrounding the old fortress.
Pop! Pop! Pop! Pop! KRUMPH! THUMP! Thump thump thump thump! KRUMPH! Pop pop pop!
The rapid fire of an anti-aircraft battery was heard as tracers could be seen racing skywards towards targets hidden by the dark night. Soon search lights flicked on as more rapid popping of AAA guns joined in the effort to repel the aerial attackers. But the bombs continued to fall on the city.
Soon a dim orange glow was seen over the industrial district where the rail yards were located.
As she watched the distant glow grow brighter she felt something cool and wet streaming down her face, her eyes hurt and her gem ached. Reaching up she wiped away the stream of tears as she bore witness to the opening movements of another invasion and the ruination of a peaceful city.
"Its started, its happening again." She whispered quietly to herself as she turned away from the battle to sound the alarm and wake the rest of the squad from slumber.
It would be the last deep sleep anyone would get for several weeks.
Yeah, my boy, you thought it would be so easy
At the great Washing Day on the German Rhine.
Oh, and you really filled your trousers, didn't you?
And when the German Washing Day is over,
Man, you won't need any more washing.
000 End chapter 17
Author's Notes
Hello Dear Readers!
This was a time-jump chapter so things were very compressed in an effort to bring the squad into the 1940's quicker for the invasion of France. I hope it was enjoyable and while action was limited that it advanced the story while giving the characters some more depth and personality.
Did anyone recognize the corrupted gem Aldebert encountered? It was the Ice-Monster from Season One episode 23 - "monster buddies". The skeleton they found in the ice-cave was from the poor sole who was killed by the corrupted gem during the expedition.
As always, please leave a review to let me know what I can do better or to give encouragement to continue the story 8-).
History notes
'Washing on the Siegfried Line' - popular song by Ulster songwriter Jimmy Kennedy, written whilst he was a Captain in the British Expeditionary Force during the early stages of the Second World War, with music by Michael Carr. It was first published in 1939. Search youtube for it.
'Shaving Cream' - song from 1946 by is a song written by Benny Bell in 1946, and originally sung by Paul Wynn. For our purposes we're pretending it was written in 1940. Search youtube for it.
'you thought it would be so easy' - parody song - written shortly after the Battle of France by a German songwriter presently unknown.
British Expeditionary Force - Name of the British Army in Western Europe from 1939 to 1940. About 13 divisions (about 394,165 soldiers) with supporting armor and aircraft.
Phoney War - A long relatively quiet period across most of Europe after the invasion of Poland lasting from September 1939 through May 1940. While most of the German army was engaged in Poland, a much smaller German force manned the Siegfried Line, their fortified defensive line along the French border. At the Maginot Line on the other side of the border, British and French troops stood facing them, but there were only some local, minor skirmishes.
April 1940 - The Norwegian Campaign by the Germans to invade Norway and Denmark took place during this period. I recommend the movie "The King's Choice" which chronicles the invasion of Norway during operation 'Weserübung'. See Youtube video clips of the movie for more information.
Polish Govt in Exile - In order to continue government and direct what remained of the Polish war efforts, the surviving government officials convened at their embassy in Paris in November 1939 to pass legislation for continuity of leadership and the direction of military forces.
December 1939 - The German Pocket Battleship Admiral Graf Spee was scuttled outside Montevideo harbour. The ships KzS Hans Langsdorff was in command of the vessel and if you read his history he's a rather sympathetic character who fought his war with dignity and respect for his enemies according to the historical notes available to me. The Graf Spee was a notoriously effective commerce raider in the early war and is worth reading up on.
January 1940 - The last 'normal' new years France would see for some time. If you look up images and video of "paris new year 1940" it's a weird mix of 'normal' and war preparation.