LEGEND, fiction, 21C-Online, The 21st Century Online Magazine

THIS STORY USES LEGEND, FACT AND IMAGINATION TO WEAVE A TALE AS TRUE AS LIFE.
FOR IN LIFE, FACT AND FANCY GO TO THE MAKING OF LEGENDS.
IT IS BASED UPON TREVOR RAVENSCROFT'S THE SPEAR OF DESTINY
(G.P. Putnam's Sons, New York, 1973).

April 5, 33 A.D.
Jerusalem

The Roman soldier sat upon his horse, in the darkness engulfing the afternoon sun, transfixed by the blurry image before him. The cataracts in both eyes had brought him to this moment in time. Prevented by his near blindness from battle service, the veteran officer was stationed in Jerusalem, where religious and political strife threatened Roman authority. This was not the first crucifixion witnessed by the Centurion. Gaius Cassius Longinus had overseen the deaths of many, who in some way threatened the authority of the Roman Empire. This execution was different. This was the execution of a man some called "The Messiah".

Some thought Jesus of Nazareth was to fulfill Isaiah's ancient prophesy and would free the Jewish people from Roman control, because Jesus, through his mother Mary, was descendant from King David and in fact was "King of the Jews". Longinus had been following the activities of Jesus and his companions, for the last two years. It was ironic the real threat to Jesus had come from the Jews themselves, not the Romans. The Jewish Priest lead by the High Priest Caiaphas had orchestrated this death. To prevent anyone from continuing with the belief that Jesus would fulfill the legend of the Messiah, the Priest ordered that Jesus's legs were to be broken, to hurry his death before sundown on this Friday afternoon, before the beginning of the Jewish Holy Day. Isaiah had said of the Messiah, "A bone of Him shall not be broken." The soldiers of the Temple Guard were preparing to end Jesus life and bring an end to the fulfillment of prophesy, by breaking the legs of the man hanging from the cross.

Standing beside the mounted Longinus was the Captain of the Temple Guard. In his hand was the ancient Spear Phineas the Prophet had forged to symbolize the magical powers inherent in those called "God's Chosen People". The Spear had been in the hand of Joshua when he ordered his soldiers to shout the walls of Jericho down. It remained the insignia of power over life and death, now belonging to Herod the Great's son. It was Herod who had ordered the deaths of innocent male infants, at the time of Jesus's birth, in an attempt to end the prophesy of the Three Wisemen who claimed a baby born at that time was the Messiah. The Spear embodied the authority of those present to carry out this act, in the name of the Jewish King.

Longinus watched the Temple Guard marching in unison toward the middle of the three crosses. The crucified men on either side of Jesus had already been clubbed to death. He had watched it all through his damaged eyes. He could watch silently no more. Longinus reached down and took the Spear from the Captain standing below him. The Captain did not protest, as the soldier holding the Spear, prodded his horse up the hill. The soldiers hearing the horse coming from behind, stopped, and turned around, and continued to watch as the Roman slowly moved by them.

Longinus focused not on the face of Jesus, for this he could not see through the cataracts. Instead, he looked at the body, searching for the point between the fourth and fifth ribs, the customary location of a lethal wound which would gush blood, quickly bleeding out the victim, in a humane execution. As the Spear tore into the body of Jesus, blood and water erupted from the wound, cascading down upon the face of Casius Longinus. His eyes were full of it. When he cleared the blood away, Longinus could see the face of the man he had just killed. Longinus was blind no more.

Gaius Cassius Longinus, who had performed a martial deed out of the compassionate motive to protect the body of Jesus Christ, became known as Longinus the Spearman. It was said that for a moment in Time he held the destiny of the whole of mankind in his hands. The Spear with which he had pierced the side of Christ became one of the great treasures of Christendom and a unique legend attached itself to this weapon that whoever possessed it and understood the powers it served held the destiny of the world in his hands for good or evil. This legend, which has persisted throughout two millennia of Christendom, has seen its most dreadful fulfillment in the twentieth century.
- The Spear of Destiny, Trevor Ravenscroft

Under the yellow tint of the museum lighting, housed in a glass case, the Spearhead lay on its red velvet dais. Reflected in the glass was the face of Paul Springer, a twenty one year old University of Vienna philosophy student. Paul was transfixed by the image lying before him. His hazel eyes were glazed, like the glass through which he intently stared to at the artifact. Springer was not breathing normally. Deep exertion was required to capture the very essence of life. Without conscious thought, he turned and made his way to a Vienna library where he searched for a clue to the Spear of Destiny and its history,

The library attendant was clearly annoyed with the young man who had been so intently studying. It was time for the library to close and the attendant had been forced to demand that Springer leave. Slowly, Paul replaced the ancient document in the stacks and made his way toward home and his wife Anna. Had Paul Springer been aware of time, he may have been concerned himself with Anna's state of mind. It was indeed a late hour. But, the man was verging on emotional exhaustion which had physically and mentally drained him. As he opened the door to the flat, Paul's face was as sagged as his body. He did not see his wife sitting at the kitchen table.

Anna Springer had been sitting by the door for the last hour. It was not like Paul to be so late, 'While trying not to be concerned, moments of forgetfulness were filled with pangs of worry. The familiar footsteps on the stairs confused Anna; they sounded like her husbands and also that of a much older man. The key in the door assured her Paul was, at last, home.

"Hello, darling...," As soon as she saw him an alarm went off in her brain. Something was wrong, "How did your day go?"

Paul walked over to Anna as she rose to greet him. She fell into her husband's arms enjoying a moment of security. His kiss, however, was as emotional as a stranger's. He shook his head, looking deeply into her eyes saying, "I don't know, I've never been through a day quite like this before...strange...."

Slowly and with effort, Paul made his way into the living room where he laid down on the couch. Anna followed, to gently nudge him over, while sitting down beside him. In his customary fashion, Paul reached out and pulled her to his chest. He loved to feel Anna so close that her every breath registered on his body. But tonight Paul Springer was simply responding from habit. His mind was still locked in the Treasure House of the Hofburg, before the glass case housing that strange particle of history.

The silence was broken as Paul haltingly began, "I went to the Treasure House to research the paper on the Renaissance. As I was leaving, there was a group being guided through the museum. Just as I got upon them, the guide began telling about this one display...."

It his mind Springer could still see the image formed by the radiating light emitted by the Spearhead. It was not simply an ancient artifact! There was some essence alive and shimmering about it. A halo surrounded the Spearhead and continued to penetrate Paul's mind.

Still searching for adequate words, he continued, "It gave me the chills - the story that is. The guide was telling about this ancient Spearhead. Supposedly, the weapon had been thrust into the side of Jesus Christ ending the crucifixion. You remember, Anna, the story about the Roman soldier who used the Spear to guarantee Jesus was dead, instead of having his legs broken, as was the custom. Thus, somehow the soldier fulfilled a prophesy from the Old Testament."

Paul's voice began to strain - betraying his inner struggle, "Anna, it was like I knew all about the Spearhead and it's associated powers!" While shaking his head he muttered, "Oh, I don't know. I'm so damn confused and tired."

Anna anticipated Paul's move and sat up with him, gently placing her hand on his thigh. Through his weariness, Paul continued, "There's some supposed curse associated with the Spearhead. The 'Spear of Destiny' is what the guide called it. Paul let his body sag and slowly moved to rest against the back of the couch. As he stared off, the words the guide had used were clearly recalled. "All sorts of famous people, including Charlemagne are purported to have received tremendous powers from it."

An uncontrolled spasm shook Paul, "I felt the Spear had a control over me. Like it had a mind and could command me to do its bidding. I have no idea how long I simply stood looking at it. Thoughts, pictures, phantoms of imagination kept crowding my mind."- Paul forced a chuckle, "It wasn't hard, there was really no mind at work anyhow."

With intensity, Paul turned and roughly gripped Anna around the shoulders, "But Anna...Anna, the next thing I knew, I was at the library reading about the damn thing." In releasing her Paul forced an apologetic smile. Overcome with a sense of fatigue and forlorn, he sat back letting his head fall forward as if closing in on himself, "So tired."

Anna Springer was an American whose father obtained a diplomatic assignment in London. She had fallen in love with that "strange genius of an Englishman" Paul Springer in 1907. Her mother was of the opinion that Springer was "too serious", yet, she also fell under the almost spiritual enthusiasm for life, the Englishman embodied, Perhaps Paul was on the serious side; then again, he fully enjoyed life and its challenges, Anna never doubted her love for Paul Springer, Until now, she never had cause to regret any aspect of their three year-old marriage.

Anna could no longer deny the doubts; doubts of such intensity she had written Paul's younger brother Glen, still living in London. To Glen, Anna's need was a marvelous reason to travel and he considered himself due for a vacation anyway. As he sat at the kitchen table with Anna to his right, Glen Springer began having some doubts of his own.

Anna's eyes were stained a red , not unlike the wine into which she gazed. Her hands trembled slightly as they gently, yet, nervously caressed the glass containing the liquid. Her words came too easily. She forced herself to control the torrent of verbiage that had been building inside, "It's been going on for eight or nine months. At first, I thought, 'He'll get over it."' Anna turned to Glenn and emphasized, "Paul said it was madness! He admitted it was crazy!"

'The pain again welled up inside. The emotion showed as Anna vengefully cursed, "That damn Spear is destroying him!"

The woman's body quivered as she attempted to gain control. While concentrating on a distant object, she slowly continued, "'When Paul isn't home reading, or at the library pouring over some ancient document, he's at the Treasure House,"

Anna turned imploringly to Glen with, "I ask, 'Why, Paul? What do you do?' His reply is always, 'Just stare."' Her attention reverted to the wine glass as she mumbled, "Just stares...."

After a charged silence, Anna once more turned to her brother-in-law emotionally saying, "He was a brilliant student!" Her voice had cracked. She pause, before continuing, "and now he isn't even enrolled anymore."

Glen felt the sense of defeat radiating from Anna, when she asked, "What can I do?" While her eyes requested the answer, Glen's brain raced for a semblance of responding dialogue. The blow that sent him reeling for help was Anna's question, "Has Paul lost his mind?"

Involuntarily and with too much emphasis, Glen virtually shouted, "No! No, Anna!"

There was nothing more there. Glen begged of himself, "Where's the words!" Finally, they seemed to be formulating. Hesitatingly he began, "You know Paul, he's always striving for perfection in one form or another. Especially for perfection in understanding. It's burned inside him since a child. Paul simply has to understand things. This Spear...what's it called?"

Anna was somewhat taken aback by the question. The brief look of confusion that flickered across her face vanished as the question was understood and she voiced the answer, "Destiny, The Spear of Destiny."

The words momentarily numbed Glen's brain. There was something about that phrase. Snapping out of his revery, he continued, "Well, to Paul it's something unknown - something he has to come to grips with. Perhaps in the end he'll find out there is nothing to it and we will all have a good laugh, for many years to come, And, as far as the degree credits Paul already had most of them in England, before deciding on Vienna to finish. No loss there except a little time."

Glen's own rational answer helped dispel most of the uneasiness he himself had been experiencing, He was jovial as he took Annals hands in his own, "You will see. Paul will snap out of this seeming madness, It's upsetting, I know; but, it will be alright. The one problem that may, in reality, exist is with Mamma. If my dear brother does not contact our dear mother, she is very likely to cut off his ears and his inheritance. Anna, smile for me, I'll talk to Paul and I'm sure we'll work it out."

Demel's Café was a second home to Paul Springer. The continual hum of activity provided a type of permanent silence, affording a beneficial atmosphere for study. By now, Springer knew the owners well and was always a welcomed guest. On this night, Demel's was the scene of a reunion between brothers. The waiter had just finished serving the order when Paul confronted, "This is no sudden decision on your part. Anna had you come...isn't it so?"

Paul's smile was contagious. Glen's face mirrored his brother's, "No need to answer. In her situation I would also have solicited assistance to handle the supposed madness in the family. Supposed madness. Glen, I so wish it were just that, As it is, I know in my heart and mind that there's more truth in what I've lately learned than anything I've studied before."

Glen was noticeably shaken by the drift of his brother's discussion. The same uneasiness he had felt with Anna, earlier in the day, was creeping up his spine. Paul laughed at Glen's squirming, "It's not all that bad! I'm really quite sane. Obsessed, perhaps...obsessed with an unknown force.

"Glen, I'm not sure how much to tell. There's much more to it then I even understand. God knows, I need someone to share my thoughts. Yet, I'm not all that sure what any of it is about.

"Yes, it began with the Spear." Paul paused while reliving the last few months in his memories. "It's gone beyond the Spear. Glen, I'm going to tell a story that if someone related it to me, I'd question his sanity. Whether or not you believe me is of some import; but, not much. You see, I know it happened! For whatever reason...it did happen.

"As I said, it all began with my search into the history of the Spear, In studying that history, Wofram von Eschenbachis Grail romance Parsival, seemed to hold a secret to the meaning and power of the Spear.

"As you may know, Parsival is supposedly a fictional account of the 'Knights in Shining Armor' and the search for the mystical 'Holy Grail'. There are, however, indications that the story is actually based on true life happenings and historical personages of the Middle Ages. While I had read the Romance, it still held its secrets regarding the Spear. The book was just another puzzle wrapped in the enigma of the Spear. That is until I happened upon a pawn shop I never noticed before, on a street I knew very well.

"A copy of Parsival was lying on a stack of books inside the shop. It was cheap enough so I bought it just to have and came here to Demel's where I started to glance through it. It was at this very table that the secret of the book began to be revealed. But, Glen, it was not my mind unraveling the puzzle! Along the borders of the pages were hand written notes dictated by a mind that could be nothing less then genius. But, it was a perverted genius, I've never been introduced to a mind capable of that degree of insight. Whoever had written the comments was a student par excellence in the history of the Roman Centurion's Spear. And, yet, it was a perverted, twisted, violent mind which had formulated many of the thoughts. It was a mind consumed in evil.

"I had been here for hours when I suddenly felt someone staring at me, I looked up and out that window into the eyes of a face burned forever on my brain. The man was - is - my age and, yet, the face seemed eternal - etched by Time. His hair was all over; wild as if in a wind storm or never cared for. And this funny, little mustache or facsimile thereof - short, dark, flats straight .... His eyes were haunting, They seemed to burn to the roots of my soul.

"He was there for awhile staring through the window. Finally his presence was gone and I again fully turned my attention to the book. It had been late morning when I went in and it was dusk when I came out. As I walked down the street, my mind was flooded with the incredible insight afforded me through the long hand notes. I was under the spell of the mind belonging to the man who had signed his name to the insides back cover of the book.

"My revery was abruptly interrupted as a hand grabbed my arm. I turned and there it was! The very same face that had stared at me through the café window was there in front of me! And the man was agitated) talking, pushing a stack of post cards out to me. I kept backing up trying to get away. I can't tell you what he was saying, He was trying to sell drawings he had done on the backs of the post cards. I pulled out some money and shoved it at him. I was simply trying to rid myself of the man. Again he grabbed me and pushed some of the cards into my hands,

"When I got home, I haphazardly threw the cards on the kitchen table. They almost stayed together in the stack... except for one. Glen, it was a drawing of the Spearhead! I mustered enough courage to pick it up. At the bottom, right hand corner was a signature. It was the same as in the book, Adolf Hitler!"

During the ensuing silence, Paul looked questioningly at his brother, It was the first time anyone had heard this bizarre story. What would he think?

Glen had enjoyed the story! That's all his brain wanted to believe it was - just a story. But, then again, Paul sounded sane and convinced. Glen voiced his question, "Let me see if I have this right. Are you telling me that this Hitler fellow was responsible for the notes in the Parsival book?"

"Yes. Anna thinks much of my time has been spent studying the history of the Spear. Much was actually spent searching for Hitler. He has become as much of an obsession as the Spear ever was. Eventually, I found him or he found me. One day he was just there."

"Hitler is a mad genius., And, I don't know 'why', Perhaps, that isn't for me to know."

"Probably not even the beginning, Since finding Hitler, I've been introduced to a fraternity of men who call themselves 'occultists'"

Glen was visibly shaken. A smile again crossed Paul's face. "Now don't get so upset. All the word means is 'unknown'. 'Occult' refers to those unanswerable happenings of life.

"Some of the occultists are stereotypes: the weird, the fanatics who can't seem to make it in the everyday world. But, some aspects of the sciences definitely offer promises of alternative solutions to many riddles of existence. Most members of the various Occult Fraternities are simply scientists of a rather unorthodox nature."

While attempting to ignore Paul's probing eyes, Glen asked, "What do you want me to say? You were right! It is a most strange tale, But, where is it leading you? Anna is more than a little concerned and upset."

Paul began to look very uncomfortable and truly troubled. His voice imploringly asked in return, "What can I do? I guess I just have to play out the hand I was dealt. If there are powers not tapped by average men, I must come to grips with them. It is simply part of my makeup. Damn it! I'd change if I could for Anna. But, I don't think I can just walk away from the Spear of Destiny or the man who fully believes it is his ... somewhere in the future....

25 YEARS LATER. FALL 1936.
HEADQUARTERS, OF WINSTON CHURCHILL, FIRST LORD OF THE ADMIRALTY,
LONDON, ENGLAND.

Winston Churchill was pragmatic. Paul Springer had known Adolf Hitler as a friend, If Churchill ever hoped to understand the German Chancellor, it would be through his personal acquaintances, If Springer also was an occultist with an unorthodox tale of some mystical weapon, so be it. Churchill knew others inclined to delve into the study of the unexplainable. Indeed, their mutual friend$ William Wayne was a prime example of a successful man who also fancied himself an Occultist. While looking intently at his visitor, Churchill began to go beyond civilities, "Mr. Springer, William has probably mentioned that he and I have been chums since early childhood. I've the deepest respect for the man's opinions,"

The First Lord paused long enough to make a decision concerning his guest. Having decided on the direct approach. He continued, "Wayne has told me about the Christian artifact he called the 'Spear of Destiny', I didn't ask you here to discuss the legend surrounding this supposed talisman of power, I'm really only interested in hearing from one with first hand knowledge of the German Chancellor.

"Unlike others, I have had a deep abiding fear of the events that have transpired in Germany over the last ten or so. Hitler's recent occupation of the Rhineland has intensified and justified those fears, to say nothing of the Rome-Berlin coalition. What's your opinion of the man, Mr. Springer?"

Churchill's abrupt question only increased the nervousness Paul was experiencing. His response was automatic, "He is a genius although a perverted one."

"Do you believe Hitler will attempt to fulfill the promises he made in his autobiography Mein Kampf?"

"His obsession with the Spear of Destiny." Paul watched his host for any sign indicating the topic to be forbidden.

The First Lord of the Admiralty saw the hesitation in his visitor and kindly said, "Please go on."

Today, all the secrets must be released. If anyone could comprehend the enormity of it, Springer believed it was Winston Churchill, Still, it was difficult to force into words the memories, knowledge, and fears most would simply consider ludicrous!

"As you are undoubtedly aware, Sir, there is a lack of available information regarding the years Hitler spent in Vienna, Yet, in Mein Kampf, Hitler refers to that period as the most vital and formative of years. I knew the man during this time-frame. We shared a common obsession with the Christian artifact. Hitler is convinced of the legend's authenticity. He believes the owner of the Spear can control the destiny of mankind."

Churchill was troubled by Springer's assessment. "And you feel Hitler intends to claim the Spearhead as his own?"

"Hitler is fulfilling a prophesy of sorts, He must have a legal right to the Spearhead."

"I think I'm beginning to understand. Hitler believes that he is fulfilling some sort of preconceived destiny of his own involving the legendary powers of the Spear."

"I don't know." Paul got up and walked to the window overlooking the grounds of the Admiralty Headquarters building. Silence followed him as he wandered through his own mind and the thoughts housed there. Easily and suddenly, Paul Springer began to let all the secrets go. He turned to Churchill displaying a resolve to tell it all.

"Sir, until recently, I would have nothing to do with anything relating to the Occult Sciences, One aspect to the study of the unknown is to take certain drugs to enhance one's perception of existence. The drug I took simply drove me beyond the brink of normalcy. After regaining my sanity, I denied the teachings, It was not difficult. What is difficult is to find emperical proof for things so clearly falling to the realm's of supposition and legend. With Hitler's ascent to power ... it is becoming impossible to continue the denials."

Paul was visibly reflecting his inner turmoil, "Long before Hitler wrote, Mein Kampf, he told of the future and his visions of his own destiny. Much of those then 'future' events have become the past and the present!

"Mr. Churchill, I don't know if the legend surrounding the Spear is true or not. I can't afford to care. Neither do I wish to see Adolf Hitler attempt to prove or disprove it. I fear for the future Hitler intends. I firmly believe he'll attempt bringing Austria under German control in his lust for the Spear. If the man is not stopped in the very beginning he may well send Germany to an inevitable attempt at world conquest.

Jason Evans heard the door chime indicating someone had entered through the front doorway. Perhaps it was Master Paul returning from Germany. He was due anytime now after being informed of his mother's hospitalization. Indeed, the butler could see down the hall to where Paul was taking off his coat. As Jason rushed to helps Paul smiled warmly, although, the tiredness was apparent in his voice, "Jason, it's good to see you! How is everything?"

"Well enough, Sir, except, of course, for your mother. Gave us all a scare she did. Mrs. Springer is in the sitting room."

Paul made his way slowly and deliberately to Anna. The obvious strained atmosphere did not deter him from walking over to where she was sitting and bending over to kiss her cheek.

With low keyed sarcasm icing her words, Anna welcomed home her husbands "Hello, Paul. Hope your trip went well. Did you see Mamma?"

Paul had stayed beside Anna and was resting on his haunches leaning against her chair while staring into her face. He was well aware of her refusal to look him in the eye, "Yes, I just left her. Glen was at the hospital."

While still avoiding Paul's probing looks Anna responded with, "We tried to contact you to let you know it wasn't as bad as it first appeared."

"So Glen said. I would have come anyway. You know that, don't you? Or do you really think me such a monster?"

Anna's abrupt movement to leave startled Paul. As she got up from the chair and headed towards the door, he stood and grabbed her right arm stopping the effort. Paul's eyes begged for more than forgiveness and understanding, "Anna, I'm sorry. I don't suppose I can expect you to even give me the time to explain. Anna, I love you."

"Don't what? Don't try to hold on to the individual who is the most important part of my life?"

Anna forcefully pulled away while bitterly responding, "And what of your Hitler?"

"If the words can not, yet, help you understand then...," Paul Springer could not bring himself to voice his great emotional fears and needs.

Anna was visibly shaken by the words or rather lack of them. Tears began to caress her cheeks, Paul pulled her to his chest. For a moment, she allowed herself to hold on. After regaining her composure Anna moved away from her husband and returned to the chair where she once again sat down. "Alright, I will listen; but, for me - not you. I have to give myself one last chance."

"More than fair." Paul moved to the chair on Anna's left, Wearily he sat down while trying to formulate his thoughts, desires, fears, and needs into understandable words, Anna watched him in his hesitation which contributed to her own growing control.

With extreme bitterness, the woman said, "Let me make it easy for you to begin. Let me tell of the promises you made to let it all go; to forget you had ever seen Adolf Hitler or knew anything about the damn Occult Sciences and the perverts who practice it. Let's both of us remember the job that was given up when Paul Springer left for Germany to break all the promises made after Vienna. Shall I go on or have you now remembered your place? Your place in a story that very nearly made you loose your mind!"

Physically shaking, Anna moved forward in the chair to continue the attack, "Yes, damn it I'm bitter! Can anyone blame me?"

Paul sadly studied the floor. Anna sat back and the tears again began. He could only answer, "No. No one." He looked up and leaned forward wanting to comfort his wife. "If you can believe this, I went to Berlin for you."

Anna abruptly turned to face Paul. Disgust welled up insider her. It was reflected on her face. Ignoring the look, he continued, "Hitler is more than just a pervert. The man embodies a danger that may in the end effect us all. I so wish you could have been there to have seen him." Paul paused. He had to continued, "Anna, I went to Berlin at the request of Winston Churchill."

Paul's words stunned his wife. Churchill involved in this nonsense. The possibility of such a situation was more then Anna Springer wished to face. If one particle of "It" was true, then, perhaps, all of it could somehow also be true! That possibility was more difficult to comprehend then the fact her husband was somewhat mentally unbalanced. Strange to have felt better in believing Paul crazy then to believe the legend surrounding the Spear. And what was Paul saying?

"Churchill knows of Hitler's obsession with the Spear. I don't know how much credence he gives the Spear's powers; but, the man is a realist. He knows that mad men have brought holocost to the world in the past while grasping at their dreams,"

Unbeknown to the couple, Glen had arrived and had just entered the room to hear her question, Glen responded, "Yes, Anna, Churchill indeed knows of the Spear and did send Paul to Berlin. What's more, I now believe my brother,"

Paul looked up while Anna turned around. Glen walked over to his sister-in-law; kissed her cheek; and proceeded to a chair across from her where he sat down* Anna exclaimed, "Glen, you believe all this rubbish!"

"I didn't say I believe all of it. I simply must accept that Paul knows more then any of us wished he did. During the conversations Glen had turned to Paul who began to understand what Glen's discussion entailed, At last, a friend was openly supporting Paul's unorthodox position. He was surprised and grateful.

"Too much of what Paul spoke of in Vienna has already come to pass. Paul, what happened in Berlin? Tell me all. Did you see Hitler?"

"Yes, though not privately He's surrounded by an army. I'm not sure if the decision was his or one of the cronies some who are from the Vienna days.

"I must laugh! The Press thought Hitler was only a flunky fronting for others ... until he became Chancellor, Now, they are frantically digging into the man's past to ascertain where his roots lie. If they only knew! They'd never believe it, nevermind print it! An advocate of Occultism; practioner of the, so called, Black Arts; a taker of exotic, mind twisting drugs; who is also leader of one of the greatest nations on the face of the earth! Who could elieve such a story?

"Yet, even the most blind must see the incredible power he has over the crowds. It's something more than charisma. It's something more than the right word at the right time. At the assemblies, the crowds were spellbound. Myself even. I could feel this power radiating from him...this control...as if his mind could reach out and touch mine. If I didn't know where his roots lay, I could also have been swayed to Hitler's visions. The Germans don't know the truth about their Fuhrer - their leader, The world is still confronting the unknown and falling under its spell."

Areas along the French road were often brutally war scarred. As the jeep traveled down the muddy roads and by slower moving vehicles, Paul Springer was caught in an avalanche of thoughts. It had been damn close! Perhaps, Hitler could still somehow pull it all off. But, in this November of 1944, the Allies were in France and posed for the last push into Germany itself. The optimists were talking about the war ending before Christmas. Paul Springer was no pessimist; but, he held few thoughts of an early end to the war. For as long as Hitler controlled the Spear of Destiny the Nazis would fight.

Hitler had taken Austria and the Spear without firing a shot. On March 15, 1938, four days after German troops entered Austria, Adolf Hitler had returned to the Treasure House of the Hofburg to claim his destiny. It had been in the hours before dawn, that Hitler had once again gazed upon the quest of a life-time. Springer often wondered what thoughts had consumed the mind of the German Chancellor at that moment in time.

Hitler had the Spearhead once belonging to the Roman Centurion Gaius Cassius Longinus brought to the spiritual seat of Nazisim -Nuremberg, Germany. There in Saint Katherine's Church, the Spearhead became the central piece in the collection of articles comprising the symbols of the Third Reich, The treasures included the Imperial Regalia of the Hapsburg Empire additionally "donated" by Austria. The collection remained on display at the Church throughout the glorious, victorious days of the Third Reich,

When part of the Church roof was destroyed during the first English air raid on Nuremberg, Hitler had the collection moved to a bank vault where there was more security from bombs. That move coincided with the beginning of the end for the Germans. With military setbacks in Russia and Africa, the collection was again ordered moved. This time, however, the location was to be kept secret.

The setbacks had continued and now Paul Springer was travelling through a liberated France. As he rode in the jeep, Springer wondered about Hitler's secret. Churchill had at last given his permission. The hiding place was to be discovered. The Spear of Destiny was to be captured.

The only clue to the new location had come from an Intelligence Report issued by the 35th Infantry Division of the US Third Army. During the debriefing of two English airmen who had escaped from a German prison camp outside Nuremberg, there had been mention of "...hidden treasure being found in an underground tunnel." Apparently, as the rumor had it, the tunnel entrance had been uncovered during a RAF bombing of the city. Supposedly, there was a massive vault inside containing Nazi treasure. Paul was on his way to see the commander of the Third Army, General George S. Patton. The Englishman was to request Patton's assistance in arranging meetings with all Army Intelligence Officers who had been interrogating German prisoners or civilians who may have evacuated the Nuremberg district. A rumor was the only available clue.

This meeting with the General would not be the first. The controversial soldier had attended a lecture given by Paul on the Spear's history. Paul had been impressed with Patton during their brief meeting afterwards. The General was well informed about the Spear and other subjects of the Occult. It was rumored that Patton believed he had been an incarnation of Caesar or Alexander the Great (depending upon who was telling the story). Springer simply knew the General to believe in the theory of reincarnation.

Paul's mind filled with the sights and sounds of Patton's Command Post. The jeep was slowly making its way towards a long, moving-van type truck painted Army green. In the misting dusk, the driver and Patton's Executive Officer, Major Michael James, parked the jeep; led Paul to the rear of the truck; up the corrugated, iron steps and through a doorway. Inside, they walked by the men and communications equipment linking Patton with his higher headquarters and the units of the Third Army. At the far end of the trailer was a partitioned area serving as the General's office. Major James called out, "Sir, Mr. Springer is here."

A large table predominated the area behind the partition. A couple of folding chairs and a variety of hanging maps wore the only other furnishings. Patton made his way from the far side of the table to greet his visitor. With his hand outstretched he welcomed the civilian, "Mr. Springer, it's a pleasure to see you again."'

"Yes, and what a marvelous year! Tell me, what do you think of the exploits of my Third Army?"

Patton looked at Paul knowingly, Paul opened his briefcase and took out a sealed envelope which he handed to Patton, As the General opened the envelope, he motioned for Paul to have a seat. Patton also sat down and proceeded to read the contents.

In a guarded voice Paul asked, "It's my understanding that this trailer is cleared for ULTRA information."

While startled, Patton responded in a normal voice, "Yes. You are free to discuss information of that classification."

"I'm aware that your spectacular advances are due in no small measure to your being supplied detailed data on the deployment and intentions of the Germans. You have been receiving ULTRA information obtained from the intercept of German radio communications. Unfortunately, for the German High Command, their method of coding the messages is known by British Intelligence, Sir, you probably receive the decoded information before some of the German generals."

Patton looked at the Englishman with respect. "Not more then a couple hundred men know what you've just told me. The letter says you are to be considered an agent of the Prime Minister. Is this matter in regard the Spear of Destiny?"

"No, I think not. Churchill is too much the realist. He has, however, come to believe Hitler and the others are firmly convinced the Spear does hold a supernatural power."

"Isn't he the psychic who predicted the death of Rinehard Heydrich a few years back?"

"Yes. Well, De Wohl is actually a Captain in the British Army. He could accurately predict the death because he had been informed British Intelligence Was training a Czech assassin team whose target was Heydrich."

"I couldn't convince the Prime Minister to actively search for the Spear. He did, however, agree to the formation of a deception plan to mislead German Occultists. British Intelligence verified that Hitler would not make a move without consulting the findings of the Nazi Occult Bureau. De Wohl was provided information from various intelligence sources upon which to base his 'prophecies'. Over the years, he maintained an impressive degree of correct statements. This deception effort was helped through the work of known occultists and astrologers, Friends of the Allies would make erroneous assessments of various occult subjects, such as, astrological readings.

"Churchill became convinced of Hitler's fanaticism when the Germans began to act on statements made by De Wohl and the others. The Prime Minister now believes the Nazis may fight for as long as they control the Spear."

Patton, as Churchill had been 7 years before, was disturbed by Paul Springer's thoughts. "I take it the Prime Minister has finally agreed to forming a group to find the Spear?"

While answering Paul searched for the Intelligence Summary in his briefcase, "No, and then again, maybe. This is an intelligence report from your 35th ID. If you turn to the paper clip and the marked paragraph, you'll find some intriguing data."

Paul handed Patton the report. While the General scanned the indicated portion, Paul relaxed. After he had finished reading, Paul said, "In essence, we may have a clue as to the location of the Spear. I would like your authorization to talk with anyone in your command that may have something to contribute."

Patton stood up as he responded, "Certainly." In a loud voice he called out to his Executive Officer, "Major James." To Paul, "I'll see you get the VIP treatment on one condition."

Patton turned to the Major and ordered, "You are to assist Mr, Springer in all ways possible."

Patton walked over to Paul taking his hand, "My condition is that I be kept posted as best as possible."

"Just one, Until I can provide exact information as to its location, I'm on my own,"

Patton was surprised. He momentarily paused in thought before turning to James saying, "Mike, I need a favor."

"I know you'll be giving up more then I can repay; but, I personally feel Mr. Springer's mission is of the upmost importance. I want you detailed to him, until he feels you can be spared. With the supply situation the way it is, the Third may not be moving for a while anyway."

Patton and James shared a knowing look. The Executive Officer turned to Springer saying, "Whenever you're ready, Sir, I'll bring up the jeep."

8 MONTHS LATER; 26 APRIL 1945
HEADQUARTERS OF THE US 7th ARMY
NUREMBERG FORTRESS NUREMBERG, GERMANY.

Major James was being ushered into a lush conference room where George Patton stood before a window. As James walked into the room, the General turned to him with his hand outstretched "When I asked for that favor some months ago, I didn't know the Third would loose you to the Seventh Army!"

James became cautious, His voice betrayed his doubts, "Until very recently, I openly voiced concern of being on a wild goose chase."

Patton interrupted by questioning, "Before telling what changed your mind, have we found it, yet?"

Patton showed his disappointment as he and the Major sat down at a long, elegant conference table. "Start from the beginning."

"After we talked to a few people in the Third Army's Area of Operations, we went to the Seventh where orders detailing us had already arrived. Springer is something else when it domes to cutting red tape. Anyway, we made contact with the underground even before the Battle of Nuremberg began on the sixteenth. At that time, the best we could do was verify the rumor concerning the tunnel and the bunker holding Nazi loot. We also determined that the Nuremberg Overburgermeister, Willi Liebel, had been the man in charge of finding a new hiding place for the Spear."

"Yes, unfortunately. His body was discovered yesterday. He committed suicide about six days ago when the Seventh captured the city. Even if he had lived to tell of the tunnel's location, the Spear may not be there. Liebel's secretary and the local SS Garrison Commander both claim the collection was moved again! This time it was placed in water tight containers and dropped to the bottom of Lake Zell near Salzburg'!'

"Paul believes too many people know of the rumored Lake Zell move and that it may have been a decoy. He is still looking for the tunnel and any leads to an alternative transfer point."

"It would appear our allies - the Russians - are aware of the Spear's existence."

James continued, "The Russians have been operating an underground radio net throughout Europe since the beginning days of hostilities. British radio intercept stations had been listening to broadcasts made to Moscow. Unfortunately, the messages were sent in a code not broken by the British. Periodically, however, the messages were taped in hopes of a future break in the code. Last winter, the code was in fact broken and some of the tapes decoded. Appears the Russians have a spy planted in the German High Command! In one of the messages - and this is what changed my mind - there was a reference to the Spear of Longinus the Spearman. But, not only are they aware of its existence; the message said its location was in a portion of a Medieval tunnel complex under the Nuremberg Fortress! Ironic, isn't it? Here we are sitting in that very Fortress, and somewhere beneath the Headquarters of the American 7th Army lies the Spear of Destiny...or so we hope."

At around 2 o'clock on that brilliantly sunny morning of 30th April (1945) a party of G.I.s began searching the ruins of the Oberen Sahmied Gasse below the towering Fortress which had now become the American 7th Army Headquarters. One of these men found himself peering down from a pile of rubble into a wide tunnel which apparently stretched far into the murky darkness beneath the escarpment. Calling his companions who unslung their weapons, he led them down by torchlight to the far end of the secret passage which terminated with two immense steel doors with a lock and dialing device somewhat similar to an American bank vault. 'Whatever was behind those doors must be of paramount importance, they decided, While two of the party stood guard at the entrance to the hidden bunker, the others ran out to report their astonishing find to their Army H.Q. The United States of America had become the new claimants to the Spear of Destiny. The time was 2:10 p.m., 30th April, 1945.
- The Spear of Destiny,Trevor Ravenscroft.

WITHIN THE HOUR, IN BERLIN, ADOLF HITLER WAS DEAD OF A SELF-INFLICTED GUNSHOT WOUND THROUGH THE MOUTH.
GERMANY SURRENDERED A WEEK LATER.

Patton, James, and the General's aid Lieutenant Robison followed Springer down the tunnel and through the vault doors. Inside, a group of soldiers and civilians were carefully uncrating and cataloguing merchandise stolen by Nazi authorities. Springer and the Americans cautiously picked their way through the treasures towards the displayed items to the far side of the repository.

Paul began providing information, "As you can see, the Nazis had a good eye for treasure, It will take months to sort and identify it all. General Patton, I believe you would be interested in this particular piece."

Springer opened the wooden lid of a case and backed away giving Patton room. The soldier moved over to the front of the case; opened as secondary leather case; reached in and took out the talisman of power. He removed the golden sleeve holding the separate pieces of the Spearhead together.

Mike James had moved away from Patton and was studying some other artifacts. "Paul, is this the rest of the Austrian Imperial Regalia?"

Without taking his focus off the General, Paul replied, "Yes, these items and the Spearhead are collectively refered to as the Imperial Regalia." He continued to scrutinize Patton. The American was mesmerized by the items lying in his hands. He was totally oblivious to his surroundings.

"I suppose they'll be returned to their respective owners." Paul could see that the General had become glassy eyed and very rigid, "So," he thought, "Patton is one of the chosen."

In daylight, at the tunnel entrance, the four men paused. Patton turned and looked back down into the tunnel. Paul asked, "Do you, Sir, believe the legend surrounding the Roman Centurion's Spear?"

Patton still looked dazed as he continued staring into the darkness. "It doesn't effect everyone in the same way, does it?"

" No. Only the gifted or the damned seem able to witness the power surrounding it - like a brilliant, shimmering halo of light."

The soldier turned to Paul, "Does it still have an hypnotic control over you after all these years?"

"The others...they just see a very old weapon?" Patton paused. Emotion hung to his voice as he continued, "Are they blind or are we possessed with too vivid imaginings?"

The two stared at each other. In the silence, they shared an understanding which words have never been adequate enough to convey. The General turned and began walking towards the waiting staff car. The others followed. While turning, Patton had asked, "What will you do now?"

"I must return to England." Concern could be seen in Paul's eyes. "My wife is to have an operation, I must be with her. She's gone through so much ... all of it."

Paul was not aware of Patton's agitation, as he understood Paul. A tint of panic colored the General's words, "You would leave the Spear!"

"Still thinking of Anna, Paul did not notice the indicators, "It is something I must do. As he became cognizant of the American's concern, Paul replied, "Sir, I'll return as soon as its possible."

Abruptly, Patton turned to James ordering, "You are to remain detailed to Springer's unit. Take personal responsibility in safe-guarding the Spearhead."

Turning to Paul, Patton gave him a pointed look, "I do. I pray you'll never know my reason for, hopefully, being too paranoid. It's just that ... Well, let's just let the General have his way, shall we ?"

Paul returned Patton's "That's not all there is" look. The soldier forced a smile saying, "Just a little paranoid I hope."

On AUGUST 6^th, 1945
THE UNITED STATES DROPPED AN ATOMIC BOMB
ON THE CITY OF HIROSHIMA, JAPAN.

In London, Paul Springer was sitting beside Anna who was lying in the hospital bed. His head was bowed; he was in a state of depression. Anna reached out and stroked his hand while saying,, "It's alright, Paul. For many reasons, I think I understand it now or, at least, accept it. I'm sorry I was not more supportive of you. It's just I couldn't grasp the enormity of it all."

Paul looked up and slowly moved into Anna's arms. She stroked his head, as if he was a small child saying, "I want you to go back to Nuremberg. Finish it! Stay with the Spear until you know it's safe. I'll be here when you get home. And hurry home, My Love. There's so much to make up for."

While wonderful to hear, Anna's words could not dispel Paul's lingering depression. A day later, the feeling was still present as the military car stopped in front of the Nuremberg tunnel. Mike James was driving, while Paul sat expectantly in the passenger seat.

James was explaining Patton's strange behavior on their last meeting, "Apparently, the General knew about the Atomic Bomb and, at that moment, it just seemed too coincidental: the US gaining possession of the Spear, your leaving, and the deliberation over whether or not to use such a terrifying and powerful weapon."

Paul was edgy and staring towards the tunnel. He opened the door and turned to James, "Had I known, I'd have been just as paranoid as the General."

Paul got out of the car and started toward the tunnel. At its entrance, he walked by the two sentries and proceeded into the dimly lit passage way. At the vault doors, Paul nodded to the two additional guards and entered the repository. There was no one there.

The stillness was only broken by the sounds of Paul's breathing as he stood just inside the steel doors. He began to cross to the far side and the Spear. Before he got to the wooden case, the dread fully took hold and shook his very essence.

The guards were to later testify that Springer said "No!" twice. The first was not very audible; the second was screamed.

As the guards turned to enter the vault, Paul rushed out looking frantic. He had grabbed one guard while shouting, "No! No! Can't be! How! Do you know what this means?"

The sentries could not stop Springer as he rushed by them and down the tunnel. Onward he ran towards the daylight. As he had darted through the tunnel exit, Paul flung out his arms in exasperation. Once again he screamed, "No!"

The I guards and James were startled. The Major looked up from his position in the car towards the commotion at the tunnel entrance. It was Paul, What had he said? Why is he so upset?

Paul turned around and glared into the tunnel. The guards were stunned into inaction.

Paul again flung his arms out in mortal frustration. He turned and proceeded toward the car. Suddenly, he was forced backwards and downwards as his chest collapsed and his heart exploded under the impact of a high powered bullet.

Mike James remembered it seemed to happen in slow motion. The rest he recalled as a series of snapshots. One of the guards kneeling over Paul with James, himself kneeling on the other side after the run from the car. Paul's chest was covered with blood. He was not breathing. Paul as he stared off, glassy eyed, saying, "Fake."

Not long afterwards, Anna Springer was visited in her home by General George Patton. Jason had just finished serving tea when the General continued the story, Anna had wanted to hear the truth concerning Paul's death. The British Government had blamed a fanatic Nazi. Anna knew there had to be more to it then simply a brutal twist of fate.

Patton continued "Major James went immediately to the vault. To his eyes the Spear was still lying in the leather case."

" You think Paul could no longer see the aura and, therefore, thought the Spearhead to be a fake?"

"No. not yet." Patton knew that eventually, he would have to go. Like Paul, the need to know was part of his makeup. Maybe on my return to Germany."

The soldier got up and walked to the window overlooking the gardens and lawns of the Springer estate. Anna sat quite still while allowing her mind to face questions she had not asked since knowing of Paul's death. She wondered if the man visiting her had been so affected by her husband's death that he had defied his commander, "General, was it Paul who led you to make your recent provocative statements concerning a future war with the Soviets? Do you believe they stole the Spear and replaced it with a fake?"

Patton turned from the window to look at the widow. "I do have a deep fear of the Russians. And, yes, in the initial days following his death, I thought it was them. But, after investigating the situation, there were no Russian dignitaries who were in the vault, at any time. There were, in fact, only a handful of men allowed to enter the tunnel. Most were soldiers under orders. There were, however, a couple of, so called "high ranking" civilians. It is the civilians I need to know more about. But, yes, I think Paul knew whatever is there is a fake. I fail to believe the story of a vengeful Nazi."

Silence engulfed the room. Patton turned again to the sight beyond the window. After a while, Anna rose and joined him. He smiled at her before reverting his attention to some distant object beyond the glass.

"General Patton, I think Paul convinced himself of the truth behind the Spear and Hitler long before convincing anyone else." Anna's throat wanted to close, to trap the words and thoughts, her mind wished released, "Perhaps, I was the most difficult. Be that as it may, I now believe the Spear does hold some sway over man,"

Patton slowly turned toward Anna and she to him. An unexpected, intimate closeness began to unfold as she continued, "But, if the Spear controls man, something controls the Spear. Some force brought Hitler to the Spear of Destiny. Something also brought Paul into Hitler's life. As simple as 'Good' versus 'Evil'? I don't know, All I'm sure of is that Paul was a good man. In this time and place he saw the defeat of a man responsible for a great deal of evil. General, if there is to be a future conflict, it's for a future generation to experience. Paul couldn't stop Hitler until the prophecy and destiny had run their courses!"

Patton took Anna's hands into his own and lightly kissed them. He smiled and looked deeply into her eyes saying, "A future generation? Have you forgotten the theory of reincarnation, My Lady?"

Anna looked into the General's mischievous smile and she responded with a slight chuckle. During the silence which followed, her thoughts traveled through Time to wonder about the Future and its Destiny.

The General broke her fantasizing, "You are right. The Spear can be used for good as well as the evil to which Hitler put it.

Kindly, Anna responded, "And that, My General, could just as well be done by the Russians as the Americans.''

Patton smiled at Anna who had begun staring off into the distance with a slight smile on her lips. She continued to ponder, "It really all hinges on the individuals themselves and the good or evil within those brought to glimmer Destiny."

GENERAL GEORGE S. PATTON WAS THE ONLY AMERICAN GENERAL TO HAVE ENTERED THE SECRET GERMAN TUNNEL, TO VIEW THE SPEAR OF DESTINY.
HE DIED ON DECEMBER 21, 1945 FROM SEEMINGLY MINOR WOUNDS OBTAINED IN AN AUTOMOBILE ACCIDENT IN WHICH HE WAS THE ONLY ONE INJURED. THE ACCIDENT OCCURRED IN HEIDELBERG, GERMANY - 200 MILES WEST OF NUREMBERG.TODAY, THE SPEAR OF LONGINUS - THE ROMAN CENTURION - IS ON VIEW TO THE PUBLIC FROM MONDAY TO SATURDAY FROM 9-9 AT THE TREASURE HOUSE OF THE HOFBURG, VIENNA, AUSTRIA.

Or is it? If the Spear of Destiny is not at the Treasure House, then where is it? More importantly, to what end will it be put in the Future? For that matter, is it true the Spear holds some secret to mystical sources of power? Or is it, that the power attributed to the Spear of Destiny is actually in the minds of those who believe in legends,,,?

If you would like to read more about The Spear of Destiny or writings of Trevour Ravenscroft, please click.