Hiding

You never told me a thing
You never showed me a thing
All you did is just action
Actions to comfort me

I always asked you
But you never told me the truth
I always looked into it
But you never left me a clue

I know you're lonely
I know you're sad
I know you felt guilty
I know you didn't want me involved

But why,
Must it be this way?
You never dropped a tear
You always smile

You never cry
Unless it's raining
Why do you force yopurself
when you know you can't bear it alone?

Every time I leave
You never tried to stop me
Just smiling and waving goodbye
Making me feel so sad

You know I can be your shoulder when you cry
You know I will always lift you up
You know you need someone by your side
You know you can't bear it alone

I walked home
And saw you sitting in front of the door
In the middle of the rain
Letting it wash away your tears

I walked to you and smiled
You looked up to me and gave me a smile
But I someow felt so sad
To find you smiling in your sry

Your eyes are empty
Your heart is full of sorrow
I held you tight in my arms
And felt how painful your life is

I have to leave again by dawn
But with you in my arms
I don't want to leave you
I want to fill your life

You never cry
Unless it's raining
Why do you force yourself
When you know you can't bear it alone?

Two sided

p1
Once upon a time
There was a man
He was young, a warrior
Born with endless bravery
Going to the field

Once upon a time
There was a girl
She was young, a warrior
Born with endless bravery
GOing to the field

In chess
There was a king
There was a king
There were two bishops
Two headquarters
And a pair or knight

In chess
There were two sides
Black and white
Two sides which will never meet

The man
Who fights for his country
The woman
Who fights for her country

KILL
KILL
KILL
KILL

p1
Once upon a time
There was a man
He was young, a warrior
Born with endless bravery
Going to the field

Once upon a time
There was a girl
She was young, a warrior
Born with endless bravery
GOing to the field

In chess
There were two sides
Black and white
Two sides which will never meet

Swords against swords
Spears against spears
Bows against bows
BLood against blood

She fell
ANd he came to her
With his sword pointed at her nose
All for his country

p1
Once upon a time
There was a man
He was young, a warrior
Born with endless bravery
Going to the field

Once upon a time
There was a girl
She was young, a warrior
Born with endless bravery
GOing to the field

In chess
There was a king
There was a king
There were two bishops
Two headquarters
And a pair or knight

In chess
There were two sides
Black and white
Two sides which will never meet

The man
Who fights for his country
The woman
Who fights for her country

KILL
KILL
KILL
KILL

Kill her?
No, he couldn't kill her

...

Now, the same post title again... let's see.. I'm typing my bloody long story, and it's not yet done. both the story and the typing. (hey, is it a german book on the background? ah, whatever) so don't count me to post another story, but now I'm approximately writing... a poem every day (i wrote 3 today just to kill the time, and I have to ask the teacher for a paper) so... especially for Edo, please post you warning: don't read as you eat cuz you will have a great stomach contraction. hahahahahahahahahahah. ok then.... here's a poem I wrote in... let's see... dienstag (tue in German) kinda long, and please note that you can read from the second part first then the first or the first then second, it's not gonna make much difference, either... haha

Rain

ROAR! ROAR!
I heard angry, impatient roars
I looked around
But there weren't any tigers

I looked down and thought about things gone by
Two years ago, in this street
You put your hands off mine
And you smiled to me
Then as fast as the wind
You were gone

You never came back ever since
We've never met again
But somewhy, somehow
The smile never leaves this heart

Two years ago, after you left
I heard roars
Angry, impatient roars
I looked around
But there weren't any tigers
Ever since that day
I've been waiting for you
But you never came
I've called you over and over
I cried
In the light and in the dark
But you never came

ROAR! ROAR!
I heard angry, impatient roars
I looked up
And saw the dark angry sky
Then it started to rain
I felt wet in my heart
That smile started to vapor
I cried, but my tears left with the rain
I felt very cold without you at my side

Where are you?

...

now, now... (i guess indonesiand will hate me now that i publish english stories, but as if I care ^^). I'm done with lil' Seelowe... (a bit slang, fine lha...) so now... i wanna publish another, but that's baddddddd....(i think) so i will post a few of my poems while waiting for my handwritten story to be done... (grin) and you followers can post too... don't worry, haha....

ch.12

--12
A few men threw Ed to his cell. Ed panted as he saw blood oozing out from his mouth.
“You won’t survive the lieutenant, Brit!” one of them said, then they left.
Ed panted a few times, then he struggled to sit up. He looked around his cell as he thought of something that might be useful for escaping.
There!
Ed stood up and leaned to the wall. He coughed a few times, then he fell to the floor.
“Okay, okay, calm down,” he whispered. He took out his knife from his shoes and walked to a corner of the room. He sat down again, took some breaths, then he slashed the knife to his finger.
“Good,” he said. “Very good.”

“Okay, so, it’s safe now?” Roderick asked. “I hope so,” Karl said as he poured some coffee. “Coffee?”
“No, thanks,” Roderick rejected. “So now that things are going pretty well,” he said. “You want me to pay or something?”
“No, no, herr,” Karl said. It’s my task as a Gestapo,” he said. “Can I pay a small visit to Ernest, leutnant?” Roderick asked. “Oh, sure you can,” Karl said. “My men will go with you, you won’t mind about it, will you, herr?” Karl asked. “No, no, of course not,” Roderick said. Karl nodded to the other Gestapo in the room and the Gestapo took a key. “Follow me, oberst,” he said.
Roderick walked into the cell. “Guten Abend, Ernest,” he said. “Guten Abend, oberst. Wie geht es Ihnen?” Ed asked. “Gut, danke,” Roderick said. “Und du?”
Ed didn’t answer. He slowly took the knife from his pocket and held it without Roderick realizing. “A pretty good try, but good think I have Von Werner here,” Roderick said. “Just what do you want?” Ed asked. “Just to greet you,” Roderick said. “But I think you seem to be doing fine, huh?”
“Of course I am,” Ed said. “And besides…”
Ed turned his body round and stabbed the knife to Roderick’s stomach.
“I’ll be even better if you die,” Ed said. The Gestapo guiding Roderick was stunned.
“Helfen!”
The other Gestapo started coming. The Gestapo himself got in and took Roderick’s body out. The other quickly dragged Ed out of his cell to a room.
“What is it?” Karl asked as he walked to the room. “He killed the colonel,” a Gestapo answered.
“You killed Erick, don’t you?” Karl asked. “What’re you talking about?” Ed asked. “Don’t pretend to be stupid,” Karl said, then he pulled Ed’s shirt.
“What do you want now?” Ed asked. “I just want you to answer bits of my questions,” Karl answered coldly. “Questions from Erick for you.”
Ed didn’t say anything. “You’re not going to say a thing?” Karl asked. “And what am I supposed to say?” Ed asked. “Just answer me and I’ll let you,” Karl said. “Quit making fake promises, Karl,” Ed said.
“Cough!”
“I felt underestimated, Sheffield,” Karl said as he placed his foot on Ed’s chest. “Why not be a smart, good boy, and obey me?” he asked. “And why are you even asking a dead man’s question,” Ed said. “You’re still as stupid as before.”
2 Gestapo took Ed’s arms and dragged him out of the cell. They dragged him to a room and tied him on a chair.
Karl entered the room. “Seriously,” Ed said with a sigh. “What do you want?”
“Just your plans for Sicily,” Karl said. “I don’t know a thing,” Ed said. “You’re lying, aren’t you,” Karl said as he walked around.
“AAAAAAAH!”
“I’m not showing you any mercy like I did in France, Sheffield,” Karl said. “So what? I don’t need your pity,” Ed said. “Wow, you’re getting brave,” Karl said as he nodded to a Gestapo.
“AAAAAAAAH!”
Ed coughed out loud a few times. “You’re not going to tell?” Karl asked. “I’m not. I don’t know a thing,” Ed said between his breaths.
Karl walked to Ed’s back. “You’re really stubborn,” Karl said. A Gestapo hit him once again.
Ed coughed out blood again. “I’m tired of doing this as well, Sheffield,” Karl said. “Please, tell me.”
Ed panted. “And why must I?” Ed asked. “Because then I’ll let you go,” Karl said.
Ed looked around. He could saw a knife on the desk a few feet from him. He thought for a while.
“Tell me, Karl.”
Karl stopped walking. “What’s it?” he asked. “Do you promise to let me go?” Ed asked. “Did I ever break my promise, Sheffield?” Karl asked. “No, but your Fuhrer did, a lot,” Ed said. Karl sighed. “Oh, bloody damn, I’m not him. Trust me,” Karl said.
Ed thought again. “Promise?” he asked. “Of course. I promise to deport you back to UK,” Karl said.
Ed smiled.
“Yes,” he said. “We’re landing in Sicily.”
Karl coded a Gestapo. He quickly took out a piece of paper and pen. “How much forces?” Karl asked. “I’m not sure. But Monty won’t be there, I guess,” Ed said. “What about Ike? Patton?” Karl asked. “Patton is possible,” Ed said. “So Major Martin is seriously just a lie, right?” Karl asked. “Yeah, something like that,” Ed answered. “Where?” Karl asked. “Licata and Gela,” Ed answered.
Karl looked at the paper Roderick gave him. “Ok,” he said. “Let him go.”
A Gestapo started to untie Ed. Ed panted as he could feel the big burden holding him was gone.
“Why don’t you be this obedient since the beginning, Sheffield,” Karl said. “Maybe you won’t be hurt that badly.”
The Gestapo took away the ropes and gave it to his friend. “Enjoy your freedom, Sheffield,” Karl said as he opened the door. “Now you’re free.”
Ed smiled. “Thanks a lot,” he said as he stood up. “Now you’re really letting me go, aren’t you?”
Karl nodded. “Okay, that’s enough,” Ed said. He walked to the desk and took the knife. He slashed it to his wrist, causing it to bleed badly.
The Gestapo panicked. “Call a doctor! Quick!” Karl shouted as he ran to Ed.
“Sheffield, what’re you doing…”
Ed punched Karl hard on the stomach. Karl spit out ribbons of blood. Ed quickly stood up and ran out of the room.
“Lieutenant!” a Gestapo called as he ran to Karl. “Hang on!”
“Stop him…”
The Gestapo was stunned. “Stop him… whatever it takes!” Karl shouted. The Gestapo nodded and chased Ed.
Karl sat up as he held his stomach. “Damn you, Sheffield,” he whispered.

Ed kept running. He made it out of the building, then he looked back and realized that Gestapo was chasing. Ed Held his shoulders hard as he continued running.
“Stop there!” one of them shouted. Ed ignored him. He just kept running. Suddenly he felt a strong urge from inside. Ed knelt down and coughed out hard.
The Gestapo took out their guns and pointed it at Ed’s head. “Hold on there!” one of them said. “You’re not going anywhere!”
Ed didn’t say anything. He vomited out blood and fell to the ground.
Es tut mir Leid, Karl…
And it gone dark.

“He’s dead, leutnant.”
Karl knelt down next to Ed and touched his neck. He then stood up again. “What to do now?” a Gestapo asked. “At least we should bury him properly,” Karl said as he turned back. “I’m leaving this to you.”
The Gestapo nodded and left to the building. Karl looked at Ed’s body for a while, then he walked away.
“I won’t forget you for my life, Sheffield,” he said. “I promise.”

ch.11

--11
Ed walked around to the dark streets of Berlin as he looked around in case someone was following him. Suddenly he saw someone a few meters in front of him. He was afraid, but he still walked to her.
“Guten Tag,” he greeted. “Excuse me, frau, but what are you doing in this dark street?”
Ethel looked at Ed. “Oh, I’m just having some fresh air,” she said. “Und du?”
“I was just passing by, but then I saw you,” he said. “Perhaps I should give you a nice greeting, that’s it.”
"Hey, you know what," Ed said. "You're kind of pretty."
Ethel looked down with her face red. "What's your name?" Ed asked. "Ethel," she answered shortly. "What a good name," he said. "My name is Ernest. Nice to meet you."
Ethel looked at Ed. "I've never seen you around," she said. "Yes. I just came from Munich," Ed said. "I see," she said.
They just stood there for a few minutes without saying a word. Ethel looked at Ed for a while, then she looked down again.
"I should go," Ed said as he left. "I'll see you later, Frau Ethel."
Ethel watched Ed leave.
"Hold on."
Ed looked back. "Are you sure we will… meet again?" she asked.
Ed thought for a while. "You know, a lot of people are dying out there," she said. "So I'm wondering..."
Ed smiled. "You don't have to worry," he said. "I'll see you later, then."
Ed walked out of the alley. Ethel watched him leave as she folded her skirt.
"He's not Ernest?" she thought. "I start to think he is, actually." Ed walked into a building as he looked around. "Can I help you, herr?" a man asked. "Yes. I'm going to stay here for about a week," Ed said. "I'm wondering if you have any spare rooms," he said. "Sure we have, herr," the man said. He pulled out the drawer and handed Ed a key. "How much will it be?" Ed asked. "About 900 marks a week," the man answered. "Well, well," Ed said as he took out his wallet. "Mind if I half of it now?" he asked. "No, herr," the man said. Ed gave the money and took the keys. "Vielen dank, herr," the man said as he bowed down.
Ed walked to a door which have the same number as the key, and got into the room. He locked the door and sat on a bed.
"Now, now," he said as he opened his paraset. He read the message and quickly decoded it. He read it for a few minutes "Oh, wow," he said, then he took out a match and lit the paper.
"So," he said as he stepped on the burning paper. "I guess Karl followed me all the way here."
1700 hours
"From here on," Karl said as he patted Ethel's shoulder. "Play your role." Ethel nodded and walked to a dark side of the building. Karl followed her as he looked around.
Ed walked to the building as he held a folder. He didn't realize that there were people watching him.
"That one, Herr Karl," Ethel said. Karl peeked from his place.
"He's not Ernest," Karl said. "Really?" Ethel asked. "Yeah," He said with a smile. "Sorry, they may look the same, but they're not."
Ethel looked at Karl, puzzled. "Then who is he?" she asked. "An old friend," he said. "Sorry, Sheffield, but you can't fool me."
Ed walked upstairs as he saluted to a few Abwehr around. They didn't seem to suspect him at all, but that didn't make Ed feel ease.
"Something's behind."
Roderick got out of his room. "Ernest!" he called. Ed looked at him and quickly ran to him. "Guten Abend, herr," he said. "Hahaha, forget the manners. What kind of information do you bring?" Roderick asked. "A lot," Ed simply answered. "Just look at this."
Roderick took the folder Ed gave him and started reading a few documents. Ed waited for him nervously as he looked around.
"What is it?"
"Nothing, herr," Ed answered. "I'm still a bit unused, that's it."
Roderick laughed out loud. "My dear Ernest," he said with a sigh. He put the folder on his table. "UK must've been tough for you."
Ed nodded. "How's the report?" he asked. "I actually doubt that they will really land in Sardinia," Roderick said. "But seems like there really is a lot of proof that they will, huh…"
Ed nodded. "Ah, whatever," Roderick said. "Where did you get all this information, Ernest?"
Ed was stunned. "You have a friend in Spain?" Roderick asked. "Actually no, herr," Ed answered. "I heard all this from a friend in Italy."
Roderick thought for a while. "And even if they're landing in Sardinia..." he said. "Where will it be?"
"Why not you divert those panzers in Sicily to Sardinia or Greece, herr," Ed suggested. "No, that will be dangerous," Roderick said. "Kesselring is positive that Sicily is one of their plans, but there aren't any proof. I searched around and found a bit of it," he explained.
"Can I help you, herr?" Ed asked. "Of course, Ernest. I need all kind of help I can get now," Roderick said. "Come back here in 2 days and give me more about Sicily, ok?" he asked. "I will, herr," Ed said.
"Now, now," Roderick said as he looked at his watch. "I've got to see someone. See you later," he said as he left.
Ed watched Roderick leave, then he looked at. The folder he gave. "Man, he's really cautious," he thought. He got out of the room.
"Now, now," Ed said as he arrived outside. "Let's see what we've got..."
Ethel got out of the alley and looked around. She quickly spotted the man she was looking for.
"Herr Ernest!" she called. Ed looked to her. "Hey, you're the one from yesterday," he said. "Yes, herr. You remember me, too," she said. "Of course," he said. "How can I forget such a beautiful lady."
Ethel looked down with her face red. Ed smiled and bowed to her. "Mind if I invite you for a drink, Ethel?" he asked. She thought for a while. Ed could read her mind, and smiled. "You may reject if you want to," he said. "No, it will be kind of impolite to reject your offer," Ethel said. "So you'll come with me tonight, won't you?" he asked. She nodded and held his hand. "Let's go, herr," she said. "Do you know any good place?" he asked. "I know the way to a beer hall nearby," she said. "Ok, let's go there," Ed said.
Ethel bit her sausage carefully as she looked at Ed.
Think about it now, she thought. Perhaps he's not Ernest.
"Is it good?"
Ethel was surprised. "Uh, oh, yeah," she answered. "Thanks for the meal, herr Ernest."
Ed smiled as he sipped a bit of his beer. "So is it true that you're an Abwehr?" Ethel asked. "Yeah," he answered shortly. "Sounds great!" she exclaimed. "What kind of country is UK?" she asked. "Well, pretty much like Berlin. But the people are very careful," he said. "I failed to escape a lot of times."
"Did they get you?" she asked. "Yeah. A lot of others too," he said. "So how'd you escape?" she asked. "Oh, it's a secret," he said with a wink. "You can say it's thanks to luck and intelligence."
Ethel put down her fork and drank some beer. "Can you tell me more about your adventure?" she asked. "Oh, you want to hear about it? Just to tell you, it's going to be a kind of a long, boring story," he said. "I'm used to long stories. Tell me, tell me," she begged. Ed thought for a while, then he sighed. "If you insist," he said. "Now, now... Where should I start?"
Ed drank a bit of beer again, and now he started to feel dizzy.
Geez, I'm never used to alcohol.
"Actually UK is a beautiful place," Ed said. "The people are very brave, you know. When our Luftwaffe bombed them, they're not even afraid," he said. "Really? what did they do?" she asked. "They hide in their underground railways," he said. "And they aren't even afraid of our ultimatums, too. They once just picked our pamflet and sell it like train tickets."
Ethel laughed. "Hey, I'm serious," Ed said. "I know that. It's just hard to believe," she said. "Why not drink a bit before you continue, herr? You seem thirsty," she offered. "No, I'll drink later," Ed said. "Shall I continue?" he asked. "Yes, please," she said.
"The people moved their children to the countryside," Ed said. "And what about them?" Ethel asked. "They stayed in London and struggled to survive," he said. Ethel nodded and then she lifted her glass. "Pröst," she said. Ed lifted his glass and struck it to hers, and drank it. Ethel drank it too, to the last drip.
Ed put down his glass and now he felt so weak. "Are you alright, herr?" she asked. "I'm a bit dizzy," he said. "Maybe you should go home," she said. "Ok, if you're fine with it," he said. "I'll pay and let's leave."
Ed walked to the cashier and handed her some money. Ethel quickly followed him.
"Hey, you can go home," Ed said. "No, I'll go with you. I'm afraid you need some help on the way," Ethel said. "I'm going to be really fine," he confirmed. "Still, I'll go with you. I'm worried," she said. "You're the kind of woman who's really loyal, aren't you?" he askes. "Ok, you can go with me."
Ed walked out of the hall with Ethel as he held his head. "Sorry, Ethel. I invited you for a drink and I'm the first one to get drunk," Ed said. "No, it's fine. I don't like it if I'm the first one to get drunk, either," Ethel said.
Ed walked to his apartment and looked at Ethel. "Ok, I guess I'm fine now," he said. "I doubt it, Herr Ernest. I'll go with you," she said. "Don't trouble yourself," he said. "I'm not troubled, don't worry," she said. Ed sighed and walked to his room. Ethel followed him as she looked around.
Suddenly Ed felt weird. He coughed a few times. "Are you alright?" Ethel asked. Ed didn't answer. She quicjly took his arms and circled it around her neck, then she stood up.
"Where's your room?" she asked. "Number 389," Ed answered, then he fell asleep. Ethel sighed and walked slowly to the room. She then touched his chest and felt something hard.
"Nah, finally," she said as she took out a key from Ed's pocket. She inserted it to the hole and turned it to the left.
CLICK
Ethel opened the door and dragged Ed in. She put him on the bed, then she sighed and looked around.
"Now, if he's not Ernest," she whispered. "I need something to confirm that."
Ethel opened the only cabinet, and found it empty. She walked to a suitcase and opened it. She strolled through the clothes and everything else, and found everything to be normal.
"He's Ernest," she thought as she stood up and walked to the door. She then realized there was another suitcase next to the door.
"What's that?" she thought as she walked to the suitcase. She looked at it for a while, then she opened it.
"This…"
Ethel quickly closed it back and got out of the apartment. She closed the door very quietly and walked downstairs.
"Sorry," she said. "Can I borrow your phone?"
The man smiled. "Of course," he said as he handed the phone to her. Ethel spinned the numbers and waited.
"Guten Abend."
"Herr Karl," Ethel said. "He's not Ernest."
Karl smiled. "Very good, Ethel," he said. "Don't show up in the office till next week, ok?"
“So…”
Karl looked his watch, then he looked back at Roderick. Roderick nodded and got into his office. Karl could hear footsteps and he quickly hid behind a pillar.
Ed walked upstairs. A Wehrmacht soldier was following him from the behind. Ed realized someone was following him, but still, he tried to keep up with his cool. He walked up to the door of Roderick’s office, and knocked the door.
“Who is it?”
“Ernest von Schneider, reporting, herr!” Ed shouted. “Come in,” Roderick said.
Ed entered the room. “Ah, good to see you, feldwebel. What kind of report do you bring today?” Roderick asked. “About the movements in Sicily,” Ed said as he handed some papers. Roderick took it and read it carefully. “Then, excuse me,” Ed said as he walked away.
“Wait, wait, Ernest,” Roderick called. “Can I help you again, herr?” Ed asked. “Not really, but why not you stay here? I’ve got something to talk with you,” Roderick said.
A trap.
“I’ve got an appointment, herr,” Ed said. “Oh, come on. Just a minute,” Roderick said. Ed thought for a while. “How long will it take, herr?” he asked. “Well, maybe about 15 minutes. You won’t mind, I guess?” Roderick asked. “I must show up in 10 minutes, herr,” Ed said.
KNOCK! KNOCK!
“Erick?” Karl asked from outside. “May I come in, please?”
“Oh, here he comes,” Roderick said. “Why not stay here for a little more while, feldwebel?” he asked. “No, wait, wait, herr…”
Too late. Karl entered the room. “Guten Morgen,” Karl greeted as he got in. “Oh, hey, Karl! It’s you!” Roderick said as he stood up and walked to Karl. “You’re still here? I thought you’re in UK,” Karl said. “No. I guess Canaris really likes to have me around, hahaha,” Roderick said as he laughed. “And who is this?” Karl asked. “Oh, one of my fellow agents. His name’s Ernest,” Roderick introduced. Ed forced out a smile.
“Hmm,” Karl said. “Reminds me to Henri,” he said. “Henri? You mean Hugo?” Roderick asked. “Yeah, of course, who else could it be,” Karl said. “Who is this, oberst?” Ed asked. “Oh, him? An old friend,” Roderick said. “And you know what? He’s a Gestapo! He worked in France!” he declared. Karl walked to Ed and shook his hand. “Karl von Werner,” he said. “Ernest von Schneider,” Ed said. “Nice to meet you.”
Roderick looked at the door. “You see, Karl,” he said. “Regretfully… my sergeant has an appointment in the next… 5 minutes, I guess,” he said. “Oh, really?” Karl asked. “I won’t bother, then. You can go,” he said. “That’s very kind of you,” Ed said as he bowed down. “Now, please excuse me.”
Ed got out of the room. Karl watched him leave.
“What’s next, genius?” Roderick asked. “Don’t worry. I’ve told my men to take care of him,” Karl said. “This is the first and last time Himmler and Canaris work together,” Roderick said. “I know that, don’t worry,” Karl said as he left. “Now… you can go back to work peacefully, I guess?” he asked. “Of course,” Roderick said.

Ed ran to a street. He looked at his watch and grunted a bit in German. He could actually hear footsteps behind him. He just kept walking as he tried to search for a deserted alley.
The alley where he hid his radio equipments.
“How is it?” Karl asked. “We got him, herr. The 7th Street,” a Gestapo said. “Good job. Keep it up,” Karl said, then he walked out of the phone box. “How is it?” a Gestapo asked. “7th Street. Make sure you don’t lose him,” Karl said.
Ed slowed down as he panted. He looked around and saw nobody. He quickly took out his paraset and threw it to the ground, hard.
“Sheffield?”
Ed froze. “Long time no see,” Karl said. “You’ve got the wrong person, herr,” Ed said. “I’m never wrong when it comes to agents’ thing,” Karl said as he walked to Ed.
Ed stood up and tried to run, but when he looked up, 5 Gestapo were in front of him.
“I thought I’m kind enough to let you go,” Karl said. “Yet, you came back. How silly.”
Ed didn’t say anything. “Follow me,” Karl said as he took out his revolver. “So you think I’m scared?” Ed asked.
CLICK!
Ed felt pain on his leg. He knelt down as he held his bleeding leg.
“Yes, I guess so,” Karl said. “Take him away.”
The Gestapo helped Ed stand, then he hit Ed’s neck hard.
“Cough!”
Karl coldly turned back as he saved back his revolver. “You know what to do,” he told his men. They nodded and followed the 5 Gestapo.
“Actually I don’t like to do this, Sheffield,” Karl said. “But if you insisted, I have no choice.”

ch. 10

--10
Berlin, 0900 hours
Ed walked into a building. A typical old German building. He looked around to make sure nobody is following him.
“Feldwebel! Feldwebel Von Schneider!”
Ed looked back and saw a man running to him. “Hey, long time no see,” the man said. Ed smiled. “How are you?” he asked. “Oh, I’m good. I’m good,” the man said. “How’s UK?” the man asked. “Well, not that bad. Just the people, they’re very careful,” Ed said. “I think I need to report to the colonel,” he said. “Oh, okay. He’s in his office now. He’ll be very happy to see you,” the man said. Ed smiled and got away. He walked upstairs and headed to a room.
“Wait, feldwebel,” an Abwehr said at the door. “Anything important regarding the colonel?”
“I’m just reporting,” Ed lied. “I see. Well, then…” the man said, then he knocked the door.
“Yes?”
“Sergeant Ernest’s here,” the Abwehr said. “Ernest?” Roderick asked from inside, then he thought for a while.
“But isn’t he caught? Did he escape?” he thought. “Okay, let him in,” Roderick said.
Ed entered the room. “Guten Morgen, herr oberst,” he said. “Hey there,” Roderick said as he stood up. “Long time no see, isn’t it? What took you so long to escape?” he asked. “Well, you know those British. Very very careful,” Ed said. “I see. But however, welcome back to the team,” Roderick said.
Ed smiled. “However, herr,” he said. “I bring you some information regarding the Husky operation,” he said. “Oh, sounds great!” Roderick said. “So, what’ve you got?” he asked. “I heard they’re planning to put a lot of forces in Greece, too,” Ed said. “How come?” Roderick asked. “Yes. No much forces in Greece, right?” Ed said. “Yes, I know, I know. But we still have some u-boats in Greece,” Roderick said. “And about Pantellaria, too. It’s kind of near to Sicily, and it’s not impossible for the Allies to use it, right?”
Ed gulped. He never thought that Roderick will know this much.
“Well, well,” Roderick said as he looked at his watch. “I’ve got a meeting with the Admiral in a few more minutes,” he said. “Tell me if you’ve got something else.”
Roderick walked out of his office and Ed was following him.
“See you, Ernest,” Roderick said as he waved his hand. Ed saluted and walked downstairs.
Roderick walked to a desk as he watched Ed’s movements like a hawk.
“Can I help you, herr?”
Roderick looked at the woman sitting behind the desk. “Thanks Ethel, but I guess I’m fine,” he said. “Now that Herr Ernest is back, I thought you’re supposed to be kind of happy and not suspicious like that,” she said. “I guess you’re right,” he said with a sigh. “But somehow I doubt that he’s really Ernest, you know.”
Ethel was puzzled. “What do you mean, oberst?” she asked. “The latest information we really have about Ernest is that he’s caught by the MI5,” Roderick said. “And yet, he showed up here, as if nothing’s happened.”
“Perhaps he escaped,” Ethel said. “You don’t know Ernest well enough,” Roderick said. “He’s not that smart to find a way to run. He’s not Schmidt, after all.”
Ethel turned to be more confused. Roderick looked at her for a while, then he sighed. “Ah, whatever,” he said. Ethel looked back at the documents.
“Any news from France?” Roderick asked. “Ah, yes, herr!” Ethel exclaimed. “Leutnant Von Werner will come today.”
Roderick smiled. “Sounds kind of good,” he said. “What time?” he asked. “He’ll arrive at around evening,” Ethel said. “Set me an appointment with him tomorrow,” he said. “Something wrong, herr?” she asked. “Just set it for me,” he said. Ethel nodded and looked at the papers. Roderick walked away as he smiled.
“Now, now,” he said. “I guess this is the end for my little Ernest.”

Berlin, 1000 hours
Karl walked into the office. “Are you Karl von Werner?” Roderick asked. “Yes, herr,” Karl said. “Sit down, please,” Roderick said. Karl sat on the sofa available. “Cigar?” he offered. “No, thanks, herr,” Karl said.
Roderick sat on his table as he lit a cigar. “Karl von Werner,” he said. “A lieutenant in France, very much used to handle Britons.”
Karl looked around the room, then he looked back at Roderick. “Can I help you with something, herr?” he asked. “Yes, of course,” Roderick said as he took out a folder from under his desk. “Can you read this for me?”
Karl took the folder and opened it. He started reading.
“Ernest von Schneider,” Roderick said. “One of my most trusted subordinates.”
Karl looked up to Roderick. “What’s wrong with him, herr?” he asked. “Last time we dropped him to UK, we heard he got caught,” Roderick said. “And then? Something happened?” Karl asked. “Yes,” Roderick said. “Yesterday, a man saying that he’s Ernest came by and gave me information.” “About what?” Karl asked.
“Sicily.”
Karl was stunned. “And the way London works is if they get you, you won’t be free,” Roderick said. “So nobody ever came back?” Karl asked. “Only some of the very experienced ones,” Roderick said. “And Ernest, he may be loyal and trustworthy, but he’s not that good about escaping.”
Karl looked back at the documents and looked at Roderick. “I just want you to make sure if he’s really Ernest or not,” Roderick said. “Yes, I know that,” Karl said. “Can you give a minute to think…”
KNOCK! KNOCK!
“A minute, Ethel!” Roderick shouted. “Who’s that?” Karl asked. “My secretary. Forget her,” Roderick said. “Wait, wait,” Karl said. “Ethel…”
“Tell her to come in,” Karl said. “What’re you planning to do?” Roderick asked. “Just do it,” Karl said.
“Come in, Ethel!” Roderick shouted.
Ethel opened the door awkwardly. “Herr, I’m bringing you the report you asked yesterday," she said. “Thanks a lot,” Roderick said. “Now you may go…”
“Wait, wait.”
Roderick looked at Karl. “What’s your name?” Karl asked. “Ethel Herald, herr,” she answered. “Nah,” Karl said. “You’ve got a boyfriend?” he asked. Ethel shook her head.
“Let’s see…” Karl said as he walked around her. Ethel held her breath. “What’s your plan?” Roderick asked. “We’ll trap your ‘son’,” Karl said. “And this one’s perfect, I guess.”
Ethel was puzzled. Karl could feel she’s being a bit afraid. “You don’t have to be afraid,” he said as he laughed. “All you have to do is flirt, you know.”
“What do you mean?” she asked. “You saw the Ernest yesterday?” Karl asked. “Your boss doubted he’s really Ernest.”
“You want me to reveal his identity?” Ethel asked. “Yeah, something like that,” Karl said with a smile. “What a sharp secretary you’ve got, Erick,” he praised.
Ethel gulped. “You just have to ask who he really is,” Karl said. “If it’s really Ernest, then that’s good.”
“But… why me?” Ethel asked. “You don’t look like an Abwehr at all, you know,” Karl said. “At least that will make things easier.”
Ethel sighed. “Your son’s coming today?” Karl asked. “I think so,” Roderick said. “Good. Then we can start quickly,” Karl said. He then patted Ethel’s shoulders.
“Be ready,” he said. Ethel nodded as she sighed.

ch.9

--9
2 weeks later. 1000 hours
RIIIINGGG
Ed got out of his room lazily. “Oh, what the heck…” he grunted as he picked up the phone. “Yes?” he asked.
“Hey, it’s me.”
“Mr. Buck?” Ed asked. “Where are you?” Maurice asked. “At home. Why?” Ed answered. “Come to the office now. You have 15 minutes!” Maurice ordered. “Aye, sir,” Ed said, then he hung up.

Karl stood in front of a man. “You’re not going to tell?” he asked. The man didn’t say a thing. A Gestapo took a shotgun and hit his foot.
“Not speaking?” Karl asked. The man shook his head.
KNOCK! KNOCK!
Karl opened the door. “What is it, herr Major?” Karl asked. “Look what I’ve got,” the major said as he handed a paper. “Telegram?” Karl asked. “Yeah,” the major said. Karl took it and read it.
“Von Walther…” Karl whispered. “Von Walther…”
“So you know him?” the major asked. “Of course. He’s an old friend who happens to rank higher than me,” Karl said. “What did he wrote?” the major asked. “He wants me back,” Karl answered. “So… can you take care of things here, please?”
The major nodded. “Leave it to me,” he said, then he got into the room.

Ronald looked at his clock. “So, you’re just the Vice, now?” Maurice asked. “Yeah. But at least I’m happy. I’ll let the young one take care of this,” Ronald said. “I guess Churchill likes youngsters to take care of such things,” he said as he laughed. “No, no. If that’s so, I guess I’m also the Vice now,” Maurice said. “So, is that real? He told Von Werner nothing?” Ronald asked. “Yeah. The proof is, both his agent and operator aren’t caught,” Maurice said. “Hey, I’d like that. That’s good for this mission,” Ronald said.
Ed stopped his bicycle and ran to the men. “Morning, sir,” he said as he saluted. “Ah, you. Come on in. Ronald wants to tell you something,” Maurice said. “A new mission, sir?” Ed asked. “Something like that,” Ronald said. “Let’s talk about this over a cup of tea.

Maurice and Ronald looked at Ed carefully. “So,” Ed said. “What’s my bloody mission?” he asked.
“In Germany?” Ronald asked. “Yeah, or whatever. Just tell me what to do,” Ed said.
Ronald sighed. “You know…” he said. “It’s been quite a while since the Blitzkrieg’s age’s over, right?” Ronald asked. “Yes, I know. So what?” Ed asked. “So, we, the Allied forces, will be having a… probably the greatest landing,” Maurice said. “Oh, sounds great. You’re going to pierce into Berlin, I guess?” Ed asked. “Yes,” Ronald said. “I’ve read about it. If I’m not mistaken, it’s Operation Husky, right?” Ed asked. “Yes. You know how we’re going to do it, I guess,” Ronald said. “Yes, I know. I guess so,” Ed said.
“Actually we sent something to fool Hitler,” Maurice said. “A kind of gift.”
“What kind of gift?” Ed asked. “A corpse, actually,” Ronald said. “A corpse stocked with information. We’re just trying to fool Hitler,” he said. “We’re just trying to get to Rome. Mussolini has fallen. If we get Italy now…” he paused. “It’s going to be great. Italy never wanted to fight alongside with German.”
“The corpse we sent is supposed to make Hitler think that we’ll land in Sardinia,” Maurice said. “But unfortunately, not everybody trust that information,” he paused. “Say, Kesselring.”
Ed sighed. “Bloody damn,” he thought. “So,” Ronald said. “Your mission is basically to kill one of Kesselring’s subordinates,” he said. “And why must I?” Ed asked. “He’s basically an Abwehr,” Ronald said. “I thought we caught a lot of Abwehr agents,” Ed said. “Yes, we did, but this one is special,” Ronald said. “He basically gave updates to Kesselring about Sicily and our moves, so I think it’s not really weird to get rid of him, right?” Ronald asked as he put a folder on the table.
“No training again, I guess?” Ed asked as he read the documents. “Of course. We expect much from you, especially after France,” Maurice said.
“So… Roderick von Walther,” Ed said. “Just kill him?”
“Yes. Simple, right?” Ronald asked. “After this, you go train your radio skills. You’ll be working alone there,” Maurice said. “Alone?” Ed asked. “But… isn’t it just too much?”
“No, no, trust me,” Ronald said. “Everything will be fine, especially because there will be no traitors,” he said. “But this Roderick is very careful, and the worst is…” Ronald paused. “He knows Von Werner pretty well.”
Ed kept looking at the documents. “I’ll be an Ernest there?” he asked. “Just take it like that. Ernest is an Abwehr we caught, and he resembles you, you know,” Ronald said. “Besides, son,” he said. “Be happy. Make sure you’re not followed, be careful of women, and don’t catch Gestapo’s attention,” Ronald said. “What to do after this?” Ed asked. “Go with me and let’s practice the radio thing,” Ronald said. “And… tomorrow, please be ready.”

ch. 8

--8
Ed ran to a dock. He looked back and made sure no cars were behind.
“Hey, you over there!”
Ed froze. He looked back to the voice and saw a man on the boat waving to him.
“Hey, you, come here.”
Ed didn’t move. He did speak English but… won’t a Gestapo speak it too? “No,” Ed said as he shook his head. The man sighed. “Look, look,” the man said. “I’m not your enemy, you know. Ed thought for a while. “Prove it,” he said.
The man thought for a while, then he took out something from his pocket. “D’you know what’s this?” he asked. Ed thought for a while, then he nodded. “Hop in,” the man said. Ed ran to the boat and got in.
“You’re that postman?” the man asked. “Yeah. Call me Pierre,” Ed said. “Wait,” the man said. “You’re De Gaulle?”
“No, no,” Ed said. “Codename, sir.”
“Roger’s man, are you?” the man asked. Ed didn’t answer. “Maurice sent me here to send an agent, but I never had any idea that I’ll meet you, young man!” the man said. “How do you know who I am?” Ed asked. “Oh, so you don’t know. Hm… let’s see. Perhaps I really need to introduce myself,” the man said. “No, don’t do that here,” Ed said. “Wow, stubborn, just like Maurice said. Well, let’s go,” the man said.

1000 hours
The man stopped his car in front of the building. “You’ll stay here or go with me?” he asked. “I’ll go with you,” Ed said. “At your state? Besides, isn’t it Von Werner?” the man asked. Ed nodded. The man got out of the car and opened Ed’s door.
“So you know him?” Ed asked. “Who?” the man asked. “Karl von Werner,” Ed said. “Oh, of course. He’s kind of scary, isn’t he?” the man asked. “Well, a bit,” Ed said.
Karl, wake up!
“But he can be funny sometimes,” Ed said. The man looked at Ed for a while, then he walked into the building. He walked upstairs and headed for a room.
“Back, aren’t you?”
The man looked back. “Oh, hi, boss,” the man said. “I brought him,” he said. “I see. Good one,” Maurice said. “Have some rest.”
The man walked downstairs. “Who is he, boss?” Ed asked. “An agent, of course. You’re still asking about that?” Maurice said. “No… it’s like… how come he knows me?” Ed asked. “Francois reported,” Maurice said. “And sure enough, he told you my appearances, huh…” Ed said. “Yeah,” Maurice said. “But… without a single postman…” “He bravely went to your house for the receiver’s address, and made it here,” Maurice said. Ed thought for a while.
“However,” Maurice said. “You don’t have to hold your cough.”
Ed suddenly felt weird. He coughed out loud for a few times, then he could see blood on the floor.
“But sir,” Ed said. “How come that guy showed up there, at such a situation?”
“He’s been waiting for a few days in the dock,” Maurice said. “Kind of funny, isn’t it?”
Ed thought for a while. “But however,” Maurice said. “Nice escape. Von Werner’s famous for deportation of our men,” Maurice said. “Hahaha…” Ed said with a laugh.
“You know why we forced you back?” Maurice asked. “No, sir,” Ed answered. “Actually…” Maurice said as he walked into his office. “The G section wishes to use you.”
Ed was stunned. “But seriously… can we just talk about it later…” Maurice said. “I’ll tell Ronald that your health is poor and you need some bloody treatment…” he mumbled. “Well… I need to drive you to the hospital. Let’s go.”
“No, sir. I’m fine,” Ed said. “Fine? Well, if you feel just fine,” Maurice said. “Then something must be wrong with you.”
Ed’s mouth fell open. “Let’s go. I can’t let Ronald wait too long, and besides… it’s for your own good,” Maurice said. “Hey, Nelson! Are you there?” Maurice shouted.
The man dashed upstairs. “Can you take him to the hospital for me, please?” Maurice asked. The man nodded. “Come, young man,” he said. “And wear this, okay? Make sure you don’t look so bad in public,” Maurice said as he handed his jacket.

1300 hours
The car stopped in front of a house. “Ok, here we are,” Nelson said. “I thought we’re going to a hospital?” Ed asked. “This is the bloody hospital,” Nelson said as he got out. “Get down.”
An old man got out of the house. “What is it, Buck’s man?” he asked. “One of our agent was badly tortured,” Nelson said. “We need your help.”
Ed bowed to the man. “When will you agents stop giving me trouble?” he said with a sigh. “Till Hitler’s dead, of course,” Nelson said with a grin. “Come in, then,” the man said.

The doctor put his stethoscope on Ed’s back. “Take a deep breath,” he said. Ed took a deep breath and released it a few seconds later, then he did it over and over again.
5 minutes later.
The doctor put off his stethoscope and sighed. “Hey, Admiral, you’re going to use him again?” he asked. “Yeah, seems so. Not Buck,” Nelson said. “I guess it’s Ronald.”
“And what’s your name, young man?” the doctor asked. “Edward, sir,” Ed answered. “You see, son,” the doctor said. “You’re in an awfully poor condition, you know that not?” “I know, sir,” Ed said. “And these people are saying that they’ll drop you to Germany?” the doctor said. “I guess I’m fine with it,” Ed said. “How’s he? If he’s too unhealthy for any mission…”
“He’s too unhealthy for living, bloody damn,” the doctor said as he washed his hands. “If you’re going to drop him, then there’s a possibility that he won’t be back. And what will you tell the family if that happens?” the doctor asked. “There’s o single day without an agent’s death, sir,” Nelson said.
The doctor thought for a while. “Okay, it’s seriously up to you, but…” he said. “He needs a month or two before the mission.”
Nelson nodded.
“What about 3 weeks, sir?” Ed asked. “Hey, are you bored of living?” the doctor asked. “No, no. It’s not like that, but…” “You want to fight,” the doctor said. “Besides, I won’t get back to how I’m used to be, I guess?” Ed said. “That’s bloody right, but we doctors try our best to save people, remember?” the man said. “Or, just make it like this. We see what that Ronald kid said.”
Kid?
“But still, be careful. Don’t smoke, don’t inhale fumes, and avoid swimming,” the doctor said. “Will do,” Ed said.
“Um… then,” Nelson said. “Thanks, doc. Let’s go, Ed.”
Ed followed Nelson out of the room.
“Hey, you, Admiral,” the doctor called. “Come here for a minute.”
“You go first to the car,” Nelson said as he walked back to the doctor. Ed got out of the house and slammed the door behind.
“What’s it?” Nelson asked. “So, now’s Ronald’s turn?” the doctor asked. “Yes, sir,” Nelson said. “Tell Maurice to make Ronald change his mind,” the doctor said. “His German’s bloody good, doc,” Nelson said. “That’s not the thing,” the doctor said. “So? If the other agents there be careful, that guy won’t be caught…”
“We don’t know how long this war will last, or how long he will be in Germany,” the doctor said. “While that kid…”
Nelson froze. “What’s wrong?” he asked. “Even without tortures,” the doctor said. “I think he will be dead in 6 months’ time.”
Nelson was stunned. “With tortures, it can be less than 6,” the doctor said. “Are you sure about this? What if he died in action?”
Nelson thought for a while. “We can’t play with his life, after all,” Nelson said. “Tell buck for me, okay?” the doctor asked. Nelson nodded. “Will do.”

ch.7

--7
They threw Ed back to his cell. Ed panted.
“When I see you tomorrow, Sheffield,” Karl said. “I sure hope you’ve changed your mind,” he said. “Or what?” Ed asked between his breaths. “Or what?” Karl said. “We won’t forgive you.”
Karl left the place. “Okay, now let your body rest. We don’t want to see you dead tomorrow,” he said. “I thought I’m good as dead if I don’t tell you a thing,” Ed said. “Yes, maybe,” Karl said. “But let’s hope that won’t happen.”
Ed didn’t say anything. The rest of the Gestapo left the place.
Bloody damn… he thought. I’m running out of time.
He struggled to sit and took a deep breath. “What to do now…” he whispered. Then he remembered something. He put off his shoes and opened the heel. He took out something – a pocketknife.
“I must succeed,” he thought. He lay by the metal bars, exactly like the position the Gestapo left him earlier. He took out the knife and started to cut the bars.

0300 hours.
Ed could hear some footsteps. He quickly hid his knife and pretended to be sleeping.
A Gestapo unlocked the door. “Hey, Briton,” he said. Ed didn’t answer. The Gestapo kicked him hard to the wall.
Ed sat up as he coughed. “Finally awake, aren’t you?” the Gestapo said. “Follow us.”
Two Gestapo dragged Ed to a room. Karl was waiting outside a room. “Bring him in,” Karl said as he unlocked the door. “Leave the rest to me.”
The two Gestapo dragged Ed into the room. Karl followed them in.
“Herr…”
Karl looked back at one of his men. “Are you sure?” he asked. “You don’t have to worry,” Karl said, then he walked into the room.
“Leave, leave, leave,” he said once he got into the room. The rest of the Gestapo left the room.
Ed panted. “What do you want?” he asked. “Still the same question,” Karl said. “I’m telling you I don’t know,” Ed said. “You’re really stubborn, Sheffield,” Karl said. “Even your friends don’t work on you? Even though they say the whole thing right in front of you?” he asked. “I’m not any coward like them,” Ed said. “Tell me and you’ll join them. In freedom,” Karl said. “This is a war, bloody damn!” Ed shouted. “You think there’s such thing as freedom?”
“AAAHHH!”
“I guess you’re still kind of tired, so if you want to get some more sleep,” Karl paused. “Tell me.”
“A no is a no,” Ed said.
“GAAAHH!”
“Where is Aristide?” Karl asked. “I don’t know, isn’t that clear enough?” Ed asked. “Yes, it’s not. I want you to tell everything about this Aristide guy,” Karl said.
Ed sighed. “Why? Because he’s Jewish?” Ed asked. “No, not exactly like that…”
“Wait,” Karl said. “He’s Jewish?”
“I don’t think that single word is enough to find him,” Ed said. “This occupied French and the Free French have a lot of Jewish, and you don’t know the face, either,” Ed said. “What’s his real name?” Karl asked. “I’m not telling,” Ed said.
“GUAAAH!”
“Come on,” Karl said. “No, no, no. I don’t want to see him in Auschwitz,” Ed said. “Because actually, I hate that racism of Germans…”
“AAAAH!”
“Enough bullshit!” Karl shouted. “It’s not any bullshit, gosh damn! He’s Jew!” Ed shouted. “I know that! Where is he?” Karl asked. “I’m telling you I don’t know!” Ed said.
Karl sighed. “What should I do to make you speak, you dumm?” Karl asked. “Nothing will work,” Ed said. “Nothing?” Karl asked. “Oh, really?”
“GAAAH!”
“If it’s not hot enough, I’ll heat it for you,” Karl said. “Where is Aristide?”
“Ask Franograd, you bloody damn!” Ed shouted. “Isn’t it enough that he’s dead?” Karl asked. “No! No! Nein! Ask him!” Ed shouted.
Karl walked to the door and knocked it twice. Someone opened it from outside. “Hey, I need some help,” he said. Two Gestapo got in and untied Ed. They dragged him to a bathtub nearby.
“Whoa, you’re not scared at all, are you,” Ed said. The Gestapo dunked his head into the water. They can see traces of blood on the water, but they held him there for a few more seconds and lifted his head.
“Where is Aristide?” Karl asked. “I’m telling you I don’t know!” Ed shouted. Karl nodded and the Gestapo dunked him bank. A few more seconds later, they lifted him.
“If you’re not telling, I’ll shoot,” Karl said as he took out his revolver. “Where is Aristide?”
“I… don’t know,” Ed said between his breaths.
Karl took out a few bullets from his pocket and filled it into his revolver. Just when he’s about to aim it to Ed, something called from inside.
“Ha-ha, Karl, it hurts!”
Karl froze upon the voice.
“Come! Shoot again! If you failed, then it’s my turn!”
“What?” Ed asked suddenly. “You’re not going to shoot?”
Karl was awakened. “Damn…” he thought as he saved his revolver. He pointed at the door. “You won’t be alive in an hour, Sheffield,” he said. “Drag him away!”
The Gestapo dragged Ed back to his cell. Karl looked at the water and realized how things have really turned bad. He touched it with a hand, then he pulled back his hand.
“Boss…”
“Be back in an hour,” Karl said. “And let’s kill the agent.”
The Gestapo nodded and left. Karl sat down to catch his breath. He looked around and fell asleep a few minutes later.

Ed kept on cutting the bar and now he’s even more enthusiastic as he saw the knife got into the bar. He suddenly felt weird. He coughed out loud a few times and panted a few times. Then he continued.
“Please, please,” he said. He looked at the clock. It read 0330 hours. He sighed and took out a match. He lit it above the knife, causing it got hotter. A few minutes later, he switched it off and put it back in his shoe heel. He continued cutting as he watched out for Germans.
15 minutes later.
Karl opened his eyes. Oh, damn, I fell asleep,” he said. He looked at his pocket watch. “Now, now, 15 minutes to go before the second round,” he said. “Let me patrol around.”
Ed smiled as he could feel that his knife is no longer cutting something. He pulled the bar with all his strength, and the bar bent. Ed quickly crawled out as he looked around. He climbed to a window and prepared to jump. He looked down at the height, then he took a deep breath.
“Where are you going at this hour?”
Ed was stunned. “Don’t you dare stop me!” Ed said. “At this times? Come on accept your destiny. You’ll be dead in the next 15 minutes,” Karl said. “I don’t care. I’m not going to die here!” Ed shouted, then he quickly jumped.
“Hold on!”
Ed felt as if someone grabbed his hand. “Just tell me where Aristide is, and I’ll let you go,” Karl said. Ed thought for a while, then he sighed.
“Bloody damn.”
Ed took his knife and threw it to Karl. Karl dodged, but he let off Ed.
Ed hit the ground hard. Karl stood up again and looked out to the window, but Ed was gone.
Impossible…!
Karl stood there for a while.
Shit, Sheffield escaped.
He thought for a while, then he smiled. “Well, think about it,” he said. “I’ll meet him again, won’t I?”
He then took out his revolver and hit his head hard.

ch.6

--6
Avenue Foch, Paris. 1700 hours
A Gestapo opened the door. Another Gestapo came to him as he saluted. The Gestapo pushed Ed down the car. “Bring him,” he said. The other nodded and dragged Ed away.
Karl got down of the car. “We’re doing this quickly,” he told on of his men. “Take him to the usual room. I’ll speak with the boss, then I’ll join you,” Karl said. The man nodded and followed the others.
They brought Ed to a room. “Stand face to the wall,” one of them said. “No, I refuse,” Ed said. The man kicked Ed and let him bump to the wall. He gave out a scream of pain. The Gestapo tied him with a chain and hung the chain on the hook on the ceiling. “What now?” one of the Gestapo asked. “Wait. For leutnant, of course,” the other answered.
Karl got into the room and pointed at the door. The rest of the Gestapo left the room. “Wait, wait,” Karl said. “You,” he said as he pointed to one of them. “Stay here.”
The man walked back into the room and took a shotgun from the corner of the room.
“Guten Tag, Monsieur,” Karl said. “Or perhaps I should say sir?”
Ed didn’t answer. “What do you want?” he asked. “Just some information abut your friend… or if you call them so,” Karl said. “Just get straight to the point. What do you want?” Ed asked. “You’re not that sharp, are you?” Karl said. “I just want to know where your friends are.”
Ed didn’t say anything. “Tell me and you’re free,” he said. “Unfortunately, herr,” Ed said. “You know British Agents aren’t that easy,” he said. “Well,” Karl said. “You know what you will deserve, then.”
The Gestapo smacked Ed on the face.
“AAAAH!”
Ed panted. He sat up and looked at Karl. “If you’re treating me this bad,” Ed said. “I will stay shut.”
Karl thought for a while. “So if I treat you better,” he said. “You’ll tell me something?”
“Well,” Ed said. “I’m wondering what the question is?”
Karl thought for a while, then he stood up and walked to Ed. “If you don’t mind?” Karl said. “You know someone by the name Aristide?”
Ed was stunned. “Come on, do you know something?” Karl asked. Ed thought for a while. “No,” he said as he shook his head. “Come on, don’t lie,” Karl said. “I’m not lying,” Ed said. “I don’t know at all.”
Karl walked further as he coded the Gestapo.
“AAAAHHH!”
The Gestapo took the shotgun and held it tight. “Tell me,” Karl said. “I’m telling you I don’t know,” Ed said.
“AAAH!”
“Let’s see how long you keep up with your cool,” Karl said. “Besides… it’s kind of impossible for you not to know your boss.”
“Boss?” Ed asked. “Boss of what kind?”
“AHHH!”
“Keep smacking,” Karl said. The Gestapo nodded. “Now, now,” Karl said. “Still stay shut?”
“As you expect from an agent,” Ed said “No.”
“AAAAH!”
“Still refuse?” Karl asked. “Bloody damn, yes!” Ed said. Karl sat back. “You’re kind of rough, aren’t you, Sheffield?” he said. Ed smiled. “Are you mistaken, herr, or did we know each other?” Ed asked. “Because I don’t remember making friend to a German jerk like you.”
Karl slapped Ed. Ed just laughed out loud. “So, Karl,” Ed said. “You know what kind of greeting you’re giving your buddy?” “No, I don’t think it’s a bad greeting, especially for a British Agent,” Karl said. Ed smiled. “You’re not telling me?” Karl asked. “No, no, no,” Ed said. “Just remember how stubborn I am and try to fight it.”
Karl thought for a while. He sat down and sighed. “Still stubborn like before, Sheffield,” he said as he coded the Gestapo.
“AAAHH!”
‘Where is Aristide?” Karl asked. “I don’t know!” Ed shouted. “Ask the one who told you where I am!”
“Are you sure?” Karl said. “Because you’ll see him… kind of soon.”
Ed didn’t do anything. “Franograd, right?” he said. Karl stood up.
“Good,” Karl said. “Where is he?”
“In the depths of hell, I guess,” Ed said. “He died in the most shameful way an agent can die,” Ed said. “To be shot… I mean executed, by the name of SOE,” he said.
Karl walked out of the room. “You know where to put him, don’t you?” Karl said. “We’ll continue… maybe tomorrow. It’s late, you know.”
The man nodded and took Ed down the hook. “Follow me, and be obedient,” he said.

0800 hours
Two Gestapo unlocked the cell and dragged Ed out. “Come on, agent,” one of them said. “We’ve got a surprise for you.”
Ed didn’t say anything. “Seems like you don’t really care, huh?” he asked. Ed still didn’t say anything. The Gestapo kicked him to a door.
“GAAAH!”
“Oh, what a sweet sound,” the Gestapo said. “Hey, hey, don’t overdo it,” the other said. “Huh? I thought we have to make him talk,” the Gestapo said. “Let the boss take care of it, ok?” the Gestapo said. “Ok,” the Gestapo said. “Let’s let the boss does it.”
The Gestapo opened the door and kicked Ed in. “Put him on the chair, please,” Karl said.
Ed let himself to be dragged by the Gestapo. They lifted him and put him on the chair. They took a rope and tied him tight.
“Now, now, Sheffield,” Karl said. “I guess one of my careless subordinates told you about today?”
“That there’ll be a bloody surprise?” Ed asked. “Yes, they told me.”
“Get him in,” Karl shouted. The door flew open and a Gestapo brought in a man. Ed looked at the man. “Who is this?”
“One of your comrades,” Karl simply answered. “I don’t know him sorry,” Ed said. “Either you know him or not, I don’t care,” Karl said. “Beat him up.”
One of the Gestapo pushed the man to the wall. “Where is Aristide?” Karl asked. “I’m telling you I don’t know,” Ed said. “Don’t pretend to be stupid,” Karl said as he coded his men.
“AAAHHH!”
“Where is Aristide?” Karl asked. “I’m telling you I don’t know!” Ed shouted. Karl walked to the other agent.
“What’s your name?” he asked. “Raoul,” the man answered. “Do you know Aristide?” Karl asked. Raoul shook his head. “Choose one,” he said. “Watch your friend suffer or tell me a friend’s position.”
Raoul shook his head. “No,” he said. One of the Gestapo took a knife and slashed Ed’s back.
“AAAH!”
“Tell me where an operator is,” Karl said. “No, don’t tell this bloody German… AAAH!”
“Who told you to interfere, Sheffield?” Karl asked. “Just sit there and shut that mouth up.”
Ed panted. A Gestapo got out of the room. “An operator,” Karl said. “No, I don’t know,” Raoul said.
The Gestapo came back. He was holding a burning stick. “No…” Raoul said. “What’re you going to do?”
“What do you think?” Karl asked. “An operator.”
“I’m not going to tell!” Raoul said. Karl nodded to a Gestapo. He swung the stick and hit Ed hard.
“AAAH!”
“An operator,” Karl said. “After I tell you,” Raoul said. “What will you do?”
“No, stupid! Don’t tell him a thing… AAAH!”
“I’ll let you go,” Karl said. “And ask him a few things, then I’ll let him go, too.”
Raoul thought for a while. “Don’t! He’s not going to do it!” Ed shouted. The Gestapo swung the stick.
“AAAAH!”
“Okay I’ll tell!” Raoul shouted. “He’s in the North Avenue number 67!”
Karl smiled in satisfaction. “Take him out,” he said. The Gestapo took Raoul out of the room.
“That’s just one example, Sheffield,” Karl said. “Can’t you be that obedient?”
“Am I not stubborn enough for you, Karl?” Ed asked. “No, oh, damn, you are stubborn, that’s why I’m here to make you softer,” Karl said. “I’ll never ever be any softer,” Ed said. “That Raoul guy is just too soft, that’s it.”
Karl thought for a while. “You’re not afraid of anything, are you?” he asked. He nodded at the Gestapo.
“AAAAAH!”
“See, I’m not being soft only because you’re an old friend,” Karl said. “Where is Aristide?”
“I don’t know!” Ed shouted. Karl nodded again, and the Gestapo hit him hard.
“Cough!”
Karl didn’t say anything. He just looked at the traces of blood on the floor. “Now, now,” Karl said. “Seems like you’re really being stubborn,” Karl said. A Gestapo kicked his chair, causing it to fall.
“Cough!”
Ed coughed out blood a few times. “Boss, this isn’t normal,” one of the Gestapo said. “Yes, I know that,” Karl said. “Bring him back to his cell. We’ll continue. Later.”
The Gestapo cut Ed’s ropes and dragged him to his cell. “So, we’ll continue later, Sheffield. I’m just giving you time to change your mind.”

Ed sat in his cell as he thought about everything.
“P…Pierre?”
“What?” Ed asked. “No… just…” Raoul said awkwardly. “You’re trying to beg an apology from me?” Ed asked. Raould didn’t answer.
“You know what, young man,” Ed said with a sigh. “Either I forgive you or not, it won’t make a single difference. The boss will still have you tried.”
“I know that,” Raoul said. Ed took a deep breath, then he coughed a few times.
“So, will you…”
“Now that you know it’s going to be the same,” Ed shouted. “Why not you go ahead and die!”
Raoul was stunned. He looked down as he started to cry.
“Are you a real agent? If you are, don’t cry,” Ed said. “But you’re right,” Raoul said. “Maybe I should go ahead and die.”
Ed didn’t say anything. He then plucked out one of his shirt buttons and threw it to Raoul’s cell.
“Go ahead, then,” he said. “I can’t afford to die here, so you can have it.”
Raoul looked at the button. He thought for a while.
Ed could hear footsteps getting louder. “Do it quick,” Ed said. Raoul thought for a while, then he took it and hid it in his pocket.
2 Gestapo walked to Ed’s cell and unlocked it. “Come,” he said as he got in and took Ed’s arm. Ed didn’t resist and yet let they drag him.
“Wait!” Raoul shouted. “What will you do with him?”
“That’s none of your business,” one of them said. “Why not you stay shut and wait for leutnant’s orders!”
Now Raoul realized it’s just a trick. “Hold on!” he said. “What are you going to do about me?”
The Gestapo ignored him. Raoul watched from his cell as the Gestapo dragged Ed away.
“Wait, wait!” Raoul shouted again.
Too late. In a matter of minutes, the 3 of them were gone. Raoul sat down again as he cried.
“I’m just a fool, aren’t I?” he told himself.
He took the pill Ed gave him. He looked at it as he thought about everything gone by. He then looked down and cried.
“I’m really sorry…” he said as he tossed it into his mouth. “I’m sorry…”

“AAAAAH!”
“What’s wrong, Sheffield? Still refuse to change your mind?” Karl asked.
Ed panted. “You’re really stubborn, aren’t you,” Karl said. “You know me,” Ed said. “And you still forced your bloody request for me to answer.”
“Sadly, Sheffield,” Karl said. “It’s my job to make you talk.”
Ed sighed with a smile. “Where is Aristide?” Karl asked. “Where do you think?” Ed asked. “I’m asking because I have no idea, you see,” Karl said. “Neither do I,” Ed said.
“AAAAH!”
Ed panted. The Gestapo put back his knife to the sheath. “You’re not going to answer?” Karl asked. “Did my ‘no’ ever turn to be a ‘yes’?” Ed asked.
“Oh, it will,” Karl said. “Pretty, soon, even.”
A Gestapo cut down Ed’s ropes and forced him to stand. Ed felt too weak to do anything. The Gestapo dragged him to a bathtub and splashed his head in. Ed tried to resist, but the Gestapo was pushing his head in very strongly. A few minutes later, they lifted up his head. Ed panted as he searched for the air he really needed.
“How miserable, Sheffield,” Karl said. “Perhaps you won’t have to undergo these if you spoke up a whole lot earlier.”
Ed didn’t say anything. “You’re not going to tell?” Karl asked. “Even if I do,” Ed said between his breaths. “Even if you let me go, I won’t be free from the boss’ trial,” he said.
The Gestapo splashed back Ed’s head. Ed coughed underwater.
“Where is Aristide?” Karl asked as the Gestapo lifted his head. “I’m telling you I don’t know!”
The Gestapo prepared to splash Ed back in when suddenly Ed coughed ut blood.
“Leutnant…”
Karl walked to Ed worriedly. “What happened?” the Gestapo asked. Karl knelt down and patted Ed’s back.
Ed kept on coughing, then he collapsed to the ground. The other Gestapo were stunned. Karl thought for a while, then he stood up.
“Enough for now,” Karl said coldlys. “We’ll continue tomorrow.”

ch.5

--5

1500 hours
Roger looked at his watch. A few men were hiding behind a tree.
A car came to the field. A man got down of the car. “The tree won’t be here next week. It will be a house,” Roger said as he pointed a tree. “Aristide’s assistant?” the man asked. Roger nodded. “And you’re Le Chef, I guess,” Roger said. “Yes. Who are you, actually?” the man asked. “Well… just a friend of Aristide,” Roger answered. “Did you know, sir, that Alphonse was caught?” he asked. “Yes, I know. A few days ago, I guess?” the man asked. “You know, sir, that’s kind of dangerous. She hid a radio in her house,” Roger said. “And her house… I guess you suggested it.”
The man nodded. “How come, sir? Who leaked the information?” Roger asked. “Well, actually…” “Last week, one of our trucks was caught, right?” Roger asked. “Yes. The Gestapo then caught me,” the man answered. “Only you, sir?” Roger asked. The man nodded.
“It must be him,” a man behind the tree whispered. Roger looked back at the man, and the man quickly shut up.
“What have you told them?”
The man looked down. “I…”
“Just tell me.”
The man nodded. “About some of our radio positions and agents…”
Roger looked at his pocket watch. “Sorry, I’ve got something to do. I’ll see you later,” he said, and then he walked into the darkness of the woods.
The men walked up to Roger. “Aristide, what’re you doing? Just kill him!” one of them said. “Yes! We don’t need to ask the boss’ orders about it!” the other said. “No, no. Let’s just wait. Even if we caught him, it won’t make any difference. Besides…” Roger paused. “I’m more interested in his motive of betraying us.”

Two week later. 1300 hours
Ed knocked the door twice. A man opened the door. “You see, this is from Roger and this is the order,” the man said. “The one from Roger is for the both of you.”
Ed nodded. “Thank you, sir,” he said, then he left. He walked down to the street and looked around.
Karl looked out from an alley and hid in again. “So, you,” he said, pointing to one of his men. “You use this pie cart, and try to go in front of him. I hope he stops you,” he said. The man nodded. He quickly wore civilian clothes outside his Gestapo uniform and rode on the cart. He drove out of the alley with some pies as the baggage and went past Ed.
“Excuse me, monsieur,” Ed said. “Can I have a ride?”
Karl watched the whole thing from the dark alley. “Get ready,” he told the other Gestapo who are with him.
Ed got onto the cart. He looked around to look for any suspicious people but there was nobody.
“Where are you going, monsieur?” the Gestapo asked. “Ah… I’ll just go to the South Avenue. You can then drop me there,” Ed answered. The man nodded and drove the cart that way.
Karl followed them from behind with a car. “The South Avenue, herr,” one of his men said. “Tell him to take him there. After that, we follow him,” Karl said. “Prepare your clothes.”
Ed realized there was a car behind them. “Can you ride a bit faster, please? I’m in a hurry,” Ed said. The man nodded and drove a bit faster.
Ed sat back as he watched the car, which was following them. He quickly realized who was behind.
“Monsieur, I’ll just get down here,” Ed said as he jumped down. He fell to the ground, hard. “Hey, hey! It’s dangerous!” the man said. Ed stood up and smiled to him as he rubbed his head. “But why? It’s still far from here,” the man said. “No, that’s fine, sir. I suddenly remembered I have another business,” Ed said. He then took out a few francs. “Just take this as my apology, monsieur,” he said as he handed it to the man.
Karl passed by the cart. “After this, follow him,” he told one of his men. “Leave it to me,” the man said. He watched Ed left to the other way. “Tell him to just go south. We’ll take care of him,” Karl said. The man nodded and passed it through the radio.
Ed looked at a mirror shop and he could see the car mad a u-turn and was following him.
Gestapo? How come?
He walked into an alley and go out at the other side. He knew he has to walk further that way, but for him, that’s better than giving himself to the Gestapo.
He started to run.
“Any Gestapo over there?” Karl asked. “No, herr,” one of his men answered. “Shit. I’ll go down. You guys make a turn and go to the agent’s house!” Karl said as he got down.

30 minutes later
Ed rushed upstairs and knocked on a door. The agent opened the door. “Any new things?” he asked. “Yes, sir,” Ed said between his breath. The agent opened the door a bit wider. “Is someone after you?” he asked. “I’m not sure,” Ed said as he took out a small paper. “This. A new order and a message from Aristide,” Ed said. The man got out and took the paper. “Ok, thank you,” the man said. He closed the door.
Ed turned back and walked downstairs.
“Hold there, Pierre Laurent.”
Ed was stunned. He could feel the coldness of metal behind his head. “Raise your hands and follow us,” Karl said. “No, herr, I think you caught the wrong man,” Ed said. “No, I can’t be wrong,” Karl said. “Show us your ID, please,” he ordered.
“I refuse,” Ed said. “What will you do with it?”
“Just give it to me,” Karl said. “or I’ll take it from you with force.”
Ed sighed. He took out his wallet and gave it to Karl. Karl opened it and handed the fake identity card to one of his men. The man walked to the front office and took the phone.
“No answer, herr,” the man said a few minutes later.
“Please follow us, agent,” Karl said. “And I hope you want to work with us, unless you want to die.”

ch. 4

--4

Calais, 1200 hours

Ed walked to a small house. He looked around to see anybody suspicious but he saw only French. He sighed in relief and quickly knocked the door. An old man opened the door. “Who is it?” he asked. “I’m here to pick up my sister,” Ed said. The man thought for a while, and then he opened the door. “Get in,” he said. Ed got into the house.

“Is it Maurice who sent you here?” the man asked. Ed nodded. “Here you go,” the man said as he handed a suitcase, exactly the same like Ed’s. Ed put his suitcase behind a garden gnome and quickly left.

Ed stopped a cart outside. “Can I use your cart to go to this place?” he asked as he took out a small piece of paper. The man looked at the address for a while, then he said. “Ride on.”

Ed got to the cart and the man hit his horse a few times. The cart started to leave the place.

KNOCK! KNOCK!

A man opened the door. “Is it new?” he asked. “Yes, sir. I just bought it,” Ed answered. The man took the suitcase and closed the door. Ed left the place and got out to the streets. A truck passed by in front of him. And in the bus, he saw someone he knew well.

Karl!

Ed stood there for a few minutes after the truck has left. He then looked around and it was quiet again. “I see,” he said as he left the place. “I got it now.”

Ed walked a few steps away, then he saw a line near a shop. He ran to it as he took out his ration book.

Ed stood behind a man and waited a few minutes before he could hear some man walking behind him. He pretended to stay calm.

“Your ticket, sir.”

Ed quickly gave a ration ticket. The man looked at it and torn it as he looked at his friend. The other man gave him a pack of food. Ed smiled and left. He opened the pack to find a loaf of bread with some fruits. He took the bread and bit it.

Now, he can still hear the footsteps.

He tried to remember some of the instructions he got. “Never look back if you think someone is following you,” it says. Ed walked a few more steps, and then he stopped by a ceramic shop. He pretended to look at the items for sale when he saw two men walked past him.

Gestapo.

Ed walked to apartment and finally the voices disappeared. He looked back and saw nobody. Ed sighed in relief and walked into the building. He walked upstairs and took out a key. He looked at it and inserted it to a keyhole.

CLICK

The door flew open. Ed smiled and got in. “Wow, nice one, Roger,” he said. He put his suitcase, closed the door, and walked back downstairs.

Ed took out a small piece of paper. He read it carefully, then he hid it back into his pocket.