Change of Ways

by The Ravenwolf

Set directly after the the events of the Rat Patrol's final episode, the story follows Dietrich's path into an unsteady future, joining his ways with the Rats and even less expected individuals. Reunions with former friends and foes included. (CHAPTER 1-14 revised!)

56. The Adventure of the Three Soldiers

Jakob Silberblatt joins them during lunch and stares at the sight before him incredulously. They have placed the kitten on the table and Lisa has mixed milk powder with some warm water, assuring that it is not too hot for the baby cat. Now the nurse with veterinary experience instructs the German Captain how to dip his finger into the milk and let the kitten suckle it, until they can teach Bastet to drink from the small bowl directly. The blue-eyed baby cat pads over the table and follows his friend's finger, as he tries to direct her to the bowl with the closest thing to milk they have available. "Hans, was um Gottes Willen tust du da?", the Jewish Lieutenant asks in disbelief after having gaped at the scene for half a minute. Dietrich glances up at his lumbering friend and replies with a mischievous smile: "Isn't it obvious what I'm doing, Jakob? I'm getting my new unit member to learn how to drink milk, since I've been promoted to mother cat now. I can't let Lieutenant Minki outrank me in this regard."

"Since when do you have a kitten?", Silberblatt asks incredulously. "Since Fritz dragged it into our tent before lunch", Hans replies dryly. "Woof", Fritz barks proudly, wagging his tail and placing his snout on the German Captain's knee upon hearing his name. "Isn't she a beauty?", Hitch asks with big eyes, while patting Fritz over the head. "Even Jack likes our baby here, named her after his Egyptian cat Goddess", Troy adds with a grin, patting Moffit on the shoulder. "Bastet is not my cat Goddess, but that of every Ancient Egyptian", the British scholar protests indignantly. "Stop scaring Bastet!", the German Captain admonishes sternly. "She's just started sniffing at the milk." With a far more gentle tone, he nudges the kitten: "Komm, Bastet! Milch." With soft meowing the little cat keeps hunting his finger, even when it is dipped into the milk. For a moment she is startled at the wet substance encompassing her snout, then she starts suckling on the German Captain's milk-drenched finger hungrily. Hans smiles contently, exchanging a glance with Lisa Hartigan who has instructed him and grins back with delight.

"I had no idea you were such a wonderful mother cat, Hans", Jakob comments with a grin, as he sits down to dig into his lunch. "I had a very good teacher", the German officer replies dryly. "You've always been a very good student, Captain", Troy adds with a grin, patting the young man on the left shoulder, while Lisa Hartigan smirks roguishly and blows him a kiss. "Oh, yes. You've always been that. I wouldn't have finished even half of my homework without you in all those years, Hans", the Jewish Lieutenant adds with a smile and a wink, between chewing on his lunch. "Nur weil du ein fauler Hund warst, Jakob, nicht nur was Aufstehen anging", Hans Dietrich counters dryly in German. "Care to share with the class, Captain?", Troy inquires with a smile. "I said that this is only due to the fact that he is a lazy dog, not only when it comes to getting up in the morning", the German officer replies with a wry smile. "Why do I even call you my friend?", Jakob complains jokingly with a pout. "Who else would have helped you with your homework?", Dietrich counters with a smirk.

Bastet has finished drinking the milk almost to the last drop and now pads over the table toward where she can hear her new protector's voice. The German Captain catches her in the last moment, before toppling down the edge of the table, as the kitten miscalculates the distance to her source of safety. Unaware of the danger she might have found herself in, she curls up in the cradle of the young officer's arm and falls asleep while beginning to purr. "She's so cute", Lisa states happily. "Cute", Kiri repeats with a wide smile. Hans explains the word to her in Arabic to make sure that she does not think that it means cat. Ari listens eagerly and starts telling his new sister a few more words, while Moffit mutters: "I officially surrender my resistance against your strays, Captain, as even I have to admit that Bastet is adorable." Dietrich raises his eyebrows in an amused expression. "Since when do you have a heart for annoying little animals, Doctor?" "This one isn't half as annoying as the mutt", Jack counters. "He didn't mean it like that, Fritz", Hitch reassures the little dog that wags his tail at him. "Just don't listen to him, buddy!" "I doubt he ever has", Moffit remarks with dry sarcasm. "Fritz listens to basic commands from almost anybody most of the time. The only thing overruling them might be his greed to get more food", Hans argues. "And he saved Ari's life and led us to Hitch. He's pretty smart", Troy argues.

"Professor Stevenson even offered to buy him from me, as he is the most successful detector for mummies and buried artefacts in the whole camp, surely more reliable and less annoying than his students and less troublesome than his former assistant, not to mention his falcon", Dietrich adds with a smirk. "That hellbird!", Troy growls aggressively. "We can't sell Fritz. He's one of us", Hitch exclaims with an expression of horror. "Don't be ridiculous, Hitchcock!", the German Captain admonishes. "He's not one of us. When Ari can finally travel to the U.S. to join Jakob's family, Fritz will accompany him." "Will you come with me too?", the Jewish boy inquires with big pleading eyes that could rival Fritz's. "I can't promise you that, Ari, as I don't know if this will be possible", Hans replies with a gentle tone placing his right hand on his ward's shoulder. "But I don't want to leave you", the orphan laments, leaning into the young man's side. "You're my brother." Dietrich winces as if he has been struck, muttering quietly: "Ari, I cannot come with you and look after you, because I have obligations which keep me here." Ari does not complain or quarrel, but simply cries quietly into the German's jacket which makes him suffer far more than a discussion would have.

"The fox family has a baby cat now", Kevin O'Donnell tells his Australian companions with a wide grin. "Really?", Michael Lakatos asks curiously. "How did they end up with that?" "No idea, but it's cute and sleeps on the Captain's arm", Kevin answers with a smile. "Be honest, lads, you just want to join the Jerry Captain's unit, cause you want to play with his pets!", Sergeant Williamson comments with a sly smile, enjoying teasing the Privates a little. "That's not true", Danny protests. "We like him and the Rats as well. They're good and honest fellows." "And the kids are really nice too", Mickey adds. "Almost reminds me of home", Kevin adds with a glazed over gaze that speaks of his mind having wandered to some other place and time. "Let me see the kitten!", Mickey remarks and gets up, while Danny shakes his brother out of his reverie. "Don't annoy Captain Sherlock!", Williamson calls after them as a reminder. Danny shows him his thumbs up as a sign of understanding, before following his friend and his younger brother.

"Hey, Captain Sherlock. We heard your zoo's getting larger than your unit lately", Kevin announces jovially, as he approaches the German Captain. Dietrich raises his eyebrows with a mixture of sarcasm and annoyance, as he replies dryly: "If you want to complain, Private O'Donnell, I recommend turning to our dear General's new favourite Lieutenant, Minki." "We got a new Lieutenant?", Mickey asks curiously. "Indeed", the German Captain drawls with dry irony. "Got promoted as soon as she entered the camp and even saved the General's life valiantly." "She?", Danny asks with an even more curious expression. "Since when do we have a new nurse? And why didn't Deirdre tell us anything about her?" "Possibly because Lieutenant Minki arrived only yesterday and has not attended sickbay officially, as she resides with the General", the German Captain describes in a mock serious tone that takes all of the Rats' self-control not to start laughing loudly and giving away the game. "But you can see her strutting over the officer's table, right over there", Hans enjoys teasing the Australians immensely, while his unit members who know what is going on grin from ear to ear by now, as the three Australians try to make out the woman at the officer's table.

"I can't see any woman there", Kevin mutters quietly. "Whoever talked about a woman? Lieutenant Minky is a cat", Dietrich informs him dryly and smirks at all their incredulous expressions, while Troy and Hitch finally burst into laughter. "Old Twirly promoted a cat to Lieutenant?", Danny asks incredulously. "Yes, he did. Right after she stole Captain Boggs' office chair and plunged herself in the center of the strategic map", the German officer informs him with actual amusement. "So you see, I have the official allowance to increase my zoo, especially since the animals are better behaved than the human members." "That's not true", Troy complains, trying to catch his breath and stop laughing. "According to our dear General in his wisdom it is true for you, Troy, your brother and the Privates", Dietrich counters with a wry smile. "Jerry smartass", the American Sergeant grumbles with a grin. "Browny kept this brilliant story from us", the older O'Donnell brother interrupts the banter.

"So, Captain Sherlock, is the little one your new Lieutenant?", Kevin O'Donnell comments with a smile he shares with his older brother and their friend, as he points at Bastet. "Bastet is the latest member of our unit, but has not earned a promotion yet", Hans replies dryly. "She's cute", Kevin adds with a smile, barely resisting the urge to pet the sleeping animal, and his brother Danny nods in agreement. "You're not the only ones to think so", the German Captain remarks with a smile, petting the kitten gently over the head at which it curls up more tightly. "My kitten", Kiri explains the situation with her usual self-assurance and Lisa pats her proudly on the head, as she admonishes with gentle strictness: "Bastet is all of our kitten, Kiri."

"Our kitten?", they hear someone else from behind them, recognizing Thomas Anaru who has come to join them for lunch. "I thought Minki was grown. Oh." The Private stops short, when he sees the little fur ball curled up in the nook of the German officer's arm. "How did we get a kitten?", he asks curiously. "Fritz found it and brought the little one to us", Dietrich explains calmly. "Fritz is a lifesaving hero who is far too little appreciated", Hitch declares, proud of his dog friend, as he scratches the panting Fritz behind the ears who appreciates the attention and yelps twice. "I'll make sure to promote him before you, Hitchcock", Hans declares dryly. "After all, he is the better behaved one, aren't you, Fritz?" "Woof", Fritz agrees immediately at the sound of his name and starts wagging his tail at the Captain. "Boggs will think you're looney, if you promote the dog", Jack Moffit warns him with dry irony. "I doubt I have anything to lose in that regard, since he already thinks that I'm a madman", Hans counters dryly. "I wouldn't worry about that, old chap. Compared to Troy, you'll always appear sane", the British Sergeant remarks sarcastically. "Who needs enemies with friends like you two?", Sam Troy grumbles.

Jakob Silberblatt tries to distract them by changing the topic. "So, Hans. What is this episode of you adopting a 'Nubierbengel' that Langreiter mentioned?" Dietrich tenses visibly and blushes slightly. "This is a very old story from my teenage days", he mutters with a sheepish expression, trying to dodge the question. But now that Troy has picked up the scent he is not intent to let go so easily. "We've seen you adopt all kinds of animals and your two lovely kids here. You're even holding the little kitten in your arm right now and the dog's drooling on your trousers. Makes sense that you've already been like that as a kid. So, what's this about that you feel you can't share with us, Captain?", the American Sergeant insists. Dietrich sighs wearily, muttering: "It's not an episode I'm particularly proud of, Sergeant." "What did you do? Steal some boy from his Mum or what?", Troy asks. The German Captain actually looks slightly shocked by the suggestion. "I've never been a slaver or approved of slavery", he growls, actually offended. "I didn't mean it like that", Sam apologizes quickly. "Just tell us to clear things up, won't you?"

Dietrich realises that as usual Troy has maneuvered him into the position he has wanted him to be in without much chance to escape, unless he would be a lot more ruthless than he actually is. "Fine, Troy", the German Captain starts with another weary sigh and the Australians lean closer to catch the story as well, while Thomas Anaru sits down next to Hitch and listens intently, trying to chew as silently as possible. "Swear to me though that you won't spread this story in the whole camp, all of you! You'll keep what you hear to yourselves." All soldiers around nod and mutter words of agreement, baffled by the seriousness of the young officer's tone. Somewhat content, Hans finally recounts: "When I accompanied my uncle for the first time on an expedition to North Africa I was a school boy of eleven years. Everything was strange, new and fairly different from my home in the North of Germany. My older cousins also were part of the expedition crew, while Langreiter, the man who is now the German commander of the local fort, was a young university student of Egyptology." Moffit nods in understanding and hits his forehead with his palm, as realization dawns on him. "Now I know where I know the name from. I think my father revised his dissertation after leaving Munich, as he still had connections to the German Egyptology Society." "Smartasses, the whole lot of them", Troy whispers to Tully with a low growl, while the Kentuckian keeps his impassive expression, chewing on his matchstick and nodding almost imperceptibly.

"Along with our hired workers came a local Nubian with three of his sons. The youngest was approximately of my age and he definitely had the darkest skin I had ever seen on a human until then. He followed me around almost night and day wherever I went and whatever I did. As I didn't speak the local language back then, I had no means of understanding what was said and I feared that he'd rob me or sell me to slavers or some other criminal scenario." Troy scowls with a grim expression, having experienced such a scenario together with the young German after all. Dietrich however does not look angry or out for revenge, rather like he actually is ashamed of something, as he continues: "So I told my older cousins about my shadow and they took matters into their own hands, beating him up pretty badly and forcing him to tell us why he came after me. In spite of the broken mixture of languages we used to communicate, as none of us spoke the language of the other, it finally turned out that my uncle had ordered the boy to follow me around in order to keep me from harm as the youngest expedition member who didn't know the local language or culture. I was so ashamed of myself that I apologized to him immediately and asked my cousins to leave him in peace." Dietrich sighs, squeezing his eyes shut in a weary gesture. "He couldn't believe that a white boy would apologize to a black one, but apparently believed me, as he stayed around me for the rest of the summer and even taught me a few words and phrases of their language, I believe he said Nobiin, in addition to some Arabic."

Understanding dawns on most of their faces that Hans Dietrich has learned his attitude of being open-minded and refraining from the prejudices very typical for Europeans and particularly Germans through experiences. None of them are truly able to imagine the actual setting with the detail Jack Moffit can summon to his mental eye, since he has grown up with some similarly extraordinary experiences and now observes the young Captain with a thoughtful expression. Hanging his head a bit despondently, the lean German adds in the direction of his Jewish friend: "I couldn't tell you this, Jakob, as my own behavior reminded me far too much of Erik and the HJ boys to be comfortable with." Silberblatt squeezes his loyal friend's shoulder gently, as he assures him with a sympathetic tone: "I might have thought and done the same thing as you, Hans. You have nothing to be ashamed of. We're Europeans and Africa is wild and strange for us. I surely would have been a lot more scared than you as a kid." "We've all seen the difference between you and the other German officers, especially the SS bastards and those HJ guys", Troy agrees. "I wouldn't have trusted a black kid sneaking after me either." "I definitely learned my lesson on not simply following prejudices", Hans replies wearily. "I wish everyone would share your attitude, Captain. You defended us, when that other German Captain called us savages. And I know that I rather think higher of you because of hearing this story", the young Maori Private proudly declares, meeting Dietrich's gaze with an earnest smile. "So does Willy", Danny O'Donnell adds on behalf of their Sergeant.

"Hans, what does HJ mean?", Ari asks with furrowed brows, having listened to the story intently. His caregiver flinches as if he has been struck with a whip and pales visibly. After exchanging a long glance with his childhood friend Jakob Silberblatt, Hans Dietrich replies with a carefully controlled tone, noticing the inquisitive stares of the O'Donnell brothers and Thomas Anaru as well. "HJ is an abbreviation for Hitlerjugend", he explains calmly. "What's an abbreviation?", the boy wants to know, unfamiliar with the name of Germany's political leader, unlike the Allied soldiers. Hans smiles gently at the boy, as he explains the term and hopes to have escaped from the awkward explanation. Kevin O'Donnell intercedes however: "I don't get it. What's this HJ to do with you two?" Again the two young officers exchange glances, before Silberblatt replies this time: "You might not all be aware of this, Private, but Captain Dietrich and I grew up in the same city in Germany, we were childhood friends even." The O'Donnell brothers nod. "We thought you've known each other for a while. And you have more of a German accent than the Captain", Danny replies, while Thomas Anaru looks completely surprised by the revelation.

Silberblatt smiles sadly. "What you also cannot know, because it's not obvious, is that I'm a Jew and therefore had to flee from Germany before the war", he explains. "The HJ was an organization for children, like the boy scouts, only that it was organised by the Nationalsozialisten, the Nazis as you call them by their abbreviation", Dietrich adds to the explanation with a serious expression. "Their purpose was to indoctrinate the next generation of their followers with their political views and social ideas, including hating all Jews." "We were in constant conflict with them, because they came after me and my younger sister at every chance they got. My loyal friend here", Silberblatt places his hand on Hans' shoulder, squeezing it gently, "protected us and stood up against them." "I didn't like their ideas and their bullying. It violated my principles", Dietrich mutters. "What is bullying? Is it bullheaded, like Sam?", Ari asks innocently, causing all of them to laugh, including Sam Troy. "Mark Hitchcock and Jack Moffit will explain this to you", the German Captain offers with a wink. "I need to shift my position before I can use none of my arms without pain anymore." Ari looks at his beloved brother with concern, as he mutters: "I don't want you to be hurt, Hans."

Bastet is a bit discontent, when she is awoken from her sleep and placed into the crusher cap, voicing her protest in the form of loud meows. But she quickly recognises Dietrich's scent on the fabric and curls up again, falling asleep. "I've always wanted to have a kitten. Remember how Dad said no", Kevin declares, elbowing his brother who nods. "So we keep the little one now, Captain?", Thomas Anaru asks Dietrich. "You don't seem to understand the situation, Private Anaru. Bastet already is a member of our unit by order of General Atkins, unlike you and this overly eager trio here", the German Captain points out dryly. "But I just spoke to Captain Carson and he agreed to let me change to your unit", the young Maori soldier stutters with a crestfallen expression. "Nonetheless, it is not officially decided yet", Dietrich argues calmly. "And I can tell you that no official decision will be made before tomorrow, when General Atkins will hold the trial against Lieutenant Baker and then decide on which men will join which units." "We can't wait until we get news tomorrow about who's gonna join you, Captain Sherlock", Kevin O'Donnell declares with a smile to the Rats and their Captain.

"Baker's the fellow who shot you?", Daniel O'Donnell asks cautiously. The young officer nods in response, bearing a grave expression, as he replies: "Yes. Major Turner and General Atkins insisted on a trial." "Of course, they did. That bastard almost killed you", Troy growls angrily. "I wouldn't have expected you to rise in Major Turner's defence, old man", Jack Moffit comments with dry humor. "I don't care about the arrogant ass and Old Twirly. I want the guy who tried to murder my friend brought to justice", the American Sergeant snaps back. "You're uncharacteristically resentful for a man who shot me three times himself, Troy", Dietrich counters dryly. "You were officially my enemy back then", Troy grumbles. "I'd never do this to my CO and even less to my friend." The German officer nods with a thoughtful expression. "I know, Sergeant. Try not to go after Baker and judge him too unfairly though! He still considered me an enemy. And I cannot blame him for that."

"Shooting a man he suspected in spite of his actions having been investigated and he officially cleared of all charges is a serious crime, Hans", Jakob Silberblatt insists with unusual vehemence. "Major Turner and General Atkins also have to provide a clear signal that suspecting and attacking you is a serious offence. Otherwise, you can never work safely on our side." Dietrich closes his eyes and shakes his head briefly to get rid of some haunting thoughts, as he mutters: "I've never expected that anyways." "Don't be an idiot, Captain!", Troy grumbles. "You've proven your worth, honesty and reliability a thousand times over. Noone can do more than you did." "Whatever I have done and will do will never change the fact that I'm German and served in the Wehrmacht, loyally! I've never intended to betray my people or country. He's right to distrust me", the young officer growls back at him.

"Hans", Jakob intercedes. "Please calm down. You're scaring the children." The German Captain flinches, as if he has been slapped and turns to Ari and Kiri with a guilty expression, muttering sheepishly: "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to scare you." "Why are you angry, Hans?", the Jewish boy asks with a sad expression. "Nothing important", Dietrich mutters quietly and gently pats the orphan over the head, when the boy leans against his side. "Don't be angry, please. It's not Sam's fault", Ari mumbles into his jacket, causing all of them to bear a puzzled expression, before breaking into smiles. "Ari's a great kid", the American Sergeant declares with a wide smile. "Let's not dwell on this much longer!", Jack Moffit suggests diplomatically.

"So, what do you guys do for the rest of the day?", Hitch asks curiously. "Don't motivate them for your pranks and nonsense, Hitchcock!", Dietrich admonishes sternly "We could all come with you, Cap", Hitch tries to persuade him with a charming smile. "Then, we're under an officer's supervision and won't do any nonsense." "What did I do to deserve such punishment?", the German Captain inquires with dry sarcasm. "But that's a good idea. We heard you always do interesting things, Captain Sherlock, like treasure hunting", Kevin O'Donnell agrees and Hans starts to fear what will happen when he and Hitchcock start combining forces to attract trouble and mischief like magnets. "That was fun", Ari agrees with a smile. "Can we do this again, Hans? Jack? Please." "Please", Kiri immediately supports him, displaying her best puppy eyes look. Jack Moffit looks surprised, but beams at the children, appreciating their enthusiasm and interest in history, archaeology and ancient cultures. "Of course, we can. I have a lot of stories to share about ancient Egypt, for example about the cat Goddess Bastet", the former Cambride scholar offers with a broad smile. "Perfect, Moffit. You have just volunteered for child duty this afternoon", Dietrich decides with cool pragmatism. "I can trade animals without your support."

"I hope you won't protest against escorting a nice young lady, Captain", Lisa Hartigan suggests with a winning smile. "I've always wanted to visit the local bazaar, but Mark never wanted to take me along." "Those Arabs are strange with women", Hitchcock protests, bearing a truly worried and discontent expression. "And it surely has nothing to do with you eyeing their women strangely, Hitch", Troy comments with sarcasm. "Mark Hitchcock, do you want to tell me something?", Lisa inquires sternly. The American Private blushes slightly. "No. Nothing", he gets out quickly, too quickly for her liking. Glaring at him, she declares with finality: "We will talk about this later." Then, she turns back to the German officer with a wide smile. "At least I have a valiant knight in shining armor to treat me like a lady." Dietrich wonders how he could ever have been so naive and thoughtless to let the Yankees involve him in their drama. Compared to this, his life in the Wehrmacht has been almost relaxed, even with the Rats harassing his camps and convoys from time to time, the Nazis breathing down his neck and the constant struggle against the hostile elements. Living with the Rats under the same roof and sharing their daily dosages of insanity truly drives him toward lunacy himself.

Troy also is not keen on leaving his friend in peace either, as he pats the younger man's shoulder and declares with a wide grin: "So, it's decided. We all go visiting the town together and you're our guide and interpreter, Captain. Jack can do his archaeology course for the kids meanwhile." "Did it even occur to you to ask me whether I am fine with this arrangement?", the German Captain asks dryly at which Troy merely shrugs. "Why wouldn't you?" "Ari, Kiri. Let's have our story lesson about Egypt", Moffit meanwhile addresses the next generation of enthusiastic potential researchers. Fostering their curiosity and intelligence is truly a worthy cause for a scholar like him. The children look a lot more delighted at the idea of listening to his lectures than the Rats ever have and the British anthropologist enjoys being in his element. "You're responsible for Bastet for now, Jakob", Hans tells his friend. "While Moffit watches the children and she sleeps in the cap anyway." Although he briefly looks like he would like to protest, the sight of the curled up little kitten in his friend's cap instantly melts Silberblatt's heart. "She's definitely your cutest unit member." "It's not like the rest of them are even close to providing a serious competition in that regard", Dietrich counters dryly. "That's mean, Captain", Troy protests with a grin. "That's how I am, a mean German officer", the young Captain counters dryly, although his tone is teasing and not haunted like before. "Sure you are, Jerry smartass", Troy replies in a similar tone.

"Hey, Cap", Tully addresses the German officer, looking a bit hesitant to draw his attention. "Gotty and I will take care of building our tent and I'll stay in camp. Don't like the Arabs that much." Dietrich looks a bit perplexed, but nods. "That's very diligent of you, Private. I surely won't force you to spend your time off with me. This was Hitchcock's idea." "But, Tully. Why don't you want to come along?", the New Yorker asks his friend incredulously. "I still have some games outstanding with Brass Knuckles' guys", the Kentuckian replies coolly, hiding his smirk behind his matchstick. "Don't cheat and rip them off at gambling!", the German Captain admonishes sternly. "Or at least don't get caught", he adds with dry irony upon seeing Pettigrew's crestfallen expression. "You gonna teach me your tricks, Cap?", Tully inquires, shifting his matchstick, as he grins at the last comment. "Surely not to cheat and steal from your fellow soldiers, Pettigrew", the young Captain replies with a strict tone. Michael Lakatos eyes the lean young officer with adoration, remembering the sleight of hand tricks even his granny would have been proud of.

"Let's shake it!", Troy declares, getting up alongside Dietrich who cautiously picks up his cap, supporting the bottom with his left hand, as Silberblatt observes him intently. "Fetch Brown's hat from the Jeep, when you're taking our equipment out", the German Captain tells the Rats, as he presents his head gear transformed into an improvised kitten basket to his Jewish friend. Major Turner meets the younger officers in this position on the way out. "What's wrong with your cap?", he asks, putting the skinny young Captain under scrutiny from head to toe, but noticing no new injury, especially not on the head that would keep him from wearing the head gear. Then he looks inside and notices the furry creature curled up inside. "What's that?", the older American officer asks incredulously, similarly traumatised by Minki's promotion as Captain Boggs. "Our new unit member. I asked General Atkins for approval already", the German Captain replies silkily.

"We're soldiers", the American officer protests to which the younger Captain nods calmly in response. "Yes, Major. And this means that we take lives in order to fight for our principles and defend those entrusted to us, our people and homeland. But it doesn't mean that we take the lives of innocent beings without reason or justification. I didn't want to leave it to die, when Fritz dragged the kitten into our tent." All of his men have taken positions around their CO. While some nod in approval of the words like Troy and Moffit, some look deeply awed and impressed like Gottschlich and Anaru who has decided to stay around them after Hitchcock's quasi invitation to join for the afternoon. Major Turner's expression is thoughtful, before he nods. "I see your reasons, Captain Dietrich, even if they would not be my own. But you won more hearts among your former enemies through showing that you have a heart and conscience than many established officers have through years of service", the American officer declares sternly, before adding with a small smile. "And what is your new unit member called?" "Bastet, after the Egyptian cat Goddess of home and hearth", Dietrich replies smoothly. "I see Sergeant Moffit's influence", Turner remarks dryly, but nods. "Keep your kitten safe and fed, but also yourself, Captain! Use your afternoon off to relax and regenerate a bit. You really need it", Turner insists, before saluting to the younger man who instantly salutes back with his free right arm.

As soon as Turner has left, Troy grumbles: "I thought I'd never be of the same opinion as the arrogant brass, but he's right." "Do you realize now how much you have wronged Major Turner with your accusation, Sergeant?", Dietrich asks calmly. "You should apologize." "I'm not apologizing to the arrogant brass", the American Sergeant growls indignantly. "You apologized to me", Hans points out. "You're not arrogant, unfair or ever approved of the chicken shit ours indulge in", Troy grumbles. "Besides you're my friend and a damn good, honest and loyal one. You deserved the apology." "Troy, I'm trying to help you", the German Captain argues wearily, not daring to comment on the previous statement. "Major Turner is a reasonable man and aware that he won't change your attitude through your penal duties. You almost forced him to take disciplinary measures or he would have lost his face. He might concede, if you show honest remorse and reflection of your actions." "I'm not begging before anyone", Sam declares proudly. "I'm not asking you to beg, merely apologize for the gravely wrong accusation you made against him." Troy scowls, but concedes: "I'll think about it."

Dietrich sighs wearily, realizing that this is the most he will get as an answer. A hand on his good shoulder and whisper close to his ear startle him though. "I have to congratulate you, Captain", Jack Moffit comments in a low tone. "This is a small victory, even though it does not feel like it. I've rarely managed to get him this far to reflect his actions." Dietrich's wincing has finally managed to stir Bastet from her slumber and the kitten meows a bit groggily. "Schon gut, Bastet", Dietrich mutters quietly and pets her head gently. Feeling the sudden urge, the British Sergeant touches the tiny fur ball as well, surprised at how soft and silky the baby cat feels. "You're right, Captain. She's better cleaned than any of us after days without a shower", Jack comments dryly with a gentle smile, when looking at the kitten. "I will leave Bastet in camp while we go into town. Can you look after her in addition to your Egyptology lecture or should I leave her in Jakob's care?", Dietrich asks calmly. "I think we can share the load of this heavy duty", Jack replies with a wry smile and dry humor. "Thank you, Doctor", the German officer declares with honest gratitude, as he hands his cap, serving as cat bed for now, over to the British Sergeant.

Tully returns at that point and holds the Australian leather bush hat to the skinny Captain. "Thank you, Pettigrew", Dietrich declares with slight surprise at the unruly Rat's diligence. "Anytime, Cap", Tully replies, shifting his matchstick to smile slightly. "I won't disappoint you by getting caught." "I would be even less disappointed, if you didn't cheat in the first place", the German Captain counters dryly. "But I realize that would be too much to ask." The Private from Kentucky shrugs and smiles wryly, before giving a sloppy salute that is actually quite diligent for his standards. Recognizing the effort, Hans salutes back properly.

The group around the young officer by now consists of a lot more people than he would have expected. Troy following him with more diligence and loyalty than Fritz even is the least of a surprise. Hitchcock and his girlfriend have practically forced themselves upon him and invited his Australian friends and the New Zealander along. While the others prepare themselves for the trip into town, Dietrich followed by Troy visits their Bedouin scouts and their three girls. All of them greet the young officer with great enthusiasm and reverence, aware how much they owe him. "*Captain, we are so grateful for the camels and donkeys*", Hussein declares with a bow. "*You receive them as payment for your efforts and to have a way of providing for yourselves*", the tall European replies earnestly. "*You're a wonderful Sheikh, faris alsahra*", Farooq tells the young officer he admires. "*I will need your support for handling other animals*", Dietrich addresses them. "*I want to trade a camel or mule for a few goats. In particular, I require a mother goat with a kid, as we need milk for a kitten we found.*" "*We will look after the goats and anything else you need, Captain*", Hussein assures him. "*Thank you, Hussein, all of you*", the young German Captain addresses his scouts and also nods politely to the teenage girls. The one he has once instructed as nurse Regula's interpreter blushes and smiles shyly at the tall European.

After saying his goodbye to the Bedouins, Hans explains to Troy what he has spoken with the Arabs, before meeting the rest of their group to walk into town. "Fancy hat. Fits you just as well as Browny, Captain Sherlock", Kevin comments with a grin. "Would you mind terribly not using those nicknames constantly?", the German officer growls dryly with a scowl. The Australian grins and mutters sheepishly: "I'll try." Lisa Hartigan links her arm into Mark Hitchcock's, chatting happily, as she approaches with a large sunhat on her head. Fritz also trots behind them, constantly trying to befuddle Hitch with his puppy eyes, but not standing much chance against the strong willed nurse. Thomas Anaru follows behind them, approaching the German officer and his Sergeant with a smile. "Kia ora. I've never known anyone who knows the local language or people as well as you do. Would you explain some habits of the Arabs to me, Captain?" Dietrich looks bemused by the question, but nods. "Of course, I can, although Sergeant Moffit would be the more competent and detailed source of information." "Only if you can bear his lectures for hours", Sam Troy grumbles, rolling his eyes. "I'm starting to see why the dear Doctor appreciated me as his most attentive audience", the German Captain remarks sarcastically, before turning back to Thomas Anaru and starting some basic explanation about the Bedouins and their culture, dominated by Islamic religion and nomadic traditions. All of his companions listen to him, as they walk into the town, but the American nurse and the Maori soldier with particular fascination.

"Looks like we're closing in on the center of commerce and social interactions, the bazaar", Dietrich explains, as he can make out the unmistakable shouts of haggling traders and customers from the local trade hub. "The Bedouins are usually very open-minded and willing to trade. So, I suggest you all take your time to look around and only call me, if you need an interpreter or support with haggling which is part of the business here. It's impolite to pay the demanded price without trying to haggle." "Wonderful. Mark, I want something made of silk", Lisa declares with a delighted smile that is not met by Hitchcock's despondent expression. "You can come with us, Tommy", Kevin O'Donnell offers with an open-hearted smile which the young soldier from New Zealand returns. "We should try and obtain some tea for Moffit", Hans suggests to his faithful companion who shows no intention of leaving his side. Sam Troy briefly stares at him, before grumbling: "Only you'd think of that. It's good he finally accepted his tea buddy as a friend as well." Dietrich smiles wryly, as he replies: "You two practically forced this upon me." "You're too stubborn for your own good sometimes, Captain", Troy counters with a grin, patting the younger man on the shoulder gently. "We thought you needed a little nudging. And it was good for you, having friends to help you along." The German officer looks a bit haunted, as he mutters: "Loath as I am to admit that, you're right, Troy." The American Sergeant grins widely now. "You're a good man and a good friend, Dietrich. I'm glad we have you on our side now."

Hans Dietrich nods, but then turns back to the tea trader who has asked him whether he is still interested in the brew he has indicated. The task of smelling the odour of different tea types to decide upon the best selection falls to the German officer alone, as the American Sergeant considers it stink and provides no help at all. Finally only two types remain and the young Captain looks slightly frustrated about how to decide, when Troy intervenes: "Buy both! It's Christmas soon." "I can buy none, as I lack the money. But you're right that it's Christmas soon and I'll need this for someone else as well. If you could lend me some money for now I'd be much obliged, Troy", Dietrich replies. "Excellent. Then make it three tins and negotiate a better price. I'll pay. No lending you anything. I got friends I need some gifts for as well", Troy suggests. "Three?", the young German Captain asks dubiously. "I know what I'm doing, Captain", the American Sergeant insists with a grin. Although slightly doubting this, Hans still turns back to finish the trade negotiations and ends up with three tins and a small additional sample of another sort he had liked for the price a single tin would have cost him back home in Germany.

Lisa Hartigan is the first person to approach Dietrich, hook her arm into his and drag him along, as she starts asking his opinion about silken headscarves. Too baffled to put up resistance, the German Captain comes along and mutters some noncommittal comments regarding colours and types of clothing. "I would have hoped for something more concrete than that, Captain", Lisa complains. "Without seeing the clothes on you I can hardly provide an adequate opinion", the young officer defends himself, while Troy grins with amusement at his friend's predicament. Serves him right for playing the gentleman with the pert nurse. Mark Hitchcock looks at Dietrich as if his saviour is finally arriving, while Fritz sniffs at a neighbouring food stand with clear interest. However the Bedouin trader is immune to his puppy eyes, unlike the American soldiers at their mess. Five minutes and a dozen tried on scarves later, Lisa arrives at the decision that she wants a red one after all, leaving her to decide between three different ones. Mark looks at Dietrich with an expression that is almost as desperately pleading as Fritz in front of the food stall, already smelling the food, but unable to reach it. With politeness and some sense for style and color the son of a baronet has inadvertently absorbed from his sister's preparation for balls and society events, Hans provides a calm recommendation that finally satisfies the nurse, leading to her ultimate decision. The young officer is only too happy to negotiate a price for this precious piece, if this means ending their torment, while Hitch feels close to hugging the lean German, when he finally receives the folded scarf and hands it to the nurse. "You're my hero, Cap", the young Private mutters to him, patting the tall Captain on the shoulder instead of pulling him into an embrace, when he sees his wary expression.

As they walk around the bazaar, a commotion quickly draws their attention and gets the rest of their group to join them as well. Three Maori soldiers are surrounded by a whole group of Arabs, shouting with anger. "*What is going on here?*", Dietrich bellows in Arabic, as he approaches. Immediately every single man turns toward him. "*They murdered one of us, faris alsahra*", one of the local herders replies with a grim look, pointing at the foreign soldiers. "*Karim ibn Salih was lying dead in the narrow alley where they killed him*", another one shouts, as he shows the direction by waving his arm. "*Why do you think he was murdered? If he attacked them, it is the right of these soldiers to kill him*", the tall European inquires sternly. "*The body was hidden behind some crates. Soldiers don't do that, when they kill in battle*", the Bedouin argues and Hans has to agree with that argument.

"These men accuse you of murder", the young Captain then addresses the soldiers from New Zealand who all look taken aback at the accusation. "What do you have to say for yourself?" "We killed men in battle, but we didn't murder anyone", one of them, bearing a Sergeant's uniform, replies grimly. "They found a dead body hidden in the alley you were in", Dietrich informs them matter-of-factually. "What were you doing in some alley instead of staying along the main streets?", the German Captain inquires slightly suspiciously. One of the soldiers blushes and starts to stammer: "I... ah... wanted to... relieve myself." Hans raises his eyebrows in slight surprise, but then asks sternly: "And you took your comrades along for that?" One of them looks truly affronted now, as he growls: "We don't trust the natives and wanted to watch our friend's back. We didn't even notice a body." The lean officer scowls, as he assesses them, evaluating their honesty, before he finally nods and assures them: "I believe you. But you're still accused of murder. I will see what I can do." "You're gonna investigate, Captain Sherlock?", Troy asks with a grim expression. "Yes, I will, Sergeant. This takes priority over trading goats", Dietrich replies sternly. "Kia ora, Captain. Thanks for helping", Anaru tells him and the three baffled Maori soldiers quickly agree. "That's my duty, gentlemen", Hans replies proudly.

Then, the German officer turns back to the Arabs and asks sternly: "*Is the body still where you found him?*" The men look surprised by the question. "*No, we brought him to his home to be prepared for the burial*", their spokesman replies. "*I will have to look at the body to find out more about who murdered him*", the young Captain declares. "*Please lead me there and let me look at him.*" "*We have the murderers here. You want to protect them!*", one of the Arabs shouts angrily. "*I have to protect my soldiers as an officer, but rest assured that I will have them punished, if they are guilty. However, I don't want to condemn them, if they are innocent, which is why I have to investigate and look at the body and the alley where you found him*", Dietrich argues. The Bedouins look completely surprised by his line of argumentation, but have no good argument against his proposition.

"*I will lead you to the house of Karim ibn Salih. His son will have to decide whether you can look at his father's body*", one the Arabs suggests. "*Thank you. I will position two of my men at the alley to assure that nothing is destroyed and changed there. If you don't trust them, you can have some of your men wait with them*", the German Captain states with determination and clear planning. "Troy, Hitchcock, you will go with the Arabs to the alley where the murder happened and assure that no evidence is destroyed any further! I suggest that the rest of you go with them, while I will take a look at the murder victim", Hans tells his men. "Shouldn't I come with you, Captain?", Lisa Hartigan asks with a frown. "As much as I would appreciate your medical expertise, Lieutenant Hartigan, I must not take you with me. The local culture forbids a woman to partake in such an activity. However, I would be grateful if I could discuss my observations with you afterwards. This isn't the first murder investigation I have to conduct after all." "You're not called Captain Sherlock for nothing, Cap. You're brilliant, just like the real Sherlock Holmes", Hitch assures him, while Lisa nods at the explanation. The treatment of women here in North Africa is even more dominated by discrimination than at home in the small Alabama town where she has grown up, but she trusts Dietrich's explanation and wisdom to send her with Mark and the Bullhead.

"Gentlemen", Dietrich addresses the Maori soldiers, ignoring Hitchcock's inappropriate comment, "you'll come with me, please. I want you available for interrogation, should I notice something on the body." The three men nod and salute. "Of course, Captain. Thank you for helping us here", their Sergeant replies. "I have an obligation to my men and to any soldiers who are my allies, gentlemen", the young officer replies proudly. "Kia kaha. Ka kite anō", Thomas Anaru mutters to the three, patting each of them on the shoulder, before leaving with Troy, Hitch, the nurse and the Australians. "*Let's go, please*", Hans Dietrich meanwhile addresses the Arab who eagerly leads their way, while a whole group of men follow at a few steps distance, as the five Arabs lead Troy and his group toward the alley in the meantime.

Along their way, Dietrich finally has the time to inquire about the names of the men for whom he is currently investigating. "I'm Sergeant Ben Akuhata", their senior soldier introduces himself. "And these are Corporal Arthur Raroa and Private Rua Gerrard, Captain." The German Captain politely inclines his head, replying: "Independent of the Yankees' nickname, I'm Captain Hans Dietrich." The realisation hitting them is obvious to the young officer, as all three gape at him briefly, when hearing the German name. "You're the negotiator", Sergeant Akuhata mutters with true respect. "Ehara koe i a ia! Thank heavens you were there, we're lucky we have you, in the morning and now, Captain!" Dietrich inclines his head slightly, as he mutters quietly: "Indeed. Are you from Private Anaru's unit?" "Yes, Tommy joined us recently. We knew his brothers for a while and fought together", the Maori Sergeant replies. Interested to tap this new source for information, the German officer inquires a bit about the Sergeant's impression of Anaru.

When they approach the house, an angry young teenager comes out and shouts, while pointing at the Maori soldiers: "*Are those the murderers of my father?*" "*Rafik, faris alsahra wants to look at your father's body to find his murderer*", the herder who has led them here explains calmly. At the mention of the honorary title the young man stares at Dietrich, assessing the bruised and skinny tall European. "*You want to find my father's murderer?*", he finally asks with some hope replacing the anger in his tone. "*I want a murderer brought to justice and not an innocent man condemned, Rafik ibn Karim*", Hans states his cause calmly. "*I do not wish to be disrespectful by asking to see your father's body. But it could help find who murdered him and how. You can prepare him for his burial right afterwards.*" The young man hesitates, torn between tradition and the only true possibility he sees for finding the murderer of his father. "*Please come inside. We have not washed his body yet*", Rafik replies after coming to a decision. When they run into his mother, the teenager explains eagerly that the great hero who has saved Muhammad will help to find his father's murderer. With pain in her eyes clearly visible the Bedouin woman leads them to the room where they have laid out the body of her dead husband.

Cautiously, after explaining to both of them briefly that he merely intends to look at the wound that killed him, Hans steps closer and inspects the dead man. The Bedouin looks to be in his forties with some grey hairs visible in his beard and on his head, but no wound is obvious, as he lies on his back. "*Did you see the wound?*", he asks the two family members and the herder who has led him here. "*There is a lot of blood at the back*", the man explains. "*Bring me some water to wash off the blood, please*", the German officer states sternly, while turning the man over with his left arm, as the sticky feeling of blood is obvious immediately. The widow sobs desperately, but walks out of the room to comply with his wishes. Dietrich meanwhile calls the son over to assist him, since he cannot use his right arm properly.

Once the kaftan and underlying shirt are removed, the blood sticking to the body is obvious. "*I will kill the worthless dog who did this*", the young man vows desperately. "*Wash the blood off the back, so I can see the wound more clearly!*", Hans tells the youngster's mother calmly to which the woman complies. When he sees the fine, short, yet deep wound, the German Captain scowls with concentration, as he measures and compares the width of blades in his mind. This is definitely too short and narrow to have been caused by an army knife. "*This is not from one of the soldiers' knives*", he voices his consideration sternly. "*I can prove to you that they are innocent, when they show you their knives in comparison with the wound.*" "Gentlemen", the lean European addresses the soldiers from New Zealand in English again. "Please come here, each of you separately, and draw your combat knife slowly and carefully. Hold them in a manner that is not threatening to the Arabs. I want to show them that none of your blades could have caused this wound." The three men look baffled, but quickly beam with delight and gratitude. Having met the young German officer by chance who not only speaks the local language and is a skilled negotiator, but also has a knack for investigating crimes is like a blessing by the gods.

One after the other they comply with Sergeant Akuhata providing the start and Dietrich shows and argues first with his blade in detail and then with each of their blades that they are much wider and broader to fit the wound. Then, he draws his own curved dagger from his belt and holds it close, arguing that this type of blade does not fit either, as the curvature would also have led to a wider cut. "*What kind of weapon makes such a cut?*", Rafik asks a bit desperately. Dietrich nods grim now, as he has held the kind of weapon in his hands a few weeks ago, confiscated from the SS infiltrators. "*I can tell you which type of weapon, a European dagger, long, straight, with a thinner blade than your daggers. Only special officers of your old fort commander's army may carry those, but maybe somebody has traded one from one of them or a looter.*" The Bedouins look completely shocked and astonished, when the man who has led them here declares: "*I know who has such a weapon as you describe it. Marik ibn Sulaiman, the richest of our local traders. He showed the dagger off a lot, bragged how he traded it from a European. It is black at the hilt and has a strange cross, not like the Christian one.*" Dietrich nods, as he declares: "*That is exactly the type of weapon I'm referring to. If this trader possesses such as dagger, he is your prime suspect and these men are innocent.*"

However, the three Arabs look more desperate than before. "*We cannot accuse him without proof, faris alsahra. Just showing blades like you did now will not get the judge to convict him*", the man argues. The young teenager bears a grim expression, as he growls: "*Then I will challenge him to avenge my father's death.*" His mother breaks into tears, as she clutches his arm. "*You mustn't, Rafik. He will kill you. And even if you manage to kill him, they'll come after you, after us all to avenge his death. Think of your siblings!*" "*I think of my honor and duty to my dead father, as tradition and Allah demands*", the young man argues angrily. "*Let me investigate the murder scene! Maybe I can find some clear evidence that will convince the judge*", Dietrich intervenes, realizing the danger of the situation. The widow turns toward him with renewed hope in her eyes, as she clutches his right forearm with desperation. "*Please search for anything, faris alsahra. I beg you. I don't want to lose my son after mourning my husband already.*" The German Captain winces at the touch, but nods. "*I promise you that I will do what I can, but I cannot guarantee that I will find something.*" "*I come with you*", Rafik declares proudly. "*I owe it to my father to help.*"

The rest of their group has meanwhile followed the Arabs toward the alley where they have stopped and pointed, trying to communicate without understanding the language of the foreigners. "I'm missing Dietrich already and Jack who relaxes telling his Egyptian mumbo jumbo stories to the kids instead of helping us here", Sam Troy grumbles, while eyeing the whispering Arabs suspiciously. "No sneaking off into dark alleys, boys. Let this be a lesson to you!", the Sergeant admonishes the whole group of young soldiers who nod sheepishly. "It's really honorable and selfless of Captain Dietrich to help the lads though", Michael Lakatos comments. "I wouldn't have expected anything else from him", Hitch replies with the tone of true hero worship and Thomas Anaru immediately agrees with him. "The Captain's a hero." Even Troy agrees with that. "Yes, he is, even if he's too stubborn a Jerry to admit that. Don't worry, Tommy! He'll get your buddies out of this crap."

Fritz suddenly starts yelping, sniffing and scratching, trying to get to something behind a crate. "Fritz, nein. Sitz!", Hitch repeats the German commands he has learned from Dietrich by now. The little dog continues yelping and barking, but at least obeys the order to sit. "What's over there?", Troy wants to know, leaning over the crate. "Jeez, there's a bloody knife back here", he exclaims only a second later. "Leave it for Captain Sherlock!", Hitch advises. "Cap knows what to do." "Bloody hell. This is like a movie we got into", Kevin O'Donnell comments with actual enthusiasm. "Don't get carried away, Kev! We're talking about murder", his brother admonishes. "Damn right we are. And it's good that Dietrich started investigating, lest your buddies get accused for it, Tommy", Troy declares. Thomas Anaru nods, looking torn between worry and excitement.

The Captain joins them a short while later with the Arab who has guided them all along, a Bedouin teenager and the three Maori soldiers in tow. All of them have stubbornly refused to leave him, even though they have been cleared. "Hey, Captain. We got a bloody knife back here", Troy shouts instead of a greeting which makes the German officer speed up his steps immediately. "Fritz found it", Hitch declares, proud of the little dog who wags his tail enthusiastically at the sound of his name. "Gut gemacht, Fritz. Guter Hund", Dietrich praises his mascot, scratching him behind the ears, as Fritz jumps up at his thigh. Then he orders "Runter!" and continues toward the crate, as soon as Fritz obeys to take his paws down from him.

"Where is that bloodied knife, Sergeant?", Hans inquires sternly. "Behind that crate", Troy points at the location. "We didn't touch anything", Hitch assures him. "Sherlock Holmes also didn't want anyone to touch anything before him." "I'm definitely not Sherlock Holmes, Hitchcock", Hans counters dryly. "But you're still really good at this snooping around stuff, Captain", Troy comments with a grin. With an amused snort, the German Captain bows over the crate and makes out the knife. "Move away the crates!", he orders and the O'Donnell brothers immediately comply. "I don't want to touch it directly. Does one of you have a piece of cloth or a handkerchief?", Dietrich asks the soldiers standing around him, as he crouches next to the bloodstained dagger. "You can have my handkerchief, Captain", Lisa Hartigan offers before any of the men. "It will likely be stained with blood and destroyed", the young officer warns her. "That's what I expected. But I'm sure a gentleman such as you will provide me with an appropriate replacement", the American nurse replies with self-assurance.

The German officer blushes slightly, as he mutters with embarrassment: "As soon as I actually get paid a salary and I'm able to afford that, you have my word, Lieutenant." All of the men around stare at him, while Troy is the first to answer and pat the younger man on the shoulder. "Sorry. They kinda forgot that you barely had more than the clothes on your back, when we got you out of SS captivity." "I'm not a beggar", the German growls with wounded pride. "Nobody's saying that", Sam declares immediately. "You had a tough time, losing literally everything." "Spare me your pity, Troy", the young officer snarls indignantly. "It's not pity, Dietrich", Troy snaps back. "As someone who lost his home, but not quite as thoroughly as you, I can understand what it feels like to be cast out and literally having nothing left but my clothes. I've sure as hell never wanted anyone's pity either." Hans sighs wearily, reminding himself that apart from Jakob Silberblatt the American Sergeant is the closest thing he has to a friend and that Sam Troy surely is not the man to belittle or pity someone. "I'm sorry, Troy. Old habits die hard", he finally gets out. "Don't worry about it. I've seen you march through this hell, Captain", Troy comments a lot less irritated than before. "You haven't just watched me, you've walked by my side most of the time, Sergeant. Forgive me for being so ungrateful", the lean European stresses with a far more moderate and honestly grateful tone. Troy smiles widely and counters with a wink: "I really appreciated and enjoyed your company. But you'd better stop apologizing now or they'll all start pestering you about becoming friends soon." "That's utterly inappropriate", Hans automatically responds stiffly. "Like we've ever cared about little things like that", Troy counters.

"*Is everything alright, faris alsahra?*", Rafik inquires impatiently, yet with some worry in his tone. Reminded of their purpose, Dietrich turns back to the dagger and cautiously picks it up with his left hand using the handkerchief. "There's a bloody fingerprint on the handle", he mutters quietly, before adding more loudly: "We might actually have gotten lucky." "Lots of blood on that thing. How can you make something out of that?", Troy inquires, staring at the blood drenched blade. "Up there on the pommel is a single bloody fingerprint that stems from the murderer or the victim, as nobody else would have touched it with blood-drenched fingers", the German Captain explains diligently, before repeating the same explanation in Arabic for the sake of the Bedouins who look just as impressed as the Allied soldiers, but a lot more puzzled as they have never heard of the concept of fingerprints before.

"Private Lakatos", Dietrich addresses the Australian soldier," please, run to the office and ask Jakob Silberblatt or Captain Boggs in my name for an ink pad and a few sheets of paper! I have an idea how to prove the guilt of their rich trader", Dietrich orders calmly. "Of course, Captain", the slightly surprised Australian replies diligently and turns to run back to the camp immediately. "What rich trader?", Sam Troy wants to know. "According to the Arabs one of their richest traders possesses such a dagger, traded from a European", Hans explains. "He's therefore the prime suspect." "Wait a minute, how did you know that before finding the murder weapon?", Hitch wonders. "Because of the pattern of the wound which was too deep and narrow for an army knife or Arabic curved dagger." "You're amazing", Danny O'Donnell mutters with awe. "What do you want to do now, Sherlock?", Troy asks curiously. "Compare the trader's fingerprints against the bloody fingerprint left on the dagger and also those of Sergeant Akuhata and hos men to prive their innocence, if the judge doesn't believe my argumentation with the blades", the German Captain replies matter-of-factually. "'Elementary', he said", Mark Hitchcock quotes, looking truly impressed. "He's a real Sherlock Holmes", Kevin O'Donnell comments with awe, nodding enthusiastically. "The best investigator in camp. He found the Jerry spies and their hiding places", Danny adds, starting to tell the tale of the camp infiltration with the support of Mark Hitchcock, Lisa Hartigan and his brother Kevin to the baffled Maori soldiers.

"*Call the judge to decide on our evidence! We have the murder weapon linking the murder of your father to the trader. With this mark I can show the connection without doubt, Rafik ibn Karim*", Dietrich explains, pointing at the bloody fingerprint on the dagger's pommel. The young Arab observes him intently, before telling the older Bedouin who has accompanied them the whole time: "*Call the judge to our house, please, Fatjoum. I will stay with faris alsahra and bring him back home.*" The Bedouin herder dashes off to summon the judge, while the German Captain turns to his men and explains the situation and that he has just called for a trial through the local jurisdiction. The Maori soldiers look at him with worry, as Sergeant Akuhata asks: "Are we required to participate?" "Only to show the blades of your knives again, as we have done before. You're definitely innocent and this will clear you officially", Dietrich replies smoothly. "It might also become necessary to ask for your fingerprints which should then finally prove your innocence." "Then, we will of course come with you, Captain Dietrich", the New Zealander assures him, smiling at his Privates and Thomas Anaru who has provided them with some support and information about the young officer who has become their unexpected saviour. "I'll keep your back, Captain", Troy declares without allowing any resistance. "Can I come along now?", Lisa Hartigan asks cautiously, placing her hand on the young officer's good shoulder. Dietrich tenses slight, but nods. "The widow will also be present. You can definitely come along to the house for the trial, Lieutenant Hartigan."

Micheal Lakatos intercepts the group on their way. Hans looks rather astonished to see that the Australian is not alone, but has been accompanied by Jakob Silberblatt, Major Turner and two soldiers who act as their guards. Especially the Major looks fairly wary and annoyed, as he approaches the group and barks: "What's going on here? Captain Dietrich, I expect an explanation." The German officer schools his face into a neutral expression, as he replies with a carefully controlled tone: "Sir, we're merely helping out our comrades in arms from Lieutenant Colonel Bennett's Maori battalion and some of the locals in addition." "The Private here said something about murder", Turner growls indignantly. "The three soldiers here, Sergeant Akuhata, Corporal Raroa and Private Gerrard, were accused of murder by the locals, but this could already be disproved. I merely require the ink pad for proving the guilt of the actual murderer who is likely an influential trader. I assume that he apparently tried to use the battles for hiding his murder, as accusing foreign soldiers is a simple solution for escaping suspicion oneself", Hans Dietrich argues his case.

"I give you the afternoon off, Captain Dietrich, and the first thing you do is get involved in a crime scene investigation?", Major Turner asks incredulously. "I merely went to the bazaar with my men to trade and relax. But when I became aware of these soldiers' situation, I wanted to clear the three men here of suspicion and the unjust accusations against them. Keeping the peace with the natives is in all our best interest as well, independent of whether I'm on duty", the tall Captain argues defensively. "It is a smart move, but not the kind of relaxation you require. No more extra work today once you're finished with this, Captain Sherlock", Turner admonishes sternly and smirks at the younger officer's incredulous expression upon hearing the nickname from the older officer. "You've earned that nickname without any doubt. I should recommend you for military police. We have few investigators with your talent and diligence", Turner remarks with a smirk. "I'd like to see the outcome of this investigation myself, since I will be in command of the fortress from now on." The young German Captain raises his eyebrows in surprise, before remarking with the politeness expected from a man of his rank: "Congratulations, Major." "Thank you. If General Atkins wouldn't have other plans for you, you would be the man I would rather have put in that position, Captain", Turner replies earnestly. "But getting to know the local judge through your trial and learning some interactions from you will have to suffice for me now." Dietrich is honestly surprised to be asked for advice by the Major, but nods his consent. "I'm honored to provide some advice, Sir."

Turner sends Silberblatt with the two guards back to camp, feeling sufficiently well protected by Dietrich's men. Then, he asks for a summary of the case and behavioural advice, while they walk to Rafik's house whom Dietrich introduces as the son of the victim. "You intervened to keep him from getting killed and starting a blood feud", Turner summarises after listening to the German Captain's recount. "Also to keep the violence in town from escalating", the young officer bristles. "I understand that you have a variety of motivations, but don't try to deny the obvious, Dietrich!", Turner admonishes sternly. "I have too many men singing your praise who all tell me that you're a good and honorable man and I've seen the evidence of this myself." Hans eyes him warily, not fully trusting the words of sympathy of the American officer, but nods in acceptance nonetheless. "And don't forget the women!", Lisa Hartigan intercedes in a pert manner, distracting the Major efficiently who scowls at the impertinent nurse.

At the house, they meet a whole group of Arabs, some herders and friends of the victim, others friends and supporters of the accused trader. The town's judge is a middle-aged Arab with a fine-trimmed beard, wearing an elegantly wrapped silken turban and fine tailored clothes, with very distinguished manners of walking and speaking. "Almost as stuck-up as the British brass", Troy mutters with a scowl after observing the man for ten seconds. "Yeah, looks like he swallowed a broomstick", Hitch comments with a grin. "Behave yourselves! The Arabs already consider you uncouth barbarians", Dietrich admonishes sternly. "You don't have to prove them right." "And here I thought we considered them barbarians", Kevin O'Donnell mutters with a grin. "They already had a highly distinguished culture, before Europeans even settled in Australia", the German Captain counters dryly.

An Arab addressing the young officer, interrupts their discussion, as he bows to the German: "*Faris alsahra, the judge awaits you to argue your cause.*" Dietrich nods and follows him after briefly explaining his duty to the non-Arabic speakers. Then, he repeats his argument about the knives, even beckons the Maori Sergeant Akuhata to follow him and compare the wound with the blade at the actual corpse, showing this evidence clearly to the judge. The Arab listens intently and nods, as he observes the demonstration of the different blades with the German showing the dagger they have found in the alley as well and demonstrating that its blade is fine enough for having produced the wound. "*Only Sharif ibn Omar has ever had such a European blade. He bragged and showed it to everyone*", Rafik adds angrily, finally seeing his chance to go against his father's murderer.

The judge bids the fat trader forward and asks with a high-pitched, yet stern voice: "*We have all seen your foreign dagger, the one faris alsahra now holds in his hands. What do you have to say for yourself?*" Sharif plays a drama worthy of a Shakespearean play, as he laments how the dagger has been stolen from him and he finds himself accused under false suspicion now. "*I have a way of proving whether it was him who held the dagger when killing the man or somebody else*", Dietrich states coolly. "*How, faris alsahra?*", the judge asks with respect more than wariness. "*This print here was left by a finger*", Hans explains and shows the bloody fingerprint on the dagger's pommel to the judge, as he is beckoned forward. "*As you can see it is in the dead man's blood, but already dried, so we didn't add it recently and Rafik here has seen me hold the dagger the whole time and not alter the print.*"

"*How does this help?*", the Arab judge asks warily. "*No two humans have the same such prints on any finger. I brought ink and paper to test anybody accused*", the German Captain explains calmly. Now the Arabs look equally awed and mystified, as if he would apply some kind of magic. "*Show me this with your fingers, faris alsahra!*" the judge orders and Dietrich quickly complies, leaving his own thumb's and index finger's print on the paper and holding it next to the dagger pommel for comparison, although he winces visibly, when pressing the fingers of his right hand onto the ink pad and the paper. "*They look different*", the judge states contently. "*Now your prints, Sharif ibn Omar!*", he then orders in a strict tone that allows no disobedience. The trader complies, providing the prints of his right thumb and index finger like Dietrich. The prints do not match however and the man smiles a content, almost diabolical smile. After having observed him closely during the trial, the young officer however states: "*Now do the same with your left hand! This is your preferred hand from, as I can tell from your movements.*" His recent injury and resulting necessity to use his left arm mainly have taught him well to pay attention to such details.

"*I showed my right fingers. The left hand is unclean and I wouldn't use it*", the trader argues immediately, breaking into sweat. "*Then give your finger imprints, Sharif ibn Omar!*", the judge orders grimly. With him the trader does not dare to debate much longer, but provides his prints with a hateful expression, when looking at the German Captain. This time Hans Dietrich can make out a match and also points this out to the judge who nods with a grim expression. "*You have not lied about your method, faris alsahra. I believe your prints more than his false words. Arrest him! Allah demands that a life is to be taken for a life that has been taken. He will be executed tomorrow so that he can arrange his affairs and meet his family again.*" All further complaints, threats and angry shouts the judge ignores completely, as he finalizes his verdict in Allah's name through the power of his position.

The German officer turns to translate the trial for Major Turner, Lisa Hartigan and his men. The Australians and the Maori soldiers bear expressions of awe, while Troy pats the young Captain on his good shoulder. "You really earned that Captain Sherlock name. That was impressive. You should join the police, when this war's over." "I see that we're wasting your talent by not employing you as a military police officer, Captain Dietrich. You have my recommendation for such a position anytime", Major Turner adds. "Although I'd rather see you take your time off, would you introduce me to the judge briefly?" Dietrich nods in agreement and politely translates the American officer's short introductory speech to the judge and the men around. The Bedouin judge eyes Turner warily, but finally bows politely and speaks his invitation: "*Please, honor me by visiting my house as guests! Then, we can speak in more privacy and detail.*" The German Captain translates the offer and Turner looks torn between wishing to let the younger officer get his deserved rest and requiring him as an interpreter and respected negotiator in the eyes of the natives.

Finally, his pragmatism wins and he dismisses the Maori soldiers, but allows Dietrich to invite his men and Lieutenant Hartigan to come along. "Cap always gets us the most wonderful invitations", Hitch whispers into Lisa's ear. "We never got any proper invitations with Moffit, that English miser", Troy tells Thomas Anaru contently. "I could do without that damn tea though." "What's wrong with their tea?", the young Maori soldier asks innocently. "It's tea. That makes it horrible in itself", the American Sergeant grumbles. "Don't tell me you're one for Moffit's tea league! I liked you until now, Tommy." Dietrich intercedes on the Private's behalf. "Don't let him bully you into not drinking tea, when you like it, Private! Troy's just a bullheaded idiot sometimes." "Why do I even consider you my friend, you Jerry smartass?", Sam complains with mock indignation. "Don't expect me to provide you with an explanation. I've asked you that question so many times and you have still failed to provide me with an acceptable answer, Troy!", the German Captain counters dryly.

All of them are surprised, when Jack Moffit jogs up to the house where they have gathered to wait for the judge. "I came as quickly as possible, when your friend Jakob Silberblatt told me what happened, Captain", the British Sergeant provides his explanation. "Thank you, Watson. But you're too late for the solution of my criminal case", Dietrich replies dryly, before he asks sternly: "What happened with Ari and Kiri?" "I left them to play tag with Tully and Gotty. They were quite happy", Moffit replies. "I'd be quite happy too, escaping from his lectures", Troy comments with a stage whisper. Pointedly ignoring the insolent Yankee, Jack shifts his position to turn his back on him, while asking the German Captain: "I can barely believe you solved the case at such speed. The judge has already finished the verdict?" "It was a very clear case with overwhelming evidence", Hans argues. "But you didn't come for nothing. The judge invited us as guests into his house. So you can enjoy some good tea and serve as interpreter and chaperon for the whole gang, while I take care of Major Turner." Moffit smiles widely. "The prospect of tea truly lightens my heart, Captain. I have to admit that your rank and manner of interacting are an advantage for obtaining such invitations." "He's much more sociable than you, Jack", Troy comments. Moffit huffs, but finally has to concede, as he cannot deny the truth.

As they come into the courtyard of the judge's house, the man greets them with a young man who comes to stand at his side and another ready to allow the guests to wash their hands in a bowl of water. Dietrich is the first to show the proper behavior to the Major who follows his example closely. Then, Jack Moffit similarly provides an example and instructions to the rest of their followers. Lisa Hartigan is the most delighted and enthusiastic, wearing her new headscarf to cover her hair in the manner she has observed among the Bedouin women. The young nurse has never before had the chance to meet the locals as closely as this and the company of the German Captain who speaks the language and is adapt with the natives' culture feels safe and protective for her. Similarly, Major Turner is more than happy about Dietrich's company and expertise, when the younger officer instructs him with curt precision and the diligence the Germans are famous for on how to politely interact with their host.

"*Faris alsahra, I know your title of honor, but not your name. May I introduce myself first. I'm Yusuf ibn Mehmet, judge of this humble town.*" The middle-aged Arab bows politely, as demanded of a host in these lands. Hans bows in an appropriate manner. "*My name is Hans Dietrich. I'm an officer in the army of those who liberated your oasis.*" "*You are a very modest man, Hans Dietrich*", Yusuf ibn Mehmet speaks the German name in a manner that makes it sound almost Arabic. "*Word in town says that you spoke with the commander of the fortress, Karl Langreiter, for a long while and convinced him to give up without a fight.*" The young German officer eyes him warily, aware that he has used the German Hauptmann's full name and unsure where this is leading, while Jack Moffit provides a translation for the others. "*I negotiated a peaceful surrender*", Hans concedes matter-of-factually. "*The only men you fought were those in the caravanserai*", the Arab judge states with a lurking tone. "*My men had orders to offer them the chance to negotiate and surrender as well*", Dietrich growls with wounded pride. "*I don't doubt your word, but you know our culture and that our warriors rarely negotiate*", Yusuf replies. "*Not with infidels, when they fight for their beliefs. But here they were merely hired by the infidels and fought for money rather than beliefs*", Hans argues. "*You're wise and well-educated for one so young, faris alsahra*", Mehmet declares with approval. "*I don't accuse you or your soldiers, but merely wanted an explanation which you have given me.*"

Then the well-mannered Arab continues in a different tone: "*Please introduce the others now. I already know your Major Turner.*" The Bedouin bows politely to the American officer who returns the gesture. Dietrich then presents Jack Moffit who greets the judge in fluent Arabic, before his CO is pointing at Sam Troy, Mark Hitchcock and Lisa Hartigan. The judge is astounded to see a woman among them, but notices the headscarf with an appreciative bow of his head. After the nurse, the young Captain presents Thomas Anaru, Michael Lakatos and the O'Donnell brothers. "*Your soldiers are strangers to these lands, unlike you and Jack Moffit*", Yusuf mutters. "*We strive to do our best to show them that the principle of hospitality is honored by any Bedouin.*" "*We're honored to receive your hospitality, Yusuf ibn Mehmet*", the German and the Brit reply almost simultaneously, briefly exchanging an amused glance. "*I did not expect to host so many guests, but I can offer tea, fruit and sweets*", the Arab judge states politely. Dietrich eyes Troy with a worried expression, when sweets are mentioned, as the only way he knows for making the American drink the bitter Arabic tea without complaining or spilling it somewhere is feeding him countless sweets. "*We appreciate whatever you can offer, honored judge Yusuf ibn Mehmet*", the young Captain replies and Moffit nods to him approvingly. His father would truly love to hire a man of Hans Dietrich's people skills for his expeditions.

The young man who has waited with Yusuf is introduced as his nephew whom he has adopted, while the other youngster is their house servant. Dietrich eyes the teenager warily, aware that servant is a euphemism for slave in these parts of the world, but the young man appears in good shape and to be treated well. What starts as a chat over tea and sweets, quickly turns into serious negotiations for Hans Dietrich and Major Turner who learn that through the arrest of the Arab warriors, the town has lost its leader and protector. The German quickly realizes that the judge is a respected person who intends to work as a stabilizing factor with whoever is in power, while he has the interest of the town's inhabitants at heart. "A good and reliable man", Turner finally assesses after Dietrich provides his translation. "I intend to treat him with the respect he deserves. I'll miss having you around though, Captain." The German officer nods, but frowns at the same time, as he thinks about ways to solve the language problem for the Major.

"I suggest that you allow Sergeant Moffit to advise you for the rest of today and maybe tomorrow, as he is undoubtedly the expert for dealing with the locals and knows a lot more than I. Also keep our scouts, Major! They're still beginners at learning English, but young and very motivated. In particular, the one named Farooq has a talent for languages. He can assist you, if you allow him to spend more time learning English and teach him relevant terms and concepts", the German Captain suggests earnestly. This is in the best interest of the Major and the Bedouin teenagers who have a chance to establish a living in this town which has similarity to their home. They can be respected members of society and the army as valuable interpreters. Turner frowns, but finally nods at the suggestion, aware that he can keep neither Dietrich nor Moffit here with him. The German's hired Bedouin scouts who follow him with loyalty and dedication, eager to prove themselves, are the best help he could get instead of these two.

Sam Troy meanwhile gulps Maghrout after Ghrayba after Baklava and date after fig, sipping from time to time at the tea with true disgust written on his face. The O'Donnell brothers are the only ones providing a serious competition for the cookies and nut-based sweets, while Dietrich and Moffit have merely secured a single piese at the beginning of Troy's sugar orgy. Lisa Hartigan similarly to the American Sergeant indulges in the sweets, although she prefers the Zlabia, deep-fried sweets drenched in sweet rosewater with syrup, constantly bombarding Hitch with expressions of delight. The young Private is more than relieved to know that his fiancé is happy and enjoying her time with them. Having Captain Dietrich for a CO is really turning out a lot better than he has feared in the beginning. The young German officer is the first of their brass he really feels comfortable with and would ever have entrusted with his personal worries and problems which has turned out to have been the best idea he could possibly have had.

After an hour, their host concludes the semi-formal meeting and wishes them well on their endeavours. When he hears that a trial is to be held on the next day, his curiosity is piqued though. Hans Dietrich assures him that the military trial does not allow civilians present, as they would otherwise invite him. When Yusuf ibn Mehmet asks about the crime committed, the young Captain blushes slightly. "*The man, an officer like Major Turner and I, shot me*", the lean European finally admits after a few moments of hesitation. The Arab regards him closely, taking in the countless bruises on his face diligently, before scrutinizing the rest of his body, noticing the sporadic winces of the young man deliberately now. "*I see now that you have been injured. Is this the reason why you intervened and helped Rafik?*" Hans tenses visibly at the unexpected question, as he replies defensively: "*I beg your pardon. What do you mean? I merely helped clear my soldiers, as is my duty.*"

"*Your soldiers were cleared when you demonstrated that none of your knives fits the wound. You could have walked away then. But you stayed and put effort into your elaborate manner of solving this crime and proving the right man guilty without allowing him to escape through fancy words which otherwise would have happened*", the Arab judge argues slyly. "*It would not have been justice to let the boy destroy himself and his family's future by starting a blood feud against a rich, influential trader*", the German Captain counters sternly. "*You're a man of honor and justice. I respect that*", Yusuf replies with a satisfied expression. The young European bows his head in acceptance and respect. "*I thank you, also for your hospitality. May I ask you one more question on behalf of all our men. We have travelled for days through the desert without the chance to wash ourselves or our clothes, as you know from the Bedouin caravans. Will you allow us to use the water not just for drinking, but also washing and bathing or is there a shortage, endangering your herds and citizens, if we do so?*"

Yusuf ibn Mehmet observes him closely, noticing the stains of sweat and the smell of the gasoline they use for washing, when they cannot spend precious water for it. The question is surprisingly considerate for a Westerner and shows that Hans Dietrich truly has experience with the management and necessities of an oasis town. "*You may take water to wash your clothes, but don't let soap and the stinking substance on your clothes run into the fresh water we need for drinking. Also, I ask only you and a few of your soldiers who you instruct to go bathing. We had problems with soldiers bathing naked, unwilling to respect our women's decency*", the Bedouin judge explains calmly and Dietrich feels ashamed on behalf of those men, likely German and Italian soldiers who have been stationed here before. "*I thank you and will assure that only few go bathing and will respect propriety, when doing so, Yusuf ibn Mehmet*", the young officer promises, before bowing as a final show of respect and farewell. "*Farewell, honored judge. May Allah protect you!*" "*And may the Allmighty protect you as well*", the Arab replies with sympathy, bowing to his guest. Meeting eyes with Jack Moffit, the German officer raises his eyebrows in a silent question whether he should add anything else. The British Sergeant quietly shakes his head and lets his young commanding officer conclude the negotiations, translating for Major Turner who speaks a few words as a polite farewell as well.

Once they have left the compound, the Major turns to the German Captain and declares sternly: "I appreciate your invaluable support in this matter, but ask you now to start relaxing and taking your time off, Captain." Seeing the younger officer tense and eye him warily, Turner puts a hand on his shoulder, ignoring the wince, and speaks more quietly to the lean European: "You have just demonstrated very well what makes you an invaluable support. I was wondering why you were entrusted with so many types of missions far outside the scope of a tank unit commander, but start to see what German HQ has seen before, that your true ability lies in your versatility to deal with any type of situation. You're not a specialist, even got trained in the artillery, only to work as a tank commander in the desert. But you're able to adapt and learn quickly from your enemies as well as your allies. I like to see you kept on duty, because of your qualities, but we need to protect you and your health as your responsible commanding officers. You didn't even try to eat more than a few fruits and a single piece of these sweets, while your Sergeant might have emptied a whole bakery if given the chance."

Dietrich glances in Troy's direction who is admonished by Moffit, because he still has some sweet honey and sugar syrup sticking around his mouth. "That is the established manner to keep him from affronting our hosts", the young officer mutters quietly, carefully avoiding to comment or even dwell on anything else that has been said. After studying the bruised face briefly, the American Major releases the German officer and nods. "Take care of yourself and try to relax among your men you trust! Sergeant Moffit, you'll accompany me back to camp! I will heed your Captain's advice to let you instruct me for taking command of this fort and oasis." Moffit salutes diligently. "Of course. It would be my pleasure, Major Turner, although I have no doubt that Captain Dietrich could advise you well himself." "So he did, but I don't want to take more of his time that I have originally intended for him to use to recover", the American officer replies with a slight smile.

"And we go trading goats now, Captain?", Troy asks with unusual delight. "Is a truckload of Arabic sweets actually enough to turn you into a companionable person, Sergeant?", Dietrich asks dryly. "You're a Jerry smartass, Captain", Troy grumbles with a good-natured grin. "Coming back to your question, Troy. Buying a goat will not make much sense, as I have just proposed that Major Turner should keep our scouts as support and to help with translations and local customs, as Farooq is getting better with English", the German officer explains. "Thus, I will only seek to buy milk for the coming days until Bastet can be weaned completely." "Jakob's right, you're a wonderful mother cat", Sam declares with a wide grin. "Troy, please", Hans groans. "He's actually right", Lisa Hartigan supports the Sergeant unexpectedly. Then, the American nurse turns toward the German Captain and places a hand on his good shoulder and a quick kiss on his cheek. "That was the most wonderful adventure I've ever had here in North Africa: trade, murder and an invitation to a local household. That's more than I've expected. I'll accompany you and Mark more often for such visits", she tells the shocked looking young officer. Then, she turns toward her fiancé and growls: "And now you still owe me those stories about the native girls, Mark Hitchcock."

"Wow", Troy merely comments with a grin, patting his German friend on the shoulder, while they observe the nurse dragging their Private off, as Fritz trots behind them. "I can't tell you how glad I am that she'll marry him and the rest of us is protected from her wrath", Dietrich mutters dryly. "Compared to her methods of manipulation and conspiracy even some secret service men could still learn something." "It's very wise of you to remain on her good side then, Captain. She really likes you more than any of the others", Thomas Anaru, who looks a little lost with everyone dispersing, comments with similarly dry humor. Hans eyes him warily, while Troy unexpectedly pats his shoulder. "It's the uniform. An officer always looks better than an enlisted man." "Troy, have you been drinking more than just tea or is this overdose of sugar seriously affecting your brain?", the young Captain growls sarcastically. "Just saying", the American Sergeant offers with a roguish grin, not in the least perturbed by the reaction. "Hey, Tommy. Do you want to come with us? We have quite some stories to share?", Kevin O'Donnell offers and the Australians drag the young Private along chatting vividly, leaving Dietrich finally in peace.

Asking for the small shanty where Ahmed, Muhammad and their mother live, leads them into the poorer part of town where the animals along with people's children roam the streets and mainly the herders have their simple homes, built from clay and straw. The tall European Captain and his American Sergeant stand out immediately. Some of the children shy back with fear from the foreign soldiers, while others approach them curiously. That the lean man addresses them in their native language and asks them politely about their neighbors is fascinating for the kids who quickly drop their shyness and start asking questions like "*Where are you from?*", "*What do you do?*" or "*Have you fought many fights?*". Dietrich answers most questions rather superficially, avoiding to provide details, but keeping the youngsters happy, while Troy observes them, torn between wariness at not understanding a single word and a wide smile at the children's naive fascination with his friend.

Finally, they arrive at their destination, a small poor shanty with adjacent stable where Ahmed lives with his mother and brother who looks a bit intimidated by the foreign soldiers, while his older brother hugs the saviour of his younger sibling enthusiastically aroungd the chest. "*Why are you here, faris alsahra?*", the young herder wants to know. "*I know that you have a mother goat with a kid. I came to trade some milk*", Hans Dietrich replies calmly. "*You can have the milk*", the boy's mother declares strictly, before her son can reply anything. "*I don't wish to take anything from you without paying*", the German Captain starts out. "*You saved my son. I cannot repay you in any way, but I can give you this. Don't insult me by refusing my gift of gratitude!*", the woman declares resolutely. "*Of course not*", the young officer replies a bit flustered. "*I'm most grateful to you. But I will require some milk again tomorrow and I don't wish to take from you what little you have.*" "*You have given me a mule and two fine camels. You can have milk for the rest of your life for a gift like that*", the Bedouin widow assures him.

While the woman sends her son to milk the goat, Troy questions the German Captain about what has been spoken. "Pays to be the local hero of the common folk", the American Sergeant comments with a grin. "I didn't intend to take from her without paying, but I would insult her by not accepting her gift", Hans Dietrich remarks with a scowl. "You're a good guy and the last one who should have a bad conscience", Sam assures the younger man, squeezing his shoulder lightly. "*Ahmed will bring more milk to you tomorrow*", the Arab widow declares resolutely, as she hands a clay jug to the German Captain. "*Thank you, dear woman. I'm grateful for your gift*", the young officer replies, hoping that this is an appropriate response, as he takes the offered jug. It appears to be, as the mother of the two boys nods contently. With a polite bow that Troy copies, the lean European takes his leave.

When they arrive in camp, they run into Jakob Silberblatt who carries several papers with him, but stops to wave at the two new-arrivals. "How was your afternoon, Jakob?", Hans Dietrich asks, when he sees his friend approaching with a wide smile. "Wonderful. We introduced Bastet to Minki or rather Minki found her sleeping on the office desk next to my open file. At first, the cat stared at the little kitten as if she would like to slice it open with its claws and devour it. I was actually scared for the baby. But then Bastet opened her eyes, stared at Minki and just started purring and making some soft suffering noises. Apparently that triggered her mother instincts, because she sniffed the kitten afterwards and started to lick its fur really diligently. Now, Minki kind of adopted Bastet and Atkins even joked that she is the most aspiring officer's candidate of your unit." "The little cat's far better than most of our brass", Troy comments with a grumble. "Possibly because you annoy the cats less than most of your officers", Hans comments dryly. "I haven't annoyed you that much", Sam protests. "Troy, have you been sampling Brown's dubious homebrew collection again?", the German Captain inquires sarcastically.

"Where is Bastet now?", Hans then asks Jakob. "Last I saw them, she was receiving hunting lessons in the office tent, prowling and pouncing on our feet." "I need to feed her the milk we got", the young officer declares and walks toward the office tent with determination. "You can stay outside, Troy, before you receive enough days on penal duties to fill the rest of your life." "Thanks, Dietrich. You're a real friend", Troy grumbles sarcastically, but pats him on the shoulder. "Do me a favor and check on the children!", Dietrich adds in a more serious tone. "I'll check on the kids", Sam promises. Then, he turns to look for their tent and other unit members, while the German Captain continues on his way alongside the Jewish Lieutenant.

When they enter the office tent, they find a rather unnerved looking Captain Boggs surrounded by the two cats, while General Atkins observes the scene with clear amusement, twirling his moustache. Minki apparently considers the American Captain's boots the perfect training targets, prowling and pouncing at his bootlaces with diligence, while Bastet watches and tries to imitate the expert hunter with the clumsiness of a child. "Come here, Bastet", Hans mutters and takes the kitten gently in his arm where it snuggles comfortably, meowing softly. Boggs looks at the saviour of his boots, sighing with relief. "We brought you some fresh milk. Milch, Bastet", Hans offers with a compassionate tone, pouring the goat milk into the unused ashtray on Boggs' table after ordering Silberblatt to rinse it. The kitten immediately follows his finger toward its improvised bowl, as soon as Hans sets it on the table. Licking hungrily and suckling at her caregiver's index finger, the little cat quenches its thirst.

"I have to admit that this kitten indeed is cute, even if it has spent the last hour abusing my boots for target practice", Captain Boggs comments after observing the scene warily for a few moments. "Monica, my wife, would kill me for not allowing you to try and save it." Bastet tolerates that the older Captain pets her back while she keeps licking the milk from his colleague's finger who smiles wearily at the other officer. "Kiri and Ari wouldn't forgive me either." Boggs eyes the skinny German Captain with a friendly smile and nods. "You're a good man, Dietrich." Then, his expression turns serious, as he scowls at the young officer. "What is that nonsense I hear about you and some investigation in town?" Dietrich tenses visibly, as he replies in a defensive tone: "I merely helped the New Zealanders from Lieutenant Colonel Bennett's battalion out, when they found themselves in trouble." General Atkins approaches them as well now. "That's what I'd like to hear about as well. And what happened to Major Turner?" "He's receiving advice from Sergeant Moffit on how to deal with the locals, when he's in command of the fort and oasis", the German Captain replies, dodging the other inquiry for the moment. When something presses against his shin, startling the young officer, Hans realizes that the loud purring stems not from Bastet alone, but Minki as well who rubs her head against his boot rim. "In spite of Lieutenant Minki approving of your kitten care, I still await an answer and report, Captain", Atkins demands.

A man entering the office tent makes them all look up, interrupting their conversation. "Captain Dietrich, you're a hard man to track", Captain Carson comments with a scowl that turns more friendly, when looking at the young officer who holds the kitten cradled in his arm. "Lieutenant Colonel Bennett wanted to invite you to provide the report from your perspective regarding the incident in town with our men." "So do I", Atkins adds grimly. "Lieutenant Silberblatt, First Lieutenant Adams, you take over the office, while we meet the New Zealanders." Toward the Maori officer he orders: "Lead the way, Captain Carson!" Nodding wearily, the German Captain places Bastet in his cap at which she starts protesting through loud meows. "Take your little ward along!", Atkins orders a little less sternly. Once curled up in Dietrich's arm the kitten starts purring contently again and falls asleep soon after. The young officer winces, when he feels a hand on his shoulder, but relaxes slightly upon recognizing James Boggs who bears a slightly worried expression.

The older American officer walks alongside his German colleague, as they follow Captain Carson. Along the way Captain Brown joins them as well, eyeing the youngest Captain curiously, as he greets in his usual nonchalant manner: "Hey, Dietrich, Boggsy. Afternoon, General. Is there a party going on you didn't invite me to?" "We're meeting Lieutenant Colonel Bennett to hear Captain Dietrich's report. You're invited to join us, Captain Brown", Atkins growls with a stern tone. "Is this your latest unit member? I thought Kevin has had too much whiskey, when he told me about a kitten becoming your next Lieutenant. Is that story about you becoming North Africa's Sherlock Holmes true as well?", Brown continues with unaffected joviality. "That's what we intend to hear soon", Atkins replies instead of Dietrich. "Interesting way of using your head gear, but I have to say you're doing this hat proud as you promised, Captain Dietrich", Brown comments, patting the younger German officer on the shoulder.

Captain Carson leads them directly into Lieutenant Colonel Bennett's office tent. The Maori commander looks fairly surprised at the amount of officers crowding his office and even more at the kitten in the cap in Dietrich's arm. Lieutenant Minki who has followed them along, curiously starts to sniff and inspect the furniture, before jumping onto a chair and curling up contently, declaring it her property for the future. "Take a seat, General, Captains! Carson, have some more chairs brought here!", Charles Bennett orders, before adding with a more amused tone: "A stray per day is quite a high adoption rate, Captain Dietrich." "I didn't want to let it die, since it's healthy. The children wouldn't have forgiven me", Hans argues with a smile, petting Bastet gently over the head at which she starts purring loudly again. "I allowed it, since Lieutenant Minki has proven her worth already and saved me from two scorpions lurking in my staff car", Atkins adds and pets his favourite pet over the head which Minki accepts with the dignity and pride of a queen.

Dietrich forces himself to not show any reaction to the statement. Aware of the Privates' prank, he can only hope that none of the other officers has enough expertise with the desert fauna to consider this an unnatural behaviour for scorpions. Luckily, nobody comments on this, as the attention turns to Bastet again who has started to play with Brown's finger, when the Australian Captain has nudged her a little. "The kitten is cute. Even I'd adopt it. Kevin and Danny can't wait to join you, although they'll be a bit sad to lose their friend Mickey. But I want to keep him, as one safecracker per unit is useful and you're already adapt enough, Dietrich", Brown comments with a smile. "I appreciate that you're willing to give me those two, as my willingness to take in new men I don't know is rather limited at the moment", Hans comments cautiously, avoiding to dwell on the safecracker part. Grinning with amusement, Charles Bennett whispers something in General Atkins' ear, who nods and smiles widely, twirling his moustache, as he eyes the tall German.

"Most interestingly, this is not the case the other way around. Within a few hours you have turned into a legend among my men and the willingness to join you is exceeding my wildest expectations", Lieutenant Colonel Bennet states calmly, nodding to his Captain who continues: "In the morning most, including myself, considered Thomas Anaru insane to leave his native battalion to join a U.S. army unit under the command of the defected German officer. Now, they're asking about tales involving your deeds of the past weeks that the Australians and Americans are quite willing to share, including your demanding letters of application." "Well, being a cat or dog definitely helps", Brown comments with a grin that brings a suffering expression to James Boggs' face who has experienced his camp turning into a circus during the last weeks. "The tale we would like to hear from you yourself now, Captain Dietrich, is about what happened in town today", Lieutenant Colonel Bennett adds matter-of-factually, not allowing the German Captain to comment.

Hans Dietrich scratches Bastet behind the ears, while he explains his unexpected adventure, starting from his original idea of trading a mother goat to get milk for the undernourished kitten, continuing with the run-in with the Maori soldiers wrongly accused of murder and going into precise detail about his investigation and line of argumentation. Then, he describes the trial and manner of proving the trader's guilt through fingerprints, a previously unknown concept in these lands, and finally ends with the invitation to the judge's household to allow Major Turner to get a closer connection to the man of importance and high standing in the oasis town which will become his new command post.

"I see that I have chosen you well for your intended position", Atkins comments contently, once Dietrich has ended his recount. "Many can be trained as tank or artillery commanders or even as military police, but few men have your diverse skillset, social adaptability and ability to learn from books, allies and enemies alike to apply their abilities in an unusual manner, even with improvised means. This makes you invaluable for me as a commando officer behind enemy lines." "Sir", the German officer mutters cautiously, while eyeing the devious American General warily. "Many have asked to keep you as a field officer, Major Turner even suggested to hand you the command of the local fortress. I have no doubt of your ability to handle such tasks, but I truly need you for something I cannot entrust easily to somebody else", General Atkins declares proudly, twirling his moustache in the unmistakable manner of his mind plotting and scheming. The German Captain is at a loss what to reply to such a statement, exchanging a glance with Boggs who appears equally unsure what to say.

"Do you require anything else from me for now, Sir?", Dietrich asks cautiously. Atkins regards him closely, before declining. "You can leave for your afternoon off, although there is not much time left. Make sure that you spend it recovering some strength and substance, Captain Dietrich!" The German officer summons his self-control to not glare at the American General and instead salutes diligently, before turning around, still carrying Bastet in his cap which he holds cradled in his left arm, when Bennett calls after him: "Wait, Captain! I want to assure you that you have our gratitude for your standing up for our men as well as your excellent negotiations." Turning back, the tall European states his gratitude, before finally leaving with Boggs and Brown in tow.

Major Turner and Jack Moffit meet them in camp, as the British Sergeant provides some final advice to the American officer. Seeing his commanding officer, Jack smiles and greets him jovially: "May I invite you for another cuppa tea, Captain? Bring our dear Bastet along." "Finally, something relaxing. Enjoy your tea, my dear fellows", Brown comments, before turning to leave for his own unit. Boggs also excuses himself and Major Turner leaves to coordinate his men for taking command of the fort. "Lead the way, Moffit!", Dietrich declares smoothly, still carrying the sleeping kitten with him in his cap. "Your cap makes an excellently improvised kitten basket and you a wonderful mother cat", Jack comments with dry humor. "Thank you for honoring my adaptability and ability of applying my skills in an unusual manner with improvised means", Hans responds dryly. "General Atkins said that?", the British Sergeant asks, smiling wryly. "Indeed, he did. I suppose he meant to deter the rest of the officers from asking to get me as an officer for their unit", the German Captain replies silkily, amused in spite of himself.

Moffit heats the large copper teapot, inviting Dietrich to take a seat in the meantime. Bastet wakes up, when he puts the cap to the side and quickly climbs out of her basket to curiously explore her new surroundings under the vigilant gaze of the young officer. Moffit picks the kitten up and holds her carefully in his arm to present her to the giant teapot. "If you actually like tea, my dear, you might become my best friend in camp." "I thought this teapot was your best friend in camp", Dietrich comments dryly, as he fills a cup with black tea. "Even the teapot cannot clean itself", Moffit replies with equally dry humor. "Bastet has true potential." The little kitten however turns away from the tea Moffit presents to it in a cup with disgust, curling up next to the comfortably warm teapot instead, as soon as he sets the scrambling little animal down. "Looks like your friendship with the monstrosity that even manages to scare Troy is still safe", the German Captain adds with a smirk, petting the kitten over the head at which Bastet starts purring. "Bastet adores you and even Lisa Hartigan seems to truly like you in spite of her quarrels with you, not to speak of the other nurses. You're really the most sociable fellow in our whole unit, even with our womanizing Private and Troy playing his charms, when he wants to", Jack comments with a wry smile to which the younger officer merely replies by raising his eyebrows with a bemused expression.

Riku Gottschlich is the next to join them, even accepting a cup of tea, as he sits down beside Dietrich. "What's tea called in Japanese?", the German Captain asks out of curiosity. "That depends on the type of tea, Captain", Gottschlich replies with a smile. "Cha means tea, while ocha stands for green tea which is the main tea to drink in Japan." "Have you ever been to Japan to visit your relatives?", Jack inquires with his own curiosity piqued now. The young Corporal shakes his head. "No, never. I only know it from stories from my mother, uncle and aunt." A sad expression passes over his face. "They are locked up in some camp, while I sit here, enjoying tea and leisure time", the young American mutters bitterly. "You wouldn't help or free them by not taking some time to recover. You don't have to feel guilty", Hans quickly counters in a compassionate tone that surprises Jack Moffit. But Gottschlich is not easily deterred in his current mood. "In her last letter my mother wrote that she fears that she will be interred as well. Why? She's no criminal and not a spy either", the young man confides, looking close to bursting into tears.

"Not everyone is guilty who is sent to such a camp. Most are not, but still many are under suspicion", Moffit remarks quietly which only depresses Gottschlich more. Glaring at the Sergeant for his unempathic comment, Dietrich addresses the young American cautiously. "I understand that it is hard for you to serve a country and a government that sends your friends and relatives to such a camp. Believe me, I know what I'm talking about, as I served the German Wehrmacht for years, although my government threatened to send my best friend to a concentration camp for the sole crime of being a Jew." The German Captain meets his Corporal's gaze with a tormented expression, but continues nonetheless: "I still fought for my homeland, because I believed that my people and my country were worth fighting for." Gotty stares at him with wide eyes, incredulity clearly written on his face. The young soldier does not dare to ask the question burning in his eyes and after swallowing hard, Dietrich continues on his own: "You ask yourself what happened, why I'm here and why I make the same mistake again. For the most part and as far as I knew in Germany this was limited to ... socially problematic groups and Jews of course. I could tell myself for the longest time that this was for the good of my country as a whole and the best I could do to help those I didn't consider a threat or any harm to my home was 'overlooking' their religion and heritage. I did that as far as I could in Poland, France and here in North Africa."

With a haunted expression the German Captain adds in a hollow tone: "Resisting a direct order was not possible however, even if I insisted on voicing my protest however much I knew it would fall on deaf ears." Dietrich shudders, as he continues: "But then, my own cousin was executed as a resistance fighter and her innocent parents sent to such a concentration camp. Unlike the camp where your family is interred in the U. S., these camps are designed to reduce the load on the public by forcing the interred to hard labour, something not easily survivable for people of a certain age. Your government has no intention to kill those people interred, mine has. And I can no longer tell myself that this is not the case." Gotty looks shocked at first, but then smiles at his young commanding officer gratefully. "Thank you, Captain. I... struggled a lot with asking myself whether I do the right thing. I don't know what to say." The lean officer shakes his head lightly. "You don't have to say anything. I don't ask for consolation, merely that you stop doubting your home and just cause."

"I owe you to say that I'm sorry that I used this information as leverage against you. I didn't trust you to do the right thing simply because it is the right thing to do", Moffit mutters to the thin Captain who meets his gaze wearily, but without the wariness he has still held in the past months. "And, if I may correct you, Captain, the U. S. government is also your government", Jack reminds Dietrich, whispering quietly to the younger German. "You're a U. S. citizen, at least according to your passport." Gottschlich is deeply in thought, while Dietrich nods quietly. "Forgive my slip of tongue under the circumstances, Sergeant." "I can understand that it's hard for you to change your perspective. It's easier to fight for a common cause and to stand by your men than it is to change your way of thinking and speaking in general", Jack replies, eyeing the young Captain intently. "Especially when your new allies and fellow citizens keep shooting at you, literally." Dietrich sighs wearily and winces slightly, subconsciously moving his hand to the graze, when a rustling at the entrance makes him look up.

"What's that party you're having here?", Troy grumbles, as he enters their tent and stops in his tracks, staring at the teapot. "What's that demonic thing doing here?", the American Sergeant growls indignantly. "Your teapot is demonic now", Hans mutters with a smirk, relieved that Troy provides such an excellent distraction from the topic he most definitely wants to drop. "Before you go around accusing innocent teapots I want a report where the children are, Troy", the young officer orders. "Davey's entertaining them. I provided a story as well, but he's the better entertainer", Sam Troy explains. "O Gott, welcher Teufel hat mich geritten, dass ich je die beiden Troy Brüder die Kinder beeinflussen lassen habe", the German mutters quietly and with irony. Moffit smiles at the comment, while Troy grumbles: "What was that about me?" "Our dear Captain questions his sanity for allowing you and your brother to influence the children", Jack translates with a smile. "Jerry smartass. We're not that bad compared to some teapot loving egomaniacs", Troy growls.

"Since when do you consider your brother a good influence for anyone or anything?", Dietrich inquires sarcastically. Troy mutters something about his brother that might be agreement with the Captain or a half hearted counterargument, but remains indiscernible. "And what makes you call me an egomaniac?", Jack protests indignantly. "You take off on your own, hang around with the brass", Troy grumbles. "You can hardly accuse me for inviting our dear Captain to tea. You spent far more time with him, in spite of your dislike of officers in general." "I'm not talking about our friend, I'm talking about Turner", Sam growls. "I merely instructed Major Turner on the behavior and social norms of the local populace, when he is in command of the fortress here", Jack defends himself. "Don't be ridiculous, Troy! He's not backstabbing you. I suggested that Moffit provides such instructions to the Major", Dietrich intervenes, standing up in the Brit's defence.

"Fine", the American Sergeant grumbles. "Why don't we do something productive like training with Gotty again instead of sitting here and drinking tea?" Hans raises his eyebrows in surprise, but looks at the Corporal who nods fervently. "Of course. I'm really honored by your interest, Sergeant Troy." When Moffit is about to protest against the slight, Hans places a hand on his shoulder and mutters: "Leave it be, Moffit! It's better, if he is distracted for now." "You were right. Troy will forever remain a Philistine", Jack mutters back, before drinking up his tea similarly to the German Captain. The noise does not disturb Bastet who sleeps deeply next to the warm teapot. Dietrich brushes his cap off removing most of the dust and cat hair it has collected during the day and puts it on the pile where Pettigrew has put his possessions on his bed. Similarly, he removes the belt with the saber, Arab dagger and his service weapon, placing it next to his clothes there, before following Moffit outside.

Troy is discussing with Gottschlich whether they could not do sparring exercises, as he really feels like hitting something, when Dietrich joins them. "Haven't you already had your fun for today and possibility for venting your aggression with the Arabs in the caravanserai?", the German officer asks dryly. "Not enough. I'm still giddy", Troy mutters. "That could come from all the sugar you've consumed", the young Captain replies silkily. "Those were enough sweets for eight people you ate alone", Jack rushes to the German's aid. Troy merely huffs, but does not deny this argument. "I can spar with you, Sergeant Troy. But it's safer for you Captain Dietrich and you Sergeant Moffit to remain at a certain distance when training the offensive and defensive moves to not get injured further", Gottschlich offers at which Dietrich furrows his brow. "What do you mean by at a distance?" "I'll show you", the young half-Japanese soldier offers, stepping in front of Moffit and then deliberately taking two steps backwards. "Use your arms for defense against the techniques I use, as if to defend yourself, when I attack. I won't touch you though", Gotty explains and performs a sidewards kick that passes mere two inches before the British Sergeant's arms he has taken up defensively. "We should repeat the techniques after warming up", Dietrich suggests. "But the idea of this distance sparring is a good one, especially for all the injured men we currently have in the unit." Troy nods grimly. "Yeah, apart from Gotty and me, Tully's the only one fit and sound."

As instructed, Gottschlich performs some warming up exercises, before he repeats the basic hand and foot techniques he has shown them until now. Moffit observes the others and notes Troy applying more force than necessary and not paying attention to the subtle movements of the different techniques. Meanwhile Dietrich is quite the opposite, as the tall and lanky German is very focused on perfecting the techniques with his left side before transferring them to his injured right, making up with precision and dexterity for what he lacks in pure muscle power. By now Jack is quite sure that he is actually ambidextrous, even if this thought has never occurred to him. The young officer also proves to be a strong sparring opponent, with a lot more potential once his right shoulder is healed. Already with his off-hand his has little trouble for now with keeping Moffit at bay, the British Sergeant realizes, when they turn toward this part of their exercises, although they both keep their safe distance, intent on neither hurting themselves nor each other further. The German Captain has obvious talent for this fighting style based on precise movements rather than sheer force.

They are already drenched in sweat by the time Tully Pettigrew arrives and joins them, taking over as Troy's sparring partner so that Gottschlich can turn to correcting Dietrich and Moffit, the only ones actually caring about learning his precise movements of the various fighting techniques properly. When Hitch and Lisa arrive a little while later with Ari and Kiri, the five soldiers finally end their training session. Ari and Kiri run to greet their beloved brother, hugging him around the neck, when he quickly crouches to protect his gunshot wound. "You're wet", the Jewish orphan protests, touching the lean German's sweaty face and hair. "I'm sorry. We were just training", Hans mutters a bit sheepishly. "We went to wash our hands like Regula told us, so we don't get sick", the boy explains diligently, smiling proudly at his caregiver. The young Captain looks a bit bemused, but smiles back gently. "That's what I've tried to teach you for a month. Apparently a woman is far better suited for such education." Ari looks a bit chagrined, but hugs his caregiver gently. "I didn't understand why I should wash", he mutters into his shoulder. "But now I do. It's to not get sick." "It's alright, as long as you wash properly. A nurse is surely better able to teach you about protecting yourself from sickness", the German officer assures him gently, patting his head.

"Meow", Bastet declares, as she clambers out of the tent managing the challenge the tent flap poses for her, as she has finally woken up from the commotion and is curious about what is going on. "Bastet", Kiri shouts and picks the kitten up, before it can escape her, holding her against her chest. "Be careful, Kiri!", Dietrich tells her gently. "She's small and easily hurt." "Don't hurt Bastet!", Ari cries immediately and runs to his sister, eyeing the kitten in her arms with worry. Bastet appears to be a bit uncomfortable in her position and wiggles out of the girl's grasp, jumping down to the ground clumsily from where Hans picks her up. "Bastet, no worries. You're safe", he mutters to the baby cat, holding her gently in his arm at which she starts purring. "How's our little girl?", Jack asks with such gentleness, as he pets the kitten, that Troy stares at him in surprise, commenting with sarcasm: "Uhuh. Naming her after some Egyptian goddess was all it took to make you like the kitten. Maybe we rename Fritz with something fitting for a dog." Jack glares at him rather unamused, as he counters dryly: "That name would be 'Anubis'. I doubt you'll still like that mutt, if we rename him like that." "To hell with that Anubis guy!", Sam growls with real animosity. "You're right. Fritz stays Fritz." "It was hard enough to get him to listen to that name", Hans adds dryly. "You couldn't retrain him easily, unless you'd be willing to invest countless sausages. He'll likely do anything for those, including listening to a new name." "Only a dog is venal like that. A cat would never sink so low to change her name for bribes", Moffit argues indignantly and Bastet agrees with meowing, although she does not understand what the conversation is about. "I knew you had potential, little one", Jack assures her, while scratching her behind the ears, ignoring Troy muttering some profanities under his breath.

"I need to change my clothes before we go to dinner", Dietrich declares with finality. "You're right, we all should", Moffit agrees. Troy nods in agreement, while Tully sniffs under his armpit and shrugs, muttering: "We've had worse." "You will change and wash your dirty clothes of the last days. That's an order, Pettigrew", the German Captain growls, slightly unnerved by the uncouth Yankee, while Jack looks at the young officer with an expression of adoration. Usually, Troy would not insist on hygiene with such vehemence. "Fine, Cap", Tully mutters, ducking his head slightly, as he is smart enough to know, when his cause is lost. "Can I hold Bastet?", Ari asks, as he follows his brother into the tent. "Don't squeeze her! Or she wants to escape again", Hans advises, before gently handing the kitten to the boy who holds it cautiously. Bastet appears a bit confused by this new person, but starts purring, when the German scratches her behind the ears, muttering gently, before he turns away to get undressed. Kiri appears to be a bit jealous to not be holding the little cat, but tries to at least pet it, while Ari holds it in his arms.

"You should have the bandages checked, Captain", Troy comments, as he looks at the skinny officer taking off his shirt. Furrowing his brows, Dietrich checks the setting himself, whether he can feel or see more than just sweat drenching the material. "You're right, Troy. I'll get this done right away, before dinner." "Good. But don't walk around camp like that or guys start thinking we eat up all your food, before you get any." "Anyone who has been present this afternoon knows that this is true, Troy. You consumed those sweets with a speed and greed Fritz has definitely envied", Hans counters dryly, intent not to let Troy rouse him. Sam actually blushes slightly, as he mutters: "Oh. You wanted any? I thought you're more the fruit type." "I am, but I would not have minded another piece or two, neither would the rest of us. Lisa Hartigan appears to have been the only one able to wrestle something from you", the German Captain replies dryly. "I'll leave you something next time", the American Sergeant offers as a redress. "How utterly considerate of you, Troy", the lean officer assesses silkily.

"One of these days you'll actually manage to teach him some proper manners, Captain", Jack Moffit comments with dry irony. "I have manners", Troy protests. "Only such bad ones that they're hardly worth mentioning", Dietrich counters with a smirk. "Which reminds me. Have you already taken care of your additional duties this afternoon?" Growling and cursing in Greek, the American Sergeant turns around and leaves the tent. "I suppose that was a 'no'", Jack comments dryly. "Should I accompany you to sickbay?" The German officer scowls at him, looking a but unnerved. "I know my way around camp and don't require a guard", Hans growls. "After what happened, Troy isn't the only one who feels better knowing that you have a bodyguard", the British Sergeant remarks with earnest concern that makes the younger Captain study him briefly, before nodding with a defeated expression. "You're right and welcome to come with me, Moffit. Just spare me the comments about my appearance!" "I'm not Hitch that I would worry about a handsome young officer turning my girlfriend's head", Jack counters dryly, startling Dietrich completely into silence. "You have to teach me your trick with women, Captain. Mine seem never to wish to stay", the Brit comments with a wink, amused at the German officer's mortified expression.

"Troy's theory is that it's the uniform", Hans mutters without meeting Jack's gaze directly after recovering from his intial shock of Moffit making jkoes on this level. "So you mean I should become an officer after all?", the British Sergeant inquires, only half joking. "Frankly, Moffit. That's exactly what I would recommend you, even at the risk of losing you for my unit. You fit more among the corp of officers than among the enlisted men, regarding your behavior and education", Dietrich replies with seriousness and honesty. Jack Moffit studies his face briefly. "I felt like I would dodge out of the real hard work by becoming an officer, letting others die at the frontline, while I sit safely behind an office desk. I never even liked that in academia which is why I spent years with field research, but never tried to become a professor. You've shown me that there is also a different approach to being an officer than I have seen among the elderly men in British army training facilities", the British scholar confesses. "You could have easily stayed behind your office desk, which would have been a lot safer than going out into the desert again and again at the front of your men, hardly ever behind them."

Jack Moffit sighs wearily, before he continues: "Nowadays, I hesitate to become an officer for different reasons. Firstly, I don't want to lose my unit and my friends. You said yourself that there is a risk that I might have to leave your unit, if I agree to become an officer myself. The second reason weighs even stronger for me though. I really doubt I could fill this position in the way you do, sending young men into their potential deaths day by day, listening to their fears and problems, showing compassion and strictness. You're by far the best commanding officer I have ever had, Captain. And I really don't mean this as mindless flattery. I couldn't imagine any of the other officers I have ever known to tell Corporal Gottschlich something as personal as you have. He adores you and trusts you fully with his life, as does any of us. I fear I'd be more like Boggs, intent to keep my distance." Dietrich clears his throat and interrupts Moffit's tirade: "I think you're giving me far too much credit, Doctor. Captain Boggs is a good officer and just like him I have kept my distance from my men for years. My changed circumstances and Troy's arguments about the closely knit structure of a commando unit have forced me to change my own ways of interacting with my men."

"That's true from what I've observed, when we still spied on you as our enemy commander. Still, your German soldiers followed you into captivity, reported to you in spite of your change of uniform and allegiance. Those men trust you just as much as we do and your Doktor Sommer would likely follow your orders still before those of any German officer", Jack argues. "You're definitely good at your job, at least from the perspective of your men, even if your superior officers don't always appreciate your decisions." "Enough of them did or I would have been pulled down in rank for the losses I have suffered", Hans Dietrich counters. "At least those of moral integrity appreciated my approach. The others went against me and I'm starting to get the impression that this will not be limited to the German side. But this conversation isn't about me, but you, Sergeant. I really don't want to stand in your way to make the right decision for yourself." The former Cambridge scholar smiles. "I'm honored not only to have you as my commanding officer, but also that I may consider you my friend, Captain. I will have to think about what you have told me and weigh my options. And I want to thank you for listening." "That's my duty and the way I have always approached my job, Moffit", Dietrich replies stiffly. "It's not everyone's way and I merely wanted to express that I truly appreciate it. And now let's see that you get checked up properly!", Jack replies, placing his hand on the younger man's shoulder.

As if to prove Moffit right in his assessment, Doktor Sommer approaches them, as they enter the hospital tent and asks with honest concern: "Hans, ist alles in Ordnung?" Knowing that the British Sergeant speaks German, he feels more comfortable to speak with his former commander in their native language. "Kein Grund zur Sorge, Ludwig. Ich komme lediglich um den durchgeschwitzten Verband zu wechseln", the young Captain replies with a calm tone that he merely wants to change the sweaty bandages. "Sergeant Moffit begleitet mich als Personenschutz", he jokes dryly that the Brit serves as his bodyguard. Sommer eyes both of them, wondering about their surprisingly comfortable interaction he has only seen between his former Hauptmann and the American Sergeant Troy before. "Ziehen Sie die Jacke und das Hemd aus, Hans, dann kann ich mir das ansehen!", the German medic orders to take off jacket and shirt.

Jack helps the German Captain unasked, seeing him wince as he shrugs out of his jacket, he mutters quietly: "Don't overdo it! Your shoulder already got enough exercise for today." Ludwig Sommer inspects the sutures intently after cutting through the wet bandages. Seeing the lean Captain wince at the touch he frowns and asks: "Haben Sie Schmerzen?" "Nicht mehr als zu erwarten ist von einem Streifschuss, der genäht werden musste", Hans replies wryly that the pain is no more than should be expected from a graze which has required stitches. "Ich sehe keine Entzündung oder andere Gründe zur Sorge, aber die angeknacksten Rippen rundherum bereiten wohl auch Schmerzen", Sommer assesses with concern for the young officer that in spite of seeing no infection or other reasons to worry his cracked ribs will likely cause him pain as well. "Das wird nur durch Ausheilen lassen besser. Die Zeit braucht Ihr Körper. " Dietrich furrows his brow, but does not protest at the comment that he has to grant his body the time to heal properly.

Jack helps him back into his shirt and jacket, as soon as Sommer is finished with reapplying a bandage. "Wie geht es Haberfeld, Bauer und Nemet?", Hans asks with honest concern about his former men. "Bauer hilft uns inzwischen so gut es geht aus. Die Schweizer bilden ihn zum Hilfssanitäter aus", Sommer reports proudly that the young Austrian helps them a lot in the field hospital and the Swiss have started to train him as a medical assistant. "Das freut mich, dass er etwas gefunden hat, das ihm einen Sinn im Leben gibt", Dietrich replies honestly that he is happy to know that he had found something worth living for. "Nemet erholt sich gut von seinen Verletzungen und redet viel mit den Soldaten", Sommer tells the young officer that his former Sergeant recovers well from his injuries and speaks with the German soldiers a lot. "Leutnant Haberfeld wird wohl leider nie wieder normal gehen können, aber er ist guter Dinge, noch am Leben zu sein", the German medic adds that although Haberfeld will never be able to walk normally again, he is happy to be alive. "Ich werde morgen nach ihm sehen, wenn ich etwas Zeit habe, nach ihnen allen", Dietrich promises to look after all of them tomorrow, when he has the time. "Sie werden sich freuen, Hans", Sommer assures him that they will appreciate this.

"Wie geht es Ihnen eigentlich mit Hauptmann Stadler? ", the former Wehrmacht Hauptmann asks how his former staff medic gets along with Hauptmann Stadler. Ludwig Sommer smiles broadly. "Der Mann ist ein echter Bayer. Er erinnert mich sehr an unseren Oberleutnant Wagner. Ich glaube, er hat mich schon dreimal in den Biergarten eingeladen, wenn alles vorbei ist." A sad expression passes over both Germans' faces at the mentioning of First Lieutenant Wagner, also a true Bavarian at heart, before Hans smiles mischievously upon hearing that Stadler has already invited Sommer to the beer garden three times, when all is over. "Na dann sehen wir uns dort wohl. Mich hat er auch schon eingeladen. Er ist anständig, bodenständig und geradlinig. Ich bin sehr froh, dass er das Kommando über die Gefangenen hat, denn er wird nichts Dummes tun, was unnötig Leben riskiert." Sommer nods in agreement at the assessment that Stadler is honest and straightforward, a man who will not unnecessarily risk the lives of the POWs for unnecessary heroics. Ludwig can easily imagine that Hans Dietrich is glad to have someone like him in command of his former men, knowing that he will keep them safe in the American prison camp they are to be processed in.

"Hat man Sie nicht für Langreiter und seine Männer einsetzen wollen?", the German Captain asks a bit puzzled why they have not chosen Sommer to look after Langreiter and his sick men. "Ich denke, die wollten mich nicht, da ich immer noch Stabsarzt der Wehrmacht bin", Sommer argues that he is still a Wehrmacht staff medic which is the reason for not wishing him to interact with the Afrikakorps soldiers. "Aber die Schweizer, Doktor Riggioli und Schwester Arno, kümmern sich gut um die Männer." Dietrich nods in understanding and believes as well that the Swiss take good care of the men. "Einen schönen Abend, Ludwig. Schauen Sie mir weiterhin gut auf die Männer." "Ihnen auch, Hans. Passen Sie auf sich auf, Sie ebenfalls, Doctor Moffit", Sommer wishes them well, as they take their leave.

"I suppose this proves my point from before", Jack Moffit nudges the German Captain. "Ludwig Sommer has been my stuff medic for a whole year", Dietrich counters sternly. "Do you have any idea how many times we have stood at the sick bed of men you and your comrades wounded during your raids, Moffit? He was the only one sharing this load with me, as it was his duty to care for the sick. This cannot be transferred to other of my men." "You mean like Wolf Bauer and Istvan Nemet who were willing to work with us and risk their lives to safe you? Or your Lieutenant Haberfeld who caught a bullet to save his defected former commander?", Moffit ploughs on relentlessly. "I couldn't even imagine to wish to do anything else but kill a commanding officer who has sold me and my comrades out and defected to the enemy, yet your men still take such risks for you." "I have never sold out or betrayed my men!", the proud Captain snarls with clear indignation. "No, you haven't. But it would appear so to anyone who doesn't know you and the arrangement with the Allied command", Jack argues.

"I'm just trying to say that you're authentic and honorable enough a man that this thought has not occurred to your men who know you only as the distanced German officer, as you have argued", the British Sergeant points out. "So there is a difference between your manner and that of Captain Boggs, as I couldn't imagine treating him in the manner Nemet treats you." Dietrich eyes him warily and wearily, before replying sternly: "Agreed, Moffit. But that still should not keep you from becoming an officer. You have the option to follow my example after all." The last part is spoken with a dry tone and amused smirk. "I know I still have a lot to learn from you, when it comes to interacting with humans", Jack replies with a wry smile. "Considering your potentially best friends in camp are a copper teapot and a kitten, I cannot argue about that, Moffit", Hans assesses with dry amusement. "Befriending a teapot us more important than befriending humans in the British army, Captain", Jack counters with dry irony. "Maybe you'd like to introduce Major Bracken to your teapot then. That might be the friend he has been looking for to improve his mood", Dietrich suggests dryly. "You're definitely a friend to improve my mood. Troy has always hated my dry British humour", Jack replies with a smile. "I can hardly imagine how that is possible", the young Captain comments. "He only despises my tea even more though. It was a real act of friendship to let me brew up", Moffit adds. "Well, it seems like tea is rather a connecting than separating element for us, Doctor", Dietrich muses quietly.

The mess tent is already filled with shouts and laughter from the soldiers of different units. Silberblatt, Pettigrew, Gottschlich, Hitchcock and the children are easy to spot however, as the Lieutenant hovers behind a crowd of soldiers surrounding the five at the table. When the German and the Brit approach, they become aware of the reason for the soldiers' curiosity. Bastet waddles over the table, trying to prowl and prance at Hitchcock's Kepi, as she has been taught by Minki. The Private always tears it away at the last moment and places it back on the table afterwards which restarts the hunting game. "You're right, Moffit. Bastet truly has potential to become one of our most ruthless killers apart from Pettigrew", Hans mutters dryly. "Tully will be flattered", Jack whispers back.

"Hans", Ari shouts with excitement, when he spots his beloved brother and quickly jumps up from the table to run over and hug the German officer around the waist. Kiri follows close behind and embraces them both. "We didn't hurt Bastet. We were really careful", the Jewish boy reports diligently and his sister nods fervently. "Good. She looks quite happy now", Dietrich mutters, patting both of them gently on the head. "Hey, Cap. Have you come to save my cap?", Hitch shouts, waving to the young Captain, before quickly drawing away his kepi at the last moment. "What did you do, Hitchcock, to initialize all this?", Hans asks dryly. "Nothing. I just put my cap on the table and thought she might wanna sleep in it, like in your cap. But she started pouncing at it. I could barely save it", Mark explains. "The kitten's a natural killer", Tully comments contently after shifting his matchstick to the corner of his mouth, showing the most appreciation and sympathy toward an animal he ever has in the months since Jack and Hitch have known him. Dietrich and Moffit exchange meaningful glances, before the German officer replies: "Lieutenant Minki has started training her. Soon we might find more scorpions next to our beds." Silberblatt grimaces with disgust written on his face, as he thinks back of the scorpion that has stung him, before Tully Pettigrew has pierced and killed it with his knife.

"Gentlemen", the young Captain addresses the surrounding soldiers. "I suggest that you all return to your respective tables. We'd better all get our dinner. Do you require support or will you manage handling the kitten all on your own Hitchcock?" Hitch being distracted and looking up at his commanding officer suffices for Bastet to finally sink her claws and teeth into the kepi. "No", Mark exclaims with a slight sound of panic in his voice. "Get something for dinner for all of us. I'm needed her", Dietrich orders dryly in Moffit's and Pettigrew's direction, before stepping forward and grabbing the kitten. "Bastet, nein!", the German orders sharply and the kitten indeed stops her assault of the red headgear at the tone. Hitch quickly grabs his kepi and draws it away to safety, while Hans admonishes the kitten with a stern tone. "Meow", Bastet finally laments desperately and he holds her closer to his body, allowing her to curl up in the nook of his arm. "Schon gut, Bastet", Hans mutters more gently, scratching the little cat behind the ears. Bastet finally feels safe enough to start purring again, before falling asleep while Hitchcock and Dietrich still wait for the rest to return with their dinner.

To have his hands free for eating, Hans puts the kitten on his lap, where she continues sleeping in her curled up position. Then, he assesses their food which appears to have a lot more fresh ingredients added today. "We got sweets", Ari shows him proudly with a joyful smile and Hans smiles back, replying dryly: "Make sure Troy doesn't eat them. He's insatiable." "What's 'insatiable'?", the Jewish orphan asks curiously. "It means greedy in the sense that he will never stop eating", the German replies smoothly. "Like Fritz?", Ari asks and the young officer barks a laugh. "Yes, Troy is with sweets like Fritz is with sausages", he replies with a mischievous grin. "Looks like he's Anubis' chosen after all", Moffit comments dryly. "Don't tell him or he might actually tear your head off!", the German officer counters with a smirk. "I want to keep my Sergeants." "We won't leave you alone so easily, Captain", Jack declares with a smile. "Good. It's hard to replace the likes of you", Hans comments wryly. "You still have David Troy", Moffit remarks and Dietrich groans, pinching his nose. "Don't remind me, Moffit!"

When Sam Troy finally joins them, he bears an expression as if he would like nothing more than to drown Major Turner in the latrines, slowly and ideally painfully, as he glares at the officer's table with a hateful expression. "I have to revise my opinion. Bring as many sweets as you can possibly obtain from the mess!", Dietrich mutters a quiet order to Pettigrew who sits across the table from him. Glancing briefly in Troy's direction, Tully merely nods and mutters: "Will do, Cap." The German observes the grumpy American Sergeant quietly for a few moments, until Troy snaps at Gottschlich who draws back immediately and the Sergeant snarls at Hitch, when he intends to defend Gotty. "That's quite enough, Troy!", Dietrich orders with stern vehemence. "We can all see clearly that your mood is as foul as the stench of the latrines. But this won't improve by snapping at your friends and comrades. They try to help you. Don't attack them for it! They're not the ones you're actually angry with." In response Troy starts a tirade of Greek and English profanities mixed together, as he glares at Major Turner from the distance.

"If you'd swallow your stubborn pride and apologize, you might end this a lot sooner", Hans argues with exasperation. "I'll bite off my tongue before apologizing to that damn Major", Sam snarls angrily. "Don't be absurd, Troy!", Dietrich counters vehemently. "You know that you wronged him with your accusation and that your behavior was intolerable for a soldier when dealing with an officer. Is your pride worth more than keeping your friends and not alienating them unjustly?" Sam Troy glares at him, before his thoughts catch up with the last part and truly process its meaning. With a chagrined expression, the proud American grumbles: "No. It shouldn't be worth more than my friends." The German Captain sighs wearily and suppresses a wince. "Good that we're d'accord on this matter. I'm willing to accompany you to Major Turner to provide your apology. This is your last chance, before he will leave our convoy to become commander of the local fort. Then, nobody will be willing to reduce your penalty, as they're not aware of the original reason why you have received it, only your general rather uncouth behaviour."

"Listen to the Captain. This is the best advice anybody could give you", Jack supports the German Captain who bears a stern but earnest expression, as he stares at Troy in an imploring manner. "You think that's best, both of you?", Sam growls angrily. "Yes, Troy. And this is spoken as your friend as much as all of your commanding officer", Hans replies honestly. "I trust you, but that's really much you're asking of me", the American Sergeant grumbles. "That's why I'd never let you do it with an empty stomach or without providing you with the appropriate incentive", Dietrich argues smoothly and gives a hand signal to Tully Pettigrew who has waited behind Troy's back and now places a whole plate full of sweets before him. "How did you...?", Sam asks with a perplexed expression that turns quite ravenous at the delicious smell. "Told them Cap needs them. They think you really need a lot", Tully replies with a smile. "Take one!", Troy orders, as he holds out the plate to the German Captain who hesitates to take something, as he argues: "This was meant specifically to appease you." "I promised you I'd share next time which is now. Take one! You really need it more than I do", Sam argues and nods contently when the lean German picks up a single sweet and puts it in his mouth. The taste is almost too sweet for Hans Dietrich, but from time to time he actually enjoys it. After letting each of them have a piece, Troy gulps down the half dozen remaining pieces and Ari observes him intently, muttering his new word "insatiable" quietly.

"Let's go, before I change my mind!", Sam Troy grumbles with annoyance after swallowing the last of his sweets and Dietrich hands Bastet to Moffit who looks a little lost, suddenly holding a kitten in his arms that has woken up and tries to wiggle out of his grasp to curiously explore her surroundings and look for the German Captain, her replacement cat mother. Just like the two children the little kitten has taken a quick liking and trust to the young officer who has treated it with gentle care and responsibility. "Calm, Bastet! Stay here!", Moffit mutters quietly, as he tries to grab the escaping cat.

Troy and Dietrich meanwhile approach the officer's table and the German Captain salutes sharply before Major Turner and General Atkins, while Troy reluctantly salutes more accurately than usual. "I hope you feel well prepared for your new command post, Major Turner", Dietrich starts out politely. "Indeed, I do", Turner replies and looks from the German Captain to the American Sergeant with a puzzled expression, as he wonders what this is about. "Sergeant Troy wishes to speak with you, if possible in a more private atmosphere", Hans starts out diplomatically. Turner frowns now and growls: "Whatever he wishes to say he can say in front of us all." Seeing Troy's expression turning grim immediately, Dietrich quickly places his right arm on the Sergeant's shoulder, squeezing slightly. Sam briefly looks at the young officer's face which betrays none of his thoughts behind the neutral mask he wears, but the gesture is unmistakable reassurance and his brown eyes focus an intense gaze on him. Sighing deeply, the American Sergeant turns back to the Major. "I", he starts out and hesitates until he feels a soft squeeze on his shoulder again. "I want to apologize for my manner of behaving and accusing you of torturing Captain Dietrich", he finally growls.

Captain Boggs and Brown gape at him with surprise and shock clearly written on their faces, while Atkins scowls darkly and twirls his moustache. Dietrich himself has tensed even more in his attentive stance, wincing slightly at the wording that has the potential to destroy any apology and agreeable gesture. Turner looks quite offended, as he growls: "I doubt you have actually learned your intended lesson, Sergeant Troy." Troy bares his teeth, about to snap back, when Dietrich intervenes: "I implore you that he has, Major, as even coming here and voicing this apology is a very reflected gesture." Turner stares at the German Captain now, trying to read his intention in his eyes. "Why do you want him pardoned?" "To protect the peace within my unit and keep the rest of my men from suffering innocently", the young officer replies honestly, trying his best to communicate his earnest sentiment. "You agree that his behavior and insults were intolerable, Captain Dietrich?", Major Turner asks. Dietrich closes his eyes in quiet suffering, but nods. "Yes, they were. Nonetheless, I can assure you, Major, that your current penalty does not have the desired effect to correct this behaviour, but only might make it worse in the future." Turner eyes him with a doubtful expression. "In spite of your arguments' rationality, this penalty has gotten him to reflect on his behavior and apologize."

"I'm only here cause he reasoned with me and to protect my friends", Troy snaps, ignoring Dietrich's imploring gaze. "Do you intend to disprove the earnestness of your apology?", Turner growls. "Your chicken shit does absolutely no good for anyone", Sam counters angrily, before the German Captain interrupts him: "Troy, shut up!" Turning to the angry Major, he adds with a serious tone and expression: "I argued with him to come here for the good of his comrades. I take the full responsibility and any penalty you would give Sergeant Troy." Turner glares at the German Captain for having finessed him so efficiently, as he growls: "And any day I send you on penal duty, whichever one, will result in a dozen soldiers volunteering for your unit." "This has proven a lot more to me than a simple apoplogy would have. We reduce your remaining penal duty by half, Sergeant Troy", General Atkins intervenes. "You have your CO to thank for this." Both Troy and Dietrich look stunned by thus turn of events, but the American Sergeant recovers more quickly, as he replies in an honestly relieved tone: "I appreciate it, General. Thanks." "You told me once that it's hard for a defected German officer to find acceptance anywhere among commando soldiers such as yourself and your men, yet you seem to trust your Captain indiscriminately", Atkins argues slyly. "I'll march through hell for him", Troy agrees. "And even swallow your pride, Sergeant, for your comrades and your CO, something apparently much harder for you than any combat scenario", the General analyses deviously. "You've proven that you're an asset, Dietrich, more than just once today. You're both dismissed. Appear at 1000 tomorrow for the trial as a witness, both of you and anyone else present at the event of the attack against Captain Dietrich." Both nod quietly, before returning to their table.

Once they are out of earshot which Troy assures by glancing over the shoulder several times, he addresses the young German Captain: "I'll never do that again. But I'm really grateful to you, Captain. That was impressive and I'd never have thought that it would work, you offering to take my penalty." "Have a little faith in my skills! It has already worked with Pettigrew as well. They cannot give an officer the same type of penalty as an enlisted man. And they would have been insane to take that offer, because rumours would undermine the morale and that's worth more than a petty transgression like your impolite manners", Dietrich argues. "It pays to be polite and apologize earnestly, when you do so." Troy grunts at the admonishment, but leaves this as his protest.

When they approach their table, both the German and the American stop short and observe the large group of people that has assembled there. "Stop harassing the kitten! It needs sleep", Hans barks an order that he hopes will disperse the group. However, contrary to his expectations, the soldiers turn toward him now and he immediately becomes aware that there are unusually many darker skinned faces among them. "Captain Dietrich, we were waiting for you", Sergeant Akuhata declares formally and the German now recognizes the three men from the afternoon who apparently have taken another half dozen of their comrades along. "What do you require from me, Sergeant Akuhata?", Dietrich asks warily and Troy immediately takes position next to his friend, glaring at the group with an intimidating look. The Maori soldiers look a bit taken aback by the American's animosity, when Jack Moffit joins the group as well after handing Bastet to Jakob Silberblatt. "I suppose this is a misunderstanding. We're all on the same side and these gentlemen surely intend no harm."

The British Sergeant exchanges a quick glance with his German CO, before stepping next to Troy, while Hans Dietrich focuses his attention on the Maori Sergeant who starts to explain: "Indeed, Captain. We want to invite you", he looks at the grim Troy, "and your unit to join us for the evening. We wanted to get to know Tommy's new unit and thank you for helping us out." Akuhata points in Thomas Anaru's direction who smiles openly. "My friends are good people. Noone's thinking of shooting at you", the young Private adds, guessing what is the reason for the German officer's wariness, since he has been right there, when that looney Yankee has shot him yesterday. Dietrich tenses slight at the words, but nods. "I have no doubt of that. But I fail to see what drives you to extend this invitation, Sergeant." "Our Captain Carson said that tomorrow Tommy will join you and the day after your convoy will move on and we might never see him again. We want to know the unit he joins and we'd really like to hear the details of what you told that Arab judge to get the right man convicted", Akuhata argues.

Jakob Silberblatt stands up as well now and joins them after succesfully having transferred Bastet into Hans' cap. "Don't worry, Hans! I'll look after Ari and Kiri, and Bastet of course." The little kitten sleeps quietly in the cap held in Ari's arm. "Tomorrow is the last evening of Hanukkah. It's important for Ari to have you then." "Of course", Dietrich mutters, looking at the boy with gentleness and affection. Silberblatt then adresses the men around. "But I'd like to extend the invitation to all of you to celebrate the 'Lichterfest', a festivity of light as we called it in our home, with us. I still need to arrange for obtaining some sweets." "Now you're talking, Jakob", Troy comments with a wide smile and pats the Jewish Lieutenant on the back in a friendly gesture. "We'll come to your party tomorrow. And I'm okay with joining them today, as long as I can keep an eye on you, Captain." "Thank you for your approval, Troy", Dietrich replies sarcastically. "We're honored to accept your invitation, Sergeant Akuhata", he tells the New Zealander in polite tone. "And also your invitation, Jakob. I'm sure many will join and I know where you can obtain sweets in town." Jakob smiles in his usual open-hearted manner that quickly wins him the sympathies of the surrounding soldiers who agree with the Captain.

"I'll bring the cards along, Cap", Tully declares as he gets up, shifting his matchstick to grin mischievously. Hitch grins from ear to ear, as he announces: "Brilliant idea, Tully. We got the best stage magician in camp after all." The Maori Sergeant looks curious, as he replies: "We're looking forward to seeing your tricks then." A slightly tormented expression passes over Dietrich's face, as he growls indignantly: "Hitchcock, you're worse than Troy sometimes." Thomas Anaru whispers something into the confused looking Sergeant Akuhata's ear who starts laughing a few seconds later. "We need to invite Carson then to show him we have new expectations for our Captain from now on", he declares with amusement. The German Captain raises his eyebrows, but does not comment on the topic any further. "Can we come along, Captain Sherlock?", Kevin O'Donnell asks on behalf of the three Australians. "We've been along and got the investigation." "Then Fritz can join as well", Hitch suggests enthusiastically without giving Dietrich even time to reply. The dog that has lain curled up under the table yelps curiously. "Fine. Bring the whole circus along!", the German officer sighs with exasperation.

As the group is about to depart, Captain Boggs approaches them with a scowl. "What's going on here?", he asks wearily. "The 28th battalion invited us for the evening which is hopefully not breaking any rules of the U.S. army that I'm not aware of, Captain Boggs", Hans Dietrich replies with a slightly sarcastic undertone. The American Captain looks a bit baffled, but shakes his head. "No, it doesn't." With a bemused expression he adds: "You're quick at making friends it seems. I've never been invited by a different unit except when joining you." "Do you want to join us tonight?", the German officer inquires, wisely refraining from commenting on the previous statement. Captain Boggs looks honestly surprised, before thinking about the offer in earnest. "Captain Carson will join as well", Sergeant Akuhata declares dutifully. Looking at his younger colleague who regards him with a calm and curious expression, James Boggs finally makes his decision. "I'll join you then. You're a better entertainer than what I've seen at most officer's clubs here in Libya." The comment spoken with a wry smile brings a suffering grimace to the German Captain's face, while Troy barks a laugh. "I would appear that you'll be in demand as an entertainer and famous for your circus performances, Captain", Jack Moffit comments with dry humor. "But we got priority. You're our Captain", Hitch protests. "That doesn't make me your stage entertainer, Hitchcock", Dietrich growls with annoyance. The Private tries a pleading look and charming smile, unable to match Fritz though. Boggs shakes his head in wonder at the relationship the German Captain has managed to build with the unruly Rats, especially the Privates who have only ever served to annoy him. But Pettigrew appears almost tame around Dietrich and Hitchcock adores him since their joint captivity through Arab slavers.

Ari is sad that his beloved brother leaves for the evening, but appeased by Silberblatt's promise to recite some of his favourite poems to him. Kiri insists on looking after Bastet, regularly stating "my kitten". The prospect of trying Auntie Lisa's new red scarf immediately motivates her to join the nurse for the evening. "I'm not sure who is the more destructive influence, Lisa Hartigan or the Troy brothers", Dietrich mutters to Moffit who smiles wryly. "Soon she will rule the camp together with Lieutenant Minki", Jack comments dryly. "I can't wait till that cat leaves the camp", Boggs replies dryly. Then, the American Captain steps next to his German colleague and quietly tells him: "Whatever you do to win soldiers' hearts and motivate them to follow you I start to get the impression that I should take lessons from you." Dietrich raises his eyebrows in surprise and glances at the older officer cautiously, while Troy mutters to Moffit: "Looks like Boggsy's finally learning to get social thanks to our friend. Dietrich's a good influence." The British Sergeant smiles wryly. "Indeed, not just for Captain Boggs." Sam grins widely. "Yeah, you should learn from him how to get invitations from the fancy Arabs. I still don't like the tea, but their sweets are great and the other food too." "Are you sure you haven't chosen Fritz as your influence instead of Hans, old man?", Jack jokes with dry irony. "Our dear Captain taught Ari the word 'insatiable' through your example." "Jerry smartass", Troy grumbles with a goodnatured grin.

Sergeant Akuhata leads their way, chatting with Thomas Anaru who feels inclined to share some of the tales about their evening guest he has heard from the Australians and the Rats. Many observe them curiously, as they approach the camp of the 28th battalion and Captain Carson joins them within five minutes, as he tries to find out from his Sergeant what the commotion and quickly spreading rumours are about. Seeing the German and the American Captain again takes him by surprise, but his man's explanation is plausible enough to not become angry, but join them instead. Akuhata's smirking comment that the Rats have a special entertainer among them and he needs to see this, triggers his curiosity. "Captain Dietrich", Sergeant Akuhata adresses the German officer, once they have reached their final destination, a campfire with several blankets laid out around it. Hans tenses involuntarily with this number of soldiers surrounding him who Rommel has declared the fiercest and most fearsome in the desert, even though he knows that they are on the same side as he is now and have no reason to harm him. None of the Maori soldiers comments on his reaction, but somebody places a hand on his left shoulder and the German realizes only after a second that it is not Troy or Moffit, but Boggs.

"The Aussies and Yankees call you Captain Sherlock", the Sergeant declares with a smile. "And we could see today why they do so." "Mainly because they're unable to properly pronounce the German name", Hans Dietrich argues with dry irony. Several of the men around laugh, while Troy grins, having discussed this with the young Captain often enough, although he and Davey have tried to use it as an argument for calling him by his first name instead. "The O'Donnell brothers say that you're the best investigator in all of North Africa", Thomas Anaru pipes in. "I doubt that", Hans argues with a stern expression, adding with a wry smile: "I merely find little serious competition in armies focused on leading a war." "That's not true", Boggs is the one protesting now unexpectedly. Dietrich is so baffled that he stares at the American officer dumbstruck for a second. The older Captain meanwhile continues his argument: "You have uncovered a whole infiltration network and an impostor who murdered one man and tried to kill another." Troy's face has turned red by now, as he snarls: "That damned cultist hopefully burns in hell now." "Sergeant Troy!", Dietrich and Boggs admonish simultaneously with mirrored expressions of exasperation, while Jack Moffit tries to calm the outraged American Sergeant. "Close call", Tully mutters quietly, while Hitch whines: "I missed all the fun."

Captain Carson and his men look truly intrigued now, as he declares: "It looks like we'll have to ask you for a lot more stories than just what happened today." Then, he points at the blankets around them and invites them all to take a seat. Akuhata meanwhile mutters to a few of his men who scurry off and return a minute later with the first cups of a warm beverage they serve as tea. Just by smelling at it the German Captain can tell that it has been spiked with alcohol. Looking at Captain Carson with his eyebrows raised in a questioning manner, the Maori Captain replies with a conspiratorial smile: "This is the Royal Army. It's always allowed to drink tea." "Damn Brits and their tea", Troy complains next to him, refusing to take a cup. "Try this one. You might actually like the preparation, Sergeant", Dietrich mutters with a wry smile. "They're not Arabs, so I can spit it out", Sam grumbles. "Moffit will never speak with you again, if you do that", Hans counters dryly. "That's not fully true, Captain", Jack intercedes dryly. "I'll first give him a tongue lashing he'll never forget and then I'll never speak with him again." Troy's disgusted expression when sipping at the tea first turns dumbstruck and then into a grin. "That's actually good. It would be better, if they wouldn't put the damn tea into the whiskey, but it's drinkable that way." "Pettigrew, keep a bottle of whiskey as iron reserve for when we get invited for tea with the Arabs ever again!", Dietrich orders with a joking tone. "Don't steal it though!" The Kentucky driver salutes almost diligently for his standards and calls back: "Sure, Cap."

Captain Carson, Sergeant Akuhata and their men already feel entertained by their interaction alone, while James Boggs is still bemused and awed, when observing the interaction between the German Captain and Tully Pettigrew, the bane of existence of most of the officers in camp, given how many pranks he and Hitchcock, the more immature and mischievous Private, have played on Winters, Griffith and the others, incorrigible by any punitive measures. Never before has he seen the unruly former criminal treat any officer except for Dietrich with anything even close to real respect, mostly staying silently hidden in the background, while plotting his next scheme.

For the second time, Dietrich repeats his detailed description of what has happened today, adding even some further details, when Akuhata asks about the young son Rafik or his mother, the desperate widow, the other herder and the judge's reaction. "Showing the fingerprint was a smart idea", Troy tells his friend. "It was sheer luck that this single print has remained visible in the blood, otherwise there wouldn't have been any chance to refute his lie that the dagger has been stolen", Hans argues. "Still. Pretty smart to think of that", Sam declares. "Have you ever received any police training?", Boggs asks the German officer about what has made him curious for a while now. Dietrich shakes his head, but his tone becomes as sly as his smile: "No. I simply enjoyed reading Sherlock Holmes as a teenager." Moffit smiles widely and Hitch asks: "So we can keep calling you Captain Sherlock, can't we, Cap?" "I'd never refuse that nickname, if I were you", Carson recommends with a smile. "We actually thought it's your name, until you told us your real name", Sergeant Akuhata adds with a grin of his own. Hans sighs wearily, wincing slightly as his sutures remind him of their existence. "I doubt I could turn it off, now that three armies have adopted this nickname", he admits defeat in resisting the nicknames.

"So, can you tell us the story about the cultist now?", Carson asks. Dietrich briefly glares at Boggs who has initiated this, but appears utterly unperturbed by the German's indignation. Moffit smiles widely however, as he invites the German Captain: "I'll gladly leave you the honour of providing the recount of our joint investigation." Hans raises his eyebrows in a slightly mischievous gesture, as he starts to recount looking for the graverobbers with academic education and the falcon attack that immediately triggers Troy's ire. "I'll roast that damned bird from hell on a spit next time it gets close to me." "Please, Sergeant. Horus is Professor Stevenson's problem and responsibility", Moffit tries to calm him. Dietrich simply ignores the Sergeant's tirade and continues to tell his attentive audience about the incident with the rabid student he has been forced to shoot, how their nurse has been taken as a hostage and they persuaded the desparate student to release her. Boggs himself has not heard this in so much detail before apart from the formal report and regards his younger colleague with even more respect.

The American Captain notes that Corporal Gottschlich who has appeared as the most guarded and controlled of the whole unit, even more so than his wary Captain Dietrich looks openly horrified and fearsome at the description of the rabies infected man and Hitchcock puts a hand on his shoulder muttering quietly some reassuring words, as it appears. The troublesome half-Japanese Corporal has turned out to only be troublesome on paper or when others harass him, as has happened once in the camp. Ever since placed under Dietrich's command and apparently enjoying the protection of the Rats, the previous pattern of the young man's file of getting involved in fights and other disciplinary issues almost every week has been completely broken and he has only appeared as a diligent young soldier in Dietrich's reports, just as he appears now to Boggs. The German Captain apparently is a good judge of character who not only can inspire men, but also has a good sense for detecting actual troublemakers of whom he has enough in his unit and discern them from more calm and reasonable individuals whose troubles stem from others. James Boggs becomes painfully aware that this is something Hans Dietrich is uniquely qualified to detect, as the young officer has suffered through prejudice and harassment through his fellow officers and some soldiers alike since his change of sides. He has after all been shot only yesterday for this very reason.

Moffit meanwhile joins the lean European in describing their joint research in diaries, news articles and letters, revealing an impostor who has murdered the student through infecting him with rabies and tried to burn Sergeant Troy alive who starts to swear in Greek and English about cultists, Egyptians, Brits and arrogant smartasses in general. At the statement "All those Brits are heathen cultists anyways", Moffit starts a heated discussion with the livid American Sergeant, protesting against the statement with vehemence. "My grandfather used to say the same, but he was deeply invested in preserving our traditions", one of the Maori soldiers tells the rest with a grin and a wink, highly entertained by the banter between the British and American Sergeant. Captain Boggs has studied his younger colleague closely during the recount as well as his men who have commented from time to time, but have never corrected Dietrich in principle which says a lot about his truthfulness.

Having gained the young German Captain as his second in command more than ever feels like a stroke of luck to James Boggs who does not want to think of the quite plausible possibility that they would have met on a battlefield otherwise where the younger officer might actually have turned out the winner. Keeping him on their side and under his command is godsend, he is grateful for. When observing Dietrich as closely as he does now, not only the extent of his bruises and injuries becomes painfully brought back to Boggs' awareness, as the German winces from time to time when his injuries mostly hidden underneath his shirt send a stab of pain through him. But also is the American Captain reminded of the young German Captain's actual age which he usually covers well with stern expressions and a strict military posture and demeanor, while his more relaxed stance he has started to adopt and smiling or laughing openly make apparent that he is several years younger than his Sergeants and not older than his Privates. The original crew of the Rat Patrol like many commando units has employed men not too young and inexperienced for the type of work and combat they are to do. While Gottschlich is a year or two younger than the German, his new Private Anaru will definitely be the youngest unit member.

The young Maori soldier is another target for his observations, just like the Rats and their Captain. Although looking even more badly bruised than Dietrich, he appears to be an openhearted, jovial character who has a good relationship with his former unit members unlike the half-Japanese Corporal who has not stayed long with any unit. What he shares with Gottschlich and Hitchcock is the clearly expressed admiration of the Rats' commanding officer. Anaru is even less shy than Gottschlich, as he frequently pats shoulders with the Privates and Sergeants of both his old and new unit and even Dietrich who neither withdraws nor glares at him warily as he has reacted with most of the Allied soldiers during the past weeks. "Tell us how you met your new unit, Tommy!", one of dark-skinned soldiers of Carson's battalion asks and Boggs listens and observes curiously how Anaru starts to tell about his capture and torture at the hand of the Germans, until his black-haired saviour has entered the room and shot the German soldier.

Only upon second thought and when thinking about the negotiations between the marksman and the German captor does Boggs realize that he is talking about Dietrich and not Troy or Moffit, as the German Captain still has his hair died darker than it originally would be. The young officer is absolutely startled, when Anaru turns to pull him into an embrace and thanks him emphaticly. Hitchcock sees this as the perfect opportunity to seize some stage time and tell how he has been saved and protected by the German Captain, when they have been captured and abducted by Arab slavers. Again Boggs is surprised by the different perspective, as Dietrich's coolly delivered report without detailing his own involvement has sounded a lot different from the two Privates describing him as their saviour and protector, carrying and supporting both of them himself. More and more it becomes clear to Boggs how and why the young Captain, who looks rather uncomfortable with the amount of gratitude and attention, has become the favourite officer among the enlisted men and is treated like a hero by his unit. The older American officer considers that he should ask a lot more questions about details in the future, when Dietrich provides his reports, as his general formulation of 'we' or 'my unit' covers his own involvement and deeds far too efficiently, which has probably been his intention.

"You promised us that you have the best entertainer in camp in your unit", Sergeant Akuhata declares after the two Privates have finished their stories. "We do", Hitch replies proudly with a wide grin and Tully starts rummaging through a belt pouch, before pulling out a deck of cards. "We've got one of the best illusionists and magicians in all of North Africa in our unit", Mark declares with the tone a circus ringleader announcing his number one attraction. Several eyes turn on Pettigrew who pales slightly and quickly approaches Dietrich to hand him the cards. "I should employ you as an entertainer, Hitchcock", Dietrich remarks dryly. "I don't know your tricks, Cap, and I couldn't do more than talking anyways", Mark replies, holding up his broken right arm with the cast. "Try not to exaggerate that much, Hitchcock! We're not actually a circus earning money with this, independent of what some people say about us, so you don't have to sell us", Hans admonishes and several of his men start laughing, while Boggs grimaces a bit painfully. The jibe against his unit and camp uttered by some external officers has stung in the past as it does now.

His German colleague meanwhile shuffles the deck of card, smirking as he notices Pettigrew's marks on some of them. "I can do the demonstration and you let Tommy pick up the card, Cap!", Hitch suggests as enthusiastically as a child looking forward to playing his favourite game. Smiling mischievously, Hans Dietrich holds out the cards with his left hand. "Draw a card then, Private!" Every single pair of eyes is on the duo now, as Hitch draws a card, smiles widely, laughing quietly, and hands it face down to the German officer who shuffles it back into the deck and drawls as a distraction: "We'll see soon what makes you smile so happily, Private, while I read it from your mind." Then after shuffling through the deck, carefully making sure to always place Hitchcock's card on top, before inconspicuously laying a single card onto it, Hans presents the deck to the curious looking Thomas Anaru. "Draw the second card from the top, Private Anaru!" As the young Maori soldier picks up the card he looks at the Captain curiously. "Now show it to everyone!", Hans orders and smiles, when he recognizes the motive as well. "The Queen of Hearts, Hitchcock. I'm sure your fiancé will be delighted, when you tell her." "That's my card", Mark exclaims. "I know it's a trick, but it's still uncanny." The German Captain smiles mischievously, while Sergeant Akuhata elbows his Captain Carson with a grin. "You should try the next turn, Captain. We'd really like you to learn that." "I'm not taking apprentices", Hans Dietrich warns dryly, while Boggs offers: "I can be your partner for drawing the card, Captain Carson." The Maori officer nods gratefully to Boggs, relieved to not be the only one on display. As the German Captain repeats his show with the two officers Carson's soldiers cheer and Sergeant Akuhata immediately volunteers to be the next to try this.

Fifteen minutes and more than a dozen additional games in various pairings later, Dietrich finally returns the deck of cards to Pettigrew. "My injured shoulder prohibits me from continuing much longer", he excuses himself, bowing politely to his audience. "Thank you, Captain Dietrich. This was the most entertaining time we have had in months", Carson addresses him on behalf of his unit. "And here we thought we'd provide you with an entertaining evening", Sergeant Akuhata adds with a sheepish smile. "But we've learned that there is one thing we can gift you that will keep you and your Sergeants happy, our special tea ingredient." Dietrich nods and smiles openly. "You may hand this directly to Private Pettigrew who has unique skills and experience in handling such substances. Thank you. Kia ora, I believe is the term in your language." All of the Maori soldiers regard him with honest appreciation for the effort, while Tully Pettigrew steps next to his commanding officer and practically beams at him for appreciating his talents. "Sure, Cap. You can count on me." Corporal Raroa meanwhile places his arm on Thomas Anaru's shoulder, as he mutters quietly: "I can understand now why you asked to change units. You don't want to leave us, but really want to join them. Believe me, your brothers would understand that you need to walk your own path and would support your decision, especially since that Captain's a good man to help you find your path. Kia kaha!" "Ngā mihi mō ngā tau kei mua i te aroaro", Akuhata adds, wishing him luck for his future. Thomas Anaru squeezes the shoulder of his brothers' and his mentors tightly, thanking them earnestly: "Kia ora rawa atu."

The soldiers and officers of the LRDP finally take their leave after a round of farewells and goodnights. As they walk back to their camp, Boggs takes Dietrich a bit to the side and declares quietly: "Thank you for inviting me, Captain Dietrich." The German officer nods and smiles wryly. "I hope you could enjoy it in spite of your suffering at the declaration that we get frequently called a circus." "Was it that obvious?", James Boggs asks rather self-consciously. "Only for those who know you and the circumstances well enough", Dietrich replies dryly with a friendly smile. "I have truly underestimated your abilities in reading and interacting with people, Dietrich", Boggs admits. "When you first came into my camp with a whole German unit following your orders diligently, in spite of you being a convicted traitor, I wondered what kind of officer and man you were to draw such loyalty from his soldiers, but credited it to your former men having known you for months, maybe years and suffered through many plights together."

"Hardly anyone has survived this long", Hans counters a bit harshly. "That's something I became aware of much later and also that these soldiers were willing to follow you to hell and back again, as are your Rats", Boggs replies with a serious tone and expression. "As far as I can tell that is due to your honorable, authentic, diligent and unrelenting manner, never demanding of your men what you wouldn't do yourself. They all would march into battle for you fully trusting in your leadership and to never sacrifice their lives thoughtlessly or unnecessarily. Major Turner recognized this quality of yours and thus suggested to General Atkins to put you into a command post again where you can inspire men and lead them into larger battles." "But General Atkins very clearly said 'no', arguing with my more dubious, but rarer to train skills", the German officer replies a bit bitterly. "Not because he doesn't think you wouldn't be qualified, because you would easily be. I understand his argument better than ever that he cannot train an officer for your skillset, but needs to employ someone of your ability for the more commando tasks and spywork", Boggs argues and places a hand on the tired looking young Captain's shoulder. "Get some rest! You look like you direly need it. I'll see you tomorrow." After he walks away a few steps, the older American officer turns around and adds with a wry smile: "If you'd keep your kitten from going on any hunting trips tonight, I'd be much obliged." "I'll confine her to my cot then which should solve the problem", Dietrich declares wryly.

"I'll fetch Kiri, when I visit Lisa", Hitch promises, before he scurries off in the direction of the sickbay. The rest continue back to their tent where Jakob Silberblatt and Ari await them. "Hans!", the Jewish boy exclaims, as soon as his beloved brother has stepped into the tent and runs over to embrace him around the waist. "I missed you!" Dietrich winces at the stab of pain in his side and Ari lets go of him with a guilty expression. "Are you hurt?", the orphan asks with worry laced into his tone. "I'm fine", Hans mutters gently and in a reassuring manner at which Ari nudges against his left side, burying his face in his shirt, as he mumbles muffled by the fabric: "It's sad to celebrate without my family." At these words the German flinches as if he would have been struck by a whip. "Hans", Ari whimpers and his caregiver gently rubs his back and mutters reassuring words, until the young orphan calms again and stops crying into his shirt. "I'm sorry that you miss your family. If there was anything I could do to bring them back to you I would do it", the young man promises with compassion. "But you're my brother", Ari argues. "You're my family." Dietrich makes an effort to control himself to not flinch again as badly as before to refrain from scaring the boy even more, but he bears a tormented expression. "I promise you I'll be there tomorrow", the young Captain reassures him gently and Ari presses against his side gently, muttering: "Thank you, Hans. I love you." Dietrich wonders how he has gotten himself into this mess with the boy he has only ever wanted to protect and save from the SS, but has never intended to adopt himself.

Kiri arrives with Mark Hitchcock a little while later and provides a welcome distraction to Ari. When he walks over to greet her just as emotionally, Hans checks on Bastet, finding the kitten still curled up and sleeping in his uniform cap. As Kiri tries to tell Ari the latest story David has shared with her, the children develop the idea of finding another story teller. "Can you tell us a story as well, Hans?", Ari pleads, approaching the young officer. "Please, Ioannes, story", Kiri supports him. Dietrich sighs wearily, but gives in. "Fine, I will tell you a story, if you promise me to go to bed without delay." Both children nod diligently and the German officer smiles, as he starts to explain: "It's a fairy tale from when I was a child like you. It's called 'Hänsel und Gretel'. Hänsel is a variant of Hans, it means 'little Hans' in German." Troy shouts over to where the Captain has indicated the children to sit down on the ground: "Did they call you Hänsel, when you were a kid, Captain?" The German officer looks slightly annoyed, but replies: "They did sometimes to annoy, anger or bully me, actually the verb 'hänseln' literally means 'to bully somebody' in German." "What about the story, Hans?", Ari pleads, while the Rats still try to adopt the new vocabulary. "We will start the story tonight and continue tomorrow, if you behave well", the young Captain demands sternly. "Okay", the boy promises and Kiri immediately agrees.

"Hänsel and Gretel were brother and sister, two young children just like you two", Hans starts to recount the fairy tale with a voice slightly shrouded in mystery as he has heard it from his aunt, when he has still been a boy, and both stare at him with fascination. When Dietrich carefully sits down, Fritz comes over to put his head on the young man's knee and enjoys to be scratched behind the ears. Listening with fascination, Hitch take a seat in the sand next to the German officer as well, muttering conspiratorially: "I really need to learn telling fairy tales to kids." The lean Captain looks slightly bemused, but nods and turns back to his younger audience. "Hänsel's and Gretel's father was a woodsman." "What's a woodsman?", Ari asked. "He worked in the forest to get wood, felled trees like the palm trees. Where they lived and I am from we have large areas with many trees and people built their whole houses from wood, not clay and straw", the German officer explains patiently. "So much wood", Ari mutters with awe. "Can I see a forest, when I come with you and Jakob?" Dietrich smiles gently. "I suppose you can, yes." "We even got a big forest in the middle of the city, in Central Park", Hitch adds enthusiastically.

"A park hardly counts as a real forest", the Kieler protests with slight indignation. "Maybe not for a Viking type Northerner like you, Cap, but definitely for me and Ari", Mark counters with a winning smile. Dietrich suppresses the urge to roll his eyes at the juvenile argument, reminding himself that his dignity in his own eyes is worth not reacting in such a manner. "Hänsel, Gretel?", Kiri asks curiously. "The two children often went into the forest", the German continues his tale with a smile: "They had step mother, the woman who married their father, but was not their mother, who was a very unfriendly woman and didn't like the children. One day she led them into the forest, further than they had ever been before. But Hänsel was smart and he dropped stones along the way which he had collected for playing to leave a trail that they could follow back to their home, if they lost their way. That's like the trail of the caravans and herders, but in a hidden way. It helped and they found their way back." "Hänsel is smart like you, Hans", Ari declares with a wide beam.

Smiling gently at the boy, the young officer ruffles his hair affectionately, before he continues: "Because her plan to leave the children in the woods had not worked, their evil stepmother was very angry. The next day she led the children into the forest again and this time she forced Hänsel to drop all stones before their trip. But the boy was smart and made another trail, with bread crumbs from the bread he had saved from breakfast to share with his sister during the day. Unfortunately, birds came during the day and ate the bread crumbs, taking away his trail to find his home." "Oh no", Ari mutters with worry. "Bad birds", Kiri declares with vehemence. "Bastet might hunt them one day", Dietrich replies smoothly, looking over to where he has put the sleeping kitten in his cap onto his cot. "And this is all for tonight. Tomorrow you will hear how the story of Hänsel and Gretel continues", he declares sternly.

Although they both look disappointed to not hear the end of the fairy tale, Ari and Kiri yawn widely mere seconds later. "Off to bed with you. You need your sleep", Hans orders with a strict tone. "Can I sleep with you again?", the boy inquires with a pleading look. "Ari, please sleep on your own cot", Hans replies quietly. "My arm hurts from sleeping like that. But we will put your cot next to mine and you can always come to me, when you're scared or sad." "I love you. Good night, Hans", Ari mutters and hugs the sitting Captain around the neck, kissing him on the cheek. "Night, Ioannes", Kiri adds and repeats her brother's behaviour. Then, they both retreat to their sleeping cots which they have moved close together and near their caregiver's bed. Hans Dietrich checks on each of them one more time, tugging them in for the night, before returning to his own sleeping cot, where he puts his cap with the kitten inside next to the folded blanket serving as his pillow. Fritz has already jumped up at the foot end and wags his tail expectantly, when he sees his master approach. "Dann bleib eben oben, Fritz, du Fratz, aber kein Herumkriechen in der Nacht", Dietrich mutters quietly, as he pets the dog's head, warning him not to move around during the night. "Night, Cap", Hitch wishes the young officer with a smile after petting Fritz briefly.

Hans is woken a short while later, before even properly falling asleep, when Bastet crawls outs of the cap. The kitten clumsily lands on the blanket serving as his pillow and starts waddling toward him, until she reaches her new caregiver and sniffs him briefly. Self-consciously, the young officer vows to take the chance of bathing tomorrow. Then, the little cat finally curls up, snuggling against his shoulder and neck, purring quietly until she falls asleep again. Soon thereafter sleep finally embraces Hans Dietrich as well.

Notes:

The title is inspired by Arthur Conan Doyle's Sherlock story "The Adventure of the Three Students" from the collection "The Return of Sherlock Holmes"