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Post by silentwolf on Jan 14, 2022 16:31:14 GMT
Out and About
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Post by crushedhat on May 26, 2022 3:24:51 GMT
Early February 1941, St. Nazaire
“To the Kriegsmarine’s newest U-Boat Kommandant!” KKpt Joachim Helmert raises his glass, an already half-drunk smile forming on his lips as he toasts his former1WO ObLtzS Rudolph Mann.
“To Rudy!” 2WO ObFnzS Wilhelm Stieg and Lt(Ing) Karl Ludlow, no less under the influence than their Kommander, join in. Rudolph smiles sheepishly.
Several rounds later and Wilhlem and Karl excuse themselves to relieve the pressure of too many beers. Alone now with just his Kommandant, Rudolph turns unexpectedly serious. Seeing the change, Joachim searches his alcohol fogged brain for some bit of sage advice to impart to Mann. Instead, Rudolph’s question comes completely out of left field.
“I’ll be returning to Wilhelmshaven, to assume my new kommand,” Mann begins. “I need someone to look after Remi. Someone I can trust. She’ll need protection form those that take exception to her seeing a German officer.” Rudolph looks earnestly at Joachim, awaiting a reply.
As he realizes what is being asked of him, Joachim fumbles. Remi must be the name of the French girl Mann has been seeing in St. Nazaire. Helmert can well image how her life will change when it becomes known she no longer has a protector among the occupiers. Seeing the concern on Rudolph’s face, Joachim cannot stop from agreeing, “Of course I’ll watch over her.” Mann falls back in his chair, a look of relief washing over his face. Any further discussion is forestalled by the boisterous return of the other two officers.
***
2 Days Later
U-50’s new 1WO, LtzS Waldo Forst having arrived, Joachim sees ObLtzS Rudolph Mann off on the train back to Germany. His next stop, he pulls out the slip of paper on which Mann has written the address for Remi Latalle.
As Joachim nears the address he can hear shouting. Turning the corner, he sees a young man apparently berating a young woman. Drawing closer Joachim catches snippets of what the young man is shouting. He is accusing the woman of being a German Wh…, and saying that now that her master is gone, there will be no one to protect her traitorous soul. The young woman is crying.
Rushing forward, given the exchange Joachim assumes the young woman must be Remi, Joachim grabs the young man’s shoulder and spins him about. The young man is about to shout something at Joachim, balling his fist in preparation for a punch when the sight of the German uniform causes him to freeze.
“You were saying,” Joachim threatens. The young man shakes free of Joachim’s grip and runs off.
Turning to the young woman, not much more than a girl, Joachim decides, he inquires, “Mademoiselle Latalle?”
“Oui.” Her answer is faltering, the combined effect of her sobbing and uncertainty over who this man before her is.
“I am KKpt Joachim Helmert. Rudy’s Kommandant. He asked me to check on you.”
Wiping away tears with the back of her hand, Remi smiles shyly. “Rudy said you would be stopping by. Do you want to come in?” She indicates the door to the building behind her. Joachim thinks he hears several windows closing, but pays them no attention. While part of his mind is wondering how the young man knew Rudy was gone, a leak within the 15th’s administration perhaps, he tries to focus on Remi.
A slight frame and out of fashion clothing give her the appearance of being younger than she is. Definitely not the ‘type’ Joachim is drawn to. “Thank you, yes,” Joachim replies.
Remi’s apartment is much like her, plain and unfashionable. Yet, it exudes a certain hominess that has Joachim lowering his guard. In short order, she has tea and some surprisingly fresh pastries on the table. “Rudy spoke very highly of you,” she tells Joachim, who finds himself warming to this simple girl. The two talk, passing the time until the sound of a nearby clock striking an hour late into the afternoon calls Joachim’s mind back to other matters that must be dealt with before the day is over.
“I regret that I must be on my way,” Joachim apologizes as he rises. To his own surprise, Joachim finds that he truly does regret having to go. “But, should you ever need anything, do not hesitate to call upon me.”
“I won’t,” Remi smiles shyly.
As she sees him to the door, Joachim turns and asks, “May I call upon you again?”
“I’d like that.” Again Remi graces Joachim with her shy but bewitching smile.
“Until then,” Joachim takes his leave. Back out on the street he takes a quick look around to make sure the young man form earlier has not returned. Then, on an impulse, he looks back up t the window to Remis’ apartment. She is standing int eh window and waves to him. Joachim waves back feeling a brief moment of lightness before heading off on more serious business.
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Post by crushedhat on May 27, 2022 2:14:53 GMT
Last Week of February 1941, St. Nazaire
It was with some surprise, and admittedly a small touch of joy, that KKpt Joachim Helmert received the invitation to dinner from Remi Latalle. For some reason he couldn’t, or possibly wouldn’t explain to himself, Joachim made a point of stopping to pick up a bottle of wine and some chocolates on his way to the engagement.
When Remi opened the door, Joachim was once more surprised. The plain wisp of a girl he remembered from their earlier meeting was now replaced by a, if admittedly still slight figure, also admittedly a more alluring one; Remi having made some effort to enhance her appearance.
Seeing the gifts in Joachim’s hands, Remi’s smile grows even bigger than it was before. “For me?” She blushes as Joachim hands her the gifts. Beyond her, Joachim can see that the table is set for two, with a candle flickering in the center. An alluring aroma wafts past Remis.
Catching the track of Joachim’s eyes, Remi says, “I thought you might enjoy a home cooked meal. I hope I’m not mistaken?” She turns her eyes down As if in supplication.
“No. Not at all,” Joachim seeks to reassure her. His answer brings the smile Back to Remi’s face. She quickly sets the gifts aside and, taking Joachim’s hand, leads him into the apartment. Joachim fins her touch soft, and warm. Remi leads Joachim to the table.
“Please, have a seat,” Remis prompts Joachim. “It’s all prepared. I just need to put it on the table.”
“I can open the wine,” Joachim offers, not wanting to sit before Remi does.
“Here.” Remi hands Joachim a corkscrew then turns back to the stove. Joachim watches her, again marveling at the transformation from the wisp of a girl he met before. When Remi turns from the stove she catches Joachim watching her. Both blush, and a hint of a pleased smile forms on Remi’s lips.
Joachim waits while Remi places the rest of the food on the table, her last act being to turn out the lights so that the candle provides the only illumination. Joachim holds Remi’s chair while she takes her seat.
Already familiar with French cuisine, Joachim nonetheless has to admit that Remi’s puts the restaurant fare to shame. They pass a pleasant dinner discussing current events. Joachim finds Remi remarkably well informed. To Joachim’s surprise, and guilty relief, the subject of Rudolph Mann does not come up.
At one point, Remi mentions the recent deportation of Jews from Austria. She seems a bit nervous bringing the subject up. “Do you think the same will happen here? I understand the Germans expelled the Jews from Alsace-Loraine, except for those married to a non-Jew.”
“I doubt the same will happen here,” Joachim replies, though with less assurance than he hoped. Besides, why is it of concern to you?”
There is a long pause before Remi finally answers, “I have friends who are Jewish.”
“Good friends?” Joachim asks.
“Yes, very dear friends. I’d hate for anything to happen to them. There have already been arrests of individuals.”
Seeing the vulnerability in Remi’s eyes, against his better judgment Joachim tells her, “If there is any trouble, contact me.”
“Thank you,” she beams. Then, rising, she extends her hand to Joachim and says. “Come, I’ve a special dessert prepared.”
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Post by crushedhat on Jun 7, 2022 1:22:31 GMT
Early April 1941, Office of Kommodore Lucas Aus den Birken, XO, 15th U-Boat Flotilla
Kommodore Lucas Aus den Birken looks up from the report he’s reading to answer the buzzing intercom. “Yes?”
“There is an Lt Forst hear to see you, Kommodore.” The sound of Helferin Gertrude Stein’s voice always dissipates the Kommodore’s annoyance. Yet, he is more than mildly perturbed at being interrupted by some young officer.
“Send him in.” Lucas tries to keep the exasperation out of his voice as he searches his memory for the name. By the time there is a rapping at his door, he has yet to recall who his visitor is. “Enter!” he responds.
The door opens and Gertrude steps in, always a pleasant sight the Kommodore thinks, even in the unflattering uniform of the Helferin. “Lt Forst,” the aide announces the visitor.
A young U-Boat officer enters the room. He appears a bit nervous. Lucas flatters himself that it is the effect of being in his superior’s presence. At the Kommodore’s nod, Gertrude steps out of the office and closes the door. The young officer, Lt Forst, comes to attention and snaps his heels as his arm shoots out in the Nazi salute.
The Kommodore dismisses the salute with a wave of his hand, not liking the whole Nazi schtick. “At ease, Lt. Now, what can I do for you?”
It takes a moment before Waldo composes himself enough to speak. And then it is with a certain hesitancy. Lucas smiles at the perceived effect he is having until the young man’s words reveal it is not awe of the Kommodore that is making him uneasy.
“I…wish to lodge a…complaint,” Waldo begins. Lucas’ suddenly becomes wary. Leaning back in his chair he studies the Lt as Forst continues. “Against KKpt Helmert.”
“Against Helmert, you say?” The Kommodore’s curiosity overrides his annoyance. Only know does he recall that Lt Waldo Forst recently replaced KKpt Joachim Helmert’s previous 1WO, who was promoted to his own command. “On what grounds?”
There is further hesitation on Waldo’s part. Steeling his nerve, Forst finally says, “Cowardice.”
“The hell you say!” The Kommpodore’s hand slaps his desktop, sending papers flying as the sound reverberates around the room. Bringing himself back under control, Lucas says, “Be careful what you say, Lt. KKpt Helmert has earned the Knight’s Cross, hardly the achievement of a coward. He is one of the 15th’s most successful Kapitans. And, his 1WO was just recently given his own Boat; that’s why you’re here in the first place.”
His confidence shaken by the Kommodore’s anger, Waldo modifies his complaint. “I know that I don’t have the experience of some, Herr Kommodore, and it may be that I misread KKpt Helmert’s behavior. Perhaps he is just tired.”
Rising to his feet, Lucas places his hands flat on the desktop as he leans forward. “Perhaps you are too wet behind the ears to recognize wisdom and prudence. I suggest you put your own foolish notions of bravery aside and learn from KKpt Helmert.” Easing bac a bit Lucas adds, “Do so, and you too will have your own command.”
“Yes, Herr Kommodore,” Waldo answers. “You are probably…” Realizing his mistake, Forst quickly correct himself, “…you are correct.”
“Is there anything else, Lt?”
“No, Herr Kommodore.” Waldo comes to attention and delivers the same salute, again having it waved off. Not wising to suffer the Kommodore’s wrath any further, Forst does an about face and quickly exits the room.
In a rare move for him, Lucas goes tot eh small table holding a collection of liquor bottles and pours a generous amount in a glass. He knocks it back quickly then sets about collecting the papers scattered during his angered outburst.
Once he has calmed down, the Kommodore finds himself thinking,” While KKpt Helmert is a decorated and successful officer, his last several patrols have been disappointing. Perhaps Helmert is losing his edge, if not his nerve.” Reaching for the intercom, when Gertrude answers he tells her, “Please schedule a meeting with KKpt Helmert.”
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Post by crushedhat on Jun 9, 2022 4:18:43 GMT
Early April 1941, Apartment of Remi Latalle, St. Nazaire, morning
KKPt Joachim Helmert wakes to the sound of insistent rapping at the door. Beside him, Remi Latalle stirs. “Are you expecting someone?” Joachim asks.
Only half awake, Remi answers, “No. Why?”
No fully alert, Joachim tells her, “Stay here.” The rapping resumes as he gets up and hurriedly dons the minimum of clothing. As he leaves the bedroom, Joachim grabs his pistol and chambers a round. “I’m coming!” he shouts as the knocking grows louder. The pistol behind his back, Joachim throws the bolt and, stepping to the side so as to be out of the direct line of fire, opens the door.
“Someone’s bit edgy in the morning,” Lt (Ing) Karl Ludlow jokes as, his hands raised to show he is no threat, he greets his Kapitan and friend.
“Karl?” Joachim is confused by his LI’s presence here at Remi’s apartment. “What? How?”
“You are not so discreet nor circumspect as you may think,” Karl smiles. Then, “The Kommodore wishes to speak with you. He was going to send some men to find you, but I convinced him to let me try first.”
“Aus den Birken wishes to speak with me?” As the news sinks in, especially in light of Ludlow’s comments regarding his discretion, a cold pit forms in his stomach.
“Joachim? What is it?” Remi stands in the bedroom doorway, half hiding behind the doorframe.
“I’m to report to the XO,” Joachim tells her. The look on Remi’s face says that she shares Joachim’s fear that his liaison with a Jew may be the cause. “No need to worry,” Joachim seeks to reassure Remi, and himself. To Karl he says, “Tell the Kommodore I will be there shortly.”
“Yes, Herr Kaleun.” Karl fights to suppress an conspiratorial grin. Looking past Joachim, Karl nods to Remi. “Mademoiselle.” With that, he takes his leave.
Joachim closes the door and sags against it, only now realizing how his heart was racing. Remi runs up to him about to throw her arms around him when she sees the pistol. “Joachim? Is there trouble?” She cannot keep her voice from trembling.
“Just official business,” Joachim hopes, or lies. “But I’d best not keep the Kommodore waiting.”
“I’ll be here…” Remi seeks to reassure him when Joachim interrupts.
“No!” Remi is caught aback by the vehemence in his voice. Forcing himself to sound calmer, Joachim tells her, “No, don’t wait here. Do you have nay friends you stay with? Someplace safe?”
“Yes. There’s…”
Again Joachim cuts her off. “Don’t tell me. That way I can’t betray you.” The last he refrains from voicing. Digging into his trousers, he pulls out his wallet and, cleaning the cash out of it hands the money to Remi. “Here. In case…” This time it is Joachim who doesn’t finish his sentence, the look of fear in Remi’s eyes halting him. “Buy a new dress. For tonight,” Joachim seeks to make things appear normal. Remi grabs his hand and kisses it, then disappears into the bedroom.
Late Morning, Headquarters 15th U-Boat Flotilla
“The Kommodore wished to see me.” KKpt Joachim Helmert stands before the desk of Kommodore Lucas Aus den Birken’s aide, Helferin Gertrude Stein. The pretty blonde smiles up him, though Joachim gets the impression her attention is focused more on the Knight’s Cross decorating his uniform than the man wearing it.
Gertrude rises and walks to the XO’s door. Sure that she is being watched, the Helferin puts a pronounced wiggle in her walk. She raps at the door and announces, KKpt Helmert is here, Herr, Kommodore. After receiving a gruff reply from inside, she motions for Joachim.
Once he is beside her, Gertrude again smiles at him before once more rapping att eh door and then opening it. She steps aside to let Joachim pass, though she manages to brush against him as she closes the door behind him.
Joachim comes to attention before the XO’s desk and renders the traditional Navy salute. Unlike his dismissive response to the Nazi salute, Aus den Birken returns the military greeting. Then, pushing the papers before him aside, he says, “Relax, Joachim. Drink?” Lucas motions toward the small table with its various bottles.
“Thank you, no, Herr Kommodore. YOU wished to see me?”
“Yes.” The XO steeples his fingers as he leans back in his chair. “You are one of my most successful Komanders,” Lucas begins. “But it seems that your luck has changed of late. You have sunken two ships in your last three patrols.” Lucas is surprised to see that Joachim visibly relaxes.
For his part, Joachim is relieved that he is not being called to task for his involvement with Remi. “Sometimes one is lucky, Herr Kommodore. And sometimes one is not,” Joachim replies.
“And that is your explanation? Luck?”
“I cannot conjure ships out of thin air,” Joachim defends himself. Then, no longer fearing for his or Remi’s like he more boldly asserts, “I have not changed my tactics. If BdU wishes me to sink more ships, perhaps they should send me on patrols to more lucrative areas.”
“I see.” Aus den Birken’s face darkens and his manner grows slightly more rigid. “So, It is BdU’s fault?”
“It is no one’s fault, Herr Kommodore,” Joachim seeks to salvage the situation. “It just is.”
Changing tack, Lucas asks, “How’s your new Number One getting on?”
Joachim recalls his confrontation with Lt Waldo Forst on their last patrol and suddenly he realizes what this interview is about. “He is new. Young. Eager to prove himself. Technically competent. In time he will make a good U-Boat Kommander, once he learns that it doesn’t mean being a hero at the cost of fifty-five men’s lives.”
Lucas clears his throat as, recalling his own experience with overeager newbies he agrees, “Yes. In time.” Looking back up at Joachim, Lucas smiles. “And if anyone can teach him that it is you. By the way, I hear that ObLt Mann is doing quite well over at the 21st.”
“I never had any doubts,” Joachim smiles back, suppressing his guilt about taking up with the woman his former 1WO asked him to look after.
“I’m sure you’ll work the same magic with Forst. That will be all.”
Joachim salutes, Lucas returning it before turning back to the papers on his desk by way of dismissal.
Joachim doesn’t even notice Stein’s inviting smile as he passes her desk, too intent on controlling the trembling in his entire body. But, at least he is still alive. And still in command. Then his thoughts turn to Remi.
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Post by crushedhat on Jun 10, 2022 20:53:39 GMT
April 1941, apartment of Remi Latalle, St. Nazaire, late morning
“Where are your thoughts?” Remi Latalle asks KKpt Joachim Helmert while she lazily curls his chest hair around her finger.
“My new Number One,” Joachim answers, only realizing his gaffe as Remi’s finger comes to a sudden halt.
Sitting up in bed she scolds him, “You really know how to compliment a girl.” Remi jumps out of bed when Joachim reaches for her.
Looking at her standing and backlit by the sunlight flooding in through the window, Joachim wonders how he could ever have found her other than beautiful. He also wonders how he could be so stupid. To divert from his own error, he says, “Maybe you should move.”
“Move?” Remi seems confused.
“I’ve seen the way your neighbors look at you. At us. It might be better if you lived in a neighborhood less hostile to Germans.”
Remi laughs as, to Joachim’s regret, she puts on her robe. “Where would that be? Certainly not in France.” There is no hostility in her voice, simply conviction.
“You could move in with me,” Joachim offers. “It would be safer.”
“Safer from whom?”
“The neighbors there are accustomed to Germans. And, the authorities are less likely to bother you as well,” Joachim explains as he rises and starts getting dressed.
“Much as I’d like that, I’ll not become a ‘kept woman.’” Remi returns to Joachim and halts his dressing. A minute later their discussion yields to other pursuits.
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Post by crushedhat on Jun 14, 2022 18:17:16 GMT
14 May 1941, U-Boat pens at St. Nazaire, early evening
“The repairs appear to be coming along well,” Lt (Ing) Karl Ludlow comments as he and KKpt Joachim Helmert walk from where U-50 is being repaired toward the gate. “Perhaps she’ll be ready sooner than planned.”
“Yes,” Joachim agrees. “Though I’d hate to tell the men their planned time ashore is cut short.”
“Is it the men’s time, you’re worried about?” Karl Asks his Kapitan and friend.
About to express confusion over Ludlow’s statement, Joachim catches where his LI’s attention is focused. Remi Latalle stands just outside the gate. Joachim feels mixture of pleasure upon seeing here and annoyance that she would risk showing up here, although she is on the pier when U-50 arrives and departs.
“I think I forgot something back on the Boat. If you’ll excuse me.” Karl turns to head back, leaving Joachim time alone with Remi.
As Joachim draws closer, he can see that Remi is agitated. “What’s wrong?” he whispers as he takes Remi’s arm and steers her out of earshot of the gate’s sentries.
“You haven’t heard?” When Remi looks up at Joachim he can see fear in her eyes.
Stopping, Joachim turns to Remi, placing his hands on her upper arms. “Heard what?”
Remi takes a moment to collect herself before she can speak. “They…came…today.”
“They? They Who? Came where?”
“The neighborhood. The entire city. They arrested the men…took them all away.” Remi begins sobbing. Pulling herself back together she explains, “The Gendarmes came and arrested all the Jewish men of foreign descent. Claimed they had violated the Green Ticket Law. My neighbors’ fathers, husbands, sons…they’re all gone.”
“Green Ticket Law?” Joachim tries to understand what Remi is saying as he tries not to assume her fear.
“Don’t you see?” Remi pleads. “They’re doing the same to the Jews here as in Germany.”
“But you said they were foreign born,” Joachim seeks to reassure Remi, and at the same time convince himself that the rumors he’s heard from back home aren’t true.
“For now!” Remi pulls free of Joachim’s arm and strikes him on the chest. “French born Jews will be next.”
“Remi. Remi,” Joachim says as he tries to take hold of her again. “Look at me. You need to collect your things and move into my apartment.”
“And have everyone think I’m a kept woman?” She glares at him defiantly before dropping her eyes and adding, “Not that my neighbors don’t think so already.”
Putting his hand under Remi’s chin, Joachim raises her face back up so that they are looking eye-to-eye. “You are my woman, and that will protect you.”
Breaking into tears once more, Remi buries her face in Joachim’s chest as she lets him wrap his arms protectively around her. She tries not to feel guilty about seeking her own safety when so many others are at risk. Letting her cry, Joachim tries not to think about the political and career implications of letting his heart guide his actions. To Remy he says, “When you’re ready, we’ll go collect your things.”
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Post by crushedhat on Jun 20, 2022 17:52:59 GMT
Early June 1941, St. Naviare
On her way back to the apartment she now shares with KKpt Joachim Helmert, Remi Latalle gets the feeling of being followed. The feeling grows stranger as, picking up her pace, she hears quickening footsteps behind her. Almost to her door, Remi chances a look over her shoulder. Her heart races when she sees that there is a man behind her, and he is looking at her. Looking back, Remi fails to see the other man who steps out form between the buildings to block her path, running into him. Surprised, Remi finds herself in this man’s grip.
“Do not be afraid, Mademoiselle,” the man tells her in a calming voice. “We mean you no harm. We just wish to talk.” By now, the man following has caught up and Remi finds herself hemmed in. “Won’t you invite us in?” the man in front says. While it is a question, Remi has no doubt they will not accept a refusal. Trying to control her shaking, Remi fishes out the key to the door.
Inside the apartment, the speaking man, neither has yet revealed a name, pulls out a chair at the table for Remi while the other takes up a position y the door, blocking a possible exit. Warily, Remi takes the proffered seat. The speaking man does likewise while his associate glares at Remi.
“You share this apartment with a German officer, a U-Boat commander,” the speaking man begins. Unlike his glaring companion, the speaking man maintains a cordial demeanor. Not waiting for a reply from Remi, he continues. “That places you in a unique position.”
“How so?” Remi asks, unsure of who these men are.
“A man ends to be careless with his tongue when with his…” there is a pause as the speaking man carefully chooses his next word. “…lover.” At the door, the other man, Remi names him, ‘The mean one,’ snorts. The action Earns mean one a reproving look from the speaking man. Returning his attention to Remi, the speaking man says, “Perhaps he says things meant to impress her.”
“Were you to tell us what he says, it could prove useful – “
“You want me to spy on Joachim?” There is a mixture of astonishment and disgust in Remi’s voice.
“To help your people,” speaking man counters.
“Which people would that be? The Jews, or the French?” Remi finds herself getting angry. “The latter did little enough to help the former last month.”
“I told you couldn’t trust their kind,” mean one interjects. “This was a mistake. And now she can identify us.” Suddenly there is a gun in his hand.
“No need for that,” speaking man admonishes mean on, motioning for him to put the weapon away. “She won’t betray us. Will you?” The last is directed at Remi, who quickly shakes her head.
“You trust her?” Mean one seem incredulous.
“I do,” speaking man tells his companion. Rising, he places a hand on Remi’s shoulder. “Think about what I have said. We will talk again.” With that, speaking man collects his reluctant companion and they leave.
A long time passes before Remi is bale to bring herself to move. Guiltily she acknowledges that speaking man was right about one thing, she will not turn them in.
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Post by crushedhat on Jun 24, 2022 3:20:15 GMT
30 June 1941, St. Nazaire
For the first week after the ‘visit’ by the two strangers Remi lived in fear. Every time she went out she thought she saw their faces in strangers on the street. Now, after nearly a month with no follow encounter, Remi’s life was back to normal; at least as normal as possible for Jew in Nazi occupied Europe. Currently Remi is making her way to the harbor, word that a U-Boat is coming in spurring her on in the hope it is Joachim’s.
An amused smile forms on Remi’s lips as she wonders what the two men could have possibly wanted. As her own present activity proves, the comings and goings of German naval vessels at St. Nazaire is hardly a secret. As to the details of Joachim’s cruises;’ despite the talking man’s assertion about men’s lips loosing up when with their lovers, Joachim has shown no inclination to discuss the particulars of what goes on at sea. Rather, he treats their time together as an escape form whatever he may have done or witnessed.
To be honest, Remi prefers it that way. She has no desire to hear the details about, or even be reminded of the fact that the man she loves can be a cold-blooded killer. Her only concern is the life he is saving, her won. And, providing him a safe place is a small price to pay in return.
By the time Remi arrives at the pier others have gathered. Apart from the Kriegsmarine band and a few officers from Joachim’s HQ, the majority are French, mainly girlfriends of various members of the crew. In a moment of irony not lost on Remi, she wonders why they are tying their fates to that of the enemy.
As the U-Boat pulls up alongside the pier and the band begins to play, Remi catches Joachim’s eye she forces a smile. Forced not because she doesn’t love him, she does and looks forward to holding him despite knowing he will be reeking form a month without bathing. Rather, she has to push down thoughts of the two men, or her own fate should the Germans ever leave France.
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Post by crushedhat on Jul 2, 2022 23:58:49 GMT
Late July 1941, St. Nazaire
It is well into the second week of another round of arresting Jews in occupied France and Remi Latalle is worried despite her relative safety. Her safety is due to two factors: 1) So far the arrests have been limited to men and, 2) Her living with a German naval officer puts her out of reach, at least for now. Still, the tension caused by the dichotomy between her love for KKpt Joachim Helmert, and Remi cannot deny she has come to love him, and her growing hatred for the Germans, and cooperating French authorities in persecuting her people have strained the relationship. Thus it is, after yet another argument with Joachim over some trifling matter Remi finds herself back on the streets in her old neighborhood.
The hostile glares Remi receives from the women whose men are being rounded up only deepens her own sense of guilt about her own situation. Perhaps that is why she intervenes when she sees a Gendarme using his nightstick on a young man who is particularly opposed to being arrested. Not bothering to check who it is pounding on his back, the Gendarme swings about, his nightstick making a thudding sound as it connects with Remi’s shoulder.
As Remi falls to the ground, a voice calls out, “Halt!” Looking up, the Gendarme is surprised to see a man in the uniform of the German Navy. He pauses, his nightstick raised for another blow. Joachim rushes forward.
“This woman is with me,” Joachim tells the Gendarme in an effort to get the man to back off. At the same time, he offers Remi a hand up. While the action halts the attack on Remi from the Gendarme, it only serves to intensify the hatred in the eyes of the watching women. Heedless of their glares, and her and Joachim’s earlier argument, Remi accepts Joachim’s hand, clinging to him once she is back on her feet.
“What is going on here?” another voice demands.
“This woman attacked me,” the Gendarme explains to his Sergeant. Then, pointing at Joachim he accuses, “And he interfered.”
“This woman is with me,” Joachim repeats to the Sergeant. “She’s not part of…” Joachim pauses as he looks around at the chaos. “…this. I’ll take her home now.” Joachim employs his best command persona as he deals with the two Gendarme.
Not wanting to run afoul of the occupiers, but also not wanting to appear not to support his own men, the Sergeant insists, “Very well. But I will need your names…for my report.”
Seeing more Gendarme watching the exchange and all too aware that he is unarmed, Joachim agrees to provide his ands Remi’s name, as well as their address. Satisfied that he has retained his authority in front of his men, the Sergeant lets Joachim and Remi leave.
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Post by crushedhat on Jul 4, 2022 18:43:31 GMT
Early August 1941, Office of Kommodore Lucas Aus den Berkin, 15th U-Boat Flotilla XO
Looking up at the small man in the trench coat standing before his desk, the 15th Flotilla XO fights to control his fear.
“We have received a complaint that one of your officers, a…” the man pulls a small notebook out of his pocket and flips it open. “…Kapitan Joachim Helmert, interfered with the local authorities while they were carrying out their duties in compliance with the Military Governor’s request?”
“Furthermore,” the man for the Gestapo continues, “Helmert is living with a Jew. Were you aware of that?”
Lucas’ growing anger overrides his fear. “KKpt Helmert holds the Knights Cross with Oak Leaves. I don’t think his loyalty to the Fatherland is in question,” he says as he half rises from his seat.
Unperturbed, the small man counters, “Perhaps. But what about his loyalty to The Fuhrer? I think you had best keep a closer watch on this officer.” The Gestapo man refrains from mentioning that their agents have seen suspected insurgents visiting Helmert’s apartment, albeit only once. After all, the Kommodore is known to be an ‘Old School’ officer himself. Maybe he merits watching as well.
“We’ll be in touch,” the Gestapo man says. Then, raising his hand in the Nazi salute he intones, “Heil Hitler!” he is not amused when Aus den Berkin responds with the traditional form.
Once the unpleasant man is gone, Lucas ponders what to do. Should he talk with Joachim? Should he speak again with Helmert’s 1WO, the man seemed like he might be amenable to spying on his Kapitan. “Setting my men to spy upon one another,” Lucas shakes his head in wonder and disbelief. “how are to win this war if we fight among ourselves?”
Deciding he needs a distraction, the XO pushes the intercom button. When his assistant, Helferin Gertrude Stein answer, Lucas asks, “Are you busy tonight?”
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Post by crushedhat on Jul 17, 2022 19:20:21 GMT
Early October, 1941, night, the apartment shared by KKpt Joachim Helmert and Remi Latalle
He head resting on his chest, Remi Latalle can sense that KKpt Joachim Helmert is awake despite the lateness of the hour. Furthermore, she is sure she knows the reason he is not sleeping. “It’s because of me, isn’t it?” she whispers.
Reflexively, Joachim moves his hand to stroke Remi’s hair. “No,” he asserts.
Despite his assurance, Remi knows better. She is certain his denied promotion is the direct result of his involvement with a Jew. “Maybe we should…”
Joachim forestalls her protest by lifting her head and sealing her lips with his. The kiss completed, he tells her, “If I have to choose, I’d rather have you.”
Hearing the conviction in Joachim’s voice, Remi relaxes and snuggles back into him. Still, she can’t help feeling guilty. For his part, Joachim reflects on what it means to serve a government that would punish him for who he falls in love with; assuming, that is, that is the reason he was passed over for promotion. But what other explanation can there be? He is one of the 15th Flotilla’s most successful commandants in terms of number of combat patrols, and ships and tonnage sunk. He is also one of the most decorated, both in term of the coveted Knight’s Cross and awards for injuries sustained in service to the State. Bitterly, he concludes there can be no explanation other than his relationship with Remi.
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Post by crushedhat on Jul 17, 2022 19:48:08 GMT
Late October 1941, Office of 15th U-Boat Flotilla XO Kommodore Lucas Aus ben Birken
The Kommodore shakes his head as he reads the consolidated report of all U-Boat activity. “This can’t be good,” he tells his empty office. Two American Navy Destroyers torpedoed by U-Boats. While he can understand the U-Boat crews’ frustration given the attack by an Ami DD last month and their growing aggressiveness, this will only push the Amis further into the British camp. And, while the US Navy is ill prepared, trained, or equipped for war, the Kriegsmarine doesn’t need any additional enemies hunting down its U-Boats. “It was an unruly, ill-organized mob that stormed the Bastille and toppled the Bourbons,” Lucas reminds his absent audience.
Sure the Americans will eventually come in on the Allies’ side, there is still the possibility that it can be delayed long enough for Britain to fall, if only Germany shows the proper restraint. “Well, the 15th won’t give the Ami’s the excuse they need to sway their people,” Aus den Birken resolves.
Reaching for the intercom button, he says, “Gertrude, bring your steno pad.”
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Post by crushedhat on Aug 28, 2022 2:13:43 GMT
27 March 1942, Apartment shared by KKpt Joachim Helmert and Remi Latalle, St. Nazaire, midmorning
Returning from her shopping, Remi Latalle stops cold when, upon entering the apartment she shares with KKpt Joachim Helmert, she finds two men seated at her table. While she recognizes them from their previous encounter, it has been almost a year and Remi had put their ‘visit’ out of her mind.
“Let me help you with that,” the one man, the one Remi recalls as being the more pleasant of the two, offers as he rises to take the bag from Remi’s arms. His companion, the ‘mean one,’ also rises to close the door. He takes up a position effectively blocking Remi’s exit.
The first man sets the bag on the table and then pulls out a chair for Remi. “Please. Sit,” he suggests as the sound of a tea pot starting to whistle intrudes upon the scene. “I hope you don’ mind,” the man continues. “I took the liberty of preparing tea.” Not wanting to look back and see the mean man, Remi cautiously sits.
Placing a tea cup in front of Remi, the man then does the same where he was sitting. Remi catches his eyes briefly signal something to the man behind her before he returns his attention to her. She tries not to tense in expectation of feeling a garrote wrap around her neck. When, after a moment, it doesn’t happen, Remi allows herself to reach for the tea. Once she takes a sip the man begins, “You’ve heard what is happening today, no doubt.”
When Remi shakes her head, he explains, “The Jews, the ones rounded up by the Nazis, are being shipped to Germany. To ‘special camps.’”
You’re telling me this because?” Remi counters, trying not to show fear, both of these men and the news they bring.
“We once asked for your help, to defeat the Nazis,” the man reminds her. Behind Remi, the mean one snorts, causing her to start and earning him a reproving glance from his compatriot. “You’re still…living with a Nazi.”
“He’s not a Nazi!” Remi challenges.
“Perhaps not a Party member.” The man argues. “But he serves the Nazi Sate. The blood of your countrymen is on his hands as surely as it is on the hands of those doing the actual dirty work. It’s not too late to make a difference…”
“Get Out!” Remi shouts as she jumps to her feet. Turing to face the mean one she adds, “Both of you!”
The man at the door reaches into his jacket, but stops when the one at the table shakes his head. Rising, he tells Remi, “We’ll leave. But we will be back when you see reason.” Taking his companion by the arm, the two men leave.
Slamming and locking the door, Remi collapses into the chair she just vacated. Her head resting in her hands, Remi begins to cry as she considers Joachim’s complicity in what is going on, and her involvement with him.
Later that day
In the evening, KKpt Joachim Helmert returns from overseeing repairs on U-50 to the apartment he shares with Remi Latalle. As soon as he enters the apartment, Joachim can tell something is wrong. Sitting at the table, Remi lifts her head out of her hands. Using the back of one hand, she wipes at her eyes, which Joachim can see are red from crying.
With a few quick steps, Joachim is beside Remi, her chin cradled in his palm. “What is it?” he asks.
“They,” she wants to accuse ‘you,' but realizes it is not Joachim’s doing, “Started shipping people away. Into Germany and beyond.” Despite not holding Joachim personally responsible, there is still anger in Remi’s voice. Joachim doesn’t need to ask who is being shipped, word having circulated among the workers at the docks.
“I won’t let that happen to you,” Joachim seeks to reassure Remi.
Pulling her chin out his hand, she paraphrases the words of her earlier visitors. “But you’re helping them do it to others!”
Rising, Remi runs into the bedroom, closing the door to Joachim’s plea of, “Remi.” Even though he’s not involved, Joachim feels a gnawing sense of guilt, and an uncomfortable helplessness regarding the woman he loves.
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Post by crushedhat on Sept 17, 2022 17:23:48 GMT
17 July 1942, Evening
Entering the apartment she shares with KKpt Joachim Helmert, Remi Latalle stops cold upon seeing the two men there. Not that they are unfamiliar to her, but rather because they have become too familiar. “What are you doing here?” she half asks, half accuses.
“Didn’t know if you’d heard,” the first, the one Remi has named ‘the nice one.’ Smiles at her. Remi immediately feels ill, imaging that he has come to tell her that Joachim’s boat had been sunk and he is dead. The way the other man, ‘the mean one,’ leans against the far wall and looks at Remi only serves to reinforce her fear.
“Head what?” Remi forces herself to ask.
“What happened in Paris,” the first man replies. Knowing that Joachim is at sea, and not due back until the end of the month, Remis feels relief at the mention of Paris. Her relief is short lived as the man continues. “The authorities have been rounding up Jews…”
“Nothing new in that,” Remi interrupts, trying to sound braver than she feels.
“Yes,” he first man agrees. “But this is on a much larger scale.”
“And includes women and children,” the second interjects, seeming to relish doing so.
The first man, the nice one, keeps speaking as though his partner had said nothing. “It is only a matter of time before the same happens here.”
“And you’re telling me this because?” Remi probes, sure she already knows the answer.
“We can help you…” The first begins, showing some irritation when the other again interrupts.
“If you do something for us first.” As he speaks, the mean one reaches into his jacket. When his hand comes out, it holds a revolver. Walking over, he places it on the table and, fixing Remi with an unfeeling gaze says, “I think you know what to do.”
Seeing no point ion further conversation, the first man gets to his feet and joins his companion. As they walk past Remi, the mean says, “We’ll be watching.”
It is some time after they leave before Remi is able to take her eyes from the gun, or to come to grips with what it is they are expecting of her.
19 July 1942, Late night
As soon as he can, KKpt Joachim Helmert concludes the necessary business around U-50 early return form her patrol and, worried about the rumors he’s heard about events in Paris, makes his way to the apartment he shares with Remi Latalle.
Noticing the window is dark, Joachim tries to reassure himself with the argument that it is late and Remi has no reason to expect him back yet. Still, he races up the stairs. In his anxiety, Joachim fumbles with the key at the door. Once he gets it open, he freezes. While the darkness within does not provide a clear image, there is no mistaking Remi’s slight figure as the one pointing what appears to be a pistol at him.
The light in the hall making it easier for Remi to identify Joachim, she gasps as she drops the revolver and runs to him. Remi sinks into Joachim’s arms while he tries to understand what has just happened.
“I…I thought…it was…them,” Remis manages to get out between sobs.
“Them?” Joachim asks. Then, recalling the rumors, he realizes Remi thought it was the gendarmes, or gestapo, come for her. ”No. It is only me.” He tries to sound light-hearted as he lifts Remi’s face to his. Then turning serious he asks, “Where did you get the weapon?”
“Ignoring Joachim’s question, Remi asks her own. “What are you doing back early?”
“There was a problem,” Joachim begins, feeling Remi shudder in his arms. “But obviously not too great,” he adds, trying to recapture a lighter feel. “I’m here after all.” Remi simply hugs him tighter. After a minute, Joachim asks, “May we go in?”
With a nervous laugh, Remi takes Joachim’s hand and leads him intro their apartment. When she quickly picks up the gun from the floor and sets it aside, Joachim refrains from repeating his earlier question. Where she got the weapon seems less important than why she felt the need to do so. In that moment, Joachim makes a decision; though one he is not yet ready to reveal to Remi.
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