I'm taking the plunge here...Dusty's been growing in my imagination and I wanted to get into his head and explore him as a character. I'm a little timid, because I know there are a lot of Dusty fans out there with strong opinions about who he is. I will do my best to stay close to the Sunbow portrayal of him. Please feel free to give me a push in the right direction if he starts becoming un-Dusty-ish. There will be lots of other characters featured as well.

I won't tell you which episode triggered this idea. That's for you to figure out. That said, this takes place during the Sunbow series run.

Enjoy.

Disclaimer: I don't own GI Joe, Hasbro, Sunbow, or Marvel...The characters belong to them.


"Desert…, here I come."

Dusty grinned happily as he exited General Hawk's office. He had just been asked to lead the Joes through another Desert Survival Training Camp.

Hawk sat in his black leather chair, fingers steepled under his chin as he watched Dusty's joyful retreat. He couldn't help but smile at Dusty's enthusiasm. He's a rare one, that one.

"Time to call in the boys," he muttered, "but which ones?" He began flipping through the roster from last year's training. "I'll let Duke and Scarlett stay at the Pitt this year," he decided. And that leaves, Awww, yes, he smiled, …that should work nicely.

A few moments later, Flint and Beach Head stood at attention before his desk.

"At ease, men. Have a seat," he motioned to the empty chairs in front of his huge oak desk.

"Thanks, Hawk," they both took their chairs quickly.

"I'm sending the two of you to the Colorado Plateau," he said, getting straight to the point, "Dusty's going to need support running his Desert Survival Training Camp."

Beach Head slowly crossed his arms over his chest without uttering a word; Flint, more openly, frowned.

"I'm fully aware that you both went through it last year." Hawk knew desert training wasn't a Joe favourite, "that's partially the reason why I'm sending you. You two will be going along in the assistant role. Dusty is the Joe's resident Desert Specialist. This is to be his show; he's the expert. He did a wonderful job last year, and I trust he'll be just as thorough and informative this year. I'm sure the two of you will help out wherever needed…"

"Ahh can't wait to get out there," Beach Head muttered dryly, "The heat, the sand, the scorpions: what's not to love?"

"You said it, Beach Head, Yo Joe," Flint said unenthusiastically, giving Hawk a weak smile.

"I'm glad to hear you've both decided to change your minds about the assignment," Hawk's lips twitched, "It's only for two weeks. I'm sure you two can handle it for that long."

"Yes, Sir."

"Good. Dismissed."

The chairs creaked as Beach Head and Flint rose to their feet. Beach Head headed toward the door, Flint right behind him.

"Oh, and Flint…,"

"Sir?," Flint spun around to face the General. What now?, he groaned inwardly.

Hawk's piercing eyes stared at him from under heavy brows, "Inform Duke that he and Scarlett will be staying behind at the Pitt."

"Yes, Sir," Flint sighed unhappily. So Duke's the lucky one this time. Figures.

Flint found Duke in his office, up to his blond eyebrows in paperwork. He looked up as Flint entered, thankful for the interruption, even more thankful after he had heard the reason why.

"Well, there's something to be said for air conditioning, even if I am to be buried under paperwork." He let out a sudden laugh and continued, "Scarlett, however, is going to be thrilled."

"I suppose so," Flint sighed without enthusiasm.

Duke looked at him and chuckled softly, "Come on, Flint, it's not that bad. At least Lady Jaye will be participating in the training, right?"

"I, uh, don't know.… ," Flint stammered in surprise. He honestly hadn't had time to give it thought.

"Well, she should be…," Duke ploughed forward, "Last year, she stayed behind leading the Pitt crew."

Flint's mind began working quickly. It's true Hawk hadn't mentioned her staying behind with Duke…only Scarlett. Maybe she was going. If so, things could definitely be beginning to look up. He suddenly broke into a boyish grin, betraying his private thoughts.

"Maybe...," was all that he said.

Duke's smile broadened as he watched the change come over his friend's face. He crossed his arms and leaned back in his chair, "Lady Jaye's one of those who doesn't seem to mind grunt work and isn't bothered by snakes or spiders or those kinds of things, isn't she?"

"Yes," Flint shook his head slowly, a small curve to his lips, "Yes, she is. And, as you already well know, Duke," he said pointedly, "her thing is heights."

"And I've allowed her that one," Duke leaned back in his chair and smiled, "After all, other Joes have their quirks, too. Hey, Lifeline won't even touch a weapon."

Flint smiled. What Duke had said about Lady Jaye had some truth to it. She was quite happy being covered in mud and sweat after a hard day's work, not that she didn't enjoy the shower afterwards…or being clean. It's just that she felt a great sense of satisfaction, like she'd really accomplished something, whenever she ended the day exhausted, sore and covered in dust and dirt and mud. No, she won't mind this kind of training at all, Flint grinned even wider. Maybe we could even manage to get away and have some fun.

"I think It's only fair to warn you, though. After Scarlett's and Cover Girl's experiences last year, It may be wise to expect the unexpected when it comes to Desert Survival Training...especially when it comes to Joe women."

Flint let out a laugh, his mind quickly turning from Lady Jaye to the fiery redhead, Scarlett, "Good point. I'll remember that."

Duke, still caught up in his memories shook his head, smiled, "You know..., I really thought Scarlett was going to be just fine with all the heat and the sand until she found that tarantula in her tent."

Flint chuckled, "And then everyone else in camp knew about it, too."

"I know…," Duke groaned, "And then Cover Girl had a similar encounter with a the desert centipede. I saw her running it over with a Mauler," Duke winced and rubbed the back of his neck, "over and over again."

Flint almost laughed out loud again, catching himself at the very last minute, "I'll give her that one. Even I thought those centipedes were ugly. But, Scarlett's always had a thing about spiders, hasn't she?"

"Oh, yeah." Duke chuckled, "For as long as I've known her. Never did understand how a woman who could so easily take down a 200 pound man could be terrified of a little spider," Duke's eyes suddenly glinted wickedly, "… And then when Shipwreck found that dead tarantula…Oh, boy…You know, he's lucky he's still breathing."

"I'll say."

They both laughed, remembering the explosive scene.

"SHIPWRECK!" Scarlett had yelled, taking a step back, "GET THAT THING AWAY FROM ME!"

"Awww, come on Red," his grin widened, "It's just a little spi…," he stretched his hand.

She eyed him warily as he and took a step toward her, a goofy grin on his face.

"I SAID KEEP IT AWAY!," her blue eyes glittered dangerously.

"Shipwreck really should have known better," Flint muttered, his lips twitching.

"Yes, he should have," Duke agreed.

"But instead, he did the worst thing possible."

"Yup," Duke chuckled, "He took another step toward her."

The next thing they all knew, Shipwreck was was on his back with Scarlett poised above him, her crossbow pointed at his heart.

"If you value your life at all, you will keep those eight legged aberrations away from me," she hissed angrily. Then, chest still heaving, she turned toward the gathered crowd. "That goes for the rest of you, too," she threatened, her eyes flashing.

The Joes gulped and quickly retreated, leaving Scarlett and Shipwreck alone.

"I gave her a wide berth myself for days," Duke confessed.

"So did I," Flint admitted, "Seemed like the wise thing to do at the time."

"Believe me, it was. She eventually cooled down and got over it, but I don't think she'll be wanting to do a desert survival anything any time soon."

"No, probably not," Flint smiled and rose from his chair. "Well, I need to get going. I have some paperwork of my own to finish before packing."

"We'll hold the fort down from here," Duke promised, smiling, "Try to have some fun, and we'll see you when you get back." His face fell as he returned his attention to the stack of papers cluttering his desk.

Flint was feeling much better as he shut the door behind him. With Lady Jaye coming along, he might just do that.


Dusty's hands were shaking slightly and his mouth was dry. Even though he could take on the role of leadership and do it well, it didn't mean he had to like it. He stood at the front, sweeping his gaze over the large group of red faced Joes sprawled out on the sand in front of him. Already, most of them were looking pretty uncomfortable in the rising heat. They were fanning themselves with their hands, wiping the sweat from their faces and necks with towels, handkerchiefs, sleeves, shirts or anything else handy. He had to stifle a laugh as he watched them, despite his own nervousness.

And then, as if against his will, his eyes were drawn past the group of Joes, to the empty sand dunes beyond. His face grew soft as he gazed at it, lost, for the moment, in their beauty and he had to smile. He was home.

"Well… guys," he turned slowly to to the Joes, "lemme start by welcoming ya all to the desert," his eyes were bright with happiness.

"Take a look around..., go ahead," he said encouragingly, "It's beautiful, ain't it? Breathe deep... It's clean. It's pure. You know…," his voice grew soft, "people sometimes ask me why I love the desert. This..." he spread his arms wide as if embracing all that was in sight, "is why."

Born in Las Vegas, Dusty had known the desert intimately from a young age. He could honestly say he was most at home among the heat and the sand and the dryness. As a young man, he had spent much time alone, patiently gleaning the desert's secrets. He had come to realise that the desert was not lifeless and barren, but a beautiful world teeming with hidden life. He had dealt with the dangers and developed a healthy respect for the desert. Even in the harshest arid environments, he had learned the secrets to survive. So, when it came to the desert, Dusty's expertise shone.

"But, ya hafta understand," he continued, "just as the desert is beautiful, it is also harsh and unforgiving and If yer not properly prepared, the simple fact is… the desert will get the better of ya…, always…, and odds are, ya won't make it."

Nervous murmurs rose up and spread quietly among the Joes.

"Now, maybe I can't expect ya all to appreciate the desert like I do, but yer knowing how to survive could mean the difference between life and death, or even the difference between a successful mission and a failed one. My job is to teach ya what you need to know for both," Dusty scratched his chin as he quietly scanned the faces gazing up at him, faces of friends and teammates and young Green Shirts he had not yet met.

The sun had risen high and was beating down on them mercilessly. Sweat was streaming down their flushed faces. This was new to a lot of them and many were listening with wide eyed expressions.

They had a lot to learn, but that's why he was here, he mused. He would do his best.

His face brightened into a warm smile, "Again, let me welcome ya all to the desert, my favourite place in the world," Then he pulled out his canteen and took several long gulps.

"How can he love the desert?" The Joes began whispering in small groups among themselves, whining and complaining in their discomfort.

"The heat, the sand…"

"The snakes…"

"Just give me a nice, cool, wet ocean, anytime," Shipwreck muttered, "I've already had more than my share of desert living and it sure ain't my favorite," he mopped his face. "I'm a sailor, not a sand pirate!"

"Put a lid on it, Wreck," Beach Head hissed. "We all gotta be here. Hawk's orders."

"Why can't we ever do a training on a nice tropical Island," he grumbled.

"I'm with you," Alpine laughed. "The beach. Now, that's the kind of sand I like."

"Hey, it ain't that bad, guys," Gung Ho grunted, ignoring the glare Beach Head was throwing at him, "This kinda reminds me of summers back home."

"I thought you grew up on a bayou or something," Shipwreck mumbled as he removed his white sailor hat and began fanning himself lazily.

"I did. The heat feels the same though, even without the humidity and mosquitos and alligators and swamp…."

"In other words, nothing like a desert at all…huh?"

Gung Ho gave a snort, "Well, on second thought, mebbe not…but it was still hot."

"Shhh, he's like, still talking," Footloose hissed.

They grumbled softly as they turned their attention back to Dusty.

"Be aware, the desert won't take it easy on ya. The days'll be blistering hot, the nights freezing cold," his mouth curved into a small smile, "and sometimes there's dust storms, flash flooding, snakes and scorpions," he gave a happy sigh, "I'll say one thing for the desert, it'll always…always keep ya on yer toes."

He bent down and took a handful of sand.

"Not much water in the desert, either…," he said simply, "Always remember to carry yer water with ya at all times. Water keeps you cool and keeps you hydrated, it keeps you alive. Drink whenever you're thirsty. Drink a lot. Sipping it does not get it to your brain and vital organs. If it's half empty, fill it. Keep it wth you. Stay alive."

A hand raised.

Yes, Quick Kick?"

"So, um, just how much of that good wet stuff should we be consuming?"

"Well…," Dusty thought a minute, "A full grown adult should be drinking one to two gallons a day out here. And being that were gonna be a bit more active, I'd say closer to two for all of us." He looked over the assembled group, "So, that means water on you all the time and yer drinking all the time, no exceptions. Oh, and Quick Kick," he glanced toward his bare feet and raised an eyebrow, "out here in the desert…, I suggest you wear shoes."

Titters of laughter spread through the Joes. Quick Kick had been known to go barefoot even in ice and snow.

"Don't cha worry none, O Wise Desert Sensei, I'm already way ahead of you on that one. Got a pair of sneakers packed in my duffle," he grinned amiably and wiggled his bare toes, "When this sand gets too hot, I'll put 'em on."

Dusty grinned at him good-naturedly, "Good enough, then."

He turned his attention back to the wider crowd, "Okay folks, pay attention now. While we're here, we're gonna be on a buddy system. I'll let ya choose yer own partners but everyone, and I mean everyone, has to have one. Partners are gonna watch out for each other because hands down, the greatest danger you'll be facing in the desert is dehydration. Let your partner know if your feeling any symptoms. Make sure each other is drinking enough water. If they're not, remind them," he took a swig from his own canteen to emphasise the importance of his point.

Several of the Joes pulled out their own canteens and took drinks as well. Dusty grinned and nodded approvingly.

"Uh, I guess the next thing we need to do is go over the warning signs for dehydration. Doc, here'll tell you all about it so listen up."

Doc stood up and made his way to the front. He pushed his glasses up his nose, adopting a clinical expression and then he cleared his throat loudly before beginning.

"Mild to moderate dehydration may include increased thirst or dry mouth. You might also feel tired or sleepy, or experience dizziness or headache. Take notice of how often you urinate."

A few sniggers could be heard from the back. Beach Head and Flint both turned and shot glares toward the guilty parties. Alpine and Bazooka quickly smothered their laughter and feigned innocence.

Doc ignored them and continued talking, "Less frequent urination or a change in the urine's color to yellow or cloudy is another indication of early dehydration. I shouldn't have to emphasise what Dusty already pointed out. Drink…and then drink some more."

Everyone nodded. A few pulled out their canteens and drank some more.

Doc pushed his glasses up again but it was a losing battle. They slid down almost immediately because the perspiration. He left them where they were, sighing loudly.

"Symptoms of severe dehydration should never be ignored. The first signs are decreased urine output or no urine output at all. The urine produced, if any, is concentrated and a deep yellow or amber colour. Other symptoms of severe dehydration include dizziness or lightheadedness that keeps you from standing or walking normally. Also, you may experience a sudden drop in your blood pressure when you try to to stand up after lying down."

"That always happens when I drink too much…"

"SHIPWRECK…," half a dozen voices spoke in exasperation.

"Sorry," he grinned sheepishly.

Doc shot him a glare over the yellow rims of his glasses and continued his lecture, "Watch for other signs such as rapid heart rate, fever, lethargy and confusion. In worst cases there could be coma or even seizure. Dehydration can be deadly if not taken seriously. Listen to your body. Watch for the signs. If you experience any of the mild symptoms, increase your water intake. If the symptoms worsen or you show signs of severe dehydration, have myself or one of the Green Shirt medics check you out at the infirmary right away. Always remember, dehydration is preventable if you keep yourself hydrated."

Doc signalled for Dusty who resumed his place at the front.

"All righty, any questions?"

The only response was Joes stirring softly as they wiped the sweat from their faces or fanned themselves trying to cool down.

"No? Okay then, let's break. Extra canteens are available by the tank."

The Joes stood stiffly and began brushing sand from their uniforms, talking softly among themselves.

Flint, followed closely by Lady Jaye, wove his way through the Joes to the front.

"Nice job, Dusty," he smiled kindly.

"Yes, it was very informative," Lady Jaye quickly agreed.

"Thanks guys," Dusty grinned, slightly embarrassed by their praise. "Would ya believe I was a nervous wreck the whole time…"

"Oh…, Not at all," Lady Jaye lied, a bright smile on her face.