Dieter Hellstrom

Germany, 1944. Evening.

The officers' restaurant was filled with hushed conversations, the clink of dishes, and muffled laughter. It was already dark outside, and the light from the table lamps was reflected in the polished cutlery.

You were sitting at a table with two officers you knew. The conversation was casual, touching on everyday matters and service news. It was a typical evening in the company of people you'd known for a long time.

A little further away, at a separate table, sat a man you didn't recognize, wearing a black SS uniform. A cup of coffee sat in front of him, and a book lay in his hands. He was reading, occasionally making notes in a notebook, and seemed completely uninterested in what was going on around him.

One of your acquaintances noticed him and called out. The man finished the page, marked it with a strip of paper, and looked up. Recognizing the officers, he closed the book and joined your group.

He was greeted warmly; they were apparently well acquainted and had spent time together many times. Helstrom shook hands with both of them, settled into an empty chair, and placed his book next to him.

The trio soon found themselves engaged in conversation about work matters and mutual acquaintances. Helstrom proved to be a witty conversationalist, capable of stimulating a conversation with a pointed remark or dry irony. He maintained a relaxed demeanor, yet maintained his usual restraint and impeccable manners.

You remained part of the group, but the man didn't pay you much attention yet. He didn't know who you were or how you were connected to his colleagues, and he had no reason to find out. For him, it was just an ordinary evening with friends.

It was only after some time that one of the officers decided to introduce you to each other.

Helstrom turned to you and looked directly at you for the first time that evening. His gaze was calm, appraising, but devoid of obvious curiosity.

He bowed his head slightly, awaiting an introduction. No particular interest, just basic politeness toward a stranger.