Chapter 389: The Devil You Know
It did not take Bruno long to reach out to the legendary and infamous figure from his past life whose name was connected to one of the most militant and brutal regimes in history. One whose infamous banners would never rise in this new timeline as a result of Bruno’s own actions.
Frankly speaking, Bruno had little choice in the matter. Time was running out, and with Erich dead, he needed someone to command the mercenary force which would be critical to establishing Germany’s hegemony over the world in the decades to come.
Bruno had to make a move, and it needed to be now. No more hesitation, no more debate. Because of this, he damn near immediately summoned Ernst Röhm to his personal estate, the morning after he had come to the decision.
A time and date was set, and the man appeared in his home, dressed in the uniform of the German Army and with several accolades pinned to his chest. Since this was unofficial business, Bruno himself was dressed in civilian formal attire, not sporting the decorations he had earned through distinction in combat and military leadership, rather having them displayed appropriately on his uniform which was currently equipped to a mannequin standing proudly within his office.
Ernst appeared a little anxious, more than Bruno thought he would, and acted far too formal, immediately saluting him as the man jumped to attention the moment he entered the room. His voice was sharp, disciplined—but carrying an edge of restrained excitement, the kind of anxious energy that comes from meeting a living legend.
"Generalfeldmarschall! I have arrived as summoned!"
Bruno, sensing this unusual display of formality from the man, was quick to respond in a way that cut the tension in the air.
"At ease, soldier, this is an informal meeting between two men that has nothing to do with army regulations. Do you understand what I am saying? Now take a seat I have something I wish to discuss with you."
The veteran soldier was quick to do as he was told, not saying another word as Bruno pulled out a bottle of distilled spirits and offered the man a drink.
"I would pour you a beer, but I have yet to have a keg established in my office. Truthfully speaking, I had quite drinking excessively a while back, preventing me a from having a need for it. As you can see, by now I’m down to the dregs..."