Berlin had never liked silence.
Not this kind.
Not the sort that crept in after a week without fresh reports from Paris or London.
But since Moreau had returned to Spain and France had erupted in development, Berlin's war rooms had been unusually quiet.
Until now.
Reich Chancellery.
Inside, the long oak table was already full generals, ministers, advisors, and secretaries.
Hitler entered last, slow, measured, hands behind his back, followed by a staff officer carrying a leather folder.
"Sit," Hitler said, before anyone could rise.
The rustle of chairs was brief.
A dozen eyes turned toward him.
"We're not here to discuss Spain," he began. "We're here because France is no longer who we thought she was."
Göring shifted in his seat. "It's been less than two months. They're still stretched thin. Spain isn't secure."
Hitler looked at him evenly. "No, Hermann. Spain isn't resisting. That's worse. Spain is… cooperating. Functioning."
