"Ari, do not cause any troubles for nurse Regula, when she is taking care of you!", Hans Dietrich tells his ward sternly, crouching before the boy. To be sure that he is understood, he repeats the words in Arabic with the few Hebrew terms he knows strewn in. "I promise, Hans", the child tells him with an honest look. "Do you promise to come back?" The German Captain smiles gently. "Yes. I promise you that I will come back, I do not even leave the camp for now. If you are well behaved, you may even come along on the Jeep with us one of these days", he tries to motivate the boy. Troy scowls slightly, but in the large column they will travel with after the camp's evacuation there will hardly be any more or less dangerous places. Ari smiles widely at the prospect and hugs his brother around the neck with a squeal of joy, while the young German officer winces with pain.
After promising his brother several times that he will behave, Hans Dietrich leaves the Jewish boy in the care of the nurses in sickbay. Now that the child is able to speak and understand some English, this works without a translator and allows all of them to report to the General, as ordered, without taking Ari along. The slightly pudgy Swiss nurse Regula smiles fondly at the child, while she assures the German Captain that he need not worry about the boy, as she has learned how to handle children in the orphanage. "Machen Sie sich keine Sorgen, Herr Hauptmann. Ich werde gut nach ihm sehen. Ich hab in uns'rem Waisenhaus viel g'lernt, wie man mit Kindern umgeht." "Danke, Schwester Regula", Dietrich replies with a grateful tone and smile, before turning to Sam Troy. "I suggest that we check on your brother and the other patients later, Sergeant, as General Atkins is expecting us." The American Sergeant scowls, but finally agrees, after the friendly Swiss nurse has assured him that David is as fine as he could be given his injuries and condition.
As they follow the lean German officer to the General's tent, Hitch asks nervously: "You're sure we really need to appear in front of him, the General I mean, Cap?" With a smirk, Dietrich replies: "King Richard specifically insisted that I report with all the Merry Men to the throne room." That the Private is still unsettled by his usage of their themes which they have first employed to annoy him is actually amusing for the German Captain. "Trust our dear Robin to know what he's doing!", Troy backs him up unexpectedly. "We are all the king's loyal subjects and therefore follow his orders, Little John", the tall young officer comments coolly. "You think that more of the Sheriff's henchmen could still be around, Sir Robin?", Moffit asks him calmly, as he would not suspect the German Captain of purposefully applying the secret code to make Hitch and Gotty feel uncomfortable. "I don't know that for sure, but it is still a possibility. And I'd rather err in the direction of caution. That lesson I have learned rather well from Little John and his band", Dietrich replies dryly, but with clear concern in his tone. "My smartest student ever", Troy comments proudly with a wide grin and a gentle pat on the younger man's left shoulder which earns him an annoyed glare from the German officer.
Hearing that Dietrich still considers the existence of further infiltrators or manipulated men and even women of their own unit a possibility, makes Hitch look around nervously. "You think Lisa's safe, Cap, I mean Robin?", he asks the German Captain with concern. "I doubt that Doctor Andrews is an infiltrator. Deirdre O'Donnell warned us of her colleague, so she is not, and Doktor Sommer and the Swiss are not under suspicion. The sickbay is currently the safest part of the camp which is why I left Ari there." Dietrich's calm and rational reply sounds plausible for Hitch and the others who nod grimly. Nonetheless, the situation is unsettling for the American Private who has been rather carefree regarding spying and infiltration, viewing it as one of their tricks, but not something their enemies would employ against them beyond Dietrich's schemes which have always been more honorable and straightforward than what they are confronted with here. Until now, he has not understood the others' wariness and paranoia fully, but now it strikes him with full force. Corporal Gottschlich similarly looks around nervously, shuddering inwardly at the thought of men of their American scout unit spying on them and trying to kill them. Just looking at his Captain with the bandage around his head and blood on his uniform jacket reminds him of how much of a possibility this actually is. Without intentionally doing so, the two young soldiers draw closer together, subconsciously seeking comfort in the other's presence like wolves in the community of their pack.
As they approach the General's office tent, four soldiers stand guard outside, two at the front, two more at the side, observing the rear as well. Dietrich salutes with his left and announces with a clear commanding tone: "We are here on General Atkins' order. He is expecting us." The Sergeant on guard salutes back. "We were expecting you, Captain. All six are your men?" Dietrich confirms this, as he does not wish to start a discussion about Jakob's status and relation to their unit. The second soldier opens the tent flap and allows them to enter without taking down his gun. Upon entering Dietrich recognizes four more guards placed on the inside with their weapons drawn and ready. The nurse's attack has caused a paranoia in the General comparable to Graf von Stolberg's, which has not saved the Major in the end either, the German muses.
"Captain Dietrich", Atkins greets the young officer with a stern tone. Dietrich notes that his skin is slightly reddened and beads of sweat have formed on his forehead, indicating clear stress. "You have finally made it here. These are your men at the moment?" The American General puts all of them under scrutiny, while Dietrich straightens into a proud, self-assured stance, standing at attention. "We will also receive support from Private James Walker and Corporal Aaron Humphreys from Captain Boggs' unit. Furthermore, Captain Brown has agreed to lend me Sergeant Williamson, as well as Privates Kevin and Daniel O'Donnell and Michael Lakatos, as I consider all of them trustworthy and reliable, Sir", the German responds, unwilling to let the older man goad him into some rash behaviour.
"Twelve men to secure the whole camp", Atkins mutters with clear annoyance, deliberately not counting Lieutenant Jakob Silberblatt as camp security. "But your argument why you cannot take anyone not known and trusted has been convincing, Captain Dietrich." The German officer nods in acknowledgement. "As Sergeant Moffit is only fit for light duty, I suggest letting him assist with organisational tasks, along with Lieutenant Silberblatt." Atkins scowls. "You're not in a fit state for heavy duty yourself, Captain." Dietrich frowns and tenses visibly. "Don't even try to argue! A soldier barely able to even lift his main arm is anything but fit for duty. But you're smart and competent enough to do most of your work without being required to draw a weapon, using your head and tongue mainly, which is why I keep you on duty, Captain." The proud German officer nods reluctantly, struggling to stay quiet and keep his expression neutral, as he feels actually uncomfortable with the cool assessment.
"What I have to show you should not be a problem to analyse, even given your injuries, Captain", Atkins sneers, as he takes a tin box with a small integrated lock as well as several books from a drawer of his desk and puts them in front of the Captain, before hauling a satchel with clothes from under the desk. "These are the man's personal belongings. I want you and your men to check them. Now." Dietrich raises his eyebrows at the sharp tone, but starts to rifle through the books, ordering: "Sergeant Troy, open the box, then check the satchel!" "Aren't you supposed to be the lockpicking expert, Captain?", Troy asks with a tinge of irony. "The subtlety of picking a lock is only necessary, if stealth is essential. We don't care about this now. Just use your army knife", the German Captain orders sternly, unwilling to speak out that he does not want to show how badly his injured shoulder is impairing him, especially under the watchful eye of the General. The German stops his search through the books, when he has found several pages glued together with their interior cut out to leave a hollow space at the back of the man's bible. Opening the secret compartment reveals several documents, including the infiltrator's identification papers. "Major Heinrich von Gelder, officer of Abwehr. So he is from the Wehrmacht, not the SS, like his colleague from yesterday", the German Captain assesses with creased brows, while Moffit and Silberblatt try to gain a look from his left and right side respectively.
Troy pushes the opened box in front of Dietrich. "Take a look at that, Captain!" The German Captain hands the main documents to Jakob for further study, while stealthily pocketing the man's Wehrpass for usage during the interrogation, as he does not trust the General anymore to allow them to take evidence with them independent of the relevancy for an interrogation. Hiding his action as showing something to his friend on the documents, the tall officer then turns to the box to search through its contents. The tin container holds the infiltrator's rank insignia, German Erkennungsmarke and a Walther P.38 with a package of bullets. "I suppose this is sufficient proof of the Major's true identity, General", the German Captain comments coolly, as he shows the findings to Atkins who bears an almost diabolical smile. "Hey, Cap. Look at that", Tully addresses the lean German officer who turns to him with creased eyebrows, appearing attentive. Cutting open the seam of a jacket from the satchel, which Tully has helped to search, reveals several Reichsmark banknotes sewn into the inside of the fabric. "And apparently, he is also a diligently prepared spy with his backup options ready and in place", Dietrich comments, as he draws the banknotes out of the jacket and places them in front of the General who scowls with obvious indignation.
"Let your Sergeant overlook camp security, while you take your two assistants to help you with the interrogation. Your topmost priority is to obtain information from the German infiltrator regarding his conspirators and manipulated traitors", the American General demands. "How do you intend for us to obtain such information without usage of force, General? I have never willingly tortured prisoners when I still served on the Axis side and I will for sure not start doing so now!", Dietrich states with force. "I don't care if you trick, manipulate or beat information out of the man, Captain Dietrich!", Atkins shouts lividly, his head red with anger. "These backstabbing bastards have manipulated soldiers into killing one of their own officers, a nurse into murdering several Allied soldiers and almost caused Major Turner's and my death at her hands. I will not accept that he refuses to talk. You have two hours to obtain information from him. If he hasn't spoken within this time, I will hand him over for interrogation to someone with less moral qualms to do what is necessary, Captain Dietrich. Did I make myself clear?"
Hans Dietrich keeps a neutral mask in place, as do Moffit and Tully, while Silberblatt, Hitch and Gottschlich look openly shocked and Sam Troy does not bother to hide his expression of loathing. "Perfectly clear, Sir", the German officer growls with a tone that is icy enough to make Hitch shiver slightly, as he looks between the General and the Captain. Noone but the German knows better from years of painful experience, when not to openly antagonize a superior officer too far. Paranoia and fear truly call forth the darkest sides of a man, Dietrich muses grimly, as he adds with a cold and serious tone: "I want to register my objections against this order though." Moffit hides his smile, having observed a similar behaviour of the young German officer already when he has still served the Axis side. His only worry is that Dietrich's protests against immoral orders have driven the young Captain towards their side in the first place, while his qualms about disobedience have definitely been even further reduced by his ordeal and defection. At which point the German officer would decide that enough is enough and abandon the nation and army to which he has no emotional or hereditary ties whatsoever is not clear to Jack.
"Your protest is duly noted, Captain Dietrich. Now start with your duties! All except for the interrogators are to secure the camp's evacuation and critical infrastructure!", the General orders harshly. "Will we also evacuate the German tanks or destroy them, General Atkins?", Dietrich inquires with a controlled tone. "We have neither men to operate them nor the gasoline to fuel them", Atkins replies darkly. The former German Panzer Hauptmann draws in his breath. "According to my calculations, we could take up to eight tanks along, even without resupplying with gasoline. Since we had to adapt the figures, the maximum will likely be six at the moment. Three tanks are British, so you would only require men for up to 3 more German tanks. I can instruct some men quickly enough to learn how to drive these vehicles, especially since you already have men in camp with experience in this regard." His gaze wanders from Troy to Moffit, Pettigrew and Hitchcock before returning to the General. "I have decided that we will not take any tanks with us", the older American officer barks lividly, clearly not acting rationally or even considering the calm argument the German has provided.
Instead the older man snarls: "You will instruct men how to destroy your German tanks most efficiently, Captain. I have given the same order regarding the remaining British tanks." With an outward calm expression the former German Panzer Hauptmann nods in acknowledgements, while he inwardly feels a jab of pain. For months these vehicles have carried him and his men through the desert, surviving battles, sabotage and even the Rat Patrol, only to be destroyed needlessly. For a moment the absurd notion comes to his mind that he sees himself repeating the ways of his father, the Cavalry officer. More than once, Hans has heard the story, how the Prussian Rittmeister has shot his loyal warhorse at the end of the Great War, once it has fulfilled its purpose on the battlefield and would have required too much effort to be nursed back to health after being torn half apart by barbed wires. The first time he has heard the grim tale as a boy, it has brought tears to his eyes, a reaction which has earned him a severe beating and a lecture on how such a display of emotion is inappropriate for a future officer.
With conscious effort, the young Captain pushes the memories to the back of his mind and focuses on the situation at hand. Atkins is staring at him with narrowed eyes, as he has not received an answer beyond a nod for several seconds and the glazed eyes of the German Captain could indicate battle fatigue. "I will provide the instructions as ordered, Sir", Dietrich confirms sternly, as his footage in reality takes hold again. "I wonder whether leaving you on duty is a good idea", Atkins growls warily. "I will decide that in two hours, depending on your success with the kraut infiltrator, Captain." The lean young officer tenses at the threat and insult, but keeps his expression neutral, staring at a point several centimeters above Atkins' right shoulder. "You're dismissed, gentlemen!", the General snaps at them, turning back to his desk where he picks up the evidence and starts to look at the documents. All of the seven soldiers could not be more happy than to leave his presence. With a sharp salute that Dietrich's men imitate with far less precision than their Captain, they leave the tent.
"That vile...", Troy starts cursing, as soon as they have left the tent. "Sergeant", Dietrich interrupts him. "Not here and now", the German officer pronounces in a way of warning that all his men heed. "Prince John has been infamous for his temper after all", Moffit comments meaningfully. Troy glares over his shoulder at the General's tent, but stays silent. "How do we approach this task, Captain?", Moffit asks the German calmly who leads them to the edge of the camp finding an elevated position where they can observe their surroundings to detect potential eavesdroppers with ease. "Sergeant Troy. Coordinate with Sergeant Williamson who of you will take command of securing which part of the evacuation process!", Dietrich instructs calmly. "There is little sympathy between Lieutenant Griffith and me, but I don't suspect the man of being a traitor or acting in a backstabbing manner. He is far too straightforward for this and too stubborn to be easily manipulated, like yourself, Troy. This is why I wanted him in charge of the motorpool and gasoline depot." Troy nods grimly. Nobody can accuse the German officer of not being diligent with his considerations and planning.
The Captain meets eyes with Troy and then each of the men around him as he continues arguing: "However, this mentality will not save him from someone else taking out his men. As we have seen from the nurse's attack and the attack against Captain Boggs and me today, Sara Westwood has distributed drugs and syringes among her fellow traitors who know how to apply them to take out essential commanders or guards. Through the nurse's death, they have lost their supply though, as the medical personnel are particularly wary now and paying attention to inconsistencies. We already had the attack against Captain Boggs and the coordination headquarters of this camp which has resulted in increased security and will likely not be repeated. Although the sickbay is critical infrastructure, it is not likely that it will be a target for an attack, as too many wounded are Axis soldiers who would be affected and the infiltrators cannot hit any high ranking officers except for Major Bracken who has been off duty for days, since arriving in this camp even, and Major Turner who barely survived yesterday's attack. For a similar reason, attacking the POW transport makes rather little sense, although inciting a prisoners uprising would. I have specifically warned Lieutenant Carlos. The radio is critical infrastructure, but there is nothing to be gained from destroying it, as we have several mobile radios on the Jeeps. Poisoning the food and water supply takes too long to take effect and contains the risk of killing the traitors along with the rest of us. This leaves the motor pool and fuel depots as potential targets on the one hand, as well as the ammunition and weapons depots on the other hand as the most attractive targets for quickly and easily causing massive damage. Move through camp regularly to also check for suspicious activities in the other locations in case I am wrong, but focus your efforts mainly on these two evacuation areas. You take one of them, Williamson the other. I suggest you take Corporal Humphreys with your team and send Private Walker to support the Australians."
Sam Troy nods in acknowledgement. "Good thinking, Captain. I'll take the fuel depot and motor pool. If I have to look through one more storage rack, I'll kill these damned fools who built them this way myself." While Jack Moffit looks confused at Troy's ire, Dietrich smirks at the memory of unintentionally startling the American Sergeant during his search. "We would not wish to lose our logistics experts, as who would take care of storage and supply then? You, Sergeant, after your vast experience accumulated yesterday?", the German comments dryly. "You're still a Jerry smartass, Captain!", Troy growls in annoyance as he absentmindedly rubs his head at the spot where a small lump has formed from hitting the damned narrow shelf. The tall officer looks more bemused than angry at the insult, as he raises his eyebrows, quietly muttering in a sarcastic tone: "Am I now?"
"Doctor Moffit, Jakob", Dietrich starts out with the intention to leave the subject and focus on their next task at hand, as Troy interrupts him. "Wouldn't it be more efficient, if you would call us by our nicknames or shortened titles as well, Captain? We really don't consider it a lack of respect. And we totally don't mind calling you Captain in return, since you don't like the close affinity." "That you are even able to use the title has not been my impression from at least a third of you", Hans Dietrich argues sarcastically, as he looks from Hitchcock to Pettigrew. "We always use the title with you, Cap", Tully protests biting on his matchstick, while Hitch reviews whether swallowing his chewing gum completely might be a good idea when faced with an annoyed Dietrich. "Thank you for proving my point, Private Pettigrew", the German Captain drawls sarcastically. "That's basically the same anyways, Captain, they mean it, when they say 'Cap'. We told you that already and you've tolerated it for days", Troy argues. "I have, based on your explanation and giving you the benefit of the doubt. But what you suggest is completely different, Troy. Do not expect that I will lower myself to your level of impropriety! On duty such behaviour as calling soldiers under my command by their given names or abbreviations is absolutely inappropriate", the tall officer argues sternly. "So we'll wait till you're off duty, when it is appropriate", Troy replies with a grin. "What am I going to do with you, Sergeant?", Dietrich grinds out in annoyance, as he glares at the insolent American.
"You might call me Sam for a start", the Sergeant suggests with a grin, ignoring that the question has been intended to be rhetorical. "Don't try my patience, Troy!", the German officer snaps with his nerves worn to a frazzle. "It was just a well-meaning suggestion, Captain", the American Sergeant tries to calm him in a more friendly tone. "Save them for when this war is over", the young German sighs wearily. "Promise me that you'll not try to get yourself killed before then and I'll do just that", Troy replies with a serious tone. Dietrich scowls and appears somewhat uncomfortable. "I'm not trying to get myself killed." Moffit interrupts: "With all due respect, donating your own blood, when barely stable and far from fit, jumping into snake pits or drawing the attention and attacks of automatic guns' marksmen hardly leaves this impression, Captain." "I have an obligation and certain principles to uphold, Sergeant", the German officer practically snarls as his body takes a defensive stance subconsciously. "Please calm down, Hans! They really don't doubt your honorability for a second, just your intention to not risk your own life and health, when you never would risk any of your men's lives", Jakob speaks calmly with his friend, placing his hand on the taller man's left shoulder to gain his attention and focus. His friend sighs deeply and wearily, trying to regain his cool manner.
"So how do we approach this interrogation, Captain?", Jack Moffit directs them back to their original topic from which they have been sidetracked far enough. "We need to employ some sort of trick, because I am unwilling to start using brute force now after avoiding to do so for years", Dietrich growls with determination. "That this bastard even asks this of you", Troy snarls lividly, glaring in righteous anger over the General's orders. "Homo homini lupo", Jack comments. "Man is a wolf toward man. Fear makes men behave like beasts and General Atkins fears the unknown, after having come closer to death than he likely has in many years. You must not forget that we all are frontline soldiers, except for you, Lieutenant Silberblatt." Jakob nods with a dejected expression, while the Brit continues: "We all have faced death often enough in the past months to not be as affected as he has been by seeing his guards murdered and his Major shot down right next to him." Dietrich nods and supports his assessment. "Doctor Moffit is absolutely right. This is also the reason why I did not do more than voice my protest. I have more than enough experience with authorities driven by fear, hatred or fanaticism and know by now when an arrest or court martial is a serious risk."
"So what's the plan, Captain?", Troy inquires with narrowed eyes, more angry at the General than at the German who is in a much tighter spot than he has realised until now which explains his guarded and defensive behaviour. "Our problem is that time is essential here, so all subtle maneuvers are ruled out by this constraint. This is the typical reason for the SS or Gestapo to employ their infamous methods applied for ... motivating people to confess", the young Captain argues with a grim expression. "Like all professional interrogators, they know best that nothing gains cooperation faster than taking away basic human needs like drinking in the desert heat or breathing even by drowning their victims in water. Humiliation to the degree of dehumanization, mutilation and threats against the whole family are also fast and efficient. But none of these methods I have ever employed willingly or ever wish to employ them. However, our prisoner does not have to know that." The American Sergeant scowls, while Moffit inquires curiously: "So what kind of threat do you have in mind?" Dietrich raises his eyebrows in a calculating expression.
"Physical threats of torture are not very believable for a man who has played his role as a U.S. army member for more than a month and knows that certain laws and means of protection exist. However, threatening him that we would have the SS and Gestapo turn against him and start arresting and hunting down his family back in Germany might be effective. All I require is a portable radio, Lieutenant Williams' cooperation and you two", he points at Moffit and Silberblatt, "playing along to make him believe we are reporting his betrayal on the German frequency to their nearby headquarters. He does not fear us, but like every German he fears the SS coming after his family and friends." Troy grins sardonically. "That's truly mean of you, Captain." "Desperate times call for desperate measures", the tall officer replies coolly. "I'm really glad you're not our enemy anymore, Captain Fox Kit", Troy replies, patting the younger Captain on the left shoulder who growls "Troy!" In annoyance at the nickname and treatment, glaring at the Sergeant.
"So what exactly is your plan, Hans?", Jakob Silberblatt asks with concern and curiosity. "I intend to confront and question our treacherous infiltrator", his friend pulls the Wehrpass document from his pocket and reads the name, "Major Heinrich von Gelder." Troy looks at the lean German Captain incredulously, as he interrupts the young officer: "Did you seriously nick that guy's document from under the General's nose, Captain?" "I was under the impression that the General is not in a particularly cooperative mood to leave this with me, even for the sake of a ruse to obtain the Major's confession", the German replies coolly. "Didn't I tell you he's a sleight of hands expert?", Jakob announces almost proudly, while his friend glares at him. "I'm not a thief!" "But a damn good pickpocket for an honest man", Tully Pettigrew comments to their astonishment. "I'm really proud to serve under you, Cap."
Recovering from his bafflement at the totally unexpected statement from the silent soldier, the young officer replies with a smirk: "When I find myself in the necessity to turn to such means for a living, you'll be the first man I hire for my Mafia Clan, Pettigrew." Tully looks truly proud, as he shifts his matchstick to the corner of his mouth and smiles widely. "You can always count on me, Cap!" Troy and Silberblatt protest almost simultaneously, if this is how he treats his friends which makes Jack Moffit laugh silently, while Hitch and Gotty observe the scene with amusement and incredulity respectively. "None of you has Pettigrew's criminal affinity and talent, as you both have to admit", Dietrich counters dryly. "But you are of course welcome to join as a hitman or con artist." "Wait and see, Al Capone!", Troy snaps at him. "Don't start a new theme for nicknames, Troy!", the German snaps. "I didn't. That's all your own doing. But I'm really impressed, Captain. It takes guts to do that right under the General's nose", the American Sergeant argues in a more moderate tone, adding with a grin: "You'll be a brilliant commando officer, if you're coming up with stuff like that regularly."
"So what about the plan, Hans?", Jakob asks his friend who looks torn between considering the last statement an insult or an honest compliment. "You go to Lieutenant Williams and man our radio for the time of the ruse, Jakob", Dietrich answers with a serious tone. "Answer with the location and identity of the German Headquarters in Cyrenaica. One of the officers frequently on the radio is Leutnant Franz Kronstätter. You have to make your voice sound a bit more smoky and speak in a clipped manner to pretend to be him." Jakob tries this for a few minutes, until his friend is content with the result, also making him repeat the German identification codes and protocols for such radio calls. As they don't know the real code phrases, they agree on an authentically sounding one Hans has invented. Sam Troy is exchanging utterly bemused looks with Jack Moffit, while Hitch whispers to Tully: "That's pretty smart. Why didn't we come up with something like this before?" Pettigrew shrugs, shifts his matchstick and simply replies: "Cap's pretty smart." Riku Gottschlich looks torn between admiration and incredulity at the devious maneuver, listening intently to the German phrases and repeating them quietly to learn them as well.
After providing his friend with a list of names and titles of German officers of the Wehrmacht and the SS to authentically make the man believe that the report will be given directly to the appropriate authorities, Dietrich nods quite contently. "That sounds really authentic, Captain", Troy comments, sounding slightly impressed. "How did you come up with such an idea so quickly?" "You're not the only ones of my enemies who have taught me well. Waldheim and Metzlich, the SS officers of my base, have used this as a demoralizing tactic against me, letting me listen to the report of my death sentence for treason and the Wehrmacht's headquarters' affirmation before their afternoon interrogation", Dietrich replies with a grim expression and harsh tone. All men present avert their gazes sheepishly and Troy even apologizes for the question. "You have no need to apologise, Sergeant. Given what our past entails it was a perfectly valid question", the German officer replies sternly which brings a saddened expression to Troy's and Silberblatt's face, as the statement marks the still remaining distance between the German Captain and his men quite clearly, independent of the trust he has professionally.
"So what will be my part in your scheme, Captain?", Jack Moffit tries to interrupt the awkward silence that has settled after the young officer's statement. "You are temporarily promoted to radio officer, Sergeant Moffit. I will send one of the guards to fetch you. Make sure to arrive with a portable radio after a believable time of two or three minutes. I will argue that I want a man from my own unit who I can trust and who understands German as well which leaves only you and is consistent with our behaviour of the last days. This being a valid SS interrogation tactic hopefully makes it all the more believable and with luck our man cracks without us having to actually use force or denounce him." "Excellent, Holmes", the British scholar speaks with honest acknowledgment. "Elementary, my dear Watson", the German Captain replies with a sly grin, enjoying Hitchcock's dumbstruck expression who would not have expected the young officer to pick his quotes up so quickly.
"Looks like you're gonna have all the fun with your drama plays, while we'll do the actual hard work", Troy comments with a grin. "Quod licet Iovi, non licet bovi", Dietrich replies dryly. "Not that Latin curse again!", the American Sergeant complains, while Jack smiles at the German officer with open sympathy. "You're truly a man of education and style, Captain." "What does it mean?", Hitch asks curiously. The Captain invites the British scholar to provide an answer with a motion of his open hand. "What Jove, meaning Jupiter, may do, the ox may not", Jack translates with a grin. "You're calling me an ox again, Captain?", Troy protests. "What kind of way is that to treat a friend?" "The way you deserve Sergeant. And you are not actually my friend, but experiencing a period of probation which you can end anytime, if you feel annoyed", the German Captain counters dryly. "I forgot how often you said this Latin quote to me, when we were still in high school", Jakob comments with a grin. "It's really sarcastic, but not intended as an insult, Sergeant Troy", the Jewish Lieutenant addresses the American who glares at the German after the last statement. "I know", comes Troy's more humorous reply. "I've had to live with Jack for months after all." Dietrich and Moffit exchange meaningful looks. "We'll try not to feel too offended, old man", the Brit comments and the German adds: "Which would be hard, if you had compared me to anyone else but your most civilised and educated unit member." "Bunch of smartasses, both of you", Troy counters and turns to Silberblatt. "Are you sure you don't want to stay as my backup against these two?" Jakob laughs heartily. "I'm sure you can manage in your own, Sergeant Troy."
"Now that our strategy is clear and settled, you can turn towards your respective duties, gentlemen", the tall German Captain addresses them in a serious tone. "Fine with me. Let's shake it!", Troy replies with a grin, content that for once the young officer does not wince at the words, but nods in agreement. "We'll meet you later, as soon as we are finished with the interrogation. Express my gratitude to Sergeant Williamson for the Australians' support!", Hans Dietrich tells Troy calmly. "Moffit, Jakob, you turn towards your objectives, while I start speaking with our infiltrator." "Alles klar, Hans", Jakob confirms. "I will meet you later, Captain, and organise the radio in the meantime", the Brit adds. "Take care and don't get injured, Captain! Or I'll never let you go anywhere without one of us as a bodyguard ever again", Troy comments, seeing the proud German officer scowl in annoyance. "I'm quite capable of taking care of myself", the Captain snaps indignantly. "Sure you are", the American Sergeant tries to calm him down. "But you're pretty badly injured and not at your top state of health." Dietrich frowns, but refrains from commenting on the obvious, stating instead: "I trust that you and your men will do your best to keep the camp safe." "We will, Cap", Hitch pipes enthusiastically, while Tully shifts his matchstick and nods in affirmation. Gotty salutes properly and Troy confirms: "Sure as hell we will, Captain." Then the threesome follows the Sergeant toward the motor pool, while the other three split up immediately.
Hans Dietrich turns in the direction of the interrogation tent, when Fritz comes running toward him with joyful yelps. "Selbstsüchtiger kleiner Schurke, wo hast du dich schon wieder herumgetrieben, Fritz?", the German asks the selfish little rogue where he has been all the while. The friendly bark he receives as an answer tells absolutely nothing. "Komm, Fritz. Aber sei still!", the Captain orders, hoping to keep the little dog under control by telling him to come along and stay silent. Fritz follows him obediently in silence, happy to stay with his master. The guards at the tent look briefly stunned at the sight of the duo, but let the Captain enter immediately. The German infiltrator has been cuffed to the chair with both arms and his look turns hateful, as he recognizes the defector who purposefully takes a straight stance and salutes properly, before giving a hand sign to Fritz who lies down quietly. Panting, the little dog observes his young master intently until he loses interest and curls up to doze.
"Verräterschwein. Leider habe ich dich nicht erwischt!", the German infiltrator spits his insults, cursing the traitor and that he did not manage to injure him previously. Dietrich narrows his eyes at the clear threat and insult, but schools his face into a neutral expression. "So sieht man sich also wieder, Major Heinrich von Gelder", Hans addresses the German officer with an icy tone, as the infiltrator gapes at him in clear astonishment, when the younger man declares that this is how they meet again, addressing him with his German name and rank title. "Woher kennen Sie meinen Namen?", the older officer snarls lividly. "Aus Ihren offiziellen Dokumenten, Herr Major", Hans Dietrich replies dryly that he knows the man's name from his official documents, purposefully drawing the Wehrpass from his pocket where he has put it after showing it to the Rats. Observing the other German from the corner of his eyes, the younger officer starts to prepare his trap. "Wir wissen beide, wie das ablaufen wird, Herr Major. Ich werde Sie befragen, Sie werden mir außer Name, Rang und Seriennummer nichts sagen. Dann wird mit Gewalt gedroht, die die Amerikaner in ihrer Güte und Sanftmut nur in Maßen angewandt haben wollen." The German Major scowls when Dietrich argues that they both know the futility of the interrogation, starting with simple questions the other will answer with name, rank and serial number only, before the defected Captain will have to threaten his opponent with violence which the Americans in their softheartedness will not allow sufficiently to gain any results.
"Daher werde ich gleich zu den Methoden kommen, die ich von den Besten der Besten gelernt habe, der SS und der Gestapo", Dietrich comments with a sneer that he will immediately employ the methods he has learned from the best of the best, the SS and Gestapo. Now the other German officer looks actually nervous, especially since he can see that none of the American soldiers acting as his guards understands even a single word spoken between them. "Sie glauben an Ihr Vaterland und würden es nicht verraten, Herr Major. Aber wir wissen beide, dass unser Heimatland sich nicht um uns oder unsere Familien schert, ganz im Gegenteil. Beim ersten Anzeichen von Verrat werden wir ausgestoßen und unsere Lieben erbarmungslos gejagt, verhaftet und in ein KZ geschickt, egal ob sie etwas verbrochen haben oder unschuldig sind." Hans does not have to fake the tone of bitterness and loathing, as he argues that he knows the Major to be loyal to his fatherland, while this homeland does not care in the least about them or their families, having them cast out, arrested and sent to a concentration camp without mercy, independent of whether they are guilty or innocent.
"Was haben Sie vor, Dietrich?", the German officer asks harshly what is his intention, having noticed the emotion in the traitor's voice. A hint of actual worry and fear are audible for Dietrich, although von Gelder keeps both well hidden. "Call Sergeant Moffit and tell him to bring a portable radio along! I want a radio officer who knows some German and who I can trust", the German Captain orders one of the guards instead of answering his prisoner's question. "Wir werden das deutsche Hauptquartier über Ihren Verrat verständigen, Herr Major", Dietrich replies with a devious smile that they will call the German HQ to inform them about the Major's treason. "Das glaubt man Ihnen niemals, Dietrich. Sie sind selbst ein Verräter", the German Major argues that they will not believe Dietrich, as he is a traitor himself. The German Captain employs another devious smile. "Selbstverständlich glaubt niemand dem ehemaligen Hauptmann Hans Dietrich, aber dem Agenten der Abwehr, Peter Holte, der erst gestern ums Leben kam, was das Hauptquartier nicht notwendigerweise weiß, glaubt man sehr wohl, oder dem SS Sturmbannführer, Gustav Kral, Deckname Wüstenadler 3." Now the German officer pales visibly, as Hans Dietrich argues that of course they would not believe him, the traitor, but the Abwehr agent Peter Holte, killed only yesterday, which the HQ does not necessarily know, or the SS Sturmbannführer Gustav Kral are definitely believable sources for his superiors. His prisoner obviously recognizes the names of his co-conspirators and wonders how they have learned their identities so quickly in spite of killing the men who have not borne any identification of their German identities. That the German defector is even able to produce the SS man's codename truly worries the Abwehr agent who has paled slightly.
Moffit enters, as the German Major stares at the young Captain with an expression full of hatred and loathing, while Dietrich bears his triumphant smile of a successfully sprung trap. Obviously, the two German officers are playing cat and mouse and the Captain looks exactly like the cat playing with its unwitting prey. "Sergeant Moffit", Dietrich addresses him with a jovial tone and smile that obviously serves to further disconcert their prisoner. "Thank you for bringing the radio along. I need you to select the German frequency for long distance communication", he adds the exact frequency and further details, observing the German Major sharply who recognizes that all information is actually authentic. Then, the German Captain waves two guards over to them. "Gag this man and stand close to him to assure that he does not interrupt the radio call!" Both guards affirm and follow through with the command immediately, holding the glaring prisoner in place. "If you wish me to stop this procedure and provide a full confession, you need only signal this by tapping the fingers of your right hand on the armrest of your chair, Major von Gelder", Dietrich tells his prisoner smoothly in English, not bothering to switch to German anymore. Major von Gelder glares at the traitor with hatred and loathing which the younger German officer completely ignores.
"Deutsches Hauptquartier, bitte kommen. Wüstenadler an Adlerhorst", Moffit repeats in slightly accented German the call for the German headquarters, repeating their codename desert eagle calling aerie. "Hier spricht Adlerhorst", a clipped harsh voice answers on the prearranged frequency which is of course not the frequency Hans Dietrich has announced for the deception of their captive. Both men would not have recognized Jakob Silberblatt, if they would not have heard the Lieutenant training with the German Captain beforehand. Fritz briefly looks up, as he notices the commotion and sees his master walking over from the desk to the radio set, but returns to dozing quietly, as he sees that nobody pays him any attention. Hans Dietrich takes the microphone from Moffit and leaves it on speaker mode for all in the room to listen to what is spoken. "Adlerhorst, hier spricht Wüstenadler 3, Erkennungssequenz 4-3-5-1-9-7-7", he speaks into the microphone with an even more clipped tone than he usually employs when speaking in his mother tongue, as he identifies himself with his codename and passphrase number which they have pre-arranged, counting on the SS not to share this information with the Wehrmacht officers. All the while, the German Major observes him with a hawk-like expression, as his forehead starts to show beads of sweat. "Wüstenadler 3, Sie sind identifiziert", Jakob confirms the identification. "Was haben Sie zu berichten, Herr Sturmbannführer?" The German Major's eyes widen, as he clutches the armrests so tightly that his knuckles turn white.
"Ich habe einen Verräter zu melden, Leutnant Kronstätter", Dietrich states sternly that he has to denounce a traitor. "Einer der Abwehroffiziere hat den Amerikanern alles gestanden und sich eine gute Behandlung ausgehandelt." When he starts to spin the tale that one of the officers of Abwehr has confessed everything to the Americans to negotiate a good deal for himself, von Gelder finally starts tapping the armrest with a frantic look. At Dietrich's signal, Moffit turns the radios frequency modulator slightly, making white noise audible which overlays the signal. "Wir sind wohl von einem Sandsturm betroffen. Ich melde mich später. Wüstenadler aus", the German argues smoothly that they are affected by a sandstorm and he will call back later, as his Sergeant ends the connection.
"Wie ich sehe, haben Sie sich für den vernünftigen Weg entschieden, Herr Major", the Captain sneers at the other German that he has finally decided on the reasonable way, as he indicates one of the guards to remove the prisoner's gag. "Let's continue this interrogation in English for the sake of our irritated young guards, Herr Major. You have proven quite capable of speaking the language. Sergeant Moffit, would you do me the honours to write the official protocol of this interrogation?" Jack recognizes the sharp command, even if it is hidden in a polite phrase. Their latest interaction and human revelations have almost let him forget what a devious and dangerous foe Hans Dietrich can be, if he puts his mind into it. Not for the first time, Jack Moffit is relieved to know that the German Hauptmann has been forced onto their side by the SS and his own immoral high command. However, if not for the man's honorability and loyalty, he would be worried when rather than if the Captain will abandon his new side given how he is treated by the General and struggling against authorities and their morally grey orders all over again.
"Major von Gelder, I want ALL the names and cover identities of your co-infiltrators as well as the identity of ALL the men and women you have manipulated to participate in your conspiracy", the young Captain demands sharply. After sighing wearily, the German Major starts to talk, providing them with a detailed list of names including all the men already uncovered and arrested as well as one remaining SS infiltrator and two additional American soldiers who have been set up to perform acts of violence against their comrades during the evacuation, while seven of the soldiers innocently arrested during the last night and currently awaiting the interrogation are cleared of suspicion. "Arrest Private Frank Miller, Private Ian Vernon and Corporal Liam Hampsmill immediately!", Dietrich sends three of the guards off with a sharp command, as soon as he has heard the names.
Then, the lean Captain turns back to the interrogation: "What resources do you have available, Herr Major, and where do you keep the rest of your sabotage materials hidden?" The German officer looks truly troubled, but finally reveals their stashes one after the other and even provides detailed descriptions of where to find them and how they are hidden at Dietrich's prodding. Hans glimpses at Jack Moffit who diligently notes all information in detail, deciding that they will check this out later following through with their security duty. This is definitely a task for which the German Captain feels safer when performing it in collaboration with Troy and the rest of the Rats.
"What has been your intention, when infiltrating this camp, Herr Major?", Dietrich inquires. "You are a member of Abwehr, thus I would not have expected you to plot with the SS against Generalfeldmarschall Rommel and the Wehrmacht." The German Major von Gelder stares at him incredulously. "What kind of nonsense is that? Our goal has always been deep infiltration to get the worst and most dangerous commando units of the LRDG, such as the Rat Patrol, captured or killed in a set trap." Dietrich pales visibly, as he realizes that until three weeks ago he would have considered the man a hero for this attempt and supported him wholeheartedly in his scheme, as nothing would have made him more happy than finally seeing Troy and his pack of Rats arrested and sent to a POW camp. Now, he is interrogating the man, threatening him with denunciation to the German immoral authorities and actually the commander of the infamous commando unit. With a strangled tone, the younger German officer comments harshly: "Until my own death sentence through the SS for a treason I had not actually committed back then, I would have supported you to the best of my abilities, Herr Major. But I have realized the error of my ways in supporting the Nazis and chosen to set my homeland free as best I can and through the allies remaining to me. So you did not know about the SS men's plan to abduct or assassinate General Atkins or Major Turner?" von Gelder averts his eyes. "We have been aware that they had such plans, but as long as they did not interfere with our infiltration, we have not tried to stop them."
Dietrich eyes him with a grim expression, as he growls: "You are aware that the successful execution of their plan would have been a harder blow for Generalfeldmarschall Rommel und das Deutsche Afrikakorps than for the Allies who could have replaced them through other officers." The German Major glares at the defected German Captain with an expression of hatred and loathing. "Don't pretend that you would care about the Feldmarschall and the Afrikakorps! You have betrayed, you double crossing snake!" Dietrich jumps to his feet with a similar expression of loathing, as he snarls: "I have spent two years in this desert, fighting for Rommel and obeying his commands and moral standards rather than Berlin's which has cost me my career and my life almost. Don't you dare accuse me of willingly betraying my mentor! I fight against the Nazis and the SS foremost, not my former comrades in arms from the Afrikakorps, unless I have to." Fritz curls up and hides his snout between his front paws, as he keeps his ears drooped in fear at his master's angry tone. The German Major looks as taken aback at the passionate statement as does Jack Moffit who sees his evaluation confirmed that the German Captain would never have turned against his mentor and his comrades in arms willingly, unless dire circumstances have forced him to do so. Reining in his temper by taking a deep breath, the younger German officer continues to speak in a more controlled voice: "So, let us return to the matter at hand. What have been your intentions beyond gathering information from within the LRDG? Why did you create your network of conspirators, Herr Major?"
As the German Captain and the British Sergeant continue with their interrogation, Sam Troy has sent Tully and Gotty along with their new man Corporal Humphreys to check the gasoline depot, while he and Hitch patrol along Griffith's men preparing the motorpool for departure, fueling every vehicle and equipping the Jeeps with weapons, ammunition and armament. "What did you put into your jacket, you bloody traitor?", they hear one of the soldiers shout with a heavy Australian accent. "I didn't do anything illegal, you douchebag!", an American snarls closeby. "Shut up, you oafs!", a Brit admonishes both. A groan immediately afterwards indicates the start of a brawl. "We need to split that up and find out what's happening!", Troy orders, as he starts running toward the commotion. "'Kay, Sarge", Hitch confirms and runs after him immediately. "Stop that now!", the American Sergeant bellows and grabs the American soldier who has struck the Brit down with his fist, while fending off the Australian who has started to attack him immediately. "Yeah. Stop it!", Hitch tries to intervene similarly to how Dietrich has done it, when separating him from his brawling opponent, as he has defended Gotty, pushing the man back with his left hand. Unfortunately, the Aussie does not consider Hitch any kind of authority and the Private's American uniform even makes him suspect foul play instead. Without hesitation, the man strikes Mark straight into the face with his balled fist. As he can feel and hear the bone of his nose breaking, Hitch merely sees stars exploding in front of his eyes, while he collapses to the ground with a groan.
"Stop this now, Private!", Troy barks with a tone that demands obedience and the Aussie indeed lowers his balled fists. "What's this all about?", Troy growls angrily. "This traitor was hiding something in his jacket", the Australian points at the American soldier Troy holds in a tight grip, fixating his arm to his back. "Yeah. My own pack of cigarettes which has dropped out of my pocket while preparing the Jeep", the red-haired young man argues. "I'm no traitor or infiltrator. You can check in my jacket pocket." The Aussie steps closer, as Troy orders: "Check the jacket pocket!" Indeed only a crumpled package with three cigarettes is revealed by the search. "You idiots stop fighting over nothing!", Troy growls his command harshly and the two soldiers nod sheepishly, while the Brit checks Hitch's broken nose and helps him back to his feet. "He should go to sickbay, Sergeant", the young man tells Troy with concern, as the American Sergeant smiles at the Brit. "I'll take him there. Thank you, Private." "My pleasure, Sergeant", the Brit answers. "You two came to help me after all."
"You gotta admit, Hitch, you just don't have Dietrich's natural aura of stern authority", Troy comments with a grin, as he leads the young Private with his bleeding broken nose into the sickbay after listening to the young man's complaint why imitating the Captain has not worked. "How does he do that?", Hitch wonders, as he tries to quench the bleeding of his nose with his jacket sleeve. "I mean you've got the authority of age on your side, Sarge." Troy glares at him, which Mark does not notice, as he continues babbling: "But Dietrich's even younger than me and still has this natural authority." "I'd say the guy's been bred and groomed to be the archetypal German officer. It's just as natural as breathing for him", Troy comments sharply, before shouting: "Anyone here? I've got a patient for you." Hitch's girlfriend is the first nurse to approach them, as the others continue with preparing the evacuation.
"Mark, what happened?", Lisa Hartigan demands to know in a stern command tone that rivals the German Captain's far better than Hitch's has. "Tried to end a fight and got caught right in the middle", Hitch explains with a tone pleading for her compassion. "Look at that", he points at his bruised chin, "and that" he shows his bleeding nose. "It really hurts to be a hero." "Leave that to your Captain or Sergeant Troy, Mark. They have far more experience with this", the nurse replies grumbling. "But...", Hitch tries to protest, only to be interrupted. "Don't you dare to argue with me, when you appear in my sickbay all beaten up and bleeding!" Squeezing his mouth tightly shut, the young American just nods, intent not to annoy her any more than has already happened. "I have to return to the motor pool, Hitch. But you're in good hands I trust", Troy tells his young Private, squeezing his shoulder in a gesture of support. "The best", Hitch adds immediately which finally earns him a friendly smile from Lisa. This reassures his Sergeant that he does not have to worry about his Private, since he can start flirting with his girlfriend again.
As Troy returns to the motor pool, a young American soldier, but not the one involved in the brawl with the Aussie and the Brit, is arrested by a grim looking Sergeant from Atkins' unit. "What's going on?", Sam asks him immediately. "Captain's order", the man replies curtly, as he continues to lead his prisoner along. "Boggs ordered this?", Troy asks incredulously. "No, Captain Dietrich did", the grim looking man replies. "Why did Dietrich order his arrest?", Troy wants to know. "You can ask the Captain yourself", comes the answer. Deciding that this is more important now than staying in the motor pool for the next ten minutes, Troy growls back: "I will do just that right away."
Both Dietrich and Moffit look up in surprise as in addition to their second arrested conspirator, Sam Troy enters the tent. Fritz jumps to his feet immediately and with a friendly yelp up on his friend's thigh, until Dietrich's command "Fritz, aus! Platz! Still!" efficiently stops him and sends him back to lying silently on the ground, although the little dog is trying his best puppy eyes looking pleadingly at the humans to receive enough pity to be saved from his misery. "Why did you have the guy, both guys here arrested, Captain?", Troy asks cautiously. "Because according to Major von Gelder's confession they are involved in the conspiracy and have been manipulated and brainwashed, Sergeant", Dietrich replies sharply. "Or did you think I have American soldiers arrested for the mere fun of being reminded of old times? In that case, you can rest assured that you would have been the first one to be arrested, Troy." Sam Troy smiles grimly at the last statement spoken with some dark humor unlike the first one. The young German Captain's nerves have definitely not remained unaffected by the events of the past few days. "Return to your post, Sergeant!", Dietrich orders in a more moderate tone. "We will hopefully pick you up from there after reporting to the General." "Good luck for that, Captain!", Troy wishes him honestly, as Atkins currently ranks pretty low on the list of men he trusts to act reasonably and fairly. "Thank you, Sergeant", the lean German replies with honesty as well as some concern audible underneath.
As soon as the last infiltrator, the SS spy, is brought into the tent and put into handcuffs for security, Hans Dietrich breathes a sigh of relief. Once they are finished with the German Major's interrogation and Moffit has wrapped up his report, the German Captain stands up to provide their findings and results of the interrogation to Atkins, knowing that the American General expects his report within two hours or he will take him off duty for lack of competence in his current state. "You need not come with me, Sergeant", the German officer tells Moffit with a serious tone. "En contraire, mon Capitan. I definitely have to. On the one hand, Troy would take my head off, if I let you go through this ordeal all alone, on the other hand I would not feel comfortable letting you receive the General's paranoia and anger without any support or backup." A brief smile appears on the Captain's grim face, as he mutters: "Thank you, Moffit!" Then, his previous dark expression settles on his features again. "You shouldn't have to worry, Captain. You did a really brilliant job with that trick of yours", Jack tries to calm the younger man. "Years of experience with superiors driven by anything but rationality have taught me that this often is not enough", the German Captain counters grimly.
Fritz gets onto his feet to follow his master quietly, when he leaves the tent with the unfriendly British Sergeant who has always been wary of the dog. The General's guards salute to the German Captain and his British Sergeant, as both approach with determined steps. Hans Dietrich returns the salute with his left arm and pauses upon entering, as the soldier asks: "Is the mutt with you, Captain?" "Yes. Leave him be!", the German officer orders sternly, as he sees the American point his gun at the little dog trotting toward them. "Fritz. Still!", his master commands and Fritz just wags his tail in return. Not trusting the soldiers not to shoot the little stray, the Captain does not order him to stay outside, but walks into the tent, closely followed by Moffit and Fritz. "General Atkins", Dietrich addresses the older officer in ways of a greeting, struggling to provide a salute with his right arm, just to prove his ability to do so, even though he has to clench his teeth to suppress a groan of pain. "Captain Dietrich ", Atkins replies with the lurking tone of a predator circling its prey. "I trust you have been successful."
"Indeed, Sir", the German officer replies coolly. "The Major has provided a full confession, revealing their plans, co-conspirators and remaining stashes. The two men of Captain Boggs unit still involved have already been arrested on my command, as well as the last remaining SS infiltrator Major von Gelder has informed us about." The American General twirls his moustache with a content expression. "Your report, Captain!" Dietrich provides a detailed report of the Abwehr agents' espionage intention as well as creating a small cell of double agents who have not even been aware of how they have been brainwashed and manipulated. With diligence that is his trademark as a German officer, the young Captain describes the rivaling interests of the SS and Abwehr agents along with resulting quarrels and distrust between the two groups of German spies to which Atkins listens with furrowed brows and his face contorted into a mask of hatred and loathing. Finally, the lean German provides Moffit's diligently written list of SS and Abwehr infiltrators, their brainwashed conspirators, as well as their secret stashes and supplies.
"Excellent. How did you get the man to talk, Captain?", Atkins inquires with a sadistic tone, twirling his moustache. Dietrich furrows his eyebrows, before providing a curt explanation: "With the support of Sergeant Moffit and Lieutenant Silberblatt, I have managed to trick the man into believing that we would denounce him to the German HQ for treason under the guise of his former SS conspirator." Atkins barks a laugh of cruel amusement, wiping a few beads of sweat from his forehead. "That's what I have gotten me one of Rommel's finest for after all. You're about as troublesome as this mutt of yours, Captain", Atkins kicks Fritz viciously in the side, as the little dog has started sniffing at the desk legs with curiosity. With his tail between his legs, the brown mutt runs to Dietrich and presses against his boots after a frantic yowl of pain, as the General continues with a harsh and cruel tone: "But you're also as loyal as that critter is toward you." The German Captain has balled his left hand into a fist and gritted his teeth at the infuriating insults as much as at the coldblooded and cruel treatment of the harmless little dog. Suppressing the urge of jumping at the General's throat physically or verbally costs him real effort. "I suggest that you allow me to provide a report to Captain Boggs, before calling back my men to check on the revealed stashes. I would leave the Australians and Texans on duty just in case the Major did not reveal everybody, Sir", Dietrich grits out with barely veiled loathing for the man in front of him.
As Atkins puts the German Captain under scrutiny with a calculating stare, Jack Moffit puts his hand on the younger officer's shoulder who tenses immediately at the touch. "Captain Dietrich", the Brit merely whispers in a calming tone. Taking a deep breath, the German Captain lowers his defiant gaze, before being accused of insubordination or worse and quietly mutters: "Thank you, Moffit." General Atkins has observed their interaction with lurking curiosity and a gleam of dark amusement visible in his eyes. "You may follow through with your suggested strategy, Captain Dietrich. You're dismissed", the American General orders. "Sergeant Moffit. You will stay." The two soldiers briefly exchange worried glances, before the lean German turns on his heels after a curt nod in the direction of the Cambridge scholar, while the taller British Sergeant remains standing in front of the desk. Fritz immediately follows on his master's heel, his drooped ears and the tail between the legs clearly speaking of his fear.
"Sergeant Moffit", Atkins addresses the Brit coolly. "Unlike Sergeant Troy who is reputed for his unruly behaviour and bias towards your new commanding officer, you are a man of reason or so I have heard. What is your assessment of Captain Dietrich?" Moffit scowls at being considered the snitch of his unit. "Captain Dietrich is a competent, diligent and intelligent officer, General", he reports with a cool tone. "I'm aware of that or I would not have hired him", Atkins snarls indignantly. "How is he able to handle the commando unit he is put in charge of?" Moffit scowls, but continues in his aloof tone that he has practiced for more than half a decade in Cambridge's study circles: "Captain Dietrich has earned the respect of every member of our unit." "Even the most unruly and criminal ones... You have participated in his ruse. What is your impression, Sergeant?", Atkins inquires further. "That we can count ourselves lucky that the SS went after this man for he would never have come to our side willingly otherwise, as the Captain is loyal to the bone and follows his code of honor with unrelenting pride and stubbornness", Moffit replies honestly. "He has defected for this reason, as I am aware. Tell me, Sergeant! Do you think he would betray us?", Atkins demands to know. "I honestly don't think so, Sir. Captain Dietrich might choose a different way to fight against the Nazis, who he considers as the worst threat for his homeland, but he would not betray us to them", Moffit replies with a serious expression and tone, since he has given exactly this question some thought, while observing the young Captain's interrogation.
"I want a good explanation for this assessment, Sergeant", the American General growls with barely veiled paranoia and aggression. "Unlike toward his fatherland, Germany, the man has no ties to the United States of America. The Captain might abandon you, if you violate his principles too badly, but he considers the Nazis so much worse that he would never betray you to them", Jack Moffit argues, making his best effort to keep his tone neutral. Atkins twirls his moustache with a thoughtful expression, although his eyelid is twitching slightly and his whole head appears reddened with anger. "Do you think it possible to create any emotional ties to the United States for the Captain?" "Lieutenant Silberblatt and his family are the closest relations he has left and they live in New York which provides you with some ties. But I think that the best way is to allow his ward, the Jewish orphan Ari, to become a U.S. citizen and live with the Silberblatt family as soon as possible. The boy is almost like a family member to the Captain and the other way around."
Jack can only hope that this will help the child to gain a safe future at least and support the German as well as the Jewish boy, as none of what he has just revealed is so secret that Captain Boggs or Major Bracken could not have told the General as well. Atkins assesses the British scholar's words carefully and finally nods. "An interesting suggestion. I will give it some thought and see what I can do. You can follow Captain Dietrich now." Moffit is about to turn around, as he hesitates and addresses the General again. "Captain Dietrich is a good and honorable man. If he feels the necessity to turn away from your cause, more than just one of your American officers or enlisted men might do so as well and actually follow the Captain, General." Atkins narrows his eyes, as he snarls furiously: "Are you threatening me, Sergeant?" "No, Sir. I'm merely stating my observations and wish to provide you with an honest warning", Moffit replies calmly. "You're dismissed, Sergeant", Atkins growls harshly. But his thoughts are still occupied with Jack's words long after his parting, as he paces restlessly in front of his desk.
Hans Dietrich has turned to console the distraught little dog after leaving the tent, since the animal starts whining rather desperately once they have left the General's menacing and brutal presence. How fear and hatred drive men to brutality and inhuman actions has been disconcerting time and again for the young officer in the past. Although Fritz is just a dog, the unnecessary cruelty and sadistic tone employed by the American General truly worry him and make him wonder whether his way has led him out of the frying pan straight into the fire. Fritz puts his head on the crouched officer's knee and gratefully licks his hand, as the German speaks in a calming tone: "Schon gut, Fritz. Es geschieht dir nichts." Once the little dog appears calmed and he has wrestled his own troubled thoughts under control, the Captain stands up to make his way to Boggs' command office.
The guards at the entrance let the young officer pass without asking questions and do not bother about Fritz following him either. James Boggs looks up from his lists of troops, vehicles and supplies when the man he has wished to be here as a competent support enters unexpectedly. "Captain Dietrich. Have you been successful with your interrogation?" The older Captain refrains from telling the lean young man that he looks quite worn and distraught, knowing his pride and temper by now. That a weary smile forms on the tall German's face is a good sign. "Indeed, we have been successful, Captain Boggs. The German infiltrator, a Major from Abwehr, has revealed not only his collaborators and the manipulated men, the last of whom we arrested, but also their remaining stashes. I am to check on those with my men, but I wanted to provide you with a report first."
Boggs watches the younger Captain closely, knowing him well enough by now to tell that something is off. "What is troubling you, when you have been successful with your interrogation, Captain?" Dietrich narrows his eyes and scowls at the older American officer, evaluating whether to trust him or rather remain silent. Finally, the German sighs wearily. "General Atkins suspects me of double crossing your side, I suppose", the lean young officer explains briefly. Boggs stares at him incredulously. "I would normally correct you that it is our side, but under these circumstances that feels hypocritical. What did you do, Dietrich?" The younger Captain shrugs and winces as this hurts his injured shoulder. "We have divergent views on what ends justify which means. He has basically ordered me to torture the prisoner and accused me of potential treason, when I informed him on my results as well as the trick to obtain this information instead of applying brute force." James Boggs can tell that the proud German is practically fuming with anger and keeping his temper in check in front of Atkins must truly have cost him some effort. Breathing in to calm his nerves, Dietrich growls: "I understand that he is afraid and paranoid after having come closer to death than he likely has in many years, but accusing me of treason after ... everything that has happened is absurd."
Sensing his master's dejected tone and distress, Fritz jumps up and places his paws on the German officer's thigh. Absentmindedly, the younger man scratches the dog behind the ears, while Boggs eyes both of them curiously and with worry about what he has been told. Feeding the stray dog while starving himself has appeared absurd in the eyes of the American Captain. But now that he sees the dog's loyalty and true affection for the German officer who has given him a home and food, he reconsiders his assessment. From what he has seen, Hans Dietrich is a wary, introverted character, not easy to trust or open up to people. Yet, the young man is not coldhearted enough to live without any emotional affinity and the connection to some creature. Through his reflection he also realizes that the lean German Captain has gone out of his way in trusting him by providing an honest answer to his question.
Dietrich eyes the American officer with wariness and curiosity, as Boggs seems to look through rather than at him. The older and more experienced Captain with his calm and professional manner of dealing with his men has earned his trust through treating him with respect and in his circumspect way in the days since his defection. "Captain Boggs?", he addresses his commanding officer cautiously, as no reaction is forthcoming. Boggs winces slightly and finally meets his eyes. "I'm sorry, Captain Dietrich. It simply sounds too absurd for me to even consider suspecting you of treason. You're possibly as unruly as Sam Troy, though in a different manner, but the last thing you are is a backstabbing traitor." The German Captain scowls, visibly angry at the comparison with the Rat Patrol Sergeant. "As unruly as Troy? What is that supposed to mean? I am a German officer by upbringing and training. In what way am I like that rebellious uncouth Yankee?", the proud young man snarls at Boggs. How dare he compare him to Sam Troy of all people regarding unruly behaviour! The older Captain raises his hands in a calming posture, as he speaks in a soothing manner: "Please don't get upset, Captain Dietrich. You're a good and smart officer, but proud, honorable and true to your principles to the last breath, even to the degree of going against your superiors and orders, when they violate your moral principles which is exactly what you have in common with Sergeant Troy. I don't hold this character trait against you, but it certainly makes you one of my most troublesome officers." The German Captain grits his teeth, but has to admit to himself that there is some truth to his colleague's assessment which he would not admit openly though.
Unwilling to let this discussion with the American officer escalate, Dietrich instead focuses on a different thing he wants to discuss with his fellow Captain who holds the role of his superior officer. "As I want to avoid constant confrontations with General Atkins and am sure by now that he will not grant this, if I am the one to ask him, I turn to you instead. I have assured Professor Stevenson from Oxford University who has called us on the radio a while ago that we will help him and his men if possible. His archaeological expedition is caught in the middle of artillery fire from the Allied and Axis side. On the one hand it will cost us a patrol with two or more Jeeps for the duration of half a day to take care of their safety, on the other hand I would not want to abandon the man and his personnel because of a scholar's stupid decision. Also, I would truly enjoy telling this grave robber with an academic degree what I think of his trade", Dietrich argues. Boggs looks actually amused at the German Captain's words. How he and Moffit have not gone at each other's throat remains a mystery given his attitude. "I don't envy the Professor. Your tongue is cutting like a sword when you put your mind to it. But once the camp is secured and we're leaving after the Arabs' delivery, you and your men may take care of that, Captain Dietrich", Boggs concedes with a smile. Granting the German's request to help somebody out is reasonable and might otherwise be demanded of him anyways. Hans Dietrich bears a grateful expression and openly smiles at the other which makes him appear younger than he usually does when bearing his typical dark scowl.
Remembering his original intention, Boggs asks: "May I ask you for a favour, Captain Dietrich?" The German officer looks stunned and as if he doubts that he has heard his words correctly. A wry smile passes over James Boggs' face. "Don't worry. It's nothing immoral I'm asking of you. But you're a lot more experienced with large convoy logistics and a lot faster in performing estimates and calculations than anybody else in this camp. Could you please provide me with a rough estimate of water usage and double check my calculations of our fuel expenditure? I have your men summoned in the meantime." Dietrich hesitates only for a moment before assuring the older American Captain of his support. Not only does he owe the man his gratitude for the quiet support he has provided him with since his defection, but also is he a valuable ally to keep for the future, especially since Boggs is a man honouring certain values and principles, an attitude Hans truly respects. As the American steps toward him to hand him the notepad with his calculations, Fritz starts standing on his hind legs again, putting his paws on Dietrich's thigh and eyeing the man expectantly, giving a curt yelp. "He really bites less than me", the German Captain comments dryly, as he takes the notes. "I have no doubt of that", Boggs counters with a wry smile. "His only fault is to be insatiable" Dietrich adds with a smile of his own, scratching Fritz behind the ears, as he starts reading through the pages. The dog eyes Boggs with a mixture of curiosity and wariness after having been kicked by Atkins, but lets the American pet him on the head, eyeing him with pleading puppy eyes.
While James Boggs walks to his guards outside and gives the order to summon the men of the Rat Patrol, Hans Dietrich sits down at his desk which he requires for taking notes for his calculations. Familiar with the behaviour, Fritz lets himself drop onto the German Captain's boots and curls up there comfortably. Jack Moffit is the first to arrive and greets both Captains in a polite manner, only scowling at the dog underneath the desk. Dietrich continues to work on his calculations, which he scribbles onto a sheet with a shaky right hand, after returning the Brit's greeting with mirrored politeness, while Boggs questions Moffit about further details of the interrogation and looks quite impressed by the smart scheme. "Sergeant Troy's idea I suppose", the American Captain comments. "Not at all. It was Captain Dietrich who suggested this", the British Sergeant replies. Both turn to look at the younger officer who is concentrating so intently on his calculations and the lists that he is completely oblivious to their conversation. "What happened between Atkins and ... him?", Boggs inquires with a whisper, not wanting the German officer to hear what they are talking about. "He rubbed his distrust of the dear Captain under his nose and truly backed him against the wall. Then, he questioned me after dismissing the Captain about what I think of him as a commander, his loyalty and how to ensure he doesn't doublecross us", Moffit explains, never taking his eyes off Hans Dietrich.
Before he can continue, Sam Troy enters with Tully Pettigrew, Riku Gottschlich and Aaron Humphreys. Fritz is on his feet and jumps up at the American Sergeant with joyful yelps, before he can even greet any of the two Captains. Gotty takes two steps backward, nervously observing the dog, while the Texan smirks at the behaviour. "Hey, Fritz", Troy scratches the excited little dog behind the ears who greets him enthusiastically in return. "What's the story behind the dog, you and Dietrich, Sergeant? And don't tell me there isn't any!", Boggs inquires from the unusually cooperative Brit. "You really don't want to know, Captain", Jack Moffit whispers back seriously, as he observes Troy approach Dietrich who has effectively ignored the whole commotion around him. "You're doing every job in this camp by now, Captain?", the American Sergeant asks with amusement audible in his voice. "I've agreed to do Captain Boggs a favour with my affinity for... maths." The German Captain's sarcasm is obvious, as he continues scribbling his calculations with a shaky right hand. "Did Atkins take you off duty or what?", Troy inquires. "Nothing of this sort. We were rather successful with our ruse", the lean young officer counters. "I really can't tell how glad I am to finally have you on our side rather than plotting against us, Captain Fox Kit", Troy says loudly what more than one of the other men in the room has been thinking.
Dietrich's head snaps up, as he glowers at the Sergeant and he counters sarcastically: "Seriously, Troy. You should get yourself checked for chronic dementia given you constantly forget about our agreement on nicknames and themes." Playing the outward anger is a better distraction than actually acknowledging or reflecting on the man's previous words. Sam Troy briefly glares at him, before grinning instead which annoys the young Captain far more. "But that's your old nickname from your Italian friend. You already had it before defecting to us." Dietrich counters with dry humor: "Calling Marcello my friend is a vast exaggeration. That's a rather one-sided friendship, only the Lieutenant considers as such. Also, you don't have to copy everything from Tenente Marcello, Troy, for I warn you. As soon as you start singing, I will hand in my resignation and ask Brown for a position with the Aussies." Troy laughs heartily. "You wouldn't really do that, would you? Besides, you're safe, Captain, as I'm so bad at singing I even got kicked out of Sunday service for it." The German Captain looks slightly disbelieving, but has no wish to delve deeper into the topic.
"They are actual friends, aren't they, Sergeant?", Boggs asks Moffit quietly. "They're even more dangerous since they openly agreed on that under the term 'probation'. Before, the guys they joined forces against during the temporary truce had a hard time. With their permanent alliance, the Nazis have every reason to be afraid, just like everyone else they consider their foe", Jack whispers back. "I trust you to continue being the voice of reason, Moffit", Boggs adds. "Dietrich's usually reasonable and cautious, unless his pride or temper get the better of him and he wants to defend his principles", Jack counters with a smile. "Which happens a bit too often for my taste", Boggs mutters quietly.
"Captain Boggs!", Dietrich interrupts them with his call. Troy stands behind the German Captain's shoulder and gazes at the lists and scribbled calculations, as if they contain some deviously encrypted message, appearing utterly clueless. "I have updated your calculations and increased the estimated fuel costs by 20 percent due to the sandy terrain enforcing maintenance and other downtime", the German officer explains matter-of-factually, ignoring the American Sergeant in his close vicinity. "For your other problem, I would suggest only building showers and hygienic facilities requiring water on every second day and forbid the usage of water for laundry completely, unless we are at a water source. This should save enough water to get through until we can resupply at the wadi in about three days or at a shepherd town I know to lie in our direction which we will reach in four days, five at the latest. Lacking gasoline even more than water, as we have no option for resupply, unless we start plundering German fortresses, excludes our usual approach to apply this for laundry while on the move." Boggs looks actually impressed by the clear arguments and fast calculations. Dietrich has not exaggerated, when terming his skill an affinity for maths. "Thank you, Captain Dietrich. That has helped me immensely." The German officer looks almost taken aback at the open expression of gratitude, while Troy smiles at the tall man sitting before him in a manner almost reminiscent of a proud parent watching their child prodigy which the younger Captain luckily cannot see, but Moffit and Boggs can.
"So, do we go treasure hunting now, Captain?", Troy inquires, as he places a hand on Dietrich's shoulder, effectively startling him out of his reverie. "Have you lost your mind, Troy?", the German inquires with narrowed eyes. "I'm talking about the infiltrators' stashes, Dietrich, not treasure island", the American Sergeant counters, rolling his eyes. "As you said, they deserve each other", Moffit whispers to Boggs who smiles wryly. "Do you have the copy of the locations of the stashes, Doctor Moffit?", the German Captain addresses him in a polite manner. "Of course, Captain", Jack replies smoothly. "What has happened to Hitchcock?", Dietrich notices only now that the Private is missing, as he has stood up to take account of his men. "We tried to end a brawl between some soldiers, when an Aussie broke his nose." Dietrich grimaces, imagining how painful this must have been for the American Private, as he inquires: "He's treated in sickbay?" "Nurse Hartigan is taking care of him", Troy replies. A wry smile passes over the German Captain's face, as he comments dryly: "Is he fit enough to flirt with his girlfriend again?" Troy grins from ear to ear at the sly fox's question, while Boggs appears utterly incredulous at the course of the conversation, as does Riku Gottschlich. "You know us pretty well, Captain. He actually has started doing so immediately", the American Sergeant replies. "Then we have no reason to worry about him", Dietrich concludes dryly, making even Jack Moffit smile with amusement. In more than a year, James Boggs has not gotten to know this unit half as well as Hans Dietrich has in the past two weeks in addition to the year before that in spite of being an enemy officer.
"Private Pettigrew, Corporal Gottschlich, Corporal Humphreys", the German Captain addresses his men who eye him curiously, particularly the Texan. "Organise equipment for digging, torches and ropes!" All three salute to Boggs' astonishment, as he would not have expected such soldierly behaviour from Pettigrew. Then, the three soldiers take off to organise their equipment, while the two Sergeants turn to their Captain. "Doctor Moffit, give us the list please", the lean young officer addresses the Brit who complies immediately. Stepping toward Boggs' desk, Dietrich picks up the pen he has used for his calculations and starts a sketch with a slightly shaking right hand, marking the camp and its main parts, the German tanks and surroundings, including the snake pit and the place where the mummy has been buried and later torched. Double-checking with the list, the young Captain marks every spot diligently with an X where the German Major has revealed a hidden stash. "My goodness", Boggs expresses his shock, when the fourth mark is drawn. At the fifth mark, Troy starts cursing the goddamned Jerries. Moffit notes that the German Captain tenses almost imperceptibly, but does not protest against Troy's words. Being branded as an outcast and outlaw from his homeland stranded with his enemies must truly plague the proud young officer. After the eighth mark he finally puts down the pen.
Dietrich clears his throat, before he points at the mark at the German tanks' location. "We have already cleared out one of their main stashes, hidden inside the German tanks. Also, these stashes", the German points at three locations inside the camp, "have already been cleared out, as the tents and personal belongings of the killed infiltrators and arrested Abwehr agent have been confiscated. Major von Gelder has confessed to have kept an additional stash with his German uniform, some forged documents and a less elaborate disguise kit close to his tent behind the kitchen's trash depot where he suspected that nobody would look." "Smart bastard", Troy growls angrily. "One of the most relevant stashes is this one", Dietrich points at a mark close to the snake pit which has almost been Hitch's doom. "There they have hidden the anaesthetics and syringes Sara Westwood has stolen from the sickbay." "This is unbelievable", Captain Boggs stares at the crudely sketched map looking deeply shaken. "But unfortunately true", the younger Captain comments with some sympathy, before he adds with clear self-mocking irony: "I have stopped doubting the ingenuity of commandos destroying my camps long ago."
The older American cannot bring himself to meet the German's eyes who wants to continue with pointing out the stash locations, but is interrupted by the returning soldiers who enter again with the equipment as ordered. After meeting eyes with all of them, Dietrich turns back to the sketched map. "The infiltrators have also hidden most of their German weapons, mainly automatic guns and rifles according to the Major, in a burrow over here, out in the desert. If we can trust the Abwehr agent's words, they have not checked on this for almost two weeks, since creating the joint camp location and combining forces with the SS agents. Also out here, close to the spot where Jakob and Ari have stumbled over the mummy of the French officer they had a stash which they moved after the miraculous burning of the corpse." Dietrich scowls, as he looks directly at Pettigrew who merely shifts his matchstick, although he looks away with a slightly guilty expression. "They transferred their secret explosives stash somewhere over here", the German points to a mark in the desert. "This will be the two hardest spots to find. Pettigrew, you have the most experience." Troy interrupts him: "Let Jack help out with his desert knowledge! He can tell you where something is buried from the sand alone." Dietrich warily looks from Troy to Moffit, not sure if they are trying to pull one over on him, before reminding himself that they all serve on the same side and circumstances are far too dire for stupid pranks. "Fine. Moffit, you assist the Private with your expertise in this field given your accumulated experience." Moffit has to give credit to the young officer for taking their word and accepting his expertise without much discussion.
Troy smiles at the German Captain as well, content with his cooperative attitude. "You know that's just the kind of stuff for which Jack has joined us." "Don't make me curse that day, Troy!", Dietrich growls sarcastically. "Let's just focus on our problems at hand rather than dwell on the past!" "You know that you're much more cooperative and respectful than Troy has been in the first few days if not weeks", Jack comments with a wry smile. "I didn't know you and just got some British Doctor dumped into my lap", the American Sergeant protests. "Stop behaving like uncouth school boys!", the German snaps unnerved. "If anybody compares me to Troy one more time today, I cannot give any guarantees to not end up in jail again." "You should feel flattered", Troy comments with a grin. "Why don't you shut up, Sergeant?", the German growls. "Captain Dietrich", Boggs interrupts their escalating fight, drawing the younger officer out of his spiraling anger. "Forgive me for my tone, Captain Boggs", the younger Captain grinds out, aware that his behaviour has been far from appropriate. "Sorry for annoying you on purpose, Captain", Troy surprises all the others present with his apology and putting his hand on the lean German's shoulder in a conciliatory manner.
Dietrich nods curtly in acceptance of the apology, before speaking sternly: "Our focus at hand lies on the stashes. Corporal Humphreys, as an explosives expert, it is most reasonable for you to stay in camp and help with assuring that no sabotage happens to our critical infrastrcture. As soon as we are finished with securing the infiltrators' stashes contents, we will summon our Australian and Texan allies and take care of disabling the British and German tanks, as the General has ordered me to do. Corporal Gottschlich, you help Private Pettigrew with the digging where Sergeant Moffit instructs you to dig. Sergeant Troy and I will also join you, after we have secured the other two stashes." All the Rats nod at the orders, but the American Sergeant still scowls. "Once we're finished with all that, we can finally go to sickbay and check on Davey", Troy insists. "And have you checked up as well, Captain. You've accumulated more injuries in two weeks than the rest of us in half a year."
The lean young officer straightens into a proud stance, as he glares at the American and snarls defensively: "What are you trying to accuse me of, Troy?" "I've actually lost count how often I had to drag you into that sickbay more dead than alive, conscious or not, Captain", Troy snaps back at him. "You're still awfully skinny and have not gained any real substance, in spite of us watching over your meals for almost a week. So don't you dare protest against having you checked up, before taking off from here. I've been put in charge of your wellbeing after all, Dietrich." The German looks uncomfortable, but remarks with some anger remaining: "You're definitely not in charge of my wellbeing any longer, Troy. So don't behave like an overbearing mother hen!" "Stop this!", Boggs intervenes with his nerves finally worn to a frazzle. "Sergeant Troy is justified in worrying about your state of health which I have seen for myself to be critical only today. Thus, I definitely insist that you get checked up before the final evacuation of the sickbay, especially since you want to take off to help this British scholar you have promised support and protection, Captain Dietrich." The younger Captain scowls warily, but finally agrees on his compliance. "I am not averse against medical checkups and aware of their necessity", the proud German grinds out, "but I resent to be ordered around by my own subordinates." As he glares at Sam Troy, the American Sergeant smiles sheepishly. "Fine. I'm happy, as long as you take care of your own health."
Still scowling, the German officer nods curtly, before whirling around, as Tully turns towards him with furrowed brows. "I found something, Cap. I think you should look at it more closely." The American Private holds out a metallic object to Dietrich who eyes it warily without even trying to take it, asking instead: "What is that?" "A kind of pocket knife, I think, Cap. I found this on our Jeep, when we took our stuff", Tully replies and the German Captain finally takes the object, weighs it in his left hand and studies it intently for five seconds, before sniffing at it. The others stare at the young officer as if he has completely lost his mind. "You'd better leave that to Fritz", Sam Troy comments cautiously. Dietrich looks at all of them in a belittling manner, before he explains: "There's a lightcoloured powder on the knife that smells of sulfur, likely an explosive. Could you check this please, Corporal Humphreys?" The Texan takes the pocket knife from him and holds it close to his face to get a better look at the material, before sniffing at the stuff as well. "You're right, Captain Dietrich. Smells definitely like something explosive", he finally confirms.
"Have you touched something like that, Private?", Dietrich inquires diligently, while Pettigrew looks absolutely dumbfounded, then looks at his hands, before sniffing. "Didn't touch no such stuff, Cap." "Don't tell me you learned to find our bombs by literally sniffing after us, Captain!", Troy comments with a grin, unable to hide his amusement. "Troy!", the German officer snaps unnerved, before he continues with a more serious tone: "Have you checked your Jeep for sabotage and hidden explosives, Pettigrew? Either someone left it to be blown up along with the Jeep, effectively destroying the evidence, or to lay the blame on you after trapping some other vehicle." "One of those guys was arrested in the motor pool, Captain", Troy argues with a growl. "You could be right that he wanted to get rid of this quickly." Dietrich frowns. "Given that all three of us had this in hand, it can hardly be used as incriminating evidence, as linking it clearly to the man through fingerprints is impossible. But it is a warning that we should double check the motor pool for explosives." "I'll take care of that right away and inform Lieutenant Griffiths immediately about the risk", Corporal Humphreys volunteers. James Boggs eyes the younger German Captain with worry and his concern is audible in his voice, as he remarks: "I will not even ask how you have learned to start checking found objects for their smell of explosives, as I doubt I want hear the answer." The younger officer smiles with clear amusement. "I assure you that I didn't have Fritz as my inspiration." The little dog yelps and wags its tail at the sound of his name, making Troy smile and Gottschlich take two steps backwards. "Truly admirable and inspiring, my dear Holmes", Moffit comments dryly. "Thank you, Watson", the German replies equally dryly.
Boggs speaks with Humphreys, before sending him off to check the Jeeps and to inform the Lieutenant immediately. "You can call on Sergeant Williamson with his Australians and Private Walker as well to help with the search. But the Corporal already is an expert in chemical engineering and possibly the best person for handling explosives we have available right now", Dietrich calls after him. With actual gratitude Boggs relays the suggestion for obtaining helpers for his search to the Texan soldier, before sending him off. "Thank you, Captain Dietrich", he turns back to the German who has started to coordinate his men. "We will start combing the desert at your locations, Captain. Would you be so kind, as to lend me the map?", Moffit asks the younger officer who looks between his colleague and his Sergeant, then replies: "With pleasure, Sergeant."
Turning to the desk in the meantime, he hands the Brit the crude map and the detailed verbal descriptions. "Have fun with this, Long John Silver!", Troy comments with a grin and the German Captain raises his eyebrows in an ironic expression. "That's why I gave you the map, Moffit. Otherwise this might have been my line." Jack smiles wryly. "You really are Troy's smartest student, Captain." "We're taking the canteen and the snake pit location, Doctor", the German Captain replies in a moderate tone after an almost roguish smirk. "Start near the mummy's burial location. Leave a mark, when you have found something, before continuing to the next spot. We will try to catch up with you. I'd rather learn some of your desert skills than how to avoid Troy's nickname schemes." They all grin at the last statement, even Sam Troy who smiles the younger officer with amusement, as he tells them: "Good hunting, gentlemen. Waidmann's Heil." Moffit recognizes the German hunters' greeting answers appropriately with: "Waidmanns Dank, Herr Hauptmann!"
Before the young Captain can leave with Troy after Moffit, Pettigrew and Gottschlich have taken off, Boggs addresses Hans Dietrich: "Please provide me with a report after finishing your endeavor, Captain Dietrich. You have proven more reliable than Sergeant Troy in this regard." Sam Troy glares at the older American Captain, as he voices his protest: "I've always provided you with a report, Captain Boggs." "One grounded in reality or adapted according to your fantasy, Troy?", the German Captain inquires with irony, before adding the proverb he has taught the American Sergeant when agreeing on their probation deal. "Ehrlichkeit währt am längsten." Troy grumbles under his breath about ungrateful brass and smartass Jerries, while Dietrich assures Boggs of his diligent report, deciding to ignore Troy's ramblings. Fritz follows them immediately, when they leave the tent and stays at the German officer's heel after the man's hand signal, as they walk to one of his favourite places, the camp's canteen tent.
Fritz starts digging frantically near his master underneath a pile of garbage, throwing some rotting piece of food against his boot the young officer does not want to identify more closely. "Fritz, benimm dich!", the German Captain admonishes the little dog to behave himself. Fritz whines a bit, before continuing with his digging, but with less vigor than before. Ignoring the dog, Dietrich advises Troy where to dig for the stash according to the description. They strike gold rather quickly, as the American Sergeant's shovel hits a metal case after mere two minutes of work. The solid metal case is locked with an internal lock making it impossible to open by force without a crowbar. "Looks like you can prove your burglary proficiency after all, Captain", Troy comments with a grin. After studying the situation for a few seconds, the German officer finally nods and replies cautiously: "I fear you are right, Sergeant. This may take some time though, as my right arm is not quite up to the strain."
In spite of his caution, picking the lock takes not longer than digging the case out. Dietrich's hand is shaking slightly from the tension which sabotages his first few attempts until he finally manages to press the right pins, letting go of the rake in between when he is too badly affected by his injury. As a soft click indicates the success, Troy bends down to open the lid, revealing the announced disguise kit, some documents and several sets of uniforms and clothing, including a British officer's and a German Wehrmacht uniform. "He was well equipped. If we would put all this to good use, we might even start infiltration ourselves", Dietrich mutters torn between being impressed and resentful. "As we're still in the camp, I suggest depositing the evidence in Captain Boggs' office tent rather than taking it with us." Troy nods. "Good idea, Captain. Better than carrying the stuff around or leaving it unattended."
While Troy picks up the case with his German Captain trying help him using his left arm only, Fritz starts barking and yelping and jumps on his master's thigh efficiently keeping him from participating any longer. "Fritz, was soll das? Runter mit den dreckigen Pfoten!", Dietrich snaps in exasperation why Fritz jumps at him with his dirty paws. Although taking his front paws from the German officer, Fritz continues yelping. When the Captain bends down to observe the behaviour more closely, he notices something in the dog's snout. "Gib das her!", he orders sternly to give him the thing, holding out his left palm. Obediently, Fritz drops the small metal cylinder into his hand. It takes the young German officer no more than two seconds to recognize the object and start paling, staring at it in shock. "Wo hast du das gefunden?", he asks automatically where he has found this, then realizes that the dog does not understand him and takes a different approach. Pretending to throw the object to let Fritz fetch it, one of his favourite games, the Captain deftly hides the cylinder in his palm, while Fritz runs off trying to catch his plaything. When he notices nothing in the air, the little dog starts searching around, turning to the hole he has dug into the pile. This time, Dietrich follows and observes Fritz closely, until he can make out, where the cylinder is originally coming from. "Gut gemacht, Fritz", he tells the dog, as he bends down to get a closer look.
As Dietrich stares at the two Pervitin containers in addition to the empty one in his hand, a realisation dawns on him. "Sergeant, has General Atkins appeared particularly aggressive today?" Troy scowls furiously, as he focuses his gaze on the German who scratches a panting Fritz behind the ears. "That bastard's been extraordinarily vile and aggressive today that's true. If I'd get him into my hands for a few minutes, I'd really give him a piece of my mind." "And he has disregarded all reasonable arguments, jumping from one topic to the next. Also his head has appeared rather red", the German officer continues his line of argumentation, ignoring the Sergeant's suggested violence against a superior officer. Who is he to judge this after his actions of insubordination he regularly gets accused of?
By now Troy realises that something is going on. "What are you suspecting, Sherlock? That someone poisoned the General?" "Drugged him would be the more appropriate term, as this is no poison that will kill him", the Captain argues smoothly. "But yes, Sergeant. That is exactly what I suspect. And he is possibly not the only one given soldiers' paranoia and resulting aggression, but his case is the most damaging one for this whole camp." A worried expression mixes with Troy's angry one. "If you're right, that's pretty bad news. What do we do?" Dietrich furrows his brows, as he weighs his options. "Doctor Andrews is our best option, unless you plan to break into his tent and knock him out yourself, which would be suicide given his current security measures. The Chief Medic has the actual authority to even take the General off duty, if there is a medical reason backing up his decision." "Have I told you how glad I am that you've joined our side, Captain?", Troy inquires, as he smiles at the younger German with honest sympathy. Dietrich smiles wryly, as he asks with irony: "Is being a smartass of some use after all?" "Definitely, Captain Sherlock", the American Sergeant replies. "We'd better grab that stuff and go to Boggs and to sickbay then."
"Are you sure you don't want to keep our dear little Fritz here. You're actually right that he's far better behaved and competent in helping this investigation than Hitch right now", Troy comments with a grin, as they briskly walk toward the field hospital, followed by the little dog. The Captain bears a wry smile. "Moffit will not stop talking my ear off with complaints, if I do that." Troy grins widely. "You don't know him as well as I do. He'd complain anyways half of the time. British attitude. We Yankees just ignore orders, but at least don't complain that much." "You're making being a commander of an Allied unit sound more and more attractive with every word, Troy", the German officer counters sarcastically.
The guards at Boggs' tent look baffled, but let them enter unhindered. James Boggs stares at the duo even more astounded and immediately adopts a worried expression. "What has happened, Captain Dietrich?" Troy puts down the metal case, while Dietrich starts explaining their findings and his suspicions. "You think that the General has been drugged with that German miracle drug and many of our soldiers along with him, causing the aggression in camp?", he repeats incredulously. "Do you have a better explanation for the three empty cylinders behind the canteen and the extraordinarily aggressive atmosphere, as well as General Atkins' particularly uncaring and brutal behaviour?", Dietrich counters with a question of his own. Boggs shakes his head in desperation. "I don't and already start to fear that you are right. I will take care of convincing Doctor Andrews to take the General off duty. It's better if you are not connected to this to avoid any suspicion of German involvement." The younger Captain nods and replies gratefully: "Thank you, Captain Boggs. We will take care of the other stashes in the meantime."
As he already is about to turn away, he adds as an afterthought: "Even though I get frequently accused of collecting strays and running a circus, I have to point out that it was Fritz who found the Pervitin containers." The little dog jumps up at him, as he recognizes its name, enthusiastically wagging its tail. "Brav, Fritz. Du bist ein guter Hund", Dietrich tells him, while petting his head. James Boggs looks slightly incredulous, while Sam Troy grins from ear to ear, as he picks up the little dog in his arms and repeats in his very accented sounding German: "Guter Hund, Fritz." Overjoyed at the attention he is receiving, Fritz licks his cheek. "I won't protest against your unit mascot any longer", Captain Boggs concedes. "Thank you, Captain Dietrich. I honestly hope I won't see you for anything else than the final report about the stashes", the older American Captain states with a tone of desperate fatalism.
Fritz happily trots along behind Dietrich and Troy, as the day has been extraordinarily exciting for the little dog today. When they pass by the snake pit that has almost been Hitchcock's doom, the German officer tenses involuntarily which his American Sergeant notices immediately. "That stash is hopefully not in this damn pit, for I'll not let you jump down there again after what happened the last time", Troy argues. "Don't worry, Sergeant. None of them would have wanted to do that to reach their stash", Dietrich counters dryly. Leading the way to the described stash location, the German officer points out where Troy is supposed to dig. Motivated by his previous success, Fritz starts digging as well which the young officer accepts without admonishing him, only taking a few steps to the side to not get sand thrown all over his pants and boots. This time they have to dig longer and even try a second and third location before they come about the stolen medical supplies or what little is left of them. Four more cylinders of Pervitin, a bottle of morphine with a German label reading 'Morphium' and half a dozen syringes are all that remains here. "We take this with us and leave it with the sickbay later, Sergeant", Dietrich orders calmly, as he puts their findings back in the case they have found them in. "Let's check the site closer to the camp near the mummy first." Troy nods and replies with a grin: "Alright, Captain. I'll bring my wooden stake along." "Troy!", the German officer groans with mock exasperation.
As the first dig site assigned to Moffit's team is already dug out and marked with a large X, Troy and Dietrich follow them to the second site. There, they find the trio after having tried half a dozen spots for digging already. Tully and Gotty have dropped into the sand exhausted, as Troy approaches them to exchange information, while the German officer immediately turns to Moffit who holds his finger up, as if testing the intensity and direction of the wind. "Why are you checking the wind, Doctor? You're supposed to look for a borrow", the younger Captain inquires with a puzzled expression. "An abandoned burrow now covered by layers upon layers of sand, as the dunes have shifted since the Major has last visited the site. I'm trying to determine how and where to help us track the location", the Brit answers with a lecture tone that would perfectly fit in Cambridge University. The German looks curious, as he inquires: "Even if you can determine the dune movement, how do we find the stash then?" "Sand isn't just sand, there are different colours and sizes of the particles forming the sand", the British scholar is in his element, as he bends down, grabs a handful of sand and lets the grains fall between his fingers, while Dietrich observes him closely. Finally, Jack has gained an interested, intelligent and attentive audience, as he is more than happy to indulge in his field of expertise. With great detail, the doctor of anthropology explains the qualities of the wind and sand that allow him to draw conclusions about the location of the hidden stash. Although feeling slightly out of his depth with the amount of scientific detail, the German Captain tries to memorize as much as possible of the valuable information. He should definitely consult Moffit more often, as there is much to learn from the British scholar.
"What are they doing?", Troy inquires, pointing at Moffit and Dietrich. Pettigrew shrugs and mutters "science" in about the same tone a tenth century peasant might have muttered "magic". "Sergeant Moffit said he will use the wind and knowledge about the sand to find the stash", Gottschlich provides as a more elaborate answer. Troy looks bemused, before he comments: "We'd better leave that to our smartasses then and get some rest in the meantime." Ten minutes later during which the two tall men stalk the sandy area before them several times consulting frequently, the German calls them and the Brit waves in addition. "Back to work!", Troy announces and Tully shifts his matchstick, while Gottschlich sighs audibly.
"It's a pleasure working with you, Captain", Jack Moffit declares with a formal bow, before turning to give directions to the rest of the unit. Hans Dietrich realizes not only how much a man with Moffit's knowledge and qualification would have helped him in his own assignments, but also how destructive the addition of the British Sergeant to the Rat Patrol has truly been, upgrading them from a mere desert nuisance to a severe desert menace. That he is himself participating in making this unit a menace for the German Reich is a true irony of fate, as the Nazis have left him no alternative to this change of ways except for death. With the combined forces of Pettigrew, Gottschlich and Troy uncovering the last stash provides no real challenge.
Dietrich tries to instruct Moffit in the subtle art of lockpicking which turns out to be a disaster. "I'm truly sorry, Captain, but this type of dexterity has never been my strong suit", the British Sergeant tells the German officer, as he hands him the slightly bent equipment with an apologetic expression after ten frustrating minutes for both of them. "I fear you will have to do this yourself." With a weary sigh the young Captain bends the rake back into shape using only the fingers of his left hand. Deciding that his ordeal cannot get any worse, the German Captain sits down and starts the painstaking process of picking the lock himself. After having learned from the previous metal case how to proceed without overly straining his right shoulder, Hans Dietrich succeeds with his task in less than two minutes. Tully observes the lean German officer with true admiration in his gaze, while Gotty appears still incredulous at the honorable Captain's proficiency with such a dishonourable skill. Troy walks over to Moffit and pats him on the shoulder in a reassuring manner. "Don't worry, Jack. I've lost so many dexterity competitions against Davey that I've lost count of them. No shame in not being a rogue like our dear fox over there." "Why don't you shut up, Sergeant?", the German Captain growls with annoyance without even looking up from his efforts of picking the second lock.
Tully meanwhile has opened the first case and extracted a German portable rocket launcher with an almost loving expression. "You'll have to give this back, Tully", Jack admonishes, while Dietrich who bears a truly happy smile after having mastered the second lock as well intercedes with a sly tone: "The General or whoever is in command right now will only ever learn about whatever we report back in camp." Leaving the rest unsaid, he meets eyes first with a grinning Troy, then a beaming Pettigrew who looks like Christmas has come early, as he lets his finger rest on the trigger of the rocket launcher. Riku Gottschlich and Jack Moffit stare at Dietrich as if the German officer has lost his mind completely. "Are you lying on official reports, Captain?", Troy asks with true mirth. "Rather adapting it to fit an altered reality", the Captain replies smoothly. Troy laughs heartily, while Moffit comments dryly: "You know that your friend Jakob Silberblatt is absolutely right. You really are a devious rogue, Captain Locksley!" "I have no idea what you are talking about", Hans Dietrich replies with an ironic smirk.
"I'm sure you will enjoy the 'Panzerschreck', Pettigrew, the 'tank's fright' as we call it for its ability to actually penetrate even the more modern German tanks' hulls because of the larger ammunition calibre than your bazookas", the former tank and artillery Hauptmann shares his expertise, while all the Rats eye him with honest curiosity. "If you take the rocket launcher, make sure though to take all the ammunition as well, before someone becomes suspicious", he then advises Tully in a serious tone. "Will do, Cap", the Private answers immediately, as he searches through both crates with true enthusiasm. "Help me carry that, Gotty!" Sam Troy puts his hand on the taller German's shoulder, while he whispers to him with a roguish grin of his own: "It will be impossible to remove you from the position of Tully's favourite CO after that." "Given what will await us in the next ten to fourteen days until reaching Tobruk and the Allied HQ, I'd rather see him well-prepared", the younger Captain mutters, before shouting to the Private: "You have to promise though that you will for once not shoot at the vehicle I'm riding in, Private Pettigrew." Tully looks stunned for all of five seconds, until he realizes that this is the German officer's sense of humor rather than an accusation. "I swear it, Cap. I'll only shoot at the other guys", the Kentuckian shouts back. Troys grins, as he mutters to the Captain: "Looks like the wonderful basis for a friendship, doesn't it?" "Not trying to kill each other on a daily basis? That sounds almost as good as our relationship, Sergeant", Dietrich counters dryly.
Sam Troy helps Gottschlich with carrying the weapon crates, while Tully takes his rocket launcher and three of the tank destroying rockets in a backpack that Jack decides to take after convincing his German commander that his injured shoulder will not be able to support any weight at all. The Brit and the American Private take a detour to their Jeep which is already prepared for their imminent departure to hide their epic loot, while Troy and Gottschlich follow Dietrich in the direction of Boggs' office tent to provide a report and ask about his success in taking the General off duty. As they cross the camp, they can hear a commotion happening that speeds up all their steps to a run.
"Meine Ehre heißt Treue!", Karl Bauer, one of the three former Hitlerjugend culprits who have been isolated from the rest of the POWs shouts the SS parole and tries to run over the American guard, before he can bring up his rifle. His two companions, Staller and Röhn, follow him and although the first shot strikes down the front man, together the other two manage to kick the American to the ground and his gun out of his hands which they try to pick up. By now, chaos and panic is starting to spread among the other POWs, some drop to the ground to not become innocent victims, when bullets start flying, others start running towards the dunes in wild panic, hoping to get to safety, although nothing but death awaits them in the merciless heat of the desert without food or water reserves. "Don't shoot to kill!", Dietrich barks his order in desperation, as he sees the POWs mainly fleeing in sheer panic. "They have nowhere to run anyways."
Then, the German turns in the direction of his former troops along with the other unit from the Axis side and shouts in his typical command tone: "Stehen bleiben! Nehmen Sie die Hände hoch und ergeben sich, dann geschieht Ihnen nichts!" Without hesitation, he repeats the order in Italian: "Fermati! Alza le mani e arrenditi, non ti succederà nulla!" The officer's command tone induces an automatic reaction in many of the soldiers who stop in their tracks and follow through with the order to lift their hands in the air, before realizing who has given the command. The soldiers from Dietrich's former unit sigh with relief at the sight of their former Hauptmann and keep their hands up. Marcello's Italians have either already followed his order or comply after their Tenente repeats the command, lifting his own hands in the air. The further German soldiers mostly keep to the example of Dietrich's former men, indicating clearly their surrender, while a few of their comrades have joined the original troublemakers who have grabbed the rifle but been shot by Carlos' other guards.
"Lassen Sie die Waffen liegen und ergeben sich!", Dietrich shouts his command to put down their weapons and surrender in the direction of the still resisting Germans, while Leutnant Haberfeld comes to his unexpected aid by repeating the command, as he runs towards the tall officer. The German Captain does not stand still, but constantly keeps moving and dodging a few bullets shot in his direction, still hesitant to blindly fire his own handgun with his left hand mid run. With a cry of pain not Dietrich who the bullets have likely been meant for but Haberfeld stumbles and collapses to the ground. Hans comes to a decision, as he sees so many of his men's fate repeated all over again. Swiftly, he runs to the Lieutenant's side and reluctantly fires at two of von Stolberg's men who point their looted guns at him, striking one in the chest, while the other dodges, but gets struck down by a shot fired from behind the Captain. The Rats have finally picked up weapons and started firing, as the German officer notices with some relief that Pettigrew has decided use one of the guns from the crates rather than the rocket launcher which he has apparently dropped already somewhere.
Dietrich finally drops to his knees at Haberfeld's side and recognizes immediately, where the bullets have struck him down, one has pierced his right chest, while the other has shattered his knee. As the second injury looks extremely painful but not as much like the man would bleed to death from it, the German Captain focuses on the chest wound, opening the other man's uniform before applying pressure to the severely bleeding injury with his left hand to keep the Leutnant from dying right away. "Herr Hauptmann", Haberfeld mutters in recognition with pain and exhaustion laced into his voice. "Machen Sie sich keine Sorgen, Haberfeld! Wir werden Sie im Lazarett behandeln. Doktor Sommer kümmert sich um Sie", Dietrich speaks with a calm and reassuring tone he has learned to adopt when speaking with the wounded and dying, as he tells the Leutnant that he should not worry, for they will treat him in the field hospital and Doktor Sommer will take good care of him. "Bleiben Sie bei mir, bitte!", Haberfeld pleads with the other to stay with him, although his voice seems to be fading like his consciousness. "Bis Hilfe eintrifft bleibe ich jedenfalls, Haberfeld", the younger German Captain reassures his former officer that he will definitely stay with him until help arrives.
Hearing steps in the sand closeby makes Hans Dietrich look up and recognize Sam Troy who keeps his gun trained at the German soldiers who have apparently surrendered, if the lack of gunfire is any indication. "What happened?", the American Sergeant growls. "He got shot down after repeating my orders, I suppose by the German soldiers who tried to resist. I'm not sure whether they wanted to shoot him or me", the lean young Captain argues without taking his hand away from the bleeding German officer, keeping up the pressure on his chest wound as best he can. "He needs to get to the sickbay quickly, Sergeant. I don't want to bury another of my men, even former men", the former Hauptmann adds with a dejected tone, as he has noticed that Haberfeld has lost consciousness after all. "Tully, Gotty", Troy bellows the names of the two soldiers who join them only a few seconds later. "Bring this man to sickbay as quickly as possible", Dietrich beats him in providing the order. Both put the German guns on their backs before picking the Leutnant up, carrying him under the armpits and above the knees to not aggravate the injured leg.
Sam Troy holds out his hand to help the Captain to his feet and looks slightly worried when the hand he hauls him up with is smeared with blood. But the lean officer appears uninjured, so the blood must be his former Lieutenant's. With a grim expression, the former Panzer Hauptmann approaches the troublemakers. The three original culprits, the former Hitlerjugend members who have almost killed Feldwebel Nemet and been kept in isolated imprisonment ever since, are all dead. With a pained expression, Hans Dietrich reflects that both he and Captain Boggs have wanted to spare them a death sentence for their deed. Now they have chosen this on their own. The other German troublemakers are men from von Stolberg's unit, mostly those who have remained unharmed or been only lightly injured, and several of the prisoners Captain Brown has brought to the camp a few days ago. Lieutenant Carlos looks slightly shaken, but is obviously relieved to have Dietrich around.
"Captain, what should we do?", he addresses the senior officer. "Collect all weapons and assure that all prisoners are disarmed. Keep these men on the side under guard until we decide their fates, but bring the other prisoners to the trucks which should transport them. I will speak with the prisoners to calm them and with the Italian Lieutenant, their only remaining officer", the German Captain replies with cool logic, thinking the situation through, as he relays his orders. "Have any of our men been gravely injured or killed?", the younger officer inquires in addition. "I will report this to you, once we've collected the weapons and gained an overview", Carlos replies with a slightly trembling voice. "Sergeant Troy, help him with the task! Tenente Marcello is no danger for me", Dietrich orders sternly and Troy seeing the logic and necessity of the order nods in agreement.
"Meine Herren", the German Captain addresses the prisoners who have not participated in the uprising, "wer nicht an dem Aufstand und Angriff beteiligt war, hat nichts zu befürchten. Das schwöre ich Ihnen bei meiner Ehre als Offizier. Begeben Sie sich zu den Lastwagen, welche Sie transportieren werden und leisten den Anweisungen der Alliierten Wachen und Offiziere sowie Leutnant Marcello Folge! Er ist fortan Ihr vorgesetzter Offizier." While the German troops breathe obvious sighs of relief, their former Hauptmann repeats the speech in Italian, assuring the men that nobody uninvolved with the uprising has to fear anything. The German Capitano swearing on his honour as an officer is sufficient reassurance for the Italian soldiers who cheer at the words, more emotional than their German allies. When the tall young officer orders them to go to the trucks and obey the orders of the Allied officers and guards as well as their responsible officer Lieutenant Marcello, they turn to follow through with it immediately.
"Tenente Marcello", Dietrich calls the man who is about to follow his troops. "Capitano Volpacchiotto", the Italian stage artist addresses the younger German officer with unveiled enthusiasm and sympathy, as he turns to him. Unperturbed by his worn appearance the opera singer has embraced the taller young man in the classical manner of the Italian greeting a close friend. "Dovrai assumere il comando delle trupe tedesche e Italiane, Tenente", Dietrich tells Marcello that he will have to take over the command of the German and Italian troops, once he has wiggled his way out of the Italian's grasp without aggravating his shoulder. "Haberfeld vive ancora?", the Italian asks in a worried tone whether Haberfeld is still alive. "Lo stanno curando nella infermeria", the German replies with a concerned expression that he is treated in the sickbay. "Non preocuparti, Capitano! Mi prenderò cura di tutti i nostri uomini", Marcello smiles widely at the tall officer and pats him on the upper left arm, as he tells him not to worry, since he will take care of all their men. "Grazie mille, Tenente Marcello", Hans thanks him gratefully. "Prego, Capitano Volpacchiotto", Marcello replies with an honest smile. "Arrividerci. Che Dio ti protegga!" "Anche ti protegga. Arrividerci", the German replies in a similar way that God may protect the Italian as well as he has wished him protection.
Marcello turns away to follow through with his promise to take care of the Axis soldiers, when a dark-skinned soldier in an Australian uniform approaches them. "Captain Dietrich", Sergeant Williamson addresses the German officer. "We have helped to secure all troublemakers." "Thank you, Sergeant. Call your men here, when they are not needed to assist Lieutenant Carlos any longer!", the tall Captain tells him sternly. At Williamson's barked command not only the O'Donnell brothers and Lakatos, but also Walker, Troy and Moffit join them. "Thank you all for your quick and competent assistance, gentlemen!", Dietrich thanks them honestly. "You're welcome, Captain", Kevin O'Donnell answers with a grin. "Is all taken care of, Captain?", Troy inquires. "Yes, Sergeant. I have informed Marcello that he is in command of the Axis troops who fortunately have mostly been compliant and cooperative, making it possible to break the resistance quickly and efficiently. I want to speak with Lieutenant Carlos first, then the prisoners, before we should report to Captain Boggs about all that has happened. Let them help you carry our confiscated stash contents!" He points at the Australians and the Texan who still carries his two guns in both hands. Shaking his head in slight disbelief at the displayed mentality he has considered a myth projected by the American cinema, the German turns to gain an overview of the situation, now that the cooperative POWs have been brought to the trucks, leaving only the dead, the wounded and the rebels in their wake under the watchful eyes of Lieutenant Carlos and his men.
The O'Donnell brothers exchange meaningful looks among each other. "We have something for you, Captain", Daniel speaks with an uncharacteristically grave tone, making the tall Captain turn toward him with a curious and wary expression. When Kevin does not move, but keeps staring at the German officer, Michael Lakatos elbows him in the ribs. Wincing slightly, the younger Australian draws three wrinkled piece of paper from his jacket pocket. "We'd like to apply to your unit, Captain", the older O'Donnell brother explains to the slightly incredulous looking Dietrich who takes the application letters with the stateliness appropriate for his rank. "Gentlemen", he speaks sternly and nods, while providing a sharp salute with his left arm. "We'd really look forward to working with you, Captain Dietrich", Lakatos assures him, as he provides his own salute along with his two friends. "Let's shake it!", Troy whoops to get them all moving. Folding the papers more meticulously than their authors, the German Captain places all three pieces of paper in his shirt pocket for later reading before approaching Lieutenant Carlos, closely followed by Troy and Moffit.
"One of our men is dead, four were injured", the Hispanic officer reports with a grim expression, glaring at the German uprisers with actual hatred. "I see. Assure that the wounded are treated in sickbay. I will report to Captain Boggs who will arrange a burial for the dead man", Hans Dietrich replies with a serious tone. "Do you know the reason or who has been behind the uprising, Lieutenant?" Carlos shrugs. "No idea, Captain. Some of them pushed Rudy, Private Rudolph Frolyk, to the ground and shot him, after wrestling his gun from him. Some others did the same with other guards, but didn't actually kill the men." The German Captain nods thoughtfully, then turns to the arrested German prisoners. "Staller, Röhn und Bauer haben Ihre Revolte angeführt, aber wohl kaum angestiftet, da sie in Isolationshaft waren. Haben die Männer der SS Sie dazu angestiftet?", he inquires sternly, whether the SS infiltrators have motivated the prisoners for the uprisal led by Staller, Röhn and Bauer who could not have coordinated anything with the other prisoners due to their isolation. Moffit provides a whispered translation of the Captain's word to Sam Troy who glares at the assembled German soldiers with true dislike.
When no answer is forthcoming except for some of the men averting their gazes from the former Hauptmann, Dietrich continues his inquiry in a sharper command tone. "Wenn Sie kooperativ sind, verbessert das Ihre Situation und kann als mildernder Umstand gewertet werden. Bleiben Sie starrsinnig wird sich das auf Ihr Urteil vor dem Kriegsgericht, vor das Sie für den Tod des Soldaten gestellt werden, gegen Sie verwendet werden. Gestehen Sie also, wenn Sie etwas wissen? Haben die SS Spione, ein Frank Miller oder Franz Müller Sie dazu angestiftet?" The Captain reminds them that their cooperation will be to their advantage in an ensuing trial about their uprising and killing as well as wounding Allied soldiers, while their stubborn refusal will be to their disadvantage, proving their bad intentions, ordering them to confess what they know and whether they have been instigated by the SS spies and in particular Frank Miller or Franz Müller.
A bleeding young soldier winces obviously at the name and Dietrich squats down in front of the sitting man, asking him sharply: "Sie erkennen den Namen offenbar, Soldat. Hat er Sie und Ihre Kameraden aufgehetzt?" At the question whether the man who's name he obviously recognizes has incited him and the others, the young man nods with averted eyes. As a veteran of the North African desert warfare, the former Hauptmann can tell immediately that the young man from a different unit than his own has spent little time in the Afrikakorps. His fair skin is sunburnt and red, as the light-haired young man has not even learned to always wear a cap to protect the head from sun and heat, since the piece of clothing protrudes from his pocket without being worn. "That kid's a greenhorn, anyone can tell", Troy mutters his own assessment in accordance with the German Captain's for Moffit to hear. "Our leader of the pack seems to have found the weakest prey", Moffit replies dryly.
"Wie heißen Sie?", the German Captain inquires in a gentler tone what the soldier's name is. "Moritz Koch", the young man Dietrich estimates as barely older than twenty answers with a quivering voice. "Soldat Koch, ich will weder Sie noch Ihre Kameraden standrechtlich erschießen lassen, wenn sich der wahre Schuldige in unserem Gewahrsam befindet. Wann hat Sie der Mann aufgehetzt?" The German soldier finally looks up to meet eyes with the officer crouched before him, as the Captain states calmly that he does not want to have Koch or his comrades courtmartialed when they have the actual culprit in custody. Then, the former Hauptmann inquires when the man has instigated them. "Er war unser Wachposten heute Morgen, sprach uns auf Deutsch an vor dem Zelt", Koch starts to explain after seeing neither hatred nor cruelty in the officer's brown eyes who addresses him in fluent German, obviously a native of their homeland from the Northern parts. "Er hat uns angeboten, dass er uns bei der Flucht hilft, wenn wir die Wachen niederringen und entwaffnen." Hans Dietrich listens intently to the soldier's description that the SS spy has been their guard this morning and spoken to the men in front of their tent, promising them to help with their flight, if they attack and disarm the guards.
"Danke, Soldat Moritz Koch. Sie haben durch Ihr Geständnis sich und Ihren Kameraden hoffentlich unnötiges Leid erspart", the former Hauptmann thanks him and reminds him that he has helped himself and his comrades, adding the proverb: "Ehrlichkeit währt am längsten." "I know that one", Troy mutters with a smile, before Moffit can translate the last part. "Captain's pretty successful with being friendly with these guys. Never worked for us though." "We're not former German Wehrmacht officers, old man", Moffit reminds him with dark amusement. "And the Captain can be harsh and stern to them as well, when they actually overstep the bounds." While the Brit thinks of their interrogation this morning, Troy is reminded of the German Captain questioning the Hitlerjugend perpetratrors who have beaten his Hungarian Sergeant almost to death. As his gaze wanders to the men's dead bodies, he reminds himself that they have brought their own fates upon themselves.
Captain Dietrich provides a brief summary of his findings to Lieutenant Carlos and assures him that he will provide a report to Captain Boggs immediately. In addition he orders that the wounded soldiers receive treatment for their injuries in spite of their uprising, as they have been instigated and used by the SS spies. Fritz who has fled and hidden at the sound of gunfire joins them now and rubs his head against his master's shin, but stays quiet and on the ground, as the tall man gives two curt hand signs to the dog. "So you have learned about the sabotage strategies of two of the three men without even interrogating them, Holmes", Moffit tells the German officer, as they walk toward Boggs' office. "Mere skill of observation and deduction, my dear Watson", the lean Captain plays along with a dry reply. "That is rather impressive, even for a master of deduction", Troy comments with a smile. "We'll never let go of Captain Sherlock. And I'm still impressed by you sniffing the explosives, Captain." Dietrich sighs wearily at the nickname combination with his rank title that annoys him more than the strategic application of schemes for message encryption by now. "We're bringing the loot", Kevin O'Donnell crows enthusiastically, as he carries a weapons crate with his brother to which Tully and Gotty have returned their automatic guns and Troy is returning his to the crate carried by Lakatos. "Treasure hunting", the German mutters half to himself with clear amusement, before adding more loudly: "I'm glad you have put these to good use, gentlemen."
James Boggs is rather astonished by the sight of the ten soldiers entering his tent which immediately feels crammed. After depositing the crates, the Privates and Corporal get sent outside, until only the Sergeants and the German Captain remain to provide reports. The tall officer starts with the report on the prisoner uprising and the SS spy's involvement, recounting the number of wounded and killed soldiers of their side as well as among the Germans. With a tormented expression he explains that through Haberfeld being wounded and his survival not assured the Germans have lost their last officer who could keep an overview of the troops or them calmed and cooperative. "I will need you more than ever, as your men at least still seem to listen to you mostly, Captain Dietrich", Boggs addresses his younger colleague who nods with a haunted expression, obviously worried about getting his former men to safety. Troy's hand on his shoulder startles the lean German Captain, as the American Sergeant mutters: "Don't worry! Your guys have been mostly smart and kept to your orders. You trained them well, Captain."
Muttering a "Thank you", the younger man schools his face into a neutral expression, as he continues to report with a carefully controlled voice about their found stashes, leaving out the rocket launcher deliberately. Then, Dietrich inquires about General Atkins and his current state. "It has not been easy, but I could convince Doctor Andrews and he has after some struggle managed to get the General into sickbay. According to his report, application of some strong anaesthetics was necessary to subdue him, when he turned against the Doctor aggressively which finally convinced even his guards that something is not right with him. You have an excellent intuition for these things, as without your suspicion we would never have noticed this in time to prevent worse things from happening", Boggs tells his younger colleague who nods in quiet acceptance of the appraisal. "Also your nose was right about the explosives", the American Captain adds with a slightly bemused tone. "Corporal Humphreys has found explosives not in your Jeep, but the General's armored car." Dietrich smiles wryly as he comments: "Fritz isn't the only one with a good nose around here." The little dog yelps enthusiastically at his name, but is stopped quickly by the Captain's sharp command: "Aus. Still, Fritz." With a sad look the little brown dog curls up and observes the men around him.
Lieutenant Williamson adds his own report of the check on the ammunition and weapons depot, where they have caught the conspirator red-handed and arrested him already, even before the General's guard has done so on Dietrich's command. "Well done", both Captains speak in unison and look at each other slightly surprised, while Troy merely smirks and Moffit looks bemused as well. With a scowl, the lean German turns toward his American colleague and CO. "With the General's state of health, an unknown number of men potentially under the influence of Pervitin which will increase their aggression, we are in a particularly dangerous situation given the tension and paranoia dominating the camp. Thus, wouldn't it be more reasonable to wait until tomorrow before changing our location, Captain Boggs?" Boggs nods. "I have already given this some thought and wanted to address it with you, Dietrich. Leaving us more time to prepare for the mobilisation, treatment of the drugged and freshly wounded as well as learning more about the infiltrators' schemes before being taken by surprise again is an advantage. However, I don't wish to stay any longer than until tomorrow morning or noon at the latest." The lean German Captain furrows his brows and nods. "Precisely my thoughts. It would also buy us time to recover the British archaeologist and his men until tomorrow, if we leave within the next hour. And we could still stay with the same arrangement with the Arab traders without having to redirect them."
Dietrich's expression changes to a more cautious and sly one, Troy and Moffit immediately recognize, as the Captain scheming and preparing some sort of trap. "Given the General's ... lack of reasonability in his evaluation of the strategic situation and that you are the acting camp commander, as highest ranking officer with both General Atkins and Major Turner in sickbay, would you reevaluate the destruction of all tanks and keep five or six of them for providing actual fire power in case we are faced with superior forces in the German oases, Captain Boggs?" The American Captain stares at the lean young German officer slightly incredulously, but honestly evaluates his line of reasoning. "Although I know it is dangerous to listen to you regarding acts that could potentially count as acts of insubordination..." The taller German Captain narrows his eyes in an obvious expression of wounded pride, as he grits his teeth and his whole body tenses into a fight or flight posture. "... your line of reasoning is well thought-through and sensible which is why I want to comply with it. Can you teach some of our men the handling of the German tanks within an hour or two tomorrow morning?" Dietrich looks almost as baffled as the two Rat Sergeants at Boggs' change of hearts.
"Actually, I could colunteer, as we have already driven a Tiger tank in the past", Moffit intercedes. "I can stay within a second tank and instruct the men there myself during the first day", Dietrich offers to Boggs, "While Sergeant Moffit, Private Pettigrew and Sergeant Troy man the other tank." "If Hitch makes it out of the sickbay, he can join us as well and I'll switch to your tank, Captain", Troy adds. Opening his mouth as if to protest, the German officer remembers their agreements and his own word of honour to respect them and nods in acceptance. "This reminds me that we still have to pay the sickbay a visit and check on your brother. I want to leave Ari in Hitchcock's care for today, as they know and like each other and the Private could not accompany us for retrieving the archaeologist anyways", the younger Captain suggests which finds quick acceptance among his Sergeants and Captain Boggs. Then, their CO sends them all out to leave him to his coordination work which has only become more complicated in the last days, ordering them to report to him before they finally leave camp.
Dietrich assures the Australians and the Texan soldier of his gratitude one more time, before finally releasing them to return to their original units. "Send Captain Brown my regards, Lieutenant Williamson", Dietrich speaks calmly, before addressing the unruly soldiers: "I will take your applications into due consideration, gentlemen. You have my thanks for your support today, as do you, Private Walker." Walker salutes sharply. "Yes, Sir." His military style would have fit well with the Wehrmacht, but his trigger-happy attitude does not sit well with the German officer who returns the salute nonetheless. The three Australians are more laid-back, but provide sharp salutes as well, smiling at the mention of their applications. "Sergeant Moffit, please go to the radio tent and let Lieutenant Williams inform Professor Stevenson that we are coming to retrieve him and his team. They are to prepare a truck for the evacuation which they must have and bring all food and fuel supplies with them", the Captain then addresses the Brit who immediately nods in compliance. "Private Pettigrew, Corporal Gottschlich, you two will be the drivers for this mission. Prepare the Jeeps as well as rations and equipment in case we have to spend a night in the desert. You guide the Corporal along, Private", Dietrich orders sternly. Tully shifts his matchstick and provides a sloppy salute, muttering: "Sure, Cap!" Gottschlich looks truly enthusiastic to be entrusted with driving the second Jeep and gives a proper salute as well as beaming happily at the German officer. "Thank you, Captain! I'll do my best."
As Troy walks with Dietrich to the sickbay followed by Fritz, he complains: "I could have driven that second Jeep as well instead of the greenhorn, Captain." Dietrich replies dryly: "Although it truly pains me to say that, Troy, I still feel saver with you behind than gun than behind the driving wheel." "I'll remind you of that the next time", Troy comments with a hearty laugh, patting the taller German on the good shoulder. Upon entering the sickbay, they are greeted by the sight of busily working medical personnel that is still taking care of the wounded from the gunfight between the prisoners and guards. Deirdre O'Donnell comes to greet them and immediately eyes the young Captain with worry and concern, too used to him getting injured on a regular basis. When they assure her that they are both alright and merely wish to check on patients, she breathes a sigh of relief and lets them proceed into the officers' ward.
When they enter the secluded section for the camp's officers, Ari sits on the cot at David Troy's side and listens with fascination to a boisterous story about the American flying his plane over the desert skies the pilot recounts with delight. "Looks like my little brother is teaching yours some new tricks", Sam Troy comments with a grin. "I should have thought of gagging him earlier. This is a nightmare coming true I haven't even realized I had", the German Captain replies with a suffering tone dripping of irony. "Hans!", Ari exclaims, once he notices the two, and runs to hug his brother who crouches to not aggravate the fresh stitches on his abdomen. "David told me all about flying. I want to fly too", the Jewish boy tells his brother enthusiastically. "Do you now?", Dietrich unsuccessfully tries to rein in his sarcasm which the child is unfamiliar with. Ari nods full of excitement, after he has embraced the young German around the neck. "I want to see the desert from the sky and catch a bird in flight." The boy waves his arms to show the sky and movement of flight. "Did he tell you that he did that?", Sam asks with a wide smile, while the tall officer merely snaps "Troy" with such annoyance that David starts squirming a bit. "It's catching a bird, when they are shredded in your rotor, technically speaking." The younger Captain pinches his nose and sighs dramatically. "Stop telling such nonsense in your tall tales!" After previous scathing remarks, David is glad to get away so lightly with the irritated German Captain. Dietrich is actually a tolerable guy, when he is not aggressive, because he has been overly annoyed or in pain.
Fritz who has followed them all along jumps up on Ari and the boy greets the dog with equal enthusiasm and excitement. "Ari, I have to tell you something", the German Captain efficiently reins the boy in who looks at him with a worried expression. "Are you okay, Hans?" With a gentle and sad smile the young officer replies: "Don't worry. I'm fine. But I will have to ride into the desert again. You will stay with Mark Hitchcock in the meantime. You like him, don't you?" Although appearing worried and sad at first, the child starts to beam at the news that he will stay with his friend Mark who is great fun. Ari looks forward to more gum and poetry, as he takes his brother's hand to be led to the Private. Fritz follows closely on their heels as well, not leaving his master's side as he has for the most part of the day. Sam Troy meanwhile has started chatting with David, questioning the prodigal brother about his state of health.
Hans Dietrich leaves the troublesome Troys in the officer's ward, as he leads Ari to Hitch's bed. Seeing the Captain approach, Mark Hitchcock gets up immediately and greets them with a smile. "Hey, Cap. Hi, Ari." His almost lifelong indoctrination of not losing face by rolling his eyes keeps Hans Dietrich from doing so when faced with one of the most unworthy greetings he has ever heard from the Rats and beating Pettigrew's monosyllabic manner is an actual feat. "Private Hitchcock", the German Captain feels motivated to stay particularly formal in the light of the previous greeting. "Your comrades and I will have to leave camp to retrieve a British archaeology professor. As you are not on duty currently due to your latest injury, I will entrust you again with watching over Ari, while we are gone. Jakob will support you for dinner and the night, should we not be able to return today which is rather unlikely, but possible", the young officer explains matter-of-factually. Ari understands enough to become worried. "You will not come back today, Hans?", he inquires with eyes that look close to tears.
The tall German squats to meet him closer to eye level, while he places his left hand on the boy's shoulder in a reassuring manner. "Ari, I promise you that I will return as quickly as possible. Hopefully today, but it is possible that we only come back tomorrow." Biting his lip, the boy nods with tearfilled eyes. "Okay, Hans." "You really don't have to worry, Ari. Sam Troy will take good care of me", Hans Dietrich tries to reassure the child in a way that makes Hitch smile with actual sympathy, as he observes the slightly younger German Captain who seems to struggle, feeling out of his depth as Mark does often enough as well which gives the usually stern and competent officer an unusually human quality in the Private's eyes. "Don't worry. I'll take good care of him as long as you're gone. I swear it, Captain. Scout's honour!" Dietrich looks up at the American Private with a look of surprise that turns into one of the most friendly smiles Hitch has ever seen him bear in his direction. "Thank you, Hitchcock."
Ari hugs the young officer and whispers: "Promise that you'll come back!" His internal torment and struggle is obvious on the German Captain's face which Ari luckily cannot see, as he assures him: "I promise you that I will do all within my power to come back as soon as possible and unharmed, Ari." Hans Dietrich flinches, when the boy kisses him on the cheek and rests his head on his chest to listen to his heartbeat which helps to calm him down. Hitch squats at the taller man's side and observes him closely. Except when the German Captain has been unconscious and half-dead he has hardly ever seen the usually strict and reserved officer so vulnerable. Mark does not dare to touch the other like he would with the other Rats, placing his hand on their shoulder to reassure them with a joke, but he will definitely not be cowered or afraid of Dietrich so easily anymore. Moffit is right that the tall and lean German Captain with his dry humor and sarcasm is a lot more like them than he has ever seen before.
When Ari finally feels assured enough that his brother is fine, he lets go of the young man and looks at Hitch who smiles at him reassuringly. "I wanted to tell you more about Akela and the wolf pack", he starts and the boy immediately crows: "Yeah. Fritz, come. You have to hear this as well." Fritz understands nothing beyond his name which is sufficient for staying with the boy though who pets his head, while sitting down on the cot next to Hitch. "Take care", the German mutters quietly, as he retreats from the scene, before he gets caught again. He definitely owes Hitchcock some more respect and gratitude after this. As he wants to return to the officers' ward for his own medical checkup, Captain Boggs has ordered and he considers relevant himself given his slightly hurting abdomen where the fresh stitches have been sutured, the German Captain gets stopped by one of the last persons he would have expected to do so, Wolf Bauer.
"Herr Hauptmann, was ist passiert?", the young man inquires with actual worry and desperation what has happened. "Einige Gefangene wurden zum Aufstand angestachelt und es kam zum Gefecht. Die drei HJ Anhänger aus Ihrer Einheit, die Ihren Freund Feldwebel Nemet angegriffen haben, sind dabei ums Leben gekommen", Dietrich explains in a calm and reassuring tone the some prisoners have been incited to an uprising which led to a gunfight. The news that the three men from his unit who have attacked Sergeant nemet have been killed actually brings a dark smile to the younger man's face. "Sie haben bekommen, was sie verdient haben", Wolf declares grimly that they have gotten what they deserved. "Wie geht's den ander'n aus uns'rer Einheit?" As he inquires about the rest of his unit with honest concern, the German Captain smiles briefly. "Sie sind sonst alle wohlauf, weil sie zu vernünftig waren, sich daran zu beteiligen." Bauer smiles similarly to his former Hauptmann, as he hears that all the others are fine, as they have been smart enough not to get involved.
"Sehen Sie nach Feldwebel Nemet, Bauer! Lieutenant Silberblatt wird sich mit Ihnen auseinandersetzen." When Dietrich tells the younger soldier to looks after Sergeant Nemet and that Lieutenant Silberblatt will speak with him soon, Bauer replies: "Des hat er schon. Wir soll'n beide auf Bauernhöf'n arbeit'n dürf'n, vielleicht sogar z'sam." Hans is surprised, as this is the first time that he hears about Jakob already having spoken with them and assuring them that he will arrange for them to be allowed to work and a ranch or farm, possibly even both of them together. "Ich freue mich für Sie, Bauer, wenn das klappt und wünsche Ihnen alles Gute!", the young officer assures his former soldier that he is happy for them if all works out in this way and wishes them all the best. Bauer looks like he would like to hug the Captain who is his father figure and mentor, but does not dare to do so. Instead he stays with muttering: "Danke, Herr Hauptmann. Wir hab'n Ihnen alles zu verdank'n. Wenn i irgendwas tuan kann, um Ihnen zu helf'n, werd' ich's tuan." Dietrich does not doubt his honest pledge to do whatever he can for his former Hauptmann to whom Bauer is infinitely grateful. "Passen Sie auf sich und Ihren Freund auf, Bauer. Mehr will ich nicht von Ihnen", he replies that the does not ask for anything from them except for Bauer taking care of himself and his friend. As the Captain turns to leave the young soldier behind, he hears muttered words that remind him immediately of Marcello, as Bauer wishes him that god may protect him. "Gott schütze Sie, Herr Hauptmann."
When he enters the officer's ward for the second time, Hans Dietrich finally has the time to get an overview of the situation. Major Bracken and Major Turner sit and lie respectively on adjacent field beds, while General Atkins has a secluded bed of his own where the unconscious man lies with a cannula fixed to his arm. As the German crouches to get a closer look at the older officer's state, Major Bracken calls to him: "Captain Dietrich. Would you care to join us and inform us what is going on? You're usually one of the most knowledgeable men in this camp." The young Captain looks slightly astounded to be considered this by the older Brit, but concedes nonetheless. After asking Major Turner about his state of health, Dietrich assures him with honest relief that he wishes the man a fast recovery. The American Major has not only earned his respect through providing the gift for the Sheikh for the good of his men, but also for his calm and reasonable manner of balancing the General's more emotionally driven decisions and actions. Especially for this quality, the German Captain has truly missed the American officer who looks astounded by the friendly get-well wishes, but smiles with honest sympathy for the young German officer.
While Hans Dietrich provides a brief and concise report to the two Majors, the Troy brothers are quarreling. "What's that supposed to mean you don't want Ma fuzzing over you or Helen browbeating you? Is that a way to talk about your loving family?", Sam Troy growls angrily. "You all kicked me out. And I know I'm an ass. I'd rather stay with the nice nurses from here", David argues, trying to catch sight of the new-arrival, only to realize that this is not a nurse, but the German Captain who gets involved in a discussion with the two Majors rather quickly. Troy notices Hans Dietrich as well and seems to consider bringing him over to provide his promised support for their discussion. "Don't do anything stupid!", he orders his younger brother out of habit. "Like I could right now", David replies sarcastically, but feels actually relieved to be out of the clutches of his older brother. When they have been fighting like cat and dog, it has been bad, but his brother fuzzing over him like when he has been a child and grown into a teenager, as Sam as taken over the duties of the head of the family after the death of their father is even worse. His brother has often accused him that he has given up his high school education and any other perspectives in life away from the family ranch and would expect at least some gratitude, but this has always called for the most rebellious side of David to show its head.
When Dietrich is finished with his diligent and concise report to the two Majors, Sam Troy approaches him. "May I lend my Captain for a few minutes?", he asks and without waiting for an answer grabs the younger man at the shoulder and starts pushing him in the direction of his brother's cot. "Let go of me, Troy. I'm perfectly capable of walking on my own", the lean German officer almost snarls in annoyance. "I told him that you promised to share your experiences with being wounded and out of service for a few months. David promised to listen", Sam Troy announces and glares at his younger brother, daring him to contradict him, while indeed letting go of the young man whose compliance he requires. With a weary sigh, the lean German Captain crouches at David's side, muttering with a fatalistic tone: "I gave you my word, Sergeant. I will heed it."
Then, the tall officer turns his gaze on the gravely wounded pilot who has no means of escaping him anyways. "Do you wish to go home to Wyoming to be treated by your family, Captain Troy?", Dietrich inquires with a tinge of compassion and concern in his voice. "You can call me David, you know", the older RAF Captain offers at which the German glares with annoyance. "Don't even start that, Troy!" David eyes him a bit sadly, but decides to answer his honestly well-meaning question nonetheless: "I'd rather stay here in North Africa in the loving care of all the nice nurses. Going over the Atlantic for several weeks already makes my stomach turn just by thinking of it. I hate boats. Unlike planes they have this bad habit of shaking slowly, while a good aircraft is fast in its movements." The nephew of a German vice-admiral stemming from one of Germany's largest harbour towns smirks at this explanation. "That is a reasonable argument, especially when you're not used to it. The Atlantic Ocean to cross to the United States is far bigger than the Mediterrean Sea to cross to central Europe. But ignoring the circumstances of reaching your home, would you be comfortable with your mother and sister seeing you in such a state and playing the roles of your nurses?"
David almost shudders at the thought. Unlike Sam, Dietrich is an expert for getting to the most relevant point and rubbing his nose right in it. "No. That's the last thing I want", the pilot argues. "I don't want them bullying me around... and I don't want to be a burden either." "You're no burden!", Sam growls, but is quickly reined in by Dietrich who merely snaps: "Troy!" With his unruly Sergeant quieted down, the German can focus on his talk with David again. "I can actually understand you better than you may think, Captain Troy." "David", the older pilot interrupts, making the younger Captain grit his teeth and glare at him. David has finally remembered an argument he considers convincing for the ruleabiding German officer. "We're actually fellow officers, Dietrich. First names would be appropriate." "Stop violating my name, Troy, unless you want to force me to bite your head off", the younger man growls in true exasperation. "Captain Troy", he then repeats purposefully. "I have been in your situation when I was shot in the left shoulder during a sniper attack in France which got me off duty for two months. I could easily have been transferred from the hospital in Paris to my hometown of Kiel which would only have taken two days by train, but I refused such a transfer for ... personal reasons." David eyes the young German officer curiously. When he is not aggressive or rather defensive and attacking in need of defending himself, the tall officer is more compassionate than many of the stiff and snobbish Brits he has gotten to know in British officers' clubs.
"I think I understand you and you understand me better than my own brother which says quite a lot, given you're a Jerry Captain and you Prussians are reputed to be just as snobbish and stiff as the Tommy officers I usually have to hang out with, when there's no beautiful girl in sight", David argues and finds both the German officer and his brother glaring at him with annoyance. "I get it that you both wanna help me, but I really don't mind staying here in North Africa to be treated for my wounds", he tries to appease them both. Dietrich turns to Sam Troy with an annoyed, yet weary expression. "I fear that has been all I have been able to do for you ... both of you." The older Troy brother glares first at the German than at his brother, before focusing his softening gaze back on the young officer, as he pats the tall man on the shoulder. "Thanks, Captain. You've done all you could. Couldn't ask more of a friend." Instead of protesting against the notion, David observes the German averting his eyes and muttering: "I'm sorry that I cannot do more." Then, the tall man stands up abruptly and turns back toward the other officers.
While Sam Troy starts another round of bickering with David behind his back, Hans Dietrich calls for nurse O'Donnell. "I require that you perform a checkup on my injuries, before leaving the camp on a mission, Lieutenant", the Captain addresses her calmly. Deirdre looks truly worried upon hearing that the young officer is supposed to leave their camp. On the one hand she is worried about his health given his injuries and still rather detrimental state of health given his his longterm undernourishment, on the other hand since the incident with Sara attacking the Major and the General's guards, she feels safer with the smart and level-headed, yet compassionate and honorable Captain around. Unlike most of the other officers his manner of dealing with the medical personnel and sick and wounded has been reassuring, showing that he actually cares about the lives of the people stranded here as more than just battle ressources.
"Where are you going? I thought we were all to move camp by noon", she inquires curiously, while directing him to a free cot. "A rescue mission", the German replies curtly without giving too much away. "And Captain Boggs should announce shortly that we will not move camp before tomorrow morning, possibly even noon." As the nurse helps the young officer she knows is only a year older than her from his file out of his jacket and shirt, she notices his pained expression. That the pain in his right shoulder has apparently increased is worrying for her. "I will apply local anaethtics to your right arm again. And I think you should use a sling for the rest of the day to reduce the strain and let the tendons relax and heal." "That sounds reasonable, Lieutenant O'Donnell", the Captain comments between gritted teeth, as the movement is causing his obvious pain. "You should lie down for letting me check your sutures on the abdomen and head, Captain", she orders and the German officer complies without the usual complaint or leering comments she receives from the American soldiers.
That the stitched injury looks slightly reddened could be due to the strain he has put on the fresh wound, but also due to infection. To be rather safe than sorry, Deirde decides for a generous application of desinfectant, before reapplying a new bandage around the lean man's waist. For the first time since she remembers treating him in camp his old scars are more clearly visible than his bruises along the torso which for two weeks have been gruesome reminders just what kind of fate the young officer has escaped. The imagination of the SS torture alone has caused her nightmares. Dietrich's head wound at least looks better and he also has reported no further side effects of a concussion. So Deirdre wraps it with a fresh gauze after cleaning some dried blood around the sutures.
Since his arrival, she has wondered that the Captain's brown hair and eyes are not fitting the propaganda description of the blond and blue-eyed German. If he would not have arrived in camp as the German Panzer Hauptmann and bear an obviously German name he is proud to have, Hans Dietrich would make one of the most scary infiltrators, given his flawless English language skills and adaptable behaviour that makes him blend in as a U.S. army officer so well that Deirdre sometimes forgets about his actual heritage. That she can be assured of the young officer to truly be on their side has been one of her anchors of hope after what has happened with Sara. The application of the local anaesthetic is actually the longest and most painful part of the treatment which the German Captain suffers through stoically, while Deirdre performs the task with particular diligence, as she wants to help to young man who has saved her cousin's life and done his utmost to protect them all, the inhabitants of this camp. That much she feels she owes the selfless and heroic officer.
Too annoyed by quarrlling with his good-for-nothing little brother, Sam Troy waits until the German Captain's treatment is finished, observing the skinny officer closely. The main physical improvement since rescuing him from the SS is that his bullet wound has healed and his bruises have mostly faded, making his battle scars and the ribs underneath his skin at the flank visible more clearly. Maybe he should rather send Dietrich than David home to Ma to get the underfed German coddled up a bit, not that he would appreciate the effort any more than his annoying little brother. Once Deirdre is finally finished, Sam Troy helps the young Captain to sit back up and into his shirt and jacket, leaving the proud German to button both singlehandedly, a feat he is able to perform by now with surprising speed. Browny is definitely right that Hans Dietrich is a pretty dexterous lad as he has termed him, especially when it comes to sleight of hand or picking locks and even pockets. The memory of the Captain stealing a document from right under that cruel, devious, arrogant peacock of a General's nose brings a grin to Troy's lips that makes the German officer frown warily, as he inquires dryly: "What's going on Troy? Nothing good has ever come from you grinning like that. For me at least." "I just got reminded of something", the American Sergeant replies, not wishing to voice his actual topic in front of the two Majors and his idiot brother who cannot keep his mouth shut. "Don't worry, Captain. It'll really cause you no further harm."
"Hey, Dietrich. Captain, I mean", David Troy calls the German officer once he has gotten fully dressed. With apprehension clearly written all over his face, Hans Dietrich approaches him with a wary scowl. "What do you want from me, Captain Troy?" "You wouldn't find yourself in need of a pilot?", the American asks nonchalantly. Too shocked by the inquiry to answer for a few seconds, the younger Captain finally growls: "What is this really about? Get to the point?" David sees that this is going horribly wrong, but has no idea what to tell the irritated German Captain to save this conversation. "Well, your boy..." "Ari is not 'my boy'", Dietrich snarls furiously. "Not by blood, maybe", David tries to appease him. "But you're like his brother, father and hero all at once. The kid adores you. He told us stories about how you crossed the desert on horseback to save his whole town and give medicine to him and his siblings yourself. What he lacks in vocabulary, he doesn't lack in imagination. That's for sure." Sam Troy intervenes: "We've seen the Captain on horseback as well. That guy actually is crazy enough to ride through the desert on horseback for two weeks to save his men and suffering civilians. And he did give that medicine to the kid and his family." "Enough!", the German Captain snaps at the end of his nerves. "Leave the boy out of this and get to the point, Troy!"
David Troy looks slightly unsure how best to proceed, but tries to finish his argument. "Well, the stories about you and your way of treating the boy and your men fit pretty well. You're a quite likeable guy, Dietrich, and you have a good heart, although you keep snapping at me like a wolfhound defending his territory. You're even a lot nicer and funnier than most of the Brits." "British humor is the worst", his brother confirms. "I heard that", Moffit who has returned from his radio mission comments dryly with a tinge of wounded pride from behind them. Dietrich wonders what would force the Troy brothers to stop beating around the bush, as he struggles to not let his worn nerves get the better of him. Growling "Troy" with an appropriate amount of annoyance seems to suffice. "I honestly would want to join your unit, Captain Dietrich", David Troy declares what the German Captain hopes is just an hallucination caused by his exhaustion and the after effects of the drugs he has been injected with. Sam Troy however has no such qualms and rather incredulously says: "You can't be serious, Davey! You're more dead than alive and lucky to recover at all. And we're a ground unit. Whatever would we do with a pilot?"
The older Troy brother's statement has finally convinced the German that he is not dreaming this up in a nightmare and he intercedes as well: "Even if air support and dropping behind enemy lines is a viable option for a commando unit, Captain Troy, you are in no state to even consider this, as your brother has pointed out. And even if you were, you're the manifestation of trouble and I'm still a German officer, even if I serve in the U.S. army to free my homeland. Being the commanding officer of your brother is enough of an ordeal, although we have come to terms for a tolerable coexistence..." Dietrich avoids looking in Sam Troy's direction at the careful avoidance of spelling out their arrangement, while the American Sergeant is torn between incredulity, anger and sympathy. "..., but we have no such arrangement and not the slightest sympathy for each other, Captain Troy. Your proposal is absurd, even in the best case of a full recovery which I honestly hope you will be able to achieve." "You're wrong. I have quite some sympathy for you, Dietrich", David tries to counter with a grimace that should have been a smile. "Only because you're a madman with the short-term memory of a mayfly, as I remember clearly having told you not to violate my name through your pronunciation", the German Captain argues. "Besides, no RAF pilot of American heritage in their sane mind would have any sympathy for a German defector." "You're really nice and tolerable for a Jerry officer", David replies, as Dietrich scowls and takes a deep breath to calm his nerves.
"He's more tolerable than the Texan gunslinger", Moffit serves as David Troy's advocatus diaboli which earns him a grateful smile from the injured pilot. "Thanks, Moffit. You're really quite okay for a British snob." "Isn't he charming?", Dietrich inquires sarcastically from the Brit who appears slightly affronted. "That's Davey for you two", Sam Troy comments. "All this is absurd", the German Captain finally states. "This is a truly hypothetical discussion leading absolutely nowhere, as we don't even know how many and what type of men are to serve in our commando unit, gentlemen. Thinking about starting discussions with the RAF to lend us one of their pilots is ranking not very high on my priority list. Additionally, I have already been offered support through a competent pilot. You will hopefully not even consider arguing that you cannot compete with Air Commodore George-Irving even on one of your best days, Captain Troy." "That's tough competition, Davey", Sam Troy comments with a shrug. "Better think about getting back on your feet again, before making such plans."
Major Bracken stops their further discussion, as he rather sharply addresses David: "Group Captain Troy, I will expect an explanation of your behaviour and better conduct in the future worthy of an officer of his Majesty, King George!" David looks around anxiously, realizing that he has no means of escaping the higher ranking British officer and his tirade that is sure to come. "Help", he forms his plea as silently as possible, for only his brother and the German Captain to hear who stand close enough. "You brought this upon yourself, Captain Troy", Hans Dietrich argues smoothly, enjoying the irony of fate that Major Bracken will finally receive an answer to his long-standing question and the totally deserving younger Troy will be grilled for his insolence. "We'll look after you, Davey, when we're back in camp", his older brother assures him, before adding: "Don't do anything stupid in the meantime." "How would I do that?", David laments with a truly suffering tone. "I know you, Dave. You always find a way", Sam comments sarcastically, before announcing: "Let's shake it!" As he passes by Jack Moffit, the German whispers very lowly: "This time it looks like a Troy will be the most shaken in the near future." The Brit's eyes twinkle with amusement, as he looks back at the scene of Major Bracken preparing his hospital bed interrogation of a obviously uncomfortable David Troy who would wish for nothing more than being able to come with them.
