Ruthless

"Do you like it?" Akado asked gently, his voice soft in the dimly lit room as the girl leaned on his shoulder.

"Like it? This movie is so touching, I can't stop crying," Mercedes replied in a hushed tone, equally moved by the film they were watching. The movie, titled "The Ghost Love Is Coming," was a German production that depicted a poignant love story, resonating deeply with audiences, including the top echelons of the Grand German Party and various nobles. Despite being backed by a relatively obscure company under the banner of the National Defense Forces, the film's use of sound technology and a lush soundtrack paired with eloquent dialogue had captivated everyone in the cinema. It was clear that once released to the broader market, it would garner even more acclaim.

"I didn't expect you to be such an artist," Mercedes commented, her mood uplifted lately by her lover's accomplishments. Akado was not only one of Germany's premier military figures, revered across the nation, but his face also adorned posters throughout the cities. More impressively, he had a knack for crafting romantic tales. "God really did create a remarkable man," she mused, "making it impossible for women like us not to be drawn to you."

Akado's influence extended beyond the military; he controlled several key subsidiaries of the Bailanhua Group. The National Defense Army had diversified its investments under his guidance, venturing into industries like film, real estate, and food processing. They even operated a military transport aircraft service, doubling as an express courier and contributing to infrastructure projects like road and railway construction.

As the movie concluded, the lights in the theater brightened, prompting the audience to rise and deliver a standing ovation. The film's lead actress, Lilian Harvey, was visibly overwhelmed, her tears of joy a testament to the film's impact. It was a moment of triumph that would undoubtedly elevate her status in the global cinema landscape.

Akado and Mercedes joined in the applause, their plans for the evening including attending the movie's premiere party, a notable social gathering for Berlin's elite. However, Akado's smile faltered when he noticed his adjutant, Lieutenant Colonel Gascol, entering through a side door, evidently searching for him with urgent news.

"Excuse me, I must see to this," Akado said to Mercedes, nodding towards Gascol, who was making his way over. Jokingly, he added, "It seems my men can't bear to see me enjoying a moment of leisure."

"Your leisure is always for the German people, who revere you like a deity," Mercedes smiled warmly.

"And what about you?" Akado asked, returning her smile.

"Me? I already worship you," she confessed.

"Thank you, your admiration is truly fulfilling," Akado replied, a hint of shyness in his tone. He gestured towards the front row where Lilian Harvey was interacting with fans. "Why don't you go and talk to Lilian Harvey? You might hear some interesting behind-the-scenes stories about the film."

Mercedes knew it was her cue to give him space for whatever pressing matters awaited. "I'll wait for you," she said, turning gracefully and making her way towards the actress.

As she left, Gascol finally reached Akado, leaning in to whisper urgently, "General, the 'Gray Wolf' from Britain has sent back intelligence confirming our suspicions."

"These people were really on the boat?" Akado asked, his expression turning serious.

"Yes, sir. They included Michelle, the renowned aircraft designer from Rolls-Royce, who recently made a covert trip to the United States. He's highly valued by the British Air Force," Gascol informed.

Akado nodded thoughtfully. "We have no numerical advantage over our adversaries; we must leverage our technological superiority. This operation was crucial, and thankfully, we executed it flawlessly."

"The British Navy has acknowledged the sinking. Their destroyers are still scouring the North Atlantic. Should we inform General Redel to recall them?" Gascol inquired.

"Let them return, but slowly. Have them conduct more drills at sea—it's a valuable training opportunity," Akado decided, his strategic mind always working.

Just then, Anna, another of Akado's aides, approached hurriedly, her long hair swaying with her brisk pace. "General, the secret Soviet delegation has arrived in Berlin and specifically requested a meeting with you. They're likely here to negotiate technology sharing for submarines," she reported, saluting crisply.

"Sigh, when it rains, it pours," Akado remarked dryly. "I was supposed to have the afternoon off, but duty calls. I suppose I should request double pay from President Hindenburg, considering the party's stance on overtime," he joked lightly.

"If you need rest, I can ask the Soviets to wait," Anna offered, concern etching her face.

"It was just a jest, Anna. No need for delays. Please have Captain Sindra prepare the relevant documents, and tell Depp to ready the car. I'll say goodbye to Miss Mercedes and meet you at the front," Akado instructed, his tone shifting back to that of a commander.

As he turned to leave, he noticed Mercedes engaged in a conversation with a man who seemed overly familiar. Curious, Akado straightened his suit and approached them. "Miss Mercedes, do you require assistance?"

The man, young and dressed in expensive custom attire, turned and scoffed at Akado before recognizing the quality of his suit. "This lady was my pursuit first. You better step aside!" he said haughtily, his demeanor arrogant.

"The Hadra family," he boasted, noticing Akado's puzzled look. "We're an old family in Europe, well-connected with various royal households and running substantial enterprises across Western Europe. We keep a low profile, but we're among the top Jewish consortiums here."

Mercedes, catching Akado's eye, added, "They're influential, but not widely known."

Akado nodded, understanding dawning on him. "So, as a Hadra, you claim to represent your entire family's interests?"

"Absolutely! My family has strong ties with the National Defense Forces. You'd do well to leave now, or else..." the young man trailed off, puffing up with pride.

Akado chuckled, unfazed. "Threats must come naturally to you, given how adept you are at them."

"And why not? I have more wealth and connections than you could dream of! It's your fault for picking the wrong adversary," the young man taunted, turning to Mercedes. "Come to my hotel tonight, and I'll give you a hundred thousand dollars."

The surrounding crowd gasped at the audacity and the sum mentioned. It was a considerable amount, tempting to many.

Akado simply nodded to Gascol, who had been observing quietly. "Gascol, remember the debt we discussed? It's time to settle it. Start with the Hadra family tonight. No survivors. Let the blame fall on the anti-Semitic factions within the party."

"Understood," Gascol replied, a bit taken aback by the ruthlessness of the order but ready to comply.

"What are you waiting for?" Akado said, turning away from the young Hadra. "Begin with him."

"Adjutant! Take him!" Gascol commanded. His men moved swiftly, apprehending the young man who was too stunned to react, much to the shock of the high society onlookers.

Akado turned to Mercedes, his expression serious. "See? I'm no god, nor a particularly good man."

"Yes," Mercedes nodded, her voice soft. "I know. And I'm no fairy-tale princess. We're just two people, together."

"I'll have Depp drive you home," Akado said, dispelling any thoughts of her accompanying him further. "Gascol, I'll ride back with you."

As they prepared to leave, the gravity of their lives and the decisions they made hung heavily in the air, a constant reminder of the complexities of power and the burdens it carried.