Change of Ways

by The Ravenwolf

Set directly after the the events of the Rat Patrol's final episode, the story follows Dietrich's path into an unsteady future, joining his ways with the Rats and even less expected individuals.

19. Trust, Truce and Thruths

"Hilfe! Help!", a pained cry resounds that Hans recognizes as his friend Jakob's, who sits crying and covered in blood cowering next to his field bed. "Luckily we have had you the master strategist", Silberblatt's words sound sarcastic and resentful accusing him of his failure. Ari's parents and siblings along with the other Jewish townspeople, Oberleutant Wagner, Leutnant Brunner and 5 more of his soldiers who trusted him blindly to fire at the SS line up for their execution. "Er ist nichts als eine dreckige, ehrlose Ratte!", Major von Stolberg shouts in anger at the traitor. "Ich muss eine Ratte befragen", Obersturmbannführer Waldheim's voice mocks him that he has to question a rat before asking how he has managed to stay a Captain in spite of his routine insubordination. "Sagen Sie, Herr Hauptmann, wie haben Sie es bei Ihrer routinemäßigen Insubordination geschafft, Hauptmann zu bleiben?" Then the sadistic SS officer gives the command for the execution and again unable to act against it Dietrich has to watch the massacre of the Jewish townspeople including Ari's parents and his own loyal officer and soldiers. The scene of their bodies strewn in the sand shifts to that of several young American soldiers stabbed before Major von Stolberg's tent. "Sergeant, I need not tell you of all people that all kind of communications can be overheard by the enemy and telling the Red Cross where to find us has given away our position", Dietrich hears himself explain the consequences of his actions to Troy. "With the number of prisoners and wounded currently in this camp, we are a sitting duck and quite an attractive target."

An explosion in a weapons depot makes the Captain whirl around, as burning debris as well as the bodies of the soldiers nearby are thrown in his direction. As the German officer kneels to check whether the soldier who has landed before him is still alive, he finds his hands covered in blood, his former Unteroffizier Schmidt's blood who has been killed in one of the Rats' latest raids in October when a shrapnel has cut his jugular. His empty eyes appear to stare at his former commanding officer accusatorily, while the panicked and desparate cries of a soldier whose uniform has been caught in the flames wrench at the Captain's heart. Beside his Unteroffizier lies one of the young American soldiers who have accompanied him as his guards to the Major's tent tonight. Equally dead, stabbed through the heart with a knife, he bears an equally accusatory expression as the German Unteroffizier. "They all trusted you. They all are dead now", Jakob's voice starts to speak and is joined immediately by other voices, Troy's strong bark, Moffit's distinguished British manner of speech, Hitchcock's drawl interrupted by the chewing of gum, Pettigrew's curt yet precise tone, Bogg's calm and clear voice, Bracken's aloof command tone, Atkins' sly and mocking speech are among those he can recognize. "Sie alle haben Ihnen vertraut. Sie alle sind nun tot", Doktor Sommer, Feldwebel Deutsch, Leutnant Haberfeld among others of his soldiers speak the same accusatory words in German. Dietrich presses his eyes shut and his hands on his ears to stop hearing the accusations reminding him of his guilt.

As Hans opens his eyes again, the German finds himself standing close to a small waterhole with a well. The surrounding buildings lie in ruins, their half-tracks and several of his men stand behind him, the rest of his unit has already been lost to the Rats' earlier attack, when Troy asks whether Dietrich is willing to agree to a truce to try and save the life of a child, the only person around actually innocent of what is happening. Possible scenarios how this situation could escalate into a catastrophe play out in front of the Captain's mind's eye, many leading to the deaths of his men and contuining with how his superiors would react, if the truth would actually be reported to them instead of his usually well-edited versions. The question when, not if the SS would start coming after him and as a consequence his family back in Germany is occurring to him yet again, before the image of the mother crying for her girl shifts to that of two other girls who have put their trust in him, Lisel Wolf and Sara Silberblatt. The face of Lisel, the little girl, shifts into that of Lisel, the young woman, as he knows her only from the photo she has sent him after her Abitur. But her beautiful face which has so often held a gentle smile is stained dark from bruises of the SS torture and blood seeps from a bullet hole in her forehead. Finally his dream shifts back to the scene at the well and Dietrich finds himself agreeing to the truce before the surroundings explode into pure chaos. The whirring sound of Jeeps' motors and the hammering of the .50 machine guns makes him dodge immediately and move closer to the well, the only cover around. Before, behind and beside him men collapse to the ground, yet no bullet finds its way to their Hauptmann. "Sie alle haben Ihnen vertraut. Sie alle sind nun tot", the accusatory words sound over the gruesome scene, as the whirring noise of the Jeeps sounds in the background.

The sound of the Jeeps' motors gradually turns into another horribly loud noise that starts filtering into Hans Dietrich's consciousness. Unused to the enlisted men's barrack life of having to share quarters with loudly snoring sleepers, the young officer stirs in his sleep and finally wakes with a start bathed in sweat after the nightmare. Looking around in disorientation as the tent he finds himself in is too large to be his personal sleeping quarter, the memories of last night catch up with the German, when he identifies the source of disturbance of his sleep: Major Bracken. Now that he is awake another softer snoring sound from under his cot reaches him. Fritz must have sneaked into the tent at some point during the night. Shuddering slightly, Dietrich takes a few deep breaths to calm himself and overcome the feelings of dread and guilt that remain as an aftereffect of his nightmare, even though the actual content is quickly fading from his conscious memory.

As the Captain sits up abruptly, countless bruises as well as his abused shoulder and the piercing wound on his upper arm painfully remind him of their existence and the reason for his stay in sickbay. Unable to suppress a soft groan of pain completely, Dietrich is fighting against the acute vertigo and the lightheadedness which come along with his quick shift into an upright position and are likely after-effects of his concussion. Once the worst dizziness has passed, he can open his eyes again to take in his surroundings. As his sight adapts to the half-light of early morning, the German observes the people sleeping on the beds around him. Major Bracken lies on his back with his head bent backwards and his mouth fallen open, as he snores loudly with every second breath. Captain Boggs beside him lies stretched out sleeping calmly unlike Dietrich's friend Jakob Silberblatt who shifts every few moments, obviously tormented and haunted even in his sleep which triggers Dietrich's own feelings of guilt lingering after the nightmare. Ari has curled up completely into a fetal position, but at least sleeps calmly under the influence of the morphine.

Feeling deep compassion for his friend and responsible for the situation having drawn the commandos to the camp through giving away its position on the radio, the German gets up and immediately has to steady himself on the rim of his field bed, as the dizziness returns in full force. When he can feel the sand under his bare feet, the German notices with surprise that somebody must have removed his boots and socks. Not bothering with shoes for the moment, since bending down would be an awful idea in his current state, he moves the few steps to Jakob's bed side and studies his friend's face which is twisted in agony for a moment before shaking the man's shoulder gently. With a soft whimper Jakob tries to move away from the hand on his shoulder. "Jakob, du büst seker!", Hans speaks softly, gently assuring his friend that he is safe in platt. Subconsciously the Jewish officer seems to recognize his friend's voice or at least the tone and intent, as he stops the defensive movement and whimper. "Waak op! Dat is bloot en Droom", the Kieler insists that his friend wake up from the dream, as he continues to speak in a gentle and reassuring tone. As Jakob finally opens his eyes and blinkingly focuses on his friend's face, Dietrich greets him with a worried expression and their traditional "Moin Moin!" aware that his friend is anything but an early riser.

"Ik segg dat selten, aver ik bün froh, dat ik waak bün", Jakob speaks wearily and with a self-mocking grin that although he will only say this rarely, he is happy to be awake. His friend answers the rare statement with a wry smile of his own. "Wo geiht di dat?", Dietrich asks him cautiously how he feels, as his expression shifts into one of worry and concern also reflecting some of his own felt guilt. "Dat geiht mi gräsig", Jakob admits that he feels terrible, too preoccupied with his own terror to notice his friend's unease. "Ik dach, nu geiht dat direkt in 't KZ, nadem mi de Düütschen kriegen hebbt." The German Captain tenses uncomfortably and focuses his friend with a compassionate gaze, as he hears that Jakob has expected to be sent to a concentration camp after being captured by the German commandos. "Dat is vörbi un du büst nu seker", Hans assures his friend again that it is over and he is safe now. Jakob nods closing his eyes in an attempt to clear his head of the painful memories.

Switching to English to bring more mental distance between himself and any reminder of the German soldiers, Jakob continues: "How are you, Hans?" "Apart from feeling as if a tank has run me over? Not too bad", the German officer states dryly, trying to hide from his friend how much he feels haunted by his own memories and subconsciously lingering guilt. "You are not 'platt' enough for that", Jakob grins, enjoying his pun of 'platt' literally meaning flat in High German, but also standing for their native language of Low German. Resisting the urge to roll his eyes at the bad pun, Hans Dietrich turns to look at the boy who has produced some soft noise. Ari shifts in his sleep, but then curls up again hugging his knees, but does not wake up. "Herr Hauptmann, Herr Leutnant, cha ich Ihnen helfen?", nurse Regula's voice startles both men, as she asks whether she can help them. "Danke, Schwester Regula", Dietrich answers smoothly that they do not want to make any fuss. "Wir wollen Ihnen keine Umstände bereiten." The Swiss nurse looks almost offended, as she clarifies: "Mich um Patienten zu kümmern ist nicht nur mein Beruf sondern meine Berufung! Und Sie brauchen dringend einen neuen Verband, Hauptmann Dietrich!" The German tenses slightly at her offended tone, as she explains that treating patients is not only her job, but her vocation and reminds him that he requires a fresh bandage.

With calm professionalism Regula goes through with her treatment, removing the old bandages drenched with sweat and some blood, checking the sutures and reapplying fresh wrappings for the injury on Dietrich's upper arm, as she has told the Captain. Her scrutinzing gaze however reminds the young officer that he is neither wearing a shirt nor socks or shoes and looks further from presentable than he can be comfortable with. While they have left his socks and boots next to the bed, somebody has removed his ruined shirt completely after he has fallen asleep. As the German tries to hide his slight blush and still contemplates his dilemma with his subconscious guilt invading his thoughts constantly, Hans Dietrich finds somebody else approach him. The young American soldier is obviously trying hard not to stare at his senior officer's bruised and battered appearance wearing neither a shirt nor shoes. "Captain. Lieutenant Baker sent me to fetch you to the radio station", he finally manages to report. Cursing his forever bad luck, Dietrich puts on his socks and boots, as the report grounds him again and helps him put his haunting feeling of guilt at the back of his mind by providing him with something else to focus his attention on. When the German looks up again, Jakob has stepped up to him and offers him his own jacket previously worn over the Lieutenant's shirt. "I know it will be too short for you, but it's still better than nothing", the Jewish officer speaks with a smile that turns into a mischieveous grin, as he adds jokingly: "You don't want to establish the old Nordic ways of clothing aroung here after all?" "My reputation is already bad enough without running through the camp like a Neandertaler", the German Captain replies dryly, as he takes the jacket with a grateful smile. "Danke, Jakob!" "I'm just pragmatic. We don't want to lose our chow and you really can't afford to reduce rations again", his friend replies half-joking, half-serious, as he watches the lean officer put on the piece of clothing which is narrow around the shoulders and chest but otherwise still easily fitting around the waist although obviously too short.

Wearing the jacket open like an Arabian vest is not proper dress code for an officer, but still better than walking around shirtless Dietrich concedes, as he follows the soldier to the radio tent where Lieutenant Williams has been replaced by Lieutenant Baker who eyes the German warily and narrows his eyes with no small amount of derision upon taking in Dietrich's ragged appearance. "Air commodore William Harrington awaits to speak with you, Captain Dietrich", the American officer states coldly. Glaring at the insolent Lieutenant, Dietrich takes the head phone from his hand and puts it on. "This is Captain Dietrich speaking. Please forgive my delay, Air Commmodore!" "Good morning, Captain Dietrich", the British officer greets him with his rich baritone. "I have been able to verify your identity. A most curious turn of fate to have you join Allied ranks I have to admit. Tell me what you require so that I can start to acquire supplies and recruit pilots!" Dietrich recites the list which he knows by heart after hours he has spent to compile it in the first place. Baker eyes the German with no small amount of suspicion, but the Captain ignores him pointedly. "Acquiring all this will take several hours. Weather reports are not good for the afternoon, but I can send some men out tomorrow, if the weather holds up to its predictions, Captain", Harrington explains matter-of-factually that they are dependent on the November weather which could still sabotage their plans. "I'm utterly grateful to you, Commodore Harrington", the German nonetheless states truthfully and emphaticly. "Send my regards to Howard!", the British officer adds jovially. Dietrich frowns briefly, before remembering that the Commodore has called Major Bracken by his given name yesterday. "I will do that, Sir", the Captain assures the other. "Best of luck, Captain!", the British officer adds in an unexpectedly friendly tone, before ending the call.

Taking off the head phones, Dietrich eyes Lieutenant Carter with equal amounts of suspicion as the American officer holds in his own gaze. "Thank you for informing me, Lieutenant", the German insists on staying formal and upholding politeness nonetheless as in addition to fulfillinf his principles it serves to spite the American who looks openly distrustful, as the Captain hands back the head phones. "Keep me informed on any further incoming messages!" Gritting his teeth, the American confirms the direct command with narrowed eyes. With a salute, the German officer turns around and leaves keeping a dignified straight stance in spite of his ragged appearance. Before he can even make it to his tent though, Dietrich finds himself intercepted by Major Turner who gives him a critical once-over with narrowed eyes noticing the far from presentable clothing which does nothing to hide the Captain's lean and sinewy physique or the dark bruises along his ribs. In spite of his embarassment to be caught by a superior officer in such a state, the German salutes sharply and straigthens his back in a proper attentive stance. "I can see that you come directly from the sickbay, Captain", Major Turner states flatly. "I am sorry to intercept you then, but the general insisted that you are brought to the prisoner, as soon as you are physically able which appears to be the case."

With a weary sigh the German officer surrenders to his fate of being hated by Fortuna unless bullets are flying everywhere around him and follows the American Major struggling internally between his guilty conscience, sense of honor and duty and his pride, until he arrives at a decision before they arrive at their destination. "Major Turner", Dietrich speaks gravely, "I wish to hand in my resignation as commander of this camp taking full responsibility for the incident last night and the deaths and injuries caused by my short-sighted action of insubordination." Turner stops short in his tracks and stares at the German Captain utterly bewildered. "According to the reports about your and your officers' action last night provided by First Lieutenants Adams and Winters, I fail to see what you are referring to." Dietrich grits his teeth struggling with the admission. "My decision of calling the Red Cross has given away our location and brought the commando units to us which would not have found us otherwise. Therefore, I am responsible for the consequences." Turner takes in the German's shame-filled expression, before he carefully formulates his answer: "According to what we learned from the prisoner they never intercepted your call, but followed you back to the camp, when you called the trucks for the wounded, prisoners and supplies which would have been unavoidable to send." Briefly, his disbelief is clearly visible on the Captain's face which turns into an expression of honest relief, before he is finally able to put his neutral mask on again. Pride keeps him from asking for any further confirmation whether this is indeed true, as he is sure the Major knows what he is saying.

"Am I assuming correctly that this knowledge makes your offered resignation obsolete, Captain?", Turner asks after studying the German's stance and expression. Dietrich hesitates, as the ugly beast of survivor's guilt briefly raises its head again, before his reasonable mind and his pride manage to wrestle it down. "You are correct, Major Turner." The American officer nods curtly in acknowlegement, before turning to continue on his way. "What is it that you require from me, Major?", Dietrich's curiosity finally wins out against his quiet contemplation of the unexpected relief of his moral dilemma which has haunted him even in his sleep. "We require you to verify a description that the commando soldier has given us which includes the base and town you are most familiar with unlike anybody else in camp." The German Captain looks actually alarmed at the Major's answer. "What did they do in this town?" "According to his description they tried an assassination attempt against their leader." Dietrich pales considerably upon hearing this, as he realizes immediately that this will reduce their likelihood of gaining support from the Sheikh and agreeing to trade food and water is reduced to almost zero by such an event.

Seeing the German Captain's reaction, the Major elaborates, as they approach the interrogation tent: "We are not sure how reliable his statement and description is which is the reason why we want you to verify his recount. I also understand that the Arabs might react different from their arrangement, if the story of the assassination attempt holds true." Finally Dietrich understands that dragging him here in his ragged appearance has nothing to do with this being a humiliating or humbling experience for him, but is a dire necessity, as time is actually of the essence, if the Arabs have been on the warpath since yesterday and could actually attack them in retaliation any minute. As he enters the tent, General Atkins turn to look toward him as do four guards at the entrance and close to the bruised looking German commando soldier who bears bandages around his right arm and thigh. The American general twirls his mustache, as he dons a slightly surprised look seeing the scrawny bruised German officer enter with an unbuttoned jacket which is obviously not his own and without a shirt worn underneath. When Atkins arrives at the same conclusion as his Major, he regains a stern expression and addresses the younger man after a curt salute which the German returns sharply: "Captain Dietrich. I am sorry we had to call you directly from sickbay, but we require your knowledge to verify a worrisome recount." Dietrich who has kept a straight stance in spite of his appearance, nods curtly. "Major Turner has already informed me. Do you have a written statement for me to check, Sir?"

With a content smile the general hands him the requested paper which the Captain starts to read right away. Major von Stolberg has sent his scout group ahead to provide reconnaissance of the town and its surroundings for coordinating the best way of attack. Upon realizing that the Sheikh has called for armed support from the neighbouring camps and sent women and children to be brought away, they have concluded that their intent has been spotted and decided to help the Major's mission of vengeance succeed by assassinating the Arab's leader in order to cripple the Bedouins' resistance. One of the Sheikh's wives however has caught the blade meant for her husband with her own body and died from the injury. This has given her husband Sheikh Sulaiman a fighting chance to call his guards to aid who have driven the commandos off after the German attackers have wounded the Sheikh in a brief fight. Dietrich knits his brows upon reading the description. If the Sheikh has survived, the Bedouins will have taken care of him as their first priority, but might send their riders a day early, namely today. This will definitely be something to discuss with Sergeant Moffit who possesses more expertise to predict the Arabs' behaviour. Also, he adresses his concern with the general: "Have you put up additional guards around the camp, Sir?" "Major Turner has taken care of doubling the guards and putting our men on alert", Atkins affirms exchanging a glance with his trusted Major who nods in return.

Relieved at the answer, Dietrich continues to read, how Major von Stolberg's commandos have fled the town and camped at some distance before moving back to their camp only to find it destroyed by the Americans and their Major and some of his soldiers captured by their enemies while the rest has been killed and buried. Before they could execute a coordinated attack, the trucks with back-up have arrived and they have decided to follow them back to the camp spying and planning their assault during the afternoon. Dietrich realises that their plan of causing a distraction with the explosion in the ammunition depot, while freeing Major von Stolberg and his soldiers would have worked out, if he would not have checked on the night guards again driven by his Rat Patrol trained paranoia. Briefly the irrational thought crosses his mind that hell will freeze over, before he would admit to Troy that their assaults against his camps have finally led to saving this camp. At least this proves beyond even his doubt that his action of insubordination has not brought the attack upon them and that there is little more he could have done to save the soldiers who have lost their lives in yesterday's attack. With his conscience eased, the German breathes a soft sigh of relief briefly closing his eyes.

"What do you think of the recount, Captain Dietrich?", General Atkins asks and Dietrich notes that the German commando soldier eyes him with an expression full of hatred and loathing. "I would like to ask him a few questions to verify whether he has indeed seen the Sheikh and his wife from close distance", Dietrich answers and the general agrees immediately. "Wie lautet Ihr Name, Soldat?", Dietrich turns to the soldier who spits his answer with loathing: "Ich spreche nicht mit einem Verräterschwein!" Unperturbed at the derogatory and the refusal to talk with a traitor, Dietrich continues: "Mit den Amerikaners haben Sie sich allerdings unterhalten. Überlegen Sie also, wer hier ein Verräter ist, denn ich habe weder Deutschland noch mein Volk verraten!" The German soldier grits his teeth, as Dietrich reminds him that he has already talked with the Americans and thus should reflect who of them is a traitor, as the Captain has neither betrayed Germany nor his people.

"Was wollen Sie von mir?", the commando soldier finally asks what Dietrich wants from him. "Beschreiben Sie die Oasenstadt näher!", the German officer smoothly asks him to describe the oasis town to which the man relents after a short pause of hesitation. "The details of the town's description fit with my memories and experience", Dietrich verfies, before he continues with asking for a similar description of the Sheikh and his wife who he knows both from close up, as the Sheikh's wives have served him and Moffit their lunch only two days ago. Satisfied after another quarter of an hour of interrogation, the German officer finally turns back to the American general speaking with a slightly dejected tone of voice: "I am convinced that he has indeed been close to the Sheikh and told the truth about the assassination attempt. I will speak with Sergeant Moffit regarding possible implications and how we should react." The general eyes the the Captain wearily. "That is what I have feared. Speak with the Sergeant as soon as possible, but after getting showered, shaved and properly dressed, Captain." Dietrich blushes slightly as the reprimand for his bedraggled appearance, but tries his utmost to keep up his straight stance, as he salutes assuming that this has been his dismissal.

"I want to congratulate you to how you have handled the situation yesterday sending the right men to perform their duties." The young officer stops dead in his tracks and exchanges a brief glance with Major Turner who nods almost imperceptibly. Ignoring the exchange, General Atkins continues: "You seem to have experience with such kind of situations, Captain Dietrich." The German officer cannot hide a self-mocking smirk, as he tries to not make the sarcasm in his reply too obvious. "Indeed after dozens of assaults against my camps your commando units have trained me quite well, especially Sergeant Troy and his Rats." Atkins smiles broadly, as he twirls his mustache with an expression of satisfaction. "I seem to have placed you in just the right position then. It is almost sad that I cannot keep you as a camp commander, since I need your more extraordinary qualities as a commando officer." Gritting his teeth and not trusting himself to answer this in a way that would be acceptable in any army, Dietrich remains silent. "You are dismissed, Captain!", the general finally announces and turns back to his protocol, as Dietrich leaves the tent quickly.

The Captain's first way leads him back to his own tent to fetch a fresh uniform for Jakob and himself, before he intends to return to sickbay. "What are you doing up and about, Dietrich?", a still unshaved Sam Troy calls out making the German freeze in his track, before he turns around with a slightly unnerved expression. "Your parents obviously failed to teach you basic manners, Sergeant!", Dietrich growls testily instead of answering the undignified question. Sporting a grin, the American Sergeant catches up with his intended target and eyes the ragged looking officer intently who scowls when he notices the scrutiny. Starting to move again toward his intended destination the German does not wait to be drawn into another discussion with the insolent American. As Sam notes the bundle of cloth in the Captain's arm and the unbuttoned jacket which is obviously not Dietrich's own, Troy asks slyly: "Getting fresh clothes for the day?" "That is what civilized people do", the young officer states dryly barely reining in his anger caused by wounded pride. "You mean walking around unshaved and with an unbuttoned jacket? I told you you don't have to become like Tully just because you share the Jeep with him", Troy cannot hide his mirth at having caught the usually overly proper German in such a position which earns him a glare. "Pettigrew at least possesses the decency and good sense to leave me in peace right now unlike you, Sergeant." "I'll leave you in peace, as soon as you answer my question, Captain", Troy turns more serious. "How are you, your friend and the boy? And why the heck are you fetching your fresh clothes yourself instead of sending somebody else to do that?"

For a moment the proud German intends to snarl that he is not accountable to the lower ranking soldier, before reminding himself of their mutual agreement and considering the well-meant intent of the first question. "We are as well as can be expected. Ari was still asleep when I left the sickbay", Dietrich speaks after taking a calming breath and stopping his brisk walk. "Glad to hear that. You're surprisingly fast on your feet considering the nice new bruises you're sporting on your head and the way you were barely staying on your feet yesterday, Captain", Troy smiles wryly accepting this answer as the best he can possibly get from the usually guarded German officer. "What's the hurry?" For the first time, Dietrich starts to regret having agreed on their personal peace treaty and to keep no secrets, as he is honor-bound to answer at least in some degree. "General Atkins has called upon me to verify the captured commando's statement", the German explains briefly, as Troy's eyes almost pop out of his head. "You stood in front of the general like this?" With wounded pride Dietrich snarls in indignation: "I had no alternative, as Major Turner intercepted me right after leaving the radio tent." "What did you do in the radio tent at 6 in the morning?", Troy asks him incredulously. "An RAF Commodore called to assure me of their support which will however arrive no sooner than tomorrow", Dietrich answers with a weary sigh regretting his treaty with the American Sergeant. Now Troy looks actually baffled. "You asked the RAF for support?"

Dietrich again sighs wearily, before he answers with a tinge of indignation audible in his voice: "I believe to have explained to you yesterday morning that the whole camp is running dangerously low on supplies. Without additional food and water we have to cut rations by tomorrow just to stand a chance to make it back behind our own lines before our supplies run out completely." The scrawny German looks slightly dejected, as he continues: "I spoke to Sergeant Moffit about options of the Arabs trading with us, but we agreed that we'd better not show too much weakness and wait for the negotiations with Sheikh Sulaiman. What I have just learned from the general is even more worrying." Troy looks actually annoyed by the cryptic way of speaking. "What the heck did you hear?" "Patience is a virtue, Sergeant", Dietrich states dryly enjoying annoying the American. "The Major's commandos have attempted to assassinate the Sheikh. I will have to speak with Sergeant Moffit about the implications and possible consequences for us." Troy looks briefly stunned, before he curses: "Those damn bastards deserved what they got. Is there nobody else who could help us instead of the Bedouins?" Dietrich frowns, before he clarifies: "Other LRDG units have only just enough supplies for themselves, although one of them will join us by tonight. So you can see, Sergeant, that the RAF is our best chance, although they are extremely dependent on the weather. This time even General Atkins approved of asking for help." Realizing that the situation must indeed be dire then, Troy asks with concern: "Anything we can do to help?" "Except for not waylaying me on my way back to sickbay after fetching a fresh uniform?", Dietrich retorts sarcastically, before his tone becomes serious again. "Unless you know of any secret supply stashes or can come up with other options for supplying the camp without putting the wounded at risk, there is little any of you can do, Sergeant." Troy eyes the distressed young officer with a larger amount of compassion than before. "Well, you've already covered any ideas I would have come up with, but I'll let you know, if we can think of something else."

Seeing that Dietrich starts to move again, Troy adds with an emphatic tone that catches them both by surprise: "I trust you that you're really doing your best here. We can be glad to have you, Captain." Taken aback by the unexpectedly friendly statement, the German flinches as the haunting sentences of his nightmare resurface. 'They all trusted you. They are all dead now.' Avoiding to meet the American Sergeant's eyes, Dietrich grinds out with a slightly strangled voice: "We will see, if this will be enough. Some people in this camp have already lost their lives because of me." Sam Troy notes the change in the young officer's mood immediately. "That's not your fault. As you have told me so often this is a war, Captain! I trust you to do all you can for everyone in this camp." "You'd better not put your trust in the wrong person, Sergeant!", the German snaps back and as he raises his head furiously, Troy can see the haunted and tormented look in his eyes the young German officer is not even trying to hide.

"Whatever makes you think, you're the wrong person to trust, is bullshit, Dietrich!" Speaking with righteous anger, Sam Troy grabs the younger man by the shoulder. To the American's surprise the startled German does not fight him off, but seems to be fighting his own inner demons, as he clenches his jaw and grits his teeth but his gaze seems distant. Shaking Dietrich slightly to get his attention focused on him, Troy pronounces loudly: "Listen to me! That boy Ari trusts you more than anybody, as does your friend Silberblatt and both would be dead without you. I doubt Hitch and Tully have ever trusted any brass as much as they trust you, cause you've shown them respect none of our brass have for them. Even that bullied half-Jap kid Gottschlich trusts you, cause you treated him fair, fairer than most Yanks I'd say." Again Troy shakes Dietrich's shoulder slightly to regain his attention, as the German averts his tormented gaze. "Come on, Dietrich. I know I trust you and although Doc Know-it-all tries hard to deny it, he trusts you as well, even caught a bullet for you, that damned fool." Troy does not give the taken aback German the chance to even open his mouth for a retort, before he has finished his argument. "And you know why, Captain? Cause you're authentic, you're honest and you really care. It makes you a really good officer in any army. So don't go 'round telling me that we shouldn't trust you! You'd better let go of whatever crazy idea is driving you right now!" Releasing his grip from the younger man's shoulder, Sam Troy lets his words sink in.

Drawing himself out of the flashback of the execution of the Jewish townspeople and his loyal soldiers including Oberleutnant Wagner who have all trusted him blindly to fulfill an unspoken command costs the Captain intense effort which distracts him from Troy's initial words which reach him only as if muffled by a closed door. Even though the Sergeant's hand on his shoulder is an unwanted invasion of his private space, it is the only physical anchor to reality currently available to the German which keeps him from fighting against the grip. Unwilling to let the American see his inner turmoil too clearly, the young officer averts his gaze to which Troy responds with shaking his shoulder which actually helps the Captain to draw himself out of his reverie and focus more on the American's speech. Once he has not just heard the words, but grasped their meaning, Hans Dietrich scowls in suspicion of some hidden trap behind Troy's arguments, before reminding himself that the American Sergeant has no reason for tricking him any more, as they are on the same side now, and servile flattery is simply not Troy's style. Cautiously shifting his face to a more neutral expression, the lean officer curtly answers with a "Thank you!" that sounds neither sarcastic nor as unsure as he currently feels regarding how to take Sam Troy's statement.

Hoping that he has deterred the American Sergeant enough to let him go and come to terms with his own thoughts, Dietrich focuses his gaze on Troy who sports his self-assured grin again, as if he has just won a challenging game. Then the American declares: "I'll leave you to your shower and follow your example myself, Captain. I can pick you up for breakfast, after visiting Jack." 'When have we agreed to share joint meals?', Dietrich briefly wonders, before providing a cautious reply: "Getting a lead on our Arab problem takes highest priority. My chance for breakfast will depend on Jakob's and Ari's state." For a moment Troy looks, as if he would protest, before choosing a more moderate response: "I wouldn't leave my best buddy and the desparate kid alone either, but you shouldn't skip your own meals for that. I'll bring your breakfast to sickbay myself, if you can't make it!" For a few seconds the German can only stare at the American taken aback by the unexpected amount of empathy he has shown in the past minutes, before nodding in acceptance with a solemn expression. Wondering briefly when the hot-headed American has started to develop such a reflective attitude, Dietrich continues on his way reflecting on many things Troy has given him to think about in his last brief speech.

"Have I already told you what I have planned for Lisa next time we spend the night together?", Hitch meanwhile asks Tully with a wide grin, as they stand in adjacent shower compartments. "Mmm", Tully answers noncommitantly knowing that independent of his answer, Mark will tell him anyways. "You're not the only one she's having an eye on, Hitchcock!", Andy Newman interjects, as he dries himself after his brief shower. "I have nothing to fear from you, Andy!", Hitch declares with a self-assured grin. Angered by the arrogant statement which unfortunately also is true, Andy retorts with a leering smirk: "Not talking 'bout me. Heard her say the Captain's quite handsome though." "Boggs is way too old for her!", Hitch barks a laugh. Slyly, Newman adds: "I'm not talkin' 'bout him, but the German." Now Hitch freezes. "Dietrich?" Laughing inwardly that his shot in the dark has been a direct hit, Andy ploughs on with delight which he does not let show too much: "Yeah. He looks pretty young and he has that dark tall and lean look the ladies love, doesn't he? And he spends a lot of time in the sickbay." "Don't listen to him! He's pulling one over on you", Tully warns Hitch. The Kentuckian driver has developed a natural dislike against Andy Newman, ever since his temporary replacement driver has tried to become his permanent replacement driver. Fortunately, Sarge is immune to flattery and fiercely loyal to his men. "Get lost!", Tully snarls at Newman in uncharacteric fierceness, as the other soldier looks like he would like to add some more slights. "Yeah. And don't you dare talk about our Captain like that!", Hitch shouts, as he joins Tully in stepping out of the shower with an aggressive stance.

Once Andy has chosen the tactical retreat wrapped in his towel as the wisest option, Hitch turns to Tully with a thought that is obviously bugging him: "Dietrich is pretty young, younger than us according to the Doc. And he's tall and lean. You think the girls do consider the Captain a handsome guy?" Tully shakes his head in disbelief, but before he can properly consider to overcome his dislike against talking too much, Troy interrupts their strange discussion. "What the heck are you two doing in the shower talking about whether Dietrich's handsome or not? Have you been filching Winters' whiskey stock again?" Tully smiles at the fond memory of the night spent drinking up Winters' best Bourbon whiskey and the hot-tempered First Lieutenant's red head and explosion which has been totally worth the two days of digging latrine trenches their stunt has earned them. Hitch however looks rather distraught. "Andy said that Lisa told him that she thinks Dietrich's a handsome guy", Hitch does not bite for the fun comment, as he instead starts to argue without giving the jumbled line of his argument a second thought. "Andy Newman's talking more bullshit than Goebbels, if you let him open his mouth!", Troy snaps in annoyance over the backstabbing weasel Newman whose plan to replace Tully he has realized right away and since then resents the man for it. "But...", Hitch tries to protest again, only to be interrupted by Troy: "Come on, Hitch! There's nobody I know who's more officer and gentleman than Dietrich. He's no womanizer and surely no danger for you in that regard. Newman's just being an ass as usual and trying to get us going against one another." Even Tully adds now: "Yeah, Hitch. You know what that snake Andy's like!" Hitch finally relents seeing the reason behind their arguments. "You're right, Sarge, Tully. It's just ... Ah, let's forget about it!" Troy grins. "We'd better. Now that I've finally succeeded in talking Dietrich into dropping his idea that we all should not trust him and even convinced him to share breakfast and act more like a normal person and less like a cornered injured puma, I sure as hell will not let Andy Newman of all people get in the way!"

The subject of their discussions is completely unawares of the talk on the other end of the camp. After the relief of a shower and changing into fresh clothes, Hans Dietrich's brief good times find an abrupt end, as Ari's awakening and new spite of panic bind the Captain's attention. The only upside is that the nurses have changed the boy's clothes into a wide hospital gown and that the child has nothing in his stomach to throw up, when another panic attack fills him with mortal terror. The young German officer with neither any children of his own nor psychological training is clearly out of his depth, as he can mainly provide a steadying presence in spite of his own inner turmoil at the current and past events haunting him. Forcing himself to keep up a regular breathing rhythm while exaggerating every single breath taken, Dietrich reminds the child nestled against his shoulder to breathe regularly. Jakob looks torn between wanting to help and fighting his own demons, as Ari whimpers pitifully and cries for his mother and father, his sister and brothers. As Dietrich shifts his position, the boy starts whimpering again and softly cries what he still thinks is the German's name: "Hauptmann!" "*I'm here. I won't leave you alone, Ari!*", the young man speaks reassuringly, as he sits back down on the cot, and Ari presses against the chest of his caregiver of the last week. "*You don't have to worry. Nobody will harm you here*", Dietrich repeats as the boy cries silently into his shirt shivering from terror and fear.

Finally, Nurse Regula takes a heart and intervenes by injecting the boy with a light sedative to calm him down before sitting down on Ari's cot and picking him up in her arms, pressing the wailing child against her shoulder and chest. "Wir hatten immer wieder Kinder ... bei uns im Waisenhaus, ... die ihre Eltern verloren haben. Ich habe da schon Erfahrung", she explains to the completely baffled German Captain in between speaking soothingly with the crying boy that she has experience with taking care of children who have lost their parents from an orphanage. "Danke, Schwester Regula", Dietrich whispers to her, as he uses this opening to retreat silently, but starts as he collides with a person standing behind him when taking a backward step. "Careful, Captain", James Boggs speaks softly to not disturb the crying child, as he places a hand steadyingly on the taller German's shoulder who tenses immediately at the touch and turns around swiftly. Boggs motions in the direction of his own cot and gestures for Dietrich to take a seat, as he sits down on the rim as well.

"Any news regarding our supply problem, Captain Dietrich?", he asks the German softly. "Speak up a little!", Major Bracken from the neighbouring cot admonishes. "We don't want to disturb the boy!", Dietrich retorts cautiously and gazes in the direction of the Swiss nurse and the Jewish boy who starts to calm down and become more sleepy. "A war zone is no place for a child", Boggs intercedes. "We could not agree more, but we have not been able to get him out of here yet", Dietrich replies with a pained and worried expression. Major Bracken eyes the young German curiously now. "Why is the boy so attached to you, Captain? You gave some explanation to the nurse yesterday, but I was not able to catch it." The German officer sighs deeply and closes his eyes, before he starts with his explanation, briefly summarising how he has crossed the desert on horse back twice for the duration of fourteen days to obtain antibiotics for his own soldiers and the inhabitants of the desert town and helped distribute the medication among the townspeople, as there have been no fit soldiers with medical training left to help out and his staff medic Doktor Sommer has been required to treat their own soldiers. Seeing the incredulous looks of the two officers, Dietrich waves in the direction of the Swiss nurse with a slightly offended expression. "You can ask any of the three Swiss to verify my story. They were all at the Red Cross camp, when I obtained the antibiotics. And Doktor Sommer can inform you on the situation in the fort and town meanwhile." "I do not doubt your word after what I have seen two days ago", James Boggs concedes with a smile remembering all too well the tall German dressed in a Arab kaftan riding the Arab warhorse.

"The whole story does sound somewhat outlandish though. Also this does not explain what the boy is doing here in this camp and why he treats you like his caregiver", Howard Bracken complains slightly. With a sigh and a tormented expression that speaks clearly of guilt and empathy, the German Captain continues his recount of the massacre of the Jewish inhabitants and his soldiers through the SS as well as Ari finding and joining the Rats and him on their flight from the SS controlled fort. "Basically, Major Bracken, this boy has experienced how his whole family was shot by the Nazis in front of his very eyes and he has nobody else who he knows and trusts", Dietrich summarises. "Lieutenant Silberblatt has agreed to arrange for him to be taken in by a Jewish family, but this is only possible after we could bring him away from here with the general's column." Bracken focuses the German with a thoughtful look contemplating what he has just heard.

"You still have not answered my question, Captain Dietrich", Boggs reminds his younger colleague who scowls at the stern tone of their original professional topic of discussion. "General Atkins has confronted me with the German commando's statement that they attempted to assassinate Sheikh Sulaiman before attacking our camp. The Arabs will not settle for anything but his death at their hands I fear", Dietrich explains with an expression of desperation. "Sergeant Moffit will hopefully be able to provide some insights, but I fear that trading with the Bedouins will not be possible after this." Both Captain Boggs and Major Bracken nod solemnly sharing the German Captain's worry and concern. "Apart from that, Captain Brown of the LRDG will join our troops today", the German reports with a neutral tone. "Also, Air Commodore Harrington is acquiring supplies, but can send them no sooner than tomorrow depending on the weather." Turning in Major Bracken's direction, he adds with a slight smirk: "And he insisted to give you his regards, Major." Briefly the Brit's expression brightens, as he nods curtly. "Thank you, Captain." "You also have my gratitude for helping to establish this option for us, Major", the German adds with an honestly appreciative expression.

Boggs eyes his younger colleague with a content expression. "So you have everything under control it would seem." Dietrich eyes him with a dubious look unsure whether the other man still suffers from the after effects of his severe concussion or intends to mock him given the events of yesterday night, before he replies cautiously, also intending not to let his previous dark thoughts gain the upper hand again: "On that front at least it would seem so. I will learn about the casualty reports of yesterday night only after my own release from sickbay and having spoken with First Lieutenant Adams. After what I have learned about the German commandos, I'm fairly sure that they are Major von Stolberg's personal scout unit and not from the SS, but I could only check one of them myself and the one who is talking was very dodgy at the topic." Boggs looks curious now. "How do you discern a regular German soldier from SS without an interrogation or his documents of identification which I would not expect a commando to have?" Dietrich repeats a similar explanation as he has given Troy on the previous day pointing to the inside of his own bandaged upper left arm where a tattoo marking the blood type would be located for any SS soldier. "Interesting", Boggs muses. "Did you tell this to HQ?" Dietrich looks actually astounded. "I have not been aware that this is new information for you, as any German serving in the field knows this. It is meant to save the men's lives after all and would be absurd to be kept secret."

Their discussion is interrupted by Lieutenant Johnson's arrival who carries a tray with four freshly brewed cups of English breakfast tea. Major Bracken's expression lights up as much as it has from his friend's greetings, as he smells the aroma of the strong black tea, when Johnson hands him his cup. "Ah. Nothing like a cuppa tea in the morning!" Once his commanding officer is pacified, the British officer approaches the scowling Dietrich who has donned his distrustful expression again. Only after a moment's hesitation, the German picks up one of the offered cups of tea and speaks curtly: "Thank you. I will bring this to Sergeant Moffit." Lieutenant Johnson looks slightly saddened, as he explains: "I have Sergeant Moffit's cup here with me. This is your own cup, Captain, as the Sergeant explained that you appreciate drinking tea yourself." Eyeing the Lieutenant warily, Dietrich sniffs at the tea searching for any indication that it has been spiked, as Major Bracken addresses him with surprising pathos instead of his usual aloofness: "Could we agree on a truce with you, Captain, in spite of how we have wronged you? The lad really needs a break, as do I." Dietrich focuses an intense gaze on both of them trying to discern the honesty of the offer which would help to give him a break as well, but could also backfire, when he lowers his guard only to find himself backstabbed by the Brits again who have more than enough reason to hate any German even a defected one. Finally, the German Captain makes the decision to give them the benefit of the doubt and agree on a truce with the Brits in camp. "We could all need a break, Major. Please make sure that all your troops are informed of this though!" The last thing Dietrich wants is to repeat his experience with Baker and Griffith in Boggs' office. "I will make sure of this, Captain!", Lieutenant Johnson sounds most eager to comply with his request.

Dietrich nods in agreement, as he stretches out his left arm, but winces as his stabbing wound reminds him of its existence and the bad idea it is to stress his injury. "Could you follow me please, Lieutenant, to provide the Sergeant with his tea? There are several things I have to discuss with him as soon as possible on order of the general. My injury prohibits me from taking his tea myself though." Johnson salutes while balancing the small tablet with the two remaining tea cups on his left hand and turns in the direction of the British tent part. Dietrich turns back to the two other officers and speaks smoothly: "I hope you will excuse me, Major, Captain." Then, he turns around and swiftly follows Johnson to Moffit's cot.

The former Cambridge scholar eyes the strange duo with unhidden curiosity, as the German Captain with a tea cup in hand and the British Lieutenant with two more cups on a tablet approach him. "Good morning, Sergeant", Dietrich greets him almost amiably. As Johnson crouches to let Jack pick up one of two remaining cups, the German's tone turns as dry as the Saharan desert. "Your butler has organised tea on your order, your Lordship." Moffit is hard-pressed not to start laughing, as this would only cause his lung further pain, while Johnson eyes the German with a look of irritation that turns into something close to amusement, before retreating from their conversation politely. "Good to see you in such a good mood this morning, Captain", the British Sergeant replies and frowns, as Dietrich's wry smile turns into a tormented expression that passes over his features for a few moments, before the young officer schools his face into a neutral expression, while only his brown eyes keep some of the haunted look. Scrutinizing the German's face Moffit can also spot a fresh dark bruise at the man's temple and a blood encrusted gash right under his hairline. "Did Troy finally beat you up properly, Captain?", Moffit asks with some dark irony, intending to prompt the other into explaining what has happened.

For a moment, Dietrich tenses and eyes the Brit warily, before he replies with equal sarcasm: "No, but my attackers have both paid with the end of their material existence, a German commando trooper and one of those cursed Jeeps' guns." "You are quite the fierce opponent, Captain. I wouldn't want to be your enemy", Jack Moffit replies dryly, before both of them exchange equally startled gazes at the surprising statement. Dietrich swallows the remark that they have been enemies for the better part of the last year and observes the Brit's reaction instead who looks even more surprised by his own statement than the German is. "Either you or I need to have their head checked again, Sergeant. Either I still suffer from aftereffects of my concussion or you have finally contracted the general madness and sentimentality from Troy", Dietrich finally states dryly helping them both out of the awkward silence that has settled after the strange statement. "The longer the exposure, the larger the risk they say", Moffit replies equally dryly, actually grateful to the German Captain to have chosen a similar way to his own preferred one to resolve the tension.

"Disregarding sentiments, Doctor, I have come to consult your expertise on an urgent matter of greatest relevance for the camp", Dietrich switches from his less guarded and dry-humored side to cool professionalism with practiced ease Moffit actually appreciates in the German, as this feat sets him apart from most of the Americans. Troy and Hitch might turn determined, fierce or cold-blooded at moment's notice, but neutral pragmatic professionalism with a cool head is not their forte, while Tully hardly ever leaves this mode. With a carefully kept neutral tone, Dietrich describes what he has learned from the interrogation protocol of the German commando soldier and his own inquiries, although a certain amount of concern can be heard in his voice now that Moffit has gotten to know the German officer well enough to read him better. "Their reaction will strongly depend on whether Sheikh Sulaiman has survived the attack or not", Moffit advises the intently listening Captain. "If he is still alive, we could stand a chance of handing over the commando soldier instead of the major. If the Sheikh has died, they will want Major von Stolberg, the commando and possibly several of his captured soldiers as well." Dietrich bears a tormented expression. "I cannot hand soldiers of the Afrikakorps over for torture and execution. They are protected by the Geneva convention after all. Handing over the major and his commando might be a necessary evil, as I start to realize and accept, but those wounded men", he points in the direction of German part of the tent where Ulrich von Bibra and several of his fellow soldiers lie on their cots, "are ordinary soldiers not dangerous fanatics as the major or cold-blooded killers as the scout. These men trust in me to stand by honor and decency to respect international treaties. I must not betray them!" Moffit reads from the German Captain's expression that he would rather put his own life on the line than budge in this matter.

"You're not betraying anyone, Captain!", Troy's voice from four meters behind Dietrich's back makes the German start in surprise, before he whirls around bearing a wary expression. "Sergeant", the Captain manages to snap in such an accusatory tone that his indignation at being eaves-dropped is communicated clearly. "Captain", Moffit draws his attention back to himself, as he struggles to speak up, but starts coughing after the a painful sting in his lung. With surprising speed the young officer crouches at Moffit's side and takes the tea cup out his hands, as the hot beverage is threatened to be spilt all over Jack, while Troy places his hand on his friend's shoulder to stabilize him during his coughing fit. As soon as the Brit has recovered from coughing, he can see both men bear equally guilty expressions. Taking his still hot tea back from Dietrich, Moffit takes a sip to settle his irritated body.

"Forgive me", the German starts then exchanges a glance with Troy before correcting his statement "us for our inconsiderate behaviour." The British Sergeant eyes them both with a suprised expression at the non-verbal communication. "You were about to say...", Dietrich prompts him politely. "You will have to prepare for handing over the commando trooper and possibly let Major von Stolberg face their trial as well. Then maybe you can persuade them to not bother about the other soldiers. I would even recommend you to drive to them today and hand over the commando as a sign of good will by giving them a criminal willingly and not because they force you." The German Captain frowns, but nods in understanding without interrupting Jack. "Also you will require an appropriate gift of honor for the Sheikh which can be either Sulaiman or his son. The general should be able to offer something fancy." Again the young officer nods in acknowledgement. "I will consult you once I have an overview of what could possibly be offered as a gift." "Weapons or vehicles might be our only option with nothing of artisan or artistic value to offer as a gift worthy of a Sheikh", Moffit speaks in his aloof lecturer tone to which Dietrich replies dryly: "I could offer to give away Marcello. But that might backfire, when they want to return him after a few days of constant singing." Troy barks a laugh at the sarcastic statement and even Moffit grins with amusement fighting hard not to laugh to avoid aggrevating his lung.

With a serious expression Dietrich asks: "Do you consider it possible that they would attack us out of revenge?" Moffit considers this briefly before shaking his head slightly. "I would assume that they would not since they know you and have negotiated with us successfully. We are not all 'just infidels' for them, but they know quite well to differentiate between different groups of Westerners. I also think that they would not want to risk an open fight given how large our camp looks by now. They would need more than about twenty warriors for that." The German nods. "I will order patrols on the lookout nonetheless and keep guards on the Jeeps' gun ready around the camp. Hassan is proud and hot-tempered and might not care about bad odds to exact vengeance against his father's murderer." "Better to be safe than sorry, Captain", Troy grins and even Moffit nods in approval. "A reasonable approach after what has happened."

Clattering of dishes notifies them to the breakfast handed out to the patients. Moffit raises his tea cup. "This is the only thing saving my breakfast around here." Troy gets to his feet and huffs. "The smell alone would already ruin mine." "I would expect you to have survived worse food on a daily basis. You're British after all", the German states dryly and takes a last gulp emptying his own tea cup, as he rises slowly, before adding calmly: "Your English tea is excellent though." Moffit actually grins at the statement, as he adds: "They say there's nothing like Cambridge's mensa to train the stomach to survive just about anything. We do make good breakfast though, you have to admit, Captain!" "Speaking of which", Troy stops grinning at the remark about British food and focuses Dietrich in a stare. "We agreed on you accompanying me to breakfast." "Dependent on Lieutenant Silberblatt's and Ari's state", Dietrich retorts. "Let's check then", Troy urges him on, turning back to the Brit on the cot. "See you later, Jack." "Thank you for your insights, Doctor", the Captain speaks honestly, before leaving with Troy who in Jack's eyes appears overly protective of the young officer in a way usually reserved for Hitch.

When they check at the officer's partition, Ari is sleeping fitfully under the influence of the narcotic, while Silberblatt is nowhere to be seen and the replacement uniform Hans Dietrich has brought him is gone as well. "All clear, Cap", Troy smiles, glad that the German will not be able to weasel his way out of his grasp. Dietrich's gloomy reaction previously has worried him and he does not want to let the young officer out of his sight too much, since their nightly exchange in the night after his rescue from the SS Troy is aware of the younger man's darker moods caused by trauma. After Dietrich has more or less openly admitted two nights ago that memories haunt him the American Sergeant knows for a fact that the lean German is fighting his own demons and tormented by what has happened to him, even though Dietrich is admittedly quite good at keeping his proper outward appearance and performing his duty under the most adverse conditions. The German officer seems to have resigned to keeping his agreement, as he follows without a discussion, only turning to the Swiss medic telling him to keep the Captain informed on Major von Stolberg's state of health after listening to a quick report on the still unconscious German officer's state.

When they enter the canteen, a tumult happens at the enlisted men's table in which Lieutenant Griffith and Carlos appear to be involved as well as their Privates Hitchcock, Pettigrew and Corporal Gottschlich. Hans Dietrich narrows his eyes, as he approaches the scene and growls in serious anger: "What is going on here?" These rowdy Americans with their hearts worn on their sleeves and their disregard for proper military order are actually overstepping the bounds of the German's tolerance by far. Griffith and Carlos appear equally embarrassed as the Rat Patrol's Privates and Gottschlich who turns completely red from blushing. Another American soldier who Dietrich only knows from their mission attacking Major von Stolberg and his help in the improvised sickbay as Corporal Newman gets up from the ground rubbing his swollen cheek while carefully avoiding to meet the Captain's eyes which speaks of a guilty conscience in the German officer's attitude. Glaring at each of the men separately, Hans Dietrich repeats his inquiry in an even harsher tone: "What is going on here?"

"Andy ... Corporal Newman was talking bullshit about you, Captain", Hitch finally provides with a lopsided grin. "We could not tolerate his insolent talk, Captain", Griffith provides and Carlos just nods in agreement. Dietrich sighs wearily, pinches his nose before raising his eyes heavenwards in vain hope for some divine intervention which is not about to come. Anything but total madness and drama would be too much of a miracle to be granted to him. "Have you all lost your minds? You are officers and enlisted men of the U.S. army and behave like a band of school boys beating each other up in the school yard!", the German scolds them in exasperation and with slight incredulity. "I should have you all sent on a punitive mission!" "Captain!", Carlos and Griffith address the German in spite of their own guilty conscience knowing they have overstepped a bound with their physical attack. "This man has insulted you - gravely." Dietrich snaps at them in indignation: "Aren't you officers of the U.S. army? Do you know no other way to discipline a soldier than to beat him up, Lieutenant?" Both look down ashamed at the harsh reprimand. As Andy Newman starts to grin at the dressing-down of his former attackers, Dietrich turns towards him with a snarl and a dark distrustful expression: "You have provoked them and caused all this. What did you say, Corporal Newman? And don't you dare lie to me!"

Andy Newman stares at the irate German with an expression of fear that quickly replaces his insolent grin. "I ... said nothing of relevance, Captain", he squirms obviously. Dietrich narrows his eyes spotting the easily detectable lie. "Do not force me to repeat myself, Corporal!", Dietrich states with an icy tone that makes a shiver run down Newman's spine. "I... I said that ... you, Captain, are a young and ... a... handsome guy... any lady or lad in camp... would find ... attractive to share ... their bed with", Andy finally stammers out and Dietrich briefly looks utterly nonplussed, before his expression turns to actual fury and his tone close to murderous. "This surpasses even the largest amount of American idiocy, impertinence and lack of taste I have been confronted with until now, Corporal, and believe me the Rats have truly set standards which are not so easy to beat! I do not even want to know what would motivate you to utter such an outrageous statement, since neither do I know you nor could I imagine any personal motivation on your behalf to accuse me of something like that", the German snarls in exasperation and serious offence taken at the scandalous implication of the false accusation which could have sent him straight to a concentration camp in Germany.

Reining in his own temper, before he feels tempted to act like Griffith, Carlos and the Rats, Dietrich's tone turns more sly and sarcastic, as he well-honed defence mechanism to deal with potentially deadly accusations triggers: "I suppose leaving you to their kind mercy would be your most fitting punishment, even though dishonorable for any of us." Andy Newman's eyes widen in shock and terror flickering to Griffith' bulky form, as he gulps visibly observing the German officer like a mouse the cat is playing with, while Dietrich continues in his wily tone laced with irony: "However, I assume that latrine duty in the whole camp for the following month will provide you with a new perspective and greater appreciation for cleanliness and keeping your thoughts out of the gutter and on a civilized level. If I ever hear about anything like that being spread as a rumor in this camp or anywhere else, you will consider yourself lucky to be allowed to spend the rest of your life cleaning latrines. Did I make myself clear, Corporal?" Newman shudders at the threatening tone, nods, remembers to salute, but for sure he does not dare to talk back at the obviously livid German Captain. Instead he chooses a hasty retreat as his best option before he might receive the well-earned beating in addition, as Dietrich looks murderous right now. Provoking Hitchcock has truly backfired spectacularly he realizes and any further statement that would anger the German Captain surely would be suicide, a painfully slow suicide full of suffering. "The rest of you are dismissed, gentlemen. Consider yourselves thoroughly reprimanded for using your fists instead of your brains!", Hans Dietrich speaks with irony lacing his grim words in the direction of the other American soldiers and officers, before adding with a serious tone: "Although you all have my gratitude to have raised your fists in defence of my honor."

"You're an excellent judge of character, Captain", Troy startles Dietrich by whispering into his ear at far too close a distance for the German's comfort and liking. "That Andy Newman is a real nasty lout." "Could you possibly refrain from sneaking up on me like that, Sergeant?!", the German snaps back still irritated, before adding his assessment: "That man is a self-serving, spineless fool who actually deserved what he got." Tully bears a look of open adoration at those words in addition to the expression of gratitude uttered by the Captain that Troy has never seen on him before, while Hitch seems to study the young German's features and stature closely. Corporal Gottschlich observes Dietrich cautiously although with open admiration at being thanked for defending his honor. The young soldier has only been drawn into the whole argument because he has shared the table and breakfast with the two privates without knowing Andy Newman at all, but vows to steer clear of him in the future. Lieutenants Griffith and Carlos finally seem to share Pettigrew's attitude, as they both bear a rather smug look and eye the German officer with approval. While Carlos salutes respectfully, Griffith bows as an expression of his deference stating clearly: "Standing up against such a statement is the least we owe to a man of honor, Captain." Dietrich salutes back to them still clueless as to the reason for the absurd accusations raised by the previously unknown Corporal.

Deciding to leave the Americans be now that the conflict is resolved and he has expressed his gratitude, Dietrich looks toward the officers' table where he finds General Atkins and Major Turner observing the scene with open curiosity. Gritting his teeth in annoyance over the unwanted attention the whole affair has drawn to him, the German turns to obtain some breakfast of his own only to be reminded of his injuries, when he picks up a tablet but is unable to support it in a horizontal position with either hand. Faster than he can drop the tablet, Troy has caught it and looks critically at the younger man. "I'll take that for you, Captain", Tully Pettigrew offers with an actual smile none of the others have ever seen on his face before which immediately causes wariness in the German. Pettigrew has been the most rational of them all until now, but he is an American after all and not immune to their sentimentality. It has only been a matter of time Dietrich reminds himself. "Seems you have just won his heart with dressing down his arch-nemesis", Troy murmurs into the baffled German's ear with a wide grin. "We're in a war, Sergeant, not one of your movie dramas. Wars are not about winning hearts", Dietrich whispers back with narrowed eyes carrying some of his incredulity at the American's idealism and sentimentality.

"Captain", Tully interrupts their muffled discussion presenting the tablet with laid out plate, glass and cutlery. "Follow me, Private", the German commands audibly, as he turns towards the officers' table. Troy observes their direction with a discontent expression, but does not intervene whispering to Hitch: "I told you you shouldn't listen to Andy Newman! Or even better you should not even let him open his mouth at all the next time." The young private looks a bit under strain, so Troy adds: "It was an utterly idiotic and tasteless thing to say and even more so to Dietrich's face." "It was and I wouldn't want to be chewed out by the Captain like that", Hitch confirms and finally dares to restart chewing on his bubble gum which he has completely avoided for the past minutes in the face of the irritated German officer. "Our dear Captain has always had a temper when you could provoke him beyond his cool and aloof German officer facade", Troy grins, "Andy Newman has just made an enemy he'd better never have crossed."

General Atkins and Major Turner exchange murmured comments, as Dietrich advises Tully to place his tablet on the table before dismissing the private with a brief "Thank you" and salute. Once Tully is seated back at his own table and the German has sorted out how to eat his breakfast after a brief struggle which of his injured arms to use for what, General Atkins does not want to hide his mirth any longer: "It seems you have domesticated your Rats rather successfully, Captain." Dietrich scowls at the derisive comment indignant on behalf of his unit, before he retorts dryly: "One can call the Rat Patrol many things, but surely not domesticated. A cackle of hyenas is more tame." A few of the assembled American officers quickly avert their faces barely holding back a laughter which they do not want to show in front of the general who looks slightly surprised at the comment, before breaking into a laugh himself. "You will be accordingly challenged then to get them to adapt to European standards." The German tenses briefly having almost forgotten about this being the long-term goal in view of the current challenges he is put up against.

The German decides to save worrying about the long game until after he is relieved of covering for Captain Boggs in his duty of organizing the whole camp. "You ordered me to consult with Sergeant Moffit regarding the best way of dealing with the Arabs", Dietrich puts forward with a serious tone and expression that immediately ends the general's amusement who eyes him now with quiet expectation. "Doctor Moffit has advised to show our alliance with them Bedouins by distancing ourselves from Major von Stolberg and his methods through handing the surviving commando soldier over to the Bedouins to be put on trial according to their laws for the assassination attempt against the Sheikh and the murder of his wife which would warrant an execution even according to your laws." "Our laws", General Atkins corrects him sternly, "you obey American law now, Captain Dietrich." The German straightens at the interruption and admonishment. Concentrating on keeping a neutral expression Dietrich observes the general warily without contradicting the superior officer, as he is aware of his slip-up. General Atkins frowns, but seems to think about the German's words before he answers with a grave voice: "Although I dislike handing over a prisoner to a fate worse than a quick death at our hands, I see the reason behind the suggestion."

"The Arabs are not Barbarians", Dietrich argues with a slightly guilty expression. "Although it pains me more than anybody to suggest to hand over a German soldier to them, he will not be murdered, but put on trial to be found guilty or innocent by the Sheikh himself, if his health permits it, or another judge. However there is little doubt about his guilt and how this trial will end which would result in the same verdict, if he were in Germany and his assassination attempt would have been against a high ranking official of the German state. The Arabs' method might even be kind compared to the Gestapo. Handing him over will hopefully save the other soldiers who have not actively participated in the assassination, although they have been part of von Stolberg's troops when attacking the caravan."

General Atkins studies the young officer's tormented expression which clearly communicates his struggle with the moral conflict of choosing the lesser evil. "This is my decision, Captain, not yours to feel guilty of", the American general admonishes with a surprising amount of compassion evident in his voice. "I decide that we hand over the commando to smoothen our options for trade and possibly allow us to not have to hand over the Major himself, although his survival is not guaranteed at the moment. If we have to hand him over, consider that in this way he could still do some good for us and his own soldiers." Dietrich lowers his gaze, as he speaks with a slightly subdued tone: "This will ultimately be for you to decide, Sir." "Having a conscience is as much a gift as a curse for a soldier and more so for an officer, Captain", the American general states with a serious tone eyeing the younger man's bruised face. "You have paid quite dearly for yours already. I want to let you know though that I appreciate your approach as well as your offered resignation and ultimate decision from this morning which Major Turner has dutifully reported to me."

Raising his head again to meet the general's eye, the German officer stares at the general in surprise at the compassionate statement which he would never have expected from the manipulative and slightly arrogant American general. Finally, he regains his wits enough to mutter a quiet: "Thank you, Sir." Focusing on his relevant information to pass on, Dietrich continues with a matter-of-factual tone: "Doctor Moffit has also suggested to offer a gift to the Sheikh upon his arrival in the camp when negotiating the major's future. In his opinion a special weapon or vehicle would be best, unless we can provide anything of artistic or artisan value." Both General Atkins and Major Turner eye him curiously. "What about your Arab dagger or saber, Captain?" Dietrich shakes his head at the major's suggestion. "Both have been gifted to me by the Sheikh himself. Gifting them back would be a affront and the opposite of helpful." Both senior officers nod in understanding, as they appear to contemplate an alternative.

"I do possess a special weapon", Major Turner speaks slowly weighing his words. "A revolver with ivory handles inherited from my greatgrandfather who served under Lincoln in the civil war." The German Captain raises his eyebrows in surprise although once he reminds himself of the German higher ranking officers' decadence his astonishment quickly vanishes. Hans still remembers his father inviting German officers appear for the few dinners they could afford to host where each Major and Colonel has shown off some jewel-encrusted pocket watch, carved saber handle or decorated gun butt. "I suggest to consult Sergeant Moffit reagarding whether such a weapon would be appropriate, if you are willing to part with your family's possession, Major Turner", Dietrich comments matter-of-factually. "I know my obligation to the soldiers under my command and will consult the Sergeant later", the American earns some honest admiration from the German Captain through his convinced statement which General Atkins also acknowledges with a magnanimous speech of gratitude.

"I will hand over command of the camp to First Lieutenant Adams, then, General Atkins, and head to the Arab town with my unit to surrender the assassin to the Bedouins and start negotiations", the German suggests and surprise registers on Atkins' face. "Why do you intend to go yourself, Captain?" Dietrich smiles wryly. "Because the only other person in this camp I am aware of to speak Arabic fluently is Sergeant Moffit and he is obliged to stay in sickbay given his injury, Sir. In addition, I do have a reputation with this particular tribe and they will be much more cooperative with me than anybody else." Then, he adds dutifully: "Lieutenant Adams has already been collecting reports yesterday night and thus is more aware of the details than I currently am. The supply issues are as thoroughly planned to be resolved as possible at the current time, so he is only required to take and compile reports on the incident of yesterday night." The general regards him briefly before calling out to Lieutenant Adams who is sitting further down the table. "Lieutenant Adams, come here."

As the American officer approaches, Atkins turns toward him. "You are in charge of the camp for the duration of Captain Dietrich's mission outside of camp." Adams' eyes widen, as he regards the bruised German Captain with a look of surprise. "Captain Brown with his LRDP unit should join you in the afternoon", Dietrich informs him. "I trust you to compile a proper report regarding yesterday night's events, First Lieutenant." Adams salutes properly and the German returns the salute with practiced precision, before both settle down to finish their breakfast after general Atkins has dismissed them to do just that.

After breakfast Hans Dietrich turns towards the Rats who are still assembled at their table, although Mark Hitchcock is actually more underneath it petting Fritz. The little dog has rolled on his back and is enjoying the attention after having successfully begged for Troy's sausage ends. Gottschlich observes the beast with a certain wariness and seems to be eager to stay as far from the furry animal as possible. "What's our next mission, Captain?", Troy asks with eagerness. "It seems we are entering the slave trader business after all given our vast experience, Sergeant", Dietrich replies dryly and savours the American's dumbfounded expression. "We will drive to the desert town and take the German commando soldier who tried to assassinate the Sheikh with us to hand him over to the Bedouins and have him put on a proper trial according to their laws." "They'll execute him", Troy protests and Dietrich sighs with a pained expression. "As would the Americans or Germans execute somebody who assassinated a high ranking government official. The Sheikh's wife was murdered and we do not know whether the Sheikh himself is still alive." "Still", the stubborn Sergeant grunts. "Not something I would want to decide." "Nor I", Dietrich agrees. "But it was not my decision to make, but General Atkins' and he decided to hand the man over on Sergeant Moffit's advice." Troy smiles wryly. "Jack's more cold-blooded than either of us." "It was not his decision in the end either", the German reminds him. "He has only given advice to the best of his abilities." Troy briefly looks baffled that Dietrich would rise as the Brit's defender, before reminding himself that the Captain is a man of principle and even has risen in the defense of Major von Stolberg in spite of loathing him simply for the sake of defending his notion of decency.

Corporal Gottschlich who has stayed silent until now, finally addresses Dietrich: "Captain Dietrich, I would wish to come along and aid you in any way I can." The German officer briefly eyes him with a certain degree of wariness, before nodding in agreement. "I am unable to wield or mount a gun given my injuries. Thus, your assistence is actually appreciated. In this way you can prove your worth in the field." Troy briefly scowls, but finally nods in agreement. Better Gottschlich than Newman, the damned weasel. Gottschlich's dejected expression lights up at the words and the trust he sees put into him. As Dietrich stands up, Fritz jumps up and begs for his long-term master's attention making Gottschlich withdraw with an expression of fear which Tully notes and questions: "What's wrong, Corporal?" The German also narrows his eyes, while petting the excited dog who has put his front paws on the Captain's thigh and raises his head expectantly. "Fritz is utterly harmless in spite of his overly energetic nature, Corporal." Hitch intervenes emphaticly: "He killed the snake that attacked Ari. Don't underestimate my heroic friend Fritz. He's a real killer." Dietrich grits his teeth resisting the urge to roll his eyes and glares at the private instead silently reprimanding the idiotic remark that only serves to further unsettle Gottschlich who has paled slightly at the word 'killer'. "Fritz would never harm a human, Corporal Gottschlich. He is anything but a trained war dog. As our unit's mascot of the past months he has played with and been petted by anybody without ever even baring his teeth at anyone", the German tries to reassure the unsettle young soldier, as Fritz licks the Captain's hand enthusiastically. "Fritz. Aus. Sitz!", he finally snaps his command slightly unnerved and the dog sits back on his haunches obediently, eyeing the German Captain with big puppy eyes. "Look at him. He'd never hurt you", Hitch tries to make amends for his previous statement daunted by Dietrich's glare and kneels to scratch the dog's ears while Fritz pants appreciatively.

"You're afraid of dogs", Troy finally states the obvious and Gottschlich visibly gulps before nodding in confirmation. "It's okay. I like you anyways", Hitch assures him earning another glare from Dietrich for the moronic statement. For a college student the young American is behaving utterly inconsiderate. "Fritz is not actively partaking in missions. Also he has a long-term mission of his own to fulfill", the German states with a cryptic expression. Hitch looks actually baffled, while Troy asks: "What do you have in mind for him, Captain?" "He will accompany Ari to the family taking him in, Lieutenant Silberblatt's family", Dietrich answers with surprisingly gentle tone and expression. "You asked him for this, didn't you?", Troy inquires with a broad smile. "Who else should I have asked?", the German sounds exasperated, as the American Sergeant is wearing down his nerves. "You're not the boy's caregiver", Troy comments, although he knows he would not have acted any differently. "You are wrong, Sergeant. The boy has given himself into my care and actually has nobody else to look out for his best interests. I have a responsibility and obligation to uphold, Troy", the Captain growls with annoyance, before switching the topic he considers finished. "And we have an obligation to this camp to uphold. Ready the Jeeps, prepare for the possibility of having to stay a night out. Bring the prisoner from the general's interrogation tent and secure him in your Jeep, Sergeant Troy. I trust you to keep a watchful eye on him at all time." Troy actually smiles broadly at the word 'trust' nodding in approval. Dietrich then gazes at the Corporal and Tully. "Corporal Gottschlich will take Sergeant Moffit's position at the gun and ride with Private Pettigrew and me. Break him in, Private!" Tully nods and shifts his match stick in his mouth as quiet confirmation of the command. "I will check with the sickbay to receive an extended first aid kit in case we can offer medical support for the Sheikh and not just surrender the murderer of his wife. Gentlemen, meet me in 15 minutes at 09:00 with the vehicles ready." Checking his watch and confirming the time with the Americans, the German turns to leave, as do the Rats who have all risen to their feet.

"Why are you afraid of dogs?", Hitch asks Gottschlich, putting an arm on the shorter man's shoulder who looks slightly uncomfortable. The slightly paled Riku Gottschlich gulps visibly. "One of our neighbours used to have dogs, they're called Pitbulls I think. He always sent them after me and my brother to get us out of the yard or away from his door or simply for fun." The young soldier does not meet Hitch' eyes looking to the ground instead. "One of them caught me once and the bite got infected. I spent the whole summer break in bed, first with a fever then with the swollen leg. It was awful. I almost lost my foot." Hitch looks actually concerned, as he squeezes the younger man's shoulder in a gesture of support. "I'm really sorry to hear that. I've always loved dogs myself. Never thought something like that could make you afraid of them. Maybe Fritz can help you lose your fear." The young private looks enthusiastic at his suggestion, while Gottschlich bears a skeptical expression. "Leave him in peace, Hitch!", Troy admonishes saving the Corporal from Mark's well-meant attempts of therapy against his fear.

Their Captain walking a few steps ahead is listening in discretely without commenting, as Troy has wisely taken the action he would have taken otherwise at some point of escalating absurdity. At the canteen entrance Dietrich turns to the sickbay to obtain his strategic medical equipment. Furthermore he is worrying about his friend Jakob who has not joined them for breakfast, although Hans would have expected him to do that after finishing his shower and getting into fresh clothes. As he enters the sickbay, some commotion is happening. Doktor Sommer is at Major von Stolberg's cot speaking hectically with nurse O'Donnell. The German Major who has been injured by the explosion of Tully's grenade lies on the cot, but glares at the medic and complains in his typical nasal tone. "Er möge sich genieren für seine Inkompetenz, der elende Tropf! Wie kann er zulassen, dass unser edles Blut vergossen wird. Wenigstens hat der jüdische Abschaum sich entfernt." Dietrich is hard-pressed not to order the Major to be taken with them on the Jeep to hand him over to the Arabs right away, as he hears von Stolberg accuse his Stabsarzt of incompentence for allowing his noble blood to be spilt and speak of his friend as Jewish scum. Deirdre O'Donnell prepares a syringe which she injects the Major who in spite of his rants does not actively resist his treatment. Within half a minute he gets more drowsy and finally peace and quiet return to the improvised field hospital. Several people bear expressions of relief, some even sigh.

"Was für ein furchtbarer Mensch", nurse Arno mutters what a horrible man the Major is, as she approaches Dietrich with a gentle smile after he has entered the tent. "Was kann ich für Sie tun, Herr Hauptmann?" Dietrich greets her with a friendly smile of his own and "Guten Morgen, Schwester Arno", before specifying his request for an extended first aid kit. Knowing him well enough to be able to use such a kit and not request it unnecessarily, the Swiss nurse assures him that she will take care of the kit immediately. "Seien Sie unbesorgt, Hauptmann Dietrich. Ich kümmere mich gleich selbst darum." "Haben Sie Lieutenant Silberblatt gesehen, Schwester?", Dietrich asks her with slight concern in his eyes whether she has seen Jakob Silberblatt, especially after he has heard the Major curse. "Er hat mit uns vom medizinischen Personal gefrühstückt. Als der Major begonnen hat herumzuschreien und ihn zu beschimpfen, ist er plötzlich fortgelaufen. Ich dachte, er würde sie holen. Aber jetzt da Sie nach ihm fragen, fällt mir auf, dass er in Richtung Latrinen gelaufen ist." Dietrich's expression turns from serious to outright worried, as the Swiss nurse describes that after having breakfast with the medical personnel Jakob has run off when the major started screaming and cursing Jakob. Nurse Arno has assumed that he would fetch the Captain, but notes that he has run off in the direction of the latrines. Hans Dietrich frowns deeply now wincing slightly at the memory of what has happened to Feldwebel Nemet. "Kümmern Sie Sich bitte um den Verbandskasten, Schwester. Ich werde nach dem Lieutenant sehen", he asks the nurse to take care of the first aid kit, while he will look after the Lieutenant.

Dietrich notes that the sickbay has has been extended in such a way that it lies completely in front of the small latrine and shower compound which has been located in a natural niche of the rocks giving structure to the camp's location. Their height of several meters allows them to provide a natural cover against wind and sun over the latrines, showers and partially the back of the sickbay, also hiding the first two facilities from sight. The Captain still remembers when he has first utilized the latrines and showers that he has considered it a perfect location for fleeing, especially with no guards around. After a larger amount of circumspection and observing the smooth, almost vertical walls of several meters height he has to reassess his idea that escaping from this spot is rather impossible.

A retching sound from the direction of the latrines draws his attention, as the German hurries to find its source. Jakob stands bent over one of the latrines heaving without anything but bile coming from his system anymore with his breakfast long since vomited into the dark hole before him. "Jakob", Dietrich adresses him with a cautious yet compassionate tone, as he steps closer to his friend who starts at the sound of the voice and stares at him wide-eyed like a deer caught in the headlights. The German Captain notices a shiver shaking his friend's whole body, as he reaches out to put a hand on his shoulder. "Hans", Silberblatt croaks with a broken voice beating his friend to his reassuring gesture by pulling him in a hug. Patting his distraught friend's back, Hans Dietrich feels more than a little out of his depth having to handle mental break-downs first of Ari, now of Jakob while not feeling absolutely stable himself after all that has happened to him in the past two weeks. In all his life Hans Dietrich has never been the compassionate shoulder to cry on. This has been Lisel Wolf's privilege in their childhood and youth. The memory of his cousin executed by the SS gives him a painful pierce through the heart on the one hand, but incents his own motivation to do her proud on the other hand.

"Jakob, was ist passiert?", Hans asks with concern what has happened. Silberblatt's body is briefly shaken by another shiver, before he takes a step backward and answers his friend without meeting his eyes: "Als der Major den Namen Silberblatt gehört hat, hat er verstanden, dass ich nicht nur ein Betrüger sondern auch ein Jude bin." Jakob explains that upon hearing the name Silberblatt the major not only has concluded that Jakob is an impostor but also that he is a Jew. Gulping and finally looking into his friend's eyes with a pained gaze, Jakob continues with shaking voice: "Er war außer sich vor Zorn, von einem Juden betrogen worden zu sein. 'Du Saujude gehörst ins KZ und langsam zu Tode geschunden, bevor man aus deiner Haut einen Lampenschirm für einen ordentlichen deutschen Offizier macht!'" Dietrich is torn between heart-felt compassion for his friend and hatred and loathing for the Major upon hearing that the Major was beside himself with rage after having been betrayed by a Jew, threatening Jakob that he should be sent to a concentration camp, slowly and painfully worked to death before his skin should become the new lampshade for a proper German officer. Jakob has tears running down his face, as he confesses: "Ich war in Panik. Plötzlich war alles wieder da wie nach der Kristallnacht in den Tagen und Nächten, als ich mich verstecken musste, um nicht doch noch verhaftet und ins KZ geschickt zu werden. Das ist meine größte Angst." His friend Hans reaches out to put a steadying hand on his shoulder listening to Jakob's described panic, as he has relived the days and nights after the Kristallnacht when he had to hide and constantly fear to be arrested and sent to a concentration camp, his greatest fear. "Du bist jetzt in Sicherheit. Und glaub mir, dass ich Himmel und Hölle in Bewegung setzen würde, um dich aus dem KZ rauszuholen." Jakob tries to produce a sad cautious smile which ends in a pained grimace, as Hans assures him that he is safe now and promises him to move heaven and hell to get him out of the KZ. Yet, the young Jewish officer does not doubt his friend's conviction for a single moment.

"We should go back in, before they start to worry", Jakob suggests with a sheepish expression after washing his face his some cold water. "They already do. Nurse Arno told me where to find you", Dietrich replies coolly. "You need not worry about the Major though, he is asleep now." Jakob sighs in relief. "I have some mazel after all." His friend smiles wryly. "Indeed. He insulted the whole medical staff until they put him to sleep with morphine." Jakob shakes his head to clear it, before facing his friend with his usual smile returning gradually. "I can't thank you enough, Hans. I stopped counting how many times you saved me." "Good. Because this is neither a game nor a gamble, Jakob", Dietrich states dryly. "Counting statistics is not relevant." "Shall we?", Jakob asks cautiously, as he walks ahead with a lighter step than he has had in the other direction.

Nurse Arno approaches them immediately after entering the tent. "Ich habe hier Ihren erweiterten Verbandskasten ausgestattet, Herr Hauptmann. Doctor Andrews hat so etwas schon dauerhaft für Sie vorbereiten lassen." Dietrich raises his eyebrows upon hearing that Dcotor Andrews has ordered to permanently have a prepared extended First Aid Kit available for Dietrich which nurse Arno has only reequipped after it has been extensively come to use at their previous mission due to the large number of wounded. "Ich danke Ihnen vielmals, Schwester", Dietrich expresses his gratitude. However as he takes the handed kit, the German finds his shoulder giving out unable to support the weight gritting his teeth at the pain and show of weakness. The nurse and Jakob react quickly to catch the kit before anything could break. "I will help you carry this", Jakob offers with relief sounding in his voice that he can finally do something to repay his loyal friend. Hans notes that he carefully avoids speaking in German since recovering from his worst spite of battle fatigue the German has ever experienced from his friend, although they have not spent any time together since he has gotten Jakob and his family on board of the ship that has brought them out of Germany. "Thank you, Jakob", he complies with his friend's unspoken request to distance himself of anything German.

Troy looks slightly surprised, as the two officers approach him. Silberblatt carries a big white kit with a red cross painted onto it and a rather haggard look about him, while Dietrich walks with his usual straight stance and stern face which he has worn in many a fray they have had with the captain in the past year. In addition to his jacket, the officer has picked up his cap and desert goggles on the way to the vehicles wearing both on the top of his head. "Thank you, Jakob", the German addresses his friend with a warmth and gentleness that stands in stark contrast with his strict expression, before the Captain is turning to Tully with a much sterner tone: "Private Pettigrew. Assure that this is fixated in such a way that nothing can break inside." "Sure, Cap", the Kentuckian confirms and Dietrich briefly breathes in and out through his nose still unnerved by the American habit of abbreviating rank titles. Then, he focuses his attention on the German commando trooper who has been placed next to Hitch in the front of the Jeep. The young American private is currently aiming his tommy gun at the man's chest, while Troy approaches the Captain. "We're all ready to go on your command, Captain." Nodding in approval Dietrich does not bother to ask for confirmation of the completeness of their preparations knowing the Rats too well to perform extraordinarily under Troy's watchful eyes. "Excellent."

As the German steps to Tully's Jeep he notes Corporal Gottschlich standing in the back with a nervous expression. "I recommend you sit down and hold onto something strongly, Corporal", the Captain states with a wry smile. "Stand up only during combat situations, when firing the gun." The young soldier salutes and confirms the order, as he sits down between two fixed supply chests which also provide him with handholds. "Please return safely", Jakob Silberblatt pleads with serious concern for his friend written in his face. "I will. Don't worry and take care of yourself and Ari!", Dietrich reassures him, before climbing onto the passenger seat next to Tully who nods at the Captain with a concentrated expression. While the German signals with his practiced arm signal to "go", Troy shouts "Let's shake it!" never stopping to point his Colt at the German commando soldier before him and Hitch starts their Jeep with a wide grin.