"Halt. Weisen Sie sich aus?", one of the German soldiers guarding the fort's gate shouts, as he sees the two Kübelwagen approach and asks for identification. "Hauptmann Winfried Winter", Moffit introduces himself, showing one of the forged documents from the German inflitrators into which they have placed his photography from his personnel file. For disguise purposes the British Sergeant has put on Dietrich's former Wehrmacht uniform, as the German Captain is similar enough to him regarding height and stature that this is an adequate fit and a fake moustache to hide his facial features partially. The soldier who has addressed him before, checks the document, while his colleague points his machine gun at the first vehicle and its occupants. "Was tun Sie hier, Herr Hauptmann?", the man finally inquires, handing Moffit back his identification documents which have apparently passed his inspection. "Mein Konvoy wurde von den Wüstenratten überfallen. Wir haben schwere Verluste erlitten, konnten aber ihren Anführer gefangen nehmen", the British Sergeant lies smoothly that his convoy has fallen victim to the Rat Patrol and that in spite of their heavy losses they have been able to apprehend the leader of the commando unit, remembering Dietrich's own explanations often provided after their arrest, when he has had to justify his losses in front of his superiors. The German soldier glares at Troy venomously who glares back defiantly, a reaction he does not even have to fake. Finally, the man orders to open the gates and lets them pass. "Öffnen Sie die Tore! Die Wagen dürfen passieren."
When they drive into the main square of the fort, they carefully take stock of the Germans' vehicles and buildings holding their supplies, barracks, prisoners and offices. A man with the insignia of a Feldwebel approaches them and salutes sharply, when he recognizes the Hauptmann's shoulder straps. "Herr Hauptmann. Ich bringe Sie sofort zu Hauptmann Zornbrecht", the man offers to guide them to his own Captain Zornbrecht. "Wir müssen zuerst diesen gefährlichen Gefangenen in Verwahrung wissen, Feldwebel", Moffit counters smoothly that first he wants to know that their dangerous prisoner is safely in custody. "Das ist Sergeant Troy von den Ratten", the Feldwebel recognizes the American immediately and Moffit is glad that he has been smart enough to add a fake moustache to his disguise lest he gets recognized as well.
"Feldwebel Weiß", Nemet addresses his former comrade from Dietrich's unit, intending to distract him from Moffit, before he might recognize the British Sergeant. "Sie wissen, wie gut die Ratten im Ausbrechen sind. Wir müssen den verrückten Ami so schnell wie möglich zum Gefängnis bringen." Jack Moffit listens approvingly, as the German Sergeant supports their ruse, adressing the other by name and arguing that he knows well how likely the Rats are to escape and how important it is to have Troy, the crazy American, behind lock and key. Jack smirks at the term which his fellow Sergeant does not understand, fortunately for Nemet, but describes the Yankee quite adequately. "Stefan Deutsch", the German Feldwebel Weiß greets his former comrade with a smile. "Ich dachte, Sie sind noch immer in Hauptmann Dietrich's Einheit." "Ich wurde erst kürzlich versetzt, als der Hauptmann verurteilt wurde, und bin sofort wieder Opfer der Ratten geworden", Nemet lies smoothly that he has been transferred only recently from Dietrich's unit when their Captain has been convicted as Weiß inquires about this, lamenting that he has become a victim of the Rats immediately again. Weiß bears a sad expression when Dietrich's sentence is mentioned, but smiles with clear sympathy for his former comrade and his ordeal, knowing how he feels and pointing out that the other has been beaten up pretty badly. "Ich weiß, wie es Ihnen geht, Deutsch. Die haben Sie ja übel zugerichtet. Ich zeige Ihnen den Weg zum Gefängnis. Der SS Hauptsturmführer wird diesen Troy wohl selbst sehen wollen. Er verhört gerade Hauptmann Dietrich." They all listen intently, when he tells them that a SS officer will likely want to see the prisoner himself and that he is currently interrogating Dietrich.
"Parken Sie die Wagen!", Moffit orders to Gotty and Tully who both play the roles of drivers. The half-Japanese Private nods right away and restarts the Kübelwagen, while the Kentuckian observes his reaction and follows suit only seconds later which does not cause any suspicions that he does not understand the language. The Corporal's and Private's orders are to inconspicuously place explosives among the German vehicles, sabotage their tanks and provide support for their comrades who will bluff their way in and try to free the Captain. Wolf Bauer looks nervous which in this case does not cause the German Feldwebel's suspicion either, as he tries to reassure him that Troy will be behind lock and key soon: "Keine Sorge, Bauer. Bald ist der verrückte Ami in SS Gewahrsam und wir sind sicher." The young Austrian nods, trying to play along, while still looking nervous, as this is his first infiltration mission. "Wie geht es Hauptmann Dietrich, Weiß?", Nemet who is much more controlled and better at acting his part asks his former comrade what the state of Hauptmann Dietrich is. "Überhaupt nicht gut", the German Feldwebel replies honestly that he is not well at all. His voice drops to a whisper, as he cautiously eyes Moffit. "Hauptmann Zornbrecht hat ihn halb tot schlagen lassen von den Männern. Ich hab' irgendwann eingegriffen und ihn bewusstlos geschlagen, als ich nicht mehr zuschauen konnte. Das war das einzige, was ich tun konnte, um zu verhindern, dass er nicht noch schlimmer zugerichtet wird, ohne dass ich auch im SS Verhör lande." Nemet nods with a worried expression, as his former colleague tells him that Zornbrecht has ordered his men to beat Dietrich half to death. He smiles at Weiß, when the Feldwebel explains with a concerned tone that he has intervened by knocking the Captain unconscious to safe him from further injury without ending up in a SS interrogation himself. "Sie sind noch immer ein guter Mensch, Weiß", Nemet tells the other that he is a good man. Moffit has listened to their talk with a scowl, while Troy who cannot understand them glares in annoyance which perfectly fits his role of a dangerous stubborn prisoner.
Feldwebel Weiß leads their way to the interrogation room, where he pales as he hears the SS officer's voice from within. "Sie finden Hauptsturmführer Habeck hier drinnen, Herr Hauptmann", he explains to Moffit that he will find the Hauptsturmführer here. "Gibt es hier keine Bewachung?", the British Sergeant disguised as German Hauptmann inquires with a frown, whether there are no guards. The German Feldwebel looks uncomfortable, when he replies: "Herr Hauptsturmführer Habeck hat die Wachen lieber drinnen, aber nicht jeder hält das aus." Bauer and Nemet exchange worried glances, when they hear the answer that the SS officer prefers his guards to stay in the room with him, but not everybody has the stomach for that. Especially the young German Private looks particularly nervous and concerned for his former Hauptmann, paling visibly as he remembers how Dietrich has looked the last time when he has been in SS custody. "Ich muss dringend zu meinem Dienst zurück", Feldwebel Weiß excuses himself with a slightly shaky voice that clearly demonstrates that he does not have the stomach for that. All who can understand him, recognize his ambition to retreat from the horrible room as quickly as possible, as he provides the excuse that he has to return to his duties immediately. "Danke, Weiß", Nemet tells his former comrade with a sympathetic smile. "Passen Sie auf sich auf, Deutsch!", Weiß replies with a worried tone, briefly squeezing the Hungarian's forearm in a show of support, before he leaves quickly. "He was a member of Captain Dietrich's unit who knows the others", Moffit summarises for Troy, asking for confirmation from the German Feldwebel. Nemet nods in response. "He tried to help our Hauptmann." "We'll try not to kill him", Troy promises with a less grim glare. "Thank you, Sergeant Troy", Nemet responds, feeling safer with staying on the dangerous American's good side. One never knows what insanity the Rat Patrol leader will perform next.
A loud noise from inside the interrogation room, makes them whirl around. "Let's safe Dietrich!", Troy declares with his hateful glower directed at the door to the interrogation room, as he takes off the unlocked handcuffs which have been on his wrists for show until now. "Weiß said that the guards are inside the room. I will go first. You two point your weapons at the guards to disarm them and keep them from interfering", Moffit declares, looking at Nemet and Bauer who nod in acknowledgement. Then, the disguised Brit knocks on the door, entering immediately without waiting for a response. The interrogation room is truly a horror cabinet, he thinks as soon as he steps inside and smells blood, sweat and human excrements. Two guards stand at attention next to the door and lower their weapons, when they recognize the Hauptmann's uniform and insignia. A tall, muscular blond SS officer looks in Jack's direction, as he enters and steps to the side to let his 'guards' bring the 'prisoner' Troy inside. In a stool before the Hauptsturmführer sits his brown-haired prisoner, slumped over and obviously unconscious, telling from the way his head is lolling to the side. "Was soll die Störung?", the SS officer inquires what this disturbance is about, as his cold steel blue eyes scan and classify each of the men who have just entered the room. "Herr Hauptsturmführer", Moffit addresses him sternly, performing a sharp salute that would have made Hans Dietrich proud, would the German Captain be conscious to watch him. Well, at least he will not dishonor the uniform in the proud young officer's eyes, Jack reflects, as he continues with his smooth lies: "Ich bringe Ihnen Sergeant Troy von der Rattenpatroullie, Herr Hauptsturmführer." The SS man's features lighten up with sadistic glee at the announcement that he is presented Sergeant Troy of the Rat Patrol. "Das ist genau der Gefangene, der meinen derzeitigen perfekt ergänzt", Habeck purrs with the delight of a man who truly enjoys his handiwork, as he comments that this new prisoner will perfect fit with the one he is currently interrogating.
Troy does not understand anything of what he is saying, but the tone is quite obvious to him. This openly presented sadism along with seeing his friend with blood on his face and beaten into unconsciousness is enough to drive him over the edge of sanity, although less incentive might have worked similarly. Before the SS officer truly realizes what is happening and that the prisoner is unshackled, the American Sergeant has grabbed him around the throat and slams him hard against the wall. Bauer and Nemet meanwhile point their drawn weapons at the two suprised guards, threatening them and keeping them effectively from intervening, while Moffit draws Dietrich's former Luger and tries to aim it at the SS officer which is hard with Troy being in close combat with the man. "What did you do to him?", Sam Troy snarls at the blond German with openly displayed hatred and loathing. "Troy, gun!", Jack Moffit shouts a warning, when he sees the SS Hauptsturmführer reach for the weapon at his belt. Instead of grabbing the German's hand to keep him from drawing his gun, Sam Troy slams his head against the wall several times, until he can feel the man's body fall limp, but still continues a few more times for good measure. Better to be safe than sorry with the SS.
"Stop it, Troy! He's dead already", Moffit's words and grip on his shoulder finally register with the American Sergeant in his berserk mode. Dropping the dead SS officer's body, as he feels dirty for even touching it, Sam Troy growls: "How's Dietrich?" "Alive, but fairly beaten up and unconscious. We need the keys for his handcuffs, as the Captain is our only lockpicking expert and has no chance of picking his handcuffs in this position, even if he would have the instruments to do so. The SS officer should have the keys though", Moffit replies calmly, kneeling next to the corpse to search through the shirt's and jacket's pockets, until he retrieves a small set of keys and throws them to Troy who has stepped next to the unconscious German Captain to check the pulse at his neck himself. Feldwebel Istvan Nemet has meanwhile disarmed the shocked and intimidated German guards, while Wolf Bauer keeps pointing his guns at the men. The fierce show of brutal force against the SS officer is enough to assure their compliance, one is even shivering slightly and whimpering when the American looks around to glare at him with a grim expression on his face. Although he is similarly afraid of the bloodthirsty American, Wolf Bauer murmurs to himself a prayer to calm his nerves and stay strong for the sake of his Hauptmann. "Gegrüßet seist du Maria..."
When Sam Troy unlocks the cuffs around the Captain's bloodied wrists and removes them checking the younger man's injuries, he feels the tall officer stir slightly. "I won't let you beat me up or get hurt this time, Captain", Troy mutters with determination and grabs the skinny German around the chest, holding his arms to his body to keep him from moving them, while the other's head rests on his shoulder in this position.
DDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDD
To find himself in somebody's grip when waking up after a SS torture session is not an unusual sensation anymore for Hans Dietrich who has gained enough experience with Waldheim, Metzlich and now Habeck to be familiar with the events. But to find himself in a full body hold as someone seems to pull him into an embrace is new. The smell of sweat, dust and cigarettes that reaches his nose before his other senses have fully returned to him seems vaguely familiar, but not in the way the SS torture is. When the German finally manages to blinkingly get his eyes open, he finds Sam Troy of all people holding him close by wrapping both arms around his upper arms and torso, effectively keeping him from moving his arms to defend himself or strike against anybody, not that he would want to strike his allies and saviours. "What are you doing, Sergeant?", the young Captain rasps out hoarsely, still groggy as he tries to fully regain consciousness and lifts his head from the shoulder of the one holding him tightly. As he starts coughing, his aching ribs remind him of the afternoon's mistreatment. With a groan of pain, the German officer closes his eyes again, until he finds his shoulder squeezed and shaken with resolute gentleness. "Come on, Captain. Don't pass out on us again!", Troy admonishes rather compassionately compared to his usual uncouth manner. "I just tried to keep you from attacking anybody, when you come to. You have a history for striking a vicious right hook independent of any shoulder injuries", the American Sergeant provides an explanation against which Hans intends to protest, but ends up coughing heavily and groaning in pain as his bruised ribs hurt intensely after the abuse they have suffered.
"You need to drink some water, Captain", Troy tells the younger man with clear concern audible from his tone, as he takes Moffit's proffered canteen and holds it to the German officer's lips. "Clear water", he adds as an afterthought, seeing Dietrich instinctively recoiling and trying to sniff at the container. The young Captain frowns at the statement but is grateful to receive the water to help his dry throat. Wrestling down his instinctive struggle against drinking from a canteen he has not been able to check first for the quality of the water which has haunted him since Metzlich's sadistic treatment, he drinks the liquid, blindly trusting that none of the Rats would torment him intentionally like the SS has, especially not when he is on their side now. "I don't suspect you of giving me contaminated water", the German officer growls after drinking a little and enjoying the refreshing quality of the water in his dry throat. Once the Captain has taken a few more gulps and breathes a weary sigh, Troy shines the light of his torch onto the German's face to get a better look at his injuries, forcing him to close his eyes. A large black bruise around his left eye, a split lip and dried blood which has run from his nose are the most obvious additions to his former set of bruises from the Arabs' mistreatment.
Scowling, the American Sergeant moves the light along his young CO's exposed chest, viewing the fresh cuts and the countless bruises there, received today as well as during the last few days, with a stern frown. "You look pretty beaten up, Captain", the American Sergeant grumbles with a worried tone and expression. "No kidding, Sergeant? This time I had a whole German fort to do me the honours in addition to their commanding officers and the SS", the young officer mutters with dry irony and starts coughing again as his throat protests against the usage. Maybe Habeck has hit him against the throat or tried to strangle him while he has been unconscious. With a pained grimace Dietrich rubs his throat and winces at the pain. "I wouldn't do that, old chap", Jack Moffit comments with more compassion than sarcasm from a position rather close to him, but out of the German's range of vision. Involuntarily Dietrich flinches at being addressed unexpectedly by the Brit from behind his back, while Moffit adds with a serious tone: "We need to stick some gauze over the cuts on your chest for now, Captain. But I'm sure the nurses are looking forward to taking care of you later." "I would have thought that this is Hitchcock's type of humor rather than yours, Moffit", the younger Captain counters dryly, gulping to keep talking without constant coughing. Still feeling slightly dizzy, Hans keeps his eyes closed and reclines back against the chair, trusting the British Sergeant to not harm him, when he promises medical treatment. "Hitch's neither with us nor up to his usual standards, so I thought I might replace him for now", the British Sergeant counters with dry humor, as he takes care of the younger officer's injuries. Feldwebel Nemet in addition to Sam Troy step in to help the British Sergeant unbidden with holding or handing him gauze and tape. Bandaging the young German Captain tightly around the chest is not an option anyways. The younger man does not look as badly injured as he has, when they have retrieved him from the last SS torture session, but he looks only marginally better because he has no profusely bleeding shoulder wound impairing him and costing him what little strength and life force he has left the British Sergeant considers.
"We're done", Jack declares quietly, once he has fixed the gauze to the German Captain's chest with several tapes, as he has once done for taking care of his burn wounds. After hearing the reassurance and feeling Troy's arm squeezing his shoulder in a sympathetic manner, the German Captain opens his eyes. Finally, the young officer gets the chance to take a good look at the British Sergeant. Seeing Moffit wear his own uniform, Dietrich raises his eyebrows questioningly. "Did you defect to the Wehrmacht now, because that uniform appears so attractive?", he inquires sarcastically after clearing his throat. "Not at all, Captain. Although the shoulder straps really look nice", Jack replies with a grin and fiddles with one of the shoulder straps to prove his point. "Yours was simply the best fitting German uniform with respect to my size and stature, as we are quite similar in this respect."
Dietrich smiles actually bemusedly, then focuses his gaze on Nemet and Bauer who look a bit forlorn in between the two Rat Sergeants, as they have dealt with the German guards in the way Moffit has recommended, by knocking them unconscious. Although Hans is surprised to see them here, he is grateful to them to support the Rats in their infiltration of the base and his rescue. "Ich danke Ihnen vielmals für Ihre Hilfe, meine Herren." Wolf Bauer smiles shyly at the expression of gratitude, while Istvan Nemet replies with a smile: "Gerne geschehen, Herr Hauptmann. Das war Ehrensache, wenn man bedenkt, wie oft Sie unser Leben gerettet haben, indem Sie Ihres aufs Spiel gesetzt haben." A bit awkwardly, he squeezes his former commanding officer's shoulder in a friendly gesture. After all, he owes Dietrich his life several times over, since the Hauptmann has risked his own life for his men often enough, and thus the Hungarian Feldwebel insists that it is a matter of honor.
"We need to get out of here and catch that bastard Captain of theirs", Troy growls, as he helps the lean young officer to his feet and keeps a steadying hand on his upper arm, when the tall Captain sways precariously. "And their Leutnant who is the even more brutal sadist and torturer", Dietrich adds with a dark expression. "I see you have taken care of the SS Captain already", the young German Captain growls grimly, as he sees Habeck's dead body lying on the floor. With a slightly softer and more compassionate expression, he adds: "The last three remaining members of the Australian LRDG unit are currently held in their prison cell. We should save our comrades and then get out of here. If we can deal with those immoral thugs as well, it's for the better." Dietrich's loathing for the two Wehrmacht officers, his former colleagues, is apparent from his tone and expression. "I assume that Pettigrew and Gottschlich are placing explosives or providing cover fire", Dietrich states coolly, while he focuses on keeping his balance. "We're still thinking alike, Captain", Troy replies with a grin, squeezing the younger man's shoulder in an approving gesture.
The German officer then turns to his former German soldiers with a serious expression. "Meine Herren. Bis hierher haben Sie aus Loyalität zu mir gehandelt und sich noch keines direkten Übergriffs gegen Ihre ehemaligen Kameraden und die deutsche Wehrmacht schuldig gemacht. Aber wenn Sie uns nun weiter unterstützen, überschreiten Sie die Grenze zum Hochverrat." Nemet looks unperturbed by Dietrich warning them that until now their actions can be justified through loyalty to their former Hauptman, but if they continue they will actually commit high treason against the German Wehrmacht. The Hungarian Sergeant answers coolly that he has already done so when promising Lieutenant Silberblatt his cooperation: "Ich denke, das habe ich bereits getan, als ich dem Herrn Leutnant Silberblatt meine Kooperation versprochen habe." Bauer's voice quivers a bit, as he replies that he has nothing left to lose except for his friend: "Ich hab nichts zu verlieren außer meinem Freund." The young man looks toward Nemet who smiles back at his young protege, before Wolf's intense gaze falls on Dietrich. "Und den einzigen anderen lebenden Menschen, der sich je um mich geschert hat. Ich würd' Ihnen auch in die Hölle folgen, Herr Hauptmann." Dietrich looks actually touched by his words that the second person he has left to lose is the only other man who has ever cared about him as a person and that he would follow him even into hell, if he would order him to do so. "Ich respektiere Ihre Entscheidung, die mich zutiefst ehrt, meine Herren. Ich kann allerdings nicht versprechen, wie Sie die Alliierten dafür behandeln werden", Hans replies thoughtfully that he respects their decisions by which he feels deeply honoured, but he cannot actually promise them how the Allies will treat them after this.
"To hell with them, if the damned brass don't treat you properly after all this!", Troy growls, once Moffit has provided the full translation of the conversation to him. Wolf Bauer appears quite a bit scared by the American Sergeant of the infamous Rat Patrol, while Nemet looks actually appreciative at the supportive and honest attitude of his Yankee equivalent in rank and addresses him directly: "Thank you, Sergeant Troy. Köszönöm." "You're welcome. You've suffered enough shit from those Nazis, I mean not just literally, but you know... in general", Troy replies, stumbling over his own words, as he becomes aware of their double meaning, when the Hungarian narrows his eyes at his comment. "Leave diplomacy to the more eloquent people, Troy", Dietrich comments dryly, although he appears slightly bemused by the American's self-induced predicament. "Er hat es nicht böse gemeint, Feldwebel Nemet", he adds an explanation that the American has held no bad intent for his former Sergeant. "Ich weiß, Herr Hauptmann. Ich bin ihm nicht böse. I'm not angry", the Hungarian replies and translates the last part for Troy's benefit. "Your good Jerries are really as decent as their former Captain", Troy replies with a smile. "Let's shake it! These brutal Jerry brass, that Captain and his damned Lieutenant, still have to pay." "Ich bin froh, diesmal auf seiner Seite zu sein", Istvan Nemet whispers to Dietrich that he is relieved to be for once on the same side as the livid Sam Troy after flinching visibly at the battle cry. Not only Hans Dietrich but also Jack Moffit smiles at the comment, understanding the statement and agreeing with dry British humor that he has already held this attitude for a full year: "So denke ich bereits seit einem Jahr, Feldwebel." Nemet looks a bit surprised, but sees Dietrich smile wryly, taking the statement with obvious humor instead of feeling offended and thus the Hungarian concludes that this must have been an example of the famous dry British humor, nodding politely to the Sergeant.
Looking at Dietrich's ragged, torn and blood stained kaftan and uniform shirt, Jack Moffit addresses him with a worried scowl: "With all due respect, Captain. I think that you should change your clothes, before we continue onto the base." The proud young officer frowns at the comment, but nods in agreement. "You're right, Moffit. But unless you brought a spare shirt along, I see no option of getting dressed in any better way." "Take the stuff from the SS bastard", Troy suggests. "It'll be quite baggy on you, cause you're still damn skinny, Captain. But it's better than nothing and you don't look like some beaten up desert raider at first sight." "Beaten up desert raider?", the German Captain repeats with bitter irony and annoyance. Troy grins. "You told me to get more creative with my insults." "Be careful what you wish for", Moffit adds wisely, receiving a glare in addition to Sam Troy from the a young officer. "Es wäre besser, wenn Sie die SS Uniform anziehen", even Nemet intervenes on behalf of the American and the Brit, arguing that it would be better to equip the SS uniform. Sighing deeply as he finds all three Sergeants arguing against him and wincing at the resulting pain in his ribs, Dietrich nods. "Fine. Although a SS uniform is really the last thing, I'd like to wear." "It's just a disguise. We know you're nothing like these guys, Captain", Troy tells him in a surprisingly sympathetic manner, as he kneels next to the dead SS officer and unbuttons his jacket and shirt to take them off his dead body. Jack Moffit meanwhile helps his injured CO to get out of the ragged and blood sticking shirt and kaftan. Wolf Bauer pales and turns around to avert his gaze when he sees the bruised torso of his former commanding officer fully exposed after taking off his shirt. Dietrich looks even skinnier than most of his German comrades and compared to the Hauptmann's countless bruises Wolf himself has escaped almost unscathed from the struggle against von Stolberg's men.
"You shouldn't feed your portion to your kids and Fritz all the time and eat some more yourself", Troy comments with a scowl, as he helps the German Captain into the SS uniform shirt which is obviously too baggy for the lean German Captain. "Troy, you're a wonderful motherhen", Dietrich remarks sarcastically. "You need someone to look after you, Captain Fox Kit", the American Sergeant counters with a stern expression, as he observes the tall officer buttoning his shirt with his left hand alone. "Why don't you annoy your own brother with your sudden wish to coddle someone instead of me, Troy?", the young Captain snaps sarcastically. "David would appreciate this so much more than I at the moment." "You're not even half as much of an annoying idiot as he is and you're not in the least a lying, backstabbing adulterer, Captain", Troy counters and helps the tall officer into Habeck's uniform jacket which hides the German Captain's skinny stature effectively due to its stiff form that actually makes him appear a bit bulkier and more muscular. As his injured arm is not up to the strain of buckling a belt at the moment after the mistreatment it has suffered during the last hours, Troy helps Dietrich, although the young officer looks truly uncomfortable with this kind of proximity and support. "It's better if you have a weapon at hand, Captain", the American Sergeant finally states and pats his CO on the upper arm. After the German Captain has finished inspecting the quality and functionality of Habeck's service weapon, a Walter PK, Moffit hands Dietrich the SS officer's cap which the Hauptsturmführer has placed on the table during the interrogation, saving it effectively from any destruction. As he eyes the tall German from head to toe, the British Sergeant comments dryly: "Even with the bruises you look quite intimidating in this uniform, Captain." The young officer scowls a bit, as he replies with a grim expression: "The SS have chosen the skull as insignia for their caps for a good reason. It's designed to look intimidating for their victims." Wolf Bauer indeed looks intimidated by the uniform alone, as he cautiously eyes his former Hauptmann, while his friend Istvan Nemet whispers some reassuring words to him.
"So how do you normally go about this, Troy? Jailbreaking and escaping from German bases is your uncontested area of expertise", Hans Dietrich inquires with his tone dripping sarcasm. "When we don't just knock out our guards, bluffing our way through is our usual approach", Troy replies with a smirk. "Since you all have Jerry uniforms and speak German, I'd say we stay with our previous trick. You bring me to the prison cell as a 'prisoner', we knock out the guards, spring out our Aussie friends and then we visit that Jerry Captain and his Lieutenant. I can't wait to have some serious talk with them." The German officer nods and comments dryly: "That sounds surprisingly reasonable, Troy, except for the last part. Are you sure it isn't Moffit's plan?" Jack grins at the comment, while Troy glares a bit, as he growls: "Not all my plans are crazy!" "Only most of them, old man", the British Sergeant comments dryly, sharing a bemused glance with his German commanding officer. "Gang of smartass snobs", the American grumbles with annoyance, before announcing more clearly: "Let's shake it!" While Dietrich has gotten so used to the term that he does not show much of a reaction, his two former German soldiers flinch at the words which are connected to many traumatic events for them.
With a Wehrmacht and a SS officer, accompanied by two guards leading an American prisoner toward them, the two jail guards do not even consider to argue or resist, as the stern though bruised looking SS man barks with a clear command tone: "Schließen Sie den Zellentrakt auf! Wir haben einen Gefangenen abzuliefern." Both salute sharply and the first guard takes the keys from his belt, turning around to unlock the cell block as ordered. This is the moment the Rats have been waiting for. Drawing his Luger swiftly, Jack Moffit knocks the second suprised guard out who has focused his attention mainly on Dietrich and the prisoner, while Troy grabs the one with the key at the neck and knocks his head against the doorframe a few times, before letting the limp guard drop to the ground, when Dietrich snaps: "Sergeant!" The German Captain crouches to check the man's pulse at the neck and looks actually relieved to find him still breathing. Picking up the keys the man has dropped, the Captain stands up, while glaring slightly at the American. Pointing at the unconscious guard, Hans admonishes the Sergeant sternly: "You don't have to treat them all like brutal criminals. Most are enlisted men just like yourself, Troy!" Istvan Nemet bears a look of adoration for his former Hauptmann to stand up against the Rat Patrol Sergeant in defence of the ordinary German soldiers, even though he has been tortured, beaten up and mistreated by the men on this base. Hans Dietrich is as much a man of honor and principle as he ever has been, even Jack Moffit reflects, as he observes the Captain's unwavering gaze and steadfast attitude in defending the conscripted German soldiers. Troy glowers at the German Captain, but at the back of his mind a rarely heard voice of reason tells him that the young officer is actually right and for once the American Sergeant listens to it, stepping to the side to let Dietrich unlock the door to the cell block without further discussion.
The three Australian prisoners bear looks of horror, when the German Captain opens the door to their cell and sees all three of them pressed against the wall as far away from the entrance as possible, trying to make themselves as small as they can. It takes their Sergeant a few moments to realize that the face of the SS officer looks different and bears countless bruises, before he inquires with clear wariness: "What's going on?" "We're trying to save you and your men, Sergeant Furrows", Dietrich replies calmly, not in the least astounded at the reaction of all three to stare at him dumbfounded. "The Captain tells you the truth. We killed that SS bastard and try to get you diggers outta here", Troy supports his commanding officer, as he steps next to him.
"But", Furrows is totally perplexed at the unexpected development, "he's a Jerry and you're a Yankee." "We're all members of the LRDG", Jack Moffit intercedes, pronouncing his British accent heavily. Furrows stares at this new strange fellow, wearing a German Hauptmann's uniform but speaking British English. "Who are you?", the Australian Sergeant finally inquires after wrestling down his incredulity for the most part. "I'm Sergeant Sam Troy, U.S. army", the American Sergeant replies. "Sergeant Jack Moffit from the Scots' Greys, at your service", the British Sergant adds with a polite bow. "I told you before that my name is Hans Dietrich. I could not tell you though that I'm a Captain of the LRDG since my defection to the U.S. army and commander of the Rat Patrol, as long as we have been under German surveillance", the German officer declares gravely. Furrows stares at all three of them at a loss of words. "The Rat Patrol?", the Aussie finally inquires incredulously. "Yeah, buddy. We're the Rat Patrol and he's our Captain", Troy supplies his support for Dietrich. "I can't believe this", one of the other soldiers adds. "Now don't be stupid, guys! We get you outta this jail and back to Browny and his Aussie unit", the American Sergeant counters grimly. "Captain Brown from the LRDG?", Furrows asks now with some new hope resonating in his voice. "He's at our camp where we intend to bring you, as soon as we've made our way out of here", Dietrich supplies sternly. "You will hopefully believe him more than us and trust his explanation." "The kraut's really one of us?", the third Australian asks Troy doubtfully, eyeing the German wearing the SS uniform still warily. "Captain Dietrich's been our CO for three weeks now. We're glad to have him", Troy replies with a smile directed at the young officer, patting the lean German on the shoulder in a clear show of familiarity and appreciation.
"I fear we can't really get to our feet on our own or stay there", Furrows admits, looking chagrined. "Bauer, Nemet", Dietrich orders sternly. The German Captain's hand gestures in the direction of the Australians are sufficient for the two German soldiers to understand his command. Troy also steps forward and holds his hand out to the Australian Sergeant, helping the injured man to his feet and supporting him, as he lets him lean on his shoulder. Similarly Bauer and Nemet support the Australian soldiers who would not remain on their feet without support. "Can you help him as well?", Troy asks the German Sergeant who nods. "I will, Sergeant Troy. Where should we bring them?" "Bring them to our Kübelwagen and stay with them, ready to drive out should the need arise, Sergeant Nemet", Jack Moffit orders and Dietrich nods in approval which makes the Hungarian salute in response, as he responds: "We will do this. What do you do, Herr Hauptmann?"
Dietrich scowls, but replies after exchanging a long gaze with Troy: "We will have a word with Hauptmann Zornbrecht and Leutnant Himmelland. They owe us quite some recompense." Troy smirks at the German Captain's dry tone. "They surely owe you, Captain. Let's shake it!" Bauer and Nemet flinch at the expression and Dietrich glares at him for unnecessarily tormenting the Germans, although they help them as best they can. "We'd better lock these fellows in here", Moffit suggests, pointing at the two unconscious German guards. Hans Dietrich nods in approval. "I prefer this over harming them further or killing them." Troy and Moffit drag the two unconscious soldiers into the cell, where they take off their belts with pouches and their weapons, handing those to the Germans and Australians instead. After locking the cell and cell block door, the German Captain hands the key ring with the cell keys and others to the German Feldwebel, instructing him: "Try if any of these unlock any doors you might run into!" For the benefit of the wary Australians he has decided to stay with English as their main language for communication. Nemet takes the keys and salutes. "Jawohl, Herr Hauptmann!" The Australian soldiers eye both warily after this exchange, obviously not trusting the Germans but out of alternative options to make it out of the base alive.
Dietrich leads the way for Moffit and Troy who plays along the ruse of being a prisoner by holding his hands crossed, as if bound before his body, while the British Sergeant holds the Luger in hand and keeps it pointed in the direction of the prisoner. Dietrich keeps his hand on the handle of the Walter PK, ready to draw the gun at any time with his left hand, as he makes his way through the hallways of the fort. The first guard in the office building who steps in their way immediately gets addressed sharply by the young officer who applies his usual command tone of a Panzer unit commander. "Führen Sie uns zu Hauptmann Zornbrecht, Soldat!" Trained well to the intonation and appearing somewhat intimidated by the stern looking SS officer, the soldier leads them to the Hauptmann's office as ordered. When he intends to step inside, Dietrich orders crisply: "Sie brauchen uns nicht zu begleiten. Wegtreten, Soldat!" Knowing better than to argue about orders from a SS officer, the young German soldier turns to leave, when Troy unexpectedly knocks him out from behind, once he has stepped past the prisoner. Dietrich scowls and mutters quietly: "I hope he's not dead." "You're a noble hearted idiot, Captain", Troy growls quietly. "Those guys beat you half to death and you still defend them?" "They're not evil simply because they're Germans", the young officer growls back, taking the man's weapons, once he has made sure that the man is still alive. As he knows that Zornbrecht will recognize him immediately even in a SS uniform, he intends to hand Troy the gun as fast as possible. "I'll have the guard's gun ready to hand it to you, Sergeant. Bind and gag the guard so we don't have to harm him later!", the Captain orders and Troy complies swiftly, while Moffit stands guard.
Then, the British Sergeant opens the door to the German Hauptmann's office, letting Troy and Dietrich step inside after him. Zornbrecht looks astonished to see another officer of his own rank enter. Then his gaze falls on the soldier with the American uniform and his expression becomes a grim smile: "Sergeant Troy. The Master Rat himself. We have your co-conspirator, that traitor Dietrich, here as well. Hauptsturmführer Habeck will enjoy to have a word with you." His cold sneer falls when he recognizes the face of the third man who has entered behind them. The SS uniform has not drawn his attention as much as the American Sergeant, a mistake he now regrets, as he snarls: "Dietrich, der dreckige Verräter! Verhaften Sie ihn!" "Ich fürchte, das kann ich nicht tun, Hauptmann Zornbrecht. Ich empfehle Ihnen, die Hände hochzunehmen, dann muss ich Sie nicht erschießen", Moffit replies coolly to Zornbrecht's order to arrest Dietrich, the traitor, by stating that he cannot do so, but recommends the Hauptmann to raise his arms and surrender, as he would have to shoot him otherwise. That his perceived ally turns out to be an enemy as well, while the American Sergeant gets armed with a rifle through the treacherous German Captain briefly stuns Zornbrecht who finally raises his arms reluctantly, when Troy points his gun at him as well. "Sie haben sich also wirklich mit den dreckigen Ratten verbündet, Dietrich", the German Hauptmann states almost incredulously that Dietrich has indeed joined forces with the Rat Patrol. "Ironischerweise nach und aufgrund meiner Verurteilung wegen Hochverrats, den ich ursprünglich nicht begangen habe", the proud younger Captain snarls back that ironically he has done this only after and because of his conviction for the crime of high treason which he has not originally committed. Zornbrecht merely spits in his direction with contempt to which Troy responds by striking the German officer in the face with the butt of his gun.
"Troy, stop!", Dietrich orders sharply. "We don't operate on his level of violence." The American Sergeant glares at the German Hauptmann with a hatefilled expression, but refrains from arguing with his Captain, as he takes a step backwards and points his gun at Zornbrecht again. The older Hauptmann rubs his aching chin and glowers at the American, then he spits in the direction of his younger colleague: "Sie elender Abschaum sind eine Schande für die gesamte Riege des deutschen Afrikakorps und seiner Offiziere. Wenn Ihre Ahnen das sehen könnten, müssten sie sich im Grabe umdrehen, Dietrich." In spite of having heard more than once that he is a disgrace for the Afrikakorps and any German officer, the young Captain glowers at the personal slight that his ancestors must be particularly offended by their worthless offspring. "Jemand wie Sie sollte sich besser hüten, mich über Ehre, Anstand und Moral belehren zu wollen", Hans snarls lividly that somebody like Zornbrecht better not try to lecture him about honor, decency and morals.
Troy and Moffit whirl around, when somebody opens the door. Wolf Bauer raises his hands, whimpering: "Bitte nicht schießen!" His former Hauptmann steps toward him, after Troy has grabbed the older German Hauptmann, who has made the mistake to try using the distraction and reached for his gun, by the arm and dragged him to a corner pressing the gun into his ribs in a threatening manner after striking him in the face with the gun butt again. "Wolf, was ist geschehen?", Hans inquires urgently. "Sie haben gesagt, dass alles bereit ist", the young Austrian tells him timidly that all is ready. "Ausgezeichnet", Moffit agrees. "I suppose we can negotiate in earnest now with Hauptmann Zornbrecht." Although he has been briefed about their plans only superficially, Dietrich nods in agreement and turns toward the older German officer. "Nehmen Sie seine Waffe und halten Sie ihn mit Sergeant Troy in Schach", he orders Bauer who immediately executes the command, disarms the Hauptmann by taking his weapon and points it at the German officer who glares at the young Wehrmacht soldier with a hateful expression. Sam nods approvingly to the young guy who acts against all his instincts and training simply to help his former Hauptmann Dietrich who he adores with doggy devotion. The kid is even worse than Gotty, but undoubtedly loyal to the German Captain.
The door is opened again after a knock and Leutnant Himmelland steps inside. "Hauptmann, wir sollten diesen dreckigen Verräter...", the brutal looking Lieutenant stops his suggestion of what to do with the traitor mid sentence and reaches for his gun, when Moffit fires at him and Dietrich only a split second later he has needed for aiming with his left hand. Both bullets strike their enemy, Moffit's to the man's left shoulder, Dietrich's to his right leg. Himmelland stumbles backwards against the door frame, firing at the German traitor, but merely grazing the SS cap instead of his head, as the movement has interfered with his aim. "Waffe fallen lassen! Sonst sind Sie und Ihr Hauptmann tot, Leutnant Himmelland", the younger officer growls that the Lieutenant should drop his weapon as otherwise he and his Captain will be dead. "Tun Sie was er sagt, Leutnant!", Zornbrecht orders his officer to comply, as Troy presses his gun against his chest above the man's heart. His antipathy for the German officer is palpable and his bloodlust visible in his eyes, since he is still out for revenge for what they have done to his German friend. After a moment of hesitation, the German Lieutenant finally complies and drops his weapon, glaring at the traitor, Dietrich, the fake Hauptmann, Moffit, the brutal American, Troy, and the treacherous German soldier, Bauer, with obvious loathing. "Close and lock the door after checking the hallway, Moffit!", the Captain orders sternly, as he keeps his weapon trained at Himmelland, kicking away the gun he has dropped.
Once the British Sergeant has finished this task, the younger German officer leaves him to keep the injured Leutnant in check, as he steps toward the windows to get a view outside, carefully avoiding to be seen from the outside though. Troy and Bauer drag the German Hauptmann to the window where Dietrich is looking out with a scrutinizing gaze into the courtyard. Several armed men have assembled there after hearing the shots, but by far not the whole fort. Knowing where to look, the young officer recognizes Pettigrew crouching on the roof of a building on the other side of the courtyard, while Nemet stands half-hidden between the trucks and Gottschlich crouches behind a crate, both with machine guns in hand. The tall Captain opens the window and calls out: "Nicht feuern! Wir haben Ihren Hauptmann und Ihren Leutnant in unserer Gewalt. Wir sind bereit, über unseren Abzug zu verhandeln." Declaring that they have their Captain and their Lieutenant stops the German troops from attacking immediately.
Although the arrested German officer in the stolen SS uniform offers to negotiate with their senior officer about their retreat, Zornbrecht interrupts him lividly, spitting: "Einem solchen Verräter kann man nicht trauen. Erschießen Sie..." Dietrich's gun clicking as he removes the safety again and points his gun directly at the man's head, stops the tirade about not trusting and shooting the traitor in mid sentence. "Überlegen Sie sehr genau, Herr Hauptmann, ob Sie Ihr Leben wegwerfen wollen für einen Befehl aus Berlin, der sich weder um das Wohlergehen Ihrer Männer noch strategische Notwendigkeit schert!" The younger German Captain reminds with an icy tone that his former colleague should evaluate whether he will sacrifice his own life for Berlin's orders which care neither for his men's wellbeing nor strategic necessity. Moffit whispers the translation into Troy's ear who observes the interaction with a dark scowl. The American Sergeant has dealt with enough Jerry officers to not trust someone with so little honor as this man obviously has, given that he has thrown his former fellow Hauptmann to his soldiers to be beaten into unconsciousness instead of treating the man like a prisoner and officer deserves and should be treated according to the general rules of decency those Jerry officers pride themselves to uphold. But Troy has never met any officer except for Dietrich who actually has done so. His men, Nemet and Bauer, are pretty honorable like their former Hauptmann, but no officers, Troy considers as he looks at the young German soldier Bauer who appears nervous, but still keeps his gun pointed at the German Hauptmann Zornbrecht.
"Was wollen Sie von mir, Dietrich?", Hauptmann Zornbrecht demands to know what Dietrich wants from him. "Ich biete Ihnen und Ihren Männern die Möglichkeit zum ehrenhaften Rückzug oder zur Aufgabe an." Seeing the other man shake his head at the offer to honorably retreat or surrender, Dietrich sighs and continues: "Sollten Sie eine solche nicht annehmen wollen oder können, biete ich Ihnen einen Handel an. Ihr Leben und das Ihres Leutnants dafür, dass Sie uns unbeschadet abziehen lassen und zwei Lastwagenladungen an Treibstoff, Nahrung und Wasser übergeben." Zornbrecht looks incredulous at the offer to exchange his and his Lieutenant's lives for the safe return of the commandos and two truckloads of food, water and fuel. "Das ist kein Basar, auch wenn du räudiger Hund dich nicht nur kleidest sondern auch benimmst wie ein dreckiger stinkender Araber!", Zornbrecht spits with a tone full of loathing and Dietrich eyes him with no less contempt, as he pulls himself together to not strike or shoot the defenseless man, when Zornbrecht calls him a ruddy dog and no better than a stinking dirty Arab to negotiate like at a Bazaar. "Sie scheinen zu vergessen, dass Sie Ihr Leben und diese Verhandlungen nur Hauptmann Dietrichs Menschlichkeit und Entgegenkommen verdanken, Hauptmann Zornbrecht", Jack Moffit intervenes, reminding Zornbrecht that he owes his life and the option for negotiations only to Dietrich's humanity and cooperative attitude. Looking to the side at Sam Troy's hateful expression the German officer considers his options. "Wenn es nach ihm ginge, würde er Sie erschießen und ihre Sprengstoff- und Waffendepot mitsamt dem gesamten Fort sprengen", Moffit points out that if it would be up to the grim looking Sergeant Troy they would shoot the man and blow up the ammunition and weapons depots along with the whole fort. Dietrich nods grimly in his direction, as does Troy.
The British Sergeant's cold words seem to make the German officer reconsider. "Sie sollen Ihren friedlichen Abzug und Ihre 2 LKW Ladungen haben", Zornbrecht finally concedes. His bruised looking former colleague nods and demands that he orders his men to drop their weapons and prepare the trucks. "Befehlen Sie Ihren Männern, die Waffen niederzulegen und die Lastwagen mit unserer Ladung vorzubereiten!" Grudgingly, Zornbrecht gives his orders, shouting them out of the window toward his men, as Troy presses his gun into his back. Dietrich cautiously looks at the men standing outside, when he recognizes his former Sergeant Ernst Weiß who has knocked him out previously. The Feldwebel looks at his former Hauptmann intently and Dietrich sees no hatred or intention for betrayal there, deciding that he will trust in his former Sergeant's reliability, even if the man has expressed how disappointed he is by his former Hauptmann previously today. "Feldwebel Weiß, Sie sorgen dafür, dass die Befehle ordnungsgemäß eingehalten werden!", the young German Captain orders sternly, shouting from the window. The blond Sergeant salutes properly. "Jawohl, Herr Hauptmann! Ich werde selbst mit einem der Wagen fahren." That one of his former men who Dietrich considers reliable offers to drive himself is a relief for the bruised young officer. This leaves him to worry mainly about the second truck driver. "Ich kann den anderen LKW fahren, Herr Hauptmann", Wolf Bauer suggests meekly that he could drive the other truck.
Dietrich hesitates briefly, considering the young soldier's suggestion, but finally nods. "Sie brauchen keinen zweiten Fahrer zu engagieren, Feldwebel Weiß. Wir haben bereits einen gefunden. Wir kommen jetzt heraus mit Ihren Offizieren. Verhalten Sie sich ruhig und kooperativ, dann geschieht niemandem etwas!" Weiß salutes at his former Captain, when he orders that they need not hire a second driver for he already has one at hand, but they should remain calm and cooperative when they come out with their officers now. "Let Troy handle the Leutnant while you watch the Hauptmann, Moffit!", Dietrich suggests then, pointing his gun at Himmelland with Wolf Bauer keeping Zornbrecht in check, while the two Sergeants switch their target prisoners. Himmelland is still leaning against the wall since the bullets have struck him and glaring at Troy with as much contempt, hatred and loathing as the American Sergeant has for the brutal German tormenter of his friend. None too gently, Troy grabs him at the shoulder and presses his gun into the German's side, as he growls with a threatening tone: "Make one wrong move, buddy, and I'll gladly add a few more holes to you!"
Once they are properly secured, Dietrich addresses the German officers: "Hauptmann Zornbrecht, wir werden Sie als Pfand behalten, bis wir in sicherer Entfernung sind, während wir Ihren Leutnant freilassen, sobald wir mit den Lastwagen das Fort verlassen haben. Dann kann er medizinische Versorgung für seine Schusswunden erhalten. Sie sind gut beraten, keine Dummheiten zu machen, Leutnant Himmelland, wenn Sie Ihren Hauptmann lebend wiedersehen wollen. Raus in Freie mit Ihnen!" Zornbrecht glares at the young Captain, when he tells them that they will keep him as a hostage, but intend to release his Lieutenant, once the vehicles are safely outside of the fort, so that the Lieutenant may receive medical treatment for his bullet wounds. In the direction of the grim looking Leutnant he adds that he should better cooperate as well, if Himmelland wants to get his CO back alive. The older Hauptmann knows well that his officer is impulsive and bloodthirsty and might not act in his best interest. Thus he quietly instructs the German Lieutenant in the matter. "Leutnant Himmelland, Sie befolgen die Anweisungen und lassen nicht zu, dass die Situation eskaliert!" Neither Zornbrecht nor Dietrich has much hope that Himmelland possesses any ability to deescalate any kind of situation.
Moffit leads Hauptmann Zornbrecht outside along with Gefreiter Wolf Bauer as his timid support, while Troy and Dietrich jointly keep the impulsive and aggressive Leutnant Himmelland in check, as they make their way to the courtyard. Feldwebel Weiß has been true to his word and prepared two trucks with the supplies the Allied soldiers have demanded. All German soldiers who have guarded the wall have focused their attention and pointed their weapons into the courtyard where also several of their comrades have taken positions with the weapons ready. The Australian jail breakers and their supporters Gottschlich and Pettigrew are positioned near the Kübelwagen with their guns ready to provide cover fire to their Sergeants and their Captain, should the situation escalate and they need to escape. Dietrich and Weiß meet their gazes and the Feldwebel nods at his former Hauptmann in clear submission. "Herr Hauptmann, die LKW sind bereit, wie Sie es befohlen haben", he reports that the trucks are ready as ordered. "Feldwebel Weiß, Ich danke Ihnen", Dietrich tells him, expressing his gratitude for more than just the preparation of the trucks, as he is aware of the Feldwebel's role in keeping him out of harm of Zornbrecht's troops, after Moffit has informed him along their way here. "Steigen Sie in den ersten Lastwagen, Feldwebel Weiß, und fahren Sie zum Tor. Bauer, Sie steigen in den zweiten Lastwagen und positionieren sich hinter ihm. Deutsch, Gottschlich, je ein Kübelwagen rechts und links!", Dietrich orders the drivers of the vehicles, Weiß to position the first truck before the gates, Bauer to drive the second truck behind the first one and Gottschlich along with Nemet to assure that the Kübelwagen accompany the trucks, trusting that the young Corporal or the German Sergeant will translate the order for Pettigrew and the Australians. As previously arranged with Troy and Moffit, Tully and Gotty activate the timers of their explosives positioned in the motor pool, before taking the drivers' seats and following the Captain's orders.
"Geben Sie den Befehl, die Tore zu öffnen, Hauptmann Zornbrecht", Dietrich demands of Zornbrecht to order to open the gates in an unperturbed manner, keeping his gun pointed at his former colleague's head, as the older German Captain glares at him with a vengeful expression. "Tore öffnen!", the Hauptmann orders after a few seconds of hesitation and seeing no option how to escape from this situation unscathed. "Steigen Sie in den LKW!", the younger German Captain orders the other to get into the truck, where he takes his seat next to Feldwebel Weiß with Dietrich sitting next to him as well, while Jack Moffit walks around the truck and climbs into the back. "You too", Troy snarls at the German Lieutenant pushing him toward the second truck without caring that the German stumbles with his injured leg impairing his movements. "Du bist tot, Drecksami!", the Lieutenant growls back at the American Sergant with loathing. Troy is proud of himself to have learned enough from Dietrich to understand the promise of his untimely death and assumes that the unintelligible word in the end is a derogatory of some sort. "You too, if you don't start moving now", he snaps at the hated German officer who hides his surprise that the other man has understood him by glaring at him more venomously.
Wolf Bauer looks unsure whether he should be more scared of Leutnant Himmelland or Sergeant Troy when both climb into the truck's cabin next to him. Only that the two men continue to glare at each other with expressions of pure hatred without even sparing him a second glance makes him feel somewhat unaffected by their wrath. When the truck before him starts moving, he steps on the gas pedal as well and follows closely behind Dietrich's truck. Once they are about 50 meters outside of the gates, the truck before him stops and Wolf quickly steps on the brake as well, throwing his two passengers to the front. However, he has barely made the stop, when a fight between Troy and Himmelland ensues who struggle for the gun. "Achtung!", he calls out as a warning to Troy and tries to grab the German Lieutenant from behind who brutally hits him in the face with his elbow, before focusing on the American Sergeant again. Gunshots can be heard now from all around them, as the men on the Kübelwagen, as well as some Arabs on camels who Bauer has not noticed before fire in the direction of the fort, while bullets strike his truck, coming from the German troops behind them. After recovering from his strike, Wolf rubs away some blood from his bleeding nose and focuses on his driving duties again, when he sees the truck before him starting to move which he considers his signal to follow as well.
In spite of all his experiences with the Rat Patrol, Hans Dietrich is shocked for a second, as pandemonium breaks loose, when he has thought that they would have negotiated a peaceful exchange. "Himmelland attacks Troy and Bauer!", Moffit shouts from the back, where he fires at the Germans on top of the fort walls, as do the men in the Kübelwagen. "Fahren Sie los, Weiß!", the young German Captain orders the equally stunned appearing driver to start the truck again to get them out of the range of the weapons as quickly as possible. "Bauer follows us", Moffit reports with some relief. "Gott sei Dank. Did you position the Arabs as our backup for a fire fight?", Dietrich inquires to the back after expressing his relief at the news, never taking his weapon from where it is pressed into the chest of Hauptmann Zornbrecht or moving his eyes from the hostage he expects to attack him at the first chance. "I did, Captain. Your friend Omar insisted to help us as well." "That idiot boy", the young Captain growls with exasperation. "I know what you mean", Jack shouts back. "If you take him in as well, you have a second Hitchcock or Gottschlich among your scouts." "That's the last thing I need to add to all my other problems, Moffit", the Captain counters with a sigh. "Especially as he is as driven by insanity and stubborn as Troy." Jack smiles, never stopping firing at the wall guards.
"Sie sind wirklich der Kommandant von diesem Abschaum, Dietrich?", Zornbrecht sounds incredulous, as he inquires whether Dietrich really the commander of this scum. "Geben Sie besser acht, wie Sie über meine Einheit sprechen, Hauptmann Zornbrecht. Nicht nur versteht Sie jeder hier, jeder einzelne dieser Männer war oder ist unter meinem Kommando", the younger German Captain growls back that Zornbrecht better watch his tongue, as not only does everybody understand him, all the men present either have been or are currently under his command. A loud explosion followed by several additional noises of artillery impacts and explosives stop any of their discussions immediately, as all Germans instinctively tense at the sound. "Troy and Bauer?", Hans wants to know. "Their truck hasn't been hit, Captain. Bauer is still driving and Troy seems to have knocked out that stubborn Leutnant by now. At least the man isn't moving any more from what I can see", Jack Mofit reports. While Dietrich looks relieved, Zornbrecht's expression hardens. "Sie haben mir versprochen, ihn gehen zu lassen, Dietrich. Ich hätte es besser wissen sollen, als einem verurteilten Hochverräter zu vertrauen, elende verlogene Ratte!", the Hauptmann snarls angrily that Dietrich has promised his release and resentfully comments that he should have known better than to trust a convicted traitor and lying backstabbing Rat.
"Wagen Sie es nicht, mein Ehrenwort in Frage zu stellen!", the young officer snarls back, clearly offended that the other better not question his word of honour. "Wir haben gehalten, um ihn aussteigen zu lassen. Er hat Troy angegriffen und Ihre Leute haben auf uns geschossen, beides entgegen der Vereinbarung. Wir konnten nicht anders handeln." Zornbrecht grits his teeth when his former colleague argues that they have stopped to let Himmelland go, but the Lieutenant has attacked Troy instead, while his men have shot at him. "Was sind das dann für Explosionen?", the German Hauptmann inquires angrily about the explosions. Dietrich is just as clueless as he until Moffit provides the answer: "Those should be our well timed explosives in your motor pool, Hauptmann Zornbrecht, combined with our tanks firing at your walls. Our distraction with the negotiations seems to have been sufficient for positioning them properly." Zornbrecht is speechless, while Dietrich smirks a bit, seeing somebody else now in the position he has been in for months. "Sie hätten sich besser nicht mit den Ratten anlegen sollen, Herr Hauptmann", he dryly comments that the Hauptmann should never have crossed blades with the Rats. "Auch als loyaler deutscher Offizier kommt man in Teufels Küche, wenn man immer wieder gegen sie verliert. Das Kriegsgefangenenlager ist eine Erholung im Vergleich." Zornbrecht glares at the insolent young Captain who dryly tells him that even a loyal German officer will not escape them unscathed, especially when losing against them again and again, while compared to this a POW camp is pure relief.
The gunfire subsides, once they get out of range. With the Germans occupied otherwise, Moffit shouts the direction for Dietrich and his driver to make their way back to their camp. Zornbrecht seizes not only physical resistance, but also his verbal sparring, merely staring out of the window with a gloomy expression that Dietrich recognizes all too well. If the man would not have acted in such a despicably cold-blooded and dishonorable manner, he would show him actual sympathy, knowing better than anybody else what it feels like to be the loser after one of the Rat Patrol's insane stunts. As it is, he refrains from adding insult to injury by rubbing in how the other officer has lost with a whole German fort against seven men. Feldwebel Weiß quietly obeys all instructions, until they arrive at the enemy camp, where he stops the truck and waits how he will be treated from now on. "Sie können sich ehrenhaft ergeben, Feldwebel. Ich garantiere Ihnen, dass Ihnen kein Leid danach geschieht", Dietrich offers the Sergeant an honorable surrender, guaranteeing that he will not be harmed in any way. "Das Angebot nehme ich gerne an, Herr Hauptmann", Weiß agrees after a brief moment of hesitation.
"Der Dreckskerl ist nicht Ihre Hauptmann, Weiß", Zornbrecht seethes that the traitor is not his Captain. "Das ändert nichts an meinem Entschluss, Hauptmann Zornbrecht. Und wenn ich das richtig verstanden habe, ist Captain Dietrich immer noch ein Hauptmann, aber bei den Amerikanern", Weiß replies coolly that this will not change his decision, pointing out with some glee that if he has understood correctly Captain Dietrich still holds the position of a Hauptmann, only among the Americans. "Ich schulde Ihnen noch meinen Dank für Ihr beherztes Eingreifen, Feldwebel Weiß", the younger officer declares that he still owes the Sergeant his gratitude for his honorable intervention. Weiß smiles and salutes to the officer he respects more than the brutal man to whose unit he has been transferred. "Es war mir eine Ehre, Herr Hauptmann." Zornbrecht glares at both of them with hateful expressions, before Dietrich orders him to get out of the truck and stay reasonable, if he wants to survive: "Steigen Sie aus und verhalten Sie sich vernünftig, wenn Sie das überleben wollen, Zornbrecht!"
Moffit already awaits them with his drawn gun. Tully approaches them now as well, while Gottschlich walks to the truck with Troy, Bauer and Himmelland to help the Sergeant. Nemet looks a bit intimidated, when the Australian Captain orders him to help his men and follow him, supporting Sergeant Furrows himself. "You there, Jerry, help us as well!", Brown shouts toward the young German Private who has just clambered out of the truck's cabin. Wolf Bauer looks a bit forlorn, as he whispers: "Was will er von mir? Ich spreche leider gar kein Englisch." Gottschlich steps toward him with a shy smile, when he hears that the other does not speak any English and cannot understand what Brown wants from him. "Ich kann dir damit helfen, wenn du willst", the Japanese descended Corporal offers to help. "Er will, dass du ihm und seinen Leuten hilfst." Baffled at the friendly offer of support, Wolf merely nods in acceptance, before smiling equally shyly. "Danke vielmals."
Dietrich, who has noticed the commotion and handed Weiß and Zornbrecht to some of their camp soldiers to be arrested and the Hauptmann also interrogated, finally intervenes: "Danke, Corporal Gottschlich für das freundliche Angebot. Sie helfen Wolf Bauer damit sehr. Wolf, Sie können sich revanchieren, indem Sie Ihren neuen Sprachlehrer in seinen Deutschkenntnissen unterstützen." Wolf Bauer salutes to his former Hauptmann who thanks both Gottschlich and him, reminding that they could actually teach each other about their respective mother tongues. "Jawohl, Herr Hauptmann. Und ... danke für alles, was Sie für mich getan haben." The tall Captain smiles gently at the Austrian Private who thanks him for eveything he has done for him. "Nein, Wolf. Ich danke Ihnen, dass Sie bereit waren, sich mit den Ratten zu verbünden, um mein Leben zu retten." Wolf smiles honestly at his admired former Hauptmann's words who thanks him for forming an alliance with the Rats to save his life. "Ich würde es jederzeit wieder tun, Hauptmann Dietrich", the young Austrian assures his admired mentor that he would do this any time again. Dietrich offers him his hand to shake which the younger man accepts after a few moments of dumbfounded hesitation. Hauptmann Hans Dietrich has always been the man of authority who has treated him most fairly with strictness as well as empathy and he admires and adores the German officer for this steadfast attitude he has retained through SS tortured and even beyond his defection to the Americans. With a sly smile, Dietrich reminds him that he should help the Australians now, before Brown gets too impatient: "Aber jetzt helfen Sie erstmal den Australiern, bevor Ihnen Brown die Hölle heiß macht."
"Hans, ik bün so froh, dat du an't Leven büst un di dat goot geiht", Jakob Silberblatt mutters with relief, as he embraces his taller friend, glad to see him alive and more or less well, without any regard for the SS uniform he is wearing. Hans Dietrich winces at the tight hold, but hugs his friend back nonetheless. "Is al goot, Jakob. Du musst nich ümmer so bekümmert üm mi wesen", the German Captain replies in platt with gentle irony, trying to remind his friend to not always worry about him so much. "Wenn du beter op di kieken deedst, mutt ik dat nich wesen", Jakob scolds his best friend that he would not have to do this, if he would take better care of himself, as he finally lets go of his tight hold to take a closer look at Dietrich. "Why are you wearing a SS uniform, Hans?", the Jewish Lieutenant finally notices and inquires with some shock and horror. "That's a long story", his lean friend replies dryly. "It was the only uniform we had available at the time to bluff our way through the German fort." Jakob shakes his head with slight disbelief. "You have to tell me this one, once you're been checked properly. For now, I'm really glad that you're alive and well, Hans." "So am I", Hitch declares with a wide grin, as he approaches them barely holding back the children he has been watching over. Before giving the German Captain time to react, the young American pulls him into a hug as well, while Ari and Kiri cling to him at waist level. "I believe to have told you to not continue adopting Ari's habits and that you promised me not to do the 'hugging thing' again", Hans Dietrich manages to get out sarcastically after a few seconds of baffled silence. "It's ... different. We were all really worried about you, Cap", Mark tries to argue, as he lets go of the German officer, looking a bit sheepish, but mostly relieved. "Scary uniform", he finally comments, as he notices the attire, making the Captain grimace with slight annoyance.
Ari and Kiri are undeterred by which uniform their protector is wearing, as long as he has returned to them. Trying to spare his countless new bruises the agony, the tall officer crouches to get closer to eye level with his wards, realizing a second later that this has not been his smartest idea ever, as he finds Ari clinging to his neck without any intention of letting him go. "Hans", the Jewish boy whimpers, while crying into the German's shoulder, holding the young Captain tightly around the neck. Kiri is more hesitant, but finally embraces both their brothers' necks and holds them close, feeling safer to simply be with them. "*I thought they hurt or killed you*", Ari whispers, as his body is wracked by sobs. "*I'm safe. Don't worry, Ari!*", his caregiver mutters quietly with a reassuring tone, although he winces at the tight embraces and only just manages to suppress a groan of pain. However has he ever let this situation escalate to the point of the children crying over him as if he would be their relative, the German Captain tries to reflect. Whenever it has happened, it is done now and he will have to live with the result of his too soft-hearted manner of treating the two orphans. Kiri is more quickly distracted by Fritz who has come to greet him as well, while Ari is unwilling to let go of his beloved brother for minutes, crying, shivering with fear of the potential loss and requiring all of Hans Dietrich's skill at persuasion to be calmed enough to let him leave to report to Captain Boggs and then for the sickbay, while Ari should stay with Jakob Silberblatt to celebrate the second evening of Hanukkah. Although Jakob does not really feel like celebrating after the last few hours spent worrying whether his best friend would be rescued alive, he considers that praying to thank God for the safe return of his friend might actually be appropriate, when the young Jewish Lieutenant leads Ari back to their tent, while Mark looks after Kiri and Fritz, entertaining her with nursery rhymes and playing games.
The Arab scouts on their camels have arrived now in the camp as well. The threesome of Hussein, Shakir and Farooq bears proud smiles, as they see the Captain. All of them stand still and salute as best they can manage after approaching their mentor who is relieved that they have remained unharmed during the risky shooting at the fort. "*Faris alsahra, we're so happy that you are well*", Hussein tells their commanding officer who they have worried about as well. "*We would have killed the traitor otherwise, Captain*", Farooq adds, pointing at a fourth teenager who has stopped a few steps away and bears a guilty expression. "*Leave Omar in peace! He never intended to harm me*", the German orders sternly. "*I want to thank you all, also you, Omar, for participating in my rescue.*" The chagrined Bedouin teenager dares to step closer now and after a few moments of hesitation copies the behaviour of Silberblatt and Hitchcock, hugging the young officer around the chest. "*I'm so sorry, Hans Dietrich*", he repeats, fighting stubbornly against the tears that form in the corners of his eyes. "*I know, Omar*", the German Captain mutters quietly, wincing at the tight embrace and barely suppressing a groan of pain. "*You should return to your family and your clan now.*"
Disillusioned what the existence of a warrior entails, Omar mutters quietly: "*I understand better what you told me, when you sent me back the last time. I'd still like to learn from you, Hans Dietrich, but I understand that they hate me for what I did.*" Dietrich puts his hand on the teenager's shoulder and takes step backwards to look him in the eyes. "*They have no other option but scouting for us, with no tribe or family left. You have both. Don't abandon them for this senseless war, Omar. Protect your mother! Become a warrior for your tribe! Learn from your mistakes, so that you may live to be a better man! I have made many mistakes and I hope to have learned from them.*" Not only Omar, but also Hussein, Shakir and Farooq look impressed by the emphatic speech. "*Are we still friends?*", Omar asks quietly, avoiding to meet the German Captain's eyes. Hans smiles wryly. "*I would be a bad person to abandon somebody over an honest mistake.*" Omar smiles with relief. "*Thank you, Hans Dietrich!*" Then, he dons a serious expression, as he vows: "*You will always be my idol. I promise you that I will make you proud by becoming an honorable warrior like you.*" Dietrich nods in acceptance and smiles patiently. "*I will trust in your promise, Omar. Return to your family and send my regards to your mother and tribe elders!*" Omar puts his fist over his heart. "*I swear to Allah that I will do so, Hans Dietrich! May he protect you on your ways and in your fights!*" "*And you, Omar! May Allah always protect you!*", the German officer replies calmly.
He should have known that the young Arab would hug him again, Dietrich considers, as he flinches at the touch. "*I am sorry. Are you hurt?*", Omar inquires after letting go of the German Captain and only his pride and years of drill that rolling his eyes is an inappropriate behaviour for an officer keep Hans from doing so now. The German's glare tips him off that he should better not annoy the young officer any more. Trying to imitate the gesture he has seen the others perform and his admired idol has used the last time they have parted ways, Omar tries a salute which the Captain answers with a proper salute, using his left arm, as his right shoulder has suffered too much strain to be up to such a movement. "*Omar, you stay at their camp overnight, until we can bring you back to the oasis tomorrow. You, Hussein, Shakir and Farooq will not harm my friend Omar in any way! Is this understood?*", Dietrich demands sternly. Reluctantly, the three Bedouins nod. "*Yes, Captain.*" "*This is a phrase you should learn and always use in English*", the German Captain instructs, as he pronounces clearly, speaking more slowly than usual: "Yes, Captain." "Yes, Captain", the three teenagers repeat obediently with thick Arabic accents, but the German nods contently nonetheless. "*Follow them, don't provoke anybody or start a fight, Omar!*", Dietrich tells the young Bedouin with a scowl, remembering his attitude all too well. "*I won't. I promise you, Hans Dietrich*", the teenager replies. Nodding in acceptance, the German Captain orders: "*Take the camels and retreat! You have done an excellent job today.*" His three scouts beam at the praise and are appeased well enough to let Omar accompany them in peace each leading a camel. Then, Dietrich turns to report to Boggs.
Captain Boggs stands in front of his office tent with Captain Brown, speaking with the three Australians, as well as Troy and Moffit, while his German soldiers, Nemet and Bauer, stand nearby and observe the debate. As they notice Dietrich approach, all of them turn around. Boggs looks honestly relieved, while Brown wears a grin. "If that isn't my favourite Jerry officer", the Australian Captain shouts and steps forward to pat the tall German Captain on the upper arm who winces at the touch. "You are costing me as many nerves as the rest of your unit, Captain Dietrich", Boggs sighs with a weary and almost accusatory tone, before he adds with a softer expression: "Thank goodness you're alright, more or less." With a stern scowl the younger Captain meets his CO's eyes who takes in the German's bruises and bloodied nose, while his concern is visible on his face. The three Australian soldiers appear truly surprised by the reactions of the two LRDG Captains. To care about the kraut defector, even if he has supported them during their breakout, appears absurd to the men who have just been rescued after weeks of torture at the hands of the SS. "Accompany your Aussie soldiers to the field hospital, Captain Brown! Captain Dietrich, Sergeant Troy and Moffit will provide me with a report in the meantime", Boggs argues and Brown accepts this without any argument, glad to know their soldiers have been rescued and will be taken care of.
"We can help them again", Feldwebel Istvan Nemet offers, pointing at himself and Wolf Bauer. "Your fellows are really good men, Dietrich", Brown remarks and then addresses the German Sergeant directly. "Thanks for the support, Sergeant!" Nemet bows his head and orders Bauer to help them along: "Helfen wir den Australiern, Wolf!" The Austrian Private approaches the Australian soldier currently leaning on Moffit's shoulder for support, while Nemet similarly offers help to the one leaning on Troy. Brown has been keeping the Australian Sergeant Furrows up since retrieving him from the Kübelwagen. "Captain Dietrich", the Australian Sergeant addresses the German officer, when he and Brown are limping past him. Dietrich tenses and observes the LRDG soldier with slightly narrowed eyes, but his posture speaks clearly of his readiness to jump back to safety at any given time should he get attacked. "I didn't believe you for the longest time. We already thanked your Sergeants. But you and your Jerries", he vaguely points in Nemet's and Bauer's direction, "deserve some thanks as well. I wouldn't have thought I'd ever say that to a fellow wearing a SS uniform though." The Australian Sergeant tries a wry smile which barely manages to stay on his battered and bruised face long enough to be noticed. "You're welcome, Sergeant Furrows", Dietrich replies smoothly after a few seconds of staring at the man with bafflement.
"Gentlemen, please follow me inside", Boggs orders sternly and Dietrich along with Moffit and Troy complies. The American Captain takes his seat behind the desk and a look at Moffit and Dietrich in their respective uniforms again. The German Hauptmann's former uniform fits the Brit so well that their similar height and stature is well demonstrated, at least if the young German officer would not have lost so much weight and substance during his ordeals. Resting his eyes on the tall German Captain and his SS uniform, Boggs has to admit that it is disconcerting how intimidating the young man appears in spite of his visible bruises, while the stiff material hides his skinny stature efficiently. Both Dietrich and Moffit notice the scrutiny and exchange a glance. "The uniforms together with the Captain's tone have opened more doors in less time than we ever have seen", Jack explains and Troy comments unbidden: "Yeah. You should have seen them fall over with following his orders." Dietrich scowls, when the American Sergeant points at him, and adds dryly: "You seem to forget that SS troops are not normal army troops here in North Africa, but usually have special missions in the name of the Führer, the Nazis and Berlin's headquarters. What happened to me is representative of them acting as state police to keep people in line, threatening their friends and family along with the men themselves, which is why they all fear the SS much more than their enemies." Boggs considers this. "I start to understand why General Atkins considers you more valuable acting behind enemy lines in a German or Italian uniform than using your skills as experienced tank unit commander at the front. Nonetheless", he takes out a metal chain with two dog tags from his shirt pocket and hands it to the younger officer, "I will not send you anywhere without these tags again, unless it is of strategic advantage for the mission. But then you will leave your German tags as well, Captain Dietrich."
Moffit and Troy look surprised. "Why did you leave your tags?", the American Sergeant growls. "To not trigger Hauptmann Zornbrecht or the SS officer to interrogate me about my new allies which was a wise decision, as I'm not sure, if Zornbrecht and Himmelland would have hesitated to get me killed at the hands of their soldiers, if they would have seen these tags around my neck", the German Captain argues, as he maneuvers the chain over his head with only his left hand. "And the SS officer already was insistant in wishing to learn about his fellow SS soldiers' and officers' fates. He would have been even more eager to learn about his enemy's troops' strength and officers", Dietrich replies smoothly. "Nonetheless, I won't risk your life over the option of protecting our unit anymore. Once your defection becomes known to the German side it will not be relevant anyways", Boggs argues with a worried expression. "Those Australians were actually considering to harm or kill you, even though they decided against it." Troy glares at the young officer as well now. "You can't take risks like that and not even tell me, Captain! We have an arrangement."
Dietrich looks baffled by the reaction. "I have handled this according to what proper military procedures would require, entrusting my commanding officer with my tags for the protection of his whole unit. This has nothing to do with you, Sergeant Troy." The American Sergeant is actually angry now, as he steps toward the tall German Captain and growls angrily: "It has loads to do with me, if one of my stubborn friends decides to play the hero and will need my protection and help." Dietrich frowns at the words. "Don't be ridiculous, Troy. Nothing you could have done would have saved me from captivity. I'm grateful for your quick rescue which has been unaffected by this knowledge." Troy grips the German Captain's left shoulder who tenses immediately and draws in a breath, looking pained. "Don't try such stupid stunts without backup again, Captain! I know you couldn't really rely on many of your Jerries for stuff like that, but we're experts for this kind of stuff and any of us would go through hell for you, you stubborn Jerry smartass!" "Troy", Dietrich growls pained by the words as much as the American Sergeant shaking his bruised and beaten body. Troy finally notices his suffering expression and tense posture, when he lets go of the German Captain, muttering a bit sheepishly: "Sorry. I didn't intend to hurt you, Captain."
Boggs has observed the exchange with interest. Now that he sees his younger colleague's pain more clearly, he intercedes with the intention of putting an end to the discussions: "We will keep these uniforms for their strategic value in infiltration missions. But I would really prefer to not see you wear a SS uniform much longer, Captain Dietrich. I'm willing to offer you one of my shirts to change into, given all your possessions are still packed on your Jeeps." Dietrich bears a grateful expression, as he replies: "Thank you, Captain Boggs. I would appreciate not having to wear this any longer." Troy helps the young German officer with the uniform jacket and shirt unbidden, while Boggs looks appalled and horrified, when he sees the German's chest bearing as many bruises as he has when the younger officer has originally arrived in this camp and the older American Captain has visited the unconscious young Hauptmann in the sickbay. "Why are you not in the hospital, Dietrich?", Boggs inquires unbidden with his shock and concern clearly audible, while Dietrich scowls immediately. "I know my duties and it is my obligation to provide a report, when I'm physically able to do so", the German Captain argues stubbornly.
"To hell with your duties and obligations!", Troy growls. "Not even even that lousy General would have accused you, when going to the hospital first." Dietrich frowns at the tone and Boggs gasps for air at the derogatory, more glad than ever that Atkins is not around, while his younger colleague snaps: "Watch your tone, Troy!" But the German sighs wearily after a few moments. "Once I'm at sickbay and receive treatment and painkillers, I won't be able to report any more which is why I have to do this previously." "You stubborn Jerry with your damned sense of honor and chivalry. First you turn yourself in to protect everyone else on that bazaar except for yourself and then you drag yourself here in such a state, beaten black and blue, cut to pieces by that damn Jerry Lieutenant and barely able to stand", Troy scolds him. "I'm still able to stand!", Hans snaps at him, nerves worn to a frazzle. "Speaking of him. Is Leutnant Himmelland still alive, Troy?", Dietrich inquires, trying his utmost to get Troy's attention focused elsewhere. "I had to shoot him, when he struggled with me for the gun. Can't say I'm particularly sorry to have killed that bastard", the American Sergeant growls back stubbornly. Boggs looks exasperated now. "Please start your report from the beginning, Sergeant Troy, and you as well Captain Dietrich!", he orders sternly.
The Sergeant and the younger Captain exchange a glance, before the German officer starts his report of his capture and treatment at the hand of the Wehrmacht and the SS, staying detached and neutral in his description of torture and beatings. Troy glares more and more lividly at the younger man's words, until he snarls: "I should have killed that SS bastard far more slowly." "You're not a sadist, Troy. Don't start indulging in torture!", Dietrich admonishes him in a far gentler tone than any of the three would have expected from the German Captain who has just suffered the torture of the SS himself. "You're a noble-hearted fool, Captain", Troy growls, but adds with a smirk: "But that's what I've always liked you for." "Troy", the young German snaps with exasperation. "Please continue with your reports, gentlemen!", James Boggs intercedes, starting to lose his nerves with the unruly duo. Whoever has thought that placing the German Captain convicted for routine insubordination and with the ability to wield words like a sword with his most unruly unit and the Sergeant with tendencies toward insanity would be a good idea? Only some high ranking officers far away from the front and any action could ever come up with such a plan.
Once Dietrich has finished his description, Troy and Moffit provide their brief reports of how they have bluffed their way into the fort and received support from Dietrich's former Feldwebel Weiß who is their POW now. "I ask for a fair treatment of Feldwebel Weiß, as we are obliged to provide according to the Geneva Convention. He has acted honorably and in my defence", the young officer argues. "We will treat him as well as your other men whi have acted in a reasonable and cooperative manner, Captain Dietrich", Boggs assures him. The German Captain then continues with the description of what has happened after his rescue with the liberation of the LRDG soldiers and the negotiations with Zornbrecht and his Lieutenant, as well as their flight from the base. "Smart move to negotiate some materials to save them from destruction", Boggs congratulates him. "What exactly were the explosions and gunfire we heard?", the German Captain inquires sternly now. "I've had that pack of Rats blow up enough of my supplies and convoys to hear the difference between a few explosives and artillery fire as well as tanks. You moved your tanks in to shoot at the fort, while they were distracted by our negotiations and capture of their Hauptmann." Boggs nods at the younger officer with appreciation. Dietrich is a source of trouble like the rest of the Rat Patrol, but intelligent and competent as well as gifted with excellent hearing to notice the difference between the types of explosions or impacts which compensates the American Captain for the nerves the young German officer costs him regularly. "Major Turner took command of the counter attack on the oasis which is why I am still here at all. Lieutenant Johnson and Westwood are in charge of the tanks, while the Australian and American LRDG unit under Lieutenant Baker, Griffiths, Carter and Carlos along with Captain Brown's Sergeant Williamson were to drive in and attack from inside of the fort once the walls were taken down. Captain Brown remained in camp to take care of any rescued Australians which has been wise."
Dietrich nods and bears a grim expression. "A valid strategy. Only risking the young Bedouins without any target practice to provide us with cover fire has been truly foolhardy." Moffit intercedes now: "This wasn't our idea, Captain. They all insisted that they wanted to actively fight to rescue you, especially your young friend Omar. This was less risky than sending them in with the Jeeps." The young German Captain sighs wearily. "You're right, Moffit. Why did you let Omar join you? He is not even old enough to fight for us." "That kid was at least as stubborn as you are, Captain", Troy growls. "He indeed insisted on helping the man to whom he owes a life debt", Moffit adds. "I could say nothing that would have deterred him." Dietrich smiles wryly. "I know what you're talking about. I rode with him and his mother for two days. I've never met such an annyoingly stubborn teenager in my life. He attacked me after the first few minutes of meeting each other, when I acted as interpreter between the Swiss Red Cross Doctor and his mother who asked for medical aid on behalf of his tribe." Troy grins. "You must've left quite the impression with him. That kid had the same look of adoration for you as Gotty and Hitch nowadays." Dietrich grimaces at the comparison. "That's nothing I have intentionally initiated with any of them I assure you, Sergeant."
"I told you you're too good at playing the role of the Good Samaritan, Captain. It's hard not to like the selfless guy who rides from oasis to oasis to help people", Troy replies, squeezing the younger man's shoulder rather affectionately. "And I'll accompany you to sickbay to make sure no harm comes to you." "You can visit your brother and annoy him for a change, when you're already going to the sickbay, Troy!", the young Captain snaps back, not caring about the impression he leaves with Boggs, since his nerves are sufficiently wrecked by now to stop thinking about trivialities like his CO's opinion. James Boggs exchanges a long-suffering gaze with Jack Moffit. "You have my sympathy, Sergeant." The British scholar grimaces. "Thank you, Captain Boggs. It would appear like I'm in dire need of a new friend who is more complacent and calm than these two." Boggs smiles wryly. "Make sure they actually arrive at the field hospital before tearing each other's head off, Sergeant Moffit", the American Captain orders with clear exasperation. "As you said, Captain, these two definitely deserve each other", Jack comments dryly with a smirk. "Indeed. I have not realized how true this is until today", Boggs replies and evaluates whether he really wishes to stay in command of this particular unit which costs him more nerves than all his other ones put together.
"Herr Hauptmann, Gott sei Dank sind Sie zurück und wohlauf", Ludwig Sommer greets Dietrich enthusiastically, when the Captain enters the sickbay with Troy at his side. "Ludwig, wie lange kennen wir uns schon, dass Sie daran zweifeln?", Dietrich counters with friendly irony, asking back how long they know each other that the medic would doubt this. "Lange genug, Hans, dass ich mir regelmäßig Sorgen mache", Ludwig Sommer replies that it has been long enough that he regularly has to worry. "You look terrible, Captain Dietrich", Doctor Andrews comments, called forth by the Germans' conversation, before Troy even gets a chance to ask the Captain for a translation. "Thank you, Doctor Andrews. How reassuring to hear this", the young officer answers with dry sarcasm. With a sharp intake of breath and several quiet murmurs, the rest of the medical personnel comes forward. "My God", Deirdre mutters quietly and makes the sign of the cross at the sight of the young officer's bruised and bloodied face. "It's not as bad as it looks. I'm used to beatings by now", Dietrich tries to calm them through the self-mocking comment, but only receives either pitying or reprimanding looks in return.
"The ladies look forward to your treatment", Doctor Andrews comments with a smile, while Ludwig Sommer adds with irony: "As long as you received no critical injuries, I suppose you will be well taken off in their hands, Captain." The young German officer nods quietly. "Thank you, Doctor Andrews and Sommer. I won't take your time away from treating your more relevant patients." "We don't have any more relevant patients than our camp's second in command, Captain Dietrich", the American medic admonishes sternly. "Only several more gravely injured ones." "But we'll take care of him with pleasure", Lisa Hartigan adds with a smirk while Deirdre O'Donnell stays close to her friend. Seeing Dietrich grimace at the tone, Troy intercedes in defence of the German Captain: "You'd better treat him with proper respect as well, Lisa!" "Troy!", Dietrich intercedes, before the moody nurse and the grumpy Sergeant jump at each other's throats. These two bullheaded Yankees have cost him enough nerves already. "Go and annoy your good for nothing brother!" The American Sergeant glares at him angrily: "Suit yourself, ungrateful Jerry! Why do I even bother worrying about you?" "That's the question I have asked myself and you for several times now, but never received any adequate answers, Sergeant", the young officer counters sarcastically. Glaring at the German Captain, Troy growls moodily: "It's not my fault when you don't like my answer, Captain." Then, the American stomps off in the direction of the officer's ward where David resides. "I suppose you'd rather be treated somewhere else", Lisa Hartigan comments dryly. "Indeed, Lieutenant. You can read my thoughts", the German officer replies equally dryly. With a smirk, the American nurse points him to a cot nearby and helps the young man out of his shirt which she hands to Jack Moffit who has joined them now and thought better of the consideration to follow an angry Sam Troy to his brother's bedside. Shouts resounding from behind the screen separating the officer's ward prove him right that this has indeed been a wise decision.
"You look terrible, Captain", Lisa meanwhile scolds Dietrich who scowls in annoyance at her tone. "You don't have to marry me, Lieutenant. Merely fix me up to continue with my duties!", the German Captain counters dryly and notices that something is wrong when the usually headstrong nurse who has crossed verbal blades with him and Troy more often than not hisses sharply and turns around, running out of the tent, while she puts her hands in front of her face. The young officer looks as shocked as Deirdre O'Donnell, while Jack Moffit scowls at the reaction. "I'm terribly sorry. I've never intended to harm or insult your friend", Hans tells the Irish descended nurse with a clearly apologetic tone. "It's not your fault, Captain. You couldn't know she'd react like this", Deirdre O'Donnell tells the distraught young officer who bears a guilty expression. "Should I go after her to apologise?", Dietrich inquires cautiously. The blond American nurse shakes her head. "Leave her alone for now. You can apologise once she feels better." "Why is she so upset at the mention of marriage? We all know that she is Mark Hitchcock's girlfriend and marrying the Captain has only been a joke", Moffit inquires cautiously.
"Marriage is not a joke for Lisa, at least not now", Deirdre replies cautiously. "Without intending to disrespect or slight your friend, but she must have been aware of Private Hitchcock's attitude regarding marriage and faithfulness in the concept of monogamy", the German Captain adds in a carefully controlled tone. Deirdre O'Donnell nods with a painful grimace, while removing Moffit's patchwork wrapping to cover the buts on the officer's chest. "Please don't inquire any further, Captain. I mustn't betray my friend's trust", Deirdre pleads with Dietrich who winces a takes in a hissing breath when she applies the disinfectant to his open wounds. "I respect your loyalty to your friend, Lieutenant, and will perform further inquiries with her and Hitchcock directly", the German Captain grits out between clenched jaws, while the Irish decsended nurse checks whether any of the cuts is deep enough to require sutures. "I don't think we have to sew you up, Captain", she finally informs him and notices the tensed muscles relax ever so slightly at the news. "Thank you, Lieutenant. Finally some good news", Hans mutters. Then, the blond American applies a lotion to the German Captain's shoulder and starts to massage his shoulder which makes him wince and moan softly with pain after a few moments. "Is it that painful, Captain Dietrich?", Deirdre inquires with actual worry. "It's mainly that the arm was forced in an unnatural position behind the back that makes it painful now, Lieutenant", Dietrich replies looking a bit chagrined to have shown such weakness. "I'm surprised that you haven't passed out from pain and exhaustion yet", the young nurse tells him with a sad tone and concerned expression. "I'll set a morphine infusion to help you with the pain, Captain."
As Deirdre walks off to recover the bottle with the morphine and another containing an IV infusion, Hans Dietrich exchanges a worries look with Jack Moffit. "I suppose you think just what I'm thinking, Captain, that this quarrel between Hitchcock and the nurse is about marriage", the British scholar speaks quietly to be only heard by the German Captain, as he takes a seat next to him on the cot. The young officer nods with a thoughtful scowl. "Yes, that's exactly what I'm thinking, Moffit." The Englishman grins. "Back to Holmes and Watson then. We'll get to the bottom of this mystery, once you have had a chance to recover, old chap." Hans Dietrich grimaces at the term, but agrees nonetheless. "We'll get indeed to the bottom of this. This situation wrecks far too many of my nerves already and it's not like I would have that many to spare to begin with." Jack smiles at the dry joke. Troy is right that the Captain's sense of humor is definitely one of his most likeable personality aspects, apart from his noble and honorable streak. The three Australians observe the exchange between the German Captain and the Doctors, nurses and his Sergeants with as much incredulity as curiosity. That the enemy officer appears to be intimately familiar with the stuff and the LRDG soldiers appears unbelievable for Sergeant Furrows and his two comrades. That he has suffered hardly less than them is obvious from his battered and bruised body and starved appearance. How the Jerry officer has changed sides and gained so much openly displayed sympathy though is a mystery to the diggers.
"Help!", somebody screams loudly outside of the tent, running inside only moments later. The German Captain jumps to his feet as if stung by an adder when he sees as panicked looking Mark Hitchcock with Kiri in his arms hastily entering the tent. "What has happened, Hitchcock?", the young officer demands to know, before any of the medical personnel can even reach him. "She fell down, while running around playing with Fritz, and hit her head on one of the tent poles", Hitch reports with a shaking voice, seeing his CO focus his intense gaze on him. The German Captain checks the girl's head for injuries, when Doctor Sommer and nurse Regula approach them along with Deirdre O'Donnell and Jack Moffit. "I'm so sorry. I really did all I could to look after her properly. I couldn't catch her before falling down", Mark whines with a desperate tone and agony written all over his face. "I'm not accusing you, Hitchcock", Hans interrupts him sternly. "Let us check on her, Herr Hauptmann!", Ludwig Sommer tells the German Captain who stands at the girl's side gently checking her head with his good arm. "You should receive your own treatment!", Lieutenant O'Donnell tells him calmly. "I will stay with them to translate once she regains consciousness. You don't have to worry, Captain", Moffit offers and Dietrich thanks him gratefully, before following the blond nurse back to his cot. Hitch looks torn between his guilty conscience and wishing to flee from sickbay as quickly as possible, when he notices something off. "Where's Lisa?", he asks. Dietrich looks truly guilt ridden, when he replies: "She ran away after a rather thoughtless comment of mine about marriage. I will apologise to her, once she has recovered from her emotional state." Without another word, Hitch pales and turns around to run out of the tent as well. Staring after him Hans Dietrich is momentarily stunned by the behaviour.
The German Captain still wonders what is going on, while Deirdre O'Donnell provides him with a morphine infusion. By the time, she is half finished with treating her patient who looks more groggy and exhausted, the longer the treatment continues, Sam Troy emerges with a reddened head, looking more angry than the whole day. Seeing the German Captain's sorry state stops him from starting his tirade intended for the young officer who has to lean against a stool at the bedside to not fall over. "Are you alright, Captain?", Troy inquires and immediately scolds himself for the superfluous question, as Dietrich counters sarcastically: "Do I look alright, Sergeant?" "Morphine, exhaustion, lack of proper food and drink for a while, concussion from being hit on the head just to mention a few", Deirdre O'Donnell provides a concise explanation for the Sergeant who scowls at her in a questioning manner. "Idiot Jerry", Troy mutters affectionately, while grabbing the German Captain at his uninjured shoulder to stabilise him, when he is swaying dangerously in spite of sitting on a cot. "I can still hear you, Troy", the young officer slurs groggily. "You'd better take care of yourself, Captain! I really hate that I have to carry you around while unconscious twice in a week", Troy replies sarcastically, never taking his hand of his younger friend's shoulder who looks close to passing out.
"How's Kiri?", the German Captain slurs, fighting stubbornly to stay conscious and awake. "Nurse Regula and Doctor Sommer take good care of her, Captain", Deirdre O'Donnell replies gently, as she finishes her massage and removes the IV cannula, before bandging the young man's arm. "You can leave him here with us. We'll take care of him", she suggests to Troy, being interrupted by the German officer: "I'm still awake and I won't stay in sickbay, if I can avoid it." Troy drags him to his feet and supports the young man by taking his left arm over his shoulder. "I'll bring you home. Hitch made sure we get a tent built up. You can rest there, Captain", he assures his lean CO who sways dangerously, as he fights to keep his knees from buckling. After all he can definitely sympathize with the wish not to stay in the hospital. "You should really stay here, Captain", Deirdre O'Donnell advises gently, although she knows by now how stubborn the young German officer actually is. "Is it medically possible to release me, Lieutenant O'Donnell?", Dietrich inquires with his strictest command tone he can manage right now. "Your concussion is light, your pain taken care of and apart from that you mainly need rest. If you get it in your tent, I can release you, but surely not on active duty." "That guy's going nowhere but his bed", Troy assures her, keeping a hold of the badly bruised young German. "Please take care of him and call us, if he gets worse during the night, Sergeant Troy", she pleads with the headstrong Sergeant who nods. "We'll do that, Deirdre. I don't want my friend harmed either." Without bothering to help him into the shirt, as both know that time will be essential for getting Dietrich to their tent before losing consciousness, Troy drags the young Captain along through the camp.
Several of the soldiers they meet along the way look shocked and horrified by the sight of the German officer who fortunately is not aware enough anymore to notice their reactions, as he focuses his vaining senses on staying conscious and on his feet, putting one foot in front of the other wherever Troy is leading him, as he is blindly trusting the American Sergeant to lead him where he intends to go. Ari wrapping his arms around his beloved brother's waist, when he enters their tent is the first thing Dietrich notices apart from Troy and his steady support. In spite of trying to keep up his strong front for the sake of the boy, the German Captain barely makes it to his sleeping cot, before his legs give out completely and Troy helps the young officer to lie down, as his eyes roll back in his head and he notices neither his two friends taking care of removing his boots and putting a shirt on him nor his ward nestling against him, while tears stream down the boy's face.
