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!)

21. No Kangaroos in Austria

"I still haven't told you how I know Browny", Troy realizes, as he walks alongside Dietrich toward the motor pool to speak to the privates. "I was under the impression that you are reluctant to share any more than you already unwittingly and unwillingly have, Sergeant", the German answers smoothly. "You have some pretty sophisticated vocabulary, Captain. Don't forget to write down that answer to Moffit for me! Next time I have a conversation with Moffit Sr., the professor, I'll take you along as my backup. You're probably more up to his level of talking than Tully and I felt", the American Sergeant comments with a grin. "I doubt that, since I am not even an English native speaker and have no higher education than high school", the younger officer replies flatly. "A high school education is more than Tully and I could offer", Troy replies with a grin. "The British snobs really treated us like Barbarians, even more than you and Jack combined, Dietrich." "That's simply because you behave like Barbarians most of the time. You don't need higher education to show some manners, Sergeant!", the German counters dryly. "And since we are talking about it, would you mind terribly not butchering my name every time you speak it? It is pronounced Dietrich with the ch being pronounced like Loch by the Scottish." "Just like I always say: Dietrich", Troy repeats his usual pronunciation which makes the German wince and grimace. "Do you even hear the difference, Troy? The Moffits are right. You are a Philistine. The term Barbarian is still far too flattering for you!", the Captain pronounces sarcastically. "And here I thought you'd be better than the British snobs", the American mock sighs with a wink. "Wherever did you get that idea from, Sergeant Troy? Now, didn't you wish to share your connection to Australia and Captain Brown?", the German intends to change the subject, feeling far more unnerved than amused.

Troy's expression turns from his usual mischievous grin to a surprisingly sober look given that he has actually initiated the talk. "I'd like to ask you to give me your word that you won't tell the others what I'm telling you now", the American speaks seriously. "Why would you share with me what you would not even wish your own friends to know?" Dietrich sounds just as incredulous as he looks. "I want neither their pity nor any weird comments. I trust you to be more serious in handling this information, Captain." The German looks doubtful and unsure how to take the comment, as he reminds Troy with a serious tone: "Sergeant, you have no obligation to share any such information with me." Troy shakes his head. "I have an obligation after having Jack translate that SS file of yours for us and intervening with Atkins to have you placed with us." "Neither of which was your right or responsibility to do!", Dietrich snaps angrily. "See! That's why I have to do this. It's rather easy for me now to trust you, but pretty hard for you to trust us, 'cause we learned a whole lot about you, but you still don't know anything real 'bout us." The lean German officer puts him under scrutiny with narrowed eyes without speaking his thoughts. "So do I have your word, Captain?", Troy asks demandingly. After a few moments of hesitation Dietrich finally nods. "Yes, Sergeant. You have my word, although I still fail to see the reason behind your line of argumentation. I trust you on a professional level, otherwise we would not have been able to negotiate truces and collaborations in the past year." "Professionally, but not personally, Captain", Troy growls. "I fail to understand what you wish to gain my personal trust for", the German snaps back. "Our relationship is a strictly professional one." "Collaboration in a small unit like ours has to work smoothly without a moment's hesitation. We need you to trust us just as quickly and blindly as most of us trust you by now. That requires trust on a personal level in addition to a professional level." Dietrich frowns at Troy's line of argumentation, but does not interrupt him, so the American Sergeant continues: "Let's focus on my recount for now and then continue discussing your lack of trust later", Troy argues with enough coherence to make Dietrich listen without considering to continue the argument, as German watches him with hands placed on his hip.

Instead of further walking toward the motor pool where they would expect to meet the two privates and Corporal Gottschlich, Troy directs them towards the edge of the camp. "When I was your age", the American starts out in a way that induces an automatic scowl on the younger man's face, "I married the most wonderful woman in the world, well, at least she was that for me." While Troy smiles with sad reminiscence, Dietrich wonders why on earth the American wants to share the story of his marriage with him of all people but not with the rest of the crew. Glancing at the other's hand, the German reassures himself that he has not missed a ring there until now which is not the case. By now the Captain's curiosity is starting to get the better of him, as he listens intently to Troy's recount. "Anne loved the ranch and the horses, she got along well with Helen and Ma. Even my little brother David liked her, although he was sometimes too big-mouthed around her, but he was like that with everyone, probably still is sometimes nowadays." Listening quietly, the German observes Troy's body language during the tale which speaks of an underlying melancholy in spite of his dreamy, far-away expression and jovial tone.

"Sounds perfect, doesn't it? It almost felt like that. All we lacked to make it perfect were kids", Troy's blissful expression stays, but his tone gets slightly more pained. Dietrich starts to feel more uncomfortable with what this story is meant to entail. "We tried for years, until Anne finally got pregnant. When she told me, it was the happiest day of my life." The American Sergeant's eyes have an almost feverish glow, the German notes. "All went well, until about a month before our child's birth was expected, Anne got down with some severe fever. It was November 1936, winter had hit us hard and I was out with the horses totally snowed in." Troy looks actually dejected. "As the fever got worse, Ma got worried for Anne and the child, so she sent Davey out with the old family car to bring Anne to hospital. They never got there, as they had an accident. Anne and the child died, Davey got away with only a few scratches and bruises." Sam Troy's voice sounds pained, while anger, anguish and helplessness show on his face. His German companion fights to not show his emotions and compassion too clearly, understanding from the Sergeant's previous explanation that pity is the last thing he wants, as an awkward silence starts to span between them. Finally overcoming his doubts of how to deal with the uncharacteristically vulnerable American Sergeant and reflecting Troy's behaviour toward himself, Dietrich raises his right hand to place it on the other's sagged shoulder. Meeting eyes with the German after a moment of bafflement, Troy nods in appreciation, before he continues with his recount.

"I was completely out of my mind with grief and anger, accused Davey of having killed my wife and child, kicked him out of the house and shouted after him that I'd never want anything to do with him again." The American's expression turns from guilty and angry to thoughtful. "Funny thing is the next time I met him again was here in North Africa, where that damn Jerry Major had dumped him in a minefield, if you still remember." Dietrich nods with a grave expression, as he speaks with a forced calm voice. "I do remember. Please continue, Sergeant." Unsure how to comment on a story like that and wishing he would never have asked about it, letting Troy continue to speak appears to be the best option for the German Captain. The American puts on a strange half-grin that appears more like a grimace. "Well, I got Davey out of that nightmare, we joked about some old story from school times and things briefly felt like before all that had happened, though we dumped him off rather quickly after that and it pains me to say I was relieved to be rid of him again and he seemed rather happy to get away." Feeling that he has to say something to break the awkward silence that stretches between them after this last sentence, Hans Dietrich speaks with a cautiously kept neutral tone: "I'm no doctor or psychoanalyst and not one of your friends either, but I think that you should speak with your brother and address this directly to get it off your mind and conscience, Troy." The older American eyes the German with an unreadable expression, as countless emotions seem to war inside him.

Finally, when Dietrich is starting to hope that Troy has given up on continuing with this story, the American gets a hold of himself and speaks with a tone the German has never heard or expected from him before, self-loathing. "I started drinking after that and was totally out of my mind with sorrow and anger that was directed against the whole world now that I could not focus it on my brother. I got into all kinds of trouble, beat up strangers in the bar and even my friends, until I lost the last ones I had left. The Sheriff locked me up in jail several times and my family had to bail me out. In the end, I even started to fight with Helen's husband Walter and scared her small kids, until Ma decided enough's enough and kicked me out of the house and ranch, until I got my stuff together. I called her all kinds of names and the rest of the family as well." Troy looks truly ashamed and pained by the memories. Dietrich is speechless at the revelation and actually relieved, when the American continues to talk, saving him from having to come up with an appropriate comment. "After spending my last dollar on cheap whiskey, I had to start working to keep drinking. I did all kinds of odd jobs, then got myself hooked up with a guy who talked me into going to Australia to start a new life there. Turned out a new continent could get me out of my melancholy. I went back to ranch work which is always in demand there and actually started to enjoy it again."

Dietrich nods thoughtfully, as he studies the American who seems to finally relax his tense, angry posture slightly. "Browny, nowadays Captain Brown, owned the ranch I worked on and in the two years I spent on his ranch we became friends. He got me off the heavy drinking and when the Brits called for Aussie volunteers to join in the war against Germany and the Axis, I just volunteered along with him. And that's how I ended up in North Africa." "Interesting that you went around the whole world and to several different continents, only to end up in a war of countries which are not your home to find the peace of mind you lacked in peace time", the Captain murmurs quietly half to himself, before he meets Troy's gaze who observes him intently. "You know you're actually a good listener when you put your mind to it, Captain." The German officer sighs heavily. "You are aware that clerical duty is part of an officer's set of duties, Troy?" The American grins sheepishly. "And you're not into huffing and puffing with sentimentality, even though you have the eyes of a kicked puppy who lost his master." Dietrich's scowling at the last remark causes Troy to grin widely. "Just saying, Captain. But thanks for listening. Really! I haven't told this to anyone in a long time and it actually feels better to have it off my mind. You're probably right that I should talk to Davey, if I run into him again."

"Why did you want to tell this to me, but not Moffit who is actually your friend, Troy?", Dietrich inquires with a mixture of indignation and curiosity. Troy glares briefly at his last statement. "I didn't want him to think worse of me. You couldn't possibly think any worse of me, as you continue to point out to me that we have been enemies for almost a year and you don't consider yourself my friend", the slightly accusatory and hurt tone of the last part takes Dietrich by surprise. "I surely don't think so little of you that it could not get worse!", the Captain growls in indignation at the accusation, before realizing how Troy might interpret this. The Sergeant's smile is a good indication that he is taking this as more of a compliment than it has been intended to be. "You're far more decent and friendly than we give you credit for." "You are misinterpreting my words. This was only meant as a show of respect", the German officer argues, aware that he will not convince the American. "For sure it was", Troy grins jovially, before startling the Captain by placing a hand on the younger man's shoulder and pushing him along. "We should pick up our privates." "And you should refrain from grabbing me, Sergeant, as I do not approve of this behaviour!", Dietrich growls. "You're part of a commando unit and not in the German army anymore, Captain. No need to be that stiff and distanced", Troy scolds good-naturedly. "This has nothing to do with the German army. I simply don't want to be grabbed and squeezed at any given time. It's undignified", the young officer snaps. "You wouldn't do it with any of your American officers either." "You are one of our American officers now!", Troy reminds the indignant German who grimaces briefly at the comment. "And I don't know half the things I know about you about all of them put together", the American Sergeant argues vehemently. "That does not give you the right to treat me like that. I've never had a choice in sharing this information!", the Germans counters with no less vehemence. "True. That doesn't make it unsaid or unknown though", Troy holds against him. "And we all serve on the same side now, in the same unit even."

"Troy. Why don't you accept that I have no intention to befriend the men serving in my unit?", Dietrich growls unnerved. "I have not even befriended Doktor Sommer and he has served with my unit as chief medic and thus fellow officer for over a year. Burying all my friends from my whole unit once has been enough to last me for a lifetime! Do you have any idea how often I was in the position of having to bury or at least collect the tags of all my men, when I survived even though I shouldn't have? They all trusted me and they all are dead now", the young officer spits with a tormented tone, before stopping himself to elaborate. Realisation dawns on Troy that the German Captain for once is neither stubborn nor arrogant, but actually trying to protect himself. Remembering the young officer's story of the sniper attack that wiped out his whole unit, the American struggles with the thought of losing Hitch, Moffit, Tully and even Dietrich without ever seeing his attackers or being able to defend himself. Deciding that he shares the German's sentiment of detesting sniper attacks, he turns back to the Captain. "I can understand that you want to keep your distance given your experiences, but you should not forget that a commando and scout unit is much smaller and different from your infantry and tank units. You live closer and more intimately, as there is no space for withdrawal among 4 or 5 men spending night and day together with their lives constantly on the line." Seeing the reason behind the American Sergeant's line of argumentation does not make it more acceptable for the German, as it goes against most of the principles of behaviour he has been brought up with and groomed in the past years for his own emotional and mental protection. "Troy, I am still an officer of German origin, not one of your 'Yankee buddies'. I don't share your sentimentality." Sam Troy looks more than doubtful. "That's what you say. None of the brass of your army would have gone out of their way to help and protect children or civilians, to the point of shooting at officers from their own side who have foregone all morality. And not even our brass would have treated the Jewish boy Ari the way you have. That kid really loves you like a family member and as someone who would have given anything for being loved like that by a kid I can truly appreciate it. You're a lot more like us than you like to admit which is why you won't be able to stand being all isolated without any friends. It's already eating you."

Three people approaching the duo save the German Captain from further unwanted words of wisdom. Dietrich scowls, as he recognizes Lieutenant Deirdre O'Donnell, one of their camp's nurses, walking alongside two Australian soldiers, easily recognizable from their hats in combination with the British uniforms. All three bear curious and cheerful expressions. The German officer furrows his brow, as he tries to remember where to put the face of one of the two which appears familiar. The man in question walks with a limp and looks more haggard than the athletic soldier whose features show enough resemblance to suspect a family relationship. Troy scowls in close likeness to the Captain wondering why they approach him and Dietrich, interrupting their discussion when he would finally have had the headstrong German cornered.

Nurse Deirdre O'Donnell takes the initiative in addressing the officer. "Captain Dietrich, may I introduce you to my cousins, Kevin and Daniel O'Donnell." The German tenses upon hearing the second name, as he can finally place the man as a LRDP soldier whom he has had arrested a month ago and sent to a POW camp. A minute ago he would not have believed that he would be so grateful for Troy's presence. But the Australians are reputed in the Wehrmacht for their fierce, almost feral nature and formidable combat skills. If he truly trusts the American Sergeant in at least one aspect, it is that Troy would never let them attack him without rushing to his aid. "What exactly is it that you want from me, Lieutenant?", Dietrich inquires with obvious wariness which is reflected also in the American Sergeant's expression. "I", Deirdre starts, then hesitates and corrects herself, "we wanted to thank you, Captain, for saving Danny's life." The German is stunned for a moment by the unexpected announcement which he trusts only because it is uttered by the most silent, but reliable of the camp's nurses. Narrowing his eyes, Dietrich speaks with surprise and doubt leaking into his tone. "I am unsure what exactly you are referring to, nurse O'Donnell. Arresting someone and sending him to a POW camp is nothing anyone has ever thanked me for."

"Accordin' to your commando order ye could have had me shot right away, Capt'n. And not many Jerries would have called their medic to help their wounded enemies, 'specially those from patrol units attacking them", Danny argues. "Not all Germans are monsters, Private. This should have happened with more than just one officer in the Afrikakorps", Dietrich argues, frowning at the man's recount. "Yeah. I know that several of them arrested commando soldiers and didn't shoot them right away. But you signed an order that sent me to medical care right in the POW camp and declared me an ordinary soldier", the young Australian replies and the German officer's expression turns into a frown. "You are an ordinary soldier, even if you serve a scouting unit." "The SS and Gestapo at the camp didn't see it your way, Capt'n. They dragged out all others connected with scout and commando units, shot the injured ones and questioned the rest, which was worse than a quick bullet from what I've seen." The German Captain has paled visibly upon the description and softly mutters a curse against the inhumanity of the Gestapo and SS under his breath. Danny looks more determined. "So you see, Capt'n, your order saved me from that fate, so that Kevin and our lads could spring me out from the camp two days later. Also, we blew up those swines' HQ for good measure." Dietrich bears a look of grim determination, as he nods at the information. "I can only congratulate you on that." Danny and Kevin grin widely. "We've heard there's no love lost between you and the SS, so we thought we'd let you know and pay our respects to prove our gratitude. " While Daniel salutes properly with a serious and respectful expression, Kevin shakes the German Captain's hand with actual cheerful sympathy and gratitude. Their cousin acts differently, taking Dietrich even more by surprise as the rest of them. Stunning him too much to withdraw. Deirdre takes a step closer and breathes a kiss against the tall officer's cheek who tenses and blushes slightly. Muttering a vague excuse about his duties he has to attend to, the German officer tries to retreat without too much further loss of his dignity after giving a sharp salute in the direction of all three.

Without having to turn Dietrich can practically feel Troy's wide grin and the Sergeant's gaze boring into his back. "You're still convinced you're surrounded by enemies and that everyone in this camp hates and distrusts you?" "What would I require to make you shut up, Sergeant?", the German asks sarcastically, guessing the answer already. "Nothing in this world would make me shut my trap willingly, Captain!", Troy declares with determination proving the Captain's assumption right. "At least leave it at that, Sergeant, and don't continue this argument now! We really need to talk to the privates and I believe bringing up what has just happened would not sit well with Hitchcock", Dietrich directs the discussion toward a more moderate level. "You're right", Troy concedes. "But swear to me that you'll think about it!" "Sergeant!", the German growls warningly. "Don't overdo it! I'm not an idiot and actually able to reflect on statements and events in spite of your lack of trust in my ability to do so." Troy snaps back: "We'll see. I'll remind you!"

Glaring at each other, the two arrive at the motor pool where Tully takes care of the Jeeps, while Hitch unloads the last of the equipment talking with the shy Corporal Gottschlich who lends him a hand. "Sarge, Capt'n. We're just finished", Mark Hitchcock shouts enthusiastically. Schooling his face into a strict expression, Dietrich replies: "Excellent. Corporal, get washed and some rest! You are dismissed for the rest of the day. Privates, you will accompany me to provide your report." Gottschlich follows his orders obediently with open relief visible on his face, while Hitch exchanges a look with Tully, before both follow the German Captain. Troy comes along unbidden, as Dietrich has already predicted he would. Once they have reached a more secluded part, the lean officer turns around to address the privates: "Please report your impression of Corporal Gottschlich and his actions!" "You sure, you wanna hear us as well, Cap?', Tully asks insecurely. "If I wouldn't value your opinion, Private Pettigrew, I would not ask for it!", the Captain answers with a scowl. "Sorry, Cap", the Kentuckian driver apologizes honestly, "just no officer or any official guy's ever cared to ask about my opinion." Dietrich's frown deepens upon the answer, as he takes a deep breath before startling them with his own explanation: "You're sold under value for being quiet and behaving rather roughly, Pettigrew. That doesn't mean that you have no idea what is going on. Don't underestimate that I had the option to observe you from both perspectives of combat! You usually have the best overview of your whole team, keep your position calmly and observe best what is going on, while your comrades spring into action far more quickly."

All three Rats eye him with a mixture of surprise, curiosity and awe by the end of the surprisingly long statement. The guarded German officer has rarely shared that much of his own opinion before, at least with the two privates along with Troy. Having for once startled the whole pack of Rats into blissful silence, the Captain utters in an unperturbed manner: "I am asking for your opinion before Troy's to receive an unbiased answer. Having settled this, I do expect an answer to my question, when I ask for it. So, what is your opinion on Corporal Gottschlich?" Tully briefly looks at Hitch and Troy for reassurance, before he shifts his matchstick and provides his answer: "The guy's dedicated, wanted to learn everything we showed him, although he's got no experience with the desert or front line combat. Not sure how he'll handle actual fire fights, but he's no coward and wouldn't desert us in a battle, Capt'n." Then, he hesitates to make his next statement which prompts Hitchcock to intercede with his own answer. "We told him a lot about survival out here." Dietrich raises his eyebrows with a slightly ironic expression at the term 'we', when Hitchcock obviously does most of the talking compared to the quiet Pettigrew. "The Corporal's a nice guy, a bit shy, but he's still young. You'll like that he's very proper with using ranks, Cap." "Unlike you, private", the German Captain cannot keep himself from remarking sarcastically with a slight reprimand audible which Hitch totally ignores, as he continues with his recount: "He really admires you, Cap. I mean we were all quite awed that you'd ask for our opinion and actually listen to us, but the kid hero worships you." Dietrich has tensed visibly and his frowning expression speaks of his unease. Clearing his throat before giving his answer, the German replies with slight worry edged into his tone now that they have learned to hear this beyond his outwardly displayed aloof voice: "Thank you, privates, for your honest opinions. I will keep them in mind, when continuing this assessment with your Sergeant, before coming to a decision. You're dismissed. You too get washed, dressed as well as some food and rest." "Don't forget that my old friend, Captain Brown, has invited us for a chat after dinner to the Aussies' camp", Troy adds with a grin. With a weary sigh, the German Captain adds: "So he has. Do try to behave yourselves! You need not set new standards for the Australians regarding fierce and uncontrolled behaviour." Hitch grins almost as widely as Troy, as he replies: "We'll try our best." "Let's hope that will be enough", Dietrich remarks sarcastically. "Maybe we could learn something from them", Hitch adds cheerfully. "Hitchcock, don't make me regret that I didn't kill you, when I actually had the chance!", the Captain snaps and Hitch has the decency to wear a slightly sheepish look. "Sorry, Cap." The lean German glares at him daring the American to utter another defiant statement, before saluting to finally dismiss the two privates.

"We have discussed Corporal Gottschlich and his worrisome behaviour that Hitchcock has pointed out previously, Sergeant. What is your opinion now after his first mission?" "Apart from what the guys have already told you, we both know he's quite green behind the ears, but willing to learn. I was really worried after that burial of the mutilated bodies, but you handled him really well and helped him overcome that spike of shock and panic. I have to grant you, you're really good at your job. I've never appreciated that before, but taking care of your men really is your thing." Dietrich wears an amused expression. "You are aware that this is my trained job and vocation. I have served as an officer for 5 years after my basic military training, more than 3 of those at the forefront of the current war. Why are you surprised, Sergeant?" "Probably 'cause I never knew what being an officer included, as ours aren't like that and it's mainly the older and more experienced Sergeants who take care of their soldiers' worries and fears." "It's true that some low-level clerical duties are handled by Sergeants in the Wehrmacht as well which doesn't release the higher-ranking officers from their duty", the German concedes.

"Well, regarding the young lad. He really reacted well with the Jerry...", Dietrich scowls visibly, "sorry, Capt'n, the German commando trying to wrestle the gun from Hitch. Also shows that he's overcome his combat fatigue from before pretty well which is a good sign for taking him to battle", Troy argues with conviction. "Also the kid is willing to work well in a team, so I would recommend keeping the young one, Gotty." Dietrich is staring at him incredulously for a moment. "You nicknamed Corporal Gottschlich as Gotty? Isn't it bad enough to call Hitchcock Hitch?" Troy grins widely. "It's perfectly fitting. His name's even worse than yours to pronounce, as you've pointed out already." "Nothing is wrong with my name, only with your pronunciation", the Captain growls indignantly. "Well. It's a real pain to pronounce. Hans would be easier", Troy replies with a grin. "Under no circumstances will you call me Hans! Did I make myself clear, Sergeant?!", the German snaps unnerved, glaring at the insolent American who replies in an utterly unperturbed manner: "Captain or Cap for the guys works fine enough with us. I know it's important to you. We don't mind being called without a title, just Troy, Hitch or Tully. Maybe Jack actually likes the title." Dietrich is gritting his teeth. "Using a title is a matter of showing respect, Sergeant. I insist on using a title for this simple reason", Dietrich argues. "I totally respect your perspective. For us using shortened versions of names and titles communicates camaraderie and friendship which really matters more for us." "We are not friends, Sergeant!", the Captain insists vehemently. "Your sentimentalities are more hindrance than help for a soldier." "Maybe we're not exactly friends at the moment, especially from your perspective, but we are comrades in arms. That's undisputable. And as I keep telling you, you should keep in mind that a commando unit is totally different from the kind of unit you have usually commanded. We live much closer together and you can't just keep your distance as an officer which you haven't done much lately, I grant you that. But we also have to trust each other blindly, as otherwise it could mean all our lives, if one of us hesitates even for a single moment to think."

Dietrich shakes his head and his expression speaks of actual desperation. "I am getting the impression that placing me with such a unit was a terrible misjudgement." Troy eyes him dubiously until he realizes that the young German is actually serious and not applying his usual sarcasm. "Now, hold your horses, Captain. You might not be fast to trust anyone, but I can understand your sentiment. Come on, you should see that you are doing a really good job and it can only get better with trusting each other. And we trust you a lot more than you trust us." "Why? I'm a traitor and a defector, above all I'm a German officer who has fought against you, arrested you, even sentenced you to death, however reluctantly. Why the hell would you trust me?", Dietrich demands to know with a desperate tone. "'Cause we know better than anyone that you've never chosen to betray your country or your men, but were betrayed by your government and military leaders. Makes perfect sense for me that you have a much harder time trusting anyone than we have, especially since we've known you for almost a year and learned a lot of additional stuff recently. But we've known that you're a decent and honorable guy all along. The only reason for not trusting you before, was knowing that you serve the German Reich loyally. Since we are on the same side now, there is no plausible reason to keep me from trusting you, Dietrich." "Please stay with Captain", the German states dryly, hiding his own surprise and unease at Troy's elaborate and surprisingly willing answer which also sheds some light on the answer to the question he has kept asking Troy and himself since the morning after his rescue.

"We'd better get washed and into fresh clothes ourselves", Troy remarks with a certain amount of sympathy for the young officer who has already suffered a lot during the day. "I can pick you up for dinner." "I am perfectly capable of attending meals on my own, Sergeant", the Captain snarls with wounded pride. "Good. Then I will see you at the mess tent", Troy replies jovially. "Unless something unexpected happens", the German says with a fatalistic tone that speaks of his vast experience of unexpected things happening in his camps. "I will see you later, Sergeant." With one of his usual sharp salutes Dietrich turns to leave.

Upon collecting his fresh clothes and leaving his cap and goggles in the tent, the German realizes that he has never used the officers' shower facilities before due to almost constantly being interred in sickbay since his arrival in camp. Hoping that it will not be overly crowded before dinner, the Captain finds himself in the company of Lieutenants Carlos and Griffith, both of whom have recently returned from scouting missions and eye him curiously. With his injury exposed Dietrich scowls at the sticky bandage on his upper arm which already shows red spots from bleeding through in some parts and weighs the options of keeping it on for protection against contamination versus removing it to clean away the blood, sweat and grime. Finally he decides to remove the dirty wrapping and becomes aware of the problem that his other arm lacks the strength and mobility for such knife handling. "Lieutenant Carlos ", the German calls the officer he trusts more, although he is quite sure that both would obey to help him equally. "Please come here and bring a combat knife along." The order startles both Lieutenants who briefly exchange gazes, before turning to their Captain with the requested knife. The German officer has shed his boots, jacket and shirt, as he stands in front of a mirror to get a better view of his arm. When he notices Griffith coming along, Dietrich's expression turns into a scowl and he subconsciously presses his right arm against his bruised ribs.

The two Americans bear surprised looks at the sight of the skinny man's ribs clearly visible underneath the bruises and several scars from bullets and shrapnel splinters, as well as disturbingly circular burn scars along his collarbone and on his chest. Most obvious among the things unusual for an American officer is the oval German dog tag and lack of any American equivalents. "Why don't you wear our dog tags, Captain? You're one of us now I thought", Griffith asks right away. "Because general Atkins did not bother to issue them in advance before my defection and there was no chance of obtaining some ever since", Dietrich growls his answer. Then the German glares at them in a silent effort to deter them from any further comments or questions, continuing with his actual request: "I require one of you to cut off the bandage from my arm, so it doesn't get wet through." "Sure thing, Captain", Carlos answers and steps closer to the younger man who tenses visibly, as the American officer places one hand on his elbow to stabilise the arm during the treatment. Feeling the skinny German's wiry muscles, sinews and bones underneath his skin, provides the Lieutenant with more awareness of the man's substance or rather lack thereof, considering he has been a professional soldier for years.

While Carlos works on cutting off the bandage, Griffith continues to annoy Dietrich with questions the German considers utterly moronic. "Why are you on active duty at all? You look like you should still be grounded in sickbay. I had men there who looked far better than you now", then he remembers to add "Sir" to make it sound slightly less insolent. The lean Captain nonetheless reacts with wounded pride, growling at the American: "The sickbay is overflowing with men who are in far worse state and need treatment more dearly. You don't have to worry about the safety of your camp. I have months of experience with running camps in such a state." Dietrich's glare has intensified during the last statement and even Griffith sees that further questions would mean further escalation of this discussion with the wary German officer. The American Lieutenant holds little to no sympathy for any Jerry, but he has to admire the German Captain's sheer gut, endurance and willpower required to run his former enemies' camp and actively participate in fights under such adverse conditions. By now Hans Dietrich almost wishes for Troy as company instead. How the mighty have fallen. Or maybe Troy's brainwashing tactic is finally starting to work he muses with self-mockery.

After Carlos has cut through the wrapping with enough care to not injure the Captain and disposes of the bandages, Dietrich studies the fresh sutures sticking with blood, sweat and ooze in the mirror. "Thank you, Lieutenant", the German barks in his usual command tone, "that has been all I require for now." Carlos nods. "Wasn't any trouble, Captain." Still he observes the younger officer with a certain degree of concern, as Dietrich's poor physical state is rather obvious without the uniform to hide it. Once aware that they have stayed to scrutinize him, the German Captain scowls and barks while giving a sharp salute: "You're dismissed, gentlemen."

After being left alone, Dietrich finally feels unobserved enough to fully undress and take his shower. The sutures hold under the strain and the freshly sewn wound shows no red rims indicating infection. The German officer feels relieved to regain some dignity and human standards, although the luxury of showers will be the first to cancel, if their resupplying strategies fail which he will see tomorrow. Taking great care to dry the freshly sewn wound without damaging the sutures, Captain Dietrich stops in surprise, as he finds Carlos and Griffith waiting for him outside the showers. When the German officer scowls, Lieutenant Carlos quickly offers an explanation: "We figured you'll need a fresh bandage for your arm." Stopping himself from snapping why they would care, the younger officer eyes both of them warily trying to discern their honesty. But Carlos has been respectful, cooperative and sympathetic towards him from early on and Griffith is like Troy in his blunt directness and would not apply some underhanded strategy to harm him, so the German Captain finally accepts the offer with an honest expression of gratitude.

"We were really successful with destroying German supply lines it would seem", Carlos comments slightly despondently, as he wraps the Captain's arm. Keeping himself from sinking to the Americans' undignified behaviour by rolling his eyes, Dietrich pronounces "Indeed" sardonically, daring the two to continue with further needlessly awkward comments. "Before you even consider saying anything else", the German Captain growls after a few moments of tense silence, "I am perfectly well aware that this is your unit's job and do not take it personal unlike superfluous comments. Did I make myself clear?" Both affirm this and seem slightly relieved that they do not have to think of a way out of this discussion.

"Gentlemen, I thank you for your foresight and will see you at dinner ", Dietrich announces once the bandage is properly applied, dismissing the two Lieutenants with a sharp salute, as he turns to gather his clothes. Freshly dressed, his intentions to attend dinner in the mess hall are sharply interrupted by gunfire from the direction of the prisoners' area. There is no rest for the wicked. "Es kann der Frömmste nicht in Frieden leben...", Hans Dietrich mutters to himself, as he darts toward the source of the commotion.

"What is going on?", the German officer demands to know, as he arrives with a drawn handgun along with a few other soldiers. Two soldiers, one with an American uniform, the other Australian, stand 25 meters apart, each holding a gun in their hand. The American private whose name the Captain does not know clutches his upper arm blood seeping between his fingers, while the Australian appears unharmed. Several of the prisoners stare at the spectacle with worry and curiosity from inside their area. None of the two opponents or their spectators answer directly which only infuriates the German officer. "I expect an explanation and I expect it now or you will all find yourselves under arrest for insubordination, illegal gun fighting and injuring a fellow soldier!", Dietrich bellows, nerves worn to a frazzle by the Allied soldiers.

"The man uttered rebellious and treacherous paroles against King George, Captain", the Australian is the first to respond to the German Captain's surprise. "That bloody Brit shamed Eirinn's brave soldiers who gave their lives for its freedom", the American soldier spits with venom. Dietrich scowls, feeling rather perplexed at what these two are talking about. "I had to challenge him to a duel to the first blood to defend the honor of my king and country. My parents are from Ulster after all", the young Australian explains proudly. "And mine are from Galway", the American growls back. "I'll stand by ol' Ireland any day!" "Your conflict has no place here", the German Captain snaps, as he finally realizes that the quarrel is connected to the British civil war which has cost Great Britain its corn chamber, Ireland, in the 1920s, as far as he is aware. "Whatever wars your parents may have fought. You are soldiers united by a common goal, to fight against Mussolini, Hitler and their fanatical forces! We all are united by the goal of freeing this world from their threat", the Captain admonishes with a harsh tone and stern expression. Several of the American soldiers lower their gazes to not look the bruised German officer in the eyes.

Spotting Troy and the privates with their new extension, Corporal Gottschlich, Dietrich orders: "Sergeant Troy, round up the troublemakers wearing American uniforms and accompany them to Lieutenant Adams who may decide their punitive measures!" Then he turns to the Australian with a scowl. "I will report your behaviour to your Captain who has the right to decide any consequences for you." The soldier hands the officer his gun and salutes. "I perfectly understand your obligation, Sir. I'm Private William Dunley, Captain Boggs." The German officer grits his teeth before stating dryly: "I'm not James Boggs. My name is Hans Dietrich." Shock and surprise register on the Aussie's face at the revelation. Then he pulls himself into a straight stance and properly salutes again. "It's an honor to meet you, Captain Dietrich. You're famous. Now I understand why." Dietrich is too perplexed to react for a few seconds except for scowling at the young man. "What are you talking about, private Dunley?", the German officer finally inquires with warily narrowed eyes. "You're reputed to be wily, but honorable, Sir. I've only thought you'd be older", the Australian answers with honesty. "You're not the first one to tell me that", the German Captain growls with obvious indignation regarding the last statement.

"Would you care to explain to me why you challenge an allied soldier to a duel over a civil war that ended about 20 years ago in a country neither of you have grown up in, Private?", Dietrich asks with honest curiosity to better understand the nature of their sentiments. "It's a matter of honor, Sir. Ireland has been part of Great Britain for a thousand years and those Catholic rebels had no right to rip it from our midst", the Australian explains. "Don't listen to him, Captain!", one of the Irish Americans intercedes. "A thousand years ago those bloody Brits stole our homeland from us, Eirinn, the emerald isle. For a millenium our fathers and forefathers fought to regain their freedom. It's not right to just let such a slight against our home and brave ancestors pass." Dietrich frowns looking from one to the other, unwilling to take a side in this conflict which has occurred between Great Britain and the neutral Irish nation, but still has consequences from America to Australia where the descendants of Irish emigrants can be found all around the world. "You all better remember that you are not your forefathers, but Allied soldiers united through fighting a common enemy!", the German Captain reprimands them sternly, shifting his strict gaze from one soldier to the other. Finally all of them either lower their gaze or adopt the Australian's salute. "Troy, take them off and assure that our private from Galway receives proper medical treatment", Captain Dietrich orders. "Sure, Captain ", Troy affirms, before bellowing at the Irishmen: "Let's shake it, lads!" "Your name's Troy. You're one of us, a son of ol' Ireland", one of them tries to talk to the Sergeant. "My father was Irish, my mother from a family of Greek settlers. Leave me alone with your patriotism for a parent's homeland I've never known!", the American Sergeant gruffly snaps at the man. As he speaks the words, he remembers Silberblatt telling Dietrich that he wouldn't expect anything else from him than to serve Germany loyally as a German officer to the point of fighting against its evil and immoral government, since the U. S. are neither his homeland nor has he ever set foot there. Now, he can understand the words better which have alienated him back then that they would willingly accept an officer in the U.S. army who has stated that his loyalty lies with another country. Nonetheless, the German Captain has stood up to unite the quarrelling soldiers in a common cause, as the man of principle that he is to the core.

"Herr Hauptmann ", Leutnant Haberfeld shouts from the prisoners' part of the camp. With a frown, Dietrich approaches his former junior officer, trusting Troy to take care of the Irish descended would-be rebels and dismissing the Australian with a salute. "Leutnant Haberfeld, benötigen Sie etwas?", Dietrich inquires if his former Lieutenant requires anything. "Hauptmann Dietrich, es gab Unruhen zwischen den Männern", Haberfeld explains with a lowered gaze that there have been quarrels between the men. "Was ist geschehen, Leutnant?", Dietrich asks what has happened with narrowed eyes communicating his wariness. "Nach der Nacht haben einige der Männer von Major von Stolberg aufbegehren wollen und unsere Jungs haben eingegriffen. Einige konnten wir beruhigen, andere haben sich geprügelt. Gefreiter Wolf Bauer ist dabei ziemlich schwer verletzt worden", the German Leutnant reports with a worried frown that after the night the men of Major von Stolberg wanted to rampage and several of Dietrich's former men have intervened, convincing most of them to stay peaceful, while others started to beat up the peacemakers. Private Wolf Bauer has been injured severely in such a fight.

"Warum weiß ich davon nichts? Die Amerikaner haben keine Meldung gemacht", Dietrich growls in indignation that the Americans did not report the incident to him. "Das konnten sie nicht, Herr Hauptmann. Wolf weigert sich, dass wir ihn ihnen zur Behandlung übergeben", Haberfeld argues that they could not report this, because Wolf refuses to be handed to the Americans for treatment. Scowling, the German Captain considers the situation. Wolf Bauer is a young Austrian Gefreiter who has served in Dietrich's unit for half a year and been under Feldwebel Deutsch's, or rather Nemet's, tutelage during that time trusting the Sergeant more than anyone else. The attack on the Sergeant has without any doubt been a large blow for the young soldier. "Lassen Sie mich mit ihm reden!", Dietrich finally suggests talking to the young man. "Sehr gerne, Herr Hauptmann", Haberfeld breathes a sigh of relief that Dietrich who has always been skilled with handling an officer's clerical duties will take care of Wolf himself.

While Troy has taken Hitch and Tully along to accompany the Irish American soldiers, Corporal Riku Gottschlich has stayed behind, observing the Captain and trying to understand some of the German spoken between the two German officers. "May I accompany you as a guard, Captain Dietrich?", the young man asks, startling the German Captain slightly who whirls around in a battle-ready stance with his hand raising the handgun the Australian has left with him instinctively. Putting the young soldier under scrutiny and weighing the reasonability of taking a guard along, Dietrich decides that a bodyguard with Gottschlich's unarmed melee competence is exactly who he wants to accompany him given the antipathy against him from von Stolberg's men. "Come along, Corporal Gottschlich, and stay ready for attacks", the Captain orders sternly, as he hands the young man the Australian's handgun. "Only once this, if a conflict escalates and your unarmed skills fail to control the situation. How much German do you actually understand, Corporal Gottschlich?", the Captain asks calmly. "Just a little bit, like every fifth word, Captain", the young man replies with a worried expression, if his commanding officer would be disappointed, but the German officer merely nods with a thoughtful expression and assesses: "You should also attend Sergeant Moffit's German courses with the others. Although you will start with an advantage, it will be important that you understand more than that, if we are to operate in Europe sooner or later." The last part is completely new to him and Gottschlich looks briefly confused, before he realizes that the sentence implies that Captain Dietrich intends to keep him in his unit for a long term. Smiling broadly in spite of their situation, the young soldier salutes properly and speaks a heartfelt "Thank you, Sir."

Nodding in quiet acknowledgement, the tall Captain turns back to the German senior POW officer, Leutnant Haberfeld, since Major von Stolberg is gravely injured and in sickbay. "Führen Sie uns zum Gefreiten Bauer, Herr Leutnant!" Haberfeld salutes his former senior officer and turns to lead them through the POW area toward a large tent. The intense stench of sweat upon entering is no surprise for Hans Dietrich after spending almost two years in the desert under various conditions, but Corporal Gottschlich wrinkles his nose, while the Captain keeps his face impassive and schooled into a stern professional expression. Several soldiers just lie on their cots dozing in the heat which they have preserved inside the tent to keep them warm during the cold November night to come. Others chat in small groups or play with cards using stones as stakes. All of them rise at the sight of their former Hauptmann and salute properly which Dietrich returns, also giving a nod of acknowledgement. Gottschlich looks slightly surprised at the respectful expressions that all German soldiers in the tent bear in Dietrich's presence.

Haberfeld does not have to tell his former Hauptmann where to find Wolf Bauer, as the young man lies on one of the cots closest to the tent entrance curled up on his side without giving any reaction when he is approached. The tall, lean Captain steps closer signaling Gottschlich to stay where he is and crouches next to the young German soldier. At close range, Dietrich can make out the split lip and fresh bruises in Bauer's face and along his arms. His bloodied knuckles show that he has fought back against his attackers, but he still looks like he has been more at the receiving end in this fight. The young man's breathing is short and painfully labored. The hand pressed against his up-turned side tells a tale of barely concealed pain and possibly internal injuries. "Gefreiter Bauer", the former Wehrmacht Hauptmann addresses the young man with a calm and gentle tone. As this induces no reaction, the Captain places a hand on his shoulder and starts shaking the younger man slightly, repeating the name.

Wolf Bauer stirs after a short while and then wakes with a start from his half-conscious stupor trying to withdraw from the touch immediately. "Herr Hauptmann", he mutters upon recognizing Dietrich asking what he is doing here with a heavy Austrian dialect. "Wos tuan Sie hier?" "Sie wurden angegriffen und schwer verletzt, Bauer", Dietrich states as a fact keeping his calm and gentle tone that Bauer has been attacked and gravely injured. "Warum weigern Sie sich, sich in der Krankenstation behandeln zu lassen?" Upon the question why he refuses to be treated in sickbay, Bauer's eyes turn utterly sad and desperate. "Warum soiten's Ressourcen an mi vaschwend'n, Herr Hauptmann? Ich hab ohnehin nix und niemanden, für den ich leben könnt' oder wollt'. Da brauch'n and're die Hilfe dringender." The German officer looks slightly taken aback at the statement that no resources should be wasted for the young man when others require the aid more dearly, as the young soldier has nothing and nobody to live for anyways. Haberfeld looks utterly uncomfortable, while Gottschlich does not understand everything said, but recognizes the expression and tone of voice as true despair. "Hören Sie mir gut zu, Bauer!" Dietrich speaks calmly and emphatically, "Ihr Leben ist nicht weniger wert als das jedes anderen Soldaten. Es ist meine Pflicht und eine Frage meiner Ehre, Sie genauso gut versorgen zu lassen wie jeden anderen Mann in diesem Lager." Insisting that Bauer's life is not worth less than the life of any other soldier, Dietrich assures him that it is his duty and a matter of his honor that the young soldier receives equally good treatment as any other man in camp. "So denk'n Sie, Hauptmann Dietrich, woi's a anständiger Mensch san, aber ned die Männer vom Major", Wolf laments in his native Austrian dialect. The German officer is frowning slightly, as the young man whimpers that even though this is the Captain's attitude, because he is a decent man, the major's men do not share the sentiment. Cautiously Dietrich asks why he cares about them: "Weshalb kümmert Sie deren Meinung? Die Meinung Ihrer Eltern, Geschwister, Freunde oder Liebsten sollte das einzig Wichtige sein." Upon the Captain's words that the attitude of his parents, siblings, friends or loved one should be the only relevant opinion for him, Wolf Bauer actually starts weeping silently.

"Mei Vota woar a kriegsversehrter Veteran vom großen Krieg, mei Muatta a verzweifelte Witwe, die ned g'wusst hat, wie's uns durchbringen soll. Mehr schlecht ois recht war'ma am Hof vom Schwager geduldet, dann hat sie mi mit Zehne als Knecht an den reichen Dorfplatzhirsch verkauft, damit wenigstens meine G'schwister a Chance hab'n." Hans Dietrich pales visibly and fights to keep a neutral expression at the story of Bauer's war-disabled father and his widowed mother who sold him to a rich farmer as a bondsman at the age of 10 to give his siblings a chance of being tolerated at the poor family farm. Wondering why people choose him of all possible people as a confidant for their life stories nowadays, the young Captain puts his hand back on Bauer's shoulder in a reassuring gesture the young man does not draw away from. Leutnant Haberfeld shows a similar reaction to his former Hauptmann in paling visibly, while Gottschlich understands too little to suffer truly, but feels actual compassion for the young Wehrmacht soldier nonetheless. "Als ich oid g'nua woar, hab' ich mich freiwillig zur Wehrmacht verpflichtet, nur um dem Kerl zu entkommen, auch wenn ich weder an die Nazis noch an ihre Parolen glaub'. Die werd'n mich immer hassen und als Mensch zweiter Klasse behandeln, so wie's des halbjüdische Mädel, mit dem ich 'gangen bin, ins KZ g'schickt hab'n." Dietrich has been aware that Gefreiter Bauer has had little sympathy for the Nazis and their slogans, but that he has joined the army only to escape servitude and that his half-Jewish girl-friend has been sent to a concentration camp is new to the young Captain. Meanwhile, Wolf Bauer has grabbed his former Hauptmann's wrist and is clinging to him as if to dear life, not realizing or caring who provides him with the only human connection offered to him.

Deeply unsettled by the private's story and seriously worried about his well-being and mental health, Dietrich speaks calmly and reassuringly with the young Austrian. "Glauben Sie mir, Bauer, dass gerade ich verstehen kann, was es bedeutet, alles und jeden von Bedeutung zu verlieren!" Haberfeld and several of the German soldiers who have started to listen in on the talk tense visibly at their Captain's statement that he can understand what it means to lose everything and everybody of relevance. "Ich kämpfe nicht mehr um Glanz und Glorie, Ansehen oder Auszeichnungen, sondern um meinen Idealen, Anstand und Ehre treu zu bleiben, meine Heimat und diese Welt befreit zu sehen von denen, die ihr am meisten schaden, die Abertausenden den Tod bringen und die übrigen in Furcht und Schrecken halten. Es sind nicht die Briten, Amerikaner oder Franzosen, die dafür sorgen, dass sich Freund gegen Freund, Verwandter gegen Verwandten, selbst Bruder gegen Schwester wendet, es sind die Nazis, die SS, die Gestapo, vor denen alle hier um sich, aber noch mehr um ihre Familie fürchten als sie es je vor den Alliierten tun würden." The tall young officer makes a passionate plea that he has stopped to fight for glory, reputation or medals, but to stand by his ideals, decency and honor, to free his homeland and the world they all live in from those who harm both the most, sowing death, terror and fear. Not Brits, Americans or Frenchmen, but the Nazis, SS and Gestapo make friends turn against friends, relatives against relatives, brothers against sisters, reminding them that they all fear these inner-German powers more for their own sake and their families' than they ever would fear the Allies. Sighing deeply, the German officer ends his motivational speech with a last emphatic statement. "Finden Sie so etwas, das es für Sie wert ist, dafür zu leben und zu kämpfen, Bauer!" By the end of the short talk, as he reminds the young soldier to find something worth living and fighting for, not only Wolf Bauer, but every single soldier in the tent is staring at Dietrich. The bruised looking former Hauptmann of their unit, condemned and sentenced to death by the SS, defected to the Allies still stands tall and proud and is just as unwilling to budge from defending his morale principles and men's lives as he always has, since they have known him, some for mere weeks, others for many months.

"Ich flehe Sie an, Hauptmann Dietrich", Bauer pleads with Dietrich, "lassen Sie mit Ihnen kämpfen!" The German Captain winces at the young soldier's desperate plea to allow him to fight alongside him. "Seien Sie vorsichtig, was Sie sich wünschen, Bauer! Ich bin aus gutem Grund ein zum Tode verurteilter Hochverräter, der seine Heimat niemals mehr betreten darf und als vogelfrei behandelt wird", the German Captain argues that Wolf Bauer should be careful what he wishes for, as the officer himself is a traitor condemned to death for a good reason, without any right to return to his home, outcast and outlawed from the perspective of his fatherland. "Um mit mir zu dienen, müssten Sie zu den Amerikanern überlaufen. Dass Sie dann mit mir dienen, liegt leider nicht in meiner Macht zu entscheiden. Ich kann und werde Ihnen kein Versprechen geben, das ich nicht halten kann", Dietrich reminds him that to serve with him, he would have to defect to join the U.S. army and even then he cannot guarantee that Bauer would serve with him and is unwilling to give a promise he cannot keep. Wolf acknowledges the explanation with a nod and squeeze of his former Hauptmann's wrist. "Aber ich verspreche Ihnen, dass ich mich für Sie nach bestem Wissen und Gewissen einsetzen werde. Dafür will ich ein Versprechen von Ihnen, dass Sie nicht Ihr Leben sinnlos wegwerfen, sondern sich gut überlegen, für welche Sache Sie einstehen können", Captain Dietrich finally concludes his plea with a promise of his own to advocate for Wolf Bauer to the best of his knowledge and abilities, if the young man is willing to give him a promise in return that he will reflect what is a cause he can stand and fight for and that he will not throw away his life needlessly. "Das schwöre ich Ihnen, Hauptmann Dietrich, bei der Jungfrau Maria und allem, was mir heilig ist!", Wolf Bauer provides an emphatic oath in the name of the virgin Mary and all he holds dear.

With a sly smile, the German Captain speaks then: "Ausgezeichnet. Dann können Sie mich jetzt auf die Krankenstation begleiten, da Sie mir geschworen haben, Ihr Leben nicht sinnlos wegzuwerfen, Gefreiter Bauer. Unteroffizier Gottschlich wird Ihnen helfen." Bauer looks truly surprised that Dietrich has tricked him into accompanying him to sickbay, reminding him of his promise to not throw away his life needlessly. Turning to Corporal Gottschlich, the German Captain orders in English and German to be sure that both soldiers understand: "You will help him to sickbay, Corporal Gottschlich! Sie helfen dem Gefreiten Bauer zur Krankenstation." Gottschlich salutes and Bauer meets his former Hauptmann's eyes with a pained, but grateful gaze. "Danke, Herr Hauptmann!" Both Dietrich and Gottschlich support Wolf Bauer to get to his feet, before Gottschlich takes over bearing the main weight of the lean Austrian. While the American Corporal guides the man outside, the German Captain turns to Leutnant Haberfeld to compliment him for the good decision to address his former Hauptmann. "Es war gut, dass Sie mich hinzugezogen haben. Wie es mit ihm weitergeht, kann ich nicht vorhersagen, aber wenigstens hat er seinen Lebenswillen wiedergefunden." Both know that none of them can predict how Bauer's future will develop, but are equally relieved that the tormented and despondent young man has accepted help and found something to provide him with a will to live for now. After thanking the young officer whole-heartedly, Haberfeld accompanies the Captain to the exit of the prisoners' area where both salute respectfully. All soldiers in the tent and several along the way to the exit salute their former senior officer with respect still shining in their eyes.

As soon as he is leaving the POW area to follow Gottschlich and Bauer, Hans Dietrich finds himself intercepted by Captain Brown who eyes the German officer with unconcealed curiosity and wariness. "What have you been doing among your former soldiers, Captain?" Narrowing his eyes in suspicion that the Australian is accusing him innocently of treason, Captain Dietrich snarls: "I arranged for one of my former men to be treated in sickbay, after he was attacked by Major von Stolberg's soldiers." Brown looks slightly surprised. "Why would your men turn to you and trust you? You defected and betrayed them." "I have never betrayed my men!", the German bellows with the wrath of the righteous fueling his fury. "I have turned against the forces violating and terrorizing my home country, but I would rather die than turn against my own men who have trusted me with their lives since arriving in North Africa!" Brown starts to realize why the Germans in the POW area have saluted the man who has led them into Allied captivity rather than turning against the traitor. "Forgive me for accusing you, Captain Dietrich! You are an unusual defector. Some officers who have defected offered military knowledge, others sold their whole units under their command, but I cannot recall having had one who has been respected by his former men beyond imprisonment or stood in the front line of battles, yet still been respected by his former as well as his new allies. Those Germans I've just seen saluting you really respect you, as do many soldiers and officers in this camp within a few days of your change of sides. A truly admirable feat." The German Captain still eyes him with wariness, although his expression has become more guarded and thus neutral than before, when his anger and wounded pride have been obvious.

"I hope you will still honor my invitation, Captain Dietrich", Brown reminds him. Keep your friends close and your enemies closer goes the saying, Dietrich reflects and this applies to both Captains. "Declining such an invitation would be an act of impoliteness I am unwilling to commit, unless you give me good reason to do so, Captain Brown", the German replies smoothly, surprising the older Australian. "Sam must be really annoyed by your sophisticated way of speaking, Captain Dietrich. He always thought people just wanted to rub their higher education under his nose in this way, reminding him that he could not even finish high-school, because he had to take over the ranch duties from his dying father." Dietrich hides his surprise at the statement, as this sentiment of Troy's has never been obvious for him before. Neither he nor Moffit have found themselves under vicious verbal attack for displaying higher education, at least not more than for other things annoying the American Sergeant. Brown eyes the tall German Captain from head to toe, before he adds with a smile: "I am curious though where you have learned English so well."

Donning a sly smile and wily expression, Dietrich replies dryly: "How did you formulate this so well, those would be spoilers. Maybe we can agree on an exchange of information on equal terms, Captain Brown." The Australian officer grins widely. "I like your way of dealing with your adversaries. You're smart and wily, not violent or cruel, proud, but not arrogant and my sources were definitely right about your sense of humor." Raising his eyebrows, the lean German deadpans: "I doubt that you have come even close to my sense of humor, as you would not count it among my positive features otherwise. Even Sergeant Troy suggests that I require an arm's licence for it. Now if you would excuse me, I have an obligation to my former soldier to uphold." Without bothering to give the insolent Australian too much time to annoy him any more of his unnecessary statements than Brown already has, Dietrich turns on his heel and strides in the direction of the sickbay with a proud stance, head held high. "I'm looking forward to chatting with you later, Captain Dietrich!", the Australian Captain shouts after the German's retreating back, mirth obvious in his voice. Biting down on his lip to avoid a scathing remark in the direction of the other Captain, Dietrich continues on his intended route swiftly. Troy's mentor is even more successful in annoying him than the Sergeant himself. Hopefully, the American will not pick up any of the Aussie's tricks in the days to come or the German officer will not have a peaceful moment in his near future.

Sickbay is sunk in less confusion and chaos than it has been in the last days, as the Captain enters. Nurse Hartigan greets him with a scowl, putting the lean man under scrutiny immediately. "I am here to check on Private Bauer, the German soldier who should have arrived with Corporal Gottschlich a few minutes ago." Lisa Hartigan points in the direction of the German part of the tent. "Your Doktor Sommer is taking care of him." "Thank you, Lieutenant!", Dietrich replies neutrally and looks in the direction immediately, while he asks with dry humor: "How annoying has Major von Stolberg been during the day? Or have you kept him sedated to preserve your nerves?" Briefly surprised by the German's dry-humored questions, the nurse starts smiling. "He is far too well to not get on our nerves within a few minutes. I believe it's even worse for the German Doctor though, as he can actually understand him." With a pained expression, Dietrich groans: "I know exactly what you are talking about." "I thought you would, Captain", the nurse grins and winks at him. "We've all heard the stories about you being called the halfblood-plebeian. It's utterly hilarious." Snorting in indignation, the proud young officer answers: "It might be for you, but it's certainly not for me. I assure you."

Switching the unnerving topic, the young Captain inquires with a more serious tone: "Are you aware of the state of the other German patients, Lieutenant?" "Your Sergeant with the changing name is really getting worse. His wounds have become infected, no wonder since he has almost drowned in faeces, and his fever is not yet broken, but still rising." Dietrich looks seriously concerned at the answer. "Is there anything that can be done for Sergeant Nemet?" "As far as I know the Swiss have given him antibiotics which we didn't have available, but they will require one or two more days to take effect." Dietrich nods in understanding. "Thank you for your honesty. How is private Kierner with his amputated leg?" "The short, blond one?", Lisa asks. "He is sleeping most of the time and appears pretty much battle-fatigued, when he doesn't have enough morphine." "I'm sorry to hear that", the German Captain speaks with honest compassion and concern, as he stops briefly at the young man's cot and eyes him with a sad expression which Lisa Hartigan manages to observe in an unguarded moment, before the young officer schools his face into a neutral expression again. When she places her hand on the tall man's shoulder in an intended gesture of sympathy, the German flinches and whirls around with hands raised in a battle-ready stance, before he catches himself to not attack her on instinct. "You'd better not touch me unexpectedly, Lieutenant!", Dietrich speaks with a low growl which he intends to be intimidating. Only Lisa Hartigan is not easy to intimidate, as she replies sarcastically: "Thank you for not attacking me, Captain!"

Then, she switches to a more friendly tone. "I'm sorry, Captain. I didn't mean to startle you, only show some sympathy. You're not even close to being as cold-hearted and ruthless, as you pretend to be after all." "You'd better not rely on other people's misconceptions!", the German counters icily. "I rely on my own perception usually", the self-reliant young woman comments. "But in this case I trust Ari's assessment most of all. It would take a truly cold-hearted man to leave the kid to his fate, but few would have the empathy to listen to his newly learned phrases, hold him during his spikes of panic and treat him like their own son or nephew." The tall officer looks slightly flustered at the assessment. "I'm not his official caregiver and mainly trying to get him out of this warzone as quickly as possible. Until then, he has few people who he trusts as much since losing his family." "That's really responsible of you, Captain. I doubt the boy would leave without you though. At least not without putting up resistance and wishing to see you again", Lisa Hartigan assesses and Hans Dietrich nods in reluctant agreement. "I am afraid that you might be right, Lieutenant. But I will start worrying about that as soon as I have solved the problem of getting the boy to safety at all."

"Herr Hauptmann", Doktor Sommer greets Dietrich waving to him to come closer and Wolf Bauer immediately raises his head from his prone position on a hospital cot having taken off his shirt. Corporal Gottschlich has stayed close-by to watch over the young man and wait for his Captain. Both Germans and the American bear friendly expressions at the sight of the young officer. "How is Gefreiter Bauer?", Dietrich inquires, staying with English for the benefit of the nurse and to not raise suspicions. "Mostly superficial injuries in the face, but several ribs are cracked and two have been broken. I suspect internal bleeding from a punctured spleen or kidney. Nurse Hartigan", Ludwig Sommer turns to address the American nurse directly. "Please prepare everything for an emergency operation of the young man's thorax. We will require narcotics." "Of course, Doctor Sommer", the usually insolent nurse replies with complacency that surprises Dietrich. Apparently, she really respects and likes his former Stabsarzt.

"Hatten Sie irgendwelche Probleme beim Wasserlassen oder Blut im Harn?", Sommer questions the young soldier professionally whether he has suffered from any problems like blood mixed into his urine. Wolf Bauer bears a sheepish expression. "Ich weiß nicht. Kann mich nicht erinnern, Doktor." Doktor Sommer looks concerned that the young man does not know or remember something like this. "Sie achten jetzt erst einmal auf Ihre Gesundheit, Bauer, und denken über die Frage nach, die ich Ihnen gestellt habe. Dann können wir über Ihre Zukunft und Intentionen sprechen, wenn Sie wieder genesen, bei klarem Verstand und nicht halbtot oder am Rande der Verzweiflung sind", Dietrich admonishes that Bauer should take care of his health now and think about the question the Captain has posed for him. The young officer is only willing to talk about the young Austrian's future once he is recovered, mentally fit and not half-dead or at the verge of despair. From his own experience Hans Dietrich knows that anything else will lead to unclear decisions which might turn out differently once reflected with a cool head. Sending the traumatised young man back to battle where he would likely get himself killed since he is not caring about his own safety or life, the German Captain decides to bring the matter up with Jakob, once his friend has overcome his own fears.

Captain Boggs has become aware of the commotion and asks the younger officer for a report of the situation which the German provides with practiced precision. Luckily for Dietrich the patients in sickbay have already been provided with dinner and the persons in the officer's ward are being served first, so that Ari is sufficiently occupied with Moffit's lessons on proper usage of cutlery to not cling to him. With a sharp salute the German Captain withdraws and turns to get his own dinner, as Jakob gets up and follows alongside him in unusual quietness. "I'll try to get out of the sickbay for dinner", the Jewish officer finally explains with a sheepish smile. "Good", his German friend comments neutrally. "Tell me, if I can do anything for you." "Thanks, Hans", Jakob says with a quickly passing smile, before continuing alongside his friend with a constantly worried expression.

With the exception of Fritz' incessant begging, their dinner passes uneventfully. Afterwards, General Atkins asks for a detailed recount of the interaction with the Arabs which has half the officer's table listening in with curiosity. Then, Captain Brown reports some of his scout troops' mission successes, ranging from the destruction of German gasoline depots to the capture of several soldiers who have already been sent to the prisoners area. Dietrich listens quietly with a stony expression to the reports which remind him far too vividly of the destruction of his own former camps and convoys to sit well with him.

Consciously fighting against the memories threatening to overwhelm him, the German officer does not pay too close attention, until he hears his own name repeated loudly and finds several officers along the table staring at him, while Jakob places his hand on his friend's upper arm. Scowling, Hans Dietrich quickly collects his wits and speaks with a controlled voice: "I beg your pardon. Could you repeat your request." Major Turner observes the German Captain with slight concern, while Atkins and Brown have narrowed their eyes warily. "I said we captured a soldier named Friedrich Dietrich. Do you know him, Captain?" The young German scowls, but shakes his head, answering with a tinge of sarcasm: "No. As little as you know every Brown in the British army, Captain. Dietrich is a fairly common name in Northern Germany. I'm not related to all of them." Brown grins widely. "Only to the famous Marlene, as rumor in camp goes." The lean German tenses, then raises his eyes heavenward in a silent prayer for some divine intervention, a good flooding would settle the matter of the American imbeciles gossiping like washerwomen. As expected no unearthly power saves him from the situation however.

Finally, the German officer shakes his head again to clear it and replies with a dry tone dripping of sarcasm: "There must be some reason why you, General Atkins, have considered me for a career of playing the role of whichever type of officer is required behind enemy lines, instead of putting me in command of an infantry or artillery unit, as I am actually trained." Jakob's previously despondent expression lights up with actual amusement. "I was not aware of your Hollywood relation", Atkins sounds honestly astounded and Lieutenant Silberblatt has to bite down on his tongue to not give the ruse away. "This truly helps to smoothen some things out for you, like obtaining a citizenship and valid passport." Dietrich briefly bears an expression like a kicked dog, before he explains with a grave tone: "Unfortunately for me, this rumor is not true." "Are you sure?", Atkins asks to which the German answers with a tone that barely hides his annoyance: "I am sure that I would know, if I was related to one of Germany's most famous actresses." Atkins scowls, then a devious expression appears on his face. "But you cannot actually disprove the rumor, Captain." Dietrich looks briefly stunned by the senior officer even considering such a deception. Then he remembers Jakob's words not to provide the man with further devious ideas. "We will treat you as related to Mrs. Dietrich for all official paperwork in the near future. Noone will complain." The German officer looks perplexed, then growls: "General Atkins, I have to protest against such a deception. I'm not a chronic liar who would embark on such dishonesty!" Turner, Brown and Winters eye Captain Dietrich with open admiration, while Jakob looks worried, as Atkins scowls at the defiant tone and attitude. "This is for your advantage to obtain a salary and citizenship sooner. " Hans Dietrich clenches his jaws, gritting out: "Do you honestly think I care about money, ranks or medals? I've lost my homeland, my family and almost my life. Honor and dignity are the last things I have left!"

Close to losing his patience, the livid German officer rises to his feet intent to leave immediately after his last statement, before he will say anything in his anger that he would later regret. He will already have stirred up enough trouble as it is. "Stop, Captain!", General Atkins' sharp command stops Dietrich in his tracks. "Sit down!" Warily, never taking his eyes off the senior officer, the German Captain lowers himself back into his chair. "I apologise for the deception, but a test of character cannot be performed after being announced and expected." Realizing that he has been finessed, Dietrich settles with glaring at the American General but does not trust himself to speak his mind without potentially facing a court martial afterwards. The rest of the officers around the table share the sentiment, as none utters a word, observing the drama unfold instead.

"I've already arranged for all documents and papers to be issued, but I wanted an impression of the truthfulness of protesting against the Nazis' actions before clearing you of all accusations." Dietrich looks briefly stunned but has to recognize the reasonability of this approach. Keeping his mouth shut to not utter the sarcastic question whether a death sentence rendered by the SS would not have been sufficient, the German Captain observes the American general warily, while Atkins continues unperturbed: "You and your unit will accompany my column, as soon as the supplies of the camp are secured and Captain Boggs can return to his duties, Captain Dietrich. I have some special duties for you in mind." Eyeing the man angrily, Dietrich gives a curt nod and salute, before asking sharply: "Am I dismissed, Sir?" Atkins eyes him briefly with an inscrutable expression, then nods. "You may leave, Captain."

Immediately after Dietrich, Captain Brown stands up and excuses himself, following the German officer closely, until the younger man whirls around and snaps: "Would you mind terribly to leave me in peace, Captain Brown?" Both know that this is a rhetorical question and Brown applies one of his friendlier smiles and tone. "You're still invited as my guest, Captain. I hope you will not let me down." "Haven't I gone through enough tests of character for a single day?", the German Captain snarls indignantly. Brown puts the tall, lean man under scrutiny. Dietrich looks tired and worn under his outward show of anger and indignation and the haunted look has never truly left his brown eyes since mentioning the raids against German convoys and camps. "I really don't intend to test or torment you, Captain Dietrich. I merely would like to gain an impression of my latest fellow officer. I give you my word on that." With a sigh, Dietrich nods curtly after a moment's hesitation.

Jakob who has followed them as well in honest concern about his friend looks from one to the other. "We're invited to a party and you didn't invite me to come along? And here I'd thought we were friends, Hans", the Lieutenant asks with a smile, trying to reduce the tension through a humorous statement. "Since you have refused to be part of my unit, Jakob, you have not been officially invited", Dietrich replies dryly. Brown looks from one to the other, puzzled by their friendly banter and curious to learn the connection between the two men, as he has observed the young German officer to act totally guarded all the time. From what he has heard and seen the German officer does not interact on a first name basis with anybody even with his own former staff medic and fellow officer, although the man still holds his former Captain in highest esteem and used the man's first name at times when speaking about him. "I'd be glad to have you as our guest as well", he offers graciously and the young man with curly dark hair smiles back openly. "Who are you?" "I'm Lieutenant Jakob Silberblatt. In case you're wondering how we", Jakob points and himself and Hans, "are related. We have grown up together and been friends since childhood days. I had to flee from Germany with my family when the Nazis started to harass and arrest Jews openly." His German friend bears an unreadable expression, but the pain is visible in his brown eyes. "And you still speak with a German officer after that, even if he was your friend as a boy?", Brown wonders with astonishment. "Hans saved our lives, helping us to flee from Germany, and mine more than just once", Jakob sounds indignant standing up in defense of his friend. The Australian Captain looks openly baffled, then turns and speaks in a more friendly tone: "I'm more than curious to learn more about you two then! Please follow me, gentlemen." By now Troy, Hitch, Tully and Gottschlich have also approached them, but kept from interrupting the argument, observing the three officers instead.

"Captain Brown, I have the obligation to check on my night guards", Dietrich speaks with a serious tone. "After yesterday's events and countless attacks on my camps I take this duty very seriously. Just go ahead with the rest of your party guests. I will join you later." Captain Brown eyes the lean German with equal amounts of astonishment and curiosity. "If I may, I would like to accompany you, Captain", the Australian officer states, half doubtful that the German Captain would ever join him again, if he would let him out of sight, half curious to see the infamous young officer in action. Briefly baffled by the request the German Captain shrugs and nods. "You may come along. At least I will not find myself as outnumbered as yesterday", he remarks with a fatalistic tone at which Jakob Silberblatt pales visibly, while Troy and the Rats scowl.

As they all follow the German Captain, Troy addresses Dietrich: "I heard you had Gotty bring one of your German soldiers to the sickbay and the boy was really despairing." The German Captain sighs deeply. "Wolf Bauer is one of my former men, a young Austrian. Major von Stolberg's more aggressive men attacked him, when he tried to dissuade them from rampaging, along with several other of my soldiers." The young officer sounds proud of his men for their honor and reasonability. "They reflect their former CO pretty well, I'd say. You've really set standards for your guys. Sad that not all of them heeded that at all times", Troy comments honestly. "Don't remind me!", Dietrich speaks with a slightly strangled voice, as the images of desert battles and the sounds of .50 machine gun fire, Jeeps's engines and death cries of soldiers invade his mind unbidden. Noticing the German stop, Jakob and Troy turn and immediately notice the young officer's haunted look. Jakob beats Troy to addressing his friend anxiously repeating: "Hans!" As the words induce no reaction, Troy places a hand on the young Captain's uninjured shoulder and jounces him slightly, then more intensely, as he receives no reaction.

Shaking his head to clear it from the unbidden invasion through his memories which has become shockingly intense and frequent after his concussion, Hans Dietrich focuses his thoughts on the touch anchoring him in reality. Troy's and Jakob's concerned faces come into view, as his thoughts become more and more coherent and his gaze more focused. "I'm alright. Thank you", the young Captain speaks more calmly than he feels. Troy eyes him dubiously. "Sure you're alright, Captain. You look like you've seen a ghost." "Too many ghosts, Sergeant", the German replies before stopping himself. "Leave it be!" Realizing that he would only torment the young man, but not gain anything, Troy heeds his warning and drops the matter. Tully, Hitch and Gottschlich have surrounded them by now as well and look at their Captain with worried expressions. Turning sharply, the young German officer walks briskly to the first night watch campfire, greets the soldier there respectfully and receives a brief report, before they all continue to walk on.

"You were talking 'bout your man, Bauer, Captain", Hitch tries to salvage the situation and their previous conversation by prompting the talk for which he actually earns a grateful nod from Dietrich who explains with a serious tone in which those who know him well enough can hear the underlying compassion: "Bauer has had a rough childhood and joined the army only to escape a worse fate, but never was happy with the Nazis. I learned only today that he had a half-Jewish girl-friend who had been sent to a concentration camp. He begged to be allowed to follow me into battle again." A sad expression passes over the German Captain's face, as he speaks bitterly: "As if there wouldn't have died enough soldiers for me already who trusted me. Bauer is not in full possession of his senses and must not make any decision in such a state." Troy blushes slightly remembering how he has tried to push the half-dead Captain to decide on his deception in a similar state of mind.

By now they have reached the second campfire of the night guards and Dietrich greets the two Americans with a sharp salute. After a brief status report, the Captain takes his leave with his entourage to continue to the last checkpoint. After chewing on his matchstick with a thoughtful expression, Tully Pettigrew finally inquires about what has been causing him confusion: "Austrian? Why is your guy even in the Wehrmacht? Shouldn't he serve with the Aussies?" This actually forces a smile on his despondent German Captain's face and that of his friend Silberblatt, while Captain Brown looks utterly non-plussed. "Austria is really not Australia, Private Pettigrew. There are no kangaroos around and people are grumpy and miserable even from a German perspective", Dietrich corrects Tully with dry humor which induces grins in most people and a hearty laugh in Captain Brown who comments with amusement: "Here's a man who knows his geography and people of the world!" "You're a far more entertaining smartass than Moffit. I grant you that, Captain", Troy comments highly bemused and relieved to see the the German's humor return which he considers a good sign. "I'm not sure who should be more offended by this statement, Sergeant Moffit or I", Dietrich counters dryly, finally recovering from his flashback and lingering emotions, as he pushes both to the back of his mind through an effort of will.

They arrive at the last night guard campfire and exchange a quick status report with the two British soldiers who eye the German Captain with a mixture of wariness and respect, as his reputation precedes him. Their Lieutenants have insisted that they are to be at their best behaviour with respect to Dietrich. After leaving them at their position, the German Captain declares his duties for the day fulfilled and the Australian Captain announces the evening entertainment opened with a grin. Brown leads them through the Aussie's camp to the center of the camp, where two large camp fires burn and a large dining table has been placed in between with several chairs around. Three men have already been sitting and waiting at the table laid out with glasses, jugs of water and bottles with hand-written labels, containing dubiously colored liquids. Around the camp fires several Australian soldiers are sitting, chatting, gambling and a few of them singing what sounds like sea shanties. Jakob elbows his friend: "Should we join them and show them some real sea shanties?" Dietrich stares at him incredulously: "Jakob, you almost failed 'music' in school for your lack of singing skills and you haven't even drunk anything yet to blame it on the alcohol. What did they give you in sickbay for your treatment?" "I wanted to volunteer you, Hans", Jakob pouts with the expression of a petulant child that Ari has thankfully not adopted from him yet. "Do you have any idea into how much trouble you've gotten me with this sentence?", his German friend asks dryly, but sporting a mischiveous smile briefly. "We should keep him around. Cap's a lot more relaxed and joking in his friend's presence", Hitch whispers to Troy. "We all are, Hitch", the Sergeant replies with a grin.

As the three men at the table get up to approach the new-arrivals, Captain Brown introduces them, starting with his guests. The introduction of "Captain Hans Dietrich" induces curious expressions on the faces of all three of the Australians who return the German's sharp salute with military precision and some of the close-by Australian soldiers turn to stare at the tall, lean officer with curiosity and wariness. Then follow Lieutenant Jakob Silberblatt, Sergeant Sam Troy, Corporal Riku Gottschlich whose German-Japanese name combination and slightly Asiatic features cause the three Aussies to narrow their eyes warily, more so than with the German Captain. Hitch whispers to Gottschlich who appears to be discouraged by the animosity: "Don't worry, Gotty! We'll watch your back." The American Privates Mark Hitchcock and Tully Pettigrew are regarded as ordinary and uninteresting, but greeted nonetheless.

Bidding his guests forward, Brown introduces his own officers: "Lieutenant Padraig O'Malley." A red-blond, freckled, short man in his late twenties greets them with a smile and loud "Howdy, fellas!", shaking the hand of each man. Dietrich remembers the radio call he has had with the man and regrets not to have prepared himself with taking an aspirin in advance. The combination of Troy, Brown and this O'Malley mixed with the rest of the Rats and Jakob will most likely cause him a worse headache than his concussion. "Lieutenant Richard Taylor", Brown states, as he points at the second officer who looks more dignified than O'Malley with slightly greying, well-kempt hair and a straight military stance. Taylor is more muscular than his younger fellow officer and appears to be in his mid-forties. Also he salutes with military precision which is only mirrored by Hans Dietrich's own sharp salute, while the Americans fail to live up to the example in various degrees of failure, with only Gottschlich coming close to their example. The last person draws curious gazes from all guests, as his dark skin marks him as an indigenous Australian. "Our aboriginal desert survival expert, Sergeant James Wiliamson", Brown introduces the short man in his mid-twenties with curly black hair similar to Jakob's who sports a wide smile similar to his Captain, but underneath the casual expression tension and insecurity are visible. Without waiting for his rowdy unit's misbehaviour, the German officer salutes as sharply as before nodding to the man in greeting. Learning something about him and his people truly stirs his curiosity. The Americans eye the dark-skinned man with far more surprise and wariness than the two Germans for whom a person of color is too exotic to be associated with systematic racial discrimination in their homeland.

"They sent Williamson in after you left me for the American sub unit of the LRDP, Sammy, and I promoted him to become your successor." "Do you want to switch, Captain Brown?", Dietrich surprises them all with the dry-humored offer. "You ungrateful Jerry!", Troy growls in mock indignation, while Brown smiles widely and Williamson actually eyes the young officer with an expression of curiosity recognizing that it holds no malice which is a strange concept for him. "I can see your reasons for proposing such a switch, Captain Dietrich, but I really cannot risk Sergeant Williamson to take serious harm through your infamous sense of humor." The German looks briefly stunned at the counterargument, before giving a wry half-smile, while Jakob, Hitch and Troy do not even try to hide their wide grins. Troy places a hand on the German's shoulder and whispers rather loudly: "Seems like you're stuck with me, Captain." "Unfortunately!", the lean officer counters dryly, trying to shrugh off the hand on his shoulder without appearing to be too obvious about it. Brown smirks at their exchange, as does Jakob Silberblatt. "Please take a seat, gentlemen", Brown plays the gracious host handing each of them a glass and passes a bottle with a brownish, slightly cloudy liquid. While Dietrich eyes the substance with a dubious look as if Brown would intend to poison him, Tully opens the bottle and sniffs curiously. "What's that? Smells like rum, but with some additional aroma." Brown exchanges a grin with Williamson. "That's the Sergeant's secret ingredient. You're an expert to recognize our homebrew just from the smell." Tully appears more outgoing than ever before, shining in his field of expertise. "Been runnin' moonshine from Kentucky to all over the states for years with my ol' folks at home, rum, whisky, gin,... You name it, we get it fer you!" Brown bears the look of the proverbial cat that got the cream. "If only I had a driver like you." "Pettigrew's not available for exchange", the German Captain intercedes dryly. "Too bad, but I can understand the wish to not lose a reliable source of alcohol", Brown replies with grin that makes Dietrich growl lowly with indignation and wounded pride. Jakob's hand on his friend's shoulder stops him from jumping to his feet.

"You proposed an exchange of information", the German Captain pronounces after reining in his anger and swallowing his wounded pride. "Indeed. You wanted to know who told me about you and warned me of your sense of humor, Captain Dietrich", Brown smiles, as he fills the glasses of the people around him with the homebrew rum. Seeing this, Dietrich quickly draws his glass out of the Australian's reach. "You wouldn't wish to offend me by refusing my drink, Captain?" The German winces slightly. "If the headache from my concussion does not kill me, the camp medics definitely will, should I accept that offer", Hans Dietrich replies dryly. Troy rises to his defense now. "That's true, Browny. He's better off without that stuff straight from hell." The description does nothing to increase the German's trust in the dubious substance, while Tully looks excited at the prospect of tasting the stuff. "I donate my portion to Private Pettigrew", Dietrich announces graciously and demonstratively takes a jug of water to fill his glass. "Thanks, Cap", the young American sounds uncharacteristically enthusiastic. "Liebe geht durch den Magen", Jakob cites an old German proverb. "Jakob!", his friend growls in exasperation. "What did he say?", Troy asks in a whisper from the Captain's other side unnerving him even more. "You're German classes start tomorrow, Sergeant! That's an old German proverb that the way to a man's heart is through his stomach", Dietrich growls back in a low voice which can still be heard by those sitting closeby around the table. Hitch grins and even Tully smirks, while Brown laughs openly.

With a sigh the German Captain returns to business. "What do you ask in exchange for the information about your sources in camp, Captain Brown?" Brown smiles widely. "I think you wanted to tell me about how you learned to speak English so well. I can barely pick up a German accent." Troy looks like a dream has come true, and Hitch' eyes sparkle with anticipation of a good story. "That's a wonderful story", Jakob starts out enthusiastically and finds himself interrupted by Hans: "Jakob, shut up for heaven's sake!" Troy grins and elbows the German in the ribs at which the lean man actually flinches with pain. "Seeing you treat me just like your best friend, it's hard for you to argue that we're not friends." "You should stop drinking that stuff, Troy. It's meddling with your brain at a dangerous speed", the Captain deadpans, refusing to let the American manipulate him through his anger. "So, do we have a deal, Captain Dietrich?", Brown interrupts their friendly banter. "I'd rather trade you for your own story. How does an Australian rancher make it from the other end of the world to a Captain in the LRDP in North Africa?", Dietrich counters with actual curiosity. "Agreed", Brown holds out his hand for the German to seal their contract by handshake.

"It's really far less interesting than you may think, Captain Dietrich. My father already served in the great war kicking the backsides of Germans and their Turkish friends. He was one of the heroes of Beersheba, rode right into the brunt of battle with the 4th Light Horse Brigade and kicked them Turks out of that water hole. When he returned with his war horse missing one arm, I still wanted to become like him one day, trained riding on the horse every day until its death." The German eyes him with a curious expression. Although too young to have consciously experienced the time after the great war, Hans Dietrich can perfectly understand what it means to grow up as the son of a cavalry man having been trained for the same reason in horseback riding and saber fighting by his former Cavalry Captain father. "My father told us war stories of their herois deeds every day after dinner", Captain Brown continues his recount basking in his nostalgic memories. "Now I know they were highly exaggerated, back then I believed every word of those stories of glory, bravery and fearlessness in the eyes of the enemy. So when they called for us to join the army to fight against the Germans again, it was like a dream coming true. The twenty years in between I spent with the usual life of a rancher, taking care of the ranch, marrying, having kids and watching them grow up. Since my father was a hero of Beersheba, they made me an officer right away and maybe because of my age and experience with organising stuff, I made it to Captain in their desert patrol which I've been for two years now. For at least one of those two years, your name frequently occurred, crossing blades with our patrols, arresting patrolers, laying traps and drafting wily maneuvers to outwit us." Dietrich tenses visibly, observing the Australian with narrowed eyes, as Brown continues unperturbed: "I heard that my friend Sammy has had frequent successes against you, but noone captured or killed you in all this time despite the prize on your head. That's something I've not understood until observing you with Sam Troy and his Rats. For archenemies, even former archenemies, you're really close and almost interacting like reluctant friends and none of you can convince me that this change of heart has happened within the four or five days since your defection." The German has frozen and paled slightly at the assessment, while Troy grins from ear to ear. "I told you so!" "Troy, drink your rum and shut up!", the former Wehrmacht Hauptmann snaps.

"So, this settles my part of the deal", Brown announces and Dietrich regrets deeply to have let him talk at all, deciding that this will definitely be the last story that they trade and he has no interest to ask the man to elaborate which might escalate through more of the Aussie's unwanted words of wisdom to be shared. "Now for my end of our agreement", the German starts out after clearing his throat. "You wanted to hear how I learned to speak English. You may not have guessed, but the language is actually taught in school in Germany rather frequently", Dietrich starts out with a dry tone. While Jakob can barely contain his laughter, Brown's and Troy's shocked expressions at the anticlimatic story are priceless and a sight to behold for the German officer after having been on the receiving end of their ruses. "But the rest of the Jerries definitely cannot keep up with your language level", Hitch recovers his natural intelligence as an Ivy League student for once. "You're right, Hitchcock", Dietrich concedes with a smile still enjoying to have pulled one over on Troy and his annoying, impertinent mentor. "I've already explained to Moffit that as a teenager I came to North Africa for at least a month every summer for six years, because my uncle was hired by the German Egyptology Society to organize expeditions for their excavations. He and my father wanted my cousins and me to receive basic training in organizing workers and supplies, survival under harsh conditions, riding camels, horses, motorbikes and cars in order to prepare us for our intended future careers in the military." "If you've done this for six years, how old were you then?", Troy asks curiously. "When I went for the first time, I was eleven, at the last time sixteen", the German answers honestly. "I still recall you coming home from the trips every year with new stories and tricks." "Tricks?", Troy asks simultaneously with Brown, both raising their voice with curiosity.

Dietrich grimaces slightly and shoots a brief glare in Jakob's direction. If only his friend could ever hold his tongue... "My uncle has hired an American adventurer to perform the actually menial tasks of going into the poor Egyptian meager shanties and huts to hire workers, to go to the bazaar and negotiate buying pack animals, food and water or trade with grave robbers who would sell their stolen artefacts to the rich Europeans", the young German explains calmly. "Let me guess. Curiosity got the better of you and you went along with that guy", Troy adds with a grin. "Your guess is fairly accurate. I learned English and Arabic in that way, as well as supply requisition, bazaar negotiations and how to evaluate good pack and riding beasts", the German Captain replies. "Now, don't be so prudish, Hans. You learned a lot more than that", Jakob interrupts and Dietrich briefly struggles with the urge to throttle his idiotic friend. "Yes, I learned some riding stunts as well", he adds sarcastically glaring at Silberblatt. "And some other ... handy skills which are hard to pick up elsewhere." "And what kind of skills would that be?", Brown asks curiously. Dietrich applies his sly smile, when he has finally sprung a trap. "I fear this is not entailed in our deal, Captain Brown. You wanted to hear how I learned to speak English so well, you received you answer." Brown looks briefly surprised, but smiles after all and asks: "What would you wish to trade this information for, Captain Dietrich?" Dietrich replies dryly: "You have demonstrated to me quite extensively that the sooner I stop talking with you the better this will be for me." Brown appears briefly stunned, then laughs heartily and looks from one of his officers to the other. "What do you think, fellows? Should we put our cards on the table?"

O'Mally nods enthusiastically, while Taylor nods once curtly after a brief moment hesitation. "They're good people, Capt'n", Sergeant Williamson is the last to give his assessment. Content that his officers and Sergeant agree with him, Brown turns back to Dietrich who looks from one to the other with a wary expression. "Didn't you promise me that I would not have to undergo another test of character today, Captain Brown?", spitting the Australian's title and name the German snarls his question in serious anger. "I understand that you're mad as a cut snake feeling betrayed, but this was not meant as a test of character per se. Instead I wanted my officers to get to know you at all. I could already have assessed your character before this evening and would not have ended up with a different result, as I've already told you in the afternoon." Gritting his teeth, Dietrich glares at the Australian who continues to explain: "I might have a relief for your supply problem to buy you one or twodays. We have two stashes within a day's reach from here. If we send off trucks under guard of the patrol Jeeps early in the morning, we could recover those supplies by tomorrow night." The German Captain observes his Australian colleague with narrowed eyes, as he inquires: "Why didn't you say so earlier?" "First, we wouldn't have been able to send troops any sooner than tomorrow morning and second I wanted my men to get an impression of your character to sharemy assessment and agree with a decision about helping you out. After what we've seen from your interaction with your Jewish friend here", he points at Jakob, "noone around doubts anymore that you are honest in your defection and wish to support the LRDP and you're certainly not a Nazi." Swallowing his wounded pride with great effort, the German considers that the Australians are truly helping him more and more reliably than he would have expected from them.

"You wouldn't happen to have an accomplished safe cracker among your men or the men assisting your unit", Dietrich asks after finally having gotten enough of an impression of the Australian to consider asking such a question save, especially after the man's offer of support. "Our last one died of a heart attack while infiltrating a German base", Troy states nonchalantly. "Don't try to blame this on the Germans!", Dietrich counters dryly. "I don't have an 'official expert', Captain Dietrich, but unofficially one of my privates has quite a lot of experience with relocating property and opening otherwise unavailable entrances", Captain Brown explains just as dryly as the German who raises his eyebrows in slight surprise smiling in perfect understanding. "That might be the skilled person to help us out with obtaining some documents the SS left at my former base", Dietrich explains with a sly expression. "And here I thought you'd like to improve your skills, Captain", Troy comments gleefully, earning an unnerved glare from Dietrich. "I suppose I cannot help but ask what kind of skills you would wish to improve", Brown inquires with obvious curiosity. Glaring venomously at Troy for a few moments, Dietrich shifts to a more neutral expression, before answering the Australian. "I had no intention to improve any skills in this regard", the German starts out with a tone that is as carefully kept neutral as his expression. Upon seeing Troy opening his mouth to make another comment, the Captain continues: "Sergeant Troy refers to an episode where I was forced to open the drawer of my own desk without having the key available." "He picked the lock of his own desk - with a bent paperclip", Sam Troy laughs although some of his incredulity and awe at the episode is still audible. "Not a recommendable strategy, I assure you", Dietrich states dryly while scowling at the American Sergeant. "And the Doc told us that his name Dietrich means lockpick in German", Hitch provides with an eager expression which disappears, as the German officer's glare turns in his direction. "That used to be your personal joke back in high school, Hans, that just because you're called Dietrich you need not be an expert for picking locks", Jakob adds to the story with a broad grin. "That's one of the best stories I've heard in a while", Brown loses composure and bursts into boisterous laughter which annoys Dietrich even more. "You're really the most enternaining company we've had in months. We should invite you for a few more evenings", Brown states, O'Malley and Williamson nod enthusiastically, as do Hitch, Troy, Jakob and even Tully, while the German buries his face in his hands after a deep sigh.

"I was wondering for a while now, Captain. How about your sleight of hand skills the general has mentioned as one of the reasons he'd rather put you as an agent behind enemy lines than at the front of the battlefield where you have spent almost your whole career? What does that really entail?", Troy asks curiously. "I have to grant you, Sergeant Troy, you have truly perfected the skill to ask the most unwanted questions at the most inopportune moments", Dietrich sighs wearily, as he glares at the American Sergeant. "Sleight of hand skills?", Captain Brown inquires, while he bears an almost predatory expression of a cat unable to resist its hunting instinct. "Jakob Silberblatt, who is supposed to be my friend, has told some stories about this to general Atkins. Considering how many favours you owes me, you do me a lot of disfavors, my friend", the German pronounces in mock annoyance. "I had to sell you as special compared to their usual Jerry officers, Hans", Jakob tries his justification with a grin. "By describing me as a rogue skilled with artful deception, picking locks and pockets? We're talking about the U.S. army, not the Sicilian Mafia!", his friend counters dryly. "Don't try to weasel your way out of answering my question, Captain!", Troy admonishes good-naturedly. Realizing that he is actually cornered and will remain so until he gives them something, Dietrich decides to deflect attention by showing some of that skill set which should equally keep the Australian occupied without giving too much away. "I'm willing to trade you the answer to that question, even show you an example in exchange for different kind of information. Would you agree, Sergeant Williamson, to share your background story and something about your people?" The aborignal soldier looks briefly suprised and then almost flattered to be asked about his story, while the rest of the table stares at Hans Dietrich as if he has finally lost his mind. Only Jakob bears a curious expression knowing his childhood friend well enough to understand his curiosity about different peoples and cultures. "Agreed, Captain Dietrich. But I want to be given a demonstration of your skills first hand", the young man declares and holds out his hand for the German officer to shake similarly to Brown before him. Considering the man a far safer option for interaction than his Captain, Dietrich shakes his hand in agreement.

"You should know that it's special for me to sit here with you at the table", Williamson starts out. "Back in Australia I wouldn't be allowed to drink with the white men or even go to a pub. But here we're all diggers and Browny's making sure that we're all treated fairly. Few would even shake my hand as you just did, Captain." "I didn't know that", the German mutters quitely, as a coloured person's perspective is never described in an almanach, his only possible source of information on other cultures. "My parents refused to move to a reservation. Seeing the white men's way as the future for our country and for us, they wanted us to get the chance to be part of it and not taken away from it. I'd gone to a school operated by some Irish Catholic missionaries who really wanted to help us get a better life than absolute poverty which is why I can you more about the stories of catholic saints than the legends of my ancestors, but I don't mind. Stories are stories and the Irish have some pretty good stories." "I'll bet you, Jimmy!", O'Malley smiles at the Sergeant with actual sympathy. "But in spite of going to a white man's school and learning their ways, I always was a second class man or only half-man for some", Williamson explains slightly despondently and Jakob Silberblatt eyes him with sympathy having similar experiences after growing up as a Jew in Germany. Hans Dietrich feels sympathy and a pang of guilt having experienced Jakob's plight second hand and sometimes first hand, when he has stood in his friend's defense. But James Williamson seems to have an utterly cheerful nature, as he starts smiling again, when he continues: "We did all kind of odd jobs not to starve, learned a lot of stuff noone teaches you in school. And then the war came and we got our chance to prove ourselves. My father, brother, uncles and I volunteered right away to prove the white men that we're real men too. My brother's the far better brawler, so I wanted to get out from being in his shade and took my chance to take my own way by coming here to North Africa, while the rest of my family is fighting in the Pacific. And that's about it." Eyeing the young German not older than himself, Williamson holds out his hand again which Dietrich grabs after assessing him for a few moments with eyebrows raised in a silent question what this is about. "I gotta thank you for your trade, Captain! No white man's ever asked for my story and been willing to trade anything for it. You're no Nazi, that's sure as heel for me!" After the openly spoken words, the German is briefly gaping at the aboriginal soldier, before recovering from his bafflement.

"We made a deal and I am a man of my word", Dietrich announces proudly. "If you provide me with a deck of cards, I will show you what my sleight of hand skill entails", the German speaks with a sly tone and expression Troy recognizes from many a trap he has set for them. While Jakob Silberblatt who has known his friend's dextrous tricks since their high school days grins widely, the Aussies and the Rats eye the German Captain with unconcealed curiosity. "Get your cards. You always have a deck, don't you, Tully?", Hitch whispers to his friend with enthusiasm and urgency caused by anticipation. The Kentuckian looks uncharacteristically unsure what to say, before he reaches into one of his belt pouches and extracts a deck of worn cards which he offers to the Captain who takes it carefully. Looking sharply at some of the cards, the German's eyes light up slightly, as his gaze settles on Tully. "Really, Pettigrew? You carry a deck with marked cards with you at all times?", the Captain speaks with a truly bemused tone in a soft enough whisper to be only heard by the Rats and Captain Brown and his officers. For the first time since knowing him, the American private looks actually embarrassed.

The German officer shuffles the deck once, then fans it out. "Let's read your mind then, Sergeant. Although this usually is not a difficult exercise", Dietrich turns to Troy and speaks somewhat louder. Then, he holds out the freshly shuffled and fanned out deck of cards to the scowling American Sergeant, before he can actually start to protest loudly. "Draw a card, but don't show it to me! Memorize the card then push it back into the deck!", the German orders him. Too curious to resist, Troy complies and follows the instructions. Then the German shuffles the deck again and holds it out to Williamson. "Pick up the card at the top, Sergeant Williamson!" At least as curious as Troy, the young aboriginal Australian complies revealing a nine of spades. "Isn't this the card you have drawn before, Sergeant Troy?", Dietrich asks with a sly tone and equally wily expression. Troy looks truly baffled, before he confirms that this is the card. "How did you do that?", he demands to know. "It's a simple trick which I am not allowed to reveal however, as it would put a lot of stage magicians out of business. You may try again though", the German officer answers magnanimously.

"I want to try it", Hitch exclaims enthusiastically. By now, several soldiers start to gather around their table eyeing the event curiously. Performing the same actions as before of shuffling the deck, fanning it, letting Mark draw a card, memorize it and put it back into the deck, before it is reshuffled, the German glances from Williamson to the Rats and then continues shifting his gaze from Captain Brown to some of the soldiers who are forming a circle around them. Aware that any entertainment serves as a boost of motivation to soldiers out here in the desert, he leaves them be and focuses on Hitchcock again. "Who should give you the honor, Private?", the lean German officer asks with a jovial expression. Troy who has never taken his eyes off Dietrich nods to Hitch who points at him. "How utterly predictable, almost like your cards", the German speaks with a fake bored tone. "Draw the card at the bottom, Sergeant!" As Troy holds out the king of diamonds, Hitch gasps: "That's incredible!" Several soldiers around them start whispering now, some even point at Dietrich, receiving a reprimanding glare from the Captain as a response.

"You could earn good money with a trick like that", Captain Brown comments jovially to which Jakob grins from ear to ear. "I'm neither a fraud nor a cheater, Captain Brown!", the German Captain snaps indignantly, truly offended of having his sense of honor doubted. "I didn't mean to accuse you of using this skill in such a way, I just meant that you are competent enough to perform on stage", Brown consoles. "Would you mind repeating this a few more times, Captain Dietrich? Given the size of our audience and the rarity of good entertainment out here in the desert, it would be a boost of morale for all of us." Hans Dietrich is aware of the effect and in spite of his aversion against stage performance willing to provide the soldiers who have suffered enough during the past days or come to their aid willingly with some form of reward and distraction. "Fine. We can repeat this a few more times, but only in a disciplined manner. Whoever is part of the mind reading game, has to take place at the table", the German officer demands to avoid chaos. "We can agree on that", Brown agrees immediately. "Private Hitchcock and Pettigrew. If you don't mind, we will be needing your seats." "Sure, we make room for the others", Hitch declares with a wide grin, as he pulls Tully along who turns around after a few steps to observe the German Captain intently, while Hitch retreats to get himself something to drink. Dietrich and Troy exchange a brief amused glance, as they hear him declare proudly: "That's my Captain over there!"

Williamson and O'Malley get the next round, before two Aussie soldiers take Tully's and Hitch' seats and want to try their luck. 20 rounds later after baffling American, British and Australian soldiers alike, the German officer lowers his head and declares: "That's enough for a night!" Although some soldiers look disappointed, the majority still laughs and starts clapping now that they consider the event to be over which spreads quickly across the campfire area. Troy waits for the last soldiers to disperse, before he cannot contain his curiosity any longer: "Okay. Tell me, Captain! Where did you learn something like this?" Dietrich dons an actually amused smile. "From the same source that taught me to pick locks and technically also pockets, as it requires a similar skill set as the cards tricks. I've just never used it." Troy groans in exasperation. "Come on, Dietrich!" "It is quite frustrating to never receive an answer to any question you ask, isn't it, Sergeant?", the German asks with a sardonic tone. "Should we play this in our usual way with name, rank and serial number?" "Fine. Keep your secret!", Troy snaps totally unnerved, providing the Captain with the satisfaction to have for once made the American feel his usual frustration at having to deal with him during the past year. "You should be more careful with what you teach your enemies, Sergeant ", the German smirks to Troy's annoyance. "You're not my enemy any more, just stubborn as a mule", he American Sergeant growls in exasperation. "Come on, Hans. Don't you want to tell him?", Jakob asks his friend who smiles slyly and declares magnanimously: "Since we're trading information and favours lately, would this information be worth another favor from you, Troy?" The American eyes him warily and considers the offer. Curiosity finally gets the better of him. "Okay. You can have your favor, Dietrich. Now tell me where you learned this!" The German smiles contently, as he answers smoothly: "From the American adventurer who taught me English and some other skills as well in North Africa. He's grown up as a performer in several travelling shows in the U.S. That would have almost been possible to deduce after the previous information." "Do I look like Sherlock Holmes to you? For deduction work I keep Moffit and now you, Captain smartass", Troy growls with slight annoyance that amuses the German more than angering him.

Howling and desperate yelps make them both turn around, as Fritz dashes through the campfire area toward Dietrich. Placing his front paws on the man's thigh, the dog tries to grab his shirt sleeve with its teeth. "Fritz, aus!", the German Captain commands with a clear tone forbidding disobedience. Whining desperately with its tail between its legs, the dog retreats a few steps, then turns around to look at its master and howls as if suffering. Frowning at the unusual behaviour, Dietrich stands up and takes a step closer. Fritz' drooped ears rise slightly at his success and the little dog continues barking and yelping while repeating his motions of running a few steps ahead and turning around to see if he is followed. By now, Dietrich has exchanged a worried gaze with Troy, as the German Captain follows the dog along, muttering: "I've never seen him behave like this before", while Troy starts whispering with Captain Brown before he follows the younger officer. Jakob Silberblatt and Padraig O'Malley speak to several of the soldiers, organizing torches and weapons to be brought, while Williamson and Taylor briefly confer with their Australian Captain.

When Fritz and Dietrich leave the campfire's vicinity and would have to step out into the darkness, Troy draws an electric torch from his belt pouch and lights the way for the German Captain and himself. Fritz leads Dietrich, Troy and the Americans and Australians following a few steps behind them out of the camp. Walking more carefully than the light little dog, they arrive at their destination after five minutes which they can make out easily, as they can see some sheen of light coming from a gorge hidden behind a dune. Fritz has stopped at the rim and continues barking loudly, as small crumbs of sand get loose under his paws. "Don't get too close! The whole area is unstable", the German Captain bellows a command to assure that nobody will disobey and endanger whomever is down there. Given Fritz' behaviour and the obvious absence of Hitchcock, while Troy is close by and Pettigrew rejoins them with Brown, Williamson and Taylor, Dietrich starts to suspect that the young private is involved.

"For once you have the order to grab me, if the ground doesn't hold beneath my feet, Sergeant", the German officer states with a dry tone, as he carefully draws closer to the rim. "Are you insane? Why do you go there?", Troy demands to know. Unnerved by the American disobedience and questioning of orders, the German growls back: "Because someone has to check out who is down there and how to help and I definitely weigh far less than any of you. "No arguing with that, Captain", Troy replies with a sigh. "Finally. Could you then behave like a proper soldier and follow your orders, Sergeant?", Dietrich growls with an unnerved tone. Without waiting for further argumentation, the German turns back to approaching the hole. Balancing at a short distance from the rim, he leans forward to see over the edge, when he finds himself grabbed by the left shoulder, as a fist sized lump of sand breaks off the rim. Since his feet are still grounded, the German does not reposition, but tries to discern the shapes in the light of the electric torch one of the soldiers has dropped. "What can you see?", Troy asks with concern.
Squinting to see better in the dark the German Captain describes what he can discern. "Two men lie on the ground, one is Australian, there's a bush hat down there, the other is Hitchcock I think." Then, Dietrich tenses and draws in a breath. "Something small moves down there. A snake." "What kind of snake?", Troy wants to know. "Do you take me for a biologist? I have no idea, I can barely see the silhouette in the dark. It should become slower in the chilly night though", the Captain replies. Reaching for his sidearm, the German orders: "Hold me around the midsection instead. I need both arms to take aim." Relieved that for once the American Sergeant obeys the command without any argument, Captain Dietrich stabilizes his right arm with the left to keep it from shaking from the stress and pain his shoulder wound still causes him. Waiting until the animal slithers into the light of the torch and is not too close to the soldiers, the officer fires two shots in quick succession drawing in a sharp breath, when he feels the effect of repercussion in his shoulder. A hissing sound is the only indication that the snake has been hit apart from red blood staining the sand.

Letting out a sigh of relief the German lowers his weapon with his right arm holding the gun shaking visibly from the strain of aiming and the repercussion. "Get ropes and boards or metal plates for stabilizing the edge, Pettigrew! Gottschlich, we need two stretchers for the wounded! Higgins, inform a medic and bring him here immediately!", Dietrich bellows his orders for his men who start running immediately. "You heard the man. Get going and help them!", Captain Brown shouts to the Australians. Seeing one of the soldiers stir, Dietrich orders Troy: "Let go of me, Sergeant. I will jump down to check on them and bind off the bite as best I can. Time is of the essence with snake bites. And before you even think of arguing, I am still the lightest weight one around with some medical proficiency. Fritz doesn't count." The American Sergeant realizes that the German Captain is right and his underweight which Troy and the medics have criticized only a few hours ago finally has some positive effect. Gritting his teeth at the necessity to follow through with the German's plan, even though it puts him at risk, Troy growls: "Fine. But expect me to go down there myself, if you get hurt." "Don't be ridiculous, Sergeant!", Dietrich counters with sarcasm.

Concentrating on the right distance to jump from the stand without landing on the wounded men at the bottom or too close to the wounded snake, the German Captain makes the leap down the 1,5 meter hole which is narrow enough to allow him to touch both sides if he were to stretch out both arms. Sinking to his knees to break his fall, he picks up the torch from the ground and kicks the snake's twitching body to the side, before he moves to Hitchcock's side. The young private groans and stirs again at the light in his face. Shaking him at the shoulder lightly, the German Captain speaks his name quietly. "Lemme sleep, Tully!", the young man slurs without opening his eyes. "I'm not Pettigrew ", Dietrich states with slight amusement, as he continues shaking the other to wake him out of his state, "and I can't let you sleep, Private Hitchcock." The German Captain's tone turns more serious and urgent, as he explains: "You fell down this hole and have possibly been bitten by a snake. Tell me, if you feel any pain and where!" "My head hurts terribly, Doc", Hitch groans, still unable or unwilling to open his eyes or properly place the voice, "and my hand too."

The second statement captures Dietrich's attention, as he lays the torch on Hitch' chest to provide him with light to check the private's hands. The left hand is fine, his right however looks red and swollen bearing two bite marks of a snake's fangs right above his thumb. Lifting the private's arm and pulling up the sleeve shows that the swelling has already spread along half of Hitch' lower arm. Cutting the private's sleeve to use the fabric for binding the limb and preventing further poison to spread in the body, the German struggles with the mechanics of applying strain on the binding with his injuries in his shoulder and upper arm. Finally, the German Captain settles for the most practical solution of pulling one end with both hands and the other end with his teeth. "Is it bad, Doc?", Hitch asks with some dread lacing his voice as he feels the binding tightening around his arm. "You will be fine. Don't worry", Dietrich replies to calm him, not caring whether Hitchcock knows who is answering him. Once he is content to have done what he could for the young Rat private, the German briefly squeezes his shoulder and mutters in a hopefully reassuring tone: "Help is on the way and will be here soon. I have to check on the other man."

Then, he turns to the Australian soldier who has not stirred yet. When Dietrich checks the pulse on his neck, he realizes why. The man is dead. The odd angle of the head indicates a broken neck. Not shouting out loud to keep Hitchcock from panicking, the German officer calls out: "How about the ropes and stretchers?" The noise of a Jeep in the distance makes him tense involuntarily, while Troy whoops: "Tully's comin', Captain!" Dietrich breathes a silent sigh a relief, before he turns back to Hitchcock. Several of the Australian and American soldiers help with positioning the planks in such a way that the sand will not give out at the rim when a rope is pulled up along it. "We lower the rope now!", Troy shouts, as Tully takes care of the action. Meanwhile, Gottschlich and three Australian soldiers who have supported him come running to the site carrying two stretchers. "Lower the first stretcher with the rope! I'll push the private onto it", Dietrich barks his order. A sad bark from Fritz answers his master's voice, before the soldiers jump into action to execute the command.

The German officer helps to stabilize the stretcher along its way to not further endanger the already unstable sand wall. Once the stretcher is positioned on the ground, Dietrich removes the ropes to be able to move Hitchcock freely. As he kneels next to the young Private and places his hand on his shoulder to reassure him, before moving him onto the stretcher, Hitch opens his eyes which immediately widen upon recognizing his commanding officer. "Cap, what are you doing?" Sighing that the private actually has to regain coherence at an inopportune moment, the German Captain speaks with a calm reassuring tone: "We will get you out of here soon, private. I'll help you to the stretcher. Try to move as little as possible. More intense blood circulation and higher pulse only help to spread the poison in your body faster." Hitch swallows visibly. "Okay. Can you help me up, Capt'n?" Holding out his right hand to help the private up, Hans Dietrich suppresses a cry of pain only grimacing with a pallid face, as the strain tears on his injured shoulder. "Who is the other man, Hitchcock?", Dietrich inquires calmly to distract them both from the pain. "What were you two doing here?" "Micky, I mean private Micheal O'Leary bet against me that I wouldn't dare to go into the snake pit", Hitch explains, as he gets briefly self-reflected. "I probably shouldn't have, but I didn't wanna lose the bet. We were wagering a full bottle of rum after all." "You're a reckless fool, Hitchcock", the German Captain scolds him with as much anger an exasperation as worry and concern, as he helps him onto the stretcher and then focuses on reapplying the ropes. "Pull him up!", Dietrich finally shouts up to the others, before reassuring the young private once again with a light squeeze of his shoulder. "You will be taken care of immediately." Recognizing the gesture, Hitch smiles at the other, as he slurs with crumbling coherence: "Thanks, Cap. Always wanted to have an officer like you." "Don't believe for a moment that flattery will allow you to weasel your way out of the mess you are in, private!", the German Captain growls without actual venom.

Once the stretcher has reached the upper end, Troy helps to redirect it from over the edge to the sand far away from the rim to keep the sand walls from collapsing. Not all their helpers take this into consideration though, as an Australian steps on one of the outer planks while pressing against the stretcher and pushes one of the boards loose. As plank and sand come tumbling from above him, the German has a brief deja-vu from a mine shaft and cave-in, as he tries to avoid being crushed again under the falling debris. With no space to retreat fully and the only thing to shield him being the dead body of the Australian soldier, if he would have the time to lift him, the German officer has barely enough time to jump back and raise his arm to avoid being hit by the board directly which misses his head but strikes his right shoulder. Sinking to his knees with a cry of pain, the German tries to shield his face and head from falling stones and debris with his less affected left arm. Without a cap or helmet this is almost impossible, as the landslide pushes him to the ground burying him up to his hip. Something hard hits his head and although not knocked unconscious, the Captain is briefly stunned and not resisting the physical forces working against him. Fortunately for him, the loudly shouting Americans and Australians work frantically to stabilize the situation and prohibit a larger stream of sand from flowing down on him.

Coughing heavily, Dietrich drags himself out of a heap of sand that reaches his chest level in his half-crouched, half-fallen over position. By the time he has recovered from the sand avalanche, a familiar voice of Sam Troy calls out to him: "Captain, are you alright?" "I am alright", the German affirms after coughing once more and starts to dig the dead Australian out from under the sand. At least he can be sure the snake is definitely dead now, buried underneath layers of sand. "The second man is dead already, broke his neck in the fall. Don't let a stretcher down. I'll bind the body to the rope directly. That should be less risky given the unstable construction." "We will do that. Do you know who the man is, Captain?", Brown shouts. "Hitchcock called him private Micheal O'Leary", Dietrich answers, coughing out some more sand in between the words. "Stop talking, Captain, until we can get you some water", Troy shouts. "I've got my canteen with me, Sarge", Tully shouts. "Throw it over here", comes Troy's command, before he calls out to Dietrich almost a minute later: "Captain. Catch this!" The canteen is more dropped than thrown in his direction, but the German lets it fall to the sandy ground anyways, not trusting his injured arm and shoulder to manage the catch. Coughing again, before the warm stale water provides a welcome relief, Hans Dietrich fixes the now half-empty canteen to his belt with the carbine Pettigrew has put onto it for exactly this purpose. Then, he takes a deep breath and braces himself for the strain and pain that dragging the body to the spot with the rope will cost him.

By the time he has moved the heavy dead body to the intended spot, the German is breathing heavily and his arms are shaking from the strain. As taught in his youth by his sea-faring uncle, the Captain ties the rope around the dead man's chest underneath the armpits with a sailor's knot which will tighten, as soon as some weight is put on the rope. After taking a few steps back into safety should something collapse again, Dietrich shouts: "Pull him up!" Tully and his helpers obey immediately and this time nobody is so careless to get too close to the edge. Once the dead Australian has been removed from out of the sling tied into the rope, Troy shouts: "Now, you get out there yourself, Captain! Can't untie your damn knot though, so you have to live with it." The German officer smiles bemusedly at the assessment of his knot. It is the intention of such knots that they do not get loose unintentionally or without actually knowing how they have been tied after all. Trusting his knot to easily carry his weight when it has held the heavier Australian soldier, the German steps into the sling, wrapping the rope around his waist twice to take some strain off his shoulder and arm for keeping upright and close to the rope. This strategy stabilizes his ascent, but prohibits Dietrich from jumping off the rope quickly, once he is brought up to the platform. Troy grabs him by the rope around his waist and pulls him away from the gorge, before providing the German Captain with a steadying hand to get out of the part wrapped around his waist. Briefly taking the younger man's full weight reminds Troy that the lean officer still weighs far too little. Doc Andrews is right that they have to take better care of the Captain. "That was really risky!", the American Sergeant does not even wait with his admonition until the German officer has freed himself from the rope. "Even if you are the lightest-weight guy of all of us, we won't risk you like that any more." Wiping some sand from his dishevelled hair and uniform, Dietrich snaps: "Would you rather I'd have left private Pettigrew and O'Leary in that snake pit, Sergeant?" "For sure not, Captain", Captain Brown intervenes more diplomatically than Troy to not ruffle the German's feathers any more than necessary, as the man looks on edge already. "But we'd rather not risk your life with such stunts any more than any other man's life." With narrowed eyes, the German observes the Australian Captain warily, before he finally acknowledges his acceptance with a curt nod.

His master's voice calls Fritz back on the scene, as the little dog jumps to put his front paws on the Captain's thigh yelping enthusiastically. "Fritz, das hast du gut gemacht", Dietrich speaks in a friendly tone scratching their mascot behind the ears. "Troy hat recht, du hast dir eine Wurst als Entschuldigung und Belohnung verdient." "What kind of nonsense are you telling your dog about me?", Troy asks good-naturedly. "It's about time that you start your course in Doctor Moffit's language school. Fritz understands more German than you", the German Captain replies with a slight smile, "I told him that you suggested a sausage as recompense and he has definitely earned his reward for saving Hitchcock's life, although nothing could be done for the other man, unfortunately. I am sorry, Captain Brown." Turning to the Australian officer Dietrich bears an expression of honest sorrow, having experienced the loss of many of his own men to the enemies as well as the hostile elements. "You bear no guilt for that, Captain Dietrich", Brown speaks calmly with a serious expression. "I rather have to thank you for your willingness to put your own health and life at risk jumping down there for one of my men as well as one of yours." The Australian's serious expression turns into a more friendly one. "Which reminds me that we should get to sickbay to check on your man and you, Captain. You do look worse for wear and don't think that your pained expression has stayed unnoticed." "I am fine", Dietrich drawls with indignation and annoyance at the Australian Captain's insolence to rub the German's injuries in his face. "Sure you are, Captain", Brown states bemusedly. "You really remind me of Sammy." "Don't pretend this is intended as a compliment", the German deadpans, before stalking toward the sickbay. "Fritz, bei Fuß!" Following the command obediently, the dog stays at the German Captain's heel, as he walks briskly ahead of the rest of the band, only to find Jakob run towards him from the direction of the camp with an electric torch in hand. Seeing his friend's thunderous expression, Silberblatt stops dead in his tracks. "What has happened, Hans?" "One Australian soldier was killed and Hitchcock seriously injured because of some dare to jump into a snakepit", the German Captain growls, but his friend can clearly hear the worry and concern etched into his voice underneath the outward layer of anger.

As they reach the sickbay, Mark Hitchcock's treatment is already finished. "The snake bite was really worrying. He was lucky that the blood flow could be stopped quickly", Lisa Hartigan who is on night shift explains to the Captain, as he requests to learn his soldier's state. "Otherwise he only hit his head hard in the fall resulting in a concussion." "At least no delicate body part was injured then", the German Captain snaps with sarcasm causing the nurse to grin widely. "You know him really well, Captain. We should have a long talk some of these days." "Should we do this before or after having a strict talk with him making him wish he was the dead man, Lieutenant Hartigan?" Lisa Hartigan smiles at the German in honest enjoyment of his dry humor by now. "Whatever you prefer, Captain. I'm quite flexible with dressing down Mark." Dietrich blushes slightly at the ambiguous phrase which causes Lisa to grin even more widely. "I'd better leave you to do the first talking alone, Captain", she finally offers graciously, not wishing to cause any commotion with the injured Mark Hitchcock and the German officer who already looks worse for wear himself. In addition to the minor issue of Mark Hitch, she has just noticed Major von Stolberg stir in his sleep and quickly intends to take care of him to prohibit the worst possible scenario for the whole sickbay that he wakes up and starts insulting people again, in this case likely starting with Captain Dietrich. To spare them all the lasting psychological trauma, she quickly picks up the morphine and applies a generous dose to keep the annoying Jerry Major sedated.

Dietrich meanwhile steps up to Hitchcock's cot and eyes the young private with concern, before schooling his face into a more appropriate stern expression, as the American opens his eyes wearily. "I remember to have ordered you specifically to behave yourselves and not set new standards regarding rowdy behaviour. What you did clearly violates every aspect of that command, Private Hitchcock!", the German Captain scolds the American who bears a sheepish expression. "And don't even try to blame the folly of youth, Hitchcock! You are not that young, although you deliberately choose to behave in such a way that some of my former subordinates assessed you as juvenile delinquent based on your German intelligence file." "I'm even older than you, Captain", Hitch blurts out. Scowling, the German officer snaps: "You're not expecting me to believe that, are you, Hitchcock?" "But it's true", the young American sounds slightly desperate. "In this case, he is telling you the truth, Captain", Troy intervenes. "Maturity isn't your strong suit then. We can agree on that, private", Dietrich admonishes sternly with dark irony in his words.

His potential tirade is interrupted unexpectedly by small arms wrapping around his waist and a child pressing his face into his flank muttering words which are completely muffled from speaking into his tunic. "*Ari, you should be sleeping*", the lean officer remarks with a scowl but gentler tone than before. Captain Brown eyes the unequal duo with undisguised curiosity, while Troy bears an almost dreamy expression. Jakob Silberblatt however looks equally concerned for the boy as his friend. "*Will he become healthy again?*", Ari asks with tear-filled eyes and a quivering lip, as he stares at Mark Hitchcock. Placing a hand on the boy's shoulder and crouching beside him, the German officer explains: "*Mark Hitchcock will be fine soon. You don't have to worry.*" Ari smiles shyly at the young man he trusts implicitly. "*You promise he will be fine?*" With a weary sigh, Dietrich nods. "*Yes, I promise he will be fine. You can say 'Good night' to him, but then you go to bed.*" Ari's smile grows wider and is eyes lighten up as well. "*Jack taught me that!*" Without being surprised, the German officer gets up again and leads the boy along to Hitch's bedside. "Ari's worried about you, Private Hitchcock", the Captain speaks with an accusatory tone and his stance next to the boy is so obviously protective that Hitch bears a guilty expression. It is one thing to violate his commanding officer's orders and another to cause worry and mental harm to the boy under his protection. "Hi Hishcock", Ari struggles with the pronunciation of the name, making all the adults smile in amusement. "Good night!", he repeats with British pronunciation, as he has learned the phrase from Jack Moffit. "*Now off to bed with you!*", Dietrich admonishes sternly, unmoved by Ari's pleading look. Finally, the boy gives in and proudly speaks a "Good night!" to all of them. "Good night, Ari!", his German protector speaks calmly and with a more gentle tone, but points toward the boy's cot nonetheless, until the child trots off and lies down again, peaking at them curiously from underneath his blanket.

As the tall Captain turns back toward his injured private, his expression has turned stern again, but shows no fury or malice. "Hitchcock, you should get some rest and the morphine they gave you will take effect soon." With a smirk he adds: "You girl friend will watch over you." Hitch mutters softly. "Lisa." "If you don't annoy her during the night, you will see the next morning. I can wait until tomorrow to tear your head off for this moronic stunt of yours", Dietrich growls without actual venom. "I have thought until now that your risky behaviour is typically American, but since the Australians apparently share your level of idiocy, I will term it typical for the LRDP", the German officer speaks with a tone dripping with sarcasm. "I seriously start to doubt whether placing me with this unit was the right decision." "Says the man who jumped into a snake pit to help two soldiers", Captain Brown comments dryly with a wide grin he shares with Sam Troy and Jakob Silberblatt. "No, Captain Dietrich, you are exactly where you belong." "Hinterhältiger Australischer Schurke", Dietrich mutters with a glare. "That sounded like a compliment ", Brown counters with a wide grin. "He said you're a backstabbing Australian rogue", Jakob translates with amusement, while the German Captain glares in annoyance at both of them which makes the Australian officer's smile only grow wider. "No need for flattery, Captain Dietrich. I already like you the way you are." That the man has the gall to wink, truly unnerves the German. Troy's mentor surely surpasses the American Sergeant regarding insolent behaviour and wearing his nerves to a frezzle by far. "I know, I promised you no further test of character and already broke that promise in your eyes. But you've in addition provided me with enough material to think about and a pretty good idea why your former enemies respect and even like you, Captain Dietrich. I'm starting to share the sentiment", the last part the older officer adds with a mischievous smile and a wink.

"It's time we get back to our cots as well", Jakob speaks gently, as he tries to steer his friend in the direction of the officers' ward, before he gets into a fight with the Australian, as only exhaustion seems to keep the German from further participating in the verbal crossing of blades. Opening his weary eyes again, at the suggestion, his friend growls with dark humor: "I've spent more nights in sickbay than outside. I know my way around by now." Captain Brown approaches the nurse who has finished her 'treatment' of the German major and turned to look after her boyfriend Hitchcock who eyes her with a dreamy expression, as his eyes are drooping. "You should take a look at my fellow Captain. He's definitely injured in some way, if his grimace of pain is anything to go by", the Australian officer explains smoothly. Cursing the meddling Australian silently for not keeping his big mouth shut, the German finds himself quickly on the receiving end of the nurse' fuzzing attention. The necessity to take off his jacket and shirt to have his injuries checked is undisputed, but to do so in front of the nurse whose jealous boyfriend has already caused him enough troubles is to be disputed. Declaring Mark's spike of jealousy not even worthy of her attention, Lisa Hartigan ends this dispute before it has even begun, forcing the German to finally remove his clothing. Clicking her tongue in an accusatory way, she eyes the young officer's ribs clearly visible under old and new bruises and more small and large scars than she cares to count. "We have already talked about the necessity that you gain some weight, Captain!" "I'm not suffering from dementia", the lean officer growls. "I remember this discussion perfectly well. As it seems, Captain Brown is aiding your cause by providing us with additional provisions."

Spying the bandage around Dietrich's arm that is bled through after the strain of the night and the dark bruise on his right shoulder where the board has struck him, Lisa picks up surgical scissors to but through the wrappings and redress the wound after cleaning it and giving him a shot. At such close distance, the German officer's exhaustion and weariness are clearly visible edged in his face and whole posture. "You should finally get some rest, Captain", the American Sergeant speaks from his watching position close behind the younger man. That he merely nods without a sarcastic comment, is a clear indication of his level of tiredness. Troy even exchanges a worried glance with Jakob who observes with friend's treatment with as much concern as the American Sergeant does. Captain Brown observes the scene with a certain detachment, but is aware that the man put in charge of ordering the cut of supplies for the benefit of the whole camp is also the one who would suffer the most from reducing rations, as Dietrich does not look as if he weighs more than 150 pounds including his uniform and equipment. The nurse must have slipped the Captain some narcotic, as the German's head lolls to the front by the time she is finished with redressing the arm wound. "Sergeant", the totally unsurprised nurse commands, as Dietrich collapses into the arms of the American who has reacted quickly from his position behind the younger officer and lays him onto the cot where Lisa Hartigan starts applying a cream to the unconscious man's shoulder.

"If this is his state after several days of active service, I don't think I want to ask about the state in which you recovered him from the SS", Brown whispers to Troy. "He almost died on us, would have died without an emergency blood transfusion out in the field", his mentee growls back with narrowed eyes, his anger and hatred directed at the SS men palpable. "They murdered the kid's whole family, parents, siblings, everyone. The boy's been following Dietrich ever since. That guy's surely no Nazi, Browny." "Even your general arrived at that conclusion today", Brown counters with slight irony. "That's what the commotion after dinner was about. No wonder Dietrich was behaving like a cornered wildcat", Troy realizes and looks at the German Captain with belated sympathy. Brown smiles at the assessment. "That's why he reacted so furiously at being put through another test of character. I had given my word to not do that, I needed to or he wouldn't have come." Troy scowls. "That's a mistake. Dietrich will not forgive breaking your word easily, he's far too obsessed with never foregoing or breaking his own word as a matter of honor to let such a slight pass. And that damn general should've come to sickbay at least once to watch the Captain with the boy and he wouldn't have needed to put him through another test of character." "Quiet! And out with you!", Lisa Hartigan scolds them. "My patients need to sleep."